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17 pages, 1238 KB

Open AccessReview

The Genetic Landscape of Androgenetic Alopecia: Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives

by Aditya K. Gupta, Daniel J. Dennis, Vasiliki Economopoulos and Vincent Piguet

Biology 2026, 15(2), 192; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15020192 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common cause of progressive hair thinning in adults and has traditionally been viewed as an androgen-driven inherited condition. Genomic research now demonstrates that AGA is a complex polygenic disorder involving multiple biological pathways, including androgen signaling, hair [...] Read more.

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common cause of progressive hair thinning in adults and has traditionally been viewed as an androgen-driven inherited condition. Genomic research now demonstrates that AGA is a complex polygenic disorder involving multiple biological pathways, including androgen signaling, hair follicle development, cell survival, and extracellular matrix remodeling. Genome-wide association studies have identified numerous susceptibility loci, revealing that follicle miniaturization arises from interacting molecular mechanisms rather than a single pathogenic process. Genetic risk and predictive value vary across populations, with many loci identified in European cohorts showing limited transferability to other ancestries, highlighting the need for more diverse genetic studies. In women, genetic studies remain underpowered, and emerging data suggest partially distinct risk architecture compared with male AGA. Pharmacogenetic findings indicate that genetic variation may influence response to commonly used therapies, although no markers are currently validated for routine clinical use. Advances in single-cell and multi-omic approaches are improving understanding of how genetic risk translates into follicular dysfunction, supporting the development of more personalized and mechanism-based treatment strategies. Full article

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12 pages, 2478 KB

Open AccessArticle

Reaches of Unilateral Biportal Endoscopy in Lower Thoracic and Lumbar Spinal Extramedullary Tumor Resection: Case Series, Surgical Note, and Outcomes

by Adrian Sanchez-Gomez, Carlos Castillo-Rangel, Gustavo Alberto Vera-Perez, Malcom D. Prestonji, Rodolfo Guerrero-Perez and Gerardo Marín

Surgeries 2026, 7(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/surgeries7010014 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background: Extramedullary spinal tumors represent a significant challenge for spine surgeons. Currently, various techniques exist to perform tumor resection safely while optimizing patient outcomes. Historically, the standard of care has been open surgery; however, in the last two decades, Minimally Invasive Spine [...] Read more.

Background: Extramedullary spinal tumors represent a significant challenge for spine surgeons. Currently, various techniques exist to perform tumor resection safely while optimizing patient outcomes. Historically, the standard of care has been open surgery; however, in the last two decades, Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS) techniques have gained importance due to superior postoperative recovery. Literature on Unilateral Biportal Endoscopy (UBE) for tumor resection is currently limited. We propose that UBE has the potential to become a standard approach for these lesions due to its distinct advantages. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of 11 patients who underwent UBE resection of lower thoracic and lumbar spinal extramedullary tumors. We analyzed clinical files and intraoperative endoscopic videos to describe our surgical technique step by step. We also evaluated the advantages of this approach in terms of resection rate, operative time, operative blood loss, and hospital stay. A representative case is also presented. Results: Clinical resolution and significant symptomatic improvement were achieved in all cases, as evidenced by functional and pain scales. In terms of tumor resection, we obtained results comparable to other MISS techniques and open surgery, with a low complication rate. Conclusions: UBE represents a safe, effective evolution in MISS for spinal tumors. Future studies with larger cohorts are needed to validate these findings as a standard of care. Full article

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12 pages, 2758 KB

Open AccessArticle

Cooperative Associations Between Fishes and Bacteria: The Influence of Different Ocean Fishes on the Gut Microbiota Composition

by Jintao Liu, Bilin Liu, Yang Liu and Yuli Wei

Fishes 2026, 11(1), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes11010065 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

Gut microbial communities perform a multitude of physiological functions for their hosts; however, the drivers and distribution patterns of microbiota in wild animals remain largely underexplored. Our understanding of how these microbial communities are structured across hosts in natural environments—especially within a single [...] Read more.

Gut microbial communities perform a multitude of physiological functions for their hosts; however, the drivers and distribution patterns of microbiota in wild animals remain largely underexplored. Our understanding of how these microbial communities are structured across hosts in natural environments—especially within a single host species remains limited. Here, we characterized the gut microbial communities of four species of ocean fish using 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing to investigate the structural and functional features of these microbial communities across different fish species. By comparing the gut microbiota compositions of blue sharks (Prionace glauca), bigeye tuna (Thunnus obesus), sickle pomfret (Taractichthys steindachneri), and mackerel (Scomber japonicus), we identified several microbial taxa—including Photobacterium, Pelomonas, Ralstonia, and Rhodococcus—that were consistently detected across all samples, indicating they likely constitute a “common microbiota”. However, the relative abundances of these taxa varied significantly among species, with Photobacterium exhibiting the highest diversity. Blue sharks and bigeye tuna harbored relatively few dominant microbial species, but the abundance of these dominant bacteria was remarkably high, and inter-individual differences in microbial composition were pronounced. In contrast, mackerel and sickle pomfret contained a greater variety of dominant genera, each with low relative abundance, and inter-individual differences within the same species were minimal. Functionally, metabolic pathways, biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, and microbial metabolism represent the predominant functional categories of the intestinal microbiota in marine fish, with only minor interspecific differences observed. In contrast, biosynthesis of amino acids, ABC transporters, and two-component systems are the key functional pathways that exhibit significant variations across different fish species. Collectively, these findings reveal differences in gut microbial stability among different fish hosts. Such variations may be associated with the hosts’ energy utilization needs, and changes in the gut microbiota play a critical role in shaping the diverse survival strategies of these fish species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biology and Ecology)

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17 pages, 2514 KB

Open AccessArticle

Parsing the Relative Contributions of Leaf and Canopy Traits in Airborne Spectrometer Measurements

by Franklin B. Sullivan, Jack H. Hastings, Scott V. Ollinger, Andrew Ouimette, Andrew D. Richardson and Michael Palace

Remote Sens. 2026, 18(2), 355; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs18020355 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

Forest canopy near-infrared reflectance and mass-based canopy nitrogen concentration (canopy %N) have been shown to be positively correlated. While the mechanisms underpinning this relationship remain unresolved, the broad range of wavelengths involved points to structural properties that influence scattering and covary with %N. [...] Read more.

