Annual Achievements Report
Available Now
 
18 pages, 7325 KiB  
Article
Prediction of Breakdown Voltage of Long Air Gaps Under Switching Impulse Voltage Based on the ISSA-XGBoost Model
by Zisheng Zeng, Bin Song, Shaocheng Wu, Yongwen Li, Deyu Nie and Linong Wang
Energies 2025, 18(7), 1800; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18071800 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
In transmission lines, the discharge characteristics of long air gaps significantly influence the design of external insulation. Existing machine learning models for predicting breakdown voltage are typically limited to single gaps and do not account for the combined effects of complex factors. To [...] Read more.
In transmission lines, the discharge characteristics of long air gaps significantly influence the design of external insulation. Existing machine learning models for predicting breakdown voltage are typically limited to single gaps and do not account for the combined effects of complex factors. To address this issue, this paper proposes a novel prediction model based on the Improved Sparrow Search Algorithm-optimized XGBoost (ISSA-XGBoost). Initially, a comprehensive dataset of 46-dimensional electric field eigenvalues was extracted for each gap using finite element simulation software and MATLAB. Subsequently, the model incorporated a comprehensive set of input variables, including electric field eigenvalues, gap distance, waveform and polarity of the switching impulse voltage, temperature, relative humidity, and atmospheric pressure. After training, the ISSA-XGBoost model achieved a Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) of 7.85%, a Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) of 56.92, and a Coefficient of Determination (R2) of 0.9938, indicating high prediction accuracy. In addition, the ISSA-XGBoost model was compared with traditional machine learning models and other optimization algorithms. These comparisons further substantiated the efficacy and superiority of the ISSA-XGBoost model. Notably, the model demonstrated exceptional performance in terms of predictive accuracy under extreme atmospheric conditions. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 18350 KiB  
Article
Modification of Equation for Calculating the Bond Stress Between Steel Bars and Concrete
by Xiaosan Yin, Jimin Li, Shidong Tang, Yuzhou Sun and Md. Mashiur Rahman
Buildings 2025, 15(7), 1174; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15071174 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
The bond between steel bars and concrete is a fundamental aspect of reinforced concrete, ensuring the efficient transfer of forces between the two materials and guaranteeing their compatibility and composite action. The conventional equation for calculating bond stress does not account for slip [...] Read more.
The bond between steel bars and concrete is a fundamental aspect of reinforced concrete, ensuring the efficient transfer of forces between the two materials and guaranteeing their compatibility and composite action. The conventional equation for calculating bond stress does not account for slip effects. However, significant slip can lead to considerable errors, which are disadvantageous when analyzing bond performance using finite element methods. To address this issue, this study proposed a modified bond stress calculation model, whose reliability was systematically validated through pull-out tests and comparative analysis with a CEB-FIP model. The experimental program employed a universal testing machine for load application, with a static strain measurement system continuously monitoring stress–strain data throughout the loading process. The experimental results indicated that the failure process of the specimens could be categorized into the following, four distinct stages: micro-slip stage, slip stage, descent stage, and residual stage. The discrepancy between bond stresses calculated by the modified and conventional equations increased with the increasing relative slip, reaching its maximum value in the residual stage. A comparative analysis of 23 groups of experimental data from the literature was performed, revealing that the difference in bonding stress reached a maximum of 20.45% in the residual stage, with a standard deviation (S) of 0.006 and a coefficient of variation (Cv) of 0.321, reflecting small fluctuations but large dispersion. In contrast, the S of the residual bonding stress was 0.016, and the Cv was 0.080, showing lower dispersion but greater volatility. Further comparison with the CEB-FIP model confirmed the superior applicability and computational accuracy of the proposed modified model. Therefore, the modified equation should be utilized for calculating bond stress when significant slip occurs, particularly during the residual stage. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 738 KiB  
Article
Records of Roadkill Wild Mammals in Osijek-Baranja County, Croatia
by Stjepan Krčmar and Marco Pezzi
Ecologies 2025, 6(2), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecologies6020032 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
From April 2016 to the end of July 2024, roadkill mammals were recorded using the road sampling method on the 33.4 km-long Zmajevac-Osijek road in Osijek-Baranja County, located in the northeastern part of Croatia. A total of 86 roadkill specimens of wild mammals, [...] Read more.
From April 2016 to the end of July 2024, roadkill mammals were recorded using the road sampling method on the 33.4 km-long Zmajevac-Osijek road in Osijek-Baranja County, located in the northeastern part of Croatia. A total of 86 roadkill specimens of wild mammals, classified into eight species and one subspecies, were recorded. The northern white-breasted hedgehog, Erinaceus roumanicus, topped the list with 38 individuals, followed by the European badger, Meles meles, with 23 individuals, and the red fox, Vulpes vulpes, with 13 individuals. The European badger was the most frequent roadkill in February and March. The northern white-breasted hedgehog was the most common roadkill in June and July, while the red fox was most frequent roadkill in October. The average number of roadkill per km on the Zmajevac-Osijek road, divided into nine road sections, ranged from 1.1 to 5.9. Spearman’s correlation coefficient between the length of the section and the number of roadkill mammals showed a moderate correlation. The only strong positive correlation between roadkill wild mammals and traffic (average annual daily traffic or average summer daily traffic) was recorded for State Road D-212. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 1982 KiB  
Article
Validating a Bayesian Spatio-Temporal Model to Predict La Crosse Virus Human Incidence in the Appalachian Mountain Region, USA
by Maggie McCarter, Stella C. W. Self, Huixuan Li, Joseph A. Ewing, Lídia Gual-Gonzalez, Mufaro Kanyangarara and Melissa S. Nolan
Microorganisms 2025, 13(4), 812; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13040812 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
La Crosse virus (LACV) is a rare cause of pediatric encephalitis, yet identifying and mitigating transmission foci is critical to detecting additional cases. Neurologic disease disproportionately occurs among children, and survivors often experience substantial, life-altering chronic disability. Despite its severe clinical impact, public [...] Read more.
