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21 pages, 5170 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Urbanization and Infrastructure Development on Local Flood Risk in Tomaszkowo: Hydrological Analysis and Spatial Planning

by Wioleta Błaszczak-Bąk, Monika Birylo, Andrzej Biłozor, Iwona Cieślak and Joanna Janicka

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(20), 10863; https://doi.org/10.3390/app152010863 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Urbanization significantly alters the hydrological balance of an area by increasing surface runoff, reducing infiltration, and intensifying the risk of local flooding. This study examines the impact of urbanization on the water budget and local flood risk in Tomaszkowo, Poland—a rapidly developing suburban [...] Read more.

Urbanization significantly alters the hydrological balance of an area by increasing surface runoff, reducing infiltration, and intensifying the risk of local flooding. This study examines the impact of urbanization on the water budget and local flood risk in Tomaszkowo, Poland—a rapidly developing suburban village near Olsztyn. The research analyzes hydrological changes over the period 2003–2023 using precipitation data, evapotranspiration estimates, surface runoff modelling, and soil structure assessments. The findings indicate that the region’s predominantly clay and loam soils hinder water absorption, while low terrain slopes further limit natural drainage. Despite a decline in precipitation since 2014, surface runoff levels have remained stable or increased, highlighting the influence of intensified urban development and impervious surface expansion. Seasonal variations in the water budget show “BELOW NORMAL” values in summer and “ABOVE NORMAL” values in other seasons, emphasizing the need for improved stormwater management strategies. The study underscores the importance of integrating hydrological analysis into spatial planning to mitigate urban flood risks and maintain a sustainable water balance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infrastructure Resilience Analysis)

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23 pages, 4999 KB

Open AccessArticle

Targeted Inhibition of Colorectal Carcinoma Using a Designed CEA-Binding Protein to Deliver p53 Protein and TCF/LEF Transcription Factor Decoy DNA

by Wen Wang, Xuan Sun and Geng Wu

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(20), 9846; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26209846 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is characterized by mutations in p53 and the Wnt signaling pathway, and immunotherapy has shown limited efficacy in microsatellite-stable CRC. Here, CEABP1, a binding protein for the CRC biomarker carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), was designed de novo through the AI-based computational [...] Read more.

Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is characterized by mutations in p53 and the Wnt signaling pathway, and immunotherapy has shown limited efficacy in microsatellite-stable CRC. Here, CEABP1, a binding protein for the CRC biomarker carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), was designed de novo through the AI-based computational generation methods RFDiffusion/ProteinMPNN and stringent in silico selection, for targeted delivery of purified p53 protein and transcription factor T-cell factor (TCF)/lymphoid enhancer-binding factor (LEF) transcription factor decoy (TFD) DNA into CRC cells. The cell-penetrating peptide (CPP) p28 was employed to deliver the p28-p53-CEABP1 protein, which significantly enhanced p53’s inhibition of CRC cell proliferation and xenograft tumor growth. Codelivery of the p14ARF protein together with p53 prolonged the effective antitumor duration of p53. In addition, the DNA binding domain of Max was fused with CPP and CEABP1 to deliver TCF/LEF TFD DNA, comprising concatenated consensus binding motifs for TCF/LEF and Max, into CRC cells to inhibit Wnt target gene transcription, leading to marked suppression of CRC cell proliferation and xenograft tumor growth. These findings paved the way for the development of precision anticancer therapeutics using designed binding proteins of tumor biomarkers for targeted delivery of tumor suppressor proteins and TFD DNA. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Protein–Protein Interactions in Human Cancer)

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36 pages, 4806 KB

Open AccessReview

Redox System Dysfunction as a Key Mechanism in Autism Spectrum Disorder Pathogenesis

by Clarissa Aires de Oliveira, Eugenio Luigi Iorio and Foued Salmen Espíndola

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(20), 9850; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26209850 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex and multifactorial neurodevelopmental condition whose pathogenesis remains only partially elucidated. Earlier accounts of oxidative stress in ASD often relied on the reductive paradigm of an imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants. In contrast, this narrative review, based [...] Read more.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex and multifactorial neurodevelopmental condition whose pathogenesis remains only partially elucidated. Earlier accounts of oxidative stress in ASD often relied on the reductive paradigm of an imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants. In contrast, this narrative review, based on a systematic examination of 1102 publications indexed in scientific databases from 2002 to July 2025, reframes the discussion in terms of redox system dysfunction, a broader and more integrative construct. Here, reactive oxidant species, molecular targets, and reducing/antioxidant counterparts are considered elements of a dynamic circuitry whose maladaptation progressively undermines homeostasis. The sequence of events unfolds in three stages. The first is primary redox dysfunction, manifesting as alterations in metabolic, signaling, and defense pathways. From this disturbance, a second stage arises, marked by functional derailment of cellular compartments—from membranes and cytosol to organelles and nuclei—including mitochondrial and peroxisomal deficits. Ultimately, a third stage emerges, defined by neurodevelopmental alterations such as impaired neurotransmission, synaptic dysfunction, abnormal plasticity, morphogenetic defects, neuroinflammation, and gut–brain–microbiota disarrangements. This progression situates the redox system as a central hub at the interface between human cells and the microbiota, resonating with the ecological and evolutionary principles of the holobiont and the One Health framework. By weaving dispersed evidence into a coherent perspective, this review advances beyond previous analyses, offering a unifying paradigm that connects biochemical dysfunction to clinical heterogeneity in ASD and opens new directions for interdisciplinary research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Redox Systems in Humans, Animals, Plants and Aquatic Ecosystems and Their Microbiomes)

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22 pages, 5017 KB

Open AccessArticle

Drought Projections in the Northernmost Region of South America Under Different Climate Change Scenarios

by Heli A. Arregocés, Eucaris Estrada and Cristian Diaz Moscote

Earth 2025, 6(4), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/earth6040122 - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Climate change research is increasingly important in regions vulnerable to extreme hydrometeorological events like droughts, which pose significant socio-economic and environmental challenges. This study examines future variability of meteorological drought in northernmost South America using the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) and precipitation projections [...] Read more.

