Announcements

We cordially invite you to attend the 7th International Electronic Conference on Applied Sciences organized by MDPI Applied Sciences (ISSN 2076-3417, Impact Factor: 2.9). It will take place virtually from 14 to 16 December 2026.

Conference Chairs:

• Prof. Dr. Nunzio Cennamo, Department of Engineering, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy;
• Prof. Dr. Pedro A. S. Jorge, Centre for Applied Photonics, INESC TEC, Portugal.

The topics of interest:

S1. Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering;
S2. Nanosciences, Chemistry and Materials Science;
S3. Computing and Artificial Intelligence;
S4. Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering;
S5. Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering;
S6. Energy, Environmental and Earth Science;
S7. Food Science and Technology;
S8. Applied Physical Science.

Important dates:
Deadline for abstract submission: 18 September 2026;
Notification of acceptance: 16 October 2026;
Deadline for early bird registration: 11 November 2026;
Deadline for covering author registration: 11 November 2026;
Registration end date: 8 December 2026.

Guide for authors:
To submit your abstract, please click on the following link: https://sciforum.net/submissions/ASEC2026/link/1.

To register for the event, please click on the following link: https://sciforum.net/registration/ASEC2026/tickets.

For details regarding Abstract Submission, Poster and Slide Submission, and Publication Opportunities, you may refer to the “Instructions for Authors” section: https://sciforum.net/event/ASEC2026/instructions-for-authors.

For any enquiries regarding the event, please contact asec2026@mdpi.com.

We look forward to seeing you at the 7th International Electronic Conference on Applied Sciences.

Conference: 10th Asia-Pacific Conference on Plasma Physics (AAPPS-DPP2026)
Date: 11–16 October 2026
Location: BPEX, Busan, Republic of Korea

The AAPPS-DPP was established in 2014 as the first division under AAPPS (the Association of Asia Pacific Physical Societies) and has since then held annual in-person conferences. These conferences have made steady progress in terms of scientific excellence and strength of attendance. In previous conferences, researchers in various fields of plasma physics (plasma application, astronomical plasma, laser plasma, magnetic fusion plasma, etc.) actively exchanged information and presented their research.

AAPPS-DPP has steadily evolved into one of the most significant gatherings for the plasma physics community across the Asia-Pacific region. Each year, the conference brings together researchers at every career stage to exchange scientific insights, explore new directions, and strengthen collaborative networks.

MDPI will be attending the 10th Asia-Pacific Conference on Plasma Physics as an exhibitor. This event will be held from 11 to 16 October, and we invite researchers to visit our booth and discuss their latest research with us.

The following MDPI journals will be represented at the conference:

• Plasma;
• Applied Sciences;
• Dynamics;
• Atoms;
• Coatings;
• Fluids;
• Magnetism;
• Particles;
• Physics.

Conference: 23rd European Conference on Eye Movements, ECEM 2026
Date: 30 August–3 September 2026
Location: Ulm, Germany

Over its more than four-decade history, ECEM has grown to become the largest scientific meeting on eye movement research worldwide. The conference brings together a vibrant community of researchers working towards a better understanding of eye movements, while also using them as a tool to study a wide range of topics in neuroscience, cognitive science, and various fields of application. ECEM 2026 shall promote exchange and cooperation between participants from diverse areas such as neurophysiology, psychology, medical sciences, linguistics, computer science, human factors, and many others.

MDPI will be attending the conference as an exhibitor and warmly invites researchers to visit our booth to discuss their latest research and publishing opportunities with us.

The following open access journals will be represented at the conference:

• JEMR;
• JCTO;
• Applied Sciences;
• Behavioral Sciences;
• Virtual Worlds;
• Vision;
• EJIHPE;
• Languages;
• NeuroSci;
• CTN.

We look forward to welcoming participants to our booth and discussing the latest research and publishing opportunities together. For more information about the conference, please visit the official website: 23rd European Conference on Eye Movements, ECEM 2026.

1. What motivated you to pursue a PhD in your field?

I started conducting research during my master’s degree, where I worked on wearable electronics. Through that experience, I realized there was still a great deal to be explored and developed in the field. This inspired me to pursue a PhD focused on soft electronics, wearable devices and biomedical instrumentation.

2. Could you please give us a brief overview of your research topic? What motivated you to pursue this research topic?

During my master’s research I became aware of the many limitations of current biomedical monitoring devices. Most existing systems are bulky, rigid, and uncomfortable, making them difficult to use outside clinical settings.
My research focuses on developing soft, wearable biomedical devices that can be comfortably worn for extended periods and even integrated into clothing. The goal is to improve patient comfort and enable continuous monitoring in everyday life while maintaining the same signal quality as conventional clinical-grade devices. This challenge and potential impact motivated me to pursue this research direction.

3. How did you manage your time and prioritize your tasks during your PhD program, and what strategies did you use to stay focused and motivated?

A PhD is a long journey. Mine lasted five years, from 2020 to 2025, and staying motivated all the time is simply not realistic. Taking breaks, holidays, and time to recharge is important.
My main advice is to choose a topic you genuinely enjoy, because you will spend many years and countless hours working on it. In terms of organization, I have always been a structured person. I typically divided my day into laboratory work and writing tasks. I preferred to do experimental work in the morning, when I felt most productive, and dedicate the afternoons to reading papers and writing. Aligning tasks with my energy levels helped me remain effective throughout the day.

4. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced during your PhD journey, and how did you overcome them?

The biggest challenge was undoubtedly beginning my PhD during the COVID-19 pandemic. I started my PhD at the University of Coimbra in Portugal and later moved to Carnegie Mellon University in the United States during my second and third years. Relocating alone from Europe to the United States during such an uncertain period brought many personal and professional challenges. Adapting to a new country and working through the restrictions associated with the pandemic made this the most difficult part of my PhD experience.

5. Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently during your PhD?

Overall, I am very satisfied with how my PhD turned out and have very few regrets. If I were to change one thing, I would probably place greater emphasis on maintaining a healthier work–life balance.
There were occasions when I spent very long hours in the laboratory, sometimes well beyond the end of the working day. In hindsight, I would prioritize rest and personal well-being a little more. Nevertheless, I am happy with the outcome of my PhD journey.

6. What advice would you give to students starting or coming to the end of their theses?

First and foremost, choose a topic that you truly enjoy. Passion for your work is essential when undertaking a long-term project such as a PhD.
I would also encourage students to make the most of every opportunity available to them. This includes applying for funding, travel grants, awards, and other professional development opportunities. Organizations and journals offer many valuable programs, but if you do not apply, you cannot benefit from them. Taking initiative is extremely important.

7. When and how did you access Applied Sciences? What prompted you to apply for this award, and what is your experience with Applied Sciences?

I have been serving as a reviewer for Applied Sciences for approximately two years and have reviewed several manuscripts. Through this involvement, I learned about the Best PhD Thesis Award. What I particularly appreciate about Applied Sciences and MDPI journals in general is the efficiency and transparency of communication. Interactions are always straightforward, timely, and professional. Whenever I need assistance, I receive prompt responses, which greatly enhances the overall experience.

8. Finally, how do you plan to continue building on your research in the future, and what are your long-term career aspirations?

I am currently a postdoctoral fellow and lecturer at ETH Zurich in Switzerland, a position I have held for nearly a year. At present, I am applying for assistant professor positions, as my long-term goal is to continue in academia in a more permanent and independent role.
This award comes at an ideal time because it will help me initiate a new line of research focused on multimodal sensing. Up to now, my work has largely centered on devices that measure a single physiological parameter, such as electrocardiograms (ECGs).
Going forward, I aim to develop wearable systems capable of measuring multiple types of data simultaneously, including ECG, blood pressure, movement, or sweat biomarkers. Such devices could provide a more comprehensive understanding of an individual's health and physiological condition.

The goal of the Editor’s Choice Articles project is to promote high-quality articles published in Applied Sciences (ISSN 2076-3417). Please find below the list of articles carefully handpicked by the scientific editors of the journal, which we believe will be of interest to you. The full list of Editor’s Choice Articles can be viewed at the following link: https://www.mdpi.com/journal/applsci/editors_choice.

1. “An RL-Guided Hybrid Forecasting Framework for Aircraft Engine RUL and Performance Emission Prediction”
by Ukbe Üsame Uçar and Hakan Aygün
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(9), 4271; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16094271

2. “Electromagnetic Interference Simulation and Shielding Design for Aircraft Engine Nacelle Subjected to EMALS”
by Xuan Zhao, Jingxuan Xia, Chulin Wang, Huang Xu, Pingan Du and Baolin Nie
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(10), 4789; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16104789

3. “Drone Flight Demonstration of a Self-Positioning Scheme and Devices for Small-Body Exploration”
by Shingo Nishimoto, Junichiro Kawaguchi, Kawsihen Elankumaran and Saki Komachi
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(9), 4574; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16094574

4. “Thymosin Beta-4 and TB-500 in Tissue Healing, Regeneration, and Musculoskeletal Repair: A Scoping Review”
by Flynn McGuire, Emma Hughes, Travis Maak and Daniel M. Cushman
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(12), 6202; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16126202

5. “Movement Direction Is the Primary Determinant of Force and Impulse in the Knife-Hand Strike (Sonkal Taerigi) in ITF Taekwon-Do”
by Tomasz Góra, Jacek Wąsik and Michalina Błażkiewicz
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(10), 4993; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16104993

6. “Multifunctional Polymeric Coatings for Stone Heritage: Hydrophobic–Antimicrobial Mechanisms and Field Performance”
by Ricardo Estevinho, Ana Teresa Caldeira, Sérgio Martins, José Mirão and Pedro Barrulas
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(8), 4050; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16084050

7. “Sprout Extracts in Skin Care and Hair Growth: Evidence and Future Opportunities”
by Wojciech Paździora, Paweł Paśko and Agnieszka Galanty
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(9), 4520; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16094520

8. “The Application of Bio-Banding in Youth Soccer: A Systematic Review of Crossover Controlled Trials”
by Salvatore Mazzei, Alessandro Guarnieri, Fabiana Laurenti, Valentina Presta, Giuliana Gobbi, Ronan Kavanagh, Mauro Mandorino, Mathieu Lacome and Giancarlo Condello
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(9), 4300; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16094300

9. “Early Prediction of Well-Being Outcomes in Older Adults Using Explainable AI and Emotional Intelligence Measures”
by Evgenia Kouli, Evangelos Bebetsos, Maria Michalopoulou and Filippos Filippou
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(7), 3586; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16073586

10. “Conditional Generative AI in Oncology Diagnostics”
by Chiara Frascarelli, Alberto Concardi, Elisa Mangione, Mariachiara Negrelli, Francesca Maria Porta, Michela Tulino, Joana Sorino, Antonio Marra, Nicola Fusco, Elena Guerini-Rocco et al.
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(8), 4015; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16084015

11. “Quantifying Emotional Responses to Traditional and Modern Architecture: The Case of US Federal Buildings”
by Alexandros A. Lavdas and Ann Sussman
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(9), 4406; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16094406

12. “Evidence-Driven Simulated Data in Reinforcement Learning Training for Personalized mHealth Interventions”
by Juan Carlos Caro, Giorgio Galgano, Melissa Muñoz, Jorge Díaz Ramírez and Jorge Maluenda
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(7), 3463; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16073463

13. “Long-Term Aging Effects of Breast Implant Materials”
by Luca Di Landro, Gerardus Janszen, Anna Sandrin, Valeriano Vinci, Roberto Rusconi and Marco Klinger
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(8), 3717; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16083717

14. “Functional Symmetry of Upper Limbs in Young Adults: An Analysis of Muscle Strength and Mobility”
by Piotr Osial, Michalina Błażkiewicz, Dagmara Iwańska and Jacek Wąsik
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(8), 3874; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16083874

15. “Extraction of Stone Positions from a Sheet Image for Curling Match Database Construction”
by Kei Suzumura, Yasumasa Tamura, Shimpei Aihara and Masahito Yamamoto
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(7), 3453; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16073453

16. “Synthesis and Characterization of Size- and Shape-Controlled CoFe₂O₄ Nanoparticles via Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-Assisted Hydrothermal Synthesis”
by Rareș Bortnic, Tamás Szilárd, Ádám Szatmári, Razvan Hirian, Rareș Ionuț Știufiuc, Alin-Iulian Moldovan, Roxana Dudric and Romulus Tetean
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(7), 3547; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16073547

17. “Efficient Adsorptive Removal of Methyl Orange from Aqueous Solutions Using a Cu₂O/CuO Nanocomposite”
by Yordani Arce-Argote, Antonella Soncco, Rodrigo Rios-Cabala, Albeniz Huaracallo, Marcelo Rodriguez and Rivalino Guzmán
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(8), 3713; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16083713

18. “Titania Nanotubes Modification with Cisplatin and Its Oxalate Analog Using Mercaptoorganosilanes as Bridging Ligands”
by Mateusz Bielicki, Natalia Godlewska, Aleksandra Janecka, Adrianna Kolas and Adrian Topolski
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(11), 5419; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16115419

19. “A Novel Approach to Design Flood Hydrograph Plotting in Water Management”
by Cornel Ilinca, Constantin Albert, Dmytro Rozputniak and Valentin Minghiraș
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(9), 4475; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16094475

20. “Formation of a High-Density Algal-Bacterial Flocculent Biomass in a Pilot-Scale Raceway Pond Treating Municipal Wastewater”
by Styliani E. Biliani, Dimitrios Kakavas and Ioannis D. Manariotis
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(8), 3761; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16083761

21. “Megacities, Hazy Air, and Other Not-So-Cool Things: Mapping the Known and Unknown Intersections Between Climate Change, Health, and Urbanization”
by Raymond Roy, Alfonso Giordano, Rosalyn Kefas, Aldo Ferrara and Amedeo D’Angiulli
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(10), 4851; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16104851

22. “Agronomic Valorization of Sewage Sludge Through Composting and Liming”
by Henda Lopes, Elisabete Gonçalves, Maria Morais, Ana Coimbra, João Sousa, Paula Oliveira, Henrique Trindade and Marta Roboredo
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(10), 4805; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16104805

We would like to thank all of the research groups that authored these exceptional papers for their contribution. We sincerely hope you find these articles of Applied Sciences as useful and insightful as we have found them.

Conference: The 30th International Conference on Miniaturized Systems for Chemistry and Life Sciences (µTAS 2026)
Date: 18–22 October 2026
Location: Granada, Spain
Booth No.: 8

MDPI will be attending The 30th International Conference on Miniaturized Systems for Chemistry and Life Sciences (µTAS 2026) as an exhibitor. The conference will be held from 18 to 22 October 2026. We welcome researchers from different backgrounds to visit and share their latest ideas with us.

The µTAS international conference series is the premier forum for reporting research results in microfluidics, lab-on-a-chip, organ-on-a-chip, wearables, BioMEMS, microfabrication, 3D printing, nanotechnology, integration, materials and surfaces, analysis and synthesis, and detection technologies for chemistry, the life sciences, medicine, and the environment, as well as agriculture, energy, and food.

µTAS 2026 will feature plenary and keynote talks from world luminaries, and themed “hot topics” sessions in the following areas:
1. Microphysiological Systems, Organ on Chip, and Organoids (Organ on Chip, Organoids, Spheroids);
2. Wearables and Hand-held Devices (Humans and their Environment, Continuous Sensing and Monitoring, Point of Care, Point of Need, Implantable and Ingestible Devices, Bioelectronics);
3. Microfluidics as Facilitating Technology (Remote Sensing, Harsh Conditions, Resource-Limited Settings, Resilient Technologies: Energy Harvesting and Sustainable Materials, Digital Microfluidics, Droplet Microfluidics);
4. Micro and Nanophotonic Technologies (Optofluidics, Photonics, Quantum Technology, Nanomaterials).

The following open access journals will be represented:

• Micromachines;
• Applied Sciences;
• Biosensors;
• Hardware;
• Micro;
• Nanomanufacturing;
• Bacteria.

If you are planning to attend this conference, please do not hesitate to start an online conversation with us. Our delegates look forward to meeting you in person and answering any questions that you may have. For more information about the conference, please visit the following website: https://microtas2026.org/.

We are delighted to announce the MDPI Academic Publishing Workshop, organized in partnership with the Faculty of Engineering, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, Thailand. This workshop reflects a shared commitment to promoting research excellence, advancing scholarly communication, and supporting academic publishing through international collaboration and open access dissemination.

As part of MDPI’s ongoing dedication to researcher development, the workshop aims to improve academic writing skills, facilitate scholarly communication between authors and the Editorial Office, and guide researchers in selecting appropriate journals for publication. Participants will also gain practical insights into MDPI’s editorial process, how to respond effectively to peer reviewers, publication ethics, and the responsible use of artificial intelligence in scientific publishing. Designed for early career researchers, PhD and master’s students, international students, potential authors, and Editorial Board Members, the workshop will provide practical knowledge for enhancing the quality, visibility, and impact of scholarly research while fostering meaningful engagement with MDPI editors and publishing professionals.

Date: 7 September 2026
Time: 13:00–16:00
Location: Gearlaxy Space, Faculty of Engineering, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, Thailand
Language: English
Registration: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/6R2WDF5

MDPI is pleased to participate in the Faculty of Engineering Graduate Research Symposium (FEGRS) 2026 at the University of Alberta as a gold-tier sponsor by hosting an Academic Publishing Workshop for graduate students and early career researchers. As a premier platform for showcasing research and fostering academic collaboration, FEGRS brings together emerging scholars from across engineering disciplines to exchange ideas, advance innovation, and to network within professional and academic spaces.

The interactive workshop will provide a practical introduction to scientific publishing and the skills needed for publication success. Participants will begin with an overview of the evolution of scholarly publishing before exploring today's publishing landscape. The second part of the workshop will focus on the peer review process, offering a step-by-step guide to navigating manuscript review and best practices for conducting peer reviews. Each session will conclude with a dedicated Q and A segment, allowing attendees to discuss publishing questions and challenges with experienced publishing professionals. In addition, MDPI representatives will be present at the Industry Mixer on August 18, engaging with participants to share insights into MDPI and opportunities to contribute as authors, reviewers, and editors.

By supporting educational initiatives such as FEGRS, MDPI remains committed to promoting transparency, accessibility, and excellence in scholarly communication while empowering the next generation of researchers to maximize the impact of their work.

For additional information on the event and our sponsorship, please see the event website here.

Date:  18 August 2026
Time:  14:30–15:30 (ET)
Venue:  University of Alberta, Faculty of Engineering, DICE 8-207

Schedule:

MDPI Speakers:
Moderator and Panelist: Dr. Barnaby Crook, Regional Engagement Editor, MDPI

Panelist: Ms. Diana Tosato, Deputy Managing Editor, MDPI

Organizers:

1. Could you please share a bit about your research interests and recommend some hot topics in your field?
My research interests focus on environmental science, environmental chemistry, and ecotoxicology, particularly on the interactions between natural processes and human activities. Throughout my career, I have primarily investigated the bioaccumulation and biotransformation of contaminants to better understand how environmental pressures affect ecosystem quality and how living organisms adapt to high concentrations of natural or anthropogenic chemical substances.
Microplastic pollution and emerging contaminants, such as pharmaceuticals and PFAS, are undoubtedly among the most pressing topics in environmental research today due to their widespread occurrence, persistence, and still only partially understood ecological and human health implications.
While these issues are rightly attracting considerable scientific attention, I believe that environmental sciences should not lose sight of a broader perspective. Understanding the complex interplay between natural dynamics and anthropogenic pressures remains essential for explaining how ecosystems evolve, adapt, and respond to ongoing environmental challenges. In my view, this integrated approach will continue to be one of the most important directions for future research.

2. How do you approach the peer review process to ensure fairness and constructive feedback?
I like to view the peer review process as a constructive exchange between peers. Ideally, it should generate value for everyone involved (authors, reviewers, and editors). For this reason, I always try, whenever possible, to provide comments and suggestions that are genuinely constructive, regardless of whether my overall evaluation is positive or negative.
My goal is to offer observations that can serve as useful points for reflection and help authors identify opportunities to strengthen the quality of their work. I believe that effective peer review should not simply identify weaknesses, but also provide clear guidance on how they can be addressed.
Nobody enjoys receiving criticism for its own sake. When writing my reviews, I always keep in mind that behind every manuscript there are researchers who have invested considerable time, effort, and dedication into completing their study. Respecting that commitment while maintaining scientific rigor is, in my view, one of the most important responsibilities of a reviewer.

3. How do you think the peer review process could be improved in scientific publishing?
This is a very intriguing question, and certainly not an easy one to answer. From a reviewer’s perspective, one improvement I would particularly appreciate would be receiving periodic feedback from publishers on the quality of my reviews. For example, annual or monthly assessments could provide insights into how useful, reliable, and constructive my evaluations are perceived to be, as well as identify areas where they could be strengthened. Such feedback would help reviewers become more aware of their strengths and weaknesses and encourage continuous professional development.
Another important aspect is reviewer training. Unlike many other academic activities, there is no formal “school” for peer reviewers. Most researchers learn how to review manuscripts through experience, often by trial and error. I believe that early career researchers should be encouraged to engage in the peer review process from the beginning of their careers, ideally under the guidance of experienced senior researchers acting as mentors. In this regard, publishers could play a key role by providing dedicated training resources and platforms that facilitate mentor–mentee interactions in peer review. Such initiatives would not only help develop the next generation of reviewers but could also contribute to improving the overall quality, consistency, and effectiveness of the peer review process.

4. What is your experience with our service from the point of view of a reviewer?
My experience has been very positive overall. I have always appreciated the professionalism of the editorial staff, the clear and courteous communication, and the prompt responses whenever interaction with the editors was needed.
The review platform is intuitive, accessible, and easy to use, making the entire review process efficient and straightforward. Another aspect I particularly value is the generally good quality of the manuscripts I receive for evaluation. Even when a manuscript requires substantial revisions, it is usually scientifically sound and worthy of consideration, which reflects the high standard of the editorial screening and pre-check procedures.
In the specific case of Applied Sciences, I also appreciate its multidisciplinary nature. It often gives me the opportunity to review manuscripts that, while remaining within my areas of expertise, address topics or approaches that are new and intellectually stimulating. This makes the review process not only a professional responsibility but also a valuable opportunity for continuous learning and scientific growth.

5. Do you have any other suggestions on how our journal could further support young researchers and the academic community?
I believe that MDPI already offers a wide range of initiatives that effectively support early career researchers, including awards, training opportunities, academic events, and activities that help increase visibility within the scientific community. Looking ahead, one opportunity could be to further strengthen the connection between scientific publication and research dissemination. In today's academic landscape, producing excellent research is only part of the challenge; ensuring that scientific findings reach the appropriate audiences is becoming increasingly important. Young researchers are often very active on digital and social media platforms and are eager to communicate their work beyond traditional publishing channels. Journals could further support this process by expanding initiatives that promote the visibility of high-quality research and by providing guidance on effective and responsible science communication. More broadly, any effort that helps transform published articles into opportunities for discussion, collaboration, and knowledge exchange would further reinforce the journal's role not only as a publishing platform, but also as an active hub for the scientific community.