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Recent Articles  

32 pages, 2297 KB  
Review
Status and Trends of Saline Lake Research in British Columbia, Canada
by Markus Heinrichs
Limnol. Rev. 2025, 25(3), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/limnolrev25030041 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
Saline lakes are distinct, understudied aquatic ecosystems, particularly those that are hydrologically isolated from marine environments. In British Columbia (BC), Canada, the scope and trajectory of scientific research on these systems remain largely undocumented. To address this gap, a meta-analysis was conducted of [...] Read more.
Saline lakes are distinct, understudied aquatic ecosystems, particularly those that are hydrologically isolated from marine environments. In British Columbia (BC), Canada, the scope and trajectory of scientific research on these systems remain largely undocumented. To address this gap, a meta-analysis was conducted of peer-reviewed scholarly articles focusing on both coastal and inland saline lakes to identify the primary research themes and assess temporal trends in scientific inquiry. The coastal meromictic lakes Sakinaw and Powell were included because of their retention of relict marine waters. Thematic areas of research spanned a diverse array of disciplines, including paleolimnology, neolimnology, halophilic insect and plant ecology, microbial diversity, and functional genomics, as well as astrobiology as analog environments for extraterrestrial life. Temporal analysis revealed variable research intensity across disciplines: the number of paleolimnological training sets has declined, whereas microbial genomics and astrobiological analog investigations have increased. Among inland saline lakes, Mahoney Lake, Pavilion Lake, and various saline lakes within the Cariboo region emerged as key sites of ecological and geochemical interest. This synthesis highlights both the ecological significance and scientific potential of BC’s saline lakes while underscoring the need for more systematic and interdisciplinary research to better understand their roles in broader environmental and evolutionary contexts. Full article
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22 pages, 30170 KB  
Article
Urban Contestation in Migrants’ Settings: Towards More Resilience Through Fluid Planning in Aachen, Germany
by Maram Tawil, Christa Reicher, Eva Krings, Fabio Bayro Kaiser, Motez Amayreh and Qais Ismail
Urban Sci. 2025, 9(9), 346; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci9090346 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
This paper explores how migrants’ communities shape and contest their urban spaces, focusing on Aachen. The primary objective of this research was to capture the cultural urban change in migrants’ settings. It further contributes to building an insight into the various urban typologies [...] Read more.
This paper explores how migrants’ communities shape and contest their urban spaces, focusing on Aachen. The primary objective of this research was to capture the cultural urban change in migrants’ settings. It further contributes to building an insight into the various urban typologies strengthened by migrants’ settings, which could have implications on the urban fabric of the city, thus adding value to socially inclusive development. Qualitative approaches in identifying a street taxonomy were adopted in this paper. An in-depth analysis encompassing narrations behind urban layouts, behavioral patterns, and typological distinctions was made to highlight the differences within the setting. Notably, a pivotal aspect of this study is the endeavor to underscore the constructive, yet frequently underappreciated contributions made by migrants to the dynamics and development of urban areas. Therefore, more attention shall be given to the urban layouts contributing to more socially cohesive communities in and around such settings. In doing so, this research makes a substantial contribution to the broader discourse surrounding urban resilience and the fluid planning strategies adopted by cities in response to evolving demographic landscapes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Addressing the Challenges in the Development and Management of Public Spaces in Contemporary Cities)
14 pages, 1073 KB  
Article
Cytotoxic Effects and Micronuclei Frequency as a Biomarker of Genotoxicity in Farmers from the Municipality of Tehuacán, Puebla, Mexico
by Amparo Mauricio-Gutiérrez, Didier D. Ramírez-Gutiérrez, Omar Romero-Arenas, Carlos A. Contreras-Paredes, Sandra Mora-Ravelo, Lilia Cedillo-Ramírez, José A. Yáñez-Santos and María A. Valencia de Ita
Toxics 2025, 13(9), 735; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13090735 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
In Tehuacán, Puebla, Mexico, the agricultural sector is primarily dedicated to corn cultivation, which is reflected in the region’s economy, culture, and diet. This sector follows an agro-industrial production model dependent on pesticides and chemical fertilizers, which impacts both soil health and the [...] Read more.
In Tehuacán, Puebla, Mexico, the agricultural sector is primarily dedicated to corn cultivation, which is reflected in the region’s economy, culture, and diet. This sector follows an agro-industrial production model dependent on pesticides and chemical fertilizers, which impacts both soil health and the population’s well-being. The objective of this study was to assess cytotoxic damage using the Buccal Micronucleus Cytome Assay (BMCA) in a population engaged in agricultural activities in San Diego Chalma, Tehuacán, Puebla, Mexico. Sociodemographic parameters were analyzed, along with the buccal micronucleus cytome assay, in a sample of 35 individuals composed of an agricultural group (18) and a control group (17). The agricultural group showed a significantly higher number of total micronucleated cells (Median = 714), which was 19.8 times greater than the non-agricultural group. Age, sex, basic education level, time of residence, and involvement in agricultural activities were key factors contributing to the development of buccal cell micronuclei, in addition to the use of pesticides as lambda-cyhalothrin, spinetoram, ethoprophos, carbofuran, methomyl, and chlorpyrifos ethyl without safety measures. There was an increased risk of developing micronucleated cells in males from the control group (OR = 2.386, 95% CI = 2.123–2.681) and in individuals aged 30–59 years (OR = 16.464, 95% CI = 14.315–18.935). The agricultural population for the 0–29 years presented a risk probability developing micronucleated cells of 99.8% in men and 99.9% in women, with a higher risk observed in women and in individuals who had lived their entire lives in San Diego Chalma, where they are continuously exposed to pesticides. Therefore, it is crucial to provide guidance, training, and improved public policies in the region of Puebla, Mexico. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental and Occupational Exposure to Chemical Agents and Health Challenges: 2nd Edition)
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3 pages, 165 KB  
Editorial
IoT Security: Threat Detection, Analysis, and Defense
by Olivier Markowitch and Jean-Michel Dricot
Future Internet 2025, 17(9), 399; https://doi.org/10.3390/fi17090399 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
In recent years, the rapid growth of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies has created numerous opportunities across fields such as smart cities, transportation, energy, and healthcare [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue IoT Security: Threat Detection, Analysis and Defense)
25 pages, 509 KB  
Article
A Study of the Impact of Corporate Financialisation on Capital-Deepening Enterprises’ Output—Empirical Evidence from China’s A-Share Market
by Yunsong Wang
Int. J. Financial Stud. 2025, 13(3), 160; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijfs13030160 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
With the continuous deepening of the financialisation level of Chinese enterprises, the output of capital-deepening enterprises is inevitably affected. Taking A-share listed companies on the Shanghai and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges in China from 2007 to 2021 as the research sample, this paper explores [...] Read more.
