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23 pages, 6546 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrated Immunohistochemical and Ultrastructural Characterization of Layer-Specific Capillary Specialization in the Human Vocal Fold

by Roxana-Andreea Popa, Cosmin-Gabriel Popa, Delia Hînganu, Fabian Cezar Lupu, Cristinel Ionel Stan and Marius Valeriu Hînganu

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(14), 6193; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27146193 (registering DOI) - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

The human true vocal fold exhibits a complex microvascular organization essential for its biomechanical and metabolic function. This study aimed to quantitatively assess CD31/PECAM-1-positive microvascular structures across the superficial lamina propria (SLP), deep lamina propria (DLP), and vocalis muscle (MV), and to integrate [...] Read more.

The human true vocal fold exhibits a complex microvascular organization essential for its biomechanical and metabolic function. This study aimed to quantitatively assess CD31/PECAM-1-positive microvascular structures across the superficial lamina propria (SLP), deep lamina propria (DLP), and vocalis muscle (MV), and to integrate these findings with neuron-specific enolase (NSE) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations. A retrospective analysis was performed on 21 formalin-fixed specimens. CD31 immunohistochemistry was used for endothelial identification, NSE immunohistochemistry was applied for the evaluation of neural elements, while SEM provided complementary ultrastructural information on extracellular matrix organization. Total microvascular density differed significantly among layers (χ² = 32.12, df = 2, p = 1.06 × 10⁻⁷; Kendall’s W = 0.77), with highest values in MV (19.11 ± 6.22 vessels/field), followed by SLP (13.55 ± 3.93), and DLP (8.11 ± 2.41). Capillary density also showed significant inter-layer differences (p = 1.99 × 10⁻⁷), whereas small- and medium-caliber vessels did not (p = 0.081 and p = 0.538). NSE-positive neural profiles exhibited a similar distribution pattern, with higher density in the MV and lower values in the DLP. Inter-observer agreement was excellent (ICC = 0.91). Integrated analysis indicated a parallel spatial distribution of vascular, neural, and extracellular matrix components across vocal fold layers. This study provides a quantitative and structural baseline of the vocal fold microenvironment. This descriptive framework may inform future investigations of the layer-specific organization of vascular and neural-associated structures within the human vocal fold microenvironment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Structure and Function of Subcellular Organelle and Protein-Membrane Systems)

19 pages, 1965 KB

Open AccessArticle

Methodological Framework to Evaluate Entomopathogenic Fungi and Rhizobial Co-Inoculation Effects on Plant Growth and Root Morphology

by Tamiris dos Santos Lopes, Emily Mesquita, Joana da Rocha Matos, Thais Almeida Correa, Tadeu Augusto van Tol de Castro, Andrés Calderín Garcia, João Luiz Lopes Monteiro Neto, Gabriela Cavalcanti Alves, Jerri Édson Zilli, Isabele da Costa Angelo, Wendell Marcelo de Souza Perinotto, Vânia Rita Elias Pinheiro Bittencourt and Patrícia Silva Golo

Plants 2026, 15(14), 2141; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15142141 (registering DOI) - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

Entomopathogenic fungi are increasingly recognized as multifunctional bioinputs, but robust methodological approaches are needed to evaluate their compatibility with established microbial inoculants and their effects on plant performance. Our study proposes an integrative framework to assess Metarhizium–Bradyrhizobium interactions in soybean (Glycine max [...] Read more.

Entomopathogenic fungi are increasingly recognized as multifunctional bioinputs, but robust methodological approaches are needed to evaluate their compatibility with established microbial inoculants and their effects on plant performance. Our study proposes an integrative framework to assess Metarhizium–Bradyrhizobium interactions in soybean (Glycine max), combining laboratory compatibility screening with greenhouse assessment. First, Metarhizium anisopliae LCM S04 and Metarhizium brunneum LCM S11 were tested against Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens BR 85 (=SEMIA 5080) and Bradyrhizobium japonicum BR 86 (=SEMIA 5079) using dual-culture assays in a medium that supported the growth of both fungal and bacterial partners, allowing direct evaluation of intermicrobial compatibility. Subsequently, the microorganisms were evaluated in soybean under greenhouse conditions through direct seed inoculation. Each seed received bacterial culture, fungal suspension, or both (including absolute and nitrogen-fertilized controls). Plants were maintained under controlled conditions for 47 days. Plant height, leaf production, branching, nodulation, biomass, and root morphology were assessed. No inhibition zones were observed in vitro, and co-inoculation did not impair nodulation. The combination BR 86 + LCM S04 improved fine root number in soybean. This framework provides a reproducible approach for evaluating microbial compatibility and functional bioinput benefits and can be adapted to crops other than soybean. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Methods for Evaluating the Benefits of Bioinputs: From Laboratory Analyses to Practical Field Assays)

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24 pages, 654 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Conceptual Model of Hybrid Intelligent Assessment Systems for Higher Education

by Slavko Rakic, Janika Leoste, Einar Kivisalu, Jaanus Pöial and Voldemar Tomusk

Educ. Sci. 2026, 16(7), 1109; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci16071109 (registering DOI) - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

Rapidly expanding use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) in higher education creates both opportunities and challenges for learning assessment. While GenAI can provide adaptive feedback and personalization, its pedagogical integration remains underdeveloped and often disconnected from established theories of learning and participatory design [...] Read more.

Rapidly expanding use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) in higher education creates both opportunities and challenges for learning assessment. While GenAI can provide adaptive feedback and personalization, its pedagogical integration remains underdeveloped and often disconnected from established theories of learning and participatory design processes. This paper addresses this gap by proposing an integrative conceptual model of Hybrid Intelligent Assessment Systems (HIAS), which combines AI capabilities with human oversight to enable transparent, ethical, and pedagogically aligned assessment. HIAS is structured through three interdependent layers of adoption: a pedagogical layer, aligning AI-supported assessment with self-regulated learning and the development of knowledge, skills, and attitudes; a governance layer, ensuring transparency, fairness, and human-in-the-loop validation; and a technological layer, enabling scalable integration within digital learning environments. The study is situated in Estonia, a digitally advanced context with system-level AI integration through the national AI Leap initiative. To complement the conceptual model, an empirical study was conducted across three major Estonian universities, involving 66 professors and researchers and 153 students. In addition, a small-scale pilot implementation was conducted in a design thinking course to explore the practical feasibility of a course-specific HIAS-based AI assistant. The findings reveal a consistent pattern: while both groups demonstrate a broadly positive orientation toward AI, students approach AI primarily as an efficiency-driven learning tool, whereas academic staff emphasize pedagogical control, ethical considerations, and responsible use. Across both groups, AI literacy remains uneven, particularly in critical evaluation and structured application. These findings expose a critical gap between rapid AI adoption and insufficient pedagogical integration. In response, HIAS is proposed as a structured, human-centered framework that supports teachers in designing AI-enhanced learning environments and students in developing critical, self-regulated, and responsible use of AI. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic EdTech and Industry 5.0: Digital Transformation, Sustainability and Innovation)

28 pages, 3870 KB

Open AccessArticle

Targeting PD-1/PD-L1-MAPK1 Signaling by a Novel Synergistic Combination of Rivastigmine and Epigallocatechin in Alzheimer’s Disease: An Integrated In Silico Approach

by Bhaswati Das and Marakanam Srinivasan Umashankar

Sci. Pharm. 2026, 94(3), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/scipharm94030057 - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

This study investigates the synergistic therapeutic potential of Rivastigmine (RVG) and Epigallocatechin (EGC) in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a multifactorial neurodegenerative disorder characterized by neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and dysregulated signaling pathways. Conventional therapies primarily provide symptomatic relief and target limited pathways, highlighting the need [...] Read more.

