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32 pages, 17593 KiB  
Review
Responsive Therapeutic Environments: A Dual-Track Review of the Research Literature and Design Case Studies in Art Therapy for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
by Jing Liang, Jingxuan Jiang, Jinghao Hei and Jiaqi Zhang
Buildings 2025, 15(15), 2735; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15152735 (registering DOI) - 3 Aug 2025
Abstract
Art therapy serves as a crucial intervention modality for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), demonstrating unique value in emotional expression, sensory integration, and social communication. However, current practice presents critical challenges, including the disconnect between design expertise and clinical needs, unclear mechanisms [...] Read more.
Art therapy serves as a crucial intervention modality for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), demonstrating unique value in emotional expression, sensory integration, and social communication. However, current practice presents critical challenges, including the disconnect between design expertise and clinical needs, unclear mechanisms of environmental factors’ impact on therapeutic outcomes, and insufficient evidence-based support for technology integration. Purpose: This study aimed to construct an evidence-based theoretical framework for art therapy environment design for children with autism, clarifying the relationship between environmental design elements and therapeutic effectiveness. Methodology: Based on the Web of Science database, this study employed a dual-track approach comprising bibliometric analysis and micro-qualitative content analysis to systematically examine the knowledge structure and developmental trends. Research hotspots were identified through keyword co-occurrence network analysis using CiteSpace, while 24 representative design cases were analyzed to gain insights into design concepts, emerging technologies, and implementation principles. Key Findings: Through keyword network visualization analysis, this study identified ten primary research clusters that were systematically categorized into four core design elements: sensory feedback design, behavioral guidance design, emotional resonance design, and therapeutic support design. A responsive therapeutic environment conceptual framework was proposed, encompassing four interconnected components based on the ABC model from positive psychology: emotional, sensory, environmental, and behavioral dimensions. Evidence-based design principles were established emphasizing child-centeredness, the promotion of multisensory expression, the achievement of dynamic feedback, and appropriate technology integration. Research Contribution: This research establishes theoretical connections between environmental design elements and art therapy effectiveness, providing a systematic design guidance framework for interdisciplinary teams, including environmental designers, clinical practitioners, technology developers, and healthcare administrators. The framework positions technology as a therapeutic mediator rather than a driver, ensuring technological integration supports rather than interferes with children’s natural creative impulses. This contributes to creating more effective environmental spaces for art therapy activities for children with autism while aligning with SDG3 goals for promoting mental health and reducing inequalities in therapeutic access. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Art and Design for Healing and Wellness in the Built Environment)
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21 pages, 7537 KiB  
Article
Variable Step-Size FxLMS Algorithm Based on Cooperative Coupling of Double Nonlinear Functions
by Jialong Wang, Jian Liao, Lin He, Xiaopeng Tan and Zongbin Chen
Symmetry 2025, 17(8), 1222; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17081222 (registering DOI) - 2 Aug 2025
Abstract
Based on the principle of symmetry, we propose a variable step-size FxLMS algorithm with double nonlinear functions cooperative coupling (DNVSS-FxLMS), aiming to optimize the contradiction between convergence rate and steady-state error in the active pressure pulsation control system of hydraulic systems. The algorithm [...] Read more.
Based on the principle of symmetry, we propose a variable step-size FxLMS algorithm with double nonlinear functions cooperative coupling (DNVSS-FxLMS), aiming to optimize the contradiction between convergence rate and steady-state error in the active pressure pulsation control system of hydraulic systems. The algorithm innovatively couples two types of nonlinear mechanisms (rational-fractional and exponential-function-based), constructing a refined error-step mapping relationship to achieve a balance between rapid convergence and low steady-state error. Simulation experiments were conducted considering the complex time-varying operating environment of a simulation-based hydraulic system. The results demonstrate that, when the system undergoes unstable random changes, the DNVSS-FxLMS algorithm converges at least twice as fast as traditional and existing variable step size algorithms, while reducing steady-state error by 2–5 dB. The proposed DNVSS-FxLMS algorithm exhibits significant advantages in convergence rate, steady-state error reduction, and tracking capability, providing a highly efficient and robust solution for real-time active control of hydraulic system pressure pulsation under complex operating conditions. Full article
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24 pages, 13038 KiB  
Article
Simulation and Analysis of Electric Thermal Coupling for Corrosion Damage of Metro Traction Motor Bearings
by Haisheng Yang, Zhanwang Shi, Xuelan Wang, Jiahang Zhang, Run Zhang and Hengdi Wang
Machines 2025, 13(8), 680; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines13080680 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
With the electrification of generator sets, electric locomotives, new energy vehicles, and other industries, AC motors subject bearings to an electric field environment, leading to galvanic corrosion due to the use of variable frequency power supply drives. The phenomenon of bearing discharge breakdown [...] Read more.