With the continuous deepening of the financialisation level of Chinese enterprises, the output of capital-deepening enterprises is inevitably affected. Taking A-share listed companies on the Shanghai and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges in China from 2007 to 2021 as the research sample, this paper explores the impact of enterprise financialisation on the output of capital-deepening enterprises and its underlying mechanism. The research findings indicate that enterprise financialisation negatively influences the output of capital-deepening enterprises. Through the analysis of the theoretical model in this paper, it is found that the mechanism leading to this economic effect is that enterprise financialisation significantly inhibits capital deepening. The heterogeneity analysis reveals no significant differences in the negative impact of enterprise financialisation on capital output, deepening enterprises across different aspects such as ownership, region and industry. This paper provides theoretical support for curbing the excessive financialisation of capital-deepening enterprises. It is conducive to the long-term and sustainable development of capital-deepening enterprises and offers a new perspective for researching the economic effects and internal mechanisms of enterprise financialisation. Full article
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24 pages, 4011 KB  
Article
Computational Discovery of Selective Carbonic Anhydrase IX (CA IX) Inhibitors via Pharmacophore Modeling and Molecular Simulations for Cancer Therapy
by Nahlah Makki Almansour
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(17), 8465; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26178465 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
Carbonic anhydrase IX (CA IX) is a transmembrane metalloenzyme that is increased in tumor cells under hypoxia and plays an important role in solid tumor acidification. It is a marker of tumor hypoxia and a prognostic factor in human malignancies. Given the critical [...] Read more.
Carbonic anhydrase IX (CA IX) is a transmembrane metalloenzyme that is increased in tumor cells under hypoxia and plays an important role in solid tumor acidification. It is a marker of tumor hypoxia and a prognostic factor in human malignancies. Given the critical role of CA IX and their over expression in many cancer tissues, they have emerged as a promising target for developing novel anticancer therapeutics. In this study we designed a pharmacophore model based on known inhibitors to screen small compound libraries to discover potential inhibitors of CA IX. Molecular docking experiments discovered that four compounds ZINC613262012, ZINC427910039, ZINC616453231, and DB00482 exhibited a strong binding affinity towards CA IX, mimicking the interaction pattern similar to native inhibitors. Molecular dynamics simulations and an MM-PBSA analysis revealed ZINC613262012, ZINC427910039, and DB00482 as the most potential and stable inhibitors with the binding free energies −10.92, −18.77, and −12.29 kcal/mol, respectively. In addition, DFT-based analyses supported their favorable electronic properties, further validating their potential as CA IX inhibitors. These three hits demonstrated a greater stability and compactness relative to the known inhibitors, suggesting these might be used CA IX inhibitors to treat tumors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence and Computer-Aided Design: Molecular Simulation Technology in Exploring Bioactive Compounds for Health Promotion)
14 pages, 2652 KB  
Article
Tuning Solid-State Reaction Pathways Using Molecular Sulfur Precursors to Synthesize FeS Anodes of Li-Ion Batteries for Boosted Electrochemical Performance
by Xiaoyang Zhang, Mingxia Xu, Jialiang Tian, Shaorong Cao, Botao Cao, Yongmei Bai, Xiaojie Hu, Cunfeng Yang, Jiliang Zhang and Chuang Dong
Energies 2025, 18(17), 4623; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18174623 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
The solid-state reactions between Fe2O3 and molecular sulfur sources could produce FeS nanoparticles efficiently, while the functions of these molecules have been ignored except for the role as sulfur sources. In this work, thioacetamide and thiourea were employed as sulfur [...] Read more.
The solid-state reactions between Fe2O3 and molecular sulfur sources could produce FeS nanoparticles efficiently, while the functions of these molecules have been ignored except for the role as sulfur sources. In this work, thioacetamide and thiourea were employed as sulfur sources for the solid-state reactions with Fe2O3 to explore their effects on the microstructure and electrochemical performance of the produced FeS. Despite the slight difference in one functional group for two molecules (−CH3 against −NH2), thiourea leads to a more complex reaction pathway with FeS2 as the intermediate phase, while no such an intermediate phase is observed in the reaction with thioacetamide. The former yields FeS of 2D nanoflakes as the final products, compared with the aggregated nanoparticles in reactions with thiourea. As a result, the nanoflakes exhibit a higher discharge capacity with enhanced stability (388.9 mAh∙g−1 vs. 374.7 mAh∙g−1 above 1 V). According to the reaction pathways, the formation of FeS nanoflakes and superior electrochemical performance were addressed, paving a route for the solid-state reactions with molecules to develop high-performance sulfide electrode materials. Full article
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16 pages, 5620 KB  
Article
Influence of Build Orientation and Heat Treatment on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of SUS316L Fabricated by Selective Laser Melting
by Yujin Lim, Chami Jeon, Yoon-Seok Lee and Ilguk Jo
Metals 2025, 15(9), 971; https://doi.org/10.3390/met15090971 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
Additive manufacturing (AM) via selective laser melting (SLM) is increasingly deployed in aerospace, biomedical, and tooling applications where complex geometries and high performance are required. Yet, process-induced anisotropy and microstructural heterogeneity can strongly affect mechanical and tribological behavior. This study systematically evaluates the [...] Read more.
