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21 pages, 4861 KB

Open AccessArticle

Synthesis and Characterization of ITO Films via Forced Hydrolysis for Surface Functionalization of PET Sheets

by Silvia del Carmen Madrigal-Diaz, Laura Cristel Rodríguez-López, Isaura Victoria Fernández-Orozco, Saúl García-López, Cecilia del Carmen Díaz-Reyes, Claudio Martínez-Pacheco, José Luis Cervantes-López, Ibis Ricárdez-Vargas and Laura Lorena Díaz-Flores

Coatings 2026, 16(1), 120; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings16010120 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

Transparent conductive oxides (TCOs), such as indium tin oxide (ITO), are essential for flexible electronics; however, conventional vacuum-based deposition is costly and thermally aggressive for polymers. This study investigated the surface functionalization of PET substrates with ITO thin film-based forced hydrolysis as a [...] Read more.

Transparent conductive oxides (TCOs), such as indium tin oxide (ITO), are essential for flexible electronics; however, conventional vacuum-based deposition is costly and thermally aggressive for polymers. This study investigated the surface functionalization of PET substrates with ITO thin film-based forced hydrolysis as a low-cost, reproducible alternative.

S n O_{2}

nanoparticles were synthesized by forced hydrolysis at 180 °C for 3 h and 6 h, yielding crystalline nanoparticles with a cassiterite phase and an average crystallite size of 20.34 nm. The process showed high reproducibility, enabling consistent structural properties without complex equipment or high-temperature treatments. The

S n O_{2}

sample obtained at 3 h was incorporated into commercial

{I n}_{2} O_{3}

to form a mixed In–Sn–O oxide, which was subsequently deposited onto PET substrates by spin coating onto UV-activated PET. The resulting 1.1 µm ITO films demonstrated good adhesion (4B according to ASTM D3359), a low resistivity of 1.27 × 10⁻⁶ Ω·m, and an average optical transmittance of 80% in the visible range. Although their resistivity is higher than vacuum-processed films, this route provides a superior balance of mechanical robustness, featuring a hardness of (H) of 3.8 GPa and an elastic modulus (E) of 110 GPa. These results highlight forced hydrolysis as a reproducible route for producing ITO/PET thin films. The thickness was strategically optimized to act as a structural buffer, preventing crack propagation during bending. Forced hydrolysis-driven PET sheet functionalization is an effective route for producing durable ITO/PET electrodes that are suitable for flexible sensors and solar cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Surface Functionalisation, 2nd Edition)

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17 pages, 7284 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamics and Solution Behavior of the Variable-Order Fractional Newton–Leipnik System

by Rania Saadeh, Nidal E. Taha, Mohamed Hafez, Ghozail Sh. Al-Mutairi and Manahil A. M. Ashmaig

Mathematics 2026, 14(2), 312; https://doi.org/10.3390/math14020312 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

This paper considers the solution behavior and dynamical properties of the variable-order fractional Newton–Leipnik system defined via Liouville–Caputo derivatives of variable order. In contrast to integer-order models, the presence of variable-order fractional operators in the Newton–Leipnik structure enriches the model by providing memory-dependent [...] Read more.

This paper considers the solution behavior and dynamical properties of the variable-order fractional Newton–Leipnik system defined via Liouville–Caputo derivatives of variable order. In contrast to integer-order models, the presence of variable-order fractional operators in the Newton–Leipnik structure enriches the model by providing memory-dependent effects that vary with time; hence, it is capable of a broader and more flexible range of nonlinear responses. Numerical simulations have been conducted to study how different order functions influence the trajectory and qualitative dynamics: clear transitions in oscillatory patterns have been identified by phase portraits, time-series profiles, and three-dimensional state evolution. The work goes further by considering the development of bifurcations and chaotic regimes and stability shifts and confirms the occurrence of several phenomena unattainable in fixed-order and/or integer-order formulations. Analysis of Lyapunov exponents confirms strong sensitivity to the initial conditions and further details how the memory effects either reinforce or prevent chaotic oscillations according to the type of order function. The results, in fact, show that the variable-order fractional Newton–Leipnik framework allows for more expressive and realistic modeling of complex nonlinear phenomena and points out the crucial role played by evolving memory in controlling how the system moves between periodic, quasi-periodic, and chaotic states. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section C1: Difference and Differential Equations)

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15 pages, 4123 KB

Open AccessArticle

Cable Temperature Prediction Algorithm Based on the MSST-Net

by Xin Zhou, Yanhao Li, Shiqin Zhao, Xijun Wang, Lifan Chen, Minyang Cheng and Lvwen Huang

Electricity 2026, 7(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/electricity7010006 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

To improve the accuracy of cable temperature anomaly prediction and ensure the reliability of urban distribution networks, this paper proposes a multi-scale spatiotemporal model called MSST-Net (MSST-Net) for medium-voltage power cables in underground utility tunnels. The model addresses the multi-scale temporal dynamics and [...] Read more.

To improve the accuracy of cable temperature anomaly prediction and ensure the reliability of urban distribution networks, this paper proposes a multi-scale spatiotemporal model called MSST-Net (MSST-Net) for medium-voltage power cables in underground utility tunnels. The model addresses the multi-scale temporal dynamics and spatial correlations inherent in cable thermal behavior. Based on the monthly periodicity of cable temperature data, we preprocessed monitoring data from the KN1 and KN2 sections (medium-voltage power cable segments) of Guangzhou’s underground utility tunnel from 2023 to 2024, using the Isolation Forest algorithm to remove outliers, applying Min-Max normalization to eliminate dimensional differences, and selecting five key features including current load, voltage, and ambient temperature using Spearman’s correlation coefficient. Subsequently, we designed a multi-scale dilated causal convolutional module (DC-CNN) to capture local features, combined with a spatiotemporal dual-path Transformer to model long-range dependencies, and introduced relative position encoding to enhance temporal perception. The Sparrow Search Algorithm (SSA) was employed for global optimization of hyperparameters. Compared with five other mainstream algorithms, MSST-Net demonstrated higher accuracy in cable temperature prediction for power cables in the KN1 and KN2 sections of Guangzhou’s underground utility tunnel, achieving a coefficient of determination (R²), mean absolute error (MAE), and root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.942, 0.442 °C, and 0.596 °C, respectively. Compared to the basic Transformer model, the root mean square error of cable temperature was reduced by 0.425 °C. This model exhibits high accuracy in time series prediction and provides a reference for accurate short- and medium-term temperature forecasting of medium-voltage power cables in urban underground utility tunnels. Full article

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15 pages, 483 KB

Open AccessArticle

After-Hours Use of Technology and Workers’ Green Job Outcomes: Impact of Work–Family Conflict in the Organization

by Yixiang Wang, Jalal Rajeh Hanaysha, Said Yousef Dwikat and Zulaykho Kadirova

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16010044 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

This research explores the impact of technology usage after work hours on workers’ green job outcomes, including green job performance and wellbeing. It also aimed to investigate the mediating role of work–family conflict among them. Drawing on the role conflict theory (RCT) and [...] Read more.

