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26 pages, 20835 KiB  
Article
Reverse Mortgages and Pension Sustainability: An Agent-Based and Actuarial Approach
by Francesco Rania
Risks 2025, 13(8), 147; https://doi.org/10.3390/risks13080147 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Population aging poses significant challenges to the sustainability of pension systems. This study presents an integrated methodological approach that uniquely combines actuarial life-cycle modeling with agent-based simulation to assess the potential of Reverse Mortgage Loans (RMLs) as a dual lever for enhancing retiree [...] Read more.
Population aging poses significant challenges to the sustainability of pension systems. This study presents an integrated methodological approach that uniquely combines actuarial life-cycle modeling with agent-based simulation to assess the potential of Reverse Mortgage Loans (RMLs) as a dual lever for enhancing retiree welfare and supporting pension system resilience under demographic and financial uncertainty. We explore Reverse Mortgage Loans (RMLs) as a potential financial instrument to support retirees while alleviating pressure on public pensions. Unlike prior research that treats individual decisions or policy outcomes in isolation, our hybrid model explicitly captures feedback loops between household-level behavior and system-wide financial stability. To test our hypothesis that RMLs can improve individual consumption outcomes and bolster systemic solvency, we develop a hybrid model combining actuarial techniques and agent-based simulations, incorporating stochastic housing prices, longevity risk, regulatory capital requirements, and demographic shifts. This dual-framework enables a structured investigation of how micro-level financial decisions propagate through market dynamics, influencing solvency, pricing, and adoption trends. Our central hypothesis is that reverse mortgages, when actuarially calibrated and macroprudentially regulated, enhance individual financial well-being while preserving long-run solvency at the system level. Simulation results indicate that RMLs can improve consumption smoothing, raise expected utility for retirees, and contribute to long-term fiscal sustainability. Moreover, we introduce a dynamic regulatory mechanism that adjusts capital buffers based on evolving market and demographic conditions, enhancing system resilience. Our simulation design supports multi-scenario testing of financial robustness and policy outcomes, providing a transparent tool for stress-testing RML adoption at scale. These findings suggest that, when well-regulated, RMLs can serve as a viable supplement to traditional retirement financing. Rather than offering prescriptive guidance, this framework provides insights to policymakers, financial institutions, and regulators seeking to integrate RMLs into broader pension strategies. Full article
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20 pages, 5875 KiB  
Article
Optimizing Rock Bolt Support for Large Underground Structures Using 3D DFN-DEM Method
by Nooshin Senemarian Isfahani, Amin Azhari, Hem B. Motra, Hamid Hashemalhoseini, Mohammadreza Hajian Hosseinabadi, Alireza Baghbanan and Mohsen Bazargan
Geosciences 2025, 15(8), 293; https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences15080293 - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 173
Abstract
A systematic sensitivity analysis using three-dimensional discrete element models with discrete fracture networks (DEM-DFN) was conducted to evaluate underground excavation support in jointed rock masses at the CLAB2 site in Southeastern Sweden. The site features a joint network comprising six distinct joint sets, [...] Read more.
A systematic sensitivity analysis using three-dimensional discrete element models with discrete fracture networks (DEM-DFN) was conducted to evaluate underground excavation support in jointed rock masses at the CLAB2 site in Southeastern Sweden. The site features a joint network comprising six distinct joint sets, each with unique geometrical properties. The study examined 10 DFNs and 19 rock bolt patterns, both conventional and unconventional. It covered 200 scenarios, including 10 unsupported and 190 supported cases. Technical and economic criteria for stability were assessed for each support system. The results indicated that increasing rock bolt length enhances stability up to a certain point. However, multi-length rock bolt patterns with similar consumption can yield significantly different stability outcomes. Notably, the arrangement and properties of rock bolts are crucial for stability, particularly in blocks between bolting sections. These blocks remain interlocked in unsupported areas due to the induced pressure from supported sections. Although equal-length rock bolt patterns are commonly used, the analysis revealed that triple-length rock bolts (3, 6, and 9 m) provided the most effective support across all ten DFN scenarios. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational Geodynamic, Geotechnics and Geomechanics)
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19 pages, 1289 KiB  
Article
Harnessing Extremophile Bacillus spp. for Biocontrol of Fusarium solani in Phaseolus vulgaris L. Agroecosystems
by Tofick B. Wekesa, Justus M. Onguso, Damaris Barminga and Ndinda Kavesu
Bacteria 2025, 4(3), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/bacteria4030039 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 87
Abstract
Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is a critical protein-rich legume supporting food and nutritional security globally. However, Fusarium wilt, caused by Fusarium solani, remains a major constraint to production, with yield losses reaching up to 84%. While biocontrol strategies have been [...] Read more.
Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is a critical protein-rich legume supporting food and nutritional security globally. However, Fusarium wilt, caused by Fusarium solani, remains a major constraint to production, with yield losses reaching up to 84%. While biocontrol strategies have been explored, most microbial agents are sourced from mesophilic environments and show limited effectiveness under abiotic stress. Here, we report the isolation and characterization of extremophilic Bacillus spp. from the hypersaline Lake Bogoria, Kenya, and their biocontrol potential against F. solani. From 30 isolates obtained via serial dilution, 9 exhibited antagonistic activity in vitro, with mycelial inhibition ranging from 1.07–1.93 cm 16S rRNA sequencing revealed taxonomic diversity within the Bacillus genus, including unique extremotolerant strains. Molecular screening identified genes associated with the biosynthesis of antifungal metabolites such as 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol, pyrrolnitrin, and hydrogen cyanide. Enzyme assays confirmed substantial production of chitinase (1.33–3160 U/mL) and chitosanase (10.62–28.33 mm), supporting a cell wall-targeted antagonism mechanism. In planta assays with the lead isolate (B7) significantly reduced disease incidence (8–35%) and wilt severity (1–5 affected plants), while enhancing root colonization under pathogen pressure. These findings demonstrate that extremophile-derived Bacillus spp. possess robust antifungal traits and highlight their potential as climate-resilient biocontrol agents for sustainable bean production in arid and semi-arid agroecosystems. Full article
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22 pages, 3780 KiB  
Article
Taxonomic Diversity: Importance, Threats, and Status of Diatoms from Lowland Urban Springs (Northeast Poland)
by Wanessa Lewandowicz, Magdalena Grabowska, Agata Z. Wojtal, Katarzyna Puczko and Adam Więcko
Water 2025, 17(15), 2293; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17152293 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 172
Abstract
Springs are unique ecosystems found in lowland areas. In urban environments, these springs often have niches that are heavily transformed by human activity. In this study, we identified and compared the taxonomic diversity of diatom communities across various microhabitats—epilithon, epipelon, epipsammon, epibryon, and [...] Read more.
Springs are unique ecosystems found in lowland areas. In urban environments, these springs often have niches that are heavily transformed by human activity. In this study, we identified and compared the taxonomic diversity of diatom communities across various microhabitats—epilithon, epipelon, epipsammon, epibryon, and epixylon—within altered lowland urban springs. Our results revealed differences in diatom communities among the microhabitats, with the highest species richness observed in the epibryon. Notably, the presence of extremely rare species such as Amphora eximia, Caloneis aerophila, and Stauroneis muriella suggest that, even under urban conditions, springs continue to serve a refugial function for diatom diversity. These findings underscore the important role of urban springs in maintaining diatom diversity despite high anthropogenic pressure. We also assessed the ecological status of the springs using the Polish Multimetric Diatom Index (IO), which incorporates indicators of trophy, saprobity, and the abundance of reference species. All studied springs were classified as having very good ecological status. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Protection and Restoration of Freshwater Ecosystems)
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31 pages, 26260 KiB  
Article
Aeroelastic Analysis of a Tailless Flying Wing with a Rotating Wingtip
by Weiji Wang, Xinyu Ai, Xin Hu, Chongxu Han, Xiaole Xu, Zhihai Liang and Wei Qian
Aerospace 2025, 12(8), 688; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace12080688 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 86
Abstract
This paper presents a preliminary investigation into the aeroelastic behavior of a tailless flying wing equipped with a rotating wingtip. Based on the configuration of Innovative Control Effectors (ICE) aircraft, an aeroelastic model of the tailless flying wing with a rotating wingtip has [...] Read more.
