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18 pages, 256 KB

Open AccessArticle

Superstition or Culture: Protestant Discourses on Halloween Following the 10.29 Itaewon Disaster

by Minah Kim

Religions 2025, 16(12), 1543; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel16121543 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

The 10.29 Itaewon Disaster in Seoul, which claimed 159 lives during a Halloween celebration in 2022, has divided Korean Protestant discourse on Halloween into two opposing theological positions: one that interprets Halloween as inherently superstitious and satanic based on its historical origins, and [...] Read more.

The 10.29 Itaewon Disaster in Seoul, which claimed 159 lives during a Halloween celebration in 2022, has divided Korean Protestant discourse on Halloween into two opposing theological positions: one that interprets Halloween as inherently superstitious and satanic based on its historical origins, and another that embraces it as a contemporary youth cultural phenomenon worthy of protection under principles of cultural diversity. These theological frameworks are intertwined with questions of disaster accountability within the political–historical context of Korean Protestantism’s social engagement, with the former—corresponding to the conservative stream of Korean Protestantism—implicitly attributing responsibility to festival participants while absolving the government, whereas the latter—corresponding to the progressive stream—emphasizes institutional failures in crowd management and public safety protocols. Through comparative analysis with established American Protestant discourse on Halloween, this study examines how Korean Protestant theological interpretations of Halloween intersect with both the specific context of the 10.29 Itaewon disaster and political orientations within Korean Protestantism. The research draws on diverse primary sources, including articles, commentaries, official statements, social media discourse, and sermonic materials, to analyze the emergent Protestant narratives following the disaster. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Religious Conflict and Coexistence in Korea)

13 pages, 1109 KB

Open AccessArticle

Seed Viability of Commiphora leptophloeos (Mart.) J.B. Gillett (Burseraceae) Assessed by the Tetrazolium Test

by Jamille Cardeal da Silva, Jailton de Jesus Silva, Raquel Araujo Gomes, Claudinéia Regina Pelancani Cruz and Barbara França Dantas

Int. J. Plant Biol. 2025, 16(4), 139; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijpb16040139 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

Commiphora leptophloeos, a native Caatinga species with economic and medicinal potential, faces propagation challenges due to seed dormancy and extractive use. The germination test, the official method for seed quality assessment, is time-consuming, whereas the tetrazolium test (TZT) offers a rapid alternative [...] Read more.

Commiphora leptophloeos, a native Caatinga species with economic and medicinal potential, faces propagation challenges due to seed dormancy and extractive use. The germination test, the official method for seed quality assessment, is time-consuming, whereas the tetrazolium test (TZT) offers a rapid alternative for determining seed viability. This study aimed to establish and validate a TZT protocol for C. leptophloeos seeds. Seeds collected in 2025 were extracted after natural fruit drying and then stored in a cold chamber. The germination test was conducted with seeds without pyrenes at 30 °C. For the TZT, a completely randomized design was used in a 6 × 4 factorial scheme (six TZT concentrations × four immersion times), with adjustments in seed preparation and staining procedures. Higher concentrations (0.5% and 0.75%) combined with shorter immersion periods (2 h) provided the best results, especially 0.75% for 2 h, which yielded 89% viability. Very low concentrations combined with short periods resulted in little or no staining. Compared with the germination test (35%), the TZT showed greater sensitivity in detecting viable seeds. We conclude that the TZT is highly efficient for assessing the viability of C. leptophloeos seeds, with optimal responses at 0.5–0.75% TTC and 2–4 h immersion periods, and represents a strategic tool to support the conservation and sustainable use of this species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Physiology)

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13 pages, 1073 KB

Open AccessArticle

Implementation of the Maynard-Based Risk Assessment Model for Venous Thromboembolism Inpatient Prophylaxis: A Before-and-After Study

by Belisa Marin Alves, Raquel Pereira Vieira, Larissa Luma Tomasi Febras, Mauricio Santiago Soper, Jonas Michel Wolf, Vania Rohsig, Sidiclei Machado Carvalho, Cássia Cristine Damasio de Lima, Cintia Lazzari, Daniel Luft Machado, Luiz Antônio Nasi and Marcelo Basso Gazzana

Healthcare 2025, 13(24), 3204; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13243204 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common and potentially fatal condition in hospitalized patients. Although appropriate risk assessment and prophylaxis reduce VTE events, preventive measures remain underutilized. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an electronic risk stratification tool within multifaceted interventions [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common and potentially fatal condition in hospitalized patients. Although appropriate risk assessment and prophylaxis reduce VTE events, preventive measures remain underutilized. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an electronic risk stratification tool within multifaceted interventions for implementing VTE prophylaxis protocols in adult clinical and surgical patients at Hospital Moinhos de Vento, Brazil. Methods: A prospective before-and-after hospital-based study was conducted from 2017 to 2019, including 772 patients admitted to clinical and surgical units for over 48 h. The electronic tool based on the Maynard risk assessment model classified patients’ VTE risk. Padua and Caprini scores served as reference standards for clinical and surgical patients, respectively. Prophylaxis was considered adequate if it complied with institutional protocols. Results: Globally, the Maynard model classified 0.9% as low risk, 76.4% intermediate, and 22.7% high risk, differing notably in orthopedic surgical patients. Overall prophylaxis adequacy was 69.3%, with no significant difference between phases. Orthopedic surgical patients showed a significant decrease in prophylaxis adequacy in phase 2 (p = 0.02). Conclusions: The Maynard model underestimated high-risk classification compared to Padua and Caprini scores, especially in orthopedic surgical patients. Implementation of the electronic tool alongside multifaceted interventions did not improve prophylaxis adequacy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Data Analytics in the Context of Value-Based Healthcare)

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14 pages, 5572 KB

Open AccessArticle

Examination of Conductive WC-Ni and Thermal Barrier Coatings Using an Eddy Current Probe

by Grzegorz Tytko, Tadeusz Kubaszek, Marek Góral, Bo Feng and Yating Yu

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(24), 12913; https://doi.org/10.3390/app152412913 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

In many industrial applications, engine, turbine, and rotor components are coated with thin layers that protect them from corrosion, high temperatures, or pressure. This paper presents a fast and effective method for testing such protective coatings. For this purpose, an eddy current probe [...] Read more.

