MDPI - Publisher of Open Access Journals

18 pages, 3871 KB

Open AccessArticle

Accumulation and Distribution Characteristics of Cd in the Soil-Lilium System and the Remediation Mechanism by Soil Amendments

by Yimin Zhou, Yulang Yan, Jiaxiang Wang, Yayuan Huang, Xinqi Wang, Bingyu Li and Ming Lei

Plants 2025, 14(24), 3798; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14243798 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

This study investigated the accumulation and distribution of cadmium (Cd) in the Soil-Lilium system and researched the effects and mechanisms of applying oyster shell powder (OSP) and organic fertilizer (OF) on reducing Cd accumulation and enhancing Lilium yield. The results showed that [...] Read more.

This study investigated the accumulation and distribution of cadmium (Cd) in the Soil-Lilium system and researched the effects and mechanisms of applying oyster shell powder (OSP) and organic fertilizer (OF) on reducing Cd accumulation and enhancing Lilium yield. The results showed that the total Cd content in soils across different planting regions was below 0.3 mg·kg⁻¹, while the Cd content in Lilium bulbs ranged from 0.44 mg·kg⁻¹ to 1.35 mg·kg⁻¹, indicating a consistent trend of Cd accumulation in Lilium bulbs. Cd contents were highest in the leaves and lowest in the bulbs, suggesting a strong translocation of Cd from the roots to the aerial parts. Both OSP and OF treatments improved Lilium growth and reduced Cd accumulation in the bulbs. OF significantly increased bulb yield by 62.5%, while OSP effectively reduced Cd content in the bulbs to 0.30 mg·kg⁻¹, below the regulatory safety threshold. OSP mitigated Cd accumulation by decreasing the availability of Cd in the soil and by competing with Cd for root uptake via its abundant Ca²⁺ ions. OF reduced Cd accumulation in the bulb by enhancing Cd sequestration in the fibrous roots and promoting its translocation away from the bulb. This study provides new insights into Cd dynamics in the Soil-Lilium system and offers practical strategies for producing Lilium safely. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Ecotoxicology and Remediation Under Heavy Metal Stress)

13 pages, 330 KB

Open AccessArticle

Prognostic Role of Lesion Morphology in Patellar Osteochondral Fixation: Influence of Localization and Size on Functional and Pain Outcomes

by Yunus Emre Bulum, Abdullah Burak Kara, Muhammed Enes Karataş, Mehmet Mete Oruç, Abdullah Demirtaş and Oğuz Şükrü Poyanlı

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(24), 8829; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14248829 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Osteochondral lesions are common after acute patellar dislocation, particularly in young, active individuals. Although fixation of osteochondral fragments is a preferred treatment to restore joint congruence and prevent cartilage degeneration, the prognostic effect of lesion localization and size on postoperative outcomes [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Osteochondral lesions are common after acute patellar dislocation, particularly in young, active individuals. Although fixation of osteochondral fragments is a preferred treatment to restore joint congruence and prevent cartilage degeneration, the prognostic effect of lesion localization and size on postoperative outcomes remains unclear. Methods: This retrospective clinical study included 75 patients (mean age 23.8 ± 6.1 years) who underwent osteochondral fixation after patellar dislocation between 2018 and 2024. Lesions were classified by location—medial patellar facet, lateral facet, trochlear groove/lateral femoral condyle, or multiple regions—and measured on preoperative MRI for size and depth. Functional outcomes were assessed using Kujala, Lysholm, Tegner, and VAS pain scores preoperatively and 12 months postoperatively. Associations between lesion characteristics and postoperative results were analyzed using t-tests, ANOVA, and Pearson correlation. Results: Lesions were most frequently located on the medial patellar facet (42.7%), followed by the trochlear groove/lateral femoral condyle (34.7%). Larger and deeper lesions were more common in trochlear or multiple-site involvement (p = 0.002 and p = 0.031, respectively). At final follow-up, all functional scores improved significantly (Kujala: 62.4 ± 11.3 to 86.7 ± 9.1; Lysholm: 64.1 ± 12.0 to 88.2 ± 8.3; VAS: 6.2 ± 1.3 to 2.1 ± 1.1; all p < 0.001). Patients with smaller lesions (<100 mm²) and medial facet involvement achieved higher Kujala scores (p = 0.020) and lower postoperative pain (p = 0.001). The overall return-to-sport rate was 78.7%, and postoperative complications occurred in 10.7% of cases, mainly recurrent dislocation or implant irritation. Conclusions: Lesion localization and size significantly affect postoperative outcomes after osteochondral fixation for patellar dislocation. Medial facet and smaller lesions are associated with better pain relief and functional recovery, whereas large or trochlear lesions carry a less favorable prognosis. Morphological assessment of lesion characteristics should therefore guide surgical planning, fixation strategy, and postoperative rehabilitation to optimize clinical outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Orthopedics)

20 pages, 1785 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Industrial Perception and Attitudes Toward Solar Energy: The Case of Albania

by Arjona Çela, Sonila Çela and Otilia Manta

Sustainability 2025, 17(24), 11179; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172411179 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

Energy plays a crucial role in the development of societies, yet increasing demand and pressure for production pose significant environmental challenges. This study addresses the critical need for renewable energy, particularly solar power, in light of the projected 50% increase in global energy [...] Read more.

Energy plays a crucial role in the development of societies, yet increasing demand and pressure for production pose significant environmental challenges. This study addresses the critical need for renewable energy, particularly solar power, in light of the projected 50% increase in global energy consumption by 2050 and the European Union’s goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. While Albania predominantly relies on hydropower for electricity generation, which constitutes 95% of its capacity, the variability in hydropower underscores the necessity for diversifying energy sources, especially to harness the country’s solar potential. This research aims to assess industrial awareness and the influence of government subsidies and financial incentives on investment intentions through data gathered from questionnaires conducted in 2023. The findings reveal a substantial interest in solar energy, reflecting a gap in the existing literature which primarily focuses on developed economies. By contributing insights into renewable energy awareness in Albania, this paper addresses a significant gap in research concerning transition countries in the Western Balkans. The study ultimately emphasizes the importance of industrial awareness and environmental protection in adopting sustainable energy practices in a region characterized by abundant solar resources. The findings of the study highlight that there is a significant awareness–action gap regarding solar panels. Therefore, financial support and technical assistance are necessary for businesses to adopt solar energy technologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

30 pages, 535 KB

Open AccessArticle

Symmetric Discrete Distributions on the Integer Line: A Versatile Family and Applications

by Lamia Alyami, Hugo S. Salinas, Hassan S. Bakouch, Maher Kachour, Amira F. Daghestani and Sudeep R. Bapat

Symmetry 2025, 17(12), 2148; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17122148 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

We introduce the Symmetric-

Z

(Sy-

Z

) family, a unified class of symmetric discrete distributions on the integers obtained by multiplying a three-point symmetric sign variable by an independent non-negative integer-valued magnitude. This sign-magnitude construction yields interpretable, zero-centered models with tunable mass [...] Read more.

