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Advertising images constitute an important factor influencing consumer purchase intentions in commercial settings. Drawing on the perspective of self-conscious emotions, this study examines the impact of advertising image types for fresh agricultural products on consumer purchase intentions and explores the underlying mechanisms. Advertising images are classified into three categories: meat-typical, animal-typical, and composite. Evidence from two randomized experiments reveals the following findings: (a) The effectiveness of the three advertising image types in promoting purchase intentions follows the order of meat-typical > animal-typical > composite; (b) guilt mediates the relationship between advertising image types and purchase intentions, such that composite images evoke greater guilt than meat-typical and animal-typical images, thereby reducing consumer willingness to purchase; and (c) self-construal partially moderates the mediating effect of guilt, in that interdependent self-construal consumers exposed to composite advertising images are more likely to experience heightened guilt and consequently exhibit lower purchase intentions. This study extends the application of animal-related classifications in advertising and marketing research and provides new empirical evidence and practical insights for the design of advertising strategies for fresh agricultural products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Consumer Behavior and Food Choice—4th Edition)

36 pages, 1993 KB

Open AccessReview

Energy Communities, Renewables, and Electric Mobility in the Italian Scenario: Opportunities and Limitations in Historic Town Centers

by Muhammad Jawad Ul Hassan, Elisa Belloni, Antonio Faba and Ermanno Cardelli

Energies 2025, 18(22), 5999; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18225999 (registering DOI) - 15 Nov 2025

Abstract

The emergence of energy communities in the energy transition world could be beneficial for sustainable development, particularly in ancient town centers. The interaction between energy groups, renewable energy sources, and electric vehicles in Italy’s historic cities is the primary concern of this work. It examines the potential for these interconnected components to collaborate to revitalize Italian historical sites and ensure their sustainable management. This study focuses on the overall potential of energy communities to boost democracy and energy security, and decrease negative environmental impacts. It is studied by analyzing rules and regulation along with new technologies and changes in society and economy that are affecting the energy sector. This paper focuses on approaches to the application of renewable energy resources and examines electric mobility and its role in realizing ecologically sustainable transportation in cities. It also demonstrates the needs to occur with infrastructures, use rates and policies that must be implemented to get a person to drive electric cars around historic districts. This improves the management’s capacity to implement an easy transition to low carbon because, related to energy production and consumption, techniques of comprehensive planning should be adopted. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Renewable Energy Communities and Smart Grids: Building Loads and Renewables, Development of Optimization and Management Algorithms)

60 pages, 7411 KB

Open AccessArticle

An Integrated Methodology for Novel Algorithmic Modeling of Non-Spherical Particle Terminal Settling Velocities and Comprehensive Digital Image Analysis

by Kaan Yetilmezsoy, Fatih Ilhan and Emel Kıyan

Water 2025, 17(22), 3268; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17223268 (registering DOI) - 15 Nov 2025

Abstract

Accurate prediction of settling velocities for irregular particles offers significant advantages in various fields, including more efficient water/wastewater treatment, environmental pollution control, industrial productivity, and sustainable resource utilization. These predictions are essential for advancing sustainable hydraulic engineering and environmental management. In this study, a new algorithmic modeling framework was proposed to estimate the terminal settling velocity of irregularly shaped particles/materials. The framework integrates advanced non-linear regression techniques with robust optimization methods. The model successfully incorporated seven key input parameters to construct a comprehensive mathematical representation of the settling process. The proposed explicit model demonstrates superior prediction accuracy compared to existing empirical and drag correlation models. The model’s validity was confirmed using a large and morphologically diverse dataset of 86 irregular materials and rigorously evaluated using an extensive battery of statistical goodness-of-fit parameters. The developed model is a robust and highly accurate tool for predicting the settling behavior of non-spherical particles in the transition flow regime. Beyond its technical merits, the model could offer significant sustainability benefits by enhancing the design and optimization of wastewater treatment systems. More precise predictions of non-spherical particle settling behavior could improve sedimentation or particle removal efficiency, potentially reducing energy consumption and mitigating adverse environmental impacts on industrial waste management and aquatic ecosystem preservation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mathematical Models of Fluid Dynamics)

19 pages, 9551 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrative Multi-Omics Analyses Reveal the Global Regulation Network of the Microalga Nannochloropsis oceanica Under Nitrogen Stress Adaptation

by Wuxin You, Can Xu, Jingyi Zhang and Ansgar Poetsch

Biology 2025, 14(11), 1599; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14111599 (registering DOI) - 15 Nov 2025

