Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Article Types

Countries / Regions

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Search Results (41,251)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = content-analysis

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
21 pages, 1655 KB  
Article
Enhancing Tunnel Fault-Resistance with Combined Seismic Joints and Steel–Polypropylene Fiber Concrete Linings
by You Wang, Zixi Yin, Rui Wang, Bosong Ding and Ziwei Wang
Buildings 2025, 15(21), 3819; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15213819 (registering DOI) - 22 Oct 2025
Abstract
Tunnel engineering is frequently undertaken in complex geological environments, which present heightened risks during construction and operation, particularly in active fault zones. This necessitates the enhancement of fault resistance. This study investigates the combined application of Steel–polypropylene Fiber Concrete Linings and Combined Seismic [...] Read more.
Tunnel engineering is frequently undertaken in complex geological environments, which present heightened risks during construction and operation, particularly in active fault zones. This necessitates the enhancement of fault resistance. This study investigates the combined application of Steel–polypropylene Fiber Concrete Linings and Combined Seismic Joints through numerical simulation using ABAQUS 2023 (Dassault Systèmes, France). The findings demonstrate that this combination significantly enhances the fault resistance of tunnel structures, exhibiting substantial synergistic effects. In comparison with the utilization of Steel–polypropylene Fiber Concrete Linings as a standalone measure, the maximum reductions in longitudinal tensile and compressive strain were found to be 40.1% and 46.7%, respectively. Furthermore, peak equivalent compressive and tensile plastic strains were reduced by 60.3% and 51.1%, and tensile and compressive damage by 4.9% and 17.3%. Further analysis reveals that the steel fiber aspect ratio and the content of both steel and polypropylene fibers have varying effects on suppressing different damage forms in tunnel linings. It is evident that an augmentation in the steel fiber aspect ratio most effectively suppresses plastic zone deformation, while an increase in polypropylene fiber content significantly reduces tensile strain and tensile damage. The optimal level of fault resistance performance is achieved when the steel fiber content is set at 1.90%, the aspect ratio is 60, and the polypropylene fiber content is 0.15%. Furthermore, the adjustment of the combined arrangement parameters enables tunnel structures to adapt more effectively to diverse operational conditions, thus providing flexible design solutions for practical engineering applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
21 pages, 1387 KB  
Article
Optimisation of Storage Parameters for Walnuts Under Controlled Ozone and Temperature Conditions
by Madina Yakiyayeva, Auyelbek Iztayev, Gulzhanat Umirzakova, Fatima Dikhanbayeva and Pernekul Maliktayeva
Processes 2025, 13(11), 3387; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13113387 (registering DOI) - 22 Oct 2025
Abstract
This study aimed to optimise ozone treatment and storage temperature conditions for preserving the quality of Kazakhstani Early-Maturing walnuts. The experiments examined ozone concentration (0.50 and 1.0 mg/m3), treatment duration (30 and 60 min), and storage temperature (+10 and +25 °C). [...] Read more.
This study aimed to optimise ozone treatment and storage temperature conditions for preserving the quality of Kazakhstani Early-Maturing walnuts. The experiments examined ozone concentration (0.50 and 1.0 mg/m3), treatment duration (30 and 60 min), and storage temperature (+10 and +25 °C). Organoleptic, physicochemical, and microbiological characteristics were assessed using standard methods, with statistical analysis performed via regression and multifactorial approaches. Results showed that ozone treatment did not adversely affect sensory qualities but significantly reduced yeast microflora counts by 2–3 times (p < 0.05), improving microbiological stability. Oxidative degradation was inhibited, and rancidity was prevented. The optimal parameters were determined as an ozone concentration of 0.50 mg/m3, treatment duration of 30 min, and storage at +10 °C. Under these conditions, the acid value was 4.40 mg KOH/100 g, the peroxide value 21.0 mmol ½O/kg, and the moisture content 2.0%, all within acceptable limits. These findings confirm that ozone treatment is an effective and eco-friendly method for extending walnut shelf life and maintaining product quality during storage. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Process Engineering)
Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 13391 KB  
Article
Performance of Acoustic, Electro-Acoustic and Optical Sensors in Precise Waveform Analysis of a Plucked and Struck Guitar String
by Jan Jasiński, Marek Pluta, Roman Trojanowski, Julia Grygiel and Jerzy Wiciak
Sensors 2025, 25(21), 6514; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25216514 (registering DOI) - 22 Oct 2025
Abstract
This study presents a comparative performance analysis of three sensor technologies—microphone, magnetic pickup, and laser Doppler vibrometer—for capturing string vibration under varied excitation conditions: striking, plectrum plucking, and wire plucking. Two different magnetic pickups are included in the comparison. Measurements were taken at [...] Read more.
