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15 pages, 1653 KB

Open AccessArticle

Motion Blur-Free High-Speed Hybrid Image Sensing

by Paul K. J. Park, Junseok Kim and Juhyun Ko

Sensors 2025, 25(24), 7496; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25247496 (registering DOI) - 9 Dec 2025

We propose and demonstrate a novel motion blur-free hybrid image sensing technique. Unlike the previous hybrid image sensors, we developed a homogeneous hybrid image sensing technique including 60 fps CMOS Image Sensor (CIS) and 1440 fps pseudo Dynamic Vision Sensor (DVS) image frames [...] Read more.

We propose and demonstrate a novel motion blur-free hybrid image sensing technique. Unlike the previous hybrid image sensors, we developed a homogeneous hybrid image sensing technique including 60 fps CMOS Image Sensor (CIS) and 1440 fps pseudo Dynamic Vision Sensor (DVS) image frames without any performance degradation caused by static bad pixels. To achieve the fast readout, we implemented two one-side ADCs on two photodiodes (PDs) and the pixel output settling time can be reduced significantly by using the column switch control. The high-speed pseudo DVS frame can be obtained by differentiating fast-readout CIS frames, by which, in turn, the world’s smallest pseudo DVS pixel (1.8 μm) can be achieved. In addition, we confirmed that CIS (50 Mp resolution) and DVS (0.78 Mp resolution) data obtained from the hybrid image sensor can be transmitted over the MIPI (4.5 Gb/s four-lane D-PHY) interface without signal loss. The results showed that the motion blur of a 60 fps CIS frame image can be compensated dramatically by using the proposed pseudo DVS frames together with a deblur algorithm. Finally, using the event simulation, we verified that a 1440 fps pseudo DVS frame can compensate the motion blur of the CIS image captured in the situation of jogging at a 3 m distance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sensing and Imaging)

20 pages, 720 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Attempted Suicide on Young Adults: Learning from the Lived Experiences of Students in UK in Further and Higher Education

by Jude Smit, Lisa Marzano and Erminia Colucci

Healthcare 2025, 13(24), 3222; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13243222 (registering DOI) - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: A need for suicide prevention and postvention strategies in Higher Education was identified in the United Kingdom and has more recently been addressed with policies that provide national guidance for organisations. However, a paucity of qualitative research related to the lived and [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: A need for suicide prevention and postvention strategies in Higher Education was identified in the United Kingdom and has more recently been addressed with policies that provide national guidance for organisations. However, a paucity of qualitative research related to the lived and living experiences of attempted suicide in young adults remains. The experts in attempted suicide are those who have experienced it and the objective of our study was to learn from these lived experiences, with a particular focus on 16–25-year-olds in Further and Higher Education. Methods: The research presented in this article was part of a nationwide study in the UK which included 21 semi-structured interviews with young adults who met these criteria on the impact of attempting suicide on a personal, interpersonal, and institutional level, and support service experiences and engagement. It aimed to answer two key questions: 1. What can we learn from the lived experiences of young adults who have attempted suicide? and 2. How can these findings be applied to better meet the needs of young adults experiencing suicidal thoughts/behaviour in Further and Higher Education? Results: Reflexive Thematic Analysis was used to analyse the data, and four main themes were identified: firstly, the impact on ‘self’, including emotional and psychological impact; secondly, ‘others’, revealing the impact of and on relational factors, stigma, and judgement; thirdly, ‘systemic’, which highlighted support service experiences and barriers to accessing and engaging with possible support, and, fourthly, ‘what helps or could help’ on a relational, educational, and institutional level. Conclusions: The findings from this study generate new insights into this under-explored and stigmatised area and point to key barriers to support and gaps in service provision. Attempting suicide is one of the highest risk factors for a death by suicide and this study highlights the need for additional policy and support guidance for attempted suicide in Further and Higher Education. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Risk Behaviours: Self-Injury and Suicide in Young People)

24 pages, 6090 KB

Open AccessArticle

Improvement of Vernacular Building Spaces for Human Thermal Comfort in Hot Arid Climate of Egypt

by Amr Sayed Hassan Abdallah, Uthman Abdullah Alamri, Randa Mohamed Ahmed Mahmoud and Mohamed Hssan Hassan Abdelhafez

Buildings 2025, 15(24), 4450; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15244450 (registering DOI) - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

Inner courtyards have been traditionally used as passive strategy in vernacular buildings in desert climates. This paper presents a study conducted to investigate indoor and outdoor thermal comfort of two vernacular buildings in the hot arid climate of Upper Egypt and proposes an [...] Read more.

Inner courtyards have been traditionally used as passive strategy in vernacular buildings in desert climates. This paper presents a study conducted to investigate indoor and outdoor thermal comfort of two vernacular buildings in the hot arid climate of Upper Egypt and proposes an improved solution for courtyards to achieve sustainable development of current vernacular houses and apply the same in the arid climate zone of Egypt. The thermal comfort of vernacular building spaces was evaluated based on using field measurements during the hot season and improvement for courtyards based on ENVI-met V5.6.1 simulation model using three scenarios. Two vernacular buildings (Hassan Fathy and Nubian house) were selected to represent the traditional buildings south of Egypt. The study found that using adobe bricks with high thermal mass in vernacular buildings maintained lower indoor temperature with a range of 2.7 °C to 6.7 °C compared to outdoor temperature; this is considered effective thermal insulation. Meanwhile under extreme hot conditions, courtyard temperature inside the vernacular house was 0.3 K higher than the outdoor. This is not sufficient to maintain indoor thermal comfort without integrating passive solutions inside courtyards. In addition, applying the hybrid solution with big dense trees in the courtyards achieved a significant reduction in PET ranging from 4.2 °C and 5.7 °C; shading the widest area of courtyards and allowing for family activities. The study provided techniques and methodology for the middle courtyard of vernacular buildings, demonstrating how improvement achieves thermal comfort and sustainable development required in the 21st century in Upper Egypt, and can be applied to other vernacular houses in different desert cities in southern Egypt. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Approaches to Climate-Responsive Building Design: Advancing Resilience and Sustainability in the Built Environment)

10 pages, 407 KB

Open AccessArticle

Insights from the Pre-Molecular Era in Advanced Endometrial Cancer: Benchmarking Prognostic Indicators in High-Risk Tumours

by Jacopo Conforti, Sabina Ioana Nistor, Negin Sadeghi, Andreas Zouridis, Ammara Kashif, Ahmed Darwish, Sarah Louise Smyth, Alisha Sattar, Susan Addley, Christina Pappa, Stephen Damato, Mostafa Abdalla, Sean Kehoe, Andrea Giannini, Federico Ferrari and Hooman Soleymani Majd