Abstract

Microalgae of the genus Nannochloropsis are known for their ability to accumulate large amounts of lipids, particularly triacylglycerides (TAGs), when exposed to nitrogen-limiting conditions. This trait makes them promising candidates for biofuel production. While previous studies have used transcriptomics and metabolomics to explore how these organisms respond to nutrient stress, the role of post-translational modifications—especially protein phosphorylation—remains poorly understood. To address this gap, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of protein phosphorylation events in Nannochloropsis oceanica under both nitrogen-replete and nitrogen-depleted conditions over a time-course experiment. Using mass spectrometry-based phosphoproteomics, we identified 1371 phosphorylation sites across 884 proteins. Temporal clustering of these phosphorylation events revealed two distinct regulatory phases: an early response aimed at conserving nitrogen resources, and a later phase that promotes lipid accumulation. Notably, we identified 11 phosphorylated proteins associated with the Target of Rapamycin (TOR) signaling pathway, suggesting that this conserved regulatory network plays a key role in coordinating the cellular response to nitrogen deficiency. By integrating our phosphoproteomic result with previously published transcriptomic and metabolomic datasets, we provide a more complete view of how N. oceanica adapts to nitrogen stress at the molecular level. This systems-level approach highlights the importance of protein phosphorylation in regulating metabolic shifts and offers new insights into engineering strategies for enhancing lipid production in microalgae. Full article

20 pages, 848 KB

Open AccessArticle

The COX Pathway Alters Hematopoiesis in Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

by Karolina Wrońska, Maciej Ziętek, Magdalena Marciniak and Małgorzata Szczuko

Cells 2025, 14(22), 1796; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells14221796 (registering DOI) - 15 Nov 2025

Abstract

Introduction: There is limited data in the literature on the effect of prostaglandins (PG) and thromboxanes (TX) on the development and severity of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis (HT). This article aimed to analyze the association between blood count and the cyclooxygenase (COX) pathway in 39 women with HT. Methods: Biochemical analysis of PGE2 and TXB2 was performed using liquid chromatography (HPLC). Results: Morphological abnormalities were found in the women studied, particularly with regard to white blood cell parameters. An increase in thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) was associated with significantly higher levels of monocytes (p = 0.041). Correlations were also noted between the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) with TXB2 and PGE2. Furthermore, a very strong correlation was demonstrated for the first time between antibodies against tissue transglutaminase (anti-tTG) and antibodies against thyroglobulin (ATG) (r = 0.781; p = 0.007). Correlations between blood count and eicosanoids were also demonstrated. Conclusions: The results suggest the involvement of COX products in the pathogenesis of HT and hematopoiesis; therefore, this study may contribute not only to advancing knowledge, but also to developing new guidelines for diagnosing and treating autoimmune diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of T Cells and Cellular Signalling in Immune Diseases)

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16 pages, 772 KB

Open AccessReview

Applications of Fibronectin in Biomedicine and Cosmetics: A Review

by Yuan Wang, Qirong Zhang, Xiandong Zhou, Dingshan Yang, Lin Xiao, Wenlan Xie, Huaping Zheng, Shuiwei Ye, Chaoqing Deng, Yong Cheng, Peng Shu and Qi Xiang

Bioengineering 2025, 12(11), 1249; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering12111249 (registering DOI) - 15 Nov 2025

Abstract

Fibronectin (FN) is a key mechanoresponsive glycoprotein within the extracellular matrix (ECM) that contributes to the assembly of a dynamic fibrillar network that is important for maintaining tissue structure and mediating cellular signaling. In this review, we delineate the molecular mechanisms underlying FN’s role in barrier restoration, ECM remodeling, and stem cell niche regulation, functions that inform its applications in both regenerative medicine and cosmetic science. In biomedical contexts, FN is recognized as a valuable biomarker for numerous diseases, a promising therapeutic target, and a functional component of biomedical material matrices. FN is involved throughout the skin repair process, making it a physiologically active ingredient for cosmetic anti-aging treatments, alleviating sensitive skin conditions, and enhancing cutaneous immunity. This review also addresses significant translational challenges associated with FN research, including recombinant protein production and rational peptide design, and suggests avenues for future work. Ultimately, studies on FN highlight the complexity of ECM biology and lay the groundwork for innovative approaches to advancing human health and developing new cosmetic treatments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biochemical Engineering)

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19 pages, 1788 KB

Open AccessArticle

Fermentation of Common Nettle Extracts by Ligilactobacillus salivarius: New Avenue for the Development of Added-Value Bioactive Products

by Mihajlo Bogdanović, Ana Žugić, Vanja Tadić, Nemanja Krgović, Dragana Mladenović and Aleksandra Djukić-Vuković

