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28 pages, 9163 KB

Open AccessArticle

Spatio-Temporal Evolution Pattern and Optimization Strategies of Water–City Integration in Waterfront Cities from a Symbiosis Perspective: A Case Study of Suzhou, China

by Yixuan Liu, Ran Tian, Yasi Tian, Lingyue Zhan and Xia Chang

Land 2026, 15(2), 282; https://doi.org/10.3390/land15020282 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

Waterfront cities face growing strain from urbanization, complicating the relationship between water bodies and urban development. This study aims to understand the evolving water–city relationship in such areas by applying symbiosis theory, offering a framework for sustainable spatial governance. Using Suzhou as a [...] Read more.

Waterfront cities face growing strain from urbanization, complicating the relationship between water bodies and urban development. This study aims to understand the evolving water–city relationship in such areas by applying symbiosis theory, offering a framework for sustainable spatial governance. Using Suzhou as a case study, a “water-city-environment” evaluation system was constructed based on multi-source spatiotemporal data and the Lotka-Volterra model to analyze the period from 2010 to 2020. The key findings include: (1) All symbiotic systems showed growth trends in most areas of Suzhou during 2010–2020; (2) the symbiosis modes gradually shifted towards benign interactions. The city pattern evolved from being dominated by parasitism and mutual detriment in the early stages to commensalism and mutualism; (3) The symbiosis degree index demonstrated spatial convergence and improvement, fluctuating upwards over time. In conclusion, the study provides a dynamic identification framework that supports coordinating urban development with water conservation, contributing to the sustainable planning of waterfront cities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Land Planning and Landscape Architecture)

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18 pages, 345 KB

Open AccessArticle

Religion and Nationalism in the Orthodox Religioscape: Southeastern and Post-Soviet Europe in Historical Perspective

by Victor Roudometof

Soc. Sci. 2026, 15(2), 101; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci15020101 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

This article analyzes the historical relationship between Orthodox Christianity and nation formation. In past centuries, most adherents to the faith lived in the Ottoman and Russian Empires, under the Moscow and the Ecumenical Patriarchates. These two empires followed different historical trajectories as they [...] Read more.

This article analyzes the historical relationship between Orthodox Christianity and nation formation. In past centuries, most adherents to the faith lived in the Ottoman and Russian Empires, under the Moscow and the Ecumenical Patriarchates. These two empires followed different historical trajectories as they entered the modern world of nations, and their ecclesiastical institutions evolved very differently. This article uses historical experience, and the model developed in 19th century Southeastern Europe (SEE) to interpret the relationship between faith and nation in post-Soviet Europe. In SEE, the authority of the Ecumenical Patriarchate (EP) fragmented because of rising national movements. Over the 19th century, as Greece, Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria became independent or autonomous states, they adopted a new blueprint for the relationship between church and nation. In contrast, the USSR superseded Holy Russia. Abolished in 1721, the Moscow Patriarchate was revived in 1917 but faced Soviet persecution for decades. Within the post-Soviet nations that emerged after the USSR’s 1991 dissolution, ecclesiastical institutions duplicated the model originally developed in 19th century SEE. National and religious conflicts became intertwined, and national antagonisms were disguised as ecclesiastical disputes. This article offers a guide for understanding post-1991 religious conflicts in Estonia, Moldova, and Ukraine, as well as the 2018 schism between the Moscow Patriarchate and the EP. Full article

19 pages, 677 KB

Open AccessReview

The Fibrotic–Cancer Continuum in IPF: Shared Mechanisms, Clinical Implications and Therapeutic Challenges

by Panagiota Tsiri, Marousa Kouvela, Ourania Papaioannou, Vasilina Sotiropoulou, Matthaios Katsaras, Nikolaos Syrigos, Fotios Sampsonas and Argyrios Tzouvelekis

Life 2026, 16(2), 295; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16020295 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis represents a chronic, progressive, lethal lung disease of various etiologies exerting a dramatic impact on patients’ survival and quality of life. Its increasing prevalence and high mortality rates indicate the importance of early diagnosis and management involving the assessment of [...] Read more.

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis represents a chronic, progressive, lethal lung disease of various etiologies exerting a dramatic impact on patients’ survival and quality of life. Its increasing prevalence and high mortality rates indicate the importance of early diagnosis and management involving the assessment of specific comorbidities, such as lung cancer. Emerging evidence suggests that in the context of IPF, lung scarring may be a potential risk factor for lung cancer development. Both disease entities present pathogenic commonalities including genetic and epigenetic markers, signaling pathways and cell transformation obtaining mesenchymal phenotypes. Beyond understanding disease pathogenesis, anti-cancer drugs such as nintedanib have been successfully used to treat patients with IPF. Additionally, a therapeutic approach that includes a mix of various pleiotropic anti-fibrotic agents is currently being developed for IPF treatment. Currently, there is no consensus on the application of therapeutic algorithms in concurrent pulmonary fibrosis and lung tumors. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge on common cellular and molecular pathogenetic mechanisms of IPF and lung cancer and highlights potential therapeutic targets with fruitful results. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pleural and Pulmonary Fibrosis: Pathogenesis and Possible Treatment Strategies)

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19 pages, 680 KB

Open AccessReview

Beyond Risk Prediction: Considering Upstream Universal Suicide Prevention to Decrease Risk and Increase Resilience

by Sarah Sparks, Cole Marvin, Regan Sweeney, Destiny Rojas and Sean M. Mitchell

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 243; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020243 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

Despite decades of research, suicide risk factors predict outcomes at chance levels, and there is a dearth of protective factor and resilience research, which limits the utility of risk-based approaches. Further, suicide prevention interventions primarily consist of individual psychotherapies and treating individuals after [...] Read more.