This study presents a comparative performance analysis of three sensor technologies—microphone, magnetic pickup, and laser Doppler vibrometer—for capturing string vibration under varied excitation conditions: striking, plectrum plucking, and wire plucking. Two different magnetic pickups are included in the comparison. Measurements were taken at multiple excitation levels on a simplified electric guitar mounted on a stable platform with repeatable excitation mechanisms. The analysis focuses on each sensor’s capacity to resolve fine-scale waveform features during the initial attack while also taking into account its capability to measure general changes in instrument dynamics and timbre. We evaluate their ability to distinguish vibro-acoustic phenomena resulting from changes in excitation method and strength as well as measurement location. Our findings highlight the significant influence of sensor choice on observable string vibration. While the microphone captures the overall radiated sound, it lacks the required spatial selectivity and offers poor SNR performance 34 dB lower then other methods. Magnetic pickups enable precise string-specific measurements, offering a compelling balance of accuracy and cost-effectiveness. Results show that their low-pass frequency characteristic limits temporal fidelity and must be accounted for when analysing general sound timbre. Laser Doppler vibrometers provide superior micro-temporal fidelity, which can have critical implications for physical modeling, instrument design, and advanced audio signal processing, but have severe practical limitations. Critically, we demonstrate that the required optical target, even when weighing as little as 0.1% of the string’s mass, alters the string’s vibratory characteristics by influencing RMS energy and spectral content. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Deep Learning for Perception and Recognition: Method and Applications)
17 pages, 340 KB  
Article
Antioxidant Capacity of Colostrum of Mothers with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus—A Cross-Sectional Study
by Paulina Gaweł, Karolina Karcz, Natalia Zaręba-Wdowiak and Barbara Królak-Olejnik
Nutrients 2025, 17(21), 3324; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17213324 (registering DOI) - 22 Oct 2025
Abstract
Background: Women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are vulnerable to oxidative stress, yet limited data exist on the antioxidant potential of their breast milk. This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant capacity and basic composition of colostrum in women with GDM compared to [...] Read more.