La Crosse virus (LACV) is a rare cause of pediatric encephalitis, yet identifying and mitigating transmission foci is critical to detecting additional cases. Neurologic disease disproportionately occurs among children, and survivors often experience substantial, life-altering chronic disability. Despite its severe clinical impact, public health resources to detect and mitigate transmission are lacking. This study aimed to design a Bayesian modelling approach to effectively identify and predict LACV incidence for geospatially informed public health interventions. A Bayesian negative binomial spatio-temporal regression model best fit the data and demonstrated high accuracy. Nine variables were statistically significant in predicting LACV incidence for the Appalachian Mountain Region. Proportion of children, proportion of developed open space, and proportion of barren land were positively associated with LACV incidence, while vapor pressure deficit index, year, and proportions of developed high intensity land, evergreen forest, hay pasture, and woody wetland were negatively associated with LACV incidence. Model prediction error was low, less than 2%, indicating high accuracy in predicting annual LACV human incidence at the county level. In summary, this study demonstrates the utility of Bayesian negative binomial spatio-temporal regression models for predicting rare but medically important LACV human cases. Future studies could examine more granular models for predicting LACV cases from localized variables such as mosquito control efforts, local reservoir host density and local weather fluctuations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interactions between Parasites/Pathogens and Vectors)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1821 KiB  
Article
Methylated Reprimo Cell-Free DNA as a Non-Invasive Biomarker for Gastric Cancer
by María José Maturana, Oslando Padilla, Pablo M. Santoro, Maria Alejandra Alarcón, Wilda Olivares, Alejandro Blanco, Ricardo Armisen, Marcelo Garrido, Edmundo Aravena, Carlos Barrientos, Alfonso Calvo-Belmar and Alejandro H. Corvalán
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(7), 3333; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26073333 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
Restrictions resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic abruptly reversed the slow decline of the diagnosis and mortality rates of gastric cancer (GC). This scenario highlights the importance of developing cost-effective methods for mass screening and evaluation of treatment response. In this study, we evaluated [...] Read more.
Restrictions resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic abruptly reversed the slow decline of the diagnosis and mortality rates of gastric cancer (GC). This scenario highlights the importance of developing cost-effective methods for mass screening and evaluation of treatment response. In this study, we evaluated a non-invasive method based on the circulating methylated cell-free DNA (cfDNA) of Reprimo (RPRM), a tumor suppressor gene associated with the development of GC. Methylated RPRM cfDNA was analyzed in three de-identified cohorts: Cohort 1 comprised 81 participants with GC and 137 healthy donors (HDs); Cohort 2 comprised 27 participants with GC undergoing gastrectomy and/or chemotherapy analyzed at the beginning and after three months of treatment; and Cohort 3 comprised 1105 population-based participants in a secondary prevention program who underwent esophagogastroduodenal (EGD) endoscopy. This cohort includes 180 normal participants, 845 participants with premalignant conditions (692 with chronic atrophic gastritis [AG] and 153 with gastric intestinal metaplasia/low-grade dysplasia [GIM/LGD]), 21 with high-grade dysplasia/early GC [HGD/eGC], and 59 with advanced GC [aGC]). A nested case-control substudy was performed using a combination of methylated RPRM cfDNA and pepsinogens (PG)-I/II ratio. The dense CpG island of the promoter region of the RPRM gene was bisulfite sequenced and analyzed to develop a fluorescence-based real-time PCR assay (MethyLight). This assay allows the determination of the absolute number of copies of methylated RPRM cfDNA. A targeted sequence of PCR amplicon products confirmed the gastric origin of the plasma-isolated samples. In Cohort 1, the mean value of GCs (32,240.00 copies/mL) was higher than that of the HD controls (139.00 copies/mL) (p < 0.0001). After dividing this cohort into training–validation subcohorts, we identified an area under the curve of 0.764 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.683–0.845) in the training group. This resulted in a cut-off value of 87.37 copies/mL (sensitivity 70.0% and specificity 80.2%). The validation subcohort predicted a sensitivity of 66.67% and a specificity of 83.33%. In Cohort 2 (monitoring treatment response), RPRM levels significantly decreased in responders (p = 0.0042) compared to non-responders. In Cohort 3 (population-based participants), 18.9% %, 24.1%, 30.7%, 47.0%, and 71.2% of normal, AG, GIM/LGD, HGD/eGC, and aGC participants tested positive for methylated RPRM cfDNA, respectively. Overall sensitivity and specificity in distinguishing normal/premalignant conditions vs. GC were 65.0% (95% CI 53.52% to 75.33%) and 75.9% (95% CI 73.16% to 78.49%), respectively, with an accuracy of 75.11% (95% CI 72.45% to 77.64%). Logistic regression analyses revealed an OR of 1.85 (95% CI 1.11–3.07, p = 0.02) and an odds ratio (OR) of 3.9 (95% CI 1.53–9.93, p = 0.004) for the risk of developing GIM/LGD and HGD/eGC, respectively. The combined methylated RPRM cfDNA and PG-I/II ratio reached a sensitivity of 78.9% (95% CI 54.43% to 93.95%) and specificity of 63.04% (95% CI 52.34% to 72.88%) for detecting HGD/eGC vs. three to six age- and sex-matched participants with premalignant conditions. Our results demonstrate that methylated RPRM cfDNA should be considered a direct biomarker for the non-invasive detection of GC and a predictive biomarker for treatment response. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Oncology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 8116 KiB  
Article
Electrochemical Capacitance of CNF–Ti3C2Tx MXene-Based Composite Cryogels in Different Electrolyte Solutions for an Eco-Friendly Supercapacitor
by Vanja Kokol, Subramanian Lakshmanan and Vera Vivod
Gels 2025, 11(4), 265; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11040265 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
Cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) are promising materials for flexible and green supercapacitor electrodes, while Ti3C2Tx MXene exhibits high specific capacitance. However, the diffusion limitation of ions and chemical instability in the generally used highly basic (KOH, MXene oxidation) or [...] Read more.
Cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) are promising materials for flexible and green supercapacitor electrodes, while Ti3C2Tx MXene exhibits high specific capacitance. However, the diffusion limitation of ions and chemical instability in the generally used highly basic (KOH, MXene oxidation) or acidic (H2SO4, CNF degradation) electrolytes limits their performance and durability. Herein, freestanding CNF/MXene cryogel membranes were prepared by deep freeze-casting (at −50 and −80 °C), using different weight percentages of components (10, 50, 90), and evaluated for their structural and physico-chemical stability in other less aggressive aqueous electrolyte solutions (Na2/Mg/Mn/K2-SO4, Na2CO3), to examine the influence of the ions transport on their pseudocapacitive properties. While the membrane prepared with 50 wt% (2.5 mg/cm2) of MXene loading at −80 °C shrank in a basic Na2CO3 electrolyte, the capacitance was performed via the forming of an electroactive layer on its interface, giving it high stability (90% after 3 days of cycling) but lower capacitance (8 F/g at 2 mV/s) than in H2SO4 (25 F/g). On the contrary, slightly acidic electrolytes extended the cations’ transport path due to excessive but still size-limited diffusion of the hydrated ions (SO42− > Na+ > Mn2+ > Mg2+) during membrane swelling, which blocked it, reducing the electroactive surface area and lowering conductivities (<3 F/g). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cellulose Gels: Properties and Prospective Applications)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

22 pages, 10633 KiB  
Article
Spatiotemporal Rainfall Variability and Trends Analysis over the Enkangala Escarpment of South Africa (1972–2022)
by Hadisu Bello Abubakar, Mary C. Scholes and Francois A. Engelbrecht
Atmosphere 2025, 16(4), 414; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16040414 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
This study explores rainfall variability and trends in the Enkangala Escarpment of South Africa using station data from 1972 to 2022 (51 years). The coefficient of variation (CV) is indicative of pronounced inter-annual variability in seasonal rainfall totals across the region. The trend-free [...] Read more.
This study explores rainfall variability and trends in the Enkangala Escarpment of South Africa using station data from 1972 to 2022 (51 years). The coefficient of variation (CV) is indicative of pronounced inter-annual variability in seasonal rainfall totals across the region. The trend-free pre-whitening Mann–Kendall (TFPWMK) test and innovative trend analysis (ITA) were used to determine the presence of monotonic trends in the station records, despite the pronounced inter-annual variability in the time series. Sen’s slope estimator was used to quantify the magnitude of the trends. For a given season, the ITA test, in general, allocates local statistical significance to the time series for more stations compared to the TFPWMK test. For winter, spring and summer, there is spatial coherency of decreasing rainfall trends across the Enkangala Escarpment. These trends also exhibit local significance for spring at most stations, and are indicative of less favorable growing conditions for crops during this season. Reduced spring rainfall is likely to also translate to later planting dates (a shorter growing season) and a longer burning season. Trends for autumn are generally weak and lack in local statistical significance or spatial coherency. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Climatology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 5182 KiB  
Article
High Thermoelectric Performance of Flexible and Free-Standing Composite Films Enabled by 3D Inorganic Ag2Se Conductive Networks Filled with Organic PVDF
by Zishuo Xu, Yuejuan Hu, Yuchen Hu, Xianfeng Xiao and Qin Yao
Polymers 2025, 17(7), 972; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17070972 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
Herein, a flexible and free-standing (substrate-free) PVDF/Ag2Se (Polyvinylidene fluoride) composite film was successfully fabricated through a combination of drop-casting and heat treatment. It was observed that when the drop-casted PVDF/Ag2Se composite film was heated above the melting point of [...] Read more.
Herein, a flexible and free-standing (substrate-free) PVDF/Ag2Se (Polyvinylidene fluoride) composite film was successfully fabricated through a combination of drop-casting and heat treatment. It was observed that when the drop-casted PVDF/Ag2Se composite film was heated above the melting point of PVDF, the small and separated Ag2Se crystalline grains in the composite film grow and interconnect to form a three-dimensional (3D) conductive network to increase the carrier mobility, while the molten PVDF effectively fills the network voids to enhance the flexibility and mechanical strength. As a result, both the electrical conductivity and Seebeck coefficient of the composite films were significantly enhanced after heat treatment. The power factor of the PVDF/Ag2Se composite with a mass ratio of 1:4 at room temperature reached 488.8 μW m−1 K−2, among the best level of Ag2Se- or PVDF-based flexible and free-standing composite films. Bending tests demonstrated the superior flexibility of the hybrid film, with the electrical conductivity decreasing by only 10% after 1000 bending cycles. Additionally, a five-leg thermoelectric device achieved an impressive output power density of 1.75 W m−2 at a temperature difference (∆T) of 30 K. This study proposes an innovative strategy to enhance the thermoelectric performance and free-standing capability of organic-inorganic composite films, while achieving a competitive power factor and advancing the practical application of flexible thermoelectric devices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Conductive Polymers for Electronic Devices, Displays and Sensors)
Show Figures

Figure 1

4 pages, 153 KiB  
Editorial
Transport of Drugs Through Biological Barriers—An Asset or Risk
by Anna Weronika Sobańska
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(4), 465; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17040465 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
Biological barriers are both cellular and enzymatic interfaces between different compartments of a living organism [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transport of Drugs through Biological Barriers—an Asset or Risk)
22 pages, 10018 KiB  
Article
Eye Care: Predicting Eye Diseases Using Deep Learning Based on Retinal Images
by Araek Tashkandi
Computation 2025, 13(4), 91; https://doi.org/10.3390/computation13040091 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
Eye illness detection is important, yet it can be difficult and error-prone. In order to effectively and promptly diagnose eye problems, doctors must use cutting-edge technologies. The goal of this research paper is to develop a sophisticated model that will help physicians detect [...] Read more.