This study investigates the synergistic therapeutic potential of Rivastigmine (RVG) and Epigallocatechin (EGC) in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a multifactorial neurodegenerative disorder characterized by neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and dysregulated signaling pathways. Conventional therapies primarily provide symptomatic relief and target limited pathways, highlighting the need for multi-target strategies with improved efficacy and safety. An integrated in silico approach combining pharmacokinetic evaluation, network pharmacology, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations is used to determine the synergistic potential of RVG and EGC. Pharmacokinetic analysis indicates favorable drug-likeness and acceptable ADME/Tox profiles for both compounds. Network pharmacology identified 146 overlapping targets associated with AD, highlighting key hub genes including NFKB1, MAPK1, STAT1, PRKACA, GRB2, LYN, and PTPN11, which are involved in neuroinflammation, synaptic signaling, and neuronal survival. Functional enrichment analysis indicated significant involvement of MAPK/ERK signaling and immune-regulatory pathways. Importantly, the PD-1/PD-L1 signaling pathway is identified as a novel mechanism connecting neuroimmune modulation with intracellular kinase-driven neurodegeneration. Molecular docking studies showed strong binding affinities of RVG and EGC toward key AD-related targets, particularly MAPK1, supported by stable hydrogen bonding and interaction profiles. Molecular dynamics simulations confirmed stable protein-ligand interactions, with EGC contributing structural stability and RVG exhibiting adaptive flexibility within the binding pocket. These results suggest that the RVG-EGC combination exhibits synergistic potential by simultaneously modulating neuroinflammatory, oxidative stress, and kinase-mediated signaling pathways. The integration of PD-1/PD-L1 and MAPK/ERK signaling provides a novel mechanistic pathway for multi-target therapeutic intervention in AD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computer-Aided Drug Design and Molecular Synthesis)

35 pages, 1649 KB

Open AccessArticle

Blockchain-Enabled Trust and Compliance for Clinical AI: Decentralized Governance Without Decentralized Data Storage

by Dimitrios P. Panagoulias, Andrei Ionut Damian, Cosmin Stamate, Vitalii Toderian, Petrica Butusina, Alessandro De Franceschi, Cristian Bleotiu, Evangelos Sakkopoulos and Evangelia-Aikaterini Tsichrintzi

Electronics 2026, 15(14), 3046; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics15143046 - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

Clinical AI systems rely on evolving machine learning pipelines and large-scale medical imaging data, creating persistent challenges in trust, auditability, consent governance, and reproducibility. This paper proposes a decentralized governance framework for clinical AI that uses blockchain as a verification and policy-enforcement overlay [...] Read more.

Clinical AI systems rely on evolving machine learning pipelines and large-scale medical imaging data, creating persistent challenges in trust, auditability, consent governance, and reproducibility. This paper proposes a decentralized governance framework for clinical AI that uses blockchain as a verification and policy-enforcement overlay without decentralizing sensitive medical data storage or clinical inference. Raw images and clinical artifacts remain in secure repositories, while cryptographic commitments, consent states, access events, and reproducibility manifests are anchored to a tamper-evident ledger. The framework enables verifiable provenance, programmable consent enforcement, auditable execution, and deterministic reconstruction of AI-assisted decisions while preserving regulatory alignment and clinical usability. In a medical imaging proof-of-concept spanning nine simulated scenarios and approximately 43,500 inference attempts across cohorts of 50 to 1000 subjects, the framework achieved a mean Governance Quality Index of 0.93, governance overhead below 11 ms per operation under routine settings, and throughput above 220 requests per second on average. Complementary validation over a real-world paired imaging-and-clinical dataset structure further showed that the same governance abstractions can be instantiated for 625 subjects and 6349 MR images. Overall, the framework separates governance from data and computation, providing verifiable auditability and reproducibility without disrupting existing clinical infrastructures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Trends and Prospects in AI-Empowered Information Systems and Technologies)

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35 pages, 5113 KB

Open AccessArticle

Additively Manufactured Bionic Cellular Metamaterials with Controllable Thermal Conductivity—Mathematical Models and Experimental Research

by Beata Anwajler

Materials 2026, 19(14), 2992; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19142992 - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

Bio-inspired cellular metamaterials manufactured using additive manufacturing technologies provide a promising route for controlling thermal transport properties through architecture rather than through the intrinsic properties of the constituent material. This study investigates steady-state heat transfer in open-cell lattice structures comprising 20 different lattice [...] Read more.

Bio-inspired cellular metamaterials manufactured using additive manufacturing technologies provide a promising route for controlling thermal transport properties through architecture rather than through the intrinsic properties of the constituent material. This study investigates steady-state heat transfer in open-cell lattice structures comprising 20 different lattice metamaterial specimens representing various classes of cellular architecture. These include Kelvin, auxetic, BCCZ, BCC, cube, Z-cuboctahedron, diamond, FCC, FBCCXYZ, FCCZ, FBCC, G7, isostructure, octahedron, octet structure, rhombohedral dodecahedron, truncated cuboctahedron and truncated cube, all of which are made from polymer materials. The investigated architectures were inspired by functional principles observed in natural cellular systems, including cancellous bone, wood, coral skeletons, and other biological porous materials, where efficient transport processes are achieved through optimized material distribution and interconnected cellular networks. A theoretical model combining conduction through the lattice skeleton, radiative heat transfer within pores and potential convective contributions was developed using homogenization theory and representative volume element analysis. The experiment confirmed the main hypothesis of this study as described by the mathematical model. Experimental validation also confirmed that the homogenization model correctly predicts the thermal conductivity of open-cell lattice structures in highly porous materials with a porosity of around 0.95. The results demonstrate the potential of biomimetic cellular design for the development of lightweight thermal-management materials with programmable thermal transport properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Biomimetic Materials: Structural Design and Function Development)

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11 pages, 1205 KB

Open AccessArticle

Patients with Crohn’s Disease Achieving Ustekinumab-Induced Remission Are Characterized by Increased Baseline IL-23 Receptor Expression on Lamina Propria Th1 Cells

by Sara Onali, Amalia di Petrillo, Agnese Favale, Rita Pillai and Massimo Claudio Fantini