With the electrification of generator sets, electric locomotives, new energy vehicles, and other industries, AC motors subject bearings to an electric field environment, leading to galvanic corrosion due to the use of variable frequency power supply drives. The phenomenon of bearing discharge breakdown in subway traction motors is a critical issue in understanding the relationship between shaft current strength and the extent of bearing damage. This paper analyzes the mechanism of impulse discharge that leads to galvanic corrosion damage in bearings at a microscopic level and conducts electric thermal coupling simulations of the traction motor bearing discharge breakdown process. It examines the temperature rise associated with lubricant film discharge breakdown during the dynamic operation of the bearing and investigates how breakdown channel parameters and operational conditions affect the temperature rise in the micro-region of bearing lubrication. Ultimately, the results of the electric thermal coupling simulation are validated through experimental tests. This study revealed that in an electric field environment, the load-bearing area of the outer ring experiences significantly more severe corrosion damage than the inner ring, whereas non-bearing areas remain unaffected by electrolytic corrosion. When the inner ring reaches a speed of 4500_rpm, the maximum widths of electrolytic corrosion pits for the outer and inner rings are measured at 89 um and 51 um, respectively. Additionally, the highest recorded temperatures for the breakdown channels in the outer and inner rings are 932 °C and 802 °C, respectively. Furthermore, as the inner ring speed increases, both the width of the electrolytic corrosion pits and the temperature of the breakdown channels rise. Specifically, at inner ring speeds of 2500_rpm, 3500_rpm, and 4500_rpm, the widths of the electrolytic pits in the outer ring raceway load zone were measured at 34 um, 56 um, and 89 um, respectively. The highest temperatures of the lubrication film breakdown channels were recorded as 612 °C, 788 °C, and 932 °C, respectively. This study provides a theoretical basis and data support for the protective and maintenance practices of traction motor bearings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Electrical Machines and Drives)
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28 pages, 694 KiB  
Article
Artificial Intelligence-Enabled Digital Transformation in Circular Logistics: A Structural Equation Model of Organizational, Technological, and Environmental Drivers
by Ionica Oncioiu, Diana Andreea Mândricel and Mihaela Hortensia Hojda
Logistics 2025, 9(3), 102; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics9030102 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Digital transformation is increasingly present in modern logistics, especially in the context of sustainability and circularity pressures. The integration of technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT), Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), and automated platforms involves not only infrastructure but also a [...] Read more.
Background: Digital transformation is increasingly present in modern logistics, especially in the context of sustainability and circularity pressures. The integration of technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT), Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), and automated platforms involves not only infrastructure but also a strategic vision, a flexible organizational culture, and the ability to support decisions through artificial intelligence (AI)-based systems. Methods: This study proposes an extended conceptual model using structural equation modelling (SEM) to explore the relationships between five constructs: technological change, strategic and organizational readiness, transformation environment, AI-enabled decision configuration, and operational redesign. The model was validated based on a sample of 217 active logistics specialists, coming from sectors such as road transport, retail, 3PL logistics services, and manufacturing. The participants are involved in the digitization of processes, especially in activities related to operational decisions and sustainability. Results: The findings reveal that the analysis confirms statistically significant relationships between organizational readiness, transformation environment, AI-based decision processes, and operational redesign. Conclusions: The study highlights the importance of an integrated approach in which technology, organizational culture, and advanced decision support collectively contribute to the transition to digital and circular logistics chains. Full article
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26 pages, 1669 KiB  
Article
Predefined-Time Adaptive Neural Control with Event-Triggering for Robust Trajectory Tracking of Underactuated Marine Vessels
by Hui An, Zhanyang Yu, Jianhua Zhang, Xinxin Wang and Cheng Siong Chin
Processes 2025, 13(8), 2443; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13082443 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
This paper addresses the trajectory tracking control problem of underactuated ships in ocean engineering, which faces the dual challenges of tracking error time–performance regulation and robustness design due to the system’s underactuated characteristics, model uncertainties, and external disturbances. Aiming to address the issues [...] Read more.
