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34 pages, 9360 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Flame-Retardant Fiber-Reinforced Composites: Advances and Prospects in Multi-Performance Synergy

by Zihan Zhang, Feng Han, Haoran Li, Tianyu Li, Boran Yang, Jinhu Hu and Ye-Tang Pan

J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(12), 703; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9120703 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Fiber-reinforced polymer composites, particularly carbon fiber and glass fiber reinforced composites, are widely used in cutting-edge industries due to their excellent properties, such as light weight and high strength. This review systematically compares and summarizes recent research advances in flame retardancy for carbon [...] Read more.

Fiber-reinforced polymer composites, particularly carbon fiber and glass fiber reinforced composites, are widely used in cutting-edge industries due to their excellent properties, such as light weight and high strength. This review systematically compares and summarizes recent research advances in flame retardancy for carbon fiber-reinforced polymers and glass fiber-reinforced polymers. Focusing on various polymer matrices, including epoxy, polyamide, and polyetheretherketone, the mechanisms and synergistic effects of different flame-retardant modification strategies—such as additive flame retardants, nanocomposites, coating techniques, intrinsically flame-retardant polymers, and advanced manufacturing processes—are analyzed with emphasis on improving flame retardancy and suppressing the “wick effect.” The review critically examines the challenges in balancing flame retardancy, mechanical performance, and environmental friendliness in current approaches, highlighting the key role of interface engineering in mitigating the “wick effect.” Based on this analysis, four future research directions are proposed: implementing green design principles throughout the material life cycle; promoting the use of natural fibers, bio-based resins, and bio-derived flame retardants; developing intelligent responsive flame-retardant systems based on materials such as metal–organic frameworks; advancing interface engineering through biomimetic design and advanced characterization to fundamentally suppress the fiber “wick effect”; and incorporating materials genome and high-throughput preparation technologies to accelerate the development of high-performance flame-retardant composites. This review aims to provide systematic theoretical insights and clear technical pathways for developing the next generation of high-performance, safe, and sustainable fiber-reinforced composites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Composites)

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13 pages, 2545 KB

Open AccessArticle

Source-Specific PM_2.5 Exposure and Associated Health Risks During Beijing Winter

by Xin Liu, Zhiqing Liu, Wenming Pei, Xiaoyu Zhang, Xiaoting Jie, Zhi Yang, Liwei Liu, Yuxing Gao, Ruoyu Hu and Mingzhu Zhang

Toxics 2025, 13(12), 1081; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13121081 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

Atmospheric fine particles (PM_2.5, aerodynamic diameter ≤ 2.5 µm) have a serious effect on human health. This study combined concentration weighted trajectory (CWT) analysis with the HYSPLIT trajectory ensemble (Ens-HYSPLIT-CWT), to separate the sources of PM_2.5 transported to Beijing, and [...] Read more.

Atmospheric fine particles (PM_2.5, aerodynamic diameter ≤ 2.5 µm) have a serious effect on human health. This study combined concentration weighted trajectory (CWT) analysis with the HYSPLIT trajectory ensemble (Ens-HYSPLIT-CWT), to separate the sources of PM_2.5 transported to Beijing, and further investigate the effect of PM_2.5 originated from different sources on human health. We found that north region air masses usually come with clean events under the blessing of meteorological conditions, combined with the clean air mass transported from the north, as high wind speed near the surface promotes the horizontal diffusion of pollutants. Additionally, north region air masses contribute to the decrease in aerosol optical depth (AOD) at Beijing and surrounding areas, with AF (daily attributable fraction associated with short-term PM_2.5 exposure) values of Beijing only at 0.14. During the study period (from January to March 2024), south region air masses usually come with high PM_2.5 values, which is correlated to the meteorological conditions and pollutant spatial distribution. The air masses coming from the south region contain high temperature and relative humidity (RH), promoting the occurrence of high pollution events. AOD spatial distribution observed from satellites showed that except for the dominance of north region air mass sources, the south region presents high AOD values, further resulting in the highest AF value of 0.75 obtained at Beijing, which is 5 times higher than the north region’s dominant AF mean value. It is worth noting that the air mass originated from the east region, which originally contributed relatively clean air masses before emission reduction, increased its contribution to air mass pollution after emission reduction due to the decrease in pollution concentration in other regions. As a result, the mean PM_2.5 in this source area was second only to south region air masses and local emission sources, and the AF value even exceeded local emissions, second only to south region air mass sources, reaching 0.5. This result emphasizes that in future pollution control policy adjustments and research on human health, attention needs to be paid to the contribution of eastward air masses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Monitoring and Modeling of Air Pollution)

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17 pages, 1480 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Molecular Epidemiology of Highly Diffusive DNA Viruses in Dogs and Cats from Romania

by Andrea Balboni, Lorenza Urbani, Mihaela Niculae, Cosmin Muresan, Martina Magliocca, Veronica Facile, Erika Esposito, Alessia Terrusi, Laura Gallina and Mara Battilani

Animals 2025, 15(24), 3620; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15243620 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

Protoparvovirus carnivoran 1 (PPVC-1), Canine adenovirus type 1 and 2 (CAdV-1 and CAdV-2), and Canine circovirus (CanineCV) are highly diffusive viruses that affect domestic and wild carnivores worldwide, yet limited data are available on their circulation in Eastern European countries. In this retrospective [...] Read more.

Protoparvovirus carnivoran 1 (PPVC-1), Canine adenovirus type 1 and 2 (CAdV-1 and CAdV-2), and Canine circovirus (CanineCV) are highly diffusive viruses that affect domestic and wild carnivores worldwide, yet limited data are available on their circulation in Eastern European countries. In this retrospective study, the presence of these DNA viruses was investigated using molecular assays on fecal samples from 89 companion animals (56 dogs and 33 cats) collected in Romania between 2019 and 2021. The pathogens identified were analyzed genetically. Overall, 36/56 (64.3%) dogs and 5/33 (15.2%) cats tested positive for PPVC-1, 1/56 (1.8%) dogs for CAdV-1 and CAdV-2, and 15/56 (26.8%) dogs for CanineCV. In total, 40/56 (71.4%) dogs were positive for at least one of the screened pathogens. Novel findings in dogs included the frequent detection of canine parvovirus type 2c of Asian origin (Asian-like CPV-2c) and the first genetic data on CAdV-1 and CanineCV circulating in Romania. This study provides new insights into the epidemiology of DNA viruses in dogs and cats from Romania and highlights the need for ongoing monitoring of circulating pathogens to safeguard animal health, prevent outbreaks and limit potential transboundary spread. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Companion Animals)

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30 pages, 12789 KB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Drought Identification and Characterization in the Tensift River Basin (Morocco): A Comparative Analysis of Data and Tools

by Mohamed Naim, Brunella Bonaccorso and Shewandagn Tekle

Hydrology 2025, 12(12), 334; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrology12120334 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

The Tensift River Basin, part of the Mediterranean region, faces significant agricultural losses due to increasing drought frequency and severity, impacting up to 15% of the national GDP. The increasing climate crisis demands our immediate attention and proactive adaptation measures, including the enhancement [...] Read more.

