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26 pages, 21085 KB  
Article
Magnolia officinalis Rehder & E.H.Wilson. Bark Extract and Magnolol Alleviate Allergic Rhinitis via Modulating NF-κB/MAPK Signaling
by Leyuan Huang, Xu Zhou, Guanfeng He, Haixin Li, Xiaoying Chen, Jingwen Xu and Lei Zhou
Molecules 2026, 31(6), 1009; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31061009 (registering DOI) - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
Magnolia officinalis Rehder & E.H.Wilson. bark is famous as a traditional herbal medicine used in prescriptions for treating gastrointestinal discomfort, respiratory and inflammatory disorders. Magnolol, one of its principal bioactive constituents, exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. However, its therapeutic mechanisms in allergic [...] Read more.
Magnolia officinalis Rehder & E.H.Wilson. bark is famous as a traditional herbal medicine used in prescriptions for treating gastrointestinal discomfort, respiratory and inflammatory disorders. Magnolol, one of its principal bioactive constituents, exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. However, its therapeutic mechanisms in allergic rhinitis (AR) remain to be elucidated. In this study, the anti-allergic effects and molecular mechanisms of M. officinalis bark aqueous extract (MOAE) and magnolol were investigated using an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced AR mouse model. Nasal symptoms, histopathological alterations, and serum inflammatory mediators, including histamine and immunoglobulins (IgE, IgG1, IgG2a), were evaluated to assess efficacy. Both MOAE and magnolol significantly alleviated nasal rubbing and sneezing, reduced eosinophil infiltration and mucus hypersecretion, and improved tissue morphology in nasal and lung sections. Moreover, treatment markedly decreased serum levels of histamine and OVA-specific antibodies. Integrative network pharmacology, RNA sequencing, and molecular docking analyses revealed 33 co-regulated target genes mainly involved in the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways, suggesting that modulation of these pathways underlies the observed anti-inflammatory effects. These findings demonstrate that MOAE and magnolol exert protective effects against AR through the regulation of key inflammatory signaling cascades. This study provides modern pharmacological evidence supporting the traditional use of M.officinalis bark and highlights its potential as a natural therapeutic candidate for AR. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products Chemistry)
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20 pages, 26161 KB  
Review
Necrotizing (Abscessing) Lymphadenopathy and the Diagnostic Value of Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound (CEUS): A Review with Clinical Vignettes
by Christian Görg, Yi Dong, Görg Friedemann, Christian Jenssen, Michael Kallenbach, Kathleen Möller, Findeisen Hajo, Nitin Chaubal and Christoph Frank Dietrich
Diagnostics 2026, 16(6), 888; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16060888 (registering DOI) - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
Necrotizing (abscessing) lymphadenopathy is a clinically relevant condition with a broad differential diagnosis, including acute bacterial infections, mycobacterial disease, zoonoses, fungal and parasitic infections, autoimmune disorders, and malignancies with central necrosis. Early and reliable differentiation between these causes is important to avoid misdiagnosis [...] Read more.
Necrotizing (abscessing) lymphadenopathy is a clinically relevant condition with a broad differential diagnosis, including acute bacterial infections, mycobacterial disease, zoonoses, fungal and parasitic infections, autoimmune disorders, and malignancies with central necrosis. Early and reliable differentiation between these causes is important to avoid misdiagnosis and to guide appropriate therapy. This review summarizes the pathophysiological mechanisms, typical imaging features, and diagnostic value of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in necrotizing lymphadenopathy. Representative clinical vignettes illustrate the disease spectrum and correlate CEUS patterns with underlying pathology. The literature review was narrative and based on targeted searches of PubMed/MEDLINE and Google Scholar focusing on CEUS in necrotizing lymphadenopathy. A brief literature overview highlights current evidence, limitations, and research gaps. Conventional B-mode ultrasound (BMUS) and Doppler typically demonstrate enlarged hypoechoic or heterogeneous nodes with reduced central vascularity but lack specificity for necrosis. CEUS provides real-time visualization of nodal microvascular perfusion, which may support clearer differentiation between viable tissue and necrotic or abscess cavities. Common but non-specific CEUS patterns include central non-enhancement with a peripheral hyperemic rim in abscesses, irregular avascular cores in tuberculous lymphadenopathy, patchy non-enhancing areas in autoimmune conditions, and heterogeneous enhancement with ill-defined necrosis in malignant nodes. CEUS can support biopsy targeting, facilitate drainage procedures, and enable radiation-free follow-up. CEUS may offer diagnostic and interventional advantages in the evaluation of necrotizing lymphadenopathy, offering more consistent characterization of nodal necrosis compared with conventional sonography. While most evidence focuses on tuberculosis and malignancy, growing experience with zoonotic and autoimmune diseases suggests broader utility. Most currently available evidence derives from observational studies and small case series, highlighting the need for prospective multicenter validation. Standardization of CEUS criteria, integration into multiparametric ultrasound protocols, and multicenter validation are needed to establish CEUS as a routine component in the diagnostic work-up of necrotizing lymphadenopathy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ultrasound Imaging: Current Status and Future Perspectives)
