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17 pages, 718 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Carbon Intensity and Sustainable Development Analysis of the Transportation Infrastructure Industry in China: An MLP Network Approach

by Guandong Liu and Haicheng Xu

Urban Sci. 2025, 9(6), 205; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci9060205 (registering DOI) - 3 Jun 2025

Abstract

Transportation infrastructure systems sit at the nexus of urban economic development and emission mitigation. The primary objective is to identify and quantify the key factors influencing CI, with a focus on both the conventional and emerging indicators through an innovative MLP neural network [...] Read more.

Transportation infrastructure systems sit at the nexus of urban economic development and emission mitigation. The primary objective is to identify and quantify the key factors influencing CI, with a focus on both the conventional and emerging indicators through an innovative MLP neural network developed using the data of 20 Chinese transportation enterprises that have a business focus on the construction and operation sector from 2018 to 2022. The hypothesis is that integrating unconventional indicators—such as business model entropy and green revenue share—alongside traditional metrics can significantly enhance the predictive accuracy for CI. The results show that business model entropy explains 42.6% of carbon intensity (Cl) variability through green revenue diversification pathways, while emissions trading system (ETS) exposure accounts for 51.83% of decarbonization outcomes via price-signaling effects. The analysis reveals that a critical operational threshold–renewable energy capacity below 75% fails to significantly reduce Cl, and capex/revenue ratios exceeding 73.58% indicate carbon lock-in risks. These findings enable policymakers to prioritize industries with sub-75% renewable adoption while targeting capex-intensive sectors for circular economy interventions. The novelty of this work lies in the application of advanced machine-learning techniques to a comprehensive, multi-source dataset, enabling a nuanced analysis of CI drivers and offering actionable insights for policymakers and industry stakeholders aiming to decarbonize transport infrastructure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Urban Agenda)

20 pages, 11489 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Simulation and Process Optimization of Online Cooling for S460 Thick Plates

by Guangyuan Wang, Zhen Wang, Feng Chai, Zhongwen Wu, Xiaobing Luo and Tao Pan

Materials 2025, 18(11), 2599; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18112599 (registering DOI) - 3 Jun 2025

Abstract

Marine engineering thick plates are essential structural materials for large vessels and offshore platforms, and optimizing their manufacturing processes is critical for advancing marine equipment. This study examined the microstructural and property variations in 120 mm-thick S460 plates fabricated by thermo-mechanical controlled processing [...] Read more.

Marine engineering thick plates are essential structural materials for large vessels and offshore platforms, and optimizing their manufacturing processes is critical for advancing marine equipment. This study examined the microstructural and property variations in 120 mm-thick S460 plates fabricated by thermo-mechanical controlled processing (TMCP). A finite element model was developed to simulate the cooling phase, enabling the prediction of the internal cooling path in the thick plate. An optimized cooling scheme was proposed, which was validated against the model and implemented. The following key results were obtained: (1) Under the initial cooling parameters (initial temperature: 715 °C, duration: 130 s), the 60 mm depth toughness was severely compromised, as evidenced by a low −40 °C impact energy of 59 J, significantly lower than values observed at the10 mm and 30 mm depth positions. Microstructural analysis revealed that the 60 mm depth region was dominated by ferritic bainite and pearlite, with a pearlite content of 8.7%. Numerical simulations further indicated a 60 mm depth cooling rate of 1.10 °C/s under these conditions. (2) Model predictions confirmed the original 60 mm depth cooling rate of 1.10 °C/s. The optimized process increased the initial cooling temperature to 725 °C and extended the cooling time to 160 s, achieving an enhanced 60 mm depth cooling rate of 1.36 °C/s. (3) The optimized process remarkably improved the 60 mm depth impact energy to 144 J, achieving near-complete elimination of pearlite, increased granular bainite content, refined M-A constituent size, and enhanced density of high-angle grain boundaries. This study demonstrates that enhancing internal temperature gradients and prolonging cooling durations can effectively inhibit microstructural degradation in 60 mm depth regions of thick plates, providing both theoretical foundations and practical methodologies for optimizing TMCP processes of extra-thick steel plates. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Materials Simulation and Design)

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14 pages, 2057 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Catalytic Conversion of Coffee Waste Sugars and Xylose into Furfural over Fe/SiO₂ Catalysts

by Kevin Suárez-Suárez, William Cortés-Ortiz and Carlos Guerrero-Fajardo

Processes 2025, 13(6), 1756; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13061756 (registering DOI) - 3 Jun 2025

Abstract

Solid Fe catalysts supported on SiO₂ with Lewis and Brönsted acidity were synthesized using sol–gel methodology. FTIR spectroscopy, XRD, Raman spectroscopy, BET isotherms, and SEM characterized the materials. Subsequently, they were used to dehydrate xylose to obtain furfural. It was observed that [...] Read more.

Solid Fe catalysts supported on SiO₂ with Lewis and Brönsted acidity were synthesized using sol–gel methodology. FTIR spectroscopy, XRD, Raman spectroscopy, BET isotherms, and SEM characterized the materials. Subsequently, they were used to dehydrate xylose to obtain furfural. It was observed that increasing the metal loading from 0.5% to 1.5% by mass increases the selectivity of furfural up to 40.09%. In addition, the calcination temperature influenced the conversion because materials calcined at 450 °C presented higher xylose conversion than those calcined at 750 °C. Finally, the employed catalysts were active and effective in obtaining furfural from hydrolysates via hydrothermal treatments of a coffee crop’s residual biomass, producing an average of 9.11 mg/g of furfural per gram of biomass. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Biorefineries for Sustainable Production of Biofuel and Bioproducts)

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13 pages, 781 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hierarchically Structured Role-Playing Simulation as a Tool for Promoting Soft Skills in Veterinary Undergraduates

by Alejandro Perez-Ecija, Antonio Buzon-Cuevas, Adelaida De Las Heras and Francisco J. Mendoza

Animals 2025, 15(11), 1638; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15111638 (registering DOI) - 3 Jun 2025

Abstract

Soft skills such as client-oriented communication, leadership, and teamwork skills are essential for veterinary clinicians. However, they are rarely addressed in the academic curriculum of most veterinary schools. Role-playing has been previously used to train and evaluate communication skills in veterinary students, but [...] Read more.

