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18 pages, 1411 KB  
Article
The Leaching of Valuable Metals (Li, Co, Ni, Mn, Cu) from Black Mass from Spent Lithium-Ion Batteries
by Rorie Gilligan, Glen P. O’Malley and Aleksandar N. Nikoloski
Metals 2025, 15(10), 1155; https://doi.org/10.3390/met15101155 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
Near-complete (>99%) dissolution of lithium and cobalt was achieved by the leaching of black mass from spent (end-of-life) lithium-ion batteries (LiBs) using 4 M H2SO4 or HCl at 60 °C. Raising the temperature to 90 °C did not increase the [...] Read more.
Near-complete (>99%) dissolution of lithium and cobalt was achieved by the leaching of black mass from spent (end-of-life) lithium-ion batteries (LiBs) using 4 M H2SO4 or HCl at 60 °C. Raising the temperature to 90 °C did not increase the overall extraction of lithium or cobalt, but it increased the rate of extraction. At 60 °C, 2 M H2SO4 or 2 M HCl performed similarly to the 4 M H2SO4/HCl solution, although extractions were lower using 1 M H2SO4 or HCl (~95% and 98%, respectively). High extractions were also observed by leaching in low pulp density (15 g/L) at 60 °C with 2 M CH2ClCOOH. Leaching was much slower with hydrogen peroxide reductant concentrations below 0.5 mol/L, with cobalt extractions of 90–95% after 3 h. Pulp densities of up to 250 g/L were tested when leaching with 4 M H2SO4 or HCl, with the stoichiometric limit estimated for each test based on the metal content of the black mass. Extractions were consistently high, above 95% for Li/Ni/Mn/Cu with a pulp density of 150 g/L, dropping sharply above this point because of insufficient remaining acid in the solution in the later stages of leaching. The final component of the test work used leaching parameters identified in the previous experiments as producing the largest extractions, and just sulphuric acid. A seven-stage semi-continuous sulphuric acid leach at 60 °C of black mass from LiBs that had undergone an oxidising roast (2h in a tube furnace at 500 °C under flowing air) to remove binder material resulted in high (93%) extraction of cobalt and near total (98–100%) extractions of lithium, nickel, manganese, and copper. Higher cobalt extraction (>98%) was expected, but a refractory spinel-type cobalt oxide, Co3O4, was generated during the oxidising roast as a result of inefficient aeration, which reduced the extraction efficiency. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cutting-Edge Innovations in Metal Recovery from Electronic Waste: Challenges, Techniques and Future Horizons)
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43 pages, 2436 KB  
Review
Fabricating Three-Dimensional Metamaterials Using Additive Manufacturing: An Overview
by Balakrishnan Subeshan, Abdulhammed K. Hamzat and Eylem Asmatulu
J. Manuf. Mater. Process. 2025, 9(10), 343; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmmp9100343 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
Metamaterials are artificial materials composed of special microstructures that have properties with unusual and useful features and can be applied to many fields. With their unique properties and sensitivity to external stimuli, metamaterials offer design flexibility to users. Traditional manufacturing is often not [...] Read more.
Metamaterials are artificial materials composed of special microstructures that have properties with unusual and useful features and can be applied to many fields. With their unique properties and sensitivity to external stimuli, metamaterials offer design flexibility to users. Traditional manufacturing is often not up to the task of creating metamaterials, which are now more accurately and more effectively analyzed than they were in the past. Recent advances in additive manufacturing (AM) have achieved remarkable success, with ensemble machine learning models demonstrating R2 values exceeding 0.97 and accuracy improvements of 9.6% over individual approaches. State-of-the-art multiphoton polymerization (MPP) techniques now reach submicron resolution (<1 μm), while selective laser melting (SLM) processes provide 20–100 μm precision for metallic metamaterials. This work offers a comprehensive review of additively manufactured 3D metamaterials, focusing on three categories of their fabrication: electromagnetic (achieving bandgaps up to 470 GHz), acoustic (providing 90% sound suppression at targeted frequencies), and mechanical (demonstrating Poisson’s ratios from −0.8 to +0.8). The relationship between different types of AM processes used in creating 3D objects and the properties of the resulting materials has been systematically reviewed. This research aims to address gaps and develop new applications to meet the modern demand for the broader use of metamaterials in advanced devices and systems that require high efficiency for sophisticated, high-performance applications. Full article
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21 pages, 1588 KB  
Review
Ecotoxicological Impacts of Heavy Metals on Medicinal Plant Quality and Rhizosphere Microbial Communities
by Hexigeduleng Bao, Yu Wang, Hainan Bao, Feijuan Wang, Qiong Jiang, Xiaoqi He, Hua Li, Yanfei Ding and Cheng Zhu
Plants 2025, 14(20), 3214; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14203214 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
With the rapid expansion of industrial activities, the accumulation of heavy metals in the environment has become a serious threat to ecological security and public health. Rhizosphere microorganisms play a crucial role in supporting the growth and quality of medicinal plants by facilitating [...] Read more.
With the rapid expansion of industrial activities, the accumulation of heavy metals in the environment has become a serious threat to ecological security and public health. Rhizosphere microorganisms play a crucial role in supporting the growth and quality of medicinal plants by facilitating nutrient uptake and regulating hormonal balance. However, medicinal plants can absorb heavy metals from contaminated soils during growth, resulting in toxic metal accumulation in plant tissues and reduced efficacy of active compounds. At the same time, excessive heavy metal levels suppress rhizosphere microbial growth and activity, disrupt community structure and function, and weaken their beneficial interactions with plants. These processes collectively lead to soil fertility decline, hindered plant development, and compromised safety and quality of medicinal materials. This review systematically summarizes the mechanisms by which heavy metals affect medicinal plants and their rhizosphere microbiota, and highlights that future research should focus on elucidating these interactions, developing advanced remediation technologies, and establishing comprehensive monitoring systems for the quality and safety of medicinal plants, thereby providing a scientific basis for their safe utilization and quality improvement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soil Heavy Metal Pollution and Agricultural Product Quality)
29 pages, 7216 KB  
Article
Thymoquinone Protective Effect Against Mercury-Induced Reproductive Derangement in Rats: In Vivo and In Silico Investigation
by Solomon Owumi, Moses Otunla, Pelumi Akindipe, Uche Arunsi, Jesutosin O. Babalola, Chioma E. Irozuru, Ahmad Altayyar, Bayode Oluwawibe, Olatunde Owoeye and Adegboyega K. Oyelere
Toxics 2025, 13(10), 896; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13100896 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
Mercury exposure has been linked to male infertility. Given that mercury chloride (HgCl2) may promote an oxido-inflammatory milieu associated with pathophysiological derangements, it is hypothesised that Thymoquinone (TQ), an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, may mitigate the gradual harmful effects of mercury [...] Read more.