Forest canopy near-infrared reflectance and mass-based canopy nitrogen concentration (canopy %N) have been shown to be positively correlated. While the mechanisms underpinning this relationship remain unresolved, the broad range of wavelengths involved points to structural properties that influence scattering and covary with %N. Despite this, efforts that have focused on commonly measured structural properties such as leaf area index (LAI) have failed to identify a causal mechanism. Here, we sought to understand how lidar-derived canopy traits related to additional properties of foliar arrangement and structural complexity modulate the effects of leaf spectra and leaf area index (LAI) on canopy reflectance. We developed a leaf layer spectra model to explore how canopy reflectance would change if complex foliage arrangements were removed, compressing the canopy into optically dense, uniform stacked layers while maintaining the same leaf area index. Model results showed that LAI-weighted leaf reflectance saturates at a leaf area index of approximately two for needleleaf species and four for broadleaf species. When upscaled to estimate plot-level canopy reflectance in the absence of structural complexity (NIRr_LAI), results showed a strong positive relationship with canopy %N (r² = 0.86), despite a negative relationship for individual leaves or “big-leaf” canopies with an LAI of one (NIRrL, r² = 0.78). This result implies that the relationship between canopy near-infrared reflectance and canopy %N results from the integrated effects of canopy complexity acting on differences in leaf-level optical properties. We introduced an index of relative reflectance (IRr) that shows that the relative contribution of structural complexity to canopy near-infrared reflectance (NIRr_C) is related to canopy %N (r² = 0.55), with a three-fold reduction from potential canopy near-infrared reflectance observed in stands with low %N compared to a two-fold reduction in stands with high %N. These findings support the hypothesis that the correlation between canopy %N and canopy reflectance is the result of interactions between leaf traits and canopy structural complexity. Full article

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14 pages, 25871 KB

Open AccessArticle

Serum Proteomic Profiling Identifies ACSL4 and S100A2 as Novel Biomarkers in Feline Calicivirus Infection

by Chunmei Xu, Hao Liu, Haotian Gu, Di Wu, Xinming Tang, Lin Liang, Shaohua Hou, Jiabo Ding and Ruiying Liang

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(2), 1047; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27021047 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

Feline calicivirus (FCV) is a highly variable RNA virus that infects domestic cats and circulates endemically within feline populations, causing a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations, from asymptomatic infections to severe disease. Genomic analysis of 69 FCV strains revealed a high prevalence of [...] Read more.

Feline calicivirus (FCV) is a highly variable RNA virus that infects domestic cats and circulates endemically within feline populations, causing a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations, from asymptomatic infections to severe disease. Genomic analysis of 69 FCV strains revealed a high prevalence of the virus across multiple provinces in China. In vitro infection of CRFK cells with laboratory isolates FCV-BJ616 and FCV-BJDX40 resulted in significant cytotoxic effects. Serum proteomic analysis identified 221 upregulated and 123 downregulated proteins following infection with FCV-BJ616, and 233 upregulated and 165 downregulated proteins following infection with FCV-BJDX40. Among these, 215 proteins exhibited shared differential expression. Functional analyses revealed enriched pathways, including TNF signaling and ferroptosis. Notably, upregulation of Acyl-CoA Synthetase Long-Chain Family Member 4 (ACSL4) was correlated with lung injury, while downregulation of S100 Calcium Binding Protein A2 (S100A2) was associated with poor prognosis in FCV-associated oral disease. The differential expression of ACSL4 and S100A2 was further validated through Western blot analysis. These results suggest that ACSL4 and S100A2 are promising candidate biomarkers for monitoring FCV infection and disease progression, laying a foundation for future diagnostic and prognostic applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Microbiology)

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21 pages, 7879 KB

Open AccessArticle

Study on Prediction of Particle Migration at Interburden Boundaries in Ore-Drawing Process Based on Improved Transformer Model

by Xinbo Ma, Liancheng Wang, Chao Wu, Xingfan Zhang and Xiaobo Liu

Processes 2026, 14(2), 366; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr14020366 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

In the process of ore drawing using a caving method under interburden conditions, the key to controlling ore dilution lies in the accurate prediction of boundary particle migration trajectories. To address the challenges of high computational costs and complex modeling in traditional numerical [...] Read more.

In the process of ore drawing using a caving method under interburden conditions, the key to controlling ore dilution lies in the accurate prediction of boundary particle migration trajectories. To address the challenges of high computational costs and complex modeling in traditional numerical simulations, this study designs a dataset construction method. After calibrating parameters using the angle of repose, ore-drawing numerical simulation datasets with interburden (post-defined and pre-defined models) are established. Building upon this foundation, an improved Transformer model is proposed. The model enhances spatiotemporal representation through multi-layer feature fusion embedding, strengthens long-range dependency capture via a reinforced spatiotemporal attention backbone, improves local dynamic modeling capability through optimized decoding at the output stage, and integrates transfer learning to achieve continuous prediction of particle migration. Validation results demonstrate that the model accurately predicts the spatial distribution patterns and collective motion trends of particles, with prediction errors at critical nodes confined to within a single stage and an average estimation error of approximately 4% in interburden regions. The proposed approach effectively overcomes the timeliness bottleneck of traditional interburden ore-drawing simulations, enabling rapid and accurate prediction of boundary particle migration under interburden conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable and Advanced Technologies for Mining Engineering)

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8 pages, 208 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Editorial for the Special Issue: Nature-Based Solutions to Extreme Wildfires

by Adrián Regos

Fire 2026, 9(1), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/fire9010047 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

Extreme wildfires are becoming increasingly frequent and severe across many regions worldwide, driven by climate change, land-use transitions, and long-standing fire-suppression legacies. In this context, Nature-based Solutions (NbSs)—defined as actions that work with ecological processes to address societal challenges while providing biodiversity and [...] Read more.