Background: Women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are vulnerable to oxidative stress, yet limited data exist on the antioxidant potential of their breast milk. This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant capacity and basic composition of colostrum in women with GDM compared to healthy controls, focusing on total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and enzymatic antioxidants: superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). Methods: The study included 77 lactating mothers: 56 with gestational diabetes (15 managed with diet/exercise—GDM G1; 41 required insulin—GDM G2) and 21 healthy controls. Colostrum samples were collected on days 3–5 postpartum and analyzed for macronutrients and antioxidant enzymes. To enable comparisons across study groups and to explore associations with maternal characteristics, a range of statistical methods was applied. A taxonomic (classification) analysis was then performed using the predictors that best fit the data: study group membership, maternal hypothyroidism history (from the medical interview), and gestational weight gain. Results: TAC was significantly lower in the GDM G2 group compared to GDM G1 and controls (p = 0.001), with no differences in enzymatic antioxidants. The control group had the highest energy (p = 0.048) and dry matter content (p = 0.015), while protein, fat, and carbohydrate levels did not differ significantly. After dividing the study group into four clusters, based on maternal health factors, including GDM status and thyroid function, TAC levels differed significantly between clusters, with the highest values observed in Cluster 3 (healthy controls without thyroid dysfunction) and the lowest in Cluster 2 (GDM and hypothyroidism). Analysis of colostrum composition revealed significant differences in energy content (p = 0.047) and dry matter concentration (p = 0.011), while no significant differences were found in other macronutrients. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that maternal metabolic and endocrine conditions, such as GDM and thyroid dysfunction, may differentially influence the nutritional and functional properties of colostrum—particularly its antioxidant potential. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Maternal and Child Nutrition: From Pregnancy to Early Life)
17 pages, 4946 KB  
Article
From Waste to Sustainable Resource: Linking Phyllite Parent Rock Mineralogy to Suitability of Manufactured Sand for Concrete Construction
by Yanxiu Wang, Yang Li, Zhengxiang Liu, Yi Tian, Anqi Yang, Qiang Yuan, Xuekun Tang, Wei Sun, Qingchao Zhao and Mingyuan Wang
Minerals 2025, 15(11), 1098; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15111098 (registering DOI) - 22 Oct 2025
Abstract
The expansion of copper mining operations has led to the accumulation of a large amount of phyllite waste rock. Re-purposing this material into manufactured sand presents a promising solution for its large-scale consumption. In this study, phyllite waste rock from the Dexing Copper [...] Read more.
The expansion of copper mining operations has led to the accumulation of a large amount of phyllite waste rock. Re-purposing this material into manufactured sand presents a promising solution for its large-scale consumption. In this study, phyllite waste rock from the Dexing Copper Mine was used as raw materials to prepare manufactured sand. A precise mineralogical analysis was conducted using Tescan Integrated Mineral Analyzer (TIMA) to determine the mineral composition, intergeneration and distribution relationships, particle size and shape, and elemental distribution. The performance of the resulting manufactured sand was comprehensively evaluated. Key findings showed a needle and flake particle content of 5.2%, a methylene blue (MB) value of 1.3, and a stone powder content of 9%. The physical properties, including solidity, crushing index, density, and porosity, as well as mica content, complied with the national standard GB14684-2022 (Sand for Construction). Additionally, phyllite-sand concrete exhibited a third-month expansion rate below the standard limit of 0.1%, indicating no potential risk for alkali-silica reaction. The radioactive index of the material met the standard requirements, posing no radiation hazard. However, the excessive sulfur compounds in phyllite present a risk of corrosion of the concrete structures, necessitating mitigation measures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Mineralogy and Biogeochemistry)
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 1112 KB  
Article
Metagenomic Analysis of Distribution Characteristics and Driving Mechanisms of Antibiotic Resistance Genes, Virulence Factors, and Microbial Communities in Rice Seedling Cultivation Soils
by Yu Zhong, Chanchan Wu, Zhipeng Yao, Xinyang Li, Hai Chi, Tao Wu and Xinglin Du
Microorganisms 2025, 13(11), 2419; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13112419 (registering DOI) - 22 Oct 2025
Abstract
The extensive utilization of antibiotics in both healthcare and agricultural sectors has precipitated an exponential surge in antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARBs) within environmental matrices, thereby posing formidable threats to ecosystem stability and human health. Given soil’s pivotal role as [...] Read more.