This research explores the impact of technology usage after work hours on workers’ green job outcomes, including green job performance and wellbeing. It also aimed to investigate the mediating role of work–family conflict among them. Drawing on the role conflict theory (RCT) and the job demands–resources (JDR) model, this study fills the current research gap regarding the way technology-driven job intrusion affects employee green job outcomes and clarifies the underlying path through which the mediating variable work–family conflict plays its crucial role. We collected data through an electronic survey from 334 workers of foreign companies working in Shanghai city in China. Results showed that workers’ use of technology after their work hours is negatively associated with their green job outcomes, specifically green job performance and wellbeing. We further found work–family conflict as a mediating variable in the associations between after-hours use of technology and (a) green job performance and (b) wellbeing, two green job outcomes of workers in organizations. This research offers significant practical implications regarding how organizations can achieve a balance between the use of technology and their green job outcomes in this technological era. We also discuss limitations and future research directions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Trends in Employee Green Behavior and Organizational Impact)

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26 pages, 8634 KB

Open AccessArticle

Using Satellite-Based Evapotranspiration (ESTIMET) in SWAT to Quantify Sediment Yield in Scarce Data in a Desertified Watershed

by Raul Gomes da Silva, Aline Maria Soares das Chagas, Monaliza Araújo de Santana, Cinthia Maria de Abreu Claudino, Victor Hugo Rabelo Coelho, Thayná Alice Brito Almeida, Abelardo Antônio de Assunção Montenegro, Yuri Jacques Agra Bezerra da Silva and Carolyne Wanessa Lins de Andrade Farias

Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 917; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18020917 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

The ESTIMET (Enhanced and Spatial-Temporal Improvement of MODIS EvapoTranspiration algorithm) model provides continuous, spatially distributed daily ET, essential for model calibration in data-scarce environments where conventional hydrological monitoring is unavailable. The challenge of applying SWAT in arid regions without ground observations, this study [...] Read more.

The ESTIMET (Enhanced and Spatial-Temporal Improvement of MODIS EvapoTranspiration algorithm) model provides continuous, spatially distributed daily ET, essential for model calibration in data-scarce environments where conventional hydrological monitoring is unavailable. The challenge of applying SWAT in arid regions without ground observations, this study proposes a remote-sensing-based calibration approach using ESTIMET to overcome data scarcity. Daily satellite-derived evapotranspiration (ET) data to assess the performance of the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) was used to evaluate the performance of the SWAT in a desertified watershed in Brazil, aiming to assess ESTIMET’s effectiveness in supporting SWAT calibration, quantify sediment yield, and examine the influence of land-use changes on environmental quality over 21-years period. The results highlight a distinct hydrological response in SWAT initially underestimated ET, contrasting with patterns typically observed in other semi-arid applications and demonstrating that desertified environments require distinct calibration strategies. Performance indicators showed strong agreement between observed and simulated ET (R² = 0.94; NSE = 0.76), supporting satellite-based ET as a valuable source for improving SWAT performance in watersheds where empirical hydrometeorological data are sparse or unevenly distributed. Sediment yield was generally low to moderate, with degradation concentrated in bare-soil areas associated with deforestation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Watershed Hydrology and Sustainable Water Environments)

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40 pages, 1968 KB

Open AccessArticle

Large Model in Low-Altitude Economy: Applications and Challenges

by Jinpeng Hu, Wei Wang, Yuxiao Liu and Jing Zhang

Big Data Cogn. Comput. 2026, 10(1), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/bdcc10010033 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

The integration of large models and multimodal foundation models into the low-altitude economy is driving a transformative shift, enabling intelligent, autonomous, and efficient operations for low-altitude vehicles (LAVs). This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the role these large models play within the [...] Read more.

The integration of large models and multimodal foundation models into the low-altitude economy is driving a transformative shift, enabling intelligent, autonomous, and efficient operations for low-altitude vehicles (LAVs). This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the role these large models play within the smart integrated lower airspace system (SILAS), focusing on their applications across the four fundamental networks: facility, information, air route, and service. Our analysis yields several key findings, which pave the way for enhancing the application of large models in the low-altitude economy. By leveraging advanced capabilities in perception, reasoning, and interaction, large models are demonstrated to enhance critical functions such as high-precision remote sensing interpretation, robust meteorological forecasting, reliable visual localization, intelligent path planning, and collaborative multi-agent decision-making. Furthermore, we find that the integration of these models with key enabling technologies, including edge computing, sixth-generation (6G) communication networks, and integrated sensing and communication (ISAC), effectively addresses challenges related to real-time processing, resource constraints, and dynamic operational environments. Significant challenges, including sustainable operation under severe resource limitations, data security, network resilience, and system interoperability, are examined alongside potential solutions. Based on our survey, we discuss future research directions, such as the development of specialized low-altitude models, high-efficiency deployment paradigms, advanced multimodal fusion, and the establishment of trustworthy distributed intelligence frameworks. This survey offers a forward-looking perspective on this rapidly evolving field and underscores the pivotal role of large models in unlocking the full potential of the next-generation low-altitude economy. Full article

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17 pages, 5416 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamic Ocean–Atmosphere Processes of Typhoon Chan-Hom and Their Impact on Intensity, Rainfall and SST Cooling

by Guiting Song, Venkata Subrahmanyam Mantravadi, Chen Wang, Xiaoqing Liao, Yanmei Li and Shahriyor Nurulloyev

Atmosphere 2026, 17(1), 91; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos17010091 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the effects of Chan-Hom (2015) typhoon-induced variations in enthalpy flux (EF) and moisture flux (MF) on intensity variations and rainfall. Chan-Hom (2015) made landfall at Zhoushan, then changed its direction and moved towards Korea. This analysis used ERA5 [...] Read more.