Additive manufacturing (AM) via selective laser melting (SLM) is increasingly deployed in aerospace, biomedical, and tooling applications where complex geometries and high performance are required. Yet, process-induced anisotropy and microstructural heterogeneity can strongly affect mechanical and tribological behavior. This study systematically evaluates the combined effects of build orientation (0°, 45°, and 90° relative to the build plate) and post-build heat treatment (as-built, 600 °C, and 860 °C) on the phase constitution, microstructure, hardness, tensile response, and dry sliding wear of SLM-fabricated 316L stainless steel. X-ray diffraction indicated a fully austenitic (γ-fcc) structure without detectable secondary phases across all conditions. Orientation-dependent substructures were observed: ~1 µm equiaxed cellular features at 0°, finer 0.3–0.5 µm cells at 45°, and 1–2 µm elongated features at 90°. Microhardness varied with orientation; relative to 0°, 45° specimens were ~15 HV higher, whereas 90° specimens were ~10 HV lower. Heat treatment at 600 °C promoted refinement and recovery of the cellular network, most pronounced in the 45° orientation, while treatment at 860 °C largely erased melt pool boundary contrast, producing a more homogeneous particle-like microstructure. Tensile fractography revealed dimpled rupture in all cases; the 90° orientation showed finer dimples and lower hardness, consistent with a ductile failure mode under reduced constraint. Dry sliding wear tests identified adhesive wear, intensified by the build-up of transferred fragments, as the dominant mechanism in both as-built and 600 °C conditions. Changes to melt pool morphology after 860 °C heat treatment correlated with altered wear track widths, with the 0° condition showing a notable narrowing relative to the 600 °C state. These results highlight processing pathways for tailoring anisotropy, strength–ductility balance, and wear resistance in SLM 316L. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Laser Processing of Metals and Alloys)
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11 pages, 695 KB  
Article
Characteristics Prediction and Optimization of GaN CAVET Using a Novel Physics-Guided Machine Learning Method
by Wenbo Wu, Jie Wang, Jiangtao Su, Zhanfei Chen and Zhiping Yu
Micromachines 2025, 16(9), 1005; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16091005 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
This paper presents a physics-guided machine learning (PGML) approach to model the I-V characteristics of GaN current aperture vertical field effect transistors (CAVET). By adopting the method of transfer learning and the shortcut structure, a physically guided neural network model is established. The [...] Read more.
This paper presents a physics-guided machine learning (PGML) approach to model the I-V characteristics of GaN current aperture vertical field effect transistors (CAVET). By adopting the method of transfer learning and the shortcut structure, a physically guided neural network model is established. The shallow neural network with <!-- MathType@Translator@5@5@MathML2 (no namespace).tdl@MathML 2.0 (no namespace)@ --> Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Power Semiconductor Devices and Applications, 3rd Edition)
28 pages, 1711 KB  
Review
Thallium Toxicity: Mechanisms of Action, Available Therapies, and Experimental Models
by Karla Alejandra Avendaño-Briseño, Jorge Escutia-Martínez, José Pedraza-Chaverri and Estefani Yaquelin Hernández-Cruz
Future Pharmacol. 2025, 5(3), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/futurepharmacol5030049 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
Thallium (Tl) is a non-essential and highly toxic heavy metal capable of replacing potassium (K+) in biological systems, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and inhibition of protein synthesis. In humans, the estimated oral lethal dose ranges from 10 to 15 [...] Read more.
Thallium (Tl) is a non-essential and highly toxic heavy metal capable of replacing potassium (K+) in biological systems, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and inhibition of protein synthesis. In humans, the estimated oral lethal dose ranges from 10 to 15 mg/kg, with acute mortality rates of 6–15% and chronic neurological sequelae in up to 55% of survivors. Environmental releases of thallium of up to 5000 metric tons annually from industrial and mining activities, combined with its high oral bioavailability and nonspecific multisystemic symptoms, underscore the urgent need for more effective therapeutic strategies. This review summarizes current evidence on Tl toxicity, including its mechanisms of action, clinical manifestations, and available treatments. It emphasizes the strategic selection of biological models: simple organisms such as Caenorhabditis elegans and Drosophila melanogaster enable high-throughput screening and early biomarker detection; zebrafish (Danio rerio) provide vertebrate-level evaluation of multi-organ effects; and rodent models offer systemic toxicokinetic and therapeutic validation. Human-derived organoids and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) systems recreate tissue-specific microenvironments, allowing translational assessment of mitochondrial, neuronal, and cardiac toxicity. Integrating these models within a tiered and complementary framework, alongside environmental and clinical surveillance, can accelerate the development of targeted treatments and strengthen public health responses to Tl exposure. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Future Pharmacology 2025)
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25 pages, 1192 KB  
Article
Effect of Biobased and Mineral Additives on the Properties of Recycled Polypropylene Packaging Materials
by Wiktor Wyderkiewicz, Robert Gogolewski, Justyna Miedzianowska-Masłowska, Konrad Szustakiewicz and Marcin Masłowski
Polymers 2025, 17(17), 2368; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17172368 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
The recycling of polypropylene (PP) packaging films modified with biobased additives: biochar derived from the pyrolysis of natural fibers and diatomaceous earth was investigated. The aim was to assess the impact of these modifiers on the processing, rheological, mechanical, and thermal properties of [...] Read more.
The recycling of polypropylene (PP) packaging films modified with biobased additives: biochar derived from the pyrolysis of natural fibers and diatomaceous earth was investigated. The aim was to assess the impact of these modifiers on the processing, rheological, mechanical, and thermal properties of the recycled material. The processing behavior was evaluated through extrusion with granulation to determine industrial applicability. Rheological properties, including viscosity and melt flow index (MFI), were measured to characterize flow behavior. Mechanical performance was assessed through tensile strength, hardness, three-point bending, and impact resistance tests. Thermal properties were analyzed using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Vicat softening temperature (VST), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The results demonstrate that incorporating biochar and diatomaceous earth can modify and, in selected cases, enhance the processing and performance characteristics of recycled PP films, though their impact on thermal behavior is parameter-specific. While diatomaceous earth slightly increased the onset of thermal degradation (T5), both fillers caused a slight decrease in the VST, indicating reduced heat resistance under load. Diatomaceous earth was found to effectively improve stiffness and impact strength, while biochar reduced viscosity and promoted finer crystalline structures. Both additives acted as nucleating agents, increasing crystallization temperatures, with diatomaceous earth additionally delaying thermal degradation onset. These findings highlight the potential of using sustainable, waste-derived additives in polymer recycling, supporting the development of environmentally responsible materials within circular economy frameworks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Additive-Enhanced Polymer Composites)
34 pages, 588 KB  
Review
Scoping Review of Studies on Affective–Psychological and Social Characteristics of South Korean Engineering Students
by Soonhee Hwang
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 1189; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15091189 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
This scoping review examines the affective–psychological and social characteristics of undergraduate engineering students in South Korea, identifying key research trends, thematic focuses, and gaps in the literature. A total of 95 peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2024 were analyzed based on publication [...] Read more.