Climate change research is increasingly important in regions vulnerable to extreme hydrometeorological events like droughts, which pose significant socio-economic and environmental challenges. This study examines future variability of meteorological drought in northernmost South America using the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) and precipitation projections from CMIP6 models. We first evaluated model performance by comparing historical simulations with observational data from the Climate Hazards Group InfraRed Precipitation with Station dataset for 1981–2014. Among the models, CNRM-CM6-1-HR was selected for its superior accuracy, demonstrated by the lowest errors and highest correlation with observed data—specifically, a correlation coefficient of 0.60, a normalized root mean square error of 1.08, and a mean absolute error of 61.37 mm/month. Under SSP1-2.6 and SSP5-8.5 scenarios, projections show decreased rainfall during the wet months in the western Perijá mountains, with reductions of 3% to 26% between 2025 and 2100. Conversely, the Sierra Nevada of Santa Marta is expected to see increases of up to 33% under SSP1-2.6. During dry months, northern Colombia and Venezuela—particularly coastal lowlands—are projected to experience rainfall decreases of 10% to 17% under SSP1-2.6 and 13% to 20% under SSP5-8.5. These areas are likely to face severe drought conditions in the mid and late 21st century. These findings are essential for guiding water resource management, enabling adaptive strategies, and informing policies to mitigate drought impacts in the region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section AI and Big Data in Earth Science)

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16 pages, 2539 KB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Analysis of the Conserved Population of Dengchuan Cattle Based on High Concordance SNP loci

by Jiangyu Long, Jingjing Su, Shiyan Sui, Huimin Li, Rong Jiang, Linjie Xu, You Tan and Birong Zhang

Animals 2025, 15(20), 2937; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15202937 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Local livestock genetic resources are crucial for sustainable agriculture and biodiversity conservation. Dengchuan cattle, a nationally protected dairy breed in China, are esteemed for their high milk fat content and cultural significance. However, they have been threatened by crossbreeding with exotic high-yielding breeds, [...] Read more.

Local livestock genetic resources are crucial for sustainable agriculture and biodiversity conservation. Dengchuan cattle, a nationally protected dairy breed in China, are esteemed for their high milk fat content and cultural significance. However, they have been threatened by crossbreeding with exotic high-yielding breeds, resulting in a decline in purebred resources. In this study, we evaluated the genetic diversity and structure of a conserved population using 100K SNP microarray data from 74 individuals. After implementing strict quality control measures, 78,460 loci were retained for principal component analysis (PCA), which identified 100 SNPs most associated with PC1. After calculating high-consistency loci using PLINK, based on allelic consistency, we selected 61 high-stability markers to represent 60 individuals for further analysis. Genetic diversity parameters indicated moderate polymorphism, with an effective population size (Ne) of 2.293, observed heterozygosity (Ho) of 0.300, expected heterozygosity (He) of 0.326, and an average polymorphic information content (PIC) of 0.261. A paired t-test confirmed a highly significant difference between Ho and He (p < 0.001). Runs of homozygosity (ROH) revealed a moderate level of inbreeding (F_ROH = 0.0928), with bulls exhibiting slightly higher values than females. Neighbor-joining (NJ) clustering further indicated clear lineage distinctions among bulls, but lower kinship among females. Overall, Dengchuan cattle exhibit moderate genetic diversity but face risks due to a small Ne and an unbalanced family structure. Targeted breeding strategies and genetic monitoring are recommended to ensure sustainable conservation and utilization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Genetics and Genomics)

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17 pages, 2106 KB

Open AccessArticle

Differential Phosphorus Acquisition Strategies and Adaptive Mechanisms Evolved by Three Lespedeza Species to Tackle Phosphorus Deficiency

by Jingchong Li, Hao Shi, Guanqiang Zuo, Shasha Li, Yafei Chen and Shiwen Wang

Plants 2025, 14(20), 3124; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14203124 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Phosphorus (P) is essential for plant growth but is frequently limited in soils. Lespedeza species are well-known for their ecological and economic benefits, as well as their tolerance to nutrient-poor soils. This study investigated the P acquisition strategies and adaptive mechanisms of three [...] Read more.

Phosphorus (P) is essential for plant growth but is frequently limited in soils. Lespedeza species are well-known for their ecological and economic benefits, as well as their tolerance to nutrient-poor soils. This study investigated the P acquisition strategies and adaptive mechanisms of three Lespedeza species (L. davurica, L. bicolor, and L. cuneata), focusing on biomass allocation, P distribution, root exudation, and absorption kinetics under P deficiency. Under P deficiency, L. davurica and L. bicolor allocated more biomass to roots to enhance P acquisition, whereas L. cuneata increased specific root length and area. Moreover, all three species preferentially allocated P to roots, but L. bicolor showed higher P content in stems and leaves than the others. P absorption kinetics indicated that Michaelis constant (K_m) and equilibrium concentration (C_min) were significantly decreased in all three species under P deficiency, with L. bicolor exhibiting the strongest P affinity and acquisition capacity. Secretion analysis revealed that while L. davurica and L. cuneata secreted higher levels of organic acids under P deficiency, exudates from L. bicolor were significantly enriched in acid phosphatase activity. Overall, the three Lespedeza species developed distinct P acquisition and adaptive strategies to cope with P deficiency, with L. bicolor demonstrating the greatest low-P tolerance and most efficient adaptive mechanisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nitrogen and Phosphorus Transport and Signaling in Plants)

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26 pages, 656 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Sex-Based Analysis of Health and Micronutrient Status in Austrian Adults Focusing on the Role of Blood Micronutrients in Predicting Blood Lipids and Body Composition

by Mohamad Motevalli, Derrick R. Tanous, Clemens Drenowatz, Markus Schauer, Susanne Mair, Michael Kohlberger, Gerhard Ruedl and Katharina Wirnitzer

Dietetics 2025, 4(4), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4040045 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Sex differences are known to influence both micronutrient metabolism and cardiometabolic health outcomes. However, the extent to which these sex-specific factors interact, particularly in the relationship between micronutrient status and cardiometabolic risk, remains insufficiently understood. The present study aimed to investigate sex differences [...] Read more.