We introduce the Symmetric-

Z

(Sy-

Z

) family, a unified class of symmetric discrete distributions on the integers obtained by multiplying a three-point symmetric sign variable by an independent non-negative integer-valued magnitude. This sign-magnitude construction yields interpretable, zero-centered models with tunable mass at zero and dispersion balanced across signs, making them suitable for outcomes, such as differences of counts or discretized return increments. We derive general distributional properties, including closed-form expressions for the probability mass and cumulative distribution functions, bilateral generating functions, and even moments, and show that the tail behavior is inherited from the magnitude component. A characterization by symmetry and sign–magnitude independence is established and a distinctive operational feature is proved: for independent members of the family, the sum and the difference have the same distribution. As a central example, we study the symmetric Poisson model, providing measures of skewness, kurtosis, and entropy, together with estimation via the method of moments and maximum likelihood. Simulation studies assess finite-sample performance of the estimators, and applications to datasets from finance and education show improved goodness-of-fit relative to established integer-valued competitors. Overall, the Sy-

Z

framework offers a mathematically tractable and interpretable basis for modeling symmetric integer-valued outcomes across diverse domains. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Skewed (Asymmetrical) Probability Distributions and Applications Across Disciplines, Fourth Edition)

22 pages, 2533 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Double-Blind Randomized Active-Controlled Trial Evaluating the Short-Term Efficacy of a Single Intramuscular Injection of a Fixed-Dose Combination Product Containing Diclofenac and Thiocolchicoside in Patients with Acute Moderate to Severe Low Back Pain

by Ioannis Oikonomou, Maria Panagiotopoulou, Nikolaos Christopoulos, Eleni Loukeri, Georgios Christodoulakis, Georgios Kountis, Stamatios A. Papadakis, Ioannis Chiotis, Athanasios Georgokostas, Nikolaos Garantziotis, Christos Loukas, Dimitrios Pallis, Petros Nikolakakos and Yiannis C. Bassiakos

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(24), 8827; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14248827 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Acute low back pain (LBP) is a prevalent cause of disability worldwide. If often involves both inflammation and reflex muscle spasm, suggesting combined therapy with a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and a muscle relaxant may provide superior relief. This study aimed [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Acute low back pain (LBP) is a prevalent cause of disability worldwide. If often involves both inflammation and reflex muscle spasm, suggesting combined therapy with a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and a muscle relaxant may provide superior relief. This study aimed to evaluate the short-term efficacy and safety of a single intramuscular (IM) injection of a fixed-dose combination (FDC) product containing Diclofenac and Thiocolchicoside versus Diclofenac monotherapy in adults with acute LBP. Methods: We conducted a phase III multicenter, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group trial in 140 patients with acute LBP of moderate to severe intensity. Patients were allocated 1:1 to receive either the combination of Diclofenac sodium 75 mg + Thiocolchicoside 4 mg (FDC product, Test Group) or Diclofenac sodium 75 mg alone (Diclofenac monotherapy, Reference Group) via a single IM injection. The primary outcome was the change in patient-reported pain intensity using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) from baseline to 3 h post-dose. Key secondary outcomes included pain change at 1 h in the VAS, improvement in lumbar mobility (finger-to-floor distance test, FTF), the proportion of patients achieving >30% pain reduction, and the incidence of adverse events (AEs). Randomization was centralized and both investigators and patients were blinded to the treatment. Results: All 140 randomized patients completed the trial. At 3 h post-injection, the combination therapy produced a significantly greater mean pain reduction than monotherapy (41.52 mm vs. 28.13 mm on the 100 mm VAS; p < 0.0001). Superiority of the combination was already evident at 1 h post-dose (VAS reduction 27.61 mm vs. 20.40 mm; p = 0.0089). Lumbar flexion improved more with the combination at 3 h (mean FTF distance improvement 14.52 cm vs. 7.94 cm; p < 0.0001) and at 1 h (9.21 cm vs. 4.62 cm; p < 0.0001). A higher proportion of patients achieved >30% pain relief with the combination (45.7% vs. 27.2% at 3 h, p < 0.0001; 31.4% vs. 18.6% at 1 h, p = 0.0066). Only one mild, transient adverse event (headache) was reported in the combination group (1.4% of patients) and none in the diclofenac-only group. No serious AEs occurred. Conclusions: A single intramuscular dose of diclofenac plus thiocolchicoside provided faster, greater relief of acute LBP than diclofenac alone, without compromising safety. The combination therapy significantly reduced pain and muscle spasm-related mobility limitations within 1–3 h and was well tolerated. These results support the combined use of an NSAID and muscle relaxant as an effective and safe option for acute moderate-to-severe LBP management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Low Back Pain: Clinical Treatment and Management)

16 pages, 1333 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Deep Sedation with High Flow Nasal Oxygen Therapy on the Transcutaneous CO₂ and Mitochondrial Oxygenation: A Single-Center Observational Study

by Annika M. van Smaalen, Calvin J. de Wijs, Sanne E. Hoeks, Egbert G. Mik and Floor A. Harms

Sensors 2025, 25(24), 7573; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25247573 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

Deep Sedation (DS) allows for shorter recovery times, reduced complication rates and increased cost-effectiveness compared to general anesthesia. In prolonged DS, High Flow Nasal Oxygen Therapy (HFNOT) ensures adequate oxygenation. Concerns remain regarding potential masking of inadequate ventilation and induction of hyperoxia. In [...] Read more.