This paper presents a preliminary investigation into the aeroelastic behavior of a tailless flying wing equipped with a rotating wingtip. Based on the configuration of Innovative Control Effectors (ICE) aircraft, an aeroelastic model of the tailless flying wing with a rotating wingtip has been developed. Both numerical simulation and wind tunnel tests (WTTs) are employed to study the aeroelastic characteristics of this unique design. The numerical simulation involves the coupling of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and implicit dynamic approaches (IDAs). Using the CFD/IDA coupling method, aeroelastic response results are obtained under different flow dynamic pressures. The critical flutter dynamic pressure is identified by analyzing the trend of the damping coefficient, with a focus on its transition from negative to positive values. Additionally, the critical flutter velocity and flutter frequency are obtained from the WTT results. The critical flutter parameters, including dynamic pressure, velocity, and flutter frequency, are examined under different wingtip rotation frequencies and angles. These parameters are derived using both the CFD/IDA coupling method and WTT. The results indicate that the rotating wingtip plays a significant role in influencing the flutter behavior of aircraft with such a configuration. Research has shown that the rotation characteristics of the rotating wingtip are the primary factor affecting its aeroelastic behavior, and increasing both the rotation frequency and rotation angle can raise the flutter boundary and effectively suppress flutter onset. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aeroelasticity, Volume V)
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33 pages, 4142 KiB  
Review
Advances in Wettability-Engineered Open Planar-Surface Droplet Manipulation
by Ge Chen, Jin Yan, Junjie Liang, Jiajia Zheng, Jinpeng Wang, Hongchen Pang, Xianzhang Wang, Zihao Weng and Wei Wang
Micromachines 2025, 16(8), 893; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16080893 (registering DOI) - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 290
Abstract
Firstly, this paper reviews the fundamental theories of solid surface wettability and contact angle hysteresis. Subsequently, it further introduces four typical wettability-engineered surfaces with low hysteresis (superhydrophobic, superamphiphobic, super-slippery, and liquid-like smooth surfaces). Finally, it focuses on the latest research progress in the [...] Read more.
Firstly, this paper reviews the fundamental theories of solid surface wettability and contact angle hysteresis. Subsequently, it further introduces four typical wettability-engineered surfaces with low hysteresis (superhydrophobic, superamphiphobic, super-slippery, and liquid-like smooth surfaces). Finally, it focuses on the latest research progress in the field of droplet manipulation on open planar surfaces with engineered wettability. To achieve droplet manipulation, the core driving forces primarily stem from natural forces guided by bioinspired gradient surfaces or the regulatory effects of external fields. In terms of bioinspired self-propelled droplet movement, this paper summarizes research inspired by natural organisms such as desert beetles, cacti, self-aligning floating seeds of emergent plants, or water-walking insects, which construct bioinspired special gradient surfaces to induce Laplace pressure differences or wettability gradients on both sides of droplets for droplet manipulation. Moreover, this paper further analyzes the mechanisms, advantages, and limitations of these self-propelled approaches, while summarizing the corresponding driving force sources and their theoretical formulas. For droplet manipulation under external fields, this paper elaborates on various external stimuli including electric fields, thermal fields, optical fields, acoustic fields, and magnetic fields. Among them, electric fields involve actuation mechanisms such as directly applied electrostatic forces and indirectly applied electrocapillary forces; thermal fields influence droplet motion through thermoresponsive wettability gradients and thermocapillary effects; optical fields cover multiple wavelengths including near-infrared, ultraviolet, and visible light; acoustic fields utilize horizontal and vertical acoustic radiation pressure or acoustic wave-induced acoustic streaming for droplet manipulation; the magnetic force acting on droplets may originate from their interior, surface, or external substrates. Based on these different transport principles, this paper comparatively analyzes the unique characteristics of droplet manipulation under the five external fields. Finally, this paper summarizes the current challenges and issues in the research of droplet manipulation on the open planar surfaces and provides an outlook on future development directions in this field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Microfluidic Chips: Optical Sensing and Detection)
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21 pages, 764 KiB  
Article
Sustainable Optimization of the Injection Molding Process Using Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO)
by Yung-Tsan Jou, Hsueh-Lin Chang and Riana Magdalena Silitonga
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8417; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158417 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 218
Abstract
This study presents a breakthrough in sustainable injection molding by uniquely combining a backpropagation neural network (BPNN) with particle swarm optimization (PSO) to overcome traditional optimization challenges. The BPNN’s exceptional ability to learn complex nonlinear relationships between six key process parameters (including melt [...] Read more.