J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(14), 5434; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15145434 - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Ustekinumab, targeting the shared p40 subunit of interleukin (IL)-12 and IL-23, is an effective therapy for Crohn’s disease (CD), yet reliable predictors of response remain lacking. Given the central role of the IL-12/IL-23 axis in intestinal inflammation, we aimed to characterize the [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Ustekinumab, targeting the shared p40 subunit of interleukin (IL)-12 and IL-23, is an effective therapy for Crohn’s disease (CD), yet reliable predictors of response remain lacking. Given the central role of the IL-12/IL-23 axis in intestinal inflammation, we aimed to characterize the baseline mucosal expression of IL-12/IL-23 pathway components in lamina propria immune cells, and to explore their association with clinical response and remission following ustekinumab therapy. Methods: In this prospective, single-center study, biopsy-derived lamina propria mononuclear cells (LPMCs) were obtained from patients with CD prior to ustekinumab initiation. Gene expression of IL-12/IL-23 cytokine subunits and receptors was assessed by quantitative real-time PCR. Flow cytometry was performed to evaluate the distribution of T helper and innate lymphoid cell subsets and the expression of IL-23R and IL-12Rβ2. Clinical outcomes were assessed at week 16. Results: Fifteen consecutive patients were enrolled and included in the study. At week 16, 14/15 (93.3%) and 9/15 (60.0%) of patients reached clinical response and remission, respectively. No statistically significant differences in baseline mucosal gene expression of IL-12/IL-23 pathway components were observed between remitters and non-remitters. A trend toward higher expression of receptor subunits (IL23R, IL12RB1, IL12RB2) was observed in remitters, albeit with high variability and overlapping distributions. Similarly, cytokine subunits (IL23p19, IL12/IL23p40, IL12p35) showed no consistent differential expression pattern between the groups. In contrast, flow cytometry revealed a significantly higher frequency of IL-23R-expressing Th1 cells in remitters compared with non-remitters (20.6% vs. 6.8%, p = 0.009). Conclusions: Baseline transcriptional profiling of IL-12/IL-23 pathway components was not associated with remission following ustekinumab therapy. However, increased expression of IL-23R on mucosal Th1 cells identified a distinct immunological signature associated with clinical remission, suggesting that IL-23R expression on mucosal Th1 cells may represent a promising candidate biomarker that requires validation in larger independent cohorts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Research and Personalized Medicine in Inflammatory Bowel Disease)

16 pages, 3020 KB

Open AccessArticle

Composite Membrane Electrodes Based on Graphite Materials from Lignin: Formation and Properties

by Mikhail Serbinovsky and Olga Popova

Polymers 2026, 18(14), 1706; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym18141706 - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

The formation technology, structure, and properties of composite membranes based on graphite materials obtained from hydrolytic lignin are studied. Lignin, a large-tonnage polymer waste with high energy potential, is an environmentally friendly and promising material for electrodes. Graphite obtained from lignin is characterized [...] Read more.

The formation technology, structure, and properties of composite membranes based on graphite materials obtained from hydrolytic lignin are studied. Lignin, a large-tonnage polymer waste with high energy potential, is an environmentally friendly and promising material for electrodes. Graphite obtained from lignin is characterized by high purity and fine dispersion, which contributes to its increased efficiency in electrochemical systems. Methods for forming membrane electrodes using various binders and solvents have been developed and have improved the mechanical and rheological properties of the composites. The introduction of surfactants and stabilizers into the paste-like composition contributes to the increased strength and ductility of the resulting materials. The study results show that optimization of the liquid phase composition and the selection of suitable binders are key factors in achieving high-performance characteristics in electrode materials. In particular, the use of aqueous–alcoholic solutions and various surfactants significantly improves the wettability and ductility of the pastes, facilitating the electrode formation process. The heat resistance of the obtained membranes is at least 630–650 °C, which makes them promising for use in modern energy storage systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Polymers for Energy Storage and Delivery)

25 pages, 3845 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dual-Functional Gel-Based Delivery of Chitosan-Coated Gold Nanoparticles for Accelerated Bone Healing in Defect Models

by Noha M. Badawi, Shereen Nader Raafat, Mohamed M. Kataia, Caroline Maged Massieh, Sherihan Ahmed Sayed, Asmaa Saleh, Jawaher Abdullah Alamoudi and Hadeel A. Mousa

Pharmaceutics 2026, 18(7), 843; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics18070843 - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

Background: Effective management of bone defects remains a major clinical challenge, driving continuous efforts to develop bioactive, localized delivery systems that support bone regeneration. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have gained attention in regenerative medicine for their capacity to modulate cellular activity. Yet, their [...] Read more.

Background: Effective management of bone defects remains a major clinical challenge, driving continuous efforts to develop bioactive, localized delivery systems that support bone regeneration. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have gained attention in regenerative medicine for their capacity to modulate cellular activity. Yet, their application in functional delivery systems for bone repair is still limited. Chitosan (CS), a naturally derived biopolymer, exhibits notable osteoinductive properties, particularly when used to modify nanoparticulate carriers. Objectives: In this study, AuNPs and chitosan-coated gold nanoparticles (CS-AuNPs) were formulated, characterized, and incorporated into gel preparations to evaluate their physicochemical properties and therapeutic potential in a rat tibial bone defect model. Methods: AuNPs were synthesized and either left uncoated or coated with CS to enhance biological activity. Both formulations were examined for particle size, zeta potential, X-ray diffraction, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The resulting nanoparticles were integrated into gel bases, which were assessed for gel strength, swelling index, viscosity, and pH. The in vivo study involved surgically induced bone defects in the tibias of albino rats treated with either formulation. Healing outcomes were assessed via histological analysis, quantification of newly formed bone, immunohistochemical staining, radiographic imaging, and measurement of bone-related markers using RT-qPCR. Results: The CS-AuNP gel formulation demonstrated significantly improved bone regeneration compared to the uncoated counterpart, as evidenced by histological findings, increased bone volume in radiographs, stronger immunohistochemical expression of the VEGF angiogenic protein marker, and increased genetic expression of osteogenic markers. Conclusions: Incorporating CS-AuNPs into gel formulations offers a promising approach for enhancing bone healing. The superior performance of the CS-coated system highlights its potential as a promising localized therapy for managing bone defects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Drug Delivery and Controlled Release)

26 pages, 2818 KB

Open AccessArticle

Field Testing and Calibration of Building Hermetic Doors Under Extreme Bipolar Pressure Scenarios

by Weitao Luo, Shudi Wang, Dan Zhao, Haoyang Li, Yuqing Lin, Jiangnan Wang and Chenyi Ye

Buildings 2026, 16(14), 2754; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16142754 - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

Hermetic doors with high sealing performance are critically important for safety critical buildings, such as hospital operating rooms, biological laboratories, and underground shelters. Nevertheless, field-measured leakage data for such doors under extreme pressure conditions remain extremely scarce, and the underlying leakage characteristics remain [...] Read more.