Deep Sedation (DS) allows for shorter recovery times, reduced complication rates and increased cost-effectiveness compared to general anesthesia. In prolonged DS, High Flow Nasal Oxygen Therapy (HFNOT) ensures adequate oxygenation. Concerns remain regarding potential masking of inadequate ventilation and induction of hyperoxia. In this single-center observational study, we continuously monitored tcPCO₂ and mitoPO₂ in 30 patients using the SenTec Monitoring System and Cellular Oxygen METabolism (COMET^®, Photonics Healthcare, Utrecht, The Netherlands) device to observe the effect of prolonged DS with HFNOT on periprocedural ventilation and oxygenation. Measurements were taken at baseline and 30, 60, 90 and 120 min after starting DS. tcPCO₂ significantly increased after 30 (55.5 (34.5–61.9) mmHg, p < 0.001), 60 (54.8 (52.5–62.2) mmHg, p < 0.001), 90 (56.5 (53.1–69.3), p < 0.001) and 120 (55.8 (50.7–56.6) mmHg, p = 0.02) minutes of DS compared to baseline (37.3 (34.5–45.5) mmHg), surpassing the normal range (35–45 mmHg). mitoPO₂ increased non-significantly from baseline (69.6 (43.9–76.7) mmHg) compared to 30 (80.5 (65.7–98.9) mmHg, p = 0.19), 60 (78.6 (70.3–85.8) mmHg, p = 0.19), 90 (74.4 (52.7–86.3) mmHg, p = 0.38) and 120 (85.6 (82.5–98.0) mmHg, p = 0.38) minutes. We observed increased tcPCO₂ and a non-significant rise in mitoPO₂ over time, without adverse effects. These findings highlight the potential of continuous sensor-based monitoring to improve real-time detection of ventilation and oxygenation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensors-Based Healthcare Diagnostics, Monitoring and Medical Devices)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 2975 KB

Open AccessArticle

FFM-Net: Fusing Frequency Selection Information with Mamba for Skin Lesion Segmentation

by Lifang Chen, Entao Yu, Qihang Cao and Ke Hu

Information 2025, 16(12), 1102; https://doi.org/10.3390/info16121102 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

Accurate segmentation of lesion regions is essential for skin cancer diagnosis. As dermoscopic images of skin lesions demonstrate different sizes, diverse shapes, fuzzy boundaries, and so on, accurate segmentation still faces great challenges. To address these issues, we propose a new dermatologic image [...] Read more.

Accurate segmentation of lesion regions is essential for skin cancer diagnosis. As dermoscopic images of skin lesions demonstrate different sizes, diverse shapes, fuzzy boundaries, and so on, accurate segmentation still faces great challenges. To address these issues, we propose a new dermatologic image segmentation network, FFM-Net. In FFM-Net, we design a new FM block encoder based on state space models (SSMs), which integrates a low-frequency information extraction module (LEM) and an edge detail extraction module (EEM) to extract broader overall structural information and more accurate edge detail information, respectively. At the same time, we dynamically adjust the input channel ratios of the two module branches at different stages of our network, so that the model can learn the correlation relationship between the overall structure and edge detail features more effectively. Furthermore, we designed the cross-channel spatial attention (CCSA) module to improve the model’s sensitivity to channel and spatial dimensions. We deploy a multi-level feature fusion module (MFFM) at the bottleneck layer to aggregate rich multi-scale contextual representations. Finally, we conducted extensive experiments on three publicly available skin lesion segmentation datasets, ISIC2017, ISIC2018, and PH2, and the experimental results show that the FFM-Net model outperforms most existing skin lesion segmentation methods. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 22959 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Semi-Automatic Framework for Dry Beach Extraction in Tailings Ponds Using Photogrammetry and Deep Learning

by Bei Cao, Yinsheng Wang, Yani Li, Xudong Zhu, Zicheng Yang, Xinlong Liu and Guangyin Lu

Remote Sens. 2025, 17(24), 4022; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17244022 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

The spatial characteristics of the dry beach in tailings ponds are critical indicators for the safety assessment of tailings dams. This study presents a method for dry beach extraction that combines deep learning-based semantic segmentation with 3D reconstruction, overcoming the limitations of 2D [...] Read more.

The spatial characteristics of the dry beach in tailings ponds are critical indicators for the safety assessment of tailings dams. This study presents a method for dry beach extraction that combines deep learning-based semantic segmentation with 3D reconstruction, overcoming the limitations of 2D methods in spatial analysis. The workflow includes four steps: (1) High-resolution 3D point clouds are reconstructed from UAV images, and the projection matrix of each image is derived to link 2D pixels with 3D points. (2) AlexNet and GoogLeNet are employed to extract image features and automatically select images containing the dry beach boundary. (3) A DeepLabv3+ network is trained on manually labeled samples to perform semantic segmentation of the dry beach, with a lightweight incremental training strategy for enhanced adaptability. (4) Boundary pixels are detected and back-projected into 3D space to generate consistent point cloud boundaries. The method was validated on two-phase UAV datasets from a tailings pond in Yunnan Province, China. In phase I, the model achieved high segmentation performance, with a mean Accuracy and IoU of approximately 0.95 and a BF of 0.8267. When applied to phase II without retraining, the model maintained stable performance on dam boundaries, while slight performance degradation was observed on hillside and water boundaries. The 3D back-projection converted 2D boundary pixels into 3D coordinates, enabling the extraction of dry beach point clouds and supporting reliable dry beach length monitoring and deposition morphology analysis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Engineering Remote Sensing)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

40 pages, 1880 KB

Open AccessArticle

Eyes on Prevention: An Eye-Tracking Analysis of Visual Attention Patterns in Breast Cancer Screening Ads

by Stefanos Balaskas, Ioanna Yfantidou and Dimitra Skandali

J. Eye Mov. Res. 2025, 18(6), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/jemr18060075 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

Strong communication is central to the translation of breast cancer screening availability into uptake. This experiment tests the role of design features of screening advertisements in directing visual attention in screening-eligible women (≥40 years). To this end, a within-subjects eye-tracking experiment (N = [...] Read more.

Strong communication is central to the translation of breast cancer screening availability into uptake. This experiment tests the role of design features of screening advertisements in directing visual attention in screening-eligible women (≥40 years). To this end, a within-subjects eye-tracking experiment (N = 30) was conducted in which women viewed six static public service advertisements. Predefined Areas of Interest (AOIs), Text, Image/Visual, Symbol, Logo, Website/CTA, and Source/Authority—were annotated, and three standard measures were calculated: Time to First Fixation (TTFF), Fixation Count (FC), and Fixation Duration (FD). Analyses combined descriptive summaries with subgroup analyses using nonparametric methods and generalized linear mixed models (GLMMs) employing participant-level random intercepts. Within each category of stimuli, detected differences were small in magnitude yet trended towards few revisits in each category for the FC mode; TTFF and FD showed no significant differences across categories. Viewing data from the perspective of Areas of Interest (AOIs) highlighted pronounced individual differences. Narratives/efficacy text and dense icon/text callouts prolonged processing times, although institutional logos and abstract/anatomical symbols generally received brief treatment except when coupled with action-oriented communication triggers. TTFF timing also tended toward individual areas of interest aligned with the Scan-Then-Read strategy, in which smaller labels/sources/CTAs are exploited first in comparison with larger headlines/statistical text. Practically, screening messages should co-locate access and credibility information in early-attention areas and employ brief, fluent efficacy text to hold gaze. The study adds PSA-specific eye-tracking evidence for breast cancer screening and provides immediately testable design recommendations for programs in Greece and the EU. Full article

