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20 pages, 3646 KiB  
Article
A Meta-Learner Based on the Combination of Stacking Ensembles and a Mixture of Experts for Balancing Action Unit Recognition
by Andrew Sumsion and Dah-Jye Lee
Electronics 2025, 14(13), 2665; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14132665 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
Facial action units (AUs) are used throughout animation, clinical settings, and robotics. AU recognition usually works better for these downstream tasks when it achieves high performance across all AUs. Current facial AU recognition approaches tend to perform unevenly across all AUs. Among other [...] Read more.
Facial action units (AUs) are used throughout animation, clinical settings, and robotics. AU recognition usually works better for these downstream tasks when it achieves high performance across all AUs. Current facial AU recognition approaches tend to perform unevenly across all AUs. Among other potential reasons, one cause is their focus on improving the overall average F1 score, where good performance on a small number of AUs increases the overall average F1 score even with poor performance on other AUs. Building on our previous success, which achieved the highest average F1 score, this work focuses on improving its performance across all AUs to address this challenge. We propose a mixture of experts as the meta-learner to combine the outputs of an explicit stacking ensemble. For our ensemble, we use a heterogeneous, negative correlation, explicit stacking ensemble. We introduce an additional measurement called Borda ranking to better evaluate the overall performance across all AUs. As indicated by this additional metric, our method not only maintains the best overall average F1 score but also achieves the highest performance across all AUs on the BP4D and DISFA datasets. We also release a synthetic dataset as additional training data, the first with balanced AU labels. Full article
19 pages, 580 KiB  
Article
Fault Detection System for Smart City Distribution Networks: A Long Short-Term Memory-Based Approach
by A. Herrada, C. Orozco-Henao, Juan Diego Pulgarín Rivera, J. Mora-Flórez and J. Marín-Quintero
Energies 2025, 18(13), 3453; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18133453 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
One of the primary goals of smart cities is to enhance the welfare and comfort of their citizens. In this context, minimizing the time required to detect fault events becomes a crucial factor in improving the reliability of distribution networks. Fault detection presents [...] Read more.
One of the primary goals of smart cities is to enhance the welfare and comfort of their citizens. In this context, minimizing the time required to detect fault events becomes a crucial factor in improving the reliability of distribution networks. Fault detection presents a notable challenge in the operation of Smart City Distribution Networks (SCDN) due to complex operating conditions, such as changes in the network topology, the connection and disconnection of distributed energy resources (DERs), and varying microgrid operation modes, all of which can impact the reliability of protection systems. To address these challenges, this paper proposes a fault detection system based on Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), leveraging instantaneous local current measurements. This approach eliminates the need for voltage signals, synchronization processes, and communication systems for fault detection. On the other hand, LSTM methods enable the implicit extraction of features from current signals and classifies normal operation and fault events through a binary classification formulation. The proposed fault detector was validated on several intelligent electronic devices (IED) deployed in the modified IEEE 34-node test system. The obtained results demonstrate that the proposed detector achieves a 90% accuracy in identifying faults using instantaneous current values as short as 1/4 of a cycle. The results obtained and its easy implementation indicate potential for real-life applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section F: Electrical Engineering)
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24 pages, 688 KiB  
Review
A Review of the Diagnostic Approaches for the Detection of Antimicrobial Resistance, Including the Role of Biosensors in Detecting Carbapenem Resistance Genes
by Kaily Kao and Evangelyn C. Alocilja
Genes 2025, 16(7), 794; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes16070794 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a rapidly growing global concern resulting from the overuse of antibiotics in both agricultural and clinical settings, the lack of surveillance for resistant bacteria, and the low quality of some available antimicrobial agents. Resistant pathogens are no longer susceptible [...] Read more.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a rapidly growing global concern resulting from the overuse of antibiotics in both agricultural and clinical settings, the lack of surveillance for resistant bacteria, and the low quality of some available antimicrobial agents. Resistant pathogens are no longer susceptible to common clinical antimicrobials, which decreases the effectiveness of medicines used to treat infections caused by these organisms. Carbapenems are an important class of antibiotics due to their broad-spectrum effectiveness in treating infections caused by Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms. Carbapenem-resistant bacteria have been found not only in healthcare but also in the environment and food supply chain, where they have the potential to spread to pathogens and infect humans and animals. Current methods of detecting AMR genes are expensive and time-consuming. While these methods, like polymerase chain reactions or whole-genome sequencing, are considered the “gold standard” for diagnostics, the development of inexpensive, rapid diagnostic assays is necessary for effective AMR detection and management. Biosensors have shown potential for success in diagnostic testing due to their ease of use, inexpensive materials, rapid results, and portable nature. Biosensors can be combined with nanomaterials to produce sensitive and easily interpretable results. This review presents an overview of carbapenem resistance, current and emerging detection methods of antimicrobial resistance, and the application of biosensors for rapid diagnostic testing for bacterial resistance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mobile Genetic Elements and Microbial Multidrug Resistance)
23 pages, 4615 KiB  
Review
Ductile–Brittle Transition Mechanism and Dilute Solution Softening Effect of Body-Centered Cubic Metals
by Jie Zhang, Tianliang Zhao, Tingping Hou, Yan Li and Kaiming Wu
Metals 2025, 15(7), 743; https://doi.org/10.3390/met15070743 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
Body-centered cubic (BCC) metals, extensively utilized in low-alloy high-strength steels and heat-resistant alloys, exhibit a pronounced ductile–brittle transition (DBT) at cryogenic temperatures, marked by a well-defined yet narrow ductile–brittle transition temperature (DBTT) window. This paper overviews the research progress regarding the DBT mechanism [...] Read more.