Mercury exposure has been linked to male infertility. Given that mercury chloride (HgCl2) may promote an oxido-inflammatory milieu associated with pathophysiological derangements, it is hypothesised that Thymoquinone (TQ), an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, may mitigate the gradual harmful effects of mercury exposure on rat testes, epididymis, and hypothalamus, as these organs are vital to reproductive function. To test this hypothesis, 40 rats (strain: Wistar; sex: male) were randomly assigned to five cohorts of eight rats each. After a 7-day acclimation, treatments were dispensed for 28 consecutive days accordingly: Cohort I: distilled water only, as control; Cohort II: HgCl2 only (20 µg/mL); Cohort III: TQ only (2.5 mg/kg); Cohort IV: HgCl2 + TQ (20 µg/mL + 2.5 mg/kg); and Cohort V: HgCl2 + TQ (20 µg/mL + 5 mg/kg). Co-treatment with TQ preserved the body and organ weight of the HgCl2 exposed animals. However, TQ did not reduce HgCl2-induced dysfunction in sperm function and morphology. The serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinising hormone (LH), and testosterone were increased significantly (p < 0.05) by TQ co-treatment, while decreasing the prolactin level. TQ administration also increased (p < 0.05) testicular enzymes, including alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), acid phosphatase (ACP), and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) activities, which HgCl2 decreased. TQ administration increased (p < 0.05) HgCl2-induced decreases in catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione (GSH), glutathione-s-transferase (GST), and total sulfhydryl group (TSH) levels in the testes, epididymis, and hypothalamus of experimental rats. Further, TQ reduced HgCl2-mediated increases in RONS-reactive oxygen and nitrogen species; LPO–lipid peroxidation; PC–protein carbonyl formation; and XO–xanthine oxidase activity. Furthermore, levels of inflammatory biomarkers, including tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and myeloperoxidase (MPO), were decreased (p < 0.05) in the co-treated groups, with a higher dose of TQ (5.0 mg/kg) showing a more pronounced protective effect. Additionally, TQ co-administration increased Bax and decreased Bcl-2 and p53 protein levels (p < 0.05), thereby protecting the rats’ testes, epididymis, and hypothalamus from HgCl2-induced apoptosis. Molecular docking simulation analysis revealed TQ interaction dynamics with PPAR-α and PPAR-δ to suppress NF-kB-mediated pro-inflammatory sequela as well as activate Nrf-2-mediated antioxidant defence system. These predicted biological effects of TQ resonate with the findings from the in vivo studies. Therefore, supplementation with TQ may help reduce chemical-induced toxicities, including HgCl2‘s reproductive toxicity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Novel Methods in Toxicology Research)
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24 pages, 3779 KB  
Article
Ecosystem Service Value Dynamics in the Yellow River Delta National Nature Reserve, China: Conservation Implications from Two Decades of Change
by Shuxin Shi, Shengyuan Xu and Ziqi Meng
Sustainability 2025, 17(20), 9291; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17209291 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
Yellow River Delta National Nature Reserve plays a critical role in ecological conservation, and assessing its ecosystem service value (ESV) is essential for guiding sustainable management strategies that harmonize development and preservation. This study was motivated by the need to generate actionable insights [...] Read more.
Yellow River Delta National Nature Reserve plays a critical role in ecological conservation, and assessing its ecosystem service value (ESV) is essential for guiding sustainable management strategies that harmonize development and preservation. This study was motivated by the need to generate actionable insights for adaptive conservation planning in this vulnerable coastal region. We evaluated the spatiotemporal dynamics of ESV from 2000 to 2020 using a combination of remote sensing, geographic information system analyses, and statistical modeling. Primary drivers influencing the spatial heterogeneity of ecosystem service value were identified through geographical detector analysis, and future trends were projected based on historical patterns. The results revealed that (1) ESV showed a clear spatial gradient, with higher values in coastal zones, moderate values along river channels, and lower values inland, and exhibited an overall significant increase over the two decades, primarily driven by improvements in regulating services; (2) wetland area and precipitation were the most influential factors, though socio-economic elements and environmental conditions also contributed to ESV distribution; and (3) future ESV is expected to follow current trends, reinforcing the importance of current management practices. Given that the continuous increase in ESV from 2000 to 2020 was predominantly attributed to water body expansion, future conservation strategies should prioritize the protection and restoration of these water resources. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Remote Sensing and Spatial Analysis for Monitoring and Assessing Landscape and Ecosystem Sustainability)
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20 pages, 315 KB  
Article
University Students’ Character Strengths and Their Impact on Quality Education in Higher Education
by Thet Thet Mar, Balqees Rashid Suleiman AL Mandhari, Mária Hercz and Ahmed Said AlGhdani
Educ. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1407; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci15101407 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
Character strengths are the positive personality traits essential for a meaningful life. Recognising and applying character strengths is crucial to becoming high-quality learners. This study explores the role of character strengths in enhancing the quality of education within Hungarian Higher Education, an area [...] Read more.
Character strengths are the positive personality traits essential for a meaningful life. Recognising and applying character strengths is crucial to becoming high-quality learners. This study explores the role of character strengths in enhancing the quality of education within Hungarian Higher Education, an area often neglected in discussing quality education. Using purposive sampling, semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten international students enrolled in BA and MA Teacher Education programs. The study explored how students perceive and apply character strengths to support learning and academic engagement. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis with ATLAS.ti software. The findings highlight several key strengths—such as creativity, hope, curiosity, teamwork, and self-regulation—as essential to fostering effective learning environments. Four predominant thematic areas emerged: the importance of positive personality traits, the pivotal role of the teacher–student relationship in fostering a conducive learning environment, the integration of character strengths in education, and personal development and character strengths, elucidating the integral role of character strengths in promoting quality education, advocating for a harmonious equilibrium between academic knowledge and personal growth. The study also contributes to the limited literature on character strengths in Hungarian Higher Education and suggests directions for future research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Higher Education and Creativity: International Perspectives on Stimulating Student Engagement)
28 pages, 1396 KB  
Article
Scenario-Based Sensor Selection for Autonomous Maritime Systems: A Multi-Criteria Analysis of Sensor Configurations for Situational Awareness
by Florian Hoehner, Vincent Langenohl, Ould el Moctar and Thomas E. Schellin
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(10), 2008; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13102008 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
Effective operation of autonomous maritime systems requires sensor architectures tailored to mission-specific requirements, as key performance criteria like accuracy and energy consumption vary significantly by operational context. Against this background, this study develops a dual-stage, multi-criteria procedure to evaluate and assess individual sensors [...] Read more.
