Saved Queries

Fe₂O₃-reinforced PMMA nanocomposites were prepared by melt blending using a twin-screw micro-extruder. Fixed Fe₂O₃ loading of 2.5 wt.% was employed, and mixing times of 6 and 12 min were used to obtain nanocomposites with different dispersion characteristics. The structural and morphological properties of the samples were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), while their thermal degradation behavior was evaluated by differential thermal and thermogravimetric analyses (DTA/TG). The activation energies of thermal degradation were calculated using the Kissinger, Takhor, and Augis–Bennett methods. Increasing the mixing time improved nanoparticle dispersion and reduced agglomeration. The addition of Fe₂O₃ slightly decreased the characteristic degradation temperatures of PMMA, while the activation energy increased for the better-dispersed sample. The results indicate that interfacial interactions and particle dispersion play important roles in the thermal degradation behavior of PMMA/Fe₂O₃ nanocomposites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Thermal Behaviour of Polymers)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 1460 KB

Open AccessArticle

Firms’ Structural Positions in Patent Citation Networks and Innovation Performance: Evidence from a Large-Scale Chinese Dataset

by Yan Qiao and Siyu Wang

Systems 2026, 14(4), 351; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems14040351 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2026

Abstract

Using a panel of Chinese A-share listed companies from 2007 to 2022, this study examines how firms’ structural positions in patent citation networks affect innovation efficiency. We construct a firm-level patent citation network and use betweenness centrality to capture firms’ brokerage-oriented positions in knowledge flows. Based on firm- and year-fixed-effects models, instrumental-variable estimation, and robustness checks, we find that stronger brokerage positions significantly improve innovation efficiency. Mechanism analyses show that this effect operates through two channels: cross-domain knowledge recombination and organizational boundary spanning. Firms in stronger brokerage positions are more likely to access technologically heterogeneous external knowledge and interact with a wider range of external knowledge-bearing entities, thereby improving the efficiency with which innovation inputs are transformed into patent-based outputs. We further find that digital transformation negatively moderates the relationship between brokerage centrality and innovation efficiency. This suggests that digital transformation reduces firms’ marginal dependence on external brokerage positions by strengthening internal data-processing, coordination, and knowledge-integration capabilities. Additional analyses show that the positive effect of brokerage centrality is broadly shared across ownership groups. Regional heterogeneity is more evident in the stronger brokerage premium observed in the western region than in the eastern region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing Open Innovation in the Age of AI and Digital Transformation)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 4553 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dihydroartemisinin Unravels Dose-Dependent Transcriptomic Networks Orchestrating Ferroptosis and Metabolic Reprogramming in Colorectal Cancer

by Zhaodi Zheng, Xitan Hou, Wenjuan Li and Leilei Zhang

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2026, 48(4), 342; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb48040342 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Dihydroartemisinin (DHA), a bioactive metabolite of Artemisia annua, displays potent antitumor activity in multiple cancers. However, its dose-dependent transcriptional regulatory networks in colorectal cancer (CRC) remain insufficiently understood. This study aimed to clarify the molecular mechanisms of low- and high-dose DHA in human CRC cells and reveal the dose-dependent crosstalk among related biological processes. Methods: We integrated RNA-seq transcriptomic profiling and functional validation in HCT116 cells treated with 20 μM (low-dose) or 50 μM (high-dose) DHA. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened at FDR ≤ 0.05 and |log₂(fold change)| ≥ 1, followed by GO and KEGG enrichment analyses. Results: DHA inhibited cell viability dose-dependently, with an IC₅₀ of 50 μM. We identified 280 and 678 DEGs in low-and high-dose groups, respectively. Low-dose DHA induced apoptosis via GADD45α/β and ATF4/DDIT3-mediated endoplasmic reticulum stress and triggered senescence through G2/M phase arrest. High-dose DHA mainly modulated gene expression signatures associated with ferroptosis by regulating iron homeostasis and lipid peroxidation at the transcriptional level. Both doses suppressed glycolysis, lipid, and folate metabolism; high-dose DHA also inhibited MGAT5B-mediated glycosylation. DHA regulated five core signaling pathways dose-dependently, with high-dose DHA further repressing Wnt3a/16 and BMP4/6. Conclusions: This study first identifies ferroptosis-related gene networks as key transcriptional targets. It reveals dose-dependent crosstalk among cell death, senescence, metabolic reprogramming, and signaling, providing a transcriptomic framework and gene targets for optimizing DHA-based colorectal cancer therapy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Immunological Research on Colorectal Cancer: Pathogenesis, Microenvironment, and Future Therapies)