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

15 pages, 914 KB

Open AccessArticle

Prognostic Value of Histological Subtypes and Clinical Factors in Non-Endemic Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: A Retrospective Cohort Study

by Seda Sali, Candan Demiröz Abakay, Mürsel Sali, Hakan Güdücü, Fahri Güven Çakır, Birol Ocak, Ahmet Bilgehan Şahin, Alper Coşkun, Sibel Oyucu Orhan, Arife Ulaş, Adem Deligönül, Türkkan Evrensel and Erdem Çubukçu

Medicina 2025, 61(12), 2207; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61122207 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) displays marked geographic and histopathological heterogeneity, and prognostic determinants in non-endemic regions remain incompletely defined. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of clinicopathological characteristics and treatment modalities on survival outcomes among patients with stage II–IVA [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) displays marked geographic and histopathological heterogeneity, and prognostic determinants in non-endemic regions remain incompletely defined. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of clinicopathological characteristics and treatment modalities on survival outcomes among patients with stage II–IVA NPC treated with curative intent at a single tertiary cancer center. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 81 consecutive patients with histologically confirmed NPC treated between 2000 and 2022. Demographic, clinical, and treatment parameters were extracted from institutional records. Survival outcomes—including disease-free survival (DFS), locoregional recurrence-free survival (LRFS), distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), and overall survival (OS)—were estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method and compared using the log-rank test. Prognostic variables identified in univariate analysis were further assessed by multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression (Cox’s model). Results: The cohort included 59 men (72.8%) and 22 women (27.2%), with a median age of 50.8 years (range, 19–78). Most patients presented with locally advanced disease (T3–T4, 53.1%; N2, 60.5%; stage III–IVA, 87.7%). Non-keratinizing undifferentiated carcinoma (World Health Organization [WHO] type III) was the predominant histology (71.6%), followed by the non-keratinizing differentiated subtype (17.3%). Median DFS and OS were 94.6 and 139.4 months, respectively. According to the univariate analysis, histological subtypes and a family history of cancer were significantly associated with DFS, whereas comorbid systemic disease showed an unexpected association with longer DMFS. The multivariable Cox model identified the histological subtype as an independent predictor of disease recurrence (HR = 2.23, 95% CI: 1.00–4.94; p = 0.049). For OS, both histological subtype (HR = 2.40, 95% CI: 1.10–5.25; p = 0.029) and age at diagnosis (HR = 1.05, 95% CI: 1.02–1.09; p = 0.005) were independent adverse prognostic factors. Conclusions: In this long-term, single-center study from a non-endemic region, histological subtype emerged as the most powerful determinant of prognosis, significantly influencing both DFS and OS. Patients with non-keratinizing undifferentiated (WHO type III) carcinoma demonstrated superior outcomes compared with those with differentiated histology. Additionally, increasing age at diagnosis was independently associated with poorer OS. In contrast, inflammatory and nutritional biomarkers, the Pan-Immune–Inflammation Value (PIV) and the Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI), showed no prognostic significance. These findings underscore the continued prognostic relevance of histopathologic classification and age and highlight the need for large-scale, standardized studies integrating Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) status and host-related factors in non-endemic NPC populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Head and Neck Cancer Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 9479 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Projection Lamps on the Colors of Early Silent Cinema Films

by Daniel Vázquez, Antonio Álvarez Fernández-Balbuena, Irene Hernández, Marian del Egido, Patricia Uceda, María Muñoz, Javier Rellán and Manuel Melgosa

Heritage 2025, 8(12), 532; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8120532 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

Quantitative data on the colors of early film productions is very scarce but may be useful for preserving these cultural assets and for guiding modern digitization processes. We measured the spectral transmittance of 46 small areas in 13 frames of films from the [...] Read more.

Quantitative data on the colors of early film productions is very scarce but may be useful for preserving these cultural assets and for guiding modern digitization processes. We measured the spectral transmittance of 46 small areas in 13 frames of films from the 1910s and 1920s, which were colored using the same tinting process. From spectral measurements of the light source in an early carbon arc cinema projector, we computed CIELAB color coordinates for these areas and the results were compared with those from two more recent light sources: a Xenon lamp and an ultra-high performance (UHP) lamp. Average color inconstancy values for the 46 samples were 3.5, 7.9, and 7.0 CIELAB units for carbon-Xenon, carbon-UHP and Xenon-UHP changes, respectively, which are color differences above human visual thresholds for observers with normal color vision. Therefore, for accurate color specifications of such films, in addition to the spectral transmittances of frames, we must consider the spectral power distribution of projection lamps. Compared with a recent surface object-color gamut, the 46 samples were spread across a relatively wide region of color space, excluding CIELAB hue-angles in the range of 270–360 degrees. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cultural Heritage)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 3080 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Shaft Roughness on the Bearing Capacity of Rock-Socketed Friction Piles

by Hangyu Yan, Xiaoling Fan, Yuanhao Yang, Yinhai Zhang and Bai Yang

Buildings 2025, 15(24), 4509; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15244509 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

Rock-socketed piles are a common type of end-bearing pile, but when there is deep sediment or holes at the pile bottom, the load is primarily supported by side resistance. In this study, based on such conditions and considering the influence of pile shaft [...] Read more.

Rock-socketed piles are a common type of end-bearing pile, but when there is deep sediment or holes at the pile bottom, the load is primarily supported by side resistance. In this study, based on such conditions and considering the influence of pile shaft roughness, model tests were conducted to investigate the bearing characteristics of rock-socketed friction piles. The results show that the failure mode of rock-socketed friction piles is the formation of a penetrating cylinder in the rock layer, with the cylinder diameter directly approximating the pile diameter. The load–displacement curves of the test piles are steeply variable. After reaching the ultimate bearing capacity, the residual bearing capacity of rough test pile is approximately 60% of the ultimate bearing capacity, while that of smooth test pile is 72.4%. The maximum side resistance of the test pile is located within a depth range of 25 mm below the soil–rock interface, and the upper load of 41.0% to 48.9% on the test piles was born by the pile side resistance within this depth range. As the roughness factor (RF) increases gradually from 0.0 to 0.3, the ultimate bearing capacity of the test pile shows nearly linear growth, the ultimate displacement increases sharply first and then decreases slowly, and both the axial force attenuation and the percentage of side resistance within the depth range of 25 mm below the soil–rock interface gradually increase slightly. In this paper, two existing methods are employed to calculate the ultimate bearing capacity of friction piles under the conditions of this study. Based on a comparison of the results, the applicable conditions for each method are proposed. The findings of this study can serve as a reference for the design of rock-socketed piles in similar geological formations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering and Mining Sciences in Construction—3rd Edition)

27 pages, 8541 KB

Open AccessArticle

Curculigo orchioides Polysaccharide Promotes the Growth and Development of Wenchang Chickens via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR Signaling Pathway

by Sheng Gao, Xingke Wang, Ruiying Bao, Qingchao Yang, Qingying Cai, Yipeng Zhang, Zeru Peng, Liangmin Huang and Xuemei Wang

Animals 2025, 15(24), 3585; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15243585 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

Previous studies have demonstrated that polysaccharides used as feed additives can promote poultry growth. This study evaluated the effects of different doses of Curculigo orchioides Polysaccharide (COP) on growth performance, antioxidant capacity, immune function, intestinal health and related mechanisms in 1 to 35 [...] Read more.