In many industrial applications, engine, turbine, and rotor components are coated with thin layers that protect them from corrosion, high temperatures, or pressure. This paper presents a fast and effective method for testing such protective coatings. For this purpose, an eddy current probe consisting of a single coil was designed and constructed. The high sensitivity of the probe was achieved by using a pot core, which significantly reduced magnetic flux losses. In addition to the substrate, the test samples also contained carbide coatings or thermal barrier coatings (TBCs), which were sprayed with an Axial III triple-plasma torch or a single-electrode torch. The use of different process parameters made it possible to obtain coatings of varying thickness, which were determined using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Measurements of the probe impedance components were performed in the frequency range from 500 Hz to 50 kHz. In all cases, based on the analysis of changes in resistance and reactance, it was possible to distinguish each of the tested samples. Even slight changes in thickness of only 9 μm caused significant changes in probe impedance, enabling effective testing of carbide coatings and TBCs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Advances in Eddy Current Testing)

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22 pages, 11459 KB

Open AccessArticle

In-Situ Corrosion Testing of Carbon Steel and EHLA Clad Materials in High-Temperature Geothermal Well

by Andri Isak Thorhallsson, Gunnar Skulason Kaldal, Thorri Jokull Thorsteinsson, Deirdre Elizabeth Clark, Erfan Abedi Esfahani, Tomaso Maccio, Helen Osk Haraldsdottir and Lilja Tryggvadottir

Corros. Mater. Degrad. 2025, 6(4), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/cmd6040065 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

Carbon steel casing material in high-temperature deep geothermal wells can be prone to severe corrosion and premature failure due to the oxidation capacity of H₂O, H₂S, CO₂, and more corrosive species in geothermal fluid. Due to the [...] Read more.

Carbon steel casing material in high-temperature deep geothermal wells can be prone to severe corrosion and premature failure due to the oxidation capacity of H₂O, H₂S, CO₂, and more corrosive species in geothermal fluid. Due to the higher temperature and pressure and phase state of fluid in high-temperature deep geothermal wells, the rate and extent of corrosion can be expected to be different than in low-temperature geothermal wells. To reduce the extent of corrosion damage and corrosion rate, and increase the lifetime of geothermal wells, one mitigation method is to clad the internal surface of the geothermal casing with a more noble, corrosion-resistant material. Conventional cladding, however, has been an expensive and time-consuming process up to the current date, but recently, a more economical and productive method has been established, i.e., EHLA cladding. In this study, a 14-day corrosion performance test was conducted on stainless steel and nickel-based alloy clads on a carbon steel substrate in a 262 °C and 95 bar geothermal well in the Hellisheidi geothermal field (SW Iceland). Samples were partially or fully cladded, and some samples were stressed to investigate the clads’ susceptibility to general corrosion and stress corrosion cracking, as well as the substrate’s vulnerability to galvanic corrosion. Corrosion analysis of pure carbon steel substrate was also investigated for comparison. Samples were microstructurally analysed with SEM, and chemical analysis was performed with EDX. The results indicated that the clad materials have good corrosion resistance in the geothermal environment tested, suggesting that EHLA cladding is a more feasible option for strengthening the corrosion resistance of geothermal casing and equipment. Full article

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7 pages, 198 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Innovations in Thoracic Surgery and Medicine—From Concepts to Real-World Care

by Paolo Scanagatta

Life 2025, 15(12), 1874; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15121874 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

Thoracic surgery and respiratory medicine are transitioning from device-centric innovation to systems-level transformation [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Thoracic Surgery and Medicine: Advancements and Challenges)

13 pages, 1099 KB

Open AccessArticle

Validation of a Rhythmic Jumping Task for the Assessment of Upper–Lower Limb Coordination: Evidence from High-Level Athletes

by Runjie Li, Hitoshi Koda, Megumi Gonno, Toru Morihara, Tetsuya Miyazaki, Tomoyuki Matsui, Teruo Nomura, Kohei Okado, Chisato Yamamoto and Noriyuki Kida

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(4), 473; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10040473 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background: A rhythmic jumping task that does not require specialized equipment may represent a simple method to assess upper–lower-limb coordination in athletes. Previous studies have been limited to groups with relatively low coordination ability; thus, whether task performance reflects the ability level or [...] Read more.