This study presents a breakthrough in sustainable injection molding by uniquely combining a backpropagation neural network (BPNN) with particle swarm optimization (PSO) to overcome traditional optimization challenges. The BPNN’s exceptional ability to learn complex nonlinear relationships between six key process parameters (including melt temperature and holding pressure) and product quality is amplified by PSO’s intelligent search capability, which efficiently navigates the high-dimensional parameter space. Together, this hybrid approach achieves what neither method could accomplish alone: the BPNN accurately models the intricate process-quality relationships, while PSO rapidly converges on optimal parameter sets that simultaneously meet strict quality targets (66–70 g weight, 3–5 mm thickness) and minimize energy consumption. The significance of this integration is demonstrated through three key outcomes: First, the BPNN-PSO combination reduced optimization time by 40% compared to traditional trial-and-error methods. Second, it achieved remarkable prediction accuracy (RMSE 0.8229 for thickness, 1.5123 for weight) that surpassed standalone BPNN implementations. Third, the method’s efficiency enabled SMEs to achieve CAE-level precision without expensive software, reducing setup costs by approximately 25%. Experimental validation confirmed that the optimized parameters decreased energy use by 28% and material waste by 35% while consistently producing parts within specifications. This research provides manufacturers with a practical, scalable solution that transforms injection molding from an experience-dependent craft to a data-driven science. The BPNN-PSO framework not only delivers superior technical results but does so in a way that is accessible to resource-constrained manufacturers, marking a significant step toward sustainable, intelligent production systems. For SMEs, this framework offers a practical pathway to achieve both economic and environmental sustainability, reducing reliance on resource-intensive CAE tools while cutting production costs by an estimated 22% through waste and energy savings. The study provides a replicable blueprint for implementing data-driven sustainability in injection molding operations without compromising product quality or operational efficiency. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancement in Smart Manufacturing and Industry 4.0)
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11 pages, 938 KiB  
Review
Sensory Circumventricular Organ Insulin Signaling in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Regulation
by Han Rae Kim, Jin Kwon Jeong and Colin N. Young
Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(8), 595; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47080595 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 168
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) insulin signaling is involved in a broad array of cardiometabolic physiology, including glucose and lipid metabolism, feeding, energy expenditure, and blood pressure regulation. A key role for hypothalamic neuroendocrine and autonomic centers in regulating insulin-associated cardiovascular and metabolic physiology [...] Read more.
Central nervous system (CNS) insulin signaling is involved in a broad array of cardiometabolic physiology, including glucose and lipid metabolism, feeding, energy expenditure, and blood pressure regulation. A key role for hypothalamic neuroendocrine and autonomic centers in regulating insulin-associated cardiovascular and metabolic physiology has been highlighted. However, it is still unclear which CNS site(s) initiate insulin-dependent neural cascades. While some investigations have suggested that circulating insulin can access hypothalamic regions by crossing the blood-brain barrier, other studies point to a necessity of other brain areas upstream of the hypothalamus to initiate central insulin actions. In this context, accumulating evidence points to a possible involvement of the sensory circumventricular organs (CVOs), unique areas located outside of the blood-brain barrier, in insulin-dependent cardiometabolic homeostasis. Here, the multifaceted roles for the sensory CVOs in cardiovascular and metabolic regulation, with a special emphasis on insulin receptor pathways, are discussed. Full article
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29 pages, 4159 KiB  
Review
Nanomaterials for Smart and Sustainable Food Packaging: Nano-Sensing Mechanisms, and Regulatory Perspectives
by Arjun Muthu, Duyen H. H. Nguyen, Chaima Neji, Gréta Törős, Aya Ferroudj, Reina Atieh, József Prokisch, Hassan El-Ramady and Áron Béni
Foods 2025, 14(15), 2657; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14152657 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 450
Abstract
The global food industry is facing growing pressure to enhance food safety, extend shelf life, minimize waste, and adopt environmentally sustainable packaging solution. Nanotechnology offers innovative ways to meet these demands by enabling the creation of smart and sustainable food packaging systems. Due [...] Read more.