Despite decades of research, suicide risk factors predict outcomes at chance levels, and there is a dearth of protective factor and resilience research, which limits the utility of risk-based approaches. Further, suicide prevention interventions primarily consist of individual psychotherapies and treating individuals after suicide-related outcomes occur. Unfortunately, there is a lack of upstream suicide prevention interventions targeting known suicide risk factors and aiming to increase well-being and resilience in the U.S. Thus, we discuss these problems in the field and the U.S. health care system and provide a possible solution. We propose using low-intensity, universal, and upstream prevention interventions, such as Stress Control. Stress Control is a classroom-style, Cognitive Behavior Therapy-based program shown to reduce “risk,” stress, anxiety, and depression and boost well-being and resilience as part of a stepped-care model. Although Stress Control’s suicide prevention effectiveness has not yet been directly assessed, we discuss how it could be a promising suicide prevention strategy with additional testing. A proposed mechanism for this reduction is building resilience to common risk factors and suicide ideation via evidence-based coping skills, thereby decreasing future suicide risk. We review current limitations and discuss how upstream, scalable, universal prevention interventions can help improve psychological resilience and reduce suicidal thoughts and behaviors, lowering the U.S. suicide rate. Implications and recommendations are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies on Psychological Resilience to Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors: Current Trends and Future Directions)

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16 pages, 2934 KB

Open AccessArticle

Metal Ionic Liquid-Mediated Highly Dispersed Ru-Cu Bimetallic Nanomaterials for Electrocatalytic Urea Production

by Kangqi Chang, Ye He, Ziyu Liu, Hebin Zhang, Zhijun Cao, Hu Liu and Yian Wang

Polymers 2026, 18(4), 430; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym18040430 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

Traditional urea synthesis is energy-intensive and has a high carbon footprint, making the direct electrocatalytic synthesis from CO₂ and NO₃⁻ under mild conditions highly attractive. However, designing efficient bimetallic catalysts that promote C–N coupling while suppressing side reactions remains a [...] Read more.

Traditional urea synthesis is energy-intensive and has a high carbon footprint, making the direct electrocatalytic synthesis from CO₂ and NO₃⁻ under mild conditions highly attractive. However, designing efficient bimetallic catalysts that promote C–N coupling while suppressing side reactions remains a key challenge. This study reports a metal ionic liquid-mediated pyrolysis strategy for constructing carbon nanofibers embedded with highly dispersed Ru–Cu bimetallic nanoparticles (Ru/Cu@CF). A self-synthesized salicylic acid-imidazole metal ionic liquid served as a trifunctional precursor, enabling 10 nm level dispersion and stable anchoring of the metals within the carbon matrix after programmed carbonization. The resulting Ru/Cu@CF features a 3D porous fibrous structure, high surface area, abundant defects, and amorphous/highly dispersed Ru–Cu species. For electrocatalytic co-reduction of CO₂ and NO₃⁻ to urea, Ru/Cu@CF achieved a high urea yield of 57.8 mmol g⁻¹ h⁻¹ and a Faradaic efficiency of 25.4% at a mild potential of −0.5 V vs. RHE, along with good stability. Comparative studies confirmed the crucial role of Ru–Cu synergy in enhancing activity and selectivity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Applications)

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5 pages, 165 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Computational and Data-Driven Modeling of Combustion in Reciprocating Engines or Gas Turbines, Volume II

by Roberta De Robbio and Maria Cristina Cameretti

Energies 2026, 19(4), 887; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19040887 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

Climate change and the progressive depletion of fossil fuel reserves have prompted research into alternative energy sources that can meet the requirements of efficiency and sustainability in all sectors [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational and Data-Driven Modeling of Combustion in Reciprocating Engines or Gas Turbines, Volume II)

12 pages, 1530 KB

Open AccessArticle

Risk Factors for Non-Space-Occupying Postoperative Hemorrhages Following Brain Tumor Resection Without the Influence of Anticoagulant or Antiplatelet Therapy: A Ten-Year Single-Center Retrospective Analysis

by Anatoli Pinchuk, Nikolay Tonchev, Anna Schaufler, Claudia A. Dumitru, Belal Neyazi, Klaus-Peter Stein, I. Erol Sandalcioglu and Ali Rashidi

Neurol. Int. 2026, 18(2), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint18020030 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Postoperative intracerebral hematomas (POHs) are a common complication following brain tumor surgery and are typically associated with unfavorable outcomes. While extensive hemorrhages have been studied extensively, smaller, Non-Space-Occupying hemorrhages are frequently detected, yet their clinical relevance and associated risk factors remain [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Postoperative intracerebral hematomas (POHs) are a common complication following brain tumor surgery and are typically associated with unfavorable outcomes. While extensive hemorrhages have been studied extensively, smaller, Non-Space-Occupying hemorrhages are frequently detected, yet their clinical relevance and associated risk factors remain insufficiently understood. This study aimed to identify predictive factors for the occurrence of Non-Space-Occupying postoperative cerebral hemorrhages in patients undergoing brain tumor resection. Methods: A total of 1481 patients without a history of anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy underwent brain tumor surgery at our neurosurgical institute over a ten-year period. Non-Space-Occupying postoperative hemorrhages were diagnosed in 84 patients using cranial computed tomography (cCT) or magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI) performed after the tumor resection. Demographic data, pre-existing comorbidities, and tumor characteristics were collected and analyzed. Results: Non-Space-Occupying POHs occurred in 5.6% of patients. The most frequent tumor type associated with POHs was glioblastoma multiforme (N = 33; 39.3%), followed by metastatic lesions (N = 9; 10.7%) and benign primary intracranial neoplasms (N = 31; 38%). None of the affected patients exhibited new neurological deficits or signs of increased intracranial pressure. A multivariate analysis identified the tumor size as an independent risk factor for Non-Space-Occupying POHs (p = 0.002), with patient age emerging as the strongest predictor (p = 0.001). Conclusions: Non-Space-Occupying POHs after a brain tumor resection are significantly associated with the tumor size, an advanced patient age, and the presence of pre-existing liver disease. The recognition of these risk factors may facilitate targeted perioperative monitoring and guide postoperative management strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Brain Tumor and Brain Injury)

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24 pages, 13993 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Complex Application of Geophysical and Engineering Geological Methods in a Landslide Body for Analysis of Structural Characteristics and Reduction of Landslide Risk (Tumanyan Landslide, Armenia)

by Mikayel Gevorgyan, Dmitri Arakelyan, Hayk Igityan, Hayk Baghdasaryan, Hektor Babayan, Gevorg Babayan, Suren Arakelyan, Khachatur Meliksetian and Elya Sahakyan

GeoHazards 2026, 7(1), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/geohazards7010021 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

The territory of the Republic of Armenia (RA) lies within the central Arabia–Eurasia collision zone and is characterized by rugged mountain landscapes, complex geology, active faulting, and seismicity. Armenia is highly vulnerable to seismic and landslide hazards, with more than 2504 active landslides [...] Read more.

The territory of the Republic of Armenia (RA) lies within the central Arabia–Eurasia collision zone and is characterized by rugged mountain landscapes, complex geology, active faulting, and seismicity. Armenia is highly vulnerable to seismic and landslide hazards, with more than 2504 active landslides mapped in the country. A significant landslide in the Tumanyan Community, Lori Marz, was activated in January 2018 and threatened critical infrastructure, including the railway linking Armenia to Georgia and the M6 interstate highway. The landslide’s activation was driven by groundwater, a nearby water reservoir leak, and adjacent infrastructure. Preliminary hazard analysis revealed that further movement of the landslide could dam the Debed River, leading to potentially catastrophic downstream impacts. In response, the Minister of Emergency Situations of RA requested urgent studies by the Institute of Geological Sciences of NAS RA. Surveys began on 22 January 2018, involving an interdisciplinary approach including geotechnical study, UAV-based digital mapping, and application of geophysical methods, such as MASW, microtremor recordings, GPR, and VES. The combination of these methods provided reliable information on the landslide’s geotechnical structure, identified the sliding plane, and allowed for numerical slope stability modeling, which confirmed the landslide’s unstable condition and susceptibility to reactivation from earthquakes or elevated groundwater. Based on this complex research, protective measures were developed and applied, including, in particular, horizontal drilling to dewater the sliding plane. These emergency measures stabilized the landslide, mitigating immediate threats to infrastructure and ensuring relative safety. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Landslide Research: State of the Art and Innovations)

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34 pages, 1175 KB

Open AccessReview

From Metabolism to Mind: The Cardio–Metabolic–Brain Axis and the Role of Insulin Resistance—A Review

by Joanna Cielecka, Zuzanna Szkamruk, Maciej Walędziak and Anna Różańska-Walędziak

Biomedicines 2026, 14(2), 394; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14020394 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

(1) Background: Insulin resistance (IR) is increasingly recognized not only as a key factor in metabolic and cardiovascular disorders but also as an important contributor to cognitive decline. The growing prevalence of obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular disease (CVD), paralleled by [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Insulin resistance (IR) is increasingly recognized not only as a key factor in metabolic and cardiovascular disorders but also as an important contributor to cognitive decline. The growing prevalence of obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular disease (CVD), paralleled by rising rates of dementia, highlights the need for an integrative model linking these conditions. The emerging cardio–metabolic–brain axis proposes a unified model explaining how biomarkers of metabolic stress, adipose-tissue-derived mediators, and abnormalities in laboratory parameters interact with vascular injury and neurodegeneration. (2) Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using MEDLINE, SCOPUS, and Web of Science databases, complemented by additional searches in Embase and Cochrane Library. Studies from the past decade were screened using keywords such as “insulin resistance”, “cardio-metabolic-brain axis”, “cognitive decline”, and “cardiovascular disease”. Both epidemiological and mechanistic studies were analyzed to summarize current evidence and identify research gaps. (3) Results and Conclusions: Evidence indicates that insulin resistance contributes to endothelial dysfunction, chronic inflammation, and oxidative stress, driving the metabolic abnormalities characteristic of obesity and type 2 diabetes and promoting both atherosclerosis and neurodegeneration. Individuals with elevated IR—regardless of diabetes status—display higher risks of cardiovascular events and measurable cognitive decline. Brain insulin resistance further impairs glucose utilization, disrupts synaptic function, and facilitates amyloid accumulation, reflecting mechanisms observed in Alzheimer’s disease. These findings support IR as a key biomarker linking metabolic stress, vascular injury, and neural vulnerability within the cardio–metabolic–brain axis. Early identification of IR, together with targeted lifestyle and pharmacological interventions, may therefore offer dual benefits for cardiovascular and brain health. Continued longitudinal research is needed to validate this integrative model and refine therapeutic strategies aimed at improving insulin sensitivity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metabolic Diseases—New Markers and Treatment Pathways)

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13 pages, 257 KB

Open AccessArticle

Disease Activity and Psychosocial Factors Associated with Heath-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Crohn’s Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study

by YoonJi Roh and Hye-Ah Yeom

Healthcare 2026, 14(4), 432; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14040432 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

Background: Crohn’s disease has a pattern of recurrent remissions and flare-ups which makes patients experience psychological complications; however, few studies have been conducted to identify intra-personal factors associated with health-related quality of life in individuals with Crohn’s disease. This study aimed to explore [...] Read more.

Background: Crohn’s disease has a pattern of recurrent remissions and flare-ups which makes patients experience psychological complications; however, few studies have been conducted to identify intra-personal factors associated with health-related quality of life in individuals with Crohn’s disease. This study aimed to explore how disease activity, coping, and post-traumatic growth were associated with health-related quality of life in patients with Crohn’s disease. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using self-reported questionnaires. Of the 227 adult patients recruited from a Crohn’s disease online support group in Korea, 219 were included in the final analysis. Measurements included the Harvey–Bradshaw Simple Index, the Korean version of the Short Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire, the Korean version of the Coping and Adaptation Processing Scale Short-Form, and the Korean version of the Post-traumatic Growth Inventory. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA, Pearson’s correlation, and multiple linear regression. Results: The mean score of health-related quality of life was 4.10 out of 7 points, and the subdomain of emotional health showed the lowest score. Most participants were classified as having mild disease activity. The multiple regression analysis revealed that disease activity was significantly associated with health-related quality of life, which accounted for 31.2% of the total variance. Coping and PTG were not significantly associated with health-related quality of life. Conclusions: Disease activity was a significant factor associated with the health-related quality of life of Crohn’s disease patients. It is important to control the disease activity level in Crohn’s disease patients through self-management strategies. Maintaining a low stage of disease activity can be a crucial component of nursing care plans for enhancing health-related quality of life in individuals with Crohn’s disease. Full article

19 pages, 1853 KB

Open AccessArticle

Fracturing Layer Optimization for Gas Hydrate Development Using EDFM Numerical Simulation Method

by Qiang Fu, Mingqiang Chen, Weixin Pang and Wei Sun

Processes 2026, 14(4), 593; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr14040593 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

With the increasing global energy demand, natural gas hydrates have become a focus of research and development. The South China Sea deepwater area has abundant natural gas hydrate resources, but its low permeability limits the commercialization process. This paper explores how to enhance [...] Read more.

With the increasing global energy demand, natural gas hydrates have become a focus of research and development. The South China Sea deepwater area has abundant natural gas hydrate resources, but its low permeability limits the commercialization process. This paper explores how to enhance gas production from natural gas hydrate reservoirs through a combination of fracturing technology and depressurization using numerical simulations. Numerical experiments were conducted under various well types and fracture configurations to evaluate their effects on cumulative gas production. The fracturing layer was optimized for different well types. We employed the embedded discrete fracture model (EDFM) to characterize the fracture structures in the reservoir and coupled it with a conventional hydrate numerical simulator to simulate different fracture morphologies. The results show that fractures in the three-phase layer provide the most significant production enhancement among all tested layers. Fractures within the three-phase layer deliver the largest production gain among all layers tested. By comparing the development effects of different well types, it is found that the combination of horizontal wells and hydraulic fracturing can effectively improve the recovery of hydrates compared with single well types and traditional exploitation methods. In particular, horizontal wells with stimulated reservoir volume (SRV) yield a big rise in gas production compared with the single-fracture model under identical conditions. Fractures in the three-phase layer shows the most significant improvement in production. Horizontal wells under the three-phase layer achieve about an 88.26% increase in production compared with the single-fracture simulation under the same conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Chemical Processes and Systems)

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40 pages, 2554 KB

Open AccessArticle

Identifying Metabolite–Disease Associations via Messaging in Hypergraphs

by Fuheng Xiao, Yihao Ran and Zhanchao Li

Metabolites 2026, 16(2), 116; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo16020116 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

Background: Traditional machine-learning approaches face challenges when attempting to integrate diverse biological information for predicting metabolite–disease relationships. The intricate connections linking metabolites, diseases, proteins, and Gene Ontology (GO) annotations present substantial obstacles for conventional pairwise graph representations, which prove inadequate for modeling such [...] Read more.

Background: Traditional machine-learning approaches face challenges when attempting to integrate diverse biological information for predicting metabolite–disease relationships. The intricate connections linking metabolites, diseases, proteins, and Gene Ontology (GO) annotations present substantial obstacles for conventional pairwise graph representations, which prove inadequate for modeling such complex multi-way interactions. Methods: An innovative hypergraph-based framework (DHG-LGB) was developed to exploit this complexity through conceptualizing diseases as hyperedges. Within this architecture, individual hyperedges link multiple vertices including metabolites, proteins, and GO annotations, thereby enabling richer representation of the biological networks underlying metabolite–disease relationships. Metabolite–disease relationships were encoded as low-dimensional vectors through hypergraph neural network (HGNN) operations incorporating Laplacian smoothing and message propagation mechanisms. LightGBM (LGB) was used to construct a model for identifying the potential metabolite–disease associations. Results: Under 5-fold cross-validation, DHG-LGB achieved 98.87% accuracy, 91.77% sensitivity, 99.58% specificity, 95.60% precision, Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC) of 0.9305, receiver operating characteristic area under curve (AUC) of 0.9983, and precision-recall area under curve (AUPRC) of 0.9860. The framework maintained strong performance when tested with varying positive-to-negative ratios (spanning 1:1 through 1:10), consistently achieving AUC values exceeding 0.9954 and AUPRC values above 0.9820, thereby confirming excellent robustness and generalization capability. Comparative evaluations against existing methodologies verified the superiority of DHG-LGB. Conclusions: The DHG-LGB framework delivers more comprehensive modeling of biological interactions relative to conventional approaches and substantially enhances predictive accuracy for metabolite–disease relationships. It is foreseeable that it will be a valuable computational tool for biomarker identification and precision medicine initiatives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Endocrinology and Clinical Metabolic Research)

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24 pages, 628 KB

Open AccessArticle

Aligning Generative AI with Higher Education Workflows: Indonesian Lecturers’ Anxiety–Satisfaction Profiles and Adoption Patterns

by Muhammad Zaim, Safnil Arsyad, Budi Waluyo, An Fauzia Rozani Syafei, Ratmanida and Rifqi Aulia Zaim

Educ. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 271; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci16020271 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

Generative AI (GenAI) is increasingly embedded in higher education workflows for teaching preparation and academic work, yet lecturers’ affective readiness and perceived alignment between AI use and professional values remain underexplored. This mixed-methods study investigated 191 Indonesian university English lecturers’ GenAI-related anxiety and [...] Read more.

Generative AI (GenAI) is increasingly embedded in higher education workflows for teaching preparation and academic work, yet lecturers’ affective readiness and perceived alignment between AI use and professional values remain underexplored. This mixed-methods study investigated 191 Indonesian university English lecturers’ GenAI-related anxiety and satisfaction, mapped adoption patterns through profile analysis, and identified key integration challenges. Quantitative data were collected using a reliable 10-item AI Anxiety Scale (α = 0.89) and a global satisfaction item and analyzed using descriptive statistics, Spearman’s correlations, and K-means clustering. The strongest anxieties concerned over-reliance (M = 4.20, SD = 0.80, d = −1.12) and content accuracy (M = 3.70, SD = 1.10, d = −0.76). Anxiety was negatively associated with satisfaction, most notably for perceived complexity (r = −0.197, p = 0.006) and dependency concerns (r = −0.184, p = 0.012). Three profiles emerged: high-anxiety lecturers reported distrust and pedagogical discomfort; moderate-anxiety lecturers adopted GenAI conditionally with verification; and low-anxiety lecturers used GenAI confidently and proactively. Qualitative reflections and interviews revealed five dominant use cases, involving writing support, material development, assessment design, translation, and lesson planning, while stressing persistent barriers related to ethical uncertainty, mistrust in AI-generated outputs, and concerns about diminished educator agency. The findings suggest that aligning GenAI with higher education workflows requires human-centered support, including context-sensitive AI literacy, clear ethical guidance, and institutional governance that strengthens responsible adoption. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Generative AI Alignment with Learning Environments in Higher Education)

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24 pages, 449 KB

Open AccessReview

AI as Emotional Support in Pregnancy: A Review and Synthesis for Emerging Research Directions

by Hafsa Tameez and Nayantara Sheoran Appleton

Soc. Sci. 2026, 15(2), 100; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci15020100 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

Background: People navigating pregnancy face significant emotional vulnerability, with emotional support serving as a crucial protective factor for perinatal wellbeing. While there is emerging scholarship on how AI is used as a diagnostic tool during pregnancies, early evidence suggests that people are increasingly [...] Read more.

Background: People navigating pregnancy face significant emotional vulnerability, with emotional support serving as a crucial protective factor for perinatal wellbeing. While there is emerging scholarship on how AI is used as a diagnostic tool during pregnancies, early evidence suggests that people are increasingly turning to generative AI platforms for everyday emotional support during pregnancy. Yet, scholarly understanding of this phenomenon remains limited. Objective: This scoping review maps the existing literature on AI and emotional support during pregnancy, identifies critical research gaps, and establishes scaffolding for future research. Methods: Based on a thematic synthesis of a selected body of research, we reviewed literature examining AI applications in perinatal emotional support, distinguishing everyday emotional support from clinical mental health interventions. Results: The analysis revealed a nascent field dominated by clinical diagnostics and purpose-built chatbots. Critical gaps include absence of research on organic use of generative AI platforms, imbalanced representation of the perinatal continuum, and a focus on diagnosable conditions rather than everyday emotional needs. The evidence suggests women are co-constructing emotional support scaffolding through AI, something previously unavailable with existing technology. Conclusions: The findings indicate that AI may enable an entirely new domain of wellbeing support at unprecedented scale. Equity-oriented future research is needed to understand how people—particularly from marginalised communities—are using AI for everyday emotional support, ensuring this emerging domain develops responsively rather than reproduce existing inequities. Full article

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18 pages, 4636 KB

Open AccessArticle

In Silico Inhalation Exposure Analysis of Indoor Microplastics/Microfibers Using Two-Year-Old Child Respiratory Tract Model

by Yuan Ni, Yuichiro Suda, Khoa Dang Nguyen, Kazuki Kuga, Kunio Hashimoto and Kazuhide Ito

Microplastics 2026, 5(1), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics5010028 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

Children are vulnerable to exposure to airborne microplastics (MPs) because of their developing lungs and prolonged time spent indoors. Therefore, this study employed a computational fluid–particle dynamics framework to simulate the posture-dependent transport and deposition of MPs in a realistic airway model of [...] Read more.

Children are vulnerable to exposure to airborne microplastics (MPs) because of their developing lungs and prolonged time spent indoors. Therefore, this study employed a computational fluid–particle dynamics framework to simulate the posture-dependent transport and deposition of MPs in a realistic airway model of a 2-year-old child extending to the 8th bronchial generation. A steady inhalation breathing flow rate of 5 L/min was used for both postures. Subsequently, a discrete-phase model was used to predict the transportation and deposition of MPs, which employed an appropriate drag coefficient model. MP configurations were selected from the field survey, identifying the diameters of 4.785, 9.797, and 15.731 µm with aspect ratios of 3, 5, and 10. The results showed that posture significantly altered the deposition patterns of small- and low-aspect-ratio MPs. Specifically, the total deposition fraction was higher in the upright position than in the supine position. Local deposition analyses revealed that hotspots of deposited MPs varied across the airways under the effects of posture, especially in the upper respiratory tract. These findings provide mechanistic insights into how posture shapes regional fiber deposition in children and highlight the need to consider body orientation in pediatric inhalation exposure assessments. Full article

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24 pages, 8964 KB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental Study on Wave Propagation Across Saturated Rock with Different Contact Area Ratios of Joints Under Combined Static–Dynamic Loading

by Yunmin Wang, Xin Liu, Xunjie Hu, Zhenyang Xu and Hongliang Tang

Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(4), 1704; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16041704 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

Underground saturated jointed rock is prone to engineering geohazards under the combined effects of in situ stress and dynamic loading. A modified split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) system was used to conduct dynamic loading tests on artificially fabricated saturated jointed rocks. The effects [...] Read more.

Underground saturated jointed rock is prone to engineering geohazards under the combined effects of in situ stress and dynamic loading. A modified split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) system was used to conduct dynamic loading tests on artificially fabricated saturated jointed rocks. The effects of joint matching coefficient (JMC) and confining pressure on the dynamic strength, deformation characteristics, energy evolution, and stress wave propagation of the specimens were investigated. The test results show that the dynamic compressive strength and stiffness of saturated jointed rocks increase with the increase in JMC, but the compressive strength is still lower than the typical dynamic strength range. Rock damage mainly occurs at the joint location, and the damage mode is dominated by tensile fracture. In terms of energy, the energy dissipation rate of the rock decreases with decreasing JMC and increasing confining pressure. The propagation of stress waves is mainly affected by the coupling of JMC and three-dimensional static stress, which is manifested as a transition from a rapidly changing phase to an unstable changing phase, a process accompanied by an energy distribution mechanism. These insights fill a gap in the mechanical response of saturated jointed rocks under complex loading conditions underground and help predict the risk of dynamic instability in underground engineering and mining operations. Full article

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21 pages, 3462 KB

Open AccessArticle

Fe/⁵⁷Fe-Metallacarboranes with Radiosensitizing Potential in Breast Cancer Cell Models: Comparative Study Between High- (⁶⁰Co) and Low-Energy (⁵⁷Co) Gamma Radiation Sources

by Salvatore Di Maria, Diogo M. Engrácia, Catarina I. G. Pinto, João C. Waerenborgh, Bruno J. C. Vieira, Pedro Santos, Teresa Pinheiro, Miquel Nuez-Martínez, António P. Matos, Filipa Mendes, Francesc Teixidor, Clara Viñas and Fernanda Marques

Pharmaceutics 2026, 18(2), 214; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics18020214 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

Background: Radiosensitizers can be used to enhance tumor response and mitigate toxicity in healthy tissues during radiation therapy. This study investigates the radiosensitizing potential of the metallacarborane Fe/⁵⁷Fe-ferrabisdicarbollide in SK-BR-3 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells, using two distinct gamma-photon sources: high-dose [...] Read more.

Background: Radiosensitizers can be used to enhance tumor response and mitigate toxicity in healthy tissues during radiation therapy. This study investigates the radiosensitizing potential of the metallacarborane Fe/⁵⁷Fe-ferrabisdicarbollide in SK-BR-3 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells, using two distinct gamma-photon sources: high-dose ⁶⁰Co (2.08 Gy) and low-dose ⁵⁷Co (37.55 mGy, ⁵⁷Fe Mössbauer effect). Methods: We evaluated cell viability and survival in 2D monolayer and 3D spheroid cultures, as well as the mechanism of cell death (ROS production, apoptosis or necrosis). Computational dosimetry was used to calculate the average absorbed dose. Results: In 2D models, both radiation sources induced reduced viability and increased ROS, with distinct cell death patterns dependent on the source (apoptosis or necrosis). Comparing 2D and 3D MDA-MB-231 models revealed that spheroid survival was significantly more impaired. The low-dose ⁵⁷Co source caused a significant radiosensitization in MDA-MB-231 spheroids, dramatically impacting viability and survival. This effect is attributed to the Mössbauer effect, where the resonant absorption of 14.41 keV radiation by ⁵⁷Fe leads to a massive, localized dose enhancement. The subsequent cascade of Auger and conversion electrons (local high LET) caused significantly greater cellular damage than sparse photon radiation. Conclusions: Fe/⁵⁷Fe-ferrabisdicarbollide demonstrates a potent radiosensitizing effect depending on the cell model and the radiation source used. Crucially, the observed radiosensitization allows for the development of a new, more efficient cancer radiotherapy approach that can achieve therapeutic efficacy using a significantly lower radiation dose to the patient. This paves the way for safer and better-tolerated cancer treatments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A New Generation of Metal Anticancer Drugs)

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24 pages, 1681 KB

Open AccessReview

From Smart Ports to Sustainable Port Ecosystems: The Transformative Role of Artificial Intelligence

by Marcela Castro, Maria Rosilene Sabino, Maria do Rosário Cabrita, Ana Mendes and Tiago Pinho

Systems 2026, 14(2), 187; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems14020187 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

Ports are critical nodes in global supply chains and play a central role in sustainability transitions in trade and logistics. This study investigates how Artificial Intelligence (AI) contributes to sustainable innovation within port ecosystems, focusing on efficiency, transparency, resilience, and environmental performance. To [...] Read more.

Ports are critical nodes in global supply chains and play a central role in sustainability transitions in trade and logistics. This study investigates how Artificial Intelligence (AI) contributes to sustainable innovation within port ecosystems, focusing on efficiency, transparency, resilience, and environmental performance. To address the research question—how has AI supported sustainability in maritime ports?—we conducted a systematic screening combined with bibliometric performance analysis and science mapping. A total of 80 peer-reviewed articles published between 2019 and 2025 (Scopus) were analysed. The results show a strong acceleration of publications in 2025, alongside a citation–time lag for recent studies. The findings indicate three dominant application streams: (1) operational efficiency and optimisation (terminal operations, forecasting, routing, scheduling); (2) digital and smart-port enablement through IoT and data infrastructures; and (3) governance, risk, and compliance (e.g., Port State Control, inspection analytics, cyber-resilience). The mapping also evidences increasing convergence of AI with complementary technologies—particularly IoT and, in a smaller but visible subset, blockchain—to enhance trust, accountability, and interoperability. By synthesising the field’s intellectual structure and thematic evolution, this study outlines research gaps and proposes future directions toward integrated frameworks for sustainable port ecosystems and Sustainable Commerce 4.0. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Navigating Complexity in a Changing World: Challenges and Opportunities for Sustainable and Resilient Supply Chains)

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17 pages, 7327 KB

Open AccessArticle

Hydraulic Characteristics Analysis of Free-Surface-Pressurized Flow in Long Tailrace Systems Under Variable Load Conditions

by Yuguo Zhou, Xin He, Daqing Zhou, Xiaoliang Li, An Yu and Ling Zhou

Water 2026, 18(4), 449; https://doi.org/10.3390/w18040449 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

Complex hydraulic transients induced during load adjustment of turbine units in long tailrace tunnels pose significant threats to the safety and stability of tailwater systems. In view of this, based on VOF multiphase flow and compressible water–air models, a three-dimensional full-flow-channel numerical model [...] Read more.

Complex hydraulic transients induced during load adjustment of turbine units in long tailrace tunnels pose significant threats to the safety and stability of tailwater systems. In view of this, based on VOF multiphase flow and compressible water–air models, a three-dimensional full-flow-channel numerical model of long tailrace system incorporating surge shaft and downstream river channel was developed using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software to explore the transient impact of load changes on flow rate, water level, and pressure pulsations under different flow regimes in the tailrace tunnel, including open channel flow, pressurized flow, and free-surface-pressurized flow. The results indicate that the discharge at the outlet of the tailrace tunnel exhibits attenuated oscillations in response to load variations, with the most severe fluctuations occurring due to the intense air–water interface mixing during free-surface-pressurized flow. Flow regime transitions are accompanied by air pocket phenomena, resulting in significant fluctuations in air volume fraction. Pressure pulsations show periodic variations, with energy gradually dissipating as they propagate downstream. Open channel flows predominantly feature high-frequency waves, while pressurized flows exhibit intense low-frequency pulsations. Additionally, load changes in one unit have an ultra-low-frequency impact on another unit sharing the same tailrace tunnel, with high-frequency waves being filtered out by the surge shaft. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Fluid Mechanics in Hydraulic Engineering: Turbulence, Multiphase Flows, and Sediment Dynamics)

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38 pages, 3458 KB

Open AccessArticle

MERGE: Mammogram-Enhanced Representation via Wavelet-Guided CNNs for Computer-Aided Diagnosis of Breast Cancer

by Omneya Attallah

Mach. Learn. Knowl. Extr. 2026, 8(2), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/make8020040 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

The early and accurate identification of breast cancer is a significant healthcare issue, largely because the traditional machine learning approaches rely on handcrafted features that are unable to fully capture the spatial and textural complexity found in mammograms. Even with the advancements made [...] Read more.

The early and accurate identification of breast cancer is a significant healthcare issue, largely because the traditional machine learning approaches rely on handcrafted features that are unable to fully capture the spatial and textural complexity found in mammograms. Even with the advancements made possible through deep learning and improvements in diagnostic performance, most computational-aided diagnosis (CAD) systems based on Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) still only rely on single-domain features, normally spatial features, while neglecting some important spectral and spatial–spectral features, leading to limitations in generalisability, redundancy, and loss of performative interpretability. Inspired by these limitations, this research proposes MERGE, a novel CAD framework that combines spatial, spectral, and spatial–spectral information—all part of a single multistage architecture taking advantage of three fine-tuned CNN models (ResNet-50, Xception, and Inception). This system utilises Discrete Stationary Wavelet Transform (DSWT) to enhance spectral–spatial features; Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT) to fuse the features optimally, resulting in enhanced spatial and spatial–spectral representations; and, finally, Non-Negative Matrix Factorisation (NNMF) for reduced-dimensional features. Finally, the Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA), support vector machine (SVM), and k-nearest neighbours (KNN) classifiers provide a robust diagnosis. Using the INBreast and MIAS datasets in evaluations of the experimental research design, evaluation metrics of accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and AUC were around 99%, with performance surpassing state-of-the-art paradigms. The findings of the suggested MERGE indicate significant promise as a dependable and effective diagnostic tool, enhancing the consistency and interpretability of breast cancer screening results. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Learning)

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13 pages, 1396 KB

Open AccessArticle

Midtrimester Evaluation of Fetal Heart with Fetal Heart Quantification (FetalHQ) Related to Maternal Pathology

by Stefano Raffaele Giannubilo, Camilla Grelloni, Alessandro Cecchi, Elisa Carboni, Giuseppe Maria Maruotti, Sara Mannolini, Alessia Maria Merone, Maria Terrone and Andrea Ciavattini

J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(4), 1352; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15041352 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

Background: Echocardiography currently represents the gold standard for the anatomical and functional assessment of the fetal heart by experienced operators. FetalHQ (VolusonTM) provides a semi-automated speckle-tracking analysis of the fetal heart with promising results for the reliable assessment of cardiac remodeling, specifically [...] Read more.

Background: Echocardiography currently represents the gold standard for the anatomical and functional assessment of the fetal heart by experienced operators. FetalHQ (VolusonTM) provides a semi-automated speckle-tracking analysis of the fetal heart with promising results for the reliable assessment of cardiac remodeling, specifically of size, shape, and contractility. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study comparing 108 controls, 119 obesity (BMI ≥ 30), 69 pre-pregnancy diabetes mellitus (DM), 41 gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), and 37 early fetal growth restriction (FGR) cases (19+0–22+6 weeks). FetalHQ was utilized during midtrimester echocardiographic exams to evaluate fetal myocardial thickness and left ventricular mass. Results: Myocardial thickness was increased in DM (median 0.21 [IQR 0.17–0.23] cm) vs. controls (0.17 [0.15–0.21] cm; p < 0.01) and reduced in FGR (0.13 [0.11–0.18] cm; p < 0.01). Left ventricular mass increased in obesity (0.98 [0.62–1.19] g) and DM (1.12 [0.94–1.17] g) vs. controls (0.73 [0.56–0.97] g; both p < 0.01). Conclusions: Fetal cardiac remodeling, especially myocardial thickness and left ventricular mass adaptations, is detectable in fetuses from high-risk pregnancies starting from the second trimester. Advanced speckle-tracking techniques, such as fetalHQ, provide valuable early risk stratification and may support the need for systematic fetal cardiac screening and monitoring during gestation in selected groups of patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Obstetrics & Gynecology)

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26 pages, 450 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Discrete Antisystem and a Negative Worldview in Criminal Activity Based on Mastering Time

by Jewgienij Zubkow

Religions 2026, 17(2), 205; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel17020205 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

The mechanisms of aim-setting and decision-making in criminal activity as a four-level hierarchical structure were presented for the Russian criminals known as ‘vory v zakonie’. The first level represents a basic concept of saving one’s own life, borrowed from the Torah. The second [...] Read more.

The mechanisms of aim-setting and decision-making in criminal activity as a four-level hierarchical structure were presented for the Russian criminals known as ‘vory v zakonie’. The first level represents a basic concept of saving one’s own life, borrowed from the Torah. The second level, the ‘Thieves’ Law’, is a set of mental models that has much in common with the adaptation and misinterpretation of old religious and legal systems. The third level is a set of general concepts and ideas about what Good or Evil is in the form of words called ‘Notions’. These levels have no material form; they reflect themselves in models of behaviour and argot as a collective output. The fourth level in the material form of page-long ‘secrete messages’, containing some models of behaviour, are the ‘Frames’ (how to behave in imprisonment), wherein the ‘Vory’s Commandments’ (how to behave at large for young criminals) do not belong to the criminal ideology. This criminal ideology, a discrete antisystem, is enriched by the three ideas found in old religious and legal systems proposed as the ‘fifth feeling of Time’: the memory of the soul in the endless time being awoken after reincarnation, making the past as if it never happened, and knowing the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Divine Encounters: Exploring Religious Themes in Literature)

13 pages, 1141 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Association Between Metabolomic and Usual Biochemical Data Helps to Detect Insulin Resistance

by Fábio S. Pimenta, Camila Conde, Radael R. Rodrigues Júnior, Bianca P. Campagnaro, Thiago M. C. Pereira, Manuel Campos-Toimil, Silvana S. Meyrelles and Elisardo C. Vasquez

Biomedicines 2026, 14(2), 393; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14020393 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

Background: Chronic noncommunicable diseases account for nearly 80% of global deaths and are strongly associated with insulin resistance (IR). One of the most significant clinical findings of the past two decades is that the molecular mechanisms underlying immune and metabolic systems have [...] Read more.

Background: Chronic noncommunicable diseases account for nearly 80% of global deaths and are strongly associated with insulin resistance (IR). One of the most significant clinical findings of the past two decades is that the molecular mechanisms underlying immune and metabolic systems have been evolutionarily conserved across species. Methods: This study included 34 volunteers (19 men and 15 women). Demographic data were collected using validated questionnaires. Anthropometric measurements (weight, height, waist-to-hip ratio, and body composition assessed by tetrapolar bioimpedance) were obtained directly. Laboratory analyses included fasting glucose and insulin, glycated hemoglobin, HDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglycerides, organic aciduria, and additional biochemical markers assessed using standard methods. Group comparisons were performed using parametric or nonparametric statistical tests according to data distribution, as specified in the figure legends. Results: The primary analyses focused on identifying early metabolomic alterations associated with insulin resistance in individuals whose conventional biochemical parameters were within laboratory reference ranges. Individuals with a TG/HDL ratio > 2 and increased urinary kynurenate excretion exhibited a 3.6-fold higher relative risk of insulin resistance, while elevated insulin levels combined with urinary α-ketoisovalerate were associated with a 2.7-fold increased risk. Significant differences in plasma insulin, HbA1c, and HOMA-IR were observed between healthy and diseased individuals (p < 0.05), indicating early metabolic dysfunction preceding clinical disease onset. Conclusions: Metabolomic biomarkers serve as reliable indicators of subclinical metabolic disturbances, revealing significant risks in major metabolic pathways even in individuals with conventional exams within normal limits. Early detection through these metabolomic markers may enable personalized interventions aimed at preserving cellular function and systemic metabolic balance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Type 2 Diabetes: Insulin Regulation and Therapeutic Strategies)

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17 pages, 2104 KB

Open AccessArticle

Preliminary Evaluation of Gabbro Rock for Its Application in Agriculture as a Soil Remineralizer

by Karen Muñoz-Salas, María Guzmán-Florez, Xilena Galezo-Diaz, Claudete Gindri Ramos, Fausto A. Canales, Ruben Cantero-Rodelo and Edson Campanhola Bortoluzzi

Agriculture 2026, 16(4), 398; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture16040398 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

Dependence on fertilizers limits the sustainability of tropical agriculture. Remineralization using rock byproducts offers a solution that is conditioned by the mineralogical–soil interaction. This study evaluated the agronomic and geochemical potential of a gabbro rock byproduct (GRB) as a bulk amendment in yellow [...] Read more.

Dependence on fertilizers limits the sustainability of tropical agriculture. Remineralization using rock byproducts offers a solution that is conditioned by the mineralogical–soil interaction. This study evaluated the agronomic and geochemical potential of a gabbro rock byproduct (GRB) as a bulk amendment in yellow maize (Zea mays L.) cultivation in Atlántico, Colombia. The specific objectives were (1) to characterize the mineralogy and geochemistry of the local GRB; (2) to quantify its neutralizing and fertilizing effect in an acidic Arenosol soil; and (3) to evaluate the biometric response of yellow maize (Zea mays L.) in a field trial. The trial was conducted in an acidic haplic Arenosol (pH 5.4) in 2023, with a 70-day cycle, comparing three management systems: M1 (control), M2 (47 Mg·ha⁻¹ GRB, seed type: ICA-109), and M3 (47 Mg·ha⁻¹ GRB, seed type: V-114). The assessed GRB, with 52.75% SiO₂ and 5.46% CaO, is rich in calcic plagioclase, clinopyroxenes, and zeolites. Application of GRB at 47 Mg·ha⁻¹ in treatment M3 coincided with marked changes in soil properties over the course of the trial, with pH rising from 5.4 to 6.4, cation exchange capacity from 5.0 to 12.1 cmol_c·kg⁻¹, and available phosphorus from 9.8 to 35.0 mg·kg⁻¹. Plants in M3 showed statistically significant increases (p < 0.001) in ear weight (median: 150 g vs. 60.5 g in M1) and in vegetative development. Because the trial was pseudo-replicated, used a high single-dose “shock-loading” rate, involved different maize genotypes across treatments, and covered only one 70-day cycle, these results should be interpreted as exploratory and site-specific. Even so, they indicate that GRB can act as an effective acidity corrector and slow-release multinutrient source under Arenosol conditions, with relevance for circular-economy strategies. Future work should evaluate agronomically doses, include replicated multi-cycle trials, and incorporate comparative and risk-assessment analyses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Soil Fertility and Plant Nutrition for Sustainable Agriculture—2nd Edition)

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20 pages, 3085 KB

Open AccessArticle

Zero-Waste Hydrogel Design via Integral Biomass Valorization of Protein-Rich Spirulina Microalgae

by Leandro L. Aquino, Samara C. Silva-Pituco, Alejandro Hernandez-Sosa, Elsa C. Ramalhosa, Rebeca Hernandez, Eliane Colla, Arantzazu Santamaria-Echart and Maria F. Barreiro

Molecules 2026, 31(4), 591; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31040591 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

Interest in alternative protein sources has grown, with Spirulina, a microalga belonging to the genus Limnospira (formerly Arthrospira), emerging as a key option. Guided by sustainability principles, this study explored the gelling capacity and hydrogel-forming properties of integral Spirulina biomass (SpB), targeting [...] Read more.

Interest in alternative protein sources has grown, with Spirulina, a microalga belonging to the genus Limnospira (formerly Arthrospira), emerging as a key option. Guided by sustainability principles, this study explored the gelling capacity and hydrogel-forming properties of integral Spirulina biomass (SpB), targeting applications in structured foods. Two experimental designs (DoE) were employed. One to identify key factors influencing hydrogel formation, and another to optimize the formulation (22 wt%, pH 5.6, thermal gelation at 90 °C). Syneresis analysis revealed that high SpB hydrogels experienced less water loss, with the 22% sample losing just 2.51% after 14 days, due to its dense, particulate morphology as observed by means of scanning electron microscopy. Rheological analysis confirmed the optimized formulation’s superior mechanical properties, with a storage modulus (G′) 24-times higher than the low concentration reference sample (~1890 Pa), remaining dominant over the loss modulus (G″) (G′ > G″) across the analysed frequency range, corroborating a strong elastic behaviour. Although the recovery tests showed partial recovery (27.1%) after high shear, the high residual stiffness (≈515 Pa) confirmed the material’s ability to maintain its shape. These results enabled successful 3D printing tests with the optimized hydrogel, pointing out its potential for innovative food applications in structured food design. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Materials Chemistry)

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18 pages, 1086 KB

Open AccessReview

Clay-Supported Fe₃O₄ Magnetic Nanocomposites as Adsorbents for Heavy Metal Removal from Water and Wastewater: A Mini Review on Trends and Future Perspectives

by Charikleia Prochaska, Vasileios Tzitzios and Georgia Basina

Sustainability 2026, 18(4), 1745; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18041745 (registering DOI) - 9 Feb 2026

Abstract

This mini-review presents the major research trends in the synthesis, performance, and mechanisms of clay-supported magnetic iron oxide nanocomposites for the adsorption of heavy metals in water and wastewater treatment applications. The immobilization of iron oxide nanoparticles onto the hydrophilic natural or synthetic [...] Read more.

This mini-review presents the major research trends in the synthesis, performance, and mechanisms of clay-supported magnetic iron oxide nanocomposites for the adsorption of heavy metals in water and wastewater treatment applications. The immobilization of iron oxide nanoparticles onto the hydrophilic natural or synthetic nanoclay matrices not only minimized the magnetic nanoparticles’ tendency to aggregate in aquatic solutions but also facilitated their recovery from the solutions via magnetic separation after adsorption. For these reasons, research on such materials emerged in the early 2010s, leading to the development of highly efficient nanocomposite adsorbents. At optimum conditions, including solution pH values between 5 and 7, rapid equilibrium times ranging from 30 to 180 min, and ambient or moderately elevated temperatures (up to 60 °C), maximum adsorption values of up to 225 mg/g were reported for certain heavy metals. Moreover, the nanocomposites demonstrated reusability, maintaining adsorption performance towards heavy metals for up to five adsorption–desorption cycles when common acids (such as HNO₃ and HCl) were used as regenerating agents. However, the current findings are all based on batch-scale laboratory experiments. To move toward industrial-scale applications, further research is necessary to address scale-up challenges and evaluate the performance of the clay-supported magnetic iron oxide nanocomposites under real-world conditions. All the critical limitations are highlighted in the context of this mini review to support future efforts toward achieving their economic and environmentally sustainable application for the adsorption of heavy metals from water/wastewater streams. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Research on Sustainable Waste Treatment and Technology)

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