This paper addresses the trajectory tracking control problem of underactuated ships in ocean engineering, which faces the dual challenges of tracking error time–performance regulation and robustness design due to the system’s underactuated characteristics, model uncertainties, and external disturbances. Aiming to address the issues of traditional finite-time control (convergence time dependent on initial states) and fixed-time control (control chattering and parameter conservativeness), this paper proposes a predefined-time adaptive control framework that integrates an event-triggered mechanism and neural networks. By constructing a Lyapunov function with time-varying weights and designing non-periodic dynamically updated dual triggering conditions, the convergence process of tracking errors is strictly constrained within a user-prespecified time window without relying on initial states or introducing non-smooth terms. An adaptive approximator based on radial basis function neural networks (RBF-NNs) is employed to compensate for unknown nonlinear dynamics and external disturbances in real-time. Combined with the event-triggered mechanism, it dynamically adjusts the update instances of control inputs, ensuring prespecified tracking accuracy while significantly reducing computational resource consumption. Theoretical analysis shows that all signals in the closed-loop system are uniformly ultimately bounded, tracking errors converge to a neighborhood of the origin within the predefined-time, and the update frequency of control inputs exhibits a linear relationship with the predefined-time, avoiding Zeno behavior. Simulation results verify the effectiveness of the proposed method in complex marine environments. Compared with traditional control strategies, it achieves more accurate trajectory tracking, faster response, and a substantial reduction in control input update frequency, providing an efficient solution for the engineering implementation of embedded control systems in unmanned ships. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design and Analysis of Adaptive Identification and Control)
19 pages, 9733 KiB  
Article
Complementary Relationship-Based Validation and Analysis of Evapotranspiration in the Permafrost Region of the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau
by Wenjun Yu, Yining Xie, Yanzhong Li, Amit Kumar, Wei Shao and Yonghua Zhao
Atmosphere 2025, 16(8), 932; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16080932 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
The Complementary Relationship (CR) principle of evapotranspiration provides an efficient approach for estimating actual evapotranspiration (ETa), owing to its simplified computation and effectiveness in utilizing meteorological factors. Accurate estimation of actual evapotranspiration (ETa) is crucial for understanding surface energy [...] Read more.
The Complementary Relationship (CR) principle of evapotranspiration provides an efficient approach for estimating actual evapotranspiration (ETa), owing to its simplified computation and effectiveness in utilizing meteorological factors. Accurate estimation of actual evapotranspiration (ETa) is crucial for understanding surface energy and water cycles, especially in permafrost regions. This study aims to evaluate the applicability of two Complementary Relationship (CR)-based methods—Bouchet’s in 1963 and Brutsaert’s in 2015—for estimating ETa on the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau (QTP), using observations from Eddy Covariance (EC) systems. The potential evapotranspiration (ETp) was calculated using the Penman equation with two wind functions: the Rome wind function and the Monin–Obukhov Similarity Theory (MOST). The comparison revealed that Bouchet’s method underestimated ETa during frozen soil periods and overestimated it during thawed periods. In contrast, Brutsaert’s method combined with the MOST yielded the lowest RMSE values (0.67–0.70 mm/day) and the highest correlation coefficients (r > 0.85), indicating superior performance. Sensitivity analysis showed that net radiation (Rn) had the strongest influence on ETa, with a daily sensitivity coefficient of up to 1.35. This study highlights the improved accuracy and reliability of Brutsaert’s CR method in cold alpine environments, underscoring the importance of considering freeze–thaw dynamics in ET modeling. Future research should incorporate seasonal calibration of key parameters (e.g., ε) to further reduce uncertainty. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Meteorology)
12 pages, 815 KiB  
Article
Profiles of Sensitivity to Antibiotics and Heavy Metals in Strains of Pseudomonas mendocina Isolates from Leachate Pond
by Aura Falco, Alejandra Mondragón-Quiguanas, Laura Burbano, Miguel Ángel Villaquirán-Muriel, Adriana Correa and Carlos Aranaga
Antibiotics 2025, 14(8), 781; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14080781 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objetives: Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a multifaceted issue that the World Health Organization (WHO) identifies as one of the primary threats to global health for humans, animals, and the environment. In Colombia, AMR has been extensively studied at the hospital level; however, [...] Read more.