Hermetic doors with high sealing performance are critically important for safety critical buildings, such as hospital operating rooms, biological laboratories, and underground shelters. Nevertheless, field-measured leakage data for such doors under extreme pressure conditions remain extremely scarce, and the underlying leakage characteristics remain largely unclear. In this study, the leakage rates of two sizes (1.2 m × 2.3 m and 4.8 m × 4.45 m) of hermetic doors were measured in a model structure using the fan pressurization method under extreme bipolar pressure (±1500 Pa) with stepwise loading. A correlation curve between the pressure differential and the leakage rate was subsequently established and adopted as a boundary condition in Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models, and CFD simulations revealed that this curve conveniently calibrates the performance of high-airtightness doors in entire buildings. The results show that this equivalent boundary condition method effectively enhances the efficiency and accuracy of numerical simulations for complex structures, thereby providing a theoretical basis for future building designs requiring high airtightness and facilitating the calibration of leakage characteristics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)

24 pages, 2886 KB

Open AccessArticle

A 5-Adic Ultrametric Framework for Alignment-Free Phylogenetic Analysis of Hantavirus RNA Sequences

by Anselmo Torresblanca-Badillo

Mathematics 2026, 14(14), 2498; https://doi.org/10.3390/math14142498 - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

We develop a non-Archimedean framework for the representation and analysis of genomic sequences based on the arithmetic and geometric structure of the ring of 5-adic integers. The proposed approach associates RNA sequences with points in a compact ultrametric space through an injective symbolic-to-arithmetic [...] Read more.

We develop a non-Archimedean framework for the representation and analysis of genomic sequences based on the arithmetic and geometric structure of the ring of 5-adic integers. The proposed approach associates RNA sequences with points in a compact ultrametric space through an injective symbolic-to-arithmetic embedding that transforms genomic information into a hierarchical geometric object. We prove that the embedding is a global isometry between a natural symbolic prefix metric and the induced 5-adic metric, and we show that its image forms a compact Cantor-type subset of

Z_{5}

. Building upon this representation, we formulate a continuous-time evolutionary model governed by a Vladimirov pseudo-differential operator. The resulting non-Archimedean diffusion equation provides a mathematically rigorous mechanism for describing evolutionary transitions across hierarchical genomic scales and admits an explicit fundamental solution obtained through 5-adic Fourier analysis. We further introduce a finite-resolution projection onto quotient rings of

Z_{5}

and develop an alignment-free phylogenetic inference framework based directly on the 5-adic valuation. The induced distance function is ultrametric and naturally encodes hierarchical relationships through shared symbolic prefixes. The proposed construction establishes a bridge between p-adic analysis, ultrametric geometry, pseudo-differential operators, and computational phylogenetics. As an illustration, we discuss its application to Hantavirus genomic sequences, demonstrating how hierarchical evolutionary organization can be represented within a unified non-Archimedean mathematical framework. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section E: Applied Mathematics)

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69 pages, 6988 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Hybrid Cognitive Radio and Multi-Agent Reinforcement Learning Framework for Jamming Resilience in Integrated FANET–IoT–IoV Systems

by Rizwan Raza, Zahoor-ur-Rehman, Muddasar Naeem, Farhan Aadil, Faheem Shehzad and Antonio Coronato

Automation 2026, 7(4), 108; https://doi.org/10.3390/automation7040108 (registering DOI) - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

Flying Ad-Hoc Networks (FANETs), Internet of Things (IoT), and Internet of Vehicles (IoV) are critical enablers of intelligent transportation and smart city ecosystems. Their reliance on shared wireless channels, however, exposes them to diverse jamming attacks that threaten communication reliability, mission effectiveness, and [...] Read more.

Flying Ad-Hoc Networks (FANETs), Internet of Things (IoT), and Internet of Vehicles (IoV) are critical enablers of intelligent transportation and smart city ecosystems. Their reliance on shared wireless channels, however, exposes them to diverse jamming attacks that threaten communication reliability, mission effectiveness, and safety. This paper presents a comprehensive study of jamming threats in integrated FANET–IoT–IoV environments and analyzes conventional and advanced anti-jamming techniques across physical, link/MAC, spectral, spatial, temporal, and hybrid domains. To address the challenges posed by heterogeneous and dynamic network conditions, we propose a cross-layer anti-jamming framework that integrates Cognitive Radio (CR) for dynamic spectrum access and Multi-Agent Reinforcement Learning (MARL) for cooperative, adaptive decision-making. The framework employs a Perception Engine for local anomaly detection, a Cognitive Engine for constructing a collaborative jamming map, and a Decision and Action Engine for multi-agent DRL-based mitigation. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed CR-MARL framework significantly improves packet delivery ratio, reduces latency, and adapts efficiently to varying jamming strategies, while maintaining low energy and computational overhead, making it suitable for resource-constrained UAVs, vehicles, and IoT sensors. Full article

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18 pages, 4916 KB

Open AccessArticle

Immune–Metabolic Profiling Reveals Functional Heterogeneity Within Colorectal Cancer Consensus Molecular Subtypes

by Sergio Madurga, David López-Blanco, Carles Foguet, Sara Lahoz, Helena Oliveres, Reinaldo Moreno, Teresa Gorria, Leire Pedrosa, Silvia Marin, Mariam Rojas, Jordi Camps, Francesc Mas, Joan Maurel and Marta Cascante

Biology 2026, 15(14), 1128; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15141128 - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

The Consensus Molecular Subtype (CMS) classification provides a widely used transcriptomic framework for colorectal cancer (CRC) stratification with clear prognostic and therapeutic relevance. However, it does not fully capture the immune–metabolic heterogeneity underlying tumor–microenvironment interactions within each subtype. Here, we integrate a validated [...] Read more.