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(24), 8726; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14248726 (registering DOI) - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Although the binarism between type I and II endometrial cancer was dismissed and substituted with molecular classification, histopathological features remain of paramount importance. Hence, analysing survival outcomes according to histological type, our aim is to clarify whether the morphological features of [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Although the binarism between type I and II endometrial cancer was dismissed and substituted with molecular classification, histopathological features remain of paramount importance. Hence, analysing survival outcomes according to histological type, our aim is to clarify whether the morphological features of the tumour retain prognostic relevance in the context of advanced disease. Methods: This is a retrospective analysis led within the Thames Valley Cancer Alliance Network. Results: We include 148 FIGO 2009 stage III–IV patients affected by endometrioid endometrial cancer (EEC) G1, G2, and G3, carcinosarcoma (CS), serous carcinoma (SC), and clear cell carcinoma (CCC) of the uterus. Five year overall survival (OS) is distinct among the histological groups (p-value < 0.001), being 73.3% for G2 endometrioid, 49.2% for G3 endometrioid, 8.3% for CS, and 28.4% for SC. The divergence was marked also for 5 year progression-free survival (PFS) (p-value < 0.001) as follows: for G2 endometrioid, was 76.4%; for G3 endometrioid, 52.7%; and for carcinosarcoma, 5.9%. PFS after 18 months for serous carcinoma was 5.7%. The multivariate analysis found G3 endometrioid (HR 2.91, 95% CI 1.20–7.11, p-value 0.018), carcinosarcoma (HR 12.15, 95% CI 5.07–29.11, p-value < 0.001), and serous carcinoma (HR 4.84, 95% CI 2.16–10.83, p-value < 0.001) as independent predictors of poor survival, as well as cervical invasion (HR 1.83, 95% CI 1.10–3.05, p-value 0.020) as the only histopathological feature confirmed. Regarding progression-free only carcinosarcoma (HR 14.91, 95% CI 5.28–41.11) and serous carcinoma (HR 17.68, 95% CI 6.41–48.75) were associated with an increased risk of recurrence. Conclusions: Our findings testify that, beyond the disease stage, histological subtype remains a major determinant of survival outcome. Cervical involvement is associated with a more aggressive disease, possibly correlated to death beyond relapse. Prospective trials involving advanced stage endometrial cancer, stratified by histological subtype and integrated with the molecular classification, are required. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Risk Prediction for Gynecological Cancer)

23 pages, 7038 KB

Open AccessArticle

Molecular Docking and Dynamics Simulations Reveal the Antidiabetic Potential of a Novel Fucoxanthin Derivative from Chnoospora minima

by Sachini Sigera, Kavindu D. Theekshana, Sathmi G. Dinanja, Pasindu Eranga, Nayanatharie Karunathilake, Shamali Abeywardhana, Laksiri Weerasinghe, Tharindu Senapathi and Dinithi C. Peiris

Mar. Drugs 2025, 23(12), 471; https://doi.org/10.3390/md23120471 (registering DOI) - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder requiring safer and more effective therapeutic alternatives. This study investigates a novel fucoxanthin derivative isolated from the marine brown alga Chnoospora minima using a comprehensive in silico approach. Molecular docking revealed that the [...] Read more.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder requiring safer and more effective therapeutic alternatives. This study investigates a novel fucoxanthin derivative isolated from the marine brown alga Chnoospora minima using a comprehensive in silico approach. Molecular docking revealed that the derivative exhibited higher binding affinities toward α-amylase (–9.4 kcal/mol) and α-glucosidase (–8.0 kcal/mol) compared to the reference drug acarbose (–8.5 and –7.4 kcal/mol, respectively). Pharmacokinetic analysis predicted good intestinal absorption and P-gp inhibition (0.894) and moderate plasma clearance (7.864 mL/min/kg), while toxicity predictions classified it in toxicity class 3, with no respiratory or ocular toxicity. Drug-likeness evaluation showed only one Lipinski and one Veber rule violation, common for natural products. Molecular dynamics simulations conducted for 100 ns using NAMD 3.0 confirmed stable protein–ligand complexes with average RMSD values of ~1.3 Å and ~1.8 Å for α-amylase and α-glucosidase, respectively, and consistent hydrogen bonding profiles. Structural analysis identified a substitution of the allene bond with an unsaturated ketone at the C8′ position as a key contributor to enhanced enzyme interaction. The findings suggest that this fucoxanthin derivative is a promising natural candidate for T2DM therapy and warrants further investigation through lab experiments (in vitro and in vivo). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Analytical Methods for Marine Natural Product Discovery)

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23 pages, 2024 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Lightweight Segmentation Model for Northern Corn Leaf Blight Based on an Enhanced UNet Architecture

by Chunyue Ma, Chen Wang, Xiuru Guo, Xiaochen Cui, Ruimin Wang, Guangdi Xu, Yuqi Liu, Shouli Zhang and Zhijun Wang

Agriculture 2025, 15(24), 2550; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15242550 (registering DOI) - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

To address the low segmentation accuracy and high computational complexity of classical deep learning algorithms—caused by the complex morphology of Northern Corn Leaf Blight (NCLB) and blurred boundaries between diseased and healthy leaf regions—this study proposes an improved lightweight segmentation model (termed MSA-UNet) [...] Read more.

To address the low segmentation accuracy and high computational complexity of classical deep learning algorithms—caused by the complex morphology of Northern Corn Leaf Blight (NCLB) and blurred boundaries between diseased and healthy leaf regions—this study proposes an improved lightweight segmentation model (termed MSA-UNet) based on the UNet architecture, specifically tailored for NCLB segmentation. In MSA-UNet, three core modules are integrated synergistically to balance efficiency and accuracy: (1) MobileNetV3 (a mobile-optimized convolutional network) replaces the original UNet encoder to reduce parameters while enhancing fine-grained feature extraction; (2) an Enhanced Atrous Spatial Pyramid Pooling (E-ASPP) module is embedded in the bottleneck layer to capture multi-scale lesion features; and (3) the parameter-free Simple Attention Module (SimAM) is added to skip connections to strengthen focus on blurred lesion boundaries. Compared with the baseline UNet model, the proposed MSA-UNet achieves statistically significant performance improvements: mPA, mIoU, and F1-score increase by 3.59%, 5.32%, and 5.75%, respectively; moreover, it delivers substantial reductions in both computational complexity and parameter scale, with GFLOPs decreased by 394.50 G (an 87% reduction) and parameter count reduced by 16.71 M (a 67% reduction). These experimental results confirm that the proposed model markedly improves NCLB leaf lesion segmentation accuracy while retaining a lightweight architecture—rendering it better suited for practical agricultural applications that demand both efficiency and accuracy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Artificial Intelligence and Digital Agriculture)

20 pages, 3134 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Variation Law of Mineral Composition and Pore Structure in the Shale Oil of Mabei Fengcheng Formation Under the Action of CO₂

by Jianmin Li, Shicheng Zhang, Kaixin Liu, Mingxing Wang, Jingfeng Dong, Li Yang and Yushi Zou

Processes 2025, 13(12), 3985; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13123985 (registering DOI) - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of CO₂–water–rock interactions on shale oil reservoirs, specifically focusing on the mineral dissolution and pore structure alterations in shale samples from the second section of the Permian Fengcheng Formation in the Mahu Depression, Junggar Basin. Core [...] Read more.