Sex differences are known to influence both micronutrient metabolism and cardiometabolic health outcomes. However, the extent to which these sex-specific factors interact, particularly in the relationship between micronutrient status and cardiometabolic risk, remains insufficiently understood. The present study aimed to investigate sex differences in health and micronutrient status, and their association with blood lipids, body mass index, and body weight. The final sample size included 488 Austrian adults (median age: 38 years; comprising 256 males and 232 females) who successfully met the inclusion criteria. Blood analyses were conducted to measure whole-blood micronutrients and serum levels of various cardiometabolic health biomarkers, including blood lipids. Micronutrient status (including deficiencies and excesses) was calculated using sex-specific reference ranges. There were significant differences between males and females for most (19 out of 28) blood biomarkers of cardiometabolic health (p < 0.05), with females generally showing a healthier cardiometabolic profile. Significant sex differences were also observed in the adjusted values of three micronutrients: copper was higher in females, while iron and vitamin B₁₂ were higher in males (p < 0.05). Sex differences in micronutrient status indicated a higher prevalence of iron deficiency and copper excess among females (p < 0.05). Different patterns were observed between males and females in the association of blood lipids and body composition with micronutrients and demographic factors. These findings highlight the importance of individualized approaches in preventive and therapeutic health interventions based on differences between males and females. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Approaches and Exercise in the Management of Overweight and Obesity)

27 pages, 8567 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Oral Antimicrobial Peptide R7I Against Epidemic Enteropathogenic Neisseria in Geese (Anser cygnoides orientalis)

by Shuo Jia, Junhan Gao, Jing Fu, Chongpeng Bi, Xiujing Dou and Anshan Shan

Animals 2025, 15(20), 2939; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15202939 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

The emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria has resulted in a lack of available drugs that can be used to treat various diseases. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are green and safe antibiotic alternatives. In 2022, an outbreak of an acute diarrheal disease caused by Gram-negative cocci [...] Read more.

The emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria has resulted in a lack of available drugs that can be used to treat various diseases. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are green and safe antibiotic alternatives. In 2022, an outbreak of an acute diarrheal disease caused by Gram-negative cocci named Neisseria occurred among domestic geese (Anser cygnoides orientalis) in Northeast China. In this study, we analyzed Neisseria S1, which caused diarrhea in geese, and determined whether AMP R7I designed in our laboratory can be used to treat Neisseria infection. This is the first report and isolation of enteropathogenic Neisseria, as well as the first report of Neisseria infection in Anser cygnoides orientalis. Peptide R7I has the capability to counteract Neisseria S1 infection both in vivo and in vitro. R7I induced the release of intracellular contents, leading to the death of Neisseria. Oral treatment of R7I modulated metabolic levels, antioxidant capacity, and immune responses and inhibited inflammation in Neisseria-infected geese. Furthermore, R7I significantly contributed to the recovery of intestinal homeostasis and regulated intestinal function via a signaling pathway related to metabolism in Neisseria infection. During our study of the mechanism of R7I against Neisseria infection, we preliminary found that R7I regulates lipid metabolism disorder and inflammation caused by Neisseria infection through the PPAR signaling pathway. In conclusion, R7I shows a strong ability against Neisseria infection, and it can be used as an oral antibiotic alternative in animal feed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)

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30 pages, 527 KB

Open AccessArticle

Reliability and Validation of U.S. Army-Oriented Brief Work-to-Family and Family-to-Work Conflict Scales: An Email Sample of 262 Army Career Officers

by Walter R. Schumm, Glen Bloomstrom, Vance P. Theodore and Roudi Nazarinia Roy

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(10), 599; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14100599 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Work–family conflicts (WFCs) and family–work conflicts (FWCs) have been found to be important to worker morale and retention as well as family (as defined by the respondents) well-being, with particular importance within the military, as indicated by a number of studies in the [...] Read more.

Work–family conflicts (WFCs) and family–work conflicts (FWCs) have been found to be important to worker morale and retention as well as family (as defined by the respondents) well-being, with particular importance within the military, as indicated by a number of studies in the United States, Canada, and European countries. However, few studies have focused on the impact of WFC and FWC for high ranking officers and their families. This study involved two samples of officers attending an advanced leadership course at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, in 2007, featuring a total of 262 Army officers and another 45 officers from other services and countries. The sample of Army officers included 239 men (85.4% of whom were a parent) and 22 women (63.6% of whom were a parent; Fisher’s Exact Test, p < 0.02), with one missing case for sex. Of the men and women, respectively, most were married for the first time (190/11), with some never married (14/5), married but divorced (10/1), married/divorced/remarried (20/4), married/spouse died/remarried (1/0), married/divorced/remarried/divorced/remarried (4/0), and married/divorced/remarried/divorced/remarried (0/1). Measures for cohabitation or same-sex partnerships were not used. Two modified measures of WFC and FWC of four items each were tested and found to represent different factors and to have high internal consistency reliability. In general we found few sex differences, but female officers seemed to be more influenced by family–work conflict than male officers. One of our most substantial findings was that work–family conflict was more prevalent than family–work conflict within our sample. Also, we found that marital satisfaction tended to be higher than parental satisfaction and that officers usually found their own retention intentions to be higher than their perception of that of their spouses. Satisfaction with the military was consistently and strongly related to lower levels of work–family conflict while similar but weaker trends were found for family–work conflict. Most of our results were found to cross-validate with a subsample of non-Army officers in our sample. We found bias from marital social desirability to be lower for our marital process scale and for FWC than for marital satisfaction and WFC. In sum, our results confirm adverse effects of deployments and other stressors on military families and a continuing need for military support for families, even among higher ranking officer families. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Family Studies)

18 pages, 1690 KB

Open AccessArticle

Utilization of Aflatoxin-B1-Contaminated Corn by Yellow Mealworm Larvae for Common Carp Feed and Assessing Residual Frass Toxicity by Zebrafish Embryo Microinjection

by Zoltán Vajnai, Zsolt Csenki-Bakos, Balázs Csorbai, Tamás Bartucz, Illés Bock, Endre Csókás, Mátyás Cserháti, Balázs Kriszt and István Szabó

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(20), 9851; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26209851 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

The aim of our study was to make one step further to verify a method that can turn back mycotoxin-contaminated crops into the circular economy. Thus, the possibility of utilizing aflatoxin B1 (AfB1)-contaminated corn by yellow mealworms (Tenebrio molitor) was investigated [...] Read more.