Body-centered cubic (BCC) metals, extensively utilized in low-alloy high-strength steels and heat-resistant alloys, exhibit a pronounced ductile–brittle transition (DBT) at cryogenic temperatures, marked by a well-defined yet narrow ductile–brittle transition temperature (DBTT) window. This paper overviews the research progress regarding the DBT mechanism of BCC metals. This mechanism was recently found to be related to the mobility of screw dislocation relative to edge dislocation, a decrease in which can induce a critical drop in the proliferation efficiency of dislocation sources. Furthermore, this paper summarizes the current research on the dilute solution softening effect of BCC metals, which has been frequently observed and studied in refractory alloys. The mechanism of this effect involves the low-temperature mobility of screw dislocations that could be promoted by specific solute atoms through kink pair nucleation. This offers a potential strategy for reducing the DBTT of low-alloy steels using a dilute solution, namely microalloying in metallurgy. However, the current understanding of the relationship between the macroscopic ductility of BCC alloys and the dilute solution softening effect is limited. This review aimed to draw attention to this relationship and strengthen related research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Insights into Mechanical Properties of Metallic Alloys)
15 pages, 698 KiB  
Article
Basic Research on the Adsorption Capacity and Enhancement of Bamboo Charcoal for the Prevention of Nitrate Groundwater Pollution
by Nur Maisarah Mohamad Sarbani, Hiroyuki Harada, Mitsuru Aoyagi, Jun Nishimoto and Seiichiro Yonemura
Water 2025, 17(13), 1979; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17131979 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
Pollution of soil and groundwater by chemical fertilizers is an alarming environmental problem. Both bamboo powder and charcoal are known to adsorb nitrates. This study aimed to recommend an effective method by applying a mixture of chemical fertilizers and bamboo charcoal to soil [...] Read more.
Pollution of soil and groundwater by chemical fertilizers is an alarming environmental problem. Both bamboo powder and charcoal are known to adsorb nitrates. This study aimed to recommend an effective method by applying a mixture of chemical fertilizers and bamboo charcoal to soil to prevent NO3 leaching through adsorption. Magnesium treatment and hydrogelation were investigated to increase the amount of NO3 adsorption and improve handling properties, and subsequently, their behavior in soil was examined. The maximum adsorption of nitrate in bamboo charcoal powder (BC) with a particle size of 15 µm or less was 4.44 mg/g. When the BC was treated with magnesium chloride (Mg-BC), the maximum adsorption capacity was 99.09 mg/g. The Langmuir adsorption model fits well for both BC and Mg-BC. When Mg-BC was hydrogelized (Gel-Mg-BC), the Freundlich equation provided a better fit, with the maximum adsorption estimated at 25–30 mg/g. When the soil was mixed with Mg-BC hydrogel and treated with a nitric acid solution, the nitrate concentration in the leachate decreased by approximately 15–60% (depending on the feed concentration) compared to that in the leachate from the soil alone. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adsorption Technologies in Wastewater Treatment Processes)
16 pages, 779 KiB  
Article
A Supervisory Control Framework for Fatigue-Aware Wake Steering in Wind Farms
by Yang Shen, Jinkui Zhu, Peng Hou, Shuowang Zhang, Xinglin Wang, Guodong He, Chao Lu, Enyu Wang and Yiwen Wu
Energies 2025, 18(13), 3452; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18133452 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
Wake steering has emerged as a promising strategy to mitigate turbine wake losses, with existing research largely focusing on the aerodynamic optimization of yaw angles. However, many prior approaches rely on static look-up tables (LUTs), offering limited adaptability to real-world wind variability and [...] Read more.
Wake steering has emerged as a promising strategy to mitigate turbine wake losses, with existing research largely focusing on the aerodynamic optimization of yaw angles. However, many prior approaches rely on static look-up tables (LUTs), offering limited adaptability to real-world wind variability and leading to non-optimal results. More importantly, these energy-focused strategies overlook the mechanical implications of frequent yaw activities in pursuit of the maximum power output, which may lead to premature exhaustion of the yaw system’s design life, thereby accelerating structural degradation. This study proposes a supervisory control framework that balances energy capture with structural reliability through three key innovations: (1) upstream-based inflow sensing for real-time capture of free-stream wind, (2) fatigue-responsive optimization constrained by a dynamic actuation quota system with adaptive yaw activation, and (3) a bidirectional threshold adjustment mechanism that redistributes unused actuation allowances and compensates for transient quota overruns. A case study at an offshore wind farm shows that the framework improves energy yield by 3.94%, which is only 0.29% below conventional optimization, while reducing yaw duration and activation frequency by 48.5% and 74.6%, respectively. These findings demonstrate the framework’s potential as a fatigue-aware control paradigm that balances energy efficiency with system longevity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wind Turbine Wakes and Wind Farms)
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18 pages, 4502 KiB  
Article
Two-to-One Trigger Mechanism for Event-Based Environmental Sensing
by Nursultan Daupayev, Christian Engel and Sören Hirsch
Sensors 2025, 25(13), 4107; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25134107 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
Environmental monitoring systems often operate continuously, measuring various parameters, including carbon dioxide levels (CO2), relative humidity (RH), temperature (T), and other factors that affect environmental conditions. Such systems are often referred to as smart systems because they can autonomously monitor and [...] Read more.