Soft skills such as client-oriented communication, leadership, and teamwork skills are essential for veterinary clinicians. However, they are rarely addressed in the academic curriculum of most veterinary schools. Role-playing has been previously used to train and evaluate communication skills in veterinary students, but leadership and teamwork are difficult to implement in this methodology. In this study, we designed a novel role-playing activity where groups of undergraduate veterinary students faced simulated pre-planned clinical consultations portraying different roles in a hierarchically structured group (leader, two veterinarians, and one client). We tested the performance of the participants before and after receiving a focused lecture on soft skills. While the overall performance of the students in veterinary roles was significantly better after the lecture, the number of mistakes related to leadership did not significantly vary. Students rated the role of leader consistently lower than the rest. Participants considered that this novel design was useful to train and evaluate these competences. Hierarchically structured role-playing is a suitable tool to improve soft skills in veterinary students, allowing for self-learning and training in a controlled environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Public Policy, Politics and Law)

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15 pages, 1482 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Diversity in Three Sinipercine Fishes Based on Mito-Chondrial D-Loop and COX1 Sequences

by Minghui Lin, Xu-Fang Liang, Ke Lu, Ming Zeng, Junjie Gao, Yaqi Dou, Yulan Kuang and Qiwei Zhang

Fishes 2025, 10(6), 264; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes10060264 (registering DOI) - 3 Jun 2025

Abstract

Mandarin fish (Siniperca chuatsi), golden mandarin fish (Siniperca scherzeri), and Coreoperca whiteheadi are three important aquaculture species in China facing several threats to their production. Genetic diversity was assessed by sequencing the mitochondrial D-loop and cox1 regions in 207 [...] Read more.

Mandarin fish (Siniperca chuatsi), golden mandarin fish (Siniperca scherzeri), and Coreoperca whiteheadi are three important aquaculture species in China facing several threats to their production. Genetic diversity was assessed by sequencing the mitochondrial D-loop and cox1 regions in 207 individuals across nine populations. The genetic diversity analysis, based on the concatenated sequences, revealed that the total haplotype diversity was high across all sinipercine fish populations. Population differentiation analysis revealed that most genetic variation was within populations: 74.5% in S. chuatsi (p < 0.001) and 83.0% in S. scherzeri (p < 0.001). All five S. chuatsi populations showed moderate and significant genetic differentiation, and moderate genetic differentiation was observed between the Beijiang and Wujiang populations in S. scherzeri. Phylogenetic and nested clade analysis indicated that artificially bred and wild S. chuatsi populations shared haplotypes, and close phylogenetic relationships were observed between the Beijiang and Dongjiang populations in S. scherzeri. These findings could be useful for the conservation management, artificial breeding, and hybridization of these three sinipercine fish species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Taxonomy, Evolution, and Biogeography)

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24 pages, 2351 KiB

Open AccessReview

Advancing Object Detection in Transportation with Multimodal Large Language Models (MLLMs): A Comprehensive Review and Empirical Testing

by Huthaifa I. Ashqar, Ahmed Jaber, Taqwa I. Alhadidi and Mohammed Elhenawy

Computation 2025, 13(6), 133; https://doi.org/10.3390/computation13060133 (registering DOI) - 3 Jun 2025

Abstract

This study aims to comprehensively review and empirically evaluate the application of multimodal large language models (MLLMs) and Large Vision Models (VLMs) in object detection for transportation systems. In the first fold, we provide a background about the potential benefits of MLLMs in [...] Read more.

This study aims to comprehensively review and empirically evaluate the application of multimodal large language models (MLLMs) and Large Vision Models (VLMs) in object detection for transportation systems. In the first fold, we provide a background about the potential benefits of MLLMs in transportation applications and conduct a comprehensive review of current MLLM technologies in previous studies. We highlight their effectiveness and limitations in object detection within various transportation scenarios. The second fold involves providing an overview of the taxonomy of end-to-end object detection in transportation applications and future directions. Building on this, we proposed empirical analysis for testing MLLMs on three real-world transportation problems that include object detection tasks, namely, road safety attribute extraction, safety-critical event detection, and visual reasoning of thermal images. Our findings provide a detailed assessment of MLLM performance, uncovering both strengths and areas for improvement. Finally, we discuss practical limitations and challenges of MLLMs in enhancing object detection in transportation, thereby offering a roadmap for future research and development in this critical area. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Object Detection Models for Transportation Systems)

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14 pages, 1696 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of Multiplex qPCR Method for Accurate Detection of Enzyme-Producing Psychrotrophic Bacteria

by Kidane Yalew, Shuwen Zhang, Solomon Gebreyowhans, Ning Xie, Yunna Wang, Jiaping Lv, Xu Li and Xiaoyang Pang

Foods 2025, 14(11), 1975; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14111975 (registering DOI) - 3 Jun 2025

Abstract

Microbial detection in milk is crucial for food safety and quality, as beneficial and harmful microorganisms can affect consumer health and dairy product integrity. Identifying and quantifying these microorganisms helps prevent contamination and spoilage. The study employs advanced molecular techniques to detect and [...] Read more.

Microbial detection in milk is crucial for food safety and quality, as beneficial and harmful microorganisms can affect consumer health and dairy product integrity. Identifying and quantifying these microorganisms helps prevent contamination and spoilage. The study employs advanced molecular techniques to detect and quantify the genomic DNA for the target hydrolytic enzyme coding genes lipA and aprX based on the multi-align sequence conserved region, specific primer pair, and hydrolysis probes designed using the singleplex qPCR and multiplex qPCR. Cultured isolates and artificially contaminated sterilized ultra-high-temperature (UHT) milk were analyzed for their specificity, cross-reactivity, and sensitivity. The finding indicated that strains with lipA and aprX genes were amplified while the other strains were not amplified. This indicated that the designed primer pairs/probes were very specific to the target gene of interest. The specificity of each design primer pair was checked using SYBR Green qPCR using 16 different isolate strains from the milk sample. The quantification specificity of each strain target gene was deemed to be with a mean Ct value for positive pseudomonas strain > 16.98 ± 1.76 (p < 0.0001), non-pseudomonas positive strain ≥ 27.47 ± 1.25 (p < 0.0001), no Ct for the negative control and molecular grade water. The sensitivity limit of detection (LOD) analyzed based on culture broth and milk sample was >10⁵ and >10⁴ in PCR amplification while it was >10⁴ and >10³ in real-time qPCR, respectively. At the same time, the correlation regression coefficient of the standard curve based on the pure culture cell DNA as the DNA concentration serially diluted (20 ng/µL to 0.0002 ng/µL) was obtained in multiplex without interference and cross-reactivity, yielding R² ≥ 0.9908 slope (−3.2591) and intercepting with a value of 37, where the efficiency reached the level of 95–102% sensitivity reached up to 0.0002 ng/µL concentration of DNA, and sensitivity of microbial load was up to 1.2 × 10² CFU/mL. Therefore, multiplex TaqMan qPCR simultaneous amplification was considered the best method developed for the detection of the lipA and aprX genes in a single tube. This will result in developing future simultaneous (three- to four-gene) detection of spoilage psychrotrophic bacteria in raw milk. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Explore Milk and Dairy Products: Sensory, Physicochemical Characteristics, and Processing Technologies)