Background/Objetives: Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a multifaceted issue that the World Health Organization (WHO) identifies as one of the primary threats to global health for humans, animals, and the environment. In Colombia, AMR has been extensively studied at the hospital level; however, there are limited environmental studies, particularly concerning leachates from landfills. The objective of this study was to identify and determine the genetic relationships, as well as the sensitivity profiles to antibiotics and heavy metals, of ten Pseudomonas mendocina isolates from a leachate pond. Methods: Identification was conducted using MALDI-TOF (Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight), while genotyping was performed via rep-PCR. Antibiotic susceptibility to β-lactams, aminoglycosides, and quinolones was assessed using the Kirby-Bauer method. Additionally, sensitivity profile to heavy metals was evaluated using the broth microdilution technique. Results: Rep-PCR analysis indicated that 60% (n = 6/10) of the isolates exhibited a clonal relationship. Sensitivity testing revealed that 30% (n = 3/10) of the isolates displayed reduced sensitivity to aminoglycosides and β-lactams. Finally, the broth microdilution showed that 90% (n = 9/10) of the isolates were tolerant to copper sulfate. Conclusions: These results provide evidence that landfill leachates may serve as a potential reservoir for bacteria harboring antimicrobial resistance determinants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Resistance: The Role of Aquatic Environments)
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20 pages, 2054 KiB  
Article
Change Management in Aviation Organizations: A Multi-Method Theoretical Framework for External Environmental Uncertainty
by Ilona Skačkauskienė and Virginija Leonavičiūtė
Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 6994; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17156994 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
In today’s dynamic and highly uncertain environment, organizations, particularly in the aviation sector, face increasing challenges that demand resilient, flexible, and data-driven change management decisions. Responding to the growing need for structured approaches to managing complex uncertainties—geopolitical tensions, economic volatility, social shifts, rapid [...] Read more.
In today’s dynamic and highly uncertain environment, organizations, particularly in the aviation sector, face increasing challenges that demand resilient, flexible, and data-driven change management decisions. Responding to the growing need for structured approaches to managing complex uncertainties—geopolitical tensions, economic volatility, social shifts, rapid technological advancements, environmental pressures and regulatory changes—this research proposes a theoretical change management model for aviation service providers, such as airports. Integrating three analytical approaches, the model offers a robust, multi-method approach for supporting sustainable transformation under uncertainty. Normative analysis using Bayesian decision theory identifies influential external environmental factors, capturing probabilistic relationships, and revealing causal links under uncertainty. Prescriptive planning through scenario theory explores alternative future pathways and helps to identify possible predictions, offer descriptive evaluation employing fuzzy comprehensive evaluation, and assess decision quality under vagueness and complexity. The proposed four-stage model—observation, analysis, evaluation, and response—offers a methodology for continuous external environment monitoring, scenario development, and data-driven, proactive change management decision-making, including the impact assessment of change and development. The proposed model contributes to the theoretical advancement of the change management research area under uncertainty and offers practical guidance for aviation organizations (airports) facing a volatile external environment. This framework strengthens aviation organizations’ ability to anticipate, evaluate, and adapt to multifaceted external changes, supporting operational flexibility and adaptability and contributing to the sustainable development of aviation services. Supporting aviation organizations with tools to proactively manage systemic uncertainty, this research directly supports the integration of sustainability principles, such as resilience and adaptability, for long-term value creation through change management decision-making. Full article
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24 pages, 2751 KiB  
Article
Double Wishbone Suspension: A Computational Framework for Parametric 3D Kinematic Modeling and Simulation Using Mathematica
by Muhammad Waqas Arshad, Stefano Lodi and David Q. Liu
Technologies 2025, 13(8), 332; https://doi.org/10.3390/technologies13080332 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
The double wishbone suspension (DWS) system is widely used in automotive engineering because of its favorable kinematic properties, which affect vehicle dynamics, handling, and ride comfort; hence, it is important to have an accurate 3D model, simulation, and analysis of the system in [...] Read more.
