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18 pages, 3052 KB

Open AccessArticle

GnRH Regulates Sex Differentiation in Sebastes schlegelii Through TGF-β/MAPK Signaling Pathways

by Jinwei Huang, Pingrui Xu, Yongshuang Xiao and Jun Li

Biology 2026, 15(11), 857; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15110857 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Sex determination and gonadal differentiation are essential for vertebrate development and reproduction. Fish, with both genetic and environmental sex-determining mechanisms, serve as ideal models for exploring environmental effects on gonadal development. The hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis is involved in sex differentiation, but its role [...] Read more.

Sex determination and gonadal differentiation are essential for vertebrate development and reproduction. Fish, with both genetic and environmental sex-determining mechanisms, serve as ideal models for exploring environmental effects on gonadal development. The hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis is involved in sex differentiation, but its role as a key mediator in temperature-dependent sex differentiation remains unclear. Sebastes schlegelii is an economically important marine fish species along the northern coast of China. It exhibits obvious sexual growth dimorphism and typical temperature-dependent sex differentiation, making it an excellent model for investigating the mechanism of sex differentiation. In this study, individuals of S. schlegelii at the sex differentiation stage were treated with a GnRH receptor antagonist and subjected to transcriptome sequencing analysis. The results revealed that GnRH may regulate sex differentiation through steroid biosynthesis, TGF-β and MAPK signaling pathways. We identified several key genes, including srd5, bmp8a, bmp2, fgf23, pdgfra, and egfr, which may affect gonadal differentiation by acting on core sex-determining genes and steroidogenesis. In conclusion, GnRH precisely mediates the process of sex differentiation by modulating the TGF-β signaling pathway, the MAPK signaling pathway, and local gonadal steroidogenic networks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Evolution, Genetics, and Conservation of Wildlife Respond to Environmental Changes)

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18 pages, 3148 KB

Open AccessArticle

Longitudinal Epidemiology of Coagulase-Positive Staphylococcal Species Recovered from Humans, Pets, and Household Environments

by Gwen L. Wardenburg, Alaina L. Robinson, Lisa M. Richardson, Mary G. Boyle, Carol M. Kao, Eleanor S. Archer, Carey-Ann D. Burnham and Stephanie A. Fritz

Antibiotics 2026, 15(6), 552; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics15060552 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

Background: Veterinary staphylococcal species, including the Staphylococcus intermedius group (SIG) and Staphylococcus schleiferi, colonize and infect companion animals (pets) and humans. This study investigated the longitudinal colonization prevalence of veterinary staphylococci among pets, their humans, and household environments to identify factors associated [...] Read more.

Background: Veterinary staphylococcal species, including the Staphylococcus intermedius group (SIG) and Staphylococcus schleiferi, colonize and infect companion animals (pets) and humans. This study investigated the longitudinal colonization prevalence of veterinary staphylococci among pets, their humans, and household environments to identify factors associated with carriage and to characterize antibiotic susceptibility trends. Methods: Children with community-onset Staphylococcus aureus skin and soft tissue infection (SSTI), their household contacts, and pets were enrolled in the “Staph Hygiene Intervention for Eradication (SHINE)” trial. At five study visits over 9 months, humans, pets, and household surfaces were swabbed for staphylococcal species detection and health information was collected. Results: The 104 households containing pets comprised 459 humans and 178 pets (136 dogs and 42 cats). Veterinary staphylococci were recovered from 110 pets (62%), 39 (9%) humans, and environmental surfaces in 55 (53%) households. SIG was the most commonly recovered veterinary staphylococci. Ninety percent of colonized humans were colonized with the same staphylococcal species as their pet. In multivariable analyses, dogs were more likely to be colonized than cats and a higher burden of environmental surface contamination was associated with pet and human colonization. The prevalence of methicillin-resistant veterinary staphylococci was low, but resistance to multiple other antibiotics was common among these methicillin-resistant isolates. Conclusions: Carriage of the same staphylococcal species and temporal colonization patterns between companion animals and their owners may suggest cross-species sharing, with the environment serving as a reservoir. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antimicrobial Resistance of Staphylococcus spp. in Animals: A One Health Perspective)

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48 pages, 8442 KB

Open AccessReview

Nature-Based Water Harvesting Systems for Climate-Resilient Buildings: A Scoping Literature Review

by Ugo Maria Coraglia, Davide Prati, Gabriel Wurzer and Giuseppe Ruscica

Land 2026, 15(6), 943; https://doi.org/10.3390/land15060943 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

Water, a precious but limited resource since prehistoric times, has driven humans to develop systems for collecting and storing it. Evidence dating back to third millennium BC documents shows such systems among the Sumerians in the Fertile Crescent, as well as in Asia, [...] Read more.

Water, a precious but limited resource since prehistoric times, has driven humans to develop systems for collecting and storing it. Evidence dating back to third millennium BC documents shows such systems among the Sumerians in the Fertile Crescent, as well as in Asia, Africa, China, and India. Aqueducts and cisterns, along with impluvium–compluvium systems, allowed the Romans to meet private and public needs; in Venice, wells provided filtered water until 1884. Today, climate change and increasing soil sealing urgently demand intelligent water collection and management, aligned with five of the 2030 Agenda Sustainable Development Goals (6, 11, 12, 13, 15). Buildings and construction account for about 35% of the global freshwater consumption. The construction sector, historically involved in the development of innovative rainwater harvesting and reuse systems, now faces a growing challenge in exploring innovative nature-based solutions for climate-resilient buildings (e.g., fog harvesting, green roofs for rainwater storage). Based on these considerations, we propose a scoping literature review of the last 15 years on innovative rainwater harvesting and storage systems. The analysis aims to provide a comparative mapping of the technological solutions that have emerged, to identify the geographical areas and climatic conditions favourable to each system, and to serve as a knowledge base for the development of integrated construction systems suitable for each specific context. A total of 136 peer-reviewed Open Access articles indexed in Scopus (2010–2024) were analysed following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Economic Value in Rural–Urban Landscapes)

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22 pages, 2964 KB

Open AccessArticle

Perpendicular Vibration Displacement as a Low-Frequency Indicator of Surface Roughness in Turning of Aluminum Alloys: An Experimental Feasibility Study

by Rimas Karpavičius, Domantas Ščipokas and Dmitrij Charunov

Sensors 2026, 26(11), 3454; https://doi.org/10.3390/s26113454 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

Surface quality in turning is still evaluated mainly by post-process profilometry, which limits the use of sensor feedback during machining. This article examines whether perpendicular vibration displacement can be used as a practical indirect indicator of surface roughness in the turning of aluminum [...] Read more.

