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32 pages, 8941 KB

Open AccessArticle

AI-Powered Evaluation of On-Demand Public Transport: A Hybrid Simulation Approach

by Sohani Liyanage, Hussein Dia and Gordon Duncan

Smart Cities 2026, 9(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/smartcities9010004 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

On-demand public transport systems are increasingly adopted to improve service flexibility, reduce operating costs, and meet emerging mobility needs. Evaluating their performance under realistic demand and operational conditions, however, remains a complex challenge. This study presents a hybrid simulation framework that integrates deep [...] Read more.

On-demand public transport systems are increasingly adopted to improve service flexibility, reduce operating costs, and meet emerging mobility needs. Evaluating their performance under realistic demand and operational conditions, however, remains a complex challenge. This study presents a hybrid simulation framework that integrates deep learning-based demand forecasting, behavioural survey data, and agent-based simulation to assess system performance. A BiLSTM neural network trained on real-world smartcard data forecasts short-term passenger demand, which is embedded into an agent-based model simulating vehicle dispatch, routing, and passenger interactions. The framework is applied to a case study in Melbourne, Australia, comparing a baseline fixed-route service with two on-demand scenarios. Results show that the most flexible scenario reduces the average passenger trip time by 32%, decreases the average wait time by 34%, increases vehicle occupancy from 12.1 to 18.6 passengers per vehicle, lowers emissions per passenger trip by 72%, and cuts the service cost per trip from AUD 6.82 to AUD 4.73. These findings demonstrate the potential of hybrid on-demand services to improve operational efficiency, passenger experience, and environmental outcomes. The study presents a novel, integrated methodology for scenario-based evaluation of on-demand public transportation using real-world transportation data. Full article

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38 pages, 1483 KB

Open AccessArticle

Forecasting Office Construction Price Indices for Cost Planning in Germany Using Regularized VARX Models

by Matthias Passek and Konrad Nübel

Buildings 2026, 16(1), 103; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16010103 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

Construction price indices play a critical role in shaping construction activity and determining the economic success of building projects in Germany, where they can serve as central inputs to cost planning and to updating trade-level project budgets over the planning and construction horizon. [...] Read more.

Construction price indices play a critical role in shaping construction activity and determining the economic success of building projects in Germany, where they can serve as central inputs to cost planning and to updating trade-level project budgets over the planning and construction horizon. This paper develops a forecasting framework for 35 sub-construction price indices for office buildings, providing granular inputs for cost escalation and risk assessment. We employ regularized vector autoregressive models with exogenous variables (VARX) implemented via the BigVAR package and estimate them in a model-vintage design for an unbalanced panel. These high-dimensional models are benchmarked against compact VARX and vector error-correction models (VECM) that jointly forecast each target index with a small macroeconomic block consisting of the gross domestic product (GDP) and the three-month interbank rate. Candidate specifications are evaluated using mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) and out-of-sample root mean square error (RMSE), and the final forecasting model for each index is selected based on ex post MAPE. The results show that regularized VARX models capture dynamic interdependencies among the sub-indices and, for most series, outperform the VARX and VECM benchmarks. The resulting forecasts provide practitioners with trade-specific escalation factors that can support budgeting, contract design, and the mitigation of cost risk in office-building projects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Architectural Design, Urban Science, and Real Estate)

43 pages, 4645 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

A Meta-Synthesis of Review Studies on Wood–Polymer Composites: Mapping the Current Research Landscape

by Marius Nicolae Baba and Mirela Camelia Baba

Polymers 2026, 18(1), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym18010063 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

Wood–polymer composites (WPCs) consistently garner considerable attention owing to their material versatility and sustainability, resulting in numerous review studies across diverse disciplines. Nonetheless, since a comprehensive synthesis that consolidates these disparate reviews is lacking, this study performs a meta-synthesis of review articles focused [...] Read more.

Wood–polymer composites (WPCs) consistently garner considerable attention owing to their material versatility and sustainability, resulting in numerous review studies across diverse disciplines. Nonetheless, since a comprehensive synthesis that consolidates these disparate reviews is lacking, this study performs a meta-synthesis of review articles focused on WPCs employing a science-mapping approach enhanced by CiteSpace software. A systematic search of the Web of Science Core Collection (last updated in June 2025) was conducted, yielding 51 review-type articles selected using PRISMA screening guidelines. Network-based co-citation, clustering, and keyword analyses reveal that recent WPC research centers on three interconnected areas: (i) reinforcement and interfacial engineering, (ii) processing–structure–property relationships, and (iii) sustainability-focused design involving recycling, fire safety, thermal pretreatment, and PCM-based thermal management. Sixteen author/reference clusters and nine keyword clusters highlight well-defined knowledge communities on durability and fire safety, nano- and bio-based reinforcements, recycled and bioplastic matrices, and advanced manufacturing techniques such as co-extrusion, flat-pressing, 3D printing, and wood–polymer impregnation. Timeline and burst analyses show that mechanical performance remains the primary focus, while emerging areas include recycled/waste-derived polymers, cellulose micro- and nanofibers, moisture-resistant hybrids, and wood-based additive manufacturing for construction applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Composites and Nanocomposites)

20 pages, 3678 KB

Open AccessArticle

Site-Dependent Dynamic Life Cycle Assessment of Human Health Impacts from Industrial Air Pollutants: Inhalation Exposure to NO_x, SO₂, and PM_2.5 in PVC Window Manufacturing

by Patrice Megange, Amir-Ali Feiz, Pierre Ngae, Thien Phu Le and Patrick Rousseaux

Toxics 2026, 14(1), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics14010023 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

Industrial air emissions are major contributors to human exposure to toxic pollutants, posing significant health risks. Life cycle assessment (LCA) is increasingly used to quantify human toxicity impacts from industrial processes. Conventional LCA often overlooks spatial and temporal variability, limiting its ability to [...] Read more.