This study investigates the effects of CO₂–water–rock interactions on shale oil reservoirs, specifically focusing on the mineral dissolution and pore structure alterations in shale samples from the second section of the Permian Fengcheng Formation in the Mahu Depression, Junggar Basin. Core soaking experiments were conducted under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions to simulate reservoir environments. Mineral evolution, ion migration, and microstructural changes were qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed using X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) spectroscopy, and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The findings indicate that CO₂-induced mineral dissolution follows a distinct sequence: calcite > dolomite > potassium feldspar > sodium feldspar, which is directly reflected in the concentration of ions (Ca²⁺ > Mg²⁺ > K⁺ > Na⁺) in the solution. The dissolution rate and pore structure enhancement are significantly influenced by lamina density, with dolomitic rocks with high lamina density showing greater dissolution and porosity increase, and the lamina area greater than the matrix area. This study demonstrates that the dynamic changes of rock minerals are the core mechanism for controlling the pore structure of reservoirs, showing how CO₂–water–rock reaction enhances the porosity and connectivity of shale reservoirs, thereby improving oil recovery potential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Petroleum and Low-Carbon Energy Process Engineering)

17 pages, 1878 KB

Open AccessArticle

Transcritical Bifurcation and Neimark–Sacker Bifurcation in a Discrete Predator–Prey Model with Constant-Effort Harvesting

by Mianjian Ruan, Xianyi Li, Yang Yu and Feng Qian

Mathematics 2025, 13(24), 3935; https://doi.org/10.3390/math13243935 (registering DOI) - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

This study develops a semi-discretized time system from the continuous-time Rosenzweig–-MacArthur model via the method of piecewise constant argument—a discretization approach that preserves both mathematical rigor and biological interpretability. For the proposed system incorporating constant-effort harvesting on both prey and predator populations, we [...] Read more.

This study develops a semi-discretized time system from the continuous-time Rosenzweig–-MacArthur model via the method of piecewise constant argument—a discretization approach that preserves both mathematical rigor and biological interpretability. For the proposed system incorporating constant-effort harvesting on both prey and predator populations, we present rigorous quantitative derivations for the existence and local stability of non-negative equilibrium. Furthermore, we investigate complex dynamical behaviors, including transcritical and Neimark–Sacker bifurcations, induced by parameter variations. We specifically focus on calculating the first Lyapunov coefficient to determine the stability of closed orbits emerging from the Neimark–Sacker bifurcation. Numerical validation of chaotic dynamics is conducted using the computed Maximum Lyapunov Exponent spectrum. Numerical simulations not only confirm consistency with analytical results but also reveal key ecological dynamics of the system: (i) the paradox of enrichment—a classic ecological phenomenon—persists even under constant-effort harvesting; (ii) appropriate tuning of harvesting parameters enables the coexistence of prey and predator populations in a stable closed orbit, resulting in cyclic coexistence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Mathematical Biology and Applications)

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25 pages, 7703 KB

Open AccessArticle

Orientation and Influence of Anisotropic Nanoparticles in Electroconductive Thermoplastic Composites: A Micromechanical Approach

by Lisa Windisch, Björn Düsenberg, Maximilian Nowka, Karl Hilbig, Thomas Vietor and Carsten Schilde

Polymers 2025, 17(24), 3273; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17243273 (registering DOI) - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

The integration of electrically conductive functionalities into polymer components via additive manufacturing has gained increasing relevance across fields such as sensing, energy storage, and structural electronics. Achieving reliable performance in such applications requires a deeper understanding of how processing conditions affect the internal [...] Read more.

The integration of electrically conductive functionalities into polymer components via additive manufacturing has gained increasing relevance across fields such as sensing, energy storage, and structural electronics. Achieving reliable performance in such applications requires a deeper understanding of how processing conditions affect the internal structure of conductive thermoplastic composites—particularly the orientation and distribution of anisotropic fillers. This study analyzes a PLA-based composite containing carbon nanotubes, carbon black, and graphite flakes to evaluate the influence of extrusion temperature on electrical resistivity and micromechanical properties. To complement scanning electron microscopy, a novel micromechanical mapping approach based on nanoindentation was applied, enabling spatially resolved analysis of local stiffness and hardness. Results show that increasing extrusion temperature improves filler dispersion and alignment, enhancing conductivity and mechanical homogeneity—up to a threshold of 210 °C. Even small temperature changes significantly affect particle orientation and distribution. Unlike global resistivity measurements, the combined use of nanoindentation and microscopic imaging reveals location-specific structural phenomena and filler behavior within the matrix. This newly established method provides high-resolution insight into internal composite architecture and offers a robust foundation for optimizing process-structure-property relationships in conductive polymer systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Composites and Nanocomposites)

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45 pages, 490 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Foreign Influence on Conflict and Social Identity in Ethnically Diverse Societies

by Esther Hauk

Games 2025, 16(6), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/g16060065 (registering DOI) - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

This paper develops a formal model to analyze how foreign interventions—via resource transfers towards mobilization, technological upgrades of the mobilization technology, and various forms of conditional aid—reshape identity choices and conflict dynamics in divided societies. After a foreign intervention occurred, individuals simultaneously decided [...] Read more.

This paper develops a formal model to analyze how foreign interventions—via resource transfers towards mobilization, technological upgrades of the mobilization technology, and various forms of conditional aid—reshape identity choices and conflict dynamics in divided societies. After a foreign intervention occurred, individuals simultaneously decided how many resources to allocate to conflict and whether to identify as ethnic or national. The utility derived from identity decreases with the perceived social distance from the chosen group and increases with the group’s status. Foreign interventions can modify identity choices by affecting perceived social distance or group status. Our results reveal that inclusive aid and material support for mobilization are likely to induce national identification. Conversely, exclusive or ethnically targeted aid and technological upgrades of mobilization technology are likely to result in ethnic identification. We show that for all types of interventions analyzed, conflict mobilization is lower and the intervened nation’s material payoff is higher when individuals identify nationally than ethnically. Full article

14 pages, 551 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Contribution of Paresis, Age, and the Effect of Short Training on Cognitive–Motor Dual-Task Interference After Stroke: A Pilot Study

by Judit Málly, Orsolya Karácsony, Bernadette Kálmán and Trevor W. Stone

Life 2025, 15(12), 1881; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15121881 - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

Simultaneously performing cognitive and motor tasks after a stroke interfered with each other. Considering the competing deficits of cognition and motor paresis, we aimed here to assess the overall functional impairments of patients after stroke injury. A range of dual-task (DT) assessments was [...] Read more.

