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When internal faults occur in a microgrid, the switching between grid-connected and islanded modes can lead to extended tripping times for traditional inverse-time overcurrent (ITOC) protection and failure in coordination between protection levels. To address these issues, this paper proposes an improved inverse-time overcurrent protection scheme based on a composite parameter protection factor. This scheme utilizes the phase relationship between the positive-sequence voltage fault component at the bus and the positive-sequence current fault component in the feeder after a fault occurrence, combined with the severity of bus voltage sags, to construct a composite parameter protection factor. This factor incorporates a phase-difference acceleration factor and a voltage-sag acceleration factor, aiming to shorten the operation time of the inverse-time overcurrent protection. Furthermore, leveraging the proportional relationship between the composite parameter protection factor and the fault location, the coordination between different protection levels is optimized. Simulations were conducted using PSCAD/EMTDC. The simulation results verify the effectiveness of the proposed improved scheme under various fault scenarios. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Trends in Wireless Power Transfer for IoT, EVs, and Smart Infrastructure)

26 pages, 6881 KB

Open AccessArticle

State of Health Aware Adaptive Scheduling of Battery Energy Storage System Charging and Discharging in Rural Microgrids Using Long Short-Term Memory and Convolutional Neural Networks

by Chi Nghiep Le, Arangarajan Vinayagam, Phat Thuan Tran, Stefan Stojcevski, Tan Ngoc Dinh, Alex Stojcevski and Jaideep Chandran

Energies 2025, 18(21), 5641; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18215641 (registering DOI) - 27 Oct 2025

Abstract

This study presents a novel LSTM–CNN-based adaptive scheduling framework (LSTM-CNN–AS) designed to improve real-time energy management and extend the lifespan of lithium-ion Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in rural and resource-constrained microgrids. In contrast to conventional methods that prioritize economic optimization, the proposed framework incorporates state of health (SOH) aware control and adaptive closed-loop scheduling to enhance operational reliability and battery longevity. The architecture combines Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) for accurate SOH estimation, with lightweight Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) models supporting real-time scheduling and state of charge (SOC) regulation. Operational safety is maintained by keeping SOC within 20–80% and SOH above 70%. The proposed model training and validation are conducted using two real-world datasets: the Mendeley Lithium-Ion SOH Test Dataset and the DKA Solar System Dataset from Alice Springs, both sampled at 5-minute intervals. Performance is evaluated across three operational scenarios, which are 2C charging with random discharge; random charging with 3C discharge; and fully random profiles, achieving up to 44% reduction in MAE and an R² score of 0.9767. A one-month deployment demonstrates a 30% reduction in charging time and 40% lower operational costs, confirming the framework’s effectiveness and scalability for rural microgrid applications. Full article

20 pages, 878 KB

Open AccessArticle

Functional Properties of Enriched Curd with Collagen and Plant Phytochemicals for Athletes and Physiological Benefits: Evidence Data from Preclinical Trials In Vivo

by Klara Zharykbasova, Aitbek Kakimov, Yerlan Zharykbasov, Zhainagul Kakimova, Raimkhanova Guldana, Kozykenova Zhanna, Beisembayeva Galiya, Zhanat Baigazinov, Tibor Kovács and Amin Shahrokhi

Nutrients 2025, 17(21), 3373; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17213373 (registering DOI) - 27 Oct 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to establish the multifactorial physiological effect of a functional curd product enriched with collagen-containing concentrate and phytochemical extracts of various natures, under conditions of in vivo experiment. Methods: Biomarkers, such as antioxidant activity (glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, MDA), immune response (IgA, IgG, IgM, IL-6, TNF-α), and purine metabolism (uric acid, xanthine oxidase, 5′-nucleotidase) were selected for evaluation and their influence change. The model was white outbred rats (n = 45), randomly distributed into three groups: control (basic product), experimental group 1 (supplements of collagen-containing concentrate and extract of the composition of sea buckthorn and rosehips), and experimental group 2 (supplements of collagen-containing concentrate and extract of the composition of yarrow and sage). Results: In both experimental groups, a reliable increase in the enzymatic activity of the antioxidant system, a decrease in lipid peroxidation and the level of proinflammatory cytokines, an increase in immunoglobulins, and activation of 5′-nucleotidase were observed. The most pronounced effects were observed with the introduction of a curd product containing collagen-containing concentrate and sea buckthorn and rosehip extract. Conclusions: The scientific novelty of the study lies in the first comprehensive in vivo evaluation of the combined enrichment of a dairy product with collagen and plant extracts for a set of biomarkers. The data obtained confirm the physiological activity and functional properties of the developed product, which can be considered as a promising means of specialized and sports nutrition with proven biological action. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sports Nutrition)