Eye illness detection is important, yet it can be difficult and error-prone. In order to effectively and promptly diagnose eye problems, doctors must use cutting-edge technologies. The goal of this research paper is to develop a sophisticated model that will help physicians detect different eye conditions early on. These conditions include age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, myopia, and glaucoma. Common eye conditions include cataracts, which cloud the lens and cause blurred vision, and glaucoma, which can cause vision loss due to damage to the optic nerve. The two conditions that could cause blindness if treatment is not received are age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy, a side effect of diabetes that destroys the blood vessels in the retina. Problems include myopic macular degeneration, glaucoma, and retinal detachment—severe types of nearsightedness that are typically defined as having a refractive error of –5 diopters or higher—are also more likely to occur in people with high myopia. We intend to apply a user-friendly approach that will allow for faster and more efficient examinations. Our research attempts to streamline the eye examination procedure, making it simpler and more accessible than traditional hospital approaches. Our goal is to use deep learning and machine learning to develop an extremely accurate model that can assess medical images, such as eye retinal scans. This was accomplished by using a huge dataset to train the machine learning and deep learning model, as well as sophisticated image processing techniques to assist the algorithm in identifying patterns of various eye illnesses. Following training, we discovered that the CNN, VggNet, MobileNet, and hybrid Deep Learning models outperformed the SVM and Random Forest machine learning models in terms of accuracy, achieving above 98%. Therefore, our model could assist physicians in enhancing patient outcomes, raising survival rates, and creating more effective treatment plans for patients with these illnesses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational Medical Image Analysis—2nd Edition)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 3966 KiB  
Article
Gut Microbiota and Its Metabolite Taurine-β-Muricholic Acid Contribute to Antimony- and/or Copper-Induced Liver Inflammation
by Dandan Wu, Qiwen Lin, Senao Hou, Xiaorui Cui, Na Shou, Xuefeng Yuan, Wenqian Xu, Keyi Fu, Qi Wang and Zunji Shi
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(7), 3332; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26073332 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
Antimony and copper can contaminate vegetables and enter the human body through the digestive tract, inducing severe and extensive biotoxicity. However, the role of bile acids (BAs) in the pathogenesis of liver inflammation by antimony or copper has not been elucidated. Our results [...] Read more.
Antimony and copper can contaminate vegetables and enter the human body through the digestive tract, inducing severe and extensive biotoxicity. However, the role of bile acids (BAs) in the pathogenesis of liver inflammation by antimony or copper has not been elucidated. Our results indicated that antimony and/or copper induced liver inflammation, causing the disruption of gut microbiota, with the down-regulation of probiotics and up-regulation of harmful bacteria closely correlated to liver inflammation. Targeted metabolomics of BAs showed that antimony and/or copper significantly up-regulated the levels of taurine-β-muricholic acid (T-β-MCA) in serum and liver, which was due to the reduction of Lactobacillus spp. A farnesoid X receptor (FXR) antagonist, T-β-MCA inhibited the FXR-SHP pathway in liver and FXR-FGF15 pathway in ileum, thereby promoting the transcription of cholesterol 7-alpha hydroxylase (CYP7A1) and increasing total bile acid concentrations, ultimately leading to liver inflammation. These findings provide new insights into the underlying mechanisms of antimony- and/or copper-induced liver inflammation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chronic Liver Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma—2nd Edition)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

15 pages, 4182 KiB  
Article
A Phase 1/2 Randomized Study to Evaluate the Safety, Tolerability, and Immunogenicity of Nucleoside-Modified Messenger RNA Influenza Vaccines in Healthy Adults
by Angela Branche, Mark J. Mulligan, Alok Maniar, Orlando Puente, Islamiat Oladipupo, Graham Crowther, Agnieszka M. Zareba, Zhuobiao Yi, Ingrid Scully, Emily Gomme, Kenneth Koury, Nicholas Kitchin, Pirada Suphaphiphat Allen, Annaliesa S. Anderson, Alejandra Gurtman and Kelly Lindert
Vaccines 2025, 13(4), 383; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines13040383 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Circulating influenza strains antigenically differing from vaccine antigens increase disease burden by decreasing vaccine efficacy. Nucleoside-modified mRNA (modRNA) influenza vaccines may facilitate rapid production allowing later antigen selection and improved antigenic similarity compared to circulating strains. We studied different influenza modRNA vaccine [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Circulating influenza strains antigenically differing from vaccine antigens increase disease burden by decreasing vaccine efficacy. Nucleoside-modified mRNA (modRNA) influenza vaccines may facilitate rapid production allowing later antigen selection and improved antigenic similarity compared to circulating strains. We studied different influenza modRNA vaccine (IRV) formulations and dose levels. Methods: This phase 1/2 randomized study evaluated IRV safety/tolerability and immunogenicity in healthy 18- through 85-year-olds. Based on safety and immunogenicity for different IRV doses, schedules, and valencies versus the quadrivalent influenza vaccine (QIV; Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent, Sanofi Pasteur) in phase 1 (65–85-year-olds), quadrivalent IRV (qIRV) was further evaluated in 65- through 85-year-olds and 18- through 64-year-olds in phase 2, leading to phase 3 dose selection. Results: Phase 1 (65–85-year-olds) safety/tolerability and immunogenicity findings supported qIRV 30-µg and 60-µg phase 2 assessment (18–85-year-olds, N = 610). qIRV was well tolerated. Injection site pain was the most frequently reported local reaction. Reactogenicity event incidences ≤ 7 days postvaccination for qIRV were generally higher versus QIV, observed more frequently in 18- through 64-year-olds than 65- through 85-year-olds, and showed dose-related trends (60 μg > 30 μg). qIRV and QIV adverse event profiles in 65- through 85-year-olds were similar. There were higher postvaccination hemagglutination inhibition assay geometric mean titers and fold rises and seroconversion rates observed with qIRV versus QIV for A strains, with no consistent pattern for B strains. Cell-mediated immune responses to qIRV by Day 7 showed overall higher T-cell responses against all strains versus QIV. Antibody and cell-mediated immune responses showed comparable trends across qIRV doses in 18- through 85-year-olds; a dose-related pattern was observed in 65- through 85-year-olds (60 μg > 30 μg). Conclusions: Phase 3 investigations of qIRV 60 µg in older adults and qIRV 30 µg in younger adults are warranted (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05052697). Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 1522 KiB  
Article
Is Moss Still a Reliable Biomonitor of Nitrogen and Sulfur Deposition After Decades of Emissions Reductions?