The aim of our study was to make one step further to verify a method that can turn back mycotoxin-contaminated crops into the circular economy. Thus, the possibility of utilizing aflatoxin B1 (AfB1)-contaminated corn by yellow mealworms (Tenebrio molitor) was investigated to be used as fish feed components. Four different self-contaminated corn samples were used in our study, of which one was below and three were above the threshold limit (20 µg/kg) regulated by the European Union. The highest applied AfB1 concentration in our study for insect feeding was 415 µg/kg (more than twenty times higher than the threshold). After a five-week feeding period insect mortality was not increased, even in the highly contaminated group, compared to the negative control. The mycotoxin in the dried and ground insects was only detected in the case of feeding with the highest-concentration corn, however it remained as low as 2.2 µg/kg. For studying the possible physiology effects, insect grounds were used in feeding experiments of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) fries. Results showed that insect meal, even if originated from a highly mycotoxin-contaminated crop, did not have a significant effect on the examined fish fries, compared with the control groups. The AfB1 concentrations of the leftover frass after insect rearing were also measured, and in the case of the highest concentration mealworm group, it was 157.6 µg/kg (other groups were under 20 µg/kg). Toxicity of frass extracts from different contaminated groups was also studied using microinjected zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos. Extracts of the highly contaminated frass samples caused 91.67 ± 3.33% mortality and led to numerous phenotypic changes, which highlights the need for responsible usage of the by-product. However, the effects of injected frass samples, originating from corn with lower and more environmentally relevant AfB1 concentrations, were significantly lower. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Toxicological Impacts of Emerging Contaminants on Aquatic Organisms)

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12 pages, 1242 KB

Open AccessArticle

Gastrointestinal Parasite Infections in Beef Cattle: A Comparative Study Between Conventional and Holistic Farms in Alentejo, Portugal

by Cátia Gomes, João Lozano, Mariana Louro, Lídia Gomes, José Luís Castro, Leonor Duarte, Feliciano do Carmo Reis and Luís Madeira de Carvalho

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(10), 970; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12100970 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Cattle are commonly affected by gastrointestinal (GI) parasites, which impact their welfare and productivity. Alternative management practices are currently being applied in several livestock farms worldwide to minimise or avoid the use of anthelmintic drugs on livestock in an unsustainable way. This study [...] Read more.

Cattle are commonly affected by gastrointestinal (GI) parasites, which impact their welfare and productivity. Alternative management practices are currently being applied in several livestock farms worldwide to minimise or avoid the use of anthelmintic drugs on livestock in an unsustainable way. This study aimed to compare the presence of GI parasites between conventional and holistic management farms in Alentejo, Portugal. Between January and April 2024, a total of 95 faecal samples were collected from adult female beef cattle belonging to four conventional management farms and four holistic management farms. Parasitological diagnosis included the Mini-FLOTAC method, Willis flotation, natural sedimentation, modified Ziehl–Neelsen technique, and faecal cultures. Higher egg shedding levels were found at holistic management farms, and strongyles were the most frequent GI parasites (92.6%). In addition, Oesophagostomum spp. (37%) and Trichostrongylus spp. (32%) were the most frequent genera, although no significant differences were found between the two management systems. Moreover, animals from both groups presented low shedding values (<200 eggs per gram of faeces, EPG). These preliminary results allow us to suggest that adopting holistic management practices may be a sustainable solution for the control of GI parasite infections in cattle farms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Detection of Parasitic Diseases in Livestock)

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17 pages, 13069 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sensitive Detection of Multi-Point Temperature Based on FMCW Interferometry and DSP Algorithm

by Chengyu Mo, Yuqiang Yang, Xiaoguang Mu, Fujiang Li and Yuting Li

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(20), 1545; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15201545 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

This paper presents a high-sensitivity multi-point seawater temperature detection system based on the virtual Vernier effect, achieved through multiplexed Fabry–Perot (FP) cavities combined with optical frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW) interferometry. To address the nonlinear frequency scanning issue inherent in FMCW systems, this paper [...] Read more.

This paper presents a high-sensitivity multi-point seawater temperature detection system based on the virtual Vernier effect, achieved through multiplexed Fabry–Perot (FP) cavities combined with optical frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW) interferometry. To address the nonlinear frequency scanning issue inherent in FMCW systems, this paper implemented a software compensation method. This approach enables accurate positioning of multiple FP sub-sensors and effective demodulation of the sensing interference spectrum (SIS) for each FP interferometer (FPI). Through digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms and spectral demodulation, each sub-FP sensor generates an artificial reference spectrum (ARS). The virtual Vernier effect is then achieved by means of a computational process that combines the SIS intensity with the corresponding ARS intensity. This eliminates the need for physical reference arrays with carefully detuned spatial frequencies, as is required in traditional Vernier effect implementations. The sensitivity amplification can be dynamically adjusted with the modulation function parameters. Experimental results demonstrate that an optical fiber link of 82.3 m was achieved with a high spatial resolution of 23.9

μ m

. Within the temperature range of

30^{\circ} C

to

70^{\circ} C

, the temperature sensitivities of the three enhanced EIS reached −275.56

pm /^{\circ} C

, −269.78

pm /^{\circ} C

, and −280.67

pm /^{\circ} C

, respectively, representing amplification factors of 3.32, 4.93, and 6.13 compared to a single SIS. The presented approach not only enables effective multiplexing and spatial localization of multiple fiber sensors but also successfully amplifies weak signal detection. This breakthrough provides crucial technical support for implementing quasi-distributed optical sensitization sensing in marine environments, opening new possibilities for high-precision oceanographic monitoring. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nanoelectronics, Nanosensors and Devices)

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28 pages, 11416 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment and Protection of Heritage Value of Traditional Villages from the Perspective of Historic Urban Landscape: A Case Study of Huaqiu Village

by Xinyang Cai, Xinyue Chen, Weilan Zhou, Ruiyi Liu, Tong Yin and Xiangting He

Sustainability 2025, 17(20), 8981; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17208981 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

This study introduces the Historic Urban Landscape (HUL) approach into a rural setting and conducts a case study of Huaqiu Village. By integrating spatial analysis techniques, unmanned vehicle aerial photography, field surveys, and multitemporal data from 2000 to 2023, this study analyzed the [...] Read more.

This study introduces the Historic Urban Landscape (HUL) approach into a rural setting and conducts a case study of Huaqiu Village. By integrating spatial analysis techniques, unmanned vehicle aerial photography, field surveys, and multitemporal data from 2000 to 2023, this study analyzed the heritage value of traditional villages and explored a rural-adaptable pathway for HUL implementation. Findings showed: 1. Based on the temporal and spatial evaluation analysis logic of landscapes under the HUL framework, spatial patterns of the village, such as vegetation growth and reduced in water bodies, have been quantitatively identified, revealing the interaction patterns of a complex ecosystem. 2. Following HUL’s holistic understanding of heritage value, the three-dimensional value characteristics of the village (landscape, function, and spirit) are clarified. 3. By implementing the community participation mechanism of HUL, through villager-led inheritance of intangible cultural heritage and joint formulation of conservation conventions, the living continuity of heritage has been realized. The HUL approach shows remarkable adaptability, with prominent achievements in dynamic-layered protection and community participation. This study breaks through the urban bias of the HUL approach, enriches understanding of rural heritage, and provides a practical paradigm for promoting sustainable development of similar villages. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Methodologies for the Conservation of Cultural Heritage: Highlights on the Most Relevant Standards)

15 pages, 2812 KB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of pH and Temperature on the Synthesis and Stability of Biologically Synthesized AgNPs

by Oksana Velgosova, Lívia Mačák, Maksym Lisnichuk and Peter Varga

Appl. Nano 2025, 6(4), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano6040022 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

The synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using sustainable and non-toxic methods has become an important research focus due to the limitations of conventional chemical approaches, which often involve hazardous reagents and produce unstable products. In particular, the effects of reaction conditions on the [...] Read more.

The synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using sustainable and non-toxic methods has become an important research focus due to the limitations of conventional chemical approaches, which often involve hazardous reagents and produce unstable products. In particular, the effects of reaction conditions on the quality and stability of AgNPs obtained via green synthesis remain insufficiently understood. This study addresses this gap by examining the influence of pH and temperature on the synthesis of AgNPs using Rosmarinus officinalis extract as both reducing and stabilizing agents. UV-vis spectroscopy and TEM analysis revealed that optimal conditions for producing uniform, stable, and spherical AgNPs were achieved at pH 8, with a narrow size distribution (~17.5 nm). At extreme pH values (≤3 or ≥13), nanoparticle formation was hindered by aggregation or precipitation, while elevated temperatures mainly accelerated reaction without altering particle morphology. HRTEM and SAED confirmed the crystalline face-centered cubic structure, and colloids synthesized at pH 8 showed excellent stability over 30 days. Overall, the results demonstrate that precise pH control is critical for obtaining high-quality AgNPs via a simple, scalable, and environmentally friendly approach. Their stability and homogeneous size highlight potential applications in biomedicine, food packaging, and sensing, where reproducibility and long-term functionality are essential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers for Applied Nano)

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16 pages, 11319 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamic Response Mechanism and Risk Assessment of Threaded Connections During Jarring Operations in Ultra-Deep Wells

by Zhe Wang, Chunsheng Wang, Zhaoyang Zhao, Shaobo Feng, Ning Li, Xiaohai Zhao and Zhanghua Lian

Modelling 2025, 6(4), 123; https://doi.org/10.3390/modelling6040123 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

With the frequent occurrence of stuck pipe incidents during the ultra-deep well drilling operation, the hydraulic-while-drilling (HWD) jar has become a critical component of the bottom hole assembly (BHA). However, during jarring operations for stuck pipe release, the drill string experiences severe vibrations [...] Read more.

With the frequent occurrence of stuck pipe incidents during the ultra-deep well drilling operation, the hydraulic-while-drilling (HWD) jar has become a critical component of the bottom hole assembly (BHA). However, during jarring operations for stuck pipe release, the drill string experiences severe vibrations induced by the impact loads from the jar, which significantly alter the stress state and dynamic response of the threaded connections—the structurally weakest elements—under cyclic dynamic loading, often leading to fracture failures. here, a thread failure incident of a hydraulic jar in an ultra-deep well in the Tarim Basin, Xinjiang, is investigated. A drill string dynamic impact model incorporating the actual three-dimensional wellbore trajectory is established to capture the time-history characteristics of multi-axial loads at the threaded connection during up and down jarring. Meanwhile, a three-dimensional finite element model of a double-shouldered threaded connection with helix angle is developed, and the stress distribution of the joint thread is analyzed on the boundary condition acquired from the time-history characteristics of multi-axial loads. Numerical results indicate that the axial compression induces local bending of the drill string during down jarring, resulting in significantly greater bending moment fluctuations than in up jarring and a correspondingly higher amplitude of circumferential acceleration at the thread location. Among all thread positions, the first thread root at the pin end consistently experiences the highest average stress and stress variation, rendering it most susceptible to fatigue failure. This study provides theoretical and practical insights for optimizing drill string design and enhancing the reliability of threaded connections in deep and ultra-deep well drilling. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Oil and Gas Pipeline Network for Industrial Applications)

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35 pages, 2483 KB

Open AccessReview

Fungal and Microalgal Chitin: Structural Differences, Functional Properties, and Biomedical Applications

by Lijing Yin, Hang Li, Ronge Xing, Rongfeng Li, Kun Gao, Guantian Li and Song Liu

Polymers 2025, 17(20), 2722; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17202722 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Chitin, one of the most abundant natural polysaccharides, has gained increasing attention for its structural diversity and potential in biomedicine, agriculture, food packaging, and advanced materials. Conventional chitin production from crustacean shell waste faces limitations, including seasonal availability, allergenic protein contamination, heavy metal [...] Read more.

Chitin, one of the most abundant natural polysaccharides, has gained increasing attention for its structural diversity and potential in biomedicine, agriculture, food packaging, and advanced materials. Conventional chitin production from crustacean shell waste faces limitations, including seasonal availability, allergenic protein contamination, heavy metal residues, and environmentally harmful demineralization processes. Chitin from fungi and microalgae provides a sustainable and chemically versatile alternative. Fungal chitin, generally present in the α-polymorph, is embedded in a chitin–glucan–protein matrix that ensures high crystallinity, mechanical stability, and compatibility for biomedical applications. Microalgal β-chitin, particularly from diatoms, is secreted as high-aspect-ratio microrods and nanofibrils with parallel chain packing, providing enhanced reactivity and structural integrity that are highly attractive for functional materials. Recent progress in green extraction technologies, including enzymatic treatments, ionic liquids, and deep eutectic solvents, enables the recovery of chitin with reduced environmental burden while preserving its native morphology. By integrating sustainable sources with environmentally friendly processing methods, fungal and microalgal chitin offer unique structural polymorphs and tunable properties, positioning them as a promising alternative to crustacean-derived chitin. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polysaccharides: Synthesis, Properties and Applications)

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15 pages, 453 KB

Open AccessArticle

Association Between Hyponatremia and Mortality and Readmission in Multimorbid Older Adults—A Cohort Study

by Seraina Netzer, Viktoria Gastens, Benoît Boland, Carole E. Aubert, Corlina J. A. Huibers, Wilma Knol, Anne Spinewine, Denis O’Mahony, Drahomir A. Aujesky, Mirjam Christ-Crain, Douglas C. Bauer, Nicolas Rodondi and Martin Feller