Extreme wildfires are becoming increasingly frequent and severe across many regions worldwide, driven by climate change, land-use transitions, and long-standing fire-suppression legacies. In this context, Nature-based Solutions (NbSs)—defined as actions that work with ecological processes to address societal challenges while providing biodiversity and socio-economic benefits—offer a promising yet underdeveloped pathway for enhancing wildfire resilience. This Special Issue brings together eleven contributions spanning empirical ecology, landscape configuration, simulation modelling, spatial optimisation, ecosystem service analysis, governance assessment, and community-based innovation. Collectively, these studies demonstrate that restoring ecological fire regimes, promoting multifunctional landscapes, and integrating advanced decision support tools can substantially reduce wildfire hazard while sustaining ecosystem functions. They also reveal significant governance barriers, including fragmented policies, limited investment in prevention, and challenges in incorporating social demands into territorial planning. By synthesising these insights, this editorial identifies several strategic priorities for advancing NbSs in fire-prone landscapes: mainstreaming prevention within governance frameworks, strengthening the science–practice interface, investing in long-term socio-ecological monitoring, managing trade-offs transparently, and empowering local communities. Together, the findings highlight that effective NbSs emerge from the alignment of ecological, technological, institutional, and social dimensions, offering a coherent pathway toward more resilient, biodiverse, and fire-adaptive landscapes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fire Research at the Science–Policy–Practitioner Interface)

11 pages, 277 KB

Open AccessReview

Non-Invasive Surfactant Administration in Preterm Infants

by Faten Budajaja, Nadine Lahage and Ivan L. Hand

Children 2026, 13(1), 150; https://doi.org/10.3390/children13010150 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background: Although surfactant replacement therapy has been a cornerstone of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) management for decades, traditional delivery via endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation is associated with procedure-related complications and increased risk of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). These concerns have driven the development [...] Read more.

Background: Although surfactant replacement therapy has been a cornerstone of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) management for decades, traditional delivery via endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation is associated with procedure-related complications and increased risk of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). These concerns have driven the development of less invasive surfactant administration strategies. Objective: This review aims to summarize and evaluate the current literature on less invasive surfactant delivery techniques used in preterm infants with RDS, with a focus on their feasibility, efficacy, and short- and long-term neonatal outcomes. Methods: We reviewed the available literature evaluating less invasive surfactant administration methods, including InSurE, Less Invasive Surfactant Therapy/Minimally Invasive Surfactant Therapy (LISA/MIST), surfactant administration via laryngeal mask airway (SALSA/LMA), pharyngeal administration, and nebulized surfactant. We compared major outcomes, namely the need for mechanical ventilation, incidence of BPD, procedural complications and long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes. Results: Non-invasive surfactant administration techniques have been associated with reduced exposure to mechanical ventilation and lower rates of BPD compared with conventional approaches. Studies on LISA/MIST demonstrate the most consistent evidence in reducing the need for mechanical ventilation and BPD, while other techniques such as LMA-assisted delivery and nebulization show promise but remain limited by device constraints, gestational age applicability, and heterogeneous study designs. Long-term neurodevelopmental outcome data remain sparse across all techniques. Conclusions: Non-invasive surfactant administration represents an important advancement in the management of RDS. While several techniques offer potential advantages over traditional intubation-based delivery, further high-quality studies are required to optimize patient selection, standardize techniques, develop safe and effective delivery devices, and evaluate long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis and Management of Newborn Respiratory Distress Syndrome)

19 pages, 2477 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Hantavirus Infection on the Rodent Lung Microbiome: Specific Regulatory Roles of Host Species and Virus Types

by Yaru Xiong, Zhihui Dai, Fangling He, Rongjiao Liu, Juan Wang, Zhifei Zhan, Huayun Jia, Shengbao Chen and Liang Cai

Microorganisms 2026, 14(1), 244; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms14010244 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

The lung-targeting characteristic of Hantavirus infection and the unclear mechanism underlying its interaction with the lung microbiome hampers the development of effective prevention and control strategies. In this study, lung tissues from Apodemus agrarius and Rattus norvegicus were collected at Hantavirus surveillance sites [...] Read more.

The lung-targeting characteristic of Hantavirus infection and the unclear mechanism underlying its interaction with the lung microbiome hampers the development of effective prevention and control strategies. In this study, lung tissues from Apodemus agrarius and Rattus norvegicus were collected at Hantavirus surveillance sites in Hunan Province. Metagenomic sequencing was subsequently applied to compare microbiome diversity, community structure, and function between infected and uninfected groups. Then the linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) was employed to identify key biomarkers. The results indicated that after infection with Hantaan virus (HTNV), Apodemus agrarius exhibited significantly increased evenness but markedly decreased richness of lung microbial communities, as reflected by consistent reductions in the number of observed species, Abundance-based Coverage Estimator (ACE) index, and Chao1 index. In contrast, Rattus norvegicus infected with Seoul virus (SEOV) showed no significant difference in microbial richness compared with uninfected controls, and even a slight increase was observed. These findings suggest that host species and virus type may play an important role in shaping microbial community responses. Furthermore, β-diversity analysis showed that the community structure was clearly separated by the host rodent species, as well as by their virus infection status. LEfSe analysis identified taxa with discriminatory power associated with infection status. Streptococcus agalactiae and Streptococcus were associated with SEOV-infected Rattus norvegicus, while Chlamydia and Chlamydia abortus were relatively enriched in uninfected Apodemus agrarius. This exploratory study reveals preliminary association between specific host—Hantavirus pairings (HTNV—Apodemus agrarius and SEOV—Rattus norvegicus) and the rodent lung microbiome, offering potential insights for future research into viral pathogenesis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Public Health Microbiology)

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18 pages, 3651 KB

Open AccessArticle

Investigating the Impact of Educational Backgrounds on Medical Students’ Perceptions of Admissions Pathways at the Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine at McMaster University

by Michelle Helen Cruickshank, Heather Gadalla, Ewaoluwa Akomolafe, Natasha Johnson and Patricia Farrugia

Int. Med. Educ. 2026, 5(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/ime5010015 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background: Many Canadian medical schools have introduced equity-focused admissions pathways for Black and Indigenous applicants, yet little is known about how current medical students perceive these policies. Understanding these perceptions is critical to ensuring equity initiatives are effective and well-supported. Methods: We conducted [...] Read more.

