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Systemic inflammation plays a key role in cancer progression, and markers such as neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) have gained attention as potential prognostic tools in colorectal cancer. However, their comparative utility in colon cancer remains unclear. Objective: This study was aimed to assess and compare the prognostic value of preoperative NLR and PLR in evaluating tumor aggressiveness in colon cancer patients undergoing elective surgery. Methods: We conducted a retrospective observational study on 64 patients with histologically confirmed colon cancer treated between 2019 and 2022. Only elective cases were included; rectal and emergency surgeries were excluded. Demographic, clinical, pathological, and laboratory data were collected. Tumor aggressiveness was assessed based on tumor size, histologic grade, lymphovascular and perineural invasion, and lymph node involvement. Statistical analysis included Pearson correlation, ANCOVA, logistic regression, and principal component analysis (PCA). Results: PLR showed a significant positive correlation with tumor size (r = 0.428, p < 0.001) and tumor stage (r = 0.314, p = 0.012), whereas NLR did not. Logistic regression and PCA indicated that PLR better reflected tumor burden, while NLR was more associated with systemic inflammation. Neither marker significantly predicted postoperative complications or in-hospital mortality. Conclusions: PLR may serve as a useful, non-invasive biomarker for assessing tumor aggressiveness in colon cancer, supporting its integration into preoperative risk stratification. The results from this single-center, retrospective cohort showed moderate associations between PLR and tumor size and stage, whereas NLR did not. These findings are hypothesis-generating and insufficient for clinical implementation; prospective, adequately powered studies with survival endpoints are required. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Oncology)

28 pages, 2142 KB

Open AccessArticle

Synthesis and Antimicrobial Evaluation of Chroman-4-One and Homoisoflavonoid Derivatives

by Carlos d. S. M. Bezerra Filho, José L. F. M. Galvão, Edeltrudes O. Lima, Yunierkis Perez-Castillo, Yendrek Velásquez-López and Damião P. de Sousa

Molecules 2025, 30(17), 3575; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30173575 (registering DOI) - 31 Aug 2025

Abstract

The continuous increase in microbial resistance to therapeutic agents has become one of the greatest challenges to global health. In this context, the present study investigated the bioactivity of 25 chroman-4-one and homoisoflavonoid derivatives—17 of which are novel—against pathogenic microorganisms, including Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella enteritidis, Candida albicans, C. tropicalis, Nakaseomyces glabratus (formerly C. glabrata), Aspergillus flavus, and Penicillium citrinum. Antimicrobial assay was performed using the microdilution technique in 96-well microplates to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). Thirteen compounds exhibited antimicrobial activity, with compounds 1, 2, and 21 demonstrating greater potency than the positive control, especially against Candida species. Molecular modeling suggested distinct mechanisms of action in Candida albicans: 1 potentially inhibits cysteine synthase, while 2 and 21 possibly target HOG1 kinase and FBA1, key proteins in fungal virulence and survival. Our findings indicated that the addition of alkyl or aryl carbon chains at the hydroxyl group at position 7 reduces antimicrobial activity, whereas the presence of methoxy substituents at the meta position of ring B in homoisoflavonoids enhances bioactivity. These findings highlight key structural features of these compound classes, which may aid in the development of new bioactive agents against pathogenic microorganisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Harnessing Nature’s Chemical Diversity: Innovations in Isolation, Identification, and Synthesis)

18 pages, 649 KB

Open AccessArticle

Creative and Critical Thinking and Modelling: Confluences and Implications for Science Teaching

by Marta Gómiz-Aragón, María del Mar Aragón-Méndez, Rui Marques Vieira, Celina Tenreiro-Vieira and José María Oliva

J. Intell. 2025, 13(9), 111; https://doi.org/10.3390/jintelligence13090111 (registering DOI) - 31 Aug 2025

Abstract

Contemporary society demands the development of creative critical thinking (CCT) as a fundamental objective in science education. However, there appears to be a dissonance between this recognised need and its actual implementation in educational practices. This study explores the potential of modelling practices to intentionally, explicitly, and reflectively integrate the development of CCT in educational settings. To examine this possibility while laying the foundations for future research, the theoretical frameworks of CCT and modelling are synthesised, and their possible points of convergence are analysed in order to test the proposed hypothesis. Two elements that may strengthen their synergy are identified: first, the resources for modelling, such as analogies, which activate analytical, evaluative, creative, and argumentative skills, thereby fostering critical dispositions and a deeper understanding of the nature of science. Second, argumentation, closely connected with communication and information management, is considered a relevant component, especially when addressing socioscientific issues. While further empirical research is needed, the analysis indicates that modelling practices could contribute to the development of CCT. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Formation and Evaluation of Critical and Creative Thinking for Good Personal, Academic and Professional Performance in These New Times)