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(20), 7146; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14207146 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Hyponatremia has been associated with mortality and hospital readmissions. Although multimorbid older patients are particularly affected, specific data on this group are lacking. Methods: A prospective cohort was used based on the OPERAM (OPtimising thERapy to prevent Avoidable hospital admissions [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Hyponatremia has been associated with mortality and hospital readmissions. Although multimorbid older patients are particularly affected, specific data on this group are lacking. Methods: A prospective cohort was used based on the OPERAM (OPtimising thERapy to prevent Avoidable hospital admissions in the Multimorbid elderly) trial, a European multicenter, cluster-randomized trial among hospitalized patients aged ≥70 years with ≥3 chronic medical conditions taking ≥5 long-term medications, with documented sodium values at admission, excluding participants with hypernatremia (>145 mmol/L). The primary outcome was all-cause 1-year mortality, and secondary outcomes were 30-day mortality and readmission at 1 year and at 30 days. We examined the association between hyponatremia and mortality in comparison to normonatremia using a mixed-effects survival model, with adjustment for age, sex, comorbidities, study intervention arm, study site and cluster; and the association between hyponatremia and readmission using competing risk models with death as the competing risk. Subgroup analyses were performed across sodium hyponatremia categories (mild 134–130 mmol/L, moderate 129–125 mmol/L, severe < 125 mmol/L). Results: Of 2008 OPERAM participants, 1968 had a sodium value at admission, and 33 were excluded due to hypernatremia. In the 1935 participants, the mean age was 79.4 years (standard deviation 6.3), 866 (44.8%) were female, the median number of comorbidities was 11 (IQR 8–16), the median number of drugs was 10 (IQR 7–13), and 401 (20.7%) had hyponatremia at admission. The multivariate-adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for 1-year mortality with hyponatremia was 1.41 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.11–1.78, 364 deaths) and for 30-day mortality was 1.20 (95%CI 0.74–1.94, 89 deaths). The adjusted sub-HR for 1-year readmission was 0.94 (95%CI 0.79–1.11), and that for 30-day readmission was 1.1 (95%CI 0.78–1.59). There was a linear increase in 1-year mortality across hyponatremia categories (HR from 1.31 to 2.64, p for trend = 0.001). Conclusions: Hyponatremia at admission is associated with increased 1-year mortality in multimorbid older adults, with increasing risk for lower sodium values. These findings support sodium as a useful prognostic marker in this setting, while its potential independent impact on survival remains to be clarified in prospective studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Geriatric Medicine)

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19 pages, 1403 KB

Open AccessArticle

Phenolic Profiling of Albanian Honeys by LC–MS/MS: Gallic Acid as a Predictive Marker of Antioxidant Potential

by Xhulieta Hamiti, Gjyliza Shallari, Blerina Pupuleku, Alp Yücel, Saffet Çelìk, Erhan Sulejmani and Pranvera Lazo

Molecules 2025, 30(20), 4037; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30204037 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Phenolic compounds are key contributors to the bioactivity and antioxidant potential of honey, yet reliable indicators for rapid quality assessment remain limited. This study characterized phenolic profiles in 44 mono-floral and poly-floral honey samples from 11 Albanian regions using LC–MS/MS method. Total phenolic [...] Read more.

Phenolic compounds are key contributors to the bioactivity and antioxidant potential of honey, yet reliable indicators for rapid quality assessment remain limited. This study characterized phenolic profiles in 44 mono-floral and poly-floral honey samples from 11 Albanian regions using LC–MS/MS method. Total phenolic content ranged from 29.8 to 171 mg·kg⁻¹, with flavonoids accounting for 6.1–56.4% of total phenolics. Gallic acid was the dominant phenolic compound (5.5–127 mg·kg⁻¹), which is strongly correlated with the total content of polyphenols (r = 0.863, p < 0.001). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) confirmed significant differences in phenolic and flavonoid levels across geographic zones and floral types, with mono-floral honeys consistently exhibiting higher bioactive parameters. These findings demonstrate that gallic acid may serve as a practical biochemical marker for estimating antioxidant potential in honey. This insight has implications for authenticity verification and quality control, particularly in regions like Albania where diverse floral sources contribute to honey variability. By linking phenolic composition to antioxidant potential, this study supports the broader application of phenolic markers for the standardization and valorization of honey as a functional food. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Advances in Food Chemistry)

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5 pages, 164 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Parenting and Child/Adolescent Development: Current Updates and Global Perspectives

by Elitsa Dimitrova and Apolinaras Zaborskis

Children 2025, 12(10), 1368; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12101368 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

This Special Issue, titled “Parenting and Child/Adolescent Development: Current Updates and Global Perspectives”, brings together a diverse collection of ten articles that examine the complex challenges and opportunities shaping children’s and adolescents’ lives today [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Parenting and Child/Adolescent Development: Current Updates and Global Perspectives)

25 pages, 694 KB

Open AccessArticle

Digital Finance and Green Technology Innovation: A Dual-Layer Analysis of Financing and Governance Mechanisms in China

by Yongpeng Ma, Rosli Mahmood, Annuar Md Nassir and Leyi Zhang

Sustainability 2025, 17(20), 8982; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17208982 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

As China advances its green transition, digital finance broadens firms’ access to external financing; however, whether improved access enhances financial allocation efficiency or drives green technology innovation remains unclear. This study addresses this through a dual-layer framework examining financing mechanisms and governance conditions. [...] Read more.

As China advances its green transition, digital finance broadens firms’ access to external financing; however, whether improved access enhances financial allocation efficiency or drives green technology innovation remains unclear. This study addresses this through a dual-layer framework examining financing mechanisms and governance conditions. Using panel data from 2165 Chinese A-share firms (2011–2022) with two-way fixed-effects models, the analysis yields three key findings: First, digital finance significantly enhances green technology innovation. Second, financial mismatch partially mediates this relationship. Third, governance moderates these effects. Equity incentives exhibit threshold effects, where positive impacts emerge only above certain levels. Cash incentives, however, vary by period: they are positive in 2011–2018 and negative in 2019–2022. These results underscore that financial reform must accompany governance improvements, especially equity incentives. The Chinese experience also provides insights for emerging economies navigating digital finance expansion and green transition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Finance, Technologies, and Regulatory Frameworks: Advancing Sustainability in a Digital Era)

24 pages, 76400 KB

Open AccessArticle

MBD-YOLO: An Improved Lightweight Multi-Scale Small-Object Detection Model for UAVs Based on YOLOv8

by Bo Xu, Di Cai, Kelin Sui, Zheng Wang, Chuangchuang Liu and Xiaolong Pei

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(20), 10877; https://doi.org/10.3390/app152010877 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

To address the challenges of low detection accuracy and weak generalization in UAV aerial imagery caused by complex ground environments, significant scale variations among targets, dense small objects, and background interference, this paper proposes an improved lightweight multi-scale small-object detection model, MBD-YOLO (MBFF [...] Read more.