Background: Many Canadian medical schools have introduced equity-focused admissions pathways for Black and Indigenous applicants, yet little is known about how current medical students perceive these policies. Understanding these perceptions is critical to ensuring equity initiatives are effective and well-supported. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 95 undergraduate medical students at McMaster University. The survey included Likert-scale, multiple-choice, and open-ended questions assessing attitudes toward Black and Indigenous facilitated admissions pathways. Educational background was categorized by the number of humanities/social science courses taken prior to medical school. Quantitative data were summarized descriptively; qualitative responses were thematically analyzed. Results: Most students supported diversity in medicine and agreed that equity pathways address barriers faced by Black and Indigenous applicants. However, fewer than half felt informed about the purpose of these pathways. Responses highlighted concerns about transparency, fairness, and the possibility that pathways may disproportionately benefit higher-socioeconomic-status applicants. Subgroup trends did not show consistent support among students with greater exposure to humanities/social sciences; some expressed stronger skepticism regarding fairness. Qualitative themes emphasized the need for clearer communication, recognition of socioeconomic barriers, and expansion of equity initiatives. Interpretation: Students broadly valued equity-focused admissions but questioned their implementation and transparency. Concerns about socioeconomic privilege and unclear standards indicate a need for better institutional communication and more inclusive eligibility criteria. Equity pathways should be paired with structured education and clear messaging to foster trust, improve understanding, and align admissions policies with the social accountability mandate of medical education. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advancements in Medical Education)

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15 pages, 25261 KB

Open AccessArticle

Capability of ISSR, SCoT and CEAP Markers for Genetic Diversity Assessment of Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia Mill.) Genotypes

by Mariya Todorova Zhelyazkova

Int. J. Plant Biol. 2026, 17(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijpb17010008 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

Lavender has been cultivated in Bulgaria for over a century. The high essential oil content and quality of Bulgarian lavender varieties have established the country as a leading global producer. Studies into the crop’s genetic diversity are essential for selecting varieties best suited [...] Read more.

Lavender has been cultivated in Bulgaria for over a century. The high essential oil content and quality of Bulgarian lavender varieties have established the country as a leading global producer. Studies into the crop’s genetic diversity are essential for selecting varieties best suited to specific environmental conditions, maximizing resilience and yield. Therefore, identifying appropriate genetic markers to monitor lavender diversity is a key prerequisite for developing effective crop selection strategies, particularly in response to the challenges posed by global climate change. In this study, we evaluate the versatility of markers for assessing genetic diversity of lavender genotypes. A total of 96, 97 and 96 bands were recorded using the 13 Start Codon Targeted Polymorphism (SCoT), 13 Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) and 14 Cis-Element Aligned Polymorphism (CEAP) primers, respectively. All amplification programs used were successful in the studied genotypes. Additionally, four informative primers of each marker system were applied for assessment of the within-field genetic variability in two lavender plantations from Bulgaria. This is the first report on the combined use and comparison of CEAP, SCoT and ISSR primers in lavender genotypes in Bulgaria. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Biochemistry and Genetics)

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17 pages, 4692 KB

Open AccessArticle

AI-Driven Exploration of Public Perception in Historic Districts Through Deep Learning and Large Language Models

by Xiaoling Dai, Xinyu Zhou, Qi Dong and Kai Zhou

Buildings 2026, 16(2), 437; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16020437 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

Artificial intelligence is reshaping approaches to architectural heritage conservation by enabling a deeper understanding of how people perceive and experience historic built environments. This study employs deep learning and large language models (LLMs) to explore public perceptions of the Qinghefang Historical and Cultural [...] Read more.

Artificial intelligence is reshaping approaches to architectural heritage conservation by enabling a deeper understanding of how people perceive and experience historic built environments. This study employs deep learning and large language models (LLMs) to explore public perceptions of the Qinghefang Historical and Cultural District in Hangzhou, illustrating how AI-driven analytics can inform intelligent heritage management and architectural revitalization. Large-scale public online reviews were processed through BERTopic-based clustering to extract thematic structures of experience, while interpretive synthesis was refined using an LLM to identify core perceptual dimensions including Hangzhou Housing & Residential Choice, Hangzhou Urban Tourism & Culture, Hangzhou Food & Dining, and Qinghefang Culture & Creative. Sentiment polarity and emotional intensity were quantified using a fine-tuned BERT model, revealing distinct affective and perceptual patterns across the district’s architectural and cultural spaces. The results demonstrate that AI-based textual analytics can effectively decode human–heritage interactions, offering actionable insights for data-informed conservation, visitors’ experience optimization, and sustainable management of historic districts. This research contributes to the emerging field of AI-driven innovation in architectural heritage by bridging computational intelligence and heritage conservation practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intelligent Preservation: AI-Driven Innovation in Cultural Heritage Buildings)

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17 pages, 2400 KB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization Research on Torque Ripple of Built-In V-Shaped Permanent Magnet Motor with Magnetic Isolation Holes

by Junhong Dong, Hongbin Yin, Xiaobin Sun, Mingyang Luo and Xiaojun Wang

World Electr. Veh. J. 2026, 17(1), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj17010050 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

The built-in V-shaped permanent magnet motor can effectively utilize reluctance torque to improve torque density, but there is also a problem of large torque ripple causing high vibration noise. This article proposes a rotor structure with four magnetic isolation holes to reduce torque [...] Read more.