Background: A rhythmic jumping task that does not require specialized equipment may represent a simple method to assess upper–lower-limb coordination in athletes. Previous studies have been limited to groups with relatively low coordination ability; thus, whether task performance reflects the ability level or remains reproducible over time is unclear. This study determined whether the rhythmic jumping task reflects coordination levels in high-level performers, verified its generalizability as an assessment tool, and evaluated its reproducibility over time. Methods: Twenty-eight female high school volleyball players who routinely engaged in coordination training were enrolled, and performed six rhythmic jumping tasks identical to those used in a previous study. Performance was evaluated using three indices: complete performance rate (successful completion of all four series), success rate of at least one series, and average number of successful series. Twelve participants were retested 1 year later to examine reproducibility. Results: The high-level group demonstrated an overall superior performance compared to the low-level group from a previous study. Easier conditions yielded higher success rates, whereas more difficult conditions yielded lower success rates. Retest results demonstrated reproducible performance patterns over time. Conclusions: The rhythmic jumping task appropriately reflected coordination ability: high-level performers outperformed low-level performers. The task maintained a consistent difficulty order and reproducible performance across groups and over time, supporting its validity and generalizability as a practical and reliable tool to assess upper- and lower-limb coordination in applied athletic settings and provides a foundation for its further refinement and application as a standardized coordination assessment method. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Kinesiology and Biomechanics)

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24 pages, 4080 KB

Open AccessArticle

MCRBM–CNN: A Hybrid Deep Learning Framework for Robust SSVEP Classification

by Depeng Gao, Yuhang Zhao, Jieru Zhou, Haifei Zhang and Hongqi Li

Sensors 2025, 25(24), 7456; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25247456 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

The steady-state visual evoked potential (SSVEP), a non-invasive EEG modality, is a prominent approach for brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) due to its high signal-to-noise ratio and minimal user training. However, its practical utility is often hampered by susceptibility to noise, artifacts, and concurrent brain [...] Read more.

The steady-state visual evoked potential (SSVEP), a non-invasive EEG modality, is a prominent approach for brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) due to its high signal-to-noise ratio and minimal user training. However, its practical utility is often hampered by susceptibility to noise, artifacts, and concurrent brain activities, complicating signal decoding. To address this, we propose a novel hybrid deep learning model that integrates a multi-channel restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM) with a convolutional neural network (CNN). The framework comprises two main modules: a feature extraction module and a classification module. The former employs a multi-channel RBM to unsupervisedly learn latent feature representations from multi-channel EEG data, effectively capturing inter-channel correlations to enhance feature discriminability. The latter leverages convolutional operations to further extract spatiotemporal features, constructing a deep discriminative model for the automatic recognition of SSVEP signals. Comprehensive evaluations on multiple public datasets demonstrate that our proposed method achieves competitive performance compared to various benchmarks, particularly exhibiting superior effectiveness and robustness in short-time window scenarios. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue EEG Signal Processing Techniques and Applications—3rd Edition)

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15 pages, 6557 KB

Open AccessArticle

Study on Influence Law and Mechanism of Rheological Properties of High-Viscosity Fluoroether Oil-Based Ferrofluids

by Fang Chen, Yuchen Liu, Qinkui Guo, Yangjie Xiao, Yuan Dong, Sihan Yue, Yichao Huang and Zhenggui Li

Magnetochemistry 2025, 11(12), 109; https://doi.org/10.3390/magnetochemistry11120109 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

A series of high-viscosity ferrofluids with variations in particle concentration and carrier liquid molecular weight were synthesized in a fluoroether oil base by the chemical coprecipitation method. The microstructure, surface coating, and magnetic properties of the nanoparticles were characterized, and the rheological properties [...] Read more.

A series of high-viscosity ferrofluids with variations in particle concentration and carrier liquid molecular weight were synthesized in a fluoroether oil base by the chemical coprecipitation method. The microstructure, surface coating, and magnetic properties of the nanoparticles were characterized, and the rheological properties of the corresponding ferrofluids were systematically investigated to elucidate their governing mechanisms and underlying mechanisms. The results indicate that the synthesized zinc-doped ferrite particles are spherical with a size of less than 50 nm and are chemically coated with a fluoroether acid. Moreover, the saturation magnetization of the ferrofluids increases with rising particle concentration. With the increase in particle concentration, the zero-field viscosity and shear stress of the ferrofluids increase significantly. The zero-field viscosity and shear yield stress of the ferrofluid increase significantly with the molecular weight of the carrier liquid, due to the strengthened entanglement of its molecular chains. At a carrier liquid molecular weight of 4600 g/mol, the 50 wt.% ferrofluid displayed a liquid character, in contrast to the gel-like character displayed by the 60 and 70 wt.% samples. The 60 wt.%-7480 g/mol sample demonstrated superior elasticity to its 60 wt.%-4600 g/mol counterpart. Furthermore, the application of a 100 mT magnetic field induced a transition from a liquid to a gel state in the 50 wt.%-4600 g/mol sample. This transition, driven by the formation of magnetic field-induced chain-like structures, significantly enhanced the magnetoviscous effect. This study provides the theoretical basis and experimental support for the development of high-viscosity ferrofluid sealing materials suitable for high-pressure, liquid environments and corrosive working conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ferrofluids: Electromagnetic Properties and Applications)

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9 pages, 411 KB

Open AccessCase Report

Severe Hemolytic Disease of the Fetus Treated with Serial Intrauterine Transfusions: A Case Report and Review of Current Management

by Olga Olejniczak, Jakub Kornacki and Ewa Wender-Ożegowska

Life 2025, 15(12), 1875; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15121875 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

Hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) is a severe complication of pregnancy caused by maternal alloimmunization to fetal red blood cells, leading to significant perinatal morbidity and mortality. The prognosis is particularly poor in cases complicated by fetal hydrops. Prophylactic administration [...] Read more.

Hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) is a severe complication of pregnancy caused by maternal alloimmunization to fetal red blood cells, leading to significant perinatal morbidity and mortality. The prognosis is particularly poor in cases complicated by fetal hydrops. Prophylactic administration of anti-D immunoglobulin—during pregnancy, postpartum, and after events causing fetomaternal hemorrhage—has substantially reduced the incidence and severity of Rh-related HDFN. Nevertheless, the condition can still occur, either due to omitted prophylaxis or undetected fetomaternal hemorrhage. Definitive management often requires invasive interventions, including cordocentesis and intrauterine transfusions (IUTs), sometimes repeated multiple times, while the optimal timing of delivery remains uncertain, necessitating a careful balance between prematurity and ongoing fetal risk. We report the case of a 35-year-old multipara whose two most recent pregnancies were complicated by HDFN. The first affected pregnancy had a mild course, whereas the second was severe, necessitating multiple intrauterine transfusions (IUTs) throughout gestation. Despite an extremely low initial fetal hematocrit (4.5%), severe hydrops, and the requirement of six intrauterine transfusions (IUTs) during the pregnancy, the infant was delivered at 36 weeks’ gestation with a favorable postnatal outcome. This case report provides a comprehensive overview of intrauterine transfusion methodology, post-transfusion pregnancy monitoring, timing of successive IUTs, and optimal delivery planning in pregnancies complicated by HDFN. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Fetal Medicine: From Prenatal Diagnosis to Fetal and Neonatal Therapy)

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16 pages, 338 KB

Open AccessArticle

Examining the Brief Religious Coping (B-RCOPE) Instrument in a Sample of Emerging Latinx Adult Immigrants

by Camila A. Pulgar, Tatiana Villarreal-Otálora, Maria Isidro Necahual Hernandez, Katie E. Duckworth, Paige Bentley, Marcia H. McCall, David J. Johnson and Stephanie Daniel

Religions 2025, 16(12), 1542; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel16121542 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

The Brief Religious Coping Scale (B-RCOPE) is a widely recognized instrument for assessing how individuals draw upon religious coping strategies in response to life stressors. Religious coping is particularly salient among many in the Latinx community; however, shifting settlement patterns and increasing sociodemographic [...] Read more.

The Brief Religious Coping Scale (B-RCOPE) is a widely recognized instrument for assessing how individuals draw upon religious coping strategies in response to life stressors. Religious coping is particularly salient among many in the Latinx community; however, shifting settlement patterns and increasing sociodemographic diversity among Latinx immigrants in the United States (U.S.) necessitate a more nuanced approach to its measurement; (2) Methods: This cross-sectional study examined the religious coping of a growing but understudied population—Latinx emerging adults (ages 18–29; N = 150)—and conducted exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses of the English-language B-RCOPE within this group; (3) Results: Findings revealed that participants in our sample made only modest use of religious coping to manage life challenges. Analyses supported the original two-dimensional factor structure (i.e., positive and negative religious coping) of the English B-RCOPE, while also indicating that a more parsimonious 12-item version performs comparably to the full 14 items; (4) Conclusions: This study documents the usability and appropriateness of the abbreviated version and offers practitioners a culturally relevant and efficient tool for examining religious coping practices and trends among Latinx emerging adults. Full article

14 pages, 2070 KB

Open AccessArticle

MT-TPPNet: Leveraging Decoupled Feature Learning for Generic and Real-Time Multi-Task Network

by Xiaokun Tang, Chunlin Luo, Yuting Xia and Xiaohua Wei

Computers 2025, 14(12), 536; https://doi.org/10.3390/computers14120536 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

Transportation panoptic perception (TPP) is a fundamental capability for both on-board and roadside monitoring systems. In this paper, we propose an end-to-end lightweight multitask model, MT-TPPNet, which jointly performs three tasks: object detection, drivable area segmentation, and lane line segmentation. To accommodate task [...] Read more.

Transportation panoptic perception (TPP) is a fundamental capability for both on-board and roadside monitoring systems. In this paper, we propose an end-to-end lightweight multitask model, MT-TPPNet, which jointly performs three tasks: object detection, drivable area segmentation, and lane line segmentation. To accommodate task differences while sharing a common backbone, we introduce the Asymmetric Projection with Expanded-value (APEX) mechanism, which integrates attention mechanisms with different biases to enhance performance across various tasks. We further propose the Selective Channel–Spatial Coupling (

{SC}^{2}

) mechanism, which injects complementary frequency-band information into the channel-spatial coupled features. Additionally, by using a unified loss function to simultaneously handle detection and segmentation tasks, we eliminate the need for task-specific customizations, improving both training stability and deployment flexibility. Extensive experiments on self-collected field data and public benchmarks from roadway and railway scenarios demonstrate that MT-TPPNet consistently outperforms strong baselines in terms of mAP, mIoU, and FPS. In particular, MT-TPPNet achieves a mAP50 of 83.2% for traffic object detection, a mIoU of 91.6% for drivable-area segmentation, and an IoU of 28.9% for lane-line segmentation, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed approach. Full article

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18 pages, 3445 KB

Open AccessArticle

Narrative Co-Evolution in Hybrid Social Networks: A Longitudinal Computational Analysis of Confucius Institutes

by Ming Huang, Jun-Ling Wang and Zi-Ke Zhang

Entropy 2025, 27(12), 1240; https://doi.org/10.3390/e27121240 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

This study investigates the complex dynamics of public discourse surrounding Confucius Institutes (CIs) across the hybrid social networks of mainstream news and social platforms from 2010 to 2023. Employing a longitudinal, multi-platform design, we analyzed news articles and tweets using a computational framework [...] Read more.