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18 pages, 1406 KB  
Article
Iron Pools, Microbial Communities, and Greenhouse Gas Production in Subaqueous Ecosystems: Implications for Biogeochemical Cycling
by Roberta Pastorelli, Alessandra Lagomarsino, Chiara Ferronato, Arturo Fabiani, Sara Del Duca, Stefano Mocali, Livia Vittori Antisari and Gilmo Vianello
Soil Syst. 2026, 10(3), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/soilsystems10030043 (registering DOI) - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
In permanently submerged coastal wetlands, interactions between biogeochemical processes and microbial communities strongly influence greenhouse gas (GHG) fluxes. To improve our understanding of how redox-driven processes shape GHG dynamics in these ecosystems, we investigated the relationships among iron (Fe) pools, microbial dynamics, and [...] Read more.
In permanently submerged coastal wetlands, interactions between biogeochemical processes and microbial communities strongly influence greenhouse gas (GHG) fluxes. To improve our understanding of how redox-driven processes shape GHG dynamics in these ecosystems, we investigated the relationships among iron (Fe) pools, microbial dynamics, and the potential GHG production in subaqueous soils from an interdunal wetland in San Vitale Park (Italy), permanently submerged and affected by seasonal oscillations of the saline water table. Two subaqueous soil columns (WAS-2 and WAS-4), collected from similar settings, were analyzed. Surface layers of WAS-4 showed higher salinity and carbonate content, whereas WAS-2 was characterized by overall higher Fe concentrations. Distinct vertical distributions of organic matter and sulfur (S) were shown along depth. Laboratory incubations revealed that nitrous oxide (N2O) production was up to ten times higher in WAS-2 than in WAS-4, with peaks in the top 13–14 cm, consistent with more active nitrification-denitrification in surface layers. Methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) fluxes decreased with depth, reflecting reduced availability of labile carbon. Methanomicrobiales dominated CH4-producing layers, indicating hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis, while amoA-carrying Nitrosomonadales and Thaumarchaeota, occurred in shallow, organic-rich layers where ammonia supported nitrification and denitrification. Denitrifiers mainly belonged to α- and β-Proteobacteria, consistent with their direct contribution to N2O peaks. Spearman’s correlations showed N2O positively correlated to sulfur and labile carbon (C), supporting denitrification under moderately reducing conditions. CH4 and CO2 positively correlated with organic C (Corg), total nitrogen (TN), and reactive Fe forms, reflecting redox-mediated microbial respiration and methanogenesis. Trace elements (B, Cr, Cu, Ni) acted as micronutrients or inhibitors depending on concentration. Canonical correspondence analysis indicated depth-structured links among gas fluxes, soil chemistry (Corg, TN, S/C, CaCO3, P), and microbial distributions: surface layers, rich in labile C and nutrients, supported active bacteria and archaea involved in decomposition, nitrification, and denitrification, whereas deeper layers hosted oligotrophic archaea adapted to inorganic substrates. Overall, Fe pools appeared to be associated with soil processes relevant to GHG dynamics, although the extent of their regulatory role remains uncertain due to potential alterations of redox-sensitive Fe fractions during sample handling. These results contribute to broader efforts to predict GHG emissions in submerged wetland soils by linking redox stratification, inorganic chemistry, and microbial functional groups. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microbial Community Structure and Function in Soils)
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25 pages, 1492 KB  
Review
The Role of CEUS in the Diagnosis and Follow-Up of Pleuropulmonary Diseases and Interventional Procedures
by Andrea Boccatonda, Alice Brighenti, Daniel Piamonti, Giulia Bandini, Giulia Fiorini, Luigi Vetrugno, Giampietro Marchetti, Esterita Accogli, Carla Serra and Damiano D’Ardes
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(6), 2292; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15062292 (registering DOI) - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background: Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) recently emerged as a valuable imaging modality for evaluating pleuropulmonary diseases. By combining morphological information from conventional B-mode ultrasound with real-time assessment of microvascular perfusion, CEUS can provide functional insights that improve diagnostic accuracy, guide interventions, and support patient [...] Read more.
