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21 pages, 7777 KiB  
Article
Physicochemical and Computational Study of the Encapsulation of Resv-4′-LA and Resv-4′-DHA Lipophenols by Natural and HP-β-CDs
by Ana Belén Hernández-Heredia, Dennis Alexander Silva-Cullishpuma, José Pedro Cerón-Carrasco, Ángel Gil-Izquierdo, Jordan Lehoux, Léo Faion, Céline Crauste, Thierry Durand, José Antonio Gabaldón and Estrella Núñez-Delicado
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7454; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157454 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
This study investigates the self-assembly and host–guest complexation behaviour of novel resveratrol-based lipophenols (LipoResv)—resveratrol-4′-linoleate (Resv-4′-LA) and resveratrol-4′-docosahexaenoate (Resv-4′-DHA)—with hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrins (HP-β-CDs). These amphiphilic molecules display surfactant-like properties, forming micellar aggregates in aqueous media. Fluorescence spectroscopy was used to determine the critical micelle concentration (CMC), [...] Read more.
This study investigates the self-assembly and host–guest complexation behaviour of novel resveratrol-based lipophenols (LipoResv)—resveratrol-4′-linoleate (Resv-4′-LA) and resveratrol-4′-docosahexaenoate (Resv-4′-DHA)—with hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrins (HP-β-CDs). These amphiphilic molecules display surfactant-like properties, forming micellar aggregates in aqueous media. Fluorescence spectroscopy was used to determine the critical micelle concentration (CMC), revealing that LipoResv exhibit significantly lower CMC values than their free fatty acids, indicating higher hydrophobicity. The formation of inclusion complexes with HP-β-CDs was evaluated based on changes in CMC values and further confirmed by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and molecular modelling analyses. Resv-4′-LA formed 1:1 complexes (Kc = 720 M−1), while Resv-4′-DHA demonstrated a 1:2 stoichiometry with lower affinity constants (K1 = 17 M−1, K2 = 0.18 M−1). Environmental parameters (pH, temperature, and ionic strength) significantly modulated CMC and binding constants. Computational docking and molecular dynamics simulations supported the experimental findings by revealing the key structural determinants of the host–guest affinity and micelle stabilization. Ligand efficiency (LE) analysis further aligned with the experimental data, favouring the unmodified fatty acids. These results highlight the versatile encapsulation capacity of HP-β-CDs for bioactive amphiphile molecules and support their potential applications in drug delivery and functional food systems. Full article
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12 pages, 2016 KiB  
Article
Risk Factors for Radiation-Induced Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca in Dogs Treated with Hypofractionated Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy for Intranasal Tumors
by Akihiro Ohnishi, Soichirou Takeda, Yoshiki Okada, Manami Tokoro, Saki Kageyama, Yoshiki Itoh and Taketoshi Asanuma
Animals 2025, 15(15), 2258; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15152258 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
Radiation-induced keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) is a significant late complication in dogs receiving radiation therapy for intranasal tumors, particularly with hypofractionated intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). This retrospective case-control study was performed to identify anatomical and dosimetric risk factors for KCS in 15 canine patients [...] Read more.
Radiation-induced keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) is a significant late complication in dogs receiving radiation therapy for intranasal tumors, particularly with hypofractionated intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). This retrospective case-control study was performed to identify anatomical and dosimetric risk factors for KCS in 15 canine patients treated with IMRT delivered in 4–6 weekly fractions of 8 Gy. Orbital structures were retrospectively contoured, and dose–volume metrics (D50) were calculated. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and odds ratios were used to evaluate the associations between radiation dose and KCS development. Six dogs (33%) developed KCS within three months post-treatment. Statistically significant dose differences were observed between affected and unaffected eyes for the eyeball, cornea, and retina. ROC analyses identified dose thresholds predictive of KCS: 13.8 Gy (eyeball), 14.9 Gy (cornea), and 17.0 Gy (retina), with the retina showing the highest odds ratio (28.33). To ensure clinical relevance, KCS was diagnosed based on decreased tear production combined with corneal damage to ensure clinical relevance. This study proposes dose thresholds for ocular structures that may guide treatment planning and reduce the risk of KCS in canine patients undergoing IMRT. Further prospective studies are warranted to validate these thresholds and explore mitigation strategies for high-risk cases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Imaging Techniques and Radiation Therapy in Veterinary Medicine)
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25 pages, 516 KiB  
Article
Exploring a Sustainable Pathway Towards Enhancing National Innovation Capacity from an Empirical Analysis
by Sylvia Novillo-Villegas, Ana Belén Tulcanaza-Prieto, Alexander X. Chantera and Christian Chimbo
Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 6922; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17156922 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 27
Abstract
Innovation is a strategic driver of sustainable competitive advantage and long-term economic growth. This study proposes an empirical framework to support the sustained development of national innovation capacity by examining key enabling factors. Drawing on an extensive review of the literature, the research [...] Read more.
