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15 pages, 279 KiB  
Article
Religious Minorities in the Spanish Public Sphere: Ethnographic Contributions for Improving the Public Management of Religious Diversity
by Óscar Salguero Montaño and Carmen Castilla Vázquez
Religions 2025, 16(7), 932; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel16070932 (registering DOI) - 18 Jul 2025
Abstract
When designing, implementing and assessing public policies, and, in particular, those affecting the public management of religious diversity, it is increasingly common to include ethnographic approaches from the field of social anthropology and the broader social sciences. Ethnographic practice can provide more representative [...] Read more.
When designing, implementing and assessing public policies, and, in particular, those affecting the public management of religious diversity, it is increasingly common to include ethnographic approaches from the field of social anthropology and the broader social sciences. Ethnographic practice can provide more representative and accurate perspectives on the actors, settings, and social phenomena subject to regulation. This article presents the findings of an ethnographic study on two minority religious communities, conducted by a team of anthropologists within the framework of a broader research project on religious freedom in Spain, led by jurists. Based on two case studies—the teaching of Evangelical religion in state schools and Islamic burial practices—our study analyses the implications of the varying degrees of public recognition, as well as how this recognition actually manifests in the everyday practice of religious groups within a context of religious diversity. The study also examines the barriers to the full participation of these communities in public institutions and civil society, as well as the discourses, strategies, and practices they develop to overcome these challenges. Full article
16 pages, 471 KiB  
Systematic Review
Autogenous Transplantation of Teeth Across Clinical Indications: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Martin Baxmann, Karin Christine Huth, Krisztina Kárpáti and Zoltán Baráth
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(14), 5126; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14145126 - 18 Jul 2025
Abstract
Autogenous tooth transplantation offers a biologically favorable approach to tooth replacement, preserving the periodontal ligament, promoting alveolar development, and maintaining proprioception. Background/Objectives: Its broader clinical applicability is limited by variability in techniques and outcome definitions. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the [...] Read more.
Autogenous tooth transplantation offers a biologically favorable approach to tooth replacement, preserving the periodontal ligament, promoting alveolar development, and maintaining proprioception. Background/Objectives: Its broader clinical applicability is limited by variability in techniques and outcome definitions. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the clinical success of autogenous tooth transplantation across donor tooth types, developmental stages, surgical techniques, and fixation methods. Methods: Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines and a PROSPERO-registered protocol (CRD42024625550), five databases and the gray literature were searched through July 2025. Eligible studies reported clinical outcomes for autogenous tooth transplantation. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. A random-effects meta-analysis of logit-transformed proportions was conducted, with subgroup and sensitivity analyses by tooth type, root development stage, surgical technique, and fixation method. Results: Twenty studies involving 1366 transplanted teeth were included. The pooled success rate was 94.0% (95% CI: 22.5%–99.9%) across follow-up periods ranging from one month to twenty-nine years. However, interpretation is limited by distinct heterogeneity (I2 = 99.8%) and the wide confidence interval. Subgroup analyses by tooth type, root maturity, surgical technique, and fixation method are, therefore, emphasized to support clinical interpretation. Conclusions: Autogenous tooth transplantation achieves consistently high success across clinical contexts when biologic handling is respected. These findings support its broader use in dental and orthodontic practice and underscore the need for standardized outcome reporting and prospective research. Interpretation is limited by heterogeneity and variation in reporting standards. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Advances in Endodontics and Dental Traumatology)
27 pages, 1195 KiB  
Review
Visual Perception and Pre-Attentive Attributes in Oncological Data Visualisation
by Roberta Fusco, Vincenza Granata, Sergio Venanzio Setola, Davide Pupo, Teresa Petrosino, Ciro Paolo Lamanna, Mimma Castaldo, Maria Giovanna Riga, Michele A. Karaboue, Francesco Izzo and Antonella Petrillo
Bioengineering 2025, 12(7), 782; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering12070782 - 18 Jul 2025
Abstract
In the era of precision medicine, effective data visualisation plays a pivotal role in supporting clinical decision-making by translating complex, multidimensional datasets into intuitive and actionable insights. This paper explores the foundational principles of visual perception, with a specific focus on pre-attentive attributes [...] Read more.