This study aims to investigate the effects of Chan-Hom (2015) typhoon-induced variations in enthalpy flux (EF) and moisture flux (MF) on intensity variations and rainfall. Chan-Hom (2015) made landfall at Zhoushan, then changed its direction and moved towards Korea. This analysis used ERA5 reanalyzed data, encompassing daily surface latent and sensible heat flux, along with wind measurements at a height of 10 m. Furthermore, wind components and specific humidity data from the 1000–200 hPa level in ERA5 were utilized to compute the MF and MF convergence, in accordance with the equations outlined in the methodology. This study examines the correlation among typhoon intensity, precipitation, MF, and EF. The mechanism by which Typhoon Chan-Hom has caused a decline in sea surface temperature (SST) was analyzed. Typhoons need a higher EF that can affect them before landfall to maintain their intensity. The highest LHF was observed (340 W/m²) prior to typhoon landfall, indicating that LHF responds to intensity-induced wind during Chan-Hom. Typhoon-induced rainfall is mainly controlled by the MF convergence, rather than the typhoon intensity. The spatial and temporal distributions of MF and MF convergence (MFC) during typhoon formation to landfall reveal that the symmetric MFC is dominated by typhoon intensity; a symmetrical structure is observed when the intensity is high. MFC includes wind convergence and moisture advection. Wind convergence dominates the MFC during typhoons, but moisture advection forms at the eyewall. MF during the typhoon’s landfall can relate to the amount of rainfall that occurred over the land. However, the rainfall pattern changed after landfall, and the typhoon changed its direction. SST cooling observed in the study area is mainly due to the upwelling process with strong cyclonic winds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ocean–Atmosphere–Land Interactions and Their Roles in Climate Change (2nd Edition))

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29 pages, 4949 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Multivariate Statistical Insights into Copper Adsorption by Graphene Oxide-Based Adsorbents

by Jovana Pešić Bajić, Marko Šolić, Jasmina Nikić, Branko Kordić, Tamara Apostolović and Malcolm Watson

Processes 2026, 14(2), 315; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr14020315 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

Copper contamination in aquatic environments poses significant ecological and health risks, necessitating efficient and resilient treatment strategies. In this study, graphene oxide (GO) and magnetic graphene oxide (MGO) were synthesized and comprehensively evaluated for Cu(II) removal using an integrated multivariate approach combining kinetic [...] Read more.

Copper contamination in aquatic environments poses significant ecological and health risks, necessitating efficient and resilient treatment strategies. In this study, graphene oxide (GO) and magnetic graphene oxide (MGO) were synthesized and comprehensively evaluated for Cu(II) removal using an integrated multivariate approach combining kinetic and isotherm modelling, Response Surface Methodology (RSM), and advanced statistical analyses. Both adsorbents achieved high removal efficiencies (>90%) under optimized conditions, with Langmuir capacities of 59.2 mg g⁻¹ for GO and 40.1 mg g⁻¹ for MGO. Kinetic modelling confirmed reaction-controlled adsorption, while Freundlich isotherms highlighted heterogeneous surface binding. RSM identified pH as the dominant factor governing removal efficiency, with significant interactions among pH, Cu(II), and DOC reflecting competitive matrix effects. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed that GO performance is strongly influenced by solution chemistry, whereas MGO exhibits reduced sensitivity due to modified physicochemical properties. FTIR analysis confirmed that adsorption proceeds primarily through electrostatic attraction and inner-sphere complexation, with Fe–O sites contributing to MGO’s enhanced affinity. Regeneration studies demonstrated superior reusability of MGO, which retained ~64% efficiency after five cycles compared to ~52% for GO. Collectively, these multivariate and mechanistic insights identify MGO as a more robust, versatile, and regenerable sorbent for Cu(II) removal under realistic water-matrix conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Achievements in Biopolymer Adsorption in Waste and Water Treatment)

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19 pages, 1529 KB

Open AccessReview

Marrow Microenvironmental Pathobiology and Therapeutic Opportunities for TP53-Mutated Myelodysplastic Syndrome/Acute Myeloid Leukemia

by Cameron J. Hunter, Annie P. Im and Rory M. Shallis

Cancers 2026, 18(2), 275; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18020275 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

Mutations in TP53 inhibit p53 protective behaviors including cell cycle arrest, DNA damage repair protein recruitment, and apoptosis. The ubiquity of p53 in genome-stabilizing functions leads to an aberrant tumor microenvironment in TP53-mutated myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Profound [...] Read more.

Mutations in TP53 inhibit p53 protective behaviors including cell cycle arrest, DNA damage repair protein recruitment, and apoptosis. The ubiquity of p53 in genome-stabilizing functions leads to an aberrant tumor microenvironment in TP53-mutated myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Profound immunosuppression mediated by myeloid-derived suppressor cells, the upregulation of cytokines and cell-surface receptors on leukemic cells, the suppression of native immune regulator cells, and metabolic aberrations in the bone marrow are features of the TP53-mutated AML/MDS marrow microenvironment. These localized changes in the bone marrow microenvironment (BMME) explain why traditional therapies for MDS/AML, including chemotherapeutics and hypomethylating agents, are not as effective in TP53-mutated myeloid neoplasms and demonstrate the dire need for new treatments in this patient population. The unique pathophysiology of TP53-mutated disease also provides new therapeutic approaches which are being studied, including intracellular targets (MDM2, p53), cell-surface protein biologics (immune checkpoint inhibitors, BiTE therapy, and antibody–drug conjugates), cell therapies (CAR-T, NK-cell), signal transduction pathways (Hedgehog, Wnt, NF-κB, CCRL2, and HIF-1α), and co-opted biologic pathways (cholesterol synthesis and glycolysis). In this review, we will discuss the pathophysiologic anomalies of the tumor microenvironment in TP53-mutant MDS/AML, the hypothesized mechanisms of chemoresistance it imparts, and how novel therapies are leveraging diverse therapeutic targets to address this critical area of need. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Bone Marrow Microenvironment in Myelodysplastic Syndromes—Pathogenesis, Immune Evasion, and Therapeutic Opportunities)

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15 pages, 280 KB

Open AccessArticle

Albumin-Based Inflammatory–Nutritional Indices as Novel Biomarkers for Severity Stratification and Re-Hospitalization Risk in Hyperemesis Gravidarum: A Retrospective Case–Control Study

by Gülay Balkaş, Sümeyye Ünsal, Okan Oktar, Mustafa Can Akdogan, Murat Gözüküçük and Yusuf Üstün

Biomedicines 2026, 14(1), 197; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14010197 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic performance of albumin-based inflammatory–nutritional indices in hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) and to determine their associations with disease severity and risk of re-hospitalization. Methods: This retrospective case–control study included 246 [...] Read more.

