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17 pages, 6070 KiB  
Article
Investigation into the Early Cracking Behavior of High-Geothermal Tunnel Lining Concrete Based on Thermal–Mechanical Coupling Model
by Si Xie, Dan Zhao, Peng Yi, Qian Chen and Wei Liu
Buildings 2025, 15(2), 301; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15020301 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
As a typical extreme environment, a high-geothermal environment poses severe challenges to tunnel construction in western China. In this paper, a thermal–mechanical coupling model was formulated to evaluate the cracking behavior of lining under high-geothermal conditions, considering the early property evolution of concrete. [...] Read more.
As a typical extreme environment, a high-geothermal environment poses severe challenges to tunnel construction in western China. In this paper, a thermal–mechanical coupling model was formulated to evaluate the cracking behavior of lining under high-geothermal conditions, considering the early property evolution of concrete. This was further validated by field monitoring and analyzed by adjusting the relevant parameters. Results indicate that the higher cracking risk occurred on the external surface of the lining sidewall after 24 h of casting. With the increase in surrounding rock temperature, the duration of cracking risk in the lining was extended. When the surrounding rock temperature exceeded 68.7 °C, thermal insulation measures were required for the lining structure. Notably, superior thermal insulation was achieved by applying a sandwich structure of rigid polyurethane materials with a thickness of 20–60 mm. In terms of curing conditions, adopting formwork with a larger heat convection coefficient was conducive to reducing the cracking risk of the tunnel lining, with an appropriate removal time of 48 h. This work provides insights into the thermal–mechanical behavior of lining concrete, thereby mitigating its early cracking in a high-geothermal environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on the Construction Mechanical Behavior and Deformation Characteristics of Lining Structure—2nd Edition)
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21 pages, 6277 KiB  
Article
Characterization and Adsorption Behavior of Newly Synthesized Aminated Cellulose with Jeffamine EDR148 Towards Ni(II), Cu(II), and Pb(II) Heavy Metal Ions
by Jawaher Y. Al Nawah and Amany S. El-Khouly
Polymers 2025, 17(2), 255; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17020255 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
Industrial wastewater containing heavy metal ions presents serious economic risk to the environment. In this study, a novel compound of aminated cellulose with jeffamine EDR148 was prepared to improve cellulose’s adsorptive behavior towards metal ions. This study undertook a straightforward and efficient cellulose [...] Read more.
Industrial wastewater containing heavy metal ions presents serious economic risk to the environment. In this study, a novel compound of aminated cellulose with jeffamine EDR148 was prepared to improve cellulose’s adsorptive behavior towards metal ions. This study undertook a straightforward and efficient cellulose modification through homogeneous chlorination in N,N′-butylmethylimidazolium chloride to produce 6-deoxychlorocellulose (Cell-Cl), followed by a reaction with jeffamine EDR148 and ultimately resulting in the formation of aminated cellulose (Cell-Jef148). Structural and chemical characteristics of Cell-Cl and Cell-Jef148 were determined using different techniques. Various adsorption conditions were applied to evaluate the optimal adsorption conditions for the removal of Cu(II), Ni(II), and Pb(II) ions. Cell-Jef48 revealed a greater affinity and higher adsorption efficiency of 480.3, 420.5, and 463.2 mg/g for Cu(II), Ni(II), and Pb(II) ions, respectively. Different kinetics and adsorption isothermal models were studied to investigate the adsorption mechanism and interactions between Cell-Jef148 and metal ions. The results fitted the Langmuir and pseudo-second-order models. Corresponding to the Langmuir model, Cell-Jef148’s maximum adsorption capacities were 952.38, 609.76, and 769.23 mg/g for Cu(II), Ni(II), and Pb(II) ions, respectively, with a high correlation coefficient, R2, in the range of 0.99575–0.99855. The research results of this study support Cell-Jef148’s adsorption of heavy metal ions, and the regeneration of adsorbent highlights the potential applications of cellulose-based materials in wastewater treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Applications)
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13 pages, 3805 KiB  
Article
Intermittent Fasting Protects Against the Progression from Acute Kidney Injury to Chronic Kidney Disease
by Yoonjoo Jang, Young Suk Kim, Seo Rin Kim, Dong Won Lee, Soo Bong Lee and Il Young Kim
Antioxidants 2025, 14(1), 119; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14010119 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a major but often underestimated risk factor for the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Exploring innovative approaches to prevent this progression is critical. Intermittent fasting (IF), recognized for its metabolic and anti-inflammatory benefits, may offer protective effects [...] Read more.
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a major but often underestimated risk factor for the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Exploring innovative approaches to prevent this progression is critical. Intermittent fasting (IF), recognized for its metabolic and anti-inflammatory benefits, may offer protective effects in this context. Using a unilateral ischemia-reperfusion injury (UIRI) model in male C57BL/6 mice, we evaluated the impact of IF on tubulointerstitial fibrosis and tubular epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) over 8 weeks. Mice in the IF group followed a 5:2 regimen, fasting for 24 h twice weekly. Four groups were studied: control, IF, UIRI, and IF + UIRI. The UIRI group exhibited increased fibrosis and EMT, both of which were significantly attenuated in the IF + UIRI group. IF also reduced levels of TGF-β1, phosphorylated NF-κB p65, inflammatory cytokines, and F4/80-positive macrophages, along with markers of oxidative stress. These findings highlight IF’s ability to mitigate fibrosis and EMT through reductions in inflammation and oxidative stress during AKI-to-CKD progression. Our study suggests that IF may serve as a promising dietary strategy to prevent AKI from advancing into CKD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Strategies in Preventing Inflammatory and/or Oxidative Stress-Induced Damages in Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury, 2nd Edition)
19 pages, 3206 KiB  
Article
Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes and Neutrophils and Their Location in Canine Mammary Neoplasms with a Solid Arrangement: A Prognostic Factor?
by Mayra C. Flecher, Marina P. Reys, Débora Balabram, Karen Y. R. Nakagaki and Geovanni D. Cassali
Animals 2025, 15(2), 287; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15020287 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
In canine mammary neoplasms, greater inflammation is associated with higher histological grade, lymphatic invasion, and metastases. This retrospective study assessed the density of peri- and intratumoral tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs), and CD3+ and CD79+ lymphocytes in canine mammary neoplasms [...] Read more.