The Tensift River Basin, part of the Mediterranean region, faces significant agricultural losses due to increasing drought frequency and severity, impacting up to 15% of the national GDP. The increasing climate crisis demands our immediate attention and proactive adaptation measures, including the enhancement of early-warning tools to support timely and informed responses. To this end, our study aims to achieve the following goals: (1) evaluate satellite and reanalysis products against in situ observations using statistical metrics; (2) identify the best probability distribution for calculating drought indices using goodness-of-fit testing; (3) compare the performances of the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) and the Standardized Precipitation and Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) at different aggregation timescales by comparing index-based and reported (i.e., impact-based) drought events using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Our findings indicate that CHIRPS and ERA5-Land datasets perform well compared to in situ measurements for drought monitoring in the Tensift River Basin. Pearson Type 3 was identified as the optimal distribution for SPI calculation, while log-logistic was confirmed for SPEI. We also explored the effect of using the Thornthwaite method and the Hargreaves method when computing the SPEI. These results can serve as a basis for drought monitoring, modeling, and forecasting, to support decision-makers in the sustainable management of water resources. Full article

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24 pages, 11779 KB

Open AccessArticle

Aircraft Trajectory Tracking via Geometric Prior-Guided Keypoint Detection in SMR

by Xiaoyan Wang, Jiangyan Ji, Mingmin Wu, Peng Li, Xiangli Wang, Zhaowen Tong and Zhixiang Huang

Symmetry 2025, 17(12), 2162; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17122162 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

Detecting aircraft in Airport Surface Movement Radar (SMR) imagery presents a unique challenge rooted in the conflict between object symmetry and data asymmetry. While aircraft possess strong structural symmetry, their radar signatures are often sparse, incomplete, and highly asymmetric, leading to target loss [...] Read more.

Detecting aircraft in Airport Surface Movement Radar (SMR) imagery presents a unique challenge rooted in the conflict between object symmetry and data asymmetry. While aircraft possess strong structural symmetry, their radar signatures are often sparse, incomplete, and highly asymmetric, leading to target loss and position jitter in traditional detection algorithms. To overcome this, we introduce SWCR-YOLO, a keypoint detection framework designed to learn and enforce the target’s implicit structural symmetry from its imperfect radar representation. Our model reconstructs a stable aircraft pose by localizing four keypoints (nose, tail, wingtips) that define its symmetric axes. Based on YOLOv11n, SWCR-YOLO incorporates a MultiScaleStem module and wavelet transforms to effectively extract features from the sparse, asymmetric scatter points, while a Multi-Scale Convolutional Attention (MSCA) module refines salient information. Crucially, training is guided by a Geometric Regularized Keypoint Loss (GRKLoss), which introduces a symmetry-based prior by imposing angular constraints on the keypoints to ensure physically plausible pose estimations. Our symmetry-aware approach, on a real-world SMR dataset, achieves an mAP50 of 88.2% and reduces the trajectory root mean square error by 51.8% compared to MTD-CFAR pipeline methods, from 8.235 m to 3.968 m, demonstrating its effectiveness in handling asymmetric data for robust object tracking. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetry/Asymmetry in Image Processing and Computer Vision)

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22 pages, 919 KB

Open AccessArticle

GeoCross: A Privacy-Preserving and Fine-Grained Authorization Scheme for Cross-Chain Geological Data Sharing

by Licheng Lin, Bin Feng and Pujie Jing

Sensors 2025, 25(24), 7625; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25247625 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

With the rapid development of geological blockchains and Internet of Things-based data acquisition technologies, massive amounts of heterogeneous data are constantly emerging. However, this data is stored in a distributed manner across different organizational or business blockchains. Data sharing among multiple geological blockchains [...] Read more.

With the rapid development of geological blockchains and Internet of Things-based data acquisition technologies, massive amounts of heterogeneous data are constantly emerging. However, this data is stored in a distributed manner across different organizational or business blockchains. Data sharing among multiple geological blockchains faces numerous challenges, either exposing sensitive data during verification or lacking effective authorization mechanisms. Therefore, how to achieve fine-grained access control and privacy protection across multiple blockchains has become a critical issue that must be addressed in geological data sharing. In this paper, we propose GeoCross, a cross-chain geological data sharing framework that enables fine-grained authorization management and privacy protection. First, GeoCross provides a hierarchical hybrid encryption mechanism that uses symmetric encryption for geological data protection and ciphertext-policy attribute-based encryption to enable flexible cross-chain access policies. Second, we integrate a Groth16-based zero-knowledge proof mechanism, which allows a chain to verify the existence, integrity, and accessibility of off-chain data without revealing the content. Furthermore, we introduce a Reputation-based Non-interactive Relay node Selection protocol (RNRS), which enhances the trustworthiness and fairness of cross-chain routing. Finally, we implement GeoCross in a multi-chain Hyperledger Fabric environment and evaluate its performance under real-world workloads. Results show that Groth16 verification requires only three bilinear pairings, achieving a throughput of up to 390 tps on a single chain and 1550 tps in a concurrent multi-chain environment. Even with 50% malicious nodes, the RNRS protocol still maintains a success rate of over 91%. These results demonstrate that GeoCross provides an efficient and practical solution for secure and privacy-preserving cross-chain geological data sharing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Blockchain-Based Solutions to Secure IoT)

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16 pages, 470 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Good Veterinary Practices for Managing the Colostral Period in Dairy Calves to Improve Their Immune Competence—A Systematic Review

by Elena Stancheva and Toncho Penev

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(12), 1205; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12121205 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

Passive transfer of immunoglobulin G (IgG) through colostrum is essential for early immune protection in dairy calves. This systematic review synthesizes the most relevant evidence on colostrum quality, feeding practices, storage methods, and post-feeding assessment. High-quality colostrum (≥50 g/L IgG and low bacterial [...] Read more.