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic performance of albumin-based inflammatory–nutritional indices in hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) and to determine their associations with disease severity and risk of re-hospitalization. Methods: This retrospective case–control study included 246 women with HG and 246 gestational-age-matched healthy pregnant controls at 6–16 weeks of gestation. Disease severity was classified as mild, moderate, or severe using the Pregnancy-Unique Quantification of Emesis (24 h scale) (PUQE-24) score. A comprehensive panel of albumin-based inflammatory indices—including C-reactive protein-to-albumin ratio (CAR), fibrinogen-to-albumin ratio (FAR), neutrophil-to-albumin ratio (NAR), leukocyte-to-albumin ratio (LAR), neutrophil percentage-to-albumin ratio (NPAR), monocyte-to-albumin ratio (MAR), hemoglobin–albumin–lymphocyte–platelet (HALP) score, modified HALP (m-HALP) score, prognostic nutritional index (PNI) score, systemic immune-inflammation index-to-albumin (SII/Alb), and systemic inflammatory response index-to-albumin (SIRI/Alb)—was calculated from routine complete blood count and serum biochemistry results obtained at diagnosis. Receiver operating characteristic analysis, along with univariate and multivariate logistic regression models, was performed to evaluate diagnostic performance and identify predictors of severe HG and re-hospitalization. Results: Albumin-based indices exhibited severity-associated alterations, with an overall trend toward worsening immuno-nutritional status across increasing HG severity. Among these, m-HALP score demonstrated the strongest inverse correlations with PUQE-24 score, ketonuria grade, length of hospital stay, and re-hospitalization risk (r = −0.74 to −0.52; all p < 0.001) and achieved the highest discriminative accuracy for both severe HG (AUC 0.864, 95% CI 0.836–0.892, p < 0.001) and re-hospitalization (AUC 0.722, 95% CI 0.675–0.766, p < 0.001). In multivariable analysis, higher HALP, m-HALP, and PNI were independently associated with a lower likelihood of severe HG. For re-hospitalization, higher m-HALP and HALP were independently associated with a lower risk, whereas higher NPAR, higher ketonuria grade, and higher PUQE-24 score were independently associated with an increased risk of re-hospitalization. Conclusions: Albumin-based indices, particularly m-HALP, demonstrated robust diagnostic and prognostic performance in HG compared with conventional biomarkers. These readily available, cost-neutral composite biomarkers enable objective severity stratification and accurate identification of patients at elevated risk of recurrent hospitalization, offering immediate potential to guide personalized, evidence-based clinical management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights in Reproductive Health and Disease)

2 pages, 152 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Applying Symmetry to Motor Control in Sports and Rehabilitation

by Arthur de Sá Ferreira and Fabio Vieira dos Anjos

Symmetry 2026, 18(1), 166; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym18010166 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

Symmetry is a core yet controversial concept in the health sciences, spanning multiple disciplines from anatomy and biomechanics to pathophysiology, with important clinical implications for both diagnostic and therapeutic practices [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetry Application in Motor Control in Sports and Rehabilitation)

19 pages, 1942 KB

Open AccessArticle

An Integrated Cervical Stabilization Exercise and Thai Self-Massage Approach for Managing Chronic Nonspecific Neck Pain in Young Adults: A Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

by Vitsarut Buttagat, Warathon Mathong, Metira Kongchana, Kanittha Lowprasert, Sujittra Kluayhomthong and Pattanasin Areeudomwong

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2026, 23(1), 111; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph23010111 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background: Chronic nonspecific neck pain (CNNP) is a widespread musculoskeletal condition affecting individuals across all age groups. Although cervical stabilization exercises (CSE) and Thai self-massage have each demonstrated therapeutic potential, evidence regarding the effectiveness of the combined applications of CSE and Thai self-massage [...] Read more.

Background: Chronic nonspecific neck pain (CNNP) is a widespread musculoskeletal condition affecting individuals across all age groups. Although cervical stabilization exercises (CSE) and Thai self-massage have each demonstrated therapeutic potential, evidence regarding the effectiveness of the combined applications of CSE and Thai self-massage remains limited. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a combined program of CSE and Thai self-massage (CSTM) on pain intensity (PI), pressure pain threshold (PPT), and neck disability (ND) in young adults with CNNP. Methods: This single-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted at the Department of Physical Therapy, School of Integrative Medicine, Mae Fah Luang University, Thailand. Fifty young adults with CNNP were randomly assigned into two groups. The CSTM group performed CSE integrated with Thai self-massage, whereas the control group practiced stretching exercises exclusively. Both groups engaged in their respective programs three times per week for a duration of four weeks. PI, PPT, and ND were assessed at baseline, after four weeks (Week 4), and at a two-week follow-up (Week 6). Results: Both groups showed significant improvements in PI, PPT, and ND (p < 0.05), representing within-group comparisons, at Week 4 and Week 6. Furthermore, between-group comparisons at Week 4 and Week 6 indicated that the CSTM group achieved significantly greater improvements in PI and ND than the control group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: A four-week program combining CSE with Thai self-massage was effective in reducing pain intensity and neck disability in young adults with CNNP, with benefits maintained at short-term follow-up. Trial registration: Thai Clinical Trials Registry (TCTR20231102008), registered on 2 November 2023. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Therapy Across the Continuum of Care: Integrating Health Promotion, Treatment, and Rehabilitation)

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5 pages, 159 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Agricultural Water-Land-Plant System Engineering—Updated Achievements to Improve Crop Growth

by Haijun Liu

Water 2026, 18(2), 236; https://doi.org/10.3390/w18020236 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

To meet the needs of an estimated 9 [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agricultural Water-Land-Plant System Engineering)

18 pages, 909 KB

Open AccessReview

The Impact of a Mathematical Mindset Approach on Learning

by Jo Boaler and Jack Dieckmann

Encyclopedia 2026, 6(1), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia6010020 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

Since the introduction of Carol Dweck’s landmark work in mindset, many scholars have studied the impact of a change in mindset on learning, behavior, and health. National and international large-scale studies have validated the consistent correlation between learners developing a growth mindset (knowing [...] Read more.

