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Open AccessArticle

Optimal Power Purchase Model and Pricing Mechanism of Green Power Parks Considering Power Quality Responsibility Sharing

by Changhai Yang, Ding Li, Yuxuan Wang, Zhe Qiu and Shuaibing Li

Energies 2025, 18(22), 6065; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18226065 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

With the increasing share of renewable energy, green power parks face challenges such as high electricity purchasing costs and fluctuations in power quality. To address these issues, this paper proposes an integrated optimization method based on power quality responsibility modeling and a differentiated [...] Read more.

With the increasing share of renewable energy, green power parks face challenges such as high electricity purchasing costs and fluctuations in power quality. To address these issues, this paper proposes an integrated optimization method based on power quality responsibility modeling and a differentiated reward–penalty pricing mechanism (DRPPM). First, an integrated operation model of “source–grid–load–storage” is established. Within the pressure–state–response (PSR) framework, power quality deviations are quantified and mapped into economic costs. Then, a differentiated reward–penalty pricing mechanism is designed to dynamically adjust power quality deviations through a continuous function, guiding users toward adaptive energy consumption behavior. Finally, a green power park in Gansu Province dominated by wind and photovoltaic generation is used as a case study with four typical simulation scenarios. The results show that the proposed mechanism reduces the park’s electricity purchasing cost and increases the green power consumption ratio by up to 74.9%. Meanwhile, it effectively improves power quality indicators such as frequency, voltage, and harmonics. The study verifies the comprehensive advantages of the proposed framework in terms of economy, energy efficiency, and stability, providing a reference for low-carbon and efficient operation of high-energy-consumption green power parks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section F1: Electrical Power System)

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22 pages, 1579 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrated Sediment and Mussel Chemical Analysis for Environmental Quality Assessment in Rovinj’s Coastal Waters (Northern Adriatic, Croatia)

by Jadranka Pelikan, Kristina Grozić, Luca Privileggio, Dijana Pavičić-Hamer, Mirta Smodlaka Tanković, Kristina Pikelj, Marin Glad and Bojan Hamer

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(11), 2212; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13112212 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

Marine sediments are a key component of aquatic ecosystems, linking diverse water uses, functions, and services. Chemical contamination of sediments is a global concern, with many jurisdictions striving to prevent future pollution and manage existing contamination. This study evaluates the contamination status of [...] Read more.

Marine sediments are a key component of aquatic ecosystems, linking diverse water uses, functions, and services. Chemical contamination of sediments is a global concern, with many jurisdictions striving to prevent future pollution and manage existing contamination. This study evaluates the contamination status of Rovinj’s coastal waters using an integrated approach that combines sediment and biota chemical analyses. Sediments were analyzed to assess long-term contaminant accumulation (D8.C1), while the Mediterranean mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis) served as a bioindicator of bioavailable contaminants and their cumulative effects on marine habitats (D8.C2). Sediment samples were collected from five sites (S1–S5), and mussels were caged using Mussel Watch installations for approximately 120 days at a control site (Lim Bay) and within Rovinj harbor. Both matrices were analyzed for heavy metals (As, Cd, Cu, Cr, Hg, Ni, Pb, and Zn), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (16 PAHs), and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), following the EU Water Framework Directive. All sampled locations showed a reduction in sediment contamination relative to 2011 data, with most concentrations below ecotoxicological thresholds. Exceptions included elevated ΣPAH and PCB concentrations in the harbor (S1 = 3.18 mg/kg DW; 0.33 mg/kg DW) and marina (S2 = 3.64 mg/kg DW; 0.89 mg/kg DW), as well as Ni levels (S3 = 30 mg/kg DW; S4 = 34 mg/kg DW). Despite higher contaminant loads at some locations, mussel contaminant bioaccumulation remained limited, and their vitality and survival were only moderately affected in the harbor. Although localized increases in some contaminants were detected, all calculated Q_PECm values remained below 1.0, indicating no significant ecological risk. However, a moderate-to-high probability of toxic effects (P) may occur with long-term exposure for biota inhabiting harbor and marina areas. The results of this study demonstrate continued improvement in the environmental quality of Rovinj’s coastal waters compared to the previous decade. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment and Monitoring of Coastal Water Quality)

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44 pages, 6363 KB

Open AccessReview

Cracking the Sulfur Code: Garlic Bioactive Molecules as Multi-Target Blueprints for Drug Discovery

by Faizul Azam, Md Jamir Anwar, Jordan Kahfi, Suliman A. Almahmoud and Abdul-Hamid Emwas

Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(11), 1766; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18111766 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) has served as a food source and medicinal agent for over thousands of years. Bioactive constituents, including allicin, diallyl sulfide/disulfide/trisulfide, ajoene, and S-allyl-cysteine, demonstrate antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antithrombotic, antineoplastic, antimicrobial and neuroprotective properties. Convergent mechanistic evidence suggests the [...] Read more.

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) has served as a food source and medicinal agent for over thousands of years. Bioactive constituents, including allicin, diallyl sulfide/disulfide/trisulfide, ajoene, and S-allyl-cysteine, demonstrate antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antithrombotic, antineoplastic, antimicrobial and neuroprotective properties. Convergent mechanistic evidence suggests the modulation of redox homeostasis, attenuation of pro-inflammatory signaling, regulation of platelet activation, and induction of apoptosis and cell-cycle arrest in tumor models. Computational studies, in conjunction with wet-lab data, offer molecular-level insights and guide candidate prioritization. Density functional theory elucidates radical-scavenging pathways and electronic descriptors that account for redox activity. Structure-based methods, including docking, molecular dynamics, and MM-GBSA, elucidate potential interactions between organosulfur scaffolds and enzymes or receptors pertinent to pharmacological effects. In silico ADME/Tox platforms predict generally favorable oral absorption for hydrophobic allyl sulfides, while polar derivatives exhibit more limited brain penetration. Emerging AI/ML pipelines combine network pharmacology with QSAR to focus on important targets and chemical types, while also spotting potential development. Formulation strategies, including nanoencapsulation and controlled-release systems, are utilized to stabilize labile thiosulfinates and modulate hydrogen-sulfide-releasing profiles, with potential applications in various disease conditions. Significant challenges encompass the standardization of preparations, variability in pharmacokinetics, heterogeneity in dose–response relationships, and interactions between drugs and nutrients or other drugs. The integration of mechanistic, computational, and formulation insights delineates a systematic approach to progress garlic-derived agents from diverse natural products to reproducible, mechanism-guided pharmaceuticals. Full article

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15 pages, 1965 KB

Open AccessArticle

“Face” as Method: Aesthetic Experiment and Era Reflections in Jia Zhangke’s Caught by the Tides

by Hanbin Wang

Arts 2025, 14(6), 150; https://doi.org/10.3390/arts14060150 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

In Jia Zhangke’s Caught by the Tides, the “face” serves not only as a visual subject but also as a methodology. Continuing the previous realistic shooting style, this film utilizes the faces of ordinary individuals as a poignant commentary on the era. [...] Read more.