Innovation is a strategic driver of sustainable competitive advantage and long-term economic growth. This study proposes an empirical framework to support the sustained development of national innovation capacity by examining key enabling factors. Drawing on an extensive review of the literature, the research investigates the interrelationships among governmental support (GS), innovation agents (IA), university–industry R&D collaborations (UIRD), and innovation cluster development (ICD), and their influence on two critical innovation outcomes, knowledge creation (KC) and knowledge diffusion (KD). Using panel data from G7 countries spanning 2008 to 2018, sourced from international organizations such as the World Bank, the World Intellectual Property Organization, and the World Economic Forum, the study applies regression analysis to test the proposed conceptual model. Results highlight the foundational role of GS in providing a balanced framework to foster collaborative networks among IA and enhancing the effectiveness of UIRD. Furthermore, IA emerges as a pivotal actor in advancing innovation efforts, while the development of innovation clusters is shown to selectively enhance specific innovation outcomes. These findings offer theoretical and practical contributions for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders aiming to design supportive ecosystems that strengthen sustainable national innovation capacity. Full article
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17 pages, 1884 KiB  
Article
Modification of Spanish Mackerel (Scomberomorus niphonius) Surimi Gels by Three Anionic Polysaccharides
by Zhu-Jun Zhang, Fan-Yu Kong, Lin-Da Zhang, Miao-Miao Luo, Yin-Yin Lv, Ce Wang, Bin Lai, Li-Chao Zhang, Jia-Nan Yan and Hai-Tao Wu
Foods 2025, 14(15), 2671; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14152671 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 176
Abstract
This study investigated the gel performance of Spanish mackerel surimi gels (SMSGs) modified by three anionic polysaccharides: κ-carrageenan (KC), ι-carrageenan (IC), and gellan gum (GG). By incorporating polysaccharides, SMSGs showed a 24.9–103.4% improvement in gel and textural properties, in which KC and IC [...] Read more.
This study investigated the gel performance of Spanish mackerel surimi gels (SMSGs) modified by three anionic polysaccharides: κ-carrageenan (KC), ι-carrageenan (IC), and gellan gum (GG). By incorporating polysaccharides, SMSGs showed a 24.9–103.4% improvement in gel and textural properties, in which KC and IC had more improvement effects than GG. Moreover, polysaccharides led to a 10.7–13.1% increment in WHC, a shortened water migration from 61.34 to 52.43–55.93 ms in T22, and enhanced thermal stability of SMSGs. The content of α-helix in SMSGs reduced markedly accompanied by a concurrent enhancement of β-sheet and β-turn by adding polysaccharides, where β-sheet and β-turn are positively correlated with hardness being favorable for gelling. The microstructure of SMSGs/polysaccharides showed a homogeneous network mainly due to hydrophobic interactions and disulfide bonds in SMSG-based gels. This study will demonstrate the effectiveness of KC, IC, and GG in improving the texture and functionality as well as expanding the application of surimi products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Hydrocolloids for Food Product Development)
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14 pages, 279 KiB  
Article
Quality of Life Enhancement After Penetrating Keratoplasty in Keratoconus: A Vision-Related Functional Perspective
by Anna Maria Gadamer, Piotr Miklaszewski, Dominika Janiszewska-Bil, Anita Lyssek-Boroń, Dariusz Dobrowolski, Edward Wylęgała, Beniamin Oskar Grabarek and Katarzyna Krysik
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5325; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155325 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 142
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Keratoconus (KC) is a bilateral asymmetric corneal ectasia characterized by progressive corneal thinning, irregular astigmatism, and impaired visual acuity. The National Eye Institute (NEI) developed the Visual Function Questionnaire (VFQ-25) to assess the impact of visual impairment on quality of life. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Keratoconus (KC) is a bilateral asymmetric corneal ectasia characterized by progressive corneal thinning, irregular astigmatism, and impaired visual acuity. The National Eye Institute (NEI) developed the Visual Function Questionnaire (VFQ-25) to assess the impact of visual impairment on quality of life. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) on quality of life and visual acuity in KC patients one year postoperatively. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted between January 2018 and December 2022 at the Ophthalmology Department of Saint Barbara Hospital, Trauma Center, Sosnowiec, Poland. A total of 71 patients (86 eyes) diagnosed with KC underwent PKP. The VFQ-25 questionnaire and visual acuity measurements were assessed preoperatively and one year postoperatively. Results: The study cohort included 71 patients (20 females, 28.17%; 51 males, 71.83%). Preoperative visual acuity ranged from less than 0.05 on the Snellen chart to 0.5. Postoperatively, visual acuity improved to a range of 0.1–1.0. A visual acuity of 1.0 was achieved in 21 eyes (24.42%; 5 females, 24%; 16 males, 76%), with a statistically significant improvement (p < 0.01). The mean VFQ-25 composite score increased from 57.96 (±17.58) preoperatively to 81.42 (±14.66) postoperatively (p < 0.001). Domains with the lowest preoperative scores were “role difficulties,” “general vision,” and “mental health,” while “color vision” scored highest. Conclusions: PKP significantly enhances both objective visual acuity and subjective quality of life in KC patients, as reflected in VFQ-25 questionnaire outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ophthalmology)
19 pages, 7948 KiB  
Article
Comparative Analysis of Fracture Mechanics Parameters for Wrought and SLM-Produced Ti-6Al-7Nb Alloy
by Ivan Gelo, Dražan Kozak, Nenad Gubeljak, Tomaž Vuherer, Pejo Konjatić and Marko Katinić
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8308; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158308 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 150
Abstract
The research presented in this paper is based on the need for personalized medical implants, whose serial production is impossible, so the need for production process adjustments is inevitable. Conventional production technologies usually set geometrical limitations and generate a lot of waste material, [...] Read more.
The research presented in this paper is based on the need for personalized medical implants, whose serial production is impossible, so the need for production process adjustments is inevitable. Conventional production technologies usually set geometrical limitations and generate a lot of waste material, which leads to great expenses, especially when the material used for production is an expensive Ti alloy. Additive technologies offer the possibility to produce a product almost without waste material and geometrical limitations. Nevertheless, the methods developed for additive production using metal powder are not significantly used in biomedicine because there is insufficient data published regarding the properties of additively produced parts, especially from the fatigue and fracture standpoint. The aim of this research is the experimental determination of fracture mechanics properties of additively produced parts and their comparison with the properties of parts produced by conventional technologies. Drawing is the first production process in the comparison, and the second one is selective laser melting (SLM). The Ti-alloy Ti-6Al-7Nb, used for medical implants, was selected for this research. Experimental testing was performed in order to determine ΔKth fracture mechanics parameters and resistance curves according to ASTM E1820. Test specimen dimensioning and the experiments were carried out according to the respective standards. For the drawn test specimen, the value obtained was ΔKth = 3.84 MPam0.5, and the fracture toughness was Kc = 84 MPam0.5, while for SLM produced test specimens the values were ΔKth = 4.53 MPam0.5, and Kc = 21.9 MPam0.5. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Fracture Mechanics in Structures)
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20 pages, 7640 KiB  
Article
Land Cover Mapping Using High-Resolution Satellite Imagery and a Comparative Machine Learning Approach to Enhance Regional Water Resource Management
by János Tamás, Angura Louis, Zsolt Zoltán Fehér and Attila Nagy
Remote Sens. 2025, 17(15), 2591; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17152591 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 222
Abstract
Accurate land cover classification is vital for informed water resource management, especially in irrigation-dependent regions facing increased climate variability. Using fused multi-sensor remote sensing imagery from Landsat 8 and Sentinel-2, this study assesses the effectiveness of three machine learning classifiers: Random Forest (RF), [...] Read more.