In the era of precision medicine, effective data visualisation plays a pivotal role in supporting clinical decision-making by translating complex, multidimensional datasets into intuitive and actionable insights. This paper explores the foundational principles of visual perception, with a specific focus on pre-attentive attributes such as colour, shape, size, orientation, and spatial position, which are processed automatically by the human visual system. Drawing from cognitive psychology and perceptual science, we demonstrate how these attributes can enhance the clarity and usability of medical visualisations, reducing cognitive load and improving interpretive speed in high-stakes clinical environments. Through detailed case studies and visual examples, particularly within the field of oncology, we highlight best practices and common pitfalls in the design of dashboards, nomograms, and interactive platforms. We further examine the integration of advanced tools—such as genomic heatmaps and temporal timelines—into multidisciplinary workflows to support personalised care. Our findings underscore that visually intelligent design is not merely an aesthetic concern but a critical factor in clinical safety, efficiency, and communication, advocating for user-centred and evidence-based approaches in the development of health data interfaces. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mathematical Models for Medical Diagnosis and Testing)
24 pages, 4259 KiB  
Article
Development of a Flexible and Conductive Heating Membrane via BSA-Assisted Electroless Plating on Electrospun PVDF-HFP Nanofibers
by Mun Jeong Choi, Dae Hyeob Yoon, Yoo Sei Park, Hyoryung Nam and Geon Hwee Kim
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(14), 8023; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15148023 - 18 Jul 2025
Abstract
Planar heaters are designed to deliver uniform heat across broad surfaces and serve as critical components in applications requiring energy efficiency, safety, and mechanical flexibility, such as wearable electronics and smart textiles. However, conventional metal-based heaters are limited by poor adaptability to curved [...] Read more.
Planar heaters are designed to deliver uniform heat across broad surfaces and serve as critical components in applications requiring energy efficiency, safety, and mechanical flexibility, such as wearable electronics and smart textiles. However, conventional metal-based heaters are limited by poor adaptability to curved or complex surfaces, low mechanical compliance, and susceptibility to oxidation-induced degradation. To overcome these challenges, we applied a protein-assisted electroless copper (Cu) plating strategy to electrospun poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-HFP) nanofiber substrates to fabricate flexible, conductive planar heating membranes. For interfacial functionalization, a protein-based engineering approach using bovine serum albumin (BSA) was employed to facilitate palladium ion coordination and seed formation. The resulting membrane exhibited a dense, continuous Cu coating, low sheet resistance, excellent durability under mechanical deformation, and stable heating performance at low voltages. These results demonstrate that the BSA-assisted strategy can be effectively extended to complex three-dimensional fibrous membranes, supporting its scalability and practical potential for next-generation conformal and wearable planar heaters. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Applied Thermal Engineering)
19 pages, 1728 KiB  
Article
Synergistic Mechanisms of Ecological Compensation and Targeted Poverty Alleviation in Functional Zones: Theoretical Expansion and Practical Implications
by Mingjie Yang, Xiaodong Zhang, Rui Guo, Yaolong Li and Fanglei Zhong
Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6583; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146583 - 18 Jul 2025
Abstract
Against the backdrop of ecological civilization construction and regional coordinated development strategies, functional zone (MFOZ) planning guides national spatial development through differentiated policies. However, a prominent conflict exists between the ecological protection responsibilities and regional development rights in restricted and prohibited development zones, [...] Read more.