Previous studies have demonstrated that polysaccharides used as feed additives can promote poultry growth. This study evaluated the effects of different doses of Curculigo orchioides Polysaccharide (COP) on growth performance, antioxidant capacity, immune function, intestinal health and related mechanisms in 1 to 35 days old Wenchang female chicks. A total of 120 female Wenchang chickens (1 day old) were assigned to three treatment groups, with 5 replicates per group and 8 chickens per replicate. The Wenchang chickens were fed a basal diet (control) supplemented with either a low dose of Curculigo orchioides Polysaccharide (400 mg/kg) or a high dose (800 mg/kg) for 5 weeks. Purified COP is composed of mannose (68.97%), glucose (24.38%), galactose (6.34%), and arabinose (0.32%). Results showed that high-dose COP supplementation significantly increased Wenchang chicken body weight (p < 0.05) and feed intake (p < 0.05); reduced feed conversion ratio (p < 0.05); increased small intestinal villus height and tight junction protein expression levels; enhanced muscle fiber cross-sectional area (p < 0.05); improved total antioxidant capacity (p < 0.01); decreased serum malondialdehyde levels (p < 0.01), tumor necrosis factor-α (p < 0.0001), and pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 levels (p < 0.05); and elevated antibody titers against Newcastle disease virus at 21, 28, and 35 days (p < 0.01). It also elevated the protein phosphorylation levels of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway (p < 0.0001) and enriched beneficial gut microbiota that may mediate this pathway activation. Analysis of the cecal microbiota in Wenchang female chicks revealed that the high-dose COP group enriched Oscillospira and Lactobacillus. In conclusion, high-dose COP improves growth performance and antioxidant capacity of Wenchang chicks, enhances immunity against NDV, enriches beneficial gut microbiota, and promotes growth by activating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Paradigm Shift—Advances in Poultry Nutrition and Management, and Alternative Poultry Feed Ingredients Using Novel Feed Processing Methods: Second Edition)

18 pages, 657 KB

Open AccessArticle

Transboundary and National Environmental Impacts of Seawater Desalination in Central Chile: An LCA-Based Analysis Across Energy Transition Scenarios

by Roberto Meza-Olivares, Adrián-Enrique Ortiz-Rojas, Camila Mery-Araya and Jaime Chacana-Olivares

Sustainability 2025, 17(24), 11178; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172411178 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

The environmental impact of seawater reverse osmosis desalination in central Chile was assessed using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) with the EcoInvent database to address the region’s high water stress. The study analyzed the operational phase using 1 m³ of product water as [...] Read more.

The environmental impact of seawater reverse osmosis desalination in central Chile was assessed using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) with the EcoInvent database to address the region’s high water stress. The study analyzed the operational phase using 1 m³ of product water as the functional unit, considering power demand, chemicals, and membranes across eight scenarios that varied energy matrix composition, membrane lifespan, water use, and seawater source. Eighteen environmental indicators were evaluated using the ReCiPe 2016 Midpoint (H) method. Results revealed that eight impact indicators were primarily national in origin, while ten exhibited transboundary characteristics. Power demand was the dominant contributor, exceeding 75% of impacts in 17 of 18 categories. A 25% power increase raised environmental impacts by an average of +21.5%, while the projected 2050 renewable energy scenario showed substantial reductions averaging −43.0%. This demonstrates that power consumption is the principal driver of environmental impacts, underscoring the importance of energy-efficiency measures and integration of Non-Conventional Renewable Energies (NCRE), particularly as fossil-based sources constitute the main contributors to environmental burdens at both national and transboundary scales. Full article

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

13 pages, 629 KB

Open AccessArticle

Pheromone Race Composition of Ostrinia nubilalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) and Larval Co-Occurrence with Sesamia nonagrioides (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in Maize in Central-Eastern Italy

by Maria Chiara Battistelli, Diego Palpacelli, Giorgio Sperandio, Matteo Pacella, Fabio Ramilli, Sara Ruschioni, Abdalhadi M. A. Abulebda and Paola Riolo

Insects 2025, 16(12), 1267; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16121267 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

Ostrinia nubilalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) and Sesamia nonagrioides (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) are major maize pests in the central-eastern Mediterranean area, responsible for both quantitative and qualitative yield losses. This study investigated the corn borer species present in central-eastern Italy, the presence and prevalence of O. [...] Read more.

Ostrinia nubilalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) and Sesamia nonagrioides (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) are major maize pests in the central-eastern Mediterranean area, responsible for both quantitative and qualitative yield losses. This study investigated the corn borer species present in central-eastern Italy, the presence and prevalence of O. nubilalis pheromone races, and the within-plant larval distribution. Traps baited with E, Z, or E/Z pheromone lures were used to investigate O. nubilalis pheromone races, while 596 maize plants were sampled at harvest and dissected to determine species composition, relative abundance, and larval distribution across three plant sections (lower and upper stalk and ear). Males were captured in traps baited with each pheromone lure, with no significant differences among catches. Larval sampling revealed the co-occurrence of O. nubilalis and S. nonagrioides, with O. nubilalis being the prevalent species. For both species, larvae were significantly more abundant in the lower plant section, and co-occurrence did not appear to influence their within-plant distribution. Comparing the species-specific larval distribution, a significantly higher proportion of S. nonagrioides occurred in the lower plant section, whereas O. nubilalis was significantly more frequent in the ears. However, the presence of both species in the ears highlights the need to consider both pests in management. These findings highlight the importance of monitoring activities in the area, using traps baited with each pheromone lure for O. nubilalis. Knowledge of the co-occurrence between the two species can be considered fundamental for developing Integrated Pest Management strategies, as it can influence the timing and effectiveness of control methods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lepidoptera: Behavior, Ecology, and Biology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 3829 KB

Open AccessArticle

Air Pollutant Concentration Prediction Using a Generative Adversarial Network with Multi-Scale Convolutional Long Short-Term Memory and Enhanced U-Net

by Jiankun Zhang, Pei Su, Juexuan Wang and Zhantong Cai

Sustainability 2025, 17(24), 11177; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172411177 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

Accurate prediction of air pollutant concentrations, particularly fine particulate matter (PM_2.5), is essential for controlling and preventing heavy pollution incidents by providing early warnings of harmful substances in the atmosphere. This study proposes a novel spatiotemporal model for PM_2.5 concentration [...] Read more.