by Mehriban Jafarova, Julian Aherne, Monia Renzi, Serena Anselmi, Inga Zinicovscaia, Nikita Yushin, Ilaria Bonini and Stefano Loppi
Plants 2025, 14(7), 1114; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14071114 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
Mosses are widely used as biomonitors of atmospheric nitrogen (N) and sulfur (S) deposition due to their broad distribution, ease of sampling, and capacity to trap and accumulate atmospheric particles. However, since 2000, S emissions have decreased by more than 80% across Europe, [...] Read more.
Mosses are widely used as biomonitors of atmospheric nitrogen (N) and sulfur (S) deposition due to their broad distribution, ease of sampling, and capacity to trap and accumulate atmospheric particles. However, since 2000, S emissions have decreased by more than 80% across Europe, and N oxides by 40–50%. This study evaluated whether moss remains effective for monitoring atmospheric N and S deposition after decades of emission reductions. This assessment was conducted at 33 rural sites in Tuscany, Central Italy, a region characterized by relatively low levels of N and S deposition. The content of N and S in moss were compared with the air concentrations (gases and particles) and wet and dry deposition of N and S from the Cooperative Programme for Monitoring and Evaluation of Long-range Transmission of Air Pollutants in Europe (EMEP) model and an air pollution index derived from trace element concentrations. The average N content of moss (1.15 ± 0.42%) was an order of magnitude greater than that of S (0.11 ± 0.02%), reflecting the dominance of N deposition. Nevertheless, N and S in moss were strongly correlated (rs = 0.55), suggesting shared sources. Further, N showed a strong correlation with the dry deposition of oxidized N (rs = 0.53), while S was strongly correlated with the wet deposition of S oxides (rs = 0.53) and magnetic susceptibility (rs = 0.69). Overall, our findings confirm that mosses remain effective biomonitors of N and S deposition and can provide reliable spatial and temporal monitoring, especially as the traditional monitoring networks decline. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 863 KiB  
Article
The Association of Achromobacter xylosoxidans Airway Infection with Disease Severity in Cystic Fibrosis
by Ophir Bar-On, Meir Mei-Zahav, Hagit Levine, Huda Mussaffi, Hannah Blau, Haim Ben Zvi, Dario Prais and Patrick Stafler
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(7), 2437; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14072437 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The prevalence of Achromobacter xylosoxidans is increasing in people with Cystic Fibrosis (pwCF), yet its clinical pathogenicity remains controversial. The objective of this study was to chart the longitudinal prevalence and examine clinical associations before and after infection. Methods: This [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The prevalence of Achromobacter xylosoxidans is increasing in people with Cystic Fibrosis (pwCF), yet its clinical pathogenicity remains controversial. The objective of this study was to chart the longitudinal prevalence and examine clinical associations before and after infection. Methods: This observational, retrospective study was conducted at a single CF center over a 14-year period. Data were collated from patient charts and clinic databases. Patients with Achromobacter sputum cultures were compared to those without the bacterium and analyzed according to whether they had single, intermittent, or chronic infections. Results: During the study period, an annual average of 124 pwCF were followed up at our clinic, with a median age of 13.6 years (IQR = 7.6–27.7). The Achromobacter detection rate increased from 0 to 6.1%. Twenty-three percent (29/124) of patients had at least one positive culture. The median age at acquisition was 17 years (IQR = 14.5–33). At the time of acquisition, the median FEV1 was 81% (IQR = 46–94), compared to 90% (IQR = 72–99) for patients without Achromobacter, p < 0.001. Patients with Achromobacter tended to demonstrate more chronic Pseudomonas (55% vs. 27%, p = 0.06) and pancreatic insufficiency (66% vs. 47%, p = 0.07). At two years post-acquisition, the median FEV1 for patients with intermittent and chronically infected decreased by 11.5% (IQR = −3.75–7.5), compared to 1.5% (IQR = −2.5–12.5) for those with a single positive culture, p = 0.03. Similarly, pulmonary exacerbations per year became more frequent post-acquisition in intermittent and chronically infected patients: Median (range) 2.5 (0–8) pre-, versus 3.0 (0–9) post-acquisition, p = 0.036. Conclusions: Chronic and intermittent infection with Achromobacter were associated with accelerated lung function decline and increased exacerbation frequency. Larger prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings and examine the effect of eradication on the clinical course. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cystic Fibrosis: Novel Strategies of Diagnosis and Treatments)
Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 8239 KiB  
Article
A Numerical Investigation of the Effects of the Fuel Injection Pressure and Nozzle Hole Diameter on Natural Gas–Diesel Dual-Fuel Combustion Characteristics
by Murat Durmaz and Selma Ergin
Energies 2025, 18(7), 1799; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18071799 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
Natural gas–diesel dual-fuel (NDDF) engines can reduce harmful emissions while maintaining diesel-like efficiency. However, under low-load conditions, they suffer from high methane (CH4) emissions, reduced combustion stability, and lower thermal efficiency. To address and improve these issues, this study numerically investigates [...] Read more.