Accurate land cover classification is vital for informed water resource management, especially in irrigation-dependent regions facing increased climate variability. Using fused multi-sensor remote sensing imagery from Landsat 8 and Sentinel-2, this study assesses the effectiveness of three machine learning classifiers: Random Forest (RF), Gradient Tree Boosting (GTB), and Naive Bayes (NB) in creating land cover maps for the Tisza-Körös Valley Irrigation System (TIKEVIR) in Hungary. Water bodies, built-up areas, forests, grasslands, and major crops were among the important land cover categories that were classified for the two agricultural seasons (2018 and 2022). RF performed consistently in 2022 and reached its best accuracy in 2018 (OA = 0.87, KC = 0.83, PI = 0.94). While NB’s performance in 2022 remained less consistent, GTB’s performance increased. The findings show that RF works effectively for generating accurate land cover data, providing useful information for regional monitoring, and assisting in water and environmental management decision-making. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Remote Sensing in Agriculture and Vegetation)
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21 pages, 1808 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Semiorganic Iodine-Containing Compounds on the Antibiotic Susceptibility of Pathogenic Microorganisms
by Sabina T. Kenesheva, Seitzhan Turganbay, Ardak B. Jumagaziyeva, Gaukhar Askhatkyzy, Dana A. Askarova, Amir A. Azembayev, Alexandr I. Ilin, Oleg N. Reva and Tatyana A. Karpenyuk
Biomedicines 2025, 13(8), 1790; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13081790 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 269
Abstract
Objectives: The global rise in multidrug resistance underscores the urgent need for the development of novel and effective antimicrobial agents. Semi-organic iodine-containing complexes, owing to their unique properties, low likelihood of resistance development, and stability under various conditions, represent a promising avenue for [...] Read more.
Objectives: The global rise in multidrug resistance underscores the urgent need for the development of novel and effective antimicrobial agents. Semi-organic iodine-containing complexes, owing to their unique properties, low likelihood of resistance development, and stability under various conditions, represent a promising avenue for the design of new therapeutic strategies. This study describes the synthesis of semi-organic iodine-containing complexes and the in vitro evaluation of their impact on antibiotic susceptibility modulation in the multidrug-resistant pathogenic microorganisms S. aureus and E. coli. Methods: The physicochemical properties of the semiorganic compounds were characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, potentiometric, and titrimetric methods. Evaluation of antimicrobial activity was obtained according to CLSI protocols. The impact of semiorganic compounds on the in vitro susceptibility of MDR strains was evaluated by the disk diffusion method. Results: This study evaluated the effects of iodine-containing complexes KC-270 and KC-271 on the antibiotic susceptibility of Staphylococcus aureus BAA-39 and Escherichia coli BAA-196. The most pronounced effect was observed with KC-270 applied during the lag phase, which enhanced the activity of several antibiotics and, in some cases, restored susceptibility. KC-271 exhibited a weaker and more limited impact. The findings suggest that KC-270 has potential as a modulator of antibiotic susceptibility, particularly when administered at early stages of bacterial growth. Conclusions: The results support the ability of amino acid-based iodine coordination compounds to influence the antibiotic susceptibility of pathogenic bacteria, highlighting their potential as adjuvant agents to improve the effectiveness of current antimicrobial therapies. However, although changes in susceptibility were detected, neither compound fully eliminated resistance in the multidrug-resistant strains, indicating the necessity for further research into their mechanisms of action and possible synergistic interactions with antibiotics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Microbiology in Human Health and Disease)
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10 pages, 332 KiB  
Article
An Empirical Theoretical Model for the Turbulent Diffusion Coefficient in Urban Atmospheric Dispersion
by George Efthimiou
Urban Sci. 2025, 9(7), 281; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci9070281 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 651
Abstract
Turbulent diffusion plays a critical role in atmospheric pollutant dispersion, particularly in complex environments such as urban areas. This study proposes a novel theoretical approach to enhance the calculation of the turbulent diffusion coefficient in pollutant dispersion models. We propose a new expression [...] Read more.
Turbulent diffusion plays a critical role in atmospheric pollutant dispersion, particularly in complex environments such as urban areas. This study proposes a novel theoretical approach to enhance the calculation of the turbulent diffusion coefficient in pollutant dispersion models. We propose a new expression for the turbulent diffusion coefficient (KC), which incorporates both hydrodynamic and turbulence-related time scales. This formulation links the turbulent diffusion coefficient to pollutant travel time and turbulence intensity, offering more accurate predictions of pollutant concentration distributions. By addressing the limitations of existing empirical models, this approach improves the parameterization of turbulence and reduces uncertainties in predicting maximum individual exposure under various atmospheric conditions. The study presents a theoretical model designed to advance the current understanding of atmospheric dispersion modeling. Experimental validation, while recommended, is beyond the scope of this work and is suggested as a direction for future empirical research to confirm the practical utility of the model. This theoretical formulation could be integrated into urban air quality management frameworks, providing improved estimations of pollutant peaks in complex environments. Full article
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13 pages, 1664 KiB  
Article
Inclusion Complex of a Cationic Mono-Choline-β-Cyclodextrin Derivative with Resveratrol: Preparation, Characterization, and Wound-Healing Activity
by Sonia Pedotti, Loredana Ferreri, Giuseppe Granata, Giovanni Gambera, Nicola D’Antona, Claudia Giovanna Leotta, Giovanni Mario Pitari and Grazia Maria Letizia Consoli
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(14), 6911; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26146911 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 203
Abstract
Resveratrol is one of the most extensively studied natural products due to its pleiotropic health benefits. However, its low water solubility and limited stability hinder its application in the nutraceutical, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical sectors. In this work, we investigated the ability of a [...] Read more.
Resveratrol is one of the most extensively studied natural products due to its pleiotropic health benefits. However, its low water solubility and limited stability hinder its application in the nutraceutical, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical sectors. In this work, we investigated the ability of a cationic mono-choline-β-cyclodextrin derivative to complex trans-resveratrol. The complex was prepared using a phase solubility method without using organic solvents and was found to be stable after freeze-drying. The complex was characterized by a phase solubility study, NMR spectroscopy, and molecular modeling simulations, which revealed a 1:1 stoichiometry, a stability constant of 2051 M−1 (KC), and structural details. Complexation improved resveratrol’s solubility and dissolution rate, reduced its photoinduced trans-to-cis isomerization, and preserved its radical scavenging activity. The wound-healing activity of the complex was demonstrated via in vitro experiments on human keratinocyte cells. Full article
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21 pages, 1661 KiB  
Article
Performance Assessment of B-Series Marine Propellers with Cupping and Face Camber Ratio Using Machine Learning Techniques
by Mina Tadros and Evangelos Boulougouris
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(7), 1345; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13071345 - 15 Jul 2025
Viewed by 349
Abstract
This study investigates the performance of B-series marine propellers enhanced through geometric modifications, namely face camber ratio (FCR) and cupping percentage modifications, using a machine learning (ML)-driven optimization framework. A large dataset of over 7000 open-water propeller configurations is curated, incorporating variations in [...] Read more.
This study investigates the performance of B-series marine propellers enhanced through geometric modifications, namely face camber ratio (FCR) and cupping percentage modifications, using a machine learning (ML)-driven optimization framework. A large dataset of over 7000 open-water propeller configurations is curated, incorporating variations in blade number, expanded area ratio (EAR), pitch-to-diameter ratio (P/D), FCR, and cupping percentage. A multi-layer artificial neural network (ANN) is trained to predict thrust, torque, and open-water efficiency (ηo) with a high coefficient of determination (R2), greater than 0.9999. The ANN is integrated into an optimization algorithm to identify optimal propeller designs for the KRISO Container Ship (KCS) using empirical constraints for cavitation and tip speed. Unlike prior studies that rely on boundary element method (BEM)-ML hybrids or multi-fidelity simulations, this study introduces a geometry-coupled analysis of FCR and cupping—parameters often treated independently—and applies empirical cavitation and acoustic (tip speed) limits to guide the design process. The results indicate that incorporating 1.0–1.5% cupping leads to a significant improvement in efficiency, up to 9.3% above the reference propeller, while maintaining cavitation safety margins and acoustic limits. Conversely, designs with non-zero FCR values (0.5–1.5%) show a modest efficiency penalty (up to 4.3%), although some configurations remain competitive when compensated by higher EAR, P/D, or blade count. The study confirms that the combination of cupping with optimized geometric parameters yields high-efficiency, cavitation-safe propellers. Furthermore, the ML-based framework demonstrates excellent potential for rapid, accurate, and scalable propeller design optimization that meets both performance and regulatory constraints. Full article
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20 pages, 3414 KiB  
Article
Improvement in the Interception Vulnerability Level of Encryption Mechanism in GSM
by Fawad Ahmad, Reshail Khan and Armel Asongu Nkembi
Inventions 2025, 10(4), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10040056 - 14 Jul 2025
Viewed by 266
Abstract
Data security is of the utmost importance in the domain of real-time environmental monitoring systems, particularly when employing advanced context-aware intelligent visual analytics. This paper addresses a significant deficiency in the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), a widely employed wireless communication system [...] Read more.