The Consensus Molecular Subtype (CMS) classification provides a widely used transcriptomic framework for colorectal cancer (CRC) stratification with clear prognostic and therapeutic relevance. However, it does not fully capture the immune–metabolic heterogeneity underlying tumor–microenvironment interactions within each subtype. Here, we integrate a validated immune–metabolic gene signature as a functional layer to refine CMS classification and systematically characterize diversity across CMS1-4 tumors. Using transcriptomic data from 2918 CRC samples across three independent cohorts (GSE1, TCGA, and GSE2), we show that CMSs display robust yet distinct immune–metabolic distributions across datasets. CMS4 tumors exhibit glycolytic, stromal-dependent, and immunosuppressive profiles, whereas CMS2 and CMS3 are enriched in oxidative and metabolically flexible states. Importantly, CMS1 tumors segregate into two major immune–metabolic profiles, revealing marked heterogeneity within this immune-activated subtype. These patterns are preserved in metastatic samples, supporting their stability across disease stages. Overall, integrating immune–metabolic profiling into CMSs reveals previously unrecognized functional heterogeneity and provides a refined framework to interpret tumor–microenvironment states. This approach facilitates the identification of context-specific metabolic vulnerabilities with potential clinical relevance. Full article

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16 pages, 1994 KB

Open AccessArticle

Clinical Reclassification of Vitamin D Status Across Three Automated Immunoassays After Comparability Study

by Adina Huțanu, Ana-Maria Fotache (Țurcan), Oana Roxana Oprea, Andreea Truța, Andrea Márta Fodor and Minodora Dobreanu

Nutrients 2026, 18(14), 2267; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18142267 - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Variability between routine laboratory immunoassays for total 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH) vitamin D) measurement may impact clinical interpretation, particularly around clinical decision thresholds. The aim of the study was to evaluate the analytical comparability and clinical interchangeability between three automated immunoassay platforms [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Variability between routine laboratory immunoassays for total 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH) vitamin D) measurement may impact clinical interpretation, particularly around clinical decision thresholds. The aim of the study was to evaluate the analytical comparability and clinical interchangeability between three automated immunoassay platforms using chemiluminescent assays (CLIA) and electrochemiluminescent assay (ECLIA) principles for total 25(OH) vitamin D and to evaluate the assay-dependent impact on patient reclassification. Methods: A total of 83 serum samples were analyzed using three automated immunoassay platforms and the between method comparability was assessed. Additionally, clinical agreement and reclassification rate were evaluated at two clinical decision thresholds, 20 ng/mL for insufficiency and 12 ng/mL for severe deficiency. Results: The comparability analysis revealed a systematic difference between methods, with a high reclassification rate between ECLIA compared to CLIA methods. Additionally, the expanded measurement uncertainty generates a clinically relevant gray zone around the clinically relevant thresholds. Conclusions: Routinely used immunoassays for total 25(OH) vitamin D measurement in clinical laboratories are not fully interchangeable, furthermore the measurement uncertainty contributes to patient reclassification, especially around the threshold of 20 ng/mL. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vitamin D Status and 25(OH)D Thresholds: From Musculoskeletal to Systemic and Beyond)

39 pages, 989 KB

Open AccessReview

Beyond GLP-1 Agonists: Plant-Derived Bioactive Compounds as Adjunctive Strategies for Obesity Management

by Aurelian Vasile, Andrei Cristian Anghel, Teodor Ioan Trasca and Alina Ortan

Nutrients 2026, 18(14), 2266; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18142266 - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

Background: Obesity has reached epidemic proportions, affecting over one billion adults worldwide. While incretin-based pharmacotherapies—GLP-1 receptor agonists (semaglutide) and dual GIP/GLP-1 agonists (tirzepatide)—have transformed obesity treatment, their use remains limited by high costs, adverse effects, restricted eligibility, and rapid weight regain following discontinuation. [...] Read more.

Background: Obesity has reached epidemic proportions, affecting over one billion adults worldwide. While incretin-based pharmacotherapies—GLP-1 receptor agonists (semaglutide) and dual GIP/GLP-1 agonists (tirzepatide)—have transformed obesity treatment, their use remains limited by high costs, adverse effects, restricted eligibility, and rapid weight regain following discontinuation. Plant-derived bioactive compounds represent a promising complementary approach to address these gaps. Objective: This narrative review synthesizes clinical trial evidence on plant-based interventions for obesity management and examines their potential role as adjunctive strategies before, during, and after incretin-based pharmacotherapy. Methods: A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (2012–2026), prioritizing randomized controlled trials in adults with overweight or obesity reporting at least one obesity-related metabolic outcome. Sixty-one studies were selected and classified by efficacy tier based on the magnitude and breadth of observed clinical effects. Results: The strongest evidence supports polyphenol-rich dietary patterns, particularly the green-Mediterranean diet, producing significant reductions in body weight, visceral fat, and cardiometabolic risk markers. Specific extracts—including curcumin, bergamot polyphenols, and Lippia citriodora/Hibiscus sabdariffa combinations—demonstrated clinically meaningful metabolic improvements. Isolated high-dose resveratrol and several single-compound interventions showed limited benefit, largely attributable to poor bioavailability. The most effective compounds acted through multiple pathways, including AMPK activation, gut microbiota modulation, and appetite hormone regulation. Conclusions: Plant-derived bioactive compounds offer a safe, accessible adjunctive strategy for obesity management, particularly relevant for patients ineligible for or discontinuing pharmacotherapy. Future trials should directly evaluate plant-polyphenol combinations alongside GLP-1 receptor agonists. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Foods and Dietary Supplements in Supporting Health and Reducing Consumption and Reliance on Medications)

16 pages, 558 KB

Open AccessArticle

Vicarious Trauma, Rumination, and Vicarious Post-Traumatic Growth: Rethinking the Role of Clinical Supervision

by Sruthi Joy and Shinto Thomas

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(7), 1167; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16071167 - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

Mental health professionals are exposed to clients’ traumatic experiences, placing them at risk for vicarious trauma (VT). However, such exposure may also facilitate vicarious post-traumatic growth (VPTG). The present study examined the mediating role of rumination (intrusive and deliberate) in the relationship between [...] Read more.

Mental health professionals are exposed to clients’ traumatic experiences, placing them at risk for vicarious trauma (VT). However, such exposure may also facilitate vicarious post-traumatic growth (VPTG). The present study examined the mediating role of rumination (intrusive and deliberate) in the relationship between VT and VPTG, and the moderating role of clinical supervision. The personal trauma history of the therapist was kept as a covariate. Using a cross-sectional correlational design, data were collected from 278 mental health professionals, including psychologists, counsellors, social workers, and therapists, through purposive sampling. Correlational analyses and moderated mediation analyses were conducted using IBM SPSS. The analysis revealed that VT is positively related to VPTG, and deliberate rumination mediates the relationship between VT and VPTG. Clinical supervision moderates the association between vicarious trauma and deliberate rumination and the association between deliberate rumination and vicarious post-traumatic growth. The findings highlight the role of participation in clinical supervision in shaping these relationships. This study contributes to the limited empirical literature on VT and VPTG and offers implications for clinical supervision practices and professional training. Full article

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29 pages, 3133 KB

Open AccessReview

Carbon Nanotubes as Multifunctional Supports for Phthalocyanine-Based Electrocatalysts: Advancing Sustainable Energy Conversion and Environmental Applications

by Man Liang, Ao Wang, Minzhang Li, Xin Zhou and Jian Xue

Materials 2026, 19(14), 2991; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19142991 - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) serve as exceptional multifunctional supports for metal phthalocyanine (MPc)-based electrocatalysts, effectively addressing the inherent limitations of molecular catalysts such as poor conductivity and aggregation. This review systematically summarizes the recent advances in engineering the interface between MPcs and CNTs to [...] Read more.

