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25 pages, 17036 KB

Open AccessReview

The Integrated Management of Sugar-Beet Soilborne Diseases Through Rhizosphere Microbiome Strategies: A Critical Review of Agronomic Evidence and Application Gaps

by Yue Chang, Wenjin Chen, Liang Wang and Ziqiang Zhang

Plants 2026, 15(18), 2798; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15182798 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

Soilborne diseases caused by Rhizoctonia solani, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. betae, Aphanomyces cochlioides, and Pythium spp. constrain sugar-beet production worldwide, with yield losses exceeding 50% in severely affected fields. These pathogens frequently co-occur, yet most biological control and microbiome studies [...] Read more.

Soilborne diseases caused by Rhizoctonia solani, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. betae, Aphanomyces cochlioides, and Pythium spp. constrain sugar-beet production worldwide, with yield losses exceeding 50% in severely affected fields. These pathogens frequently co-occur, yet most biological control and microbiome studies address them individually, and recommendations from model crops often fail to translate to sugar beet’s distinctive root biology and rotation systems. This critical review synthesises evidence on the rhizosphere microbiome as a plant protection resource, organising the literature by agronomic applicability: crop rotation, organic amendments, soil physicochemical management, microbial inoculants and synthetic communities, and microbiome-informed breeding and diagnostics. For each strategy, we state the evidence directness (direct sugar-beet field trials, greenhouse data, cross-crop extrapolation, or mechanistic inference) and evaluate the gap between experimental efficacy and field-ready recommendations. Direct field evidence remains limited: the best-characterised example is Rhizoctonia-suppressive soil linked to non-ribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS)-producing Pseudomonadaceae and Burkholderiaceae, with 2,4-DAPG-producing Pseudomonas populations also being correlated with disease suppression in sugar-beet seedlings, plus one integrated fungicide-biocontrol field trial. We identify multi-pathogen challenge experiments, multi-site field validation of synthetic communities, and microbiome-informed breeding as priority research gaps. Rhizosphere microbiome management should be integrated into existing disease programmes rather than deployed as a stand-alone replacement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrating Plant Immunity and Ecological Strategies for Sustainable Disease Management)

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19 pages, 611 KB

Open AccessArticle

Air Pollution, Temperature, and Demographic Vulnerability as Determinants of Cause-Specific Mortality in Portugal

by João Simões, Alexandra Bernardo, Luísa Lima Gonçalves and José Brito

J. Xenobiotics 2026, 16(5), 172; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox16050172 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

Air pollution and temperature are important environmental risk factors for mortality, but variation in risks across causes of death, population groups, and co-exposure conditions remains incompletely characterised. This study used nationwide monthly data from Portugal for the period 2010–2022 to estimate cause-specific mortality [...] Read more.

Air pollution and temperature are important environmental risk factors for mortality, but variation in risks across causes of death, population groups, and co-exposure conditions remains incompletely characterised. This study used nationwide monthly data from Portugal for the period 2010–2022 to estimate cause-specific mortality risks associated with nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), fine particulate matter (PM_2.5), and temperature, while evaluating sex–age interaction structures and selected co-exposure patterns. Mortality from malignant tumours, circulatory diseases, and respiratory diseases was modelled using Generalised Estimating Equations to account for temporal correlation and interaction effects. Pollutant exposures were defined as concentrations exceeding the 2021 World Health Organization air quality guideline values. Associations varied by cause of death. Respiratory mortality showed the strongest environmental association, with a 1.4% increase in risk per 1 μg/m³ increase in NO₂ above the guideline value (RR 1.014, 95% CI 1.009–1.019), and the highest predicted risk was observed among males aged ≥65 years (RR 142.610, 95% CI 142.200–143.020). Circulatory mortality was also associated with NO₂ (RR 1.005, 95% CI 1.001–1.008) and showed a submultiplicative sex–age interaction (RR 0.344, 95% CI 0.343–0.344), indicating attenuation of sex differences at older ages. Malignant tumour mortality showed weaker environmental associations but a greater-than-multiplicative sex–age interaction (RR 1.117) and attenuation of the NO₂ association at higher PM_2.5 levels, although the pollutant-related findings were less robust in sensitivity analyses. These findings indicate that mortality risks are not uniform across causes of death or population groups, supporting the value of locally derived, demographically stratified estimates for environmental health assessment and targeted public health strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Silent Crisis: Air Pollution and Its Hidden Impact on Human Health)

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13 pages, 2794 KB

Open AccessArticle

Clinical Characteristics, Viral Etiology, Management, and Prognosis of Pediatric Fulminant Myocarditis: A 10-Year Single-Center Study

by Qingli Yang, Lijing Ye, Liting Wang, Yi Zhang, Yi Zhu and Jun Shen

Viruses 2026, 18(9), 1004; https://doi.org/10.3390/v18091004 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

Background: Fulminant myocarditis (FM) is a life-threatening inflammatory cardiac disease in children, frequently triggered by viral infections. Although mechanical circulatory support has improved short-term survival, data on viral etiology and long-term outcomes remain limited, particularly in Asian populations. Methods: We conducted a mixed [...] Read more.

Background: Fulminant myocarditis (FM) is a life-threatening inflammatory cardiac disease in children, frequently triggered by viral infections. Although mechanical circulatory support has improved short-term survival, data on viral etiology and long-term outcomes remain limited, particularly in Asian populations. Methods: We conducted a mixed retrospective–prospective analysis of pediatric FM patients at the Children’s Hospital of Fudan University from 2015 to 2025. Clinical data from 2015 to 2023 were collected retrospectively, while data from 2024 onward were collected prospectively. Clinical data, microbiological findings (PCR and metagenomic next-generation sequencing), treatment strategies, and outcomes were extracted from electronic medical records. Follow-up data for survivors were collected through December 2025. Results: A total of 53 children with FM were included. Median age was 91.5 months; 43.4% were male, and 56.6% were female. Common presenting symptoms included fever (64.2%) and vomiting (56.6%). Microbiological evidence was identified in 11 patients (20.8%), with rhinovirus (5.7%) and influenza virus (5.7%) being the most frequent, followed by enterovirus (3.8%) in peripheral specimens. During hospitalization, 79.2% required mechanical ventilation, 64.2% received extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), and 45.3% underwent continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) was administered to 84.9%. In-hospital mortality was 13.2% (7/53), and 17.0% (9/53) of patients were discharged against medical advice (DAMA). Among 35 followed patients (median 12.4 months), most achieved favorable cardiac recovery; however, persistent conduction abnormalities, structural cardiac changes, and neurological sequelae were observed in a minority. Conclusions: Pediatric FM carries substantial in-hospital morbidity and resource utilization, despite favorable recovery rates in most survivors. The low pathogen detection rate in peripheral blood and the lack of endomyocardial tissue sampling preclude definitive conclusions regarding the underlying etiology, whether active viral replication or immune-mediated injury predominates. Endomyocardial biopsy-based investigations are urgently needed to clarify the underlying pathobiology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extrapulmonary Manifestations of Respiratory Viruses)

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15 pages, 4453 KB

Open AccessArticle

Combined Modulation of Ceramide and S1P Pathways Induces Strong Cytotoxicity in SH-SY5Y Neuroblastoma Cells

by Celal Ozbek Cakir, Canan Vejselova Sezer, Mustafa Cengiz and Hatice Mehtap Kutlu

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(18), 8126; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27188126 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

Neuroblastoma is among the most aggressive pediatric cancers, and resistance to standard therapies highlights the need for alternative strategies targeting lipid metabolism and apoptosis-associated pathways. This study aimed to investigate the cytotoxic and apoptotic effects of fingolimod, ceranib-2, and carmofur, administered individually and [...] Read more.

