Announcements

5 March 2025
MDPI Webinar | MDPI International Day of Mathematics—Session 1, 14 March 2025


To celebrate International Day of Mathematics 2025, MDPI is hosting a special webinar to bring researchers together, foster collaboration, and highlight the crucial role that mathematics plays in driving breakthroughs across all disciplines. This event aims to raise awareness of how the exchange of ideas and findings enhances our understanding and application of mathematical principles in real-world innovations.

We are very much looking forward to seeing you at the International Day of Mathematics Webinar 2025. Please find an up-to-date outline of the webinar below.

Date: 14 March 2025 at 7:00 a.m. CET | 2:00 a.m. EDT | 2:00 p.m. CST Asia
Webinar ID: 886 5910 5983
Webinar: https://sciforum.net/event/MIDoMW2025

Register now for free!


After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information on how to join the webinar. Registrations with academic institutional email addresses will be prioritized.

Unable to attend? Register anyway and we will inform you when the recording is available.

Speaker/Presentation

Time in CET

Time in CST Asia

MDPI Introduction

7:00–7:10 a.m.

2:00–2:10 p.m.

Prof. Antonino Morassi

A Continuum Membrane Model for Small Deformations of a Spider Orb Web

7:10–7:55 a.m.

2:10–2:55 p.m.

Q&A Session

7:55–8:00 a.m.

2:55–3:00 p.m.

Dr. Alexandre Kawano

Hearing Spider Orb Webs

8:00–8:45 a.m.

3:00–3:45 p.m.

Q&A Session

8:45–8:50 a.m.

3:45–3:50 p.m.

Prof. Dr. Giuseppe Di Fazio

Degenerate Elliptic Equations Arising from Mechanics of Orb Webs: Qualitative Properties of Generalized Solutions

8:50–9:35 a.m.

3:50–4:35 p.m.

Q&A Session

9:35–9:40 a.m.

4:35–4:40 p.m.

Prof. Dr. Ricardo López-Ruiz

Gas-like Models in Econophysics: Some Results

9:40–10:10 a.m.

4:40–5:10 p.m.

Q&A Session

10:10–10:15 a.m.

5:10–5:15 p.m.

Closing of Webinar

10:15–10:20 a.m.

5:15–5:20 p.m.

Keynote Speakers:

  • Prof. Antonino Morassi, Polytechnic Department of Engineering and Architecture, University of Udine, Udine, Italy;
  • Dr. Alexandre Kawano, Department of Mechatronics Engineering and Mechanical Systems - University of Sao Paulo, Brazil;
  • Prof. Dr. Giuseppe Di Fazio, Department of Mathematics and Computer Sciences, University of Catania, Italy;
  • Prof. Dr. Ricardo López-Ruiz, Department of Computer Science and Systems Engineering, University of Zaragoza, Spain.

Relevant Special Issue:

Econophysics, Financial Markets, and Artificial Intelligence
Guest Editor: Prof. Dr. Ricardo Lopez-Ruiz
Submission deadline: 31 March 2025

5 March 2025
Meet Us at the XI International Conference on Coupled Problems in Science and Engineering (COUPLED PROBLEMS 2025), 25–28 May 2025, Villasimius, Italy


Conference: XI International Conference on Coupled Problems in Science and Engineering (COUPLED PROBLEMS 2025)
Organization: European Community on Computational Methods in Applied Sciences
Date: 25–28 May 2025
Place: Villasimius, Italy

MDPI journals will be attending the XI International Conference on Coupled Problems in Science and Engineering as an exhibitor. This meeting will be held in Villasimius, Italy, from 25 to 28 May 2025.

The objectives of COUPLED PROBLEMS 2025 are to present and discuss state-of-the-art, mathematical models, numerical methods and computational techniques for solving coupling problems of multidisciplinary character in science and engineering. The conference goal is to take a step forward in the formulation and solution of real-life problems with a multidisciplinary vision, accounting for all the complex couplings involved in the physical description of the problem.

The conference topics will include, but are not limited to, the following: artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques; coupled solution strategies; loose and strong coupling schemes; mathematical formulation of multidisciplinary problems; numerical methods for coupled problems: finite difference, finite elements, finite volume, meshless methods, particle methods, etc.; optimum design in multi-disciplinary problems; parallel and real-time computational techniques; and applications in science and engineering.

The following MDPI journals will be represented:

If you will be attending this conference, please feel free to start a conversation with us. Our delegates look forward to meeting you in person and answering any questions you may have. For more information about the conference, please visit the following website: https://coupled2025.cimne.com/.

4 March 2025
Mathematics | 10 Highly Cited Papers

We are excited to invite you to delve into the 10 highly cited papers from our journal Mathematics (ISSN: 2227-7390). These papers, carefully selected for their exceptional quality and relevance, represent cutting-edge research in various branches of mathematics and applied mathematics.