To address the challenges of low detection accuracy and weak generalization in UAV aerial imagery caused by complex ground environments, significant scale variations among targets, dense small objects, and background interference, this paper proposes an improved lightweight multi-scale small-object detection model, MBD-YOLO (MBFF module, BiMS-FPN, and Dual-Stream Head). Specifically, to enhance multi-scale feature extraction capabilities, we introduce the Multi-Branch Feature Fusion (MBFF) module, which dynamically adjusts receptive fields through parallel branches and adaptive depthwise convolutions, expanding the receptive field while preserving detail perception. We further design a lightweight Bidirectional Multi-Scale Feature Aggregation Pyramid Network (BiMS-FPN), integrating bidirectional propagation paths and a Multi-Scale Feature Aggregation (MSFA) module to mitigate feature spatial misalignment and improve small-target detection. Additionally, the Dual-Stream Head with NMS-free architecture leverages a task-aligned architecture and dynamic matching strategies to boost inference speed without compromising accuracy. Experiments on the VisDrone2019 dataset demonstrate that MBD-YOLO-n surpasses YOLOv8n by 6.3% in mAP50 and 8.2% in mAP50–95, with accuracy gains of 17.96–55.56% for several small-target categories, while increasing parameters by merely 3.1%. Moreover, MBD-YOLO-s achieves superior detection accuracy, efficiency, and generalization with only 12.1 million parameters, outperforming state-of-the-art models and proving suitable for resource-constrained embedded deployment scenarios. The superior performance of MBD-YOLO, which harmonizes high precision with low computational demand, fulfills the critical requirements for real-time deployment on resource-limited UAVs, showing great promise for applications in traffic monitoring, urban security, and agricultural surveying. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application, Optimization and Architecture of Deep Learning Neural Network)

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29 pages, 4007 KB

Open AccessArticle

Preparation and Characterization of an Acid-Responsive ZIF-8 Hydrogel Dressing with Sustained-Release Function for Targeted Therapy of Periodontitis

by Bingbing Chen, Mengqi Hao, Hao Cui, Rui Zeng, Hang Ma, Anying Long and Xuegang Li

Gels 2025, 11(10), 813; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11100813 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Periodontitis is a chronic oral inflammatory disease whose treatment is often hindered by poor drug retention, prolonged therapeutic regimens, and the rise of antibiotic resistance. In this study, we developed a Hydrogel@ZIF-8@metronidazole (Hydrogel@ZIF-8@MNZ) nanocomposite dressing for targeted, sustained, and in situ antimicrobial therapy. [...] Read more.

Periodontitis is a chronic oral inflammatory disease whose treatment is often hindered by poor drug retention, prolonged therapeutic regimens, and the rise of antibiotic resistance. In this study, we developed a Hydrogel@ZIF-8@metronidazole (Hydrogel@ZIF-8@MNZ) nanocomposite dressing for targeted, sustained, and in situ antimicrobial therapy. This system integrates ZIF-8, a pH-responsive metal–organic framework, with the antimicrobial agent metronidazole (MNZ), encapsulated within a crosslinked hydrogel matrix to enhance stability and retention in the oral environment. Drug release studies demonstrated that MNZ release was significantly accelerated under acidic conditions (pH 5.0), mimicking the periodontal microenvironment. The Hydrogel@ZIF-8 composite achieved a maximum MNZ adsorption capacity of 132.45 mg·g⁻¹, with a spontaneous and exothermic uptake process best described by a pseudo-second-order kinetic model, suggesting chemisorption as the dominant mechanism. The nanoplatform exhibited strong pH-responsive behavior, with enhanced drug release under acidic conditions and potent dose-dependent bactericidal activity against Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn). At the highest tested concentration, bacterial survival was reduced to approximately 30%, with extensive membrane disruption observed through live/dead fluorescence microscopy. In summary, the stimuli-responsive Hydrogel@ZIF-8@MNZ nanocomposite offers an intelligent and effective therapeutic strategy for periodontitis. By tailoring its action to the disease microenvironment, this platform enables sustained and localized antibacterial therapy, addressing major challenges in the treatment of chronic oral infections. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Organogelators: Preparation, Properties, and Applications)

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23 pages, 621 KB

Open AccessReview

The Potential of Fermentation-Based Processing on Protein Modification: A Review

by Negin Yousefi, Behdad Shokrollahi Yancheshmeh and Krist V. Gernaey

Foods 2025, 14(20), 3461; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14203461 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Proteins are fundamental to food systems due to their structural, nutritional, and functional roles. With increasing consumer awareness of health and sustainability, the demand for protein-rich foods from diverse and eco-friendly sources is rising. Fermentation has emerged as a transformative approach for enhancing [...] Read more.

Proteins are fundamental to food systems due to their structural, nutritional, and functional roles. With increasing consumer awareness of health and sustainability, the demand for protein-rich foods from diverse and eco-friendly sources is rising. Fermentation has emerged as a transformative approach for enhancing the nutritional value, functionality, and sensory appeal of protein-based foods, while also contributing to environmental and economic sustainability. This review explores the multifaceted impact of fermentation on proteins, focusing on nutritional enhancement, functional improvements, technological adaptability, and sensory optimization. It highlights how microbial fermentation can modify protein structures, reduce allergenicity, improve digestibility, and generate bioactive compounds. The diversity of protein sources, microbial strains, and fermentation parameters offers a versatile platform for tailoring food products to meet evolving consumer expectations. By critically examining current research and industrial practices, this paper underscores the importance of selecting appropriate protein substrates and microbial hosts to maximize the benefits of fermentation. The insights provided aim to guide future innovations in developing sustainable, health-promoting, and consumer-acceptable fermented protein products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Proteins: Nutritional Properties, Allergenicity, and Functional Properties)

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28 pages, 3196 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Blame Attribution on Moral Contagion in Controversial Events

by Hua Li, Qifang Wang and Renmeng Cao

Entropy 2025, 27(10), 1052; https://doi.org/10.3390/e27101052 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Controversial events are social incidents that trigger wide discussion and strong emotions, often touching on public interests, moral judgment, or social values. Their diffusion typically involves moral evaluations and affect-laden language. Prior work has mostly examined how the quantity of moral and emotional [...] Read more.