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15 pages, 2669 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Salinity Tolerance of Fig Transplants Cv. Conadria via Exogenous Application of Sodium Nitroprusside

by El Said Hegazi, Abdou Abdallatif and Rashid Burshaid

Stresses 2025, 5(2), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses5020036 (registering DOI) - 3 Jun 2025

Abstract

The present research was designed to assess the potential effect of SNP to alleviate salinity stress injury in fig transplants cv. Conadria. One-year-old transplants irrigated with saline water (6.25 ds/m) were treated with sodium nitroprusside (SNP) at four concentrations (0, 50, 100 and [...] Read more.

The present research was designed to assess the potential effect of SNP to alleviate salinity stress injury in fig transplants cv. Conadria. One-year-old transplants irrigated with saline water (6.25 ds/m) were treated with sodium nitroprusside (SNP) at four concentrations (0, 50, 100 and 200 µM); untreated transplants exposed to salt stress represent the positive control, while the non-stressed transplants represent the negative control. Salt stress showed a considerable increase in lipid peroxidation, proline, sodium, chloride content and antioxidant enzyme activity and reduced vegetative growth parameters, photosynthetic pigments, phenolic content and K/Na ratio. SNP reduced salt stress injury in fig transplants through maintaining higher values of growth parameters and photosynthetic pigment content, reducing sodium accumulation and maintaining the integrity of cell membrane lipids. SNP-treated transplants accumulated higher amounts of potassium ions and a higher K/Na ratio. SNP at 100 µM was the most efficient treatment in enhancing the response to salt stress. Overall, the results show that SNP application is a promising practice for alleviating salt stress on fig transplants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant and Photoautotrophic Stresses)

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19 pages, 4662 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Morphological Parameters of Gullies Formed on Sandy Soils and Effects of Check Dams in Central Spain

by Jorge Mongil-Manso, Joaquín Navarro-Hevia, Javier Velázquez, Virginia Díaz-Gutiérrez and Ana-Carolina Toledo-Rocha

Geosciences 2025, 15(6), 208; https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences15060208 (registering DOI) - 3 Jun 2025

Abstract

Gully erosion constitutes a significant global problem, as gullies are a substantial source of sediment that harms rivers, affecting aquatic fauna and water quality, altering flow regimes, and degrading soil, among other impacts. Gullies have been extensively studied in clayey soils, where they [...] Read more.

Gully erosion constitutes a significant global problem, as gullies are a substantial source of sediment that harms rivers, affecting aquatic fauna and water quality, altering flow regimes, and degrading soil, among other impacts. Gullies have been extensively studied in clayey soils, where they occur more frequently, but less so in soils or materials with a sandy texture. Therefore, utilizing field measurements and aerial orthophotography, this study characterizes the morphology of a set of gullies located in the Central System mountains (central Spain), formed on sandy soils derived from granite weathering, under a Mediterranean-continental climate. Furthermore, the influence of check dams on the gully slope is also studied. The selected gullies for this study are permanent, linear, parallel, continuous, V-shaped, and semi-active. They are longer, narrower, and shallower than other gullies in significantly different soils with which they have been compared, although the width/depth ratio is similar. Additionally, check dams have considerably reduced the slope (11% on average and a 23% maximum reduction), which may result in a reduction in the flow velocity and erosive capacity. Consequently, it can be affirmed that the presence of numerous check dams significantly affects gully morphology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Geomechanics)

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27 pages, 386 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Is Negation Negative? (And a Discussion of Negative Concord in SOV Languages)

by Paloma Jeretič

Languages 2025, 10(6), 130; https://doi.org/10.3390/languages10060130 (registering DOI) - 3 Jun 2025

Abstract

Is negation negative? For some authors, in some languages, it is not. This is the case for so-called strict negative concord languages (e.g., Russian), in which negation is taken to be non-negative, following the cross-linguistic analysis for negative concord systems proposed by Hedde [...] Read more.

Is negation negative? For some authors, in some languages, it is not. This is the case for so-called strict negative concord languages (e.g., Russian), in which negation is taken to be non-negative, following the cross-linguistic analysis for negative concord systems proposed by Hedde Zeijlstra’s work “Sentential negation and negative concord”. However, this analysis is focused on languages with SVO word order. In this paper, I propose to reconsider the typology of negative concord by zooming out of the focus on SVO languages that current literature has relied on. I discuss the case of SOV languages where observing a strict NC pattern leads to weaker conclusions about the nature of negation than for SVO languages with strict negative concord, leaving the negativity status of negation in those languages underdetermined. I then take a look at Turkish, an SOV language with three sentential negation markers: plain sentential negation -mA, copular negation değil, and existential negation yok. Evidence from the interaction of these markers with neither..nor phrases suggests that değil and yok, in contrast with -mA, are non-negative for some speakers. In order to explain the variation, I put forward a hypothesis about the learning process, in which there is sometimes insufficient evidence in the input to determine whether değil and yok are negative, and learners choose between two conflicting heuristics that result in the negativity or non-negativity of these markers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Theoretical Studies on Turkic Languages)

14 pages, 1726 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Ammonite Preserved in the Upper Pliocene Lower Tejo River Deposits of Quinta Do Conde (Southwest Portugal)

by Carlos Neto de Carvalho, Miguel Barroso and Sofia Soares

Foss. Stud. 2025, 3(2), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/fossils3020008 (registering DOI) - 3 Jun 2025

Abstract

A cast is an object that results from a fossilization process that is considerably rare in nature. For a cast to be produced, secondary diagenetic processes during and after fossilization are normally involved. Natural casts are formed when minerals are deposited within the [...] Read more.