Neuroblastoma is among the most aggressive pediatric cancers, and resistance to standard therapies highlights the need for alternative strategies targeting lipid metabolism and apoptosis-associated pathways. This study aimed to investigate the cytotoxic and apoptotic effects of fingolimod, ceranib-2, and carmofur, administered individually and in combination, in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells, with particular emphasis on ceramide metabolism. Cytotoxicity was evaluated using the MTT assay, and morphological alterations were assessed by confocal microscopy. Colony-forming ability was examined using a soft agar assay, apoptosis-associated responses were evaluated by Annexin-V staining and caspase 3/7 activation analysis, and intracellular ceramide levels were determined using an ELISA-based method. The results showed that all three compounds reduced cell viability in a concentration-dependent manner and decreased clonogenic survival. The triple combination produced the most pronounced changes in apoptosis-associated parameters and showed marked inhibition of colony formation, although fingolimod alone exhibited the lowest IC₅₀ value and therefore remained the most potent treatment on an IC₅₀ basis. Confocal microscopy revealed prominent apoptosis-associated morphological alterations, including chromatin condensation, nuclear fragmentation, and cytoskeletal disruption, particularly in the triple-combination group. Annexin-V and caspase 3/7 analyses showed increased apoptotic cell populations, with the highest levels observed following triple-combination treatment. Intracellular ceramide levels were also significantly elevated, particularly in cells treated with ceranib-2 and the triple combination. Collectively, these findings indicate that simultaneous modulation of ceramide- and S1P-associated pathways influences apoptosis-associated responses, clonogenic growth, and intracellular ceramide levels in SH-SY5Y cells. However, because the study was conducted in a single neuroblastoma cell line and did not include comprehensive dose-by-time or formal combination-interaction analyses, the findings should be regarded as preliminary in vitro observations. Further validation in genetically distinct neuroblastoma models, together with systematic dose–response and time–response studies, will be required to determine the reproducibility, biological significance, and broader therapeutic relevance of this approach. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Oncology)

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16 pages, 2780 KB

Open AccessArticle

Prognostic Value of Temporalis Muscle Thickness for Predicting Mortality in Patients with Emergency Department Cardiac Arrest

by Ahmet Öztürk, Serkan Günay, Erdal Komut, Hakan Özerol, Mert Barındık, Serdal Ateş, Seval Komut and Yavuz Yiğit

Medicina 2026, 62(9), 1760; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina62091760 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Temporalis muscle thickness (TMT) has emerged as an imaging-based morphometric surrogate associated with reduced muscle mass and frailty; however, its prognostic value in emergency department cardiac arrest (EDCA) remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the association between TMT [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: Temporalis muscle thickness (TMT) has emerged as an imaging-based morphometric surrogate associated with reduced muscle mass and frailty; however, its prognostic value in emergency department cardiac arrest (EDCA) remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the association between TMT and emergency department mortality in patients with EDCA who had cranial CT imaging available during the same emergency department encounter and to investigate its association with in-hospital mortality. Materials and Methods: This study included 129 adult patients who experienced cardiac arrest in the emergency department between 1 June 2022 and 31 May 2025, and had eligible cranial CT imaging available during the same emergency department encounter. TMT was measured on non-contrast brain computed tomography images. The association between TMT and mortality outcomes, including emergency department and in-hospital mortality, was statistically analyzed. Results: TMT was significantly lower in patients who died in the emergency department compared with survivors (median 3.29 mm [Q1–Q3: 2.63–3.95] vs. 4.69 mm [Q1–Q3: 3.70–5.65], p < 0.001). Similarly, patients who died in an in-hospital setting had lower TMT values than survivors (median 4.06 mm [Q1–Q3: 3.26–5.34] vs. 5.00 mm [Q1–Q3: 4.21–5.85], p = 0.040). ROC analysis demonstrated the moderate discriminative ability of TMT for predicting emergency department mortality (AUC = 0.763, 95% CI 0.671–0.856). Logistic regression analysis identified that, after adjustment for age, sex, and CPR duration, TMT remained associated with emergency department mortality (adjusted OR 0.34, 95% CI 0.133–0.886; p = 0.027). Conclusions: Among patients with EDCA who had eligible cranial CT imaging during the same emergency department encounter, lower temporalis muscle thickness was associated with increased emergency department mortality, whereas its association with in-hospital mortality was weaker. Given the retrospective design and limited number of outcome events, these findings should be considered exploratory and require validation in larger independent cohorts. Full article

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50 pages, 5536 KB

Open AccessArticle

Technical and Regulatory Prerequisites for Blockchain-Enabled Point-of-Sale Systems: A Tanzanian Case Study

by Julius Massawe, Bonny Mgawe, Cleverence Kombe and Anael Sam

Future Internet 2026, 18(9), 475; https://doi.org/10.3390/fi18090475 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

The continued expansion of digital payment technologies has encouraged Tanzanian district councils to use Point-of-Sale (POS) systems to collect service fees. In current POS systems, authorized POS terminals capture payment details, and through the centralized server, transactions are recorded on the POS database, [...] Read more.

The continued expansion of digital payment technologies has encouraged Tanzanian district councils to use Point-of-Sale (POS) systems to collect service fees. In current POS systems, authorized POS terminals capture payment details, and through the centralized server, transactions are recorded on the POS database, with receipts printed as confirmation. Although this architecture supports recording and monitoring transaction revenue, it provides limited support for verifying the identity of the actor authorizing the transaction and for independent confirmation of transaction integrity during auditing. To address these limitations, this study investigated the essential requirements, standards, and protocols for integrating a Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI) as a blockchain-based identity solution with existing POS systems and for using a permissioned blockchain platform to verify integrity. To achieve the study objectives, an exploratory qualitative approach was used, involving 32 semi-structured interviews with POS operators, revenue accountants, internal auditors, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) administrators, a regulator, and blockchain experts. A hybrid deductive–inductive thematic analysis was used to establish three requirement themes, namely, security and identity management, legal and regulatory compliance, and data management and integrity assurance; two standard themes, namely, security and cryptographic standards, and identity and decentralized identification; and two protocol themes, namely, security and user authentication protocols, and data management and identity portability protocols. The findings were mapped to applicable legal obligations, compliance standards, technical specifications, and implementation controls, indicating how these requirements were translated into the conceptual SSI-POS integration for district-council POS systems. The proposed solution separates credential issuance, credential holder, and device POS management; verifier and POS transaction processing; blockchain and integrity evidence; and the assurance domain across defined trust boundaries. After a signed transaction is approved by the verifier, a complete transaction receipt remains in the existing POS database, while receipt hashes or the corresponding Merkle roots are anchored on the permissioned blockchain to provide tamper-evident verification. Hyperledger Besu with Quorum Byzantine Fault Tolerance (QBFT) was selected for its fit with permissioned, multi-organizational governance and for independent replication of receipt-hash evidence. The study provides a stakeholder-derived, regulatory-aligned conceptual foundation for SSI-POS integration without replacing the existing POS system workflow. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cybersecurity)