Environmental monitoring systems often operate continuously, measuring various parameters, including carbon dioxide levels (CO2), relative humidity (RH), temperature (T), and other factors that affect environmental conditions. Such systems are often referred to as smart systems because they can autonomously monitor and respond to environmental conditions and can be integrated both indoors and outdoors to detect, for example, structural anomalies. However, these systems typically have high energy consumption, data overload, and large equipment sizes, which makes them difficult to install in constrained spaces. Therefore, three challenges remain unresolved: efficient energy use, accurate data measurement, and compact installation. To address these limitations, this study proposes a two-to-one threshold sampling approach, where the CO2 measurement is activated when the specified T and RH change thresholds are exceeded. This event-driven method avoids redundant data collection, minimizes power consumption, and is suitable for resource-constrained embedded systems. The proposed approach was implemented on a low-power, small-form and self-made multivariate sensor based on the PIC16LF19156 microcontroller. In contrast, a commercial monitoring system and sensor modules based on the Arduino Uno were used for comparison. As a result, by activating only key points in the T and RH signals, the number of CO2 measurements was significantly reduced without loss of essential signal characteristics. Signal reconstruction from the reduced points demonstrated high accuracy, with a mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.0089 and root mean squared error (RMSE) of 0.0117. Despite reducing the number of CO2 measurements by approximately 41.9%, the essential characteristics of the signal were saved, highlighting the efficiency of the proposed approach. Despite its effectiveness in controlled conditions (in buildings, indoors), environmental factors such as the presence of people, ventilation systems, and room layout can significantly alter the dynamics of CO2 concentrations, which may limit the implementation of this approach. Future studies will focus on the study of adaptive threshold mechanisms and context-dependent models that can adjust to changing conditions. This approach will expand the scope of application of the proposed two-to-one sampling technique in various practical situations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Sensor Systems for Environmental Applications)
15 pages, 1511 KiB  
Article
Ferrocenyl Substituted Stannanethione and Stannaneselone
by Keisuke Iijima, Koh Sugamata and Takahiro Sasamori
Molecules 2025, 30(13), 2826; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30132826 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
Heavier element analogues of a ketone, a C=O double-bond compound, have been fascinating compounds from the viewpoint of main-group element chemistry because of their unique structural features and reactivity as compared with those of a ketone, which plays an important role in organic [...] Read more.
Heavier element analogues of a ketone, a C=O double-bond compound, have been fascinating compounds from the viewpoint of main-group element chemistry because of their unique structural features and reactivity as compared with those of a ketone, which plays an important role in organic chemistry. We will report here the synthesis of diorgano-stannanethione and stannaneselone featuring tin–chalcogen double bonds, which are the heavy-element analogues of a ketone. The newly obtained stannaneselone has been structurally characterized by spectroscopic analyses and single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SC-XRD) analysis, showing the short Sn–Se bond length featuring π-bond character. The obtained bis(ferrocenyl)stannanechalcogenones were found to undergo [2+4]cycloaddition reactions with 2,3-dimethyl-1,3-butadiene, affording the corresponding six-membered ring compound. Notably, thermolysis of the [2+4]cycloadduct of the stannaneselone regenerated the stannaneselone via the retro[2+4]cycloaddition, whereas the sulfur analogue was thermally very stable. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inorganic Chemistry in Asia)
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18 pages, 2503 KiB  
Article
Defect Identification and Diagnosis for Distribution Network Electrical Equipment Based on Fused Image and Voiceprint Joint Perception
by An Chen, Junle Liu, Silin Liu, Jinchao Fan and Bin Liao
Energies 2025, 18(13), 3451; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18133451 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
As the scale of distribution networks expand, existing defect identification methods face numerous challenges, including limitations in single-modal feature identification, insufficient cross-modal information fusion, and the lack of a multi-stage feedback mechanism. To address these issues, we first propose a joint perception of [...] Read more.
As the scale of distribution networks expand, existing defect identification methods face numerous challenges, including limitations in single-modal feature identification, insufficient cross-modal information fusion, and the lack of a multi-stage feedback mechanism. To address these issues, we first propose a joint perception of image and voiceprint features based on bidirectional coupled attention, which enhances deep interaction across modalities and overcomes the shortcomings of traditional methods in cross-modal fusion. Secondly, a defect identification and diagnosis method of distribution network electrical equipment based on two-stage convolutional neural networks (CNN) is introduced, which makes the network pay more attention to typical and frequent defects, and enhances defect diagnosis accuracy and robustness. The proposed algorithm is compared with two baseline algorithms. Baseline 1 is a long short term memory (LSTM)-based algorithm that performs separate feature extraction and processing for image and voiceprint signals without coupling the features of the two modalities, and Baseline 2 is a traditional CNN algorithm that uses classical convolutional layers for feature learning and classification through pooling and fully connected layers. Compared with two baselines, simulation results demonstrate that the proposed method improves accuracy by 12.1% and 33.7%, recall by 12.5% and 33.1%, and diagnosis efficiency by 22.92% and 60.42%. Full article
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23 pages, 3342 KiB  
Article
Differential Mechanical and Biological Contributions to Bone Mass Distribution—Insights from a Computational Model of the Human Femur
by Feliciano Franco, Carlos Borau, José Di Paolo and Marcelo Berli
Mathematics 2025, 13(13), 2156; https://doi.org/10.3390/math13132156 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
Bone density distribution in the human femur is significantly influenced by mechanical forces that drive bone remodeling in response to physical demands. This study aims to assess how effectively mechanical factors alone explain femoral bone mass distribution and to identify areas where additional, [...] Read more.