Simultaneously performing cognitive and motor tasks after a stroke interfered with each other. Considering the competing deficits of cognition and motor paresis, we aimed here to assess the overall functional impairments of patients after stroke injury. A range of dual-task (DT) assessments was made on 63 post-stroke patients (PS) and 49 healthy age-matched controls. Patients with paresis (P) and without paresis (NP) were compared with controls before and after DT training. Differences between the NP patients and controls confirmed the cognitive decline, while the comparison between the NP and P patients strengthened the motor damage in P patients. The elderly patients performed worse. According to the ArtANOVA analysis, age was more important than paresis in DT performance. Short-term training modified the test results, especially in P patients. In conclusion, paresis and older age significantly worsen the outcomes of the cognitive dual-task tests. The age-dependent results may reflect cognitive decline, especially in NP patients. Consequently, the dual-task test results may represent global cognitive deterioration after stroke. Short-term dual-task training improves dual-task performance, especially in the P groups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: Trends and Applications—4th Edition)

17 pages, 851 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sowing Date Regulates Japonica Rice Yield by Modulating Grain Weight and the Proportion of Grains in Secondary-to-Primary Branches

by Bo Lu, Nankai Li, Ziping Chen, Ruirui Chen, Yuyi Zhang and Congshan Xu

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(24), 12987; https://doi.org/10.3390/app152412987 - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

Late sowing has been common since the popularization of mechanical transplantation, and it has led to reduced grain yield due to low grain weight. However, the uneven contribution of the amount and weight of grains in different positions to grain yield remains unclear. [...] Read more.

Late sowing has been common since the popularization of mechanical transplantation, and it has led to reduced grain yield due to low grain weight. However, the uneven contribution of the amount and weight of grains in different positions to grain yield remains unclear. A 2 yr field experiment was conducted with two super rice varieties (Ningjing 7th: N7 and Nanjing 9108th: N9108) and three sowing dates (S1: 30 April; S2: 30 May; and S3: 30 June) in Hefei City. In this study, delaying sowing shortened the growth duration, reduced temperature, and further reduced the grain yield mainly by suppressing the total grain weight. Compared with S1, the grain weight of grains in secondary branches (SGs) in S2 and S3 was reduced by 11.1% ± 2.9% and 18.5% ± 1.4%, respectively, due to a lower reproductive-stage temperature. However, no significant difference was found in the grains in primary branches (PGs). Moreover, a shorter growth duration enhanced the ratio of tillers in a lower position (LT) per unit area, which contained more SGs per panicle, and finally led to a higher ratio of SG amount per unit area (SG%). The SG% increased by 13.4% ± 1.4% and 21.1% ± 1.9% in S2 and S3 compared with S1, respectively. In conclusion, delaying the sowing date mainly reduced the grain weight of SGs and enhanced the SG%, leading to a lower apparent grain weight and further decreasing grain yield. Full article

19 pages, 907 KB

Open AccessArticle

Natural-Language Relay Control for a SISO Thermal Plant: A Proof-of-Concept with Validation Against a Conventional Hysteresis Controller

by Sebastian Rojas-Ordoñez, Mikel Segura, Veronica Mendoza, Unai Fernandez and Ekaitz Zulueta

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(24), 12986; https://doi.org/10.3390/app152412986 - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

This paper presents a proof-of-concept for a natural-language-based closed-loop controller that regulates the temperature of a simple single-input single-output (SISO) thermal process. The key idea is to express a relay-with-hysteresis policy in plain English and let a local large language model (LLM) interpret [...] Read more.

This paper presents a proof-of-concept for a natural-language-based closed-loop controller that regulates the temperature of a simple single-input single-output (SISO) thermal process. The key idea is to express a relay-with-hysteresis policy in plain English and let a local large language model (LLM) interpret sensor readings and output a binary actuation command at each sampling step. Beyond interface convenience, we demonstrate that natural language can serve as a valid medium for modeling physical reality and executing deterministic reasoning in control loops. We implement a compact plant model and compare two controllers: a conventional coded relay and an LLM-driven controller prompted with the same logic and constrained to a single-token output. The workflow integrates schema validation, retries, and a safe fallback, while a stepwise evaluator checks agreement with the baseline. In a long-horizon (1000-step) simulation, the language controller reproduces the hysteresis behavior with matching switching patterns. Furthermore, sensitivity and ablation studies demonstrate the system’s robustness to measurement noise and the LLM’s ability to correctly execute the hysteresis policy, thereby preserving the theoretical robustness inherent to this control law. This work demonstrates that, for slow thermal dynamics, natural-language policies can achieve comparable performance to classical relay systems while providing a transparent, human-readable interface and facilitating rapid iteration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Computing and Artificial Intelligence)

34 pages, 5579 KB

Open AccessArticle

New Quinazolin-4(3H)-one Derivatives as Potential Antitumoral Compounds: Synthesis, In Vitro Cytotoxicity Against the HepG2 Cell Line, and In Silico VEGFR-2 Targeting-Based Studies

by Raluca Pele, Gabriel Marc, Brîndușa Tiperciuc, Ioana Ionuț, Anca Stana, Cristina Moldovan, Corina Tatomir, Oana Maria Dragostin, Adrian Pîrnău, Laurian Vlase, Daniel Ungureanu and Ovidiu Oniga

Molecules 2025, 30(24), 4719; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30244719 - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

Three new 2,3-disubstituted quinazolin-4(3H)-one derivatives (5a–c) were synthesized by the nucleophilic S-alkylation of 2-mercaptoquinazolin-4(3H)-one derivatives (3a–c) with 5-(2-bromoacetyl)-2-hydroxybenzamide (4) in alkaline conditions. The final compounds were characterized by [...] Read more.