Against the backdrop of ecological civilization construction and regional coordinated development strategies, functional zone (MFOZ) planning guides national spatial development through differentiated policies. However, a prominent conflict exists between the ecological protection responsibilities and regional development rights in restricted and prohibited development zones, leading to a vicious cycle of “ecological protection → restricted development → poverty exacerbation”. This paper focuses on the synergistic mechanisms between ecological compensation and targeted poverty alleviation. Based on the capability approach and sustainable development goals (SDGs), it analyzes the dialectical relationship between the two in terms of goal coupling, institutional design, and practical pathways. The study finds that ecological compensation can break the “ecological poverty trap” through the internalization of externalities and the enhancement of livelihood capabilities. Nevertheless, challenges remain, including low compensation standards, unbalanced benefit distribution, and insufficient legalization. Through case studies of the compensation reform in the water source area of Southern Shaanxi, China, and the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) of the European Union, this paper proposes the construction of a long-term mechanism integrating differentiated compensation standards, market-based fund integration, legal guarantees, and capability enhancement. The research emphasizes the need for institutional innovation to balance ecological protection and livelihood improvement, promoting a transition from “blood transfusion” compensation to “hematopoietic” development, thereby offering a Chinese solution for global sustainable development. Full article
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34 pages, 897 KiB  
Review
Writing the Future: Artificial Intelligence, Handwriting, and Early Biomarkers for Parkinson’s Disease Diagnosis and Monitoring
by Giuseppe Marano, Sara Rossi, Ester Maria Marzo, Alice Ronsisvalle, Laura Artuso, Gianandrea Traversi, Antonio Pallotti, Francesco Bove, Carla Piano, Anna Rita Bentivoglio, Gabriele Sani and Marianna Mazza
Biomedicines 2025, 13(7), 1764; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13071764 - 18 Jul 2025
Abstract
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that impairs motor function, including the fine motor control required for handwriting. Traditional diagnostic methods often lack sensitivity and objectivity in the early stages, limiting opportunities for timely intervention. There is a growing need for [...] Read more.
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that impairs motor function, including the fine motor control required for handwriting. Traditional diagnostic methods often lack sensitivity and objectivity in the early stages, limiting opportunities for timely intervention. There is a growing need for non-invasive, accessible tools capable of capturing subtle motor changes that precede overt clinical symptoms. Among early PD manifestations, handwriting impairments such as micrographia have shown potential as digital biomarkers. However, conventional handwriting analysis remains subjective and limited in scope. Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) enable automated analysis of handwriting dynamics, such as pressure, velocity, and fluency, collected via digital tablets and smartpens. These tools support the detection of early-stage PD, monitoring of disease progression, and assessment of therapeutic response. This paper highlights how AI-enhanced handwriting analysis provides a scalable, non-invasive method to support diagnosis, enable remote symptom tracking, and personalize treatment strategies in PD. This approach integrates clinical neurology with computer science and rehabilitation, offering practical applications in telemedicine, digital health, and personalized medicine. By capturing dynamic features often missed by traditional assessments, AI-based handwriting analysis contributes to a paradigm shift in the early detection and long-term management of PD, with broad relevance across neurology, digital diagnostics, and public health innovation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Neurobiology and Clinical Neuroscience)
29 pages, 1581 KiB  
Article
Stakeholders’ Awareness of the Benefits of Passive Retrofit in Nigeria’s Residential Building Sector
by Ayodele Samuel Adegoke, Rotimi Boluwatife Abidoye and Riza Yosia Sunindijo
Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6582; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146582 - 18 Jul 2025
Abstract
There is a growing global interest in making existing buildings more energy-efficient. However, stakeholders seem to have differing views on the matter, especially in developing countries, thus raising the issue of awareness amongst key stakeholders at the operational stage of existing buildings. This [...] Read more.