1. “General Fractional Integrals and Derivatives with the Sonine Kernels”
by Yuri Luchko
Mathematics 2021, 9(6), 594; https://doi.org/10.3390/math9060594
Full text available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7390/9/6/594

2. “Unified Convergence Criteria for Iterative Banach Space Valued Methods with Applications”
by Ioannis K. Argyros
Mathematics 2021, 9(16), 1942; https://doi.org/10.3390/math9161942
Full text available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7390/9/16/1942

3. “Riemann–Hilbert Problems and Soliton Solutions of Type (λ∗, −λ∗) Reduced Nonlocal Integrable mKdV Hierarchies”
by Wen-Xiu Ma
Mathematics 2022, 10(6), 870; https://doi.org/10.3390/math10060870
Full text available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7390/10/6/870

4. “Fractional Differential Equations with the General Fractional Derivatives of Arbitrary Order in the Riemann–Liouville Sense”
by Yuri Luchko
Mathematics 2022, 10(6), 849; https://doi.org/10.3390/math10060849
Full text available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7390/10/6/849

5. “A Guide to Special Functions in Fractional Calculus”
by Virginia Kiryakova
Mathematics 2021, 9(1), 106; https://doi.org/10.3390/math9010106
Full text available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7390/9/1/106

6. “Bifurcation Behavior and Hybrid Controller Design of a 2D Lotka–Volterra Commensal Symbiosis System Accompanying Delay”
by Qingyi Cui, Changjin Xu, Wei Ou, Yicheng Pang, Zixin Liu, Peiluan Li and Lingyun Yao
Mathematics 2023, 11(23), 4808; https://doi.org/10.3390/math11234808
Full text available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7390/11/23/4808

7. “On Laplacian Eigenvalues of the Zero-Divisor Graph Associated to the Ring of Integers Modulo n
by Bilal A. Rather, Shariefuddin Pirzada, Tariq A. Naikoo and Yilun Shang
Mathematics 2021, 9(5), 482; https://doi.org/10.3390/math9050482
Full text available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7390/9/5/482

8. “On the Boundary Value Problems of Hadamard Fractional Differential Equations of Variable Order via Kuratowski MNC Technique”
by Ahmed Refice, Mohammed Said Souid and Ivanka Stamova
Mathematics 2021, 9(10), 1134; https://doi.org/10.3390/math9101134
Full text available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7390/9/10/1134

9. “On Some Generalized Simpson’s and Newton’s Inequalities for (α, m)-Convex Functions in q-Calculus”
by Ifra Bashir Sial, Sun Mei, Muhammad Aamir Ali and Kamsing Nonlaopon
Mathematics 2021, 9(24), 3266; https://doi.org/10.3390/math9243266
Full text available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7390/9/24/3266

10. “New Criteria for Sharp Oscillation of Second-Order Neutral Delay Differential Equations”
by Irena Jadlovská
Mathematics 2021, 9(17), 2089; https://doi.org/10.3390/math9172089
Full text available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7390/9/17/2089

27 February 2025
Recruiting Early Career Editorial Board Members for Mathematics


To further enhance the international influence of Mathematics (ISSN: 2227-7390), promote academic exchange in all mathematical sciences among young scientists, and provide the Editorial Board with additional expertise, Mathematics invites interested and eligible early career researchers to apply for Early Career Editorial Board (ECEB) membership.

Recruitment:
A total of 50 Early Career Editorial Board Members will be recruited. Early Career Editorial Board (ECEB) members will hold the position for two years. If serving on the Board, you will have the possibility of renewal or promotion to the Editorial Board Member for a second term, and if not serving you will be removed from the list.

Application Eligibility:

  • Completed their doctorate/Ph.D. degree in the past 10 years (considering exceptions for career interruptions, including medical and family leave);
  • Served as the first author on at least five peer-reviewed and published manuscripts in journals with high reputation and influence in their respective fields;
  • Evidence of significant research achievements in the field of pure mathematics and applied mathematics;
  • Willingness to dedicate their time to the development of the journal with passion and enthusiasm;
  • Being active and engaged in their community (e.g., experienced at presenting at academic conferences or involved in professional organizations).

Benefits of Becoming an Early Career Editorial Board Member:

  • A certificate of appointment as an Early Career Editorial Board Member will be provided;
  • The achievements of Early Career Editorial Board Members are publicized on journal media platforms to improve academic visibility;
  • An opportunity will be provided to be promoted to Editorial Board Member based on contributions;
  • The journal will regularly acknowledge those who participate in the peer-review process on its website;
  • Opportunities to participate in or host annual meetings and online seminars organized by the Editor-in-Chief and the Editorial Board Members are available.

Responsibilities of Early Career Editorial Board Member:

  • Publicizing and promoting the journal at academic conferences and among peers;
  • Selecting high-quality articles and preparing bilingual media content for promotion;
  • Reviewing at least four manuscripts per year;
  • Providing input on any new journal development initiatives;
  • Inviting submissions from leading scientists (local and overseas) in their respective research fields.

Applications:
Please fill in the application form here.

Please send the application form and your academic resume to mathematics@mdpi.com with the subject line “Mathematics Early Career Editorial Board Application + Name + Institute + Research Expertise”.

Application Deadline: 31 August 2025.

Selection Process and Announcement:
The selection process: initial screening of application materials → selection by the Editors-in-Chief and Editorial Board Members → email notification → issuing a certificate of appointment.

The selection will be made within one month of the application deadline, and the results will be announced on the journal website.

 

27 February 2025
More than 300 MDPI Journals Indexed in Web of Science

MDPI is pleased to share a significant milestone in its mission to advance scholarly research and promote the dissemination of knowledge—300+ MDPI journals are now indexed in Web of Science (WoS). This milestone highlights the global recognition, interdisciplinary impact and enhanced visibility of our journals. It also reflects our adherence to rigorous editorial standards, scientific integrity, and our mission to foster open scientific exchange in all forms, across all disciplines. 