In canine mammary neoplasms, greater inflammation is associated with higher histological grade, lymphatic invasion, and metastases. This retrospective study assessed the density of peri- and intratumoral tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs), and CD3+ and CD79+ lymphocytes in canine mammary neoplasms with a solid arrangement, and associated such data with histological types, immunophenotype, prognostic factors, cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) expression and overall and cancer-specific survival. Sixty-one neoplasms with a solid arrangement were classified as malignant myoepitheliomas (6/9.8%), solid papillary carcinomas (8/13.1%), carcinomas with a solid pattern (9/14.8%), basaloid carcinomas (BC) (19/31.1%), and malignant adenomyoepitheliomas (19/31.1%). Intra- and peritumoral TILs, TANs, and TCD3+ and BCD79+ lymphocytes were counted, and based on the resulting median, the neoplasms were divided into low or high cell infiltration. BCs had the lowest density of intratumoral TILs (p = 0.02), and luminal B neoplasms showed a significantly higher density of intratumoral TCD3+ than luminal A cases. Neoplasms with a higher density of peritumoral CD3+ and CD79+ had significantly greater proliferative activity. High infiltration of intratumoral BCD79+ lymphocytes was related to nodal metastasis (p = 0.03). Intratumoral TILs and TCD3+ were associated with shorter survival time. Therefore, intratumoral lymphocyte infiltration is possibly an important feature in the progression of cancer and influences the survival in bitches with solid arrangement neoplasms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Canine Mammary Tumors—2nd Edition)
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15 pages, 355 KiB  
Article
Effects of Attitudes Toward Remembering on Metamemory and Memory Performance in College Students
by Jacob A. Provost, Hajime Otani and Andrew S. Franks
Psychol. Int. 2025, 7(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/psycholint7010005 - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
As modern technology enables instant access to virtually limitless information, students may perceive memorization of information as lacking in practical importance. The current study investigated the relationship between attitudes toward remembering and metamemory as well as objective memory performance. University students (N [...] Read more.
As modern technology enables instant access to virtually limitless information, students may perceive memorization of information as lacking in practical importance. The current study investigated the relationship between attitudes toward remembering and metamemory as well as objective memory performance. University students (N = 108, MAge = 19.39, 77% women) completed the Importance of Remembering questionnaire (IORQ) as a measure of attitudes toward remembering. Subjective components of memory were measured by immediate and delayed judgments of learning (JOLs), global judgments of learning (global JOLs), retroactive confidence judgments (RCJs), and subjective mental workload. Objective memory performance was measured using a cued recall test using word pairs and picture pairs. The IORQ was only significantly correlated with absolute accuracy of delayed judgments of learning for words and pictures such that higher IORQ ratings were associated with less accurate judgments about how well they learned the items. No other correlations were significant. This suggests that a student’s lack of belief in the importance of remembering, at least as conceptualized on the IORQ, may not affect most aspects of memory performance, including those related to academic outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cognitive Psychology)
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19 pages, 1832 KiB  
Review
Therapeutic Role of Microglia/Macrophage Polarization in Intracerebral Hemorrhage
by Rasit Dinc and Nurittin Ardic
Clin. Transl. Neurosci. 2025, 9(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/ctn9010004 - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a significant health problem with high mortality and morbidity rates, partly due to limited treatment options. Hematoma after ICH causes neurological deficits due to the mass effect. Hemorrhage catalyzes secondary damage, resulting in increased neurological damage, poor prognosis, and [...] Read more.
Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a significant health problem with high mortality and morbidity rates, partly due to limited treatment options. Hematoma after ICH causes neurological deficits due to the mass effect. Hemorrhage catalyzes secondary damage, resulting in increased neurological damage, poor prognosis, and treatment problems. This review evaluates the role of immunotherapeutic approaches in ICH based on original full-text and review articles on the pathophysiology and immunotherapy of ICH, with emphasis on the modulation of microglia/macrophage polarization to the M2 subtype. In this review, we concluded that the pathophysiology of injury progression after ICH is complex and multifaceted. Inflammation plays a dominant role in secondary injuries. Furthermore, cells involved in the inflammatory process have dual roles in pro-inflammatory/destructive and anti-inflammatory/healing. While the role of inflammation in the pathophysiology makes the immune system a therapeutic target in ICH, the dual role of cells makes them a therapeutic target that can modulate anti-inflammatory/healing. Resident microglia (and even macrophages migrating from a peripheral source) are important therapeutic targets for modulation because of their role in the initiation phase and in shaping immunity. Although clinical results remain poor, experimental and clinical trial data seem promising for deciphering the pathophysiology of ICH and providing treatment options. Full article
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20 pages, 2493 KiB  
Article
The PREPARE Study: Acceptability and Feasibility of a Telehealth Trimodal Prehabilitation Program for Women with Endometrial Neoplasia
by Elise P. Legault, Paula A. B. Ribeiro, Danielle Moreau-Amaru, Emmanuelle Robert, Sara Forte, Alain S. Comtois, Vanessa Samouëlian and François Tournoux
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(1), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32010055 - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
Patients with endometrial neoplasia (EN) often have multiple comorbidities and a higher surgical risk. Prehabilitation programs (PPs) combine various interventions to improve preoperative conditions and reduce impairment due to surgical stress. We conducted a pragmatic pilot study to evaluate the acceptability and feasibility [...] Read more.