22 pages, 14711 KB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Study on the Keying of Suction Embedded Plate Anchors with Chain Effects

by Xue Li, Wei Yan, Yanbing Zhao, Yongye Li, Yan Zhang and Yun Lang

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(11), 2056; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13112056 (registering DOI) - 27 Oct 2025

Abstract

Suction embedded plate anchors are widely used in deepwater mooring systems, which can withstand significant vertical loading. During the installation, the mooring chain is tensioned and causes the anchor to rotate, which is known as keying. With a large deformation finite element approach of the coupled Eulerian–Lagrangian method, the chain effects are incorporated into the keying of suction embedded plate anchors. The effectiveness of the proposed method is verified by numerical results and centrifuge tests. The numerical study reveals that the installation angle of the chain has a significant effect on the loss of embedment, especially combined with the effects of load eccentricity and soil strength. The losses of embedment are 0.024~0.273 and 0.217~1.755 anchor width for the installation angles of 15° and 90°, respectively. The ultimate bearing capacity factor decreases with the increasing of load eccentricity and soil strength, because a cavity is formed at the anchor back. Empirical formulae are finally developed for engineers to rapidly estimate the embedment loss and ultimate pullout capacity of suction embedded plate anchors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)

10 pages, 466 KB

Open AccessReview

A Narrative Review of Evidence, Safety, and Clinical Considerations in Taxane Chemotherapy for Pregnancy-Associated Breast Cancer

by Jenny W. Zhang, Ochuwa Precious Imokhai, Danny Lee, Diana Hamdan, Trisha Mahajan, Satyam K. Singh and Amanda Brooks

Biomedicines 2025, 13(11), 2635; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13112635 (registering DOI) - 27 Oct 2025

Abstract

The medical condition of pregnancy-associated breast cancer (PABC) requires oncologists to determine the best way to protect both the mother and the fetus during cancer treatment. The safety profile of taxanes, including paclitaxel and docetaxel, in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy remains unclear despite well-established anthracycline-based regimens (e.g., doxorubicin). High-risk breast cancer subtypes such as triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) and human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER2)-positive disease require taxane chemotherapy as standard treatment in nonpregnant patients. Objective: This paper aims to gather available data about the safety, timing and fetal outcomes related to taxane chemotherapy during PABC, focusing on pharmacological and clinical guidance. Methods: A targeted literature review of PubMed and Scopus databases was performed to identify case series, cohort studies, and clinical guidelines addressing taxane use during pregnancy. This was not conducted as a formal systematic review or meta-analysis, but as a comprehensive narrative synthesis of available data. Results: The pharmacological properties of paclitaxel and docetaxel limit their placental transfer. Paclitaxel has not been associated with increased congenital anomalies; however, the long-term developmental data remain limited. Similarly, docetaxel administration shows no increase in major malformations. The most common approach used in PABC is to administer anthracyclines first and taxanes after 16–18 weeks’ gestation. The adverse effects experienced by pregnant patients match those experienced by nonpregnant patients. Conclusions: Taxanes can be used with caution after the first trimester in patients with PABC, especially in high-risk cases following anthracycline treatment. The absence of randomized trials combined with limited developmental data highlight the need for more standardized treatment approaches, aligning with current guideline recommendations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cancer Biology and Oncology)

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27 pages, 1191 KB

Open AccessArticle

Low-Cost IoT-Based Predictive Maintenance Using Vibration

by Peter Kolok, Michal Hodoň, Peter Ševčík, Léo Hotz and Nicolas Remy

Sensors 2025, 25(21), 6610; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25216610 (registering DOI) - 27 Oct 2025