►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

32 pages, 2837 KB

Open AccessReview

Improving Information Communication in Emerging 6G Scenarios: A Review of Semantic Communications for the Future Internet

by Evelio Astaiza Hoyos, Héctor Fabio Bermúdez-Orozco and Nasly Cristina Rodriguez-Idrobo

Future Internet 2026, 18(4), 179; https://doi.org/10.3390/fi18040179 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2026

Abstract

The evolution of future Internet and sixth-generation (6G) networks is driving a paradigm shift from classical bit-centric communication toward meaning-aware and task-oriented communication models. Traditional information theory, while fundamental for ensuring reliable symbol transmission, does not account for semantic relevance or task effectiveness, which are critical for emerging applications such as autonomous systems, immersive services, and ultra-low-latency communications. This article presents a comprehensive review of Semantic Communications (SemCom) from a future Internet perspective. The review systematically analyses representative extensions of classical information theory aimed at quantifying semantic information, including semantic information measures, semantic channel capacity, and semantic rate–distortion formulations. In addition, the main mathematical and computational frameworks enabling practical semantic communication systems are examined, including the Information Bottleneck principle, learning-based end-to-end communication architectures, and reinforcement learning approaches for task-oriented optimization under network constraints. The review further discusses the role of semantic metrics, contextual modelling, and task-driven performance evaluation in the design of semantic-aware communication systems. The analysis identifies key open challenges, particularly the lack of a unified theoretical framework, the need for robust and context-aware semantic performance metrics, and the integration of semantic awareness into network-level design. Overall, this review highlights Semantic Communications as a promising paradigm for future Internet and 6G networks, where communication efficiency is increasingly determined by semantic relevance and task effectiveness rather than bit-level fidelity alone. Full article

►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

19 pages, 1593 KB

Open AccessArticle

Genomic Insights into Antimicrobial Resistance and Plasmid-Mediated Dissemination in Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae from Pediatric Outpatients with Acute Diarrhea

by Linda Erlina, Fadilah Fadilah, Omnia Amir Osman Abdelrazig, Rafika Indah Paramita, Aisyah Fitriannisa Prawiningrum, Wahyu Dian Utari, Asmarinah, Yulia Rosa Saharman, Muzal Kadim and Badriul Hegar

Antibiotics 2026, 15(4), 331; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics15040331 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2026

Abstract

Background: Antimicrobial-resistant Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae represent an increasing challenge in community-acquired pediatric diarrheal infections. Understanding the genomic basis and dissemination of resistance in outpatient settings is essential for guiding antimicrobial use. Methods: Eighteen Gram-negative isolates obtained from pediatric outpatients with acute diarrhea were analyzed using selective culture methods, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and whole-genome sequencing. Multilocus sequence typing, serotyping, virulence profiling, antimicrobial resistance gene detection, plasmid replicon typing, mobile genetic element analysis, and core genome-based phylogenetic analysis were performed. Phenotypic resistance profiles were correlated with genomic resistance determinants. Results: Klebsiella pneumoniae (55.56%) and Escherichia coli (44.44%) were identified, with all isolates exhibiting putative multidrug resistance-associated genomic profiles. Extended-spectrum β-lactamase genes, particularly blaCTX-M variants, were strongly associated with resistance to third-generation cephalosporins. In contrast, fluoroquinolone resistance correlated with gyrA and parC mutations and plasmid-mediated qnr genes. Phylogenetic analysis revealed diverse lineages harboring resistance determinants. In silico plasmid analysis revealed that key resistance genes co-occurred with IncF-type plasmids and mobile genetic elements, including ISEcp1, IS26, and class 1 integrons, suggesting putative plasmid association rather than confirmed localization. Conclusions: These findings highlight the small scale of plasmid-mediated antimicrobial resistance among E. coli and K. pneumoniae causing pediatric community-acquired diarrhea. The integration of phenotypic and genomic analyses underscores the need for continuous resistance surveillance to support rational antibiotic use in outpatient settings. Full article

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 3061 KB

Open AccessArticle

Enhanced Absorption Dominated Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Enabled by Carbon Nanotube and Graphene Reinforced Electrospun PVDF Nanocomposite

by Hisham Bamufleh, Usman Saeed, Abdulrahim Alzahrani, Aqeel Ahmad Taimoor, Sami-ullah Rather, Hesham Alhumade, Walid M. Alalayah and Hamad AlTuraif