Since the introduction of Carol Dweck’s landmark work in mindset, many scholars have studied the impact of a change in mindset on learning, behavior, and health. National and international large-scale studies have validated the consistent correlation between learners developing a growth mindset (knowing that they can learn and improve) and performance on learning outcomes and longer-term learning behaviors. Whilst mindset interventions can have a positive impact on student learning, recent years have shown the need for more than a change in messaging. For widescale and lasting improvements in mathematics learning, messages need to be specific to mathematics, and delivered through a change in teaching approach, with mindset ideas infused through teaching practices and through assessment. This paper shares the evidence on the need for a “mathematical mindset” approach and the wide scale benefits that the approach promises to bring about. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Social Sciences)

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24 pages, 7087 KB

Open AccessArticle

Modulation of Sorghum-Associated Fungal Communities by Trichoderma Bioinoculants: Insights from ITS Amplicon Sequencing

by Mariana Petkova, Stefan Shilev, Ivelina Neykova and Angel Angelov

Agronomy 2026, 16(2), 217; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy16020217 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) is a major cereal crop cultivated in semi-arid regions, but its yield is often constrained by soilborne fungal pathogens that affect plant growth and grain quality. This study explored how Trichoderma-based bioinoculants restructure the structure and [...] Read more.

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) is a major cereal crop cultivated in semi-arid regions, but its yield is often constrained by soilborne fungal pathogens that affect plant growth and grain quality. This study explored how Trichoderma-based bioinoculants restructure the structure and functional composition of fungal communities in distinct sorghum compartments (soil, root, seed, and stem) using ITS amplicon sequencing. Two cultivars, Kalatur and Foehn, were evaluated under control and inoculated conditions. Alpha diversity indices revealed that inoculation reduced overall fungal richness and evenness, particularly in seed and stem tissues, while selectively enhancing beneficial taxa. Beta diversity analyses (PERMANOVA, p < 0.01) confirmed significant treatment-driven shifts in community composition. LEfSe analysis identified Trichoderma and Mortierella as biomarkers of inoculated samples, whereas Fusarium, Alternaria, and Penicillium predominated in controls. The enrichment of saprotrophic and symbiotrophic taxa in treated samples, coupled with the decline of pathogenic genera, indicates a transition toward functionally beneficial microbial assemblages. These results demonstrate that Trichoderma bioinoculants not only suppress fungal pathogens but also promote the establishment of beneficial ecological groups contributing to plant and soil health. The present work provides insight into the mechanisms through which microbial inoculants modulate host-associated fungal communities, supporting their use as sustainable tools for crop protection and microbiome management in sorghum-based agroecosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research Progress on Pathogenicity of Fungi in Crops—2nd Edition)

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17 pages, 2278 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Night-Time Warming on the Diversity of Rhizosphere and Bulk Soil Microbial Communities in Scutellaria baicalensis

by Xorgan Uranghai, Fei Gao, Yang Chen, Jie Bing and Almaz Borjigidai

Agriculture 2026, 16(2), 232; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture16020232 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

Scutellaria baicalensis is an important medicinal plant, and the diversity of its rhizosphere microbiota may influence its growth, development, and yield. Numerous studies have reported that warming associated with global climate change significantly altered plant-associated soil microbial diversity. To reveal the effects of [...] Read more.

Scutellaria baicalensis is an important medicinal plant, and the diversity of its rhizosphere microbiota may influence its growth, development, and yield. Numerous studies have reported that warming associated with global climate change significantly altered plant-associated soil microbial diversity. To reveal the effects of night-time warming on the rhizosphere microbial community of S. baicalensis, soil microbial diversity in the rhizosphere (RS) and bulk soil (BS) of S. baicalensis were analyzed by employing bacterial 16S rRNA and fungal ITS sequencing technology. Warming significantly altered both bacterial and fungal communities in the rhizosphere and bulk soils of S. baicalensis, with pronounced changes in OTU composition, relative abundances at both phylum and species levels. The analysis of alpha and beta diversity showed that warming significantly altered the fungal community structure in the rhizosphere soil (R² = 0.423, p < 0.05) and significantly reduced the species richness in the bulk soil of S. baicalensis (Shannon and Simpson index, p < 0.05). LEfSe and functional prediction analyses revealed that warming altered the taxonomic composition of both bacterial (35 taxa, LDA > 3) and fungal (24 taxa, LDA > 4) communities in rhizosphere and bulk soils of S. baicalensis, with multiple bacterial and fungal taxa serving as treatment-specific biomarkers. Functional predictions indicated that fungal functional groups, including saprotrophic and mycorrhizal guilds, were more strongly affected by warming than bacteria. Overall, warming has a significantly stronger impact on fungal communities in the rhizosphere and bulk soils of S. baicalensis than on bacteria, and has a significantly greater effect on the diversity of microbial communities in bulk soils than that in rhizosphere soils. This study provides important data for understanding the impact of global climate change on the rhizosphere microbial communities of cultivated plants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Ecosystem, Environment and Climate Change in Agriculture)

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16 pages, 421 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Performance of Bio-Based Nitrogen Fertilisers Under Salinity and Drought Stress in Spinach: A Preliminary Trial

by Amrita Saju, Ivona Sigurnjak and Erik Meers

Nitrogen 2026, 7(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/nitrogen7010014 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

Recently, the EU approved RENURE-criteria materials to be used as substitutes for synthetic N fertilisers. Several studies have been performed on the agronomic efficacy and potential environmental impacts of different bio-based fertilisers (BBFs) from biomass recovery, including the RENURE-criteria materials. But information is [...] Read more.

