J | An Open Access Journal from MDPI

17 pages, 2654 KB

Open AccessTechnical Note

Development and Validation of Nanoedw 1.0: An Integrated Computational Tool for Drug Delivery Research and Nanotechnology Applications

by Edwar D. Montenegro, Marcia S. Rizzo, Heurison de Sousa e Silva and Marcília Pinheiro da Costa

J 2025, 8(4), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/j8040047 - 11 Dec 2025

Abstract

Quantitative analyses in drug-delivery research are frequently distributed across multiple tools, which increases manual handling and the risk of transcription errors. NanoEDW 1.0 is an open source Python application that integrates calibration-curve generation, encapsulation-efficiency (EE%) calculation, and release kinetics modeling in a single, [...] Read more.

Quantitative analyses in drug-delivery research are frequently distributed across multiple tools, which increases manual handling and the risk of transcription errors. NanoEDW 1.0 is an open source Python application that integrates calibration-curve generation, encapsulation-efficiency (EE%) calculation, and release kinetics modeling in a single, streamlined workflow. This study aims to validate the performance of NanoEDW 1.0 by benchmarking it against spreadsheet/OriginLab^® OriginPro 2025 analyses on experimental datasets from polymeric nanocarrier systems commonly used in drug encapsulation. The software performs linear regression to convert absorbance into concentration, computes EE% from raw experimental values, and fits drug-release profiles to classical models (including zero/first-order, Higuchi, Korsmeyer–Peppas, Weibull, and Modified Gompertz) using non-linear least squares with standard goodness-of-fit metrics (R², RMSE). Results show close agreement with reference workflows for calibration parameters and EE%, as well as statistically comparable release-model fits, while reducing manual steps and analysis time. In conclusion, the validation confirms that NanoEDW 1.0 can streamline routine analyses and enhance reproducibility and accessibility in nanopharmaceutical research; source code and example datasets are provided to foster adoption. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers of J—Multidisciplinary Scientific Journal in 2025)

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13 pages, 2658 KB

Open AccessArticle

Development of Biodegradable Bioplastic from Banana Pseudostem Cellulose

by David A. Servellón, Fabrizzio R. Pérez, Enrique Posada-Granados, Marlon Enrique López and Marvin J. Núñez

J 2025, 8(4), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/j8040046 - 2 Dec 2025

Abstract

Banana pseudostem is an abundant lignocellulosic residue with potential for value-added applications. This study evaluated five banana varieties to determine their suitability for bioplastic production, with Williams showing the highest cellulose yield (26.99% ± 0.23). Cellulose extracted from this variety was combined with [...] Read more.

Banana pseudostem is an abundant lignocellulosic residue with potential for value-added applications. This study evaluated five banana varieties to determine their suitability for bioplastic production, with Williams showing the highest cellulose yield (26.99% ± 0.23). Cellulose extracted from this variety was combined with corn-starch (1:1 w/w) to synthesize a bioplastic through gelatinization and lyophilization. FTIR confirmed effective removal of lignin and hemicellulose from the pseudostem and evidenced new hydrogen-bond interactions between cellulose and starch through O–H band shifts (3335 → 3282 cm⁻¹). SEM revealed a porous laminar morphology with cellulose particles (40–52 µm) embedded within the starch matrix. DSC analysis showed that the bioplastic exhibits an intermediate thermal profile between its components, while mechanical compression increased the endothermic transition temperature (from 69 °C to 85 °C) and reduced molecular mobility. Tensile testing demonstrated that compression markedly improved mechanical performance, increasing tensile strength from 0.094 MPa to 0.69 MPa and density from 110 to 638.7 kg/m³. These findings indicate that cellulose–starch bioplastics derived from banana pseudostem possess favorable structural, thermal, and mechanical characteristics for short-use applications. The approach also contributes to the valorization of agricultural waste through biodegradable material development. Full article

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14 pages, 592 KB

Open AccessArticle

Large-Scale Analysis of the Medical Discourse on Rheumatoid Arthritis: Complementing with AI a Socio-Anthropologic Analysis

by Mario Santoro and Christine Nardini

J 2025, 8(4), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/j8040045 - 23 Nov 2025

Abstract

The medical discourse entails the analysis of the modalities, which are far from unbiased, by which hypotheses and results are laid out in the dissemination of findings in scientific publications. This gives different emphases on the background, relevance, robustness, and assumptions that the [...] Read more.