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Graphical abstract

15 pages, 1840 KB

Open AccessReview

Injectable Lipid-Lowering Therapies Across the Chronic Kidney Disease Spectrum: Evidence, Safety, and a Stage-Specific Clinical Framework

by Jyoti Baharani and Sudarshan Ramachandran

Lipidology 2026, 3(3), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/lipidology3030025 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) confers a high burden of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and a characteristic, evolving dyslipidaemia that is incompletely addressed by conventional care. Statin-based therapy remains first-line in most non-dialysis CKD populations, yet many patients fail to reach lipid goals or [...] Read more.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) confers a high burden of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and a characteristic, evolving dyslipidaemia that is incompletely addressed by conventional care. Statin-based therapy remains first-line in most non-dialysis CKD populations, yet many patients fail to reach lipid goals or remain at substantial residual risk. This structured narrative review evaluates injectable lipid-lowering agents across the CKD spectrum, focusing on the pharmacology and clinical utility of therapies targeting proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9). The monoclonal antibodies evolocumab and alirocumab are subcutaneous biologics that bind circulating PCSK9, prevent PCSK9-mediated degradation of the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor, and enhance hepatic LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) clearance. Their catabolic elimination and negligible cytochrome-P450 interaction burden are advantageous in polypharmacy-heavy CKD care. Inclisiran is a hepatocyte-directed, GalNAc-conjugated small interfering RNA that silences PCSK9 messenger RNA, enabling durable LDL-C lowering with twice-yearly maintenance dosing after initiation. Across major programmes, injectable PCSK9 inhibition produces a ~50–60% LDL-C reduction, with consistent efficacy and safety across renal function strata, although outcome data in advanced CKD and dialysis remain limited. Importantly, cardiovascular outcome benefit is established for the monoclonal antibodies evolocumab and alirocumab, whereas inclisiran currently has robust LDL-C-lowering evidence but no completed cardiovascular outcome trial; these agents should not be regarded as having equivalent outcome evidence. Historical dialysis statin trials showed attenuated or neutral cardiovascular benefit, underscoring the biological and trial-design complexity of late-stage kidney disease and the need for dedicated injectable-era trials. We propose a stage-specific framework for integrating injectable therapies into CKD pathways—covering patient selection, sequencing, monitoring and implementation—and outline priorities for CKD-enriched outcome trials, kidney-relevant endpoints, and the integration of emerging lipoprotein(a)-targeted injectables into cardio-renal risk reduction. Full article

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30 pages, 24263 KB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Material Joints of Biocompatible Ti15Ta, Ti10Ta2Nb2Zr, and Ti13Nb13Zr5Cu Titanium Alloys Fabricated by Laser Powder Bed Fusion for Functionally Graded Orthopedic Implants

by Igor Polozov, Victoria Nefyodova and Anton Zolotarev

Metals 2026, 16(9), 1015; https://doi.org/10.3390/met16091015 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

In this work, multi-material joints of three biocompatible low-modulus titanium alloys—Ti15Ta, Ti10Ta2Nb2Zr, and Ti13Nb13Zr5Cu—were produced and systematically investigated by laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) for the development of functionally graded orthopedic implants. Three pairwise joints were examined (Ti10Ta2Nb2Zr/Ti15Ta, Ti15Ta/Ti13Nb13Zr5Cu, and Ti13Nb13Zr5Cu/Ti10Ta2Nb2Zr). The process [...] Read more.

In this work, multi-material joints of three biocompatible low-modulus titanium alloys—Ti15Ta, Ti10Ta2Nb2Zr, and Ti13Nb13Zr5Cu—were produced and systematically investigated by laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) for the development of functionally graded orthopedic implants. Three pairwise joints were examined (Ti10Ta2Nb2Zr/Ti15Ta, Ti15Ta/Ti13Nb13Zr5Cu, and Ti13Nb13Zr5Cu/Ti10Ta2Nb2Zr). The process parameters governing the formation of the transition zones were optimized: all nine combinations of alloy pair and regime yielded a relative density of 99.35–99.73% with no macroscopic defects; one-way ANOVA showed that the baseline parameters of the second alloy provided a relative density equal to or significantly higher than that obtained with an increased energy input. EDS mapping and point analysis indicated that the transition zone (10–90% width ≈ 250–320 µm) forms through the intermixing of the melts within a common melt pool; after annealing at 900 °C for 1 h, the interface becomes blurred owing to interdiffusion, and the microstructure evolves into a uniform lamellar (α + β) structure. In the as-built condition, the Ti10Ta2Nb2Zr/Ti15Ta joint exhibited σ_UTS = 598 ± 9 MPa, δ = 14.2 ± 1.9%, and E = 96 ± 3 GPa, with fracture occurring in the Ti15Ta region. The joints involving Ti13Nb13Zr5Cu are limited by the inherent brittleness of this alloy, which is removed for the Ti15Ta/Ti13Nb13Zr5Cu pair by annealing. The elastic modulus of the dense joints (94–101 GPa) remains well above that of cortical bone, so that a clinically relevant reduction in stiffness has to be provided by a porous architecture rather than by the alloy composition alone. In vitro testing of the monolithic alloys (osteoblasts and gingival fibroblasts, MTT with n = 6 and flow cytometry) revealed no cytotoxic effect in terms of membrane integrity; the metabolic activity of gingival fibroblasts on Ti10Ta2Nb2Zr remained below the 70% level, whereas among the monolithic alloys the most stable osteoblast activity and the most pronounced recovery of fibroblast activity were observed on Ti13Nb13Zr5Cu. The biological response of the transition zones themselves has not yet been evaluated. These results provide a processing and materials-science basis for the further development of functionally graded implants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Additive Manufacturing for Metallic Materials and Their Applications (4th Edition))

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18 pages, 2119 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Diagnostic Accuracy of [¹⁸F]Fluorocholine PET/CT for the Preoperative Localization of Hyperfunctioning Parathyroid Glands

by Chiara Lauri, Giuseppe Campagna, Lorenzo Chiurchioni, Luciano Carideo, Michela Varani, Valeria Bentivoglio, Anna Giorgio, Francesco D’Angelo and Alberto Signore