Foods 2025, 14(22), 3905; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14223905 (registering DOI) - 15 Nov 2025

Abstract

The medicinal plants industry generates approximately 30 million tons of by-products annually, most of which remain underutilized. The common nettle (Urtica dioica L., Urticaceae) is a valuable medicinal plant, rich in polyphenols, vitamins, and essential fatty acids, widely used in food and pharmaceutical applications. Its by-products still lack sustainable valorization strategies. This study aimed to valorize nettle tea by-products and flowers using green extraction techniques and microbial biotransformation. Lyophilized aqueous/ethanolic extracts were fermented with Ligilactobacillus salivarius ATCC 11741 to assess whether fermentation could enhance the content and bioavailability of phenolic compounds while maintaining probiotic viability. The results showed that fermentation significantly increased phenolic content and antioxidant activity, with chlorogenic acid concentrations increasing up to 4-fold and caffeic acid derivatives up to 2.5-fold. L. salivarius remained viable during fermentation, demonstrating the potential for the production of added-value extracts and probiotic biomass. These findings indicate that nettle by-products can be efficiently converted into functional ingredients through low-energy, environmentally friendly processes, supporting sustainable production and waste valorization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Probiotics: Health Benefits in Relation to Gut Microbiota and Functional Food Applications)

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14 pages, 910 KB

Open AccessArticle

The First CRISPR-Based Therapeutic (SL_1.52) for African Swine Fever Is Effective in Swine

by Naveen Verma, Alison O’Mahony, Roky Mohammad, Dylan Keiser, Craig W. Mosman, Deric Holden, Kristen Starr, Jared Bauer, Bradley Bauer, Roypim Suntisukwattana, Waranya Atthaapa, Angkana Tantituvanont, Dachrit Nilubol and Douglas P. Gladue

Viruses 2025, 17(11), 1504; https://doi.org/10.3390/v17111504 - 14 Nov 2025

Abstract

African swine fever virus (ASFV) is a high-consequence pathogen that causes African swine fever (ASF), for which mortality rates can reach 90–100%, with death typically occurring within 14 days. ASF is currently a highly contagious pandemic disease responsible for extensive losses in pig production in multiple affected countries suffering from extended outbreaks. While a limited number of vaccines to prevent ASF are in use in south-east Asia, vaccines are not widely available, are only effective against highly homologous strains of ASFV, and must be used prior to an outbreak on a farm. Currently, there is no treatment for ASF and culling affected farms is the only response to outbreaks on farms to try and prevent spreading. CRISPR/Cas systems evolved as an adaptive immune response in bacteria and archaea that function by cleaving and disrupting the genomes of invading bacteriophage pathogens. CRISPR technology has since been leveraged into an array of endonuclease-based systems used for nucleic acid detection, targeting, genomic cleavage, and gene editing, making them particularly well-suited for development as sequence-specific therapeutic modalities. The programmability of CRISPR-based therapeutics offers a compelling new way to rapidly and specifically target pathogenic viral genomes simply by using different targeting guide RNAs (gRNA) as an adaptable antiviral modality. Here, we demonstrate for the first time a specific CRISPR/Cas9 multiplexed gRNA system that targets the African swine fever viral genome, resulting in sequence-specific cleavage, leading to the reduction in the viral load in infected animals, and subsequent recovery from an otherwise lethal dose of ASFV. Moreover, animals that recovered had protective immunity to subsequent homologous ASFV infection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Viral Diseases of Livestock and Diagnostics, 2nd Edition)

20 pages, 1011 KB

Open AccessReview

In Vitro Culture of Avian Primordial Germ Cells: Established Methods and Future Directions

by Jehan Nayga, Elen Gócza, Eszter Várkonyi and Bence Lázár

Biology 2025, 14(11), 1597; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14111597 - 14 Nov 2025

Abstract

Primordial germ cells (PGCs) are the unipotent precursors of sperm and ova, responsible for transmitting hereditary information across generations. Their ability to be isolated and cultured in vitro has opened new horizons for avian biotechnology, species conservation, and fundamental developmental research. In birds, the unique migratory pattern of PGCs—originating in the epiblast and traveling via the bloodstream to the gonads—enables their collection and manipulation during embryogenesis. Long-term in vitro culture systems have been successfully established in chickens, where defined media allow for stable proliferation and genetic modification. Applications include germline chimeras, generation of transgenic lines, recombinant protein production, and cryobanking of genetic resources. However, translating these advances to other species remains challenging due to interspecies variability in signaling requirements. Recent work in geese, ducks, quails, and zebra finches underscores the need for tailored media formulations and a better understanding of molecular regulation. This review summarizes established techniques, highlights key interspecies differences, and outlines future directions for the standardization and expansion of avian PGC culture systems to support conservation and biotechnology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biotechnology)