The built-in V-shaped permanent magnet motor can effectively utilize reluctance torque to improve torque density, but there is also a problem of large torque ripple causing high vibration noise. This article proposes a rotor structure with four magnetic isolation holes to reduce torque ripple in V-shaped built-in permanent magnet motors. Firstly, a finite element analysis model of the built-in V-shaped permanent magnet motor is established. The influence of slot width, rotor rib width, and magnetic bridge parameters on the torque of the permanent magnet motor was studied through parameterized scanning, and an optimization scheme was selected. Then, the position and size of the magnetic hole were optimized through an adaptive single-objective algorithm. Compared with the ordinary built-in V-shaped structure, the torque ripple of the built-in V-shaped permanent magnet motor with four magnetic isolation holes is reduced from 17.7% to 6.7%. The proposed internal V-shaped rotor structure with magnetic isolation holes and the optimization method can effectively reduce torque ripple, thus effectively solving the problem of vibration noise caused by torque ripple. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Propulsion Systems and Components)

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18 pages, 266 KB

Open AccessArticle

Associations Between Adoption Discounts, Length-of-Stay, and Adoption Rates of Dogs in an Open-Admission Municipal Animal Shelter in NSW, Australia

by Tianyang Qiu, Simone J. Maher, Evelyn Hall and Mark E. Westman

Animals 2026, 16(2), 321; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16020321 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

This study explored possible associations between adoption discounts, length-of-stay (LOS), and adoption rates for dogs at a municipal (council) shelter in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, over a one-year period (4 April 2023–3 April 2024). Data from 479 rehomed dogs and eight temporary [...] Read more.

This study explored possible associations between adoption discounts, length-of-stay (LOS), and adoption rates for dogs at a municipal (council) shelter in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, over a one-year period (4 April 2023–3 April 2024). Data from 479 rehomed dogs and eight temporary promotional campaigns were analysed, considering the following factors: discount levels applied, breed group, body size, age group, coat colour, intake method (stray, privately surrendered, or seized), and return-to-shelter history after adoption. Dogs with ≥75% discount and 0–50% discount had a longer LOS compared to those without a discount (p < 0.001), likely because many discounted dogs already had a prolonged LOS prior to the campaign’s commencement. Other important LOS predictors included breed group (p < 0.001), body size (p < 0.001), age group (p = 0.004), and intake method (p < 0.001). Gundogs/hounds/terriers (purebred), and toy/non-sporting groups (both purebred and crossbred), small-sized dogs, seniors, puppies, and privately surrendered dogs had significantly lower LOS compared to their counterparts. However, when daily adoption rates were examined, temporary price-discounting campaigns resulted in substantially increased rehoming rates. In particular, Flash Sales (≤48 h) increased daily adoptions by 204% compared to non-campaign periods. One Flash Sale event resulted in higher daily adoption rates, but also significantly higher return rates compared to other temporary campaigns, highlighting a possible risk of impulse adoptions and necessitating future work with adopters to identify potentially problematic decision-making. Shelters should be aware that, on an individual level, factors other than price can be more important for potential adopters. On a broader level, temporary campaigns involving a reduced adoption price can increase overall adoption rates and therefore should be considered as part of any marketing exposure strategy for animal shelters. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Welfare)

13 pages, 660 KB

Open AccessOpinion

Frontiers in Cell-Cycle-Targeting Therapies: Addressing the Heterogeneity of the Cancer Cell Cycle

by Ishaar P. Ganesan and Hiroaki Kiyokawa

Cancers 2026, 18(2), 329; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18020329 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

The cell division cycle machinery has been regarded as a promising therapeutic target for several decades. One of the most prominent milestones in the approach to targeting the cancer cell cycle was the development and approval of CDK4/6 inhibitors such as palbociclib, ribociclib, [...] Read more.

The cell division cycle machinery has been regarded as a promising therapeutic target for several decades. One of the most prominent milestones in the approach to targeting the cancer cell cycle was the development and approval of CDK4/6 inhibitors such as palbociclib, ribociclib, and abemaciclib. These small-molecule therapeutics have exhibited remarkable anti-cancer efficacy and have become primary choices for treating steroid receptor-positive breast cancer at multiple stages. This epoch-making success of cell-cycle-targeting drugs was followed by the development of small molecules to target other cell cycle-regulatory proteins, such as CDK2, CDK1, WEE1 kinase, Aurora kinases, and polo-like kinases, while therapeutic strategies to overcome resistance to CDK4/6 inhibitors have been pursued. In this article, we focus on heterogeneous vulnerabilities of cancers as consequences of various genetic and epigenetic alterations in the cell cycle-regulatory network, and we discuss how next-generation cell-cycle-targeting drugs currently in the developmental pipeline could exploit these heterogeneous vulnerabilities in the cancer cell cycle. We hope to provide a forward-looking perspective on directions for therapeutic cell-cycle targeting in the advent of personalized precision medicine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cancer Cell Vulnerabilities on Pathways Regulating the Cell Cycle)

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21 pages, 1961 KB

Open AccessArticle

Design and Evaluation of a Generative AI-Enhanced Serious Game for Digital Literacy: An AI-Driven NPC Approach

by Suepphong Chernbumroong, Kannikar Intawong, Udomchoke Asawimalkit, Kitti Puritat and Phichete Julrode

Informatics 2026, 13(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/informatics13010016 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

The rapid proliferation of misinformation on social media underscores the urgent need for scalable digital-literacy instruction. This study presents the design and evaluation of a Generative AI-enhanced serious game system that integrates Large Language Models (LLMs) to drive adaptive non-player characters (NPCs). Unlike [...] Read more.