The global food industry is facing growing pressure to enhance food safety, extend shelf life, minimize waste, and adopt environmentally sustainable packaging solution. Nanotechnology offers innovative ways to meet these demands by enabling the creation of smart and sustainable food packaging systems. Due to their unique properties, nanomaterials can significantly enhance the functional performance of packaging by boosting mechanical strength, barrier efficiency, antimicrobial activity, and responsiveness to environmental stimuli. This review provides a comprehensive overview of nanomaterials used as smart and sustainable food packaging, focusing on their role in active and intelligent packaging systems. By integrating nanomaterials like metal and metal oxide nanoparticles, carbon-based nanostructures, and nano-biopolymers, packaging can now perform real-time sensing, spoilage detection, and traceability. These systems improve food quality management and supply chain transparency while supporting global sustainability goals. The review also discusses potential risks related to nanomaterials’ migration, environmental impact, and consumer safety, as well as the current regulatory landscape and limitations in industrial scalability. Emphasis is placed on the importance of standardized safety assessments and eco-friendly design to support responsible innovation. Overall, nano-enabled smart packaging represents a promising strategy for advancing food safety and sustainability. Future developments will require collaboration across disciplines and robust regulatory frameworks to ensure the safe and practical application of nanotechnology in food systems. Full article
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36 pages, 25831 KiB  
Article
Identification of Cultural Landscapes and Spatial Distribution Characteristics in Traditional Villages of Three Gorges Reservoir Area
by Jia Jiang, Zhiliang Yu and Ende Yang
Buildings 2025, 15(15), 2663; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15152663 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 318
Abstract
The Three Gorges Reservoir Area (TGRA) is an important ecological barrier and cultural intermingling zone in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River, and its traditional villages carry unique information about natural changes and civilisational development, but face the challenges of conservation and [...] Read more.
The Three Gorges Reservoir Area (TGRA) is an important ecological barrier and cultural intermingling zone in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River, and its traditional villages carry unique information about natural changes and civilisational development, but face the challenges of conservation and development under the impact of modernisation and ecological pressure. This study takes 112 traditional villages in the TGRA that have been included in the protection list as the research objects, aiming to construct a cultural landscape identification framework for the traditional villages in the TGRA. Through field surveys, landscape feature assessments, GIS spatial analysis, and multi-source data analysis, we systematically analyse their cultural landscape type systems and spatial differentiation characteristics, and then reveal their cultural landscape types and spatial differentiation patterns. (1) The results of the study show that the spatial distribution of traditional villages exhibits significant altitude gradient differentiation—the low-altitude area is dominated by traffic and trade villages, the middle-altitude area is dominated by patriarchal manor villages and mountain farming villages, and the high-altitude area is dominated by ethno-cultural and ecologically dependent villages. (2) Slope and direction analyses further reveal that the gently sloping areas are conducive to the development of commercial and agricultural settlements, while the steeply sloping areas strengthen the function of ethnic and cultural defence. The results indicate that topographic conditions drive the synergistic evolution of the human–land system in traditional villages through the mechanisms of agricultural optimisation, trade networks, cultural defence, and ecological adaptation. The study provides a paradigm of “nature–humanities” interaction analysis for the conservation and development of traditional villages in mountainous areas, which is of practical value in coordinating the construction of ecological barriers and the revitalisation of villages in the reservoir area. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Architectural Design, Urban Science, and Real Estate)
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14 pages, 1855 KiB  
Article
Response of Tree-Ring Oxygen Isotopes to Climate Variations in the Banarud Area in the West Part of the Alborz Mountains
by Yajun Wang, Shengqian Chen, Haichao Xie, Yanan Su, Shuai Ma and Tingting Xie
Forests 2025, 16(8), 1238; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16081238 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 204
Abstract
Stable oxygen isotopes in tree rings (δ18O) serve as important proxies for climate change and offer unique advantages for climate reconstruction in arid and semi-arid regions. We established an annual δ18O chronology spanning 1964–2023 using Juniperus excelsa tree-ring samples [...] Read more.