Three new 2,3-disubstituted quinazolin-4(3H)-one derivatives (5a–c) were synthesized by the nucleophilic S-alkylation of 2-mercaptoquinazolin-4(3H)-one derivatives (3a–c) with 5-(2-bromoacetyl)-2-hydroxybenzamide (4) in alkaline conditions. The final compounds were characterized by recording the IR, MS, ¹H-NMR, and ¹³C-NMR spectra. The new synthesized compounds 5a–c were evaluated in vitro for their cytotoxic activity using one normal cell line, human foreskin fibroblasts (BJ), and one cancerous cell line, derived from human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2). Sorafenib was used as a reference. The obtained results from the in vitro examination suggested that compound 5a had lower cytotoxic effects on the BJ cells than the positive standard, and compound 5b exhibited the strongest cytotoxic potential against the HepG2 cell line, being less effective compared to sorafenib. In order to evaluate their pharmacological profiles, the compounds were assessed in vitro and in silico by lipophilicity studies, targeted VEGFR-2 molecular docking, molecular dynamics, and MM-PBSA studies. Additionally, the electronic properties were evaluated by an in silico study of the HOMO and LUMO parameters. Compound 5b exhibited the most interesting pharmacological profile in comparison with the other compounds due to its bulkier substituent from position 3 of the quinazolinone core. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis of Bioactive Compounds, 3rd Edition)

7 pages, 4753 KB

Open AccessCase Report

Hidden in Plain Sight: Peritoneal Tuberculosis Mimicking Ovarian Neoplasm—A Case Report

by Dolfus Santiago Romero-Rojas, Andrés Rojas-Torres, Brenda Amell-Barón, David Serna, Luis Vasquez-Pinto, Luis Eduardo Barrera-Herrera and Javier Iván Lasso-Apraez

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2025, 10(12), 346; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed10120346 - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

Tuberculosis remains the deadliest infectious disease worldwide. Among extrapulmonary forms, peritoneal tuberculosis stands out as a rare and challenging diagnosis, often mistaken for intra-abdominal neoplasms or peritoneal carcinomatosis. The clinical, paraclinical, and imaging findings are similar and sometimes indistinguishable between the two entities, [...] Read more.

Tuberculosis remains the deadliest infectious disease worldwide. Among extrapulmonary forms, peritoneal tuberculosis stands out as a rare and challenging diagnosis, often mistaken for intra-abdominal neoplasms or peritoneal carcinomatosis. The clinical, paraclinical, and imaging findings are similar and sometimes indistinguishable between the two entities, making the diagnosis a challenge for the treating physician. Here, we present the case of a young woman with chronic constitutional symptoms who presented to the emergency department with abdominal pain and ascites. An initial differential diagnosis of peritoneal carcinomatosis was considered based on findings in the peritoneal fluid and abdominal CT scan, leading to diagnostic laparoscopy. Histopathological examination of the samples revealed non-caseating granulomas involving the peritoneum, with no findings suggestive of malignancy. Subsequently, molecular testing for Mycobacterium tuberculosis was positive in the biopsies and peritoneal fluid, establishing the diagnosis of peritoneal tuberculosis. This case highlights the importance of awareness of peritoneal tuberculosis as a differential diagnosis of ascites and its significant potential to mimic other pathologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomarkers, Diagnostic, and Therapeutic Approaches for Mycobacterial Diseases)

25 pages, 3403 KB

Open AccessArticle

Hybrid Deep Learning Approach for Fractional-Order Model Parameter Identification of Lithium-Ion Batteries

by Maharani Putri, Dat Nguyen Khanh, Kun-Che Ho, Shun-Chung Wang and Yi-Hua Liu

Batteries 2025, 11(12), 452; https://doi.org/10.3390/batteries11120452 - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

Fractional-order models (FOMs) have been recognized as superior tools for capturing the complex electrochemical dynamics of lithium-ion batteries, outperforming integer-order models in accuracy, robustness, and adaptability. Parameter identification (PI) is essential for FOMs, as its accuracy directly affects the model’s ability to predict [...] Read more.

Fractional-order models (FOMs) have been recognized as superior tools for capturing the complex electrochemical dynamics of lithium-ion batteries, outperforming integer-order models in accuracy, robustness, and adaptability. Parameter identification (PI) is essential for FOMs, as its accuracy directly affects the model’s ability to predict battery behavior and estimate critical states such as state of charge (SOC) and state of health (SOH). In this study, a hybrid deep learning approach has been introduced for FOM PI, representing the first application of deep learning in this domain. A simulation platform was developed to generate datasets using Sobol and Monte Carlo sampling methods. Five deep learning models were constructed: long short-term memory (LSTM), gated recurrent unit (GRU), one-dimensional convolutional neural network (1DCNN), and hybrid models combining 1DCNN with LSTM and GRU. Hyperparameters were optimized using Optuna, and enhancements such as Huber loss for robustness to outliers, stochastic weight averaging, and exponential moving average for training stability were incorporated. The primary contribution lies in the hybrid architectures, which integrate convolutional feature extraction with recurrent temporal modeling, outperforming standalone models. On a test set of 1000 samples, the improved 1DCNN + GRU model achieved an overall root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.2223 and a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 0.27%, representing nearly a 50% reduction in RMSE compared to its baseline. This performance surpasses that of the improved LSTM model, which yielded a MAPE of 9.50%, as evidenced by tighter scatter plot alignments along the diagonal and reduced error dispersion in box plots. Terminal voltage prediction was validated with an average RMSE of 0.002059 and mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.001387, demonstrating high-fidelity dynamic reconstruction. By advancing data-driven PI, this framework is well-positioned to enable real-time integration into battery management systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Towards a Smarter Battery Management System: 3rd Edition)

17 pages, 3760 KB

Open AccessArticle

Construction and Immunogenicity Evaluation of a Recombinant Fowlpox Virus Expressing VP2 Gene of African Horse Sickness Virus Serotype 1

by Xiaohua Ma, Min Zhang, Xin Zhang, Ting Qi, Weiguo Zhang, Yang Zhao, Lei Na, Yingzhi Zhang, Xue-Feng Wang and Xiaojun Wang

Microorganisms 2025, 13(12), 2807; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13122807 - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

African horse sickness (AHS) is a lethal vector-borne disease caused by African horse sickness virus (AHSV) and represents a major threat to equine health and the horse industry. In 2020, outbreaks of AHS caused by AHSV serotype 1 (AHSV-1) were reported in Thailand, [...] Read more.

African horse sickness (AHS) is a lethal vector-borne disease caused by African horse sickness virus (AHSV) and represents a major threat to equine health and the horse industry. In 2020, outbreaks of AHS caused by AHSV serotype 1 (AHSV-1) were reported in Thailand, increasing the risk of AHS introduction into China. Given the safety issues associated with currently available live attenuated AHS vaccines, the development of safer and more effective vaccination strategies is urgently needed. In this study, we constructed a recombinant fowlpox virus (rFPV) expressing the AHSV-1 VP2 protein as a candidate vaccine, designated rFPV-VP2. The recombinant virus was verified by PCR and Western blot analysis, which confirmed the successful expression of VP2. Preliminary immunization trials were conducted in both mice and horses, and immune responses were evaluated via an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA) and immunofluorescence assay (IFA). The results revealed that VP2-specific antibodies were successfully induced in the serum of rFPV-VP2-immunized animals. Notably, serum from immunized horses showed specific reactivity with AHSV-1, confirming the induction of AHSV-1-specific immune responses. Therefore, these results demonstrate that rFPV-VP2 is a promising candidate vaccine for AHSV-1 and provide a scientific basis for the development of safer preventive strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Virology)

15 pages, 9475 KB

Open AccessArticle

Seed Asymbiotic Germination Morphological Traits and Seedling Development in Cymbidium faberi Rolfe (Orchidaceae)

by Zhiqing Zhou, Siyu Han, Hao Huang and Zhixiong Liu

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1491; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121491 - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

Cymbidium faberi Rolfe is a Chinese flower famous due to its beautiful floral pattern and strong floral scent and is also a threatened terrestrial orchid. Moreover, the traditional propagation method through tillers and symbiotic seed germination with the correct fungus under nature conditions [...] Read more.