Accurate prediction of air pollutant concentrations, particularly fine particulate matter (PM_2.5), is essential for controlling and preventing heavy pollution incidents by providing early warnings of harmful substances in the atmosphere. This study proposes a novel spatiotemporal model for PM_2.5 concentration prediction based on a Conditional Wasserstein Generative Adversarial Network with Gradient Penalty (CWGAN-GP). The framework incorporates three key design components: First, the generator employs an Inception-style Convolutional Long Short-Term Memory (ConvLSTM) network, integrating parallel multi-scale convolutions and hierarchical normalization. This design enhances multi-scale spatiotemporal feature extraction while effectively suppressing boundary artifacts via a map-masking layer. Second, the discriminator adopts an architecturally enhanced U-Net, incorporating spectral normalization and shallow instance normalization. Feature-guided masked skip connections are introduced, and the output is designed as a raw score map to mitigate premature saturation during training. Third, a composite loss function is utilized, combining adversarial loss, feature-matching loss, and inter-frame spatiotemporal smoothness. A sliding-window conditioning mechanism is also implemented, leveraging multi-level features from the discriminator for joint spatiotemporal optimization. Experiments conducted on multi-source gridded data from Dongguan demonstrate that the model achieves a 12 h prediction performance with a Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 4.61 μg/m³, a Mean Absolute Error (MAE) of 6.42 μg/m³, and a Coefficient of Determination (R²) of 0.80. The model significantly alleviates performance degradation in long-term predictions when the forecast horizon is extended from 3 to 12 h, the RMSE increases by only 1.84 μg/m³, and regional deviations remain within ±3 μg/m³. These results indicate strong capabilities in spatial topology reconstruction and robustness against concentration anomalies, highlighting the model’s potential for hyperlocal air quality early warning. It should be noted that the empirical validation is limited to the specific environmental conditions of Dongguan, and the model’s generalizability to other geographical and climatic settings requires further investigation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Atmospheric Pollution and Microenvironmental Air Quality)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

6 pages, 1316 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Special Issue “Cell Biology in Diabetes and Diabetic Complications”

by Francesca Conserva and Paola Pontrelli

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(24), 12009; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms262412009 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

Globally, diabetes mellitus represents a growing health challenge due to its metabolic dysregulation and the complex nature of its micro- and macrovascular complications such as diabetic kidney disease (DKD), diabetic retinopathy, cardiovascular disease and diabetic neuropathy [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cell Biology in Diabetes and Diabetic Complications)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 9436 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Transcriptomic Analyses Reveal Potential Stp1 Regulatory Roles Independent of Sre1 in Phaffia rhodozyma

by Marcelo Baeza, Melissa Gómez, Salvador Barahona, Maximiliano Coche-Miranda, Gabriela Apariz and Jennifer Alcaíno

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(24), 12008; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms262412008 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

Sterol regulatory element-binding proteins (SREBPs) regulate lipid homeostasis in mammals via sequential activation by the site-1 (S1P) and site-2 (S2P) proteases. In the yeast Phaffia rhodozyma, homologs of SREBP (Sre1) and S2P (Stp1) were identified, with Sre1 cleaved by Stp1 and involved [...] Read more.

Sterol regulatory element-binding proteins (SREBPs) regulate lipid homeostasis in mammals via sequential activation by the site-1 (S1P) and site-2 (S2P) proteases. In the yeast Phaffia rhodozyma, homologs of SREBP (Sre1) and S2P (Stp1) were identified, with Sre1 cleaved by Stp1 and involved in the regulation of sterol and carotenoid biosynthesis. Additional regulatory roles of S2P have been described in other organisms, but such functions remain unexplored in P. rhodozyma, a question addressed in this study. Transcriptomic analyses of Δsre1, Δstp1, and Δsre1Δstp1 mutants were performed in both wild-type and Sre1-activated conditions. Potential genes regulated by Stp1 independently of Sre1 were identified, and their cellular roles were determined by KEGG mapping and Gene Ontology classification. As expected, most transcriptional changes in Δstp1 mutants reflected Sre1-mediated regulation. Notably, a subset of genes displayed differential expression independently of Sre1. These genes were linked to diverse aspects of cellular homeostasis, including metabolism, protein folding, ER stress response, and ribosome biogenesis. The transcriptomic analysis suggests that Stp1 regulates gene expression beyond the Sre1 transcription factor in P. rhodozyma, providing a framework for future studies to confirm and further explore these functions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Genetics and Functional Genomics Research)

18 pages, 3661 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Metal Foam Insertion on the Performance of a Vacuum Membrane Distillation Unit

by Nizar Loussif and Jamel Orfi

Membranes 2025, 15(12), 379; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes15120379 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

The present study investigates the use of aluminum foam to enhance pure water production using a Vacuum Membrane Distillation (VMD) desalination unit. Numerical simulations were conducted for a conventional VMD and three VMD configurations with different metal foam thickness-to-channel-width ratios of h/b = [...] Read more.

The present study investigates the use of aluminum foam to enhance pure water production using a Vacuum Membrane Distillation (VMD) desalination unit. Numerical simulations were conducted for a conventional VMD and three VMD configurations with different metal foam thickness-to-channel-width ratios of h/b = (0.5, 0.75, 1). The effects of operational parameters on different VMD setups were presented and discussed. Additionally, the effects of flow rates on temperature polarization, average Nusselt number, and pressure drop were presented and discussed. The performance evaluation criterion (PEC), an indicator of the system’s global performance encompassing the heat transfer enhancement and the related pressure loss, has also been used and analyzed. Outcomes demonstrate improvements in water production with the increase in inlet velocity and temperature, while applied vacuum pressure and inlet concentration increments showed opposite behavior for all studied VMD setups. Permeate flux and temperature polarization were enhanced with metal foam insertion, and the case h = b presents the highest permeate flux and pressure drop. PEC demonstrates values superior to unity for all studied cases, with higher values for lower flow rates. Fully filled metal foam insertion is recommended for lower flow rates, while partially filled metal foam (h = 0.5b) is suggested for higher ones. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Membrane Distillation: Module Design and Application Performance)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1157 KB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence of Small a-Delta Fiber Neuropathy in Sjögren’s Disease: Findings from a Cohort Study

by Magdalena Chylińska, Iga Kościńska-Shukla, Liwia Grudzień, Marta Jaskólska, Adam Wyszomirski, Natalia Dułak, Magdalena Rytlewska and Bartosz Karaszewski

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(24), 12013; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms262412013 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

Polyneuropathy is a common condition that limits the quality of life among patients with primary Sjögren disease (pSjD). Somatic sensory fiber neuropathy involving small myelinated (A-δ) and unmyelinated C fibers may precede the development of sicca syndrome. The cutaneous silent period (CSP) is [...] Read more.

Polyneuropathy is a common condition that limits the quality of life among patients with primary Sjögren disease (pSjD). Somatic sensory fiber neuropathy involving small myelinated (A-δ) and unmyelinated C fibers may precede the development of sicca syndrome. The cutaneous silent period (CSP) is an inhibitory spinal reflex that can be used as a tool for evaluating the dysfunction of A-δ fibers. This study sought to examine CSP parameters, and their correlates, in patients with pSjD vs. healthy controls. We recruited 134 consecutive patients with a diagnosis of pSjD, of whom 109 subjects were included in the analysis. Electrodiagnostic tests comprised a nerve conduction study (NCS) and CSP analysis, alongside laboratory tests and questionnaires (the ESSPRI and SF-36). The examination of the healthy control (HC) group consisted of 113 NCSs and CSP studies. NCS tests of the median nerve in both groups were within the normal range. Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference in CSP duration (p < 0.001), S1 latency (p < 0.001) and S2 latency (p < 0.001) between the pSjD and HC groups. We observed prolonged CSP duration in approximately 38% of patients with pSjD and prolonged S2 latency in 18.35%. Small A-delta fiber neuropathy was diagnosed in 38% (41 subjects) patients. A regression analysis of CSP parameters indicated an association between the age of patients and PM Scl-75 antibodies (ab) levels in the pSjD cohort. As a new, noninvasive method of assessing A-δ nerve fibers, CSP was found to have a relation to the age and PM Scl-75 antibodies in patients with pSjD. The utility and sensitivity of CSP as a test for screening A-δ fiber function require further investigation in large cohorts of the pSjD population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Mechanisms of Sjögren's Syndrome, 4th Edition)

27 pages, 1606 KB

Open AccessReview

Non-Surgical Correction of Facial Asymmetry: A Narrative Review of Non-Surgical Modalities and Clinical Case Examples

by Clara Lee, Sumin Chae, Han-Jin Kwon, Wonwoo Jeong, Kyung Kwan Lee and Minsuk Chae

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(24), 8828; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14248828 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

Facial asymmetry significantly affects aesthetic appearance, essential functions such as mastication and speech, and psychological well-being. While traditional surgical interventions effectively address significant facial asymmetry, they are often associated with considerable morbidity, prolonged recovery periods, and potential complications. Consequently, interest in minimally invasive, [...] Read more.

Facial asymmetry significantly affects aesthetic appearance, essential functions such as mastication and speech, and psychological well-being. While traditional surgical interventions effectively address significant facial asymmetry, they are often associated with considerable morbidity, prolonged recovery periods, and potential complications. Consequently, interest in minimally invasive, non-surgical techniques has substantially increased, driven by advantages including reduced downtime, rapid recovery, and immediate aesthetic results. This narrative review critically evaluates contemporary non-surgical techniques for correcting facial asymmetry, focusing specifically on dermal fillers, collagen stimulators (polydioxanone powder), polydioxanone thread lifting, energy-based non-invasive devices (radiofrequency, ultrasound, and laser therapies), and extracorporeal shockwave therapy. The review is based on a structured literature search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and Google Scholar up to October 2025, focusing on human clinical studies and review articles on non-surgical correction of facial asymmetry and related facial contouring. We provide a detailed analysis of each treatment modality’s underlying mechanisms, clinical efficacy, advantages, limitations, and safety profiles. Current evidence suggests that these non-surgical methods effectively enhance facial symmetry by offering immediate visible improvements and progressive enhancements through natural collagen regeneration, thereby significantly improving patient satisfaction and overall quality of life. Clinicians are encouraged to incorporate these versatile, minimally invasive interventions into clinical practice, carefully tailoring treatments according to individual patient characteristics and specific aesthetic goals. Further research should aim to refine existing treatment protocols, evaluate long-term efficacy and safety, and establish standardized guidelines to optimize outcomes in facial asymmetry correction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Facial Plastic and Cosmetic Medicine)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 26074 KB

Open AccessArticle

Tectonic Inversion of the SCS from 3-D Magnetization Vector Clustering: Evidence for Differential Rotation and Ridge Jump

by Juechang Wan, Shuling Li and Zhe Ji

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(24), 13126; https://doi.org/10.3390/app152413126 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

The eastern and southwestern sub-basins of the South China Sea (SCS) display starkly contrasting magnetic lineation patterns, yet quantitative 3-D mapping of the subsurface magnetic architecture—essential for deciphering basin evolution—remains challenging due to the dominance of remanent magnetization. We introduce a joint workflow [...] Read more.

The eastern and southwestern sub-basins of the South China Sea (SCS) display starkly contrasting magnetic lineation patterns, yet quantitative 3-D mapping of the subsurface magnetic architecture—essential for deciphering basin evolution—remains challenging due to the dominance of remanent magnetization. We introduce a joint workflow that integrates anomaly separation with Magnetization-Vector Clustering Inversion (MVCI) to resolve this challenge. A low-rank Hankel matrix filter first disentangles co-located seamount and stripe anomalies in the ocean basin; each component is then inverted using MVCI to recover 3-D magnetization intensity and direction without prior orientation constraints, while simultaneously deriving cluster statistics. Synthetic tests replicating the SCS crustal setting demonstrate that seamount-signal removal dramatically enhances inversion fidelity for both anomaly sources. Application to the SCS reveals two distinct vector clusters in the eastern sub-basin, with mean declinations indicating 10–24° counter-clockwise rotation relative to the southwestern sub-basin. Magnetization intensities are slightly stronger in the southwestern sub-basin, where NE-trending magnetic stripes exhibit narrow spacing, whereas the eastern sub-basin shows wider and more variable NE–W to E–W trending stripes. This study provides the first basin-scale quantification of along-strike magnetic heterogeneity, offering new quantitative constraints on late-stage seafloor spreading and the dynamic evolution of the SCS, while delivering a robust, transferable methodology for other remanence-dominated marginal seas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tectonic Inversions Based on Integration of Geological and Geophysical Data)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 356 KB