There is a growing global interest in making existing buildings more energy-efficient. However, stakeholders seem to have differing views on the matter, especially in developing countries, thus raising the issue of awareness amongst key stakeholders at the operational stage of existing buildings. This study aimed to examine stakeholders’ awareness of the benefits of passive retrofit in residential buildings using a convergent mixed-methods approach. Quantitative data were collected from 118 property managers and 163 owners of residential buildings, and qualitative data were collected from six government officials in Lagos State, Nigeria. The quantitative data collected were analysed using fuzzy synthetic evaluation, which addresses the fuzziness in judgement-making on multi-criteria phenomena. The results revealed that property managers and owners had a moderately high level of awareness of the environmental, economic, and social benefits of the passive retrofitting of residential buildings. However, while property managers generally had a higher level of awareness than owners, a significant gap was found in their awareness of environmental benefits. Conversely, the qualitative analysis results showed that government officials demonstrated a strong awareness of environmental benefits (energy reduction, air quality, and natural lighting) and economic advantages (cost savings and lower implementation costs). In contrast, their awareness of social benefits was limited to health improvements. The findings have practical implications for policy development and awareness campaigns. Building agencies need to further reinforce their targeted awareness programmes for owners, who demonstrated fair awareness of environmental benefits while leveraging the intermediary role of property managers in promoting home retrofit practices. Economic benefits should also be an integral part of policy frameworks to drive wider adoption across all stakeholder groups. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Building Development and Promotion)
18 pages, 3830 KiB  
Article
Enhancing the Yield of Pleurotus ostreatus Through the Addition of Nucleotides and Nucleosides
by Chenmin Tang, Yixuan Gao, Zhiguo An, Abdul Qadeer Sajid, Hanjie Ying, Zhenyu Wang and Dong Liu
J. Fungi 2025, 11(7), 537; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11070537 - 18 Jul 2025
Abstract
Pleurotus ostreatus is a mushroom species renowned for its abundant nutritional and medicinal properties. Nevertheless, the yield of its fruiting bodies has long remained at a standstill, making it arduous to achieve substantial improvements. Because the traditional composting approach for enhancing the yield [...] Read more.
Pleurotus ostreatus is a mushroom species renowned for its abundant nutritional and medicinal properties. Nevertheless, the yield of its fruiting bodies has long remained at a standstill, making it arduous to achieve substantial improvements. Because the traditional composting approach for enhancing the yield of Pleurotus ostreatus has drawbacks such as a long duration and a high susceptibility to mold contamination, incorporating nutritional supplements into the culture medium of P. ostreatus has emerged as a relatively straightforward yet effective approach to enhancing its yield. This study was predicated on the roles of nucleotides and nucleosides in cellular metabolism and signal transduction. These substances were applied during the cultivation process of P. ostreatus to investigate their impact on the growth and nutritional composition of this mushroom. The findings of this study demonstrate that the supplementation of nucleotides and nucleosides not only improved the yield and biological efficiency of P. ostreatus but also increased its dietary fiber content and amino acids. Furthermore, this research has disclosed that nucleotides and nucleosides exert a notable influence on the lignocellulolytic enzyme system. This investigation provides a scientific foundation for the development of novel yields—enhancing agents for P. ostreatus and offering new insights into cultivation techniques for the progress of P. ostreatus cultivation techniques in both academic and practical arenas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Biotechnology and Bioprocesses)
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26 pages, 661 KiB  
Systematic Review
Exploring Greek Primary Teachers’ Perspectives in Inclusive Education for Special Educational Needs (SEN) Students and Related Research Trends: A Systematic Literature Review
by Georgia Sakellaropoulou, Natalia Spyropoulou and Achilles Kameas
Educ. Sci. 2025, 15(7), 920; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci15070920 - 18 Jul 2025
Abstract
Inclusive Education aims to ensure equitable learning opportunities for all students, including those with special educational needs (SEN) and disabilities, by promoting accessible teaching practices and supportive learning environments. Although its importance for fostering the academic and social development of diverse learners has [...] Read more.