This study investigates the complex dynamics of public discourse surrounding Confucius Institutes (CIs) across the hybrid social networks of mainstream news and social platforms from 2010 to 2023. Employing a longitudinal, multi-platform design, we analyzed news articles and tweets using a computational framework combining topic modeling and sentiment analysis. Our results reveal a shared cross-platform narrative evolution from a “culture-first” to a “politics-central” orientation. However, the trajectory differed significantly: mainstream media underwent a gradual, policy-oriented shift, while social media exhibited an abrupt, nonlinear transition. Crucially, we identify an asymmetric interdependence: Twitter sentiment reliably Granger-causes mainstream media sentiment, establishing its role as a leading indicator, and systematic asymmetries in thematic framing reflect the divergent logics of each platform. The study demonstrates that public discourse on contested, state-linked institutions operates as a complex adaptive system, where bottom-up affective reactions and top-down editorial processes continuously interact in a dynamic equilibrium, ultimately co-constructing a fragmented public understanding. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Complexity of Social Networks)

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14 pages, 13792 KB

Open AccessArticle

Research on Creep Behaviors of GH3230 Superalloy Sheets with Side Notches

by Honghua Zhao, Dingnan Cheng, Minmin Chen, Wei Xiao and Cheng Hou

Materials 2025, 18(24), 5509; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18245509 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

In order to study the effects of notches on the creep behaviors of GH3230 superalloy, a series of creep tests were conducted on GH3230 superalloy sheets with edge notches at 900 °C and 1000 °C. The creep strain curves and creep life of [...] Read more.

In order to study the effects of notches on the creep behaviors of GH3230 superalloy, a series of creep tests were conducted on GH3230 superalloy sheets with edge notches at 900 °C and 1000 °C. The creep strain curves and creep life of smooth flat plate specimens were predicted based on the θ parameter method. The results indicated that the second stage of steady-state creep of smooth flat plate specimens dominated the creep process, while the strain rate of notched specimens increased significantly in the third stage. The creep fracture strain gradually decreased with increasing creep load. The creep strain curves obtained based on the θ parameter method were in good agreement with the experimental creep strain curves. The predicted creep life of the smooth flat plate specimens and notch specimens were in good agreement with the experimental results, and all experimental results were within the double dispersion band of the predicted life. Notches exhibited a creep life enhancing effect on GH3230 superalloy under the same net stress level. Both stress concentration factor and the experimental net stress collectively determined the notch life enhancement factor. The higher the experimental net stress, the more pronounced the notch life enhancement effect. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Mechanical Materials: Damage Identification and Fatigue Life Prediction)

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13 pages, 1026 KB

Open AccessArticle

Machine-Learning-Based Fatigue Trend Analysis on IMU Wearable Sensor Data from Construction Site Workers

by Janne S. Keränen, Jamil Ahmad, Sergio Leggieri, Satu-Marja Mäkelä, Darwin G. Caldwell, Christian Di Natali, Atte Kinnula and Pekka Siirtola

Sensors 2025, 25(24), 7455; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25247455 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

Physical fatigue is a major cause of work-related accidents and musculoskeletal injuries in the construction industry, and additional means are needed for their identification and management to prevent long-term consequences. Based on recent scientific literature, fatigue can be detected with wearable inertial measurement [...] Read more.

Physical fatigue is a major cause of work-related accidents and musculoskeletal injuries in the construction industry, and additional means are needed for their identification and management to prevent long-term consequences. Based on recent scientific literature, fatigue can be detected with wearable inertial measurement units (IMUs). However, IMUs for detecting fatigue have been so far tested mainly in the laboratory; therefore, a research gap exists in application of IMU sensors for detecting fatigue in real-life work settings. The aim of this paper is to bring the fatigue trend detection with IMUs closer to real-life context by using wearable IMU sensor data from an actual construction site measuring actual workers with simulated work tasks. The paper also presents advancements in fatigue trend detection with frequency domain investigations to gain access to more detailed fatigue relevant features. Machine-learning methods are used to predict fatigue trends based on IMU data, resulting in fatigue trend detection accuracy that advances the state of the art. More knowledge is also unearthed about relevant sensor locations and features. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Wearables)

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12 pages, 263 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Novel Distance Measure of Bipolar Neutrosophic Sets with an Application in Pattern Classification

by Chunfang Liu

Symmetry 2025, 17(12), 2105; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17122105 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

A bipolar neutrosophic set (BNS) is designed to handle uncertain information by capturing both supportive and opposing aspects of data. In this paper, the pattern classification method is studied based on the proposed Hamming–Chebyshev hybrid distance measure (HCHDM). First, the HCHDM of the [...] Read more.

A bipolar neutrosophic set (BNS) is designed to handle uncertain information by capturing both supportive and opposing aspects of data. In this paper, the pattern classification method is studied based on the proposed Hamming–Chebyshev hybrid distance measure (HCHDM). First, the HCHDM of the bipolar neutrosophic sets is proposed that not only captures discrete differences, but also reflects the maximum dimensional deviation in a more complex environment. Then, the axiomatic definition of the distance measure is proved and some examples are given to show it can better discriminate between the differences of BNSs. Based on the distance measure, an algorithm to solve the pattern classification problem is given. The numerical examples show that the proposed distance measure method is effective in solving pattern classification problems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Mathematics)

12 pages, 2390 KB

Open AccessArticle

Computational Investigation of Mechanism and Selectivity in (3+2) Cycloaddition Reactions Involving Azaoxyallyl Cations

by Wei Zhou, Lei Zhang, Guixian Liu, Xiaosi Ma and Xiangtai Meng

Reactions 2025, 6(4), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/reactions6040070 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

Azaoxyallyl cations, as novel and versatile three-atom components, have been widely utilized in cycloaddition reactions, with the competition between O- and N-cyclization pathways remaining a key research focus. This study investigates the mechanism and site selectivity of (3+2) cycloaddition between azaoxyallyl cations and [...] Read more.