27 pages, 833 KB

Open AccessArticle

Loneliness and Emotional and Externalizing Problems in Early Adolescence: Moderating and Mediating Effects of Coping Skills

by Sharmila Vaz, Reinie Cordier, Annette Joosten, Mandie Shean, Robert Kane, Melissa H. Black, Karen Martin, Natasha Pearce and Kevin Runions

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 1192; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15091192 (registering DOI) - 31 Aug 2025

Abstract

Loneliness is an unavoidable facet of human existence. When chronic and intense, adolescent loneliness is associated with maladjustment over time. A prospective multiple-cohort study examined the links between child-reported loneliness and coping skills and parent-rated child mental health in early adolescence (aged 11.9 years at Time 1; 12.9 years at Time 2), with a total of 266 students from 75 primary and 152 secondary schools. Results indicated that (i) boys and girls did not differ in their levels of loneliness; (ii) boys reported poorer coping, fewer emotional problems, and more externalizing problems than girls; (iii) loneliness in primary school predicted increases in emotional and externalizing problems over time; (iv) problem-solving and non-productive coping mediated the associations between loneliness and emotional problems and externalizing problems; and (v) reference to others’ coping moderated the association between loneliness and emotional problems. Findings suggest that loneliness may potentially erode positive coping mechanisms over time. This study emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing the impact of loneliness on early-adolescent mental health. Full article

13 pages, 1221 KB

Open AccessArticle

Long-Term Genomic Surveillance and Immune Escape of SARS-CoV-2 in the Republic of Korea, with a Focus on JN.1-Derived Variants

by Il-Hwan Kim, Eun Ju Lee, Jin Sun No, Ji Yeong Noh, Chae Young Lee, Sang Won O, Yong Jun Choi, Jeong-Ah Kim, Bo Min An, Jeong-Hyun Nam, Jeong-Min Kim, Jee Eun Rhee and Eun-Jin Kim

Viruses 2025, 17(9), 1202; https://doi.org/10.3390/v17091202 (registering DOI) - 31 Aug 2025

Abstract

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Republic of Korea has experienced continuous waves of SARS-CoV-2 variants. The current study aimed to analyze the long-term trends of variant prevalence and associated changes in immune responses within the country. Whole-genome sequencing was performed on confirmed patient samples collected from December 2020 to May 2025, and variant distribution, genetic diversity, and neutralization were compared. As a result of analyzing a total of 157,962 gene sequences, various Omicron sub-lineages, including BA.1, BA.2, BA.5, followed by JN.1, KP.3, and NB.1.8.1, were seen to circulate sequentially over time. The nucleotide diversity of the SARS-CoV-2 genome gradually increased after the JN.1 outbreak. Of the tested variants, hamster antiserum neutralization analysis indicated that Omicron NB.1.8.1, which began to circulate in 2025, exhibited the lowest neutralization activity, with an approximately 6.6-fold decrease compared to JN.1. This suggests a potential expansion in the dominance of new variants with enhanced immune evasion. As the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 continues, new variants with novel characteristics may emerge; therefore, continuous national genomic surveillance and immunological characterization are considered crucial for early detection of emerging variants and for guiding effective public health responses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Coronaviruses)

39 pages, 10524 KB

Open AccessArticle

Ecballium elaterium (L.) A. Rich. (Squirting Cucumber) Plants Cultured Under Different Temperatures: Anatomical and Biochemical Modifications of Their Leaves and the Bioactivity of Leaf Extracts

by Aikaterina L. Stefi, Maria Chalkiadaki, Emily Bashari, Konstantina Mitsigiorgi, Paweł Szczeblewski, Danae Papageorgiou, Dimitrios Gkikas, Dido Vassilacopoulou, Nikolaos S. Christodoulakis and Maria Halabalaki