The double wishbone suspension (DWS) system is widely used in automotive engineering because of its favorable kinematic properties, which affect vehicle dynamics, handling, and ride comfort; hence, it is important to have an accurate 3D model, simulation, and analysis of the system in order to optimize its design. This requires efficient computational tools for parametric study. The development of effective computational tools that support parametric exploration stands as an essential requirement. Our research demonstrates a complete Wolfram Mathematica system that creates parametric 3D kinematic models and conducts simulations, performs analyses, and generates interactive visualizations of DWS systems. The system uses homogeneous transformation matrices to establish the spatial relationships between components relative to a global coordinate system. The symbolic geometric parameters allow designers to perform flexible design exploration and the kinematic constraints create an algebraic equation system. The numerical solution function NSolve computes linkage positions from input data, which enables fast evaluation of different design parameters. The integrated 3D visualization module based on Mathematica’s manipulate function enables users to see immediate results of geometric configurations and parameter effects while calculating exact 3D coordinates. The resulting robust, systematic, and flexible computational environment integrates parametric 3D design, kinematic simulation, analysis, and dynamic visualization for DWS, serving as a valuable and efficient tool for engineers during the design, development, assessment, and optimization phases of these complex automotive systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Manufacturing Technology)
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21 pages, 2557 KiB  
Article
Coupling Patterns Between Urbanization and the Water Environment: A Case Study of Neijiang City, Sichuan Province, China
by Xiaofan Min, Jirong Liu, Yanlin Liu, Jie Zhou and Jiangtao Zhao
Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 6993; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17156993 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
The ongoing advancement of urbanization has significantly amplified its impacts on the water environment. Understanding the coupling relationships between urbanization and the water environment (UAWE) is crucial for Chinese policymakers aiming to promote sustainable urban development. In this study, a comprehensive UAWE evaluation [...] Read more.
The ongoing advancement of urbanization has significantly amplified its impacts on the water environment. Understanding the coupling relationships between urbanization and the water environment (UAWE) is crucial for Chinese policymakers aiming to promote sustainable urban development. In this study, a comprehensive UAWE evaluation model was developed to examine the development trajectories in Neijiang City from 2012 to 2022. Methodologically, a comprehensive evaluation approach was applied to assess urbanization and water resource trends over this period, followed by the development of a Coupling Coordination Degree Model (CCDM) to quantify their synergistic relationship. The results showed that the coupling between the comprehensive urbanization index and the water environment system evolved over time, as reflected in the following key findings: (1) Neijiang underwent three distinct stages from 2012 to 2022 in terms of coupling and coordination between urbanization and the water environment: Basic Coordination (2012–2015), Good Coordination (2016–2020), and Excellent Coordination (2020–2022). (2) Urbanization exerted varying impacts on subsystems of the water environment, with the pressure-response subsystems exhibiting marked volatility from 2012 to 2022. The impact intensity followed the order spatial urbanization > economic urbanization > social urbanization > population urbanization. These findings offer valuable theoretical and practical insights for aligning urban sustainability goals with effective water environment protection measures. This study provides essential guidance for policymakers in Neijiang and similar regions, enabling the development of tailored strategies for sustainable urbanization and enhanced water management. Full article
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24 pages, 3328 KiB  
Review
Ergonomic and Psychosocial Risk Factors and Their Relationship with Productivity: A Bibliometric Analysis
by Gretchen Michelle Vuelvas-Robles, Julio César Cano-Gutiérrez, Jesús Everardo Olguín-Tiznado, Claudia Camargo-Wilson, Juan Andrés López-Barreras and Melissa Airem Cázares-Manríquez
Safety 2025, 11(3), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety11030074 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
This study analyzes the relationship between ergonomic and psychosocial risk factors and labor productivity using a bibliometric approach through a general analysis and one that includes inclusion criteria such as English language, open access, and primary research publications to identify only those articles [...] Read more.