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) serve as exceptional multifunctional supports for metal phthalocyanine (MPc)-based electrocatalysts, effectively addressing the inherent limitations of molecular catalysts such as poor conductivity and aggregation. This review systematically summarizes the recent advances in engineering the interface between MPcs and CNTs to optimize performance in sustainable energy conversion and environmental remediation. We categorize the engineering strategies into three synergistic dimensions: (1) dispersion and modification engineering, introducing the most direct physical anchoring dispersion strategy via non-covalent interactions and targeted modifications to yield highly active catalysts; (2) chemical bonding engineering, in which robust axial coordination or covalent grafting creates stable, well-defined active sites and prevents leaching; and (3) geometric and spatial engineering, which exploits CNTs’ unique curvature, atomic defects, inner cavities and one-dimensional architecture to induce strain, symmetry breaking, and nanoconfinement, thereby steering reaction pathways or to construct conductive nanocomposites. These strategies highlight that CNTs are not merely passive scaffolds but active regulators that geometrically and electronically modulate MPcs. By balancing molecular dispersion, charge transfer, and mass transport, CNT-supported MPcs exhibit superior activity, selectivity, and stability for critical electrochemical reactions, including the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), CO₂ reduction reaction (CO₂RR), and nitrate reduction reaction (NO₃RR), demonstrating substantial potential for advancing sustainable energy technologies and environmental applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carbon Nanomaterials for Diverse Applications—Second Edition)

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18 pages, 5825 KB

Open AccessArticle

Reference Genes for Circadian Profiling of Core Clock Genes in the Blood of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Patients

by Katarina Nahtigal, Ana Halužan Vasle, Tinkara Kreft, Cene Skubic, Miha Mraz, Miha Moškon, Leja Dolenc Grošelj and Damjana Rozman

Biomolecules 2026, 16(7), 1013; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom16071013 - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

Circadian rhythm disruptions are increasingly recognized in disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), yet analysis of 24 h gene expression patterns remains challenging due to the lack of reliable reference genes for normalization. Even commonly used housekeeping genes may exhibit circadian oscillations, [...] Read more.

Circadian rhythm disruptions are increasingly recognized in disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), yet analysis of 24 h gene expression patterns remains challenging due to the lack of reliable reference genes for normalization. Even commonly used housekeeping genes may exhibit circadian oscillations, which can confound rhythmic gene expression analyses and hinder biomarker identification. To address this limitation, we evaluated the gene expression stability of 11 commonly used housekeeping genes in blood collected every 6 h over 24 h period from 40 adults with varying OSA severity and controls. Stability ranking by analytical tools RefFinder and EndoGeneAnalyzer identified ACTB (β-actin) and RPL13A (ribosomal protein L13a) as the most consistent reference genes, with minimal intra- and inter-individual variability across sampling times and disease groups. Their suitability was assessed by personalized cosinor analysis of core clock genes (BMAL1, PER2, CRY1), demonstrating that appropriate normalization enables detection of circadian oscillations in clinical samples. Using the optimal normalization, CosinorPy analysis of the core clock genes revealed significant circadian oscillations of at least one clock gene in the studied participants. These findings establish ACTB and RPL13A as robust reference genes for blood-based circadian studies of OSA and provide an important methodological framework for future circadian biomarker research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of the Circadian Clock in Health and Disease)

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15 pages, 1314 KB

Open AccessArticle

Thermodynamic and Experimental Study of Combined Sulfation Roasting of Copper Sulfide Concentrates

by Kalkaman Zhumashev, Aitbala Narembekova, Natalya Lu, Feruza Berdikulova and Yelena Zhinova

Metals 2026, 16(7), 771; https://doi.org/10.3390/met16070771 - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

This article is devoted to the development of a combined sulfation method (CSM) for processing low-grade copper-sulfide concentrates with a copper grade of 0.34–3.5%. The relevance of the study is driven by the depletion of Kazakhstan’s high-grade copper deposits and the need to [...] Read more.

This article is devoted to the development of a combined sulfation method (CSM) for processing low-grade copper-sulfide concentrates with a copper grade of 0.34–3.5%. The relevance of the study is driven by the depletion of Kazakhstan’s high-grade copper deposits and the need to incorporate off-balance sulfide raw materials into processing. CSM is based on the spatial separation of two thermally coupled zones in the filter bed of a shaft furnace: a zone of endothermic sulfation of sulfide minerals with ammonium hydrosulfate at 360–650 °C and a zone of exothermic oxidative roasting of residual sulfur at 640–660 °C. Excess oxidation heat compensates for the thermal losses of sulfation, ensuring an autogenous process without sintering of the charge. Flotation enrichment of off-balance ore from the Annenskoye deposit yielded a concentrate with a Cu grade of 7.59% and a copper recovery of 89.13–92.13%. Thermodynamic modeling was used to validate the temperature conditions for sulfation of individual minerals, and analytical relationships were developed for calculating reagent consumption and sulfur distribution. Laboratory tests confirmed the adequacy of the calculation model; the discrepancy between calculated and experimental data did not exceed 1.5%. The feasibility of regenerating ammonium hydrosulfate and extracting copper from the processed products was demonstrated. A basic flow chart for waste-free processing of low-grade copper-sulfide raw materials was proposed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extractive Metallurgy: Clean Production and Environmental Impact Assessment)

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30 pages, 1086 KB

Open AccessArticle

Uniting Psychometric Modelling and Poisson Distributions: A Metrological Study of Elementary Counting

by Leslie R. Pendrill and William P. Fisher, Jr., Jr.

Foundations 2026, 6(3), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/foundations6030026 - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

A study of elementary counting (of simple clouds of dots by the Munduruku indigenous
people of Brazil) is reanalysed in order to compare and contrast three kinds of probability
mass functions (PMFs): (i) quantitative response to a discrete range of counts; (ii) the [...] Read more.

A study of elementary counting (of simple clouds of dots by the Munduruku indigenous
people of Brazil) is reanalysed in order to compare and contrast three kinds of probability
mass functions (PMFs): (i) quantitative response to a discrete range of counts; (ii) the classic
Poisson distribution of miscounts; and (iii) psychometric (Rasch) distributions of counting
task difficulty and person counting ability. This reanalysis highlights how best to handle
PMFs which provide a means of defining—for discrete and qualitative data—the basic
metrics, viz. location and dispersion, of metrology—quality-assured measurement, as
increasingly required since the turn of the millennium in topical and challenging qualityassurance
applications, amongst others, in the human sciences and in Artificial Intelligence.
PMF-based metrics, useful in ’clinical’ and other applications where meaning and value
are sought, complement the traditionally dominating role played by the corresponding
probability density functions (PDF) in ’analytical’, quantitative and continuous Metrology
in Physics. New insights are provided when benchmarking the Rasch Poisson Counts
Model, which has received less attention in modern metrology, against full psychometric
Rasch modelling. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Mathematical Sciences)

29 pages, 2203 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Regularized Numerical Solution to an Inverse Coefficient Problem for the Forced Vibrations of a Cantilever Beam Equation Under Nonlocal Conditions

by Qabas Kadhem Jawad and M. S. Hussein

Math. Comput. Appl. 2026, 31(4), 132; https://doi.org/10.3390/mca31040132 - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

This study tackles a fourth-order inverse problem involving a cantilever beam with nonlocal conditions to simultaneously calculate the beam’s displacement and an unknown time-dependent coefficient. A finite difference approach is suggested to discretize the hyperbolic fourth-order equation. A stability analysis for the proposed [...] Read more.