Abstract

Predictive maintenance helps reduce operational costs and improve machine reliability by anticipating failures. However, existing solutions are often too expensive or complex for small rotating machinery such as fans or low-power motors. This work presents a low-cost, IoT-based monitoring system using an ESP32 microcontroller combined with MEMS sensors (an accelerometer and a microphone). The system continuously collects vibration and acoustic signals, which are then processed using RMS and FFT techniques. Machine learning algorithms, such as anomaly detection or basic classification, are used to identify deviations from normal operation. A working prototype was tested under various fault conditions, including imbalance and wear. The system successfully identified abnormal states through signal deviations in both time and frequency domains, with over ~73% detection accuracy. The proposed solution is cost-effective, simple to implement, and well-suited for educational or industrial environments. It demonstrates the potential of embedded systems and basic signal analysis for scalable predictive maintenance applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intelligent Industrial Process Control Systems: 2nd Edition)

24 pages, 751 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Applying Meta-Analytic Structural Equation Modeling to Examine the Relationships Among Work Stress, Job Burnout, and Turnover Intention in Taiwanese Nurses

by Yi-Horng Lai, Mei-Yun Chang and Chung-Cheng Wang

Healthcare 2025, 13(21), 2718; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13212718 (registering DOI) - 27 Oct 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Nursing staff are essential to healthcare delivery, yet Taiwan has experienced a significant rise in nurse turnover in recent years. Retention has thus become a critical concern for healthcare institutions. Identifying the factors influencing nurses’ turnover intentions (TIs) and improving workplace conditions may help to reduce attrition. This study investigates the relationships among TI, work stress (WS), and job burnout (JB), examining variations across healthcare settings and comparing the periods before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This study systematically reviews 28 studies published between 2011 and 2025, retrieved from Taiwan’s Master’s and Doctoral Thesis Knowledge Value Added System, Airiti Library, and Google Scholar. The review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols (PRISMA) guidelines. The data were analyzed using a combined approach of meta-analysis and structural equation modeling. Results: The findings of this study indicate that WS has a statistically significant impact on TI (path coefficient = 0.281, 95% CI: 0.102 to 0.459, p = 0.002). Similarly, JB significantly influences TI (path coefficient = 0.342, 95% CI: 0.163 to 0.520, p < 0.001). WS also has a strong and significant effect on JB (path coefficient = 0.612, 95% CI: 0.485 to 0.739, p < 0.001). These results suggest that WS has a particularly strong effect on JB among nurses working in non-medical center hospitals in Taiwan. Additionally, no significant differences were found in the relationships among TI, WS, and JB before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusions: Based on the findings of this study, it is recommended that healthcare administrators closely monitor the stress experienced by nursing staff and identify the key factors that lead to WS and JB. Developing targeted policies for different healthcare settings may help to reduce nurses’ intentions to leave their jobs. Full article

18 pages, 2525 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Seasonal Heat Stress and the Postpartum Stage Interactively Influence Milk Fatty Acid Composition in Holstein Dairy Cows in Spain

by Elena Niceas Martínez Diez, Rodrigo Muiño Otero, Cristina Castillo Rodríguez and Joaquín Hernández Bermúdez

Animals 2025, 15(21), 3119; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15213119 (registering DOI) - 27 Oct 2025

Abstract

Climate change is intensifying heat stress conditions in livestock systems, posing significant challenges to animal welfare, productivity, and food quality. This study aims to investigate the combined effects of seasonal heat stress and postpartum physiology on the milk fatty acid (FA) profile of Holstein dairy cows in Galicia, Spain. Forty milk samples were collected during winter and summer and at 1 week and 1 month postpartum. Fatty acid composition was analyzed via gas chromatography (GC-FID), and heat stress exposure was quantified using the temperature–humidity index (THI). Results revealed that heat stress significantly altered the milk lipid profile, with increased concentrations of short- and medium-chain fatty acids (SMCFA) such as C10:0 and C14:1 (n-5), and conjugated linoleic acids (CLAs), suggesting enhanced de novo lipogenesis and shifts in rumen fermentation. Conversely, unsaturated long-chain fatty acids (LCFAs), including cis-11 C18:1 and cis-13 C18:1, decreased with lactation progression and thermal exposure. Notably, certain LCFAs remained stable under combined seasonal and physiological stress, indicating potential metabolic regulation. These results show how milk composition is sensitive to environmental stress and emphasize the need for climate-resilient management to protect milk quality under global warming. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Heat Stress on Animal Reproduction and Production)