Effective operation of autonomous maritime systems requires sensor architectures tailored to mission-specific requirements, as key performance criteria like accuracy and energy consumption vary significantly by operational context. Against this background, this study develops a dual-stage, multi-criteria procedure to evaluate and assess individual sensors accounting for scenario-based requirements, using the TOPSIS algorithm as its core method. The first stage individually assesses sensors against scenario-specific requirements to generate context-aware weighting factors (αis). In the second stage, these factors are used to evaluate the overall performance of seven predefined sensor suites across five distinct operational scenarios (e.g., ‘Coastal Surveillance’ or ‘Protection of Critical Infrastructure’). The procedure is complemented by an architectural robustness assessment that systematically captures the impact of component failures. This flexible approach serves as a generic decision framework for designing unmanned maritime systems across different mission profiles. By integrating key performance metrics and failure scenarios within a context of prioritized operational requirements, the dual-stage multi-criteria procedure enables more than just selecting an optimal configuration. It reveals the fundamental architectural design principles. Our results demonstrate that for precision-focused tasks such as ‘Coastal Surveillance’, specialized sensor suites combining electro-optical and laser rangefinder achieves the highest performance score (0.84). Conversely, for scenarios with balanced requirements like ‘Protection of Critical Infrastructure’, architectures based on functional complementarity (e.g., electro-optical and Radar, score (0.64)) prove most effective. A key finding is that maximizing sensor quantity does not guarantee optimal performance, as targeted, mission-specific configurations often outperform fully integrated systems. The significance of this study lies in providing a systematic framework that shifts the design paradigm from a ‘more is better’ approach to an intelligent, context-aware composition, enabling the development of truly robust and efficient sensor architectures for autonomous maritime systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Marine Data Analysis)
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30 pages, 916 KB  
Review
Trichoderma in Sustainable Agriculture and the Challenges Related to Its Effectiveness
by Karina Gutiérrez-Moreno, Ana I. Olguín-Martínez, Amelia C. Montoya-Martínez and Sergio de los Santos-Villalobos
Diversity 2025, 17(10), 734; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17100734 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
Fungi from the genus Trichoderma have been extensively studied and used as biological control agents (BCAs) because of their versatile mechanisms of action. These include triggering systemic resistance, directly inhibiting pathogens, promoting plant growth, enhancing tolerance to abiotic stress, and producing auxins. However, [...] Read more.
Fungi from the genus Trichoderma have been extensively studied and used as biological control agents (BCAs) because of their versatile mechanisms of action. These include triggering systemic resistance, directly inhibiting pathogens, promoting plant growth, enhancing tolerance to abiotic stress, and producing auxins. However, the widespread application of the most studied Trichoderma strains has been limited by discrepancies between their potential results observed in controlled environments and the outcomes in greenhouses and field conditions. These differences are associated with context dependency, influenced by strain-specific traits, crop genotype, soil properties, and environmental factors. In this review, we examine the mechanisms of action, current challenges, and opportunities, emphasizing the importance of local strategies and detailed characterization of native strains to boost the effectiveness of Trichoderma-based products in sustainable agriculture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Microbial Diversity and Culture Collections)
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33 pages, 4863 KB  
Article
Optimal Control of MSWI Processes Using an RBF-IPOA Strategy for Enhanced Combustion Efficiency and NOX Reduction
by Jinxiang Pian, Peng Deng and Jian Tang
Processes 2025, 13(10), 3350; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13103350 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
As urbanization accelerates, solid waste volume increases, making municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) a primary disposal method. However, low combustion efficiency and harmful gas emissions, such as nitrogen oxides (NOX), contribute to significant environmental pollution. Improving combustion efficiency and reducing pollutants [...] Read more.
As urbanization accelerates, solid waste volume increases, making municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) a primary disposal method. However, low combustion efficiency and harmful gas emissions, such as nitrogen oxides (NOX), contribute to significant environmental pollution. Improving combustion efficiency and reducing pollutants are critical challenges in waste incineration. Due to the process’s complexity and operational fluctuations, traditional PID and model-based methods often fail to deliver optimal results, making this a key research focus. To address this, this paper proposes an optimal control method for the solid waste incineration process, aimed at improving combustion efficiency and reducing emissions. By establishing Radial Basis Function (RBF) neural network prediction models for CO, CO2, and NOX, and integrating an improved Pelican Optimization Algorithm (IPOA), an optimized control strategy for air volume and pressure settings is developed. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method significantly enhances combustion efficiency while effectively reducing NOX emissions. Furthermore, under varying operational conditions, the method can adaptively adjust the air volume and pressure settings, ensuring system adaptability to new conditions and maintaining both combustion efficiency and NOX emission concentrations within target ranges. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Detection, Control and Optimization of Low-Carbon Energy Systems)
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29 pages, 627 KB  
Article
Resilience Through Belonging: Schools’ Role in Promoting the Mental Health and Well-Being of Children and Young People
by Ceri Brown, Alison Douthwaite, Michael Donnelly and Yusuf Damilola Olaniyan
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1421; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15101421 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
After almost a decade of the policy promotion of resilience-building initiatives in schools, mental health figures have not improved. Recent research points to shortfalls in adopting individualistic policy perspectives on resilience when supporting children’s well-being. The originality of this paper lies in our [...] Read more.