The rapid proliferation of misinformation on social media underscores the urgent need for scalable digital-literacy instruction. This study presents the design and evaluation of a Generative AI-enhanced serious game system that integrates Large Language Models (LLMs) to drive adaptive non-player characters (NPCs). Unlike traditional scripted interactions, the system employs role-based prompt engineering to align real-time AI dialogue with the Currency, Relevance, Authority, Accuracy, and Purpose (CRAAP) framework, enabling dynamic scaffolding and authentic misinformation scenarios. A mixed-method experiment with 60 undergraduate students compared this AI-driven approach to traditional instruction using a 40-item digital-literacy pre/post test, the Intrinsic Motivation Inventory (IMI), and open-ended reflections. Results indicated that while both groups improved significantly, the game-based group achieved larger gains in credibility-evaluation performance and reported higher perceived competence, interest, and effort. Qualitative analysis highlighted the HCI trade-off between the high pedagogical value of adaptive AI guidance and technical constraints such as system latency. The findings demonstrate that Generative AI can be effectively operationalized as a dynamic interface layer in serious games to strengthen critical reasoning. This study provides practical guidelines for architecting AI-NPC interactions and advances the theoretical understanding of AI-supported educational informatics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Generative AI in Higher Education: Applications, Implications, and Future Directions)

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28 pages, 2893 KB

Open AccessArticle

Foliar Application of Silicon and Sulfur Modifies Grain Mineral Composition of Spring Oats ( Avena sativa L.) Under Contrasting Seasonal Drought Conditions

by Bekir Bytyqi, Fanni Zsuzsa Forgács, Anteneh Agezew Melash, István Csaba Virág, József Csajbók, Ebenezer Ayew Appiah and Erika Tünde Kutasy

Plants 2026, 15(2), 316; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15020316 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of foliar silicon (Si) and sulfur (S) applications under contrasting climatic conditions on macro- and micronutrient accumulation in oat grain. The three-year field experiment (2022–2024) was conducted in Debrecen, Hungary, using a randomized complete block design (RCBD)with three [...] Read more.

This study evaluated the effects of foliar silicon (Si) and sulfur (S) applications under contrasting climatic conditions on macro- and micronutrient accumulation in oat grain. The three-year field experiment (2022–2024) was conducted in Debrecen, Hungary, using a randomized complete block design (RCBD)with three replications. Grain samples were analyzed for macroelements (K, P, S, Mg, Ca) and micronutrients (Na, Si, Fe, Mn, Cu). Environmental conditions markedly influenced nutrient accumulation. Severe drought promoted the highest concentrations of K, S, and Mg, while mild drought significantly increased the accumulation of P, Ca, Si, Fe, and Cu contents. Moderate drought favored Na accumulation. Foliar S application under relatively favorable water supply significantly enhanced the concentration of all measured elements, with the strongest response observed for Cu (+47.4% compared with the control) and the weakest for Mg (8.5%). In contrast, Si application alone had only limited or negative effects, particularly under severe drought, where it reduced K (6.4%), S (2.4%), and Ca (13%) concentrations, despite increased Si accumulation in the grain. During drought stress, however, the combined Si + S treatment significantly increased the grain macro- and micronutrient concentrations. Among the tested genotypes, ‘Mv Pehely’ exhibited the highest macronutrient accumulation, while ‘GK Kormorán’ and ‘Mv Pehely’ showed superior micronutrient accumulation. ‘GK Pillangó’ and ‘Mv Szellő’ showed consistently lower nutrient contents. These results highlight the importance of genotype × environment × nutrient management strategies for improving nutrient composition in oat grain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrient Management for Crop Production and Quality)

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9 pages, 260 KB

Open AccessArticle

On the Theorem of Univalence on the Boundary

by Mihai Cristea

Axioms 2026, 15(1), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/axioms15010075 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

We give several generalizations of a known theorem from complex analysis, namely the univalence on the boundary theorem. Starting from a purely topological result (Theorems 1 and 11), we obtain univalence conditions for Sobolev mappings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Mathematical Analysis)

22 pages, 6511 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Sustainability-Focused Real-Time Dynamic Wind Speed Estimation Method for Turbine Performance Optimization

by Abdulsamed Güneş, Beytullah Erdoğan, İrfan Kılıç, Orhan Yaman, Nafiye Nur Apaydın, Adnan Topuz, Yusuf Duran and Yüksel Yalçın

Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 1067; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18021067 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

To achieve the highest efficiency from the turbines used in wind power plants, the region where the plant will be located must meet the appropriate conditions. One of these conditions, and the most important, is that the wind potential be above the critical [...] Read more.

To achieve the highest efficiency from the turbines used in wind power plants, the region where the plant will be located must meet the appropriate conditions. One of these conditions, and the most important, is that the wind potential be above the critical value for energy production and be continuous. Locations that meet these conditions contribute positively to energy production and produce high efficiency. Based on the interpreted data, temperature, wind direction, and wind speed data from three turbines located at altitudes of 432, 454, and 492 m in the Sebenoba area of Yayladağ, Hatay, where wind potential is high, were collected at 10 min intervals between 1 January 2017, and 19 September 2018, yielding a total of 50,986 data points. Wind speed was estimated for this region using temperature, wind direction, and time information. Daily, monthly, and seasonal analyses were used to generate forecasts for the three altitudes. Wind speed was estimated using Decision Tree Regression and 10-Fold Cross Validation methods, and Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) values were found to be 0.64917, 0.66629, and 0.59954 for the three altitudes, respectively; the overall RMSE value was found to be 0.60188. RMSE values decreased in daily, monthly, and seasonal analyses, and an inverse relationship existed between wind speed and RMSE. Analysis of these results indicated that the forecast model was suitable. This study supports sustainability by enabling accurate wind speed forecasting for optimal turbine placement, improving energy efficiency, and promoting long-term environmentally and economically sustainable wind energy planning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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11 pages, 201 KB

Open AccessArticle

Towards a Renewed Civic Pragmatism: Integrating Policy, Law, and Statistical Literacy in Civics Education

by Phillip Marcial Pinell

Laws 2026, 15(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/laws15010007 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

Since 2017, more than a dozen civics institutes have been founded at America’s public universities, marking a renaissance in civic education. Grounded in the liberal arts, these institutes rightly restore the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake and reconnect citizens to the [...] Read more.