The medical discourse entails the analysis of the modalities, which are far from unbiased, by which hypotheses and results are laid out in the dissemination of findings in scientific publications. This gives different emphases on the background, relevance, robustness, and assumptions that the audience takes for granted. This concept is extensively studied in socio-anthropology. However, it remains generally overlooked within the scientific community conducting the research. Yet, analyzing the discourse is crucial for several reasons: to frame policies that take into account an appropriately large screen of medical opportunities; to avoid overseeing promising but less walked paths; to grasp different types of representations of diseases, therapies, patients, and other stakeholders; to understand how these terms are conditioned by time and culture. While socio-anthropologists traditionally use manual curation methods–limited by the lengthy process–machine learning and AI may offer complementary tools to explore the vastness of an ever-growing body of medical literature. In this work, we propose a pipeline for the analysis of the medical discourse on the therapeutic approaches to rheumatoid arthritis using topic modeling and transformer-based emotion and sentiment analysis, overall offering complementary insights to previous curation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Computer Science & Mathematics)

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14 pages, 5377 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Penalty Function and Equivalence Factor on the Performance of ECMS Controller in Range Extended Electric Vehicles

by Malika Keldiyarova, Umidjon Usmanov, Sanjarbek Ruzimov and Akmal Mukhitdinov

J 2025, 8(4), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/j8040044 - 19 Nov 2025

Abstract

This study discusses the role of the equivalence factor and penalty function in improving the performance of energy consumption minimization strategies in Range Extended Electric Vehicles (REEVs). In conventional ECMS, equivalence factors are typically derived from constant efficiency assumptions for simplicity or adaptively [...] Read more.

This study discusses the role of the equivalence factor and penalty function in improving the performance of energy consumption minimization strategies in Range Extended Electric Vehicles (REEVs). In conventional ECMS, equivalence factors are typically derived from constant efficiency assumptions for simplicity or adaptively adjusted according to driving conditions in adaptive ECMS. In REEVs, however, the battery efficiency exhibits nonlinear behavior in the low SOC range, which directly leads to variability in the equivalence factor within conventional ECMS. This study investigates the influence of the variable equivalence factor on the overall fuel economy. The equivalence factors are usually considered constant or vary adaptively depending on driving cycles. However, the variation in battery efficiency is often neglected. The present study compares the results obtained for both constant and variable battery efficiencies in deriving the equivalence factors. The simulation results show that an improvement of approximately 3% in fuel economy was obtained for UDDS, NEDC, and WLTC driving cycles as a result of applying the variable equivalence factor. Additionally, through an analysis of various penalty function designs, the study highlights their crucial role in optimizing fuel consumption across different driving cycles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Engineering)

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11 pages, 2133 KB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Photodynamic Therapy Using AuNPs@Ce6 in 3D Cultures of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

by Aveline Ventura, Giulia Capizzani Gonçalves, Cristina Pacheco Soares, Luciana Barros Sant’anna, Vitor Luca Moura Marmo, Sônia Khouri Sibelino and Leandro Raniero

J 2025, 8(4), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/j8040043 - 17 Nov 2025

Abstract

Conventional cancer treatments have limited efficacy for aggressive subtypes such as triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), which points to the importance of new therapeutic strategies. Functionalized nanoparticles in conjunction with photodynamic therapy (PDT) represent a promising alternative. Additionally, 3D cell culture emerges as a [...] Read more.