Metabolites 2025, 15(9), 585; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo15090585 (registering DOI) - 31 Aug 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Ecballium elaterium is a widely distributed species and is one of the earliest recorded in traditional medicine. With global temperatures rising, this study aimed to investigate the changes in E. elaterium plantlets subjected to thermal stress. The goal was to understand how thermal stress affects morphology, physiology, and bioactive metabolite production, both for ecological adaptation and potential therapeutic applications. Methods: Seedlings were cultivated under controlled conditions and subjected to either the control temperature (22 °C) or the heat stress temperature (35 °C) for one week. Morphological and anatomical traits were assessed, along with physiological parameters such as chlorophyll content, malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), L-proline, soluble sugars, and total phenolic content. Methanolic leaf extracts from both groups were analyzed via LC-HRMS/MS and examined in vitro for cytotoxic activity against three human cancer cell lines: MCF-7 (breast), DU-145 (prostate), and SH-SY5Y (neuroblastoma). Results: Heat stress reduced dry mass and stomatal density but increased the diameter of the root transition zone, indicating anatomical adaptation. Leaves exhibited elevated oxidative stress markers and altered metabolite accumulation, while the roots showed a more integrated stress response. LC-HRMS/MS profiling revealed significant shifts in Cucurbitacin composition. Extracts from heat-stressed plants displayed stronger cytotoxicity, particularly toward DU-145 and SH-SY5Y cells, correlating with higher levels of glycosylated Cucurbitacins. Conclusions: E. elaterium demonstrates organ-specific thermotolerance mechanisms, with heat stress enhancing the production of bioactive metabolites. These stress-induced phytochemicals, especially Cucurbitacins, hold promise for future cancer research and therapeutic applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Metabolism)

22 pages, 882 KB

Open AccessReview

Repurposing Metformin in Precision Oncology: Mechanistic Insights, Biomarker-Guided Strategies, and Translational Imperatives

by Shehla Shafi Khan, Imran Rashid Rangraze, Adil Farooq Wali, Malay Jhancy, Rasha Aziz Attia, Hesham Amin Hamdy Elshamly, Shukri Adam and Rana Aly Mohamed Elbeshbeishy

Medicina 2025, 61(9), 1577; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61091577 (registering DOI) - 31 Aug 2025

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Metformin, a staple in diabetes care, has recently emerged as a candidate chemotherapeutic agent. In vitro studies suggest that metformin inhibits cancer growth by altering cellular metabolism and enhancing immune responses. Clinical observations further indicate that it suppresses key tumor-promoting pathways such as mTOR and STAT3. This review critically evaluates the therapeutic potential of metformin in oncology through the lens of precision medicine. This review integrates evidence from molecular mechanisms, clinical studies, biomarker-driven trial designs, and the regulatory challenges that continue to delay its approval for oncologic use. Methods: A structured literature search (2015–2025) identified 63 relevant studies, including preclinical, clinical, and translational research. Conclusions: Although metformin shows consistent anticancer effects in laboratory and animal models, its clinical benefits in patients are variable. This inconsistency is likely due to tumor heterogeneity and a lack of biomarker-based patient selection in trials. Targeting these shortcomings through biomarker-enriched, tumor-specific clinical trials is essential to define metformin’s role as a repurposed agent in precision oncology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Oncology)

16 pages, 2908 KB

Open AccessArticle

Pharmacoepigenomic Impact of Antihypertensive Drugs on miRNome and Proteome and Its Potential Influence on Health and Side Effects

by Samyukta Bhass and Moinak Banerjee

Cells 2025, 14(17), 1359; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells14171359 (registering DOI) - 31 Aug 2025

Abstract

Antihypertensive drugs are widely used for the treatment of hypertension, and the choice of drug and dosage is based on trial and error. The variability in drug response and adverse reactions leads to the poor adherence to treatment. Epigenetic modulation is one of the major mechanisms that may contribute to the variability in drug responses, and microRNAs (miRNAs) can serve as crucial epigenetic regulators and have also been reported to be associated with hypertension pathogenesis. The objective of this study is to investigate the regulatory effects of commonly used antihypertensive drugs on the endothelial miRNome in human aortic endothelial cells. We aim to integrate miRNA expression data with proteomic analyses to elucidate drug-induced molecular mechanisms relevant to hypertension treatment. Whole genome small RNA sequencing was performed, followed by whole proteome analysis using LC-MS/MS comparing between control and treated samples. The treatments induced significant differential regulation of several miRNAs and proteins; among these, a few reflected reverse relationships with miRNA regulation and protein expression. Certain miRNAs and their corresponding target proteins seem to distinguish between good therapeutic outcomes and potential side effects. This study unravels the potential role of drug-induced miRNAs in inducing post-transcriptional modifications to cause the differential expression of certain proteins that may induce not only therapeutic effects or drug side effects but can also indicate the potential for drug-repurposing in other diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Developments in Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Approaches to Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases)