Patients with endometrial neoplasia (EN) often have multiple comorbidities and a higher surgical risk. Prehabilitation programs (PPs) combine various interventions to improve preoperative conditions and reduce impairment due to surgical stress. We conducted a pragmatic pilot study to evaluate the acceptability and feasibility of a trimodal telehealth PP (exercise, nutrition, and psychological support) for EN patients. The participants could select their exercise group: (1) a supervised PP (SPP), group sessions 3×/week; (2) a semi-supervised PP (SSPP), group session 1×/week, training alone 2×/week; or (3) a physical activity counseling session (PACS). Out of the 150 EN patients awaiting surgery screened during the 18 months of the study recruitment, 66% (99/150) were eligible, and 40% consented to participate (SPP, n = 13; SSPP, n = 17; PACS, n = 9). The overall dropout was low (13%; 5/39), with no significant differences across groups. No serious adverse events occurred. We observed a positive impact on different outcomes across the different groups, such as in the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy quality of life score (SPP; delta = 6.1 [CI: 0.9; 12.6]) and functional capacity measured using the 30″ sit-to-stand test (PACS delta = 2.4 [CI: 1.2; 3.6]). The same-day hospital leave was high in the SSPP group (54.5%). Our pilot telehealth PP seems to be safe, feasible, and well accepted and may procure clinical and patient-centered gains that need to be confirmed in a larger trial. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Section "Oncology Nursing")
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15 pages, 8342 KiB  
Article
MicroRNA-129-3p Suppresses Tumor Progression and Chemoradioresistance in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
by Tae Mi Yoon, Sun-Ae Kim, Eun Kyung Jung, Young-Kook Kim, Kyung-Hwa Lee and Sang Chul Lim
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(1), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32010054 - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
(1) Background: MicroRNA-129 (miR-129) participates in tumor progression and chemoresistance in various cancer types. In this study, the role of miR-129-3p, the main mature form of miR-129, in tumor progression and chemoradiotherapy resistance in head and neck cancer was evaluated. (2) Methods: RT-PCR, [...] Read more.
(1) Background: MicroRNA-129 (miR-129) participates in tumor progression and chemoresistance in various cancer types. In this study, the role of miR-129-3p, the main mature form of miR-129, in tumor progression and chemoradiotherapy resistance in head and neck cancer was evaluated. (2) Methods: RT-PCR, western blotting, cell proliferation assays, cell apoptosis assays, and cell invasion and migration assays were used. (3) Results: In this study, the miR-129-3p overexpression suppressed the proliferation, invasion, and migration of SNU1041, SCC15, and SCC25 human HNSCC cell lines. Additionally, it induced apoptosis and enhanced radiation-/cisplatin-induced apoptosis of SNU1041, SCC15, and SCC25 cells. Therefore, miR-129-3p could suppress tumor progression and enhance chemoradiosensitivity in human HNSCC. Furthermore, miR-129-3p was downregulated in fresh tumor tissues from patients with HNSCC compared with that in the adjacent normal mucosa. In a nude mouse xenograft model with SNU15 cells, the miR-129-3p overexpression significantly decreased tumor growth, as measured by tumor weight and volume. (4) Conclusions: Our study provides evidence that miR-129-3p suppresses tumor progression and chemoradioresistance in HNSCC. This finding may serve as a basis for developing miR-129-3p-based therapeutic strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Head and Neck Oncology)
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30 pages, 2550 KiB  
Systematic Review
Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis on Treating Hormone Receptor-Positive Metastatic Breast Cancer After CDK4/6 Inhibitors
by Neha Pathak, Abhenil Mittal, Sudhir Kumar, Chitrakshi Nagpal, Eitan Amir, Partha Haldar, Bharath B. Gangadharaiah, Akash Kumar, Ashutosh Mishra and Atul Batra
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(1), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32010053 - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
Introduction: The optimal treatment of estrogen receptor-positive (ER +) metastatic breast cancer (MBC) after progression on cyclin-dependent 4/6 kinase inhibitors (CDK4/6i) is unknown. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA) of phase-II/-III randomized trials of ER + MBC post CDK4/6i [...] Read more.
Introduction: The optimal treatment of estrogen receptor-positive (ER +) metastatic breast cancer (MBC) after progression on cyclin-dependent 4/6 kinase inhibitors (CDK4/6i) is unknown. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA) of phase-II/-III randomized trials of ER + MBC post CDK4/6i + ET progression. We calculated the hazard ratio (HR) for progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) using generic inverse variance and odds ratios (ORs) using the Mantel–Haenszel method for adverse events (AEs) with Review-Manager version-5.4. NMA was executed using WINBUGS (Microsoft Excel). Three molecular subgroups were analyzed: HER2-low, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, and the ESR1 mutation subgroup for selective estrogen receptor degrader (SERD). Results: A total of 14 studies were included. In the HER2-low group, Sacituzumab govitecan and trastuzumab deruxtecan had a similar efficacy (HR, 95% CI): PFS (0.98; 0.63–1.43) and OS (1.08; 0.76–1.55). In PI3K/AKT/mTOR-altered cases, capivasertib was superior to alpelisib PFS (0.77; 0.53–1.12), and OS (0.80; 0.48–1.35). SERDs had worse PFS and OS versus ongoing CDK 4/6i (ribociclib). Conclusion: No therapy emerged as the unequivocal choice in the post-CDK 4/6i domain in unselected subgroups. In the HER2-low population, a similar efficacy and different toxicity spectrum was seen. In AKT-altered tumors, capivasertib was less toxic than alpelisib. PROSPERO ID: CRD4202236412. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Breast Cancer)
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8 pages, 728 KiB  
Communication
Real-World Experience with CDK4/6 Inhibitors in the First-Line Palliative Setting for HR+/HER2− Advanced Breast Cancer
by Ram Patel, John Mathews, Caroline Hamm, Swati Kulkarni, Rasna Gupta, Tarquin Opperman, John Dean Chiong and Abdullah Nasser
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(1), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32010052 - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
Introduction: CDK4/6 inhibitors in combination with aromatase inhibitors (AIs) are the standard first-line treatment for hormone receptor-positive (HR+), HER2-negative (HER2−) metastatic breast cancer. Landmark trials have demonstrated a comparable progression-free survival (PFS) across CDK4/6 inhibitors, but the overall survival (OS) outcomes have varied. [...] Read more.