Passive transfer of immunoglobulin G (IgG) through colostrum is essential for early immune protection in dairy calves. This systematic review synthesizes the most relevant evidence on colostrum quality, feeding practices, storage methods, and post-feeding assessment. High-quality colostrum (≥50 g/L IgG and low bacterial contamination) can be reliably assessed using Brix refractometry (≥22%) or radial immunodiffusion. Early administration is critical: feeding within 1–2 h after birth maximizes IgG absorption. Providing 8.5–10% of body weight (≈3–4 L) at first feeding, followed by a second feeding within 8–12 h, significantly reduces failure of passive transfer. Pasteurization at 60 °C for 60 min and controlled freezing maintain immunological integrity while reducing microbial load. Monitoring passive immunity using serum total protein (5.0–5.5 g/dL) or serum Brix (8.1–8.5%) offers practical field diagnostics aligned with the IgG ≥ 10 g/L threshold. Integrated colostrum management protocols—combining quality evaluation, timely feeding, hygienic handling, and trained personnel—are essential to improve passive immunity, health, and overall performance of dairy calves. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Barn to Table: Animal Health, Welfare, and Food Safety)

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13 pages, 446 KB

Open AccessReview

Early Detection and Prevention of Ovarian Cancer

by Lauren Montemorano, Laura Huffman and Lisa Barroilhet

Cancers 2025, 17(24), 4006; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17244006 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) encompasses ovarian, fallopian tube and peritoneal malignancies. It is a deadly disease and is rarely cured when diagnosed at advanced stages. Early-stage disease is often curable, but clinicians and researchers have been stymied in their attempts to [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) encompasses ovarian, fallopian tube and peritoneal malignancies. It is a deadly disease and is rarely cured when diagnosed at advanced stages. Early-stage disease is often curable, but clinicians and researchers have been stymied in their attempts to reliably screen for this disease, even in high-risk populations. Effective prevention of ovarian cancer is usually limited to the use of combined oral contraceptives and removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Methods and Results: We aim to review the current guidelines and the evidence reported for both the early detection and prevention of ovarian cancer. Novel imaging techniques, biomarkers, and surgical advances will be discussed. Conclusions: This review will offer (a) an understanding of the epidemiology of EOC (b) analysis and a discussion of relevant molecular markers that might be exploited for more accurate early detection (c) medical and surgical methods to prevent ovarian cancer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gynecologic Cancer: Risk Factors, Interception and Prevention)

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19 pages, 2932 KB

Open AccessArticle

PEGylated Terpesome-Loaded 3D-Printed Aripiprazole Ocuserts for the Treatment of Ocular Candidiasis

by Rofida Albash, Mariam Hassan, Ahmed M. Agiba, Wessam H. Abd-Elsalam, Diana Aziz, Youssef R. Hassan, Amira B. Kassem, Asmaa Saleh and Moaz A. Eltabeeb

Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(12), 1616; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17121616 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to repurpose aripiprazole (AR), an antipsychotic clinically approved by the FDA, as a novel antifungal drug and to potentiate its therapeutic efficacy through PEGylated terpesomes (PEG-TERs). Methods: PEG-TERs were prepared by thin-film hydration and optimized using a central composite [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to repurpose aripiprazole (AR), an antipsychotic clinically approved by the FDA, as a novel antifungal drug and to potentiate its therapeutic efficacy through PEGylated terpesomes (PEG-TERs). Methods: PEG-TERs were prepared by thin-film hydration and optimized using a central composite design. The optimum PEG-TER formulation was characterized for entrapment efficiency (EE%), particle size (PS), polydispersity index (PDI), and zeta potential (ZP), and subsequently integrated into polylactic acid (PLA)-based 3D-printed ocuserts. Results: The optimized formulation exhibited spherical vesicles with high EE%, nanoscale PS, narrow PDI, and favorable ZP, alongside excellent stability and mucoadhesive properties. Ex vivo permeation demonstrated a sustained release profile of AR from PEG-TERs compared with an AR suspension, while confocal microscopy confirmed efficient corneal deposition of fluorescein-labeled PEG-TERs. In vivo, the optimum AR-loaded PEG-TERs ocusert exhibited a substantial therapeutic effect in a rabbit model of Candida albicans keratitis, while histopathological assessment confirmed its ocular safety and biocompatibility. Conclusions: In conclusion, AR-loaded PEG-TERs embedded in PLA-based 3D-printed ocuserts represent a promising, safe, and innovative therapeutic platform for the management of Candida albicans-induced corneal infections, offering both drug repurposing and emerging opportunities in advanced ocular drug delivery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lipid-Based Nanoparticulate Drug Delivery Systems: Preparation, Biomedical Applications, and Evaluation, 2nd Edition)

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13 pages, 7648 KB

Open AccessCase Report

Clinical Management of Worn Ball Abutments in Mandibular Mini-Implant Overdentures: A Case Report in a Skeletal Class II Patient

by Cătălina Murariu-Măgureanu, Elena Preoteasa, Cristian Teodorescu and Cristina Teodora Preoteasa

Dent. J. 2025, 13(12), 606; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13120606 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Complete denture rehabilitation in edentulous patients presents functional and biomechanical challenges. Mini-implant-supported overdentures improve retention, stability, function, and comfort, particularly in complex class II or class III mandibulo-maxillary relationships. However, mechanical complications such as ball abutment wear may compromise long-term success. [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Complete denture rehabilitation in edentulous patients presents functional and biomechanical challenges. Mini-implant-supported overdentures improve retention, stability, function, and comfort, particularly in complex class II or class III mandibulo-maxillary relationships. However, mechanical complications such as ball abutment wear may compromise long-term success. This case report aims to describe the clinical context, methods employed to manage ball abutment wear, and related complications in a patient with a mandibular mini-implant overdenture. Methods: This retrospective case report presents two approaches to managing abutment wear and enhancing overdenture retention: silicone matrices (Retention.Sil, Bredent Medical GmbH & Co.KG, Senden, Germany) and abutment reconstruction using prefabricated cemented spheres (Concave Reconstructive Sphere, Rhein83, Bologna, Italy). Results: A significant mechanical complication associated with mini-implant overdentures is the wear of ball abutments, which may develop over time as a result of continuous interaction between the O-ring system and the abutment surfaces. Both techniques effectively preserved mini-implants while enhancing denture retention, function, and comfort. Conclusions: Mechanical complications, such as ball abutment wear, may compromise the retention and functional performance of mandibular overdentures. Alternatives like silicone matrices and reconstructive spheres address abutment wear in mandibular overdentures, ensuring long-term retention and sustainable, patient-centered care for the elderly. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dentistry in the 21st Century: Challenges and Opportunities)