In Jia Zhangke’s Caught by the Tides, the “face” serves not only as a visual subject but also as a methodology. Continuing the previous realistic shooting style, this film utilizes the faces of ordinary individuals as a poignant commentary on the era. Simultaneously, by leveraging the proper noun “Zhao Tao’s face,” it achieves nonverbal emotional expression while sketching the evolution of Chinese independent film aesthetics. Compared to faces captured in moving images, the faces of lifelike “quasi-human” sculpture resist being fixed as mere images through their vivid presence, autonomously generating narrative momentum by being viewed across different times and spaces. Moreover, in this media age of breakneck technological advancement, the “crisis of the face” has also transformed into a broader “existential crisis.” How to preserve the warmth and vitality of the human face may be the most profound and provocative question the film leaves its audience. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Detailed Study of Films: Adjusting Attention)

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33 pages, 4386 KB

Open AccessArticle

Research Based on a Fuzzy Algorithm for Energy Saving Single-Phased Powered Pumps

by Wangsheng Sun, Haiqing Si, Haibo Wang and Gen Li

Machines 2025, 13(11), 1070; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines13111070 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

Water pumps consume roughly 20% of global electricity, yet 60–70% of pumps operate below optimal efficiency, leading to substantial energy waste. Improving pump efficiency is therefore critical. A major contributor to these losses is the low efficiency of the driving motor at reduced [...] Read more.

Water pumps consume roughly 20% of global electricity, yet 60–70% of pumps operate below optimal efficiency, leading to substantial energy waste. Improving pump efficiency is therefore critical. A major contributor to these losses is the low efficiency of the driving motor at reduced speeds and the lack of variable-speed capability—especially in single-phase pumps. This paper presents a fuzzy-logic–FOC (field oriented control) permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) pump system that can run on either three-phase or single-phase power. The system maintains high efficiency across a wide speed range and saves energy not only through variable-speed operation but also via an intelligent control strategy termed “constant flow, variable pressure.” To assess performance, we conducted experiments comparing the proposed fuzzy-logic FOC controlled PMSM pump and a conventional AC asynchronous induction motor pump. The results show that the new system overcomes the inherent lack of speed regulation in traditional single-phase pumps and significantly improves efficiency across diverse operating conditions. Moreover, by implementing the “constant flow, variable pressure” strategy, the system achieves average energy savings estimated at 30–50% compared with a conventional AC asynchronous motor-driven pump. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Automation and Control Systems)

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28 pages, 1524 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

The Role of HMB Supplementation in Enhancing the Effects of Resistance Training in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on Muscle Quality, Body Composition, and Physical Function

by Alberto García-Alonso, Juan Luis Sánchez-González, Víctor Navarro-López, Roberto Méndez-Sánchez and Luis Polo-Ferrero

Nutrients 2025, 17(22), 3624; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17223624 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Resistance training (RT) is a key strategy to counteract age-related declines in muscle strength and physical function. β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate (HMB) has been proposed as a complementary supplement to enhance these adaptations. However, the additional effects of RT plus HMB (RT+HMB) compared with RT [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Resistance training (RT) is a key strategy to counteract age-related declines in muscle strength and physical function. β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate (HMB) has been proposed as a complementary supplement to enhance these adaptations. However, the additional effects of RT plus HMB (RT+HMB) compared with RT alone remain unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of RT+HMB versus RT alone on body composition, muscle quality (MQ), and physical function in older adults. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines (PROSPERO: CRD420251144810), six databases (PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect) were searched up to July 2025. Randomized controlled trials comparing RT+HMB with RT alone were included. Methodological quality was assessed with the PEDro scale and risk of bias using Cochrane RoB 2. Pooled standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Results: Ten trials (n = 596) met inclusion criteria. RT+HMB produced modest and borderline significant improvements in handgrip strength (SMD 0.24; 95% CI 0.00–0.48; p = 0.05) and moderate benefits in Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) scores (SMD 0.54; 95% CI 0.12–0.95; p = 0.01). No significant effects were observed for gait speed, appendicular lean mass, MQ, fat mass, or body weight (p > 0.05). Five trials (50%) were rated at high risk of bias, limiting confidence in pooled estimates. Conclusions: HMB supplementation combined with RT may yield modest improvements in functional performance, particularly handgrip strength and overall physical function, without statically significant effects in body composition and MQ. Further high-quality RCTs are warranted to confirm its clinical relevance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional Status in Community-Dwelling Older Adults)

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20 pages, 2026 KB

Open AccessArticle

Global Sensitivity and Mathematical Modeling for Zoonotic Lassa Virus Transmission and Disability in Critical Cases in the Light of Fractional Order Model

by Ibrahim Aldayel, Osamah AbdulAziz Aldayel and El Mehdi Farah

Symmetry 2025, 17(11), 2011; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17112011 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

Lassa fever remains a significant zoonotic threat in West Africa, characterized by complex human-to-human and rodent-to-human transmission pathways and prolonged immune responses. Existing integer-order models often neglect the long-term memory and delayed recovery effects inherent to the disease. In this study, we develop [...] Read more.