This scoping review examines the affective–psychological and social characteristics of undergraduate engineering students in South Korea, identifying key research trends, thematic focuses, and gaps in the literature. A total of 95 peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2024 were analyzed based on publication year, journal outlet, research topics, and related variables. The literature search was conducted using major databases, including RISS, KCI, and DBpia. The findings highlight self-efficacy—particularly domain-specific self-efficacy—as a core construct linked to academic achievement, persistence, and career development. Social competencies such as communication, teamwork, and convergence ability are also emphasized; however, limited attention has been paid to emotional resilience, burnout, and ethical responsibility. Despite their growing importance in the artificial intelligence-driven era, gender differences, digital literacy, and global competencies remain underexplored. These findings underscore the need for learner-centered, evidence-based instructional strategies, as well as more longitudinal, comparative, and intervention-focused studies. This review offers foundational insights for designing inclusive, future-oriented educational programs tailored to the diverse needs of South Korean undergraduate engineering students. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Well-Being in Educational Contexts: Social–Psychological Perspectives and Innovations)
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54 pages, 2669 KB  
Review
Advances in Hydrogel Film Fabrication and Functional Applications Across Biomedical and Environmental Fields
by Alberto Ubaldini and Sara Calistri
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(17), 9579; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15179579 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
Hydrogel films are a promising class of materials due to their peculiar property of retaining water as well as responding to external stimuli. In contrast with conventional hydrogels, films provide enhanced responsiveness along with greater compliance to be integrated into devices as well [...] Read more.
Hydrogel films are a promising class of materials due to their peculiar property of retaining water as well as responding to external stimuli. In contrast with conventional hydrogels, films provide enhanced responsiveness along with greater compliance to be integrated into devices as well as on surfaces. This review is designed to comprehensively explore the many aspects of hydrogel films. It covers the principles of gelation; preparation methods, such as solvent casting, spin coating, and photolithography; and characterization. This review also presents the most common polymers (both natural and synthetic) utilized for the preparation of the hydrogel, the systems, such as nanoparticles, liposomes and hybrid metal–organic structure, that can be used as additives and the aspects related to the biocompatibility of hydrogels. In the second part, this review discusses the potential applications of hydrogel films and the challenges that still need to be overcome. Particular attention is given to biomedical applications, such as drug delivery, wound healing, and tissue engineering, but environmental and agricultural uses are also explored. Finally, this review presents recent examples of real-world applications of hydrogel films and explores the possibility they have for a wide variety of needs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Surface Sciences and Technology)
15 pages, 3287 KB  
Article
Functionalized Polyphenols: Understanding Polymorphism of 2-Chloro-3′,4′-Diacetoxy-Acetophenone
by Roxana Angela Tucaliuc, Sergiu Shova, Violeta Mangalagiu and Ionel I. Mangalagiu
Crystals 2025, 15(9), 780; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst15090780 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
We report here an in-depth study concerning the synthesis, NMR, and X-ray structure determination of two new polymorphs of 2-chloro-3′,4′-diacetoxy-acetophenone. A new, ecologically friendly method of synthesis in the solid phase, as well as a suitable method for protecting hydroxyl functionality, is presented. [...] Read more.
We report here an in-depth study concerning the synthesis, NMR, and X-ray structure determination of two new polymorphs of 2-chloro-3′,4′-diacetoxy-acetophenone. A new, ecologically friendly method of synthesis in the solid phase, as well as a suitable method for protecting hydroxyl functionality, is presented. The 1H- and 13C-NMR spectra as well as the single crystal X-ray diffraction studies proved unambiguously the structure of the compounds: the two polymorphs of 2-chloro-3′,4′-diacetoxy-acetophenone and 2-chloro-3′-hydroxy-4′-acetoxy-acetophenone. The polymorph I crystalizes in the monoclinic P21/c space group, while polymorph II crystalizes in the Sohnke P212121 space group of the orthorhombic system, with no interstitial solvate molecules. Significant differences were observed in the supramolecular interactions in the crystal structure of the two polymorphs. Polymorph I is characterized as a parallel packing of weakly interacting supramolecular layers oriented in the 1 1 0 plane. The crystal structure of polymorph II is much more complex: each molecule is interconnected through 12 (twelve) hydrogen bonds with 9 (nine) adjacent symmetry-related molecules. The monoacetoxy derivative 2-chloro-3′-hydroxy-4′-acetoxy-acetophenone 3 crystallizes in the monoclinic P21/c space group, with one molecule in the asymmetric unit. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymorphism and Phase Transitions in Crystal Materials)
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21 pages, 47839 KB  
Article
Olivine and Whole-Rock Geochemistry Constrain Petrogenesis and Geodynamics of Early Cretaceous Fangcheng Basalts, Eastern North China Craton
by Qiao-Chun Qin, Lu-Bing Hong, Yin-Hui Zhang, Hong-Xia Yu, Dan Wang, Le Zhang and Peng-Li He
Minerals 2025, 15(9), 928; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15090928 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
The profound Phanerozoic destruction of the eastern North China Craton (NCC) is well documented, yet its mechanism remains debated due to limited constraints on thermal state and lithospheric thickness during the Early Cretaceous—the peak period of cratonic destruction. We address this gap through [...] Read more.