Natural gas–diesel dual-fuel (NDDF) engines can reduce harmful emissions while maintaining diesel-like efficiency. However, under low-load conditions, they suffer from high methane (CH4) emissions, reduced combustion stability, and lower thermal efficiency. To address and improve these issues, this study numerically investigates the effects of the injection pressure (32, 50, 90, and 126 MPa) and nozzle hole diameter (NHD, 110–230 μm) on dual-fuel combustion. A total of 25%, 50%, and 75% natural gas energy fraction (NGEF) conditions are simulated for dual-fuel cases, and fully diesel-fueled conditions are also studied. The results at 50% and 75% NGEF indicate that increasing the injection pressure significantly improves thermal efficiency while reducing CH4 and soot emissions. Furthermore, at 75% NGEF, NHD reduction from 230 to 150 μm provides more stable combustion rates, higher thermal efficiency, and lower CH4 emissions. At 75% NGEF, the combination of 126 MPa of injection pressure and 150 μm of NHD reduces CH4 emissions by 77% and increases thermal efficiency by 9.8% compared to the baseline case (32 MPa and 230 μm). This study demonstrates that optimal combinations of injection pressure and NHD can significantly improve low-load issues in NDDF engines. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section I2: Energy and Combustion Science)
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 1540 KiB  
Article
Exposure to Lead Compounds in an Industrial Setting and the Effects on the Thyroid Gland: A Pilot Cohort Study
by Lidia Caporossi, Simona Di Renzi, Mariangela De Rosa, Silvia Capanna, Elisa Partenzi, Iacopo D’Alessandro and Bruno Papaleo
Hygiene 2025, 5(2), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/hygiene5020013 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
Background: Lead compounds are chemicals of high toxicological concern and are suspected to interact with the thyroid axis. Method: A cohort study was carried out involving 70 workers from a petrochemical company exposed to inorganic lead compounds. All recruited workers were [...] Read more.
Background: Lead compounds are chemicals of high toxicological concern and are suspected to interact with the thyroid axis. Method: A cohort study was carried out involving 70 workers from a petrochemical company exposed to inorganic lead compounds. All recruited workers were given a clinical anamnestic questionnaire aimed at characterizing their endocrine and thyroid status. A blood test was conducted to dose the amount of lead, thyroid hormones (FT3, FT4, TSH), and antibodies (TGAb and TPOAb). Samples were stratified according to working seniority and lead exposure levels. A regression study was conducted to highlight trends in hormones and antibodies versus lead levels. Results: Most of the dosages are within the normal ranges. The regression study showed how higher lead values are correlated with a reduction in TSH and an increase in FT3 and FT4. There is a statistically significant increase in TPOAb in the most exposed workers. Conclusions: The trends of thyroid hormones may suggest a tendency towards hyperthyroidism for higher lead exposure, while the increase in TPOAb could indicate a greater predisposition to the development of autoimmune thyroid diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Occupational Hygiene)
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 211 KiB  
Article
Comparison of Risk Factors for Habitual Substance Use Among Adolescents in Korea by Maternal Nationality: Analysis of 18th and 19th Korea Youth Risk Behavior Surveys (2022 and 2023)
by Hyeon Ok Ju and So Yeon Park
Children 2025, 12(4), 458; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12040458 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This study identified the risk of habitual substance use among multicultural adolescents, focusing on health behavior characteristics and cultural differences based on their mother’s country of origin. Methods: This secondary data analysis used data from the 18th (2022) and 19th [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This study identified the risk of habitual substance use among multicultural adolescents, focusing on health behavior characteristics and cultural differences based on their mother’s country of origin. Methods: This secondary data analysis used data from the 18th (2022) and 19th (2023) Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Surveys, which are repeated cross-sectional surveys conducted annually. The analyses of 82,520 adolescents included descriptive statistics, the Rao–Scott χ2 test, and logistic regression. Results: The prevalence of habitual substance use among multicultural adolescents whose mothers were from the examined countries was 2.01%, which is 0.74 percentage points higher than the 1.27% prevalence observed among adolescents with Korean mothers. Among multicultural adolescents, the risk of habitual substance use was higher under specific conditions: those with Chinese mothers faced increased risks when not living with family (OR = 6.22) or smoking (OR = 12.65); Korean-Chinese adolescents had higher risks when experiencing suicidal ideation (OR = 3.41) or anxiety (OR = 8.17); and those with Vietnamese mothers were at greater risk when exposed to violence (OR = 12.42) or depression (OR = 14.06). These results underscore the role of cultural and psychological factors in adolescent substance use. Conclusions: Our findings revealed differences in risk factors based on the mother’s country of origin. These results underscore the importance of understanding adolescents’ unique characteristics and developing tailored intervention strategies that account for these cultural and familial differences. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Global Pediatric Health)
20 pages, 3518 KiB  
Article
A Heuristic Mutation Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm for Budgeted Influence Maximization with Emotional Competition
by Zhihao Chen, Chao Chen, Tiecheng Cai, Jingjing Wei and Xiangwen Liao
Electronics 2025, 14(7), 1444; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14071444 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
The budgeted influence maximization (BIM) problem aims to select an optimal subset of nodes, each with a unique selection cost, to maximize the influence in a network under a fixed budget. Most existing methods address static networks with constant node infection states, but [...] Read more.