After almost a decade of the policy promotion of resilience-building initiatives in schools, mental health figures have not improved. Recent research points to shortfalls in adopting individualistic policy perspectives on resilience when supporting children’s well-being. The originality of this paper lies in our argument that a broader consideration of resilience that acknowledges the importance of collective and relational approaches could enhance school-based well-being support. Our social identities are multiple, and the individual aspects of our identities are multilayered. A more nuanced consideration of children’s sense of belonging across the different social domains of their lives is, therefore, important in developing well-being approaches that prevent poor mental health outcomes for all children. We draw on data from the Belonging in School Study, the largest school-belonging study undertaken in the city of London, which was conducted between 2023 and 2024. This paper focuses on data collected from online survey responses from almost 2000 students and subsequent focus groups with 76 students. Three identity factors emerge as highly important to young people’s sense of belonging in school: social and cultural identity, peer group identity and individual identity. Descriptive statistical analysis of the survey findings and thematic analysis of the focus group discussion suggest that the importance of the elements within these three factors is relative to students’ social characteristics and levels of social privilege. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Resilience Psychology)
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15 pages, 9983 KB  
Article
Reconstruction of Ancient Carboniferous Zhibo Volcanic Edifices in Western China Using Magnetotelluric Observations and Comparisons with Active Volcanoes
by Lanfang He, Ping Shen, Zhongxing Wang, Xi Zhang and Song Huang
Minerals 2025, 15(10), 1089; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15101089 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
Volcanoes serve as the primary pathways for heat and material transfer from Earth’s interior to its surface, providing valuable insights into subsurface processes. Active and potentially active volcanoes have influenced human history and are closely related to current tectonic activity. Consequently, many active [...] Read more.
Volcanoes serve as the primary pathways for heat and material transfer from Earth’s interior to its surface, providing valuable insights into subsurface processes. Active and potentially active volcanoes have influenced human history and are closely related to current tectonic activity. Consequently, many active volcanoes have been studied using geophysical methods. However, the internal structure of ancient volcano complexes remains poorly understood. We investigated ancient volcano complexes by comparing magnetotelluric (MT) observations from Zhibo (ZB) ancient volcano with active mid-oceanic ridge volcanoes from Iceland and intracontinental volcanoes from north China. The MT responses of magma chambers in these active volcanoes showed similar low-resistivity values ranging from several to tens of Ω·m, indicating a comparable resistivity of the active magma. Assuming that the ancient active volcano chambers had a similar resistivity to that of current active volcanoes, we reconstructed the ancient Carboniferous volcano complex in ZB using the ratio of the lower portion of the MT responses from ZB ancient volcanic edifices and active volcanoes. The results implied the existence of fossil magma chambers at a depth of 5 to 7 km marking the site of a former volcanic center. This finding supports the magmatic origin of the ZB volcanic rock-hosted iron deposits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Critical Mineral Exploration: Innovations, Challenges and Future Directions)
22 pages, 1390 KB  
Article
Comprehensive Benefit Evaluation of Technological Models for Fertile Topsoil Restoration in Thin-Layer Black Soil Region: Evidence from Farmer Survey Data in the Southern Songnen Plain, China
by Genhong Liang, Xiwu Shao and Kaida Gao
Sustainability 2025, 17(20), 9290; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17209290 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
The severe degradation of thin-layer black soil in the Southern Songnen Plain threatens both regional agricultural sustainability and national food security. While various fertile topsoil restoration technologies have been proposed, a systematic evaluation of their comprehensive benefits is lacking, hindering effective policy and [...] Read more.
The severe degradation of thin-layer black soil in the Southern Songnen Plain threatens both regional agricultural sustainability and national food security. While various fertile topsoil restoration technologies have been proposed, a systematic evaluation of their comprehensive benefits is lacking, hindering effective policy and technology promotion. This study addresses this gap by employing an entropy weight–fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method to assess the economic, social, and ecological performance of four predominant restoration models—no-tillage, strip-tillage, deep-tillage, and indirect return—using survey data from 263 farmers. Results identify strip-tillage as the optimal model, achieving the highest integrated benefit score (8.153) by successfully balancing superior economic profitability and social acceptance with robust ecological performance. Although no-tillage excels in ecological benefits like moisture conservation (8.901) and pesticide reduction (8.524), its economic potential is constrained by higher management costs. Deep-tillage rapidly enhances soil fertility (8.628) but is limited by high operational costs, whereas the indirect model, despite high ecological sustainability (7.781), faces adoption barriers due to technical complexity and cost. The findings underscore the necessity of moving beyond one-size-fits-all approaches. We propose a targeted promotion system based on “categorized guidance and precision adaptation”, offering a practical framework for optimizing technology deployment to support both black soil conservation and sustainable agricultural development. Full article
31 pages, 3840 KB  
Review
Efficient and Secure GANs: A Survey on Privacy-Preserving and Resource-Aware Models
by Niovi Efthymia Apostolou, Elpida Vasiliki Balourdou, Maria Mouratidou, Eleni Tsalera, Ioannis Voyiatzis, Andreas Papadakis and Maria Samarakou
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(20), 11207; https://doi.org/10.3390/app152011207 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) generate synthetic content to support applications such as data augmentation, image-to-image translation, and training models where data availability is limited. Nevertheless, their broader deployment is constrained by limitations in data availability, high computational and energy demands, as well as [...] Read more.
Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) generate synthetic content to support applications such as data augmentation, image-to-image translation, and training models where data availability is limited. Nevertheless, their broader deployment is constrained by limitations in data availability, high computational and energy demands, as well as privacy and security concerns. These factors restrict their scalability and integration in real-world applications. This survey provides a systematic review of research aimed at addressing these challenges. Techniques such as few-shot learning, consistency regularization, and advanced data augmentation are examined to address data scarcity. Approaches designed to reduce computational and energy costs, including hardware-based acceleration and model optimization, are also considered. In addition, strategies to improve privacy and security, such as privacy-preserving GAN architectures and defense mechanisms against adversarial attacks, are analyzed. By organizing the literature into these thematic categories, the review highlights available solutions, their trade-offs, and remaining open issues. Our findings underline the growing role of GANs in artificial intelligence, while also emphasizing the importance of efficient, sustainable, and secure designs. This work not only concentrates the current knowledge but also sets the basis for future research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Big Data Analytics and Deep Learning for Predictive Maintenance)
24 pages, 565 KB  
Article
Zero-Shot Classification of Illicit Dark Web Content with Commercial LLMs: A Comparative Study on Accuracy, Human Consistency, and Inter-Model Agreement
by Víctor-Pablo Prado-Sánchez, Adrián Domínguez-Díaz, Luis De-Marcos and José-Javier Martínez-Herráiz
Electronics 2025, 14(20), 4101; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14204101 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
This study evaluates the zero-shot classification performance of eight commercial large language models (LLMs), GPT-4o, GPT-4o Mini, GPT-3.5 Turbo, Claude 3.5 Haiku, Gemini 2.0 Flash, DeepSeek Chat, DeepSeek Reasoner, and Grok, using the CoDA dataset (n = 10,000 Dark Web documents). Results [...] Read more.