To explore the full list of our journals indexed in WoS, please visit https://www.mdpi.com/about/journals/wos. Beyond expanding the coverage of our publications in the leading academic databases, we are dedicated to ensuring that our journals are included in as many scope-specific databases as possible. This increases the visibility of our authors’ work and extends the reach of their significant data. 

This milestone would not have been possible without the efforts and expertise of our academic editors, reviewers and authors. Their commitment and collaboration have been instrumental in creating an inclusive, accessible, and impactful publishing platform. We also extend our gratitude to the global research community for their trust as we continue to break new ground in academic publishing. This milestone is not just a celebration of MDPI’s progress but also recognition of the collective strides made by researchers worldwide. 

As we celebrate this remarkable accomplishment, MDPI remains steadfast in its commitment to open access publishing and ensuring that high-quality research reaches and inspires a global audience.

19 February 2025
Interview with Dr. Hairong Lin—Winner of the Mathematics 2024 Young Investigator Award


Name: Dr. Hairong Lin
Affiliation: School of Electronic Information, Central South University, Changsha, China
Research interests: neural networks and neurodynamics; chaotic systems and circuits; chaotic encryption and information security; neuromorphic systems and circuits

Dr. Hairong Lin, Ph.D., is an associate professor and master supervisor at the School of Electronic Information, Central South University, China. He was selected for the 2023 and 2024 “World’s Top 2% Scientists” list released by researchers from Stanford University, USA. He is an IEEE Member, a member of the Chaos and Nonlinear Circuits Committee of the China Institute of Electronics, and a member of the Internet of Things Committee of the Hunan Institute of Electronics and serves as an editor or young editor of domestic and international journals. He has presided over several national and provincial projects and participated in a number of major projects of the National Natural Science Foundation of China. As the first/corresponding author, he has published more than 30 high-level SCI papers in international top-tier journals, including 9 ESI hot papers and 16 ESI highly cited papers. His papers have been cited more than 3,200 times in total, with an h-index of 33 in Scopus.
Our interview with him can be found below:

1. Could you give a brief introduction of yourself to the readers? Could you introduce your current research direction and provide an update on your progress?
I obtained my Ph.D. in computer science and technology from Hunan University, China, in December 2021. Subsequently, I conducted post-doctoral research at Hunan University for two years. In January 2024, I joined Central South University as an associate professor.
My research directions mainly focus on two aspects: the theoretical research and applications of neurodynamics. In terms of theoretical research, I’m committed to constructing neuron and neural network models by introducing emerging technologies such as nonlinear dynamics, fractional-order calculus, and memory components (such as memristors and memcapacitors) to simulate the nonlinear dynamic behavior of biological nervous systems. This research direction aims to deeply explore the computational mechanisms and intelligent characteristics of brain networks. At present, my team and I have successfully proposed a variety of memristive neural network models with complex dynamic behaviors, which have helped us reveal the evolution mechanisms of some brain dynamic behaviors.
In terms of the application of neurodynamics, I mainly focus on the application of brain-inspired chaotic encryption technology in resource-constrained terminal devices such as edge computing, intelligent perception, and the Internet of Things. Especially for the requirements of secure communication in extreme environments such as deep water and deep space, we are dedicated to developing communication solutions that are low-power, lightweight, efficient, reliable, and highly secure. Currently, we have proposed a variety of brain-inspired chaos-based data privacy protection schemes, which can be widely applied in fields such as the medical Internet of Things and satellite networks, providing strong protection for data security.
In the future, I will continue to deeply explore the frontier issues of neural networks and neurodynamics and strive to transform theoretical research results into practical applications, contributing to the development of intelligent technology.

2. Could you please share some particularly interesting or unexpected results you have found during your research experience? Also, what’s your opinion on interdisciplinary research?
When studying the multi-scroll attractor dynamics and multi-wing multi-butterfly attractor dynamics of memristive neural networks, we indeed encountered some very interesting and unexpected findings. Initially, we hypothesized that the generation mechanisms of multi-scroll and multi-wing multi-butterfly attractors might have similar internal laws. However, the experimental results surprised us.
We found that the generation of multi-scroll dynamic behavior mainly depends on the structure and parameter settings of the neural network model itself, while the generation of multi-wing multi-butterfly dynamic behavior is mainly affected by the memristor model and its parameters. This discovery completely overturned our expectations because usually, we would think that as a core component of the neural network, the memristor should play a key role in the generation of both types of attractors. However, the experimental results show that the memristor plays a dominant role in the formation of multi-wing multi-butterfly attractors, while its influence on the generation of multi-scroll attractors is relatively weak.
This phenomenon shocked us and also triggered our in-depth thinking about the underlying mechanism. Currently, we are further exploring the theoretical basis of this phenomenon, trying to reveal the specific mechanisms of the neural network model and the memristor in the generation of different attractors. We suspect that this may be closely related to the topological structures, dynamic characteristics of the two types of attractors, and the nonlinear behavior of the memristor, but the specific reasons still need to be verified through more experiments and theoretical analyses.
This discovery not only provides a new perspective for the research of memristive neural networks but also brings more possibilities for our subsequent research directions. We hope that through further research, we can reveal more mysteries about the complex relationship between neural networks and memristors and provide theoretical support for applications in related fields. In scientific research, we often encounter such “accidents”, and these “accidents” are often the driving force that pushes us forward.