Diagnostics 2026, 16(18), 2950; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16182950 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare [¹⁸F]Fluorocholine (FCH) PET/CT, ultrasound (US) and dual-phase scintigraphy with [^99mTc]Tc-methoxyisobutylisonitrile (MIBI) and [^99mTc]Tc-pertechnetate (TcO₄-) ([^99mTc]Tc-MIBI/[^99mTc]TcO₄) in the preoperative detection of [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare [¹⁸F]Fluorocholine (FCH) PET/CT, ultrasound (US) and dual-phase scintigraphy with [^99mTc]Tc-methoxyisobutylisonitrile (MIBI) and [^99mTc]Tc-pertechnetate (TcO₄-) ([^99mTc]Tc-MIBI/[^99mTc]TcO₄) in the preoperative detection of hyperfunctioning parathyroid glands. Secondary aims were to determine the optimal scanning time of [¹⁸F]FCH PET/CT while investigating the correlation between [¹⁸F]FCH PET/CT parameters and PTH, calcium levels, lesions size, histopathology, and immunohistochemical analysis. Methods: Patients with primary hyperparathyroidism who underwent US, [^99mTc]Tc-MIBI/[^99mTc]TcO₄ scintigraphy, [¹⁸F]FCH PET/CT and parathyroid surgery were retrospectively evaluated. The following PET parameters were calculated: SUVmax and SUVmean, parathyroid retention index (RI) and lesion contrast (LC). Lesions were classified as parathyroid adenomas (PA), hyperplastic parathyroid glands (HP) or parathyroid carcinoma (PC) according to histology. Results: Forty-nine patients were evaluated and 55 lesions were removed at surgery (8 normal glands, 33 PAs, 12 HP glands, 2 PCs). In a lesion-based analysis, the sensitivity and specificity were 68.9% and 28.6% for US, 65.7% and 40.0% for [^99mTc]Tc-MIBI/[^99mTc]TcO₄, 97.8% and 14.3% for early-phase [¹⁸F]FCH PET/CT and 95.7% and 12.5% for late-phase [¹⁸F]FCH PET/CT. The sensitivity of both early and late [¹⁸F]FCH PET/CT acquisitions was statistically higher than that of US and [^99mTc]Tc-MIBI/[^99mTc]TcO₄ scintigraphy. SUVs were statistically higher in PA than in HP, and RI was significantly lower in HP compared with PC, although this difference was based only on two PC cases. Therefore, this result must be considered preliminary and interpreted with caution. Conclusions: [¹⁸F]FCH PET/CT performed better than US and [^99mTc]Tc-MIBI/[^99mTc]TcO₄ scan for the detection of hyperfunctioning lesions. The most favorable time point to assess parathyroid lesions appears to be 60 min after injection. However, due to the possible rapid washout of some lesions, a supplementary early acquisition is advisable. SUVmax, SUVmean and RI may predict the histological nature of a parathyroid lesion, but larger studies are needed to confirm these findings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Medical Imaging and Theranostics)

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27 pages, 6924 KB

Open AccessArticle

Interpretable Multi-Year Winter Wheat Mapping with Sentinel-1/2 Time Series: SHAP-Based Feature Selection and Bayesian-Optimized Machine Learning

by Wenhao Zheng, Yan Xu, Lixiran Yu, Hongfei Tao, Qiao Li, Yincheng Gong, Yuwei Jiang and Quanjiu Wang

Remote Sens. 2026, 18(18), 3137; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs18183137 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

Accurate winter wheat mapping is important for interannual planting-area monitoring, yet models developed independently for each year require repeated sample collection, feature selection, and parameter tuning. This study developed an interpretable cross-year transfer approach for winter wheat mapping in the Tailan River Irrigation [...] Read more.

Accurate winter wheat mapping is important for interannual planting-area monitoring, yet models developed independently for each year require repeated sample collection, feature selection, and parameter tuning. This study developed an interpretable cross-year transfer approach for winter wheat mapping in the Tailan River Irrigation District, Xinjiang, China, using Sentinel-1/2 time-series imagery. The model was developed entirely from 2025 source-year data, including feature selection, Bayesian hyperparameter optimization, and model training. The resulting model was then applied directly to the 2023 and 2024 target-year test sets without retraining, retuning, or feature reselection. From 189 optical, SAR, texture, and vegetation-index temporal-change features, SHAP-based selection retained 28 informative variables. The Bayesian-optimized Random Forest model achieved overall accuracies of 93.82% in the 2025 source-year validation and 92.13% and 91.01% in the 2023 and 2024 target-year tests, with corresponding Kappa coefficients of 0.92, 0.90, and 0.89. SHAP and ablation analyses showed that May-to-June vegetation index change rate features derived from NDVI, NDre1, and EVI provided the most consistent phenological information, while Sentinel-1 features supplied complementary structural and backscatter information. The extracted winter wheat area decreased from 11,270.27 ha in 2023 to 9834.97 ha in 2025, consistent with the downward trend in official statistics. These results show that a model developed from a single source year maintained consistent classification performance across the evaluated historical years within the same irrigation district. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in High-Resolution Crop Mapping at Large Spatial Scales)

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12 pages, 1806 KB

Open AccessBrief Report

Parenteral Treprostinil as an Effective Bridge to Lung Transplant in Patients with Severe Pulmonary Hypertension Associated with Interstitial Lung Disease

by Jennifer Hopkins and Shameek Gayen

J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis. 2026, 13(9), 460; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcdd13090460 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

Pulmonary hypertension associated with interstitial lung disease (PH-ILD) is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Lung transplantation remains the definitive therapy for selected patients; however, severe pulmonary vascular dysfunction and hemodynamic instability may complicate transplant candidacy and pre-transplant management. The role of parenteral [...] Read more.

Pulmonary hypertension associated with interstitial lung disease (PH-ILD) is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Lung transplantation remains the definitive therapy for selected patients; however, severe pulmonary vascular dysfunction and hemodynamic instability may complicate transplant candidacy and pre-transplant management. The role of parenteral prostacyclin therapy as a bridge to transplantation in this population remains poorly defined. The primary objective of this retrospective case series was to evaluate the utility of parenteral treprostinil as a bridge therapy for lung transplantation in 14 patients with severe PH-ILD from 2018 to 2025. Secondary objectives were to describe subsequent changes in clinical outcomes, including hemodynamic parameters measured by right heart catheterization, echocardiographic findings, the six-minute walk distance, oxygen requirements, the need for veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO), and successful lung transplantation. Parenteral treprostinil was associated with significant improvements in pulmonary artery systolic pressure, mean pulmonary artery pressure, pulmonary vascular resistance, and BNP levels, while pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, cardiac output, cardiac index, and oxygen requirements remained stable following therapy initiation. Echocardiography demonstrated improvement in right ventricular dilation and right ventricular dysfunction. Most patients were successfully bridged to lung transplantation, while only two patients died prior to transplantation. In selected patients with severe PH-ILD, parenteral treprostinil may improve pulmonary hemodynamics and facilitate a successful bridge to lung transplantation without worsening oxygenation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Past, Present, and Future of Pulmonary Hypertension: Pathophysiology and Treatment Prospects)

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26 pages, 5103 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Beyond Entertainment: A Systematic Review of the Evidence on Video Game-Based Learning

by Javier Sánchez-Trejo, Manuel Montanero and María-Jesús Fernández-Sánchez

Educ. Sci. 2026, 16(9), 1496; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci16091496 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

This paper presents a systematic review of empirical research articles published between January 2016 and June 2025 on the use of educational video games as teaching and learning resources in primary and secondary education. A total of 57 publications were selected from an [...] Read more.

This paper presents a systematic review of empirical research articles published between January 2016 and June 2025 on the use of educational video games as teaching and learning resources in primary and secondary education. A total of 57 publications were selected from an initial sample of 2602 documents, following the PRISMA guidelines. The findings reveal the growing interest that this line of research has generated within the scientific community. The intervention profile identified in most studies is based on the classroom implementation of a short serious game, designed for individual play on a computer or mobile device, and aimed at developing STEM competencies. Quantitative and mixed-methods studies predominate, mainly employing quasi-experimental group designs or survey-based approaches. These studies typically use objective or semi-objective learning assessments, together with opinion questionnaires based on Likert-type scales. The content analysis also identifies the most common limitations of the existing research, as well as several research gaps that should be addressed in future studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Game-Based Learning: Strategies, Outcomes and Challenges)

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29 pages, 1995 KB

Open AccessArticle

Development and Evaluation of a Virtual UAV Training System for Flight Skill Acquisition

by Hsuan-Yu Su, Chien-Lung Li, Chin-Chih Chang and Wernhuar Tarng

Electronics 2026, 15(18), 4133; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics15184133 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operational training is often constrained by high equipment costs, safety risks, and limited training venues. In addition, novice operators may experience stress and anxiety in safety-risk environments, adversely affecting attention, decision-making, and task performance. To overcome these challenges, this [...] Read more.

Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operational training is often constrained by high equipment costs, safety risks, and limited training venues. In addition, novice operators may experience stress and anxiety in safety-risk environments, adversely affecting attention, decision-making, and task performance. To overcome these challenges, this study developed a virtual UAV training system using Unity and C#. The system enables bidirectional command communication and real-time state synchronization between virtual and physical UAVs through UDP-based communication. A quasi-experimental design was employed to evaluate the system’s technical feasibility and training performance. Sixty university students without prior UAV experience were assigned to either the virtual or physical training group. Learning performance was assessed in terms of knowledge acquisition, flight performance, learning motivation, cognitive load, and technology acceptance. Results showed that both groups demonstrated significant improvements in knowledge and flight performance, with statistical/practical equivalence within a prespecified margin after training, indicating comparable learning achievement. The virtual training group obtained higher “Relevance” scores on the ARCS motivation scale but experienced greater extraneous cognitive load, whereas the physical training group showed higher technology acceptance. Overall, the proposed system provides a safe, flexible, and effective alternative to conventional physical UAV training. Future work may optimize the user interface to reduce extraneous cognitive load and enhance technology acceptance, improving its applicability in skills-oriented education and training. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Immersive Realities: Transformations and Challenges in VR, AR, XR, and the Metaverse)

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16 pages, 8874 KB

Open AccessArticle

Stage-Dependent Responses in Sequential Dual-Well Supercritical CO₂ Fracturing: A Sparse Second-Order Choquet Fracability Framework with Monte Carlo Uncertainty

by Feng Guo, Xiaozhong Zhang, Qing Qiao, Pengfei Hao and Guolong Zhang

Symmetry 2026, 18(9), 1527; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym18091527 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

Deep tight-reservoir fracability depends on temperature, fluid transport, in situ stress, fracture development, and injection energy, so no single response can provide a defensible ranking of fracturing conditions. This study develops a sparse second-order Choquet–Monte Carlo fracability framework. Additionally, the CRITIC method is [...] Read more.

Deep tight-reservoir fracability depends on temperature, fluid transport, in situ stress, fracture development, and injection energy, so no single response can provide a defensible ranking of fracturing conditions. This study develops a sparse second-order Choquet–Monte Carlo fracability framework. Additionally, the CRITIC method is used independently to quantify the information contrast of the five evaluation indicators. This was done using true triaxial sequential dual-well experiments conducted at 25–200 °C, horizontal stress differences of 3–9 MPa, and with either supercritical CO₂ (SC-CO₂) or water. CT scanning, U-Net segmentation, and three-dimensional reconstruction supplied fracture volume and fractal dimension; two-stage breakdown pressures and hydraulic injection work described initiation accessibility and energy demand. The CRITIC information weights were 0.261 for stress compatibility, 0.235 for injection-work demand, 0.182 for fluid mobility, 0.172 for specimen temperature, and 0.150 for pressure accessibility. The fitted second-order model identified positive temperature–fluid (0.122) and temperature–stress (0.071) non-additive coefficients, while the pressure–work coefficient was close to zero (−0.008). Sequential injection produced a consistent stage-dependent difference in breakdown pressure, with the second-stage value exceeding the first-stage value in every test. This observation is interpreted descriptively within the fixed sequential injection protocol. Condition No. 5 (SC-CO₂, 200 °C, 3 MPa) ranked first with a fracability index of 0.935 and a 95% Monte Carlo interval of 0.908–0.945. Leave-one-out cross-validation gave a Spearman coefficient of 0.830 and R² = 0.860. Within the tested domain, temperature was associated with improved fracability, particularly under the low stress-difference condition where enhanced SC-CO₂ mobility and thermal effects acted together. The framework therefore distinguishes coupled benefits, redundancies, and uncertainty that an additive score would conceal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section F: Engineering and Materials)

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20 pages, 6990 KB

Open AccessReview

Aquaculture Pathogens and Antimicrobial Resistance: A One Health Perspective

by Avani Anu Geetha, Mydhily Soorej, Elishia Alex, Dhruva Rajesh, Nikhila S. Babu, Fathima Ishani, Sreelekshmi Renjith, Athul Sajeev, Jithu Paul Jacob, Bipin G. Nair, Geetha Kumar, Aravind Madhavan and Pradeesh Babu

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(18), 8125; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27188125 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has emerged as a critical global health concern that transcends human, animal, and environmental boundaries. The extensive and often indiscriminate use of antibiotics for disease control and growth promotion has accelerated the evolution and spread of resistant pathogens within the [...] Read more.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has emerged as a critical global health concern that transcends human, animal, and environmental boundaries. The extensive and often indiscriminate use of antibiotics for disease control and growth promotion has accelerated the evolution and spread of resistant pathogens within the aquaculture sector. This review examines aquaculture-associated AMR through a One Health framework. We explore the molecular mechanisms of resistance such as efflux pumps, enzymatic degradation, mobile genetic elements, and horizontal gene transfer that drive the dissemination of antimicrobial resistance genes among aquatic microorganisms. The review synthesizes evidence linking AMR in aquaculture to public health impacts, including the transmission of resistant bacteria through seafood and environmental exposure. Current regulatory measures and stewardship policies are assessed to identify gaps in implementation, particularly in developing regions where enforcement and public awareness remain limited. Review highlights emerging alternatives such as bacteriophage therapy, engineered probiotics, synthetic microbial communities, and CRISPR-based systems as sustainable approaches to reduce antibiotic dependence. Future research priorities include the integration of genomics, artificial intelligence, and environmental DNA monitoring for precision surveillance. This review emphasis the need for cross-sectoral collaboration, innovation, and global policy coherence to mitigate AMR in aquaculture and safeguard food, environmental, and public health security. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Drug Design to Mechanistic Understanding and Resistance)

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33 pages, 5369 KB

Open AccessReview

Rare-Earth Reduction in Electric Traction Motors: A Design-Oriented Review Linking Topology, Magnetic Materials, Soft-Magnetic Cores and Windings Across Ground-Vehicle Segments

by Giampaolo Devito, Stefano Nuzzo and Davide Barater

Energies 2026, 19(18), 4316; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19184316 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

The electrification of ground transport is advancing under a constraint that is as much geopolitical as technical: the rare-earth elements used in high-energy permanent magnets, and especially the heavy-rare-earth additions required for high-coercivity grades, come from a highly concentrated and recently restricted value [...] Read more.