Industrial air emissions are major contributors to human exposure to toxic pollutants, posing significant health risks. Life cycle assessment (LCA) is increasingly used to quantify human toxicity impacts from industrial processes. Conventional LCA often overlooks spatial and temporal variability, limiting its ability to capture actual inhaled doses and exposure-driven impacts. To address this, we developed a site-dependent dynamic LCA (SdDLCA) framework that integrates conventional LCA with Enhanced Structural Path Analysis (ESPA) and atmospheric dispersion modeling. Applied to the production of double-glazed PVC windows for a residential project, the framework generates high-resolution, site-specific emission inventories for three key pollutants: nitrogen oxides (NO_x), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), and fine particulate matter (PM_2.5). Local concentration fields are compared with World Health Organization (WHO) air quality thresholds to identify hotspots and periods of elevated exposure. By coupling these fields with the ReCiPe 2016 endpoint methodology and localized demographic and meteorological data, SdDLCA quantifies human health impacts in Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs), providing a direct measure of inhalation toxicity. This approach enhances LCA’s ability to capture exposure-driven effects, identifies populations at greatest risk, and offers a robust, evidence-based tool to guide industrial planning and operations that minimize health hazards from air emissions. Full article

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19 pages, 1084 KB

Open AccessReview

Serum Amyloid A (SAA) and Its Interaction with High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C): A Comprehensive Review

by Angela P. Moissl-Blanke, Graciela E. Delgado, Bernhard K. Krämer, Rüdiger Siekmeier, Daniel Duerschmied, Winfried März and Marcus E. Kleber

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(1), 241; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27010241 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

Serum Amyloid A (SAA) is an acute-phase apolipoprotein that acts as both a sensitive biomarker of systemic inflammation and an active modulator of lipid metabolism and vascular homeostasis. This review summarises current insights into the interaction between SAA and high-density lipoproteins (HDL), with [...] Read more.

Serum Amyloid A (SAA) is an acute-phase apolipoprotein that acts as both a sensitive biomarker of systemic inflammation and an active modulator of lipid metabolism and vascular homeostasis. This review summarises current insights into the interaction between SAA and high-density lipoproteins (HDL), with particular emphasis on its role in inflammation-driven cardiovascular disease (CVD). The incorporation of SAA into HDL markedly alters its composition and function. The displacement of apolipoprotein A-I impairs cholesterol efflux capacity, reduces antioxidative activity, and promotes a pro-inflammatory phenotype, transforming protective HDL into a dysfunctional particle. These changes contribute to endothelial dysfunction, foam cell formation, and atherogenesis. Elevated SAA levels are also associated with adverse cardiovascular and metabolic outcomes, including coronary artery disease, type 2 diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. Isoform-specific variations in SAA–HDL interactions are emerging as key modulators of these effects. This review also discusses emerging therapeutic and nutritional strategies to modulate the SAA–HDL axis, including anti-inflammatory therapies, HDL mimetics, and diet-based interventions. Future research should prioritise the standardisation of SAA measurement, characterisation of isoform-specific functions, and translational studies integrating SAA into cardiovascular risk stratification and therapy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Serum Amyloid A (SAA) Family: (Patho)Physiological Functions in (Non)Mammalian Systems)

20 pages, 7021 KB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental and Theoretical Study on the Flexural Mechanism of Spliced Timber Columns Under Four-Point Bending Loading

by Yan Chen, Jia-Jun Zhou, Kai-Wen Cen and Wei Li

Buildings 2026, 16(1), 96; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16010096 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

To study the effects of different spliced forms and spliced lengths on the flexural performance of traditional spliced timber columns, four-point bending tests were conducted. A total of 14 specimens were designed across three groups, including one group of solid timber columns and [...] Read more.

To study the effects of different spliced forms and spliced lengths on the flexural performance of traditional spliced timber columns, four-point bending tests were conducted. A total of 14 specimens were designed across three groups, including one group of solid timber columns and two groups of spliced timber columns featuring the half-lap joint and cross-lap joint forms, all with a combined length of 2000 mm. Test results indicate that the half-lap joints exhibited discrete surface strain and stress concentration due to the discontinuity of the joint structure. Their flexural load-bearing capacities ranged from 6.6% to 11.6% of the solid timber columns. In contrast, the cross-lap joints achieved continuous strain distribution by virtue of the spliced head’s self-locking effect, demonstrating superior overall deformation coordination. Their flexural load-bearing capacities ranged from 8.4% to 11.1% of the solid timber columns. A noticeable reduction in initial stiffness was observed for the spliced columns. The solid timber columns and half-lap joints primarily exhibited brittle failure, while the cross-lap joints displayed plastic failure. Furthermore, a flexural load-bearing capacity model was developed for the spliced timber columns. By comprehensively considering the material strength reduction and the geometric parameters of the joint, the model was validated through experiments, demonstrating high reliability. The mean ratio of test-to-theoretical values was 1.0005, with a mean absolute percentage error of 3.2%; the coefficient of determination was 0.998 for the half-lap joints and 0.986 for the cross-lap joints. This model provides an accurate theoretical assessment tool for the repair projects of traditional timber structures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)

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22 pages, 590 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Early Detection of Keratoconus: Diagnostic Advances and Their Impact on Visual Outcomes: A Systematic Review

by Evangelos Magklaras, Konstantinia Karamitsou, Vasilios F. Diakonis, Theodoros Mprotsis and Konstantinos T. Tsaousis

Medicina 2026, 62(1), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina62010042 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Keratoconus is a progressive corneal ectatic disorder and a leading cause of corneal transplantation in developed countries. Early detection is critical for initiating timely interventions such as corneal cross-linking, which can halt disease progression and preserve long-term visual function. [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: Keratoconus is a progressive corneal ectatic disorder and a leading cause of corneal transplantation in developed countries. Early detection is critical for initiating timely interventions such as corneal cross-linking, which can halt disease progression and preserve long-term visual function. This review aims to synthesize current diagnostic approaches for early keratoconus detection and assess their clinical impact on visual outcomes. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Scopus and the Cochrane Library through September 2025. Search terms included “early keratoconus,” “subclinical keratoconus,” “forme fruste keratoconus,” “keratoconus detection,” “corneal topography,” “corneal tomography,” “anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT),” “corneal biomechanics,” “artificial intelligence,” “genetic risk, “environmental factors”, and “machine learning.” Two independent reviewers analyzed the data. Studies were included if they investigated diagnostic modalities for early-stage keratoconus and discussed their relevance to visual outcomes. Results: One hundred and seven studies were included in the final review. Four diagnostic modalities demonstrated consistent clinical value: 1. corneal topography for assessing anterior surface irregularities; 2. corneal tomography, currently regarded as the gold standard due to its ability to detect early posterior elevation and pachymetric changes; 3. AS-OCT for epithelial and stromal profiling; and 4. biomechanical assessments, which evaluate corneal tissue stability prior to structural alterations. Artificial intelligence, when integrated with imaging data, enhances diagnostic sensitivity and standardizes interpretation across clinical settings. Conclusions: Early keratoconus detection is crucial for preserving vision; and integrating multimodal, AI-supported diagnostics into routine care—especially for high-risk groups—enhances accuracy, improves outcomes, and reduces progression rates of disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Ophthalmology)

21 pages, 1761 KB

Open AccessArticle

Potential of Producing Lightweight Cork-Based Mortars Reinforced with Polyethylene Fibers for Building Applications

by Laid Guermiti, Mohamed Guendouz, Djamila Boukhelkhal, Souri Abid and Moussa Hadjadj

Buildings 2026, 16(1), 102; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16010102 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

This work contributes to reinforcing cork-based mortar, with the potential of developing a new eco-friendly lightweight mortar for specific structural applications. Thirteen lightweight mortars were produced by adding cork aggregates (CAs) at fractions of 0.30%, 0.60%, and 0.90% of mortar weight. For each [...] Read more.