Cymbidium faberi Rolfe is a Chinese flower famous due to its beautiful floral pattern and strong floral scent and is also a threatened terrestrial orchid. Moreover, the traditional propagation method through tillers and symbiotic seed germination with the correct fungus under nature conditions could not meet conservation and commercial needs. Here, an efficient procedure for asymbiotic seed germination and in vitro seedlings development of C. faberi was successfully established through evaluation of time of seed collecting, seed pretreatments, light conditions and composition of culture media, respectively. Seed pretreatment with 1% NaClO for 30 min, dark culture on 1/4 MS medium containing 0.5 mg·L⁻¹ 6-BA and 0.1 mg·L⁻¹ NAA for 30 days and subsequent long day condition (14 h light/10 h dark photoperiod) culture on this medium for 30 days could obviously enhance the seed germination rate of C. faberi. The highest germination rate (85.0 ± 0.79%) was achieved when seeds were collected at 120 d after cross-fertilization, and then germination percentages progressively decreased. Furthermore, histological analyses from protocorm formation to seedling growth were explored. This study not only offers a reliable and scalable system for mass propagation to meet commercial and conservation demands but also serves as a foundational reference for physiological and molecular studies in Cymbidium and related orchids. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Structure to Function: Anatomical and Reproductive Studies in Native and Cultivated Horticultural Plants)

55 pages, 15873 KB

Open AccessArticle

Optimal µ-PMU Placement and Voltage Estimation in Distribution Networks: Evaluation Through Multiple Case Studies

by Asjad Ali, Noor Izzri Abdul Wahab, Mohammad Lutfi Othman, Rizwan A. Farade, Husam S. Samkari and Mohammed F. Allehyani

Sustainability 2025, 17(24), 11036; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172411036 - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

This study optimizes the placement of μ-PMUs using the BPSO and BGWO algorithms for the IEEE 33-bus and 69-bus systems, with a focus on minimizing deployment costs while ensuring robust system observability. Three case studies are analysed: Case 1 (normal conditions), Case 2 [...] Read more.

This study optimizes the placement of μ-PMUs using the BPSO and BGWO algorithms for the IEEE 33-bus and 69-bus systems, with a focus on minimizing deployment costs while ensuring robust system observability. Three case studies are analysed: Case 1 (normal conditions), Case 2 (single μ-PMU outage), and Case 3 (Zero Injection Buses, ZIBs). In Case 1, both algorithms identified 24 μ-PMUs as the optimal placement for the IEEE 69-bus system, achieving the minimum PMUs required for full observability. For Case 2, redundancy requirements increased the μ-PMU count to 24 μ-PMUs for the IEEE 33-bus system and 51 μ-PMUs for the IEEE 69-bus system, ensuring full observability even under a single μ-PMU failure. Case 3, leveraging Zero Injection Buses (ZIBs), reduced the μ-PMU count to 20 μ-PMUs for both BPSO and BGWO, optimizing the system configuration while maintaining observability. A trade-off analysis was performed to examine the trade-off between redundancy and PMU count, showing that increasing the number of μ-PMUs improves system resilience. Voltage and current channels were measured from the optimized placements to ensure accurate voltage measurement in all case studies. Subsequently, the Weighted Least Squares algorithm was applied for voltage estimation, serving as a peripheral to the main objective of the optimal μ-PMU placement. Voltage estimation was conducted under three noise levels: 0.01 STD for basic analysis and 0.02 and 0.04 STD to observe the impact of varying measurement noise. The results highlight that higher μ-PMU placements improve voltage estimation accuracy, particularly under higher noise levels. Statistical analysis confirms that BGWO outperforms BPSO in terms of computational efficiency, stability, and convergence, especially in large-scale systems. By enhancing grid monitoring and state estimation, this research directly contributes to the development of more resilient and efficient power networks, which is a fundamental prerequisite for integrating renewable energy sources and advancing overall power system sustainability. This research emphasizes the balance between cost and reliability in μ-PMU placement and provides a comprehensive methodology for state estimation in modern power systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Energy Systems: Design, Management, Control and Monitoring)

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22 pages, 5118 KB

Open AccessArticle

Investigating Nickel-Induced Neurotoxicity: Associations with Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis and Ferroptosis

by Yao Shen, Kai Cao, Wenjuan Zhang, Chun Chen, Chang Gao, Jingran Wang, Tian Xin, Cun Li, Shusheng Tang, Xingyao Pei and Daowen Li

Antioxidants 2025, 14(12), 1478; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14121478 - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

Nickel is a pervasive heavy metal with the potential for multi-route exposure, raising significant concerns regarding systemic toxicity. Although Ni²⁺ has been implicated in nickel sulfate NiSO₄-induced neurotoxicity, its underlying mechanisms remain incompletely elucidated. The present study investigates the role [...] Read more.

Nickel is a pervasive heavy metal with the potential for multi-route exposure, raising significant concerns regarding systemic toxicity. Although Ni²⁺ has been implicated in nickel sulfate NiSO₄-induced neurotoxicity, its underlying mechanisms remain incompletely elucidated. The present study investigates the role of NiSO₄-induced ferroptosis as a potential contributor to neurotoxicity. C57BL/6 mice were administered NiSO₄ daily via oral gavage at doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg over 28 days. Neurobehavioral assessments, histopathological examination, transmission electron microscopy, and molecular profiling were conducted to evaluate brain injury and ferroptotic activity. Gut microbiota composition and intestinal barrier integrity were systematically evaluated. In vitro, HT22 cells were subjected to NiSO₄ treatment, followed by integrative transcriptomic analysis complemented by pharmacological and genetic manipulation to delineate the contributions of ferroptosis and autophagy. The results demonstrated that NiSO₄ exposure inhibited body weight gain, elicited depression-like behaviors, and initiated ferroptosis, evidenced by ultrastructural mitochondrial damage and dysregulated expression of glutathione peroxidase 4/acyl-CoA synthetase long chain family member 4 (GPX4/ACSL4). Furthermore, NiSO₄ caused gut microbiota dysbiosis and compromised the intestinal barrier, which was correlated with the induction of ferroptosis in neuronal cells of the brain. In HT22 cells, NiSO₄ elicited dose-dependent cytotoxicity and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis further revealed that NiSO₄ treatment significantly upregulated pathways associated with ferroptosis, autophagy, and lysosomal function. Moreover, both ferrostatin-1 and rapamycin attenuated NiSO₄-induced cytotoxicity and ferroptosis, indicating that autophagy serves a protective function against ferroptotic cell death. Additionally, overexpression of Transcription Factor EB (TFEB) attenuated NiSO₄-induced ferroptosis by downregulating ACSL4, and upregulating GPX4, implicating the autophagy–lysosome pathway in the protective regulation of this cell death process. In summary, our findings indicated that NiSO₄-induced neurotoxicity was strongly associated with gut microbiota dysbiosis and coincided with ferroptosis in the brain, while stimulation of the autophagy–lysosome pathway conferred neuroprotective effects via modulating TFEB-dependent anti-ferroptotic mechanisms. These findings offer novel insights for risk assessment and therapeutic strategies of nickel-related neurotoxicity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Antioxidants in Counteracting Mycotoxin and Heavy Metal Toxicity)