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16 pages, 991 KB

Open AccessReview

Current Strategies for Limb Salvage and Reconstruction in Pediatric Lower Extremity Malignant Bone Tumors: Focus on Growth Preservation and Functional Outcomes

by Zhu Liu, Haoqi Cai, Yuchan Li and Zhigang Wang

Children 2025, 12(12), 1700; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12121700 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma are the predominant malignant bone tumors of the lower limbs in children. With 5-year survival rates of 70–77% for localized disease, limb salvage with growth-compatible reconstruction has replaced amputation as the standard. This review aimed to synthesize current [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma are the predominant malignant bone tumors of the lower limbs in children. With 5-year survival rates of 70–77% for localized disease, limb salvage with growth-compatible reconstruction has replaced amputation as the standard. This review aimed to synthesize current reconstruction strategies, propose an age-and defect-based decision algorithm, and highlight growth-preserving innovations for skeletally immature patients. Methods: This narrative review of surgical techniques—including rotationplasty, biological reconstruction (vascularized/non-vascularized fibula, allograft, recycled autograft, “hot dog” composite), bone transport, and endoprosthetic replacement (modular, extendable, 3D-printed)—was conducted, with a literature search covering January 1990 to October 2025 and emphasized pediatric studies published after 2020, emphasizing pediatric outcomes, complication profiles, and functional scores. Results: Across pediatric and mixed-age cohorts (typically n ≈ 10–30 per technique; median follow-up 3–10 years), rotationplasty demonstrated high durability with Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) scores of 21–28/30, especially in children < 6 years. Biological reconstruction achieved >80% union in defects < 6 cm, while vascularized fibula grafts yielded 82–95% union for 6–15 cm defects. Bone transport produced reliable union for 3–15 cm defects but required prolonged fixation (40–60 days/cm) and had high pin-tract infection rates (50–60%). Extendable endoprostheses demonstrated 5-year prosthesis survival of 54–87%, while early joint-preserving 3D-printed implants improved MSTS scores from 17 to 28 points in a pediatric series (n = 7, mean follow-up 30 months). Conclusions: Personalized reconstruction guided by a child-centered algorithm optimizes oncologic control, skeletal growth, and long-term function. Emerging 3D-printed joint-preserving implants and noninvasive lengthening technologies promise further reduction in revisions and complications in pediatric limb salvage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Hematology & Oncology)

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12 pages, 2457 KB

Open AccessArticle

Stop Recycling the Past and Start Building for the Future: An AR Board Game Promoting Recycling and Sustainability Education

by Ilias Logothetis, Ioannis Andrianakis, Antonios Stamatakis, Vasiliki Eirini Chatzea and Nikolas Vidakis

Electronics 2025, 14(24), 4931; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14244931 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

Recycling education is important for promoting pro-environmental sustainable behavior, yet traditional approaches often lack engagement and impact, particularly among younger audiences. This study presents a digital, turn-based card strategy game designed to teach recycling principles and concepts through interactive city-building mechanics. Set in [...] Read more.

Recycling education is important for promoting pro-environmental sustainable behavior, yet traditional approaches often lack engagement and impact, particularly among younger audiences. This study presents a digital, turn-based card strategy game designed to teach recycling principles and concepts through interactive city-building mechanics. Set in an augmented reality environment, the game challenges players to balance population growth, resource use, and waste management to maintain a high well-being score for their city. Players construct digital buildings (houses, recycling facilities, resource infrastructures), each influencing waste production, recycling efficiency, and overall well-being. The game integrates educational content with engaging decision-making, aiming to foster system thinking and eco-conscious behavior. Unlike prior AR approaches, this game focuses on digital interaction, leveraging immersive game-based learning. Usability and engagement were evaluated using the in-game version of the Game Experience Questionnaire (GEQ). Findings support that users responded positively to the prototype’s game experience, suggesting that the digital game is promising. The study contributes to the growing field of digital pro-environmental education, providing insights into how interactive gameplay can support environmental awareness and laying groundwork for future evaluation of its educational impact. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue End User Applications for Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality)

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27 pages, 519 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dual-Algorithm Framework for Privacy-Preserving Task Scheduling Under Historical Inference Attacks

by Exiang Chen, Ayong Ye and Huina Deng

Computers 2025, 14(12), 558; https://doi.org/10.3390/computers14120558 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

Historical inference attacks pose a critical privacy threat in mobile edge computing (MEC), where adversaries exploit long-term task and location patterns to infer users’ sensitive information. To address this challenge, we propose a privacy-preserving task scheduling framework that adaptively balances privacy protection and [...] Read more.

Historical inference attacks pose a critical privacy threat in mobile edge computing (MEC), where adversaries exploit long-term task and location patterns to infer users’ sensitive information. To address this challenge, we propose a privacy-preserving task scheduling framework that adaptively balances privacy protection and system performance under dynamic vehicular environments. First, we introduce a dynamic privacy-aware adaptation mechanism that adjusts privacy levels in real time according to vehicle mobility and network dynamics. Second, we design a dual-algorithm framework composed of two complementary solutions: a Markov Approximation-Based Online Algorithm (MAOA) that achieves near-optimal scheduling with provable convergence, and a Privacy-Aware Deep Q-Network (PAT-DQN) algorithm that leverages deep reinforcement learning to enhance adaptability and long-term decision-making. Extensive simulations demonstrate that our proposed methods effectively mitigate privacy leakage while maintaining high task completion rates and low energy consumption. In particular, PAT-DQN achieves up to 14.2% lower privacy loss and 19% fewer handovers than MAOA in high-mobility scenarios, showing superior adaptability and convergence performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Intelligent Optimization, Decision-Making and Privacy Preservation in Cyber–Physical Systems)

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34 pages, 1179 KB

Open AccessReview

Circular Economy in the Textile Industry: A Review of Technology, Practice, and Opportunity

by Kyle Parnell, Abigail Rolston, Brian Hilton and Allen Luccitti

Recycling 2025, 10(6), 225; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling10060225 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

Rapid expansion of the global textile industry has accelerated both resource consumption and the scale of associated waste streams. An emerging body of recycling technology research aims to mitigate these impacts by enabling more circular material supply chains. While technologies are well described [...] Read more.