Lassa fever remains a significant zoonotic threat in West Africa, characterized by complex human-to-human and rodent-to-human transmission pathways and prolonged immune responses. Existing integer-order models often neglect the long-term memory and delayed recovery effects inherent to the disease. In this study, we develop and analyze a fractional-order Caputo model for Lassa fever transmission incorporating disability feedback among recovered individuals. The model captures memory-dependent infection and recovery dynamics, offering a more realistic description of epidemic persistence. The model is symmetric when the fractional approach to unity where it recovers its classical ODE counterpart. Analytical results establish the positivity, boundedness, existence, and uniqueness of solutions, while Picard stability and contraction mapping confirm well-posedness within the fractional framework. A Grünwald–Letnikov discretization scheme is constructed for numerical simulation, validated under varying fractional orders (

λ \in [0.7, 1]

). The results reveal that decreasing the fractional order slows the infection decay rate and prolongs epidemic duration, highlighting the biological significance of memory effects. A global sensitivity analysis based on Latin Hypercube Sampling and Partial Rank Correlation Coefficients (LHS–PRCC) identifies the rodent-to-human transmission rate (

κ_{1}

), human-to-human transmission rate (

η_{1}

), and rodent interaction rate (

ξ_{r}

) as the most influential parameters. These findings provide critical insight into the control and management of Lassa fever through rodent population control, improved recovery rates, and early human intervention. The fractional-order formulation thus extends existing models both mathematically and epidemiologically by capturing delayed dynamics and disability-induced feedback mechanisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetry in Nonlinear Equations: Mathematical Models, Methods and Applications Ⅱ)

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18 pages, 358 KB

Open AccessArticle

Shaping Italy as a Tourist Destination: Language, Translation, and the DIETALY Project (1919–1959)

by Mirella Agorni

Tour. Hosp. 2025, 6(5), 253; https://doi.org/10.3390/tourhosp6050253 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

This article presents the initial findings of the DIETALY project (Destination Italy in English Translation Over the Years), which explores the role of language and translation in shaping Italy’s international image as a tourist destination from the 1920s to the 1950s. Focusing on [...] Read more.

This article presents the initial findings of the DIETALY project (Destination Italy in English Translation Over the Years), which explores the role of language and translation in shaping Italy’s international image as a tourist destination from the 1920s to the 1950s. Focusing on the national tourism agency ENIT, it analyses brochures, booklets and related materials produced for English-speaking markets during a period marked by Fascism, economic depression and post-war reconstruction. The study reveals that translation, localisation and adaptation were pivotal to ENIT’s communication strategy, facilitating cultural representation and adapting discourse in response to cultural, political and market changes. A case study of the Italy brochure series (1920–1937) illustrates the transition from literal translations to more adaptive, market-sensitive forms of linguistic mediation, reflecting growing awareness of audience expectations in Britain and the United States. Alongside this historical inquiry, the DIETALY project is developing a database that systematises the metadata of these dispersed materials. Although still in progress, this database is designed to support future qualitative and quantitative research, complementing the project’s demonstration of how ENIT’s multilingual discourse contributed to the construction of Italy’s identity as an attractive tourist destination for international audiences. Full article

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22 pages, 4488 KB

Open AccessArticle

Research on Dynamic Control Strategies for Intermittent Bus Lanes in Mixed Traffic Flow Environments

by Yuan Gao, Shiyao Cui and Yibing Yue

Technologies 2025, 13(11), 539; https://doi.org/10.3390/technologies13110539 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

The traditional intermittent bus lane control struggles to achieve an effective balance between bus priority and lane utilization efficiency. To address this limitation, this study proposes a dynamic control strategy that enables the borrowing of intermittent bus lanes in mixed traffic flow environments [...] Read more.

The traditional intermittent bus lane control struggles to achieve an effective balance between bus priority and lane utilization efficiency. To address this limitation, this study proposes a dynamic control strategy that enables the borrowing of intermittent bus lanes in mixed traffic flow environments and constructs a connected vehicle control model encompassing both the target intersection and its upstream segment. First, a dynamic clearance framework is established on the dedicated lane based on the real-time speed of buses. Concurrently, the target connected and automated vehicle (CAV) predicts the traffic signal status upon its arrival at the stop line to determine its traversable zone at the bus lanes. Subsequently, a coordinated control strategy is designed for the dynamic clearance framework and the traversable zone, leading to the development of lane-changing decision models under four distinct scenarios. This approach allows CAVs to dynamically utilize residual lane resources without compromising bus operations. Finally, using average vehicle delay as the evaluation metric, a comparative simulation analysis is conducted against the traditional bus lane utilization method across four dimensions: connected vehicle penetration rate, traffic flow saturation, right-turn proportion, and bus departure frequency. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed strategy significantly improves both bus priority and overall traffic efficiency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Intelligent Driving Technology)

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18 pages, 8395 KB

Open AccessArticle

Ensemble Integration of Pedestrian Safety Indicators for Robust Pedestrian Flood Risk Assessment in Urban Inundation Conditions

by Inhwan Park, Dogyu Lee, Jaehyun Shin and Dong Sop Rhee

Water 2025, 17(22), 3322; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17223322 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

Increasing rainfall intensity and altered temporal patterns due to climate change pose significant threats to pedestrian safety in highly urbanized areas. Reliable pedestrian safety assessment is therefore essential for evacuation planning and flood risk management. This study evaluated pedestrian stability under various rainfall [...] Read more.

Increasing rainfall intensity and altered temporal patterns due to climate change pose significant threats to pedestrian safety in highly urbanized areas. Reliable pedestrian safety assessment is therefore essential for evacuation planning and flood risk management. This study evaluated pedestrian stability under various rainfall patterns and return periods using four instability indicators derived from hydraulic and empirical formulations. To mitigate indicator-dependent variability, the normalized indicators were combined into an integrated instability index through an ensemble-averaging approach. The flood-intensity-based indicator systematically underestimated non-walkable areas compared with force-balance-based indicators, whereas the integrated index produced more consistent spatial patterns of pedestrian risk across rainfall scenarios. The most hazardous conditions occurred under the 1 h, Huff fourth-quartile storm, highlighting the influence of late-peaking rainfall on short-duration urban flooding. These findings demonstrate that the proposed ensemble-averaged framework enhances the robustness of pedestrian flood risk evaluation and provides a quantitative basis for prioritizing mitigation measures and evacuation planning in urban areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis and Simulation of Urban Floods)

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18 pages, 1115 KB

Open AccessPerspective

The Crosstalk Between Mycobacterium abscessus and Immune Cells: Exploring Novel Interaction Modalities

by Ilse Mendoza-Trujillo, Patricia Diez-Echave, Chiara Tontini and Silvia Bulfone-Paus

Cells 2025, 14(22), 1829; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells14221829 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

Mycobacterium abscessus (Mab) is a rapidly growing, non-tuberculous mycobacterium and opportunistic pathogen that causes lung and skin infections in immunocompromised individuals. In recent years, Mab has gained attention due to its resistance to multiple antibiotics and its ability to evade the [...] Read more.