Bone density distribution in the human femur is significantly influenced by mechanical forces that drive bone remodeling in response to physical demands. This study aims to assess how effectively mechanical factors alone explain femoral bone mass distribution and to identify areas where additional, non-mechanical influences may be required. We used a computational bone remodeling model to compare outcomes under two initial conditions: a uniform density distribution and one derived from tomographic imaging. Both conditions experienced identical mechanical loading, with the remodeling process simulated via finite element methods. Results demonstrated that mechanical loading substantially contributes to shaping bone density, but certain structural aspects, notably incomplete cortical bone formation in simulations starting from uniform density, suggest the involvement of other factors. The model also highlighted specific regions susceptible to bone loss under disuse scenarios, such as prolonged inactivity or microgravity. Our findings emphasize the need to incorporate non-mechanical factors and realistic initial conditions into computational models to enhance their applicability for personalized medical analyses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Biological Systems with Mathematics)
66 pages, 6945 KiB  
Review
Towards Resilient Cities: Systematic Review of the Literature on the Use of AI to Optimize Water Harvesting and Mitigate Scarcity
by Victor Martin Maldonado Benitez, Oswaldo Morales Matamoros and Jesús Jaime Moreno Escobar
Water 2025, 17(13), 1978; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17131978 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
This article develops a systematic literature review with a focus on the optimization of water harvesting through the use of artificial intelligence (AI) applications. These are framed in the search for sustainable solutions to the growing problem of water scarcity in urban environments. [...] Read more.
This article develops a systematic literature review with a focus on the optimization of water harvesting through the use of artificial intelligence (AI) applications. These are framed in the search for sustainable solutions to the growing problem of water scarcity in urban environments. The analysis is oriented towards urban resilience and smart water management, incorporating interdisciplinary approaches such as systems thinking to understand the complex dynamics involved in water governance. The results indicate a growing trend in the utilisation of AI in various domains, including demand forecasting, leak detection, and catchment infrastructure optimization. Additionally, the findings suggest its application in water resilience modelling and adaptive urban planning. The text goes on to examine the challenges associated with the integration of technology in urban contexts, including the critical aspects of governance and regulation of AI, water consumption, energy and carbon emissions from the use of this technology, as well as the regulation of water management in digital transformation scenarios. The study identifies the most representative patents that combat the problem, and in parallel proposes lines of research aimed at strengthening the water resilience and sustainability of cities. The strategic role of AI as a catalyst for innovation in the transition towards smarter, more integrated and adaptive water management systems is also highlighted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Stormwater Harvesting, and Wastewater Treatment and Reuse)
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25 pages, 1159 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Sustainable Development Goals (2016–2030) and Their Integration into Tourism Activities in Lago Agrio Canton, Sucumbíos Province: SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 15 (Life on Land)
by Patricia Marisol Chango-Cañaveral, Pablo Alejandro Quezada-Sarmiento and Valeria Jaqueline Morales-Herrera
Sustainability 2025, 17(13), 6023; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17136023 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
This study analyzes the integration of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and 15 (Life on Land) into the tourism development strategies of Lago Agrio Canton, Sucumbíos Province, Ecuador. The main objective is to assess how tourism can serve as [...] Read more.
This study analyzes the integration of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and 15 (Life on Land) into the tourism development strategies of Lago Agrio Canton, Sucumbíos Province, Ecuador. The main objective is to assess how tourism can serve as a driver for sustainable infrastructure development, environmental conservation, and inclusive local growth, in alignment with the 2030 Agenda. A qualitative methodology was adopted, involving documentary analysis with exploratory and descriptive scopes. The sources included national development plans, regional policy frameworks, institutional reports, and the relevant academic literature. This study employed territorial indicators related to infrastructure quality, ecosystem protection, and stakeholder participation to evaluate SDG alignment. The results highlight that sustainable tourism practices—particularly those incorporating corporate social responsibility and environmental stewardship—can stimulate innovation and enhance resilience in underdeveloped territories. Wetlands and forested areas emerge as key natural assets with strong potential for ecological tourism and sustainable investment. The findings suggest that collaborative actions between the public and private sectors, guided by SDGs 9 and 15, can generate long-term benefits, including biodiversity preservation, improved service infrastructure, and economic inclusion for local communities. Overall, the research underscores the potential of sustainable tourism as a practical mechanism for localizing the SDGs in fragile yet high-value ecological regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Learning Environments and Sustainable Development)
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17 pages, 1620 KiB  
Article
An Investigation of Channeling Identification for the Thermal Recovery Process of Horizontal Wells in Offshore Heavy Oil Reservoirs
by Renfeng Yang, Taichao Wang, Lijun Zhang, Yabin Feng, Huiqing Liu, Xiaohu Dong and Wei Zheng
Energies 2025, 18(13), 3450; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18133450 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
The development of inter-well channeling pathways has become a major challenge restricting the effectiveness of the thermal recovery process for heavy oil reservoirs, which leads to non-uniform sweep and reduced oil recovery. This is especially true for the characteristics of the higher injection–production [...] Read more.
