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14 pages, 7853 KB

Open AccessArticle

Efficacy and Safety of HAIC Combined with PD-(L)1 Inhibitors and Bevacizumab Versus HAIC with PD-(L)1 Inhibitors and TKIs in Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Retrospective Cohort Study

by Zizhuo Wang, Wei Xu, Songlin Song, Yanqiao Ren, Jiacheng Liu, Yiming Liu, Xuefeng Kan, Chuansheng Zheng and Bin Liang

Cancers 2026, 18(2), 314; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18020314 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background: The combination of hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and anti-angiogenic agents represents a potential therapeutic strategy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of triple therapies combining HAIC with ICIs [...] Read more.

Background: The combination of hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and anti-angiogenic agents represents a potential therapeutic strategy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of triple therapies combining HAIC with ICIs and either bevacizumab or tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in these patients. Methods: This retrospective single-center study enrolled 65 consecutive patients with advanced HCC who received HAIC combined with ICIs plus either bevacizumab (bevacizumab group, n = 31) or TKIs (TKIs group, n = 34) between June 2021 and June 2023. Primary endpoints included progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR), duration of response (DOR), and safety profiles. Results: The bevacizumab group demonstrated significantly prolonged median PFS (10.9 vs. 7.4 months, p = 0.001) and higher ORR (83.9% vs. 61.8%, p = 0.047) compared with the TKIs group. DOR was longer in the bevacizumab group (7.9 vs. 5.3 months, p = 0.008). Median overall survival (OS) was not reached in the bevacizumab group versus 22.6 months in the TKIs group. Grade 3–4 adverse events occurred in 67.7% of the bevacizumab group and 73.5% of the TKIs group, with distinct toxicity profiles. Gastrointestinal hemorrhage (45.2%) and gastric ulcer (22.6%) predominated in the bevacizumab group, whereas the TKIs group exhibited more hepatic enzyme elevations (aspartate aminotransferase, 67.6%; alanine aminotransferase, 61.8%), proteinuria (29.4%), diarrhea (26.5%), hand-foot syndrome (20.6%), and reactive cutaneous capillary endothelial proliferation (11.8%). Conclusions: Bevacizumab-containing triplet therapy was associated with improved tumor control and delayed progression compared to TKIs-based regimens in advanced HCC. The higher bleeding risk in the bevacizumab group highlights the necessity of standardized baseline evaluation and adequate preventive measures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cancer Therapy)

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28 pages, 3071 KB

Open AccessReview

A Critical Review of State-of-the-Art Stability Control of PV Systems: Methodologies, Challenges, and Perspectives

by Runzhi Mu, Yuming Zhang, Yangyang Wu, Xiongbiao Wan, Xiaolong Song, Deng Wang, Liming Sun and Bo Yang

Energies 2026, 19(2), 507; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19020507 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

With the continuous and rapid growth of global photovoltaic (PV) installed capacity, the fluctuation, intermittence, and randomness of its output aggravate the inertia loss of traditional power systems, which poses severe challenges to grid voltage stability, frequency regulation, and safe operation of equipment. [...] Read more.

With the continuous and rapid growth of global photovoltaic (PV) installed capacity, the fluctuation, intermittence, and randomness of its output aggravate the inertia loss of traditional power systems, which poses severe challenges to grid voltage stability, frequency regulation, and safe operation of equipment. Stability control of PV power stations has become a necessary aspect of technical support for the construction of new power systems (NPSs). In this paper, a technical analysis framework of stability control of photovoltaic power stations is systematically constructed. First, the core stability problems of photovoltaic systems are sorted out. Then, a technical review of the three control levels, namely the equipment, system, and grid, is carried out. At the same time, the application potential of emerging technologies such as data-driven and AI control, digital twin predictive control, and advanced grid-forming (GFM) inverters is described. Based on existing reviews, this paper proposes an equipment–system–grid hierarchical analysis framework and explicitly integrates emerging technologies with classical methods. This framework provides references for the selection, engineering deployment, and future research directions of stability control technologies for photovoltaic power plants, while also offering technical support for the safe and efficient operation of high-penetration renewable energy power grids. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Energy Systems: Dynamics, Control and Optimal Planning for Low-Carbon Energy Systems)

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9 pages, 207 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Relationship Between Narrative Medicine and Nurse and Nurse Practitioner Well-Being

by Paulette J. Thabault and Emily Gesner

Nurs. Rep. 2026, 16(1), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/nursrep16010032 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background: Narrative Medicine (NM) has emerged as a strategy to support reflective clinical practice and emotional resilience among nurses. This study examined relationships between NM practices and well-being among registered nurses (RNs) and nurse practitioners (NPs). Methods: A national sample of RNs and [...] Read more.

Background: Narrative Medicine (NM) has emerged as a strategy to support reflective clinical practice and emotional resilience among nurses. This study examined relationships between NM practices and well-being among registered nurses (RNs) and nurse practitioners (NPs). Methods: A national sample of RNs and NPs was recruited using snowball sampling. Participants completed a NM practice survey and the Mayo Clinic Well-Being Index (WBI) survey. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation coefficients. Results: A total of 3167 responses were analyzed (1934 RNs and 1233 NPs). Among RNs, strong statistically significant correlations were found between NM practices and well-being scores (p < 0.001). Among NPs, moderate correlations appeared in select NM practice dimensions (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Engagement in narrative Medicine practices is associated with improved well-being among nurses and nurse practitioners. NM may present a promising strategy to reduce burnout and strengthen professional resilience. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nursing Leadership: Contemporary Challenges)

26 pages, 550 KB

Open AccessReview

Recovery of Critical Metals from Waste-Printed Circuit Boards for Sustainable Energy Transition

by Lucian-Cristian Pop, Szabolcs Szima and Szabolcs Fogarasi

Crystals 2026, 16(1), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst16010067 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

It is undeniable that rapid population increase coupled with growing resource constraints are making the demand for smart and sustainable solutions more urgent than ever to secure future resources for the transition to sustainable energy production. To address these issues, it is necessary [...] Read more.