Surface quality in turning is still evaluated mainly by post-process profilometry, which limits the use of sensor feedback during machining. This article examines whether perpendicular vibration displacement can be used as a practical indirect indicator of surface roughness in the turning of aluminum alloys. The study is based on 204 synchronized segment-level vibration–roughness observation pairs collected during 408 s of turning. The vibration meter operated in displacement mode, continuously measuring vibration while the SD logger stored one perpendicular displacement p-p reading every 2 s; R_a and R_z were then associated with the corresponding machined segment. The analysis combined descriptive time-domain statistics, low-frequency FFT/STFT descriptors of process-state evolution, phase segmentation, correlation analysis, and linear regression. Very strong within-dataset relationships were obtained between perpendicular vibration displacement and surface roughness, with R² = 0.992 for R_a and R² = 0.988 for R_z. Entry, steady-state, and exit phases showed different variability levels, and the steady-state segment provided the most stable basis for roughness estimation. Because the logger sampling interval was 2 s, the spectral results should be interpreted as low-frequency process-state descriptors rather than as direct chatter measurements. Within this scope, the results support the use of perpendicular displacement sensing as a low-cost feasibility approach for in-process roughness indication. Broader transfer to CNC production, other alloys, and higher-bandwidth monitoring requires additional validation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advanced Engines Technologies)

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19 pages, 23807 KB

Open AccessArticle

Self-Rectifying Integrate-and-Fire Neuron and Collaborative Trim Training Framework for SNN-Based EEG Motor Imagery Classification

by Yifan Chen, Weihao Sun and Ming Meng

Brain Sci. 2026, 16(6), 592; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci16060592 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

Background: Spiking neural networks (SNNs) have attracted significant attention in the field of brain–computer interfaces owing to their distinctive biological plausibility and energy efficiency advantages. However, the discrete nature of spikes renders gradient-based differentiation infeasible, making it difficult to directly obtain well-trained SNNs. [...] Read more.

Background: Spiking neural networks (SNNs) have attracted significant attention in the field of brain–computer interfaces owing to their distinctive biological plausibility and energy efficiency advantages. However, the discrete nature of spikes renders gradient-based differentiation infeasible, making it difficult to directly obtain well-trained SNNs. A common approach is to transfer the weights from artificial neural networks (ANNs) to SNNs. However, this process introduces conversion errors that pose significant challenges. Methods: To address these challenges, we propose the self-rectifying integrate-and-fire (SRIF) neuron, which employs negative spikes to reduce asynchronism error and rectification spikes to diminish clipping error. Concomitantly, we propose a collaborative trim (CT) training framework that introduces a quantized network to perceive the weights and results of SNNs, which can further improve performance. Result: The proposed training methodology enables SNNs to achieve performance metrics comparable to those of ANNs in EEG-based motor imagery (MI) classification. Conclusions: Experimental results demonstrate that our method not only preserves the superior classification performance of ANNs but also leverages the superior energy efficiency and lower computational complexity of SNNs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Computational Neuroscience, Neuroinformatics, and Neurocomputing)

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19 pages, 2233 KB

Open AccessReview

Non-Destructive Testing as a Sustainability Assessment Tool for Detecting Chloride and Sulfate Ion Deterioration in Reinforced Concrete

by Saman Hedjazi

Sustainability 2026, 18(11), 5484; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18115484 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

Chloride and sulfate ion attacks are among the leading causes of deterioration in reinforced concrete structures, leading to the corrosion of steel reinforcement, expansion, cracking, and premature structural failure. Early detection of these ion-induced deteriorations is essential not only for maintaining safety but [...] Read more.

Chloride and sulfate ion attacks are among the leading causes of deterioration in reinforced concrete structures, leading to the corrosion of steel reinforcement, expansion, cracking, and premature structural failure. Early detection of these ion-induced deteriorations is essential not only for maintaining safety but also for supporting sustainability objectives by extending service life, reducing material consumption, and minimizing carbon-intensive repairs. This review synthesizes current advances in non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques used to identify and quantify the impacts of chloride and sulfate ions in reinforced concrete. The mechanisms of ion ingress and their associated degradation processes are examined together with the operating principles, strengths, and limitations of key NDT methods, including electrical resistivity, acoustic emission, infrared thermography, ground penetrating radar, and ultrasonic pulse velocity. By enabling timely maintenance decisions and reducing unnecessary demolition or intrusive testing, these NDT methods contribute directly to sustainable infrastructure management. Through comparative analysis and real-world case studies, the paper highlights the most effective NDT applications for deterioration scenarios and outlines emerging innovations that enhance accuracy, data interpretation, and long-term monitoring capabilities. The findings demonstrate how advancements in NDT support the development and preservation of durable and sustainable concrete structures. Full article

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13 pages, 2422 KB

Open AccessCommunication

Vapor-Phase Infiltration of Al-Doped Zinc Oxide into Poly(Methyl Methacrylate) for Enhanced Low-Temperature Thermoelectric Performance

by Dai Cuong Tran, Indirajith Palani, Heeseo Kim, Sangmin Lee, Sangho Cho and Myung Mo Sung

Inorganics 2026, 14(6), 149; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14060149 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

Semiconducting metal oxides are gaining attention in thermoelectric applications, where performance is evaluated by the figure of merit (ZT), which depends on the power factor (S²σ) and thermal conductivity (κ). However, achieving high ZT values [...] Read more.

Semiconducting metal oxides are gaining attention in thermoelectric applications, where performance is evaluated by the figure of merit (ZT), which depends on the power factor (S²σ) and thermal conductivity (κ). However, achieving high ZT values in these materials remains challenging. This study introduces a distinct strategy to enhance thermoelectric performance by infiltrating aluminum-doped zinc oxide (AZO) into poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) films using the vapor-phase infiltration (VPI) technique. The resulting AZO/PMMA hybrid films exhibit a unique composite structure with AZO nanocrystals embedded within an amorphous PMMA matrix. This structure facilitates energy-dependent carrier scattering (the energy filtering effect) at the AZO/PMMA interfaces, thereby enhancing the Seebeck coefficient, while phonon scattering at the interfaces reduces thermal conductivity. By precisely controlling VPI parameters, we achieved a uniform dispersion of AZO nanocrystals within the PMMA matrix. The optimized AZO/PMMA hybrid film demonstrated a power factor of 1306 μW m⁻¹ K⁻² and a thermal conductivity of 1.02 W m⁻¹ K⁻¹, resulting in a ZT value of approximately 0.384 at 300 K, which is one of the highest reported for metal oxide thermoelectric materials near room temperature. The successful integration of AZO into the PMMA matrix via VPI opens new pathways for developing high-performance, flexible thermoelectric materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inorganic Thermoelectric Materials: Advances and Applications)

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20 pages, 5438 KB

Open AccessArticle

Heatwave Conditions and Long-Term Variability of Air Pollutants in a Spanish Urban Environment

by Jude Maduabuchi Anyanwu, María Ángeles García and Isidro A. Pérez

Atmosphere 2026, 17(6), 566; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos17060566 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

Heatwave conditions are increasingly being recognized as important drivers of urban air-quality variability in southern European cities, particularly in inland urban environments exposed to persistent summer warming and atmospheric stagnation. This study examines the long-term variability of O₃, NO₂, [...] Read more.