A cast is an object that results from a fossilization process that is considerably rare in nature. For a cast to be produced, secondary diagenetic processes during and after fossilization are normally involved. Natural casts are formed when minerals are deposited within the fossil mold. Here we describe an exceptional example of the natural cast by gypsum of an ammonite presumably preserved as a limestone-made “half” mold that had previously been transported as an extraclast, deposited and dissolved within Upper Pliocene quartz sandstones of the ancestral Tejo river. Portable X-ray fluorescence was used to analyze and compare the geochemical composition of the ammonite fossil with that of the nodules found within the same bed, reflecting different diagenetic timings. The composition of the ammonite cast reflects the in situ dissolution of limestone and the precipitation of calcium sulfate. High δ³⁴S‰ and Sr values obtained from the ammonite show that the cast was produced by percolating acidic waters in the vadose zone, under marine influence, during the Late Pliocene or already in the Pleistocene. The waters being rich in sulfur resulted more likely from a marine water-influenced water table. Alternatively, it may have resulted from the weathering concentration of sulfur from the Marco Furado ferricretes overlying Santa Marta sandstone. This is, so far, the only testimony of the enormous temporal discontinuity that occurred during the taphonomic history of an ammonite, with a final preservation in the form of a cast made of gypsum, the most didactic example of this type of fossilization ever found in Portugal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Continuities and Discontinuities of the Fossil Record)

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54 pages, 2154 KiB

Open AccessReview

Do We Know Enough About the Safety Profile of Silver Nanoparticles in Oncology? A Focus on Novel Methods and Approaches

by Peter Takáč, Jr., Radka Michalková, Martina Čižmáriková, Zdenka Bedlovičová, Ľudmila Balážová, Štefánia Laca Megyesi, Zuzana Mačeková, Gabriela Takáčová, Almudena Moreno-Borrallo, Eduardo Ruiz-Hernandez, Luka Isakov and Peter Takáč, Sr.

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(11), 5344; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26115344 - 2 Jun 2025

Abstract

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have emerged as promising agents in cancer diagnostics and/or therapy, demonstrating a lot of possible pharmacological actions. However, understanding the pharmacokinetics and safety profiles of nanoparticles, which is crucial for their clinical application, still raises many questions. Studies indicate that [...] Read more.

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have emerged as promising agents in cancer diagnostics and/or therapy, demonstrating a lot of possible pharmacological actions. However, understanding the pharmacokinetics and safety profiles of nanoparticles, which is crucial for their clinical application, still raises many questions. Studies indicate that AgNPs can accumulate in tumour tissues, improving drug delivery and specificity. However, their interaction with biological systems necessitates thorough safety evaluations. Classical methods for assessing AgNPs’ safety include cytotoxicity assays, genotoxicity tests, and histopathological examinations. However, novel techniques are emerging, such as advanced imaging and biomarker analysis, offering more precise toxicity assessments. Prediction models, including computational simulations and in silico analyses, are being developed to forecast AgNPs’ toxicity profiles. These models aim to reduce reliance on animal testing and expedite the evaluation process. To mitigate potential risks associated with nanoparticle-based therapies, strategies such as surface modification, controlled release systems, and targeted delivery are being explored. These methods aim to enhance therapeutic efficacy while minimizing adverse effects. The main aim of this review article is to describe AgNPs from the point of view of their pharmacokinetic/toxicokinetic profile in the light of modern knowledge. Special attention will be given to novel methods for assessing the safety and toxicity profiles of AgNPs, providing insights into their interactions with cancer therapies and their potential clinical applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials and Biomaterials in Biomedicine Application)

30 pages, 5598 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Information and Communication Technologies Used in Precision Agriculture: A Systematic Review

by Jorge Díaz, Yadira Quiñonez, Emiro De-la-Hoz-Franco, Shariq Butt-Aziz, Teobaldis Mercado and Dixon Salcedo

AgriEngineering 2025, 7(6), 167; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriengineering7060167 (registering DOI) - 2 Jun 2025

Abstract

This article presents a systematic literature review on Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) applied to precision agriculture, focusing on their relevance to Colombia. It identifies key technical and administrative needs for digital transformation in the sector and proposes a conceptual roadmap for implementation. [...] Read more.

This article presents a systematic literature review on Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) applied to precision agriculture, focusing on their relevance to Colombia. It identifies key technical and administrative needs for digital transformation in the sector and proposes a conceptual roadmap for implementation. Findings highlight the potential of early warning systems (EWSs), the Internet of Things (IoT), and artificial intelligence (AI) to improve productivity, sustainability, and climate resilience. The study outlines current adoption barriers and proposes future empirical validation through field experiments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sensors Technology and Precision Agriculture)

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15 pages, 592 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Kriging-Based Variable Screening Method for Aircraft Optimization Problems with Expensive Functions

by Yadong Wang, Xinyao Duan, Jiang Wang, Jin Guo and Minglei Han

Algorithms 2025, 18(6), 332; https://doi.org/10.3390/a18060332 - 2 Jun 2025

Abstract

The computational complexity of airfoil optimization for aircraft wing designs typically involves high-dimensional parameter spaces defined by geometric variables, where each Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation cycle may require significant processing resources. Therefore, performing variable selection to identify influential inputs becomes crucial for [...] Read more.

The computational complexity of airfoil optimization for aircraft wing designs typically involves high-dimensional parameter spaces defined by geometric variables, where each Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation cycle may require significant processing resources. Therefore, performing variable selection to identify influential inputs becomes crucial for minimizing the number of necessary model evaluations, particularly when dealing with complex systems exhibiting nonlinear and poorly understood input–output relationships. As a result, it is desirable to use fewer samples to determine the influential inputs to achieve a simple, more efficient optimization process. This article provides a systematic, novel approach to solving aircraft optimization problems. Initially, a Kriging-based variable screening method (KRG-VSM) is proposed to determine the active inputs using a ikelihood-based screening method, and new stopping criteria for KRG-VSM are proposed and discussed. A genetic algorithm (GA) is employed to achieve the global optimum of the log-likelihood function. Subsequently, the airfoil optimization is conducted using the identified active design variables. According to the results, the Kriging-based variable screening method could select all the active inputs with a few samples. The Kriging-based variable screening method is then tested on the numerical benchmarks and applied to the airfoil aerodynamic optimization problem. Applying the variables screening technique can enhance the efficiency of the airfoil optimization process under acceptable accuracy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Algorithms for Multidisciplinary Applications)

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22 pages, 2206 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Commodities from Amazon Biome: A Guide to Choosing Sustainable Paths

by Richard Luan Silva Machado, Rosangela Rodrigues Dias, Mariany Costa Deprá, Adriane Terezinha Schneider, Darissa Alves Dutra, Cristiano R. de Menezes, Leila Q. Zepka and Eduardo Jacob-Lopes

Commodities 2025, 4(2), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/commodities4020008 - 2 Jun 2025

Abstract

The exploitation of the Amazon biome in search of net profit, specifically in the production of cocoa (Theobroma cacao) and açaí (Euterpe oleracea), has caused deforestation, degradation of natural resources, and high greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, highlighting the urgency [...] Read more.