This work contributes to reinforcing cork-based mortar, with the potential of developing a new eco-friendly lightweight mortar for specific structural applications. Thirteen lightweight mortars were produced by adding cork aggregates (CAs) at fractions of 0.30%, 0.60%, and 0.90% of mortar weight. For each level of CA content, three volume fractions of polyethylene fibers (PFs) were added: 0.25%, 0.50%, and 0.75%. The results indicate that lightening mortar with CA considerably reduces its workability, density, mechanical strengths, and thermal conductivity, as well as increasing its porosity. However, adding PFs to the matrix significantly improves the mortar’s flexural strength by up to 26% and reduces its cracking and brittleness. The 28-day compressive strengths of all mortars remain higher than 15 MPa and can be used in the production of structural elements, according to the RILEM recommendations. The thermal conductivity and dry density decreased, respectively, from 1.73 W/m·K and 2050 kg/m³ for the control mixture to 0.73 W/m·K and 1583 kg/m³ for mortar with 0.90% CA and 0.75% PF. The combination of up to 0.90% CA with 0.75% PF demonstrates satisfactory mechanical and thermal properties and is strongly recommended for use in construction across numerous types of mortar, such as screed mortar for repair and flooring. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)

20 pages, 1895 KB

Open AccessArticle

Analyzing the Specificity of KAWLR Genetic Resources in Afghan Landrace Wheat for Ca-Rich High pH Soil Tolerance Using Proteomics

by Emdadul Haque, Farid Niazi, Xiaojian Yin, Yuso Kobara, Setsuko Komatsu and Tomohiro Ban

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(1), 239; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27010239 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

Breeding wheat varieties that are resilient to arid climates, which impart a complex combination of stresses, including excessive Ca, high pH, nutrient deficiency, and aridity, is important. Afghan landrace wheat is assumed to have evolved with a specific prototypical pattern of traits to [...] Read more.

Breeding wheat varieties that are resilient to arid climates, which impart a complex combination of stresses, including excessive Ca, high pH, nutrient deficiency, and aridity, is important. Afghan landrace wheat is assumed to have evolved with a specific prototypical pattern of traits to adapt to its challenging, composite stress environment. Here, a useful semi-hydroponic double cup screen aiding proteomic analysis was exploited to reconstruct the combined excessive Ca²⁺ (100 ppm) and extreme pH (11.0) of the soils and to dissect specific morpho-physiological characteristics and adaptation strategies in Kihara Afghan landrace wheat (KAWLR). When compared to other cultivars and growth habits, several winter-type KAWLR showed lower unused N-K-P and greater rhizosphere pH stability in the bottom cup and higher tolerance in terms of greater root allocation shift, and most of their above ground traits (shoot biomass, chlorophyll content, and stomatal conductance) were strongly correlated with root length and biomass under stress conditions. Quantitative proteomics on the roots of a tolerant winter-type KAWLR, Herat-740 (KU-7449), showed a strong decreasing trend in changed proteins (12 increased/816 decreased). The proteins (such as mitochondrial phosphate carrier protein, cytoskeleton-related α-, and β- tubulin) that increased in abundance were associated with energy transport and cell growth. A metabolism overview revealed that most proteins that were mapped to glycolysis, fermentation, and the TCA cycle decreased in abundance. However, proteins related to cell wall and lipid metabolism pathways remained unchanged. Our results suggest that winter-type KAWLR adopts a homeostatic stress adaptation strategy that globally downshifts metabolic activity, while selectively maintaining root growth machinery. Root allocation shift, rhizosphere pH stabilization (nutrient solubilization), and a selective proteome response maintaining the root growth machinery in winter-type KAWLR could be breeding selection markers for early-stage screening in calcareous-alkaline arid land. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Breeding for Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Crops (Second Edition))

16 pages, 1972 KB

Open AccessCommunication

Phase Retrieval in Short-Range Optical Communication Using Temporal Transport-of-Intensity Equation with Direct Detection

by Yue Liu, Jiahao Huo, Peng Qin, Xiaoying Zhang and Keping Long

Photonics 2026, 13(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics13010017 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

Direct detection (DD) is a straightforward, cost-effective receiving scheme for medium- and short-range fiber-optic communication systems, yet directly accessing phase information presents inherent challenges. The temporal transport-of-intensity equation (T-TIE) enables phase recovery from intensity data, but the accuracy of this phase-retrieval method is [...] Read more.

Direct detection (DD) is a straightforward, cost-effective receiving scheme for medium- and short-range fiber-optic communication systems, yet directly accessing phase information presents inherent challenges. The temporal transport-of-intensity equation (T-TIE) enables phase recovery from intensity data, but the accuracy of this phase-retrieval method is constrained by finite difference approximation errors of intensity derivatives and electrical noise interference. In this paper, we propose a 4th-order central difference method for calculating intensity derivatives to enhance approximation accuracy and implement multiple intensity measurements to further mitigate electrical noise interference. The proposed method is validated in a 28 GBaud single-carrier 16-quadrature amplitude modulation (16QAM) direct detection system. The research results indicate that, under conditions of 10 nA dark current and 20 pA/Hz^^1/2 thermal noise, our method achieves a receiver sensitivity gain of 14.85 dB compared with the 1st-order forward difference method and 8.47 dB compared with the 2nd-order central difference method at the 7% hard decision forward error correction (7% HD-FEC) threshold. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Short-Reach Optical Interconnects and Networking Technologies)

20 pages, 5513 KB

Open AccessArticle

Thermal and Acoustic Characterization of Recycled Ground Tyre Rubber and Aggregate Seismic Isolator

by Álvaro Ruiz, Francisco J. Pallarés, Jesús Alba, Antonio Agüero and Luis Pallarés

Buildings 2026, 16(1), 101; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16010101 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

Currently, large amounts of aggregate waste from the construction industry and ground tire rubber from the automotive sector are being generated. Enhancing and expanding recycling options for these materials is essential to support the transition toward a circular economy in both industries. This [...] Read more.

Currently, large amounts of aggregate waste from the construction industry and ground tire rubber from the automotive sector are being generated. Enhancing and expanding recycling options for these materials is essential to support the transition toward a circular economy in both industries. This study proposes the use of recycled materials in the development of a seismic isolator designed for building partitions. As such, the new element must meet the performance requirements applicable to all materials used in building enclosures. Polyurethane is employed as a binder for the recycled components. The composite material is produced by combining polyurethane with varying proportions of recycled ground tire rubber and aggregates, expressed as a percentage of the polyurethane mass. The polyurethane is directly mixed with the recycled constituents. The resulting samples are subjected to thermal and acoustic testing to evaluate their suitability for partitions and enclosures in building construction in accordance with regulations. The results of the three tests indicate improvements in the measured properties, with the magnitude of enhancement depending on the ratio of ground tire rubber to aggregate. Overall, the developed composite materials exhibit characteristics and behavior compatible with the intended application. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Trends and Future Prospects of Sustainable Green Building Materials)

18 pages, 11715 KB

Open AccessArticle

Identification and Expression Analysis of the CHX Gene Family in Capsicum annuum L.

by Jing Wang, Jiaxin Huang, Xu Jia and Yanping Liang

Biology 2026, 15(1), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15010037 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

The cation/H⁺ exchanger (CHX) gene family plays a vital role in maintaining K⁺/Na⁺ homeostasis in plants, yet its functional characterization in pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) remains largely unexplored. To elucidate the potential roles of CHX genes [...] Read more.

The cation/H⁺ exchanger (CHX) gene family plays a vital role in maintaining K⁺/Na⁺ homeostasis in plants, yet its functional characterization in pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) remains largely unexplored. To elucidate the potential roles of CHX genes in stress adaptation and development in pepper, a genome-wide identification and systematic analysis of this gene family was performed. Using a combination of Hidden Markov Model (HMM) searches, phylogenetic reconstruction, conserved motif and promoter analysis, and expression profiling across tissues and under multiple stress conditions, a total of 23 CaCHX genes were identified, which are unevenly distributed across 10 chromosomes and classified into 6 phylogenetic subfamilies. Expression profiling revealed that most CaCHX genes were highly expressed in flowers, suggesting their potential involvement in reproductive development, while only CaCHX12 and CaCHX17 were detected in leaves. Under treatments such as abscisic acid (ABA), gibberellic acid (GA), NaCl, and jasmonic acid (JA), CaCHX1, CaCHX20, and CaCHX23 exhibited distinct temporal expression patterns, suggesting their involvement in hormone-mediated stress responses. This study provides the first comprehensive genomic and transcriptomic overview of the CHX family in pepper, offering novel insights into its regulatory roles in flower development and stress tolerance and, thus supplying valuable genetic resources for molecular breeding aimed at enhancing pepper resilience. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research Progress on Salt Stress in Plants)

22 pages, 3597 KB

Open AccessArticle

Large-Scale Multigenome-Wide Study Predicts the Existence of Transmembrane Phosphotransfer Proteins in Plant Multistep Phosphorelay Signaling Pathway

by Sergey N. Lomin, Wolfram G. Brenner, Ekaterina M. Savelieva, Dmitry V. Arkhipov and Georgy A. Romanov

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(1), 240; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27010240 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

A new class of plant phosphotransfer proteins belonging to the multistep phosphorelay (MSP) system implicated in phytohormone cytokinin signaling was discovered based on large-scale bioinformatics methods. Unlike the canonical soluble nucleo-cytosolic forms, these proteins were predicted to have transmembrane (TM) domains and, apparently, [...] Read more.

A new class of plant phosphotransfer proteins belonging to the multistep phosphorelay (MSP) system implicated in phytohormone cytokinin signaling was discovered based on large-scale bioinformatics methods. Unlike the canonical soluble nucleo-cytosolic forms, these proteins were predicted to have transmembrane (TM) domains and, apparently, should be localized on some kind of cell membrane. To date, 94 predicted TM-containing phosphotransmitter (TM-HPt) homologs were found in 62 plant species belonging to different clades, taxa, and groups of embryophytes: bryophytes, gymnosperms, and mono- and dicotyledons. The conserved HPt motif with phosphorylatable histidine was preserved in most of the TM-HPts under study, which allowed us to consider these proteins potentially active in MSP signaling. For the identified TM-HPts, a Bayesian analysis at the DNA level was performed, and a relevant phylogenetic tree was constructed. According to evolutionary relationships, plant TM-HPts were divided into two main groups corresponding to Arabidopsis AHP1-3,5,6, and AHP4 orthologs. Transcriptomic analysis confirmed the expression of most of the investigated TM-HPt-encoding genes. Their moderate-to-low overall transcription rate may be a consequence of inducible and/or tissue-specific expression. Using molecular modeling methods, a variety of potential spatial organizations of several such proteins are demonstrated. The ability of the uncovered TM domains to tether HPts to membranes was supported by molecular dynamic simulation. Possible roles of TM-HPts as modulators of the MSP signaling pathway and corresponding putative mechanisms of their action are suggested. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Insights into Phytohormone Signaling in Plants)

21 pages, 933 KB

Open AccessReview

Motor–Behavioral Phenotypes in the RBD-PD Continuum: Neurophysiological Mechanisms and Rehabilitative Implications

by Jae Woo Chung, Dongwon Yook and Hyo Keun Lee

Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 237; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16010237 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) represents a prodromal manifestation of Parkinson’s disease (PD), reflecting the breakdown of inhibitory networks extending from the brainstem to the cortex. This review synthesizes pathological, physiological, and behavioral evidence to illustrate how early α-synuclein pathology disrupts REM-sleep atonia [...] Read more.

REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) represents a prodromal manifestation of Parkinson’s disease (PD), reflecting the breakdown of inhibitory networks extending from the brainstem to the cortex. This review synthesizes pathological, physiological, and behavioral evidence to illustrate how early α-synuclein pathology disrupts REM-sleep atonia and motor automaticity through degeneration of pontomedullary and cholinergic–inhibitory circuits. The resulting failure of inhibitory precision links nocturnal REM sleep without atonia to daytime gait and postural abnormalities, framing RBD as a dynamic systems disorder rather than a purely sleep-related phenomenon. By examining this continuum across neurophysiological, behavioral, and clinical domains, the review highlights current knowledge gaps, particularly regarding the temporal dynamics of degeneration and compensation. It further integrates multimodal biomarkers that capture these transitions in vivo and discusses therapeutic strategies aimed at preserving inhibitory network integrity and delaying phenoconversion to overt Parkinsonian syndromes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Physiotherapy and Neurorehabilitation)

19 pages, 1806 KB

Open AccessCommunication

Unraveling Resistance Mechanisms to Gαq Pathway Inhibition in Uveal Melanoma: Insights from Signacardenas-Alcoserling-Activation Library Screening

by Simone Lubrano, Rodolfo Daniel Cervantes-Villagrana, Nadia Arang, Elena Sofia Cardenas-Alcoser, Kuniaki Sato, Gabriela Cuesta-Margolles, Justine S. Paradis, Monica Acosta and J. Silvio Gutkind

Cancers 2026, 18(1), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18010074 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Uveal melanoma (UVM), the leading primary intraocular cancer in adults, is driven by GNAQ/GNA11 mutations, encoding the active forms of Gαq proteins. While local treatments like surgery or radiation can control primary tumors, nearly half of patients die from metastasis. [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Uveal melanoma (UVM), the leading primary intraocular cancer in adults, is driven by GNAQ/GNA11 mutations, encoding the active forms of Gαq proteins. While local treatments like surgery or radiation can control primary tumors, nearly half of patients die from metastasis. Our aim was identifying potential pathways involved in resistance to targeted therapy in UVM. Methods: Here, we screened 100 pathway-activating mutant complementary DNAs by lentiviral overexpression to identify those that enhance the survival of cancer cells in the presence of clinically relevant targeted therapies, using BAP1 wild-type UVM cells and validated the most significant results in BAP1-mutant cells. Results: This revealed JAK/STAT activation, overexpression of anti-apoptotic BCL2/BCL-XL, and dysregulated PI3K/mTOR or Hippo pathways as escape routes under MEK-ERK or FAK inhibition. Bioinformatic analysis of UVM transcriptome in TCGA further showed that high expression of the hallmark PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and IL6/JAK/STAT signaling correlates with poor prognosis. A similar correlation was shown by YAP and anti-apoptotic signatures. The analysis of individual representative genes from these signatures revealed that MTOR, BCL2L1 (BCL-XL), and TEAD4 gene expression are linked to poorer survival, underscoring the potential clinical impact of these adaptive pathways. Proliferation and apoptosis assay demonstrated that aberrant activation of AKT and YAP promotes resistance to FAK and MEK inhibitors. Conclusions: These findings support the adaptability of UVM lesions and suggest rational combination therapies targeting both primary GNAQ/GNA11-driven oncogenic signals and their compensatory networks as a more effective, personalized treatment approach for advanced UVM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Uveal Melanoma)

11 pages, 1922 KB

Open AccessArticle

Machine Learning Prediction of Therapeutic Outcome After Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injection for Radiculopathy from Herniated Lumbar Disc

by Jeoung Kun Kim and Min Cheol Chang

Bioengineering 2026, 13(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering13010018 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Transforaminal epidural steroid injection (TFESI) is widely used to treat lumbosacral radicular pain caused by a herniated lumbar disc (HLD). However, therapeutic response varies substantially, and reliable outcome prediction remains challenging because of the multifactorial interplay of clinical and morphological factors. Machine [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Transforaminal epidural steroid injection (TFESI) is widely used to treat lumbosacral radicular pain caused by a herniated lumbar disc (HLD). However, therapeutic response varies substantially, and reliable outcome prediction remains challenging because of the multifactorial interplay of clinical and morphological factors. Machine learning (ML) approaches may address this limitation by modeling nonlinear interactions among patient-specific variables. Methods: This retrospective cohort study analyzed 242 patients with HLD-related radiculopathy who underwent single-level lumbar TFESI. Eight variables—age, sex, injection side, injection level, pain duration, pretreatment numeric rating scale (NRS) score, HLD location, and HLD subtype—were used as input features. Therapeutic outcome was defined as a ≥50% reduction in NRS score at 1 month after TFESI. Three predictive models, namely deep neural network (DNN), random forest (RF), and XGBoost, were developed and evaluated using a validation cohort of 49 patients. Results: The DNN model demonstrated the best validation performance, achieving an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.821 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.690–0.929). The performance of the RF (AUC, 0.711; 95% CI, 0.535–0.865) and XGBoost (AUC, 0.674; 95% CI, 0.498–0.831) models was inferior to that of the DNN. In addition, the DNN produced fewer false-positive predictions and showed more robust discrimination between favorable and poor outcomes than the other ML models. Conclusions: A deep learning–based predictive model demonstrated superior performance in predicting therapeutic outcomes after lumbar TFESI in patients with HLD-related radiculopathy. Integration of routine clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-derived features into ML algorithms may enhance individualized prognostication and assist clinicians in optimizing patient selection for interventional procedures. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to develop an ML-based model integrating routine clinical variables with MRI findings for the prediction of TFESI outcomes in HLD-related radiculopathy. Nevertheless, the study is limited by its single-center retrospective design, lack of external validation, and reliance on MRI assessments performed by a single rater. Future multicenter studies are warranted to improve generalizability and confirm clinical utility. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Spine Research, 2nd Edition)

19 pages, 1827 KB

Open AccessArticle

Response of Rodent Metacommunities in Desert Areas to Fluctuations in Climatic Conditions

by Rong Zhang, Xin Li, Suwen Yang, Yongling Jin, Linlin Li, Shuai Yuan, Heping Fu and Xiaodong Wu

Diversity 2026, 18(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18010017 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

Rodents, as a core component of desert ecosystems and an important indicator of environmental changes, are ideal subjects for studying the impacts of fluctuations in climatic conditions on wildlife. Based on field data from the southern Alxa Desert (2014–2020), this study constructed an [...] Read more.

Rodents, as a core component of desert ecosystems and an important indicator of environmental changes, are ideal subjects for studying the impacts of fluctuations in climatic conditions on wildlife. Based on field data from the southern Alxa Desert (2014–2020), this study constructed an ecosystem structure network integrating local/metacommunities, climate, soil, and plant communities. Combined with structural equation modeling, we explored the response mechanisms of rodent communities to climatic conditions across multiple scales. The results showed the following: the α-diversity of local and metacommunities exhibited convergent seasonal patterns, with greater impacts from human disturbances than interannual effects, as well as coexisting species turnover and nesting in metacommunities. Precipitation directly affected metacommunity abundance and diversity and indirectly influenced both community types via vegetation, while temperature directly regulated community characteristics; metacommunities were formed via the coupling of local communities through species migration and habitat filtering, reflecting complex links between local and regional processes. This research provides scientific support for predicting desert ecosystem dynamics and guiding conservation management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Animal Diversity)

32 pages, 1539 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Groove Spacing on the Characteristics of Steady Symmetric Wake

by Ganesh Keddeal Thulasiraman, Unnikrishnan Divakaran, Akram Mohammad, Jithin Edacheri Veetil and Ratna Kishore Velamati

Symmetry 2026, 18(1), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym18010043 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

This numerical study investigates steady separated flow past a grooved circular cylinder within the Reynolds number range

7.5 \leq R e_{D} \leq 30

, comprising variations in groove depth (

h

) and spacing (

β

). The groove width (

w

[...] Read more.

This numerical study investigates steady separated flow past a grooved circular cylinder within the Reynolds number range

7.5 \leq R e_{D} \leq 30

, comprising variations in groove depth (

h

) and spacing (

β

). The groove width (

w

) is kept constant, while h/w varies across four levels (

0.5 \leq h / w \leq 2

) and

β

across five angles (

10 ° \leq β \leq 45 °

). The results exhibit strong agreement with unbounded flow data, confirming blockage independence across the examined regime. Detailed analysis shows that

β

has a stronger influence than

h / w

on surface-pressure-dependent variables (

C_{p, 0}

,

C_{p, b}

,

C_{D}

,

θ_{s e p}

) and wake-defining parameters (

L_{w}

,

W_{w}

,

ξ

,

η

), underscoring the dominant role of

β

in rectilinear groove aerodynamics. In this regard, a critical spacing of

β = 20 °

is observed, beyond which the sensitivity of the parameters toward the cylinder configuration decreases. Thus, significant flow control and drag reduction are attained for

R e_{D} = 7.5

at the lowest spacing

β = 10 °

, regardless of the groove’s

h / w

. Among these, the streamwise-oriented variables,

C_{p, 0}

,

C_{D}

,

L_{w}

,

ξ

, and

u_{m i n}

, exhibit monotonic trend with respect to

β

and are modeled using power-law relations. The models for

C_{p, 0}

and

C_{D}

exhibit significant accuracy with

R^{2} \approx 0.999

across all

β

values considered, while it is 0.89–0.98 for

L_{w}

,

ξ

, and

u_{m i n}

, depending on

R e_{D}

. Transverse-oriented parameters (

W_{w} a n d η

) vary non-monotonically. In addition, it is found that the streamwise locations of maximum wake width (

x_{w, m a x}

) and minimum velocity (

x_{u, m i n}

) are unaffected by the grooved cylinder configuration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetry in Computational Fluid Dynamics)

20 pages, 4066 KB

Open AccessArticle

Interferon-Type-I Response and Autophagy Independently Regulate Radiation-Induced HLA-Class-I Molecule Expression in Lung Cancer

by Erasmia T. Xanthopoulou, Ioannis Lamprou, Ioannis M. Koukourakis, Achilleas G. Mitrakas, Georgios D. Michos, Anastasia Polyzoidou, Filippos G. Antoniadis, Alexandra Giatromanolaki and Michael I. Koukourakis

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2026, 48(1), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb48010028 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The enhancement of antitumor immune responses by radiotherapy (RT) is partially attributed to the activation of the IFN-type-I pathway. However, the loss of HLA-class-I molecules, which occurs in a large percentage of non-small-cell lung cancers (NSCLCs), may block the cytotoxic effect [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: The enhancement of antitumor immune responses by radiotherapy (RT) is partially attributed to the activation of the IFN-type-I pathway. However, the loss of HLA-class-I molecules, which occurs in a large percentage of non-small-cell lung cancers (NSCLCs), may block the cytotoxic effect of T-cells and immunotherapy (IO). Moreover, autophagy is also involved in HLA downregulation. We investigated the complex interactions between RT, HLA molecules, autophagy, and IFN-type-I responses. Methods: The A549, H1299, and ATG7-deficient NSCLC cell lines, along with the modified shLC3A H1299 cell line, were used for in vitro experiments. The effect of RT (8 and 3 × 8 Gy) on Interferon beta (IFNβ), IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs), and HLA-class-I expression in combination with IFN-type-I-response inhibitors (Ruxolitinib, Tofacitinib, Amlexanox) targeting the JAK and TBK1 was studied with Flow cytometry and RT-PCR. Results: RT significantly induced HLA-class-I expression. A parallel upregulation of IFNβ and ISGs mRNA levels was also documented. Although the IFN-type-I-response inhibitors suppressed the RT-induced IFNβ and ISGs expression, their effect on HLA-class-I expression was minimal. Blockage of LC3A autophagy (shLC3A cell line) significantly upregulated HLA-class-I basal levels, and RT further enhanced HLA expression. IFN-type-I-response inhibitors blocked the RT-inductive effect in the shLC3A H1299, but had no effect in the ATG7-deficient H1650 cell line. Conclusions: The current study supports the theory that baseline autophagy, RT-induced autophagy blockage, and IFN-type-I response enhancement define the HLA-class-I levels in NSCLC cells. This complex interplay emerges as a promising target for the development of radio-vaccination strategies to enhance the efficacy of radio-immunotherapy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Insights into Radiation Oncology)

18 pages, 2001 KB

Open AccessArticle

Fine-Tuning Side Chain Substitutions: Impacts on the Lipophilicity–Solubility–Permeability Interplay in Macrocyclic Peptides

by Yangping Deng, Hengwei Bian, Hongbo Li, Yingjun Cui, Sizheng Li, Jing Li, Li Chen, Xuemei Zhang, Zhuo Shen, Fengyue Li, Yue Chen and Haohao Fu

Mar. Drugs 2026, 24(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/md24010013 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

Macrocyclic drugs are promising for targeting undruggable proteins, including those in cancer. Our prior work identified BE-43547A₂ (BE) as a selective inhibitor of pancreatic cancer stem cells in PANC-1 cultures, but its high lipophilicity limits clinical application. To address this, we designed [...] Read more.

Macrocyclic drugs are promising for targeting undruggable proteins, including those in cancer. Our prior work identified BE-43547A₂ (BE) as a selective inhibitor of pancreatic cancer stem cells in PANC-1 cultures, but its high lipophilicity limits clinical application. To address this, we designed derivatives retaining BE’s backbone while modifying tail groups to improve its properties. A concise total synthesis enabled a versatile late-stage intermediate (compound 17), serving as a platform for efficient diversification of BE analogs via modular click chemistry. This approach introduced a central triazole ring connected by flexible alkyl spacers. Key properties, including lipophilicity, solubility, and Caco-2 permeability, were experimentally determined. These derivatives exhibited reduced lipophilicity and improved solubility but unexpectedly lost cellular activity. Direct target engagement studies using MicroScale Thermophoresis (MST) revealed compound-dependent deactivation mechanisms: certain derivatives retained binding to eEF1A1 with only modestly reduced affinity (e.g., compound 29), while others showed no detectable binding (e.g., compound 31). Microsecond-scale molecular dynamics simulations and free-energy calculations showed that, for derivatives retaining target affinity, tail modifications disrupted the delicate balance of drug–membrane and drug–solvent interactions, resulting in substantially higher transmembrane free-energy penalties (>5 kcal/mol) compared to active compounds (<2 kcal/mol). These insights emphasize the need to simultaneously preserve both target engagement and optimal permeability when modifying side chains in cell-permeable macrocyclic peptides, positioning compound 17 as a robust scaffold for future lead optimization. This work furnishes a blueprint for balancing drug-like properties with therapeutic potency in macrocyclic therapeutics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Synthesis and Medicinal Chemistry of Marine Natural Products)

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33 pages, 40054 KB

Open AccessArticle

MVDCNN: A Multi-View Deep Convolutional Network with Feature Fusion for Robust Sonar Image Target Recognition

by Yue Fan, Cheng Peng, Peng Zhang, Zhisheng Zhang, Guoping Zhang and Jinsong Tang

Remote Sens. 2026, 18(1), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs18010076 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

Automatic Target Recognition (ATR) in single-view sonar imagery is severely hampered by geometric distortions, acoustic shadows, and incomplete target information due to occlusions and the slant-range imaging geometry, which frequently give rise to misclassification and hinder practical underwater detection applications. To address these [...] Read more.