Controversial events are social incidents that trigger wide discussion and strong emotions, often touching on public interests, moral judgment, or social values. Their diffusion typically involves moral evaluations and affect-laden language. Prior work has mostly examined how the quantity of moral and emotional words shapes diffusion, while largely overlooking blame attribution—that is, whether audiences locate the cause of a controversial event in individual actions or in social structures, across different contexts. Using 189,872 original Weibo posts covering 105 events in three domains— street-level bureaucracy (SLB; individual attribution), education governance (EG; structural attribution), and gender-based violence (GBV; mixed attribution)—we estimate negative binomial models with an interaction between word type and account verification and report incidence rate ratios (IRR). Moral contagion is strongest for SLB (IRR = 1.337) and attenuated for EG (IRR = 1.037). For GBV, moral-emotional language decreases reposts (IRR = 0.844). Unverified accounts amplify the diffusion advantage of moral-emotional wording for both individually and structurally attributed issues, with the largest gains in SLB. When disaggregating by valence and discrete emotions, fear-type moral-emotional words are positively associated with reposts in GBV (IRR = 1.314). Theoretically, we shift the question from whether moral contagion occurs to when it operates, highlighting attribution tendencies and verification status as key moderators. Empirically, we provide cross-issue evidence from large-scale Chinese social media. Methodologically, we offer a replicable workflow that combines length-normalized lexical measures with negative binomial models, including interaction terms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Complexity of Social Networks)

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23 pages, 6716 KB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Investigation on Residual Stress and Distortion in Welded Joints of Offshore Platform Structures

by Jérémy Musolino, Xing-Hua Shi and Bai-Qiao Chen

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(10), 1941; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13101941 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Offshore platforms need to be made, from the start of their construction, to withstand the extreme environmental conditions they will be facing. This study investigates the welding-induced residual stress and distortion in a Y-shaped tubular joint extracted from an offshore wind turbine jacket [...] Read more.

Offshore platforms need to be made, from the start of their construction, to withstand the extreme environmental conditions they will be facing. This study investigates the welding-induced residual stress and distortion in a Y-shaped tubular joint extracted from an offshore wind turbine jacket substructure. While similar joints are commonly used in offshore platforms, their welding behavior remains underexplored in the existing literature. The joint configuration is representative of critical load-bearing connections commonly used in offshore platforms exposed to harsh marine environments. A finite element model has been developed to simulate the welding process in a typical offshore tubular joint through thermal and mechanical simulation. Validation of the model has been achieved with results against reference experimental data, with temperature and distortion errors of 3.9 and 5.3%, respectively. Residual stress and distortions were analyzed along predefined paths in vertical, transverse, and longitudinal directions. A mesh sensitivity study was conducted to balance computational efficiency and result accuracy. Furthermore, clamped and free displacement boundary conditions are analyzed, demonstrating reduced deformation and stress for the second case. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing the Ultimate Strength of Offshore Structures for Sustainable and Resilient Marine Energy Systems)

26 pages, 1646 KB

Open AccessArticle

Message Passing-Based Assignment for Efficient Handover Management in LEO Networks

by Gilang Raka Rayuda Dewa, Illsoo Sohn and Djati Wibowo Djamari

Telecom 2025, 6(4), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/telecom6040076 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

As part of non-terrestrial networks (NTN), the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) plays a critical role in supporting high-throughput wireless communication. However, the high-speed mobility of LEO satellites, coupled with the high density of user terminals, makes efficient user assignment crucial in maintaining overall [...] Read more.

As part of non-terrestrial networks (NTN), the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) plays a critical role in supporting high-throughput wireless communication. However, the high-speed mobility of LEO satellites, coupled with the high density of user terminals, makes efficient user assignment crucial in maintaining overall wireless performance. The suboptimal assignment from LEO satellites to user terminals can result in frequent unnecessary handovers, rendering the user terminal unable to receive the entire downlink signal. Consequently, it reduces user rate and user satisfaction metrics. However, finding the optimum user assignment to reduce handover issues is categorized as a non-linear programming problem with a combinatorial number of possible solutions, resulting in excessive computational complexity. Therefore, this study proposes a distributed user assignment for the LEO networks. By utilizing message-passing frameworks that map the optimization problem into a graphical representation, the proposed algorithm splits the optimization problem into a local mapping issue, thereby significantly reducing computational complexity. By exchanging small messages iteratively, the proposed algorithm autonomously determines the near-optimal solution. The extensive simulation results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm significantly outperforms the conventional algorithm in terms of user rate and user satisfaction metric under various wireless parameters. Full article

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15 pages, 1374 KB

Open AccessArticle

Stylometric Analysis of Sustainable Central Bank Communications: Revealing Authorial Signatures in Monetary Policy Statements

by Hakan Emekci and İbrahim Özkan

Sustainability 2025, 17(20), 8979; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17208979 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Sustainable economic development requires transparent and consistent institutional communication from monetary authorities to maintain long-term financial stability and public trust. This study investigates the latent authorial structure and stylistic heterogeneity of central bank communications by applying stylometric analysis and unsupervised machine learning to [...] Read more.

Sustainable economic development requires transparent and consistent institutional communication from monetary authorities to maintain long-term financial stability and public trust. This study investigates the latent authorial structure and stylistic heterogeneity of central bank communications by applying stylometric analysis and unsupervised machine learning to official announcements of the Central Bank of the Republic of Turkey (CBRT). Using a dataset of 557 press releases from 2006 to 2017, we extract a range of linguistic features at both sentence and document levels—including sentence length, punctuation density, word length, and type–token ratios. These features are reduced using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and clustered via Hierarchical Clustering on Principal Components (HCPC), revealing three distinct authorial groups within the CBRT’s communications. The robustness of these clusters is validated using multidimensional scaling (MDS) on character-level and word-level n-gram distances. The analysis finds consistent stylistic differences between clusters, with implications for authorship attribution, tone variation, and communication strategy. Notably, sentiment analysis indicates that one authorial cluster tends to exhibit more negative tonal features, suggesting potential bias or divergence in internal communication style. These findings challenge the conventional assumption of institutional homogeneity and highlight the presence of distinct communicative voices within the central bank. Furthermore, the results suggest that stylistic variation—though often subtle—may convey unintended policy signals to markets, especially in contexts where linguistic shifts are closely scrutinized. This research contributes to the emerging intersection of natural language processing, monetary economics, and institutional transparency. It demonstrates the efficacy of stylometric techniques in revealing the hidden structure of policy discourse and suggests that linguistic analytics can offer valuable insights into the internal dynamics, credibility, and effectiveness of monetary authorities. These findings contribute to sustainable financial governance by demonstrating how AI-driven analysis can enhance institutional transparency, promote consistent policy communication, and support long-term economic stability—key pillars of sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Policy and Economic Analysis in Sustainability Transitions)

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