Recently, the EU approved RENURE-criteria materials to be used as substitutes for synthetic N fertilisers. Several studies have been performed on the agronomic efficacy and potential environmental impacts of different bio-based fertilisers (BBFs) from biomass recovery, including the RENURE-criteria materials. But information is lacking about their effectiveness under abiotic stress conditions like salinity and drought. The predictions for climate change-induced increased drought and soil salinisation for the European soils have also increased, making it inevitable to understand BBF performance in these impending situations. Two RENURE-criteria top-priority materials (ammonium nitrate (AN) and ammonium sulphate (AS) and another commercially used BBF—an evaporator concentrate (CaE)) were evaluated in a pot trial growing spinach under salinity and drought stress with a reference ‘no stress’ condition to examine crop growth, nutrient uptake, and nitrogen fertiliser replacement value (NFRV). Agronomically, BBFs performed at par with the synthetic fertiliser (SF) under unstressed and salt-stressed conditions, whereas, under drought stress, BBFs outperformed the SF treatment. AS exhibited the highest yield and nutrient uptake, displaying an NFRV of 3.1 and 1.8 under no-stress and salt-stress conditions, respectively. Salt stress did not negatively impact the crops grown in this trial, potentially due to the higher potassium content in the system, which alleviated the possible negative impacts of high sodium. This study delves into the agronomic response, without evaluating crop physiological changes, and, hence, should be taken as a preliminary step into further investigation of observed elemental interactions (that could be potentially driving stress mitigation) while also examining the crop physiology during the duration of stress. Full article

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24 pages, 9746 KB

Open AccessArticle

Turbulent Flow Analysis of a Representative Low-Height Urban Landscape in Mexico

by Cecilia Ibarra-Hernández, Luis Hernández-García, Rodolfo Nájera-Sanchez, Enriqueta Arriaga-Gomez, Sergio Martínez-Delgadillo, Diana Medellín-Salazar and Alejandro Alonzo García

Fluids 2026, 11(1), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/fluids11010023 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

This article analyzes the applications of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in addressing the issue of flow patterns in a realistic urban landscape, specifically in the Metropolitan Area of Monterrey. CFD enables the simulation of physical phenomena such as turbulence, which is useful for [...] Read more.

This article analyzes the applications of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in addressing the issue of flow patterns in a realistic urban landscape, specifically in the Metropolitan Area of Monterrey. CFD enables the simulation of physical phenomena such as turbulence, which is useful for studying the transport behavior of pollutants in urban environments. The computational model was obtained from satellite imaging and covered a surface of about 1.134 km × 1.227 km. It was composed of 173 urban blocks, representing around 3570 houses, including hospitals, schools, recreation centers and other gathering places. The population of the urban landscape was estimated at around 11,400 inhabitants. Three velocity scenarios, low, average, and high (air gusts), were simulated, using data from a local weather station. The Reynolds numbers (Re) ranged from 1.9 × 10⁶ to 21.2 × 10⁶, falling within the fully developed turbulence regime, which was modeled using the renormalization group (RNG) k–ε turbulence model. Results showed that the mean velocity patterns were preserved independent of the Reynolds number (Re) and were characterized by regions of high velocity in the main avenues, as well as other regions of low velocity between urban blocks. This methodology may also be applicable for understanding the flow patterns of similar urban regions composed of irregularly arranged low-rise blocks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue CFD Applications in Environmental Engineering)

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13 pages, 5889 KB

Open AccessArticle

Metallic Structures and Tribological Properties of Ti-15mass%Nb Alloy After Gas Nitriding and Quenching Process

by Yoshikazu Mantani, Riho Takahashi, Tomoyuki Homma and Eri Akada

Metals 2026, 16(1), 98; https://doi.org/10.3390/met16010098 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

This study aimed to experimentally investigate the differences in metallic structures owing to the gas nitriding and quenching process (GNQP) temperature of the Ti-15mass%Nb alloy and differences in the tribological properties of the surface layer. The GNQP heating temperature was 1023 K or [...] Read more.

This study aimed to experimentally investigate the differences in metallic structures owing to the gas nitriding and quenching process (GNQP) temperature of the Ti-15mass%Nb alloy and differences in the tribological properties of the surface layer. The GNQP heating temperature was 1023 K or 1223 K, and the holding time was set to 1 h. In the X-ray diffraction profiles, the diffraction peak of the (10

\bar{1}

1) plane of the hexagonal close-packed phase exhibited a shift toward lower angles, following the sequence AN:α, AQ:α′, and GNQP:α-TiN_0.3. In both the 1023 K and 1223 K GNQP specimens, the α″ phase exhibited lower values than the α′ phase; nonetheless, it still exhibited larger values than the annealed α phase. Based on transmission electron microscopy observations, the high core hardness of the 1223 K GNQP specimen was attributed to solid-solution strengthening caused by nitrogen diffusion or to strain hardening associated with the diffusion and was not attributed to the influence of precipitation phases, such as the ω phase. In the friction and wear tests, both the 1023 K and 1223 K GNQP specimens exhibited narrower wear track widths, clearly demonstrating that the GNQP enhanced the wear resistance. Moreover, the TiO₂ layer was effective in maintaining a low coefficient of friction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Crystallography and Applications of Metallic Materials)

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18 pages, 3211 KB

Open AccessArticle

The CiWOX13-CiWOX14 Complex Regulates CiBGLU21 to Promote Graft Union Formation by Modulating Cell Wall Synthesis in Carya illinoinensis

by Piyu Ji, Wanchun Li, Liangye Huang, Qinyuan Shen, Ying Yang, Ying Yang, Gaotian Chen, Muhammad Junaid Rao, Anket Sharma, Jianfang Zuo, Vijay Pratap Singh, Huwei Yuan and Bingsong Zheng

Plants 2026, 15(2), 273; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15020273 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

Grafting is an important method for pecans, while the molecular mechanisms underlying graft union formation still need in-depth analysis. In the current investigation, we identified 22 BGLU genes in Carya illinoinensis (pecan) and demonstrated that CiBGLU21, a β-glucosidase-encoding gene, plays an important [...] Read more.