Stable oxygen isotopes in tree rings (δ18O) serve as important proxies for climate change and offer unique advantages for climate reconstruction in arid and semi-arid regions. We established an annual δ18O chronology spanning 1964–2023 using Juniperus excelsa tree-ring samples collected from the Alborz Mountains in Iran. We analyzed relationships between δ18O and key climate variables: precipitation, temperature, Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI), vapor pressure (VP), and potential evapotranspiration (PET). Correlation analysis reveals that tree-ring δ18O is highly sensitive to hydroclimatic variations. Tree-ring cellulose δ18O shows significant negative correlations with annual total precipitation and spring PDSI, and significant positive correlations with spring temperature (particularly maximum temperature), April VP, and spring PET. The strongest correlation occurs with spring PET. These results indicate that δ18O responds strongly to the balance between springtime moisture supply (precipitation and soil moisture) and atmospheric evaporative demand (temperature, VP, and PET), reflecting an integrated signal of both regional moisture availability and energy input. The pronounced response of δ18O to spring evaporative conditions highlights its potential for capturing high-resolution changes in spring climatic conditions. Our δ18O series remained stable from the 1960s to the 1990s, but showed greater interannual variability after 2000, likely linked to regional warming and climate instability. A comparison with the δ18O variations from the eastern Alborz Mountains indicates that, despite some differences in magnitude, δ18O records from the western and eastern Alborz Mountains show broadly similar variability patterns. On a larger climatic scale, δ18O correlates significantly and positively with the Niño 3.4 index but shows no significant correlation with the Arctic Oscillation (AO) or the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO). This suggests that ENSO-driven interannual variability in the tropical Pacific plays a key role in regulating regional hydroclimatic processes. This study confirms the strong potential of tree-ring oxygen isotopes from the Alborz Mountains for reconstructing hydroclimatic conditions and high-frequency climate variability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Meteorology and Climate Change)
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18 pages, 3997 KiB  
Article
Simulation of Dynamic Particle Trapping and Accumulation in HGMS Based on FEM-CFD-DEM Coupling Approach
by Xiaoming Wang, Yonghui Hu, Yefei Hao, Zhengchang Shen, Guodong Liang and Ming Zhang
Processes 2025, 13(8), 2391; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13082391 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 287
Abstract
High-gradient magnetic separation (HGMS) is a conventional and effective method for processing weak magnetic materials. A multi-field dynamic coupling simulation method integrating the Finite Element Method (FEM), Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), and the Discrete Element Method (DEM) was employed to investigate the separation [...] Read more.
High-gradient magnetic separation (HGMS) is a conventional and effective method for processing weak magnetic materials. A multi-field dynamic coupling simulation method integrating the Finite Element Method (FEM), Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), and the Discrete Element Method (DEM) was employed to investigate the separation behavior in HGMS. The dynamic deposition process of magnetic particles under the interactions of magnetic fields, fluid flow fields, and particle–particle forces was simulated using a two-way fluid–solid coupling algorithm based on the FEM-CFD-DEM coupling approach. Experimental results demonstrated that the particle deposition profiles predicted by the double-wire medium model were in good agreement with the measured data. The research findings indicated that the separation process could be divided into three distinct stages—the adsorption stage, the closure stage, and the clogging stage—each characterized by unique dynamic behaviors and pressure-drop evolution patterns. Additionally, the effects of key parameters such as the feeding velocity and medium filling ratio on the separation process were analyzed, providing theoretical foundations and technical support for the optimization of HGMS processes and the enhancement of separation efficiency. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mineral Processing Equipments and Cross-Disciplinary Approaches)
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25 pages, 946 KiB  
Review
Airway Management in Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Comprehensive Review of Assessment Strategies, Techniques, and Technological Advances
by Mario Giuseppe Bellizzi, Annalisa Pace, Giannicola Iannella, Antonino Maniaci, Daniele Salvatore Paternò, Simona Tutino, Massimiliano Sorbello, Salvatore Maria Ronsivalle, Giuseppe Magliulo, Antonio Greco, Armando De Virgilio, Patrizia Mancini, Enrica Croce, Giulia Molinari, Daniela Lucidi, Jerome R. Lechien, Antonio Moffa, Alberto Caranti and Luigi La Via
Healthcare 2025, 13(15), 1823; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13151823 - 26 Jul 2025
Viewed by 177
Abstract
Background: Airway management in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) presents unique challenges for anesthesiologists and other airway practitioners. This comprehensive review examines current evidence and clinical practices for managing difficult airways in this high-risk population. OSA is characterized by specific anatomical [...] Read more.
Background: Airway management in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) presents unique challenges for anesthesiologists and other airway practitioners. This comprehensive review examines current evidence and clinical practices for managing difficult airways in this high-risk population. OSA is characterized by specific anatomical and physiological alterations that increase both the likelihood of encountering difficult intubation and the risk of rapid desaturation during airway manipulation. Methods: Preoperative assessment of OSA patients requires integration of traditional difficult airway evaluation with OSA-specific considerations, including severity indices, oxygen desaturation patterns, and continuous positive airway pressure dependency. Conventional direct laryngoscopy often proves inadequate in these patients, prompting the development and refinement of alternative approaches. Videolaryngoscopy has emerged as a particularly valuable technique in OSA patients, offering improved glottic visualization while maintaining physiologic positioning. Flexible endoscopic techniques, particularly awake flexible bronchoscopic intubation, remain essential for high-risk scenarios, though they require considerable expertise. Results: Recent technological innovations have produced hybrid devices combining multiple modalities to address the specific challenges presented by OSA patients. Adjunctive tools and techniques, including specialized introducers, exchange catheters, and high-flow nasal oxygen, play critical roles in extending safe apnea time and facilitating successful intubation. Professional society guidelines now incorporate OSA-specific recommendations, emphasizing thorough preparation, appropriate device selection, and comprehensive monitoring. Conclusions: Effective management ultimately requires not only appropriate technology but also systematic preparation, strategic device selection, and meticulous execution. As OSA prevalence continues to rise globally, optimizing airway management approaches for this challenging population remains a critical priority for patient safety. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Developments in Endotracheal Intubation and Airway Management)
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49 pages, 21554 KiB  
Article
A Disappearing Cultural Landscape: The Heritage of German-Style Land Use and Pug-And-Pine Architecture in Australia
by Dirk H. R. Spennemann
Land 2025, 14(8), 1517; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14081517 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 263
Abstract
This paper investigates the cultural landscapes established by nineteenth-century German immigrants in South Australia and the southern Riverina of New South Wales, with particular attention to settlement patterns, architectural traditions and toponymic transformation. German immigration to Australia, though numerically modest compared to the [...] Read more.
This paper investigates the cultural landscapes established by nineteenth-century German immigrants in South Australia and the southern Riverina of New South Wales, with particular attention to settlement patterns, architectural traditions and toponymic transformation. German immigration to Australia, though numerically modest compared to the Americas, significantly shaped local communities, especially due to religious cohesion among Lutheran migrants. These settlers established distinct, enduring rural enclaves characterized by linguistic, religious and architectural continuity. The paper examines three manifestations of these cultural landscapes. A rich toponymic landscape was created by imposing on natural landscape features and newly founded settlements the names of the communities from which the German settlers originated. It discusses the erosion of German toponyms under wartime nationalist pressures, the subsequent partial reinstatement and the implications for cultural memory. The study traces the second manifestation of a cultural landscapes in the form of nucleated villages such as Hahndorf, Bethanien and Lobethal, which often followed the Hufendorf or Straßendorf layout, integrating Silesian land-use principles into the Australian context. Intensification of land use through housing subdivisions in two communities as well as agricultural intensification through broad acre farming has led to the fragmentation (town) and obliteration (rural) of the uniquely German form of land use. The final focus is the material expression of cultural identity through architecture, particularly the use of traditional Fachwerk (half-timbered) construction and adaptations such as pug-and-pine walling suited to local materials and climate. The paper examines domestic forms, including the distinctive black kitchen, and highlights how environmental and functional adaptation reshaped German building traditions in the antipodes. Despite a conservation movement and despite considerable documentation research in the late twentieth century, the paper shows that most German rural structures remain unlisted and vulnerable. Heritage neglect, rural depopulation, economic rationalization, lack of commercial relevance and local government policy have accelerated the decline of many of these vernacular buildings. The study concludes by problematizing the sustainability of conserving German Australian rural heritage in the face of regulatory, economic and demographic pressures. With its layering of intangible (toponymic), structural (buildings) and land use (cadastral) features, the examination of the cultural landscape established by nineteenth-century German immigrants adds to the body of literature on immigrant communities, settler colonialism and landscape research. Full article
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29 pages, 32010 KiB  
Article
Assessing Environmental Sustainability in the Eastern Mediterranean Under Anthropogenic Air Pollution Risks Through Remote Sensing and Google Earth Engine Integration
by Mohannad Ali Loho, Almustafa Abd Elkader Ayek, Wafa Saleh Alkhuraiji, Safieh Eid, Nazih Y. Rebouh, Mahmoud E. Abd-Elmaboud and Youssef M. Youssef
Atmosphere 2025, 16(8), 894; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16080894 - 22 Jul 2025
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Abstract
Air pollution monitoring in ungauged zones presents unique challenges yet remains critical for understanding environmental health impacts and socioeconomic dynamics in the Eastern Mediterranean region. This study investigates air pollution patterns in northwestern Syria during 2019–2024, analyzing NO2 and CO concentrations using [...] Read more.
Air pollution monitoring in ungauged zones presents unique challenges yet remains critical for understanding environmental health impacts and socioeconomic dynamics in the Eastern Mediterranean region. This study investigates air pollution patterns in northwestern Syria during 2019–2024, analyzing NO2 and CO concentrations using Sentinel-5P TROPOMI satellite data processed through Google Earth Engine. Monthly concentration averages were examined across eight key locations using linear regression analysis to determine temporal trends, with Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients calculated between pollutant levels and five meteorological parameters (temperature, humidity, wind speed, atmospheric pressure, and precipitation) to determine the influence of political governance, economic conditions, and environmental sustainability factors on pollution dynamics. Quality assurance filtering retained only measurements with values ≥ 0.75, and statistical significance was assessed at a p < 0.05 level. The findings reveal distinctive spatiotemporal patterns that reflect the region’s complex political-economic landscape. NO2 concentrations exhibited clear political signatures, with opposition-controlled territories showing upward trends (Al-Rai: 6.18 × 10−8 mol/m2) and weak correlations with climatic variables (<0.20), indicating consistent industrial operations. In contrast, government-controlled areas demonstrated significant downward trends (Hessia: −2.6 × 10−7 mol/m2) with stronger climate–pollutant correlations (0.30–0.45), reflecting the impact of economic sanctions on industrial activities. CO concentrations showed uniform downward trends across all locations regardless of political control. This study contributes significantly to multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), providing critical baseline data for SDG 3 (Health and Well-being), mapping urban pollution hotspots for SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities), demonstrating climate–pollution correlations for SDG 13 (Climate Action), revealing governance impacts on environmental patterns for SDG 16 (Peace and Justice), and developing transferable methodologies for SDG 17 (Partnerships). These findings underscore the importance of incorporating environmental safeguards into post-conflict reconstruction planning to ensure sustainable development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Study of Air Pollution Based on Remote Sensing (2nd Edition))
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