The extensive utilization of antibiotics in both healthcare and agricultural sectors has precipitated an exponential surge in antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARBs) within environmental matrices, thereby posing formidable threats to ecosystem stability and human health. Given soil’s pivotal role as a primary reservoir for ARGs and the inherent potential for these genes to translocate into agricultural produce, this study endeavors to evaluate the distribution patterns of ARGs and virulence factors (VFs) in soils designated for rice seedling cultivation. This study employed metagenomic sequencing to analyze antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), virulence factors (VFs), and microbial communities in four rice seedling cultivation soils. The results revealed significant variations in microbial alpha diversity, community structure, ARGs, and VFs across soils, with multidrug resistance, glycopeptide resistance, and tetracycline resistance genes predominating. The inclusion of organic matter increased the complexity of the microbial network by increasing the levels of ARGs and VFs. Neutral community model analysis revealed that stochastic processes predominantly governed the assembly of microbial taxa, ARGs, and VFs, though ARGs were subject to stronger deterministic pressures. These communities were shaped by the pH, nitrogen, organic carbon content, electrical conductivity, and salinity of the soil. The core Actinobacteria genera acted as key vectors for ARGs and VFs dissemination. Our findings elucidate the complex interactions between microbes, ARGs, and VFs in cultivation soils and highlight that organic matter amendment, while enhancing fertility, can also increase the potential spread of microbial risk genes, underscoring the need for monitoring and managing ARGs and VFs in agricultural soils to mitigate public health risks. Full article
24 pages, 1926 KB  
Article
Understanding the Impact of User Engagement Metrics on the Dissemination of Traditional Culture: A Structural Equation Modeling Analysis of Cantonese Opera Videos on Bilibili
by Chenghong Cen, Jiaqi Hu, Zhuoxian Zhang, Hairong Peng, Tan Jiang and Guang Luo
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(21), 11335; https://doi.org/10.3390/app152111335 (registering DOI) - 22 Oct 2025
Abstract
This study explores the dissemination of Cantonese Opera on Bilibili, a social media platform popular among younger audiences in China, as traditional cultural forms struggle to captivate younger generations. Platforms like Bilibili present opportunities for revitalizing interest in intangible heritage. This research aims [...] Read more.
This study explores the dissemination of Cantonese Opera on Bilibili, a social media platform popular among younger audiences in China, as traditional cultural forms struggle to captivate younger generations. Platforms like Bilibili present opportunities for revitalizing interest in intangible heritage. This research aims to uncover how user engagement metrics influence the visibility and spread of Cantonese Opera content, providing insights for enhancing heritage promotion. Data were collected from 1916 Cantonese Opera videos using Python-based web scraping, focusing on eight user engagement metrics: Likes, Shares, Coins, Comments, Bullet Comments, Fans, Collects, and Plays. In addition to descriptive statistics, exploratory data analyses—including distributional assessment, correlation analysis, and K-means clustering—were conducted to examine engagement heterogeneity and interaction patterns across videos. The structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to analyze the relationships among these metrics and their impact on content dissemination. Results show that Coins and Likes significantly predict Comments and Shares, indicating the importance of both monetary and non-monetary support in fostering interaction. The clustering results revealed three distinct video groups—high, moderate, and low engagement—demonstrating a long-tail pattern typical of social media visibility. Collects and Shares notably increase Plays counts, underscoring the role of curation and social diffusion. However, the negative impact of Coins on Plays reveals complex user motivations. These multi-level analyses provide a comprehensive understanding of engagement mechanisms and heterogeneity. They contribute to understanding the promotion of traditional cultural content through youth-oriented social media and offer practical implications for content creators and cultural institutions leveraging digital media for cultural preservation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances and Applications of Complex Data Analysis and Computing)
21 pages, 2581 KB  
Review
Effects of Yeast Culture Supplementation on Milk Yield and Milk Composition in Holstein Dairy Cows: A Meta-Analysis
by Hongyan Xiang, Xusheng Dong, Xueyan Lin, Qiuling Hou and Zhonghua Wang
Animals 2025, 15(21), 3065; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15213065 (registering DOI) - 22 Oct 2025
Abstract
Yeast culture (YC) is widely used in dairy production to enhance milk yield and quality, yet effects vary due to differences in products, doses, and trial conditions. This meta-analysis evaluated the impact of YC supplementation on milk yield and composition in lactating Holstein [...] Read more.
Yeast culture (YC) is widely used in dairy production to enhance milk yield and quality, yet effects vary due to differences in products, doses, and trial conditions. This meta-analysis evaluated the impact of YC supplementation on milk yield and composition in lactating Holstein cows, aiming to identify effective yeast culture types, dosages, and duration of use. A systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, and CNKI for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from 2000 to 2024 was conducted. Following PICOS criteria, 23 RCTs comprising 32 comparisons and over 3200 cows were included. Data were analyzed using RevMan 5.3 and Stata/MP 15.0 to compute standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals with random-effects models. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were performed. Results showed that YC supplementation significantly improved milk yield (SMD = 2.14), fat (SMD = 0.57), protein (SMD = 1.34), and lactose content (SMD = 0.61). Subgroup analysis revealed that supplementation with saccharomyces cerevisiae at a dosage of 10–50 g/d effectively increased milk yield during lactation 42–56 d. In contrast, during the lactation 21–30 d, different dosages of saccharomyces cerevisiae exerted differential effects on milk composition: supplementation at 60–120 g/d contributed to an increase in milk fat content, while supplementation at 10–50 g/d significantly enhanced milk protein level. Furthermore, lactose content was not significantly associated with the feeding period of saccharomyces cerevisiae; however, high-dose (>120 g/d) could significantly increase lactose content. Significant heterogeneity (I2 = 70.7–89.6%) was observed, largely due to strain and dose variations. In conclusion, YC effectively enhances milk production and composition, with optimal outcomes depending on yeast type, dose, and duration, providing evidence-based recommendations for targeted supplementation strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cattle)
22 pages, 3237 KB  
Article
Quantifying Field Soil Moisture, Temperature, and Heat Flux Using an Informer–LSTM Deep Learning Model
by Na Li, Xiaoxiao Sun, Peng Wang, Wenke Wang and Zhitong Ma
Agronomy 2025, 15(11), 2453; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15112453 (registering DOI) - 22 Oct 2025
Abstract
Understanding water and heat transport through soils is vital for managing soil and groundwater resources, agricultural irrigation, and ecosystem protection. This paper aims to explore the potential application of deep learning methods in simulating water and heat transport processes within soils. It also [...] Read more.
Understanding water and heat transport through soils is vital for managing soil and groundwater resources, agricultural irrigation, and ecosystem protection. This paper aims to explore the potential application of deep learning methods in simulating water and heat transport processes within soils. It also examines the interactions between soil hydrological processes and environmental factors, including meteorological conditions and groundwater levels. To achieve these, we develop a hybrid model Informer–LSTM by combining two powerful architectures: Informer, a Transformer-based model essentially designed for long-sequence time-series forecasting, and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), a neural network that is great at learning short-term patterns in sequential data. The model is applied to field measurements from Henan Township in Ordos, Inner Mongolia, China, for training and testing, to simulate three key variables: soil water content, temperature, and heat flux at different depths in two soil columns with different groundwater levels. Our results confirm that Informer–LSTM is highly effective at simulating the soil water and heat transport. Simultaneously, we evaluate its performance by incorporating various combinations of input data including meteorological data, soil hydrothermal dynamics, and groundwater level. This reveals the relationship between soil hydrothermal processes and meteorological data, as well as coupled processes of soil water and heat transport. Moreover, employing SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) analysis, we identify the most influential factors for predicting heat flux in shallow soils. This research demonstrates that deep learning models are a viable and valuable tool for simulating soil hydrothermal processes in arid and semi-arid regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agroclimatology and Crop Production: Adapting to Climate Change)
13 pages, 1216 KB  
Article
Thermochemical Characteristics of Anaerobic Dairy Digestate and Its Pyrolysis Conversion for Producing Porous Carbon Materials
by Chi-Hung Tsai, Hervan Marion Morgan and Wen-Tien Tsai
Processes 2025, 13(11), 3380; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13113380 (registering DOI) - 22 Oct 2025
Abstract
In the present study, slurry digestate from a centralized anaerobic digestion (AD) plant, designed for dairy manure treatment and biogas-to-power generation, was utilized as a precursor for the preparation of porous biochars at elevated temperatures ranging from 550 to 850 °C. Proximate analysis [...] Read more.
In the present study, slurry digestate from a centralized anaerobic digestion (AD) plant, designed for dairy manure treatment and biogas-to-power generation, was utilized as a precursor for the preparation of porous biochars at elevated temperatures ranging from 550 to 850 °C. Proximate analysis and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were conducted to determine the thermochemical characteristics of the dried digestate and to explain its complex nature in relation to the physicochemical properties of the resulting biochars. Despite the substantial ash content of the precursor biowaste (approximately 30 wt%), primarily composed of inorganic compounds from calcium, the pore properties of the digestate-derived biochars had an overall increasing trend with regard to rising pyrolysis temperature. Nevertheless, some inconsistencies were observed between the samples produced at 550 °C and 850 °C, which highlighted the heterogeneous and complex nature of the precursor digestate. These observations can be attributed to active pyrolysis and the charring of the lignocellulosic components. The maximum Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area exceeded 200 m2/g when pyrolysis was performed at 850 °C. Nitrogen (N2) adsorption–desorption isotherms and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed that the porous digestate-based biochars predominantly exhibited both type I (microporous) and type IV (mesoporous) characteristics. Furthermore, the analytical results of energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) indicated that oxygen-containing surface functional groups on the resulting biochars were retained after pyrolysis. The surface of the digestate-based biochar was also confirmed to be negatively charged at pH > 3.2. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomass Pyrolysis Characterization and Energy Utilization)
24 pages, 832 KB  
Article
Co-Application of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi and Silicon Nanoparticles: A Strategy for Optimizing Volatile Profile, Phenolic Content, and Flower Yield in Rosa damascena Genotypes
by Nasrin Gharaei, Ali Nikbakht, Mehdi Rahimmalek and Antoni Szumny
Agriculture 2025, 15(21), 2188; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15212188 (registering DOI) - 22 Oct 2025
Abstract
This study investigated the individual and synergistic impacts of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) inoculation and foliar-applied silicon nanoparticles (SiNPs) on the yield parameters, volatile profile, and phenolic composition of two Rosa damascena genotypes (D231 and C193). Experiments were conducted using a split–split–plot design, [...] Read more.
This study investigated the individual and synergistic impacts of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) inoculation and foliar-applied silicon nanoparticles (SiNPs) on the yield parameters, volatile profile, and phenolic composition of two Rosa damascena genotypes (D231 and C193). Experiments were conducted using a split–split–plot design, involving AMF inoculation (main plot), three SiNPs concentrations (subplot), and two rose genotypes (sub-subplot). The results demonstrated that AMF, SiNPs, and genotype all had significant and interactive effects on flower yield parameters. Foliar application of SiNPs, particularly when combined with AMF inoculation, consistently enhanced flowering parameters, including flower size, number, and weight across both genotypes. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) further confirmed that phenolic acids (vanillic acid and rutin) increased following foliar application of SiNPs and AMF root colonization, particularly in genotype C193. SPME-Arrow analysis revealed that alcohols, ketones, and terpenes were the predominant volatile constituents. Phenethyl alcohol was the most abundant compound, accounting for approximately 84.69% of the total aroma content and contributing significantly to the ‘rose’ aroma. Other major volatiles included 2-undecanone (4.42%), benzyl alcohol (2.97%), and citronellol (1.95%); however, their levels varied depending on treatment and genotype. These findings highlight that the combined application of AMF and SiNPs offers a sustainable approach to enhancing both the quantitative yield and qualitative phytochemical composition (essential oil components and phenolic compounds) of R. damascena, providing a scientific foundation for optimizing its production in organic farming systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Strategies for Resource Extraction from Agricultural Products)
12 pages, 1272 KB  
Article
Molecular Dynamics Study on the Molar Ratio-Dependent Interaction Regulation Mechanisms in CL-20/FOX-7 Energetic Cocrystal Explosives
by Ruikang Zheng, Yuling Wang, Tao Wang, Shuchang Li, Yibo Luo, Xingyu Liu, Kaizeng Quan and Shusheng Zhang
Crystals 2025, 15(11), 912; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst15110912 (registering DOI) - 22 Oct 2025
Abstract
The growing demand for safe and reliable weaponry has heightened performance requirements for explosives. Cocrystal systems, offering a balance between high energy density and safety, have become key targets in advanced energetic material research. However, the influence of molar ratios and crystal facets [...] Read more.