Conventional cancer treatments have limited efficacy for aggressive subtypes such as triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), which points to the importance of new therapeutic strategies. Functionalized nanoparticles in conjunction with photodynamic therapy (PDT) represent a promising alternative. Additionally, 3D cell culture emerges as a more effective model, as it better replicates the structural and functional characteristics of the tumor microenvironment. In this study, 3D microtumors of TNBC were cultivated and treated with PDT using gold nanoparticles functionalized with Chlorin e6 (AuNPs@Ce6). Cell viability was assessed using the MTT colorimetric assay, combined with histological analysis using hematoxylin-eosin staining. The MTT assay and histological evaluation of the 3D spheroids demonstrated that PDT with AuNPs@Ce6 effectively reduced cell viability and induced necrotic morphological changes, while maintaining biocompatibility with the non-irradiated control group. These findings reinforce the potential of this approach for further investigation in TNBC models and underscore the value of 3D cultures as physiologically relevant and ethical alternatives to animal testing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers of J—Multidisciplinary Scientific Journal in 2025)

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15 pages, 2791 KB

Open AccessArticle

Tagging Fluorescent Reporter to Epinecidin-1 Antimicrobial Peptide

by Sivakumar Jeyarajan, Harini Priya Ramesh, Atchyasri Anbarasu, Jayasudha Jayachandran and Anbarasu Kumarasamy

J 2025, 8(4), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/j8040042 - 2 Nov 2025

Abstract

In this study, we successfully cloned the fluorescent proteins eGFP and DsRed in-frame with the antimicrobial peptide epinecidin-1 (FIFHIIKGLFHAGKMIHGLV) at the N-terminal. The cloning strategy involved inserting the fluorescent reporters into the expression vector, followed by screening for positive clones through visual fluorescence [...] Read more.

In this study, we successfully cloned the fluorescent proteins eGFP and DsRed in-frame with the antimicrobial peptide epinecidin-1 (FIFHIIKGLFHAGKMIHGLV) at the N-terminal. The cloning strategy involved inserting the fluorescent reporters into the expression vector, followed by screening for positive clones through visual fluorescence detection and molecular validation. The visually identified fluorescent colonies were confirmed as positive by PCR and plasmid migration assays, indicating successful cloning. This fusion of fluorescent reporters with a short antimicrobial peptide enables real-time visualization and monitoring of the peptide’s mechanism of action on membranes and within cells, both in vivo and in vitro. The fusion of eGFP and DsRed to epinecidin-1 did not impair the expression or fluorescence of the reporter protein. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers of J—Multidisciplinary Scientific Journal in 2025)

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22 pages, 1460 KB

Open AccessReview

Insights into Molecular Interplay in Tuberculosis–COVID-19 Co-Infection via Integrated Multi-Omics Strategies

by Megha Chaudhari, Sunita Verma and Sushanta Deb

J 2025, 8(4), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/j8040041 - 22 Oct 2025

Abstract

The simultaneous occurrence of tuberculosis (TB) and COVID-19 posed a major public health challenge, particularly in regions heavily impacted by both diseases, due to their shared effects on the lungs, immune system dysfunction, and the possibility of more severe clinical outcomes. The role [...] Read more.

The simultaneous occurrence of tuberculosis (TB) and COVID-19 posed a major public health challenge, particularly in regions heavily impacted by both diseases, due to their shared effects on the lungs, immune system dysfunction, and the possibility of more severe clinical outcomes. The role of immunopathogenesis is crucial in influencing the progression of co-infection, which is marked by heightened inflammation, immune exhaustion, weakened T-cell responses, and unregulated cytokine production. To better understand the intricate interactions between host and pathogen and the immune disruptions associated with this dual epidemic, multi-omics approaches such as genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, epigenomics, and microbiomics have proven to be effective methods. These comprehensive strategies provide detailed insights into the mechanisms of disease, help identify potential biomarkers, and aid in the identification of therapeutic targets. This review emphasizes the importance of immune responses and systems biology in comprehending the TB-COVID-19 syndemic and highlights the promise of multi-omics in advancing precision medicine and enhancing disease management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers of J—Multidisciplinary Scientific Journal in 2025)