27 pages, 5798 KB

Open AccessArticle

Bioengineered Chitosan–Collagen–Honey Sponges: Physicochemical, Antibacterial, and In Vitro Healing Properties for Enhanced Wound Healing and Infection Control

by David Servín de la Mora-López, Leticia Olivera-Castillo, Jaime López-Cervantes, Dalia I. Sánchez-Machado, Jesús Fernando Ayala-Zavala, Herlinda Soto-Valdez and Tomás J. Madera-Santana

Polymers 2025, 17(17), 2379; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17172379 (registering DOI) - 31 Aug 2025

Abstract

Bacterial-mediated infections represent a major risk factor for chronic wounds. Numerous polymeric dressings have been proposed to reduce this incidence and promote wound healing. In the present investigation, chitosan/collagen/honey-based sponges were prepared by freeze-drying. The effect of honey incorporation at different concentrations on the physicochemical and antibacterial properties of the sponges was evaluated. The SEM images showed that the surface and cross-sections of all samples had a porous structure. The pore size gradually increased in the range of 78.14 to 126.9 μm due to the increase in honey content in the sponges. This property resulted in considerably higher porosity degrees (79.90–90.13%) and absorption rates (ranges of 1357–1665% in deionized water and 865–1938% in PBS solution) in honey-loaded systems. Conversely, the honey composite formulations exhibited a reduction in permeability, with WVTR values ranging from 131.01 to 99.39 gh⁻¹m⁻² and values of WVP from 0.3255 to 0.2118 gm⁻¹d⁻¹mm Hg⁻¹. The mechanical properties showed that adding honey made the sponges more flexible (12.49–7.95% MPa) but decreased elongation rates in the sponges (16.36–7.56%) due to higher pore heterogeneity. The antibacterial tests indicated that all treatments had inhibitory effects against S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, E. coli, and L. monocytogenes. The results from cells viability assays and in vitro healing models using human keratinocytes demonstrate that chitosan/collagen/honey sponges represent a potential alternative for applications such as wound dressings to help treat skin ulcers. The physicochemical, antibacterial, and biocompatibility properties of chitosan/collagen/honey sponges indicated their potential as a promising alternative for clinical use. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development and Application of Polymer Scaffolds, 2nd Volume)

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25 pages, 5543 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comprehensive Evaluation of Urban Storm Flooding Resilience by Integrating AHP–Entropy Weight Method and Cloud Model

by Zhangao Huang and Cuimin Feng

Water 2025, 17(17), 2576; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17172576 (registering DOI) - 31 Aug 2025

Abstract

To address urban flooding challenges exacerbated by climate change and urbanization, this study develops an integrated assessment framework combining the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), entropy weight method, and cloud model to quantify urban flood resilience. Resilience is deconstructed into resistance, adaptability, and recovery and evaluated through 24 indicators spanning water resources, socio-economic systems, and ecological systems. Subjective (AHP) and objective (entropy) weights are optimized via minimum information entropy, with the cloud model enabling qualitative–quantitative resilience mapping. Analyzing 2014–2024 data from 27 Chinese sponge city pilots, the results show resilience improved from “poor to average” to “good to average”, with a 2.89% annual growth rate. Megacities like Beijing and Shanghai excel in resistance and recovery due to infrastructure and economic strengths, while cities like Sanya enhance resilience via ecological restoration. Key drivers include water allocation (27.38%), economic system (18.41%), and social system (17.94%), with critical indicators being population density, secondary industry GDP ratio, and sewage treatment rate. Recommendations emphasize upgrading rainwater storage, intelligent monitoring networks, and resilience-oriented planning. The model offers a scientific foundation for urban disaster risk management, supporting sustainable development. This approach enables systematic improvements in adaptive capacity and recovery potential, providing actionable insights for global flood-resilient urban planning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Water and Stormwater Networks: Modelling and Pollutant Degradation, 2nd Edition)

32 pages, 7267 KB

Open AccessArticle

Solar PV Potential Assessment of Urban Typical Blocks via Spatial Morphological Quantification and Numerical Simulation: A Case Study of Jinan, China

by Yanqiu Cui, Hangyue Zhang and Hongbin Cai

Buildings 2025, 15(17), 3115; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15173115 (registering DOI) - 31 Aug 2025