Heatwave conditions are increasingly being recognized as important drivers of urban air-quality variability in southern European cities, particularly in inland urban environments exposed to persistent summer warming and atmospheric stagnation. This study examines the long-term variability of O₃, NO₂, and PM_2.5 concentrations in Valladolid, Spain, between 2006 and 2024, focusing particular attention on the occurrence and persistence of heatwave conditions. Ground-level ozone (O₃), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) were analyzed to assess temporal variability, seasonal behavior, long-term trends, and exceedance characteristics. Results indicate an increasing persistence of heatwave episodes during the study period, particularly after 2015, with recent events exhibiting longer duration and broader regional extent. O₃ concentrations showed stronger accumulation during warm-season conditions, which is consistent with enhanced photochemical activity under elevated temperatures, while NO₂ concentrations generally declined over time. PM_2.5 variability reflected both local emissions and episodic regional influences, including Saharan dust intrusions. These findings highlight the growing relevance of heatwave conditions in shaping urban air-quality variability in medium-sized inland cities of the Iberian Peninsula. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Air Quality and Health)

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17 pages, 633 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Nigella sativa Supplementation with Combined Exercise on Musculoskeletal Performance and Blood Fructosamine Levels in Male Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Randomized Controlled Trial

by Hiedar Alyami and Mohammed Al-Hariri

Sci 2026, 8(6), 127; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci8060127 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

Background: This study evaluated the effects of combined exercise (CE) alone and CE combined with Nigella sativa (NS) supplementation on musculoskeletal performance and blood fructosamine levels in male patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods: Ninety male patients were randomly allocated to [...] Read more.

Background: This study evaluated the effects of combined exercise (CE) alone and CE combined with Nigella sativa (NS) supplementation on musculoskeletal performance and blood fructosamine levels in male patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods: Ninety male patients were randomly allocated to one of three groups in a 1:1:1 ratio: a non-exercise comparator (Diabetes), a Diabetes + CE group, or a Diabetes + CE + NS group (n = 30 per group). NS was administered orally (2 g/day) for four weeks. Functional performance outcomes included the six-minute walk test, timed up-and-go test, handgrip strength, and sit-to-stand repetitions. Glycemic control was assessed using blood fructosamine at baseline and after four weeks. Results: Both intervention groups showed significant improvements in all functional outcomes and significant reductions in BMI and fructosamine compared with the non-exercise comparator group (p < 0.05). Post-intervention blood fructosamine was significantly lower in the CE + NS group than in the CE group (p = 0.002). Conclusions: CE significantly improved musculoskeletal performance and short-term glycemic control. The addition of NS appeared to confer additional benefits, particularly on glycemic control and upper- and lower-limb strength, although results should be interpreted with consideration of the short intervention duration, the male-only sample, and reliance on BMI as the body composition measure. Full article

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23 pages, 892 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Information Competence and Information Literacy in Teachers: A Sociodemographic Study Based on the DigComp Framework

by Fiorela Fernández-Otoya, Jessie Bravo-Jaico, Manuel Alfredo Alcázar-Holguin, Ignacio Aguaded and Angel Hernando Gomez

Educ. Sci. 2026, 16(6), 862; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci16060862 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

In the context of digital transformation, teachers’ information literacy has become a key factor for critical and effective teaching. This study seeks to determine its assessment and strengthening through a training intervention based on the Flipped Classroom model with a Massive Open Online [...] Read more.

In the context of digital transformation, teachers’ information literacy has become a key factor for critical and effective teaching. This study seeks to determine its assessment and strengthening through a training intervention based on the Flipped Classroom model with a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC), supported by the DigComp Framework. To this end, a quasi-experimental pre-test–post-test design with a single group was used, complemented by comparative and correlational analyses according to sociodemographic variables. The study involved 810 primary school teachers from the Lambayeque region of Peru, considering sociodemographic variables such as age, gender, educational level, teaching experience, UGEL, and geographic area. It was found that teacher training based on the Flipped Classroom model with MOOC produced a statistically significant improvement in teachers’ information and digital literacy skills, evidenced by the increase in the post-test compared to the pre-test and confirmed by the Wilcoxon test (p < 0.05). It is concluded that training through Flipped Classroom with MOOC significantly strengthened teachers’ information skills; however, sociodemographic variables influence the levels and improvement achieved, which requires differentiated training strategies. Full article

13 pages, 3695 KB

Open AccessArticle

Study and Optimization of a High-Performance SPR-PCF Temperature Sensor for Low-Temperature Monitoring Applications

by Xinyuan Wang, Ke Jia, Zixi Fu, Yifan Feng, Jingheng Xiao, Yulin Wang and Wenjiang Ye

Micromachines 2026, 17(6), 679; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi17060679 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

To meet the demand for highly sensitive temperature sensing in low-temperature environments, a surface plasmon resonance photonic crystal fiber (SPR-PCF) sensor with a central air hole and a dual-layer air-hole arrangement is designed and optimized. In this work, these air-hole features are used [...] Read more.

To meet the demand for highly sensitive temperature sensing in low-temperature environments, a surface plasmon resonance photonic crystal fiber (SPR-PCF) sensor with a central air hole and a dual-layer air-hole arrangement is designed and optimized. In this work, these air-hole features are used for mode-field regulation in a low-temperature sensing structure based on surface plasmon resonance (SPR), together with a polished gold film and an ethanol/chloroform (1:1) temperature-sensitive medium. The finite element method (FEM) was employed to analyze the resonance behavior and thermal response, and key structural parameters, including gold-film thickness, air-hole sizes, and radial positions, were optimized through cumulative parametric scanning. The optimized sensor shows good temperature response from −25 °C to 40 °C, with a maximum sensitivity of 36 nm/°C, a full width at half-maximum (FWHM) of 18.57 nm, and a figure of merit (FOM) of 1.2923. It is promising for cold-chain monitoring, low-temperature storage and transportation, and low-temperature sensing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section A：Physics)

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12 pages, 1254 KB

Open AccessArticle

Body Composition and Obesity in Nephrology Patients: Intersecting Effects of Sex, Age, and COVID-19

by Josipa Radić, Hana Đogaš, Marijan Nikolić, Ema Boras, Marina Grubić, Marijana Vučković, Andrea Gelemanović and Mislav Radić

Obesities 2026, 6(3), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities6030034 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

Background: Excess body weight is a major global health problem and an established independent risk factor for chronic kidney disease (CKD). This study aimed to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity and to evaluate sex-, age-, and time-related trends—including the COVID-19 period—among [...] Read more.