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26 pages, 4555 KB

Open AccessArticle

Modeling the Mutual Dynamic Correlations of Words in Written Texts Using Multivariate Hawkes Processes

by Hiroshi Ogura, Yasutaka Hanada, Keitaro Osakabe and Masato Kondo

J 2025, 8(4), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/j8040040 - 14 Oct 2025

Abstract

The occurrence patterns of important words found in six texts (one historical pamphlet and five renowned academic books) are analyzed using both univariate and multivariate Hawkes processes. By treating the occurrence patterns as binary time-series data along the texts, we investigate how effectively [...] Read more.

The occurrence patterns of important words found in six texts (one historical pamphlet and five renowned academic books) are analyzed using both univariate and multivariate Hawkes processes. By treating the occurrence patterns as binary time-series data along the texts, we investigate how effectively univariate and multivariate Hawkes processes capture the characteristics of these word occurrence signals. Through maximum likelihood estimation and subsequent simulations, we found that the multivariate Hawkes process clearly outperforms the univariate Hawkes process in modeling word occurrence signals. Moreover, we found that the multivariate Hawkes process can provide a Hawkes graph, which serves as an intuitive representation of the relationships between concepts appearing in the analyzed text. Furthermore, our study demonstrates that the importance of concepts within a given text can be quantitatively estimated based on the optimized parameter values of the multivariate Hawkes process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers of J—Multidisciplinary Scientific Journal in 2025)

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37 pages, 2156 KB

Open AccessReview

Experimental Fish Models in the Post-Genomic Era: Tools for Multidisciplinary Science

by Camila Carlino-Costa and Marco Antonio de Andrade Belo

J 2025, 8(4), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/j8040039 - 2 Oct 2025

Abstract

Fish have become increasingly prominent as experimental models due to their unique capacity to bridge basic biological research with translational applications across diverse scientific disciplines. Their biological traits, such as external fertilization, high fecundity, rapid embryonic development, and optical transparency, facilitate in vivo [...] Read more.

Fish have become increasingly prominent as experimental models due to their unique capacity to bridge basic biological research with translational applications across diverse scientific disciplines. Their biological traits, such as external fertilization, high fecundity, rapid embryonic development, and optical transparency, facilitate in vivo experimentation and real-time observation, making them ideal for integrative research. Species like zebrafish (Danio rerio) and medaka (Oryzias latipes) have been extensively validated in genetics, toxicology, neuroscience, immunology, and pharmacology, offering robust platforms for modeling human diseases, screening therapeutic compounds, and evaluating environmental risks. This review explores the multidisciplinary utility of fish models, emphasizing their role in connecting molecular mechanisms to clinical and environmental outcomes. We address the main species used, highlight their methodological advantages, and discuss the regulatory and ethical frameworks guiding their use. Additionally, we examine current limitations and future directions, particularly the incorporation of high-throughput omics approaches and real-time imaging technologies. The growing scientific relevance of fish models reinforces their strategic value in advancing cross-disciplinary knowledge and fostering innovation in translational science. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers of J—Multidisciplinary Scientific Journal in 2025)

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18 pages, 2133 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Simulation Game in Mineral Exploration: A Mineral Adventure from Exploration to Exploitation

by George Valakas, Daphne Sideri and Konstantinos Modis

J 2025, 8(4), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/j8040038 - 1 Oct 2025

Abstract

In recent decades, simulation has emerged as a pivotal educational tool, bolstering scientific knowledge and honing decision-making skills across diverse disciplines. Surgery and flight simulators are well-known tools used to practice and train safely in surgeries and piloting. Meanwhile, the development of simulation [...] Read more.