The growing demand for safe and reliable weaponry has heightened performance requirements for explosives. Cocrystal systems, offering a balance between high energy density and safety, have become key targets in advanced energetic material research. However, the influence of molar ratios and crystal facets on thermal sensitivity, mechanical strength, and detonation properties remains underexplored. This study investigates cocrystals of hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane (CL-20) and 1,1-diamino-2,2-dinitroethylene (FOX-7) with molar ratios of 3:1, 5:1, and 8:1 on the (1 0 1) crystal facet, using the Forcite module in Materials Studio. Comparative analysis with (0 1 1) facet and pure explosives revealed that the 5:1 cocrystal achieved the highest cohesive energy density (0.773 kJ/cm3) and theoretical crystal density (1.953 g/cm3), driven by strong electrostatic and non-bonded interactions—indicating superior detonation performance. In contrast, the 3:1 cocrystal displayed optimal mechanical strength, with an elastic modulus of 8.562 GPa and shear modulus of 3.365 GPa, suitable for practical applications. The results suggest increasing CL-20 content enhances energy performance up to a point, beyond which structural loosening occurs (8:1 ratio) due to steric hindrance weakening van der Waals forces. This work clarifies how molar ratio regulates the influence between sensitivity, strength, and energy, providing guidance for designing application-specific high-energy cocrystals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Inorganic Crystalline Materials)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 595 KB  
Article
Development and Validation of Social Trust Scale for Chinese Adolescents (STS-CA)
by Youling Bai, Luoxuan Li, Yuhan Yang and Yanling Liu
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(11), 1436; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15111436 (registering DOI) - 22 Oct 2025
Abstract
Social trust is a crucial factor influencing adolescents’ mental health and serves as a cornerstone for social stability. However, there is a lack of a reliable measurement tool specifically designed to assess the psychological characteristics of adolescents’ social trust. This study aimed to [...] Read more.
Social trust is a crucial factor influencing adolescents’ mental health and serves as a cornerstone for social stability. However, there is a lack of a reliable measurement tool specifically designed to assess the psychological characteristics of adolescents’ social trust. This study aimed to develop and validate the Chinese Adolescent Social Trust Scale (STS-CA). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 45 adolescents (aged 12 to17 years) to generate an initial pool of scale items. Subsequently, eighteen psychological experts evaluated the content validity, and the scale was revised based on their feedback, resulting in a preliminary version. A total of 2036 secondary school students were randomly divided into Sample 1 and Sample 2. Sample 1 (N1 = 1018) was used in item analysis and exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Sample 2 (N2 = 1018) was utilized for confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Sample 3 (N3 = 1214) was recruited to assess the scale’s reliability, validity, and measurement equivalence. Two months later, test–retest reliability analysis was assessed using Sample 4 (N4 = 303). The final STS-CA consists of 27 items covering four factors, namely trust in relatives, trust in friends, trust in strangers, and trust in organizations. The scale demonstrated good internal consistency reliability, test–retest reliability, convergent validity, and discriminant validity. Correlations between the STS-CA subscale scores and external criterion variables—interpersonal trust, trust propensity, and life satisfaction—supported criterion validity. Additionally, the scale exhibited good measurement equivalence across gender and educational stages. Overall, our findings demonstrate that the STS-CA is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing social trust levels among Chinese adolescents. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Social Psychology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 1865 KB  
Article
Microbial and Chemical Stability of Unpreserved Atropine Sulfate 0.01% w/w Eye Drops—A Pilot Study on the Impact of Dispenser Type and Storage Temperature over 12 Weeks of Daily Use After Compounding
by Victoria Klang, Stefan Brenner, Johanna Grabner, Philip Unzeitig, My Vanessa Nguyen Hoang, Maria Lummerstorfer, Roman Pichler, Katja Steiner and Richard D. Harvey
Life 2025, 15(11), 1646; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15111646 (registering DOI) - 22 Oct 2025
Abstract
Progressive myopia in children is a highly prevalent condition in societies worldwide and is often treated with compounded low-dose atropine sulfate (AS) eye drops without preserving agents to avoid irritation/sensitisation. Surprisingly, there is a lack of data regarding the in-use stability of contamination-free [...] Read more.