This study evaluates the zero-shot classification performance of eight commercial large language models (LLMs), GPT-4o, GPT-4o Mini, GPT-3.5 Turbo, Claude 3.5 Haiku, Gemini 2.0 Flash, DeepSeek Chat, DeepSeek Reasoner, and Grok, using the CoDA dataset (n = 10,000 Dark Web documents). Results show strong macro-F1 scores across models, led by DeepSeek Chat (0.870), Grok (0.868), and Gemini 2.0 Flash (0.861). Alignment with human annotations was high, with Cohen’s Kappa above 0.86 for top models and Krippendorff’s Alpha reaching 0.871 . Inter-model agreement was strongest between GPT-4o and GPT-4o Mini (κ = 0.897), and Grok and DeepSeek Chat (κ = 0.896). These findings confirm that state-of-the-art LLMs can reliably classify illicit content under zero-shot conditions, though performance varies by model and category. Full article
14 pages, 2875 KB  
Article
Computational Identification of Genetic Background of Infertility and Calculating Inbreeding Coefficient in Dromedary Camel Herds
by Fahad A. Alshanbari and Abdulrahman Aloraini
Genes 2025, 16(10), 1238; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes16101238 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
Background: Inbreeding is a major genetic problem that reduces fertility and causes genetic disorders. Some breeders of dromedary camels use the same bull for many years due to its excellent characteristics, leading to mating with offspring and subsequent generations, resulting in increased homozygosity [...] Read more.
Background: Inbreeding is a major genetic problem that reduces fertility and causes genetic disorders. Some breeders of dromedary camels use the same bull for many years due to its excellent characteristics, leading to mating with offspring and subsequent generations, resulting in increased homozygosity and genetic disorders. We hypothesize that inbreeding is associated with infertility in dromedary camels with normal and uninfected reproductive tracts. Methods: We genotyped 96 samples from seven camel breeds using the Illumina 55K SNP BeadChip, including five confirmed infertile individuals. Inbreeding coefficients (F) were calculated using PLINK based on heterozygosity and runs of homozygosity. Genome-wide association analysis using logistic regression was performed to identify potential genomic regions associated with infertility. Results: All five infertile camels showed significantly higher F values (>0.15) compared to 91 fertile individuals (<0.10, p < 0.001). The genome-wide association analysis failed to identify specific genomic regions linked to infertility, likely due to limited statistical power (n = 5 cases) and the polygenic nature of fertility traits. Population structure analysis revealed genetic differentiation related to coat color, with two significant SNPs on chromosome 3 near SLC30A5 (p < 10−7). Conclusions: Our results demonstrate that elevated inbreeding is strongly associated with infertility in dromedary camels. Future studies should employ larger sample sizes (≥50 infertile individuals) or whole-genome sequencing (35× coverage) to identify specific genomic regions. Implementation of breeding strategies avoiding related matings (F < 0.10) is recommended to maintain reproductive performance in camel herds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Genetics and Genomics)
17 pages, 2479 KB  
Article
A Semi-Automatic Labeling Framework for PCB Defects via Deep Embeddings and Density-Aware Clustering
by Sang-Jeong Lee, Sung-Bal Seo and You-Suk Bae
Sensors 2025, 25(20), 6470; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25206470 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
(1) Background. Printed circuit board (PCB) inspection is increasingly constrained by the cost and latency of reliable labels, owing to tiny/low-contrast defects embedded in complex backgrounds and severe class imbalance. (2) Methods. We proposed a semi-automatic labeling pipeline that converts anomaly detection proposals [...] Read more.
(1) Background. Printed circuit board (PCB) inspection is increasingly constrained by the cost and latency of reliable labels, owing to tiny/low-contrast defects embedded in complex backgrounds and severe class imbalance. (2) Methods. We proposed a semi-automatic labeling pipeline that converts anomaly detection proposals into class labels via small margin cropping from images, interchangeable embeddings (HOG, ResNet-50, ViT-B/16), clustering (k-means/GMM/HDBSCAN), and cluster-level verification using representative montages. (3) Results. On 9354 cropped defects spanning 10 categories (imbalance IR ≈ 1542, Gini ≈ 0.642), ResNet-50 + HDBSCAN achieved NMI ≈ 0.290, AMI ≈ 0.283, and purity ≈ 0.624 with ~47 clusters; ViT + HDBSCAN was comparable (NMI ≈ 0.281, AMI ≈ 0.274, ~44 clusters). With a fixed taxonomy, k-means (K = 10) yielded the strongest ARI (0.169 with ResNet-50; 0.158 with ViT). Macro-purity exceeded micro-purity, indicating many small, homogeneous clusters suitable for one-shot acceptance/rejection, enabling an upper-bound ~200× reduction in operator decisions relative to per-image labeling. (4) Conclusions. The workflow provides an auditable, resource-flexible path from normal-only localization to scalable supervision, prioritizing labeling productivity over detector state-of-the-art and directly addressing the industrial bottleneck in the development lifecycle for PCB inspection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computer Vision and Sensing Technologies for Industrial Quality Inspection: 2nd Edition)
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15 pages, 3808 KB  
Article
Formation of Nanocompounds of TiO2 Using PVA-HAp Nanofibers by Sol-Gel Technique
by Marvin Elco Estrada Macias, Humberto Alejandro Monreal Romero, Guillermo Martínez Mata, Rosaura Pacheco Santiesteban, Claudia López Meléndez, Héctor Alfredo López Aguilar, Oscar Chávez Acosta, Carlos A. Martínez-Pérez, Caleb Carreño-Gallardo and José Guadalupe Chacón-Nava
Polymers 2025, 17(20), 2796; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17202796 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
The use of hydroxyapatite (HAp) nanofibers in combination with titanium dioxide (TiO2) emerges as a method for the design and improvement of materials at the biomedical, architectonic, and industrial levels. In this research, TiO2 nanocomposites were developed using HAp nanofibers [...] Read more.
The use of hydroxyapatite (HAp) nanofibers in combination with titanium dioxide (TiO2) emerges as a method for the design and improvement of materials at the biomedical, architectonic, and industrial levels. In this research, TiO2 nanocomposites were developed using HAp nanofibers through the sol-gel technique. The molecular assembly strategy reveals the formation of nanocomposites with sizes of 100–500 nm at 700 °C. EDS analysis shows the presence of Ca and P, indicating that HAp nanofibers have been integrated into the nanocomposites. The crystalline phases corresponding to rutile and anatase were detected by X-ray spectroscopy analysis. The morphology of the composites was analyzed by surface segmentation analysis, scanning electron microscope, and scanning tunneling microscope. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Fibers)
15 pages, 3727 KB  
Review
Advances in Cytoplasmic Male Sterility in Sugar Beet from Mitochondrial Genome Structural Dynamics and Nuclear-Cytoplasmic Coordination
by Weiting Zhong, Shuo Zhang, Xiaolin Gu, Yanghe Zhao, Zhiqiang Wu, Dali Liu and Wang Xing
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(20), 10175; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms262010175 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
Sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) is a globally important sugar crop whose hybrid breeding system relies heavily on cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) lines. Recent advances in sugar beet genomics, particularly the release of high-quality reference genomes and the characterization of organellar genomes, [...] Read more.
Sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) is a globally important sugar crop whose hybrid breeding system relies heavily on cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) lines. Recent advances in sugar beet genomics, particularly the release of high-quality reference genomes and the characterization of organellar genomes, have provided a foundation for elucidating the molecular genetic mechanisms of CMS. Furthermore, innovations in gene editing technologies are enabling transformative functional studies in this field. The precise targeting of CMS-associated mitochondrial genes and nuclear restorer-of-fertility genes not only allows for direct investigation of theoretical models governing fertility regulation through nuclear–cytoplasmic interactions but also holds promise for the targeted development of sterile and restorer lines. This review systematically summarizes progresses in sugar beet genomics, the development of gene editing tools, and the current understanding of the molecular genetics of CMS and fertility restoration in sugar beet. Although challenges remain—such as efficient delivery of editing tools into mitochondria and coordinated editing of multiple genes—the integration of genomic and gene editing technologies is expected to accelerate multi-omics-guided dissection of CMS mechanisms. These advances will facilitate the precise design of high-yield, high-sugar, and stress-resistant sugar beet hybrids, thereby providing core scientific and technological support for the sustainable development of the global sugar industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetics and Breeding for Sugar Crops)
19 pages, 1727 KB  
Article
Immunomodulatory Effects of Epilobium Angustifolium Extract in DSS-Induced Colitis: Attenuation of Inflammatory and Metabolic Markers in Mice
by Rositsa Mihaylova, Viktoria Elincheva, Reneta Gevrenova, Dimitrina Zheleva-Dimitrova, Georgi Momekov and Rumyana Simeonova
Immuno 2025, 5(4), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/immuno5040050 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
The inflammatory and metabolic complexity of colitis necessitates therapies that act on multiple immune pathways. Using serum proteomic profiling, the present study evaluated the systemic immunomodulatory profile of Epilobium angustifolium lyophilized methanol-aqueous extract rich in oenothein B (EAE) in a dextran sulfate sodium [...] Read more.
The inflammatory and metabolic complexity of colitis necessitates therapies that act on multiple immune pathways. Using serum proteomic profiling, the present study evaluated the systemic immunomodulatory profile of Epilobium angustifolium lyophilized methanol-aqueous extract rich in oenothein B (EAE) in a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced mouse model of ulcerative colitis in a comparative manner to dexamethasone (DXM). DSS exposure triggered robust inflammatory activation, evidenced by elevated chemokines (CXCL9, CXCL10, CCL11), proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1α, IL-12, PAI-1, RAGE) and metabolic stress mediators (leptin, resistin, FGF-21). Treatment with EAE significantly attenuated this inflammatory profile, notably reducing Th2-skewed chemokines and eosinophil recruitment. In contrast to DXM, EAE uniquely normalized pro-thrombotic and tissue-remodeling markers, including PAI-1 and RAGE, both implicated in intestinal barrier dysfunction and chronic inflammation. Furthermore, EAE demonstrated superior modulation of inflammation-associated growth factors (IGFBP-5, HGF, Flt3L) and adipokines (leptin, resistin), indicating a broader therapeutic scope that includes metabolic dysfunctions. Collectively, our data reveal that EAE exerts a distinct immunoregulatory profile, modulating both innate and adaptive immune pathways while simultaneously addressing metabolic pathologies. These multifaceted actions underscore its promise as a phytotherapeutic candidate for the management of ulcerative colitis and other inflammatory conditions, with potential advantages over conventional steroid treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Young Scholars’ Developments in Immunology)
15 pages, 1305 KB  
Article
Renewable Energy Transition and Sustainable Economic Growth in South Asia: Insights from the CO2 Emissions Policy Threshold
by Mustapha Mukhtar, Idris Abdullahi Abdulqadir and Hassan Sani Abubakar
Sustainability 2025, 17(20), 9289; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17209289 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
This article examines the asymmetric effects of renewable energy on sustainable economic growth across six South Asian countries from 2000 to 2023, employing panel data and threshold regression analysis. The findings indicate that CO2 emissions must remain below a threshold of 2.38% [...] Read more.
This article examines the asymmetric effects of renewable energy on sustainable economic growth across six South Asian countries from 2000 to 2023, employing panel data and threshold regression analysis. The findings indicate that CO2 emissions must remain below a threshold of 2.38% to support the integration of renewable energy with sustainable growth. Furthermore, access to clean energy and technologies should exceed 3.38%, and urbanization must be managed at a complementary threshold of 3.21%. These results are consistent with various studies investigating the renewable energy transition’s economic impacts globally. It is recommended that South Asia focus on reducing CO2 emissions below the identified threshold, enhancing clean energy access and innovation above the designated thresholds, and supporting urban growth as part of its policy initiatives. Such actions are essential for fostering economic growth and ensuring the sustainability of the region. The study recommends that the South Asian region take decisive steps to reduce CO2 emissions and enhance access to clean energy while accommodating urban population growth. It highlights the importance of transitioning to renewable energy to stimulate economic growth and maintain trade and foreign direct investment (FDI) as a viable part of the gross domestic product. The study suggests that investments in Gross Capital Formation (GCF), trade, and FDI will yield long-term benefits, although short-term policy adjustments may disrupt resource allocation and hinder economic and renewable energy development. Future research should explore the complex interactions between CO2 emissions, clean energy access, FDI, and trade, particularly in light of recent trade policies, including U.S. tariffs. Investigating these relationships through advanced methodologies, such as machine learning, could provide valuable insights into drivers of renewable energy transition and economic outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic CO2 Capture and Renewable Energy, 2nd Edition)
26 pages, 6250 KB  
Article
Biowaste-To-Catalyst: Magnetite Functionalized Potato-Shell as Green Magnetic Biochar Catalyst (PtS200-Fe3O4) for Efficient Procion Blue Textile Wastewater Dye Abatement
by Manasik M. Nour, Maha A. Tony, Mai K. Fouad and Hossam A. Nabwey
Catalysts 2025, 15(10), 997; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15100997 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
Bio-waste from potato shell agro-waste-based photocatalyst is introduced using potato shell integrated with Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles as a novel photocatalyst for photo-Fenton oxidation reaction. The catalyst was prepared via thermal activation of biochar, followed by co-precipitation of magnetite nanoparticles, resulting in a stable and [...] Read more.
Bio-waste from potato shell agro-waste-based photocatalyst is introduced using potato shell integrated with Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles as a novel photocatalyst for photo-Fenton oxidation reaction. The catalyst was prepared via thermal activation of biochar, followed by co-precipitation of magnetite nanoparticles, resulting in a stable and reusable material. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques augmented with the energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis with elemental mapping were used to assess the prepared sample. The prepared material, PtS200-Fe3O4, is then applied for oxidizing Procion Blue dye using biochar-supported magnetite catalyst. The oxidation process was evaluated under varying operational parameters, including pH, temperature, catalyst loading, oxidant dosage, and dye concentration. Results revealed that the system achieved complete dye removal within 20 min at 60 °C and pH 3, demonstrating the strong catalytic activity of the composite. Furthermore, the kinetic modeling is evaluated and the data confirmed that the degradation followed first-order kinetics. Also, the thermodynamic parameters indicated low activation energy with PtS200-Fe3O4 composite in advanced oxidation processes. The system sustainability is also assessed, and the reusability test verified that the catalyst retained over 70% efficiency after six consecutive cycles, highlighting its durability. The study confirms the feasibility of using biochar-supported magnetite as a cost-effective, eco-friendly, and efficient catalyst for the treatment of textile effluents and other dye-contaminated wastewater. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocatalysts in Biodegradation and Bioremediation)
29 pages, 4705 KB  
Article
Routing Technologies for 6G Low-Power and Lossy Networks
by Yanan Cao and Guang Zhang
Electronics 2025, 14(20), 4100; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14204100 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
6G low-power and lossy network (6G LLN) is a kind of distributed network designed for IoT and edge computing scenarios of the sixth-generation mobile communication technology. Its routing technologies should fully consider characteristics of green and low carbon, constrained nodes, lossy links, etc. [...] Read more.
6G low-power and lossy network (6G LLN) is a kind of distributed network designed for IoT and edge computing scenarios of the sixth-generation mobile communication technology. Its routing technologies should fully consider characteristics of green and low carbon, constrained nodes, lossy links, etc. This paper proposes an improved routing protocol for low-power and lossy networks (I-RPL) to better suit the characteristics of 6G LLN and meet its application requirements. I-RPL has designed new context-aware routing metrics, which include the residual energy indicator, buffer utilization ratio, ETX, delay, and hop count to meet multi-dimensional network QoS requirements. The candidate parent and its preferred parent’s residual energy indicator and buffer utilization ratio are calculated recursively to reduce the effect of upstream parents. ETX and delay calculating methods are improved to ensure a better performance. Moreover, I-RPL has optimized the network construction process to improve energy and protocol efficiency. I-RPL has designed scientific multiple routing metrics evaluation theories (Lagrangian multiplier theories), proposed new rank computing and optimal route selecting mechanisms to simplify protocol, and optimized broadcast suppression and network reliability. Finally, theoretical analysis and experiment results show that the average end-to-end delay of I-RPL is 13% lower than that of RPL; the average alive node number increased 11% and so on. So, I-RPL can be applied well to the 6G LLN and is superior to RPL and its improvements. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Networks)
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23 pages, 3661 KB  
Article
The Establishment of a Geofencing Model for Automated Data Collection in Soybean Trial Plots
by Jiaxin Liang, Bo Zhang, Changhai Chen, Haoyu Cui, Yongcai Ma and Bin Chen
Agriculture 2025, 15(20), 2169; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15202169 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
Collecting crop growth data in field environments is crucial for breeding research. The team’s current autonomous soybean phenotyping system requires manual control to start and stop data collection. To address the aforementioned issues, this study innovatively proposes an elliptical calibration rotating geofencing technique. [...] Read more.
Collecting crop growth data in field environments is crucial for breeding research. The team’s current autonomous soybean phenotyping system requires manual control to start and stop data collection. To address the aforementioned issues, this study innovatively proposes an elliptical calibration rotating geofencing technique. Preprocess coordinates using Z-scores and mean fitting perform global error calibration via weighted least squares, calculate the inclination angle between the row direction and the relative standard direction by fitting a straight line to the same row of data, and establish a rotation model based on geometric feature alignment. Results show that the system achieves an average response time of 0.115 s for geofence entry, with perfect accuracy and Recall rates of 1, meeting the requirements for starting and stopping geographic fencing in soybean ridge trial plots. This technology provides the critical theoretical foundation for enabling a dynamic, on-demand automatic start–stop functionality in smart data collection devices for soybean field trial zones within precision agriculture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Artificial Intelligence and Digital Agriculture)
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19 pages, 1564 KB  
Article
A Novel Municipal-Level Approach to Uncover the Hidden Burden of Hepatitis C: A Replicable Model for National Elimination Strategies
by Pietro Torre, Silvana Mirella Aliberti, Tommaso Sarcina, Mariano Festa, Chiara D’Amore, Giuseppe D’Adamo, Michele Gambardella, Antonella Santonicola, Gaetano Manzi, Mario Masarone, Mario Capunzo and Marcello Persico
Viruses 2025, 17(10), 1392; https://doi.org/10.3390/v17101392 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
Background: Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) remains a global health challenge as WHO elimination targets are not achievable in most countries, mainly due to the high number of undiagnosed individuals. In Italy, where national elimination efforts are ongoing, regional disparities further hinder progress. This [...] Read more.