In recent decades, simulation has emerged as a pivotal educational tool, bolstering scientific knowledge and honing decision-making skills across diverse disciplines. Surgery and flight simulators are well-known tools used to practice and train safely in surgeries and piloting. Meanwhile, the development of simulation games advances in other scientific fields, such as economics, management, engineering, and mathematics. These simulations offer learners a risk-free virtual platform to apply and refine their knowledge, leveraging animations, graphics, and interactive environments to enrich the learning experience. In engineering, while simulation is widely utilized as a powerful training tool for heavy equipment and process handling, the creation of strategy games for educational purposes is less frequent. This gap primarily stems from the challenge of converting complex engineering concepts and theories into a user-friendly yet comprehensive setup that preserves the more difficult aspects. This study adopts a design-based research approach to develop and evaluate an educational simulation game aimed at enhancing probabilistic and spatial reasoning in mineral exploration. The application generates random scenarios, within which users deploy strategies based on their knowledge, while accommodating the randomness of physical phenomena. The simulation game is adopted as an educational tool in the course “Introduction to Mineral Exploration” in the School of Mining and Metallurgical Engineering of the National Technical University of Athens. Additionally, we present the outcomes of game analytics and a qualitative evaluation derived from three workshops at higher education institutions in Greece. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers of J—Multidisciplinary Scientific Journal in 2025)

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5 pages, 147 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Advancing a Rigorous and Multidisciplinary Tradition of Nature and Applied Science in J

by Pietro Cipresso

J 2025, 8(3), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/j8030037 - 19 Sep 2025

Abstract

In an era marked by powerful AI content generators and the rapid spread of information on social media, the role of a scientific journal as a bastion of trustworthy knowledge has never been more critical [...] Full article

27 pages, 965 KB

Open AccessReview

Unveiling the Impacts of Glyphosate, Deltamethrin, Propamocarb and Tebuconazole on Gut Health

by Kimberly Fenech and Byron Baron

J 2025, 8(3), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/j8030036 - 15 Sep 2025

Abstract

Pesticides are used in agriculture to protect crops from disease. Among these, the herbicide glyphosate, the insecticide deltamethrin, and the fungicides propamocarb and tebuconazole are approved for use in Europe. These pesticides, along with their metabolites, have been detected in the environment including [...] Read more.

Pesticides are used in agriculture to protect crops from disease. Among these, the herbicide glyphosate, the insecticide deltamethrin, and the fungicides propamocarb and tebuconazole are approved for use in Europe. These pesticides, along with their metabolites, have been detected in the environment including in food and water sources. Human biomonitoring studies have confirmed the presence of these compounds in biological samples, indicating persistent exposure even among the general population, unrelated to agricultural occupations. Consequently, numerous studies have investigated the health effects of these four pesticides and their metabolites. This review focuses on their impacts on gut health primarily the gut microbiota, inflammation, metabolism, cancer and gut–brain axis. Epidemiological studies were included to assess health risks among various groups including adults, children and pregnant women. Animal and in vitro models have been employed to explore in a more controlled and targeted way the physiological and biochemical effects observed in epidemiological studies. Despite some controversy, pesticides and their metabolites have been linked to gut dysbiosis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), metabolic disorders, cancer and neurodevelopmental disorders. Mechanistically, these pesticides influence gut microbiome composition, sugar and lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, inflammatory pathways, cell death, oncogenic signalling pathways, endocrine disruption, and epigenetics. However, further studies are needed to confirm these risks and health impacts, particularly concerning low-dose, long-term exposure as experienced by the general population. A comprehensive investigation of these effects is essential, incorporating dietary factors, age, sex, health status, and the cumulative impact of multiple pesticides, to develop a thorough risk assessment. Full article

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19 pages, 14405 KB

Open AccessArticle

Trends in Global Trade of Red Meats from 1986 to 2023: A Complex Network Analysis with Implications for Public Health

by Amanda Dias Assoni Scartezini and Flavia Mori Sarti

J 2025, 8(3), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/j8030035 - 9 Sep 2025

Abstract

During the last decades, there have been increasing concerns in public health debates regarding the production and consumption of red meat, considering connections between the occurrence of nutrition transition and an increase in the prevalence of chronic noncommunicable diseases. The consumption of red [...] Read more.