The development of inter-well channeling pathways has become a major challenge restricting the effectiveness of the thermal recovery process for heavy oil reservoirs, which leads to non-uniform sweep and reduced oil recovery. This is especially true for the characteristics of the higher injection–production intensity in offshore operations, making the issue more prominent. In this study, a quick and widely applicable approach is proposed for channeling identification, utilizing the static reservoir parameters and injection–production performance. The results show that the cumulative injection–production pressure differential (CIPPD) over the cumulative water equivalent (CWE) exhibits a linear relationship when connectivity exists between the injection and production wells. Thereafter, the seepage resistance could be analyzed quantitatively by the slope of the linear relationship during the steam injection process. Simultaneously, a channeling identification chart could be obtained based on the data of injection–production performance, dividing the steam flooding process into three different stages, including the energy recharge zone, interference zone, and channeling zone. Then, the established channeling identification chart is applied to injection–production data from two typical wells in the Bohai oilfield. From the obtained channeling identification chart, it is shown that Well X1 exhibits no channeling, while Well X2 exhibited channeling in the late stage of the steam flooding process. These findings are validated against the field performance (i.e., the liquid rate, water cut, flowing temperature, and flowing pressure) to confirm the accuracy. The channeling identification approach in this paper provides a guide for operational adjustments to improve the effect of the thermal recovery process in the field. Full article
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18 pages, 1026 KiB  
Article
Trans-p-Coumaryl Alcohol as a Bioactive Compound and Anti-Inflammatory Agent in Wannachawee Recipe for Psoriasis
by Supreeya Tantipat, Kongkiat Trisuwan, Phraepakaporn Kunnaja, Seewaboon Sireeratawong, Surapol Natakankitkul, Surasak Imiam and Sunee Chansakaow
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(7), 864; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17070864 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Wannachawee recipe (WCR) has been listed in the Hospital Traditional Medicine Formulary and has been used as a Thai medicine to treat psoriasis in the Thai Traditional Medicine Clinic of Prapokklao Hospital since 2006. Previous reports have found that WCR demonstrates [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Wannachawee recipe (WCR) has been listed in the Hospital Traditional Medicine Formulary and has been used as a Thai medicine to treat psoriasis in the Thai Traditional Medicine Clinic of Prapokklao Hospital since 2006. Previous reports have found that WCR demonstrates good results for the treatment of patients with psoriasis. Among 136 Thai psoriasis patients who received WCR, 92.80% responded well. Although WCR is effective, there is still a lack of scientific data, especially relating to the bioactive compound in WCR. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the phytochemicals in WCR via bioassay-guided isolation. Methods: In this study, the WCR was extracted via decoction with water, in a process based on traditional Thai medicine. The water extract was concentrated and dried using a spray dryer. The crude water extract was isolated using the partition technique with organic solvents, namely petroleum ether and ethyl acetate. These fractions were then separated and tested for anti-inflammatory activity using the bioassay-guided fractionation method. Results: Two particular types of pro-inflammatory cytokines are involved in inflammation and are among the factors that cause psoriasis—TNF-α and IL-6. Thus, we evaluated the isolated samples in terms of anti-inflammatory activity. The isolation resulted in two pure compounds—p-coumaryl aldehyde and trans-p-coumaryl alcohol. In the efficacy test of the isolated compounds, compared to the standard indomethacin at the same concentration of 12.5 ug/mL, trans-p-coumaryl alcohol was found to have the best efficacy, inhibiting TNF-α by 29.28% and IL-6 by 36.75%, with the standard compound showing inhibitions rates of 15.80% for TNF-α and 27.44% for IL-6. Conclusions: This study is the first report to identify the bioactive compound of WCR as trans-p-coumaryl alcohol or 4-hydroxycinnamyl alcohol. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Pharmaceuticals Focused on Anti-inflammatory Activities)
31 pages, 930 KiB  
Article
A Narrative Review on Key Values Indicators of Millimeter Wave Radars for Ambient Assisted Living
by Maria Gardano, Antonio Nocera, Michela Raimondi, Linda Senigagliesi and Ennio Gambi
Electronics 2025, 14(13), 2664; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14132664 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
The demographic shift toward an aging population calls for innovative strategies to ensure independence, health, and quality of life in later years. In this context, Ambient Assisted Living (AAL) solutions, supported by Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), offer promising advances for non-invasive and [...] Read more.
The demographic shift toward an aging population calls for innovative strategies to ensure independence, health, and quality of life in later years. In this context, Ambient Assisted Living (AAL) solutions, supported by Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), offer promising advances for non-invasive and continuous support. Commonly, ICTs are evaluated only from the perspectives related to key performance indicators (KPIs); nevertheless, the design and implementation of such technologies must account for important psychological, social, and ethical dimensions. Radar-based sensing systems are emerging as an option due to their unobtrusive nature and capacity to operate without direct user interaction. This work explores how radar technologies, particularly those operating in the millimeter wave (mmWave) spectrum, can provide core key value indicators (KVIs) essential to aging societies, such as human dignity, trustworthiness, fairness, and sustainability. Through a review of key application domains, the paper illustrates the practical contributions of mmWave radar in aal contexts, underlining how its technical attributes align with the complex needs of elderly care environments and produce value for society. This work uniquely integrates key value indicator (KVI) frameworks with mmWave radar capabilities to address unmet ethical needs in the aal domain. It advances existing literature by proposing a value-driven design approach that directly informs technical specifications, enabling the alignment of engineering choices with socially relevant values and supporting the development of technologies for a more inclusive and ethical society. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assistive Technology: Advances, Applications and Challenges)
12 pages, 5616 KiB  
Article
An Algorithm for the Conditional Distribution of Independent Binomial Random Variables Given the Sum
by Kelly Ayres and Steven E. Rigdon
Mathematics 2025, 13(13), 2155; https://doi.org/10.3390/math13132155 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
We investigate Metropolis–Hastings (MH) algorithms to approximate the distribution of independent binomial random variables conditioned on the sum. Let XiBIN(ni,pi). We want the distribution of [...] Read more.
We investigate Metropolis–Hastings (MH) algorithms to approximate the distribution of independent binomial random variables conditioned on the sum. Let XiBIN(ni,pi). We want the distribution of [X1,,Xk] conditioned on X1++Xk=n. We propose both a random walk MH algorithm and an independence sampling MH algorithm for simulating from this conditional distribution. The acceptance probability in the MH algorithm always involves the probability mass function of the proposal distribution. For the random walk MH algorithm, we take this distribution to be uniform across all possible proposals. There is an inherent asymmetry; the number of moves from one state to another is not in general equal to the number of moves from the other state to the one. This requires a careful counting of the number of possible moves out of each possible state. The independence sampler proposes a move based on the Poisson approximation to the binomial. While in general, random walk MH algorithms tend to outperform independence samplers, we find that in this case the independence sampler is more efficient. Full article
18 pages, 1683 KiB  
Article
Towards Explainable Graph Embeddings for Gait Assessment Using Per-Cluster Dimensional Weighting
by Chris Lochhead and Robert B. Fisher
Sensors 2025, 25(13), 4106; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25134106 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
As gaitpathology assessment systems improve both in accuracy and efficiency, the prospect of using these systems in real healthcare applications is becoming more realistic. Although gait analysis systems have proven capable of detecting gait abnormalities in supervised tasks in laboratories and clinics, there [...] Read more.