Introduction: CDK4/6 inhibitors in combination with aromatase inhibitors (AIs) are the standard first-line treatment for hormone receptor-positive (HR+), HER2-negative (HER2−) metastatic breast cancer. Landmark trials have demonstrated a comparable progression-free survival (PFS) across CDK4/6 inhibitors, but the overall survival (OS) outcomes have varied. This study aimed to evaluate the real-world PFS and OS for palbociclib and ribociclib when combined with AIs in patients with HR+/HER2− advanced breast cancer. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective chart review of adult patients with HR+/HER2− metastatic breast cancer treated at a single academic center between 1 January 2015 and 1 December 2022. The baseline demographics, clinical characteristics, and treatment details were extracted. A Kaplan–Meier analysis was used to estimate the PFS and OS, and differences between the treatment groups were assessed using the log-rank test. Cox proportional hazards models were constructed to adjust for confounding factors. Results: Seventy-five patients were included in the final analysis. The cohort was predominantly female (98.7%) and postmenopausal (77.3%), with 52.0% having de novo stage IV disease. Palbociclib was prescribed to 74.7% of the patients, and ribociclib to 25.3%. The patients receiving ribociclib were significantly younger (57.6 vs. 67.5 years, p = 0.013) and more likely to be premenopausal (42.1% vs. 5.4%, p < 0.001). The real-world median PFS and OS for palbociclib were 20.3 months (95% CI: 14.8–46) and 37.2 months (95% CI: 20.3–not reached [NR]), respectively. For ribociclib, the median PFS and OS were not reached. The Cox proportional hazards models adjusting for age and menopausal status found no significant differences between ribociclib and palbociclib for the PFS (HR = 0.92, p = 0.86) or OS (HR = 0.95, p = 0.92). Conclusion: In this real-world analysis, palbociclib demonstrated a median PFS consistent with the results from landmark trials, although the observed OS was shorter. The ribociclib-treated patients had a numerically longer PFS and OS compared with those treated with palbociclib, but the differences were not statistically significant. The discontinuation rates were similar between the two groups. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Personalized Therapy for Breast Cancer)
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11 pages, 1174 KiB  
Article
Unilateral Versus Bilateral Cochlear Implants in Adults: A Cross-Sectional Questionnaire Study Across Multiple Hearing Domains
by Alessandra Pantaleo, Luigi Curatoli, Giada Cavallaro, Debora Auricchio, Alessandra Murri and Nicola Quaranta
Audiol. Res. 2025, 15(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/audiolres15010006 - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the subjective experiences of adults with different cochlear implant (CI) configurations—unilateral cochlear implant (UCI), bilateral cochlear implant (BCI), and bimodal stimulation (BM)—focusing on their perception of speech in quiet and noisy environments, music, environmental [...] Read more.
Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the subjective experiences of adults with different cochlear implant (CI) configurations—unilateral cochlear implant (UCI), bilateral cochlear implant (BCI), and bimodal stimulation (BM)—focusing on their perception of speech in quiet and noisy environments, music, environmental sounds, people’s voices and tinnitus. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 130 adults who had undergone UCI, BCI, or BM was conducted. Participants completed a six-item online questionnaire, assessing difficulty levels and psychological impact across auditory domains, with responses measured on a 10-point scale. Statistical analyses were performed to compare the subjective experiences of the three groups. Results: Patients reported that understanding speech in noise and tinnitus perception were their main concerns. BCI users experienced fewer difficulties with understanding speech in both quiet (p < 0.001) and noisy (p = 0.008) environments and with perceiving non-vocal sounds (p = 0.038) compared to UCI and BM users; no significant differences were found for music perception (p = 0.099), tinnitus perception (p = 0.397), or voice naturalness (p = 0.157). BCI users also reported less annoyance in quiet (p = 0.004) and noisy (p = 0.047) environments, and in the perception of voices (p = 0.009) and non-vocal sounds (p = 0.019). Tinnitus-related psychological impact showed no significant differences between groups (p = 0.090). Conclusions: Although speech perception in noise and tinnitus remain major problems for CI users, the results of our study suggest that bilateral cochlear implantation offers significant subjective advantages over unilateral implantation and bimodal stimulation in adults, particularly in difficult listening environments. Full article
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29 pages, 25762 KiB  
Article
Improving Bimonthly Landscape Monitoring in Morocco, North Africa, by Integrating Machine Learning with GRASS GIS
by Polina Lemenkova
Geomatics 2025, 5(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/geomatics5010005 - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
This article presents the application of novel cartographic methods of vegetation mapping with a case study of the Rif Mountains, northern Morocco. The study area is notable for varied geomorphology and diverse landscapes. The methodology includes ML modules of GRASS GIS ‘r.learn.train’, ‘r.learn.predict’, [...] Read more.
This article presents the application of novel cartographic methods of vegetation mapping with a case study of the Rif Mountains, northern Morocco. The study area is notable for varied geomorphology and diverse landscapes. The methodology includes ML modules of GRASS GIS ‘r.learn.train’, ‘r.learn.predict’, and ‘r.random’ with algorithms of supervised classification implemented from the Scikit-Learn libraries of Python. This approach provides a platform for processing spatiotemporal data and satellite image analysis. The objective is to determine the robustness of the “DecisionTreeClassifier” and “ExtraTreesClassifier” classification algorithms. The time series of satellite images covering northern Morocco consists of six Landsat scenes for 2023 with a bimonthly time interval. Land cover maps are produced based on the processed, classified, and analyzed images. The results demonstrated seasonal changes in vegetation and land cover types. The validation was performed using a land cover dataset from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). This study contributes to environmental monitoring in North Africa using ML algorithms of satellite image processing. Using RS data combined with the powerful functionality of the GRASS GIS and FAO-derived datasets, the topographic variability, moderate-scale habitat heterogeneity, and bimonthly distribution of land cover types of northern Morocco in 2023 have been assessed for the first time. Full article
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10 pages, 1093 KiB  
Article
Impact of Head Position on Facial Soft Tissue Thickness: An Ultrasound Study in the Slovak Population
by Zuzana Kozáková, Simona Sulis, Darina Falbová, Lenka Vorobeľová, Mária Matláková, Radoslav Beňuš and Petra Švábová
Forensic Sci. 2025, 5(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/forensicsci5010005 - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Facial soft tissue thickness (FSTT) data are extensively utilized in forensic and medical sciences, serving as a foundational element for craniofacial reconstruction and identification methods. This study aims to analyze the differences in FSTT measurements between upright and supine positions in [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Facial soft tissue thickness (FSTT) data are extensively utilized in forensic and medical sciences, serving as a foundational element for craniofacial reconstruction and identification methods. This study aims to analyze the differences in FSTT measurements between upright and supine positions in living subjects. Methods: The study sample consisted of 121 participants aged 20 to 86 years from Slovakia. Biological sex and age data were collected. FSTT measurements were taken at eight medial facial line landmarks and eight bilateral landmarks using a non-invasive General Electric LOGIQe R7 ultrasound device. Results: The results indicate that the head position significantly influenced more than half of the landmarks, with mean differences not exceeding 1.31 mm. Most FSTT values were higher in the horizontal position. Younger males and females exhibited significant differences in FSTT across various regions, including the eye, cheek, nose and mouth, with discrepancies in the forehead, chin, and cheek regions among younger males. In older males, only the gonion region showed a significant position-related difference, while older females demonstrated substantial FSTT changes at five landmarks, with the largest difference (1.31 mm) observed at the mandible, accounting for 15.74% of the mean FSTT. Compared to younger groups, older females exhibited higher FSTT values in the upright position. Conclusions: These findings suggest that measurements in an upright position may be more suitable for facial reconstruction, as positional changes in FSTT can occur in both positive and negative directions. Full article
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20 pages, 987 KiB  
Article
A Mixed Methods Comparison of Oral Hygiene Behaviors by Gender Among Mexican-Origin Young Adults in California
by Melissa Yu, Guadalupe X. Ayala, Melody K. Schiaffino, Kristin S. Hoeft, Vanessa Malcarne and Tracy L. Finlayson
Oral 2025, 5(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/oral5010005 - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
Objective: This mixed methods study explores gender differences in, and reasons for, toothbrushing and flossing among Mexican-origin adults. Methods: Interviews and surveys about oral hygiene behaviors were collected from 72 adults (ages 21–40) living on the California–Mexico border. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed in [...] Read more.