It is undeniable that rapid population increase coupled with growing resource constraints are making the demand for smart and sustainable solutions more urgent than ever to secure future resources for the transition to sustainable energy production. To address these issues, it is necessary to define innovative approaches that can exploit more efficiently and extensively the resources we have at our disposal. Consequently, this paper provides an overview of the potential benefits of processing waste-printed circuit boards (WPCBs) that are generated in large quantities and, due to their high metal content, can emerge as an adequate and profitable supply of critical metals, such as copper, aluminum, and nickel, which are essential for green energy transition. The review promotes the idea of industrial symbiosis as a concept that goes beyond circular economy and can integrate WPCB treatment and manufacturing processes related to sustainable energy transition, although they are different industrial sectors that can be even regionally separated. Major metal recovery processes from WPCBs are examined and discussed, with the primary focus on the performances of copper, aluminum, and nickel production, while additional metals relevant to the energy transition are also highlighted. Finally, the review paper argues and exemplifies that the recovered metals from WPCBs have the required properties to be supplied into the manufacturing processes of wind turbines, solar panels, and lithium-ion batteries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring New Materials for the Transition to Sustainable Energy)

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18 pages, 1356 KB

Open AccessPerspective

Advent of Artificial Intelligence in Spine Research: An Updated Perspective

by Apratim Maity, Ethan D. L. Brown, Ryan A. McCann, Aryaa Karkare, Emily A. Orsino, Shaila D. Ghanekar, Barnabas Obeng-Gyasi, Sheng-fu Larry Lo, Daniel M. Sciubba and Aladine A. Elsamadicy

J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(2), 820; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15020820 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) has rapidly evolved from an experimental tool in spine research to a multi-domain framework that has significantly influenced imaging analysis, surgical decision-making, and individualized outcome prediction. Recent advances have expanded beyond isolated applications, enabling automated image interpretation, patient-specific risk stratification, [...] Read more.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has rapidly evolved from an experimental tool in spine research to a multi-domain framework that has significantly influenced imaging analysis, surgical decision-making, and individualized outcome prediction. Recent advances have expanded beyond isolated applications, enabling automated image interpretation, patient-specific risk stratification, discovery of qualitative phenotypes, and integration of heterogeneous clinical and biomechanical data. These developments signal a shift toward more comprehensive, context-aware analytic systems capable of supporting complex clinical workflows in spine care. Despite these gains, widespread clinical adoption remains limited. High internal performance metrics do not consistently translate into reliable generalizability, interpretability, or real-world clinical readiness. Persistent challenges, which include dataset heterogeneity, transportability across institutions, alignment with clinical decision-making processes, and appropriate validation strategies, continue to constrain widespread implementation. In this perspective, we synthesize post-2019 advances in spine AI across key application domains: imaging analysis, predictive modeling and decision support, qualitative phenotyping, and emerging hybrid and language-based frameworks through a unified clinical-readiness lens. By examining how methodological progress aligns with clinical context, validation rigor, and interpretability, we highlight both the transformative potential of AI in spine research and the critical steps required for responsible, effective integration into routine clinical practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence in Clinical Medicine)

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19 pages, 482 KB

Open AccessArticle

Development of the Green Cities Questionnaire (GCQ) in Germany: Focus on Mental Health, Willingness to Pay for Sustainability, and Incentives for Green Exercise

by Klemens Weigl

Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 1033; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18021033 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

Green cities can contribute to greater mental and physical well-being. In addition, many people enjoy being active outdoors (green exercise). As yet, no questionnaire jointly emphasises mental health, willingness to pay for sustainability, and the incentive of a green environment for physical exercise [...] Read more.

Green cities can contribute to greater mental and physical well-being. In addition, many people enjoy being active outdoors (green exercise). As yet, no questionnaire jointly emphasises mental health, willingness to pay for sustainability, and the incentive of a green environment for physical exercise in cities. Therefore, I developed the new Green Cities Questionnaire (GCQ), comprising 18 items, and used it to survey the perceptions of 249 participants (130 female, 119 male, 0 diverse; aged 18 to 84). Then, I applied exploratory factor analyses where the three factors of mental health (MH; nine items), willingness-to-pay (WTP; five items), and green exercise (GE; four items) were extracted. Additional statistical analyses revealed that women reported higher values on the MH and GE factors than men. In particular, women and men reported a beneficial effect of green cities on mental health (higher ratings on MH than on GE and on WTP). However, there was no gender effect on WTP. From an urban-planning perspective, the two strongest implications are as follows: First, the GCQ facilitates measurement of the three key latent factors: MH, WTP, and GE. However, future validation studies with larger sample sizes and applications of the GCQ alongside additional similar and different recognised scales are necessary to establish convergent and discriminant validity. Second, mental health is reported to be much more important than WTP and GE. Hence, green initiatives, educational programs, and green city workshops should not only focus on expanding urban green spaces but also on providing appropriate relaxation areas to promote and foster psychological well-being and quality of life in green cities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Psychology of Sustainability and Sustainable Development)

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11 pages, 1034 KB

Open AccessArticle

Vasoprotection by Dietary Nitrate in Rats with Vitamin D₃-Induced Vascular Calcification

by Masashi Tawa, Keisuke Nakagawa and Mamoru Ohkita

J. Vasc. Dis. 2026, 5(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/jvd5010003 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Vascular calcification is a major contributor to cardiovascular mortality and disability. Here, we investigated whether dietary nitrate, an exogenous source of nitric oxide (NO), could inhibit vascular calcification in a rat model induced by excess vitamin D₃. Methods: The rats [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Vascular calcification is a major contributor to cardiovascular mortality and disability. Here, we investigated whether dietary nitrate, an exogenous source of nitric oxide (NO), could inhibit vascular calcification in a rat model induced by excess vitamin D₃. Methods: The rats were injected subcutaneously with phosphate-buffered saline or 200,000 IU/kg cholecalciferol and the abdominal aorta was isolated 7 and 14 d after injection. Results: Von Kossa staining revealed mild vascular calcification 7 d after injection, with the positive area expanding by 14 d. Vasorelaxation induced by the NO donor sodium nitroprusside was normal 7 d after injection but weakened 14 d after injection. In a separate experiment, sodium nitrate (3 or 10 mM in drinking water) was administered for the last 7 and 13 d, prior to sacrifice, 14 d after cholecalciferol injection. Von Kossa staining-positive areas and calcium content in the abdominal aortas did not decrease with short-term administration of sodium nitrate but decreased with long-term administration; no difference in effect based on dosage was observed in either short-term or long-term administration. Low-dose sodium nitrate tended to increase plasma nitrite and nitrate levels, which are indicators of NO bioavailability, similar to both short- and long-term administration, which increased significantly at higher doses. Conclusions: These findings suggest that NO homeostasis in blood vessels deteriorates with the progression of vascular calcification, and that dietary nitrate may be a useful therapeutic approach. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cardiovascular Diseases)

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16 pages, 1167 KB

Open AccessArticle

Demographic Factors and Trends Associated with Mortality After AIDS Diagnosis in Puerto Rico

by Grisel Burgos-Barreto, Daniel Reyes and Raymond L. Tremblay

Infect. Dis. Rep. 2026, 18(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr18010013 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background: Millions of people have died from AIDS-related illnesses since the start of the epidemic. The objective of this study is to determine the relationship between life years lost and demographic factors in the subset of individuals in Puerto Rico with advanced HIV [...] Read more.

Background: Millions of people have died from AIDS-related illnesses since the start of the epidemic. The objective of this study is to determine the relationship between life years lost and demographic factors in the subset of individuals in Puerto Rico with advanced HIV disease, i.e., who received a diagnosis of AIDS, and to evaluate trends in poverty, age, and number of diagnoses and deaths over this timeframe. Methods: We identified 3624 individuals diagnosed with AIDS who received services under the Eligible Metropolitan Area (EMA) of San Juan, Puerto Rico, between 2000–2020, and correlated demographic factors with AIDS descriptive statistics using a retrospective cohort study design. We used socioeconomic characteristics to describe the population, estimated the life years lost (LYL) compared with the life expectancy of the general population of Puerto Rico at a given age as the null model, and evaluated the relationship of demographic variables with LYL, as well as trends in poverty and age/number of deaths/diagnoses over time. Results: More life years are lost with earlier AIDS onset, and there is also an association between LYL and the level of poverty, documented mode of transmission, and insurance status. LYL were higher among AIDS patients with lower income, with perinatal transmission, and among those without insurance in the age bracket of 40–49 years. No relationship between LYL and gender was detected. Moreover, over the years included in the timeframe of this study, certain trends emerged: we observed a greater proportion of AIDS to HIV diagnoses over time; HIV/AIDS diagnoses and deaths occurred on average at a higher age; the number of diagnoses per year initially rose over time and then declined; and the number of deaths per year as well as the poverty level in those diagnosed with HIV/AIDS increased over time. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the continued recent impact of the HIV epidemic specifically on those with advanced disease (AIDS), and further reaffirms the importance of treatment and prevention as well as demographic and social determinants of health, including age, poverty level, insurance status, and lifestyle, highlighting the disproportionate burden of HIV/AIDS among those with greater levels of poverty. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sexually Transmitted Diseases)

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19 pages, 1944 KB

Open AccessArticle

Research on Adaptive Cooperative Positioning Algorithm for Underwater Robots Based on Dolphin Group Cooperative Mechanism

by Shiwei Fan, Jiachong Chang, Zicheng Wang, Mingfeng Ding, Hongchao Sun and Yubo Zhao

Biomimetics 2026, 11(1), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics11010082 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

Inspired by the remarkable collaborative echolocation mechanisms of dolphin pods, the paper addresses the challenge of achieving high-precision cooperative positioning for clusters of unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) in complex marine environments. Cooperative positioning systems for UUVs typically rely on acoustic ranging information to [...] Read more.

Inspired by the remarkable collaborative echolocation mechanisms of dolphin pods, the paper addresses the challenge of achieving high-precision cooperative positioning for clusters of unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) in complex marine environments. Cooperative positioning systems for UUVs typically rely on acoustic ranging information to correct positional errors. However, the propagation characteristics of underwater acoustic signals are susceptible to environmental disturbances, often resulting in non-Gaussian, heavy-tailed distributions of ranging noise. Additionally, the strong nonlinearity of the system and the limited observability of measurement information further constrain positioning accuracy. To tackle these issues, this paper innovatively proposes a Factor Graph-based Adaptive Cooperative Positioning Algorithm (FGAWSP) suitable for heavy-tailed noise environments. The method begins by constructing a factor graph model for UUV cooperative positioning to intuitively represent the probabilistic dependencies between system states and observed variables. Subsequently, a novel factor graph estimation mechanism integrating adaptive weights with the product algorithm is designed. By conducting online assessment of residual information, this mechanism dynamically adjusts the fusion weights of different measurements, thereby achieving robust handling of anomalous range values. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method reduces positioning errors by 22.31% compared to the traditional algorithm, validating the effectiveness of our approach. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioinspired Robot Sensing and Navigation)

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12 pages, 1129 KB

Open AccessArticle

Detection of Benzimidazole-Resistant Haemonchus contortus in Domestic and Wild Ruminants in Bosnia and Herzegovina

by Naida Kapo, Teufik Goletić, Adis Softić, Šejla Goletić Imamović, Srđan Gligorić and Jasmin Omeragić

Pathogens 2026, 15(1), 113; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens15010113 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

Gastrointestinal nematodes, particularly Haemonchus contortus, represent a major threat to ruminant health and productivity worldwide, largely due to the widespread emergence of anthelmintic resistance. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, benzimidazole resistance has previously been confirmed in domestic ruminants; however, data on wildlife remain [...] Read more.

Gastrointestinal nematodes, particularly Haemonchus contortus, represent a major threat to ruminant health and productivity worldwide, largely due to the widespread emergence of anthelmintic resistance. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, benzimidazole resistance has previously been confirmed in domestic ruminants; however, data on wildlife remain lacking. Given the frequent spatial and temporal overlap between domestic and wild ruminants on shared pastures, this study aimed to investigate the occurrence of benzimidazole-resistant H. contortus genotypes within a multi-host system. During the 2024/2025 season, a total of 111 abomasal samples were collected from sheep (n = 20), lambs (n = 12), goats (n = 17), roe deer (n = 40) and chamois (n = 22) across four localities in Bosnia and Herzegovina (Laktaši, Banja Luka, Modriča and Višegrad). Adult H. contortus specimens were morphologically identified and confirmed using real-time quantitative PCR (rt-qPCR). Benzimidazole resistance was assessed by allele-specific rt-qPCR targeting the F200Y mutation in the β-tubulin isotype 1 gene. Statistically significant interspecies differences in β-tubulin genotype distribution were observed (p < 0.05), primarily driven by variation in the homozygous resistant (RR) genotype. High RR prevalence was detected in sheep (60%), lambs (50%) and roe deer (52.5%), whereas lower proportions were observed in chamois (27.3%) and goats (23.5%). Overall, 44.1% of all analyzed H. contortus isolates carried homozygous resistant alleles, indicating an advanced stage of benzimidazole resistance within this multi-host system. These findings demonstrate that benzimidazole resistance in H. contortus is not confined to domestic livestock but is also present in wild ruminants sharing the same grazing areas, consistent with circulation of resistant parasites within shared grazing systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Parasites of Wildlife and Livestock: Recent Progress and Future Challenges)

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24 pages, 1576 KB

Open AccessArticle

Non-Imaging Differential Diagnosis of Lower Limb Osteoarthritis: An Interpretable Machine Learning Framework

by Zhanel Baigarayeva, Assiya Boltaboyeva, Baglan Imanbek, Bibars Amangeldy, Nurdaulet Tasmurzayev, Kassymbek Ozhikenov, Assylbek Ozhiken, Zhadyra Alimbayeva and Naoya Maeda-Nishino

Algorithms 2026, 19(1), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/a19010087 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent chronic degenerative disorder, with coxarthrosis (hip OA) and gonarthrosis (knee OA) representing its most significant clinical manifestations. While diagnosis typically relies on imaging, such methods can be resource-intensive and insensitive to early disease trajectories. Objective: This study [...] Read more.

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent chronic degenerative disorder, with coxarthrosis (hip OA) and gonarthrosis (knee OA) representing its most significant clinical manifestations. While diagnosis typically relies on imaging, such methods can be resource-intensive and insensitive to early disease trajectories. Objective: This study aims to achieve the differential diagnosis of coxarthrosis and gonarthrosis using solely routine preoperative clinical and laboratory data, benchmarking state-of-the-art machine learning algorithms. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 893 patients (617 with knee OA, 276 with hip OA) from a clinical hospital in Almaty, Kazakhstan. The study evaluated a diverse portfolio of models, including gradient boosting decision trees (LightGBM, XGBoost, CatBoost), deep learning architectures (RealMLP, TabDPT, TabM), and the pretrained tabular foundation model RealTabPFN v2.5. Results: The RealTabPFN v2.5 (Tuned) model achieved superior performance, recording a mean ROC–AUC of 0.9831, accuracy of 0.9485, and an F1-score of 0.9474. SHAP interpretability analysis identified heart rate (66.2%) and age (18.1%) as the dominant predictors driving the model’s decision-making process. Conclusion: Pretrained tabular foundation models demonstrate exceptional capability in distinguishing OA subtypes using limited clinical datasets, outperforming traditional ensemble methods. This approach offers a practical, high-performance triage tool for primary clinical assessment in resource-constrained settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Machine Learning for Advanced Healthcare: Bridging Innovation and Clinical Implementation)

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15 pages, 909 KB

Open AccessReview

A Critical Review on Misleading Evidence in Cardiac Arrest Trials—Why Less Complexity Does Not Result in Better Outcomes

by Andreas Schäfer, Tobias J. Pfeffer, Johann Bauersachs and Vera Garcheva

J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(2), 821; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15020821 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

Over the past two decades, advanced airway management, early coronary angiography, and therapeutic hypothermia have shaped post-out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) care. However, recent large randomized trials have challenged these strategies and created substantial uncertainty leading to relevant guideline changes. This review focuses on [...] Read more.

Over the past two decades, advanced airway management, early coronary angiography, and therapeutic hypothermia have shaped post-out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) care. However, recent large randomized trials have challenged these strategies and created substantial uncertainty leading to relevant guideline changes. This review focuses on the trials that ultimately influenced current guideline recommendations by downgrading previous recommendations. We determine how structural limitations may have affected the validity and interpretation of their results. The review critically evaluates the methodological design and execution of those trials. Despite neutral findings from recent randomized trials, use of advanced airway management during resuscitation, coronary angiography in patients with a high likelihood of acute coronary occlusion, and therapeutic hypothermia for comatose OHCA survivors still play a relevant role in post-resuscitation management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neurological Injury After Cardiac Arrest: Mechanisms, Prognostication, and Emerging Therapies)

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16 pages, 1165 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Appendectomy During Pregnancy and the Risk of Preterm Birth: A Systematic Review of Contemporary Clinical Studies

by Sergiu Costescu, Adrian Ratiu, Danut Dejeu, Oana Cristina Costescu, Cosmin Citu, Aniko Maria Manea and Zoran Laurentiu Popa

J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(2), 819; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15020819 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Appendectomy is the most frequent non-obstetric emergency operation in pregnancy, yet its relationship with preterm birth (PTB) remains uncertain. We systematically reviewed studies assessing PTB after appendectomy during pregnancy, focusing on surgical approach and histopathology. Methods: Following a [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: Appendectomy is the most frequent non-obstetric emergency operation in pregnancy, yet its relationship with preterm birth (PTB) remains uncertain. We systematically reviewed studies assessing PTB after appendectomy during pregnancy, focusing on surgical approach and histopathology. Methods: Following a PRISMA-guided protocol, we searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science to 1 October 2025 for studies reporting gestational-age outcomes after appendectomy in pregnancy. Eligible designs were cohort or case–control studies and case series ≥ 5 pregnancies. Data on technique, timing, pathology, and PTB were extracted and synthesized narratively; meta-analysis was not performed because of heterogeneity. Results: Six studies including over one thousand pregnancies with appendectomy and over one million comparators were identified. In the largest registry study, appendectomy was associated with increased PTB risk (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.73, 95% CI 1.42–2.09), with a stronger association for planned than spontaneous PTB. A matched cohort reported PTB in 11.9% of operated women versus 5.4% of controls and a higher PTB rate after negative appendectomy (20.5% vs. 9.2% with inflamed appendices). In a single-center series, PTB occurred in 24.4% after open but 0% after laparoscopic appendectomy. Across studies, crude PTB rates after appendectomy ranged from 4.5% to 24.4%. Three of five studies reporting effect estimates found significantly elevated PTB risk, whereas two smaller cohorts showed null or imprecise associations. Conclusions: Current evidence suggests that appendectomy in pregnancy is associated with increased PTB risk, particularly after negative or late-gestation open procedures, supporting careful diagnostic work-up, preference for laparoscopy when feasible, and close obstetric follow-up. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Obstetrics & Gynecology)

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30 pages, 1651 KB

Open AccessReview

Extractables and Leachables in Pharmaceutical Products: Potential Adverse Effects and Toxicological Risk Assessment

by Samo Kuzmič, Tjaša Zlobec, Marija Sollner Dolenc, Robert Roškar and Tina Trdan Lušin

Toxics 2026, 14(1), 92; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics14010092 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

During production, storage, and administration, drug products (and their intermediates) are in contact with many different types of materials, which include manufacturing components, container closure systems, and administration materials; therefore, there is a potential for their interactions and the introduction of leachables. The [...] Read more.

During production, storage, and administration, drug products (and their intermediates) are in contact with many different types of materials, which include manufacturing components, container closure systems, and administration materials; therefore, there is a potential for their interactions and the introduction of leachables. The presence of leachables may impact key quality attributes of drug products in many ways. These include potential alterations in drug product stability, resulting in a reduced shelf-life, compromised drug product efficacy due to degradation or inactivation of active pharmaceutical ingredients, and impaired drug product physical acceptability due to precipitation, discolouration and/or change in odour or flavour. Moreover, some leachables may be inherently toxic (mutagenic, carcinogenic, immunogenic, etc.) posing direct risks to patient safety. Comprehensive toxicological evaluation of extractables and leachables is therefore essential. Documented cases demonstrate that presence of leachables can lead to serious and clinically significant adverse effects, underscoring the importance of their identification, quantification, and toxicological assessment during pharmaceutical development. This paper provides an overview of the toxicological limits used in the analyses of extractables and leachables and illustrates how they are translated into analytical limits. It also outlines the workflow for toxicological risk assessment of extractables and/or leachables, including evaluations of mutagenicity and other relevant toxicological endpoints. Special attention is given to the interpretation of the draft ICH Q3E guideline, which represents a pivotal development in harmonizing global expectations for extractables and leachables safety assessments. Understanding and correctly applying ICH Q3E is crucial, as it will shape regulatory strategies, analytical approaches, and risk management practices across the pharmaceutical industry. The paper concludes by highlighting emerging challenges that demand sustained advancements in both scientific methodologies and regulatory frameworks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Exposome Analysis and Risk Assessment)

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6 pages, 1427 KB

Open AccessInteresting Images

Prediction of Pancreatic Islet Yield After Pancreatectomy Using Optical Coherence Elastography

by Ekaterina Gubarkova, Ekaterina Vasilchikova, Arseniy Potapov, Denis Kuchin, Polina Ermakova, Julia Tselousova, Anastasia Anina, Liya Lugovaya, Marina Sirotkina, Natalia Gladkova, Aleksandra Kashina and Vladimir Zagainov

Diagnostics 2026, 16(2), 329; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16020329 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

Intraoperative assessment of pancreatic quality, followed by sampling for the potential isolation of Langerhans islets for subsequent autotransplantation, is currently a key component of post-total pancreatectomy diabetes mellitus treatment. The aim of this study was to quantitatively evaluate pancreatic parenchymal stiffness using optical [...] Read more.

Intraoperative assessment of pancreatic quality, followed by sampling for the potential isolation of Langerhans islets for subsequent autotransplantation, is currently a key component of post-total pancreatectomy diabetes mellitus treatment. The aim of this study was to quantitatively evaluate pancreatic parenchymal stiffness using optical coherence elastography (OCE) imaging, and to investigate the utility of the OCE method as a potential indicator of islet yield after pancreatectomy. A total of 41 freshly excised human pancreatic specimens, containing pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and surrounding non-tumorous tissues post-pancreatectomy, were studied. In this research, the stiffness (Young’s modulus, kPa) and its color-coded 2D distribution were calculated for various pancreatic samples using compression OCE. Stiffness values were compared between intact pancreatic parenchyma (islet-poor and islet-rich) and pancreatic lesion groups (parenchymal fibrosis and/or PDAC invasion). The data were confirmed by histological analysis. In addition, the measured stiffness values for various morphological groups of the pancreatic samples were compared with the number of isolated islets obtained from pancreatic samples after collagenase treatment. The study demonstrated that OCE can effectively distinguish areas of pancreatic lesions and identify intact pancreatic parenchyma containing Langerhans islets. A highly significant increase in mean stiffness (p < 0.0001) was observed in postoperative pancreatic samples exhibiting signs of parenchymal fibrosis or PDAC invasion compared to unaffected, intact pancreatic parenchyma. For the first time, a relationship between stiffness values and the number of isolated pancreatic islets was demonstrated; in particular, the number of isolated islets significantly decreased (≤110 pcs/g) in samples exhibiting stiffness values above 150 kPa and below 75 kPa. The optimal stiffness range for the efficient isolation of islets (≥120 pcs/g) from pancreatic tissue was identified as 75–150 kPa. The study introduces a novel approach for rapid and objective intraoperative assessment of pancreatic tissue quality using real-time OCE data. This technique facilitates the identification of regions affected by pancreatic lesions and supports the selection of intact pancreatic parenchyma, potentially enhancing the accuracy of Langerhans islet yield predictions during surgical resection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biomedical Optics)

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16 pages, 460 KB

Open AccessArticle

Trusted Sources of COVID-19 Vaccine Information by County Characteristics in North Carolina

by Bryson T. Staley, Michael E. DeWitt, Jennifer J. Wenner, John W. Sanders, Thomas F. Wierzba and Katherine Poehling

Vaccines 2026, 14(1), 96; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines14010096 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic disproportionately impacted rural areas across the United States, including rural North Carolina (NC). Consistent with national patterns, COVID-19 vaccination coverage as of December 2022 was higher for non-rural (72%) than rural (58%) NC counties. The role of trusted sources [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic disproportionately impacted rural areas across the United States, including rural North Carolina (NC). Consistent with national patterns, COVID-19 vaccination coverage as of December 2022 was higher for non-rural (72%) than rural (58%) NC counties. The role of trusted sources of vaccine information used by rural and non-rural residents is unknown. Methods: Using data from two surveys distributed by the COVID-19 Community Research Partnership from 8 June 2021 through 21 December 2021, we compared self-reported sources of trusted COVID-19 vaccine information by non-rural and rural counties and by county-level predominant political vote in the 2020 Presidential election. Results: While NC respondents were highly vaccinated (94%), fewer residents from rural counties self-reported COVID-19 vaccination than those from non-rural counties (91% versus 95%). The most common reported source of trusted vaccine information was federal health agencies. The proportion citing a federal health agency was higher for respondents from non-rural (80%) than rural (72%) counties and was higher for vaccinated (75%) than unvaccinated (42%) rural respondents. The next two most trusted sources of vaccine information were state/local health officials (48%) and health care providers (42%). Among trusted resources reported by 10–15% of respondents, those from rural counties were less likely to use hospital websites, employers, or news sources than those from non-rural counties. More respondents from counties with >60% vote for the 2020 Democratic Presidential candidate cited federal health agencies, state and local officials, and new sources than respondents from counties with >60% vote for the 2020 Republican Presidential candidate. Conclusions: By identifying the trusted sources of vaccine information for residents in non-rural and rural NC counties, future vaccine implementation efforts can tailor communication efforts to increase vaccine uptake and potentially reduce the rates of hospitalizations and death from vaccine-preventable diseases such as COVID-19 or other future pandemics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccine Hesitancy in the Era of COVID-19)

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18 pages, 722 KB

Open AccessEntry

Smart Mobility and Last-Mile Rail Integration

by Wil Martens

Encyclopedia 2026, 6(1), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia6010026 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Definition

Smart-city last-mile rail access, referred to in this entry simply as last-mile access, captures how travelers connect to and from rail stations during the first or last leg of a journey. It encompasses both the design of multimodal connections and the experience of [...] Read more.

Smart-city last-mile rail access, referred to in this entry simply as last-mile access, captures how travelers connect to and from rail stations during the first or last leg of a journey. It encompasses both the design of multimodal connections and the experience of accessibility that results from them. On the supply side, last-mile access involves the coordination of walking, cycling, micromobility, and feeder transit with rail services, supported by digital systems that unify planning, ticketing, and payment. On the demand side, it reflects how efficiently and equitably travelers can reach stations within these coordinated networks. Together, these physical and institutional dimensions extend the functional reach of rail, reduce transfer barriers, and reinforce its role as the backbone of sustainable urban mobility. As cities strive to reduce car dependency while promoting inclusivity and accessibility, last-mile access has become a key indicator of how infrastructure, technology, and governance intersect to deliver more equitable transportation systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Encyclopedia of Digital Society, Industry 5.0 and Smart City)

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12 pages, 2133 KB

Open AccessArticle

Maternal and Neonatal Vulnerabilities Associated with Abnormal Outcomes in Newborn Hearing Screening: A Focus on Adolescent Mothers

by Mirela Mătăsaru, Elena Niculet, Emil Anton, Ancuța Lupu, Oana Ramona Roșca, Doina Carina Voinescu, Mădălina Nicoleta Matei, Alina Pleșea-Condratovici, Camer Salim and Silvia Fotea

Audiol. Res. 2026, 16(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/audiolres16010014 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

Universal newborn hearing screening is essential for early identification of sensorineural hearing loss. Infants born to adolescent mothers may be more vulnerable to abnormal screening outcomes due to biological, socio-economic, and obstetrical risk factors frequently associated with adolescent pregnancy. This study evaluates hearing [...] Read more.

Universal newborn hearing screening is essential for early identification of sensorineural hearing loss. Infants born to adolescent mothers may be more vulnerable to abnormal screening outcomes due to biological, socio-economic, and obstetrical risk factors frequently associated with adolescent pregnancy. This study evaluates hearing screening outcomes in newborns of adolescent mothers and examines whether maternal and neonatal vulnerabilities contribute to abnormal (REFER) results. A retrospective observational study was conducted over four years (January 2021–January 2025) at the “Sf. Ap. Andrei” County Emergency Clinical Hospital, Galați, Romania. The study included 187 newborns of adolescent mothers (≤18 years) and 3203 newborns of mothers aged >19 years. All infants underwent transient evoked otoacoustic emission (TEOAE) testing within 48–72 h after birth, according to institutional protocol. PASS/REFER outcomes were recorded, and retesting was performed when indicated. Although otological conditions such as middle ear dysfunction may influence OAE responses, routine otoscopic examination and clinical assessment were performed prior to testing. Automated auditory brainstem response (AABR) testing was not routinely applied due to equipment availability and local screening practices. The final REFER rate was slightly higher in the adolescent group (5.3%) compared with the adult group (4.8%). Maternal age alone was not directly associated with abnormal outcomes; however, maternal anemia, limited prenatal care, rural residence, prematurity, and low birth weight were more frequently observed among cases with persistent REFER results. Infants born to adolescent mothers show a modestly increased likelihood of abnormal hearing screening outcomes, primarily related to cumulative maternal and neonatal vulnerabilities. Strengthening prenatal care and targeted audiological follow-up may improve early detection of sensorineural hearing loss in this population. Full article

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16 pages, 2424 KB

Open AccessArticle

Development and Accessibility of the INCE App to Assess the Gut–Brain Axis in Individuals with and Without Autism

by Agustín E. Martínez-González

Information 2026, 17(1), 104; https://doi.org/10.3390/info17010104 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

In recent years, there has been increasing interest in the study of the gut–brain axis. Furthermore, there appears to be a relationship between abdominal pain, selective eating patterns, emotional instability, and intestinal disorders in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This work describes the development [...] Read more.

In recent years, there has been increasing interest in the study of the gut–brain axis. Furthermore, there appears to be a relationship between abdominal pain, selective eating patterns, emotional instability, and intestinal disorders in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This work describes the development and accessibility evaluation of the INCE mobile app. This mobile app allows users to obtain levels of gut–brain interaction severity using two scientifically proven scales: The Gastrointestinal Symptom Severity Scale (GSSS) and the Pain and Sensitivity Reactivity Scale (PSRS). The validity of both instruments was established in previous studies in neurotypical and autistic populations. Statistically significant improvements were found following post-design changes in the use and accessibility of the INCE app (.NET Maui 9 Software) reported by professionals (p = 0.013), families (p = 0.011), and adolescents (p = 0.004). INCE represents an important contribution to evidence-based applications and clearly translates into society. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Information Technology in Society)

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21 pages, 1971 KB

Open AccessArticle

Technology-Assisted Neuromotor Training for Improving Visuomotor Reaction Performance, Change-of-Direction Quickness, and Bilateral Task Execution in Junior Handball Players

by Mircea Boncuț, Nicola Mancini, Angel-Alex Hăisan, Delia Boncuț, Emilia Florina Grosu, Cornelia Popovici, Carlos Hervás-Gómez, Cristina Maria Man, Siria Mancini, Mariasole Antonietta Guerriero, Antonella De Maria and Vlad Teodor Grosu

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2026, 11(1), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk11010042 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background: Reaction time and coordination are key performance components in team sports such as handball, particularly during the developmental years. Integrating visual and cognitive stimuli through smart technologies has been shown to facilitate motor skill development in young athletes. Methods: This study evaluated [...] Read more.

Background: Reaction time and coordination are key performance components in team sports such as handball, particularly during the developmental years. Integrating visual and cognitive stimuli through smart technologies has been shown to facilitate motor skill development in young athletes. Methods: This study evaluated the effects of a BlazePod-based training protocol on reaction time, visuomotor coordination, movement quickness, and change-of-direction performance in junior male handball players aged 12–14 years. Thirty-two athletes (mean age = 13.37 ± 0.29 years) were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 16), in which the traditional neuromotor/coordination block of regular practice was replaced with BlazePod-based drills three times per week for eight weeks, or to a control group (n = 16), which trained the same capacities with traditional handball-specific exercises without technology. Training frequency (3 sessions/week), session duration (90 min), and the workload of the 30 min neuromotor block were matched between groups. Motor performance was assessed using four tests: Focus Reactions, Fast Feet, Clap Challenge, and the Agility T-Test. Paired- and independent-samples t-tests were applied to compare pre- and post-intervention scores. Results: The experimental group showed significant within-group improvements in Focus Reactions (p = 0.002) and AgilTT_ShuffleLeft (p = 0.014), whereas the control group showed no improvements and a small but significant worsening in Focus Reactions. Between-group comparisons at post-test revealed significant differences in favor of the experimental group for Fast Feet (p = 0.036), Clap Challenge (p = 0.008), AgilTT_Overall (p < 0.001), and AgilTT_SprintBack (p = 0.003). Conclusions: The integration of BlazePod technology into handball training produced measurable improvements in reaction speed and lateral agility among junior players. These findings suggest that technology-assisted neuromotor training represents a viable training modality that can replace a traditional neuromotor block within youth handball practice while maintaining overall training dose. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cutting-Edge Technology in Exercise Science: From Performance to Health Applications)

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19 pages, 1003 KB

Open AccessReview

Suzetrigine, a Na_V1.8 Inhibitor as a Novel Approach for Pain Therapy—A Medicinal and Chemical Drug Profile

by Rawan M. Medhat, Omnia A. Kotb and Daniel Baecker

Molecules 2026, 31(2), 358; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31020358 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

Suzetrigine was approved by the US American Food and Drug Administration in 2025 as the first oral, non-opioid, selective inhibitor of Na_V1.8 sodium channel for the treatment of acute pain. Therefore, it represents a groundbreaking advancement in pain management. This review [...] Read more.

Suzetrigine was approved by the US American Food and Drug Administration in 2025 as the first oral, non-opioid, selective inhibitor of Na_V1.8 sodium channel for the treatment of acute pain. Therefore, it represents a groundbreaking advancement in pain management. This review aims to provide an overview of the milestones in the medicinal-chemical development of Na_V1.8 inhibitors, eventually leading to suzetrigine. The multi-step synthesis route of suzetrigine is presented. Taking structural features into account, insights are provided into what plays a role for the inhibition of the Na_V1.8 channel. In addition, pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic aspects of the new drug, such as bioavailability, metabolism, and interaction with CYP450 enzymes, are discussed. A summary based on a large number of clinical trials demonstrating remarkable efficacy completes this comprehensive drug profile of suzetrigine, while also addressing limitations of the clinical trials and suggesting future perspectives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Small-Molecule Drug Design and Discovery)

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18 pages, 3705 KB

Open AccessArticle

Cross-Platform Multi-Modal Transfer Learning Framework for Cyberbullying Detection

by Weiqi Zhang, Chengzu Dong, Aiting Yao, Asef Nazari and Anuroop Gaddam

Electronics 2026, 15(2), 442; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics15020442 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

Cyberbullying and hate speech increasingly appear in multi-modal social media posts, where images and text are combined in diverse and fast changing ways across platforms. These posts differ in style, vocabulary and layout, and labeled data are sparse and noisy, which makes it [...] Read more.

Cyberbullying and hate speech increasingly appear in multi-modal social media posts, where images and text are combined in diverse and fast changing ways across platforms. These posts differ in style, vocabulary and layout, and labeled data are sparse and noisy, which makes it difficult to train detectors that are both reliable and deployable under tight computational budgets. Many high performing systems rely on large vision language backbones, full parameter fine tuning, online retrieval or model ensembles, which raises training and inference costs. We present a parameter efficient cross-platform multi-modal transfer learning framework for cyberbullying and hateful content detection. Our framework has three components. First, we perform domain adaptive pretraining of a compact ViLT backbone on in domain image-text corpora. Second, we apply parameter efficient fine tuning that updates only bias terms, a small subset of LayerNorm parameters and the classification head, leaving the inference computation graph unchanged. Third, we use noise aware knowledge distillation from a stronger teacher built from pretrained text and CLIP based image-text encoders, where only high confidence, temperature scaled predictions are used as soft labels during training, and teacher models and any retrieval components are used only offline. We evaluate primarily on Hateful Memes and use IMDB as an auxiliary text only benchmark to show that the deployment aware PEFT + offline-KD recipe can still be applied when other modalities are unavailable. On Hateful Memes, our student updates only 0.11% of parameters and retain about 96% of the AUROC of full fine-tuning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Data Privacy and Protection in IoT Systems)

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21 pages, 536 KB

Open AccessReview

Applications of AI for the Optimal Operations of Power Systems Under Extreme Weather Events: A Task-Driven and Methodological Review

by Zehua Zhao, Jiajia Yang, Xiangjing Su, Yang Du and Mohan Jacob

Energies 2026, 19(2), 506; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19020506 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

The increasingly frequent and severe natural disasters have posed significant challenges to the resilience of power systems worldwide, creating an urgent need to investigate the security issues associated with these extreme events and to develop effective risk mitigation strategies. Meanwhile, as one of [...] Read more.

The increasingly frequent and severe natural disasters have posed significant challenges to the resilience of power systems worldwide, creating an urgent need to investigate the security issues associated with these extreme events and to develop effective risk mitigation strategies. Meanwhile, as one of the leading topics in current research, artificial intelligence (AI) has demonstrated outstanding performance across various domains, such as AI-driven smart grids and smart cities. In particular, its efficiency in processing big data and solving complex computational problems has made AI a powerful tool for supporting decision-making in complex scenarios. This article presents a focused overview of power system resilience against natural disasters, highlighting recent advancements in AI-based approaches aimed at enhancing system security and response capabilities. It begins by introducing various types of natural disasters and their corresponding impacts on power systems. Then, a systematic overview of AI applications in power systems under disaster scenarios is provided, with a classification based on the task categories, i.e., predictive, descriptive and prescriptive tasks. Following this, this article analyzes current research trends and finds a growing shift from knowledge-based models towards data-driven models. Furthermore, this paper discusses the major challenges in this research field, including data processing, data management, and data analytics; the challenges introduced by large language models in power systems; and the limitations related to AI model interpretability and generalization capability. Finally, this article outlines several potential future research directions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-Energy Systems Operation, Economics and Policy to Facilitate Low-Carbon Energy Transition, 2nd Edition)

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20 pages, 4309 KB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization and Optimization of the Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction Process of an Unexplored Amazonian Drupe (Chondrodendron tomentosum): A Novel Source of Anthocyanins and Phenolic Compounds

by Disbexy Huaman-Huaman, Segundo G. Chavez, Laydy Mena-Chacon, José Marcelo-Peña, Hans Minchán-Velayarce and Ralph Rivera-Botonares

Processes 2026, 14(2), 357; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr14020357 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

This study presents the first comprehensive physicochemical and bioactive characterization of the fruit of Chondrodendron tomentosum Ruiz & Pav. (Menispermaceae). Biometric and physicochemical parameters were characterized across three fruit ripening stages (green, turning, ripe). Additionally, proximate composition was determined in ripe fruits, and [...] Read more.

This study presents the first comprehensive physicochemical and bioactive characterization of the fruit of Chondrodendron tomentosum Ruiz & Pav. (Menispermaceae). Biometric and physicochemical parameters were characterized across three fruit ripening stages (green, turning, ripe). Additionally, proximate composition was determined in ripe fruits, and methanol concentration (25–75%), ultrasonic amplitude (30–70%), and time (1–15 min) were optimized using response surface methodology with a Box–Behnken design. During ripening, weight increased by +47.7% (3.89 to 5.74 g; p < 0.0001), TSS by +26.1% (7.00 to 8.83 °Brix), pH decreased by 32.0% (6.28 to 4.27), and acidity increased by 276% (0.25 to 0.94%). The quadratic models demonstrated high predictive accuracy (R² > 96.5%; p < 0.004). Optimal conditions (57% methanol, 70% amplitude, and 15 min) maximized total anthocyanin content (120.71 ± 1.89 mg cyanidin-3-glucoside/L), total phenols (672.46 ± 5.84 mg GAE/100 g), and DPPH radical scavenging capacity (5857.55 ± 60.20 µmol Trolox/100 g) in ripe fruits. Unripe fruits do not contain anthocyanins, reaching 46.01 mg C3G/L in turning fruits and 120.71 mg/L in ripe fruits (162% higher than turning fruits). Principal component analysis (90.6% variance) revealed synchronized co-accumulation of anthocyanins and phenols, enhanced by vacuolar acidification. These results suggest ripe C. tomentosum fruits as a potential source for natural colorants, nutraceuticals, and functional foods, pending prior development of green, human-safe extraction processes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Green Extraction and Separation Processes)

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22 pages, 387 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Digital Literacy on Farmers’ Green Production Behaviours: Evidence from Guizhou, China

by Li Zhu, Weiyong Yu and Jinxiu Yang

Agriculture 2026, 16(2), 257; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture16020257 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

The increasing momentum of agricultural digital transformation and green development necessitates investigations into how farmers’ digital literacy influences their engagement in green production behaviours, which is critical for achieving the high-quality development of modern agriculture. Utilising primary survey data collected from farmers in [...] Read more.

The increasing momentum of agricultural digital transformation and green development necessitates investigations into how farmers’ digital literacy influences their engagement in green production behaviours, which is critical for achieving the high-quality development of modern agriculture. Utilising primary survey data collected from farmers in rural areas of Guizhou Province, China, this study investigated how digital literacy affects farmers’ green production behaviours. The findings are as follows: (1) Digital literacy exerts a significant positive impact on farmers’ adoption of green production behaviours. Regarding the hierarchical effect, the order of influence is as follows: digital security awareness > basic digital skills > digital application and innovation. (2) The facilitating effect of digital literacy is primarily achieved through two pathways: the peer effect and the guidance effect. (3) Farmers with higher education levels are more impacted by digital literacy than farmers with lower education levels. (4) The impact of digital literacy is more positively significant for young and older farmers than for middle-aged groups. Based on these research findings, it is recommended that future policy formulation and technology extension efforts should prioritise support for specific regions and groups, such as mountainous areas, small-scale operations, low-education backgrounds, and the elderly. Such targeted approaches are crucial for encouraging wider adoption of green production behaviours among farmers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Economics, Policies and Rural Management)

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18 pages, 762 KB

Open AccessReview

Making Sense from Structure: What the Immune System Sees in Viral RNA

by Benjamin J. Cryer and Margaret J. Lange

Viruses 2026, 18(1), 128; https://doi.org/10.3390/v18010128 (registering DOI) - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

Viral RNA structure plays a critical regulatory role in viral replication, serving as a dual-purpose mechanism for encoding genetic information and controlling biological processes. However, these structural elements also serve as pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), which are recognized by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) [...] Read more.

Viral RNA structure plays a critical regulatory role in viral replication, serving as a dual-purpose mechanism for encoding genetic information and controlling biological processes. However, these structural elements also serve as pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), which are recognized by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) of the host innate immune system. This review discusses the complex and poorly understood relationship between viral RNA structure and recognition of RNA by PRRs, specifically focusing on Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) and Retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I). While current interaction models rely upon data generated from use of synthetic ligands such as poly(I:C) or perfectly base-paired double-stranded RNA stems, this review highlights significant gaps in our understanding of how PRRs recognize naturally occurring viral RNAs that fold into highly complex three-dimensional structures. Furthermore, we explore how viral evolution and nucleotide variations, such as those observed in influenza viruses, can drastically alter local and distal RNA structure, potentially impacting immune detection. We conclude that moving beyond synthetic models to understand natural RNA structural dynamics is essential for elucidating the mechanisms of viral immune evasion and pathogenesis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section General Virology)

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