As gaitpathology assessment systems improve both in accuracy and efficiency, the prospect of using these systems in real healthcare applications is becoming more realistic. Although gait analysis systems have proven capable of detecting gait abnormalities in supervised tasks in laboratories and clinics, there is comparatively little investigation into making such systems explainable to healthcare professionals who would use gait analysis in practice in home-based settings. There is a “black box” problem with existing machine learning models, where healthcare professionals are expected to “trust” the model making diagnoses without understanding its underlying reasoning. To address this applicational barrier, an end-to-end pipeline is introduced here for creating graph feature embeddings, generated using a bespoke Spatio-temporal Graph Convolutional Network and per-joint Principal Component Analysis. The latent graph embeddings produced by this framework led to a novel semi-supervised weighting function which quantifies and ranks the most important joint features, which are used to provide a description for each pathology. Using these embeddings with a K-means clustering approach, the proposed method also outperforms the state of the art by between 4.53 and 16% in classification accuracy across three datasets with a total of 14 different simulated gait pathologies from minor limping to ataxic gait. The resulting system provides a workable improvement to at-home gait assessment applications by providing accurate and explainable descriptions of the nature of detected gait abnormalities without need of prior labeled descriptions of detected pathologies. Full article
25 pages, 956 KiB  
Review
Use, Risk and Revalorization of Veterinary Antibiotics: A Canadian Perspective
by Laurence Auger, Linda Saucier, Marie-Lou Gaucher, Grant W. Vandenberg, Antony T. Vincent, Alexandre Thibodeau and Marie-Hélène Deschamps
Antibiotics 2025, 14(7), 665; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14070665 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
The extensive use of veterinary antibiotics in livestock production is a growing concern, particularly in terms of environmental sustainability and health security. This review presents the case of veterinary antibiotic use and regulations in Canada before exploring a potential novel avenue for agricultural [...] Read more.
The extensive use of veterinary antibiotics in livestock production is a growing concern, particularly in terms of environmental sustainability and health security. This review presents the case of veterinary antibiotic use and regulations in Canada before exploring a potential novel avenue for agricultural antibiotics waste up-cycling. The impact of the widespread use of antibiotics in animal husbandry is reviewed, and the dissemination routes of antibiotic residues and antibiotic-resistant bacteria from farms to the environment are explored to identify potential weaknesses in the management of veterinary antibiotics. The presence of antibiotic residues in livestock products and manure poses significant challenges, as these residues contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which poses a threat to both the environment and health. The review examines the fate of animal waste contaminated with antibiotics in the environment, exploring the impact of management practices on antibiotic degradation and their persistence in soil and water systems. Additionally, the potential risks to human and animal health are addressed, emphasizing the links between antibiotic residues in the environment and the rising threat of antimicrobial resistance. The last part of this review focuses on exploring how up-cycling veterinary antibiotic residues in insects for feed and fertilizers could contribute to mitigating these risks. Overall, this review calls for more integrated solutions that balance the need for antibiotics in animal agriculture with the prevention of environmental contamination and the antibiotic resistance threat, while meeting the rising demand for animal proteins, highlighting the need for more region-specific surveillance programs. Full article
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9 pages, 332 KiB  
Case Report
Congenital Candida krusei Sepsis in an Extremely Preterm Baby: Case Report and Literature Review
by Francesca Cossovel, Silvia Nider, Jenny Bua, Elena Ghirigato, Monica Piccoli, Paolo Manzoni and Laura Travan
Antibiotics 2025, 14(7), 666; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14070666 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
A preterm neonate born at 24 + 5 weeks gestation developed congenital Candida krusei sepsis, diagnosed via placental culture, axillary swab, and elevated beta-glucan levels. Although initial blood cultures were negative, continuous HeRo monitoring played a crucial role in the early detection of [...] Read more.