During the last decades, there have been increasing concerns in public health debates regarding the production and consumption of red meat, considering connections between the occurrence of nutrition transition and an increase in the prevalence of chronic noncommunicable diseases. The consumption of red meat has been linked to adverse health outcomes; however, current evidence reveals controversies regarding the intake of diverse red meats. In addition, barriers to meat consumption include sanitary legislation linked to foodborne diseases connected to livestock, whilst governments of diverse countries provide incentives for its production and export worldwide. Thus, the objective of the present study was to investigate the evolution in the global trade of processed and unprocessed red meat from 1986 to 2023, using network analysis. Data on the trade of red meat between pairs of 216 countries were obtained from the Food and Agriculture Organization Database (FAOSTAT). The dataset, comprising the mean annual volume of processed and unprocessed red meat exchanged from reporting countries (origin) to partner countries (destination), was used to map global trade networks of red meats and identify global trends in red meat consumption according to country income level. The results indicate substantial intensification in the global trade of processed (0.202 in 1986 to 0.453 kg per capita in 2023) and unprocessed red meat (1.415 in 1986 to 3.315 Kg per capita in 2023). The volume of trade of unprocessed red meat remains greater than the volume processed red meat; yet, the findings indicate a threefold increase in the average weighted degree of processed red meat trade (0.002 to 0.006) from 1986 until 2023, whilst unprocessed red meat showed a twofold increase (0.009 to 0.019). The results raise public health concerns regarding the long-term consequences of consuming processed foods with high sodium and fat content. Additionally, the global trade of red meat showed fluctuations in periods of major foodborne outbreaks related to meat consumption, particularly during the 1990s. The findings of the study highlight strategies at the national level to advance food system transformations towards improvements in public health, nutrition, and sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Public Health & Healthcare)

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18 pages, 2760 KB

Open AccessArticle

Behavioral Analysis of Rigid Pavements Utilizing Recycled Base Layers

by Elaheh TaghaviGhalehsari, Hassan Kardgar and Ali Hasanzadeh

J 2025, 8(3), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/j8030034 - 2 Sep 2025

Abstract

Sustainable pavement design requires a balanced consideration of economic, environmental, and social impacts. In line with Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) guidelines for sustainable roadway infrastructure, incorporating recycled materials such as reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP), recycled pavement material (RPM), recycled asphalt shingles (RASs), and [...] Read more.

Sustainable pavement design requires a balanced consideration of economic, environmental, and social impacts. In line with Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) guidelines for sustainable roadway infrastructure, incorporating recycled materials such as reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP), recycled pavement material (RPM), recycled asphalt shingles (RASs), and warm-mix asphalt (WMA) has been shown to reduce natural resource depletion while promoting circular construction practices. This study investigates the structural performance of Portland cement concrete (PCC) pavements constructed on RAP and RPM base layers. A series of design scenarios was modeled using site-specific laboratory and field data—particularly subgrade soil properties and climatic conditions—from El Paso and San Antonio, Texas. The analysis incorporates unsaturated soil parameters and follows the performance thresholds set by the Mechanistic-Empirical Pavement Design Guide (MEPDG). Findings indicate that concrete mixture design, pavement structure, and local weather conditions are the primary drivers of distress in jointed plain concrete pavements (JPCPs). However, subsoil characteristics have a significant impact on joint faulting in JPCP and punchout occurrences in continuously reinforced concrete pavements (CRCPs), especially in thinner sections. Notably, the use of up to 50% recycled material in the base layer had minimal adverse effects on pavement performance, underscoring its viability as a sustainable design strategy for rigid pavements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Engineering)