Data security is of the utmost importance in the domain of real-time environmental monitoring systems, particularly when employing advanced context-aware intelligent visual analytics. This paper addresses a significant deficiency in the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), a widely employed wireless communication system for environmental monitoring. The A5/1 encryption technique, which is extensively employed, ensures the security of user data by utilizing a 64-bit session key that is divided into three linear feedback shift registers (LFSRs). Despite the shown efficacy, the development of a probabilistic model for assessing the vulnerability of breaking or intercepting the session key (Kc) has not yet been achieved. In order to bridge this existing knowledge gap, this study proposes a probabilistic model that aims to evaluate the security of encrypted data within the framework of the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM). The proposed model implements alterations to the current GSM encryption process by the augmentation of the quantity of Linear Feedback Shift Registers (LFSRs), consequently resulting in an improved level of security. The methodology entails increasing the number of registers while preserving the session key’s length, ensuring that the key length specified by GSM standards remains unaltered. This is especially important for environmental monitoring systems that depend on real-time data analysis and decision-making. In order to elucidate the notion, this analysis considers three distinct scenarios: encryption utilizing a set of five, seven, and nine registers. The majority function is employed to determine the registers that will undergo perturbation, hence increasing the complexity of the bit arrangement and enhancing the security against prospective attackers. This paper provides actual evidence using simulations to illustrate that an increase in the number of registers leads to a decrease in the vulnerability of data interception, hence boosting data security in GSM communication. Simulation results demonstrate that our method substantially reduces the risk of data interception, thereby improving the integrity of context-aware intelligent visual analytics in real-time environmental monitoring systems. Full article
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11 pages, 349 KiB  
Article
Reliability of the Polish Version of the Kinesiophobia Causes Scale (KCS) Questionnaire in Assessing the Level of Fear of Movement Among People Suffering from Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain
by Edward Saulicz, Andrzej Knapik, Aleksandra Saulicz, Damian Sikora and Mariola Saulicz
Diagnostics 2025, 15(14), 1746; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15141746 - 9 Jul 2025
Viewed by 354
Abstract
Background: The phenomenon of fear of movement is called kinesiophobia. Kinesiophobia is a significant factor that complicates the treatment process. Fear of movement and physical activity is a risk factor for the transformation of acute pain into chronic pain. Therefore, the assessment of [...] Read more.
Background: The phenomenon of fear of movement is called kinesiophobia. Kinesiophobia is a significant factor that complicates the treatment process. Fear of movement and physical activity is a risk factor for the transformation of acute pain into chronic pain. Therefore, the assessment of the level of kinesiophobia is a prognostic factor for disability and mental stress, thus having a significant impact on the quality of life of people with lower back pain. One of the psychometric diagnostic tools for assessing the level of kinesiophobia is the Kinesiophobia Causes Scale (KCS). The aim of the study was to assess the reliability of the KCS test used in people suffering from chronic nonspecific lower back pain (nsLBP). Methods: The study included a group of 112 people suffering from chronic nsLBP. The subjects completed the same Polish version of the KCS questionnaire 4 weeks apart. Results: Good internal consistency was recorded for both domains—the biological and psychological one—as well as the general KCS index (Cronbach’s alpha index α from 0.8 to 0.9). Reliability was excellent for both domains (95% CI of ICC3.1 biological domain: 0.86–0.93 and for psychological domain: 0.92–0.96) and for the total score of the Kinesiophobia Causes Scale (95% CI of ICC3.1: 0.91–0.93). Conclusions: These results indicate very good measurement reliability of the Polish version of the KCS questionnaire among people suffering from chronic nsLBP. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Low Back Pain: Diagnosis and Management)
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29 pages, 14256 KiB  
Article
Bond Behavior and Critical Anchorage Length Prediction of Novel Negative Poisson’s Ratio Bars Embedded in Ultra-High-Performance Concrete
by Zhao Xu, Chang-Ze Xu, Xian-Liang Rong, Jun-Yan Wang and Xue-Yuan Ma
Materials 2025, 18(13), 3182; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18133182 - 4 Jul 2025
Viewed by 476
Abstract
Negative Poisson’s ratio (NPR) reinforcement offers a novel solution to the usual trade-off between strength gains and ductility loss. Incorporating NPR into ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) effectively overcomes the ductility limitations of structural elements. However, the interfacial bonding between NPR reinforcement and UHPC is [...] Read more.