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27 pages, 1505 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Hybrid Control Strategy for Multi-Timescale Air Conditioning Load Demand Response

by Yifan Bai, Jiandong Jiang, Qiangang Jia, Chenghao Liu, Binghao Yang and Peng Zhuang

Smart Cities 2025, 8(6), 204; https://doi.org/10.3390/smartcities8060204 - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

Globally, the transition of energy structure towards clean and low-carbon is accelerating, with the increasing grid integration ratio of renewable energy. However, the inherent intermittency, volatility and randomness of such energy sources are in fundamental conflict with the traditional operation mode of existing [...] Read more.

Globally, the transition of energy structure towards clean and low-carbon is accelerating, with the increasing grid integration ratio of renewable energy. However, the inherent intermittency, volatility and randomness of such energy sources are in fundamental conflict with the traditional operation mode of existing power systems, which not only restricts the absorption capacity of renewable energy, but also poses severe challenges to the safe and stable operation of power systems. The integration of renewable energy sources into existing power systems poses numerous challenges that can be mitigated through the utilization of demand-side flexible resources. Among these, air-conditioning (AC) loads, as a prominent example, offer significant potential for enhancing flexibility in power systems. Nonetheless, determining an optimal AC control strategy to achieve the desired power response remains challenging, particularly in practical control settings where reliance on a single timescale control strategy may prove inadequate to address fluctuations in power system flexibility requirements. This paper investigates the characteristics of direct start-stop control and duty cycling control within a multi-timescale, source-load coordinated scheduling framework. Furthermore, a hybrid control strategy that combines these two methods is proposed, accompanied by the formulation of a power curtailment model tailored to the hybrid control strategy. Case study results demonstrate that the hybrid control strategy effectively augments AC load flexibility and enhances scheduling feasibility, thereby supporting the stable operation of the power system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Smart Grids)

34 pages, 1417 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainability: Panacea or Local Energy Injustice? A Qualitative Media Review of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Wind-to-Hydrogen Boom

by Nicholas M. J. Mercer

Sustainability 2025, 17(24), 11035; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172411035 - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

Despite vast wind energy potential, the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) has historically lagged in installed capacity due to socioeconomic and technical barriers. The emergence of hydrogen as an alternative energy carrier has transformed prospects for a wind industry on the [...] Read more.

Despite vast wind energy potential, the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) has historically lagged in installed capacity due to socioeconomic and technical barriers. The emergence of hydrogen as an alternative energy carrier has transformed prospects for a wind industry on the island, allowing for the possibility of exports. Since the lifting of a provincial wind energy moratorium in 2022, several companies have proposed more than 25 gigawatts (GW) of wind-to-hydrogen (W2H) capacity. Proponents and opponents differ considerably in their view on whether W2H projects will advance provincial sustainability—a debate which can be further understood through energy justice analysis. Given the current lack of empirical evidence, the study adopts a systematic review of media reports pertaining to six leading W2H projects in the province. Basic descriptive statistics (means, frequencies, etc.) are used to describe the metadata and preliminary coding process. Deductive and inductive thematic analysis are then applied to the complete dataset of online news articles (n = 112) with the support of a qualitative data management software (NVivo, Version 14). The findings build upon, challenge, and make novel contributions to several tenets of energy justice. From a distributive justice perspective, temporal variations in employment, centralization of resource revenues, and the anthropocentric nature of defined risks are highlighted. From a procedural justice perspective, social acceptance of projects, as well as the shortcomings of environmental impact assessment, are elaborated. From a recognition justice perspective, the paper demonstrates Indigenous involvement in W2H governance, yet demands an interrogation of intra- and intercommunity diversity. From a cosmopolitan justice perspective, the paper finds weak evidence of supporting vulnerable global populations through decarbonization, yet some prospects through enhancing energy security for importing countries. With respect to media reporting, the findings illustrate the outsized role of independent media in advancing evidence-based justice discourses and the central function of public media in covering rural natural resource developments. Ultimately, this study urges policymakers and private developers to ensure fair benefit distribution, deep participation, and inclusion of diverse communities during the formative stages of the W2H industry in NL and beyond. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Energy Futures: Unleashing the Potential of Renewable Resources)

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16 pages, 1025 KB

Open AccessArticle

Minimally Invasive Supraorbital vs. Traditional Pterional Approaches in Unruptured Aneurysm Surgery: Evaluating Risks and Results

by Anna Brunner, Marlene Rainer, Uschi Pongratz, Klaus Leber, Máté Fehér, Alexander Micko and Stefan Wolfsberger