Inclusive Education aims to ensure equitable learning opportunities for all students, including those with special educational needs (SEN) and disabilities, by promoting accessible teaching practices and supportive learning environments. Although its importance for fostering the academic and social development of diverse learners has been widely recognized in international policy and research, its practical implementation is still under investigation, particularly within the Greek primary education system. This study investigates (a) Greek primary school teachers’ perspectives, focusing on their attitudes, knowledge, challenges, and perceived needs in Inclusive Education for SEN students and (b) research trends relating to these perspectives, focusing on publication trends and methodological characteristics, through a systematic literature review using the PRISMA methodology. The analysis revealed a shift in Greek primary teachers’ attitudes towards Inclusive Education for SEN students, trending towards neutral or negative responses, alongside limited knowledge, various challenges, and an absence of targeted support mechanisms. The analysis also highlighted chronological gaps between the identified studies in international journals and a variability in methodological approaches and sample characteristics. These insights point to a pressing need for further targeted and ongoing research on Greek primary teachers’ perspectives and professional development initiatives to enable effective and inclusive practices for SEN students in Greek primary education. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Teachers and Teaching in Inclusive Education)
60 pages, 9590 KiB  
Article
Dealing with High-Risk Police Activities and Enhancing Safety and Resilience: Qualitative Insights into Austrian Police Operations from a Risk and Group Dynamic Perspective
by Renate Renner, Vladimir M. Cvetković and Nicola Lieftenegger
Safety 2025, 11(3), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety11030068 - 18 Jul 2025
Abstract
Special police units like Austria’s EKO Cobra are uniquely trained to manage high-risk operations, including terrorism, amok situations, and hostage crises. This study explores how group dynamics contribute to operational safety and resilience, emphasising the interconnection between risk perception, training, and operational practices. [...] Read more.
Special police units like Austria’s EKO Cobra are uniquely trained to manage high-risk operations, including terrorism, amok situations, and hostage crises. This study explores how group dynamics contribute to operational safety and resilience, emphasising the interconnection between risk perception, training, and operational practices. Interviews with current and former EKO Cobra members reveal key risk factors, including overconfidence, insufficient training, inadequate equipment, and the challenges of high-stakes scenarios. Using a structured yet thematically flexible interview analysis approach, the study adopts group dynamics theory as its framework and applies a semi-inductive, semi-deductive qualitative methodology. It examines risk categorisation in ad hoc operations, as well as the interplay between risk perception and training, proposing actionable strategies to enhance safety and preparedness through tailored training programmes. The findings underscore the transformative impact of intensive scenario-based and high-stress training, which enhances situational awareness and reinforces team-based responses through cohesion and effective communication. Group dynamics, including cohesion and effective communication, play a pivotal role in mitigating risks and ensuring operational success. Importantly, this research advocates for continuous, adaptive, and specialised training to address evolving challenges. By linking theoretical frameworks with practical and actionable insights, this study proposes a holistic training approach that promotes both resilience and long-term sustainability in police operations. These findings offer valuable guidance to elite units like EKO Cobra for broader policy frameworks by providing insights that make police operations safer and more effective and resilient. Full article
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15 pages, 1322 KiB  
Article
Stability Toolkit for the Appraisal of Bio/Pharmaceuticals’ Level of Endurance (STABLE) as a Framework and Software to Evaluate the Stability of Pharmaceuticals
by Fotouh R. Mansour, Marcello Locatelli and Alaa Bedair
Analytica 2025, 6(3), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/analytica6030025 - 18 Jul 2025
Abstract
The Stability Toolkit for the Appraisal of Bio/Pharmaceuticals’ Level of Endurance (STABLE) is introduced and proposed as a comprehensive tool and software to evaluate the stability of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) under various stress conditions. In the pharmaceutical industry, stability testing is a [...] Read more.