This study tackles a fourth-order inverse problem involving a cantilever beam with nonlocal conditions to simultaneously calculate the beam’s displacement and an unknown time-dependent coefficient. A finite difference approach is suggested to discretize the hyperbolic fourth-order equation. A stability analysis for the proposed scheme is also provided. The indirect problem is the minimization of the misfit function. The goal of the minimization algorithm is to reduce the gap between the measured (noisy) data and the numerical computed solution provided by the model. To achieve stable results, Tikhonov’s regularization technique is employed, and two numerical test examples are shown to illustrate the suggested scheme's reliability. The unknown potential terms are successfully reconstructed, and stability and accuracy are maintained even in the presence of noise following the application of the Tikhonov regularization method. A trial-and-error strategy and the L-curve method are employed to obtain the optimal value for the regularization parameter. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Celebrate the 30th Anniversary of Mathematical and Computational Applications (MCA))

35 pages, 3577 KB

Open AccessArticle

SHAP-Based Interpretable Ensemble Models for Final Scour Depth Prediction at Collar-Protected Bridge Pier

by Nadir Murtaza, Sohail Iqbal, Muhammad Ali Sikandar and Mohd Aamir Mumtaz

Water 2026, 18(14), 1679; https://doi.org/10.3390/w18141679 - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

Bridge pier scour is one of the primary causes of bridge foundation failure, making accurate prediction of final scour depth essential for the safe and economical design of hydraulic structures. This study develops interpretable ensemble machine learning models for predicting final scour depth [...] Read more.

Bridge pier scour is one of the primary causes of bridge foundation failure, making accurate prediction of final scour depth essential for the safe and economical design of hydraulic structures. This study develops interpretable ensemble machine learning models for predicting final scour depth around collar-protected circular bridge piers using a laboratory dataset comprising 48 experimental observations. Four dimensionless hydraulic and geometric parameters, namely (b/b_c, b: bridge pier diameter, b_c: collar diameter), (z/d₅₀, z: collar elevation, d₅₀: median diameter of bed particles), (z/b_c), and (U/U_c, U: time average velocity, U_c: critical velocity of bed particles), were employed as model inputs, while the normalized final scour depth (d_sf/b_c) was considered as the target variable. Three ensemble learning algorithms, namely XGBoost (XGB), Random Forest (RF), and Extra Trees (ET), were developed and evaluated using training, testing, and 5-fold cross-validation procedures. The predictive performance of the models was assessed using the coefficient of determination (R²), Kling–Gupta Efficiency (KGE), root mean square error (RMSE), and mean absolute error (MAE). Among the investigated models, XGBoost demonstrated the highest predictive accuracy, achieving an R² of 0.987, a KGE of 0.982, and an RMSE of 0.0117 on the training dataset. Furthermore, SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) were employed to interpret the influence of individual input variables, revealing that hydraulic intensity and collar-related parameters exert the greatest influence on equilibrium scour prediction, consistent with established scour mechanics. The proposed framework combines high predictive accuracy with model interpretability, providing a reliable decision-support tool for bridge scour assessment and demonstrating the potential of explainable machine learning to support the design and management of scour protection measures under controlled hydraulic conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section New Sensors, New Technologies and Machine Learning in Water Sciences)

14 pages, 9070 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Substrate-Aware CMOS Micromagnetic Stimulation SoC with a Bent Micro-Coil and Programmable Triangular Current Driver

by Ji Won Kim, Dong Hun Cha, Seung Hwan Lee, Kyungsik Eom, Sanghoon Lee, Seung Woo Lee and Jeong Hoan Park

Electronics 2026, 15(14), 3045; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics15143045 - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

Microscopic magnetic stimulation (MSTI) induces electric fields without direct charge injection and can shape localized field gradients with asymmetric micro-coils. Most demonstrations still rely on external drivers, off-chip hardware, or separated coil validation, so the CMOS integration boundary remains poorly characterized. This work [...] Read more.

Microscopic magnetic stimulation (MSTI) induces electric fields without direct charge injection and can shape localized field gradients with asymmetric micro-coils. Most demonstrations still rely on external drivers, off-chip hardware, or separated coil validation, so the CMOS integration boundary remains poorly characterized. This work presents a fabricated

2 \times 1 {mm}^{2}

0.18 μ m

CMOS magnetic-stimulation SoC that co-integrates ASK-compatible command decoding, FSM and register-based parameter control, a programmable current–voltage–current triangular driver, and a bent top-metal micro-coil, and it characterizes the on-chip driver-to-coil path together with a substrate-aware field model. Sensing-load reconstruction confirms command-to-waveform programmability, including duration-window decoding, burst-count control, and polarity reversal, with measured slew targets that give a peak current of

I_{pk} = 3.72

–

21.6 mA

. A quantitative comparison contrasts the current-mode triangular driver with conventional electrode stimulators, a coil-impedance measurement shows the coil stays resistive across 1 to 10 MHz, and the measured total SoC power is about 41 mW. Substrate-aware simulation at a

15 μ m

target plane shows that the grounded p-substrate retains

35.1

–

40.5 %

of the no-substrate peak x-directed field-gradient metric. The prototype establishes this electrical programmability and the substrate-aware gradient-transfer loss as a compact design-margin metric for CMOS-integrated magnetic stimulation. Direct biological activation is not claimed and is left to future in vitro validation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electronic Devices and Systems for Biomedical Applications, 2nd Edition)

22 pages, 5776 KB

Open AccessArticle

Impacts of Cascade Reservoir Construction, Climate Change, Socioeconomic Development and the Grain-for-Green Project on the Spatiotemporal Dynamics of Land Use and Land Cover in the Upper Yellow River: A Case Study of the Hualong–Xunhua Section, Qinghai Province, China

by Ruishou Ba, Yiyang Liu, Zejun Xia, Gaofeng Dong, Shanhu Xiao, Youjing Yuan, Xueping Wang and Zhoufeng Wang

Water 2026, 18(14), 1680; https://doi.org/10.3390/w18141680 - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

The Cascade Reservoir System (CRS) in the upper Yellow River delivers integrated benefits (flood control, water supply, hydro-power generation, and ecological regulation), but it also alters the natural runoff regime and exerts non-negligible impacts on the regional eco-environment. However, the long-term trajectory of [...] Read more.