Rapid expansion of the global textile industry has accelerated both resource consumption and the scale of associated waste streams. An emerging body of recycling technology research aims to mitigate these impacts by enabling more circular material supply chains. While technologies are well described in a technical sense, literature focuses heavily on chemical methods and provides limited assessment of their physical and practical potential in the context of contemporary textile market conditions. This paper reviews these technologies in technical terms, and then establishes a qualitative framework for material value retention and waste avoidance potential with which to evaluate their efficacy. Analysis highlights that few recycling technologies are demonstrably compatible with either the attributes of post-consumer textile waste streams or the pace and scale of deployment necessary to address consumption and disposition patterns. We also highlight that both mechanical and chemical recycling are capacity constrained, and generally yield low material retention and solid waste avoidance potential per unit mass relative to other circularity strategies. Given these constraints, we posit that systems-level shifts in product and business model design may be useful as strategies to both reduce impacts upstream and mitigate waste volume, in turn supporting improved recycling rates. Full article

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15 pages, 1162 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Network Integrity in Right-Hemispheric Glioma Patients Using Function-Based Tractography and Domain-Specific Cognitive Testing

by Maximilian Schwendner, Leonie Kram, Johanna Lackner, Haosu Zhang, Sandro M. Krieg and Sebastian Ille

Cancers 2025, 17(24), 4007; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17244007 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

Objective: Gliomas disrupt functional brain networks and impair neurological functions. While left-hemispheric tumors are well-studied because of their impact on language domains, the influence of right-sided gliomas on higher cognitive functions remains less understood. This study aimed to assess pre- and postoperative neurocognitive [...] Read more.

Objective: Gliomas disrupt functional brain networks and impair neurological functions. While left-hemispheric tumors are well-studied because of their impact on language domains, the influence of right-sided gliomas on higher cognitive functions remains less understood. This study aimed to assess pre- and postoperative neurocognitive performance and to link cognitive outcomes with structural findings derived from function-based tractography in patients with right-hemispheric gliomas. Methods: Patients with gliomas were enrolled in this prospective observational study. A structured neurocognitive test battery was administered preoperatively, postoperatively, and at 3-month follow-up. Preoperative cortical mapping using navigated transcranial magnetic stimulation (nTMS) and function-based fiber tracking, based on diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), was performed. Results: Eighteen patients aged 52.7 ± 18.3 years were included. Preoperatively, 88.8% of patients showed impairments in at least one cognitive test, most frequently in the Nine-Hole Peg Test (66.7%), Bells Test task completion time (61.1%), Trail Making Test A and B (TMT-A: 50.0%; TMT-B: 44.4%), and digit symbol substitution test (27.8%). At follow-up, task performance improved on most cognitive tests. Function-based tractography showed that involvement of the superior longitudinal fasciculi I–III (44.4% of cases) was associated with impairments in attention, executive function, visuospatial processing, and processing speed. The involvement of the inferior frontooccipital fasciculus (55.5% of cases) was related to deficits in processing speed, attention, executive function, and episodic memory. Conclusions: Neurocognitive deficits are common in patients with right-hemispheric gliomas even before surgery. Maximal safe resection and sparing of these tracts is associated with cognitive recovery at follow-up. Function-based tractography emphasizes the structural involvement of key association fibers related to these cognitive deficits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modern Neurosurgical Management of Gliomas)

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29 pages, 1432 KB

Open AccessReview

Dietary Patterns of Docosahexaenoic Acid Intake and Supplementation from Pregnancy Through Childhood with a Focus on Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Narrative Review of Implications for Child Health

by Brenda Valle-Valdez, Xochitl Terrazas-Lopez, Alejandra Gonzalez-Rocha, Humberto Astiazaran-Garcia and Brianda Armenta-Guirado

Nutrients 2025, 17(24), 3931; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17243931 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid essential for neurodevelopment, immune regulation, and key physiological functions during early life. In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), limited access to DHA-rich foods contributes to disparities in intake and health outcomes. This narrative review [...] Read more.

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid essential for neurodevelopment, immune regulation, and key physiological functions during early life. In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), limited access to DHA-rich foods contributes to disparities in intake and health outcomes. This narrative review describes the current evidence on dietary patterns of DHA intake and supplementation from pregnancy through childhood in LMICs and highlights the implications of these patterns for child health. The review is based on a systematic search conducted in PubMed using Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) terms related to DHA, dietary patterns, health outcomes, and LMICs. Studies published between 2014 and 2025 were screened using Covidence software. Eligible studies included observational, interventional, and review designs that reported DHA through dietary intake, supplementation, or measurement in biological samples during pregnancy, lactation, infancy, or childhood. Data extraction followed the PICOS (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome, Study Design) framework. A total of 76 studies were included. Across LMICs, DHA intake was consistently insufficient among pregnant and lactating women, infants, and children. Reported dietary sources were generally low in DHA content. Intake or supplementation was associated with neurodevelopment, immune response, pregnancy outcomes, and cardiometabolic health, although findings were sometimes mixed or modified by gene–environment interactions. Results varied by study design, contextual factors, income level, and geographic access. Large gaps remain in nationally representative intake data. Despite its physiological relevance, DHA intake remains inadequate in LMICs during early life. This review underscores the importance of improving DHA intake in vulnerable populations and identifies evidence gaps to guide future research and inform context-specific nutrition strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Nutrition)

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10 pages, 2924 KB

Open AccessCase Report

Establishment of the Occlusion Plane Using Broadrick Occlusal Plane Analyzer for Immediate Complete Dentures

by Marisol López-Pulido, Luis Angel Sánchez-Chaidez, Kenji Miguel Ishino-Cortez, Verónica Manteca-López and Andréa Dolores Correia Miranda Valdivia