Since 2017, more than a dozen civics institutes have been founded at America’s public universities, marking a renaissance in civic education. Grounded in the liberal arts, these institutes rightly restore the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake and reconnect citizens to the nation’s past. Yet liberal education requires assistance to help students navigate today’s data-driven republic, where questions of law and justice increasingly turn on the interpretation of evidence. This article proposes a balanced model for civics education—a “renewed civic pragmatism”—that unites the historical connectedness of liberal learning with the technical skills required for public life and the rule of law. In doing so, civics education recovers its role as a bridge between moral principle, empirical judgment, and the pursuit of justice under law. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vol. II of Civic Engagement, Justice, and the Law in a National and International Context)

11 pages, 317 KB

Open AccessArticle

Modeling the Private-to-Public Transition: IPOs, Direct Listings and De-SPAC Mergers

by Vasilios Margaris and Georgios Angelidis

J. Risk Financial Manag. 2026, 19(1), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/jrfm19010084 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

We have developed a comprehensive mathematical framework that delineates the complete transition of a firm from private to public ownership. This framework explicitly formalizes the endogenous decision to list, pre-listing restructuring, regulatory feasibility constraints, information production, pricing and allocation mechanisms, and post-listing market [...] Read more.

We have developed a comprehensive mathematical framework that delineates the complete transition of a firm from private to public ownership. This framework explicitly formalizes the endogenous decision to list, pre-listing restructuring, regulatory feasibility constraints, information production, pricing and allocation mechanisms, and post-listing market dynamics. A unified structure is employed to represent traditional IPOs, direct listings, and de-SPAC mergers. The proposed framework integrates the concepts of information asymmetry, free-float constraints, and market impact with equilibrium offer prices, first-day returns, and post-listing volatility. This integration enables the formulation of testable predictions across a range of listing mechanisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economics and Finance)

23 pages, 1897 KB

Open AccessArticle

Investigation of Antioxidant Properties of Propolis Products Collected from Different Regions

by Aynur Cetin, Sena Bakir, Tugba Ozdal and Esra Capanoglu

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(2), 1046; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27021046 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

Propolis, a sticky bee hive product collected from resinous plant sources by Apis mellifera bees, exhibits a wide range of biological and pharmacological properties, primarily attributed to its rich composition of bioactive constituents, including phenolic acids, esters, and flavonoids. In this study, the [...] Read more.

Propolis, a sticky bee hive product collected from resinous plant sources by Apis mellifera bees, exhibits a wide range of biological and pharmacological properties, primarily attributed to its rich composition of bioactive constituents, including phenolic acids, esters, and flavonoids. In this study, the antioxidant properties of 76 liquid propolis solutions from 18 different countries were investigated based on their dry matter, total phenolic and total flavonoid contents, antioxidant capacities, and phenolic profiles. The antioxidant activities of propolis from various geographic regions, including Latvia, Croatia, New Zealand, San Marino, Russia, France, Romania, Italy, Estonia, Brazil, Belgium, Germany, Slovenia, Japan, the United States of America (USA), the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Spain, and Korea, were compared. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents, as well as total antioxidant capacity (Cupric Reducing Antioxidant Capacity—CUPRAC method), were analyzed by spectrophotometry, and the major constituents were investigated by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Antioxidant test results indicated that 29 products scored below 10 mg Trolox equivalent (TE)/mL, and only 14 were scored above 100 mg TE/mL. The results showed that the total phenolic content of the samples ranged from 0.1 to 107.5 mg Gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/mL, while total flavonoid content varied between 0.1 and 174.5 mg Catechin equivalent (CE)/mL. Based on the CUPRAC assay, total antioxidant capacity values ranged from 0.1 to 492.3 mg TE/mL. Among the 76 analyzed samples, nine products exhibited antioxidant capacity values exceeding 150 mg TE/mL. In all of these samples, phenolic profiling confirmed the presence of propolis, and the analytical results were consistent with the information declared on the product labels. Hence, this study provides a comprehensive, real-market evaluation of commercial propolis products by integrating spectrophotometric assays with LC-MS-based targeted metabolomics profiling, highlighting formulation- and product type-driven differences in phenolic composition and antioxidant capacity beyond geographical origin. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Bioactives and Nutraceuticals)

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14 pages, 9871 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sugar and Ethanol Conversion of Recovered Whole and Degermed Corn Kernel Fibers Pretreated with Sodium Carbonate

by Valerie García-Negrón and David B. Johnston

Fermentation 2026, 12(1), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation12010061 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

Corn fermentation in biorefineries produces residual biomass and by-products, particularly corn kernel fiber and outgassed carbon dioxide (CO₂), that have value-added potential for improving sugar and bioethanol conversions. Recovered corn kernel fiber contains lignocellulosic components which can be made accessible by [...] Read more.