The profound Phanerozoic destruction of the eastern North China Craton (NCC) is well documented, yet its mechanism remains debated due to limited constraints on thermal state and lithospheric thickness during the Early Cretaceous—the peak period of cratonic destruction. We address this gap through integrated geochemical analysis (major/trace elements, Sr-Nd-Pb isotopes, olivine chemistry) of Early Cretaceous (~125 Ma) Fangcheng basalts from Shandong. These basalts possess high MgO (8.14–11.31 wt%), Mg# (67.23–73.69), Ni (126–244 ppm), and Cr (342–526 ppm). Their trace elements show island arc basalt (IAB) affinities: enrichment in large-ion lithophile elements and depletion in high-field-strength elements, with negative Sr and Pb anomalies. Enriched Sr-Nd isotopic compositions [87Sr/86Sr(t) = 0.709426–0.709512; εNd(t) = −12.60 to −13.10], unradiogenic 206Pb/204Pb(t) and 208Pb/204Pb(t) ratios (17.55–17.62 and 37.77–37.83, respectively), and slightly radiogenic 207Pb/204Pb(t) ratios (15.55–15.57) reflect an upper continental crustal signature. Covariations of major elements, Cr, Ni, and trace element ratios (Sr/Nd, Sc/La) with MgO indicate dominant olivine + pyroxene fractionation. High Ce/Pb ratios and lack of correlation between Ce/Pb or εNd(t) and SiO2 preclude significant crustal contamination. The combined isotopic signature and IAB-like trace element patterns support a lithospheric mantle source that was metasomatized by upper crustal material. Olivine phenocrysts exhibit variable Ni (1564–4786 ppm), Mn (903–2406 ppm), Fe/Mn (56.63–85.49), 10,000 × Zn/Fe (9.55–19.55), and Mn/Zn (7.07–14.79), defining fields indicative of melts from both peridotite and pyroxenite sources. High-MgO samples (>10 wt%) in the Grossular/Pyrope/Diopside/Enstatite diagram show a clinopyroxene, garnet, and olivine residue. Reconstructed primary melts yield formation pressures of 3.5–3.9 GPa (110–130 km depth) and temperatures of 1474–1526 °C, corresponding to ~60 mW/m2 surface heat flow. This demonstrates retention of a ≥110–130 km thick lithosphere during peak destruction, arguing against delamination and supporting a thermo-mechanic erosion mechanism dominated by progressive convective thinning of the lithospheric base via asthenospheric flow. Our findings therefore provide crucial thermal and structural constraints essential for resolving the dynamics of cratonic lithosphere modification. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mineral Geochemistry and Geochronology)
22 pages, 1012 KB  
Review
Evolving Threats: Adaptive Mechanisms of Monkeypox Virus (MPXV) in the 2022 Global Outbreak and Their Implications for Vaccine Strategies
by Yuanwen Wang, Meimei Hai, Zijie Guo, Junbo Wang, Yong Li and Weifeng Gao
Viruses 2025, 17(9), 1194; https://doi.org/10.3390/v17091194 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
Monkeypox virus (MPXV) experienced an unprecedented global outbreak in 2022, characterized by a significant departure from historical patterns: a rapid spread of the epidemic to more than 110 non-traditional endemic countries, with more than 90,000 confirmed cases; a fundamental shift in the mode [...] Read more.
Monkeypox virus (MPXV) experienced an unprecedented global outbreak in 2022, characterized by a significant departure from historical patterns: a rapid spread of the epidemic to more than 110 non-traditional endemic countries, with more than 90,000 confirmed cases; a fundamental shift in the mode of transmission, with human-to-human transmission (especially among men who have sex with men (MSM)) becoming the dominant route (95.2%); and genetic sequencing revealing a key adaptive mutation in a novel evolutionary branch (Clade IIb) that triggered the outbreak. These features highlight the significant evolution of MPXV in terms of host adaptation, transmission efficiency, and immune escape ability. The aim of this paper is to provide insights into the viral adaptive evolutionary mechanisms driving this global outbreak, with a particular focus on the role of immune escape (e.g., novel mechanisms of M2 proteins targeting the T cell co-stimulatory pathway) in enhancing viral transmission and pathogenicity. At the same time, we systematically evaluate the cross-protective efficacy and limitations of existing vaccines (ACAM2000, JYNNEOS, and LC16), as well as recent advances in novel vaccine platforms, especially mRNA vaccines, in inducing superior immune responses. The study further reveals the constraints to outbreak control posed by grossly unequal global vaccine distribution (e.g., less than 10% coverage in high-burden regions such as Africa) and explores the urgency of optimizing stratified vaccination strategies and facilitating technology transfer to promote equitable access. The core of this paper is to elucidate the dynamic game between viral evolution and prevention and control strategies (especially vaccines). The key to addressing the long-term epidemiological challenges of MPXV in the future lies in continuously strengthening global surveillance of viral evolution (early warning of highly transmissible/pathogenic variants), accelerating the development of next-generation vaccines based on new mechanisms and platforms (e.g., multivalent mRNAs), and resolving the vaccine accessibility gap through global collaboration to build an integrated defense system of “Surveillance, Research and Development, and Equitable Vaccination,” through global collaboration to address the vaccine accessibility gap. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Human Virology and Viral Diseases)
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17 pages, 348 KB  
Article
Rotation Length and Defoliation Intensity Effects on Dry Matter Production and Botanical Composition in Perennial ryegrass–White clover and Multispecies Pastures
by Luis F. Piña, Verónica M. Merino, María Jesús Navarro, Claudia Mella F., Cristian Lucero, Gabriel Seguel, Alejandro Acuña and Tomás Schwenke
Agronomy 2025, 15(9), 2097; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15092097 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
Temperate grazing systems require advanced management strategies to simultaneously enhance both productivity and resilience. Multispecies pasture (MSS) mixtures offer a promising alternative to conventional Lolium perenne-Trifolium repens (LP-TR) systems by leveraging niche complementarity through diverse and deeper rooting profiles that enhance [...] Read more.