Dent. J. 2025, 13(12), 605; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13120605 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Pathological tooth loss resulting from poor oral hygiene or systemic diseases can lead to partial edentulism, affecting patients both psychologically and physically. These consequences include facial height reduction, temporomandibular dysfunction, and impaired phonetics and mastication. Immediate complete dentures are often an [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Pathological tooth loss resulting from poor oral hygiene or systemic diseases can lead to partial edentulism, affecting patients both psychologically and physically. These consequences include facial height reduction, temporomandibular dysfunction, and impaired phonetics and mastication. Immediate complete dentures are often an effective provisional solution during the transition to full edentulism; however, establishing the occlusal plane can be challenging when remaining teeth prevent a conventional wax try-in. This clinical case aims to present a qualitative clinical case study of a single patient, illustrating the use of the Broadrick Occlusal Plane Analyzer (BOPA) for the establishment of an occlusal plane in harmony with the anterior and condylar guidance. Methods: A 51-year-old male patient presented to the Department of Prosthodontics at the School of Dentistry, Autonomous University of Guadalajara, with partial edentulism, periodontal disease, and generalized Grade III tooth mobility. Immediate maxillary and mandibular complete dentures were selected as the treatment of choice. Due to the presence of remaining teeth that hindered clinical determination of the occlusal plane, the BOPA was used during the denture design process. Results: Anatomical landmarks were combined with BOPA tracing to establish an occlusal plane harmonious with anterior and condylar guidance. The center of the curve was modified to accommodate anatomic variability in anteroposterior reference points. Conclusions: The use of the Broadrick Occlusal Plane Analyzer facilitated the accurate determination of the occlusal plane for the fabrication of immediate complete dentures in a patient where clinical assessment was limited. This modification allowed the establishment of a bilateral balanced occlusal scheme, contributing to functional and acceptable provisional oral rehabilitation during postoperative alveolar healing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Restorative Dentistry: Emerging Trends and Personalized Treatment Strategies for Optimal Patient Care)

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22 pages, 22239 KB

Open AccessArticle

Computational Modeling of Multiple-Phase Transformations in API X70 and X80 Steels

by Ry Karl, Jonas Valloton, Chad Cathcart, Tihe Zhou, Fateh Fazeli, J. Barry Wiskel and Hani Henein

Metals 2025, 15(12), 1379; https://doi.org/10.3390/met15121379 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

Continuous cooling transformation (CCT) diagrams for two thermo-mechanically controlled processed (TMCP) steels were produced using a modified Johnson–Mehl–Avrami–Kolmogorov (JMAK) model, which accounted for the simultaneous transformation of multiple phases under non-isothermal conditions. A basin hopping algorithm was used to sequentially optimize the model [...] Read more.

Continuous cooling transformation (CCT) diagrams for two thermo-mechanically controlled processed (TMCP) steels were produced using a modified Johnson–Mehl–Avrami–Kolmogorov (JMAK) model, which accounted for the simultaneous transformation of multiple phases under non-isothermal conditions. A basin hopping algorithm was used to sequentially optimize the model parameters for each phase. Samples were prepared using a dilatometer which replicated the deformation and cooling rates experienced during TMCP. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and electron back-scattered diffraction (EBSD) were used to identify and quantify the phases present in each steel. CCT diagrams illustrating the start and stop temperatures of each phase were constructed for both steel samples. Through inclusion of the stop temperatures of each phase transformation, the utility of the CCT diagrams were expanded. This was done by introducing the possibility of applying the Scheil additive principle with respect to the beginning and end of each phase transformation. With this modification, the CCT diagrams are now more appropriately suited to predict the phase transformations that occur on the ROT, where non-continuous cooling occurs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Metal Casting, Forming and Heat Treatment)

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20 pages, 813 KB

Open AccessArticle

Artificial Intelligence in Sub-Elite Youth Football Players: Predicting Recovery Through Machine Learning Integration of Physical, Technical, Tactical and Maturational Data

by Pedro Afonso, Pedro Forte, Luís Branquinho, Ricardo Ferraz, Nuno Domingues Garrido and José Eduardo Teixeira

Healthcare 2025, 13(24), 3301; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13243301 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background: Monitoring training load and recovery is essential for performance optimization and injury prevention in youth football. However, predicting subjective recovery in preadolescent athletes remains challenging due to biological variability and the multidimensional nature of training responses. This exploratory study examined whether supervised [...] Read more.

Background: Monitoring training load and recovery is essential for performance optimization and injury prevention in youth football. However, predicting subjective recovery in preadolescent athletes remains challenging due to biological variability and the multidimensional nature of training responses. This exploratory study examined whether supervised machine learning (ML) models could predict Total Quality of Recovery (TQR) using integrated external load, internal load, anthropometric and maturational variables collected over one competitive microcycle. Methods: Forty male sub-elite U11 and U13 football players (age 10.3 ± 0.7 years; height 1.43 ± 0.08 m; body mass 38.6 ± 6.2 kg; BMI 18.7 ± 2.1 kg/m²) completed a microcycle comprising four training sessions (MD-4 to MD-1) and one official match (MD). A total of 158 performance-related variables were extracted, including external load (GPS-derived metrics), internal load (RPE and sRPE), heart rate indicators (U13 only), anthropometric and maturational measures, and tactical–cognitive indices (FUT-SAT). After preprocessing and aggregation at the player level, five supervised ML algorithms—K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Decision Tree (DT), Random Forest (RF), and Gradient Boosting (GB)—were trained using a 70/30 train–test split and 5-fold cross-validation to classify TQR into Low, Moderate, and High categories. Results: Tree-based models (DT, GB) demonstrated the highest predictive performance, whereas linear and distance-based approaches (SVM, KNN) showed lower discriminative ability. Anthropometric and maturational factors emerged as the most influential predictors of TQR, with external and internal load contributing modestly. Predictive accuracy was moderate, reflecting the developmental variability characteristics of this age group. Conclusions: Using combined physiological, mechanical, and maturational data, these ML-based monitoring systems can simulate subjective recovery in young football players, offering potential as decision-support tools in youth sub-elite football and encouraging a more holistic and individualized approach to training and recovery management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Prevention to Recovery in Sports Injury Management)

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27 pages, 4795 KB

Open AccessReview

Graphene and Its Derivatives as Modulators of Macrophage Polarization in Cutaneous Wound Healing

by Iwona Lasocka, Michał Skibniewski, Iwona Pasternak, Anna Wróblewska, Zuzanna Biernacka, Ewa Skibniewska, Lidia Szulc-Dąbrowska and Marie Hubalek Kalbacova

Cells 2025, 14(24), 2001; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells14242001 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

Graphene-based materials (GBMs), owing to their excellent biomedical properties, can significantly advance the development of nano-biodressings. Their unique physicochemical features, such as high surface area, tunable functionalization, antimicrobial activity, and ability to interact with immune cells, suggest that GBMs may influence key biological [...] Read more.