The electrification of ground transport is advancing under a constraint that is as much geopolitical as technical: the rare-earth elements used in high-energy permanent magnets, and especially the heavy-rare-earth additions required for high-coercivity grades, come from a highly concentrated and recently restricted value chain. This review examines how the imperative to reduce or eliminate rare-earth permanent magnets is reshaping traction-machine design across ground-vehicle segments, from city cars and hypercars to racing prototypes, heavy-duty and mining trucks, and agricultural tractors. Adopting a design-oriented perspective, it links each segment’s torque–speed and cost envelope to coordinated choices of topology, magnet strategy, soft-magnetic and conductor materials, and winding architecture. The principal candidate topologies—interior and surface permanent magnet, induction, synchronous reluctance, permanent-magnet-assisted synchronous reluctance, wound-field synchronous, and emerging axial-flux machines—are compared quantitatively and selected topologies are illustrated through previously published design case studies. The picture is nuanced: permanent-magnet machines still dominate the market, yet in representative like-for-like studies the drive-cycle efficiency penalty of magnet-free machines can be small and wound-field machines are emerging as a leading magnet-free alternative within specific operating envelopes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section F: Electrical Engineering)

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18 pages, 3302 KB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization of the Quenching Process in Insoluble Sulfur Production Based on Steady-State Process Simulation and Orthogonal Design

by Haibo Liu, Weizhao Yu, Kai Chen and Weiwei Xu

Processes 2026, 14(18), 2902; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr14182902 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

This study focuses on optimizing the quenching process for insoluble sulfur (IS) production, addressing the issues of high energy consumption and poor safety associated with the existing vaporization method. A process simulation model for a pilot-scale reactor was established using Aspen Plus V11. [...] Read more.

This study focuses on optimizing the quenching process for insoluble sulfur (IS) production, addressing the issues of high energy consumption and poor safety associated with the existing vaporization method. A process simulation model for a pilot-scale reactor was established using Aspen Plus V11. The research specifically investigated the influence patterns of three key parameters—the inlet temperature of the circulating liquid, the carbon-disulfide-to-sulfur (CS₂/S) mass ratio, and the mass ratio of circulating liquid to sulfur vapor—on the quenching effectiveness. Unlike previous Aspen Plus studies mainly directed toward overall IS production and recovery processes, the present work focuses specifically on the pilot-scale quenching stage and integrates single-factor thermodynamic analysis with a simulation-based orthogonal design to quantitatively rank the effects of the circulating liquid operating parameters. The orthogonal analysis showed that the mass feed ratio of circulating liquid to sulfur vapor was the dominant factor affecting the mixed temperature, followed by the circulating liquid inlet temperature, whereas the CS₂/S mass ratio had a comparatively smaller influence. Based on the simulated quenching behavior and thermodynamic constraints, the proposed process-level operating conditions were a CS₂:S mass ratio of 86:14–88:12, a circulating liquid inlet temperature of 50–56 °C, and a circulating liquid-to-sulfur vapor mass ratio of no less than 260:1. These results provide quantitative guidance for the steady-state optimization of the pilot-scale quenching process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Process Engineering: Process Design, Control, and Optimization)

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33 pages, 14992 KB

Open AccessArticle

Evidence-Based Reliability Assessment of Spatial Transfer Learning for Satellite-Derived Ground Deformation Monitoring

by Thalosang Tshireletso, Meghdad Bagheri and Seyed Ali Ghorashi

Remote Sens. 2026, 18(18), 3136; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs18183136 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

Satellite-derived ground deformation monitoring has become an essential tool for infrastructure management; however, the spatial heterogeneity of Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) observations limits reliable assessment in regions with sparse measurement coverage. While spatial transfer learning offers a practical means of extending deformation [...] Read more.

Satellite-derived ground deformation monitoring has become an essential tool for infrastructure management; however, the spatial heterogeneity of Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) observations limits reliable assessment in regions with sparse measurement coverage. While spatial transfer learning offers a practical means of extending deformation predictions beyond well-observed areas, existing approaches primarily emphasise predictive accuracy and provide little indication of whether transferred predictions can be trusted during operational deployment. This study presents an evidence-based reliability assessment framework for spatial transfer learning using European Ground Motion Service (EGMS) observations. The framework accompanies every prediction with complementary evidence reliability, transfer reliability, and validation-calibrated expected prediction error. The methodology was evaluated within a single 100 km × 100 km EGMS tile in Eastern England, characterised by gradual, subsidence-type ground motion, using 815 EGMS observations and deployed to assess deformation risk for 140 road corridors. The proposed local–transfer fusion achieved a mean RMSE of 1.720 mm yr⁻¹, outperforming multi-source transfer strategies. Feature–space divergence exhibited a significant positive relationship with transfer prediction error (

ρ = 0.515

,

p < 0.001

), demonstrating that environmental similarity is a stronger indicator of transfer success than structural similarity within the investigated study area. The proposed framework extends conventional transfer learning beyond prediction accuracy and provides a practical foundation for risk-informed infrastructure monitoring using satellite-derived ground deformation observations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Remote Sensing for Geospatial Science)

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24 pages, 3708 KB

Open AccessArticle

An Efficient Trajectory Planner for Fixed-Wing UAVs via Improved A*-Guided Initialization

by Zhenbin Zhang, Yongliang Chen, Yalei Bai, Hao Hou and Han’en Jiang

Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(18), 9051; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16189051 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

This study proposes an efficient trajectory planning method for fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) based on an improved A*-guided initialization strategy for complex obstacle environments. An improved three-dimensional A* method is developed to generate smooth and collision-free global paths with enhanced search efficiency [...] Read more.

This study proposes an efficient trajectory planning method for fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) based on an improved A*-guided initialization strategy for complex obstacle environments. An improved three-dimensional A* method is developed to generate smooth and collision-free global paths with enhanced search efficiency and path quality. The generated paths are then converted into dynamics-informed state and control trajectories, which serve as initial guesses for trajectory optimization. Simulation results under different obstacle complexities show that, compared with conventional linear interpolation initialization, the proposed method significantly improves solution success rate and computational efficiency, while producing more reasonable obstacle-avoidance strategies, smoother state variations, and more coordinated control inputs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advanced Methods in Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Control, Navigation, and Safety)

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19 pages, 3367 KB

Open AccessArticle

Antifungal Efficacy of Carbon Quantum Dots Combined with Photodynamic Therapy Against Alternaria alternata

by Zhi-Jing Ni, Ruo-Tong Yang, Run-Hui Ma, Wei Wang, Kiran Thakur and Zhao-Jun Wei

Foods 2026, 15(18), 3227; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15183227 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

Alternaria alternata, a major postharvest pathogen of grapes and goji berries, causes black spot disease and produces Alternaria toxins that threaten food safety and human health. Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) are emerging promising nanophotosensitizers for photodynamic antimicrobial therapy (PDT), yet their efficacy [...] Read more.

Alternaria alternata, a major postharvest pathogen of grapes and goji berries, causes black spot disease and produces Alternaria toxins that threaten food safety and human health. Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) are emerging promising nanophotosensitizers for photodynamic antimicrobial therapy (PDT), yet their efficacy against A. alternata remains unclear. This study systematically investigated the antifungal effect of CDs-PDT against A. alternata and revealed the possible mechanisms at cellular and physiological-biochemical levels. The inhibitory effect of CDs-PDT against A. alternata exhibited a clear concentration-dependent characteristic, achieving a 100% inhibition rate at 48 h; meanwhile, mycelial dry and fresh weights were reduced by 98.4% and 94.7%, respectively. The possible inhibitory mechanism of CDs-PDT against A. alternata was revealed that it damages cell wall and membrane integrity, evidenced by scanning electron microscope (SEM) observation, propidium iodide (PI) staining, increased malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and altered lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and alkaline phosphatase (AKP) activities. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation was confirmed via 2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA), 3,3′-diaminobenzidine (DAB), and nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) staining, accompanied by initial upregulation followed by collapse of antioxidant defenses, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH). CDs-PDT further impaired energy metabolism, reflected by decreased adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and acetyl-CoA content. Additionally, CDs-PDT can also increase A. alternata’s sensitivity to exogenous stress. These results indicate that CDs-PDT is an effective strategy for controlling A. alternata diseases and provide mechanistic insights into future nanophotosensitizer-based antifungal research in postharvest grape and goji berries management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Research on the Processing Technology and Quality Control of Fruit and Vegetables)

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22 pages, 3672 KB

Open AccessArticle

RIS-UAV Joint Emergency Rescue Communication Network Performance Based on an Improved TD3 Scheme

by Shuqi Wang and Yaqi Wang

Mathematics 2026, 14(18), 3312; https://doi.org/10.3390/math14183312 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

Post-disaster environments involve severe blockage, strong scattering, deep shadowing, and heavy-tailed fading, making reliable emergency communication and life-sign sensing difficult. This study develops a STAR-RIS-assisted UAV emergency rescue network and models the control-center-to-UAV link using power-law path loss and Rician fading, while the [...] Read more.

Post-disaster environments involve severe blockage, strong scattering, deep shadowing, and heavy-tailed fading, making reliable emergency communication and life-sign sensing difficult. This study develops a STAR-RIS-assisted UAV emergency rescue network and models the control-center-to-UAV link using power-law path loss and Rician fading, while the UAV-to-user and UAV-to-target links are characterized by the Fisher–Snedecor F distribution to capture debris obstruction and multipath effects. To jointly optimize communication throughput and life-detection accuracy, an improved GD-TD3 algorithm is proposed by integrating a GRU-based temporal memory module, Softmax value smoothing, and Gaussian action exploration. The method jointly controls UAV deployment, RIS phase shifts, and communication-sensing power allocation under time-varying obstruction. Simulation results show that activating only 50% activation ratio preserves approximately 81% of the sensing performance achieved by the Full-array STAR-RIS benchmark. In dynamic high-obstruction scenarios, GD-TD3 achieves about 72% communication coverage, a 68% sensing detection rate, and an 87% system detection rate while maintaining 3.4–3.8 Gbps throughput and 0.5594 Mbps/J energy efficiency. These results demonstrate robust integrated communication and sensing performance while maintaining competitive energy efficiency under severe dynamic obstruction. Full article

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14 pages, 244 KB

Open AccessArticle

Combining Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation with Activity Based Training in Children with Chronic Cervical Spinal Cord Injury: A Retrospective Case Series

by Kathryn Noonan-Eaton, Beatrice Ugiliweneza, Andrea L. Behrman and Goutam Singh

Children 2026, 13(9), 1234; https://doi.org/10.3390/children13091234 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is a promising adjunct to activity-based training for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). While lower extremity NMES applications are well documented, upper extremity (UE) outcomes remain underexplored in pediatric SCI. The objective of this case series was [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is a promising adjunct to activity-based training for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). While lower extremity NMES applications are well documented, upper extremity (UE) outcomes remain underexplored in pediatric SCI. The objective of this case series was to evaluate outcomes following a combined NMES and activity-based therapy program targeting the UE in children with chronic SCI. Methods: In this retrospective case series, we analyzed outcomes from five children, ages 4 to 15 years old, with chronic cervical level SCI who completed an individualized activity-based training program with concurrent wide pulse neuromuscular electrical stimulation (WPS-NMES). Participants were children with chronic SCI (≥6 months post-injury). Functional assessments were conducted by pre- and post-intervention. Pre- and post-intervention outcomes were summarized descriptively at the individual case level. Results: Five children with chronic cervical SCI (ages 4–15 years) completed a mean of 54 intervention sessions. All patients demonstrated improved trunk control, with Segmental Assessment of Trunk Control (SATCo) increases of 1–6 points. UE gains on the Peds-NRS were observed in 4/5 patients, primarily in overhead reach and object-to-mouth items. Box and Blocks Test scores improved in 4/5 patients in at least one UE, while one patient remained at 0 bilaterally, and one patient experienced a unilateral decline. One patient demonstrated proximal and trunk improvements without changes in manual dexterity. No unanticipated adverse events were reported. Conclusions: Observed improvements in selected trunk and UE outcomes occurred during participation in a multimodal rehabilitation program incorporating WPS-NMES. These preliminary findings describe functional changes observed during the rehabilitation program and may help inform the design of future controlled studies evaluating multimodal rehabilitation approaches for children with chronic SCI. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Neurology & Neurodevelopmental Disorders)

39 pages, 3489 KB

Open AccessArticle

Universal Access by Design: Archetypal Inquiry & Reflexive Approaches for Enriched Learner Experiences

by Rebecca C. Lubin

Educ. Sci. 2026, 16(9), 1495; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci16091495 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) has advanced inclusive education by positioning learner variability as an anticipated condition of instructional design and emphasizing the proactive reduction of barriers. Yet, structural accessibility alone does not fully explain how learners and educators experience belonging, construct identity, [...] Read more.

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) has advanced inclusive education by positioning learner variability as an anticipated condition of instructional design and emphasizing the proactive reduction of barriers. Yet, structural accessibility alone does not fully explain how learners and educators experience belonging, construct identity, exercise agency, or translate lived experience into pedagogical decision-making. This study examines how these interpretive dimensions of learning may extend existing approaches to inclusive educational design. Using a Phase I exploratory Design-Based Research methodology, the study investigated the reflexive and pedagogical experiences of 20 leaders of learning working across educator preparation, professional learning, and school-based instructional contexts in the United States. Participants included 12 faculty leaders facilitating graduate-level or professional learning experiences and 8 teacher leaders engaged in school-based instructional practice. The inquiry was designed for conceptual development rather than intervention validation, examining how authentic professional experiences could inform the emergence of an identity-responsive framework for inclusive educational design. Prototypical Narration Surfacing and Synthesis served as the interpretive methodology through which lived experience was surfaced, interpreted, and synthesized across participant narratives, instructional artifacts, observation records, coaching documentation, and portfolio evidence. Narrative inquiry, thematic analysis, iterative coding, and cross-context interpretation supported the identification of recurring developmental patterns. Findings indicated that professional growth extended beyond the acquisition of discrete instructional competencies and was experienced as an interconnected process of identity development, belonging, self-efficacy, professional agency, and pedagogical reasoning. Across faculty leaders and teacher leaders, reflexive interpretation increasingly informed intentional instructional decision-making and more responsive approaches to learner variability. Cross-context synthesis further revealed recurring developmental orientations related to challenge, agency, belonging, identity, and transformation. These patterns contributed to the emergence of Archetypal Inquiry as a provisional, anti-reductionist interpretive lens rather than a predetermined participant classification system. The iterative synthesis of: (a) structural accessibility, (b) lived experience, (c) reflexive interpretation, (d) pedagogical reasoning, and (e) contextual responsiveness, subsequently informed Universal Access by Design, an emerging Phase I conceptual framework for identity-responsive inclusive education. The study suggests that inclusive educational design may be strengthened when UDL’s structural commitments are complemented by attention to how learners and leaders interpret experience, construct identity, and continually redesign educational environments in response to emerging evidence. Universal Access by Design is therefore offered not as a replacement for UDL or as a validated intervention, but as a provisional framework and foundation for continued Design-Based Research, implementation, and empirical refinement across diverse educational settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Empowering Inclusive Practice in Higher Education)

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21 pages, 6385 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Evolution of SLC12 Transporters in Tilapias and Salinity-Responsive Expression in Nile Tilapia

by Jin-Min Pan, Liu-Yang Li, Meng-Fan Dong, Qian-Hui Chen and Jun-Hong Xia

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(18), 8124; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27188124 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

Tilapia species differ markedly in salinity tolerance, providing a useful system for investigating the molecular basis of osmotic adaptation. The solute carrier family 12 (SLC12) encodes cation–chloride cotransporters that play central roles in ion homeostasis and osmoregulation. Here, we compared the [...] Read more.