31 pages, 2051 KB

Open AccessArticle

IMAGINE Personalities: Augmenting Digital Character Workflows Using Motion Capture, Wearable Sensors, and Live Coding

by Dimitris Baltas, Anthie Kolokotroni, Katerina Malisova, Marina Stergiou, Giorgos Nikopoulos, Vilelmini Kalampratsidou, Alexandros Zarmakoupis, Martin Carle, Katerina El-Raheb, Iannis Zannos, Lori Kougioumtzian, Anastasios Theodoropoulos, Panagiotis Kyriakoulakos, Modestos Stavrakis and Spyros Vosinakis

Sensors 2025, 25(22), 6976; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25226976 - 14 Nov 2025

Abstract

This study examines how emerging sensor-based technologies can augment the personality expression of digital characters across multiple media. While digital animation and games have traditionally relied on movement to convey traits, the integration of motion capture, wearable biosensors, and live coding introduces new opportunities for dynamic, embodied character design. Drawing on the MONOLOVE saga, we developed four prototypes across animation, games, interactive performance, and interactive networked environments. Central to our approach is the Wheel of Personality model, a structured taxonomy that organizes expressive parameters into four categories: Character Structure, Motion–Action, Interaction, and Environment. Each prototype was designed to explore how these categories, mediated through sensor technologies, contribute to the perception of personality traits. An evaluation with 14 participants from diverse backgrounds employed questionnaires and interviews to assess the alignment between intended and perceived character traits. The results show that movement and interaction were consistently identified as the most influential cues, while the impact of environmental factors varied across media. Additional influences included narration and the personality of the audience, underscoring the interpretive nature of perception. We conclude that personality expression emerges from the interplay of multimodal cues and context, offering methodological insights and frameworks for designing expressive and emotionally resonant digital characters in trans-media productions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Wearables)

16 pages, 551 KB

Open AccessReview

A Review of Guerbet Alcohols and Their Esters: Synthesis, Applications, and Future Perspectives

by María Claudia Montiel, Salvadora Ortega-Requena, María Gómez, María Dolores Murcia, Fuensanta Máximo and Josefa Bastida

Materials 2025, 18(22), 5180; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18225180 - 14 Nov 2025

Abstract

Guerbet alcohol esters are compounds with specific properties that make them particularly suitable for use as cosmetic ingredients, plasticizers, or biolubricants. Guerbet alcohols are used for their synthesis. These are primary alcohols with beta branching and a lower melting point than their linear counterparts. Due to the branching, the products are liquid at lower temperatures, have good volatility, and exhibit better color and oxidation stability. This paper presents a systematic literature review on the synthesis and applications of Guerbet alcohol esters. Finally, emphasis is placed on the future of these synthesis processes, which could be based on the use of biocatalysts, thus promoting the application of new environmentally friendly procedures. Full article

17 pages, 2415 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamic Monitoring Method of Polymer Injection Molding Product Quality Based on Operating Condition Drift Detection and Incremental Learning

by Guancheng Shen, Sihong Li, Yun Zhang, Huamin Zhou and Maoyuan Li

Polymers 2025, 17(22), 3025; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17223025 - 14 Nov 2025

Abstract

Prediction models for polymer injection molding quality often degrade due to shifts in operating conditions caused by variations in melting temperature, cooling efficiency, or machine conditions. To address this challenge, this study proposes a drift-aware dynamic quality-monitoring framework that integrates hybrid-feature autoencoder (HFAE) drift detection, sliding-window reconstruction error analysis, and a mixed-feature artificial neural network (ANN) for online quality prediction. First, shifts in processing parameters are rigorously quantified to uncover continuous drifts in both input and conditional output distributions. A HFAE monitors reconstruction errors within a sliding window to promptly detect anomalous deviations. Once the drift index exceeds a predefined threshold, the system automatically triggers a drift-event response, including the collection and labeling of a small batch of new samples. In benchmark tests, this adaptive scheme outperforms static models, achieving a 35.4% increase in overall accuracy. After two incremental updates, the root-mean-squared error decreases by 42.3% across different production intervals. The anomaly detection rate falls from 0.86 to 0.09, effectively narrowing the distribution gap between training and testing sets. By tightly coupling drift detection with online model adaptation, the proposed method not only maintains high-fidelity quality predictions under dynamically evolving injection molding conditions but also demonstrates practical relevance for large-scale industrial production, enabling reduced rework, improved process stability, and lower sampling frequency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Processing and Engineering)