The Cascade Reservoir System (CRS) in the upper Yellow River delivers integrated benefits (flood control, water supply, hydro-power generation, and ecological regulation), but it also alters the natural runoff regime and exerts non-negligible impacts on the regional eco-environment. However, the long-term trajectory of reservoir-cascade effects on land use/land cover (LULC) in alpine basins has not yet been systematically quantified. Here, we focused on the Hualong-Xunhua reach and delineated two impact domains—the Reservoir Influence Zone (RIZ, enclosed by the first-order mountain ridge lines closest to the river channel representing direct hydrological impacts) and the Local Microclimate Influence Zone (LMIZ, spanning from the first-order ridges to the outer watershed boundary representing indirect climatic impacts)—to investigate the spatiotemporal dynamics of LULC associated with reservoir development. Results show that, from 1985 to 2023 in the CRS area, cropland and shrub-land decreased by 89.56 km² (−16.09%) and 9.41% (−9.41%), respectively, whereas forest and grassland increased by 79.92 km² (+14.36%) and 7.74% (+7.74%). Within the RIZ, cropland declined by 29.49 km² (−20.14%), while water bodies increased markedly by 32.19 km² (+22%); forest cover also expanded by 9.09 km² (+6.21%). In the LMIZ, forest and grassland exhibited pronounced increases of 70.83 km² (+17.27%) and 39.37 km² (+9.60%), respectively. Correlation analysis indicates that GDP and air temperature are strongly and positively correlated with forest, water bodies, and impervious surfaces (Pearson’s r > 0.9), whereas cropland shows significant negative correlations with GDP, forest, and grassland (Pearson’s r < −0.8). Overall, the distinct spatiotemporal contrasts between the RIZ and LMIZ, coupled with the temporal alignment of cropland-to-forest transitions post-2000, suggest that reservoir-cascade construction and the Grain-for-Green Project are associated with these major LULC transitions, serving as contributing factors, while temperature rise and GDP growth represented the background environmental and socioeconomic context. These findings provide data support and a conceptual basis for long-term monitoring and assessment of eco-environmental responses to reservoir cascade development, and offer scientific evidence particularly relevant to reservoir planning and management in high-altitude cold regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Impacts of Climate Change & Human Activities on Wetland Ecosystems, 2nd Edition)

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26 pages, 2895 KB

Open AccessArticle

Applying Passive House Design in a Hot–Arid Climate—Adoption Assessment and Energy Performance Simulation: Case of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

by Hassan Alnashri, Abdulrahman Fnais and Abdulrahman Bin Mahmoud

Buildings 2026, 16(14), 2753; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16142753 - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

Energy consumption in hot–arid and warm climates is driven by cooling demand during long, intense summers. In these contexts, the residential sector accounts for much of national electricity use, and cooling can exceed 70% of annual household consumption. Saudi Arabia exemplifies this pattern, [...] Read more.

Energy consumption in hot–arid and warm climates is driven by cooling demand during long, intense summers. In these contexts, the residential sector accounts for much of national electricity use, and cooling can exceed 70% of annual household consumption. Saudi Arabia exemplifies this pattern, with the residential sector consuming over half of the national electricity and cooling dominating demand in hot–arid cities like Riyadh. Against this background, this study explores the adaptation of the Passive House approach—originally developed in cold and temperate regions—for a cooling-dominated, hot–arid context. A detached villa in Riyadh was selected as a case study, and its energy performance was modeled in DesignBuilder using a baseline calibrated against 12 months of electricity bills. Passive House measures were then tested. The results showed that insulating walls and roofs provided the largest reductions in electricity use, at 21% and 15%, respectively, while high-performance glazing with external shading achieved an additional 3.4%. Improvements in airtightness and ventilation with heat recovery yielded only minor savings in a cooling-dominated climate. When all measures were implemented together, the villa’s annual electricity consumption was reduced by 48% compared with the baseline, and cooling demand was reduced by 72.3%. These findings demonstrate that Passive House measures can be effectively adapted to hot–arid conditions, with envelope insulation and solar-gain control delivering the most significant benefits. The Riyadh case underscores the potential of Passive House principles to reduce residential electricity use in cooling-dominated housing and to support energy-efficient design in hot–arid and warm-climate regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing Building Energy Efficiency Through Better Design, Engineering and Management)

36 pages, 4122 KB

Open AccessArticle

Duty Cycle-Based Optimization of the Usable Energy Buffer Ratio in a Battery–Supercapacitor HESS for Mining Electric Dump Trucks

by Nikita V. Martyushev, Boris V. Malozyomov, Vladislav V. Kukartsev, Aleksey Sergeevich Govorkov, Alena A. Stupina, Roman Vladimirovich Kononenko, Yadviga Aleksandrovna Tynchenko and Galina L. Kozenkova

World Electr. Veh. J. 2026, 17(7), 355; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj17070355 - 10 Jul 2026

Abstract

Hybrid energy storage systems combining LiFePO₄ batteries and supercapacitors can reduce high-rate battery loading in battery electric mining dump trucks operating under intensive regenerative braking conditions. This study proposes a constrained multi-objective sizing methodology for a semi-active battery–supercapacitor hybrid energy storage system [...] Read more.

Hybrid energy storage systems combining LiFePO₄ batteries and supercapacitors can reduce high-rate battery loading in battery electric mining dump trucks operating under intensive regenerative braking conditions. This study proposes a constrained multi-objective sizing methodology for a semi-active battery–supercapacitor hybrid energy storage system applied to a 65 t payload-class mining electric dump truck. The model combines segment-level mining duty cycles, longitudinal vehicle dynamics, a first-order Thevenin battery representation, a usable supercapacitor energy window, bidirectional DC/DC converter limits, and constrained supervisory power splitting. Three mining duty cycles are considered: production haulage, reclamation/backfill operation, and mixed operation. The final sizing result is reported using a dimensionless usable energy buffer ratio rather than a direct comparison between supercapacitor capacitance and battery energy capacity. The results show that the required supercapacitor buffer is strongly duty cycle-dependent. For the regenerative-dominant backfill cycle, the hybrid configuration reduced peak battery charging current from approximately −950 A to −180 … −280 A and reduced battery root mean square (RMS) current by 52–64% relative to the pure battery configuration. The constrained stored fraction of regenerative energy also increased when the supercapacitor branch was included, while non-accepted braking power was assigned to the residual braking channel. The proposed approach provides a physically consistent basis for preliminary hybrid energy storage system (HESS) sizing and clarifies that battery current reduction should be interpreted as a degradation-relevant stress indicator rather than as a direct quantified lifetime prediction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue SMART 2026: Electric Machines Drives Applied in Transportation Electrification)

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