Abstract

With rapid urbanization, rooftop photovoltaic (PV) systems play an important role in mitigating the energy crisis and reducing emissions, yet achieving scientific and cost-effective deployment at the urban block scale remains challenging. This study proposes a transferable framework that integrates spatial morphology quantification, clustering, and numerical simulation to evaluate PV potential in residential blocks of Jinan, China. Six key morphological indicators were extracted through principal component analysis (PCA), and blocks were classified into five typical types, followed by simulations under different PV material scenarios. The main findings are: (1) Block type differences: Cluster 1 achieved the highest annual generation, 61.76% above average, but with a 75.08% cost increase and a 3.54-year payback. Clusters 4 and 5 showed moderate generation and the shortest payback of 2.91–2.97 years, reflecting better energy–economic balance. (2) PV materials: monocrystalline silicon (m-Si) yielded the highest generation, suitable for maximizing output; polycrystalline silicon (p-Si) produced slightly less but reduced costs by 32.43% and shortened payback by 19.58%, favoring cost-sensitive scenarios. (3) Seasonal variation: PV output peaked in February–March and September–December, requiring priority in grid operation and maintenance. The proposed framework can serve as a useful reference for planners in developing PV deployment strategies, with good transferability and potential for wider application, thereby contributing to urban energy transition and low-carbon sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)

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23 pages, 2560 KB

Open AccessArticle

LC-HRMS/MS-Guided Profiling and Biological Evaluation of Stachys duriaei Extracts: Anticancer and Vasorelaxant Mechanisms via Apoptosis and Endothelium-Dependent Pathways

by Racha Lydia Bouchouka, Zahia Kabouche, Marie Defondaumière, Marlène Debiossat, Catherine Ghezzi, Laurent Riou, Tarek H. Taha, Fehmi Boufahja, Hamdi Bendif and Stefania Garzoli

Molecules 2025, 30(17), 3570; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30173570 (registering DOI) - 31 Aug 2025

Abstract

Stachys duriaei (Lamiaceae) remains unexplored despite its pharmacological potential. In this study, for the first time, the antiproliferative, pro-apoptotic, cell cycle arrest, and vasorelaxant effects of the n-butanolic extract (BESD) and a VLC fraction (BF1SD) of Stachys duriaei were investigated. Antiproliferative activity was evaluated on PC3 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines via MTT assay (72 h). Apoptosis (Annexin V-FITC/PI) and cell cycle arrest (PI/RNase) were assessed by flow cytometry (24 h, 250–1000 µg/mL). Vasorelaxant effects were studied ex vivo on rat aortic rings. LC-HRMS/MS was used for phytochemical analysis. BESD showed higher antiproliferative activity (IC₅₀: 196 ± 6 µg/mL for PC3, 182 ± 8 µg/mL for MDA-MB-231) than BF1SD (IC₅₀: 281 ± 6 µg/mL and 273 ± 3 µg/mL, respectively). Apoptosis was dose-dependent, with BF1SD displaying a stronger effect at 1000 µg/mL (67.3 ± 0.5% vs. 49.9 ± 0.7% for BESD). BESD induced G2/M arrest, while BF1SD caused G0/G1 and G2/M arrest. Vasorelaxation was endothelium-dependent, likely mediated by NO. Identified compounds (hyperoside, luteolin-7-glucoside, and rutin) may contribute to these effects. BESD and BF1SD exhibit anticancer and vasorelaxant properties, indicating potential therapeutic use against cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Further studies are needed to isolate active compounds and confirm their effects in vivo. Full article

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22 pages, 2438 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Soil Microplastics and Their Relation to Soil and Terrain Attributes Under Different Land Uses

by John Jairo Arévalo-Hernández, Eduardo Medeiros Severo, Angela Dayana Barrera de Brito, Diego Tassinari and Marx Leandro Naves Silva

AgriEngineering 2025, 7(9), 281; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriengineering7090281 (registering DOI) - 31 Aug 2025