Open AccessArticle

Clinical and Prognostic Differences Between Mechanical Versus Biological Prosthetic Infective Endocarditis—A Nationwide Database Study

by Juan Esteban de Villarreal-Soto, Jorge Calderón Parra, Patricia Muñoz García, Gregorio Cuerpo Caballero, Marina Machado Vílchez, Maria Ángeles Rodríguez-Esteban, Raquel Rodriguez-Garcia, Valentín Tascon-Quevedo, Ane Josune Goikoetxea-Agirre, Eduard Quintana Obrador, Miguel Angel Goenaga-Sanchez, Elisa Garcia-Vazquez, Rafael Hernandez-Estefania, Antonio Ramos Martínez and Carlos Esteban Martin-López

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(24), 8826; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14248826 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

Objectives: Infective endocarditis (IE) is a feared and life-threatening complication, requiring a multidisciplinary approach. Prosthetic valve endocarditis (PVE) accounts for 20–30% of IE, is one of the most severe forms of IE, and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. We aim [...] Read more.

Objectives: Infective endocarditis (IE) is a feared and life-threatening complication, requiring a multidisciplinary approach. Prosthetic valve endocarditis (PVE) accounts for 20–30% of IE, is one of the most severe forms of IE, and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. We aim to compare and analyze baseline characteristics, microbiology, clinical presentation, complications, and prognosis between biological and mechanical PVE; we also carried out a subgroup analysis of patients aged 45–65 at the time of onset of prosthetic surgery. Methods: The present study is a post hoc analysis of a prospective multicenter cohort of patients with PVE between January 2008 and December 2023. Patients were divided into two groups regarding the type of prosthesis, mechanical vs. biological. Results: A total of 1544 patients were included. 733 (47.47%) patients with mechanical PVE (mPVE) and 811 (52.52) with biological PVE (bPVE). We found that bPVE appeared earlier than mPVE, had more healthcare-related infections and paravalvular complications. Both groups had similar clinical presentations; moreover, there was no difference in surgical indication and if surgery was performed. On the other hand, mPVE has a higher incidence of Staphylococcus aureus (SA) and Gram-negative bacteria, while bPVE has more coagulase-negative staphylococci. Multivariable logistic regression identified the following independent risk factors of mortality: EuroSCORE I, age, mPVE, SA, IE comprising two valves, and severe sepsis. mPVE had a higher mortality on admission, probably due to a higher incidence of septic shock and CNS embolism. The subgroup analysis of patients between 45 and 65 years at the time of prosthesis implantation showed similar results. Conclusions: The present analysis shows that bPVE appears earlier than mPVE, even in the subgroup of patients aged 45–65. bPVE has more healthcare-related infections and more paravalvular complications. After adjusting for baseline differences, mPVE had higher in-hospital mortality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cardiology)

10 pages, 459 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

A Note on the Joint Numerical Range of a Triple of 4-by-4 Hermitian Matrices

by MaoTing Chien and Hiroshi Nakazato

Mathematics 2025, 13(24), 3977; https://doi.org/10.3390/math13243977 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

We present the degrees 14, 26 and 30 of the boundary generating surfaces of the joint numerical ranges for triples of 4-by-4 Hermitian matrices. This result completes the missing degrees from a previous study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational Geometry: Theory, Algorithms and Applications)

22 pages, 1874 KB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating the Sustainable Development of Rural Communities: A Case Study of the Mountainous Areas of Southwest China

by Dandan Yang, Chengjiang Li, Shiyuan Wang and Abbas Ali Chandio

Land 2025, 14(12), 2416; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14122416 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

Rural areas are complex multi-level regional systems comprising multiple elements such as natural resources, human resources, social systems, and economic elements. Drawing on the socio-ecological system framework, we develop a new evaluation system to better understand rural sustainable development and the interactions between [...] Read more.

Rural areas are complex multi-level regional systems comprising multiple elements such as natural resources, human resources, social systems, and economic elements. Drawing on the socio-ecological system framework, we develop a new evaluation system to better understand rural sustainable development and the interactions between economic, social, and natural factors. Applying this system to the case of Guizhou Province reveals the following: First, the overall level of sustainable development of rural communities is low. Furthermore, the development gap between communities is significant, mainly driven by differences in the resource system and economic outcomes. Second, the overall coupling and coordination level among the rural sustainable development subsystems is low, and they are all in the grinding and less coordinated stage. Compared with communities with lower sustainable development, those with higher sustainable development levels exhibit higher coupling and coupling coordination. Third, the obstacles to sustainable development in rural communities are mainly concentrated in the resource systems and economic outcomes, including construction land, housing, government funding, asset growth, income growth, profitability, and bonus sharing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Land Use, Impact Assessment and Sustainability)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 1697 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Additive and Multiplicative Cyclic Perturbations on Noise-Induced Tipping Dynamics

by Igor A. Khovanov and Natasha A. Khovanova

Entropy 2025, 27(12), 1255; https://doi.org/10.3390/e27121255 (registering DOI) - 13 Dec 2025

Abstract

The dynamics of systems near tipping points attract considerable attention in the context of climate change, ecological regime shifts, disease spreading, and other complex systems undergoing transitions. In particular, the duration and cause of transitions between states remain subjects of ongoing debate. We [...] Read more.

The dynamics of systems near tipping points attract considerable attention in the context of climate change, ecological regime shifts, disease spreading, and other complex systems undergoing transitions. In particular, the duration and cause of transitions between states remain subjects of ongoing debate. We address these questions by applying the large-fluctuation framework to analyse noise-induced transitions in a widely studied tipping model describing dynamics near a fold bifurcation. As complex systems are typically not in equilibrium, we include cyclic perturbations representing, for example, diurnal variations, seasonal cycles, solar activity oscillations, and Milankovitch cycles in the climate system. We investigate how the frequency and type of cyclic perturbation influence noise-induced transitions between states by examining the fluctuational force. Two types of periodic perturbations, additive and multiplicative, representing B- and R-tipping, are considered. We show, first, that depending on the type of cyclic perturbation, the fluctuations need to be synchronised with different perturbation phases to induce the transition. Secondly, we demonstrate that the transition duration depends on the perturbation frequency: when the periodic perturbation is slower than the system’s relaxation rate, the transition occurs within a single oscillatory cycle, whereas high-frequency perturbations can significantly prolong the transition time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Order to Disorder: Superfluidity, Stochastic Processes, and the Dynamics of Life—Dedicated to Professor Peter McClintock on the Occasion of His 85th Birthday)

► Show Figures