The exploitation of the Amazon biome in search of net profit, specifically in the production of cocoa (Theobroma cacao) and açaí (Euterpe oleracea), has caused deforestation, degradation of natural resources, and high greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, highlighting the urgency of improving the environmental, economic and social sustainability of these crops. These species were selected for their rapid expansion in the Amazon, driven by global demand, their local economic relevance, and their potential to either promote conservation or drive deforestation, depending on the production system. This study analyzes the pillars of environmental, social, and economic sustainability of cocoa and açaí production systems in the Amazon, comparing monoculture, agroforestry, and extractivism to support forest conservation strategies in the biome. Analysis of the environmental life cycle, social life cycle, and economic performance were used to determine the carbon footprint, the final point of workers, and the net profit of the activities. According to the results found in this study, cocoa monoculture had the largest carbon footprint (1.35 tCO₂eq/ha), followed by agroforestry (1.20 tCO₂eq/ha), açaí monoculture (0.84 tCO₂eq/ha) and extractivism (0.25 tCO₂eq/ha). In the carbon balance, only the areas outside indigenous lands presented positive carbon. Regarding the economic aspect, the net profit of açaí monoculture was USD 6783.44/ha, extractivism USD 6059.42/ha, agroforestry USD 4505.55/ha, and cocoa monoculture USD 3937.32/ha. In the social sphere, in cocoa and açaí production, the most relevant negative impacts are the subcategories of child labor and gender discrimination, and the positive impacts are related to the sub-category of forced labor. These results suggest that açaí and cocoa extractivism, under responsible management plans, offer a promising balance between profitability and environmental conservation. Furthermore, agroforestry systems have also demonstrated favorable outcomes, providing additional benefits such as biodiversity conservation and system resilience, which make them a promising sustainable alternative. Full article

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16 pages, 548 KiB

Open AccessEntry

Sport During Franco’s Technocracy: From Propaganda to Development

by Juan Manuel Garcia-Manso, Antonio Sánchez-Pato and Juan Alfonso Garcia-Roca

Encyclopedia 2025, 5(2), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia5020075 - 2 Jun 2025

Definition

Sport in Spain during the dictatorship of Francisco Franco (1939–1975) underwent significant evolution across three distinct political phases: autarky, the technocratic stage, and late Francoism. Each of these periods was characterized by different approaches and uses of sport within the regime’s political structure. [...] Read more.

Sport in Spain during the dictatorship of Francisco Franco (1939–1975) underwent significant evolution across three distinct political phases: autarky, the technocratic stage, and late Francoism. Each of these periods was characterized by different approaches and uses of sport within the regime’s political structure. In the early years, sport was primarily employed as a tool for propaganda and social control, aligning with the authoritarian values of the state. Subsequently, with the rise of technocrats in the 1960s, reforms were implemented to promote the structural development of the sports system, fostering its modernization and the creation of specialized institutions. Finally, in the late Francoist period, sport became an instrument for international projection, as Spain increased its participation in international competitions and hosted sporting events. This entry analyzes the primary governmental initiatives for the organization and promotion of sport during the Franco regime, with particular attention to the administrative roles played by figures such as José Antonio Elola-Olaso and Juan Antonio Samaranch in the evolving structure of the Spanish sports system. Through an analysis based on documentary sources, it provides a comprehensive overview of Francoist sports policies, their objectives, and their impact on Spanish society. In this regard, sport under Franco’s rule was not only a means of political control but also laid the foundation for the later professionalization and globalization of Spanish sport. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Encyclopedia of Social Sciences)

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19 pages, 1500 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Toy Department Has Grown Up: The 2021 International Sports Press Survey (ISPS) in Comparison to the 2011 Survey

by Thomas Horky, Joerg-Uwe Nieland and Christof Seeger

Journal. Media 2025, 6(2), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6020081 - 2 Jun 2025

Abstract

Sport and sports communication is growing. Sport is an integral part of (everyday) communication in both traditional and so-called new media. Digitalization poses major challenges for sports journalism. In connection with the changing media consumption, the crisis of the majority of print media [...] Read more.

Sport and sports communication is growing. Sport is an integral part of (everyday) communication in both traditional and so-called new media. Digitalization poses major challenges for sports journalism. In connection with the changing media consumption, the crisis of the majority of print media and the increasing globalization and standardization of sports at the international level, this applies above all to daily newspapers. In addition, sports newsrooms have been described as “toy departments”. This paper discusses the findings of the 2021 International Sports Press Survey (ISPS) on the current state of the quality of sports reporting in daily newspaper and confronts these findings with the results of the 2011 study. Against the backdrop of quality journalism based on diversity, the quantitative content analysis examines 6614 articles from eight countries. The 2021 ISPS results highlighted several key findings regarding the quality and diversity of sports journalism. These included the persistent underrepresentation of women as both authors and protagonists in sports reporting, a focus on current events over in-depth research, and a limited use of sources. However, when compared to data from a decade ago, there is evidence of a slight positive trend towards increased diversity and improved quality in sports journalism. Full article

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15 pages, 5573 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Surface Transformation of Ultrahigh-Temperature ZrB₂–HfB₂–SiC–C_CNT Ceramics Under Exposure to Subsonic N₂-CH₄ Plasma Flow

by Elizaveta P. Simonenko, Aleksey V. Chaplygin, Nikolay P. Simonenko, Ilya V. Lukomskii, Semen S. Galkin, Anton S. Lysenkov, Ilya A. Nagornov, Artem S. Mokrushin, Anatoly F. Kolesnikov and Nikolay T. Kuznetsov

Ceramics 2025, 8(2), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8020067 - 2 Jun 2025

Abstract

The chemical and microstructural transformation of the surface of a 31.5 vol.% ZrB₂-31.5 vol.% HfB₂-27 vol.% SiC-10 vol.% C_CNT ultrahigh-temperature ceramic sample (where C_CNT refers to carbon nanotubes) was studied under the influence of a subsonic N [...] Read more.