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8 pages, 223 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Impact of Menstrual Cycle Phases on Agility Performance in Semi-Professional Female Soccer Players

by Florent Osmani, María Villar-Varela and Carlos Lago-Fuentes

J 2025, 8(3), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/j8030033 - 1 Sep 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: To analyze how the different phases of the menstrual cycle affect agility in female football players. Methods: A total of 11 female football players were selected from the third tier of the Spanish Football Federation (Third RFEF) and an agility [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: To analyze how the different phases of the menstrual cycle affect agility in female football players. Methods: A total of 11 female football players were selected from the third tier of the Spanish Football Federation (Third RFEF) and an agility test (t-test) was conducted to measure agility during the three phases of the menstrual cycle: the menstrual, late follicular, and mid-luteal phases. These phases were determined through self-reporting and the use of ovulation test strips for luteinizing hormone detection. Perceptual variables, such as sleep quality, stress, muscle pain, and fatigue, as well as the rating of perceived exertion, were measured. Results: There were no statistically significant differences in agility performance across menstrual cycle phases (F_(2,20) = 1.86; p = 0.18). However, performance in the mid-luteal phase was slightly better compared to other phases. Similarly, no significant differences were found in perceptual variables such as fatigue, sleep quality, stress, and muscle soreness (p > 0.05), although slightly better perceptual responses were observed in the late follicular phase. Conclusions: No significant differences were found when analyzing the influence of menstrual cycle phases on agility, although performance appeared slightly better in the mid-luteal phase. No significant differences were observed in the perceptual variables. Both objective and perceptual variables should be considered in future studies or training programs based on the menstrual cycle. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Public Health & Healthcare)

16 pages, 28961 KB

Open AccessArticle

Augmented Reality Glasses for Order Picking: A User Study Comparing Numeric Code, 2D-Map, and 3D-Map Visualizations

by Dario Gentile, Francesco Musolino, Mine Dastan and Michele Fiorentino

J 2025, 8(3), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/j8030032 - 1 Sep 2025

Abstract

It has been shown that Augmented Reality improves the efficiency and well-being of order pickers; however, the adoption of AR Headsets in real contexts is hindered by comfort, safety, and battery duration issues. AR Glasses offer a lightweight alternative, yet they are seldom [...] Read more.

It has been shown that Augmented Reality improves the efficiency and well-being of order pickers; however, the adoption of AR Headsets in real contexts is hindered by comfort, safety, and battery duration issues. AR Glasses offer a lightweight alternative, yet they are seldom addressed in the current literature, and there is a lack of user studies exploring suitable visualization designs for these devices. Therefore, this research designs three AR visualizations of target position for order picking: Numeric Code, 2D Map, and 3D Map. They take into account the layout of the repository and the constraints of a small, low-resolution monocular display. These visualizations are tested in a within-subject user study with 30 participants employing AR Glasses in a simulated order-picking task. The Numeric Code visualization resulted in lower Task Completion Time (TCT) and error rates and was also rated as the least cognitively demanding and most preferred. This highlights that, for lightweight devices, simpler graphical interfaces tend to perform better. This study provides empirical insights for the design of innovative AR interfaces in logistics, using industry-relevant devices such as AR Glasses and conducting the evaluation in an extensive laboratory setup. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Computer Science & Mathematics)

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35 pages, 15457 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of the Continental Environment on Boundary Layer Evolution for Landfalling Tropical Cyclones

by Gabriel J. Williams, Jr.

J 2025, 8(3), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/j8030031 - 28 Aug 2025

Abstract

Although numerous observational and theoretical studies have examined the mean and turbulent structure of the tropical cyclone boundary layer (TCBL) over the open ocean, there have been comparatively fewer studies that have examined the kinematic and thermal structure of the TCBL across the [...] Read more.