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25 pages, 6544 KB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Simulation on the Dynamic Damage Evolution Law of Wellbore Bonding Interfaces During Perforating Operation

by Yan Xi, Wenyue Sun, Jiajia Feng, Yumei Li and Hailong Jiang

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(21), 11475; https://doi.org/10.3390/app152111475 (registering DOI) - 27 Oct 2025

Abstract

During perforation operations, high-speed jet penetration into the casing-cement sheath-formation assembly damages the bonding interfaces, resulting in fluid flow along these interfaces within the wellbore. This can compromise the wellbore seal integrity and shorten the lifespan of the oil and gas well. To address this, a numerical model was developed using fluid-solid coupling algorithms, combined with a cohesive zone damage model and the ALE algorithm. The model was employed to analyze the dynamic damage evolution of the bonding interfaces during the jet penetration process and quantify the effects of the cement sheath’s mechanical parameters (shear modulus and compressive strength) and geological stress on the axial damage length and area. The results indicate that both the casing-cement sheath and cement sheath-formation interfaces exhibit significant damage, with the former showing a larger damage area under identical mechanical conditions; as the cement sheath’s shear modulus increases, the damaged area at the casing-cement sheath interface expands, while that at the cement sheath-formation interface reduces. Conversely, an increase in the cement sheath’s compressive strength reduces the damage extent at both interfaces, as does elevated geological stress. Based on engineering cases, different cement slurry types were compared to minimize perforation-induced interface damage. This study provides theoretical and practical guidance for optimizing cement selection and assessing bonding interface integrity during perforation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Intelligent Software in Geotechnical Engineering)

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19 pages, 1041 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dose-Dependent Analysis of Image Quality in Pediatric Head CT Scans Across Different Scanners to Optimize Clinical Protocols Using Phantom-Based Assessment

by Hiroshi Kuwahara, Mitsuaki Ojima, Tsuneko Kawamura, Daisuke Saitou, Kazunari Andou, Eiji Ariga, Kotaro Hasegawa and Michiaki Kai

Tomography 2025, 11(11), 119; https://doi.org/10.3390/tomography11110119 (registering DOI) - 27 Oct 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Optimization of pediatric head computed tomography (CT) protocols is essential to minimize radiation exposure while maintaining diagnostic image quality. Previous studies mainly relied on phantom-based measurements or visual assessments, and validation using clinical images remains limited. This study aimed to establish quantitative thresholds for noise and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) in pediatric head CT by integrating multicenter clinical data with phantom evaluations. Methods: A multicenter retrospective study was conducted using CT systems from eight hospitals, combined with Catphan phantom experiments and pediatric head CT data. Scan parameters, automatic exposure control settings, and reconstruction methods were collected. Image quality was quantified by the standard deviation (SD) of noise and CNR obtained from regions of interest in gray and white matter. Radiation dose was represented by CTDIvol. Relationships among CTDIvol, SD, and CNR were analyzed across scanners from three manufacturers (Canon, FUJI, and GE). Results: Consistent dose–response trends were observed across institutions and manufacturers. Image noise decreased as CTDIvol increased, but reached a plateau at higher doses. CNR improved with dose escalation, then stabilized. Both phantom experiments and clinical analyses identified a target SD of 5 and CNR of 2 as optimal indicators for pediatric head CT. Conclusions: Quantitative thresholds were determined as practical indicators for balancing diagnostic image quality with dose reduction. Further reduction may be achieved through advanced reconstruction methods, such as deep learning-based algorithms. These findings may contribute to standardizing pediatric head CT protocols and supporting safer and more effective diagnostic imaging. Full article

35 pages, 28478 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of the Rainfall Extremes and Land Cover Changes on the Major Flood Events at Bekasi, West Jawa, and Its Surrounding Regions

by Fanny Meliani, Reni Sulistyowati, Elenora Gita Alamanda Sapan, Lena Sumargana, Sopia Lestari, Jaka Suryanta, Aninda Wisaksanti Rudiastuti, Ilvi Fauziyah Cahyaningtiyas, Teguh Arif Pianto, Harun Idham Akbar, Yulianingsani, Winarno, Hari Priyadi, Darmawan Listya Cahya, Bambang Winarno and Bayu Sutejo