The chemical and microstructural transformation of the surface of a 31.5 vol.% ZrB₂-31.5 vol.% HfB₂-27 vol.% SiC-10 vol.% C_CNT ultrahigh-temperature ceramic sample (where C_CNT refers to carbon nanotubes) was studied under the influence of a subsonic N₂-plasma flow with the addition of 5 mol% methane, simulating aerodynamic heating in the atmosphere of Titan. As in the case of pure nitrogen flow, it was found that silicon carbide is removed from the surface. Zirconium and hafnium diborides are partially transformed into a Zr-Hf-B-C-N solid solution in the experiment conducted. XRD, Raman spectroscopy, and SEM-EDX analysis show that the presence of C₂ in the N₂-CH₄ plasma flow leads to surface carbonization (formation of a graphite- and diamond-like coating with a high proportion of amorphous carbon), resulting in significant changes in the microstructure and emissivity, potentially affecting the catalytic properties of the surface. Full article

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17 pages, 2767 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Response of Shoot Growth to Ecological Factors Highlights a Synergistic Relationship Between Yield and Catechin Accumulation in Tea Plant (Camellia sinensis L.)

by Ping Xiang, Qiufang Zhu, Marat Tukhvatshin, Bosi Cheng, Meng Tan, Jianghong Liu, Jiaxin Huang, Yunfei Hu, Yutao Shi, Liangyu Wu and Jinke Lin

Horticulturae 2025, 11(6), 624; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11060624 - 2 Jun 2025

Abstract

Ecological factors directly influence the growth and metabolism of tea plants (Camellia sinensis L.), and unfavorable environmental conditions cause abiotic stress to them. Abiotic stress causes damage to reliable, high-quality, and safe tea production, yet the optimal ecological conditions for enhancing both [...] Read more.

Ecological factors directly influence the growth and metabolism of tea plants (Camellia sinensis L.), and unfavorable environmental conditions cause abiotic stress to them. Abiotic stress causes damage to reliable, high-quality, and safe tea production, yet the optimal ecological conditions for enhancing both yield and quality remain unclear. To investigate the response patterns of shoot growth to ecological factors and its relationship with catechin accumulation, this study conducted the cultivation of tea plants with a precise modulation of both individual and combined ecological parameters. Under 30 °C and 90% air humidity, specific combinations of light intensity and substrate relative humidity (“250 µmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹ + 65%” or “350 µmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹ + 70%”) significantly enhanced growth and yield. A significant correlation between shoot growth and catechin accumulation was observed, and mathematical models further revealed a synergistic response between shoot growth capacity and total catechin content to ecological factors. Furthermore, co-expression analysis indicated that catechin biosynthesis-related genes exhibited coordinated expression with key growth-related genes, including CsTCP, CsErf, and CsXth. In conclusion, these findings identify optimal ecological conditions to mitigate abiotic stress and reveal a synergistic relationship between catechin biosynthesis and shoot growth, providing an ecological basis for balancing yield and quality in tea production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biotic and Abiotic Stress Responses of Horticultural Plants)

27 pages, 3567 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Salinity Tolerance in Three Halophytic Plants: Physiological and Biochemical Responses to Agronomic Management in a Half-Strength Seawater Aquaponics System

by Ayenia Carolina Rosales-Nieblas, Mina Yamada, Bernardo Murillo-Amador and Satoshi Yamada

Horticulturae 2025, 11(6), 623; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11060623 - 2 Jun 2025

Abstract

Understanding halophyte responses to agronomic management in saline environments is crucial for optimizing their cultivation. This study assessed the physiological and biochemical responses of three halophytic species, ice plant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum L.), romeritos (Suaeda edulis Flores Olv. and Noguez), and sea [...] Read more.

Understanding halophyte responses to agronomic management in saline environments is crucial for optimizing their cultivation. This study assessed the physiological and biochemical responses of three halophytic species, ice plant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum L.), romeritos (Suaeda edulis Flores Olv. and Noguez), and sea asparagus (Salicornia europaea L.) cultivated in half-strength seawater aquaponics (approximately 250 mM NaCl) under the following rooting media treatments: (C) untreated rearing water (RW), (pH) pH-adjusted to 5.5 RW, (pH+S) pH-adjusted to 5.5 RW with nutrient supplementation, and (NS) standard nutrient solution + 5 mM NaCl. Salinity was the primary factor influencing plant responses, while agronomic management played a secondary role. Ice plants exhibited stable growth across treatments due to their strong succulence, high water content, and antioxidative system, requiring minimal management, though optimal pH may enhance nutrient availability. Romeritos showed high treatment variability yet maintained biomass production via Na⁺ compartmentalization, with C treatment supporting better osmotic regulation, while pH adjustments and mineral supplementation induced stress under HSW. Sea asparagus sustained growth across all treatments, likely due to effective K⁺ retention and osmoregulation, reducing the need for additional management. These findings highlight species-specific salinity tolerance mechanisms and suggest that minimal agronomic management can effectively support halophyte cultivation in saline aquaponic systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Plant Quality and Sustainability in Aquaponics Systems)

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17 pages, 563 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Toward Self-Medication Among Pharmacy Undergraduates in Penang, Malaysia: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Bayan F. Ababneh, Hisham Z. Aljamal and Rabia Hussain

Pharmacy 2025, 13(3), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy13030079 - 2 Jun 2025

Abstract

Background: Self-medication is the use of medicinal products to treat self-diagnosed disorders or symptoms without the prescription or supervision of a healthcare professional. There is a lack of data about self-medication knowledge, attitudes, and practices among pharmacy undergraduates in Malaysia. This study assessed [...] Read more.