Objective: This mixed methods study explores gender differences in, and reasons for, toothbrushing and flossing among Mexican-origin adults. Methods: Interviews and surveys about oral hygiene behaviors were collected from 72 adults (ages 21–40) living on the California–Mexico border. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed in their original language (English/Spanish), then coded. Survey responses were linked to coded transcripts in Dedoose. Qualitative reports were thematically analyzed for each behavior, stratified into four groups by gender and whether or not participants met American Dental Association (ADA) weekly guidelines (brushing ≥ 14/week; flossing ≥ 7/week). Self-reported weekly frequencies of brushing and flossing were collected continuously, and then dichotomized as meeting guidelines or not. Kruskal–Wallis and chi-square tests assessed differences in hygiene behavior frequency by gender. Negative binomial and logistic regressions were performed, accounting for socio-demographic characteristics. Results: Overall, 76% and 40% of adults met ADA guidelines for brushing and flossing, respectively. There were no differences in meeting ADA guidelines by gender. When brushing was examined continuously, women brushed 1.24 (1.05–1.47; p = 0.0099) times the rate of weekly brushing than men in the full model; flossing frequency differences were not found. Men and women, whether ADA guidelines were met or not, identified similar brushing and flossing facilitators (health concerns, aesthetics), and barriers (lack of time, not being home). Some women (mothers) were motivated to brush to be role models for their children. Self-efficacy, or confidence in ability to brush or floss, was described differently by adults who met ADA guidelines (high self-efficacy) compared to the adults not meeting guidelines (low self-efficacy). Conclusions: Integrating quantitative and qualitative data obtained from Mexican-origin adults identified few differences in both oral hygiene behaviors and the factors that influence their enactment. Full article
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28 pages, 9297 KiB  
Article
Filling the Last Major Gap in the Phylogeny of Lotus (Leguminosae): The Nearly Extinct Lotus benoistii from Morocco, a Potentially Important Breeding Resource
by Galina V. Degtjareva, Tahir H. Samigullin, Carmen M. Valiejo-Roman, Cyrille Chatelain, Dmitry D. Sokoloff and Tatiana E. Kramina
Taxonomy 2025, 5(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/taxonomy5010006 - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
Lotus, with about 120 species, is the largest genus of Leguminosae–Loteae. The last global classification recognized 14 sections, of which 13 were then sampled in molecular phylogenetic analyses. The section remaining unsampled is Lotus sect. Benedictella with one critically endangered and possibly [...] Read more.
Lotus, with about 120 species, is the largest genus of Leguminosae–Loteae. The last global classification recognized 14 sections, of which 13 were then sampled in molecular phylogenetic analyses. The section remaining unsampled is Lotus sect. Benedictella with one critically endangered and possibly extinct species, L. benoistii. This is an annual species known from Mediterranean-type vernal pools in the lowlands of northwestern Morocco that differs from other species of the genus in many-seeded indehiscent fruits with thin pericarp and pinnate leaves with 6–9 leaflets. This species was described in a monospecific genus and later transferred to Lotus on the basis of suggested morphological similarities with three mainly desert annuals from North Africa and Southwest Asia currently classified in Lotus sect. Chamaelotus. We provide the first molecular phylogenetic data on L. benoistii and show that it is far from L. sect. Chamaelotus. It is close to plants traditionally classified in Lotus sect. Lotus that have a center of diversity in Europe and temperate Asia. Phylogenetic analyses of plastid markers showed that L. sect. Chamaelotus belongs to a clade with major taxonomic diversity in Macaronesia, Africa, SW Asia, and Australia. Morphology does not provide arguments against the novel hypothesis on the relationships of L. benoistii. Its possible extinction is a great loss for the breeding programs of the pasture plant L. corniculatus. We provide the first anatomical data of L. benoistii, showing that its non-shattering condition has a peculiar nature that differs from all other instances of indehiscence in Loteae. Full article
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11 pages, 1757 KiB  
Article
A 3D Superposition Approximation for Gamma Knife Dose Calculation
by Payton H. Stone, Lam M. Lay, Raymi Ramirez, Daniel Neck, Connel Chu, Joyoni Dey and David Solis
Radiation 2025, 5(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/radiation5010006 - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
Effective dose calculation is essential for optimizing Gamma Knife (GK) stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) treatment plans. Modern GK systems allow independent sector activation, enabling complex dose distributions per shot. This study presents a dose approximation method designed to account for shot flexibility and generate [...] Read more.