Tilapia species differ markedly in salinity tolerance, providing a useful system for investigating the molecular basis of osmotic adaptation. The solute carrier family 12 (SLC12) encodes cation–chloride cotransporters that play central roles in ion homeostasis and osmoregulation. Here, we compared the SLC12 gene family among Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), Mozambique tilapia (O. mossambicus), and blue tilapia (O. aureus) using comparative genomic, phylogenetic, protein-structural, and chromosomal analyses. Separately, we re-analyzed a published long-term salinity RNA-seq dataset from GIFT Nile tilapia maintained for 3.5 months at 0, 17, or 27 ppt, focusing on SLC12 expression in the gill, intestine, and skin. All three tilapia species contained 17 SLC12 loci with identical subfamily copy numbers and broadly conserved chromosomal distributions. In the Nile tilapia transcriptomic dataset, paralogous SLC12A2, SLC12A7, and SLC12A10 copies displayed distinct tissue- and salinity-dependent expression patterns. SLC12A8 also showed salinity-responsive expression in Nile tilapia, prompting further comparative sequence and structural analysis. The three SLC12A8 orthologs were broadly similar in sequence and predicted structure, although several species-specific residue differences were observed. These findings reveal overall conservation of the SLC12 family among tilapias, identify salinity-responsive expression differences among paralogous members in Nile tilapia and interspecific sequence variation in SLC12A8, and provide candidate features for further functional investigation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetic Architecture and Molecular Breeding of Economically Important Traits in Marine Fish)

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19 pages, 3239 KB

Open AccessArticle

Parameter Calibration and Experimentation of a Discrete Element Model for Tomato Stems

by Xifeng Liang, Taiyang Wang, Wenshuo Gao, Baiyang Gu, Hui Zhang and Yebo Qin

Agronomy 2026, 16(18), 1791; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy16181791 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

Tomato pruning robots are limited by the absence of accurate shear simulation models for tomato stems. Conventional homogeneous discrete element models are incapable of characterizing the multi-layer heterogeneous structure of tomato stems, which gives rise to significant simulation deviations. With Zheza No. 8 [...] Read more.

Tomato pruning robots are limited by the absence of accurate shear simulation models for tomato stems. Conventional homogeneous discrete element models are incapable of characterizing the multi-layer heterogeneous structure of tomato stems, which gives rise to significant simulation deviations. With Zheza No. 8 tomato stems as research objects, this study measured intrinsic and contact parameters through physical tests and constructed a three-layer bonded discrete element model to simulate the epidermis, xylem and pith with particles of different sizes. Bonding parameters were calibrated using a two-level factorial design, steepest ascent test and Box–Behnken design with shear force as the evaluation index. The optimal parameters reduced simulation errors by 75.8% and 43.7% relative to traditional and pre-optimized models, and accurately reproduced the double-peak shear behavior. The model accuracy improves with xylem maturation, providing a dependable simulation method for the optimization of tomato pruning robots. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Facility Agriculture Robots and Autonomous Unmanned Management for Crops—2nd Edition)

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13 pages, 2263 KB

Open AccessArticle

An Ultra-Thin Screen-Printed Conductive Film for Fragment Velocity Measurement: Design, Simulation, and Experimental Validation

by Wanchun Jiang, Jun Yang, Jin Li, Difeng Sun, Min Zhang, Ze Jiao, WenXiang Liu and Dezhi Zhang

Sensors 2026, 26(18), 5792; https://doi.org/10.3390/s26185792 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

Laser-screen targets suffer from prolonged response time, and printed-circuit-board (PCB) targets induce substantial kinetic energy loss of fragments upon penetration. To mitigate these technical limitations, this study develops a novel screen-printed velocity measurement film (VMF) characterized by a fast response time and low [...] Read more.

Laser-screen targets suffer from prolonged response time, and printed-circuit-board (PCB) targets induce substantial kinetic energy loss of fragments upon penetration. To mitigate these technical limitations, this study develops a novel screen-printed velocity measurement film (VMF) characterized by a fast response time and low kinetic energy loss. The proposed VMF consists of silver conductive grids and a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate, with an ultra-thin overall thickness of 0.175 mm and identical width and spacing of 0.8 mm for all silver strips. This work comprehensively elaborates the film fabrication procedure and validates its practical engineering performance through live-fire fragment penetration experiments. Experimental results demonstrate that the VMF achieves an average response time of 0.14 μs under metallic fragment impact, with average fragment kinetic energy losses of 1.32 J and 2.09 J when penetrating the first and second VMF layers, respectively. Owing to its rapid transient response and minimal interference with fragment flight trajectories, the designed VMF effectively improves the precision of fragment velocity measurement, possessing great application potential for field blast-testing scenarios. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Electronic Sensors)

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19 pages, 2312 KB

Open AccessArticle

Algorithmic Bias and Logical Inconsistency in LLM-Generated Code

by Puspha Raj Pandeya and Igor Crk

Big Data Cogn. Comput. 2026, 10(9), 313; https://doi.org/10.3390/bdcc10090313 (registering DOI) - 12 Sep 2026

Abstract

Generative AI enables both software engineers and non-programmer domain experts to easily generate executable code. However, software engineers often lack domain-specific nuance to detect subtle AI logic errors, while domain experts typically lack the programming expertise required to audit the algorithms they are [...] Read more.

Generative AI enables both software engineers and non-programmer domain experts to easily generate executable code. However, software engineers often lack domain-specific nuance to detect subtle AI logic errors, while domain experts typically lack the programming expertise required to audit the algorithms they are generating. Hence, this study investigates generative logic instability, unprompted threshold injections, and output divergence encountered when generated functions are executed. We construct a framework termed Combinatorial Logic Auditing, which identifies input variables in generated functions and uses combinatorial input generation to test for state changes. We present evidence of functional divergence, numeric threshold injection, and generative logic instability across multiple executions of identical prompts in a number of application domains. This research highlights the need for developers to adopt rigorous and comprehensive evaluation strategies to ensure the fairness, correctness, and reliability of code constructed with the assistance of generative AI and for robust and scalable auditing frameworks which support these goals. The anomalies documented in this study reveal the possibility of ethical vulnerabilities in AI-assisted software generation: without explicit auditing for proxy divergence and threshold injections, there exists a risk of deploying unverified, discriminatory logic at scale. Full article

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