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(12), 1315; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15121315 - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Intracranial aneurysms affect 3–5% of the population and are associated with high morbidity and mortality, particularly after rupture. Treatment options for unruptured aneurysms include microsurgical clipping, with the pterional and supraorbital approaches commonly employed. This study compares these two approaches regarding complications [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Intracranial aneurysms affect 3–5% of the population and are associated with high morbidity and mortality, particularly after rupture. Treatment options for unruptured aneurysms include microsurgical clipping, with the pterional and supraorbital approaches commonly employed. This study compares these two approaches regarding complications and outcomes. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 241 patients treated between 2004 and 2023 at the University Hospital of Graz. Patients underwent microsurgical clipping via the pterional (n = 170) or supraorbital (n = 71) approach, chosen according to aneurysm characteristics and surgeon preference. Data on demographics, aneurysm location and size, intraoperative complications, postoperative outcomes, and follow-up were evaluated. Results: The pterional approach was predominantly used for middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysms (79.2%), while the supraorbital approach was more frequently applied for internal carotid artery (ICA) and anterior communicating artery (ACOM) aneurysms. Aneurysms treated via the pterional approach were significantly larger (mean width 6.88 mm vs. 5.04 mm; p < 0.01). Severe intraoperative complications, including aneurysm rupture, were significantly more common in the supraorbital group (26.8% vs. 8.8%; p < 0.001). Postoperative hypo-/anosmia occurred more often after the supraorbital approach (8.5% vs. 1.8%; p = 0.013), while temporalis muscle atrophy (11.9% vs. 1.8%; p = 0.029) and chewing difficulties (19.5% vs. 1.8%; p = 0.002) were more frequent after the pterional approach. The supraorbital group had a shorter hospital stay (7.96 vs. 8.76 days; p = 0.001). No significant differences were found in 30-day mortality (p = 0.521). At one-year, functional outcomes assessed by the modified Rankin Scale showed no significant difference (p = 0.899). Complete aneurysm occlusion and recurrence rates were also comparable between groups. Conclusions: Both approaches provide effective treatment for unruptured aneurysms with favorable long-term outcomes. The pterional approach is associated with increased muscle-related complications, whereas the supraorbital approach carries higher risks of intraoperative complications and olfactory dysfunction. Tailoring the surgical approach based on patient and aneurysm characteristics remains essential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in the Diagnosis, Visualization and Treatment of Intracranial Aneurysms and Subarachnoid Hemorrhage)

21 pages, 4768 KB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of the Punch Shape on Formability Measurement During Dry Fabric Preforming

by Rym Azzouz and Samir Allaoui

Materials 2025, 18(24), 5535; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18245535 - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

The formability of reinforcement is essential for controlling shaping processes and assessing their suitability for industrial applications. The complexity of the geometries dictates the deformation modes and thus the reinforcements’ behaviours. This study is an experimental campaign to investigate the shaping of five [...] Read more.

The formability of reinforcement is essential for controlling shaping processes and assessing their suitability for industrial applications. The complexity of the geometries dictates the deformation modes and thus the reinforcements’ behaviours. This study is an experimental campaign to investigate the shaping of five different geometries with three reinforcements that have varying meso-structures: plain weave, interlock and Non-Crimp Fabric. The comparison concentrates on shear behaviour and defects induced. The measured parameters are chosen in relation to their potential impact on the composite’s properties at both local and macro levels. The findings reveal that geometry significantly influences the quality of the preform. Each geometry shows unique behaviours due to a different, but limited, range of mechanisms. This highlights the importance of identifying and analysing the interesting parts of these geometries and their role in triggering the different behaviours. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Composites)

20 pages, 6027 KB

Open AccessArticle

Production and Characterization of Ti-6Al-4V Foams Produced by the Replica Impregnation Method

by Aynur İnan Üstün and Hasan Okuyucu

Metals 2025, 15(12), 1354; https://doi.org/10.3390/met15121354 - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

Porous Ti-6Al-4V foams are excellent materials due to their low density, high specific strength, and excellent biocompatibility. This study investigates the fabrication of open-cell Ti-6Al-4V foams using the replica impregnation method with polyurethane templates of varying pore sizes (20, 25, and 30 ppi) [...] Read more.

Porous Ti-6Al-4V foams are excellent materials due to their low density, high specific strength, and excellent biocompatibility. This study investigates the fabrication of open-cell Ti-6Al-4V foams using the replica impregnation method with polyurethane templates of varying pore sizes (20, 25, and 30 ppi) and sintering temperatures (1170 °C, 1200 °C, 1250 °C, and 1280 °C). The effects of these parameters on microstructural evolution, phase composition, and mechanical properties were examined. Microstructural analysis showed that optimum densification occurred at 1250 °C. However, at 1280 °C, excessive grain growth and pore coarsening were observed. XRD, SEM, and EDS analyses confirmed that α-Ti was the matrix phase, while titanium carbide formed in situ as a result of the carbon residues released from the decomposed polyurethane template. With the development of the TiC phase and enhanced interparticle bonding due to sintering, the compressive strength progressively increased up to 1250 °C. At 1280 °C, strength decreased due to excessive TiC growth, causing brittleness and pore coarsening, reducing structural integrity. Maximum compressive strength of 40.2 MPa and elastic modulus of 858.9 MPa were achieved at 1250 °C with balanced TiC dispersion and pore structure. Max density of 1.234 g/cm³ was obtained at 1250 °C. Gibson-Ashby analysis and the fracture surfaces confirmed the brittle behavior of the foams, which is attributed to the presence of TiC particles and microcracks in the structure. The study concludes that 1250 °C provides an ideal balance between densification and structural integrity, offering valuable insights for biomedical and structural applications. Full article

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25 pages, 4344 KB

Open AccessArticle

Mechanical Behavior of Thermoplastic Unidirectional-Tape-Reinforced Polycarbonate Produced by Additive Manufacturing: Experimental Analysis and Practical Numerical Modeling

by Hagen Bankwitz, Jörg Matthes and Jörg Hübler

Appl. Mech. 2025, 6(4), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/applmech6040088 - 9 Dec 2025

Abstract

Additive Manufacturing (AM) using Fused Layer Modelling (FLM) often results in polymer components with limited and highly anisotropic mechanical properties, exhibiting structural weaknesses in the layer direction (Z-direction) due to low interlaminar adhesion. The main objective of this work was to investigate and [...] Read more.

Additive Manufacturing (AM) using Fused Layer Modelling (FLM) often results in polymer components with limited and highly anisotropic mechanical properties, exhibiting structural weaknesses in the layer direction (Z-direction) due to low interlaminar adhesion. The main objective of this work was to investigate and quantify these mechanical limitations and to develop strategies for their mitigation. Specifically, this study aimed to (1) characterize the anisotropic behavior of unreinforced Polycarbonate (PC) components, (2) evaluate the effect of continuous, unidirectional (UD) carbon fiber tape reinforcement on mechanical performance, and (3) validate experimental findings through Finite Element Method (FEM) simulations to support predictive modeling of reinforced FLM structures. Methods involved experimental tensile and 3-point bending tests on specimens printed in all three spatial directions (X, Y, Z), validated against FEM simulations in ANSYS Composite PrepPost (ACP) using an orthotropic material model and the Hashin failure criterion. Results showed unreinforced samples had a pronounced anisotropy, with tensile strength reduced by over 70% in the Z direction. UD tape integration nearly eliminated this orthotropic behavior and led to strength gains of over 400% in tensile and flexural strength in the Z-direction. The FEM simulations showed very good agreement regarding initial stiffness and failure load. Targeted UD tape reinforcement effectively compensates for the weaknesses of FLM structures, although the quality of the tape–matrix bond and process reproducibility remain decisive factors for the reliability of the composite system, underscoring the necessity for targeted process optimization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cutting-Edge Developments in Computational and Experimental Mechanics)

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