Grafting is an important method for pecans, while the molecular mechanisms underlying graft union formation still need in-depth analysis. In the current investigation, we identified 22 BGLU genes in Carya illinoinensis (pecan) and demonstrated that CiBGLU21, a β-glucosidase-encoding gene, plays an important positive role in graft healing. The overexpression of CiBGLU21 enhanced graft survival rates and accelerated tissue regeneration, while biochemical assays confirmed its role in cell wall reinforcement and sugar metabolism. Additionally, we identified that CiWOX13 formed heterodimers with CiWOX14 to directly and synergistically activate the transcription of CiBGLU21. The current investigation revealed a CiWOX13/14-CiBGLU21 module as an important modulator of graft union formation, offering insights into improving grafting efficiency in perennial crops and advancing the understanding of cell wall dynamics during tissue regeneration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Planting Techniques and Production of Horticultural Crops)

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14 pages, 2382 KB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Yields and Extending Production Cycles of Bacteriocin from the Bacillus cereus Group Through the Optimization of Culture Conditions and Removal of Proteolytic Digestion

by Mengyu Gao, Jiajia Ding, Congyue Yang, Shu Liu, Huawei Zeng, Xin Zeng, Deyin Zhao and Bingyue Xin

Microorganisms 2026, 14(1), 206; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms14010206 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

Bacilluscereus group strains are prolific producers of diverse bacteriocins with significant application potentials; however, their industrial utilization is often hampered by short production cycles and low yields. Using the leaderless bacteriocin toyoncin as a model, we systematically evaluated the impact of culture [...] Read more.

Bacilluscereus group strains are prolific producers of diverse bacteriocins with significant application potentials; however, their industrial utilization is often hampered by short production cycles and low yields. Using the leaderless bacteriocin toyoncin as a model, we systematically evaluated the impact of culture medium, temperature, and initial pH on its production. Our findings demonstrate that these factors critically affected yield, with no production under oligotrophic, acidic, or high-temperature conditions. Optimal production was achieved in MH medium (initial pH 8.5, 25 °C), significantly enhancing fermentation duration and yield compared to original conditions (LB medium, 30 °C, pH 7.0). Transcriptional analyses revealed that these improvements were attributable to extended transcription periods and increased transcript levels of the toyoncin gene cluster. Furthermore, we demonstrated that toyoncin disappearance in the supernatant is caused by transcriptional cessation and degradation by membrane-associated proteases. By combining optimized fermentation with protease inhibition, a high and stable toyoncin yield of 53.86 mg/L was achieved, representing a 3.07-fold increase over the initial yield (17.52 mg/L). This study establishes an integrated strategy to enhance bacteriocin production through simultaneous optimization of culture conditions and inhibition of enzymatic degradation, providing important insights for advancing bacteriocin development in the Bacillus cereus group. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Microbial Biotechnology)

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21 pages, 4628 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Inclined Angles and Contouring Parameters on Upskin Surface Characteristics of Parts Made by Laser Powder-Bed Fusion

by Nismath Valiyakath Vadakkan Habeeb and Kevin Chou

Coatings 2026, 16(1), 119; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings16010119 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

Surface finish plays a critical role in the tribological performance of additively manufactured engineering components. In exploring part characteristics in laser powder-bed fusion (L-PBF), this study investigates the effect of contouring strategies on the upskin surface of inclined specimens (30°, 45°, and 60°) [...] Read more.

Surface finish plays a critical role in the tribological performance of additively manufactured engineering components. In exploring part characteristics in laser powder-bed fusion (L-PBF), this study investigates the effect of contouring strategies on the upskin surface of inclined specimens (30°, 45°, and 60°) made with L-PBF, using post- and pre-contouring strategies with various levels of process parameters. The surface data of fabricated inclined specimens were acquired by white-light interferometry, followed by a quantitative analysis using surface images. The results show that post-contouring leads to better surface finishes, with the lowest S_a of 8.68 µm attained at the highest laser power (195 W) and the slowest scan speed (500 mm/s) on 30°-inclined specimens, likely due to increased remelting and less step-edges. In contrast, pre-contouring produces distinct surface textures on the upskin of L-PBF specimens, resulting in a rougher surface morphology, with a maximum S_a of 33.39 µm also from 30°-inclined specimens at the lowest power (100 W) and the highest speed (2000 mm/s), suggesting an insufficient remelting of surface defects. In comparative analysis, in general, post-contouring yields smoother upskin surfaces, with a 17%–30% reduction in S_a, than those from equivalent pre-contouring conditions, highlighting the potential of scan sequences for optimizing L-PBF to improve the surface finish of inclined structures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface Topography Measurement Analysis of Additively Manufactured Modern Materials and Coatings)

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15 pages, 6332 KB

Open AccessArticle

Glycation Product Synthesized in Anhydrous Conditions Mimics an Epitope in Epithelial and Mesenchymal Tissues

by Monika Czech, Elżbieta Gamian, Agata Kochman, Marta Woźniak, Emilia Jaskuła, Piotr Ziółkowski and Andrzej Gamian

Biomedicines 2026, 14(1), 196; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14010196 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background: Advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) are formed and deposited in tissues, contributing to various disorders, including diabetes, other metabolic diseases, and aging. A new epitope, AGE10, was identified in human and animal tissues using a monoclonal antibody raised against synthetic melibiose-derived glycation [...] Read more.

Background: Advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) are formed and deposited in tissues, contributing to various disorders, including diabetes, other metabolic diseases, and aging. A new epitope, AGE10, was identified in human and animal tissues using a monoclonal antibody raised against synthetic melibiose-derived glycation end-products (MAGE), which were synthesized under anhydrous conditions with bovine serum albumin or myoglobin. The biology of the AGE10 epitope, particularly its role in diseases and in cancer tissues, is not well understood. Methods: The study was aimed at investigating the immunohistochemical recognition of AGE10 with the MoAb-anti-MAGE antibody. Results: Data obtained show that AGE10 is recognized in striated muscles but not in tumors of muscular origin. AGE10 is also stained in both normal and cancerous salivary glands and in adenomas of the large intestine. The staining is cytoplasmic. Discussion: Our approach may provide a methodology for cell biology research; AGE10 may be related to an advanced lipoxidation end-product; further investigation of MAGE may clarify disease mechanisms, support the development of novel therapeutic strategies. Conclusions: The key finding is that antibodies recognize mainly the epitope in epithelial and some mesenchymal tissues. Thus, the potential for AGE10 as a diagnostic marker is limited. The implications concern the biology of this epitope, the unique tissue distribution, and a role in cellular metabolism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cell Biology and Pathology)

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16 pages, 1877 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Prolonged Frozen Storage on the In Vitro Digestion of Minced Pork: Insights from Protein Structural Changes

by Yingying Zhu, Shijing Chen, Yafang Ma, Caili Fu and Dejian Huang

Foods 2026, 15(2), 329; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15020329 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

Long-term frozen storage is widely used for pork preservation, yet its impact on protein digestibility remains inadequately explored. This study investigated the effect of frozen storage duration (0, 3, and 12 months) on the changes in digestive properties and protein structure of minced [...] Read more.

Long-term frozen storage is widely used for pork preservation, yet its impact on protein digestibility remains inadequately explored. This study investigated the effect of frozen storage duration (0, 3, and 12 months) on the changes in digestive properties and protein structure of minced pork during in vitro digestion. With extended freezing, the hardness, chewiness, and shear force of pork significantly increased, while protein digestibility decreased. A confocal laser scanning microscope showed an increase in the particle size of digesta. After 12 months of frozen storage, the digestibility of the pork samples decreased. The extent of reduction reached 11.31% under pepsin digestion and 11.33% under pepsin–trypsin digestion, compared to the fresh samples. Structural analysis indicated that prolonged freezing led to protein denaturation and aggregation, as confirmed by a decrease in α-helix contents, an increase in the β-sheet and random coil structures, and the formation of high-molecular-weight aggregates. These structural alterations hindered protease accessibility, resulting in reduced digestibility. The detrimental effects on protein structure and digestibility became more pronounced with longer frozen storage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Research on the Effects of Novel Processing Technologies on Meat Flavor and Quality Characteristics)

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33 pages, 435 KB

Open AccessArticle

Suggestopedia and Simplex Didactics as an Integrated Model for Interdisciplinary Design in Higher Education: Results of an Action Research Study

by Alessio Di Paolo and Michele Domenico Todino

Trends High. Educ. 2026, 5(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/higheredu5010010 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

This study explores the integration of Georgi Lozanov’s Suggestopedia with Alain Berthoz’s theory of simplexity as a pedagogical paradigm for inclusive and creative educational design. The research, conducted within the specialization courses for educational support at the University of Salerno, involved 230 trainee [...] Read more.

This study explores the integration of Georgi Lozanov’s Suggestopedia with Alain Berthoz’s theory of simplexity as a pedagogical paradigm for inclusive and creative educational design. The research, conducted within the specialization courses for educational support at the University of Salerno, involved 230 trainee teachers engaged in a participatory action-research process aimed at translating suggestopedic principles, positive suggestion, music, and relational harmony into didactic planning. Through a combination of theoretical training, laboratory design activities, and reflective evaluation, participants produced 21 interdisciplinary educational projects assessed according to the properties and rules of simplexity. The results show a high degree of methodological coherence, aesthetic quality, and curricular inclusiveness, with music emerging as a key factor in fostering attention, cooperation, and emotional engagement. Data analysis indicates that the fusion of suggestopedic and simplex approaches promotes adaptive, modular, and meaning-oriented design processes that enhance teachers’ creativity and metacognitive awareness. Overall, the findings highlight the educational value of a pedagogy of resonance, in which body, mind, and environment interact harmoniously. The study concludes that the suggestopedic—simplex model represents a regenerative framework for contemporary didactics, capable of transforming complexity into harmony and restoring to education its aesthetic, relational, and human dimension. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Redefining Academia: Innovative Approaches to Diversity and Inclusion)

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21 pages, 12691 KB

Open AccessArticle

Satellite-Derived Summer Albedo Variations on the Greenland Ice Sheet from 1979 to 2024 Linked with Climatic Indices

by Yulun Zhang, Shang Geng and Yetang Wang

Remote Sens. 2026, 18(2), 295; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs18020295 (registering DOI) - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

CLARA-A3 currently provides the longest temporal coverage among available albedo products, with improvements in both retrieval algorithms and product coverage compared to earlier versions. This study first evaluates the performance of the CLARA-A3-SAL product over Greenland Ice Sheet (GrIS) and subsequently applies it [...] Read more.

CLARA-A3 currently provides the longest temporal coverage among available albedo products, with improvements in both retrieval algorithms and product coverage compared to earlier versions. This study first evaluates the performance of the CLARA-A3-SAL product over Greenland Ice Sheet (GrIS) and subsequently applies it to investigate spatiotemporal trends in summer albedo from 1979 to 2024. Validation against 32 in situ observation sites indicates negligible bias in the interior regions, with RMSE values ranging from 0.01 to 0.07. Although larger errors exist in the coastal ablation zone due to unresolved sub-grid surface heterogeneity, the product successfully captures observed spatiotemporal variability and long-term trends, demonstrating that CLARA-A3-SAL provides a generally reliable representation of surface albedo. Since 1979, the summer surface albedo averaged over the entire ice sheet has decreased at a rate of −0.24% decade⁻¹. Albedo in the dry snow area has remained relatively stable and showed no significant correlation with most climate variables, except for the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and the Greenland Blocking Index (GBI). Conversely, the marginal zone has undergone substantial darkening (−0.66% decade⁻¹), which is strongly correlated with temperature, snowfall and melt, with meltwater showing the highest correlation (r = −0.90, p < 0.01). This suggests that meltwater-driven grain growth and exposure of bare ice are the primary drivers of albedo reduction over the non-dry snow zone. Large-scale atmospheric circulation also plays a key role: the GBI exhibits the strongest association with albedo (r = −0.63, p < 0.05), underscoring the importance of persistent blocking in amplifying surface warming and darkening. Furthermore, decadal-scale variability associated with the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO) and the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) modulates both the magnitude and spatial pattern of albedo changes across GrIS, with AMO+ generally linked to reduced albedo and PDO+ tending to enhance it. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Atmospheric Remote Sensing)

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