Polymers 2026, 18(7), 789; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym18070789 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2026

Abstract

The increasing density of wireless and wearable electronic devices necessitates the development of lightweight, flexible, and absorption-dominated electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials. In this study, electrospun poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) composite mats reinforced with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene nanosheets at low filler loadings (1–3 wt.%) were fabricated and systematically investigated for X-band (8.0–12.5 GHz) EMI shielding performance. Raman, FTIR, and thermal analyses confirm enhanced electroactive β-phase formation and improved thermal stability upon nanofiller incorporation. The formation of interconnected conductive networks within the electrospun fibrous architecture leads to a significant increase in electrical conductivity from 10⁻⁷ S·cm⁻¹ for pure PVDF to 10⁻² S·cm⁻¹ and 10⁻¹ S·cm⁻¹ for CNT/PVDF and Graphene/PVDF composites, respectively, at 3 wt.% loading. Consequently, the total EMI shielding effectiveness (SE_T) increases from 2.5 dB for pure PVDF to 40 dB for CNT/PVDF and 42 dB for graphene/PVDF composites at 3 wt.%. The shielding effectiveness arising from absorption (SE_A) dominates the overall EMI shielding performance, contributing more than 85% of the total shielding effectiveness (SE_T), which clearly indicates an absorption-controlled shielding mechanism. The combination of high absorption-dominated EMI shielding, low filler content, and mechanical flexibility highlights these electrospun CNT/PVDF and graphene/PVDF composites as promising candidates for next-generation flexible, wearable, and biomedical EMI shielding applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in the Structure and Mechanical Properties of Polymer Composites)

►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

19 pages, 8418 KB

Open AccessArticle

Functionalized Fullerene Nanomaterials: Evaluating Heteroatom Identity for Enhanced Charge-Transfer and Reactivity

by Abdullah M. S. Alhuthali, Khaled S. Amin, Hanan Elhaes and Medhat A. Ibrahim

Molecules 2026, 31(7), 1076; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31071076 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2026

Abstract

This study explored the electronic and structural tunability of fullerene (C₆₀) derivatives via functionalization with heteroatoms (O, S, Se) in mono-, di-, and tri-bridged configurations, including covalently modeled dimers. Calculations were performed using density functional theory (DFT) at the B3LYP/6-31G(d,p) level. Electronic descriptors such as total dipole moments (TDMs), HOMO–LUMO energy gaps (ΔE), global reactivity descriptors, total density of states (TDOS), molecular electrostatic potential (MESP) and non-covalent interactions (NCIs) were analyzed to elucidate how functionalization alters reactivity and stability. Key findings indicate that TDM increases and ΔE decreases in all functionalized C₆₀; for example, the TDM increased from 0 Debye for C₆₀ to 2.156 Debye for C₆₀–O–S–Se, and ΔE decreased from 2.762 eV (C₆₀) to 2.532 eV (C₆₀–Se), indicating enhanced reactivity. This aligns with global reactivity descriptors such as reduced ionization energy and hardness. Mapped MESP surfaces showed activation around heteroatom sites. Quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) and NCI analyses revealed that while mono-bridged structures retain covalent linkages, dimeric systems such as C₆₀–O–C₆₀ and C₆₀–S–C₆₀ relax into weak, van der Waals-type interactions. OPDOS (overlap population density of states) highlighted antibonding character between the fragments in the conduction region. These results demonstrate that heteroatom functionalization enhances the electronic properties of C₆₀, making it a promising candidate for optoelectronic, organic photovoltaic, and sensor applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fullerene and Its Application)

►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

15 pages, 243 KB

Open AccessArticle

Intraday and Interday Reliability of Maximal and Explosive Handgrip Force–Time Metrics Using the Kinvent K-Grip Handheld Dynamometer

by Ivan Curovic, Milan Markovic, Lazar Toskic, Jill Alexander and Damian J. Harper

Muscles 2026, 5(2), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/muscles5020024 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2026

Abstract

(1) Background: Handgrip strength (HGS) is a widely used indicator of neuromuscular function, with predictive values for health and performance outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the intraday and interday reliability of maximal and explosive handgrip force–time metrics using the Kinvent K-Grip handheld dynamometer. (2) Methods: Thirty-four participants performed three maximal voluntary isometric contractions per hand across two testing days. Force–time data were analysed for peak force (PF), mean force (MF), peak rate of force development (RFD), time-specific RFD, impulse, and forces at fixed time points. Reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), standard error of measurement (SEM), minimal detectable change (MDC), and coefficient of variation (CV%). (3) Results: The device demonstrated excellent relative and absolute reliability for PF and MF across both days (ICC > 0.97; CV < 6%; MDC ≈ 5 kg). Later-phase explosive metrics (F250 and Imp200) showed good-to-excellent relative reliability (ICC = 0.88-0.99; CV = 4–14%), although with variable absolute reliability (MDC F250 ≈ 4–8 kg, MDC Imp200 ≈ 1 kg·s). For early-phase metrics, relative reliability was only moderate to good (ICC = 0.67–0.88) and characterised by a high degree of variability (CV = 15–22%). (4) Conclusions: The K-Grip handheld dynamometer is a reliable tool for cross-sectional assessments and for tracking larger maximal strength and later-phase force improvements at fixed time points. Early-phase explosive metrics are less suitable for monitoring intervention effects due to high measurement error and fatigue sensitivity. Full article

51 pages, 4860 KB

Open AccessArticle

Wing–Wake Interaction Dynamics for Gust Rejection in Dragonfly-Inspired Tandem-Wing MAVs

by Sebastian Valencia, Jaime Enrique Orduy, Dylan Hidalgo, Javier Martinez and Laura Perdomo

Drones 2026, 10(4), 231; https://doi.org/10.3390/drones10040231 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2026

Abstract

Dragonflies exhibit remarkable flight stability in unsteady environments, largely due to aerodynamic interaction between their forewings and hindwings. This study investigates gust response in dragonfly-inspired micro-aerial vehicles (MAVs) from a system dynamics perspective, with emphasis on the aerodynamic role of tandem-wing interaction rather than control compensation. A six-degree-of-freedom (6DOF) rigid-body framework is developed and coupled with a quasi-steady aerodynamic model that includes explicit phase-dependent interaction between forewing and hindwing forces. Gusts are introduced as time-varying inflow perturbations, allowing physically consistent analysis of how disturbances propagate through aerodynamic loading into vehicle motion. Simulations are performed for representative flight conditions, including gliding, hovering, and gust-perturbed ascent. The results show bounded trajectory, velocity, and attitude responses under sustained gust excitation, even with conservative baseline control. Force and energy analyses indicate that wing–wake interaction redistributes aerodynamic loads in time and reduces peak force and moment fluctuations before they reach the rigid-body dynamics. This behavior is interpreted as passive aerodynamic filtering of gust disturbances inherent to the tandem-wing configuration. Comparative simulations using backstepping control and Active Disturbance Rejection Control (ADRC) further show that the dominant gust attenuation arises from aerodynamic configuration rather than from control action. Although the aerodynamic model is quasi-steady, the framework reproduces key trends reported in biological and CFD-based studies and provides a numerical foundation for future wind-tunnel and free-flight experiments on configuration-level gust attenuation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Drone Design and Development)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 9531 KB

Open AccessArticle

Interpretable Deep Learning for Characterizing Sinkhole to Supply Well Transfer Dynamics in Karst Aquifers

by Benoit Nigon, Mathieu Godard, Abderrahim Jardani, Nicolas Massei and Matthieu Fournier

Hydrology 2026, 13(4), 102; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrology13040102 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2026

Abstract

In karstic environments, water supply wells are vulnerable to rapid sediment transfer during intense rainfall events, often generating turbidity peaks that disrupt water-treatment operations. In Normandy (France), the high density of sinkholes and the complexity of transport processes in karsts complicate the identification and prioritization of sinkholes requiring mitigation to reduce sediment fluxes at water supply wells. This study aims to quantify the time-lagged impact of each sinkhole on turbidity peaks at a supply well using a cascade modeling approach that couples numerical surface erosion–runoff simulations with deep learning models representing hydrosedimentary responses through the karst network. Surface erosion–runoff was simulated using WaterSed. Hydroclimatic time series and WaterSed model outputs were used as inputs for our deep learning models. Several deep learning architectures were compared and optimized across multiple rounds to identify a best-performing model, which was then interpreted using interpretability methods. Interpretability analyses show that turbidity is primarily controlled by seasonal conditions and short-term rainfall accumulation, while multiple sinkholes contribute jointly to short time lags. Temporal attributions reveal rapid karst response followed by attenuation, consistent with reactive karst behavior. The contribution of each sinkhole to turbidity peaks allows us to identify the most important sinkholes requiring mitigation by stakeholders. Full article

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 552 KB

Open AccessReview

A Critical Narrative Review Appraisal of the 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines: Scientific Strengths, Conceptual Gaps, and Overlooked Dimensions of Sustainability and Health Equity

by Dimitrios Papandreou, Azza Alsuwaidi, Zainab Taha, Constantinos Giaginis, Georgios K. Vasios and Eleni P. Andreou

Nutrients 2026, 18(7), 1040; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18071040 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2026

Abstract

The 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines introduce an important shift in public health nutrition, emphasizing minimally processed foods, higher protein intake, greater inclusion of full-fat dairy, and a food-based advice centered on “real food” consumption. While several of these recommendations align with accumulating evidence, particularly the discouragement of ultra-processed foods and added sugars, substantial concerns remain regarding their internal coherence, population-level applicability, risk of misinterpretation, as well as environmental footprint. This critical narrative review evaluates whether the scope, emphasis, and framing of the new guideline components are proportionate to the strength, consistency, and context of the underlying evidence. Using a novel framework that distinguishes between nutritional adequacy, optimization, and therapeutic application, we assess the scientific coherence of key recommendations. A structured literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science focusing on systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials and large prospective cohort studies relevant to the updated guidelines. Particular attention is given to protein and saturated fat intakes, carbohydrate restriction in chronic disease, and the balance between simplification and scientific precision. Overall, the new guidelines represent a positive shift toward food-based recommendations; however, clearer differentiation between population-level guidance and context-specific interventions is required to preserve scientific rigor, reduce misinterpretation, and enhance public health relevance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Towards Healthy and Sustainable Diets: Environmental and Nutritional Perspectives—2nd Edition)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 5060 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Pyrolysis Carbonization Time of Corn Stalks on Microbial Communities in Biogas Production with Livestock and Poultry Manure as Fermentation Substrate

by Su Wang, Pengfei Li, Yujun Bao, Zhanjiang Pei, Shiwen Liang, Xianfeng Yang and Fengmei Shi

Energies 2026, 19(7), 1614; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19071614 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2026

Abstract

In the process of anaerobic digestion for manure treatment, adding conductive materials is one of the most used methods to enhance methane yield. Biochar, a stable conductive material, shows significant potential in facilitating direct interspecies electron transfer in anaerobic digestion systems. However, biochar’s structure and properties are influenced by its preparation method, and the mechanisms by which structural characteristics affect methane yield and microbial community structure in fermentation systems require further investigation. This study investigates the effects of pyrolysis duration (1 h for A3O and 2 h for A3T) at 550 °C using corn straw as raw material. Through characterization analyses including SEM, FTIR, conductivity, and elemental composition, we explore the impacts on gas production efficiency and key parameters in anaerobic digestion systems. By analyzing microbial community structure and changes in methanogenic functional bacteria, we elucidate the mechanisms by which biochar materials with different pyrolysis times influence anaerobic digestion processes and microbial community composition. These findings provide theoretical foundations and support for optimizing biochar preparation techniques and their targeted applications in anaerobic digestion fields. It was found that the biochar-treated group exhibited higher methane production. Compared with the CK group without biochar, the methane production of A3O and A3T increased by 8.53% and 5.16%, respectively. While methane yield differed little between A3O and A3T, longer pyrolysis time increased the biochar’s specific surface area, promoting the system’s reaction rate and enabling faster methanogenesis. High-throughput analysis showed that biochar enriched methanogenic archaea like Methanosarcina and Methanobrevibacter while upregulating methanogenesis metabolic pathways and enhancing system metabolic potential. This study elucidates the influence of pyrolysis conditions on biochar performance and its regulatory role in anaerobic digestion, providing a basis for energy recovery from organic waste and biochar application in anaerobic fermentation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advanced Bioenergy and Biofuel Technologies)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 969 KB

Open AccessArticle

Media Narratives and the Construction of Meaning in Times of War: Evidence from the MeInWar Project

by Patrícia Silveira, Clarisse Pessôa and Simone Petrella

Youth 2026, 6(2), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/youth6020039 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2026

Abstract

Armed conflicts are at the epicentre of an information war, amplified by false claims about the motivations of the conflicts and refugees. The spread of narratives, especially in digital media, challenges the European Union to implement effective strategies to combat misinformation and to adopt measures to scrutinise and hold the main communication channels accountable, in order to prevent hostile narratives from influencing public opinion and political decision-makers. In this context, this article seeks to analyse the implications of media discourses and misinformation in the development of social representations about the Russian–Ukrainian war and refugees, as well as the use of social networks by individuals to share this type of content. The research is based on an exploratory study as part of the R&D Project MeInWar—Study on the media and social representations of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, funded by Europeia University. The study employed a survey method and an online questionnaire applied to a non-probabilistic convenience sample of 222 individuals aged between 18 and 38. The results revealed that media narratives influence attitudes towards refugees and migration policies, and it is clear that factors such as age and gender have an impact on content-sharing practices and the motivations behind them. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Navigating the Hybrid Media Landscape: Youth Identity, Behaviour and Beliefs)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 1114 KB

Open AccessArticle

Use and Acceptance of Generative Artificial Intelligence in Portuguese Higher Education Students

by Ana Pedro, Nuno Dorotea, Célia Ribeiras and Bárbara Azevedo

Sustainability 2026, 18(7), 3209; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18073209 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2026

Abstract

Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) has rapidly spread worldwide, driving structural changes and redefining approaches to knowledge. This trend has introduced significant challenges, particularly within higher education, where its adoption and acceptance are crucial for pedagogical transformation. However, the increasing integration of GenAI also raises pressing questions related to sustainability, encompassing both its environmental impact (e.g., energy consumption and carbon footprint of AI models) and social and ethical implications (e.g., responsible use, equity, and digital inclusion). This study investigates the factors influencing the adoption and acceptance of GenAI among higher education students, considering these sustainability dimensions. Using an adapted version of the UTAUT2 (Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology) model, the research analysed data from 229 students, collected in 2025, employing the Partial Least Squares method. By integrating the sustainability perspective, this work seeks to offer an understanding of the challenges and opportunities that GenAI presents for a more equitable and ecologically conscious educational future. The study demonstrates that habit and performance expectancy are the primary drivers of GenAI adoption among students, suggesting that its integration into higher education should prioritize functional value and ethical habit-building over social or hedonic factors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Digital Education: Innovations in Teaching and Learning)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 12343 KB

Open AccessArticle

Non-Secreted Mature Decoy-Resistant IL-18-Armed Oncolytic Vaccinia Virus Elicits Potent Antitumor Effects in an Aggressive Murine Ovarian Cancer Model

by Pingpo Ming, Chunyan Li, Junjie Ye, Lingjuan Chen, Julia Waltermire, Jinshun Zhao, Maya Eid, Ting Zhang, Wei Ge, Jinghua Ren, David L. Bartlett and Zuqiang Liu

Cancers 2026, 18(7), 1065; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18071065 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecologic malignancy, largely due to late diagnosis and the high prevalence of malignant ascites, a hallmark of advanced disease that is difficult to control and contributes to immune suppression and treatment failure. Despite advances in standard care, durable responses are rare. This study investigates a novel immunotherapeutic strategy designed to overcome the suppressed peritoneal microenvironment using an oncolytic vaccinia virus engineered to express a decoy-resistant IL-18 mutein. Methods: We generated a vaccinia virus (vvDD-nsmDR-18) expressing a non-secreted, mature, decoy-resistant IL-18. Viral expression was validated via RT-qPCR and fluorescence microscopy, while cytotoxicity was confirmed using CCK-8 assays. The antitumor efficacy of vvDD-nsmDR-18 was evaluated in the aggressive murine ID8a ovarian cancer model. The underlying mechanisms of action were investigated using flow cytometry and transcriptional profiling. Results: Treatment with vvDD-nsmDR-18 significantly prolonged survival and was associated with reduced abdominal distension consistent with decreased ascites burden. Immune analyses indicated enhanced T cell activation across multiple anatomical compartments, including tumors, peritoneal cavity, and spleens, the latter recently suggested to serve as a reservoir for tumor-reactive T cells. This systemic activation was characterized by increased IFN-γ and perforin expression. In addition, vvDD-nsmDR-18 treatment was associated with expansion of CD39⁺CD103⁺CD8⁺ tumor-reactive T cells and a shift toward a lower PD-1 expression phenotype within this population. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that nsmDR-18-expressing oncolytic viruses can remodel the immunosuppressive landscape of advanced ovarian cancer, suggesting this approach is a promising candidate for further clinical development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Peritoneal Carcinomatosis)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Error

Oops... you haven't selected anything for export.

Displaying article 1-50 on page 1 of 2000.

Go to page 1 2 3 4 5

Search Results (142,010)

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI