MDPI - Publisher of Open Access Journals

10 pages, 14359 KB

Open AccessArticle

Mechanical Testing of Austenitic Stainless Steels at 4 K: A Novel Approach for Characterizing Unstable Crack Propagation in Cryogenic Applications

by Enrique Rodriguez Castro, Ignacio Aviles Santillana, Berta Ruiz-Palenzuela, Stefano Sgobba, Elisa Maria Ruiz Navas and Markus Kind

Cryo 2026, 2(4), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryo2040009 (registering DOI) - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

The mechanical characterization of austenitic stainless steels at cryogenic temperatures is crucial for the structural components of superconducting magnets in fusion devices and particle accelerators. This study presents and compares mechanical testing results for FXM-19 (Nitronic 50) and 316LNH (316LN with nitrogen in [...] Read more.

The mechanical characterization of austenitic stainless steels at cryogenic temperatures is crucial for the structural components of superconducting magnets in fusion devices and particle accelerators. This study presents and compares mechanical testing results for FXM-19 (Nitronic 50) and 316LNH (316LN with nitrogen in the upper limit) while comparing their behaviour against crack propagation, with emphasis placed on a novel analytical procedure for characterizing unstable crack propagation (UCP) during fracture toughness (FT) testing at 4 K. FXM-19 demonstrated excellent yield strength, making it one of the most desirable alloys for use as structural materials in high magnetic fields at cryogenic temperatures (superconductor base projects). It also exhibited UCP behaviour, which is very complex to characterize at very low temperatures due to the existence of discontinuous plastic flow or serrated yielding in this kind of materials. A new methodology was developed to distinguish between unstable crack tearing and serrations at 4 K. The study reveals that FXM-19 consistently exhibits unstable crack propagation after stable tearing, whereas 316LNH maintains stable crack propagation with exceptional toughness. These findings have critical implications for material selection in safety-critical cryogenic applications, where stable and predictable fracture behaviour is often preferred. Full article

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16 pages, 12488 KB

Open AccessArticle

STDR-Net: A Spatio-Temporal Dependency Refinement Network for Motor Imagery EEG Decoding

by Wei Zhao, Jianing Dai, Yitong Pan, Shixiao Xiao, Tongle Xie, Yao Li and Yongkang Yu

Brain Sci. 2026, 16(10), 1051; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci16101051 (registering DOI) - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Motor imagery electroencephalography (MI-EEG) contains weak, non-stationary patterns that evolve across channels and time. Effective decoding requires local sensorimotor structure, trial-wide context, and ordered temporal evolution to be represented without discarding information from earlier processing stages. Methods: We propose STDR-Net, a Spatio-Temporal [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Motor imagery electroencephalography (MI-EEG) contains weak, non-stationary patterns that evolve across channels and time. Effective decoding requires local sensorimotor structure, trial-wide context, and ordered temporal evolution to be represented without discarding information from earlier processing stages. Methods: We propose STDR-Net, a Spatio-Temporal Dependency Refinement Network that recalibrates convolutional tokens, models their global interactions, restores the original local representation through a cross-stage residual bridge, and refines the fused sequence with a bidirectional long short-term memory network. STDR-Net was evaluated on BCI Competition IV-2a, BCI Competition IV-2b, and the PhysioNet EEG Motor Movement/Imagery dataset against nine reproduced baselines. The PhysioNet experiment used a pooled mixed-participant trial-level split rather than an unseen-participant evaluation. Results: STDR-Net obtained accuracies of 82.69%, 86.99%, and 59.76% and Cohen’s kappa values of 0.7692, 0.7398, and 0.46, respectively. It achieved the highest observed mean accuracy on IV-2a and competitive performance on IV-2b and PhysioNet. Bridge-specific, ordering, module, and augmentation ablations supported the proposed pathway on IV-2a, whereas the differences on IV-2b were small and not significant after multiplicity correction. Conclusions: The results support information-preserving dependency refinement as a competitive design for MI-EEG decoding, while also showing that its benefit depends on the dataset and evaluation setting. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Neurotechnology and Neuroimaging)

19 pages, 4810 KB

Open AccessArticle

Systematic Evaluation of Sedimentation Stability and Gel Strength of Water-Based Testing Fluid Under Multiple Downhole Factors

by Lu Tian, Xueqiang Wang, Geng Tang, Naiyan Zhang, Geng Peng, Wei Luo, Xi Zhu, Yue Li and Jian-Gen Xu

Processes 2026, 14(19), 3134; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr14193134 (registering DOI) - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

Sedimentation stability and gel strength are critical performance metrics of water-based testing fluids, yet their responses to multiple downhole factors have not been systematically compared within a single fluid system. Focusing on the Dengying Formation gas reservoir in the Sichuan Basin, this study [...] Read more.

Sedimentation stability and gel strength are critical performance metrics of water-based testing fluids, yet their responses to multiple downhole factors have not been systematically compared within a single fluid system. Focusing on the Dengying Formation gas reservoir in the Sichuan Basin, this study systematically investigates the individual effects of temperature, pH, additives (viscosifier and dispersant), solid-phase composition (bentonite, sand, barite), and acid contamination via controlled-variable experiments. Temperature exhibited a pronounced influence on the testing fluid, with viscosity and gel strength decreasing as temperature increased, particularly above 150 °C. While the viscosifier and dispersant both improved sedimentation stability, further improvement became limited at concentrations above 0.6% and 2%, respectively. Notably, noticeable deterioration in sedimentation stability was observed at a sand content of 3%, while the 5:5 API-grade to ultra-fine barite ratio exhibited relatively poorer sedimentation stability among the investigated formulations. In addition, autogenic acid and gelled acid increased the viscosity and gel strength of the testing fluid under the investigated conditions, indicating that acid contamination can substantially alter the rheological behavior. These results provide experimental references for formulation adjustment and stability assessment of water-based testing fluids under laboratory-simulated deep-well conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Drilling and Excavation Theories and Technologies for Petroleum, Coal Seam and Sustainable Resources)

37 pages, 3031 KB

Open AccessPerspective

Additive Manufacturing as a Design Enabler for Air-Breathing Electrochemical Devices: A PEM Fuel Cell Case Study

by Pablo A. García-Salaberri, Julia Ureña, Luis Duque, Carlos Jarava-Barrera and Antonio M. Chaparro

Materials 2026, 19(19), 4174; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19194174 - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

Portable air-breathing electrochemical devices, particularly polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), offer simple, lightweight, and compact power generation by using atmospheric oxygen as the oxidant. Their performance, however, depends strongly on cathode plate geometry that governs reactant transport, thermal and water management, and [...] Read more.

Portable air-breathing electrochemical devices, particularly polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), offer simple, lightweight, and compact power generation by using atmospheric oxygen as the oxidant. Their performance, however, depends strongly on cathode plate geometry that governs reactant transport, thermal and water management, and mechanical integrity. Conventional manufacturing has historically restricted this architectural design space. This perspective examines how additive manufacturing (AM) enables three-dimensional geometries that can overcome these constraints. An open columnar cathode plate for air-breathing PEMFCs is used as a case study to show how manufacturing-enabled design can improve passive transport, increase the hydrogen conversion efficiency, and integrate multiple functions within a compact component. The same design philosophy can then be extended to metal–air batteries, microbial fuel cells, direct methanol fuel cells, electrolyzers, CO₂ electrochemical reactors, and electrochemical sensors. Finally, the remaining barriers and future opportunities associated with advanced materials, computational design, topology optimization, artificial intelligence, and digital manufacturing are discussed. Overall, AM is presented as a design-enabling platform for next-generation portable electrochemical devices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Additive Manufacturing of Metallic Porous Components in Electrochemical Systems)

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23 pages, 6309 KB

Open AccessArticle

Hydroclimatic Divergence and Climate-Driven Runoff Uncertainty in the Semi-Arid Fen River Basin

by Ke Zhang, Xin Chen, Junkai Du, Yaobing Sui, Chen Liu and Zexian Bai

Atmosphere 2026, 17(10), 954; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos17100954 - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

Climate change can alter runoff in semi-arid basins even when annual precipitation changes little. We combined historical meteorological observations, daily WEP-L simulations, and bias-adjusted CMIP6 projections for the Fen River Basin. Historical precipitation and runoff covered 1956–2025, and temperature covered 1956–2018. Future simulations [...] Read more.

Climate change can alter runoff in semi-arid basins even when annual precipitation changes little. We combined historical meteorological observations, daily WEP-L simulations, and bias-adjusted CMIP6 projections for the Fen River Basin. Historical precipitation and runoff covered 1956–2025, and temperature covered 1956–2018. Future simulations covered 2026–2050 under SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5. Land surface conditions were fixed at 2020, and withdrawals, irrigation, and reservoir operation were excluded. Historical precipitation showed no significant trend, whereas temperature increased by 0.307 °C decade⁻¹. Simulated annual runoff declined at five reporting locations, with trends of −12.1 to −187.2 × 10⁶ m³ decade⁻¹. Future temperatures averaged 10.57 and 11.00 °C under the two scenarios, with trends of 0.392 and 0.652 °C decade⁻¹, respectively. Across seven reporting locations, SSP5-8.5 ensemble-mean runoff was numerically 3.4–6.8% lower. Paired differences at the six locations with complete ten-model coverage were not significant and varied in sign among models. These tests are interpreted descriptively because some GCMs belong to related families. Hejin results are supplementary because model coverage is incomplete. Annual precipitation and runoff anomalies were positively correlated. Downstream inter-model runoff IQRs were comparable to ensemble means. These projections provide a climate response baseline with substantial model uncertainty, rather than forecasts of regulated river flow. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Water Resource Challenges and Sustainable Management Solutions Under the Interaction of Climate Change and Human Activities)

28 pages, 1695 KB

Open AccessArticle

Task-Oriented Multi-View Acquisition Planning for Visual Inspection of Panel Furniture

by Wenxu Luo, Zhuo Wang, Sundong Mo and Yuanyuan Wang

Sensors 2026, 26(19), 6188; https://doi.org/10.3390/s26196188 - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

Automated multi-view acquisition is widely used in industrial production but remains underexplored for furniture inspection. This study proposes a task-oriented multi-view acquisition planning method for panel furniture. The method constructs a hierarchical inspection-surface model from furniture geometry and inspection requirements, evaluates target visibility [...] Read more.

Automated multi-view acquisition is widely used in industrial production but remains underexplored for furniture inspection. This study proposes a task-oriented multi-view acquisition planning method for panel furniture. The method constructs a hierarchical inspection-surface model from furniture geometry and inspection requirements, evaluates target visibility by one-sided triangle-mesh ray casting, and iteratively refines the candidate pool based on coverage residuals. Viewpoints for must-inspect surfaces are selected using a quality-aware marginal score, with their number determined by comparing local pose replacement with continued viewpoint addition. Supplementary viewpoints for optional surfaces are ranked by coverage gain, and their number is determined using the L-method. Visit sequences are optimized using ant colony optimization and 2-opt under a hard keep-out-zone constraint. For four furniture models, 19, 23, 30, and 72 viewpoints achieved must-inspect-surface coverage rates of 100.00%, 100.00%, 99.86%, and 98.16%, respectively. For matched numbers of must-inspect-surface viewpoints, 25° effective coverage exceeded the 20-run means of genetic algorithm and binary particle swarm optimization baselines by 1.19–13.16 and 20.09–36.72 percentage points, respectively. Under fixed total viewpoint counts, local pose replacement increased must-inspect-surface coverage by 0.10–1.72 percentage points. Across 20 paired trials per model, keep-out-zone-constrained sequencing produced zero intersecting edges while increasing path length by 1.33–6.91%. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method for front-end multi-view acquisition planning in panel furniture inspection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sensing and Imaging)

21 pages, 3241 KB

Open AccessArticle

Structure–Barrier–Release Relationships of Low-Temperature ALD ZrO₂ Thin Films on Co–Cr Alloys: Reducing Long-Term Co and Cr Ion Release in Artificial Saliva

by Anna Ziębowicz, Wiktoria Groelich, Anita Kajzer, Wojciech Kajzer, Marta Kiel-Jamrozik, Julia Kolasa, Julia Lisoń-Kubica, Katarzyna Nowińska, Ada Orłowska, Zbigniew Paszenda, Gabriela Wielgus, Agnieszka Antończyk, Witold Walke and Bogusław Ziębowicz

Materials 2026, 19(19), 4173; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19194173 - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

Co–Cr alloys are widely used in biomedical devices owing to their excellent mechanical properties and corrosion resistance; however, sustained metal-ion release in physiological environments remains an important materials concern. Low-temperature atomic layer deposition (ALD) enables the formation of conformal ceramic barriers that can [...] Read more.

Co–Cr alloys are widely used in biomedical devices owing to their excellent mechanical properties and corrosion resistance; however, sustained metal-ion release in physiological environments remains an important materials concern. Low-temperature atomic layer deposition (ALD) enables the formation of conformal ceramic barriers that can restrict long-term metal-ion transport. In this study, nominally ~50 nm ALD-derived ZrO₂ coatings were deposited on Co–Cr substrates manufactured by investment casting (CAST), CAD/CAM milling (MILLED), and laser powder bed fusion (PRINTED). The coatings were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), Raman spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy with selected-area electron diffraction (TEM/SAED), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), while the electrochemical response was evaluated by open-circuit potential (OCP) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Long-term barrier performance was quantified by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) as cumulative Co and Cr release for all manufacturing routes and Mo release for the Mo-containing CAST and PRINTED alloys after 28 days in artificial saliva at 37 °C. ZrO₂ deposition reduced cumulative Co and Cr release for all manufacturing routes. Mo release was also reduced in the Mo-containing alloys, with Mo remaining below the analytical detection limit (<0.005 µg cm⁻²) for the PRINTED + ZrO₂ system. Electrochemical measurements further demonstrated manufacturing-route-dependent differences in barrier response between the initial and 28-day exposure states. Overall, the findings establish a structure–barrier–release framework linking coating formation and electrochemical response with cumulative ion release, and identify 28-day cumulative ion release as a practical functional descriptor for comparing the long-term performance of ALD-derived ceramic barriers on Co–Cr alloys. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Surface Protective Coating Materials)

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28 pages, 2077 KB

Open AccessArticle

Tamoxifen Promotes Sustained Bifidobacterium Enrichment in the Gut Microbiota of Male and Female Rats After Spinal Cord Injury

by Luis H. Pagán-Rivera, Filipa Godoy-Vitorino, Samuel E. Ocasio-Rivera, Maria E. Santiago-Gascot, Viviana González, José M. Santiago, Iris Salgado, Aranza Torrado-Tapias, Jennifer M. Colón-Mercado, Carolina García-Guay and Jorge D. Miranda

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(19), 8729; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27198729 - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

Spinal cord injury (SCI) triggers complex secondary injury cascades that limit neurological recovery. Tamoxifen (TAM), a selective estrogen receptor modulator, exerts neuroprotective effects in experimental SCI, although its underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Given the emerging role of gut microbiota dysregulation in SCI, we [...] Read more.

Spinal cord injury (SCI) triggers complex secondary injury cascades that limit neurological recovery. Tamoxifen (TAM), a selective estrogen receptor modulator, exerts neuroprotective effects in experimental SCI, although its underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Given the emerging role of gut microbiota dysregulation in SCI, we investigated whether TAM-associated recovery is accompanied by alterations in gut microbial composition and predicted function. We conducted a longitudinal, sex-inclusive analysis of 61 Sprague–Dawley rats of both sexes assigned to naïve (NAÏVE), sham-placebo (SHAM PLB), sham-TAM (SHAM TAM), injured-placebo (INJ PLB), or injured-TAM (INJ TAM) groups. Injured animals received a moderate T10 contusion followed by a 21-day TAM (0.71 mg/day) or placebo pellet, and fecal samples were collected at 0, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days post-injury. Fecal samples were analyzed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Results showed that TAM induced sustained shifts in microbial community composition, with treatment-associated divergence emerging at 14 days post-injury (DPI) in females and 21 DPI in males. Bifidobacterium exhibited the most consistent TAM-associated enrichment across sexes. Bifidobacterium abundance was negatively associated with recovery in INJ PLB animals and positively associated with INJ TAM animals; because behavioral and microbiome measurements were not made in the same animals, these associations are hypothesis-generating only. PICRUSt2 analysis revealed TAM-associated changes in predicted microbial function, including increased glycogen degradation pathways from 14 DPI onward in both sexes. Together, these findings identify sustained TAM-associated taxonomic and predicted functional remodeling of the gut microbiota following SCI. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Research on Gut Microbiota in Health and Disease)

32 pages, 707 KB

Open AccessArticle

Predictive Semantic-Aware Hybrid Automatic Repeat Request for Reliable and Efficient 6G Communications

by Osman Kaya, Muhammet Ali Karabulut, Can Eyüpoğlu and Oktay Karakuş

Electronics 2026, 15(19), 4482; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics15194482 - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

Hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) remains the backbone of link-layer reliability, yet it was designed for a setting in which every bit matters equally and the channel of the next slot is unknown. Neither assumption holds in semantic communication over time-varying channels: some [...] Read more.

Hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) remains the backbone of link-layer reliability, yet it was designed for a setting in which every bit matters equally and the channel of the next slot is unknown. Neither assumption holds in semantic communication over time-varying channels: some parts of a message are decisive for the receiver’s task while others are not, and the deep fade that destroyed a first transmission is usually still present when an immediate retransmission arrives. This article proposes predictive semantic-aware HARQ (PSA-HARQ), a retransmission framework that makes its decisions at the level of individual semantic units and bases them jointly on how much each unit matters and on how the channel is expected to evolve. Semantic importance is extracted from a Transformer semantic encoder, a lightweight recurrent predictor forecasts the channel a few slots ahead, and a finite-horizon optimal-stopping controller decides, for every unit and every slot, whether to transmit, wait for a better slot, or abandon the unit. The forecast enters the controller through a confidence-weighted estimator whose weight is tracked at run time from the observed prediction errors, so that the policy falls back to the statistics-only optimum whenever the predictor becomes uninformative. Simulations over a vehicular situational-awareness task and over a real public record-classification dataset, with finite-blocklength coding and time-correlated Rayleigh fading, show that PSA-HARQ matches or exceeds the task accuracy of conventional HARQ in the low-SNR regime where retransmissions are most frequent, while transmitting far fewer blocks and consuming far less energy at the same channel condition. A cost-matched ablation shows that semantic importance and channel prediction contribute complementary gains. The results indicate that anticipating the channel, rather than merely reacting to it, is a practical and largely untapped lever for reliable and efficient 6G semantic communication. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Microwave and Wireless Communications)

29 pages, 452 KB

Open AccessArticle

Connectivity Index of Fuzzy Rough Graphs with Applications to Uncertain Traffic Flow Networks

by Dali Shi, Salah E. Abbas, Hossam M. Khiamy and Ismail Ibedou

Axioms 2026, 15(10), 721; https://doi.org/10.3390/axioms15100721 - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

This paper introduces a connectivity index for fuzzy rough graphs that effectively integrates the mathematical frameworks of fuzzy set theory and rough set theory within graph-theoretic structures. We develop a comprehensive theoretical foundation by constructing fuzzy graph approximation spaces based on fuzzy minimal [...] Read more.

This paper introduces a connectivity index for fuzzy rough graphs that effectively integrates the mathematical frameworks of fuzzy set theory and rough set theory within graph-theoretic structures. We develop a comprehensive theoretical foundation by constructing fuzzy graph approximation spaces based on fuzzy minimal neighborhoods, enabling the definition of lower and upper approximation operators for both vertices and edges simultaneously. Building upon this framework, we establish rigorous definitions for connectivity measures in fuzzy rough graphs, including strongest directed paths, strength of connectedness, and various arc classifications. The proposed connectivity index quantifies the overall connectedness of fuzzy rough graphs by aggregating vertex membership degrees with path strengths across both approximation boundaries. We demonstrate that this index exhibits monotonicity properties with respect to fuzzy rough subgraphs and provides critical insights into network robustness through bridge identification. To validate the practical utility of our theoretical contributions, we present a compelling application in traffic flow network analysis, where the connectivity index successfully identifies the busiest intersections in urban transportation systems under conditions of uncertainty and incomplete information. The integration of fuzzy rough set theory with graph connectivity measures represents a significant advancement in handling real-world problems where relationships exist with varying degrees of certainty rather than binary connections. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Fuzzy Sets Theory and Its Applications)

20 pages, 1324 KB

Open AccessReview

Oral Piercing in the Aspect of Periodontal and Dental Health—A Narrative Review

by Dominika Cichońska, Jakub Hopke, Szymon Bieniek, Magda Balcerzak, Patryk Plaga, Paulina Adamska, Aleksandra Ciesielska and Aida Kusiak

J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(19), 7582; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15197582 - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

Oral piercing is an increasingly popular form of body modification, particularly among adolescents and young adults. Despite its aesthetic and cultural appeal, growing evidence indicates that oral piercings have been associated with a range of oral and periodontal complications. This literature review examines [...] Read more.

Oral piercing is an increasingly popular form of body modification, particularly among adolescents and young adults. Despite its aesthetic and cultural appeal, growing evidence indicates that oral piercings have been associated with a range of oral and periodontal complications. This literature review examines the effects of oral piercing on periodontal tissues and summarizes the associated risk factors and preventive measures. The available evidence demonstrates that tongue and lower lip piercings are most associated with periodontal damage due to chronic mechanical trauma and bacterial plaque accumulation around oral jewelry. The principal periodontal complications include gingival recession, gingival inflammation, clinical attachment loss, periodontal pocket formation, and localized alveolar bone loss. In addition, oral piercings have been linked to tooth fractures, enamel wear, mucosal lesions, infections, hypersensitivity reactions, and, in rare cases, systemic complications such as infective endocarditis. The severity of these complications is influenced by factors including the duration of jewelry wear, jewelry design and material, oral hygiene, smoking, and individual periodontal characteristics. Current evidence suggests that many of these adverse outcomes can be minimized through appropriate patient education, the use of biocompatible and well-fitted jewelry, meticulous oral hygiene, and regular dental examinations. Although the existing literature consistently reports an association between oral piercing and periodontal complications, further longitudinal studies are needed to better define long-term outcomes and strengthen evidence-based clinical recommendations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Updates on Oral Health and Dental Care)

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14 pages, 3408 KB

Open AccessArticle

Changes in Diffusion MRI-Based White Matter Metrics After a Dance Intervention in Individuals with Substance Use Disorders—A Pilot Study

by Anna Kannonier, Sandria Stornig, Karl Koschutnig, Human-Friedrich Unterrainer, Patrick Klepits and Andreas Fink

Brain Sci. 2026, 16(10), 1050; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci16101050 - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

Objectives: The present study examined the effects of a three-week dance intervention on diffusion MRI-based white matter metrics in a sample of individuals diagnosed with substance use disorder (SUD; F19.2). Methods: The intervention was carried out in an inpatient rehabilitation facility twice a [...] Read more.

Objectives: The present study examined the effects of a three-week dance intervention on diffusion MRI-based white matter metrics in a sample of individuals diagnosed with substance use disorder (SUD; F19.2). Methods: The intervention was carried out in an inpatient rehabilitation facility twice a week. Participants were partly randomized into two groups, one intervention group and one treatment-as-usual group, which did not differ in terms of substitution or other psychiatric medications. Both groups underwent an MRI assessment at baseline and after the intervention, using diffusion-weighted imaging. Results: Analysis of MRI diffusion data revealed significant effects in the intervention group relative to the treatment-as-usual group, particularly within white matter networks associated with sensorimotor functions, with the most pronounced changes in the cerebellum. Conclusions: These findings suggest that learning a new motor skill may induce white matter changes in the brain in individuals with SUDs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Art Meets Neuroscience)

35 pages, 2965 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sensitivity Analysis of Unit Transportation Costs for Trucks and Buses: A Multi-Source Kuwait Case Study

by Jasem Alazemi, Jasem Alrajhi, Khalid Abdullah Alkhulaifi and Nawaf Alhaifi

Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(19), 9691; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16199691 - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

Accurate unit transportation cost estimates are important for pricing, budgeting, and fleet planning, but conclusions based on a single representative vehicle may be misleading when operating conditions vary across fleets, routes, operators, and years. This study develops a multi-source Kuwait framework that combines [...] Read more.

Accurate unit transportation cost estimates are important for pricing, budgeting, and fleet planning, but conclusions based on a single representative vehicle may be misleading when operating conditions vary across fleets, routes, operators, and years. This study develops a multi-source Kuwait framework that combines deterministic vehicle-level sensitivity analysis with independent truck, route, operator, and fleet evidence. One-at-a-time perturbations, sensitivity-index ranking, local elasticity, factorial stress tests, and fuel-price scenarios are applied to published freight-truck and passenger-bus cost cases. The principal contribution is a cross-resolution framework that links equation-level cost sensitivity with independently observed operational heterogeneity while preserving the analytical resolution of each dataset and avoiding inappropriate pooling of incompatible sources. In the vehicle-level sensitivity core, annual kilometers is the leading truck parameter (SI = 16.54%), followed by maintenance cost (6.18%) and driver/worker salary (5.67%), whereas bus occupancy rate (20.79%) and annual kilometers (16.45%) are dominant. As independent contextual evidence, historical Kuwait truck observations show mean transported loads of 2.0–5.0 t/truck, while KPTC route offered-capacity utilization ranges from 13.3% to 99.7%. The results show that productive activity and utilization strongly influence unit transportation cost, but their effects are context dependent. The framework therefore improves the practical interpretation and transferability of deterministic vehicle-level sensitivity results without overstating cross-source validation. Full article

21 pages, 4482 KB

Open AccessArticle

Energy-Efficient Calcium Looping with Vacuum-Assisted CaCO₃ Decomposition for Biomass-Derived Hydrogen Production

by Wenfei Yue, Chunlei Li, Yuqin Tian, Yuan Gong, Digang Gao and Rui Sun

Energies 2026, 19(19), 4622; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19194622 - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

The aim of this study is to propose and evaluate a novel hydrogen production process that integrates biomass gasification and calcium looping with vacuum-assisted low-temperature CaCO₃ decomposition. To achieve this objective, excess CaO is utilized as a sensible heat storage medium, allowing [...] Read more.

The aim of this study is to propose and evaluate a novel hydrogen production process that integrates biomass gasification and calcium looping with vacuum-assisted low-temperature CaCO₃ decomposition. To achieve this objective, excess CaO is utilized as a sensible heat storage medium, allowing the heat released during CaO carbonation to be recovered to drive CaCO₃ decomposition in a vacuum. This internal heat recovery strategy reduces the external heat requirement for CaCO₃ decomposition and thereby improves the overall energy efficiency of the novel process. The proposed process is simulated in Aspen Plus using thermodynamic equilibrium models and compared with the conventional process employing atmospheric-pressure CaCO₃ decomposition. Wheat straw is selected as the biomass feedstock, and CaO is used as the CO₂ sorbent. Systematic parametric analyses are conducted to investigate the effects of key operating parameters on gas composition, H₂ concentration and yield, and overall energy efficiency. The results indicate that the optimal overall energy efficiency is achieved at a CaCO₃ decomposition pressure of 1 kPa and a temperature of 675 °C. Under the optimized conditions, compared with the conventional process at a comparable H₂ concentration, the novel proposed process increases the H₂ yield from 0.66 to 0.98 Nm³/kg and improves the overall energy efficiency from 48.41% to 58.25%, corresponding to enhancements of 0.32 Nm³/kg and 9.84 percentage points, respectively. These results demonstrate that vacuum-assisted CaCO₃ decomposition coupled with sensible heat recovery from excess CaO can substantially enhance H₂ production and energy utilization, highlighting the potential of the proposed process for energy-efficient hydrogen production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Carbon Dioxide Adsorption, Capture, Conversion and Utilization)

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19 pages, 1065 KB

Open AccessReview

Physics-Informed Neural Mortality: Embedding Biological Mortality Laws in Neural Differential Equations for Life-Table Closure and Longevity Uncertainty Quantification

by Rami Yosef

Mathematics 2026, 14(19), 3545; https://doi.org/10.3390/math14193545 - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

Deep learning has become the default toolkit for mortality forecasting, yet essentially all existing models are purely data-driven: they fit well in-sample but can produce biologically implausible surfaces and extrapolate poorly to the oldest ages, and rarely deliver calibrated uncertainty. Classical parametric laws [...] Read more.

Deep learning has become the default toolkit for mortality forecasting, yet essentially all existing models are purely data-driven: they fit well in-sample but can produce biologically implausible surfaces and extrapolate poorly to the oldest ages, and rarely deliver calibrated uncertainty. Classical parametric laws (Gompertz–Makeham, Kannisto) have the opposite profile—smooth and well-behaved under extrapolation, but rigid. We introduce Physics-Informed Neural Mortality (PINM), a continuous neural model of the log force of mortality whose training objective couples the Poisson likelihood of observed deaths with (i) a physics residual that softly imposes a mortality law in the age dimension, including a Kannisto-type deceleration penalty for old-age closure, and (ii) an ODE-structured, learned improvement field in the time dimension (a state-independent special case of a neural ODE), so that forecasts are produced by integrating the learned dynamics forward rather than by a separate time-series step. We give a compact mathematical foundation—existence of minimisers, well-posed forecast dynamics, constrained approximation, and consistency of the fitted rates—and evaluate the method candidly on controlled ground-truth simulation and on real data for six European populations (Eurostat). On the simulation, PINM leads at the older, annuity-relevant ages (RMSE 0.131 versus 0.143 for Lee–Carter) and retains substantially higher interval coverage under the specific misspecification scenario studied (44.8% versus 12.2% for Lee–Carter), though both remain materially below the nominal 95% level; in a held-out closure experiment on the same simulated surface, continuous neural surfaces extrapolate mortality from age 90 to age 110 with RMSE 0.196 against 0.301 for Lee–Carter completed with a Kannisto tail. On the six-population backtest (2010–2019), classical Lee–Carter and Renshaw–Haberman remain the most accurate forecasters overall (mean RMSE 0.123 versus 0.170 for PINM), with the neural surfaces competitive at older ages and on the longest series; PINM matches or improves on an unconstrained network of equal capacity in all six cases (outright in five). PINM’s contribution is a novel, unified differential-equation framework for fitting, structured forecasting, structured old-age closure, and empirically evaluated uncertainty quantification in one model, together with an explicit discussion of the method’s robustness and tail-estimation limitations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Actuarial Statistical Modeling and Applications)

19 pages, 1541 KB

Open AccessArticle

Food Salience and the Nutrition Transition in Kiribati: Urban–Rural and Socioeconomic Patterning of Food Preferences

by Zhen Ming Jeremy Ng and John Paul Cauchi

Foods 2026, 15(19), 3499; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15193499 - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

Kiribati is undergoing a nutrition transition as imported foods increasingly compete with traditional staples, yet the cultural patterning of food preferences remains poorly characterised. We analysed 2019 cross-sectional household survey data from 399 adults primarily responsible for food preparation. Three timed freelists captured [...] Read more.

Kiribati is undergoing a nutrition transition as imported foods increasingly compete with traditional staples, yet the cultural patterning of food preferences remains poorly characterised. We analysed 2019 cross-sectional household survey data from 399 adults primarily responsible for food preparation. Three timed freelists captured favourite foods, traditional foods, and the three foods eaten most often. Smith’s salience, cultural consensus analysis, hierarchical clustering, and multivariable linear regression characterised food preferences and socioeconomic correlates of the proportions of imported, processed and traditional items in favourite-food lists. Fish, breadfruit, and coconut formed a cross-domain core of salient foods, while imported rice ranked first among frequently consumed foods and was salient across all three domains in rural participants. Urban respondents showed stronger cultural consensus than rural respondents (6.57–7.69 vs. 3.60–5.65). Spending >75% of household income on food was associated with greater imported (β = 0.13, p ≤ 0.05) and processed (β = 0.16, p ≤ 0.01) food preferences. Urban residence, refrigerator ownership, and larger household size were associated with a lower proportion of traditional items in favourite-food lists. Freelisting revealed that culturally valued local foods persist despite widespread import dependence, suggesting that observed consumption does not fully represent collective food preference. Food-choice interventions are therefore worth testing as ways to make already-valued local foods more affordable, convenient, and accessible. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Food Perspective: Understanding the Drivers of Consumer Food Choices)

37 pages, 2707 KB

Open AccessReview

Advanced Drug Delivery in Pediatric Neurology: Developmental Barriers, Nanocarrier Strategies, and Translational Challenges

by Raluca Ioana Teleanu, Andreea Gabriela Bratu, Adelina-Gabriela Niculescu, Radu Ștefan Perjoc, Eugenia Roza, Daniel Mihai Teleanu, Oana Aurelia Vladâcenco, Ana Cojocaru, Alexandru Mihai Grumezescu and Iustina Mihaela Pintilie

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(19), 8727; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27198727 - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

Treating neurological disorders in children is particularly challenging due to the dynamic maturation of the developing brain, age-dependent pharmacokinetics, and evolving structural and functional properties of the blood–brain barrier (BBB). This review explores the latest advances in drug-delivery systems tailored for pediatric neurology, [...] Read more.

Treating neurological disorders in children is particularly challenging due to the dynamic maturation of the developing brain, age-dependent pharmacokinetics, and evolving structural and functional properties of the blood–brain barrier (BBB). This review explores the latest advances in drug-delivery systems tailored for pediatric neurology, emphasizing strategies to address physiological and developmental determinants of treatment response across infancy, childhood, and adolescence. The paper begins by outlining the distinct challenges of drug delivery in children, focusing on BBB maturation, transporter expression, metabolic capacity, and neurodevelopmental vulnerability. Emerging delivery systems, such as liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, dendrimers, micelles, gold nanoparticles, and gene- and RNA-based vectors, are further reviewed in relation to major pediatric neurological conditions. These platforms demonstrate promise in enhancing drug bioavailability, targeting specific brain regions, and minimizing systemic toxicity. This paper also covers important safety, regulatory, and ethical considerations in pediatric populations, with a focus on the need for age-appropriate design and thorough clinical validation. Concluding with emerging trends and future directions, this work serves as a comprehensive resource for advancing pediatric neurological therapeutics through state-of-the-art drug delivery technologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 25th Anniversary of IJMS: Updates and Advances in Molecular Neurobiology)

23 pages, 882 KB

Open AccessReview

Beta-Blocker Therapy After Acute Myocardial Infarction

by Chiara Cosentino, Luigi Cutore, Carmelo Raffo, Claudio Laudani, Carmelo Cusmano, Marco Spagnolo, Davide Capodanno and Antonio Greco

J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(19), 7583; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15197583 - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

Historically, beta-blockers have long represented a cornerstone of secondary prevention after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). However, the transition to the modern era of early reperfusion and potent pharmacotherapy has questioned their universal efficacy, particularly in patients without post-AMI left ventricular dysfunction. This review [...] Read more.

Historically, beta-blockers have long represented a cornerstone of secondary prevention after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). However, the transition to the modern era of early reperfusion and potent pharmacotherapy has questioned their universal efficacy, particularly in patients without post-AMI left ventricular dysfunction. This review critically analyzes current evidence on the role, timing, and optimal duration of beta-blocker therapy after AMI, with a focus on the impact of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Relevant literature was identified through searches of PubMed and Web of Science, with particular emphasis on randomized trials and meta-analyses investigating beta-blocker efficacy and safety post-AMI. The search strategy focused on the interaction between LVEF categories and clinical outcomes. Data from historical cohorts and modern trials were synthesized to evaluate the optimal timing and duration of therapy according to the LVEF phenotype. While the survival benefit of beta-blockers remains undisputed for patients with LVEF < 40%, contemporary evidence demonstrates a lack of prognostic advantage for routine beta-blockade in patients with preserved LVEF (i.e., ≥50%). Crucially, recent meta-analyses reveal that patients with LVEF (40–49%) may derive significant benefit from long-term therapy with beta-blockers. Regarding duration, evidence on deprescription remains conflicting. Although earlier data highlighted risks of hemodynamic rebound upon withdrawal, recent trials demonstrate that discontinuing beta-blocker therapy in the chronic phase of AMI may be a safe strategy. Long-term beta-blocker therapy after AMI is supported by robust evidence in patients with LVEF < 40%, whereas emerging but less definitive evidence suggests a potential benefit in those with LVEF 40–49%. Conversely, contemporary randomized trials do not support routine beta-blockade for patients with preserved LVEF (≥50%) in the absence of other clinical indications. As such, further studies are needed to refine patient selection and inform future guideline recommendations across the whole LVEF spectrum. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Management Strategies for Coronary Artery Disease and Revascularization)

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32 pages, 3276 KB

Open AccessReview

Mycobiota on Robinia pseudoacacia in East-Central Europe: Diversity, Ecological Roles, and Potential Links to Climate Change

by Andrzej Szczepkowski, Ewa Referowska, Marek Wołkowycki, Małgorzata Sułkowska and Zbigniew Sierota

Sustainability 2026, 18(19), 9973; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18199973 - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

The long history and widespread occurrence of Robinia pseudoacacia L. in Europe are increasingly associated with numerous fungal species, including pathogens. Based on literature review data from East-Central Europe (Belarus, Lithuania, Poland, western Ukraine, and northern Germany), 137 fungal taxa were identified on [...] Read more.

The long history and widespread occurrence of Robinia pseudoacacia L. in Europe are increasingly associated with numerous fungal species, including pathogens. Based on literature review data from East-Central Europe (Belarus, Lithuania, Poland, western Ukraine, and northern Germany), 137 fungal taxa were identified on this tree species, including 50 Ascomycota and 87 Basidiomycota. Bearing in mind the varied history of mycological research in the analysed countries, the highest number of taxa was recorded in Poland (108), followed by northern Germany (34) and western Ukraine (24), while Belarus (6) and Lithuania (4) provided the fewest records. Saprotrophic fungi dominated (57%), whereas obligate and facultative parasites accounted for 43%. Among the identified fungi, 71 species caused white rot, and three caused brown rot. The most represented genera were Coprinellus, Crepidotus, and Fusarium. The results of the literature review indicate that R. pseudoacacia serves as an important host and substrate for many fungal species. We hypothesise that this may be influenced, among others, by increased trade, changes in land use, climate change (shifts in the distribution of the tree and individual fungi) and the native fungi’s ability to colonise a new host. In the context of further climate change and the increasing importance of this invasive tree in Europe, fungal pathogens may significantly affect the sustainability of its stands. The greatest threats include root pathogens of the genus Armillaria, wood-decaying fungi such as Fomitiporia robusta and Laetiporus sulphureus, powdery mildews (Erysiphe spp.), and fungi of the genus Fusarium. On the other hand, R. pseudoacacia may have a positive impact on biodiversity in the environment, providing a habitat or substrate for at least 30 threatened fungal species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Forestry)

20 pages, 1277 KB

Open AccessArticle

Inhibitory Mechanism of Bee Venom Against A431 Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells Based on Label-Free Proteomics and Untargeted Metabolomics

by Ao Yang, Jingjing Li and Wenchao Yang

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(19), 8725; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27198725 - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

The incidence of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) has been rising steadily in recent years, yet treatment options for advanced-stage patients remain limited. Bee venom (BV) possesses diverse biological activities including inhibiting tumor cell growth in various tumor models, but its underlying mechanism [...] Read more.

The incidence of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) has been rising steadily in recent years, yet treatment options for advanced-stage patients remain limited. Bee venom (BV) possesses diverse biological activities including inhibiting tumor cell growth in various tumor models, but its underlying mechanism against cSCC A431 cells remains unclear. This study evaluated the antiproliferative effect of BV on A431 cells using the CCK-8 assay and explored its mechanism of action through label-free proteomics and untargeted metabolomics. BV inhibited A431 cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner, with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration of 11.57 μg/mL. Proteomics analysis revealed that 118 differentially expressed proteins were mainly enriched in the p53 signaling pathway, mineral absorption, and base excision repair pathways. Metabolomics screening yielded 336 differentially expressed metabolites, primarily enriched in amino acid biosynthesis and metabolism. BV exerts its anti-A431 cell bioactivity potentially by synergistically regulating tumor-related signaling pathways, mineral homeostasis, and proteins involved in DNA repair processes, thereby disrupting amino acid biosynthesis and metabolism. But the transcriptomic data failed to confirm TP53 upregulation. These findings provide a theoretical basis for apipuncture and BV-based cSCC therapies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Oncology)

15 pages, 311 KB

Open AccessCommunication

Development and Validation of a Real-Time One-Pot RPA-CRISPR/Cas-Based Assay for Detection of ‘Candidatus Liberibacter Asiaticus,’ the Agent Associated with Citrus Greening Disease or Huanglongbing (HLB)

by Brijesh B. Karakkat and Jarred Yasuhara-Bell

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(19), 8728; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27198728 - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

Huanglongbing (aka: citrus greening) associated with ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ (CLas) is one of the most impactful citrus diseases throughout the world. The aim of this project was to support the sensitive and rapid detection of CLas to prevent the continued spread and [...] Read more.

Huanglongbing (aka: citrus greening) associated with ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ (CLas) is one of the most impactful citrus diseases throughout the world. The aim of this project was to support the sensitive and rapid detection of CLas to prevent the continued spread and destruction of US citrus crops by this psyllid vector-borne disease. Two multicopy targets specific to CLas were selected for assay development: the five-copy nrdB (ribonucleotide reductase-RNR) gene and a four-copy locus 4cp (4CP). Published RNR RPA primers were used to develop a one-pot RPA-CRISPR assay, and RPA primers for 4CP were designed. crRNAs for both RNR- and 4CP-RPA-CRISPR/Cas assays were designed, evaluated through preliminary testing, and the best candidate primers and crRNA combinations were selected. The 4CP assay was selected and subjected to a battery of validation tests and determined fit-for-purpose. A field extraction protocol was also developed using commercial reagents, syringes and filters to bring kit sensitivity to the field. When combined with the assay, the complete workflow was able to detect CLas in infected citrus, down to a single infected leaf per subsample; the field workflow showed similar sensitivity to the laboratory-based workflow. While the extraction and assay proved useful, particularly for symptomatic leaves, its performance with asymptomatic leaves for early detection was not evaluated. The complexity of the assay in its current form hinders widespread practical applicability. In the future, revalidation of lyophilized reagents in a convenient kit can be performed for practical deployment; preliminary testing has shown success. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Plant Biotechnology: From Pathogen Diagnostics to Disease Management)

24 pages, 889 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Application of Ultrasound for the Modification of Techno-Functional and Physicochemical Properties in Cereal and Pseudocereal Protein Isolates: A Systematic Review

by Guillermo Segundo Miñan-Olivos, Gonzalo Gastón Palazolo, Julio Vidaurre-Ruiz and Darío Marcelino Cabezas

Foods 2026, 15(19), 3498; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15193498 - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

Cereal and pseudocereal protein isolates are increasingly investigated as sustainable food ingredients, although their limited solubility, interfacial activity, foaming performance, and hydration properties can restrict their technological application. This systematic review evaluated the effects of ultrasound on the physicochemical and techno-functional properties of [...] Read more.

Cereal and pseudocereal protein isolates are increasingly investigated as sustainable food ingredients, although their limited solubility, interfacial activity, foaming performance, and hydration properties can restrict their technological application. This systematic review evaluated the effects of ultrasound on the physicochemical and techno-functional properties of protein isolates from cereals and pseudocereals. The review followed PRISMA guidelines and included 26 experimental studies identified from Scopus, Web of Science, Wiley, and Consensus. Owing to substantial heterogeneity in protein sources, sonication conditions, analytical methods, and outcome metrics, the evidence was synthesized narratively rather than by meta-analysis. Overall, ultrasound promoted aggregate disruption, particle-size reduction, partial unfolding, and greater exposure of hydrophilic and hydrophobic groups, which generally improved solubility, emulsifying activity and stability, foaming capacity and stability, water- and oil-holding capacities, and, in some studies, in vitro digestibility. The magnitude and direction of these effects depended on botanical origin and protein composition, as well as on pH, treatment time, acoustic power, and the sequence of combined processes. Treatments integrating ultrasound with pH shifting, heat, glycation, enzymatic modification, or high hydrostatic pressure often produced greater functional improvements than ultrasound alone. Ultrasound is therefore a promising approach for tailoring cereal and pseudocereal protein functionality, although standardized acoustic reporting and scale-up studies remain necessary. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Extraction Technologies for Plant-Derived Food Ingredients)

21 pages, 1368 KB

Open AccessArticle

Gut Microbiota, Inflammatory Bowel Disease and the Prioritization of Host Effector Genes: A Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study with Independent Replication, cis-eQTL Colocalization and Single-Cell Localization

by Qiyuan Zou and Jianyi Wang

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(19), 8718; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27198718 - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

Gut microbial dysbiosis is common in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), but whether specific taxa are causal, and through which host genes, remains unclear. We integrated two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR), replication, cis-eQTL colocalization, and single-cell mapping to identify microbial taxa with genetically predicted associations [...] Read more.

Gut microbial dysbiosis is common in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), but whether specific taxa are causal, and through which host genes, remains unclear. We integrated two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR), replication, cis-eQTL colocalization, and single-cell mapping to identify microbial taxa with genetically predicted associations and candidate host mediators. Instruments for 211 taxa from MiBioGen (p < 1×10⁻⁵, r² < 0.001) were used in two-sample MR (inverse-variance weighted IVW primary; sensitivity: Egger, weighted median, MR-PRESSO) against IBD, Crohn’s disease (CD), and ulcerative colitis (UC) in the International IBD Genetics Consortium (IIBDGC), with false discovery rate (FDR) correction. Replication was conducted in FinnGen R12; gene prioritization was performed via cis-SMR/coloc.abf using GTEx v8/CAGE eQTLs, and localization in 11,175 colonic cells. MR identified 15 significant associations (FDR < 0.05) across eight features; applying a pre-specified heterogeneity-based rule, 13 across seven independent features were retained as primary associations (strongest NB1n → CD, OR 1.32) and two were downgraded to suggestive; at the independent-signal level, three of 11 associations were replicated and seven were direction-concordant in FinnGen. Colocalization supported shared variants at SENP7 (blood, CD PP.H4 = 0.86, IBD = 0.70) and ZBTB11-AS1 (colon, IBD = 0.76, CD = 0.74); single-cell analysis mapped SENP7 to T/NK, and ZBTB11-AS1/VIPR1 to epithelial/goblet. Replicated MR and colocalization prioritized SENP7 (whole-blood eQTL; minor T/NK-cell detection) and ZBTB11-AS1 (colon epithelium) as candidate effectors, though the latter lacks functional characterization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Biology)

26 pages, 374 KB

Open AccessArticle

Operator Sum Inequalities in the A-Normalized Berezin Framework

by Maryam G. Alshehri and Kais Feki

Axioms 2026, 15(10), 719; https://doi.org/10.3390/axioms15100719 - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

Building on recent approaches to generalized Berezin norms by by Albeladi, Feki, and Taha, this paper establishes several refined upper bounds for the

A

-normalized Berezin number and its associated seminorms for finite operator sums in reproducing kernel spaces, where

A

is a [...] Read more.

Building on recent approaches to generalized Berezin norms by by Albeladi, Feki, and Taha, this paper establishes several refined upper bounds for the

A

-normalized Berezin number and its associated seminorms for finite operator sums in reproducing kernel spaces, where

A

is a non-zero positive semidefinite operator inducing the semi-Hilbertian structure. By systematically leveraging the

A

-Cartesian decomposition alongside generalizations of the Dragomir, Buzano, and McCarthy inequalities, we deduce robust higher-power estimates that rectify and extend the existing literature. Furthermore, we derive an integral bound that refines the standard triangle inequality for the

A

-normalized Berezin operator radius, and establish a characterization of equality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Operator Theory and Related Topics)

26 pages, 4435 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Secretome of iPSC-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Alters Glial and Vascular Responses in SCI-Relevant Paradigms

by João L. Afonso, Ana T. Palha, Marta F. Lima, Andreia Monteiro, Maria M. Moura, Filipa Ferreira-Antunes, Luís S. Fernandes, Sara Rito-Fernandes, Ehsan Omidvar, Inês Pereira, Beatriz Martínez-Rojas, Jonas Campos, Susana Monteiro, Belém Sampaio-Marques, Nuno A. Silva and António J. Salgado

Biomolecules 2026, 16(10), 1414; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom16101414 - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

Cell-free therapies based on the mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) secretome are being widely explored for spinal cord injury (SCI). Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) provide a scalable source for generating mesenchymal stem cells (iMSCs), but limited studies have evaluated the modulatory capacity of [...] Read more.

Cell-free therapies based on the mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) secretome are being widely explored for spinal cord injury (SCI). Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) provide a scalable source for generating mesenchymal stem cells (iMSCs), but limited studies have evaluated the modulatory capacity of iMSCs for CNS applications. Due to the importance of the glial and vascular responses to SCI progression, this study evaluated the activity of the iMSCs secretome on glial and endothelial cells in SCI-relevant paradigms. In primary mixed spinal cord cultures, the secretome was tested under supplement withdrawal and hyperosmotic injury conditions, while endothelial network formation was assessed in a morphogenesis assay. In vitro, the iMSCs secretome promoted a modest protective effect on cell survival, modulated astrocyte morphology and preserved myelin basic protein expression within the oligodendroglial lineage, without clear alterations in microglial morphometric readouts. Secretome treatment also increased Arg1 expression in mixed spinal cord cultures. In endothelial cultures, the secretome promoted a denser and more interconnected endothelial network. In a mouse thoracic SCI model, the secretome was administered intravenously, and tissue was analyzed one week after injury. In vivo, the secretome reduced perilesional GFAP coverage and increased selected vascular morphometric parameters without altering lesion size or microglia morphological readouts. Overall, these findings indicate that the iMSCs secretome produced context-dependent changes in glial and vascular cells, mainly regarding morphological parameters, supporting further studies of iPSC-derived MSCs as a scalable source for secretome-based strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Insights and Applications of Pluripotent Stem Cells)

34 pages, 2487 KB

Open AccessReview

Polysaccharide-Derived Drug Delivery Systems: Therapeutic Potential in Rheumatoid Arthritis—A Review

by Xiaotong Yue, Aishuo Yu, Jinjin Chen, Feilong Zhao, Liyang Zhang, Abudureheman Bahatibieke, Yudong Zheng, Wei He and Jin Xu

Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(10), 1545; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19101545 - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by chronic synovial inflammation, synovial hyperplasia, and progressive joint destruction and remains a major clinical challenge. Polysaccharide-derived delivery platforms have attracted widespread attention for RA precision therapy owing to their natural origin, excellent biocompatibility, [...] Read more.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by chronic synovial inflammation, synovial hyperplasia, and progressive joint destruction and remains a major clinical challenge. Polysaccharide-derived delivery platforms have attracted widespread attention for RA precision therapy owing to their natural origin, excellent biocompatibility, and tailorable functionality; however, existing reviews generally focus on single material or carrier types and provide limited cross-comparison of carrier architectures and translational considerations. This review systematically evaluates recent advances in polysaccharide derivative design strategies and delivery system innovations for RA management. We first elaborate on how chemical modifications confer multi-responsive properties (pH-, reactive oxygen species [ROS]-, and enzyme-triggered release) and how diversified morphologies (hydrogels, microspheres, microneedles, vesicles) enable spatiotemporally controlled drug delivery in inflamed joints. Critical analysis highlights several translational barriers, including limited in vivo retention, insufficient pharmacokinetic and biodistribution data, and challenges associated with scale-up manufacturing and reproducibility. Looking forward, future development should integrate biomimetic design, rational multi-component optimization, and advanced manufacturing technologies to improve the stability, controllability, and translational feasibility of polysaccharide-based RA delivery systems. This review provides an integrated, translation-focused perspective that bridges material engineering and clinical pathological demands, guiding the development of next-generation polysaccharide-based RA therapies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Micro and Nanocarrier-Based Delivery Systems for Active Compounds)

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15 pages, 1490 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Chip Shape and Hole Quality in Drilling of AISI 304 Stainless Steel Under Flood and HPC Conditions

by Aleksandra Lewandowska and Kamil Leksycki

Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(19), 9690; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16199690 - 29 Sep 2026

Abstract

Stainless steels are widely used in industry due to their favorable functional properties; however, their machining poses a significant technological challenge. This study analyzed chip shape, chip thickness ratio (K_h), hole dimensional accuracy, and surface topography of AISI 304 stainless [...] Read more.

Stainless steels are widely used in industry due to their favorable functional properties; however, their machining poses a significant technological challenge. This study analyzed chip shape, chip thickness ratio (K_h), hole dimensional accuracy, and surface topography of AISI 304 stainless steel during drilling as a function of cooling conditions and cutting parameters. Two values of cutting speed and feed rate were applied based on a 2² Full Factorial Design (FFD). The experiments were conducted under flood and high-pressure cooling (HPC) conditions. The results showed that at a high feed rate, both flood cooling and the HPC method resulted in short arc-shaped and conical helical chips. Compared with flood cooling, the HPC method reduced K_h by approximately 60% for a specific combination of cutting parameters. Analysis of chip morphology revealed qualitative differences in the occurrence of plastic deformation bands on the chip surfaces under HPC conditions compared with flood cooling. Compared with the HPC method, flood cooling resulted in a 0.09 mm larger hole diameter under lower cutting conditions, whereas under higher cutting conditions, the HPC method resulted in a 0.08 mm larger hole diameter. The application of the HPC method reduced the Ra and Rz surface roughness parameters by approximately 45% for f = 0.12 mm/rev and v = 40 m/min and by approximately 60% for f = 0.06 mm/rev and v = 80 m/min. Moreover, the HPC method provided a more regular surface texture, whereas furrows and hills were observed on the machined surfaces under flood cooling, depending on the cutting parameters. Overall, the application of HPC led to differences in chip morphology and hole quality compared with flood cooling, with the observed effects varying depending on the applied combination of feed rate and cutting speed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Machining, Surface Integrity, and Operational Properties of State-of-the-Art Materials)

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