Abstract

The assessment of microplastics (MPs) in terrestrial ecosystems has garnered increasing global attention due to their accumulation and migration in soils, which may have potential impacts on soil health, biodiversity, and agricultural productivity. However, research on their distribution and interactions in soil remains limited, especially in tropical regions. This study aimed to characterize MPs extracted from tropical soil samples and relate their abundance to soil and terrain attributes under different land uses (forest, grassland, and agriculture). Soil samples were collected from an experimental farm in Lavras, Minas Gerais, Southeastern Brazil, to determine soil physical and chemical attributes and MP abundance in a micro-watershed. These locations were also used to obtain terrain attributes from a digital elevation model and the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). The majority of microplastics found in all samples were identified as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and vinyl polychloride (PVC). The spatial distribution of MP was rather heterogeneous, with average abundances of 3826, 2553, and 3406 pieces kg⁻¹ under forest, grassland, and agriculture, respectively. MP abundance was positively related to macroporosity and sand content and negatively related to clay content and most chemical attributes. Regarding terrain attributes, MP abundance was negatively correlated with plan curvature, convergence index, and vertical distance to channel network, and positively related to topographic wetness index. These findings indicate that continuous water fluxes at both the landscape and soil surface scales play a key role, suggesting a tendency for higher MP accumulation in lower-lying areas and soils with greater porosity. These conditions promote MP transport and accumulation through surface runoff and facilitate their entry into the soil. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Bioresource and Bioprocess Engineering)

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29 pages, 1283 KB

Open AccessReview

Progress on Research and Application of Energy and Power Systems for Inland Waterway Vessels: A Case Study of the Yangtze River in China

by Yanqi Liu, Yichao He, Junjie Liang, Yanlin Cao, Zhenming Liu, Chaojie Song and Neng Zhu

Energies 2025, 18(17), 4636; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18174636 (registering DOI) - 31 Aug 2025

Abstract

This study focuses on the power systems of inland waterway vessels in Chinese Yangtze River, systematically outlining the low-carbon technology pathways for different power system types. A comparative analysis is conducted on the technical feasibility, emission reduction potential, and economic viability of LNG, methanol, ammonia, pure electric and hybrid power systems, revealing the bottlenecks hindering the large-scale application of each system. Key findings indicate that: (1) LNG and methanol fuels offer significant short-term emission reductions in internal combustion engine power systems, yet face constraints from methane slip and insufficient green methanol production capacity, respectively; (2) ammonia enables zero-carbon operations but requires breakthroughs in combustion stability and synergistic control of NO_X; (3) electric vessels show high decarbonization potential, but battery energy density limits their range, while PEMFC lifespan constraints and SOFC thermal management deficiencies impede commercialization; (4) hybrid/range-extended power systems, with superior energy efficiency and lower retrofitting costs, serve as transitional solutions for existing vessels, though challenged by inadequate energy management strategies and multi-equipment communication protocol interoperability. A phased transition pathway is proposed: LNG/methanol engines and hybrid systems dominate during 2025–2030; ammonia-powered systems and solid-state batteries scale during 2030–2035; post-2035 operations achieve zero-carbon shipping via green hydrogen/ammonia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section K: State-of-the-Art Energy Related Technologies)

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36 pages, 4298 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Robust Collaborative Optimization of Multi-Microgrids and Shared Energy Storage in a Fraudulent Environment

by Haihong Bian and Kai Ji

Energies 2025, 18(17), 4635; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18174635 (registering DOI) - 31 Aug 2025

Abstract

In the context of the coordinated operation of microgrids and community energy storage systems, achieving optimal resource allocation under complex and uncertain conditions has emerged as a prominent research focus. This study proposes a robust collaborative optimization model for microgrids and community energy storage systems under a game-theoretic environment where potential fraudulent behavior is considered. A multi-energy collaborative system model is first constructed, integrating multiple uncertainties in source-load pricing, and a max-min robust optimization strategy is employed to improve scheduling resilience. Secondly, a game-theoretic model is introduced to identify and suppress manipulative behaviors by dishonest microgrids in energy transactions, based on a Nash bargaining mechanism. Finally, a distributed collaborative solution framework is developed using the Alternating Direction Method of Multipliers and Column-and-Constraint Generation to enable efficient parallel computation. Simulation results indicate that the framework reduces the alliance’s total cost from CNY 66,319.37 to CNY 57,924.89, saving CNY 8394.48. Specifically, the operational costs of MG1, MG2, and MG3 were reduced by CNY 742.60, CNY 1069.92, and CNY 1451.40, respectively, while CES achieved an additional revenue of CNY 5130.56 through peak shaving and valley filling operations. Furthermore, this distributed algorithm converges within 6–15 iterations and demonstrates high computational efficiency and robustness across various uncertain scenarios. Full article

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