Background: Excess body weight is a major global health problem and an established independent risk factor for chronic kidney disease (CKD). This study aimed to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity and to evaluate sex-, age-, and time-related trends—including the COVID-19 period—among patients treated at the Outpatient Clinic of the Division of Nephrology, Dialysis and Arterial Hypertension, University Hospital of Split, from 2016 to 2024. Methods: This study included 3033 subjects over 18 years of age, 44.8% men and 55.2% women with a mean age of 60 years. Body composition was assessed using the Tanita MC-780 bioelectrical impedance analyzer and body mass index (BMI, kg/m²) was measured. Results: The study population had median BMI of 28.0 kg/m², with 33.1% overweight and 37% obese participants, including 6.6% with class III obesity. Men showed greater muscle and bone mass (p < 0.001), whereas women had higher fat mass and obesity prevalence (38.2% vs. 35.6%, p < 0.001). Participants under 65 years had higher absolute fat and muscle mass but similar fat percentage compared to older adults. Overweight and obesity prevalence increased with age, peaking at 75–78% in the 55–74-year group. BMI and fat mass rise significantly during and after the COVID-19 period, while phase angle values declined. Conclusions: Excess body weight is highly prevalent in nephrology patients, particularly in middle-aged adults. The COVID-19 pandemic further worsened body composition indicators, reinforcing the need for preventive strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Obesity in the 21st Century: Public Health Perspectives and Population Solutions)

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19 pages, 5066 KB

Open AccessArticle

Adversarial Noise Isolation in Multimodal Perception: A Computational Framework Inspired by Inhibitory Control

by Weichen Dai, Xingyu Li, Zeyu Wang, Pengbo Hu, Ningping Li, Ruibao Zhang and Yi Zhou

Brain Sci. 2026, 16(6), 591; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci16060591 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

Background: Robust perception involves processing heterogeneous sensory signals, such as facial expressions, vocal prosody, and language, particularly in noisy environments. In computational modeling, a key challenge is integrating these diverse inputs while actively filtering uninformative variations. While recent deep learning models address this [...] Read more.

Background: Robust perception involves processing heterogeneous sensory signals, such as facial expressions, vocal prosody, and language, particularly in noisy environments. In computational modeling, a key challenge is integrating these diverse inputs while actively filtering uninformative variations. While recent deep learning models address this integration through complex fusion architectures, they typically aggregate features without explicit filtering modules analogous to inhibitory control. In this study, we propose Multi-modal Information Disentanglement (MInD), a computational framework designed to test the hypothesis that algorithmic noise isolation facilitates robust multisensory integration. Methods: Drawing conceptual inspiration from cognitive theories of modularity, our model decomposes sensory inputs into amodal (modality-invariant) and modal-specific pathways. Furthermore, we introduce an adversarial noise isolation mechanism to serve as an algorithmic analog to cognitive inhibition. Given that our model operates on pre-extracted high-level features, this mechanism functions to isolate latent distributional variance—uninformative fluctuations that persist after initial feature extraction—guiding the network to separate task-relevant affective cues from irrelevant feature variance. Results: Empirical evaluations on standard emotion recognition benchmarks indicate that this purification-before-fusion strategy is associated with competitive performance and stability across multiple metrics. Notably, the framework attains these results using simple linear integration layers, suggesting that separating representations prior to fusion may reduce the computational complexity required for subsequent integration. Conclusions: These observations highlight the computational utility of algorithmic noise suppression, illustrating how cognitive inspiration can inform efficient machine learning architectures without claiming direct neurobiological validation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Computational Neuroscience, Neuroinformatics, and Neurocomputing)

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21 pages, 3612 KB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Fire Severity and Vegetation Cover on Soil Biogeochemistry in Mediterranean Holm Oak Forests

by María Belén Hinojosa and Antonio Parra

Forests 2026, 17(6), 664; https://doi.org/10.3390/f17060664 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

Wildfires are increasing in frequency and severity across Mediterranean ecosystems. However, the immediate soil biogeochemical responses that determine shortly post-fire resilience remain poorly understood. This study assessed how contrasting fire severity levels influence soil physicochemical, nutrient, and biochemical properties in ecologically relevant vegetation [...] Read more.

Wildfires are increasing in frequency and severity across Mediterranean ecosystems. However, the immediate soil biogeochemical responses that determine shortly post-fire resilience remain poorly understood. This study assessed how contrasting fire severity levels influence soil physicochemical, nutrient, and biochemical properties in ecologically relevant vegetation microsites—beneath Quercus ilex L. canopy, Stipa tenacissima L. tussock, and open interspaces—in a Mediterranean holm oak woodland in central Spain. Soils were sampled early after a wildfire and analyzed for organic matter, nutrient pools, water repellency, microbial respiration, nitrogen mineralization, and enzyme activities. Fire severity was the dominant driver of immediate post-fire soil responses. High-severity fire reduced soil organic matter, cation exchange capacity, total C and N, nitrate, microbial respiration, and all measured enzyme activities, with the most pronounced losses occurring beneath Q. ilex canopy. In contrast, ammonium, labile phosphorus, pH and soil water repellency increased under high severity, mainly in this microsite. Low-severity fire generally preserved biological functioning, with values comparable to unburned soils. Microsite identity modulated the magnitude of fire effects, with soils beneath Q. ilex cover microsite showing the greatest sensitivity, and open interspaces the least. The microsite × severity interaction detected for key nutrients and biochemical variables suggests that high-severity fire might destroy the microsite-specific fertility islands that constitute the functional core of Mediterranean woodland soils. These findings should be considered in management strategies prioritizing their monitoring and protection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Forest Responses to Fires)

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14 pages, 1974 KB

Open AccessArticle

Macromycetes Under Pressure: Diversity and Species Composition Across an Urbanization Gradient in the Puebla-Tlaxcala Valley of Mexico

by Marko Gómez-Hernández, Etelvina Gándara, Eder Dorantes-Marín and María Toledo-Garibaldi

J. Fungi 2026, 12(6), 397; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof12060397 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

Macromycetes are of great relevance to the functioning of terrestrial ecosystems, but habitat transformation can significantly alter the structure of macrofungal communities. Urbanization is regarded as a major threat to biological diversity; however, knowledge of its impact on macromycetes remains scarce. The present [...] Read more.

Macromycetes are of great relevance to the functioning of terrestrial ecosystems, but habitat transformation can significantly alter the structure of macrofungal communities. Urbanization is regarded as a major threat to biological diversity; however, knowledge of its impact on macromycetes remains scarce. The present study aimed to assess diversity and distribution patterns of macrofungal species across an urbanization gradient in the Puebla–Tlaxcala Valley of Mexico and determine the effect of urbanization on macromycete communities. From May to October 2024, macromycetes were collected in four oak forests. Fungal specimens were classified based on their macromorphological and micromorphological characteristics. Topographic (1), microclimatic (4), vegetation structure (5), environmental (2), and urbanization (4) variables were included in the analyses. A total of 296 macrofungal species were recorded. Diversity has been shown to decline with increasing urbanization. Species composition shifted across the gradient, with the most urbanized sites showing higher turnover. The interplay of microclimate, vegetation structure, and urbanization was a key driver of the observed patterns, underscoring the sensitivity of macromycetes to urban environmental change. The findings highlight the importance of microclimatic buffering and habitat continuity for sustaining macrofungal communities within urban areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental and Ecological Interactions of Fungi)

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15 pages, 9796 KB

Open AccessArticle

Magnetic Field Induced Spin State Optimization in Fe-Co Dual-Active Centers for Superior Trifunctional Water Splitting

by Yi Zheng, Xin Luo, Sizhe Li, Zhengxian Shen and Hui Su

Coatings 2026, 16(6), 659; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings16060659 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

Faced with a global energy crisis and ecological degradation, overall water splitting (OWS) is a pivotal approach for renewable energy conversion and storage. However, its industrial application is hindered by the high energy barriers/sluggish kinetics of the anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER), as [...] Read more.

Faced with a global energy crisis and ecological degradation, overall water splitting (OWS) is a pivotal approach for renewable energy conversion and storage. However, its industrial application is hindered by the high energy barriers/sluggish kinetics of the anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER), as well as the scarcity of precious metal catalysts limiting large-scale deployment. Herein, a cobalt-based layered double hydroxide (Co-LDH) was used as the precursor, and a multi-strategy synergistic modification (hydrothermal synthesis, Fe doping, sulfurization, and external magnetic field magnetization) was applied to fabricate the Fe-Co₃S₄-MS-20 min electrocatalyst. This strategy establishes Fe-Co bimetallic synergistic active centers, and magnetic treatment modulates the electron configuration of Fe 3d orbitals without changing the material’s lattice spacing or morphology. Structural characterizations and electrochemical measurements were used to investigate the effects of combined modifications on the catalyst’s phase structure, morphology, electronic structure, and trifunctional catalytic performance toward the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), OER, and urea oxidation reaction (UOR). The Fe-Co₃S₄-MS-20 min catalyst exhibits a larger electrochemical active surface area, lower charge transfer resistance, and smaller Tafel slope in 1 M KOH, it achieves overpotentials of 165 mV for HER (10 mA·cm⁻²) and 310 mV for OER (100 mA·cm⁻²), along with superior UOR performance and long-term stability. In situ impedance and Raman spectroscopy confirm that magnetization accelerates charge transfer and promotes in situ reconstruction. Synergistic multi-strategy regulation optimizes the electronic structure of active centers, reducing electrocatalytic energy barriers. This work provides new insights into designing high-performance non-precious metal electrocatalysts and offers experimental support for external magnetic field regulation in electrocatalyst modification. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Materials, Thin Films and Coatings for Advanced Energy and Hydrogen Applications)

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34 pages, 1577 KB

Open AccessReview

The “Survivor Peptide” Hypothesis: Structural Resilience and Immunological Persistence of Food Allergens in the Gut–Mammary Axis

by Madalina Coman-Stanemir, Mariana Catalina Ciornei, Cristina Burtescu and Ioana Raluca Papacocea

Nutrients 2026, 18(11), 1757; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18111757 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

Background: The translocation of diet-derived antigens from the maternal intestine to breast milk represents a primary gateway for neonatal immune priming, yet the structural basis for why certain proteins survive this transit while others do not remains poorly understood. This review introduces the [...] Read more.

Background: The translocation of diet-derived antigens from the maternal intestine to breast milk represents a primary gateway for neonatal immune priming, yet the structural basis for why certain proteins survive this transit while others do not remains poorly understood. This review introduces the “Survivor Peptide” hypothesis, proposing that specific food allergens possess intrinsic “stability architectures” that enable them to resist maternal digestion and navigate the gut–mammary axis to reach the infant in an immunologically active form. Methods: We analyzed the current literature regarding the detection and structural characteristics of food allergens in human milk. Integrating evidence from 26 major sources, we performed an in silico structural analysis of five representative “survivor” proteins: Gal d 1 (egg white), Bos d 5 (cow’s milk), Gal d 6 (egg yolk), Tri a 19 (wheat), and tropomyosin (Der p 10-mite/shellfish). High-resolution 3D models were retrieved from the Protein Data Bank and AlphaFold2, and then visualized in UCSF ChimeraX to map stability anchors, including disulfide bonds and hydrophobic clusters, against solvent-accessible IgE-binding epitopes. Results: We identified and categorized allergens into distinct Molecular Resilience Architectures: the “Covalent Cage” (Gal d 1), defined by dense disulfide stapling, the “Glycoprotein Shield” (Gal d 6), utilizing yolk-matrix structural anchors, the “Topological Shield” (Bos d 5), characterized by a stable β-barrel, and “Coiled-Coil Rigidity” (Der p 10). These frameworks protect large, immunogenic fragments that maintain the spatial arrangement required for IgE cross-linking. Conclusions: Allergen persistence in the gut–mammary axis is dictated by a protein’s intrinsic structural architecture. Identifying these stability fingerprints provides a unified theory for allergen persistence and offers a path for refining component-resolved diagnostics and neonatal oral tolerance strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional Intervention, Prevention, Diagnosis and New Treatments for Food Allergies)

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15 pages, 261 KB

Open AccessArticle

Associations Among Anxiety, Sleep Quality, and Binge Eating in Hispanic and African American/Black Early Adolescents

by Norma Olvera, Molly R. Matthews-Ewald, Tamal J. Roy, Rhonda Scherer, Luz M. Garcini and Consuelo Arbona

Children 2026, 13(6), 761; https://doi.org/10.3390/children13060761 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Binge eating behavior has been deemed a significant factor associated with adolescent obesity. Understanding the underlying factors contributing to binge eating is critical, particularly among youth at risk of obesity. Hispanic and African American/Black children and adolescents experience disproportionately higher rates [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Binge eating behavior has been deemed a significant factor associated with adolescent obesity. Understanding the underlying factors contributing to binge eating is critical, particularly among youth at risk of obesity. Hispanic and African American/Black children and adolescents experience disproportionately higher rates of obesity compared to their White peers. This study investigated the associations among anxiety, sleep quality, and binge eating among 315 Hispanic and African American/Black boys and girls, while controlling for demographic and adiposity covariates. Methods: Participants completed self-report surveys and underwent objective assessments of height, weight, and body fat percentage. Results: Descriptive analyses indicated a mean age of 10.71 years for boys and 10.92 years for girls. Most participants (71.9%) were classified as overweight or obese, and 94.1% were U.S.-born. Hierarchical regression analyses showed that both anxiety (β = 0.24, p < 0.001) and sleep quality (β = 0.23, p < 0.001) were significantly linked with higher levels of reported binge eating, after controlling for age, ethnicity, gender, and body fat percentage. The full model accounted for 15.4% of the variance in binge eating. Conclusions: These findings highlight the importance of targeting anxiety and sleep quality in interventions aimed at reducing binge eating among Hispanic and African American/Black early adolescents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Endocrinology & Diabetes)

22 pages, 2616 KB

Open AccessArticle

Subepithelial Connective Tissue Graft Versus De-Epithelialized Free Gingival Graft with the Modified Coronally Advanced Tunnel Technique: A Split-Mouth Pilot Randomized Trial

by Simran Jaisinghani, Nihal Devkar, Paolo Carosi, Rucha Jadhav, Bhagyashree Jabade, Ankita Dhamapurkar, Prerna Ladda, Alessandro Pinto and Claudia Lorenzi

Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(11), 5445; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16115445 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

This single-center, split-mouth, single-blind pilot randomized trial compared patient morbidity, healing and root coverage between the subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG) and the de-epithelialized free gingival graft (D-FGG) when combined with the modified coronally advanced tunnel (MCAT) technique in multiple adjacent gingival recessions. [...] Read more.

This single-center, split-mouth, single-blind pilot randomized trial compared patient morbidity, healing and root coverage between the subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG) and the de-epithelialized free gingival graft (D-FGG) when combined with the modified coronally advanced tunnel (MCAT) technique in multiple adjacent gingival recessions. Sixteen systemically healthy patients with bilateral Miller Class I/II (Cairo RT1) recessions were enrolled, and contralateral sides were randomly allocated to MCAT + SCTG (control) or MCAT + D-FGG (test) by means of sequentially numbered, opaque, sealed envelopes (SNOSE). Patient-reported outcomes (pain, chewing discomfort, bleeding) and the Landry Healing Index were assessed at 1 and 2 weeks; recession depth, mean root coverage (mRC) and Root Coverage Esthetic Score (RES) were evaluated at 6 months. Both techniques achieved high mRC (test: 94.22% ± 10.28%; control: 94.60% ± 9.99%) and RES (test: 8.02 ± 0.63; control: 8.14 ± 0.77), with no statistically significant intergroup differences. Donor-site pain was significantly lower in the D-FGG group, whereas early chewing discomfort and bleeding were higher. Because the trial was not powered for equivalence or non-inferiority, these preliminary findings are hypothesis-generating and require confirmation in adequately powered trials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Biomaterials for Dental Implantology: Research and Applications—2nd Edition)

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25 pages, 2523 KB

Open AccessReview

Nitric Oxide and Hydrogen Sulfide Crosstalk in Plants: Redox Regulation, Stress Adaptation, and Emerging Applications

by Roberta A. dos Reis, Amedea B. Seabra, Cecília Brilhante Aragão, Morgana Halfeld, Renan S. Nunes, Rodrigo Rodriguez, Adalberto Benavides-Mendoza, Olga Rubilar and Gonzalo R. Tortella

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(11), 4962; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27114962 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

Nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) are key gasotransmitters that regulate multiple aspects of plant growth, development, and stress adaptation. Although their individual signaling pathways have been extensively investigated, the integrated mechanisms underlying NO–H₂S crosstalk and its potential [...] Read more.

Nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) are key gasotransmitters that regulate multiple aspects of plant growth, development, and stress adaptation. Although their individual signaling pathways have been extensively investigated, the integrated mechanisms underlying NO–H₂S crosstalk and its potential agronomic applications remain unclear. This review summarizes current advances in understanding the biochemical interplay between NO and H₂S in plants, emphasizing their synergistic roles in redox regulation, antioxidant activation, ion homeostasis, and photosynthetic protection under abiotic and biotic stresses. Special attention has been given to recent progress in nanotechnology-based delivery systems that enable the controlled, localized, and sustained release of gasotransmitters, thereby improving bioavailability and minimizing environmental losses. Studies on foliar, seed, and nutrient-solution applications have demonstrated that combined NO/H₂S treatments increase stress tolerance by activating the ascorbate–glutathione (AsA–GSH) cycle, reducing the expression of oxidative markers such as hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and malondialdehyde (MDA), and improving both short-term (Fv/Fm, antioxidant enzyme activity) and long-term (biomass, SPAD index, yield) physiological outcomes. By integrating molecular insights with applied strategies, this review outlines the emerging potential of NO–H₂S signaling as a sustainable tool for crop management in the context of climate change and food security. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Signals and Metabolic Mechanisms of Plant-Environment Interactions)

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17 pages, 468 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Compliance with National and International Guidelines in the Empirical Management of Community-Acquired Pneumonia (CAP) in Lebanese Hospitals: A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study

by Ramona Nasr, Elias A. Rahal, Chadia Haddad, Pascale Salameh and Abir Abdel Rahman

Antibiotics 2026, 15(6), 551; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics15060551 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

Background: Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality globally, with serious implications in Lebanon. Both international and local guidelines advocate for empirical antibiotic treatments by illness severity, yet the extent to which these are followed in Lebanese hospitals is [...] Read more.

Background: Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality globally, with serious implications in Lebanon. Both international and local guidelines advocate for empirical antibiotic treatments by illness severity, yet the extent to which these are followed in Lebanese hospitals is unclear. This research examined the adherence to CAP treatment guidelines and its association with clinical outcomes. Methods: We retrospectively studied adults admitted to two Lebanese referral hospitals (Mount Lebanon University Medical Center and Ain Wazein Medical Village) from April 2011 to March 2025 with CAP. Adherence to empirical antibiotic regimens was determined based on the guidelines from the Lebanese Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, American Thoracic Society/Infectious Diseases Society of America, and British Thoracic Society/National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. The outcomes assessed were in-hospital mortality, Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission, and length of hospital stay (LOS). We used logistic and linear regression analyses, adjusting for demographic and clinical variables. Results: A total of 337 patients were included with an average age of 61 years; 53.7% were male, 51.6% were admitted to the ICU, and the in-hospital mortality rate was 27%. In general, 65.6% of the treatment regimens adhered to at least one guideline. The combination of β-lactam and macrolide was the most common, used in 87.8% of cases, while monotherapy was administered in 31.8% of cases and included β-lactam, macrolide, fluoroquinolone, and other antibiotics; most monotherapies were non-adherent to guidelines, except for selected fluoroquinolone monotherapy cases that may be considered guideline-concordant under ATS/IDSA recommendations depending on clinical context. Adherence to guidelines did not significantly affect mortality rates (25.8% vs. 29.3%), ICU admissions (52.5% vs. 50.0%), or length of stay (11.4 vs. 9.3 days). Multivariate analysis revealed that older age (OR 1.025, 95% CI 1.008–1.042) and ICU admission (OR 1.024, 95% CI 1.012–1.039) were independent predictors of adverse outcomes, whereas guideline adherence, comorbidities, and inflammatory markers were not independently linked. Surprisingly, mortality was higher among younger patients (average age 58 vs. 67 years, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Although guideline-concordant empirical therapy was prevalent in this two-center Lebanese retrospective population, it did not independently correlate with length of stay following adjustment, ICU admission, or in-hospital mortality. Patient-related and clinical factors, such as the severity of the illness, may have an impact on observed differences in outcomes, which should be taken as relationships. Full article

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15 pages, 6026 KB

Open AccessArticle

Clinical and Radiological Characteristics of Symptomatic Emphysema Patients with PRISm and Pre-COPD Phenotypes: Possible Effects of Smoking Status

by Maşide Ari, Emrah Ari, Eray Çinar, Hakan Ertürk, Deniz Çelik, Murat Yildiz, Tarkan Özdemir, Mehmet Kayadelen, Derya Tüten Özdemir, Tunahan Dolmuş, Hasan İbiş, Esma Dolmuş and Ömer Faruk Tüten

Biomedicines 2026, 14(6), 1245; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14061245 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

Background: Pre-Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (pre-COPD) and Preserved Ratio Impaired Spirometry (PRISm) phenotypes represent important components of the early obstructive lung disease spectrum, characterized by respiratory symptoms and structural lung abnormalities prior to the development of overt airflow limitation. Emphysema is considered one [...] Read more.

Background: Pre-Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (pre-COPD) and Preserved Ratio Impaired Spirometry (PRISm) phenotypes represent important components of the early obstructive lung disease spectrum, characterized by respiratory symptoms and structural lung abnormalities prior to the development of overt airflow limitation. Emphysema is considered one of the major structural phenotypes underlying airway disease and the COPD spectrum. Although cigarette smoking is the best recognized risk factor for these conditions, non-tobacco exposures may also contribute to early structural lung changes. In this study, we evaluated the radiological features, pulmonary function parameters, and dyspnea severity of CT-detected emphysema in symptomatic patients classified as having pre-COPD or PRISm, with particular attention paid to the potential influence of smoking status on disease characteristics. Methods: In this retrospective, single-center study, symptomatic patients aged 20–50 years classified as having pre-COPD or PRISm and in whom emphysema was detected on high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) were evaluated. Only symptomatic patients who underwent HRCT for clinical indications and in whom emphysema was identified were included. Demographic characteristics, emphysema type and quantitative emphysema severity, pulmonary function parameters, and Modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) dyspnea scores were analyzed. The PRISm and pre-COPD groups were compared in terms of clinical and symptomatic characteristics. In addition, smoking-related clinical and radiological characteristics were also evaluated. Results: A total of 232 patients were included in the study. The median age was 43 years (38–48), and 84.1% of the participants were male. Among the study population, 68.5% were classified in the pre-COPD group and 31.5% in the PRISm group. The most frequently identified emphysema patterns were paraseptal (44.4%) and centrilobular (40.5%). The median total lung emphysema area was 18% (13–22). A weak negative correlation was observed between the degree of emphysema and FEV₁ (r = −0.185; p = 0.005), whereas a weak positive correlation was found between emphysema extent and the mMRC dyspnea score (r = 0.214; p = 0.001). Dyspnea severity was significantly higher in the PRISm group compared with the pre-COPD group (p < 0.001). In the smoking-status subgroup analysis, ever-smokers demonstrated significantly greater dyspnea severity and lower FEV₁ values, whereas never-smokers had a significantly higher proportion of emphysema extent > 18% (all p < 0.05). Conclusions: Radiologically detected emphysema in symptomatic patients without airflow limitation was associated with statistically significant but weak alterations in pulmonary function and dyspnea burden. Dyspnea severity was significantly higher in the PRISm phenotype. In a smoking-status subgroup analysis, ever-smokers had significantly greater dyspnea severity, whereas never-smokers showed a significantly higher proportion of extensive emphysema (>18%), despite similar functional impairment across groups. These findings underscore the importance of non-tobacco exposures in the development of emphysema within pre-obstructive spirometric phenotypes. Multicenter prospective studies incorporating healthy controls and systematic exposure documentation are needed to confirm these observations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD))

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14 pages, 3514 KB

Open AccessArticle

Microclimate Impacts of Urban Green Redevelopment: A Thermal Comfort Simulation in Imola, Italy

by Zhengyang Xu, Teodoro Georgiadis, Letizia Cremonini, Sofia Marini, Fausto Ravaldi and Stefania Toselli

Land 2026, 15(6), 942; https://doi.org/10.3390/land15060942 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

Urban green spaces (UGSs) are increasingly recognised as critical infrastructure for mitigating climate extremes and promoting public health; indeed, the microclimatic mechanisms through which vegetation structure translates into measurable improvements in human comfort at the neighbourhood scale are of significant interest, particularly in [...] Read more.

Urban green spaces (UGSs) are increasingly recognised as critical infrastructure for mitigating climate extremes and promoting public health; indeed, the microclimatic mechanisms through which vegetation structure translates into measurable improvements in human comfort at the neighbourhood scale are of significant interest, particularly in the context of new urban developments. This study examines the cooling effects of an urban redevelopment project in the Marconi district of Imola, Italy, using ENVI-met (Version 6.0.0, ENVI-met GmbH, Essen, Germany) simulations to compare ex ante (current) and ex post (planned) scenarios under extreme heat conditions. Physiological Equivalent Temperature (PET) was computed at the pedestrian level for both standard adult and elderly models to assess spatial patterns of thermal comfort. The results demonstrate that tree canopies are the primary determinant of local cooling, with newly planted trees reducing PET by up to 3.5 °C at the core of the regenerated block and by 1–2 °C along adjacent pavements, while grass and low vegetation provided negligible mitigation. However, new buildings generated localised warming bands of 0.5–2 °C along façades, revealing a trade-off between densification and outdoor liveability. Elderly populations experienced slightly stronger thermal stress near buildings, highlighting spatial concentrations of vulnerability. These findings reinforce the need to prioritise tree planting and canopy management as core climate adaptation strategies, while simultaneously addressing near-building heat accumulation through integrated design approaches such as façade greening and ventilation preservation. The study demonstrates the value of spatially explicit microclimate simulation for evidence-based urban planning, contributing to the development of sustainable and liveable urban environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Ecological Indicators: Land Use and Coverage)

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15 pages, 3315 KB

Open AccessArticle

Oxidative Stress-Related DNA Damage in Patients with Idiopathic Granulomatous Mastitis: A Prospective Case–Control Study

by Ceren Gonultas, Adem Akcakaya, Abdurrahim Kocyigit, Gulnihal Sisman, Berrin Papila, Mehmet Velidedeoglu and Hasan Dagmura

J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(11), 4228; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15114228 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis (IGM) is a rare, benign, chronic inflammatory disease of the breast that may present with recurrent and treatment-resistant courses and can clinically and radiologically mimic breast cancer. Despite its benign nature, IGM may significantly impair quality of life, [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis (IGM) is a rare, benign, chronic inflammatory disease of the breast that may present with recurrent and treatment-resistant courses and can clinically and radiologically mimic breast cancer. Despite its benign nature, IGM may significantly impair quality of life, and its underlying pathophysiology remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate oxidative stress and DNA damage in patients with IGM. Methods: In this prospective case–control study, 28 patients with clinically and histopathologically confirmed idiopathic granulomatous mastitis who had not received corticosteroid or immunosuppressive therapy within the previous six months were enrolled. An age-matched control group of 27 healthy women was included. Venous blood and urine samples were collected for the assessment of total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS), and calculation of the oxidative stress index (OSI). Mononuclear leukocyte DNA damage was evaluated using the alkaline Comet assay, and urinary 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) levels were measured by ELISA. Sociodemographic data, laboratory and imaging results of the patients were also evaluated. Results: The mean ages of the patient and control groups were 37.3 ± 5.3 and 35.4 ± 8.6 years, respectively, with no significant difference (p = 0.081). Patients exhibited significantly higher inflammatory markers and oxidative stress parameters, including TOS, OSI, and urinary 8-OHdG (p < 0.05), whereas TAS did not differ between groups (p = 0.534). Comet assay analysis demonstrated significantly increased tail intensity (%) and tail moment in the patient group (p = 0.029 and p = 0.016). Conclusions: IGM is associated with increased oxidative stress and mononuclear leukocyte DNA damage. These findings suggest that oxidative stress-induced DNA damage may play a role in the pathophysiology of IGM and highlight the potential value of antioxidant-based therapeutic strategies as adjunctive treatment options. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section General Surgery)

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16 pages, 4102 KB

Open AccessArticle

Green-Extracted Ficus carica L. Fruit Polysaccharides Promote Longevity in Caenorhabditis elegans via Modulation of SKN-1 and IIS Pathway

by Lianyu Li, Feng Ding, Yong Sheng and Yan Zhao

Antioxidants 2026, 15(6), 691; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15060691 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

In this study, polysaccharides from Ficus carica L. fruits (FCPs) were extracted using a deep eutectic solvent (DES)-based ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) method. The physicochemical properties of the FCPs were then characterized, and the anti-aging effects of FCPs were evaluated in Caenorhabditis elegans ( [...] Read more.

In this study, polysaccharides from Ficus carica L. fruits (FCPs) were extracted using a deep eutectic solvent (DES)-based ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) method. The physicochemical properties of the FCPs were then characterized, and the anti-aging effects of FCPs were evaluated in Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). It was demonstrated that FCPs significantly extended the lifespan of the nematodes, while improving locomotor activity without affecting the body size or reproductive capacity. Meanwhile, FCPs reduced lipofuscin accumulation, decreased intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and increased the survival of C. elegans under oxidative stress. Moreover, FCPs upregulated the expression of antioxidant genes sod-1, sod-3, ctl-2, ctl-3 and gst-4. The expression of skinhead-1 (skn-1), a homologue gene of mammalian nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf) in C. elegans, was also elevated upon FCPs treatment. Knockdown of skn-1 expression by RNA interference abolished the lifespan extension and ROS reduction in FCPs-treated C. elegans, indicating that the SKN-1-mediated signaling was essential for the anti-aging effects of FCPs. Additionally, FCPs caused downregulation of the key components of the insulin/IGF-1 signaling (IIS) pathway, age-1, akt-1, and akt-2. Overall, these results suggested that FCPs promoted longevity in C. elegans via modulation of SKN-1 and IIS pathway. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Extraction Technologies for Bioactive Compounds from Foods and Natural Products: Antioxidant Potential and Health Applications)

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15 pages, 4787 KB

Open AccessArticle

Humic Acid Therapy Mitigates Estrogen Deficiency-Induced Alveolar Bone Loss and Modulates the RANKL/OPG Balance

by Larissa Vieira Toledo, Maíra Gabrielle de Abreu Ribeiro, Thays Cristina dos Santos, Maria Luiza Nonato Salvador, Natália Oliveira Bertolini, Jaqueline do Carmo Lima Carvalho, Débora Ribeiro Orlando, Rafael Neodini Remedio, Alan Rodrigues Teixeira Machado, Leonardo Barros Dobbss, Stela Márcia Pereira Dourado, Luciano José Pereira and Eric Francelino Andrade

Biomedicines 2026, 14(6), 1244; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14061244 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2026

Abstract

Background: Estrogen deficiency negatively affects alveolar bone by disrupting key regulators of bone remodeling. Humic acids (HAs) are natural compounds with recognized antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may attenuate bone resorption. This study investigated the effects of HAs on alveolar bone in an [...] Read more.

Background: Estrogen deficiency negatively affects alveolar bone by disrupting key regulators of bone remodeling. Humic acids (HAs) are natural compounds with recognized antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may attenuate bone resorption. This study investigated the effects of HAs on alveolar bone in an experimental model of estrogen depletion. Methods: Female C57BL/6 mice were randomly assigned to four groups: Sham, Sham + HA, ovariectomized (OVX), and OVX + HA. Estrogen deficiency was induced by bilateral ovariectomy. HAs derived from vermicomposted biomass were administered daily by oral gavage (80 mg/kg) for 28 days. At the end of the experimental period, mandibles were collected for structural, mineral, and histological analyses. Bone elemental composition was assessed using scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/EDS). Alveolar bone loss was evaluated by histomorphometry, while RANKL and osteoprotegerin (OPG) expression were assessed by immunohistochemistry. Osteoclasts were quantified by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA followed by Bonferroni’s post hoc test. Results: Ovariectomy resulted in reduced calcium and phosphorus content, increased alveolar bone loss, elevated RANKL immunolabeling, increased osteoclast numbers, and a higher RANKL/OPG ratio (p < 0.05). HA treatment increased calcium and phosphorus content and attenuated alveolar bone loss in OVX animals (p < 0.05). Additionally, HA treatment partially increased OPG expression and reduced the RANKL/OPG ratio (p < 0.05), without significantly affecting RANKL immunolabeling or osteoclast numbers. Conclusions: HA therapy attenuated alveolar bone resorption in a model of estrogen depletion, possibly associated with modulation of the RANKL/OPG balance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cell Biology and Pathology)

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