Progressive myopia in children is a highly prevalent condition in societies worldwide and is often treated with compounded low-dose atropine sulfate (AS) eye drops without preserving agents to avoid irritation/sensitisation. Surprisingly, there is a lack of data regarding the in-use stability of contamination-free LDPE dispenser units (CFDs) for this compounded multidose product, which causes uncertainty among prescribers and patients in Europe. Thus, our aim was to compare the effect of different dispenser types on the chemical and microbial stability of unpreserved AS eye drops (0.01% w/w). A dripping simulation was performed to obtain information on microbial stability over 4 weeks through plating and separately over 12 weeks through direct inoculation, HPLC and pH analysis. For CFDs, no contamination was found after 4, 8 or 12 weeks of use when stored at 23 or 4 °C as opposed to the control. AS content remained within 0.01 ± 0.0002% w/w after 12 weeks, with higher chemical stability at 4 °C despite decreasing pH. A stress test confirmed the validity of the CFD system. In conclusion, using CFDs and refrigerated storage was found to be safe for compounded unpreserved AS eye drops over 12 weeks of use. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dive into Myopia)
28 pages, 3266 KB  
Article
The Journey of Mango: How the Shipping Systems Affect Fruit Quality, Consumer Acceptance, and Environmental Impact
by Cosimo Taiti, Bruno Bighignoli, Giulia Mozzo, Elettra Marone, Elisa Masi, Diego Comparini and Edgardo Giordani
Plants 2025, 14(21), 3241; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14213241 (registering DOI) - 22 Oct 2025
Abstract
Mango (Mangifera indica L.) is a popular tropical fruit enjoyed worldwide, with Europe being a significant importer of this fruit. Its climacteric nature and short shelf-life pose challenges for maintaining quality, while emissions from transportation threaten the sustainability of the supply chain. [...] Read more.
Mango (Mangifera indica L.) is a popular tropical fruit enjoyed worldwide, with Europe being a significant importer of this fruit. Its climacteric nature and short shelf-life pose challenges for maintaining quality, while emissions from transportation threaten the sustainability of the supply chain. This highlights the importance of low-impact logistics in maintaining fruit quality. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of fresh mangoes in Italy by comparing the different shipping systems (air, sea, and road) for seven cultivars sourced from seven countries. Quality assessment included pomological analysis, PTR-ToF-MS for volatile profiling (n = 11 cultivars × 2 years × 3 replicates), and consumer sensory analysis (n = 65 for untrained panellists in 1 year, n = 8 for trained panellists over 2 years). Results indicated that air and truck transport better preserved fruit quality compared to sea freight, primarily due to shorter transit times, which allowed for harvesting at more advanced ripeness stages. The combination of PTR-ToF-MS and PLS-DA effectively differentiated samples based on the method of transport, showcasing its potential as a quick quality monitoring tool. Mangoes transported by air showed significantly higher levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), a 29% greater total soluble solids (TSSs) content, and a 44% lower acidity (TA). Sensorial tests indicated that consumers preferred these mangoes. However, air transport resulted in 30 times higher CO2 emissions per kg of fruit compared to sea freight (~642,117 CO2e (kg) vs. ~19,132 CO2e (kg)), highlighting a critical dilemma between sustainability and quality. These findings provide a framework for developing hybrid logistics strategies that strike a balance between preserving quality and environmental responsibility. Additionally, they support the development of European mango cultivation, which can optimise harvest timing, reduce emissions, and enhance fruit quality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Based Foods and By-Products)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop