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15 pages, 1942 KB

Open AccessArticle

Measurements of Radical Reactivity with an Imine, (CF₃)₂CNH: Rate Constants for Chlorine Atoms and Hydroxyl Radicals and the Global Warming Potential

by Savi Savi and Paul Marshall

Molecules 2026, 31(3), 424; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31030424 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

The rate constant k_OH for the reaction of 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoroprop-2-imine with OH radicals was measured relative to two reference compounds, CH₃F and CH₃CHF₂, to be k_OH = (4.2 ± 1.1) × 10⁻¹⁴ cm³ molecule [...] Read more.

The rate constant k_OH for the reaction of 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoroprop-2-imine with OH radicals was measured relative to two reference compounds, CH₃F and CH₃CHF₂, to be k_OH = (4.2 ± 1.1) × 10⁻¹⁴ cm³ molecule⁻¹ s⁻¹ at 295 K. This implies an atmospheric lifetime with respect to consumption by OH of 0.75 years. Reaction with Cl atoms yielded k_Cl = (7.9 ± 1.7) × 10⁻¹⁶ cm³ molecule⁻¹ s⁻¹ at 295 K, and reaction with O₃ has an upper limit of k_O3 < 4 × 10⁻²³ cm³ molecule⁻¹ s⁻¹, so that the atmospheric consumption by Cl and O₃ is negligibly slow. Absolute infrared cross sections of the imine yield a radiative efficiency of 0.34 W m⁻² ppb⁻¹, which is corrected to 0.23 W m⁻² ppb⁻¹ for the effects of atmospheric lifetime. The imine’s corresponding 100-year global warming potential is 64 ± 19. This value is an upper limit, given that heterogenous atmospheric removal paths, such as hydrolysis in water droplets, are not included. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Chemistry)

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17 pages, 4317 KB

Open AccessArticle

Natural Genetic Variation Impacts Stress-Induced Quiescence and Regeneration in Response to Rapamycin

by Sahiti Peddibhotla, Miriam Gonzaga, Tricia Zhang, Yasha Goel, Jun Sun, Benjamin R. Harrison, Daniel E. L. Promislow and Hannele Ruohola-Baker

Cells 2026, 15(3), 236; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells15030236 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

In response to ionizing radiation (IR), both adult and cancer stem cells enter reversible cell cycle arrest at the G1/S transition to evade apoptosis and subsequently re-enter the cell cycle to regenerate damaged tissue. Entry into and exit from this arrest, known as [...] Read more.

In response to ionizing radiation (IR), both adult and cancer stem cells enter reversible cell cycle arrest at the G1/S transition to evade apoptosis and subsequently re-enter the cell cycle to regenerate damaged tissue. Entry into and exit from this arrest, known as “quiescence,” is governed by the inhibition of mTORC1. The pharmacological suppression of mTORC1 with rapamycin prevents quiescent stem cells from re-entering the cell cycle and impairs tissue regeneration. Rapamycin holds great therapeutic promise in preventing tumor regrowth from dormant cancer stem cells. Yet the extent to which genetic background impacts the known variation in the pharmacological response of rapamycin remains unknown. Here, we show that natural genetic variation across the Drosophila Genetics Reference Panel (DGRP) drives substantial differences in the rapamycin-mediated suppression of post-IR quiescence and regeneration. To define the basis of this differential sensitivity, we examined mitochondrial turnover and DNA damage repair—processes controlling IR-induced dormancy. Our analyses reveal that variation in rapamycin sensitivity is more strongly associated with differences in mitochondrial dynamics than with DNA damage response following radiation. Together, these findings demonstrate that genetic background is a critical determinant of rapamycin efficacy and identify mitochondrial regulation as a key mechanism underlying differential therapeutic response. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetics and Gene Regulation)

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6 pages, 196 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Editorial for the Special Issue of Mathematics “Fractional Differential Equations, Inclusions and Inequalities with Applications II”

by Sotiris K. Ntouyas

Mathematics 2026, 14(3), 424; https://doi.org/10.3390/math14030424 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

Within the field of fractional calculus, defined fractional derivatives and integrals within complex domains and their practical applications are frequently explored, and in recent years, this field has seen a significant rise in research interest [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fractional Differential Equations, Inclusions and Inequalities with Applications II)

17 pages, 836 KB

Open AccessArticle

Simplifications in the Optimization of Heat Pumps and Their Comparison for Effects on the Accuracy of the Results

by Maurice Görgen, Louisa Zaubitzer and Frank Alsmeyer

Energies 2026, 19(3), 635; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19030635 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

This work presents a model that calculates temperature-dependent heat pump performances as a circular heat pump process as a reference model. The model is then systematically simplified by making assumptions or applying functional approximations to key variables. These simplifications include linearization of the [...] Read more.

This work presents a model that calculates temperature-dependent heat pump performances as a circular heat pump process as a reference model. The model is then systematically simplified by making assumptions or applying functional approximations to key variables. These simplifications include linearization of the substance database calculations and modeling of the compressor efficiency as a function or constant. The effects of these simplifications on the accuracy of results are quantified and compared with other modeling approaches from the literature suitable for linear and bilinear optimization issues. Initial comparisons show that the root mean square error of the model achieves better results than comparable methods. While the root mean square error of the COP in linearized models in the compared literature ranges from 0.433 to 1.233, it can be improved to a maximum of 0.335 using the approach presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the SDEWES 2025 Conference on Sustainable Development of Energy, Water, and Environment Systems)

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28 pages, 2690 KB

Open AccessArticle

Two-Dimensional Dynamic Logic Resource Allocation for Scalable RIS Channel Emulation

by Dan Fei, Haobo Zhang, Chen Chen, Hao Zhou, Peng Zheng, Guoyu Wang, Cheng Li, Jiayi Zhang, Zhaohui Song and Bo Ai

Sensors 2026, 26(3), 813; https://doi.org/10.3390/s26030813 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

This paper addresses the critical scalability challenge in Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) channel emulation for massive RIS-assisted 6G environments. We propose a Two-Dimensional Dynamic Logic Resource Allocation (2D-DLRA) architecture that decouples physical RF ports from baseband processing resources through hierarchical pooling at both the session [...] Read more.

This paper addresses the critical scalability challenge in Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) channel emulation for massive RIS-assisted 6G environments. We propose a Two-Dimensional Dynamic Logic Resource Allocation (2D-DLRA) architecture that decouples physical RF ports from baseband processing resources through hierarchical pooling at both the session level and the multipath level. By jointly virtualizing Logical Units (LUs) and Multipath Processing Units (MPUs), the proposed architecture overcomes the dual inefficiency of port underutilization and path-level sparsity inherent in conventional static designs. A rigorous analytical framework combining hierarchical queuing theory and non-cooperative game theory is developed to characterize system capacity, blocking probability, and user contention under heterogeneous workloads. Simulation results demonstrate that, under a strict QoS constraint of 1% blocking probability, the proposed 2D-DLRA architecture achieves a multi-fold increase in supported user capacity compared to static allocation with the same hardware resources. Moreover, for an end-to-end emulation error threshold of 3%, 91.8% of users meet the QoS requirement, compared to only 73.6% in static architectures. The results further show that dynamic pooling enables near-saturated hardware utilization, in contrast to the single-digit utilization typical of static designs in sparse RIS scenarios. These findings confirm that 2D-DLRA provides a scalable and hardware-efficient solution for large-scale RIS channel emulation, offering practical design guidelines for next-generation 6G HIL testing platforms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microwave and Millimeter-Wave Sensing and Imaging on Wearable, Vehicular, and Portable Platforms)

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15 pages, 601 KB

Open AccessReview

Heart Failure and Atrial Fibrillation in Women: Pathophysiological Links, Clinical Challenges, and Therapeutic Perspectives

by Luminiţa-Bianca Grosu, Camelia Cristina Diaconu and Laura Gabriela Gavril

Medicina 2026, 62(2), 261; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina62020261 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background and Objectives: The prevalence of heart failure and atrial fibrillation is increasing because of population aging. There are important sex-related differences in the epidemiology, pathophysiology, treatment, and prognosis of patients with both heart failure and atrial fibrillation. While the overall lifetime [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: The prevalence of heart failure and atrial fibrillation is increasing because of population aging. There are important sex-related differences in the epidemiology, pathophysiology, treatment, and prognosis of patients with both heart failure and atrial fibrillation. While the overall lifetime risk of both diseases is similar between women and men, women tend to be older when diagnosed and to have more comorbidities. Materials and Methods: A narrative review was conducted by analyzing studies published across databases such as PubMed, SCOPUS, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The review focused on research about sex-related differences in patients with heart failure and atrial fibrillation, emphasizing the peculiarities in women regarding drug treatment and prognosis after cardiac device implantation. Results: Current evidence highlights the sex-related differences in patients with both heart failure and atrial fibrillation regarding pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, and echocardiographic findings. There are also data regarding possible sex-related differences in mortality and therapy, as women tend to have longer hospital stays, but there are fewer reevaluations after discharge. Conclusions: Women with both atrial fibrillation and heart failure are at increased risk of stroke and other adverse outcomes that negatively affect their quality of life. Females with atrial fibrillation and heart failure tend to be treated less with rhythm control strategies and ablation, which may have a great impact on symptom burden in women compared to men. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cardiology)

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33 pages, 4725 KB

Open AccessReview

Importance and Involvement of Imidazole Structure in Current and Future Therapy

by Alexandra Pavel Burlacu, Maria Drăgan, Ovidiu Oniga, Mădălina Nicoleta Matei, Ilioara Oniga, Elena-Lăcrămioara Lisă, Claudia-Simona Stefan and Oana-Maria Dragostin

Molecules 2026, 31(3), 423; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31030423 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

Imidazole is, from a structural point of view, a heterocycle consisting of three C atoms and two N atoms, belonging to the class of diazoles, having two N atoms at the first and third positions in the aromatic ring. Being a polar and [...] Read more.

Imidazole is, from a structural point of view, a heterocycle consisting of three C atoms and two N atoms, belonging to the class of diazoles, having two N atoms at the first and third positions in the aromatic ring. Being a polar and ionizable aromatic compound, it has the role of improving the pharmacological properties of lead molecules, thus being used to optimize their solubility and bioavailability. Imidazole is a constituent of many important biological compounds, like histidine, histamine, and purine compounds, the most widespread heterocyclic compound in nature. In current practice, substituted imidazole derivatives play a major role in antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, CNS active compounds, antiprotozoal, as well as anticancer therapy. Thus, imidazole derivatives have demonstrated significant anticancer activities by inhibiting the key metabolic pathways essential for tumor cell growth and survival. Nitroimidazoles, for instance, have been employed as hypoxia-directed therapeutic agents, targeting oxygen-deprived tumor tissues, while mercaptopurine derivatives are well-established in oncological treatments. Structural modifications of the imidazole nucleus have led to the novel compounds exhibiting increased selective cytotoxicity against cancer cells, while sparing normal healthy cells. In accordance with what has been stated, this review highlights recent research on the medicinal and pharmaceutical interest of novel imidazole derivatives, emphasizing their potential in the development of new drugs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Heterocyclic Compounds with Outstanding Biological Activities)

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13 pages, 671 KB

Open AccessArticle

Six-Year Environmental Surface Hygiene Monitoring in Hungarian School Kitchens (2019–2024): Hotspots, Seasonality, and One Health Implications

by András Bittsánszky, Lili A. Lukács, Márton Battay, Miklós Süth and András J. Tóth

Antibiotics 2026, 15(2), 120; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics15020120 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Institutional catering serves vulnerable populations, including schoolchildren. Surfaces in food preparation environments are key control points for food safety and reservoirs and transmission routes for antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria. This study characterized the hygienic status of food-contact surfaces (FCS) and non-food-contact surfaces [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Institutional catering serves vulnerable populations, including schoolchildren. Surfaces in food preparation environments are key control points for food safety and reservoirs and transmission routes for antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria. This study characterized the hygienic status of food-contact surfaces (FCS) and non-food-contact surfaces (NFCS) in Hungarian school kitchens, identified contamination hotspots, and examined how routine monitoring can support AMR prevention. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed routine environmental hygiene monitoring records from 96 school kitchens (2019–2024). In total, 8412 swab samples were collected, 8407 had quantifiable counts, 6233 from FCS (e.g., plates, trays, boards, utensils), and 2174 from NFCS (e.g., sinks, fridges, workers’ hands). Total aerobic mesophilic counts were measured with a redox-potential method and expressed as CFU/100 cm²; 250 CFU/100 cm² (2.4 log₁₀) was the hygienic threshold. Results: Overall, 12.4% of surfaces exceeded the threshold. Non-food-contact surfaces were more likely to be non-compliant than food-contact surfaces (OR 2.77, 95% CI 2.43–3.17; p < 0.001). Hotspots included transport-container lids (67.2% non-compliant; OR 43.82), sink basins (32.8%; OR 10.46), and cutting boards (21.6%; OR 5.89). Seasonally, non-compliance was highest in summer (16.5%) and lowest in winter (9.0%; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Multi-year monitoring revealed substantial contamination concentrated in a few hotspots that, within a One Health framework—which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health—may represent environmental reservoirs and cross-contamination nodes relevant to AMR prevention. Targeted optimization of cleaning and disinfection for these surfaces, combined with trend analysis of indicator data and periodic AMR-focused environmental sampling, could reduce foodborne and AMR-related risks in public catering. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antimicrobial Resistance and One Health: Environmental Health, Food Safety, and Practice of Health Professionals)

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16 pages, 5950 KB

Open AccessArticle

Low-Temperature Glass Formation from Industrial Enamel Frit Production Waste

by Pınar Güzelgün Hangün, Nihal Derin Coşkun and Emine Keskin

Coatings 2026, 16(2), 159; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings16020159 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

This study investigates the sustainable reuse of industrial enamel frit production waste generated during enamel application processes and evaluates its potential from a process-oriented glass-forming and -shaping perspective. Enamel frit waste collected from an industrial production line in Türkiye was subjected to comprehensive [...] Read more.

This study investigates the sustainable reuse of industrial enamel frit production waste generated during enamel application processes and evaluates its potential from a process-oriented glass-forming and -shaping perspective. Enamel frit waste collected from an industrial production line in Türkiye was subjected to comprehensive characterization, including XRD, XRF, TG/DTA, dilatometry, and CIE Lab* color analysis, with the primary aim of assessing forming compatibility rather than final product performance. Following calcination and controlled fritting, the waste material was processed through mold-based glass-forming experiments using firing schedules derived from thermal analysis. The results reveal pronounced chemical and thermal heterogeneity among enamel frit production wastes, leading to variable melting behavior across samples. Nevertheless, selected waste compositions exhibited sufficient viscous flow for shaping at reduced firing temperatures of approximately 850 °C. This study demonstrates that selected enamel frit production wastes—obtained from industrial enameling processes in slurry, powder, or granular form—can be reshaped into glass forms under controlled low-temperature conditions. The novelty of this study lies in investigating industrial enamel production frit waste as a reusable material within a circular economy framework, specifically focusing on its application in mold-based glass forming for artistic and educational contexts, thereby fostering collaboration between industrial waste management and glass art practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Aspects in Colloid and Interface Science)

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13 pages, 818 KB

Open AccessArticle

Postoperative Antibiotic Escalation After Major Free-Flap Reconstruction Requiring ICU Admission: Associations with Day-1 Procalcitonin, Shock, and Microbiological Positivity

by Wei-Hung Chang, Kuang-Hua Cheng, Ting-Yu Hu, Hui-Fang Hsieh and Kuan-Pen Yu

Life 2026, 16(2), 204; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16020204 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

Major reconstructive free-flap surgery often requires ICU admission, yet early signals associated with postoperative antibiotic escalation remain poorly characterized. We conducted a single-center retrospective cohort study of 119 consecutive postoperative ICU admissions after major free-flap reconstruction. Exposures were postoperative day-1 procalcitonin (PCT) and [...] Read more.

Major reconstructive free-flap surgery often requires ICU admission, yet early signals associated with postoperative antibiotic escalation remain poorly characterized. We conducted a single-center retrospective cohort study of 119 consecutive postoperative ICU admissions after major free-flap reconstruction. Exposures were postoperative day-1 procalcitonin (PCT) and documented postoperative shock; the primary endpoint was clinician-initiated antibiotic escalation (“upgrade”), and secondary endpoints were documented microbiological positivity and ICU mechanical ventilation duration. Escalation occurred in 85/119 admissions (71.4%). Day-1 PCT was higher with escalation (median 0.25 vs. 0.135 ng/mL; p = 0.033), and shock was more frequent (59/85 [69.4%] vs. 13/34 [38.2%]; p = 0.003). Escalation was associated with longer ventilation (median 3515 vs. 2170 min; p < 0.001) and higher rates of any positive culture (54/85 [63.5%] vs. 8/34 [23.5%]; p < 0.001). In multivariable logistic regression adjusting for operative time and intraoperative IV volume, shock remained independently associated with escalation (adjusted OR 3.52, 95% CI 1.48–8.36; p = 0.004), whereas log-transformed PCT was not (p = 0.224). PCT showed modest apparent discrimination for escalation (AUC 0.63), improving to 0.71 when combined with shock. These findings should be interpreted as observational associations with escalation behavior, supporting prospective evaluation of physiology-plus-biomarker stewardship approaches. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Critical Issues in Intensive Care Medicine)

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12 pages, 2479 KB

Open AccessArticle

Seasonal Dynamics of Avian Dietary and Foraging Location Guilds in Relation to Urban Land Cover Structure: A Case Study from Taizhou, China

by Xue Wang, Lei Wang, Jun Ye, Lu Zhang, Bangfeng Wang and Jingjing Ding

Diversity 2026, 18(2), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18020065 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

Understanding how avian assemblages respond to seasonal dynamics within urban land-cover structure is crucial for biodiversity conservation in rapidly urbanizing environments. Here, we investigated seasonal variation in avian dietary and foraging location guilds in central Taizhou City, China. Field surveys were conducted using [...] Read more.

Understanding how avian assemblages respond to seasonal dynamics within urban land-cover structure is crucial for biodiversity conservation in rapidly urbanizing environments. Here, we investigated seasonal variation in avian dietary and foraging location guilds in central Taizhou City, China. Field surveys were conducted using the line transect method from April to November 2024. We assessed seasonal changes in community composition and the relationships between bird guilds and land cover types using multi-response permutation procedure (MRPP), non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS), and fourth-corner analysis. Bird community composition exhibited significant seasonal variations (MRPP, p < 0.05), with NMDS ordination showing a clear seasonal separation. Foraging location guilds exhibited more pronounced seasonal fluctuations in individual abundance than the dietary guilds. The Shannon diversity index for dietary guilds peaked in spring, followed by summer and autumn, whereas foraging location guilds exhibited higher diversity in summer and autumn. Fourth-corner analysis identified significant associations between guilds and land cover types, with foraging location guilds demonstrating stronger and more consistent responses to habitat structure than dietary guilds. Together, these results indicate that in urban landscapes, the spatial arrangement of habitats may shape avian foraging behavior more strongly than food availability alone, highlighting the need to integrate both structural and resource-based habitat features into urban planning and conservation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity Conservation in Urbanized Ecosystems)

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12 pages, 2997 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Polyvinyl Alcohol on the Early-Age Mechanical Properties and Carbon Uptake of Lime-Enriched Binders: A Comparative Study with Pure Lime and Portland Cement Systems

by Xuelian Yuan, Xintian Wang, Chong Yan and Yue Gu

Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(3), 1244; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16031244 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

With the development of novel production routes enabling near-zero emissions from lime manufacturing, the use of lime as a carbon-sequestering component in cementitious materials has attracted increasing attention. To address the intrinsically low early-age strength of lime-enriched binders (LP), this study investigates the [...] Read more.

With the development of novel production routes enabling near-zero emissions from lime manufacturing, the use of lime as a carbon-sequestering component in cementitious materials has attracted increasing attention. To address the intrinsically low early-age strength of lime-enriched binders (LP), this study investigates the modification effect of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) on LP, with systematic comparisons to ordinary Portland cement (PO) and pure lime systems (LE). The results indicate that, in terms of mechanical performance, the incorporation of PVA significantly enhances the early-age strength of LP, particularly the flexural strength, which increases by 119.3%. In contrast, the strength of PO shows a certain degree of reduction after PVA addition. Regarding carbon uptake performance, the CO₂ sequestration capacity of PO and LE increases by 16.8% and 16.9%, respectively, whereas that of LP slightly decreases by 5.5%. From the hydration perspective, both the heat release rate and cumulative heat of PO and LP are reduced after PVA incorporation. Combined with microstructural analysis, the mechanical enhancement of LP induced by PVA is mainly attributed to the polymer film-forming effect, which compensates for the negative impact caused by the inhibition of hydration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Civil Engineering)

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14 pages, 1362 KB

Open AccessArticle

The High Prevalence of High Normal Blood Pressure and the Differential Association of Grip Strength Metrics with Hypertension in a National Sample of Chinese College Students

by Yang Yang, Ziyue Sun, Shan Cai, Jiajia Dang, Yunfei Liu, Jiaxin Li, Tianyu Huang, Ruolan Yang, Jinghong Liang, Peijin Hu, Jun Ma, Zhixin Zhang and Yi Song

J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(3), 992; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15030992 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The potential of relative grip strength as a biomarker for cardiovascular risk in college students is not well understood. Methods: Blood pressure status and grip strength metrics were analysed with multivariate logistic regression and restricted cubic spline models, utilising nationwide [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: The potential of relative grip strength as a biomarker for cardiovascular risk in college students is not well understood. Methods: Blood pressure status and grip strength metrics were analysed with multivariate logistic regression and restricted cubic spline models, utilising nationwide cross-sectional data from 42,591 Chinese college students. Results: After adjustment, higher absolute grip strength increased hypertension risk (High-level OR = 2.66; 95% CI: 2.21–3.20). In contrast, higher relative grip strength not only reduced risk overall (High-level OR = 0.41; 95% CI: 0.36–0.46) but also demonstrated consistent protective effects across all BMI subgroups (e.g., OR = 0.83 in overweight/obese individuals). Conclusions: Relative grip strength may present a valuable biomarker for cardiovascular risk assessment and the easy identification of at-risk individuals in all BMI categories. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cardiovascular Medicine)

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23 pages, 3151 KB

Open AccessArticle

Nanoformulations of the Piper auritum Kunth (Piperales: Piperaceae) Essential Oil for the Control of Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

by Josefina Barrera-Cortés, Jocelyn Sosa-Trejo, Isabel M. Sánchez-Barrera, Laura P. Lina-García, Fabiola D. León Navarrete and María E. Mancera-López

Agriculture 2026, 16(3), 308; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture16030308 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is an agricultural pest of global economic importance. Its ability to reproduce, adapt, and develop resistance necessitates the creation of effective and environmentally friendly alternative control strategies. This study aimed to evaluate the larvicidal activity of three [...] Read more.

Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is an agricultural pest of global economic importance. Its ability to reproduce, adapt, and develop resistance necessitates the creation of effective and environmentally friendly alternative control strategies. This study aimed to evaluate the larvicidal activity of three nanoformulations (NFs) based on the essential oil (70% safrole) of Piper auritum Kunth (Piperales: Piperaceae), nanoemulsion (NE), microemulsion (ME), and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), against second-instar larvae of S. frugiperda. The NFs were prepared using a combination of low- and high-energy methods, using Tween 80 and Span 80 as stabilizing agents. The droplet sizes of the NFs ranged from 19 to 48 nm. Stability analysis of the formulations maintained for 60 days in open systems at room temperature allowed the identification of remaining oxidized sesquiterpenes and phenylpropanoids. In in vitro bioassays, the NE demonstrated the highest larvicidal activity, with an LD₅₀ of 0.97 µg cm⁻², outperforming the other formulations by a factor of ten. Observations of morphological damage to larval and pupal tissues, along with deformation of adult specimens, confirming the toxicity of the NFs. These findings highlight the potential of essential oil-based NFs derived from P. auritum as sustainable biopesticides for integrated pest management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Crop Protection, Diseases, Pests and Weeds)

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26 pages, 329 KB

Open AccessArticle

Valuing Marine Data Assets: A Composite Multi-Period Valuation Framework Under the Blue Economy

by Yifei Zhang and Yaguai Yu

Sustainability 2026, 18(3), 1234; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18031234 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

Marine data assets are increasingly recognized as important drivers of value creation in the blue economy, yet their valuation remains challenging due to difficulties in isolating data-related earnings in capital-intensive maritime enterprises. This study proposes a methodological valuation framework that integrates the multi-period [...] Read more.

Marine data assets are increasingly recognized as important drivers of value creation in the blue economy, yet their valuation remains challenging due to difficulties in isolating data-related earnings in capital-intensive maritime enterprises. This study proposes a methodological valuation framework that integrates the multi-period excess earnings method with the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and the Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation (FCE) approach, incorporating both financial and non-financial dimensions. The framework follows a “total synergistic return–data contribution separation” logic to isolate data-related excess earnings and applies an AHP–FCE-based adjustment coefficient to account for data quality, application value, and risk. A representative container shipping enterprise is used as an illustrative application to demonstrate the implementation logic of the framework. The results indicate that marine data assets can constitute a non-negligible component of enterprise value under reasonable parameter settings, while sensitivity analysis highlights the influence of key parameters such as the data contribution coefficient and discount rate. The proposed framework provides a transparent methodological reference for marine data asset valuation and supports sustainability-oriented research and practice in the blue economy. Full article

20 pages, 345 KB

Open AccessReview

Drug-Induced Osteoporosis

by Rudolf Wolfgang Gasser, Roland Kocijan, Afrodite Zendeli and Heinrich Resch

J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(3), 993; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15030993 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

The administration of various medications can induce bone loss as an adverse effect and may result in drug-induced osteoporosis, an important and clinically relevant form of secondary osteoporosis associated with an increased fracture risk. This review summarizes the skeletal effects of selected commonly [...] Read more.

The administration of various medications can induce bone loss as an adverse effect and may result in drug-induced osteoporosis, an important and clinically relevant form of secondary osteoporosis associated with an increased fracture risk. This review summarizes the skeletal effects of selected commonly used drugs with respect to bone metabolism, bone mineral density, and fracture outcomes. Medications may exert direct effects on osteoblasts and/or osteoclasts, leading to impaired bone remodeling and reduced bone mass. Alternatively, indirect mechanisms may contribute to skeletal damage, including disturbances in calcium and vitamin D metabolism with subsequent secondary hyperparathyroidism, as well as therapy-induced hypogonadism. Drug classes frequently associated with drug-induced osteoporosis during long-term use include glucocorticoids, aromatase inhibitors, androgen-deprivation therapy, thyroxine, proton pump inhibitors, anticoagulants (heparin and vitamin K antagonists), antidepressants, neuroleptics, and thiazolidinediones. Importantly, this overview represents a selection of relevant agents and does not aim to provide an exhaustive list. When prescribing potentially bone-damaging medications over extended periods, particularly in older individuals, bone health should be proactively considered. Evaluation should include laboratory assessment, fracture risk estimation (e.g., FRAX^®), and bone mineral density measurement when appropriate. Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake should be ensured, and guideline-based osteoporosis therapy initiated when indicated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Bone-Related Diseases: From Molecular Mechanisms to Therapy Development—2nd Edition)

29 pages, 3431 KB

Open AccessArticle

Evolution Mechanism of Volume Parameters and Gradation Optimization Method for Asphalt Mixtures Based on Dual-Domain Fractal Theory

by Bangyan Hu, Zhendong Qian, Fei Zhang and Yu Zhang

Materials 2026, 19(3), 488; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19030488 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

The primary objective of this study is to bridge the gap between descriptive geometry and mechanistic design by establishing a dual-domain fractal framework to analyze the internal architecture of asphalt mixtures. This research quantitatively assesses the sensitivity of volumetric indicators—namely air voids (VV), [...] Read more.

The primary objective of this study is to bridge the gap between descriptive geometry and mechanistic design by establishing a dual-domain fractal framework to analyze the internal architecture of asphalt mixtures. This research quantitatively assesses the sensitivity of volumetric indicators—namely air voids (VV), voids in mineral aggregate (VMA), and voids filled with asphalt (VFA)—by employing the coarse aggregate fractal dimension (D_c), the fine aggregate fractal dimension (D_f), and the coarse-to-fine ratio (k) through Grey Relational Analysis (GRA). The findings demonstrate that whereas D_f and k substantially influence macro-volumetric parameters, the mesoscopic void fractal dimension (D_V) remains structurally unchanged, indicating that gradation predominantly dictates void volume rather than geometric intricacy. Sensitivity rankings create a prevailing hierarchy: Process Control (Compaction) > Skeleton Regulation (D_c) > Phase Filling (Pb) > Gradation Adjustment (k, D_f). D_c is recognized as the principal regulator of VMA, while binder content (Pb) governs VFA. A “Robust Design” methodology is suggested, emphasizing D_c to stabilize the mineral framework and reduce sensitivity to construction variations. A comparative investigation reveals that the optimized gradation (OG) achieves a more stable volumetric condition and enhanced mechanical performance relative to conventional empirical gradations. Specifically, the OG group demonstrated a substantial 112% enhancement in dynamic stability (2617 times/mm compared to 1230 times/mm) and a 75% increase in average film thickness (AFT), while ensuring consistent moisture and low-temperature resistance. In conclusion, this study transforms asphalt mixture design from empirical trial-and-error to a precision-engineered methodology, providing a robust instrument for optimizing the long-term durability of pavements in extreme cold and arid environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue AI-Based Material Design, Performance Evaluation and Construction Quality Control of Asphalt Pavement)

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40 pages, 7706 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Evolution of Mechatronics Engineering and Its Relationship with Industry 3.0, 4.0, and 5.0

by Eusebio Jiménez López, Juan Enrique Palomares Ruiz, Omar López Chávez, Flavio Muñoz, Luis Andrés García Velásquez and José Guadalupe Castro Lugo

Technologies 2026, 14(2), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/technologies14020081 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

Mechatronics developed under the influence of the Third Industrial Revolution and was a discipline that provided methods and tools for the development of industrial robots, advanced machine tools, mobile phones, and automobiles, among other sophisticated products. With the emergence of Industry 4.0 in [...] Read more.

Mechatronics developed under the influence of the Third Industrial Revolution and was a discipline that provided methods and tools for the development of industrial robots, advanced machine tools, mobile phones, and automobiles, among other sophisticated products. With the emergence of Industry 4.0 in 2011, mechatronics has become indispensable, as traditional production systems are being transformed into cyber-physical systems (CPS), some of which are composed of sophisticated technologies such as Digital Twins (DT) and sophisticated robots, among others. In 2020, the Fifth Industrial Revolution began, giving rise to so-called Human Cyber-Physical Systems (HCPS) and promoting the use of Cobots in industries. Because today’s industrial world is influenced by three active industrial revolutions and two transitions, it is possible to find machines and production systems that were designed with different principles and for different purposes, making it necessary to propose a classification that allows each system to be located according to the premises of its respective industrial revolution. This article analyzes the evolution of mechatronics and proposes a classification of machines and production systems based on the premises of each industrial revolution. The objective is to determine the influence of mechatronics on the different types of machines that exist today and analyze its implications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Internet of Things Architectures, Applications, and Strategies: Emerging Paradigms, Technologies, and Advancing AI Integration)

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20 pages, 733 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Federated Learning in Healthcare Ethics: A Systematic Review of Privacy-Preserving and Equitable Medical AI

by Bilal Ahmad Mir, Syed Raza Abbas and Seung Won Lee

Healthcare 2026, 14(3), 306; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14030306 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Federated learning (FL) offers a way for healthcare institutions to collaboratively train machine learning models without sharing sensitive patient data. This systematic review aims to comprehensively synthesize the ethical dimensions of FL in healthcare, integrating privacy preservation, algorithmic fairness, governance, and [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Federated learning (FL) offers a way for healthcare institutions to collaboratively train machine learning models without sharing sensitive patient data. This systematic review aims to comprehensively synthesize the ethical dimensions of FL in healthcare, integrating privacy preservation, algorithmic fairness, governance, and equitable access into a unified analytical framework. The application of FL in healthcare between January 2020 and December 2024 is examined, with a focus on ethical issues such as algorithmic fairness, privacy preservation, governance, and equitable access. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, six databases (PubMed, IEEE Xplore, Web of Science, Scopus, ACM Digital Library, and arXiv) were searched. The PROSPERO registration is CRD420251274110. Studies were selected if they described FL implementations in healthcare settings and explicitly discussed ethical considerations. Key data extracted included FL architectures, privacy-preserving mechanisms, such as differential privacy, secure multiparty computation, and encryption, as well as fairness metrics, governance models, and clinical application domains. Results: Out of 3047 records, 38 met the inclusion criteria. The most popular applications were found in medical imaging and electronic health records, especially in radiology and oncology. Through thematic analysis, four key ethical themes emerged: algorithmic fairness, which addresses differences between clients and attributes; privacy protection through formal guarantees and cryptographic techniques; governance models, which emphasize accountability, transparency, and stakeholder engagement; and equitable distribution of computing resources for institutions with limited resources. Considerable variation was observed in how fairness and privacy trade-offs were evaluated, and only a few studies reported real-world clinical deployment. Conclusions: FL has significant potential to promote ethical AI in healthcare, but advancement will require the development of common fairness standards, workable governance plans, and systems to guarantee fair benefit sharing. Future studies should develop standardized fairness metrics, implement multi-stakeholder governance frameworks, and prioritize real-world clinical validation beyond proof-of-concept implementations. Full article

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11 pages, 542 KB

Open AccessReview

Spondylolysis: A Narrative Review of Etiology, Diagnosis, and Management

by Vanessa Madden, Adam Ayoub, Jonathan Thomas and Ian Thomas

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2026, 23(2), 153; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph23020153 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background: Spondylolysis is a stress fracture of the pars interarticularis, most common in adolescents and athletes involved in sports requiring repetitive spinal loading, extension, and rotation. The condition is often underdiagnosed due to delays in presentation and diagnosis, particularly among non-orthopedic providers. Aims: [...] Read more.

Background: Spondylolysis is a stress fracture of the pars interarticularis, most common in adolescents and athletes involved in sports requiring repetitive spinal loading, extension, and rotation. The condition is often underdiagnosed due to delays in presentation and diagnosis, particularly among non-orthopedic providers. Aims: This review aims to summarize the current understanding of spondylolysis, focusing on its etiology, diagnosis, management strategies, and identify gaps in research for future exploration. Methods: A structured literature search was conducted in PubMed to identify studies relevant to pediatric and adolescent spondylolysis, spondylosis, and spondylolisthesis, particularly in the context of athletic injuries. The initial search yielded 143 citations. Applying filters for English language publications within the past five years reduced this to 125 citations. Limiting to populations that were aged 18 years and under returned 50 studies. After screening the titles and abstracts, 12 non-specific or irrelevant articles (including letters to the editor) were excluded, leaving a final dataset of 38 articles for detailed review. In addition, foundational and landmark studies outside this window were included to provide historical and conceptual context, bringing the total evidence base to 50 papers. Findings: Spondylolysis most commonly affects the L5 vertebra, with a higher incidence in male athletes. Conservative treatments like physical therapy and bracing are effective, especially when initiated early. However, the efficacy of bracing remains debated, with limited evidence on long-term clinical benefits. Surgical intervention is considered for severe or non-responsive cases. Diagnostic methods, including CT and MRI, are preferred, with emerging techniques like ultrasound showing potential for non-ionizing, cost-effective, early detection. Implications: Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preventing progression to spondylolisthesis. While conservative treatments often yield favorable outcomes, more research is needed to compare the effectiveness of bracing and pharmacological interventions. Future studies should focus on long-term outcomes, cost-effective, non-ionizing diagnostic methods, and the role of emerging therapies like regenerative medicine. A multi-disciplinary approach is vital for optimal patient care, particularly in young athletes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports-Related Injuries in Children and Adolescents)

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22 pages, 7687 KB

Open AccessArticle

Aniline Electropolymerization on Indium–Tin Oxide Nanofilms with Different Surface Resistivity: A Comprehensive Study

by Sonia Kotowicz, Barbara Hajduk, Paweł Jarka, Agnieszka Katarzyna Pająk, Pallavi Kumari and Andreea Irina Barzic

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(3), 165; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16030165 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

Aniline (ANI) was electropolymerized on ITO substrates with different surface resistivities. The process was performed by cyclic voltammetry from an aqueous, homogeneous solution containing sulfuric acid and the aniline monomer using various numbers of cycles and scan rates. The resulting polymer films (PANI) [...] Read more.

Aniline (ANI) was electropolymerized on ITO substrates with different surface resistivities. The process was performed by cyclic voltammetry from an aqueous, homogeneous solution containing sulfuric acid and the aniline monomer using various numbers of cycles and scan rates. The resulting polymer films (PANI) were characterized by ATR-IR spectroscopy, spectroscopic ellipsometry and atomic force microscopy. The influence of ITO surface resistivity on the electropolymerization process, the quality of the obtained PANI layers, and their optical properties was evaluated. Homogeneous PANI films were produced on ITO substrates with surface resistivities of 15–25 Ω/sq, encompassing both emeraldine salt and emeraldine base forms. Although the film’s growth was rapid, it also led to adhesion issues. In contrast, for ITO substrates with surface resistivities of 70–100 Ω/sq and 80–100 Ω/sq, the resulting films showed improved adhesion but were less homogeneous. Nevertheless, the conductive emeraldine salt form of polyaniline was successfully obtained. The conductive form of polyaniline was obtained without any additional modifications to the electropolymerization procedure. Notably, the literature provides no systematic analysis of electropolymerization on ITO substrates with different surface resistivities, which opens up new research opportunities and provides a basis for the rational design and optimization of PANI-based electro-optical coatings for advanced sensing applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on the Optical, Electrical, and Thermal Properties and Applications of Hybrid Nanomaterials)

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28 pages, 5580 KB

Open AccessArticle

HIL Implementation of Proposed Fractional-Order Linear-Quadratic-Integral Controller for PV-Module Voltage Regulation to Enhance the Classical Perturb and Observe Algorithm

by Noureddine Bouarroudj, Abdelkader Lakhdari, Djamel Boucherma, Abdelhamid Djari, Yehya Houam, Vicente Feliu-Batlle, Maamar Bettayeb, Boualam Benlahbib, Rasheed Abdulkader, Walied Alfraidi and Hassan M. Hussein Farh

Fractal Fract. 2026, 10(2), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/fractalfract10020084 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

This paper addresses the limitations of conventional single-stage direct-control maximum power point tracking (MPPT) methods, such as the Perturb and Observe (P&O) algorithm. Fixed-step-size duty-cycle perturbations cause a trade-off between slow tracking with small oscillations and fast tracking with large oscillations, along with [...] Read more.

This paper addresses the limitations of conventional single-stage direct-control maximum power point tracking (MPPT) methods, such as the Perturb and Observe (P&O) algorithm. Fixed-step-size duty-cycle perturbations cause a trade-off between slow tracking with small oscillations and fast tracking with large oscillations, along with poor responsiveness to rapid weather variations and output voltage fluctuations. Two main contributions are presented. First, a fractional-order DC–DC boost converter (FOBC) is introduced, incorporating fractional-order dynamics to enhance system performance beyond improvements in control algorithms alone. Second, a novel indirect-control MPPT strategy based on a two-stage architecture is developed, where the P&O algorithm generates the optimal voltage reference and a fractional-order linear-quadratic-integral (FOLQI) controller—designed using a fractional-order small-signal model—regulates the PV module voltage to generate the FOBC duty cycle. Hardware-in-the-loop simulations confirm substantial performance improvements. The proposed FOLQI-based indirect-control approach with FOBC achieves a maximum MPPT efficiency of 99.26%. An alternative indirect method using a classical linear-quadratic-integral (LQI) controller with an integer-order boost converter reaches 98.38%, while the conventional direct-control P&O method achieves only 94.21%, demonstrating the superiority of the proposed fractional-order framework. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fractional-Order Dynamics and Control in Green Energy Systems)

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22 pages, 4360 KB

Open AccessArticle

Genomic Insights into Antimicrobial Biosynthetic Potential of Bacillus velezensis Isolated from Traditional Peruvian Tocosh

by Dámaris Esquén Bayona, Cristian Mauricio Barreto Pinilla, Jimena Giraldo Flores, Belkys Medrano Salazar, Jesús Valencia Navarro, Joaquin Rodriguez Trelles, Kiara Flores Jiménez, Joaquim Ruiz, Roberto Alcántara and Frank Guzman Escudero

Microorganisms 2026, 14(2), 287; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms14020287 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

Tocosh, a traditional Peruvian fermented potato product, is known for its health-promoting properties, including its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, probiotic, and antibiotic effects, which have popularized its consumption, particularly in rural areas. To gain a better understanding of its antimicrobial properties, this study aimed to [...] Read more.

Tocosh, a traditional Peruvian fermented potato product, is known for its health-promoting properties, including its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, probiotic, and antibiotic effects, which have popularized its consumption, particularly in rural areas. To gain a better understanding of its antimicrobial properties, this study aimed to perform a comprehensive whole-genome analysis and functional assessment of the Bacillus velezensis TCSH0001 strain isolated from tocosh. The isolate was identified through whole-genome sequencing using the MinION nanopore platform. AntiSMASH analysis revealed nine biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) potentially responsible for producing secondary metabolites with antibiotic potential. Notably, seven BGCs showed a 100% similarity to known clusters involved in the biosynthesis of polyketide synthases (PKSs) and non-ribosomal peptides (NRPSs), including difficidin, bacillibactin, bacilysin, macrolactin H, bacillaene, fengycin, and bacillomycin D. In vitro analysis revealed antimicrobial activity against S. aureus strains. In addition, RT-qPCR indicated that the expression of the baeJ (bacillaene), bmyA (bacillomycin D), and pks2A (macrolactin H) occurs predominantly during the exponential growth phase. Our results suggest that this B. velezensis strain has the capacity to produce a diverse array of bioactive compounds, supporting the traditional use of tocosh as a natural antimicrobial agent, and revealing the potential of the strain as a high NRPS producer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genomics of Microorganisms from Traditional Fermented Products)

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13 pages, 2027 KB

Open AccessArticle

An Improved Diffusion Model for Generating Images of a Single Category of Food on a Small Dataset

by Zitian Chen, Zhiyong Xiao, Dinghui Wu and Qingbing Sang

Foods 2026, 15(3), 443; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15030443 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

In the era of the digital food economy, high-fidelity food images are critical for applications ranging from visual e-commerce presentation to automated dietary assessment. However, developing robust computer vision systems for food analysis is often hindered by data scarcity for long-tail or regional [...] Read more.

In the era of the digital food economy, high-fidelity food images are critical for applications ranging from visual e-commerce presentation to automated dietary assessment. However, developing robust computer vision systems for food analysis is often hindered by data scarcity for long-tail or regional dishes. To address this challenge, we propose a novel high-fidelity food image synthesis framework as an effective data augmentation tool. Unlike generic generative models, our method introduces an Ingredient-Aware Diffusion Model based on the Masked Diffusion Transformer (MaskDiT) architecture. Specifically, we design a Label and Ingredients Encoding (LIE) module and a Cross-Attention (CA) mechanism to explicitly model the relationship between food composition and visual appearance, simulating the “cooking” process digitally. Furthermore, to stabilize training on limited data samples, we incorporate a linear interpolation strategy into the diffusion process. Extensive experiments on the Food-101 and VireoFood-172 datasets demonstrate that our method achieves state-of-the-art generation quality even in data-scarce scenarios. Crucially, we validate the practical utility of our synthetic images: utilizing them for data augmentation improved the accuracy of downstream food classification tasks from 95.65% to 96.20%. This study provides a cost-effective solution for generating diverse, controllable, and realistic food data to advance smart food systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Machine Vision, Image Analysis and Artificial Intelligence in Food Technology)

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11 pages, 214 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Prevalence and Impact of Bacteremia Among Neonates Receiving Parenteral Nutrition: A Multicenter Retrospective Study from Saudi Arabia

by Shaker Althobaiti, Aisha H. Alshehri, Abeer K. Alorabi, Alhussain Alzahrani, Lama Marwan Fetyani, Ebtihal Mohsin Fairaq, Enas Ahmed Abukwaik, Njood Abdulsalam Alharbi, Abrar A. Alotaibi, Safia Ghali Alotibi, Shaimaa Alsulami, Abdullah Althomali and Ahmed Ibrahim Fathelrahman

Pharmacy 2026, 14(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy14010017 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

(1) Background: We aimed to determine rates of bacteremia and multidrug resistance (MDR) bacteremia and associated risk factors among neonates receiving parenteral nutrition (PN). (2) Methods: This is a multicenter study conducted in three neonatal intensive care units in Saudi Arabia, including 414 [...] Read more.

(1) Background: We aimed to determine rates of bacteremia and multidrug resistance (MDR) bacteremia and associated risk factors among neonates receiving parenteral nutrition (PN). (2) Methods: This is a multicenter study conducted in three neonatal intensive care units in Saudi Arabia, including 414 neonates who received PN. Associations were assessed using Chi-square or Fisher’s Exact tests when applicable and logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine factors predicting outcomes. Odds ratios with their 95% confidence intervals were computed, and a p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. (3) Results: PN was started within the first 10 days of life in 74.4% of cases. Fat emulsion was administered to 38.9% of the newborns. Blood cultures were positive in 24.9% of patients. Among the positive cultures, 4.9% were confirmed to have MDR bacteria. The mortality rate following bacteremia was 7.8%. The use of fat emulsion (p = 0.003), birth weight < 700 g (p < 0.001), and a gestational age within 27 weeks (p < 0.001) predicted bacteremia. (4) Conclusions: There was an association between the PN and bacteremia. Significant predictors of bacteremia were the use of fat emulsion, birth weight < 700 g, and a gestational age within 27 weeks. Full article

34 pages, 741 KB

Open AccessArticle

ESG Performance and Corporate OFDI: The Moderating Role of the Corporate Life Cycle

by Zhijing Wu and Junjie Yang

Sustainability 2026, 18(3), 1231; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18031231 (registering DOI) - 26 Jan 2026

Abstract

As China has increased implementation of its opening-up strategy and the “Belt and Road” initiative, Chinese enterprises have encountered significant historical opportunities to expand their outward foreign direct investment (OFDI). However, international organizations and major nations are increasingly focusing on nonfinancial indicators for [...] Read more.

As China has increased implementation of its opening-up strategy and the “Belt and Road” initiative, Chinese enterprises have encountered significant historical opportunities to expand their outward foreign direct investment (OFDI). However, international organizations and major nations are increasingly focusing on nonfinancial indicators for multinational corporations; as a result, enterprises frequently encounter social responsibility crises in cross-border investments. Consequently, Chinese firms must enhance their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices to bolster their comprehensive competitiveness, which is crucial for promoting successful international engagement and sustainability. This research explores the U-shaped relationship between ESG performance and OFDI, examining how different stages of the corporate lifecycle affect OFDI. The findings indicate that ESG investments compete with OFDI for internal resources during the introduction, growth, and decline phases, thereby inhibiting OFDI activities. In contrast, strong ESG performance in the maturity phase provides a competitive advantage in international markets, facilitating OFDI. The empirical analysis uses a fixed-effects model on a sample of Chinese A-share-listed companies from 2009 to 2022 and employs the PSM, 2SLS, and System GMM methods to test for endogeneity. The results reveal that (1) a positive U-shape relationship between ESG performance and corporate OFDI, and the inflection point occurs when the ESG score equals 69.04. Moreover, (2) the corporate lifecycle intensifies this nonlinear relationship, with growth-phase firms showing a significant inhibitory effect and mature-phase firms showing a pronounced promotional effect. Finally, (3) the U-shaped relationship between ESG performance and corporate OFDI is more pronounced in nonstate-owned enterprises. Based on these findings, this paper provides targeted policy recommendations for enterprises and governments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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