Graphene-based materials (GBMs), owing to their excellent biomedical properties, can significantly advance the development of nano-biodressings. Their unique physicochemical features, such as high surface area, tunable functionalization, antimicrobial activity, and ability to interact with immune cells, suggest that GBMs may influence key biological processes involved in tissue repair, particularly the immune response. Building on this growing evidence, the aim of this review is to demonstrate that GBMs can serve as tools for modulating macrophage polarization as a strategy for promoting wound healing. We present the mechanisms by which GBMs penetrate macrophages and discuss the effects of GBMs, either in suspension or as scaffolds/grounds/substrates, on macrophage polarization. Moreover, we propose mechanisms underlying the actions of different forms of GBMs on macrophage polarization. Nevertheless, a multitude of uncertainties and significant challenges remain. Chief among these are the pronounced heterogeneity of GBM subtypes, the necessity for exhaustive characterization and in-depth analysis, the formulation of robust experimental designs, and the careful selection of models capable of accurately delineating macrophage populations and guiding their polarization toward achieving targeted wound healing outcomes. This review attempts to systematize and clarify these issues. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cellular Immunology)

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20 pages, 3974 KB

Open AccessArticle

Production of Prebiotic-Fortified Instant Rice Macaroni: Application of Heat–Moisture and Microwave Treatments to Enhance Resistant Starch and Reduce Glycemic Index

by Anh Hoang Nguyen, Phat Thuan Nguyen, Truc Thanh Pham, Uyen Hanh Le and Duy Doan Nguyen Le

Processes 2025, 13(12), 4060; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13124060 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

This study developed a process for producing prebiotic-fortified instant rice macaroni to diversify rice-based convenience foods. Resistant starch (RS) rice flour from three varieties—IR504 and two pigmented, anthocyanidin-rich rice cultivars (Huyet Rong and MS2019)—was blended with wheat flour and fixed ingredients (tapioca starch, [...] Read more.

This study developed a process for producing prebiotic-fortified instant rice macaroni to diversify rice-based convenience foods. Resistant starch (RS) rice flour from three varieties—IR504 and two pigmented, anthocyanidin-rich rice cultivars (Huyet Rong and MS2019)—was blended with wheat flour and fixed ingredients (tapioca starch, salt, and vegetable oil at a ratio of 9g:1g:1g), together with hot water. The instant rice macaroni with the highest RS content (11.64%) was obtained using IR504 RS and wheat flour (44:6), gelatinized at 100 °C for 20 min, microwaved at 36 W/g for 30 s, retrograded at 4 °C for 24 h, and sterilized at 115 °C for 15 min. For anthocyanidin-containing macaroni, the combination of Huyet Rong RS and wheat flour (39:11) yielded 9.47% RS under similar retrogradation and sterilization conditions, but with a shorter gelatinization step (100 °C, 15 min) and longer microwave treatment (50 s at 27 W/g). The other optimized colored-RS formulation was based on MS2019 RS and wheat flour (21:29) processed under similar conditions. All optimized formulations exhibited lower estimated glycemic index (eGI) values of 64.1, 65.7, and 68.2, which were significantly lower than those of the control instant rice macaroni (78.2–85.9, p < 0.05). This study confirms the potential of developing instant rice macaroni rich in RS to enhance prebiotic effects that support the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria, strengthen immune function, and improve nutritional quality through the incorporation of anthocyanidin-rich rice varieties and a processing procedure combining heat–moisture treatment with microwave heating. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Processing Foods: Process Optimization and Quality Assessment, 3rd Edition)

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16 pages, 1206 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exercise, APOE Genotype, and Testosterone Modulate Gut Microbiome–Cognition Associations in Prostate Cancer Survivors

by Jacob Raber, Abigail O’Niel, Kristin D. Kasschau, Alexandra Pederson, Naomi Robinson, Carolyn Guidarelli, Christopher Chalmers, Kerri Winters-Stone and Thomas J. Sharpton

Genes 2025, 16(12), 1507; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes16121507 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background: Men treated with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for prostate cancer are at risk for cognitive decline. Patient genetics and endocrine state may shape gut microbiome features that relate to cognition. Methods: We studied a subsample of 79 prostate cancer survivors with prior [...] Read more.

Background: Men treated with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for prostate cancer are at risk for cognitive decline. Patient genetics and endocrine state may shape gut microbiome features that relate to cognition. Methods: We studied a subsample of 79 prostate cancer survivors with prior ADT exposure previously enrolled in a randomized controlled exercise trial comparing three training modalities (strength training, Tai Chi training, or stretching control) who completed an additional food-frequency questionnaire and remote Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and provided saliva and stool for APOE genotyping, salivary testosterone, and 16S rRNA sequencing. We used beta regression for MoCA (scaled 0–1), linear models for testosterone, alpha diversity regressions, PERMANOVA for beta diversity, and DESeq2 for genus-level differential abundance, with false-discovery correction. Results: Compared to post-stretching control, post-strength training testing was associated with higher MoCA scores whereas post-Tai Chi testing was not. APOE ε4 carriers exhibited a greater testosterone increase with strength training than non-carriers. Testosterone, and its interactions with exercise modality and APOE ε2 status, was related to presence/absence-based community structure; APOE ε4 interacted with exercise intervention to influence alpha diversity. At the genus level, exercise was linked to lower levels of Bacteroidota taxa (including Muribaculaceae) and higher levels of Enterobacteriaceae; APOE ε4 status was linked to higher Megamonas and lower Rikenellaceae RC9 levels; and higher salivary testosterone levels were linked to higher Prevotellaceae taxa and Succinivibrio levels. Higher MoCA scores were associated with lower abundances of several Firmicutes genera. Conclusions: Endocrine state and APOE genotype may condition the gut microbiome’s response to exercise intervention in ADT-treated prostate cancer survivors, with downstream associations with cognition. These findings could inform precision survivorship strategies pairing strength training with genotype- and hormone-informed microbiome monitoring to optimize cognitive performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Unveiling Human Microbiome Composition and Functions to Improve Health and Disease Research)

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22 pages, 13822 KB

Open AccessArticle

Convergence and Divergence: A Comparative Study of the Residential Cultures of Tujia and Miao Traditional Villages in Western Hunan, China

by Gong Chen, Mengmiao Zhang and Shaoyao He

Buildings 2025, 15(24), 4539; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15244539 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

This study examines the traditional villages of the Tujia and Miao ethnic groups in Xiangxi Prefecture, western Hunan, and clarifies their spatial distribution and residential cultures through ArcGIS-based spatial analysis combined with extensive field investigation. On the basis of a systematic comparative framework, [...] Read more.

This study examines the traditional villages of the Tujia and Miao ethnic groups in Xiangxi Prefecture, western Hunan, and clarifies their spatial distribution and residential cultures through ArcGIS-based spatial analysis combined with extensive field investigation. On the basis of a systematic comparative framework, it explores differences in village patterns, architectural forms, and folk belief systems between the two groups. The results indicate that (1) in terms of spatial distribution, Miao villages are mainly located to the south of the Wuling Mountains, while Tujia villages are concentrated to the north, with the mountainous ranges of Baojing and Guzhang counties forming a clear transitional belt; (2) regarding village layout, Miao villages are generally clustered with “mountain-backed and water-adjacent”, whereas Tujia villages tend to adopt a more dispersed and defensive pattern than “mountain-anchored and water-distanced”; (3) in dwelling form, both groups share similar basic spatial organization, yet Miao dwellings exhibit greater diversity in construction materials, including timber, stone, and rammed earth; (4) in terms of belief and ritual, distinct folk practices and symbolic systems are embedded in the spatial organization and decorative features of each group’s villages. These findings deepen the understanding of cultural diversity among ethnic minorities in western Hunan and provide a theoretical basis for authenticity-oriented conservation and the sustainable development of traditional villages in ethnic regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Architectural Design, Urban Science, and Real Estate)

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13 pages, 2513 KB

Open AccessReview

Exploring the Multifunctional Role of Paenibacillus Metabolites in Various Fields

by Panhong Yuan, Zonghui Song, Langjie Zhang, Zhengsheng Pan and Xiaolong Chen

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(24), 12089; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms262412089 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

Paenibacillus has attracted considerable scientific and practical attention in recent years owing to its diverse biological characteristics and extensive range of applications. Its applicability spans multiple fields, including agriculture, medicine, and industrial biotechnology. However, the widespread utilization of Paenibacillus is hindered by several [...] Read more.

Paenibacillus has attracted considerable scientific and practical attention in recent years owing to its diverse biological characteristics and extensive range of applications. Its applicability spans multiple fields, including agriculture, medicine, and industrial biotechnology. However, the widespread utilization of Paenibacillus is hindered by several challenges, such as environmental variability, biosafety concerns, and technical barriers. Current research efforts are increasingly directed toward elucidating the diversity and mechanisms of action of its bioactive metabolites. This review offers a comprehensive synthesis of the current state of knowledge on Paenibacillus, covering its metabolic capabilities, practical applications across various sectors, existing limitations, and prospective avenues for future research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Microbiology)

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20 pages, 6183 KB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Parameter Assessment and Validation of Cable Insulation Using Game Theory and Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation

by Qianqiu Shao, Songhai Fan, Zongxi Zhang, Fenglian Liu, Jinkui Lu, Zhengzheng Fu and Pinlei Lv

Energies 2025, 18(24), 6565; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18246565 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

Accurate assessment of high-voltage cable insulation condition is essential for safe operation in complex tunnel environments. Traditional methods relying on single diagnostic indicators and fixed weighting schemes often suffer from limited accuracy and adaptability. This paper proposes a multi-parameter assessment method integrating game [...] Read more.

Accurate assessment of high-voltage cable insulation condition is essential for safe operation in complex tunnel environments. Traditional methods relying on single diagnostic indicators and fixed weighting schemes often suffer from limited accuracy and adaptability. This paper proposes a multi-parameter assessment method integrating game theory with fuzzy comprehensive evaluation. Five types of online monitoring data, namely cable surface temperature, sheath grounding current, partial discharge, tunnel humidity, and ambient temperature, are selected as diagnostic parameters. Subjective and objective weights are first derived using the analytic hierarchy process and the entropy weight method, and then optimally integrated through a game-theoretic framework. Fuzzy membership functions are applied to construct an evaluation matrix, enabling quantitative and graded assessment of insulation condition. A case study on 110 kV tunnel high-voltage land cables in Zhejiang, China, verifies the effectiveness of the approach. Results show that the proposed method more accurately reflects actual operating conditions and provides higher diagnostic precision and robustness compared with single-feature and traditional weighting methods. By combining expert knowledge with real monitoring data, this study develops a scientific and practical framework for insulation condition assessment, offering reliable support to real-time insulation monitoring and predictive maintenance applications of high-voltage power transmission systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section F: Electrical Engineering)

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40 pages, 744 KB

Open AccessReview

Mediterranean Diet, Polyphenols, and Neuroprotection: Mechanistic Insights into Resveratrol and Oleuropein

by Mónika Fekete, Tamás Jarecsny, Andrea Lehoczki, Dávid Major, Vince Fazekas-Pongor, Tamás Csípő, Ágnes Lipécz, Ágnes Szappanos, Eszter Melinda Pázmándi, Péter Varga and János Tamás Varga

Nutrients 2025, 17(24), 3929; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17243929 (registering DOI) - 16 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background: Neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, are among the leading causes of disability and mortality worldwide. Dietary patterns have emerged as modifiable risk factors that may influence disease onset and progression. The Mediterranean diet (MedDiet), rich in fruits, vegetables, whole [...] Read more.

Background: Neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, are among the leading causes of disability and mortality worldwide. Dietary patterns have emerged as modifiable risk factors that may influence disease onset and progression. The Mediterranean diet (MedDiet), rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, fish, and extra virgin olive oil, has been consistently associated with better cognitive outcomes and reduced risk of neurodegeneration. Aim: This narrative review summarizes current evidence on the role of the MedDiet in slowing the progression of neurodegenerative diseases, with a particular focus on polyphenols such as resveratrol and oleuropein as key bioactive mediators. Methods: We synthesized findings from epidemiological studies, clinical trials, and mechanistic research to provide an integrated overview of how adherence to the MedDiet and its polyphenol components affects neurodegenerative disease trajectories. Results: Epidemiological studies suggest that higher MedDiet adherence is associated with slower cognitive decline, reduced conversion from mild cognitive impairment to Alzheimer’s disease, and better motor and non-motor outcomes in Parkinson’s disease. Mechanistically, the MedDiet modulates oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial function, vascular health, and the gut–brain axis. Polyphenols such as resveratrol and oleuropein exert neuroprotective effects through antioxidant activity, modulation of amyloid aggregation, mitochondrial biogenesis, and activation of signaling pathways (e.g., SIRT1). Clinical studies, although limited, indicate beneficial effects of polyphenol-rich interventions on cognitive and metabolic biomarkers. Conclusions: Current evidence supports the Mediterranean diet as a promising dietary strategy to slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Polyphenols, including resveratrol and oleuropein, may play a role in mediating these effects. Further well-designed, long-term clinical trials are needed to establish causal relationships, optimize dosage, and explore biomarker-driven personalized nutrition approaches. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Phytochemicals and Human Health)

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