A preterm neonate born at 24 + 5 weeks gestation developed congenital Candida krusei sepsis, diagnosed via placental culture, axillary swab, and elevated beta-glucan levels. Although initial blood cultures were negative, continuous HeRo monitoring played a crucial role in the early detection of clinical deterioration, prompting timely antifungal therapy with amphotericin B followed by micafungin. This proactive approach, combining prompt diagnosis, HeRo surveillance, and tailored treatment, ensured a favorable outcome. Our case underscores the value of HeRo monitoring as an early warning tool in managing neonatal fungal infections. Full article
17 pages, 734 KiB  
Article
Nasal Residence Depending on the Administered Dosage Form: Impact of Formulation Type on the In Vivo Nasal Retention Time of Drugs in Rats
by Daisuke Inoue, Yoshihiro Seto and Hideto To
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(7), 863; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17070863 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The precise control of drug absorption through the nasal mucosa following intranasal administration can be achieved through optimal formulation development that considers the nasal retention properties of the administered dosage form. This study aimed to quantitatively elucidate the effect of formulation [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The precise control of drug absorption through the nasal mucosa following intranasal administration can be achieved through optimal formulation development that considers the nasal retention properties of the administered dosage form. This study aimed to quantitatively elucidate the effect of formulation type on nasal residence time in vivo. Methods: The nasal residence behavior of various formulation types, including solutions, particulates, and powders, was estimated in rats. Furthermore, the effect of mucoadhesive polymers on the nasal residence time was investigated using gel and powder dosage forms of sodium alginate. Results: The nasal retention behavior of the formulation in the nasal cavity differed depending on the dosage form. The polystyrene microparticles and lactose powder, a non-adhesive powder, were quickly eliminated into the nasopharynx, whereas the solution remained in the nasal cavity longer than the other formulations. The clearance behavior of the solution was investigated, and it was found that the solution was quickly transported to the stomach without being retained in the esophagus. The disappearance of the gel and powder with the mucoadhesive polymer was different, with the powder clearing faster. This difference in clearance is thought to be due to the powder being cleared before dissolving and diffusing into the nasal mucus. Conclusions: It has been clearly shown that the nasal residence behavior differed depending on the dosage forms. The addition of mucoadhesive polymers was effective in improving the nasal residence of the drug, and more-effective formulations for nasal application can be developed by combining optimal dosage forms, such as powders and gels. Full article
14 pages, 551 KiB  
Article
Genetic Effects for Individual Honeybee Grooming Behavior in Response to Varroa Mites and Its Relationship with the Mite Infestation Levels of Honeybee Colonies
by Miguel Enrique Arechavaleta-Velasco, Laura Yavarik Alvarado-Avila, Claudia García-Figueroa, Francisco Javier Ramírez-Ramírez, Vicente Eliezer Vega-Murillo and Moisés Montaño-Bermúdez
Genes 2025, 16(7), 792; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes16070792 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The objectives of this study were to identify the genetic effects involved in the expression of individual honeybee grooming behavior in response to Varroa destructor and to determine if there is an association between the expression of this behavior and the [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The objectives of this study were to identify the genetic effects involved in the expression of individual honeybee grooming behavior in response to Varroa destructor and to determine if there is an association between the expression of this behavior and the infestation levels of Varroa in the honeybee colonies. Methods: The study was conducted in a population of 112 colonies composed of six segregating genetic groups that were derived from two honeybee lines that were selected for high and low individual honeybee grooming behavior. The individual honeybee grooming behavior of 3974 workers from the 112 colonies was measured by the time it takes a bee to respond in performing grooming behavior after a mite was placed on her body. The population growth of Varroa in the colonies was measured over a period of six months. Results: Differences between the genetic groups were found in the expression of individual honeybee grooming behavior (p < 0.01). The distribution of means of the genetic groups fits a genetic additive and dominance effects model for the expression of individual honeybee grooming behavior (r2 = 0.95; p < 0.01). Differences between the genetic groups were found in the colony population growth of Varroa over a period of six months (p < 0.01). A positive correlation was found between the mean individual honeybee grooming behavior of the colonies and the Varroa level of infestation in the colonies (r = 0.57; p < 0.01). Conclusions: The results indicate that additive and dominance genetic effects are associated with honeybee individual grooming behavior and that this trait has an effect on the levels of Varroa infestation in the colonies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Genetics and Genomics)
22 pages, 1940 KiB  
Article
Polysorbate 80 Differentially Impacts Erinacine Production Profiles in Submerged Cultures of Hericium
by Abigail Veronica Smith, Honghui Zhu, Lili Mats and Gale Bozzo
Molecules 2025, 30(13), 2823; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30132823 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
The mycelia of Hericium erinaceus contain neuroprotective cyathane diterpenoids (e.g., erinacine A). There is evidence that cultivation of submerged mycelia with surfactants increases glucose uptake and biomass, but the impact on erinacine production is unknown. Here, we tested the impact of glucose and [...] Read more.
The mycelia of Hericium erinaceus contain neuroprotective cyathane diterpenoids (e.g., erinacine A). There is evidence that cultivation of submerged mycelia with surfactants increases glucose uptake and biomass, but the impact on erinacine production is unknown. Here, we tested the impact of glucose and polysorbate 80 on the mycelial erinacine profiles of five Hericium strains cultivated under submergence, including those of Hericium erinaceus, Hericium americanum, and Hericium coralloides. Metabolite profiling confirmed that mycelial extracts contained more than 99% of the erinacines A, C and P in additive-free cultures of all strains, with the remainder secreted to the culture medium. Overall, erinacine P production was several orders of magnitude greater than that of the other erinacines, except for H. erinaceus (DAOMC 251029), where erinacine C was most evident. H. coralloides (DAOMC 251017) produced the greatest concentrations of erinacines A and P. For the most part mycelial erinacine concentrations were reduced in cultures co-supplemented with glucose and polysorbate 80. This treatment caused an 83–100% reduction in the concentrations of erinacines A, C, and P in the mycelial extracts of most strains. By contrast, there was evidence that glucose and polysorbate 80 had no effect on erinacine A production within mycelia of H. americanum, and erinacine P concentrations in H. erinaceus (DAOMC 251029) and H. americanum (DAOMC 251011). In most strains, the secretion of erinacines to the culture medium declined with glucose and polysorbate 80. Conversely, these additives increased the concentrations of erinacines C and P in the culture medium filtrate of H. americanum (DAOMC 21467) and yielded more secreted erinacine P in H. erinaceus (DAOMC 251029). The information provides feasible strategies to produce mycelia with unique erinacine profiles including those rich in erinacine P. Full article
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15 pages, 1547 KiB  
Article
Screening and Validation of Reference Genes for Normalization of qRT-PCR in Rice BLB Pathogen Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae Under Tetramycin Stress
by Feiyan Fang, Xinli Miao, Tong Mou, Zian Wang, Yanhe Guo, Yingfen Yang, Shunyu Gao, Zhenji Wang, Chengdong Xu and Jun Yang
Genes 2025, 16(7), 788; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes16070788 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
Background: Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo) causes rice leaf blight (BLB) and poses a major threat to global rice production. In rice production, tetramycin agents provide good control of rice leaf blight, while the standardization of the reference genes of Xoo [...] Read more.