Effective dose calculation is essential for optimizing Gamma Knife (GK) stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) treatment plans. Modern GK systems allow independent sector activation, enabling complex dose distributions per shot. This study presents a dose approximation method designed to account for shot flexibility and generate 3D doses external to GammaPlan. A treatment plan was created with the TMR10 calculation for individual sector activations using a Radiosurgery Head Phantom. The resulting dose arrays established a basis set of sector-specific distributions, which were then referenced by shot parameters from the plan, allowing dose accumulation through superposition. This superposition approximation (SA) was compared to the original TMR10 using the Dice Similarity Coefficient (DSC), 95% Hausdorff Distance (HD95), and GK deliverability metrics: coverage, selectivity, and gradient index, across an isodose normalization range from 10% to 90%. In a cohort of 30 patients with 71 targets, strong agreement was observed between TMR10 and SA in the clinically used 50–60% isodose range, with DSC above 85% and HD95 under 2.18 mm. The average differences for the coverage, selectivity, and gradient index were 0.014, 0.008, and 0.118, respectively. This method accurately approximates TMR10 calculations within clinically relevant ranges, offering an external tool to assess 3D dose distributions for GK treatment plans. Full article
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18 pages, 1184 KiB  
Article
It’s the Social Interaction That Matters: Exploring Residents’ Motivation to Invest in the Community-Shared Charging Post Co-Construction Project
by Junchao Yang and Ziyang Peng
World Electr. Veh. J. 2025, 16(1), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj16010054 - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
Countries worldwide are increasingly focused on addressing the imbalance between the supply and demand for EV charging infrastructure, with the community-shared charging post (CSCP) co-construction project emerging as a promising solution. The broad participation and investment support of the residents are the keys [...] Read more.
Countries worldwide are increasingly focused on addressing the imbalance between the supply and demand for EV charging infrastructure, with the community-shared charging post (CSCP) co-construction project emerging as a promising solution. The broad participation and investment support of the residents are the keys to the success of the CSCP co-construction project. This study, grounded in the theory of planned behavior (TPB) from social psychology, incorporated factors such as community identity, perceived green value, economic benefit, uncivil behaviors, and perceived risk to construct a structural model explaining community residents’ intention to invest in the CSCP co-construction project. This research confirmed that (1) 85.73% of respondents expressed strong recognition of the CSCP co-construction project, with a mean recognition score of 5.56 out of a possible 7; (2) an individual’s social-related perceptions, including the subjective norms and community identity are the strongest determinant of the intention to invest in the CSCP co-construction project; (3) the willingness to invest in CSCP co-construction project differs significantly between the EV group and the non-EV group. Economic benefit was significant only for the non-EV group, while uncivil behaviors were significant only for the EV group. These results provide valuable guidelines for governments and corporations that are promoting or pursuing sharing community for the residents. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fast-Charging Station for Electric Vehicles: Challenges and Issues)
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18 pages, 7157 KiB  
Article
Proportional-Switch Adjustment Process-Based Day-by-Day Evolution Model for Mixed Traffic Flow in an Autonomous Driving Environment
by Yihao Huang, Han Zhang and Aiwu Kuang
World Electr. Veh. J. 2025, 16(1), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj16010053 - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
Given the rapid development of technologies such as new energy vehicles, autonomous driving, and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, a mixed traffic flow comprising connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs) and human-driven vehicles (HDVs) is anticipated to emerge. This necessitates the development of a daily dynamic [...] Read more.
Given the rapid development of technologies such as new energy vehicles, autonomous driving, and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, a mixed traffic flow comprising connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs) and human-driven vehicles (HDVs) is anticipated to emerge. This necessitates the development of a daily dynamic evolution model for mixed traffic flow to address the dynamic traffic management needs of urban environments characterized by mixed traffic. The daily dynamic evolution model can capture the temporal evolution of traffic flow in road networks, with a focus on the daily path choice behavior of travelers and the evolving traffic flow in the network. First, based on the travel characteristics of CAVs and HDVs, the user group in a connected autonomous driving environment is classified into three categories, each adhering to the system optimal (SO) criterion, the user equilibrium (UE) criterion, or the stochastic user equilibrium (SUE) criterion. Next, the pure HDV traffic capacity BPR (Bureau of Public Roads) function is adapted into a heterogeneous traffic flow travel time function to compute the travel time cost for mixed traffic flow. Based on the energy consumption calculation formula for HDVs, the impact of CAVs is fully considered to establish the travel energy consumption cost for both CAVs and HDVs. The total individual travel cost for CAVs and HDVs encompasses both travel time cost and energy consumption cost. Furthermore, a daily dynamic evolution model for mixed traffic flow in a connected autonomous driving environment is developed using the proportional-switch adjustment process (PAP) model. The fundamental properties of the model are validated. Finally, numerical simulations on an N-dimensional (N-D) network confirm the validity and effectiveness of the daily evolution model for mixed traffic flow. A sensitivity analysis of traveler responses in the daily evolution model reveals that, as the sensitivity of CAVs to impedance changes increases, the fluctuations in mixed traffic flow during the early stages of evolution become more pronounced, and the time required to reach a mixed-equilibrium state decreases. Therefore, the PAP-based daily dynamic evolution model for mixed traffic flow effectively captures the evolution process of CAV and HDV mixed traffic flow and supports urban traffic management in a connected autonomous driving environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vehicle Safe Motion in Mixed Vehicle Technologies Environment)
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21 pages, 2390 KiB  
Review
Electric Vehicles in Last-Mile Delivery: A Bibliometric Review
by Eric Mogire, Peter Kilbourn and Rose Luke
World Electr. Veh. J. 2025, 16(1), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj16010052 - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
The rapid growth in e-commerce calls for research on the potential of electric vehicles in improving last-mile delivery. Whereas existing studies have examined aspects of last-mile delivery, such as challenges, acceptance/benefits, and feasibility, the studies are fragmented, with conflicting findings and regional differences. [...] Read more.
The rapid growth in e-commerce calls for research on the potential of electric vehicles in improving last-mile delivery. Whereas existing studies have examined aspects of last-mile delivery, such as challenges, acceptance/benefits, and feasibility, the studies are fragmented, with conflicting findings and regional differences. Thus, there is a need for a comprehensive understanding of the studies to map out current research trends and propose future research agendas. To address this research gap, a bibliometric review was conducted on 375 publications from the Scopus database. Findings reveal that pioneering countries such as the USA have researched integrating electric vehicles into last-mile delivery systems, focusing on technological advancements such as battery technologies and smart grids. The sustainability theme is common in most studies, focusing on controlling carbon emissions and energy efficiency. The electric micro-mobility theme has grown in recent years, while emerging technologies remain underexplored, especially in developing economies. Future research should address the underexplored areas. These include charging infrastructure optimisation, electric micro-mobility innovations, and integration in urban environments, alongside the social and ethical implications of electric vehicle adoption for last-mile delivery. Full article
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13 pages, 5435 KiB  
Article
Design, Analysis, and Comparison of Electric Vehicle Electric Oil Pump Motor Rotors Using Ferrite Magnet
by Huai-Cong Liu
World Electr. Veh. J. 2025, 16(1), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj16010050 - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
With the recent proliferation of electric vehicles, there is increasing attention on drive motors that are powerful and efficient, with a higher power density. To meet such high power density requirements, the cooling technology used for drive motors is particularly important. To further [...] Read more.