The budgeted influence maximization (BIM) problem aims to select an optimal subset of nodes, each with a unique selection cost, to maximize the influence in a network under a fixed budget. Most existing methods address static networks with constant node infection states, but usually dismiss the dynamic interaction of competing emotions within the network. This work extends the BIM problem to account for dynamic emotional competitions. Specifically, we first formally formulate the BIM problem in a competitive environment where emotions dynamically influence and transform each other over time. Then, we introduce a local structure-sensitive heuristic function designed to evaluate a node’s influence potential in a competitive environment. Furthermore, we propose a heuristic mutation particle swarm optimization (HMPSO) algorithm to identify a set of high-impact nodes, thereby maximizing desirable information spread. Experimental results conducted on two real-world networks demonstrate that the HMPSO algorithm outperforms existing advanced methods for the BIM problem. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 806 KiB  
Article
Low WT1 Expression Identifies a Subset of Acute Myeloid Leukemia with a Distinct Genotype
by Michela Rondoni, Giovanni Marconi, Annalisa Nicoletti, Barbara Giannini, Elisa Zuffa, Maria Benedetta Giannini, Annamaria Mianulli, Marianna Norata, Federica Monaco, Irene Zaccheo, Serena Rocchi, Beatrice Anna Zannetti, Adele Santoni, Claudio Graziano, Monica Bocchia and Francesco Lanza
Cancers 2025, 17(7), 1213; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17071213 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
Background: Wilms’ tumor gene 1 (WT1) is a critical player in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), often serving as a biomarker for measurable residual disease (MRD). The WT1 gene is overexpressed in the majority of AML cases at diagnosis, with apparently no [...] Read more.
Background: Wilms’ tumor gene 1 (WT1) is a critical player in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), often serving as a biomarker for measurable residual disease (MRD). The WT1 gene is overexpressed in the majority of AML cases at diagnosis, with apparently no correlation with prognosis, and in the meantime, its role in patients with low-level expression is still undefined. This study investigates the mutational landscape and clinical outcomes of AML patients with low WT1 expression at diagnosis. Methods: We analyzed 34 AML patients with low WT1 expression (WT1/ABL1 < 250) diagnosed and treated from 2013 to 2017 at three institutions. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) was employed to investigate the mutational status of 32 genes commonly mutated in AML. The presence of specific mutations, as well as clinical outcomes, was compared to the general AML population. Results: Patients with low WT1 expression showed a significantly higher mutational burden, with a median of 3.4 mutations per patient, compared to the general AML population. Notably, clonal hematopoiesis (CHIP) or myelodysplasia-related (MR) mutations, particularly in ASXL1, TET2, and SRSF2, were present in most patients with low WT1 expression. All but one case of NPM1- or FLT3-mutant AML in the low-WT1 cohort harbored more CHIP or MR mutations. Patients with low WT1 expression had an overall survival (OS) that was superimposable to the OS expected in MR AML. Conclusions: Low WT1 expression in AML is associated with a distinct and complex mutational profile, marked by frequent CHIP and MR mutations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Combination Therapies for Acute Leukemia)
Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 4899 KiB  
Article
Development of Machine Learning-Based Indicators for Predicting Comeback Victories Using the Bounty Mechanism in MOBA Games
by Junhyuk Lee and Namhyoung Kim
Electronics 2025, 14(7), 1445; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14071445 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) games, exemplified by titles such as League of Legends and Dota 2, have attained global popularity and have been formally recognized as an official event in the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games, thus establishing their significance in the esports [...] Read more.
Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) games, exemplified by titles such as League of Legends and Dota 2, have attained global popularity and have been formally recognized as an official event in the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games, thus establishing their significance in the esports industry. In this study, we proposed a machine learning-based model for predicting comeback victories by leveraging the object bounty mechanism, a critical yet underexplored aspect of previous research. By closely examining the game environment following the activation of the bounty system, we identified pivotal variables and constructed novel indicators that contribute to successful comebacks. Furthermore, an individualized case analysis based on SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) provides new insights to support strategic in-game decision-making and enhance the player experience. The experimental results demonstrate that the indicators introduced in this study, such as the weighted team champion mastery and similarity in champion mastery among the team’s main champions, significantly influence the likelihood of a comeback victory. By capturing the intrinsic dynamism of MOBA games, the proposed model is expected to improve player engagement and satisfaction. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 758 KiB  
Systematic Review
Does Judo Training Contribute to the Motor Development of Children and Adolescents? A Systematic Review
by Monika Kowalczyk, Małgorzata Zgorzalewicz-Stachowiak, Wiesław Błach and Maciej Kostrzewa
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(7), 2439; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14072439 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
Background: Physical activity, including its organized form, is of key importance in the motor development of children and adolescents. Among the increasingly popular physical activities in this age group are martial arts, particularly judo. In addition to its educational and social values, [...] Read more.