Azaoxyallyl cations, as novel and versatile three-atom components, have been widely utilized in cycloaddition reactions, with the competition between O- and N-cyclization pathways remaining a key research focus. This study investigates the mechanism and site selectivity of (3+2) cycloaddition between azaoxyallyl cations and 1,2-benzisoxazoles using density functional theory calculations. The results reveal a stepwise (3+2) addition to the C=N double bond, followed by base-assisted N-O bond cleavage and isoxazole ring-opening, leading to oxazoline (via O-cyclization) or imidazolone (via N-cyclization) derivatives. When unsubstituted 1,2-benzisoxazole is used as the substrate, O-cyclization dominates as a kinetically controlled process due to lower activation barriers, while N-cyclization, as a thermodynamically controlled process, is minor. The presence of a methyl group at the C(3) position in 1,2-benzisoxazoles completely blocks N-O bond cleavage, forcing exclusive (3+2) cycloaddition to yield less stable tricyclic products via N-cyclization rather than O-cyclization. These findings align with experimental observations and provide new mechanistic insights into the site selectivity of azaoxyallyl cation cycloadditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cycloaddition Reactions at the Beginning of the Third Millennium, 2nd Edition)

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16 pages, 518 KB

Open AccessReview

Varicella Zoster Virus and Stroke: An Intricate Relationship

by Achilleas Livieratos, Lars Erik Schiro, Charalambos Gogos, Georgios Ntaios and Karolina Akinosoglou

Viruses 2025, 17(12), 1591; https://doi.org/10.3390/v17121591 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV), responsible for chickenpox and herpes zoster, has emerged as a significant contributor to cerebrovascular disease. Mounting evidence indicates that VZV reactivation may precipitate ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke through mechanisms of viral vasculopathy, immune evasion, and vascular inflammation. While antiviral [...] Read more.

Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV), responsible for chickenpox and herpes zoster, has emerged as a significant contributor to cerebrovascular disease. Mounting evidence indicates that VZV reactivation may precipitate ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke through mechanisms of viral vasculopathy, immune evasion, and vascular inflammation. While antiviral therapy remains the cornerstone of treatment, several adjunctive regimens exhibit encouraging results in controlling endothelial inflammatory response. This targeted review synthesized findings from 31 studies, including clinical cohorts, in vitro models, and pathological analyses, to evaluate the relationship between VZV and stroke, with emphasis on treatment management beyond antivirals. Evidence demonstrates that VZV antigens are frequently detected within cerebral arteries, where they induce transmural inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and thrombosis, thereby increasing stroke risk, particularly in the weeks following herpes zoster. Adjunctive therapies such as corticosteroids, statins, and resveratrol show promise in mitigating vascular inflammation, though clinical validation is limited. Preventive measures, especially zoster vaccination, significantly reduce herpes zoster incidence and may lower subsequent stroke risk, yet global uptake remains insufficient. Collectively, the data underscore the need for improved diagnostic tools, combination treatment strategies, and expanded vaccination programs to address the substantial public health burden of VZV-associated stroke. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Controversies and Advances in Neurovirology)

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10 pages, 208 KB

Open AccessReview

Dietary Fat and Protein Intake and Their Impact on Glycemic Control in Pediatric Type 1 Diabetes: A Narrative Review

by Kosmas Margaritis, Vasiliki Rengina Tsinopoulou, Eleni P. Kotanidou and Assimina Galli-Tsinopoulou

Children 2025, 12(12), 1664; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12121664 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

Carbohydrates have been the center of type 1 diabetes dietary management. Emerging evidence highlights the important effects of fat and protein in postprandial hyperglycemia, suggesting that an increase in daily fat and protein intake, combined with appropriate insulin dose adjustments, might lead to [...] Read more.

Carbohydrates have been the center of type 1 diabetes dietary management. Emerging evidence highlights the important effects of fat and protein in postprandial hyperglycemia, suggesting that an increase in daily fat and protein intake, combined with appropriate insulin dose adjustments, might lead to better glycemic control. It is well studied that meals containing fat or protein lead to late postprandial hyperglycemia. Studies that researched the use of these macronutrients observed the need for extended or dual wave boluses to achieve euglycemia and that no consistent improvement in HbA1c or time in range was related to higher protein or fat intake. Optimizing glycemic control in pediatric T1D requires strategies beyond carbohydrate counting. While balanced macronutrient distribution remains the main solid factor in stable glycemic profiles, more studies regarding the variety of macronutrients’ formulation in optimizing glycemic control are needed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optimizing Glycemic Management in Pediatric Populations with Type 1 Diabetes: Challenges and Advances)

29 pages, 6525 KB

Open AccessReview

Issues Related to Water Hammer in Francis-Turbine Hydropower Schemes: A Review

by Anton Bergant, Jernej Mazij, Jošt Pekolj and Kamil Urbanowicz

Energies 2025, 18(24), 6404; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18246404 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

This paper reviews key parameters which may cause unacceptable water hammer loads in Francis-turbine hydropower schemes. Water hammer control strategies are presented for this context including operational scenarios (closing and opening laws), surge control devices, redesign of the pipeline components, or limitation of [...] Read more.