With the recent proliferation of electric vehicles, there is increasing attention on drive motors that are powerful and efficient, with a higher power density. To meet such high power density requirements, the cooling technology used for drive motors is particularly important. To further optimize the cooling effects, the use of direct oil-cooling technology for drive motors is gaining more attention, especially regarding the requirements for electric vehicle electric oil pumps (EOPs) in motor cooling. In such high-temperature environments, it is also necessary for the EOP to maintain its performance under high temperatures. This research explores the feasibility of using high-temperature-resistant ferrite magnets in the rotors of EOPs. For a 150 W EOP motor with the same stator size, three different rotor configurations are proposed: a surface permanent magnet (SPM) rotor, an interior permanent magnet (IPM) rotor, and a spoke-type IPM rotor. While the rotor sizes are the same, to maximize the power density while meeting the rotor’s mechanical strength requirements, the different rotor configurations make the most use of ferrite magnets (weighing 58 g, 51.8 g, and 46.3 g, respectively). Finite element analysis (FEA) was used to compare the performance of these models with that of the basic rotor design, considering factors such as the no-load back electromotive force, no-load voltage harmonics (<10%), cogging torque (<0.1 Nm), load torque, motor loss, and efficiency (>80%). Additionally, a comprehensive analysis of the system efficiency and energy loss was conducted based on hypothetical electric vehicle traction motor parameters. Finally, by manufacturing a prototype motor and conducting experiments, the effectiveness and superiority of the finite element method (FEM) design results were confirmed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue EVS37—International Electric Vehicle Symposium and Exhibition (Seoul, Republic of Korea))
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21 pages, 2616 KiB  
Review
Using Blockchain in the Registration and Authentication of a Carpooling Application: From Review to Proposal
by Lina Sofía Cardona Martínez, Cesar Andrés Sandoval Muñoz, Ricardo Salazar-Cabrera, Álvaro Pachón de la Cruz and Juan Manuel Madrid Molina
World Electr. Veh. J. 2025, 16(1), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj16010049 - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
Today, transportation plays a crucial role in economic development and establishing strong social relationships. Primary mobility challenges in cities include high levels of traffic, accidents, and pollution. Improvements in road infrastructure, technological advancements at traffic light intersections, and the adoption of electric or [...] Read more.
Today, transportation plays a crucial role in economic development and establishing strong social relationships. Primary mobility challenges in cities include high levels of traffic, accidents, and pollution. Improvements in road infrastructure, technological advancements at traffic light intersections, and the adoption of electric or hybrid vehicles are insufficient to resolve these issues. Maximizing the use of public transit and shared transportation is essential for this purpose. Strategies aimed at reducing the number of private vehicles on city roads are beneficial in this regard. Ridesharing, particularly carpooling, is an effective strategy to achieve such a reduction in vehicle numbers. However, safety concerns related to carpooling tools present a significant barrier to the growth of this mode of transportation. The measures implemented in these tools often lack appropriate technology for the authentication process, which is crucial for enhancing safety for both passengers and drivers. This proposed research explores the benefits of improving the authentication processes for passengers and drivers within a shared transportation system to minimize information security risks. A thorough literature review was conducted on shared transportation, user registration, authentication processes within these systems, and technologies that could enhance security, such as blockchain. Subsequently, considering the identified criteria in the literature review, a proposal was developed for creating a registration and authentication module based on blockchain that could be applied across various systems. Finally, an analysis was conducted on how this module could be integrated into a carpooling application and the benefits it would provide regarding safety and increased user adoption. The findings from the review were organized and assessed to identify key aspects for improving user authentication in a system based on intelligent transportation systems (ITSs) and utilizing blockchain, recognized for its security and data integrity. The registration and authentication module developed in this work allows increased security, scalability, and user adoption for any type of application, e.g., carpooling. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internet of Vehicles for Intelligent Transportation System: Current Trends and Future Perspectives)
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22 pages, 751 KiB  
Article
Perceived Critical Success Factors for Implementing Building Information Modelling in Construction Small- and Medium-Sized Enterprises
by Ihab Gheni Hussien, Zahraa Saeed Rasheed, Parsa Asaadsamani and Hadi Sarvari
CivilEng 2025, 6(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/civileng6010005 - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
Building information modelling (BIM) is an emerging technology in the building sector. As with any emerging technology, the identification of critical success factors (CSFs) for BIM is essential. On the other hand, small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) consistently play a vital role in [...] Read more.
Building information modelling (BIM) is an emerging technology in the building sector. As with any emerging technology, the identification of critical success factors (CSFs) for BIM is essential. On the other hand, small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) consistently play a vital role in the construction industry. Therefore, it is essential to determine the critical success elements for the effective implementation of BIM in these companies. Hence, this study aims to determine the CSFs for implementing BIM in SMEs in the developing country of Iran. To accomplish this, three rounds of the Delphi technique were carried out with the participation of fifteen BIM professionals from SMEs based in Iran. According to the Delphi survey findings, a total of 27 CSFs were identified for the effective utilisation of BIM in SMEs. Subsequently, to assess the CSFs, a questionnaire utilising a five-point Likert scale measurement was designed. Then, it was distributed among specialists in construction SMEs in Iran. The questionnaire included twenty-seven factors categorised into four primary groups: technical, managerial, financial, and legal. A total of 56 questionnaires were gathered and examined. The findings indicate that the CSFs highlighted for implementing BIM in SMEs are above the average level. Furthermore, the CSFs with a high impact on successful BIM implementation in construction SMEs in Iran were determined. Four high-impact CSFs are (1) the employer’s demand; (2) understanding the advantages and practicality of implementing BIM; (3) awareness of and ensuring a return on investment; and (4) efficient and suitable legislation. The findings of this study can serve as a valuable resource for stakeholders, providing them with a useful tool to enhance decision-making about the implementation of BIM in SMEs, especially in developing countries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Urban, Economy, Management and Transportation Engineering)
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15 pages, 353 KiB  
Article
Cow Culling Rates and Causes in 12 Pasture-Based Dairy Herds in Southern Uruguay, a Pilot Study
by Benjamín Doncel-Díaz, Santiago Fariña, Rubén D. Caffarena, Federico Giannitti and Franklin Riet-Correa
Dairy 2025, 6(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/dairy6010003 - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
The reasons for culling dairy cows in Uruguay are largely unknown. This study aimed to describe the culling rates of dairy cows and identify the causes of cow culling in 12 commercial herds in Uruguay. We conducted a prospective longitudinal observational study from [...] Read more.