Although numerous observational and theoretical studies have examined the mean and turbulent structure of the tropical cyclone boundary layer (TCBL) over the open ocean, there have been comparatively fewer studies that have examined the kinematic and thermal structure of the TCBL across the land–ocean interface. This study examines the impact of different continental environments on the thermodynamic evolution of the TCBL during the landfall transition using high-resolution, full-physics numerical simulations. During landfall, the changes in the wind field within the TCBL due to the development of the internal boundary layer (IBL), combined with the formation of a surface cold pool, generates a pronounced thermal asymmetry in the boundary layer. As a result, the maximum thermodynamic boundary layer height occurs in the rear-right quadrant of the storm relative to its motion. In addition, azimuthal and vertical advection by the mean flow lead to enhanced turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) in front of the vortex (enhancing dissipative heating immediately onshore) and onshore precipitation to the left of the storm track (stabilizing the environment). The strength and depth of thermal asymmetry in the boundary layer depend on the contrast in temperature and moisture between the continental and storm environments. Dry air intrusion enhances cold pool formation and stabilizes the onshore boundary layer, reducing mechanical mixing and accelerating the decay of the vortex. The temperature contrast between the continental and storm environments establishes a coastal baroclinic zone, producing stronger baroclinicity and inflow on the left of the track and weaker baroclinicity on the right. The resulting gradient imbalance in the front-right quadrant triggers radial outflow through a gradient adjustment process that redistributes momentum and mass to restore dynamical balance. Therefore, the surface thermodynamic conditions over land play a critical role in shaping the evolution of the TCBL during landfall, with the strongest asymmetries in thermodynamic boundary layer height emerging when there are large thermal contrasts between the hurricane and the continental environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sciences)

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6 pages, 172 KB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Martin et al. Lack of Neuromuscular Fatigue Due to Recreational Doubles Pickleball. J 2024, 7, 264–280

by Eric Martin, Matthew Ritchey, Steven Kim, Margaret Falknor and George Beckham

J 2025, 8(3), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/j8030030 - 13 Aug 2025

Abstract

There were errors in the original published manuscript [...] Full article

17 pages, 11388 KB

Open AccessArticle

Superior Obstacle Avoidance Capabilities of Personal Mobility Vehicles (PMVs) Equipped with an Active Inward Tilting Mechanism

by Tetsunori Haraguchi, Tetsuya Kaneko and Ichiro Kageyama

J 2025, 8(3), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/j8030029 - 9 Aug 2025

Cited by 1

Abstract

In recent years, novel Personal Mobility Vehicles (PMVs) with a narrow width and an inward tilting mechanism, similar to motorcycles (MCs), have been proposed to prevent overturning during turns. Due to their compact size, these vehicles have inherent limitations in collision safety, making [...] Read more.

In recent years, novel Personal Mobility Vehicles (PMVs) with a narrow width and an inward tilting mechanism, similar to motorcycles (MCs), have been proposed to prevent overturning during turns. Due to their compact size, these vehicles have inherent limitations in collision safety, making their dynamic safety and accident avoidance capabilities particularly crucial. In this study, a comparative analysis was conducted using a simulated single lane change course to evaluate obstacle avoidance performance. The results reveal that PMVs equipped with an active inward tilting mechanism exhibit superior obstacle avoidance capabilities. Based on the roll moment equilibrium conditions of these vehicles, an investigation of vehicle states during avoidance maneuvers revealed that both actual and virtual tilt angles coexist in PMVs, and their combined equivalent tilt angle effectively balances the roll moment during turning. This unique mechanism, which integrates the responsiveness of passenger cars with motorcycle-like tire lateral force characteristics, underpins the exceptional obstacle avoidance capabilities of actively inward tilting PMVs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Engineering)

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