Automatic Target Recognition (ATR) in single-view sonar imagery is severely hampered by geometric distortions, acoustic shadows, and incomplete target information due to occlusions and the slant-range imaging geometry, which frequently give rise to misclassification and hinder practical underwater detection applications. To address these critical limitations, this paper proposes a Multi-View Deep Convolutional Neural Network (MVDCNN) based on feature-level fusion for robust sonar image target recognition. The MVDCNN adopts a highly modular and extensible architecture consisting of four interconnected modules: an input reshaping module that adapts multi-view images to match the input format of pre-trained backbone networks via dimension merging and channel replication; a shared-weight feature extraction module that leverages Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) or Transformer backbones (e.g., ResNet, Swin Transformer, Vision Transformer) to extract discriminative features from each view, ensuring parameter efficiency and cross-view feature consistency; a feature fusion module that aggregates complementary features (e.g., target texture and shape) across views using max-pooling to retain the most salient characteristics and suppress noisy or occluded view interference; and a lightweight classification module that maps the fused feature representations to target categories. Additionally, to mitigate the data scarcity bottleneck in sonar ATR, we design a multi-view sample augmentation method based on sonar imaging geometric principles: this method systematically combines single-view samples of the same target via the combination formula and screens valid samples within a predefined azimuth range, constructing high-quality multi-view training datasets without relying on complex generative models or massive initial labeled data. Comprehensive evaluations on the Custom Side-Scan Sonar Image Dataset (CSSID) and Nankai Sonar Image Dataset (NKSID) demonstrate the superiority of our framework over single-view baselines. Specifically, the two-view MVDCNN achieves average classification accuracies of 94.72% (CSSID) and 97.24% (NKSID), with relative improvements of 7.93% and 5.05%, respectively; the three-view MVDCNN further boosts the average accuracies to 96.60% and 98.28%. Moreover, MVDCNN substantially elevates the precision and recall of small-sample categories (e.g., Fishing net and Small propeller in NKSID), effectively alleviating the class imbalance challenge. Mechanism validation via t-Distributed Stochastic Neighbor Embedding (t-SNE) feature visualization and prediction confidence distribution analysis confirms that MVDCNN yields more separable feature representations and more confident category predictions, with stronger intra-class compactness and inter-class discrimination in the feature space. The proposed MVDCNN framework provides a robust and interpretable solution for advancing sonar ATR and offers a technical paradigm for multi-view acoustic image understanding in complex underwater environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Underwater Remote Sensing: Status, New Challenges and Opportunities)

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24 pages, 2426 KB

Open AccessArticle

Secure Streaming Data Encryption and Query Scheme with Electric Vehicle Key Management

by Zhicheng Li, Jian Xu, Fan Wu, Cen Sun, Xiaomin Wu and Xiangliang Fang

Information 2026, 17(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/info17010018 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

The rapid proliferation of Electric Vehicle (EV) infrastructures has led to the massive generation of high-frequency streaming data uploaded to cloud platforms for real-time analysis, while such data supports intelligent energy management and behavioral analytics, it also encapsulates sensitive user information, the disclosure [...] Read more.

The rapid proliferation of Electric Vehicle (EV) infrastructures has led to the massive generation of high-frequency streaming data uploaded to cloud platforms for real-time analysis, while such data supports intelligent energy management and behavioral analytics, it also encapsulates sensitive user information, the disclosure or misuse of which can lead to significant privacy and security threats. This work addresses these challenges by developing a secure and scalable scheme for protecting and verifying streaming data during storage and collaborative analysis. The proposed scheme ensures end-to-end confidentiality, forward security, and integrity verification while supporting efficient encrypted aggregation and fine-grained, time-based authorization. It introduces a lightweight mechanism that hierarchically organizes cryptographic keys and ciphertexts over time, enabling privacy-preserving queries without decrypting individual data points. Building on this foundation, an electric vehicle key management and query system is further designed to integrate the proposed encryption and verification scheme into practical V2X environments. The system supports privacy-preserving data sharing, verifiable statistical analytics, and flexible access control across heterogeneous cloud and edge infrastructures. Analytical and experimental evidence show that the designed system attains rigorous security guarantees alongside excellent efficiency and scalability, rendering it ideal for large-scale electric vehicle data protection and analysis tasks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Privacy-Preserving Data Analytics and Secure Computation)

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17 pages, 581 KB

Open AccessArticle

Equality Plans in Andalusian Universities: Professional Promotion Policies

by Pilar Ibáñez-Cubillas, Mercedes Cuevas-López and Susana de las Nieves Stoner

Educ. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci16010030 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

In recent decades, Equality Plans have played a pivotal role in promoting substantive gender equality in academia, particularly in terms of professional advancement and the reduction in gender gaps. Despite notable progress, structural inequalities persist in restricting access, retention, and equitable career development [...] Read more.

In recent decades, Equality Plans have played a pivotal role in promoting substantive gender equality in academia, particularly in terms of professional advancement and the reduction in gender gaps. Despite notable progress, structural inequalities persist in restricting access, retention, and equitable career development in higher education. This study examines the Equality Plans of nine Andalusian public universities, identifying the key pillars, measures, and actions explicitly targeting professional promotion. Employing a qualitative approach and content analysis, the study assesses both the progress made and the challenges that persist in implementing these policies. The findings indicate that, over the course of a decade of developing equality strategies, universities have adopted and implemented plans that have generated significant initiatives to advance gender equality. Nevertheless, notable disparities remain concerning the updating, terminology, structure, and, particularly, the scope of the measures implemented. This article highlights the need to strengthen assessment strategies and broaden the scope of intervention in Equality Plans to ensure equitable and sustainable career advancement within the Andalusian university system, offering a transferable framework for promoting gender equality in other higher education contexts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Higher Education)

18 pages, 436 KB

Open AccessArticle

Ultrasound-Enhanced Assessment of Vitreous Status in Exudative AMD: Associations with Neovascular Phenotypes, Treatment Burden, and Functional Outcomes

by Cristina Rodriguez-Vidal, Lucía Galletero Pandelo, Nerea M. Alday, Manuel Bande and María José Blanco Teijeiro