The reasons for culling dairy cows in Uruguay are largely unknown. This study aimed to describe the culling rates of dairy cows and identify the causes of cow culling in 12 commercial herds in Uruguay. We conducted a prospective longitudinal observational study from June 2019 to May 2020 on 12 dairy farms stratified by herd size. Six farms with 51–199 cows, five with 200–500 cows, and one farm with more than 500 cows in the departments of Colonia and San José were included. The cows were pure Holstein and Holstein–Jersey crossbreeds. The overall dairy cow population on these 12 farms was 3126 cows (range: 74–740 cows per farm). The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The total annual culling rate was 23.1% (721/3126), including sales to slaughter (18.1%; 565/3126), on-farm mortality (4.5%; 141/3126), and dairy sales (0.5%; 15/3126). Cow culling for slaughter because of health (including reproductive) problems represented 70.7% (510/721) of the overall culling rate, most of which were due to reproductive failure (29.3%, 211/721), mastitis (25.9%, 187/721), poor udder conformation (6.2%, 45/721), lameness (4.6%, 33/721), and other diseases (4.7%, 34/721). Mortality represented 19.6% (141/721) of the overall culling rate. Cow culling for slaughter due to health (including reproductive) problems and mortality constituted 90.3% (651/721) of the total culled cows. In conclusion, dairy cows were culled mainly due to illnesses that lead to slaughter or death. Implementing effective measures to improve reproductive rates, reduce mastitis and lameness, and prevent other diseases, such as leukosis, paratuberculosis, and digestive disorders in the studied population would reduce cow culling, increasing cow longevity, animal welfare, and farm profitability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Dairy Animal Health)
23 pages, 17763 KiB  
Article
Discrete Fractional-Order Modeling of Recurrent Childhood Diseases Using the Caputo Difference Operator
by Yasir A. Madani, Zeeshan Ali, Mohammed Rabih, Amer Alsulami, Nidal H. E. Eljaneid, Khaled Aldwoah and Blgys Muflh
Fractal Fract. 2025, 9(1), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/fractalfract9010055 - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
This paper presents a new SIRS model for recurrent childhood diseases under the Caputo fractional difference operator. The existence theory is established using Brouwer’s fixed-point theorem and the Banach contraction principle, providing a comprehensive mathematical foundation for the model. Ulam stability is demonstrated [...] Read more.
This paper presents a new SIRS model for recurrent childhood diseases under the Caputo fractional difference operator. The existence theory is established using Brouwer’s fixed-point theorem and the Banach contraction principle, providing a comprehensive mathematical foundation for the model. Ulam stability is demonstrated using nonlinear functional analysis. Sensitivity analysis is conducted based on the variation of each parameter, and the basic reproduction number (R0) is introduced to assess local stability at two equilibrium points. The stability analysis indicates that the disease-free equilibrium point is stable when R0<1, while the endemic equilibrium point is stable when R0>1 and otherwise unstable. Numerical simulations demonstrate the model’s effectiveness in capturing realistic scenarios, particularly the recurrent patterns observed in some childhood diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis and Numerical Computations of Nonlinear Fractional and Classical Differential Equations)
13 pages, 1418 KiB  
Article
Phased Fractional Low-Order Moment-Based Doppler Shift Estimation in the Presence of Interference Signals and Impulsive Noise
by Bo Ni, Mengjia Wang, Jiacheng Zhang, Ying Zhang and Tao Liu
Fractal Fract. 2025, 9(1), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/fractalfract9010054 - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
Doppler shift estimation continues to be a critical challenge of utmost significance in both theoretical research and practical engineering applications. Many innovators have crafted solutions specific to this issue, with notable contributions across various signals and scenarios. Given that cyclostationary signals are prevalent [...] Read more.
Doppler shift estimation continues to be a critical challenge of utmost significance in both theoretical research and practical engineering applications. Many innovators have crafted solutions specific to this issue, with notable contributions across various signals and scenarios. Given that cyclostationary signals are prevalent in both artificial and natural phenomena, we propose a novel framework based on the phased fractional lower-order moment (PFLOM) for estimating Doppler shift in mixed cyclostationary signals. During the estimation process, a more realistic impulse noise model is examined in contrast to the ideal Gaussian noise typically assumed in conventional methods. This approach is meticulously derived through a series of detailed steps in line with cyclostationary signal processing and PFLOM principles. Furthermore, an extensive simulation has been conducted to validate the efficacy and robustness of our proposed method. It is anticipated that the concept and method presented here could be applied more broadly due to its solid theoretical underpinnings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fractional-Order Circuits, Systems, and Signal Processing, 2nd Edition)
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25 pages, 477 KiB  
Article
Topology of Locally and Non-Locally Generalized Derivatives
by Dimiter Prodanov
Fractal Fract. 2025, 9(1), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/fractalfract9010053 - 20 Jan 2025
Abstract
This article investigates the continuity of derivatives of real-valued functions from a topological perspective. This is achieved by the characterization of their sets of discontinuity. The same principle is applied to Gateaux derivatives and gradients in Euclidean spaces. This article also introduces a [...] Read more.
This article investigates the continuity of derivatives of real-valued functions from a topological perspective. This is achieved by the characterization of their sets of discontinuity. The same principle is applied to Gateaux derivatives and gradients in Euclidean spaces. This article also introduces a generalization of the derivatives from the perspective of the modulus of continuity and characterizes their sets of discontinuities. There is a need for such generalizations when dealing with physical phenomena, such as fractures, shock waves, turbulence, Brownian motion, etc. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fractional Differential Operators with Classical and New Memory Kernels)
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