Background: Self-medication is the use of medicinal products to treat self-diagnosed disorders or symptoms without the prescription or supervision of a healthcare professional. There is a lack of data about self-medication knowledge, attitudes, and practices among pharmacy undergraduates in Malaysia. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices among undergraduate pharmacy students in Penang regarding self-medication. Method: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using a self-administered, web-based survey (Google Forms), which was completed and responded to by 203 undergraduate pharmacy students from Penang, Malaysia, between October and December 2023. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the socio-demographic characteristics of the participants. Associations between the socio-demographic characteristics of the participants and the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding self-medication were assessed using a chi-square test. Regression analyses were carried out to determine whether the socio-demographic characteristics of the participants were associated with practices of self-medication. Results: A total of 203 of the undergraduate pharmacy students completed the questionnaire. More than half of the participants’ age ranged between 19 and 21 years old, the majority were females (77.3%), and 31.5% of the participants had family members employed in the healthcare sector. Most respondents showed good knowledge in a variety of domains: 97.5% acknowledged the potential for drug interaction with other medications, indicating a high awareness of proper self-medication practices. A positive attitude was found regarding participants’ attitudes toward self-medication, and 65.5% practiced self-medication, primarily for treating minor illnesses (75.9%). Common conditions included fever (83.3%), cough/cold/flu (76.8%), and headache (71.4%). Reasons for not self-medicating included the absence of illness (20.2%), lack of knowledge/prior experience (19.2%), and fear of using the wrong medication (18.7%). Only academic year level was the predictor of practicing self-medication within the last six months among the participants. Conclusions: Generally, the participants possessed good knowledge and positive attitudes toward self-medication. The study revealed no significant associations between demographic characteristics and knowledge or attitudes. Insights from this research contribute to understanding self-medication practices among pharmacy students in Penang, informing potential interventions to promote responsible self-medication practices. Full article

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28 pages, 7611 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Design and Experimental Study of a Robotic System for Target Point Manipulation in Breast Procedures

by Bing Li, Hafiz Muhammad Muzzammil, Junwu Zhu and Lipeng Yuan

Robotics 2025, 14(6), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/robotics14060078 - 2 Jun 2025

Abstract

To achieve obstacle-avoiding puncture in breast interventional surgery, a robotics system based on three-fingered breast target-point manipulation is proposed and designed. Firstly, based on the minimum number of control points required for three-dimensional breast deformation control and the bionic structure of the human [...] Read more.

To achieve obstacle-avoiding puncture in breast interventional surgery, a robotics system based on three-fingered breast target-point manipulation is proposed and designed. Firstly, based on the minimum number of control points required for three-dimensional breast deformation control and the bionic structure of the human hand, the structure and control scheme of the robotics system based on breast target-point manipulation are proposed. Additionally, the workspace of the robotics system is analyzed. Then, an optimal control point selection method based on the minimum resultant force principle is proposed to achieve precise manipulation of the breast target point. Concurrently, a breast soft tissue manipulation framework incorporating a Model Reference Adaptive Control (MRAC) system is developed to enhance operational accuracy. A dynamic model of breast soft tissue is developed by using the manipulative force–displacement data obtained during the process of manipulating breast soft tissue with mechanical fingers to realize the manipulative force control of breast tissue. Finally, through simulation and experiments on breast target-point manipulation tasks, the results show that this robotic system can achieve spatial control of breast positioning at arbitrary points. Meanwhile, the robotic system proposed in this study demonstrates high-precision control with an accuracy of approximately 1.158 mm (standard deviation: 0.119 mm), fulfilling the requirements for clinical interventional surgery in target point manipulation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Medical Robotics and Service Robotics)

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27 pages, 2272 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Application of L-Shaped Zigzag Steel Fibers with Different Parameters in Asphalt Mixtures

by Qingguo Yang, Wujing Yin, Jiawei Cheng, Ya Li, Yu Zhou, Kelin Chen and Yunhao Li

Fibers 2025, 13(6), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib13060071 - 2 Jun 2025

Abstract

Taking AC-13 asphalt mixture as the matrix, this research delves into the impacts of assorted steel fibers on AC-13 asphalt mixture, especially the influence of 17.5 mm × 17.5 mm L-shaped steel fibers. A gradient design with mass dosages of 0%, 1%, 2%, [...] Read more.

Taking AC-13 asphalt mixture as the matrix, this research delves into the impacts of assorted steel fibers on AC-13 asphalt mixture, especially the influence of 17.5 mm × 17.5 mm L-shaped steel fibers. A gradient design with mass dosages of 0%, 1%, 2%, and 3% was employed to evaluate the reinforcement effect of L-shaped steel fiber-reinforced asphalt mixture compared with conventional mixture. Also, comparative analysis between L-shaped and straight steel fibers was conducted through comprehensive mechanical performance tests, including the Marshall stability test, high-temperature wheel tracking test, low-temperature beam bending test, freeze–thaw splitting strength test, and immersion Marshall test. The results demonstrate that L-shaped steel fibers significantly improve the comprehensive mechanical properties of asphalt mixture compared to conventional asphalt mixture, showing remarkable improvements in high-temperature stability, low-temperature crack resistance, and water stability. The overall performance enhancement effect increases by approximately 20%. Compared with straight steel fibers, the performance improvement of the mixtures is slightly greater, with the optimal performance achieved at 2% mass dosage. The standard deviation and coefficient of variation are used to reflect the degree of data dispersion. The results show that the data of L-shaped steel fibers have relatively smaller fluctuations, being more uniform and stable. Full article

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19 pages, 4294 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fermentation Products Originated from Bacillus subtilis Promote Hepatic–Intestinal Health in Largemouth Bass, Micropterus salmoides

by Kaifang Liu, Shubin Liu, Dexiang Feng, Pengwei Xun, Hanjun Jiang, Yanwei Zhang, Gaoliang Yuan and Xusheng Guo

Biology 2025, 14(6), 646; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14060646 - 2 Jun 2025

Abstract

The fermentation product FP-WeiGuangSu is regarded as a novel, green and efficient antibiotic substitute. Such products constitute one of the principal strategies for addressing bacterial diseases in aquaculture in the future. This study investigates the effects of FPs derived from Bacillus subtilis on [...] Read more.