J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(1), 167; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15010167 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The influence of the vitreoretinal interface on neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) remains poorly characterized. Most previous studies relied solely on macular optical coherence tomography (OCT), which provides limited information about global posterior vitreous detachment (PVD). This study evaluated (1) whether ultrasonography-defined [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: The influence of the vitreoretinal interface on neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) remains poorly characterized. Most previous studies relied solely on macular optical coherence tomography (OCT), which provides limited information about global posterior vitreous detachment (PVD). This study evaluated (1) whether ultrasonography-defined PVD status differs between nAMD eyes and healthy controls, and (2) whether baseline PVD influences macular neovascularization (MNV) phenotype and functional outcomes following anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy. Methods: In this prospective longitudinal study, treatment-naïve nAMD eyes and population-based healthy controls underwent dynamic B-scan ultrasonography and spectral-domain OCT. PVD was categorized as absent, partial, or complete. nAMD eyes received intravitreal aflibercept according to a treat-and-extend protocol and were followed for 12 months. Structural parameters—including subretinal fluid (SRF), intraretinal fluid (IRF), and central foveal thickness—along with best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were recorded. A multivariable linear regression model was performed to assess whether PVD independently predicted BCVA gain after adjusting for age, baseline BCVA, MNV subtype, SRF, atrophy, and number of injections. Results: Absence of PVD was significantly more frequent in nAMD eyes than in controls (p < 0.001), whereas complete PVD prevalence was comparable. In nAMD, absence of PVD was associated with a higher prevalence of MNV type 2 (p = 0.032), while partial/complete PVD correlated with type 1 lesions. After 12 months, eyes without PVD achieved the greatest visual improvement (mean BCVA gain +0.34 ± 0.26), outperforming eyes with complete PVD (p = 0.026). A multivariable model confirmed that absence of PVD was an independent predictor of greater BCVA gain (β = −0.27; 95% CI −0.42 to −0.12; p = 0.0008). Eyes with complete PVD required more injections (p = 0.046). SRF and foveal-thickness reductions occurred across groups, whereas IRF changes were similar. Conclusions: Ultrasonography-defined PVD status differs markedly between nAMD and healthy eyes and independently influences neovascular phenotype and functional response to anti-VEGF therapy. These findings underscore the physiological importance of the vitreoretinal interface and support the use of ocular ultrasonography as an adjunct tool for assessing global vitreous status in selected nAMD settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Ophthalmology)

15 pages, 2910 KB

Open AccessArticle

TIDRE: An Efficient Tool for Isolating Antagonistic Endophytes and Screening Resistant Plants

by Hong-Yan Hu, Ping Zhou, Win Su Mon, Shu-Cun Geng, Li-Rong Guo, Yu-Nuo Zhang, Xia-Hong He and Ming-Zhi Yang

Agriculture 2026, 16(1), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture16010052 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

Antagonistic endophytes are one of the most effective methods for crop disease biocontrol. This study reports on a convenient method termed ‘Targeted Identification of Disease-resistant Endophytes’ (TIDRE), which combines the isolation of culturable endophytic isolates from plant tissues with the screening of phytopathogen-antagonistic [...] Read more.

Antagonistic endophytes are one of the most effective methods for crop disease biocontrol. This study reports on a convenient method termed ‘Targeted Identification of Disease-resistant Endophytes’ (TIDRE), which combines the isolation of culturable endophytic isolates from plant tissues with the screening of phytopathogen-antagonistic microbes. In addition to the direct discovery of endophytes with resistance to specific phytopathogens, the TIDRE method also facilitates the screening of endophyte-based disease-resistant crop lines. Using the TIDRE protocol, we successfully isolated endophytic bacterial strains with antagonistic activity against the pathogenic fungus Fusarium oxysporum from a traditional Chinese medicinal herb Panax notoginseng. These candidate bacteria included three Bacillus subtilis strains, a Stenotrophomonas maltophilia strain, a Pantoea brenneri strain, and a Bacillus sp. strain. Furthermore, we identified grapevine cutting clones with strong resistance to three fungal pathogens: Botrytis cinerea, F. solani, and F. graminearum, by using the TIDRE protocol. The endophytic bacterial strains (Bacillus) isolated from the highly resistant grapevine clones confer significant antagonistic effects against the fungal pathogens. Compared to existing methods, TIDRE offers superior speed and efficiency, and great potential for advancing the development and utilization of beneficial endophytic resources in sustainable agriculture. Full article

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

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22 pages, 3068 KB

Open AccessArticle

Genomic Composition of the Artificial Hybrid ×Trititrigia cziczinii (Hordeeae, Poaceae) and Related Taxa According to Molecular Phylogenetic Data

by Alexander A. Gnutikov, Nikolai N. Nosov, Evgeny V. Zuev, Natalia S. Lysenko, Victoria S. Shneyer, Aleksey V. Troitsky and Alexander V. Rodionov

Plants 2026, 15(1), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15010070 (registering DOI) - 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

×Trititrigia cziczinii Tzvelev is a promising crop developed through distant hybridization between Elytrigia intermedia (Host) Nevski (=Thinopyrum intermedium (Host) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey) and Triticum aestivum L., followed by backcrossing with wheat. This study elucidates the genomic composition of this hybrid [...] Read more.

×Trititrigia cziczinii Tzvelev is a promising crop developed through distant hybridization between Elytrigia intermedia (Host) Nevski (=Thinopyrum intermedium (Host) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey) and Triticum aestivum L., followed by backcrossing with wheat. This study elucidates the genomic composition of this hybrid and its parental taxa using molecular phylogenetic analysis of nuclear (ITS, ETS) and chloroplast (trnK–rps16, ndhF) DNA markers, complemented by Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) of the 18S–ITS1–5.8S rDNA region. Results from Sanger sequencing revealed that the primary nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) of the hybrid originates from Triticum aestivum; a finding strongly supported by both Bayesian inference and Maximum Likelihood analyses. Chloroplast DNA data unequivocally indicate maternal inheritance from T. aestivum. In contrast, ETS sequence analysis showed phylogenetic affinity to Elytrigia intermedia, suggesting complex genomic reorganization or chimeric sequence formation in the hybrid. NGS data corroborate the dominance of T. aestivum-like ribotypes in the hybrid’s rDNA pool, with only a minor fraction identical to the main ribotype of E. intermedia. Genetic structure analysis further revealed geographic heterogeneity in the genomic composition of E. intermedia populations. The predominance of the wheat genome in ×T. cziczinii is likely a consequence of stabilizing backcrosses and illustrates a case of rDNA elimination from one parental genome during hybridization. This research underscores the complex genomic dynamics in artificial hybrids and the utility of multi-marker phylogenetic approaches for clarifying their origins. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolutionary Genomics IV)

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