The Stability Toolkit for the Appraisal of Bio/Pharmaceuticals’ Level of Endurance (STABLE) is introduced and proposed as a comprehensive tool and software to evaluate the stability of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) under various stress conditions. In the pharmaceutical industry, stability testing is a critical step in the drug development process, ensuring the quality, safety, and efficacy of APIs. Traditional stability tests—such as real-time, accelerated, and forced degradation testing—often face challenges, including inconsistent interpretation and implementation across different regions and organizations. STABLE addresses these challenges by providing a standardized and holistic approach to assessing drug stability across five key stress conditions: oxidative, thermal, acid-catalyzed hydrolysis, base-catalyzed hydrolysis, and photostability. Beyond its role as an evaluation tool, STABLE also serves as a practical guide for chemists, encouraging a more complete and thoughtful approach to stability studies. While many investigations focus solely on acid- and base-catalyzed hydrolysis, other critical conditions—such as photostability—are often underexplored or entirely omitted. By highlighting the importance of evaluating all relevant degradation pathways, STABLE promotes more robust and informed stability testing protocols. The index utilizes a color-coded scoring system to quantify and compare stability, facilitating consistent assessments across different APIs. This paper discusses the methodology of STABLE, including the scoring system and specific criteria applied under each condition. This tool is introduced to reflect intrinsic degradation susceptibility under forced conditions. The software is freely available as an open-source tool at bit.ly/STABLE2025, enabling broader accessibility and implementation across the pharmaceutical research community. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Analytical Techniques and Their Applications)
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10 pages, 332 KiB  
Article
An Empirical Theoretical Model for the Turbulent Diffusion Coefficient in Urban Atmospheric Dispersion
by George Efthimiou
Urban Sci. 2025, 9(7), 281; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci9070281 - 18 Jul 2025
Abstract
Turbulent diffusion plays a critical role in atmospheric pollutant dispersion, particularly in complex environments such as urban areas. This study proposes a novel theoretical approach to enhance the calculation of the turbulent diffusion coefficient in pollutant dispersion models. We propose a new expression [...] Read more.
Turbulent diffusion plays a critical role in atmospheric pollutant dispersion, particularly in complex environments such as urban areas. This study proposes a novel theoretical approach to enhance the calculation of the turbulent diffusion coefficient in pollutant dispersion models. We propose a new expression for the turbulent diffusion coefficient (KC), which incorporates both hydrodynamic and turbulence-related time scales. This formulation links the turbulent diffusion coefficient to pollutant travel time and turbulence intensity, offering more accurate predictions of pollutant concentration distributions. By addressing the limitations of existing empirical models, this approach improves the parameterization of turbulence and reduces uncertainties in predicting maximum individual exposure under various atmospheric conditions. The study presents a theoretical model designed to advance the current understanding of atmospheric dispersion modeling. Experimental validation, while recommended, is beyond the scope of this work and is suggested as a direction for future empirical research to confirm the practical utility of the model. This theoretical formulation could be integrated into urban air quality management frameworks, providing improved estimations of pollutant peaks in complex environments. Full article
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22 pages, 1258 KiB  
Review
Advances in Cryopreservation Strategies for 3D Biofabricated Constructs: From Hydrogels to Bioprinted Tissues
by Kaoutar Ziani, Laura Saenz-del-Burgo, Jose Luis Pedraz and Jesús Ciriza
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(14), 6908; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26146908 - 18 Jul 2025
Abstract
The cryopreservation of three-dimensional (3D) biofabricated constructs is a key enabler for their clinical application in regenerative medicine. Unlike two-dimensional (2D) cultures, 3D systems such as encapsulated cell spheroids, molded hydrogels, and bioprinted tissues present specific challenges related to cryoprotectant (CPA) diffusion, thermal [...] Read more.