Background: Physical activity, including its organized form, is of key importance in the motor development of children and adolescents. Among the increasingly popular physical activities in this age group are martial arts, particularly judo. In addition to its educational and social values, this discipline, in its assumptions, gives practitioners the opportunity for motor development. This study aims to assess the development of motor competence in children and adolescents up to 15 years of age practicing judo. Methods: The study was conducted using seven databases (Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, OVID, CINHAL Ultimate and SPOLIT) across 15 years (from January 2009 to May 2024). The PRISMA methodology was used to include studies, and the CASP protocol was applied to assess the quality of these studies. Inclusion criteria were developed based on PICOS. Finally, 22 studies that met the established criteria were included. Results: Most of the studies (21) were observational, and only one was a randomized controlled trial. The review indicated that regular judo training significantly improved muscle strength, endurance, speed, coordination, flexibility, balance and body posture compared to control groups. In contrast to some other sports, judo demonstrated comparable benefits in the development of motor abilities. Conclusions: Judo is a sport discipline that significantly affects the motor development of children and adolescents. Furthermore, regular participation in training helps to achieve the daily dose of moderate-to-vigorous activity recommended by the World Health Organization in this age group. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 4788 KiB  
Article
Design of High-Efficiency Circularly Polarized Reflection Mirror Based on Chiral Dielectric Metasurface
by Bo Cheng, Yuxiao Zou, Kunpeng Zhai and Guofeng Song
Photonics 2025, 12(4), 341; https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics12040341 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
Circularly polarized lasers can directly generate circularly polarized light without requiring complex external optics, enabling applications in biosensing, environmentally friendly antibacterial treatments, and cancer cell phototherapy. However, the circular dichroism (CD) of chiral metasurface mirrors—a core component of such lasers—typically remains below 3%, [...] Read more.
Circularly polarized lasers can directly generate circularly polarized light without requiring complex external optics, enabling applications in biosensing, environmentally friendly antibacterial treatments, and cancer cell phototherapy. However, the circular dichroism (CD) of chiral metasurface mirrors—a core component of such lasers—typically remains below 3%, limiting beam quality. Using COMSOL simulations, we broke the metasurface’s structural symmetry via displacement and rotation operations, introducing chirality to the unit cell. At 980 nm, the metasurface achieved 99.85% reflectivity and 52% CD. Multipole analysis suggests this enhancement stems from electric dipole and quadrupole coupling. Our laser design could generate micro-nano-scale chiral light, advancing applications in biophotonics, biomedicine, and life sciences. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 1925 KiB  
Case Report
Usual Interstitial Pneumonia Pattern and Mycobacteria Lung Diseases: A Case Series
by Maria Angela Licata, Giorgio Monteleone, Enrico Schiavi, Maria Musso, Paola Mencarini, Annelisa Mastrobattista, Serena Maria Carli, Carlotta Cerva, Giacomo Sgalla, Luca Richeldi, Fabrizio Palmieri and Gina Gualano
Infect. Dis. Rep. 2025, 17(2), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr17020028 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
Background: Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) are a heterogeneous group of conditions that can cause fibrosis of the lung interstitium, resulting in respiratory failure and death. Patients with an ILD, particularly idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) or connective tissue disease-associated ILDs (CTD-ILDs), are prone to [...] Read more.
Background: Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) are a heterogeneous group of conditions that can cause fibrosis of the lung interstitium, resulting in respiratory failure and death. Patients with an ILD, particularly idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) or connective tissue disease-associated ILDs (CTD-ILDs), are prone to develop chronic pulmonary infections such as tuberculosis (TB) and non-tuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease (NTM-PD). Methods: This case series examines the management of three ILD patients with a usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) pattern and concomitant NTM-PD or TB at National Institute for Infectious Diseases “Lazzaro Spallanzani” in Rome, Italy, over three years (2019–2022). Results and Conclusions: Multi-disciplinary discussion (MDD) was crucial to define the therapeutic approach due to the increased risk of side effects and drug interactions. Our work underscored how a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, enriched by MDD, is useful for optimizing the management and reducing drug-related adverse effects and interactions in ILD patients with cavitary lesions. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

4 pages, 146 KiB  
Editorial
Water, Agriculture, and Aquaculture: Components of a Complex Interdependent System
by Steven G. Pueppke
Water 2025, 17(7), 1059; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17071059 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
It comes as no surprise that the nexus of water, agriculture, and aquaculture is capturing scientific interest at a time when the availability of water is constrained by planetary boundaries that cannot be exceeded [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Review Papers of Water, Agriculture and Aquaculture)
29 pages, 15893 KiB  
Article
Application of Temporal Fusion Transformers to Run-Of-The-River Hydropower Scheduling
by Rafael Francisco, José Pedro Matos, Rui Marinheiro, Nuno Lopes, Maria Manuela Portela and Pedro Barros
Hydrology 2025, 12(4), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrology12040081 (registering DOI) - 3 Apr 2025
Abstract
This study explores the application of Temporal Fusion Transformers (TFTs) to improve the predictability of hourly potential hydropower production for a small run–of–the–river hydropower plant in Portugal. Accurate hourly power forecasts are essential for optimizing participation in the spot electricity market, where deviations [...] Read more.
This study explores the application of Temporal Fusion Transformers (TFTs) to improve the predictability of hourly potential hydropower production for a small run–of–the–river hydropower plant in Portugal. Accurate hourly power forecasts are essential for optimizing participation in the spot electricity market, where deviations incur penalties. This research introduces the novel application of the TFT, a deep–learning model tailored for time series forecasting and uncovering complex patterns, to predict hydropower production based on meteorological data, historical production records, and plant capacity. Key challenges such as filtering observed hydropower outputs (to remove strong, and unpredictable human influence) and adapting the historical series to installed capacity increases are discussed. An analysis of meteorological information from several sources, including ground information, reanalysis, and forecasting models, was also undertaken. Regarding the latter, precipitation forecasts from the European Centre for Medium–Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) proved to be more accurate than those of the Global Forecast System (GFS). When combined with ECMWF data, the TFT model achieved significantly higher accuracy in potential hydropower production predictions. This work provides a framework for integrating advanced machine learning models into operational hydropower scheduling, aiming to reduce classical modeling efforts while maximizing energy production efficiency, reliability, and market performance. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Open Access Journals

Browse by Indexing Browse by Subject Selected Journals
Back to TopTop