Resources 2025, 14(11), 169; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14110169 (registering DOI) - 27 Oct 2025

Abstract

The Bekasi River Basin is highly vulnerable to severe and recurrent flooding, as evidenced by significant infrastructure and environmental damage during major events. This study investigates the catastrophic floods of 2016, 2020, 2022, and 2025 by implementing the Rainfall-Runoff-Inundation (RRI) model to simulate key hydrological processes. After validation using historical water level data, the model performed effectively, achieving the highest coefficient of determination (R² = 0.75) and lowest root mean square error (RMSE = 0.66) at Cileungsi Station. In contrast, the lowest R² = 0.02, and the highest RMSE = 3.74 at Pondok Gede Permai (PGP) Station. The results reveal a concerning trend of worsening 5-year flood events, with the 2025 flood reaching a peak inundation depth exceeding 3 m and affecting an area of 2.97 km², caused by a rainfall threshold of more than 180 mm/day. Furthermore, the model shows a rapid hydrological response, with a time lag of approximately 7 h or less between peak rainfall and flood onset across three monitoring stations. Analysis indicates these severe floods were primarily triggered by heavy rainfall combined with significant land cover changes. The findings provide valuable insights for flood prediction and mitigation strategies in this vulnerable region. Full article

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15 pages, 2342 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Pre-Strain Induced Microstructure Evolution on Hydrogen Embrittlement Resistance of a CoCrNi Medium-Entropy Alloy

by Zening Wang, Sirui Jing and Yu Yan

Materials 2025, 18(21), 4915; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18214915 (registering DOI) - 27 Oct 2025

Abstract

The effect of pre-strain-induced microstructural evolution on the hydrogen embrittlement (HE) resistance of an equiatomic CoCrNi medium-entropy alloy was systematically investigated by mechanical property testing, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) characterization. Three pre-strain levels (0%, 30%, and 50%) were applied to produce distinct microstructures: dislocation-free and twin-free (P0), high dislocation density with few deformation twins (P30), and high densities of both dislocations and deformation twins (P50). Mechanical tests combined with hydrogen charging revealed that the P50 specimen exhibited the highest yield strength (1163.88 MPa) and the lowest HE-induced elongation loss (2.74%), indicating an improvement in HE resistance. By using SEM, detailed observations of the fracture morphology and crack propagation paths revealed that deformation twins can effectively reduce stress concentration, delay the nucleation and propagation rates of cracks, and suppress brittle intergranular fracture, thereby improving mechanical properties and resistance to hydrogen embrittlement. A detailed analysis was conducted of the HE resistance mechanism associated with the influence of deformation twins on hydrogen transport and distribution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design, Preparation, and Microstructural Characterization of High Entropy Materials)

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22 pages, 22628 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Hepatoprotective Effects of Dapagliflozin and Trimetazidine in Diabetic Rats with Doxorubicin-Induced Liver Injury

by Enver Ciftel, Omer Satiroglu, Muhammed Mursel Ogutveren, Tolga Mercantepe, Sibel Mataraci Karakas, Omer Genc, Adnan Yilmaz and Filiz Mercantepe

Biomedicines 2025, 13(11), 2633; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13112633 (registering DOI) - 27 Oct 2025