29 pages, 1669 KB

Open AccessReview

Organic Acid Production by Yeast Yarrowia lipolytica: A Review of the Last Five Years of Research

by Svetlana V. Kamzolova

Fermentation 2025, 11(11), 646; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation11110646 - 14 Nov 2025

Abstract

The commercial significance of organic acids is extremely high. Due to their chemical properties, organic acids can be used both as building blocks and as individual compounds with enormous annual production. Traditionally, organic acids are obtained from fossil sources through chemical synthesis. However, the most promising approach is microbial synthesis, which yields a product characterized by high purity and a conformational composition similar to the natural substance. This review presents the latest publications (based on search results from 2020 to the present) on the production of organic acids by the yeast Yarrowia lipolytica. In recent years, the combined efforts of microbiologists, physiologists, biochemical engineers, and biotechnologists have led to increases in the titer, yield, and productivity of well-studied “old” acids (citric, succinic, α-ketoglutaric, etc.), as well as the discovery of “new” acids (adipic, 3-hydroxypropionic, L-malic) previously unexplored in Y. lipolytica. Furthermore, the possibility of using alternative substrates as carbon sources increases the attractiveness of producing organic acids by Y. lipolytica in accordance with the principles of a circular economy. The results described here may be useful to the scientific community and stimulate new research in the field of organic acid production in the near future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Yarrowia lipolytica: A Beneficial Yeast as a Biofactory for Biotechnological Applications: 3rd Edition)

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18 pages, 3213 KB

Open AccessArticle

Strains of Aureobasidium pullulans from Extreme Environments: New Potential Biocontrol Agents?

by Martina Lucci, Nataliia Khomutovska, Giuseppe Firrao and Alessandra Di Francesco

Microorganisms 2025, 13(11), 2596; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13112596 - 14 Nov 2025

Abstract

Extreme environments are a largely unexplored reservoir of microbial diversity, with a remarkable potential to be exploited in agriculture. One hundred and seventeen yeast isolates, derived from different ecosystems in Italy, Sweden, Algeria, and France, were molecularly identified, and the most represented genus was Aureobasidium (57%). A phylogenetic analysis based on a multi-locus sequence typing (ITS, ELO, EF-1alpha) was conducted to characterize the black yeasts’ population. To investigate A. pullulans extremophilic and extremotolerant behaviour, different temperatures and pH, together with the enzymatic production, were evaluated. The strains were tested by in vitro and in vivo assays against the postharvest fungal pathogen Monilinia fructicola as potential biocontrol agents (BCAs). Results displayed a great ecological variability concerning strains’ growth and cell production depending on different culture conditions. However, a remarkable thermotolerance aptitude was detected in almost all the strains. In particular, the strains belonging to Group 2 (Algerian Desert) and 3 (Alto Adige Region) showed, respectively, higher thermotolerance and biocontrol ability. These findings showed how some extreme environments could represent a promising source for new potential BCAs. However, further studies are needed to investigate the mechanisms of action of these putative BCAs for application during the postharvest phase. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity and Applications of Yeasts: Food, Plant and Human Health)

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21 pages, 1485 KB

Open AccessArticle

Potential of Single-Cell Protein as Novel Biosorbents for the Removal of Heavy Metals from Seawater

by Chiara Maraviglia, Silvio Matassa, Alessandra Cesaro and Francesco Pirozzi

Water 2025, 17(22), 3253; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17223253 - 14 Nov 2025

Abstract

This study aimed to explore innovative sorbent materials for the remediation of contaminated marine environments, with a focus on metal removal from seawater. Adsorption tests were carried out to evaluate the performance of single-cell proteins (SCPs), a protein-rich biomass derived from industrial by-products, in comparison with commercial activated carbon (AC). Given the increasing need for sustainable and effective approaches in sediment remediation and water treatment, identifying alternatives to conventional sorbents is of particular relevance. Results showed that SCPs exhibited higher affinity for Cr than for Zn, while multi-metal solutions improved adsorption, suggesting synergistic interactions possibly linked to surface charge effects and ternary complex formation. Importantly, SCPs demonstrated competitive and, in some cases, superior performance compared to AC, highlighting their potential as an innovative and sustainable material. Moreover, when the absorbent materials were combined, SCP and AC mixes outperformed both the individual adsorbents and the expected additive efficiencies, achieving significantly higher removal yields for both metals, particularly at low concentrations. Overall, these findings suggest that SCPs, alone or in combination with AC, represent a promising strategy for the removal of heavy metals from marine systems, offering new opportunities for the treatment of contaminated sediments and seawater. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Soil/Sediment Remediation and Wastewater Treatment)

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