The cryopreservation of three-dimensional (3D) biofabricated constructs is a key enabler for their clinical application in regenerative medicine. Unlike two-dimensional (2D) cultures, 3D systems such as encapsulated cell spheroids, molded hydrogels, and bioprinted tissues present specific challenges related to cryoprotectant (CPA) diffusion, thermal gradients, and ice formation during freezing and thawing. This review examines the current strategies for preserving 3D constructs, focusing on the role of biomaterials as cryoprotective matrices. Natural polymers (e.g., hyaluronic acid, alginate, chitosan), protein-based scaffolds (e.g., silk fibroin, sericin), and synthetic polymers (e.g., polyethylene glycol (PEG), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)) are evaluated for their ability to support cell viability, structural integrity, and CPA transport. Special attention is given to cryoprotectant systems that are free of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), and to the influence of hydrogel architecture on freezing outcomes. We have compared the efficacy and limitations of slow freezing and vitrification protocols and review innovative approaches such as temperature-controlled cryoprinting, nano-warming, and hybrid scaffolds with improved cryocompatibility. Additionally, we address the regulatory and manufacturing challenges associated with developing Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)-compliant cryopreservation workflows. Overall, this review provides an integrated perspective on material-based strategies for 3D cryopreservation and identifies future directions to enable the long-term storage and clinical translation of engineered tissues. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rational Design and Application of Functional Hydrogels)
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33 pages, 2022 KiB  
Review
A Novel Community Energy Projects Governance Model and Support Ecosystem Framework Based on Heating and Cooling Projects Enabled by Energy Communities
by Anastasios I. Karameros, Athanasios P. Chassiakos and Theo Tryfonas
Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6571; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146571 - 18 Jul 2025
Abstract
The EU power market system has successfully maintained a centralized governance structure ensuring stable electricity supply and affordable prices for over two decades. However, the ongoing energy transition towards carbon neutrality has exposed critical governance limitations, leading to challenges in community projects implementation. [...] Read more.
The EU power market system has successfully maintained a centralized governance structure ensuring stable electricity supply and affordable prices for over two decades. However, the ongoing energy transition towards carbon neutrality has exposed critical governance limitations, leading to challenges in community projects implementation. Given that Heating and Cooling (H&C) accounts for more than 50% of the EU’s energy consumption, community H&C initiatives can drive local energy transitions and support renewable integration. This study analyzes the best practices from European community energy initiatives, supplemented by insights from the Energy Leap project. By employing a comparative analysis approach, the study proposes a technically sound and regulatory feasible governance model, alongside a robust ecosystem support framework. The proposed framework introduces new roles and new forms of partnerships between communities—private entities and consumers—taking advantage of the benefits offered by the operation of Energy Communities (ECs), enhancing community engagement and regulatory adaptability. These insights offer practical guidance and contribute to effective policymaking in support of the EU’s energy transition objectives. Full article
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23 pages, 20932 KiB  
Article
Robust Small-Object Detection in Aerial Surveillance via Integrated Multi-Scale Probabilistic Framework
by Youyou Li, Yuxiang Fang, Shixiong Zhou, Yicheng Zhang and Nuno Antunes Ribeiro
Mathematics 2025, 13(14), 2303; https://doi.org/10.3390/math13142303 - 18 Jul 2025
Abstract
Accurate and efficient object detection is essential for aerial airport surveillance, playing a critical role in aviation safety and the advancement of autonomous operations. Although recent deep learning approaches have achieved notable progress, significant challenges persist, including severe object occlusion, extreme scale variation, [...] Read more.
Accurate and efficient object detection is essential for aerial airport surveillance, playing a critical role in aviation safety and the advancement of autonomous operations. Although recent deep learning approaches have achieved notable progress, significant challenges persist, including severe object occlusion, extreme scale variation, dense panoramic clutter, and the detection of very small targets. In this study, we introduce a novel and unified detection framework designed to address these issues comprehensively. Our method integrates a Normalized Gaussian Wasserstein Distance loss for precise probabilistic bounding box regression, Dilation-wise Residual modules for improved multi-scale feature extraction, a Hierarchical Screening Feature Pyramid Network for effective hierarchical feature fusion, and DualConv modules for lightweight yet robust feature representation. Extensive experiments conducted on two public airport surveillance datasets, ASS1 and ASS2, demonstrate that our approach yields substantial improvements in detection accuracy. Specifically, the proposed method achieves an improvement of up to 14.6 percentage points in mean Average Precision (mAP@0.5) compared to state-of-the-art YOLO variants, with particularly notable gains in challenging small-object categories such as personnel detection. These results highlight the effectiveness and practical value of the proposed framework in advancing aviation safety and operational autonomy in airport environments. Full article
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