Temperate grazing systems require advanced management strategies to simultaneously enhance both productivity and resilience. Multispecies pasture (MSS) mixtures offer a promising alternative to conventional Lolium perenne-Trifolium repens (LP-TR) systems by leveraging niche complementarity through diverse and deeper rooting profiles that enhance drought tolerance and optimize nutrient acquisition from heterogeneous soil layers. In a field study, we compared LP-TR pastures with three functionally distinct MSS pastures subjected to varying rotation lengths (RL) and defoliation intensities (DIs). Seasonal and annual dry matter (DM) yield and botanical composition were assessed. MSS consistently outperformed LP-TR in total DM production, especially under shorter RL, which had a more pronounced effect on annual and spring biomass than DI. An 8 cm defoliation height generally enhances DM accumulation across systems. Species interactions significantly influenced botanical composition, with Plantago lanceolata contributing to greater pasture stability under environmental stress, accounting for 24–61% of total herbage DM. Furthermore, RL and DI interactions affected species prevalence, underscoring the need for adaptive, species-specific management strategies. These findings demonstrate that integrating strategic species selection with tailored defoliation practices in MSS mixtures can substantially enhance pasture productivity, compositional stability, and long-term sustainability of temperate grazing systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Grassland and Pasture Science)
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22 pages, 2691 KB  
Article
A Short-Term Load Forecasting Method for Typical High Energy-Consuming Industrial Parks Based on Multimodal Decomposition and Hybrid Neural Networks
by Jingyu Li, Yu Shi, Na Zhang and Yuanyu Chen
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(17), 9578; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15179578 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
High energy-consuming industrial parks are characterized by high base-load-to-peak-valley ratios, overlapping production cycles, and megawatt-scale step changes, which significantly complicate short-term load forecasting. To tackle these challenges, this study proposes a novel forecasting framework that combines hierarchical multimodal decomposition with a hybrid deep [...] Read more.
High energy-consuming industrial parks are characterized by high base-load-to-peak-valley ratios, overlapping production cycles, and megawatt-scale step changes, which significantly complicate short-term load forecasting. To tackle these challenges, this study proposes a novel forecasting framework that combines hierarchical multimodal decomposition with a hybrid deep learning architecture. First, Maximal Information Coefficient (MIC) analysis is applied to identify key input features and eliminate redundancy. The load series is then decomposed in two stages: seasonal-trend decomposition uses the Loess (STL) isolates trend and seasonal components, while variational mode decomposition (VMD) further disaggregates the residual into multi-scale modes. This hierarchical approach enhances signal clarity and preserves temporal structure. A parallel neural architecture is subsequently developed, integrating an Informer network to model long-term trends and a bidirectional gated recurrent unit (BiGRU) to capture short-term fluctuations. Case studies based on real-world load data from a typical industrial park in northeastern China demonstrate that the proposed model achieves significantly improved forecasting accuracy and robustness compared to benchmark methods. These results provide strong technical support for fine-grained load prediction and intelligent dispatch in high energy-consuming industrial scenarios. Full article
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15 pages, 5574 KB  
Article
Development of a TaN-Ce Machine Learning Potential and Its Application to Solid–Liquid Interface Simulations
by Yunhan Zhang, Jianfeng Cai, Hongjian Chen, Xuming Lv and Bowen Huang
Metals 2025, 15(9), 972; https://doi.org/10.3390/met15090972 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
This study develops a machine learning potential (MLP) based on the Moment Tensor Potential (MTP) method for the TaN-Ce system. This potential is employed to investigate the interfacial structure and wetting behavior between liquid Ce and solid TaN. Molecular dynamics (MDs) simulations reveal [...] Read more.
This study develops a machine learning potential (MLP) based on the Moment Tensor Potential (MTP) method for the TaN-Ce system. This potential is employed to investigate the interfacial structure and wetting behavior between liquid Ce and solid TaN. Molecular dynamics (MDs) simulations reveal that liquid Ce exhibits significant wetting on the TaN surface at high temperatures. The interfacial region undergoes pre-melting and component interdiffusion, forming an amorphous transition layer. Nitrogen atoms display high diffusivity, leading to surface mass loss, while tantalum atoms demonstrate excellent thermal stability and penetration resistance. These findings provide theoretical support for the design of interfacial materials and corrosion control in high-temperature metallurgy. Full article
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20 pages, 1270 KB  
Systematic Review
Can CT Radiomics Predict the Ki-67 Index of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs)? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Stavros P. Papadakos, Alexandra Argyrou, Ioannis Karniadakis, Charalampos Theocharopoulos, Ioannis Katsaros, Nikolaos Machairas, Jiannis Vlachogiannakos and Stamatios Theocharis
Cancers 2025, 17(17), 2855; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17172855 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Computed tomography (CT)-based radiomic analysis is an emerging technique that enables non-invasive assessment of tumor characteristics. In gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), radiomics may reflect biological behavior such as proliferative activity, often indicated by Ki-67 expression. To our knowledge, this is the [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Computed tomography (CT)-based radiomic analysis is an emerging technique that enables non-invasive assessment of tumor characteristics. In gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), radiomics may reflect biological behavior such as proliferative activity, often indicated by Ki-67 expression. To our knowledge, this is the first systematic review and meta-analysis synthesizing evidence on the ability of CT radiomics to predict the Ki-67 index in GISTs, addressing an important gap in the literature. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following PRISMA guidelines to evaluate the predictive performance of CT radiomics for Ki-67 expression in GISTs. A literature search of PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and the Cochrane Library was performed up to December 2024 using predefined terms. Extracted data included study design, patient demographics, imaging protocols, radiomic features, and diagnostic performance. Study quality was assessed using the QUADAS-2 tool. A random-effects meta-analysis summarized the pooled area under the ROC curve (AUC), sensitivity, and specificity. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses explored heterogeneity sources. Publication bias was assessed using Egger’s test and funnel plots. Results: Six studies involving 1632 patients were included. The pooled sensitivity and specificity for predicting Ki-67 expression were 0.71 and 0.76, respectively, with a summary AUC of 0.79. Subgroup analyses showed consistent results across different imaging protocols and radiomic feature sets, though the Ki-67 cutoff (8% vs. 10%) affected diagnostic performance. Moderate heterogeneity and potential publication bias in specificity were observed. Conclusion: CT-based radiomics demonstrates moderate accuracy for non-invasively predicting Ki-67 index in GISTs. While not a substitute for histology, it may support personalized preoperative planning and guide future immunotherapy strategies. In the future, radiomic signatures—particularly when integrated with molecular or immune-related biomarkers—could help refine patient selection and monitoring strategies for emerging therapies, including immunotherapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Molecular Mechanisms of Gastrointestinal Tumors (2nd Edition))
16 pages, 7026 KB  
Article
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in the Very Elderly: Clinical, Electrodiagnostic, and Ultrasound Features in a Cohort of 187 Patients
by Lisa B. E. Shields, Vasudeva G. Iyer, Theresa Kluthe, Yi Ping Zhang and Christopher B. Shields
Neurol. Int. 2025, 17(9), 137; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint17090137 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Elderly patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) have more severe clinical, ultrasonic, and electrodiagnostic (EDX) findings compared to younger patients. Thenar weakness and atrophy are more common at initial presentation in the elderly population with CTS. Methods: This is a retrospective review [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Elderly patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) have more severe clinical, ultrasonic, and electrodiagnostic (EDX) findings compared to younger patients. Thenar weakness and atrophy are more common at initial presentation in the elderly population with CTS. Methods: This is a retrospective review of 187 very elderly patients (aged 80 years and older) with EDX confirmation of CTS. We describe the clinical, EDX, and US features in these patients and compare the severity of the median nerve entrapment at the carpal tunnel (CT) by EDX findings to a middle-aged cohort (ages 40–50 years). Results: The total number of very elderly hands with CTS was 289 (187 patients total, with bilateral symptoms in 102 patients). Of the 289 hands, thenar atrophy was observed in 75 (26.0%) hands, weakness of the abductor pollicis brevis (APB) muscle was detected in 178 (61.6%) hands, and pinprick decrease/loss was noted in 265 (91.7%) hands. Of the total 289 hands, 57 (66.3%) hands’ median nerve stimulation did not evoke compound muscle action potentials over the APB and second lumbrical muscles. Sensory nerve action potentials were not detected in 211 (76.2%) hands. Comparing the sensitivities of various US measurements in diagnosing CTS, the cross-sectional area at the CT inlet had the highest sensitivity among the various measurements. As the CSA at the CT inlet increases, the odds of a greater CTS severity by EDX studies also increase (OR = 1.109, p-value = 0.001). The very elderly patients with CTS more frequently had more severe CTS compared to the middle-aged patients with CTS (chi-squared = 102.653, p-value < 0.001). Conclusions: The very elderly patients appear to seek medical care only when the CTS has become severe. The primary care physicians should look for signs and symptoms of CTS in the very elderly and encourage prompt treatment. Surgeons should be cognizant of the differences in the clinical, EDX, and US studies in the very elderly patient cohort with CTS. US is highly useful in evaluating CTS when the EDX studies become non-localizing in severe CTS, as often seen in the very elderly patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Movement Disorders and Neurodegenerative Diseases)
16 pages, 383 KB  
Article
Alcohol Consumption of Male Tuberculosis Index Cases and Tuberculosis Transmission Among Social Contacts in Puducherry, India: A Cross-Sectional Analytical Study
by Charutha Retnakumar, Palanivel Chinnakali, Balaji Bharadwaj, Karikalan Nagarajan and Sonali Sarkar
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2025, 10(9), 248; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed10090248 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
We aimed to compare the proportion of tuberculosis infection among social contacts of male tuberculosis Index case with and without alcohol use in the Puducherry district. A cross-sectional study using ego-centric approach was conducted between November 2023 and May 2024. A total of [...] Read more.
We aimed to compare the proportion of tuberculosis infection among social contacts of male tuberculosis Index case with and without alcohol use in the Puducherry district. A cross-sectional study using ego-centric approach was conducted between November 2023 and May 2024. A total of 713 social contacts of 106 male pulmonary tuberculosis index cases were enrolled, stratified by alcohol-use (AUDIT ≥ 8): 358 contacts from 45 alcohol-using cases and 355 from 61 non-alcohol-use cases. Social contacts were defined based on the frequency and duration of shared indoor exposure with index cases within the past three months. Tuberculosis infection was screened with Cy-Tb skin test (≥5 mm induration) at the third month of index case treatment. Univariate and multivariable analysis were conducted to identify factors associated with tuberculosis transmission. Among the 358 social contacts of alcohol-use index cases, 33.8% (n = 121; 95% CI, 29.1–38.8%) tested positive for tuberculosis infection, significantly higher than 21.7% (n = 77; 95% CI, 17.7–26.3%) among 355 contacts of non-alcohol-use cases. Regression analysis revealed that contacts of alcohol-using index cases (aOR = 1.6, p < 0.05), were significantly associated with tuberculosis infection. Alcohol-use among tuberculosis patients significantly increases the risk of tuberculosis infection in their social networks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tuberculosis Control in Africa and Asia)
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18 pages, 8326 KB  
Article
APAED: Time-Optimized Adaptive Parameter Exponential Decay Algorithm for Crowdsourcing Task Recommendation
by Zhiwei Luo, Yuanyuan Zhang, Qiwen Zhao, Liangyin Chen and Xiaojuan Liu
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(17), 9577; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15179577 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
The explosive growth of tasks on crowdsourcing platforms has intensified information overload, making it difficult for workers to spot lucrative bids; yet mainstream recommenders inherit a user-independence assumption from e-commerce and therefore overlook the real-time competition among workers, which degrades ranking stability and [...] Read more.