Corn fermentation in biorefineries produces residual biomass and by-products, particularly corn kernel fiber and outgassed carbon dioxide (CO₂), that have value-added potential for improving sugar and bioethanol conversions. Recovered corn kernel fiber contains lignocellulosic components which can be made accessible by pretreating the biomass with an alkaline sodium carbonate solution made with captured CO₂ and then used as supplemental biomass in corn ethanol production. In this work, different ratios of whole and degermed corn kernel fibers are pretreated and mixed with corn to be evaluated as beneficial ingredients in bioethanol co-fermentation. Sugar yields from enzymatic hydrolysis demonstrate the pretreatment promotes saccharification reaching over 70% total sugar conversion for the whole corn fibers. During co-fermentation, 10 and 20% corn solid loadings significantly increased ethanol yields while additional corn fiber loadings increased sugar yields. Conversion rates and yields were similar between the whole and degermed corn fibers supporting how a single recovery design can benefit multiple corn streams. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Bioconversion of Lignocellulosic Materials to Value-Added Products)

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26 pages, 2015 KB

Open AccessArticle

Shaping Lycopene Nanoparticles Performance: How Surfactants Influence Stability, Antioxidant Activity, and Uptake in Human Skin Spheroids

by Francesca Baldassarre, Chiara Boncristiani, Michela Ottolini, Concetta Nobile, Maryam Shahzad Shirazi, Giuseppe E. De Benedetto, Gianpiero Colangelo, Viviana Vergaro, Ludovico Valli and Giuseppe Ciccarella

Antioxidants 2026, 15(1), 136; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15010136 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

There is a growing demand for plant-derived antioxidants to replace synthetic ones in skincare applications. Phytochemicals are characterized by certain limitations, including poor bioavailability and chemical instability, which affect their industrial exploitation. Tomato peel extract has been used as a source of lycopene, [...] Read more.

There is a growing demand for plant-derived antioxidants to replace synthetic ones in skincare applications. Phytochemicals are characterized by certain limitations, including poor bioavailability and chemical instability, which affect their industrial exploitation. Tomato peel extract has been used as a source of lycopene, which is renowned for its antioxidant properties. To improve the bioavailability of extracted lycopene, polymeric (poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid) nano-carriers were synthesized by comparing two non-ionic surfactants, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and Tween 20. The impact of surfactants has been studied by evaluating: (i) colloidal stability determined by dynamic light scattering; (ii) lycopene retention and bioactivity over time, as measured by spectrophotometric assays; (iii) biological interactions on 2D and 3D keratinocyte and melanocyte cell cultures. It was found that both surfactants enable the formation of stable lycopene-loaded nanoparticles suspensions; however, greater colloidal stability was exhibited by nanoparticles prepared with Tween 20. PVA, on the other hand, provided greater nanoparticle stability in terms of loaded lycopene retention and antioxidant activity. Tween 20 surfactant improves the internalization of lycopene-loaded nanoparticles in human skin spheroids. It was demonstrated that both surfactants provided excellent intracellular antioxidant activity of lycopene. This was observed in keratinocytes, melanocytes, adherent cells, and spheroids, suggesting potential skincare applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Antioxidant Nanoparticles, 2nd Edition)

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37 pages, 3289 KB

Open AccessReview

Essential Oil of Prangos ferulacea (L.) Lindl.: Chemistry and Bioactivities

by Mijat Božović, Vanja Tadić, Milan Mladenović and Rino Ragno

Plants 2026, 15(2), 317; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15020317 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

Prangos ferulacea (L.) Lindl. (Apiaceae) is an orophilous species with notable traditional uses, particularly across the broader Middle East region. Over the past 50 years, research on its essential oil has revealed the existence of several chemotypes. In addition to its chemical composition, [...] Read more.

Prangos ferulacea (L.) Lindl. (Apiaceae) is an orophilous species with notable traditional uses, particularly across the broader Middle East region. Over the past 50 years, research on its essential oil has revealed the existence of several chemotypes. In addition to its chemical composition, there is also data on the biological activities of the essential oil. Among these activities, the most extensively studied are its antimicrobial and, to a lesser extent, antioxidant properties. Recent findings suggest the presence of additional biological effects, including cytotoxic, insecticidal, and phytotoxic effects. This review summarizes current knowledge and provides a foundation for future research, including more in-depth chemical and chemotaxonomic analyses, as well as exploration of the full therapeutic potential of this species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Derived Natural Products: Extraction Methods, Chemistry and Bioactivities)

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14 pages, 490 KB

Open AccessArticle

Prostate Cancer in the MENA Region: Attributable Burden of Behavioral and Environmental Exposures

by Magie Tamraz, Razan Al Tartir, Sara El Meski and Sally Temraz

Toxics 2026, 14(1), 96; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics14010096 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background: Prostate cancer in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is shaped by a complex interplay of behavioral and environmental risk factors, yet comprehensive estimates of preventable cases remain scarce. To address this gap, we estimated population-attributable fractions (PAFs) for a [...] Read more.

Background: Prostate cancer in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is shaped by a complex interplay of behavioral and environmental risk factors, yet comprehensive estimates of preventable cases remain scarce. To address this gap, we estimated population-attributable fractions (PAFs) for a range of modifiable exposures among men aged 50 years and older and assessed potential reductions in incidence under feasible intervention scenarios. Methods: Regional prevalence data were combined with relative risks from meta-analyses to compute closed-form PAFs for tobacco smoking, obesity, physical inactivity, high dairy and calcium intake, heavy alcohol use, drinking water nitrates, trihalomethanes, arsenic, lead, selenium status, ambient PM_2.5 and NO₂, and occupational diesel exhaust, covering an estimated 47 million men. Estimates were validated using a synthetic cohort simulation of 100,000 individuals, with uncertainty quantified through Monte Carlo sampling. Results: Results showed that drinking water nitrate exposure accounted for the largest single fraction (17.4%), followed by tobacco smoking (9.5%), physical inactivity (6.7%), and trihalomethane exposure (5.0%), while other exposures contributed smaller but meaningful shares. Joint elimination of all exposures projected a 45.5% reduction in incidence, and simultaneous feasible reductions in four targeted exposures yielded a combined potential impact fraction of 12.1%. Conclusions: These findings suggest that integrated water quality management, tobacco control, lifestyle interventions, and targeted environmental surveillance should be prioritized to reduce prostate cancer burden in the MENA region. However, estimates of drinking-water nitrate exposure rely on limited evidence from a single case–control study with a relatively small sample size, and should therefore be considered exploratory and primarily hypothesis-generating. Full article

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