Background: Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo) causes rice leaf blight (BLB) and poses a major threat to global rice production. In rice production, tetramycin agents provide good control of rice leaf blight, while the standardization of the reference genes of Xoo under tetramycin stress has not been reported. The aim of this study was to identify the most stable reference genes for quantitative PCR analysis of Xoo under tetramycin stress. Methods: Six candidate reference genes, gyrB (RNA polymerase β gene), GADPH (glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase gene), recA (recombinase A gene), gyrA (citrate synthase encoding gene), dnaK (molecular chaperone protein gene), and 16S rRNA (16S ribosomal RNA gene) were selected and their expression stability was assessed under tetramycin stress conditions using real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR). GeNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper and RefFinder were used to assess the expression stability, the relative expression values of the eight genes involved QS (Quorum sensing) pathway under tetramycin stress were used to validate by the rpf (regulation of pathogenic factors) gene family. Results: 16S rRNA expression was most stable under tetracycline stress, whereas GADPH was the least. The rpf gene family showed a highly stable expression level, confirming the reliability of 16S r RNA as a reference gene in the study of Xoo under tetramycin stress. Conclusions: 16S rRNA was identified as the best reference gene for Xoo gene expression analysis under tetramycin stress. It provides a reliable support for the molecular research on the control strategy of rice BLB. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Genes & Environments)
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15 pages, 12591 KiB  
Article
On the Capacity of V2X Communication Networks to Support the Delivery of Emerging C-ITS Services: A Case Study on an Irish Motorway
by Arif Hossan, Md Noor-a-Rahim, Cormac J. Sreenan, Piraba Navaratnam, Shobanraj Navaratnarajah, Thomas Allen, David Laoide-Kemp and Aisling O’Driscoll
Information 2025, 16(7), 563; https://doi.org/10.3390/info16070563 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
Roadside communication networks with Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITSs) offer services that aim to enhance traffic management and road safety.This paper presents a comprehensive scalability study of C-ITSs to support a deployment of Day 1 advisory services on the busiest Irish motorway. Specifically, [...] Read more.
Roadside communication networks with Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITSs) offer services that aim to enhance traffic management and road safety.This paper presents a comprehensive scalability study of C-ITSs to support a deployment of Day 1 advisory services on the busiest Irish motorway. Specifically, the performance of the two standardized C-ITS short-range communication technologies, namely ITS-G5 and C-V2X, are quantified. Both technologies are evaluated while considering different market penetration rates (MPRs), real-world vehicle densities during daily time periods, and data traffic demands linked to real world C-ITS services. The simulation results show that ITS-G5 performs slightly better at shorter distances, and C-V2X performs marginally better at medium and longer distances, benefiting from technology that supports better signal quality and communication robustness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internet of Everything and Vehicular Networks)
28 pages, 5647 KiB  
Review
Effect of Interstitial Oxygen on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Titanium Alloys: A Review
by Yaojia Ren, Jiajun Xu, Yingkang Wei, Yingying Liu, Jilei Zhu and Shifeng Liu
Crystals 2025, 15(7), 618; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst15070618 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
Titanium alloys are of significant value in aerospace, biomedical, and marine engineering applications due to their excellent specific strength and favorable biocompatibility. As a crucial interstitial solute, oxygen significantly influences the mechanical properties of titanium alloys. However, excessive oxygen content can lead to [...] Read more.
Titanium alloys are of significant value in aerospace, biomedical, and marine engineering applications due to their excellent specific strength and favorable biocompatibility. As a crucial interstitial solute, oxygen significantly influences the mechanical properties of titanium alloys. However, excessive oxygen content can lead to severe embrittlement and a significant reduction in ductility. This paper systematically reviews the mechanisms of microstructural evolution induced by oxygen in conventionally manufactured titanium alloys and their impact on mechanical properties, highlighting that conventional processes require complex post-treatments (PT) to achieve a balance between strength and plasticity. This assessment further explores the regulatory mechanisms of oxygen on the microstructure and mechanical properties of laser additive manufactured (LAM) titanium alloys, elucidating the fundamental phenomena regarding the oxygen–microstructure–property relationship. Finally, based on the current research progress, this paper provides an outlook on the future development directions and key research priorities in this field. This review offers valuable insights into the role of oxygen in titanium alloys and the development of high-performance titanium alloys. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Crystalline Metals and Alloys)
30 pages, 6330 KiB  
Article
Design to Deployment: Flight Schedule-Based Analysis of Hybrid Electric Aircraft Variants in U.S. Regional Carrier Operations
by Emma Cassidy, Paul R. Mokotoff, Yilin Deng, Michael Ikeda, Kathryn Kirsch, Max Z. Li and Gokcin Cinar
Aerospace 2025, 12(7), 598; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace12070598 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2025
Abstract
This study evaluates the feasibility and benefits of introducing battery-powered hybrid electric aircraft (HEA) into regional airline operations. Using 2019 U.S. domestic flight data, the ERJ175LR is selected as a representative aircraft, and several HEA variants are designed to match its mission profile [...] Read more.
This study evaluates the feasibility and benefits of introducing battery-powered hybrid electric aircraft (HEA) into regional airline operations. Using 2019 U.S. domestic flight data, the ERJ175LR is selected as a representative aircraft, and several HEA variants are designed to match its mission profile under different battery technologies and power management strategies. These configurations are then tested across over 800 actual daily flight sequences flown by a regional airline. The results show that well-designed HEA can achieve 3–7% fuel savings compared to conventional aircraft, with several variants able to complete all scheduled missions without disrupting turnaround times. These findings suggest that HEA can be integrated into today’s airline operations, particularly for short-haul routes, without the need for major infrastructure or scheduling changes, and highlight opportunities for future co-optimization of aircraft design and operations. Full article

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