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus and cancer often coexist, increasing the risk of liver injury. Doxorubicin (DOXO) is a widely used antineoplastic drug with known hepatotoxic effects. Dapagliflozin (DAPA) and trimetazidine (TMZ) have been reported to exert hepatoprotective actions, but their combined effects remain unclear. Methods: Forty-eight male Sprague Dawley rats were allocated into six groups: control, streptozotocin (STZ), STZ + DOXO, STZ + DOXO + DAPA, STZ + DOXO + TMZ, and STZ + DOXO + DAPA + TMZ. Liver injury was assessed by histopathology, oxidative stress markers (MDA, GSH), and immunohistochemistry (Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α), 8-Hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), Caspase-3, Transforming Growth Factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1), Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL), Nuclear Factor kappa-B/p65 (NF-κB/p65)). Results: STZ and STZ + doxorubicin groups developed marked hepatic injury. Unexpectedly, the STZ + doxorubicin group showed lower alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels, along with reduced Malondialdehyde (MDA) and elevated glutathione (GSH), suggesting compensatory antioxidant and apoptotic responses. Dapagliflozin more effectively normalized transaminases and reduced oxidative DNA damage, whereas trimetazidine exerted stronger effects on MDA, GSH, and inflammatory markers. The combination provided additive but not consistently superior benefits. Immunohistochemical analyses confirmed these findings, showing attenuated expression of TNF-α, 8-OHdG, caspase-3, and TGF-β1 and reduced TUNEL-positive hepatocytes and NF-κB/p65 immunoreactivity following treatment, indicating coordinated anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory effects. Conclusions: Dapagliflozin and trimetazidine each attenuated diabetes- and doxorubicin-related hepatic injury through partly distinct mechanisms, with the combination providing additive but not consistently superior effects. These findings suggest a potential hepatoprotective role for both agents; however, the clinical implications remain uncertain and require confirmation in further mechanistic and translational studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: New Treatment and Future Directions—4th Edition)

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18 pages, 4680 KB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Objective Optimization Design of Hybrid Fiber-Reinforced ECC Based on Box–Behnken and NSGA-II

by Xiao Wang, Haowen Jing, Hongkui Chen, Sen Zheng, Fei Yang and Jinggan Shao

Materials 2025, 18(21), 4914; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18214914 (registering DOI) - 27 Oct 2025

Abstract

To enhance the effectiveness and precision of design and to produce more low-carbon and high-performance Engineered Cementitious Composites (ECCs), novel hybrid fiber-reinforced high-ductility cementitious composites developed by incorporating a combination of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene fibers (UHMWPE) and basalt fibers (BFs) into the cementitious matrix. Building upon the Box–Behnken design model from Response Surface Methodology (RSM), this study investigates the effects of different water-to-binder ratios and fiber contents on the mechanical properties of hybrid fiber-reinforced ECC. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to validate the regression models. Furthermore, multi-objective optimization of the ECC mix proportion was achieved by employing the NSGA-II algorithm in conjunction with the TOPSIS comprehensive evaluation method. The results indicate that UHMWPE and BFs exhibited a significant positive hybrid effect. The order of factor significance was as follows: The content of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene is greater than that of basalt fiber, and the content of basalt fiber is greater than that of the water–binder ratio. The results of variance analysis show that the regression model has high fitting accuracy. Furthermore, the algorithmic optimization yielded an optimal mix proportion: a water-to-binder ratio of 0.21, UHMWPE fiber content of 1.51%, and BF content of 0.85%. This study provides a valuable reference for the multi-objective optimization design of ECC mix proportions targeting diverse strength and toughness requirements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Construction and Building Materials)

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17 pages, 457 KB

Open AccessReview

Review of the Use of Pre-Visit Pharmaceuticals for Reducing Fear-Related Behaviours in Dogs

by Aimee Clark and Kristie E. Cameron

Pets 2025, 2(4), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/pets2040038 (registering DOI) - 27 Oct 2025

Abstract

Fear, anxiety, and stress (FAS) in canine patients is a growing concern for the veterinary industry. FAS affects the health of the patient while also increasing the risk to veterinary staff. Studies show that many veterinarians do not feel confident in managing behavioural issues like FAS, making engaging effectively with clients more difficult. Pre-visit pharmaceuticals (PVPs) can be an important tool in mitigating the effects of FAS; however, conclusive research is lacking on the efficacy of many of the medications and combinations currently used for this purpose. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in multiple databases. The most current research available on medications identified as widely used for treating FAS, and available for use in New Zealand, has been reviewed and discussed. Combinations selected for inclusion were the ‘chill protocol’ of acepromazine, gabapentin, and melatonin. Single agents included are clonidine, dexmedetomidine, gabapentin, and trazodone. Research into the use of the ‘chill protocol’ suggests this may be a combination particularly useful in highly stressed and aggressive dogs; however, additional studies need to be conducted to strengthen the evidence for its use. A multimodal approach has been identified as being desirable when addressing FAS in a clinical setting, with less evidence to support the use of single-agent medications in mitigating problematic behaviours. Full article

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