The explosive growth of tasks on crowdsourcing platforms has intensified information overload, making it difficult for workers to spot lucrative bids; yet mainstream recommenders inherit a user-independence assumption from e-commerce and therefore overlook the real-time competition among workers, which degrades ranking stability and accuracy. To bridge this gap, we propose the Adaptive Parameter Exponential Decay Algorithm (APAED), which first produces base relevance scores with an offline neural model and then injects a competition-aware exponential decay whose strength is jointly determined by the interquartile range of each worker’s score list (global factor) and the live bid distribution of every task (local factor). This model-agnostic adjustment explicitly quantifies competitive intensity without handcrafted features and can be paired with any backbone recommender. Experiments on a real-world dataset comprising 25,643 tasks and 19,735 workers show that APAED cuts the residual RMSE of HR@10 from 9.575×10−4 to 5.939×10−4 (−38%) and that of MRR from 2.920×10−4 to 0.736×10−4 (−75%), substantially reducing score fluctuations across epochs and consistently outperforming four strong neural baselines. These results confirm that explicitly modeling worker competition yields more accurate and stable task recommendations in crowdsourcing environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Models and Algorithms for Recommender Systems)
20 pages, 6556 KB  
Article
Comprehensive Analysis of Microstructure and Mechanical, Operational, and Technological Properties of AISI 321 Austenitic Stainless Steel at Electron Beam Freeform Fabrication
by Sergey V. Panin, Mengxu Qi, Dmitry Yu. Stepanov, Mikhail V. Burkov, Valery E. Rubtsov, Yury V. Kushnarev and Igor Yu. Litovchenko
Constr. Mater. 2025, 5(3), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/constrmater5030062 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate microstructure and the mechanical and operational characteristics of thick and thin walls 3D-built by electron beam additive manufacturing (EBAM). In addition, the milling parameters (rotation speed, feed, and cutting width) were optimized based on simultaneous [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to investigate microstructure and the mechanical and operational characteristics of thick and thin walls 3D-built by electron beam additive manufacturing (EBAM). In addition, the milling parameters (rotation speed, feed, and cutting width) were optimized based on simultaneous assessments of Ra roughness on the machined surfaces and material removing rate values. The wall dimensions did not exert a noticeable effect on their chemical compositions, as compared with the original wires used for 3D printing. In comparison, the strength characteristics of the wrought steel (cold-rolled plate) were higher due to finer grains, with both ferrite content and dislocation density being greater as well. In the 3D building process, multiple thermal cycles gave rise to the formation of elongated columnar grains, reducing the strength characteristics. The corrosion rate of the wrought steel was almost twice those of the 3D-printed blanks because of the higher content of both ferrite and twins. By assessing the machinability of the EBAM-built blanks using the stationary milling machine, the cutting forces were comparable due to similar mechanical properties (including microhardness). To improve the removing rate values and reduce the cutting forces, it is recommended to enhance the cutting speeds while not increasing the feeds. For the semi-industrial milling machine, both linear multiple regression and nonlinear neural network models were applied. An integrated approach was proposed that rationally determined both additive manufacturing and post-processing parameters based on a combination of express assessment and analysis of the mechanical, operational, and technological characteristics of built products within a single laboratory complex. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mineral and Metal Materials in Civil Engineering)
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20 pages, 9752 KB  
Article
Satellite Remote Sensing Reveals Global Dam Impacts on Riparian Vegetation Dynamics Under Future Climate Scenarios
by Yunlong Liu, Mengxi He, Zhucheng Zhang, Tong Sun, Yanyi Li and Li He
Remote Sens. 2025, 17(17), 3018; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17173018 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
The rapid global expansion of hydropower poses questions about the resilience and sustainability of riparian vegetation, especially in the context of ongoing climate change. Satellite remote sensing provides a valuable means for monitoring long-term and spatially continuous changes in vegetation, offering insights into [...] Read more.
The rapid global expansion of hydropower poses questions about the resilience and sustainability of riparian vegetation, especially in the context of ongoing climate change. Satellite remote sensing provides a valuable means for monitoring long-term and spatially continuous changes in vegetation, offering insights into how dams influence RV dynamics worldwide. Here, we integrated satellite-derived environmental indicators, including Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), to quantify and compare riparian vegetation trends upstream and downstream of dams globally. By applying paired linear regression analyses to pre- and post-construction NDVI time series, we identified dams associated with significant RV degradation following impoundment. Furthermore, we employed Gradient Boosting Regression Models (GBRM), calibrated using current observational data and driven by CMIP6 climate projections, to forecast global riparian vegetation trends through the year 2100 under various climate scenarios. Our analysis reveals that, although widespread vegetation degradation was not evident up to 2017—and many regions showed slight improvements—future projections under higher-emission pathways (SSP3-7.0 and SSP5-8.5) indicate substantial RV declines after 2040, particularly in high-latitude forests, grasslands, and arid regions. Conversely, tropical and subtropical riparian forests are predicted to maintain stable or increasing NDVI under moderate emission scenarios (SSP1-2.6). These results highlight the potential for adaptive dam development strategies supported by continued satellite-based monitoring to help reduce climate-related risks to riparian vegetation in regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Remote Sensing and GIS for Monitoring Land Use Change and Its Ecological Effects)
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20 pages, 3277 KB  
Article
Lifting-Line Predictions for Optimal Dihedral Distributions in Ground Effect
by Amanda K. Olsen, Zachary S. Montgomery and Douglas F. Hunsaker
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(17), 9558; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15179558 (registering DOI) - 30 Aug 2025
Abstract
When a flying wing comes within close proximity to the ground, a phenomenon called ground effect occurs where the lift is increased and the induced drag is decreased. This research seeks to determine the optimal dihedral distribution predicted by lifting-line theory that minimizes [...] Read more.
When a flying wing comes within close proximity to the ground, a phenomenon called ground effect occurs where the lift is increased and the induced drag is decreased. This research seeks to determine the optimal dihedral distribution predicted by lifting-line theory that minimizes induced drag in ground effect. Despite some limitations, using lifting-line theory for this study allows for quick results across a large range of design variables, which would be infeasible for high-fidelity methods. The SLSQP optimization method is used along with a numerical lifting-line code to find the dihedral distribution that minimizes induced drag. Results are presented showing how the wing height, taper ratio, lift coefficient, and aspect ratio impact the induced drag and optimal dihedral distributions. For a given geometry, lifting-line theory predicts that there is a certain height above ground where the optimal solutions for a wing below this height result in bell-shaped wings with large section dihedral angles corresponding to a significant induced-drag reduction. For example, a wing with RA=8 and height of h/b=0.25 can benefit from a reduction in induced drag of nearly 50% by employing an optimal dihedral distribution compared to a wing with no dihedral distribution. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intelligent Systems and Tools for Optimal Design in Mechanical Engineering and Their Practical Applications)
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