The fermentation product FP-WeiGuangSu is regarded as a novel, green and efficient antibiotic substitute. Such products constitute one of the principal strategies for addressing bacterial diseases in aquaculture in the future. This study investigates the effects of FPs derived from Bacillus subtilis on the antioxidant capacity and gut microbiota of Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides). Experimental diets containing 0, 1%, 3% and 5% FPs (Control, H1, H2 and H3) were fed to M. salmoides. Although short-term administration of FPs exerted no significant influence on the growth performance of Largemouth Bass, serological findings demonstrated that supplementation with FPs decreased the contents of the liver injury markers ALT, AST and AKP, along with liver MDA content, and enhanced antioxidant capacity (SOD, CAT and GSH-px). Notably, the addition of 1% FPs significantly improved the systemic antioxidant performance (SOD, CAT, GSH-px and T-AOC). Moreover, the FP supplementation increased the expression levels of il-10 and IgM, and lipolysis-related genes. The results of gut microbiota analysis revealed that FPs significantly altered the diversity and structure of gut microbiota. The LEfSe results indicated that the microbial marker of the control group was Cetobacterium, those of the H1 group were Bacillus and Mycoplasma, those of the H2 group were Acinetobacter, Paenibacillus and g_unclassified_Rhizobiaceae, and that of the H3 group was Enterococcus. The most significant microbial marker upon the addition of FPs was Paenibacillus, and the pathways for biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, biosynthesis of antibiotics, and biosynthesis of amino acids were significantly activated. The Bugbase analysis results suggested that, compared with the control group, the abundance of anaerobic bacteria in the FP group decreased, while the abundance of microorganisms with mobile-element-containing and oxidative-stress-tolerant phenotypes increased. Hence, this study demonstrated that 1–3% FP dietary supplementation can be used to enhance antioxidant ability, and liver and intestine health of M. salmoides in the aquaculture industry and can be regarded as a promising feed additive in aquaculture. Full article

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33 pages, 1914 KiB

Open AccessReview

Maternal Overnutrition in Beef Cattle: Effects on Fetal Programming, Metabolic Health, and Postnatal Outcomes

by Borhan Shokrollahi, Myungsun Park, Gi-Suk Jang, Shil Jin, Sung-Jin Moon, Kyung-Hwan Um, Sun-Sik Jang and Youl-Chang Baek

Biology 2025, 14(6), 645; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14060645 - 2 Jun 2025

Abstract

Maternal overnutrition and targeted supplements during pregnancy strongly affect fetal development in beef cattle, influencing gene expression, tissue development, and productivity after birth. As modern feeding practices often result in cows receiving energy and protein above requirements, understanding the balance between adequate nutrition [...] Read more.

Maternal overnutrition and targeted supplements during pregnancy strongly affect fetal development in beef cattle, influencing gene expression, tissue development, and productivity after birth. As modern feeding practices often result in cows receiving energy and protein above requirements, understanding the balance between adequate nutrition and overconditioning is critical for sustainable beef production. This review synthesizes findings from recent studies on maternal overnutrition and supplementation, focusing on macronutrients (energy, protein, methionine) and key micronutrients (e.g., selenium, zinc). It evaluates the timing and impact of supplementation during different gestational stages, with emphasis on fetal muscle and adipose tissue development, immune function, and metabolic programming. The role of epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation and non-coding RNAs, is also discussed in relation to maternal dietary inputs. Mid-gestation supplementation promotes muscle growth by activating muscle-specific genes, whereas late-gestation diets enhance marbling and carcass traits. However, maternal overnutrition may impair mitochondrial efficiency, encourage fat deposition over muscle, and promote collagen synthesis, reducing meat tenderness. Recent evidence highlights sex-specific fetal programming differences, the significant impact of maternal diets on offspring gut microbiomes, and breed-specific nutritional responses, and multi-OMICs integration reveals metabolic reprogramming mechanisms. Targeted trace mineral and methionine supplementation enhance antioxidant capacity, immune function, and reproductive performance. Precision feeding strategies aligned with gestational requirements improve feed efficiency and minimize overfeeding risks. Early interventions, including protein and vitamin supplementation, optimize placental function and fetal development, supporting stronger postnatal growth, immunity, and fertility. Balancing nutritional adequacy without excessive feeding supports animal welfare, profitability, and sustainability in beef cattle systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biochemistry and Molecular Biology)

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19 pages, 2592 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study of the Behavioral Characteristics of Lutjanus erythropterus on the Basis of the Distance and Structure of Artificial Reefs

by Manju Jiang, Yu Guo, Chuanxin Qin, Jia Zhang and Ankai Zhang

Biology 2025, 14(6), 644; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14060644 - 2 Jun 2025

Abstract

The aims of this study were to analyze the preferences of rocky reef fish for different types of artificial reefs and to determine the distances between reefs that lead to the production of independent effects. In this study, the aggregation behavior of juvenile [...] Read more.

The aims of this study were to analyze the preferences of rocky reef fish for different types of artificial reefs and to determine the distances between reefs that lead to the production of independent effects. In this study, the aggregation behavior of juvenile Lutjanus erythropterus was observed under different reef spacings (0.5 L (distances of 0.5 times the reef length), 1.0 L, 1.5 L, 2.0 L, 2.5 L, and 3.0 L). The results revealed that when the distance between the reefs was 0.5 L, the juvenile fish presented frequent between-reef activity, and their attraction to the reefs was significant. When the distance between the reefs was 2.5 L or 3.0 L, the number of juvenile fish appeared to significantly differ between the areas. The number of juvenile fish farther from the reefs was relatively low, and the value tended to plateau. The results revealed that the two reefs had a combined effect when the reef distance was 0.5 L, 1.0 L, 1.5 L, or 2.0 L, whereas the two reefs had independent effects when the distance was 2.5 L or 3.0 L. In addition, to determine the distance at which the reefs had independent effects, the preference of juvenile L. erythropterus for different reef types was investigated, and the behavior of L. erythropterus was observed when two or four reefs (room-shaped artificial reef, RAR; lobe-shaped artificial reef, LAR; cubic artificial reef, CAR; and stacked artificial reef, SAR) were placed in an experimental tank at the same time. The results showed that in the experiments where two or four different reef models were present, juvenile L. erythropterus preferred the cubic artificial reef. At this reef, the fish exhibited the strongest reefing behavior and stayed for the longest time. This study reveals the reefing behaviors of juvenile L. erythropterus under different reef spacings and their preferences for various artificial reef models, providing a theoretical basis and reference for the design and selection of habitats for related species and of artificial reef models for marine pastures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Behavioural Biology)

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