This study analyzes the relationship between ergonomic and psychosocial risk factors and labor productivity using a bibliometric approach through a general analysis and one that includes inclusion criteria such as English language, open access, and primary research publications to identify only those articles that explicitly address the relationship between ergonomic and psychosocial risk factors and labor productivity. It is recognized that both physical and psychosocial conditions of the work environment directly influence workers’ health and organizational performance. For this purpose, a bibliometric review was conducted in academic databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Taylor & Francis, resulting in the selection of 4794 relevant articles for general analysis. Additionally, 116 relevant articles were selected based on the inclusion criteria. Tools and methodologies, such as Rayyan, Excel, VOSviewer 1.6.20, and PRISMA, were used to classify the studies and identify trends, collaboration networks, and geographical distribution. The results reveal a sustained growth in scientific production, with clusters on occupational safety and health, work environment factors, and the characteristics of the population, approach, and methodologies used in the studies. Likewise, Procedia Manufacturing, International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, and Ergonomics stand out as the main sources of publication, while countries such as Sweden, Poland, and the United States lead the scientific production in this field. In addition, the network of co-occurrence of keywords evidences a comprehensive approach that articulates physical or ergonomic and psychosocial risk factors with organizational performance, while the network of authors shows consolidated collaborations and studies focused on analyzing the relationship between physical demands and musculoskeletal disorders from advanced ergonomic approaches. Full article
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23 pages, 5773 KiB  
Article
Climate Activism in Our Part of The World and Methodological Insights on How to Study It
by Rezvaneh Erfani
Youth 2025, 5(3), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/youth5030080 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
This paper presents an ethnographically informed analysis of research in Cairo and Sharm El-Sheikh (Egypt) surrounding the 2022 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Conference of Parties (COP27) summit. I discuss the geopolitics and geopolitical disruptions of researching activism and activist [...] Read more.
This paper presents an ethnographically informed analysis of research in Cairo and Sharm El-Sheikh (Egypt) surrounding the 2022 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Conference of Parties (COP27) summit. I discuss the geopolitics and geopolitical disruptions of researching activism and activist lives in politically sensitive environments. As shown here, developing new methodological interventions plays a crucial role in understanding contextual methodological limitations, dealing with logistical challenges, and building authentic relationships with research participants. Here, I introduce counter-interviews as a methodological strategy to build trust and invest in researcher–participant relationships. This article draws on participant observation, conversations with environmental and climate activists and non-activists in Cairo prior to and after COP27 and in Sharm El-Sheikh during the second week of the summit, reflective field notes, and 20 semi-structured interviews conducted online between February and August 2023. Here, I use the term “environmental non-activism” to draw attention to the sensitivity, complexity, and fragility of political or apolitical environmental and climate action in an authoritarian context where any form of collective action is highly monitored, regulated, and sometimes criminalized by the state. The main argument of this paper is that examining interlocking power dynamics that shape and reshape the activist space in relation to the state is a requirement for understanding and researching the complexities and specificities of climate activism and non-activism in authoritarian contexts. Along with this argument, this paper invites climate education researchers to reevaluate what non-movements and non-activists in the Global South offer to their analyses of possible alternatives, socio-political change, and politics of hope (and to the broader field of activism in educational research, where commitment to disruption, refusal, and subversion play a key role. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Politics of Disruption: Youth Climate Activisms and Education)
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15 pages, 1758 KiB  
Article
Optimized Si-H Content and Multivariate Engineering of PMHS Antifoamers for Superior Foam Suppression in High-Viscosity Systems
by Soyeon Kim, Changchun Liu, Junyao Huang, Xiang Feng, Hong Sun, Xiaoli Zhan, Mingkui Shi, Hongzhen Bai and Guping Tang
Coatings 2025, 15(8), 894; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15080894 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
A modular strategy for the molecular design of silicone-based antifoaming agents was developed by precisely controlling the architecture of poly (methylhydrosiloxane) (PMHS). Sixteen PMHS variants were synthesized by systematically varying the siloxane chain length (L1–L4), backbone composition (D3T1 vs. D [...] Read more.