Negative Poisson’s ratio (NPR) reinforcement offers a novel solution to the usual trade-off between strength gains and ductility loss. Incorporating NPR into ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) effectively overcomes the ductility limitations of structural elements. However, the interfacial bonding between NPR reinforcement and UHPC is not sufficiently studied, especially its patterns and mechanisms, impeding the application of the materials. In this paper, the effects of nine design parameters (rebar type, prestrain, etc.) on the bond performance of NPR-UHPC through eccentric pull-out tests are investigated, and a quantitative discriminative indicator Kc for NPR-UHPC bond failure modes is established. The results showed that when Kc ≤ 4.3, 4.3 < Kc ≤ 5.64, and Kc ≥ 5.6, the NPR-UHPC specimens undergo splitting failure, splitting–pull-out failure, and pull-out failure, respectively. In terms of bonding with UHPC, the NPR bars outperform the HRB400 bars, and the HRB400 bars outperform the helical grooved (HG) bars. For the NPR bars, prestrain levels of 5.5%, 9.5%, and 22.0% decrease τu by 5.07%, 7.79%, and 17.01% and su by 7.00%, 15.88%, and 30.54%, respectively. Bond performance deteriorated with increasing rib spacing and decreasing rib height. Based on the test results, an artificial neural network (ANN) model is developed to accurately predict the critical embedded length lcd and ultimate embedded length lud between NPR bars and UHPC. Moreover, the MAPE of the ANN model is only 53.9% of that of the regression model, while the RMSE is just 62.0%. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Construction and Building Materials)
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21 pages, 9015 KiB  
Article
Energetics of Eddy–Mean Flow Interaction in the Kuroshio Current Region
by Yang Wu, Dalei Qiao, Chengyan Liu, Liangjun Yan, Kechen Liu, Jiangchao Qian, Qing Qin, Jianfen Wei, Heyou Chang, Kai Zhou, Zhengdong Qi, Xiaorui Zhu, Jing Li, Yuzhou Zhang and Hongtao Guo
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(7), 1304; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13071304 - 3 Jul 2025
Viewed by 448
Abstract
A comprehensive diagnosis of eddy–mean flow interaction in the Kuroshio Current (KC) region and the associated energy conversion pathway is conducted employing a state-of-the-art high-resolution global ocean–sea ice coupled model. The spatial distributions of the energy reservoirs and their conversions exhibit significant complexity. [...] Read more.
A comprehensive diagnosis of eddy–mean flow interaction in the Kuroshio Current (KC) region and the associated energy conversion pathway is conducted employing a state-of-the-art high-resolution global ocean–sea ice coupled model. The spatial distributions of the energy reservoirs and their conversions exhibit significant complexity. The cross-stream variation is found in the energy conversion pattern in the along-coast region, whereas a mixed positive–negative conversion pattern is observed in the off-coast region. Considering the area-integrated conversion rates between energy reservoirs, barotropic and baroclinic instabilities dominate the energy transferring from the mean flow to eddy field in the KC region. When the KC separates from the coast, it becomes highly unstable and the energy conversion rates intensify visibly; moreover, the local variations of the energy conversion are significantly influenced by the topography in the KC extension region. The mean available potential energy is the total energetic source to drive the barotropic and baroclinic energy pathway in the whole KC region, while the mean kinetic energy supplies the total energy in the extension region. For the whole KC region, the mean current transfers 84.9 GW of kinetic energy and 37.3 GW of available potential energy to the eddy field. The eddy kinetic energy is generated by mixed barotropic and baroclinic processes, amounting to 84.9 GW and 15.03 GW, respectively, indicating that topography dominates the generation of mesoscale eddy. Mean kinetic energy amounts to 11.08 GW of power from the mean available potential energy and subsequently supplies the barotropic pathway. Full article
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