Mycobacterium abscessus (Mab) is a rapidly growing, non-tuberculous mycobacterium and opportunistic pathogen that causes lung and skin infections in immunocompromised individuals. In recent years, Mab has gained attention due to its resistance to multiple antibiotics and its ability to evade the immune response by transitioning into different morphotypes. Macrophages and neutrophils play key roles during the acute phase of infection and granuloma formation, utilising clearance mechanisms that affect the smooth and rough morphotypes differently. Despite considerable research, the inflammatory response elicited by Mab and its impact on disease outcomes remain not well understood. This perspective examines the interactions between Mab and immune cells, proposing potential receptors that may mediate Mab-driven immune communication. By drawing insights from immune evasion and signalling strategies employed by other mycobacterial species, it aims to deepen our understanding of Mab pathogenicity and to outline innovative approaches for infection control. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Host–Pathogen Interactions and Immune Responses)

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13 pages, 2405 KB

Open AccessArticle

Biochemical Sensing Application of Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensor Based on Flexible PDMS Substrate

by Danfeng Lu, Mingyue Li, Chenxi Yang, Luyang Chen, Minghui Wang and Congjun Cao

Sensors 2025, 25(22), 7087; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25227087 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

This study presents the design and implementation of a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensor in the Kretschmann configuration, employing a gold film deposited on a flexible polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrate as the SPR chip. The refractive-index sensitivity of the SPR sensor was evaluated with [...] Read more.

This study presents the design and implementation of a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensor in the Kretschmann configuration, employing a gold film deposited on a flexible polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrate as the SPR chip. The refractive-index sensitivity of the SPR sensor was evaluated with sodium chloride solutions of varying concentrations. Optimizing for both sensitivity and detection accuracy, the incident angle was fixed at 13°. The sensor exhibited a sensitivity of 3385.5 nm/RIU. Remarkably, the sensitivity variation was merely 1% after subjecting the sensor chip to 50 bending cycles in both forward and reverse directions. The sensor’s efficacy was further validated through the detection of alcohol content in three different Chinese Baijiu samples, yielding a maximum relative error of 4.04% and a minimum error of 0.17%. Additionally, the sensor was utilized to study the adsorption behavior of glutathione (GSH) on the gold film under varying pH conditions. The findings revealed optimal immediate adsorption at pH = 12, attributed to the complete deprotonation of mercapto groups, facilitating the formation of Au-S bonds with gold atoms. The best film-forming effect was observed at pH = 7, where the interplay of attractive and repulsive forces among different molecular groups led to the gradual extension of the molecular chain, resulting in a thicker molecular film. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nanosensors)

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25 pages, 7092 KB

Open AccessArticle

High-Precision Geolocation of SAR Images via Multi-View Fusion Without Ground Control Points

by Anxi Yu, Huatao Yu, Yifei Ji, Wenhao Tong and Zhen Dong

Remote Sens. 2025, 17(22), 3775; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17223775 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) images generated via range-Doppler (RD) model-based geometric correction often suffer from non-negligible systematic geolocation errors due to cumulative impacts of platform positioning inaccuracies, payload time synchronization offsets, and atmospheric propagation delays. These errors limit the applicability of SAR data [...] Read more.

Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) images generated via range-Doppler (RD) model-based geometric correction often suffer from non-negligible systematic geolocation errors due to cumulative impacts of platform positioning inaccuracies, payload time synchronization offsets, and atmospheric propagation delays. These errors limit the applicability of SAR data in high-precision geometric applications, especially in scenarios where ground control points (GCPs)—traditionally used for calibration—are inaccessible or costly to acquire. To address this challenge, this study proposes a novel GCP-free high-precision geolocation method based on multi-view SAR image fusion, integrating outlier detection, weighted fusion, and refined estimation strategies. The method first establishes a positioning error correlation model for homologous point pairs in multi-view SAR images. Under the assumption of approximately equal positioning errors, initial systematic error estimates are obtained for all arbitrary dual-view combinations. It then identifies and removes outlier images with inconsistent systematic errors via coefficient of variation analysis, retaining a subset of multi-view images with stable calibration parameters. A weighted fusion strategy, tailored to the geometric error propagation model, is applied to the optimized subset to balance the influence of angular relationships on error estimation. Finally, the minimum norm least-squares method refines the fusion results to enhance consistency and accuracy. Validation experiments on both simulated and actual airborne SAR images demonstrate the method’s effectiveness. For actual measured data, the proposed method achieves an average positioning accuracy improvement of 84.78% compared with dual-view fusion methods, with meter-level precision. Ablation studies confirm that outlier removal and refined estimation contribute 82.42% and 22.75% to accuracy gains, respectively. These results indicate that the method fully leverages multi-view information to robustly estimate and compensate for 2D systematic errors (range and azimuth), enabling high-precision planar geolocation of airborne SAR images without GCPs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Synthetic Aperture Radar: Calibration, Analysis and Application II)

20 pages, 4795 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Rooting Substrates and Plant Growth Regulators on Rooting Performance, Photosynthetic Characteristics, and Soil Properties of Broussonetia × kazinoki Sieb. Cuttings

by Sora Lee, Bowook Moon, Seokju Kim and Hyung Won Lee

Forests 2025, 16(11), 1752; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16111752 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

Daknamu (Broussonetia × kazinoki), the primary fiber source for hanji (traditional Korean handmade paper), provides fibers that are highly durable and used in fine-edition publishing as well as in the conservation and restoration of cultural heritage materials and historic books. However, [...] Read more.

Daknamu (Broussonetia × kazinoki), the primary fiber source for hanji (traditional Korean handmade paper), provides fibers that are highly durable and used in fine-edition publishing as well as in the conservation and restoration of cultural heritage materials and historic books. However, hanji production has declined due to decreased farm cultivation of B. × kazinoki, emphasizing the need for efficient vegetative propagation. This study evaluated the effects of three rooting media (commercial substrate, a mixture of commercial substrate and decomposed granite soil, and decomposed granite soil) and two plant growth regulators (auxins), 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), including a rooting powder containing 0.8% IBA, on rooting performance and physiological responses. Decomposed granite soil produced the highest rooting rate, and the rooting effect index peaked with the rooting powder treatment. Exogenous auxins consistently increased the rooting rate and improved root traits. Photosynthetic activity was enhanced in decomposed granite soil, indicating improved water uptake following root development. Chlorophyll fluorescence showed a low F_v/F_m ratio and a JIP pattern indicative of stress. Soil analyses confirmed greater aeration and drainage in decomposed granite soil but revealed limitations in post-rooting water and nutrient availability. Root traits were positively correlated with photosynthetic parameters and available phosphorus, whereas electrical conductivity, cation-exchange capacity, moisture, organic matter, total nitrogen, and exchangeable cations were negatively correlated. Decomposed granite soil combined with 1500 mg·L⁻¹ IBA or rooting powder provided practical conditions for nursery-scale propagation. These findings provide a scientific basis for developing efficient cutting propagation systems for B. × kazinoki in farms and nurseries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Forest Ecophysiology and Biology)

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20 pages, 2077 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Whole Region Comprehensive Land Consolidation on Ecological Vulnerability: Evidence from Township Panel Data in Zhejiang Province

by Honggang Lu, Haibin Shi, Bei Li and Dingde Xu

Land 2025, 14(11), 2291; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14112291 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

A systematic assessment of the impact and mechanisms of Land Consolidation policy on ecological environment can provide valuable insights for optimizing territorial spatial development and restoring ecological functions, both in China and globally. Utilizing 2015–2022 township-level panel data from Zhejiang Province, this study [...] Read more.

A systematic assessment of the impact and mechanisms of Land Consolidation policy on ecological environment can provide valuable insights for optimizing territorial spatial development and restoring ecological functions, both in China and globally. Utilizing 2015–2022 township-level panel data from Zhejiang Province, this study employs satellite remote sensing to construct an Ecological Vulnerability (EV) index. We empirically examine the impact of Whole Region Comprehensive Land Consolidation (WRCLC) on EV and its transmission channels by applying a multi-period Difference-in-Differences (DID) model and a mediating effect model. The results indicate that the implementation of WRCLC pilot policies significantly reduces EV, a finding that remains robust after parallel trend tests, placebo tests, and other robustness checks. The mediating effects within the “Element-Pattern-Effect” framework indicate that the transition of land elements toward ecological functions and the absence of significant land use conflicts at the pattern level are key mechanisms driving these outcomes. Furthermore, the study reveals that WRCLC exerts a significant negative spatial spillover effect on adjacent areas. It is therefore recommended to promote this policy, providing valuable insights for land consolidation initiatives in other Chinese provinces and developing countries worldwide. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Land Socio-Economic and Political Issues)

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10 pages, 793 KB

Open AccessArticle

Development and Validation of a Droplet Digital PCR Assay for Detection of Feline Herpesvirus Type-1

by Yaxi Zhou, Danni Wu, Mengle Tang, Zihan Ye, Erkai Feng, Haili Zhang, Guoliang Luo, Zhenjun Wang, Chunxia Wang, Lina Liu and Yuening Cheng

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(11), 1107; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12111107 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

Feline herpesvirus type-1 (FHV-1), a double-stranded DNA virus, which is a highly infectious upper respiratory tract infection of felids, particularly in kittens. Droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) provides an absolute quantification method with high sensitivity and accuracy. This study aimed to develop a highly [...] Read more.

Feline herpesvirus type-1 (FHV-1), a double-stranded DNA virus, which is a highly infectious upper respiratory tract infection of felids, particularly in kittens. Droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) provides an absolute quantification method with high sensitivity and accuracy. This study aimed to develop a highly sensitive and accurate ddPCR assay for the detection of FHV-1. We designed primers and a probe targeting the FHV-1 glycoprotein D (gD) gene and evaluated the assay’s limit of detection (LOD), sensitivity, repeatability, and specificity in comparison to quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). The developed ddPCR assay demonstrated a strong linear dynamic range (R² ≥ 0.99) and an exceptionally low LOD of 0.18 copies/μL, which was significantly more sensitive than the method qPCR (LOD ~10 copies/μL). Additionally, the assay exhibited high specificity with no cross-reactivity against other common feline pathogens (feline calicivirus, FCV; feline panleukopenia virus, FPV; feline infectious peritonitis virus, FIPV; Bordetella bronchiseptica and Chlamydia felis) and displayed outstanding repeatability (inter-run CV < 1.35). When applied to 118 clinical samples, the ddPCR assay achieved a significantly higher positive detection rate (27.4%) compared to qPCR (14.8%). In conclusion, we have successfully established a reliable ddPCR assay for the absolute quantification of FHV-1, providing a superior tool for laboratory diagnosis and research. Full article

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40 pages, 12237 KB

Open AccessArticle

Nonlinear Stochastic Dynamics of the Intermediate Dispersive Velocity Equation with Soliton Stability and Chaos

by Samad Wali, Maham Munawar, Atef Abdelkader, Adil Jhangeer and Mudassar Imran

Entropy 2025, 27(11), 1176; https://doi.org/10.3390/e27111176 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

This paper examines the nonlinear behavior of the generalized stochastic intermediate dispersive velocity (SIdV) equation, which has been widely analyzed in a non-noise deterministic framework but has yet to be studied in any depth in the presence of varying forcing strength and noise [...] Read more.

This paper examines the nonlinear behavior of the generalized stochastic intermediate dispersive velocity (SIdV) equation, which has been widely analyzed in a non-noise deterministic framework but has yet to be studied in any depth in the presence of varying forcing strength and noise types, in particular how it switches between periodic, quasi-periodic, and chaotic regimes. A stochastic wave transformation reduces the equation to simpler ordinary differential equations to make soliton overlap analysis feasible to analyze soliton robustness under deterministic and stochastic conditions. Lyapunov exponents, power spectra, recurrence quantification, correlation dimension, entropy measures, return maps, and basin stability are then used to measure the effect of white, Brownian, and colored noise on attractor formation, system stability, and spectral correlations. Order–chaos transitions as well as noise-induced complexity are more effectively described by bifurcation diagrams and by Lyapunov spectra. The results of this experiment improve the theoretical knowledge of stochastic nonlinear waves and offer information that will be useful in the fields of control engineering, energy harvesting, optical communications, and signal processing applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nonlinear Dynamics of Complex Systems)

37 pages, 48276 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Ultrasonic Bath and Probe Extraction of Piperine from Piper nigrum L. Using Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents: RSM Optimization, Characterization, and In Vitro Bioactivity

by Abdullah Mohammed Ayedh Al Adhreai, Johnson Retnaraj Samuel Selvan Christyraj, Beryl Vedha Yesudhason, Yolin Angel Poomany Arul Soundara Rajan and Maharshi Bhaswant

Biomolecules 2025, 15(11), 1631; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom15111631 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

Background: Piper nigrum L. (PNL) is a rich source of piperine, a bioactive alkaloid with pharmaceutical, cosmetic, nutritional supplement, and agricultural applications, yet efficient and sustainable extraction methods remain underexplored. Methods: This study compared ultrasonic bath extraction (UBE) and ultrasonic probe extraction (UPE) [...] Read more.

Background: Piper nigrum L. (PNL) is a rich source of piperine, a bioactive alkaloid with pharmaceutical, cosmetic, nutritional supplement, and agricultural applications, yet efficient and sustainable extraction methods remain underexplored. Methods: This study compared ultrasonic bath extraction (UBE) and ultrasonic probe extraction (UPE) using natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) for isolating piperine from PNL fruits. Six NADES formulations were screened, with NADES-5 (choline chloride:glycerin:urea, 1:1:1) showing superior performance. Response surface methodology with a Box–Behnken design optimized extraction parameters, including liquid-to-solid ratio, extraction time, temperature, and water content, for both UBE and UPE. Results: Optimized UPE consistently outperformed UBE, yielding 49.97 mg/g of piperine versus 25.67 mg/g under identical NADES conditions. Comprehensive characterization using TLC, HPTLC, UV, FTIR, Raman, HPLC, NMR, XRD, SEM, and EDX confirmed the successful isolation and structural integrity of piperine, with samples obtained via UPE exhibiting higher purity (98.7% vs. 95.2%) and enhanced crystallinity. In vitro cytotoxicity assays demonstrated that piperine extracted by UPE showed stronger activity against C2C12 myoblasts (IC₅₀: 24.3 μg/mL vs. 40.6 μg/mL) and greater anticancer effects in MCF-7 and HT-29 cells compared to piperine extracted by UBE. Antioxidant evaluation via DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and TAC assays, along with intracellular reactive oxygen and nitrogen species suppression in THP-1 and RAW 264.7 macrophages, further confirmed the superior biological potential of the UPE-derived piperine sample. Conclusions: These findings indicate that UPE using NADES is a sustainable approach for high-yield piperine extraction with enhanced purity and bioactivity, supporting its potential for pharmaceutical applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Natural and Bio-derived Molecules)

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27 pages, 7473 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Study on Fire Prevention Strategies for Bamboo-Wood Frames and Natural Vegetation Roofs in Southwest China Based on FDS: A Case Study of Wengding Village, Yunnan

by Xiyao Huang, Yinghan Li and Xinyi Huang

Fire 2025, 8(11), 449; https://doi.org/10.3390/fire8110449 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

In Southwest China, traditional wooden buildings in historic villages commonly feature natural vegetation roofing materials, such as thatch or bamboo shingles, which are highly susceptible to fire. Existing research has primarily focused on traditional timber-frame buildings with tiled roofs, while limited attention has [...] Read more.

In Southwest China, traditional wooden buildings in historic villages commonly feature natural vegetation roofing materials, such as thatch or bamboo shingles, which are highly susceptible to fire. Existing research has primarily focused on traditional timber-frame buildings with tiled roofs, while limited attention has been given to those with natural vegetation roofs. This study, taking Wengding village in Cangyuan Wa Autonomous County, Yunnan Province, as an exemplary case, conducts a fire risk assessment and explores fire prevention strategies for buildings with bamboo-wood frames and natural vegetation roofs on the basis of Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS): the application of fire-retardant coatings, the use of synthetic thatched roofing materials, and a combination of both. The results indicate that the strategy employing synthetic thatched roofing materials offers the best fire resistance performance. By integrating traditional fire prevention knowledge with modern technologies, this study provides a scientifically grounded reference for mitigating fire risks in historic buildings with natural vegetation roofs in China’s ethnic minority regions, aiming to enhance fire safety while preserving architectural authenticity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Combustion and Fire Safety of Wood: From Built Environments to Forests)

36 pages, 825 KB

Open AccessArticle

Considering Consumer Quality Preferences, Who Should Offer Trade-in Between Manufacturer and Retail Platform?

by Deqing Ma, Di Hu and Jinsong Hu

Systems 2025, 13(11), 1043; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13111043 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

The trade-in service can enhance product sales and increase consumer loyalty; however, heterogeneity in consumer quality preferences significantly influences the provision and implementation of trade-in activities. By constructing a dynamic dual-supply chain model, this study examines the optimal choices for trade-in providers and [...] Read more.

The trade-in service can enhance product sales and increase consumer loyalty; however, heterogeneity in consumer quality preferences significantly influences the provision and implementation of trade-in activities. By constructing a dynamic dual-supply chain model, this study examines the optimal choices for trade-in providers and the impact of consumer quality preferences on mode selection. The findings indicate that the decision of who should provide the trade-in service largely depends on the product’s quality decay rate. When the quality decay rate is low, collaboration between the manufacturer and the retail platform favors manufacturer-led trade-in service. Conversely, when the quality decay rate is high, both parties tend to fall into a prisoner’s dilemma, each preferring to dominate the trade-in process independently. Notably, as the share of pragmatic consumers increases, both sides of the supply chain are more inclined to prefer the manufacturer offering trade-in service. In our extended research, we found that the influence of government subsidies on mode selection primarily depends on the price discounts provided by the dominant party in trade-in arrangements within each mode. We also considered scenarios with asymmetric net residual values of recovered products, and the results robustly validate the stability of our core findings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Supply Chain Management)

28 pages, 2740 KB

Open AccessArticle

Carbon Economic Dispatching for Active Distribution Networks via a Cyber–Physical System: A Demand-Side Carbon Penalty

by Jingfeng Zhao, Qi You, Yongbin Wang, Hong Xu, Huiping Guo, Lan Bai, Kunhua Liu, Zhenyu Liu and Ziqi Fan

Processes 2025, 13(11), 3749; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13113749 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

To address the challenges of climate change mitigation and operational flexibility in active distribution networks (ADNs) amid high renewable energy penetration, this paper proposes a low-carbon economic dispatch framework integrating demand-side carbon regulation and cyber–physical system (CPS)-enabled shared energy storage. First, a consumer-side [...] Read more.

To address the challenges of climate change mitigation and operational flexibility in active distribution networks (ADNs) amid high renewable energy penetration, this paper proposes a low-carbon economic dispatch framework integrating demand-side carbon regulation and cyber–physical system (CPS)-enabled shared energy storage. First, a consumer-side emission penalty mechanism is developed by fusing a carbon emission flow (CEF) model with price elasticity coefficients. This mechanism embeds carbon costs into end-user electricity pricing, guiding users to adjust consumption patterns (e.g., reducing usage during high-carbon-intensity periods) and shifting partial carbon responsibility to the demand side. Second, a CPS-based shared energy storage mechanism is constructed, featuring a three-layer architecture (physical layer, control decision layer, security layer) that aggregates distributed energy storage (DES) resources into a unified, schedulable pool. A cooperative, game-based profit-sharing strategy using Shapley values is adopted to allocate benefits based on each DES participant’s marginal contribution, ensuring fairness and motivating resource pooling. Finally, a unified mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) optimization model is formulated for ADNs, co-optimizing locational marginal prices, DES state-of-charge trajectories, and demand curtailment to minimize operational costs and carbon emissions simultaneously. Simulations on a modified IEEE 33-bus system demonstrate that the proposed framework reduces carbon emissions by 4.5–4.7% and renewable energy curtailment by 71.1–71.3% compared to traditional dispatch methods, while lowering system operational costs by 6.7–6.8%. The results confirm its effectiveness in enhancing ADN’s low-carbon performance, renewable energy integration, and economic efficiency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Power System Optimization for Energy Storage: Methods and Applications)

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14 pages, 3307 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Novel Low-Illumination Image Enhancement Method Based on Convolutional Neural Network with Retinex Theory

by Haixia Mao, Wei Peng, Yan Tian and Xiaochun Zhu

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(22), 12324; https://doi.org/10.3390/app152212324 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

Low-illumination images can seriously affect or even limit the performance of the human eye or a computer vision system, making image enhancement processing necessary. Traditional image enhancement methods, such as those based on image fusion, frequency thresholding, or spatial domain processing, lack robustness. [...] Read more.

Low-illumination images can seriously affect or even limit the performance of the human eye or a computer vision system, making image enhancement processing necessary. Traditional image enhancement methods, such as those based on image fusion, frequency thresholding, or spatial domain processing, lack robustness. Existing state-of-the-art methods, including GLADNet and MSR-Net, also suffer from color bias or the square effect in the recovered images. To address these issues, we propose a novel low-illumination image enhancement method based on a convolutional neural network (CNN) that incorporates the Retinex theory, namely Retinex-CNN. A decomposition sub-network is designed to transform the original image into a reflectance map and a light map, and then they are further optimized by a reflectance map refinement sub-network and a light map enhancement sub-network, respectively. Finally, according to Retinex theory, the refined reflectance map and the enhanced light map are synthesized to obtain the fusion result with better visual sense. We used synthetic and real low-illumination image datasets for training, testing, and comparison with other methods. In the synthetic scene, Retinex-CNN demonstrates superior performance with higher PSNR, MSE, and SSIM. In the real scene, Retinex-CNN has the best VIF score in six public datasets (over 0.75) and the best NIQE score in four of them. The experiments demonstrate that Retinex-CNN can not only effectively improve the brightness of the image but also enhance the clarity of the details and mitigate the serious color distortion and halo phenomenon. Additionally, the image enhancement process is less time-consuming. Full article

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22 pages, 4690 KB

Open AccessArticle

Copper Sulfide Nanoparticles Anchored in Cotton Linter Carbon Aerogel Promote the Adsorption/Photocatalytic Degradation of Organic Pollutants

by Yueyuan Xu, Yuxuan Guo, Canming Hu, Yueqi Zhou and Chengli Ding

Gels 2025, 11(11), 931; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11110931 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

The development of cheap and efficient photocatalysts for the degradation of organic pollutants in textile printing and dyeing wastewater is of great importance for addressing environmental issues, although it remains challenging. In this study, nano-CuS particles were doped on cotton linter aerogels using [...] Read more.

The development of cheap and efficient photocatalysts for the degradation of organic pollutants in textile printing and dyeing wastewater is of great importance for addressing environmental issues, although it remains challenging. In this study, nano-CuS particles were doped on cotton linter aerogels using a straightforward method for the degradation of methylene blue (MB) and organic pollutants in textile wastewater. Material morphology and structure were analyzed using XRD, SEM/EDS mapping, XPS, BET surface area measurements, and UV-Vis spectroscopy, while their performance was evaluated through various tests. The results demonstrated that a 10 mg catalyst material achieved complete degradation of a 20 mL methylene blue solution (15 mg/L) within 120 min. Moreover, the degradation rates of two types of textile wastewater, reactive red wastewater and reactive yellow wastewater, were both above 90% within 120 min and reached complete degradation within 150 min using the 10 mg catalyst material. The experimental results demonstrate that copper sulfide nanoparticles anchored in cotton linter carbon aerogel can increase the contact area of the photocatalytic reaction system, improve the photoelectron transfer, and thus enhance the photocatalytic reaction efficiency, providing a useful foundation for developing economical photocatalysts and effective dye degradation technologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Gel Chemistry and Physics)

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15 pages, 2508 KB

Open AccessArticle

Georadar Waveform Characterization of Tunnel Lining Rear Defects and Joint Detection Method in Time and Frequency Domains

by Jian Liu, Wei Yan, Gaohang Lv, Lei Kou, Bo Li, Xiao Zhang, Guanhong Lu and Quanyi Xie

Sensors 2025, 25(22), 7086; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25227086 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

Aiming at the signal interference and feature recognition difficulties existing in the detection of concealed defects such as cracks and voids behind the tunnel lining, this study carried out a 1:1 reinforced concrete–steel arch frame composite lining model test; simulated the surrounding rock [...] Read more.

Aiming at the signal interference and feature recognition difficulties existing in the detection of concealed defects such as cracks and voids behind the tunnel lining, this study carried out a 1:1 reinforced concrete–steel arch frame composite lining model test; simulated the surrounding rock defects scenarios of three types of filling media, namely crushed stone, air, and water; and analyzed the time-domain, frequency-domain, and time–frequency-domain characteristics of the geological radar signal data. The research finds that the water-filled area generates a strong reflection due to the high dielectric constant, with the spectral peak reaching 712 MHz and the high-frequency component significantly enhanced. The peak frequency of the air-filled zone spectrum is 531 MHz, and the high-frequency bandwidth is broadened. The spectral peak of the crushed stone filling area is 507 MHz, with fast high-frequency attenuation and energy dispersion. The time-domain waveforms show that the amplitude in the water-filled area is the highest and the tailing is obvious, the waveform in the air-filled area is sharp, and the amplitude in the crushed stone-filled area is gentle. The peak frequency of the spectrum, the amplitude attenuation law, and the waveform shape can be used as the key indicators for discriminating the category of filling materials. The analysis method of feature fusion in the time–frequency domain has important engineering application value for improving the detection accuracy of geological radar in complex lining structures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Applications of Intelligent Technologies in the Life Cycle of Transportation Infrastructure)

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24 pages, 44361 KB

Open AccessArticle

MIMAR-Net: Multiscale Inception-Based Manhattan Attention Residual Network and Its Application to Underwater Image Super-Resolution

by Nusrat Zahan, Sidike Paheding, Ashraf Saleem, Timothy C. Havens and Peter C. Esselman

Electronics 2025, 14(22), 4544; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14224544 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

In recent years, Single-Image Super-Resolution (SISR) has gained significant attention in the geoscience and remote sensing community for its potential to improve the resolution of low-quality underwater imagery. This paper introduces MIMAR-Net (Multiscale Inception-based Manhattan Attention Residual [...] Read more.

In recent years, Single-Image Super-Resolution (SISR) has gained significant attention in the geoscience and remote sensing community for its potential to improve the resolution of low-quality underwater imagery. This paper introduces MIMAR-Net (Multiscale Inception-based Manhattan Attention Residual Network), a new deep learning architecture designed to increase the spatial resolution of input color images. MIMAR-Net integrates a multiscale inception module, cascaded residue learning, and advanced attention mechanisms, such as the MaSA layer, to capture both local and global contextual information effectively. By utilizing multiscale processing and advanced attention strategies, MIMAR-Net allows us to handle the complexities of underwater environments with precision and robustness. We evaluate the model on three popular underwater image datasets, namely UFO-120, USR-248, and EUVP, and perform extensive comparisons against state-of-the-art methods. Experimental results demonstrate that MIMAR-Net consistently outperforms existing approaches, achieving superior qualitative and quantitative improvements in image quality, making it a reliable solution for underwater image enhancement in various challenging scenarios. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances and Applications in Image Restoration and Image Enhancement)

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28 pages, 4549 KB

Open AccessArticle

Research on Cultivated Land Use System Resilience in Major Grain-Producing Areas Under the “Resource–Utilization–Production–Ecology” Framework: A Case Study of the Songnen Plain, China

by Xinxin Guo, Yunfeng Liu, Yuanyuan Liu, Tongtong Ma, Yajun Cai, Guoming Du and Shengtao Yang

Land 2025, 14(11), 2292; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14112292 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

Clarifying the spatiotemporal evolution pattern of cultivated land use system resilience (CLUSR) in major grain-producing areas and identifying the key obstacles constraining its enhancement is of great significance for promoting the sustainable development of cultivated land use systems and ensuring regional food security. [...] Read more.

Clarifying the spatiotemporal evolution pattern of cultivated land use system resilience (CLUSR) in major grain-producing areas and identifying the key obstacles constraining its enhancement is of great significance for promoting the sustainable development of cultivated land use systems and ensuring regional food security. Taking the Songnen Plain, a typical major grain-producing area in China, as the study area, we constructed a CLUSR evaluation index system based on the “Resources–Utilization–Production–Ecology” (RUPE) framework and analyzed the spatiotemporal dynamics of CLUSR. Furthermore, we identified the primary factors impeding CLUSR enhancement. The results were as follows: (1) From 2005 to 2020, CLUSR values in the Songnen Plain ranged from 0.3353 to 0.4256, indicating a moderately low level overall but showing an upward trend. Across subsystems, the mean resilience scores followed the order ESR (0.121) > RER (0.114) > GPSR (0.090) > CLUR (0.055). (2) Spatially, CLUSR exhibited a distinct “high in the east and low in the west” pattern, with significant growth in the northwestern region. High–High clusters were primarily concentrated in the southeastern part of the study area, while Low–Low clusters exhibited a divergent spatial pattern. (3) From an indicator perspective, agricultural output value per unit of cultivated area, water coverage degree, agricultural labor input, agricultural mechanization level, cultivated land area, per capita yield of grain, and agricultural capital investment were identified as the dominant obstacles to CLUSR improvement. From a subsystem perspective, grain production stability and cultivated land use subsystems were the primary factors limiting CLUSR improvement in the Songnen Plain. (4) At the county level, obstacle factors were classified into three types: single, dual, and multiple obstacles. Nearly half of the counties were facing multiple constraints simultaneously. This study provides theoretical and practical implications for the formulation of cultivated land use policies in the Songnen Plain and other major grain-producing areas worldwide, thereby contributing to the sustainable utilization of cultivated land. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Global Farmland Protection, Food Security and Land Use Planning)

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13 pages, 806 KB

Open AccessArticle

Artificial Intelligence-Based Evaluation of Post-Procedural Electrocardiographic Parameters to Identify Patients at Risk of Atrial Fibrillation Recurrence After Transcatheter Ablation

by Gennaro De Rosa, Marco Giuggia, Mattia Peyracchia, Martina Peddis, Roberto Di Summa, Elisa Pelissero, Giuseppe Trapani, Davide De Los Rios, Fabio Ugliano, Plinio Cirillo and Gaetano Senatore

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(22), 8248; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14228248 (registering DOI) - 20 Nov 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Arrhythmic recurrence is a common issue affecting a significant percentage of patients undergoing transcatheter ablation (TCA) of Atrial Fibrillation (AF). The use of artificial intelligence (AI) for the identification of electrocardiographic predictors of post-ablation recurrence may offer a valuable and cost-effective approach [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Arrhythmic recurrence is a common issue affecting a significant percentage of patients undergoing transcatheter ablation (TCA) of Atrial Fibrillation (AF). The use of artificial intelligence (AI) for the identification of electrocardiographic predictors of post-ablation recurrence may offer a valuable and cost-effective approach to improve risk stratification and optimize follow-up. This study aims to investigate the relationship between post-procedural electrocardiographic (ECG) P-wave parameters, measured using AI, and AF recurrence in patients undergoing transcatheter ablation (TCA). Methods: Seventy-four patients (age 62.36 ± 10.4 years) with a diagnosis of AF were retrospectively analyzed. ECGs were processed using AI software to analyze P-wave-related variables. All patients had either an implantable loop recorder (ILR) or another form of cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED). Results: Post-procedural P-wave amplitude in lead II (PwA in lead II) showed a significant association with AF recurrence, defined as an average arrhythmic burden >6% at one-year follow-up. Conclusions: These findings underscore the potential of PwA in lead II as a biomarker for the follow-up of patients undergoing TCA and highlight the contribution of AI in the analysis of electrocardiographic parameters predictive of AF recurrence. Together, these results may contribute to the development of early risk-stratification strategies following catheter ablation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cardiology)

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