A modular strategy for the molecular design of silicone-based antifoaming agents was developed by precisely controlling the architecture of poly (methylhydrosiloxane) (PMHS). Sixteen PMHS variants were synthesized by systematically varying the siloxane chain length (L1–L4), backbone composition (D3T1 vs. D30T1), and terminal group chemistry (H- vs. M-type). These structural modifications resulted in a broad range of Si-H functionalities, which were quantitatively analyzed and correlated with defoaming performance. The PMHS matrices were integrated with high-viscosity PDMS, a nonionic surfactant, and covalently grafted fumed silica—which was chemically matched to each PMHS backbone—to construct formulation-specific defoaming systems with enhanced interfacial compatibility and colloidal stability. Comprehensive physicochemical characterization via FT-IR, 1H NMR, GPC, TGA, and surface tension analysis revealed a nonmonotonic relationship between Si-H content and defoaming efficiency. Formulations containing 0.1–0.3 wt% Si-H achieved peak performance, with suppression efficiencies up to 96.6% and surface tensions as low as 18.9 mN/m. Deviations from this optimal range impaired performance due to interfacial over-reactivity or reduced mobility. Furthermore, thermal stability and molecular weight distribution were found to be governed by repeat unit architecture and terminal group selection. Compared with conventional EO/PO-modified commercial defoamers, the PMHS-based systems exhibited markedly improved suppression durability and formulation stability in high-viscosity environments. These results establish a predictive structure–property framework for tailoring antifoaming agents and highlight PMHS-based formulations as advanced foam suppressors with improved functionality. This study provides actionable design criteria for high-performance silicone materials with strong potential for application in thermally and mechanically demanding environments such as coating, bioprocessing, and polymer manufacturing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Functional Polymer Coatings and Films)
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29 pages, 2413 KiB  
Article
From Opportunity to Resistance: A Structural Model of Platform-Based Startup Adoption
by Ruixia Ji, Hong Chen and Sang-Do Park
J. Theor. Appl. Electron. Commer. Res. 2025, 20(3), 187; https://doi.org/10.3390/jtaer20030187 - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
This study explores the determinants of startup intention within the context of e-commerce platform-based startups in South Korea. We employ an extended technology acceptance model (TAM) that integrates individual, social, and entrepreneurial characteristics. A two-step analytical approach is applied, combining variable extraction through [...] Read more.
This study explores the determinants of startup intention within the context of e-commerce platform-based startups in South Korea. We employ an extended technology acceptance model (TAM) that integrates individual, social, and entrepreneurial characteristics. A two-step analytical approach is applied, combining variable extraction through data mining and hypothesis testing using structural equation modeling. The results indicate that personal and social factors—such as entrepreneurial mindset and social influence—positively affect perceived usefulness, while job relevance and exposure to successful startup models enhance perceived ease of use. In contrast, security concerns and technological barriers negatively impact these relationships, posing critical obstacles to platform-based startups. This study extends the TAM framework to the platform-based startup context, offering theoretical contributions and proposing policy implications, including promoting digital literacy, developing entrepreneurial networks, and addressing security and regulatory issues. These insights offer a deeper understanding of how platform environments shape entrepreneurial behavior, providing practical guidance for startup founders, developers, and policymakers. Full article
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14 pages, 5622 KiB  
Article
Molecular Dynamics Simulations on the Deformation Behaviors and Mechanical Properties of the γ/γ′ Superalloy with Different Phase Volume Fractions
by Xinmao Qin, Wanjun Yan, Yilong Liang and Fei Li
Crystals 2025, 15(8), 706; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst15080706 (registering DOI) - 31 Jul 2025
Abstract
Based on molecular dynamics simulation, we conducted a comprehensive study on the tensile behaviors and properties of the γ(Ni)/γ(Ni3Al) superalloy with varying γ(Ni3Al) phase volume fractions (Vγ) under high-temperature, [...] Read more.
Based on molecular dynamics simulation, we conducted a comprehensive study on the tensile behaviors and properties of the γ(Ni)/γ(Ni3Al) superalloy with varying γ(Ni3Al) phase volume fractions (Vγ) under high-temperature, high-strain-rate service environments. Our investigation revealed that the tensile behavior of the superalloy depends critically on the Vγ. When the Vγ increased from 13.5 to 67%, the system’s tensile strength exhibited a non-monotonic response, peaking at Vγ = 40.3% before progressively decreasing. Conversely, the maximum uniform plastic strain decreased linearly and significantly when Vγ increased. These results establish an atomistically informed framework that elucidates the composition–microstructure–property relationships in γ(Ni)/γ(Ni3Al) superalloys, specifically addressing how Vγ governs variations in deformation mechanisms and mechanical performance. Furthermore, this work provides quantitative design paradigm for optimizing γ(Ni3Al) precipitate architecture and compositional tuning in the Ni-based γ(Ni)/γ(Ni3Al) superalloy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in High-Performance Alloys)
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