Background: Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) remains a global health challenge as WHO elimination targets are not achievable in most countries, mainly due to the high number of undiagnosed individuals. In Italy, where national elimination efforts are ongoing, regional disparities further hinder progress. This study aimed to characterize the hidden burden of chronic HCV infection across t he territory of the Province of Salerno, Southern Italy, to suggest a novel municipal-level screening approach, with implications for national strategies. Methods: We analyzed records of residents diagnosed with chronic HCV infection and linked to care between 2015 and 2022. Data included age, sex, municipality of residence, HCV genotype, and fibrosis stage. Observed prevalence was compared with expected prevalence derived from national/regional benchmarks. Municipalities were categorized as urban or rural based on the resident population. Results: A total of 3528 cases were identified across 139 municipalities. Patients had a mean age of 63 years, and 54% were male. Half were diagnosed at an advanced stage (F3–F4), with genotype 1b being predominant. The hidden burden increased with age and showed a higher prevalence in rural areas compared to urban ones, with values of about 7 vs. 3 per 1000 inhabitants respectively. Logistic regression analysis identified age, male sex, urban residence, and genotype 1b as factors associated with advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis. Conclusions: This is the first Italian study to apply a standardized municipal-level classification to quantify the hidden burden of HCV. The model identifies underdiagnosed areas, highlights urban–rural disparities (a higher degree of underdiagnosis in rural areas versus a higher frequency of late diagnosis in urban ones), and provides a replicable tool for precision public health. Its adoption could enhance national HCV elimination efforts by supporting targeted screening, optimized resource allocation, and equitable access to care. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Human Virology and Viral Diseases)
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38 pages, 4535 KB  
Review
Characterization and Sustainable Valorization of Brewers’ Spent Grain for Metal Ion and Organic Substance Removal
by Tomasz Kalak
Sustainability 2025, 17(20), 9288; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17209288 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
Brewers’ spent grain (BSG) is the dominant solid side stream from wort separation, generating about 20 kg wet BSG per 100 L of beer and contributing hundreds of millions of tons annually worldwide, and thus a strategic feedstock for circular solutions in the [...] Read more.
Brewers’ spent grain (BSG) is the dominant solid side stream from wort separation, generating about 20 kg wet BSG per 100 L of beer and contributing hundreds of millions of tons annually worldwide, and thus a strategic feedstock for circular solutions in the brewing sector. This study situates BSG within that sustainability context and assesses its performance for removing metal ions and organic contaminants. A critical literature review with selected techniques (SEM, NIR/MIR, TGA) has been combined. SEM reveals a rough, fibrous–lamellar microtexture with high pore density, large pore-area fractions, submicron median equivalent diameters, and elevated edge density, consistent with accessible surface and mass-transfer pathways. Compiled adsorption evidence shows that raw and engineered BSG effectively capture diverse cations, including Cu(II), Cr(III/VI), Pb(II), Mn(II), U(VI) and selected rare-earth elements (REEs), demonstrable reusability, and fixed-bed breakthrough on the order of tens to hundreds of hours. Preservation options (drying, cooling/freezing, thermal inactivation, oxygen control) that enable safe storage and logistics for deployment have also been outlined. Overall, BSG emerges as a reliable, scalable biosorbent, with SEM-derived descriptors providing practical tools for performance prediction, while spectroscopic and thermal methods support material monitoring and process integration within a brewery’s circular economy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recycling Materials for the Circular Economy—2nd Edition)
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6 pages, 3576 KB  
Case Report
Diphtheria-like Pseudomembranous Corynebacterium striatum Chronic Infection of Left Ventricular Assist Device Driveline Bridged to Heart Transplantation with Dalbavancin Treatment
by Tommaso Lupia, Marco Casarotto, Simone Mornese Pinna, Silvia Corcione, Alessandro Bondi, Massimo Boffini, Mauro Rinaldi and Francesco Giuseppe De Rosa
Reports 2025, 8(4), 208; https://doi.org/10.3390/reports8040208 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
Background and Clinical Significance: Corynebacterium striatum is an emerging multidrug-resistant pathogen increasingly implicated in infections among immunocompromised patients and patients with indwelling medical devices. Case Presentation: We report the probable first case of pseudomembranous inflammation associated with C. striatum infection in [...] Read more.
Background and Clinical Significance: Corynebacterium striatum is an emerging multidrug-resistant pathogen increasingly implicated in infections among immunocompromised patients and patients with indwelling medical devices. Case Presentation: We report the probable first case of pseudomembranous inflammation associated with C. striatum infection in a 53-year-old male with an implanted left ventricular assist device (LVAD) awaiting heart transplantation. The patient experienced recurrent episodes of C. striatum bacteremia despite multiple courses of targeted antibiotic therapy, including vancomycin, linezolid, tedizolid, teicoplanin, and dalbavancin. During urgent heart transplantation, pseudomembranous tissue surrounding the LVAD driveline was observed, and cultures confirmed C. striatum device infection. Histopathological analysis revealed necrotic elements and Gram-positive organisms consistent with pseudomembranous inflammation. Conclusions: The case describes the diagnosis and treatment of this rare infection, highlighting the pathogenic potential of C. striatum, its role in device-related infections, and the histopathological evidence of pseudomembrane formation. Full article
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11 pages, 4153 KB  
Article
A Low-Cost Dual-Frequency Dual-Polarized Antenna Array with High Gain
by Jin-Dong Zhang, Min Wang and Wen Wu
Micromachines 2025, 16(10), 1183; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16101183 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2025
Abstract
A high-gain microstrip antenna array is proposed. The dual-frequency and dual-polarization characteristics of the array allow a satellite communication system to transmit and receive signals with a single antenna. To avoid high losses in microstrip feed lines for large apertures, the array is [...] Read more.
A high-gain microstrip antenna array is proposed. The dual-frequency and dual-polarization characteristics of the array allow a satellite communication system to transmit and receive signals with a single antenna. To avoid high losses in microstrip feed lines for large apertures, the array is divided into subarrays, each fed by a low-loss separate feed network. The dual-frequency dual-polarization function is realized by utilizing two orthogonal modes of a corner-fed rectangular patch in a single-layer substrate. Moreover, to minimize losses in the separate feed network, semi-ridged coaxial lines and five four-way radial power dividers are employed. The power divider, composed of a cylindrical cavity and five SMA connectors, features very low insertion loss. Finally, to validate the design concept, a prototype of the proposed 32 × 32-element array operating at 12.5 GHz and 14.25 GHz is fabricated and measured. The measured results are in good agreement with the simulated ones. The −10 dB return loss frequency bands for the two operating frequencies are 12.04 GHz–12.69 GHz and 13.82 GHz–14.66 GHz, respectively. The measured gains at the two operating bands are 34.5 dBi and 35.2 dBi, respectively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advancements in Microwave and Optoelectronics Devices)
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