This paper reviews key parameters which may cause unacceptable water hammer loads in Francis-turbine hydropower schemes. Water hammer control strategies are presented for this context including operational scenarios (closing and opening laws), surge control devices, redesign of the pipeline components, or limitation of operating conditions. Theoretical water hammer models and solutions are outlined and discussed. Case studies include simple and complex new and refurbished hydropower systems including headrace and tailrace tunnels, surge tanks of various designs, and different penstock layouts. The case studies in this paper cover the application of both commercial and in-house software packages for hydraulic transient analysis. Two-stage guide vane closing law, increased unit inertia and surge tank(s) are used in the cases considered to keep the water hammer within the prescribed limits. Typical values for the maximum pressure head at the turbine inlet and the maximum unit speed rise during normal transient regimes were in the range of 10 to 35% of the maximum gross head and 35 to 50% above the nominal speed, respectively. The agreement between computational results using both software packages, and field test results is well within the limits of ±5% accepted in hydropower engineering practice. Full article

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11 pages, 12575 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Role of Vector Potential and Plasma-β in Jet Formation from Magnetized Accretion Flows

by Ishika Palit, Miles Angelo Paloma Sodejana and Hsiang-Yi Karen Yang

Universe 2025, 11(12), 404; https://doi.org/10.3390/universe11120404 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

In this work, we investigate how the choice of initial vector potential and plasma parameters influences the development of accretion columns and jet formation in magnetized accretion flows. Using general relativistic magnetohydrodynamic simulations, we explore two different configurations of the vector potential [...] Read more.

In this work, we investigate how the choice of initial vector potential and plasma parameters influences the development of accretion columns and jet formation in magnetized accretion flows. Using general relativistic magnetohydrodynamic simulations, we explore two different configurations of the vector potential

A_{ϕ}

and three plasma beta values (

β = 50, 100, 500

). We analyze how variations in the poloidal magnetic field strength and plasma magnetization affect magnetic flux accumulation near the black hole and the subsequent growth of the accretion column. Our results highlight the dependence of jet launching efficiency and accretion dynamics on the initial magnetic field topology and plasma beta, offering insight into the conditions that favor magnetically arrested disk or standard and normal evolution states. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Progress of Black Hole Accretion Disk)

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25 pages, 2387 KB

Open AccessReview

Review of Emerging Hybrid Gas–Magnetic Bearings for Aerospace Electrical Machines

by Mohammad Reza Karafi and Pedram Asef

World Electr. Veh. J. 2025, 16(12), 662; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj16120662 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

Hybrid Gas–Magnetic Bearings (HGMBs) are an emerging technology ready to completely change high-speed oil-free rotor support in aerospace electric motors. Because HGMBs combine the stiffness and load capacity of gas bearings with the active control of magnetic bearings, enabling oil-free, contactless rotor support [...] Read more.

Hybrid Gas–Magnetic Bearings (HGMBs) are an emerging technology ready to completely change high-speed oil-free rotor support in aerospace electric motors. Because HGMBs combine the stiffness and load capacity of gas bearings with the active control of magnetic bearings, enabling oil-free, contactless rotor support from zero to ultra-high speeds. They offer more load capacity of standalone magnetic bearings while maintaining full levitation across the entire speed range. Dual-mode operation, magnetic at low speeds and gas film at high speeds, minimizes control power and thermal losses, making HGMBs ideal for high-speed aerospace systems such as cryogenic turbopumps, electric propulsion units, and hydrogen compressors. While not universally optimal, HGMBs excel where extreme speed, high load, and stringent efficiency requirements converge. Advances in modeling, control, and manufacturing are expected to accelerate their adoption, marking a shift toward hybrid electromagnetic–aerodynamic rotor support for next-generation aerospace propulsion. This review provides a thorough overview of emerging HGMBs, emphasizing their design principles, performance metrics, application case studies, and comparative advantages over conventional gas or magnetic bearings. We include both a historical perspective and the latest developments, supported by technical data, experimental results, and insights from recent literature. We also present a comparative discussion including future research directions for HGMBs in aerospace electrical machine applications. Full article

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17 pages, 4780 KB

Open AccessArticle

Research on Equivalent Scale Analysis for On-Orbit Assembly of Ultra-Large Space Structures

by Dayu Zhang, Xiaofei Ma, Yang Li, Zexing Yu, Ruiwen Guo, Wenjin Liu, Sicheng Wang and Yongbo Ye

Materials 2025, 18(24), 5508; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18245508 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

Ultra-large structures serve as core aerospace equipment for missions such as Earth observation and deep space exploration. With dimensions reaching hundreds of meters or even kilometers, they require advanced technologies, including on-orbit assembly, modular integration, and robot-assisted construction, to achieve high-precision structural formation [...] Read more.

Ultra-large structures serve as core aerospace equipment for missions such as Earth observation and deep space exploration. With dimensions reaching hundreds of meters or even kilometers, they require advanced technologies, including on-orbit assembly, modular integration, and robot-assisted construction, to achieve high-precision structural formation and stable operation. For on-orbit assembly of these structures, critical attention must be paid to their inherent vibration characteristics to evaluate on-orbit service stiffness and stability. Additionally, the static deformation behavior during assembly must be examined to assess the impact of assembly loads on overall structural deformation and surface accuracy. To efficiently evaluate the above-mentioned characteristics, an equivalent scale analysis method for the on-orbit assembly of space-based megastructures is established. Through theoretical modelling, it establishes scaling relationships between mechanical properties—such as structural natural vibration and static deformation—and module diameter dimensions. The numerical results indicate that halving the module diameter results in the natural frequency of the assembled structure increasing by about four times and the static deformation decreasing by about eight times, in agreement with the scaling law. This method enables accurate inference of the full-scale structure’s on-orbit mechanical behavior, thereby facilitating precise evaluation of typical mechanical characteristics during ultra-large structure on-orbit assembly. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Experimental Testing and Numerical Modelling for Structural Dynamics)

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20 pages, 1032 KB

Open AccessArticle

Research on the Operation Flexibility of a Combined Heat and Power Generation Unit with Low-Temperature Return Water

by Yaohua Zhao, Lei Lei, Shaohua Li and Junfu Lyu

Energies 2025, 18(24), 6403; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18246403 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

In northern China, photovoltaic power generation peaks around midday, resulting in a concentrated demand for flexible and deep peak shaving over a period of approximately four hours. This study analyzes the heating and power supply capacity, as well as the operational flexibility, of [...] Read more.

In northern China, photovoltaic power generation peaks around midday, resulting in a concentrated demand for flexible and deep peak shaving over a period of approximately four hours. This study analyzes the heating and power supply capacity, as well as the operational flexibility, of the low-temperature backwater cogeneration unit at the Gujiao Power Plant. It is found that this unit exhibits stronger thermo-electric coupling and lower flexibility than conventional cogeneration systems. By evaluating the applicability of general flexibility enhancement technologies, the impacts of several thermal storage methods, including the user-side thermal storage, the hot water tank storage, and the combined regulation of the tank with user-side thermal storage, are investigated in terms of their effects on unit flexibility, energy consumption, and economic performance. A combined regulation strategy incorporating a tank-based thermal energy storage system with a rated power of 1000 MW and 20% user-side thermal storage is proposed. This approach can reduce the unit load rate by approximately 28% and significantly enhance both peak shaving capacity and economic efficiency. The correlation analysis presented in this study can serve as a reference for research on improving the operational flexibility of low-temperature backwater combined heat and power units. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Energy Systems Planning and Scheduling in Energy Markets: The Role of Flexibility for the Energy Transition, 2nd Edition)

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23 pages, 482 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Reception and Reconstruction of Daoism in the Chinese Diaspora of Singapore (1880s–1930s)

by Qi Zhu and Minzhi Zhu

Religions 2025, 16(12), 1541; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel16121541 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

This article investigates how Daoism evolved into a source of moral order and cultural continuity in Singapore from the late nineteenth to the early twentieth century. Drawing on inscriptions, canonical texts, and Chinese-language newspapers, it traces the transformation of Daoism from an official [...] Read more.

This article investigates how Daoism evolved into a source of moral order and cultural continuity in Singapore from the late nineteenth to the early twentieth century. Drawing on inscriptions, canonical texts, and Chinese-language newspapers, it traces the transformation of Daoism from an official cult into a social ethic amid the decline of the imperial ritual system and the emergence of new communal spaces among overseas Chinese. Confronted with the modern distinction between “civilization” and “superstition,” Chinese residents in Singapore reinterpreted Daoist teachings and reshaped ritual practices to meet changing social conditions. These reinterpretations found expression in education, philanthropy, and public ceremonies, linking religious practice with civic responsibility. Rather than fading under modern influences, Daoism acquired new forms of vitality through everyday practice and local cooperation. The Singapore case demonstrates that Southeast Asian Chinese communities were not peripheral to Daoism’s modern transformation but decisive arenas in which its discourse and ritual were recast into civic institutions of education, moral regulation, and communal order, thereby shaping one of the key trajectories through which Daoism entered modern public life. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Modern Reception and Interpretation of Daoism in East Asia and the West: A Comparative Perspective (19th–21st Centuries))

17 pages, 1453 KB

Open AccessArticle

Increasing Prevalence and Temporal Trend of Prematurity, São Paulo, Brazil, 2000–2023

by Adriana Gonçalves de Oliveira, João Batista Francalino da Rocha, Edige Felipe de Sousa Santos, Hugo Macedo Jr., Orivaldo Florencio de Souza, Luiz Carlos de Abreu and Rubens Wajnsztejn

Epidemiologia 2025, 6(4), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/epidemiologia6040089 (registering DOI) - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background: premature birth is a significant public health problem, especially in developing countries such as Brazil. Premature newborns require special care from birth, often requiring prolonged hospitalization and continuous monitoring by various specialists after discharge. Infant Mortality among children under five years of [...] Read more.

Background: premature birth is a significant public health problem, especially in developing countries such as Brazil. Premature newborns require special care from birth, often requiring prolonged hospitalization and continuous monitoring by various specialists after discharge. Infant Mortality among children under five years of age in Brazil is alarming, with prematurity being the main cause of death in this age group. Objectives: we aim to analyze the prevalence and temporal trend of premature live births in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, in the period 2000–2023. Methods: this is an Ecological, Time-Series Study with secondary data on premature live births in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, from 2000 to 2023. The variables in this study are aggregated measures by year. The Annual Percentage Change and the Average Annual Percentage Change in the percentage of premature live births were estimated by Joinpoint regression. Results: the percentage of premature live births in the period 2000 to 2023 was 9.71%. The average annual percentage change showed an increase of 2.30% per year. In the 2010 to 2013 segment, there was an increase of 12.58% per year (p ≤ 0.05), with subsequent stability in the 2013 to 2016 segment (p ≥ 0.05). The largest annual increases occurred in the number of 4 to 6 prenatal consultations and cesarean sections, with an annual percentage change of 4.51% per year and 2.68% per year, respectively. In the birth weight category equal to or greater than 2500 g, there was an increase in premature live births of 2.50% per year. All categories of the variables sex, type of pregnancy, and type of delivery increased in the period 2000–2023 (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusions: given the increase in the prematurity rate in the period 2000–2023, a long-term growing trend is expected in the largest and most developed state in Brazil. Full article

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