3. Which research topics do you think will be of particular interest to the research community in the coming years?
Personally, I think that in the next few years, the research on neurodynamics based on new memory components such as memristors and memcapacitors will still be a hot topic in this field. New memory components have natural memory-bionic characteristics and are considered core components of brain-inspired computing. Although the research on memristive neurons and neural networks is already very extensive, high-dimensional memristive neural networks and discrete memristive neural networks are still research hotspots.
In addition, compared with memristors, the research on memcapacitors is still in its infancy. However, its unique physical properties and potential application value make it show great development potential in the fields of neurodynamics, brain-inspired computing, and artificial intelligence. Therefore, the research on neurodynamics based on memcapacitors not only has important theoretical significance but may also provide a new breakthrough for the development of future intelligent technology.
In my opinion, interdisciplinary research is the key to solving complex problems. At present, the development of science and technology is increasingly showing a trend of cross-integration. The research methods of a single discipline often cannot cope with complex real-world problems. For example, the research of neurodynamics requires the integration of knowledge from multiple disciplines such as mathematics, physics, computer science, and biology, while the application of memcapacitors and memristors involves fields such as materials science, electronic engineering, and information security.
Interdisciplinary research can not only break down disciplinary barriers and promote the innovation and integration of knowledge but also provide a more comprehensive perspective and methods for solving practical problems. Therefore, I believe that in the future, interdisciplinary research will witness more vigorous development and become an important driving force for scientific and technological progress.

4. Do you have any advice for aspiring young researchers looking to make a meaningful impact in their respective fields?
For young researchers who aspire to have a significant impact in their respective fields, I wouldn’t say I’m giving suggestions, but I can share some of my personal experiences.
First of all, it’s very important to choose a promising small field and continue to delve into it. Scientific research requires time and patience. Only by continuously accumulating in one direction can you form your unique insights and make breakthroughs.
Secondly, the path of scientific research is not always glamorous. Many times, you need the perseverance to “sit on the cold bench”. Chasing hot topics can bring short-term attention, but real influence often comes from the long-term exploration of core issues.
Finally, the courage to break through traditional thinking is also essential. Scientific progress often stems from the questioning and innovation of existing theories. Young researchers should keep an open mind and be brave enough to challenge the norm. I’m also constantly learning and exploring, and I hope to encourage each other with everyone and jointly push the boundaries of science.

5. As the winner of this award, is there something you want to express or someone you wish to thank most?
As the winner of this Young Investigator Award, I’m filled with gratitude and emotion.
First of all, I would like to sincerely thank the chairperson of the journal Award Committee and all the judges for their hard work and recognition. This honor is not only an affirmation of my personal research but also an incentive for my future scientific research path.
Secondly, I would like to thank the journal Mathematics and peer experts for their continuous support and encouragement. It is with such an open and inclusive academic platform that I can communicate and cooperate with outstanding peers at home and abroad and keep making progress.
Finally, I would like to especially thank my supervisor, Professor Chunhua Wang from Hunan University, China. Professor Wang is the guide of my academic career. From my master’s to Ph.D. and post-doctoral stages, I have been learning and growing under his guidance. Professor Wang’s rigorous academic attitude, profound academic attainments, and boundless enthusiasm for scientific research have deeply influenced me. It can be said that without his careful guidance and support, I wouldn’t have achieved my current academic achievements. He has not only taught me how to conduct research but also made me understand the responsibilities and missions of scientific researchers. This honor belongs to all those who have helped me and every member of our team. In the future, I will continue to work hard, hold myself to higher standards, and contribute to the development of scientific undertakings. Thank you again for your support and love!

6. What is your opinion of the open access model of publishing?
The open access publishing model is undoubtedly the future direction of academic publishing. It plays an important role in promoting the dissemination and communication of academic achievements.
First of all, open access breaks down the barriers of the traditional subscription model, enabling global researchers to access the latest research results for free and instantly, which greatly promotes the sharing and dissemination of knowledge. Especially for scholars in regions with limited research funds, this model provides them with an equal opportunity to access academic resources, helping to narrow the research gap.
Secondly, the open access publishing model, through its transparent publishing process and extensive reader participation, can to some extent curb the breeding of pseudo-academic research and enhance the quality and credibility of academic research. Although the open access model incurs page-charge expenses for authors, if the fees can be controlled within a reasonable range and supported by institutions or funds, the benefits far outweigh the costs.
Overall, the open access model not only accelerates the dissemination of academic achievements but also provides a broader platform for global scientific research cooperation and innovation, making it an important force in promoting academic progress.

We wish Dr. Hairong Lin every success in his current work, and we look forward to his future contributions to the journal.

For more information about the awards presented by Mathematics, please visit the following link: https://www.mdpi.com/journal/mathematics/awards.

Mathematics Editorial Office

19 February 2025
Interview with Mr. Tao Wen—Winner of the Mathematics 2024 Travel Award


We wish to congratulate Mr. Tao Wen on winning the Mathematics 2024 Travel Award.

Name: Mr. Tao Wen
Affiliation: The University of Manchester, UK
Research interestsnetwork analysis; decision-making; game theory; data science

The following is an interview with Mr. Tao Wen:

1. Could you give a brief introduction to the readers, introduce your current research direction, and provide an update on your progress?

I am currently a Ph.D. student at the University of Manchester. My research focuses on decision-making and behavioral dynamics in complex networks, particularly in online social networks and transportation systems. I apply network science, computational modeling, and data analytics to understand how individuals and organizations make decisions under uncertainty. Recently, I have been working on a project analyzing maritime transport networks, studying how disruptions affect global trade using network-based models. This research is crucial for improving resilience and efficiency in international trade. Moreover, I actively participate in academic conferences, collaborate with researchers from different fields, and contribute to peer-reviewed journals. My goal is to bridge theoretical insights with practical applications, providing data-driven solutions to real-world challenges.

2. How does it feel to receive this recognition for your work? Where do you obtain information about participation in journal awards?

Receiving this award is a great honor, and it motivates me to continue pushing the boundaries of my research. It is always rewarding to see that my work is valued by the academic community, and this award encourages me to contribute even more.

I heard about this opportunity through the journal website and email subscription. I discovered this opportunity last year and finally had the chance to obtain it this year. Engaging with editorial boards, and participating in academic discussions have also helped me stay informed about such opportunities.

3. Have you promoted the journal at any conferences? In addition, how do you prefer to share the journal with your community?

I did not have the chance to promote the journal at conferences, but I am willing to introduce the journal at conferences or workshops to fellow researchers who may find it relevant to their work. Beyond conferences, I will share the journal through multiple channels. I will discuss relevant papers with colleagues, include references in my presentations, and share links through academic social platforms like ResearchGate and LinkedIn. Moreover, I have contributed as the Guest Editor Assistant, helping to uphold the journal’s quality and visibility. Open discussions and collaborations are key to increasing a journal’s reach and impact, and I am happy to engage with high-quality publications in our field.

4. What is your opinion on the open access model of publishing?

I strongly support the open access model because it enhances knowledge sharing and makes research findings accessible to a broader audience. Open access removes financial barriers, allowing researchers, policymakers, and the public to benefit from new discoveries without subscription costs. This is particularly important for early career researchers, independent scholars, and institutions with limited resources.

However, sustainability remains a key challenge. It is important for funding agencies and universities to support open access publishing so that high-quality research remains freely available. Despite these challenges, open access plays a crucial role in fostering collaboration, accelerating scientific progress, and ensuring that research has a real-world impact beyond academia.

5. Which research topics do you think will be of particular interest to the research community in the coming years?

Several emerging topics will likely attract significant attention in the coming years. One key area is the study of AI-driven decision-making, particularly how generative artificial intelligence influences human behavior in social networks and economic systems. As AI continues to advance, understanding its interactions with human decision-making is crucial. Moreover, the intersection of computational social science and policy-making is gaining interest. Using AI and data-driven models to inform policies on misinformation, digital governance, and public health interventions will be essential. Overall, interdisciplinary research combining network science, AI, and real-world applications will continue to shape the future of academia and industry.

6. Do you have any advice for other aspiring young researchers looking to make a meaningful impact in their respective fields?

My main advice is to stay curious, persistent, and open to interdisciplinary collaboration. Research is a journey filled with challenges, but maintaining curiosity and a passion for discovery will keep you motivated. It is important to ask meaningful questions, explore diverse perspectives, and continuously seek feedback to refine your work. Networking is also important for young researchers. Engaging with other researchers, attending conferences, and actively participating in academic discussions can open up new opportunities and collaborations. Lastly, impact also comes from making research accessible and applicable. Try to bridge the gap between theory and practice, and consider how your work can contribute to solving real-world problems.

7. As the winner of this award, is there anything you want to express or anyone you would like to thank?

I am truly grateful for this recognition and would like to express my sincere appreciation to my advisors, colleagues, and collaborators who have supported me throughout my research journey. Their guidance, insightful discussions, and encouragement have played a significant role in shaping my work. I also want to thank the journal for providing a platform to share and promote high-quality research. These initiatives help young researchers like me gain confidence and contribute to our fields in a meaningful way. This award inspires me to continue exploring new ideas and contributing to impactful research in the future.

17 February 2025
MDPI Celebrates Excellence in Medical Research with Early Career Researcher Awards


MDPI, a pioneer in scholarly open access publishing, and the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine (LKCMedicine), Singapore, proudly announce the successful conclusion of the first edition the MDPI Early Career Researcher Awards. The awards, which recognize outstanding contributions to medical and biomedical research, were presented to six exceptional researchers during an awards ceremony held at LKCMedicine HQ Building on 28 November 2024.

Honoring Excellence in Research

The awards recognize exceptional postdoctoral researchers and Ph.D. students who have demonstrated outstanding originality, innovation, and impact in their respective fields. We are honored to announce the winners of the 2024 edition:

Early Career Researcher (Postdoc) Award:

  • Dr. Theresia Handayani Mina, “Adiposity and Metabolic Health in Asian Populations: An Epidemiological Study Using Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry in Singapore”;
  • Dr. Erfan Rezvani Ghomi, “Wound Healing Improvement by Novel Aligned Antimicrobial Nanofibrous 3D Scaffolds”;
  • Dr. Yadollah Ranjbar Slamloo, “Functional Alterations of The Prefrontal Circuit Underlying Cognitive Aging in Mice”.

Early Career Researcher (Ph.D.) Award:

  • Pritisha Rozario, “Mechanistic Basis for Potassium Efflux-Driven Activation of the Human NLRP1 Inflammasome”;
  • Michelle Law Cheok Yien, “Chikungunya Virus Nonstructural Protein 1 is a Versatile RNA Capping and Decapping Enzyme”;
  • Yin Ruoyu, “The Use of Digital Mental Health and Wellbeing Tools in Older Adults: A Mixed Method Study”.

Our collaboration highlights a shared commitment to recognizing exceptional talent and research within the academic community, addressing today’s healthcare challenges, and inspiring continued innovation.

Looking Ahead to 2025

Building on the success of the first edition, MDPI and LKCMedicine are excited to announce that the 2025 MDPI Early Researcher Awards will continue to celebrate excellence and innovation in medical research. The next edition promises to expand its scope, introducing new categories and providing even greater recognition for impactful research.

Further details on the 2025 awards, including nomination criteria and timelines, will be shared in the coming months. We remain committed to fostering a culture of research excellence and collaboration within the global scientific community.

14 February 2025
Mathematics | Highly Cited Papers in Web of Science

We are excited to invite you to delve into 10 highly cited papers from Mathematics (ISSN: 2227-7390) in Web of Science. Highly cited papers are papers that perform in the top 1% based on the number of citations received when compared to other papers published in the same field in the same year. We sincerely hope that these papers will spark innovative research across diverse branches of mathematics and applied mathematics.

1. “Recent Advances in Stochastic Gradient Descent in Deep Learning”
by Yingjie Tian, Yuqi Zhang and Haibin Zhang
Mathematics 2023, 11(3), 682; https://doi.org/10.3390/math11030682
Full text available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7390/11/3/682

2. “Dynamic Behavior Analysis and Synchronization of Memristor-Coupled Heterogeneous Discrete Neural Networks”
by Minglin Ma, Kangling Xiong, Zhijun Li and Yichuang Sun
Mathematics 2023, 11(2), 375; https://doi.org/10.3390/math11020375
Full text available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7390/11/2/375

3. “A Combined Model Based on Recurrent Neural Networks and Graph Convolutional Networks for Financial Time Series Forecasting”
by Ana Lazcano, Pedro Javier Herrera and Manuel Monge
Mathematics 2023, 11(1), 224; https://doi.org/10.3390/math11010224
Full text available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7390/11/1/224

4. “A Survey on Active Learning: State-of-the-Art, Practical Challenges and Research Directions”
by Alaa Tharwat and Wolfram Schenck
Mathematics 2023, 11(4), 820; https://doi.org/10.3390/math11040820
Full text available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7390/11/4/820

5. “A Mathematical Investigation of Hallucination and Creativity in GPT Models”
by Minhyeok Lee
Mathematics 2023, 11(10), 2320; https://doi.org/10.3390/math11102320
Full text available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7390/11/10/2320

6. “It’s All in the Embedding! Fake News Detection Using Document Embeddings”
by Ciprian-Octavian Truică and Elena-Simona Apostol
Mathematics 2023, 11(3), 508; https://doi.org/10.3390/math11030508
Full text available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7390/11/3/508

7. “Complex Fractional-Order LQIR for Inverted-Pendulum-Type Robotic Mechanisms: Design and Experimental Validation”
by Omer Saleem, Faisal Abbas and Jamshed Iqbal
Mathematics 2023, 11(4), 913; https://doi.org/10.3390/math11040913
Full text available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7390/11/4/913

8. “Numerical Investigation on a Diffuser-Augmented Horizontal Axis Tidal Stream Turbine with the Entropy Production Theory”
by Wei Zang, Yuan Zheng, Yuquan Zhang, Xiangfeng Lin, Yanwei Li and Emmanuel Fernandez-Rodriguez
Mathematics 2023, 11(1), 116; https://doi.org/10.3390/math11010116
Full text available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7390/11/1/116

9. “The Extrinsic Enriched Finite Element Method with Appropriate Enrichment Functions for the Helmholtz Equation”
by Yingbin Chai, Kangye Huang, Shangpan Wang, Zhichao Xiang and Guanjun Zhang
Mathematics 2023, 11(7), 1664; https://doi.org/10.3390/math11071664
Full text available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7390/11/7/1664

10. “The General Fractional Integrals and Derivatives on a Finite Interval”
by Mohammed Al-Refai and Yuri Luchko
Mathematics 2023, 11(4), 1031; https://doi.org/10.3390/math11041031
Full text available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7390/11/4/1031

5 February 2025
MDPI INSIGHTS: The CEO's Letter #20 - Beijing, Singapore, Bangkok, JAMS, Jisc

Welcome to the MDPI Insights: The CEO's Letter.

In these monthly letters, I will showcase two key aspects of our work at MDPI: our commitment to empowering researchers and our determination to facilitating open scientific exchange.


Opening Thoughts

2024 Annual Meeting – Beijing (15 January 2025)

You haven’t truly experienced a New Year’s celebration until you’ve attended one of MDPI’s Chinese Annual Meeting festivities. This year I visited our annual meeting in Beijing, held on the 15th of January.

Imagine this: stepping into a banquet hall filled with 140 tables and about 1,400 colleagues from our Beijing offices, all gathered to share in a six-hour event. The agenda included year-end speeches and presentations, a variety of performances by our colleagues, a selection of awards honouring local employees for their work, group photos for the memories, and a dinner.

This may have been one of the largest events I have attended. For those unaccustomed to such an event, it might seem overwhelming, but it was quite the opposite. The atmosphere was one of celebration as everyone came together to support their peers and celebrate the achievements of 2024.

I was honoured to deliver the opening speech and a presentation highlighting our growth and investment in MDPI’s most valuable asset: our people.

“Our editorial teams represent MDPI at its finest”

I want to give special recognition to the editorial department, across all of our offices, which forms the heart of our business. These teams are the frontline communicators with our authors, reviewers, and guest editors, creating a smooth experience of processing our manuscripts. Their professionalism and kindness are often highlighted as key drivers of satisfaction with MDPI. For this, I extend my deepest gratitude to all our editorial staff, across every office. They truly represent MDPI at its finest.

Beijing is home to two of our offices, with just over 800 employees in Tongzhou and over 600 in Haidian. Thank you to our administrative teams and everyone involved in organizing these New Year’s celebrations across all offices. These events provide a moment to reflect on our shared accomplishments and appreciate the positive impact each of you has on our culture.

MDPI Offices in China

While the history of MDPI begins in Basel, Switzerland, the story of MDPI is very much rooted in China. Below is a list of MDPI’s current offices in China and their respective dates of inauguration:

  • 2008: Beijing (Tongzhou, Haidian)
  • 2013: Wuhan (Hankou, Guanggu)
  • 2019: Tianjin
  • 2021: Dalian
  • 2021: Nanjing

To date, over 381,000 MDPI research articles have been published by authors affiliated with Chinese institutions, making China our largest market. This is reflected not only in the volume of publications but also in the scale of our workforce supporting local operations and contributing to global success.

While no new offices in China were launched between 2022 and 2024 due to the pandemic and strategic planning, we remain committed to future growth here. Our plans include expanding operations as we continue to build our global workforce.

We look forward to a year filled with continued collaboration, growth, and shared success.

“We remain committed to future growth in China”

Impactful Research

MDPI and Jisc Consortium Extend Open Access Agreement for 2025

I’m pleased to share that MDPI has extended its agreement with the Jisc consortium in the UK for 2025. This renewal strengthens our partnership with UK institutions and reaffirms our shared commitment to advancing open access publishing.

Jisc is the UK’s not-for-profit digital, data, and technology agency supporting tertiary education, research, and innovation. Through initiatives such as our agreement, Jisc helps institutions access essential digital resources and infrastructure to support researchers. Currently, 62 UK institutions are part of our Institutional Open Access Program (IOAP) through this partnership.

Authors from participating institutions benefit from discounts on article processing charges (APCs), with even greater support for institutions that centrally fund APCs. This helps researchers focus on their work while simplifying the publishing process.

A full list of participating institutions can be found here.

As Becky Castellon, our Institutional Partnerships Manager, puts it: “Extending our agreement with Jisc is a reward for the strong partnership we’ve built with research institutions throughout the UK.”

At MDPI, we are dedicated to making research more accessible while reducing administrative burdens for institutions and authors. Open access publishing is at the heart of what we do, and we’re proud to expand its reach in the UK and beyond.

Inside MDPI

Visit to MDPI's Singapore office

During my January trip to some of our APAC offices, I also had the pleasure of visiting our Singapore office for the first time. It’s exciting to see how much the team has grown, now numbering over 55 staff members, with more joining us in February.

Welcoming and Supporting New Team Members

“Experienced staff play an important role in mentoring new hires”

I had the opportunity to connect with both experienced colleagues and new team members who are currently embarking on their careers. This visit reminded me of what it was like when I was in their shoes. I encourage all of us to engage new colleagues with empathy, as we have all been in their position. By creating a welcoming and supportive environment, we can help them settle in and learn about the corporate world, MDPI and our mission.

Experienced staff play an important role in mentoring and guiding new hires, most of whom are transitioning from academia to their first job. I’m especially grateful to colleagues such as Colin Chen, Alicia Ren, Yu Nwe Soe, Colin Wee, Amy Cham and other senior members who have contributed to shaping the culture and work environment in Singapore.

Building MDPI’s Positive Reputation

During my visit, I spoke with the office staff about the importance of their roles in building a positive reputation that helps create trust in MDPI. I shared how every interaction and communication point contributes to the marketing of MDPI and our journals. I also highlighted the career development opportunities available as MDPI continues to grow.

Connecting with the Singapore Marketing Team

I also spent time connecting directly with the Singapore Marketing team, which has quickly grown to 15 young and ambitious members. They are eager to learn and are actively contributing to our journal and corporate marketing activities. I shared insights into our corporate marketing structure and strategy and look forward to supporting them as they grow. 

During the visit, I was joined by my colleague Dr. Constanze Schelhorn, Head of Indexing, who provided training on indexing. This training was greatly appreciated by the local staff.

Meeting with Prof. Dr. Manoj Gupta

Lastly, we had the privilege of meeting Prof. Dr. Manoj Gupta, Editor-in-Chief (EiC) of Technologies since 2016 and Section EiC of Metals.

Prof. Gupta is an active decision-maker for the journal and a great brand ambassador for MDPI.

Prof. Gupta has helped sustainably scale Technologies, which now has a 4.2 Impact Factor and a 6.7 CiteScore, ranking Q1 in the JCR category of Engineering and Q1 in the CiteScore category of Computer Science.

During our meeting, we discussed strategies for Institutional Open Access Partnership agreements and ways to promote MDPI journals in Singapore.

PS. During the visit, we also had the chance to participate in Lo Hei, also known as Yee Sang or the “prosperity toss.” This is a raw fish salad traditionally enjoyed during Chinese New Year and is particularly popular among Chinese communities in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Everyone gathers around the table as the ingredients are added one by one, and then the salad is mixed together. It was a fun experience to take part in this New Year tradition!

 

Coming Together for Science

JAMS – Journal & Article Management System

I am excited to announce the official relaunch of JAMS (Journal & Article Management System), one of MDPI’s key initiatives to support academic publishers worldwide.

With this relaunch, JAMS now offers new pricing models and flexible solutions for small-scale journals, commercial publishers, and university presses. We have also redesigned the JAMS website to enhance the user experience.

“JAMS is a testament to our commitment to simplifying the publishing process”

Explore the new website here: jams.pub

It’s also great to see the JAMS team expanding our presence at conferences and on social media to engage more effectively with the academic community.

Recently, Facundo Santomé (Senior Marketing Manager) and Alex Ramos (Senior Marketing Specialist) represented JAMS at the APE 2025 conference in Berlin, highlighting how our platform empowers small and independent publishers to streamline and scale their journal management.

JAMS was built to change that by adapting to the unique requirements of each publisher.

At MDPI, we continually invest in our growth – not only by expanding our operations and staff but also by developing innovative products that serve the academic and publishing community at large. JAMS, with its comprehensive suite of journal management tools, is a testament to our commitment to simplifying the publishing process for our partners.

Imagine a submission system that frees up your time for strategy, innovation, and impactful publishing.

Under the leadership of Silvano Bonfatti (Product Manager, MDPI), the JAMS team has conducted in-depth market research to understand the challenges publishers face: endless administrative tasks, inefficient workflows, and systems that don’t always meet their needs.

If you believe JAMS could benefit any of your network contacts, please share our website. Contact the JAMS team. They are always ready to assist with your publishing needs.

What Sets JAMS Apart?

  • Scalability – Whether you're a niche journal or managing thousands of submissions, JAMS grows with you.
  • End-to-End Workflow – From submission to peer review and final publication, everything is in one place.
  • Automation That Works for You – Say goodbye to chasing reviewers and formatting issues, so that you can focus on quality instead.
  • Built by Publishers, for Publishers – JAMS is backed by MDPI’s expertise; we know exactly what it takes to run a journal smoothly.
  • Flexible & Fair Pricing – Supporting journals of all sizes, with special rates for non-profits and publishers in the Global South.

Partners Who Already Trust JAMS

If you believe JAMS could benefit any of your network contacts, please share our website. Contact the JAMS team. They are always ready to assist with your publishing needs.

Closing Thoughts

Visit to MDPI's Bangkok office

To conclude my APAC trip, I had the pleasure of visiting our Bangkok office from 22 to 24 January. The office has grown significantly, closing 2024 with a total of 445 colleagues across various departments, including Editorial, Production, Conference, Training, Journal Relationship Specialists (JRS), Managing Editors, and supporting teams in HR, Admin, IT, and Finance.

I would like to praise our Bangkok management team for their excellent work in supporting our growth and creating a positive work environment. Our colleagues here are humble, talented, hardworking, and appreciative of MDPI’s mission.

Thailand was among MDPI’s top 30 markets in 2024 for total publications. With our office in Bangkok, we have an opportunity to further promote open access while supporting local researchers and institutions. This includes open access discounts, author training sessions, conference sponsorships, and other initiatives. We currently have 25 Editorial Board Members (EBMs) from Thailand and will work on expanding this network.

Engaging with Group Leads

“Group leads play an important role in creating a safe, positive environment”

During my visit, I met with our group leads to highlight their crucial role in managing journal performance and mentoring new employees, especially given our increased hiring targets. Many new hires are early in their careers and require training, development, and support. Group leads play an important role in creating a safe, positive environment that fosters professional growth while maintaining MDPI’s reputation for service quality.

To wrap up the session, I added a personal touch by holding the door and giving everyone high-fives – a small gesture to show appreciation, boost morale, and strengthen team spirit. It’s important for our colleagues to feel seen, heard, and valued.

University Visit: King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok (KMUTNB)

We also visited King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok (KMUTNB) to explore collaboration opportunities.

Our discussions focused on: Institutional Open Access Partnership (IOAP), Author training sessions, Conference sponsorships, Student employment initiatives, and more.

This visit reinforced the importance of building strong relationships with local universities, ensuring we continue to support and engage with the academic community in Thailand.

“My time in Bangkok was productive and inspiring”

My time in Bangkok was productive and inspiring. The senior team has done a great job in growing the office and creating a supportive, high-performing environment. I look forward to seeing continued success from our colleagues in Thailand.

Stefan Tochev
Chief Executive Officer
MDPI AG

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