Background: Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) recently emerged as a valuable imaging modality for evaluating pleuropulmonary diseases. By combining morphological information from conventional B-mode ultrasound with real-time assessment of microvascular perfusion, CEUS can provide functional insights that improve diagnostic accuracy, guide interventions, and support patient surveillance. Methods: This review summarizes the current evidence on the use of CEUS in major pleuropulmonary disorders, including pneumonia, pleural effusion, pulmonary embolism, neoplasms, and COVID-19-related lung injury. The most relevant clinical studies and meta-analyses were analyzed, focusing on CEUS parameters, diagnostic performance, and integration with other imaging techniques. Results: CEUS enables the differentiation between inflammatory, ischemic, and malignant lesions through qualitative and quantitative analyses of enhancement patterns. Early and homogeneous enhancement is typical of inflammatory or infectious processes, whereas heterogeneous or delayed enhancement with early washout strongly suggests malignancy or ischemia. In pneumonia and pleural infections, CEUS identifies non-perfused or necrotic areas, guiding drainage and evaluating therapeutic responses. In pulmonary embolism, it reveals avascular consolidations corresponding to infarction, even when CT angiography is inconclusive. For peripheral lung tumors, CEUS assesses angiogenesis and vascular supply, correlating perfusion parameters with histopathology, and improving biopsy targeting. Furthermore, in COVID-19 pneumonia, CEUS can detect microvascular alterations related to thrombosis and fibrosis. Conclusions: CEUS is a safe, noninvasive, and radiation-free technique that provides unique real-time information on pulmonary perfusion. Its integration with conventional ultrasound enhances diagnostic precision, optimizes interventional guidance, and allows for dynamic monitoring of treatment response. Future developments in quantitative analysis, artificial intelligence, and targeted contrast agents are expected to further expand CEUS clinical applications in pleuropulmonary imaging. Full article
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18 pages, 8749 KB  
Article
Biomechanical and Signal-Based Characterization of Karate Lateral Kicks Using Videogrammetry Analysis
by Luis Antonio Aguilar-Pérez, Jorge Luis Rojas-Arce, Luis Jímenez-Ángeles, Carlos Alberto Espinoza-Garces, Adolfo Ángel Casarez-Duran and Christopher René Torres-SanMiguel
Machines 2026, 14(3), 339; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines14030339 (registering DOI) - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
Martial arts have evolved from self-defense practices into structured competitive sports that demand high levels of neuromotor control, where improper execution remains a major source of injury. This study evaluates lower-limb control during the execution of the karate lateral kick using videogrammetry biomechanical [...] Read more.
Martial arts have evolved from self-defense practices into structured competitive sports that demand high levels of neuromotor control, where improper execution remains a major source of injury. This study evaluates lower-limb control during the execution of the karate lateral kick using videogrammetry biomechanical analysis. Three participants were recorded during regular training sessions and selected according to their level of expertise. Each participant performed lateral kicks at three predefined distances (close, comfortable, and long), selected based on common training practice and individual biomechanical considerations. Videogrammetry data were generated using Kinovea version 0.9.5 software to extract sagittal ankle trajectories. Statistical analyses were carried out in MATLAB version 2025b using spatial coordinates to obtain kinematic data on the practitioner’s performance. The results revealed skill-dependent differences in movement control, characterized by temporal evolution of kinematic variables and their corresponding time–frequency representations. Novice practitioners exhibited limited control during the raising and recovery phases, despite reaching the target. In contrast, expert practitioners demonstrated consistent posture, controlled acceleration during impact, and stable limb trajectories during descent. These observations provide a foundation for data-driven classification of kick execution quality and outline potential applications in supervised learning, real-time feedback systems, and injury risk reduction during karate training. Full article
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25 pages, 17518 KB  
Article
Quercetin Ameliorates Comorbid Insomnia in Diarrhea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome via the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB Signaling Pathway
by Guangming Liu, Xiangpan Kong, Yiru Zhao, Nianshan Cai, Haiyi Wang, Hongxu Sun and Peng Zhao
Biomedicines 2026, 14(3), 692; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14030692 (registering DOI) - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background: Chronic insomnia disorder (CID) frequently coexists with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D), a comorbidity characterized by gut–brain axis dysfunction and persistent inflammatory activation. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this overlap remain incompletely understood, and effective multitarget interventions are lacking. Objectives: This study [...] Read more.
Background: Chronic insomnia disorder (CID) frequently coexists with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D), a comorbidity characterized by gut–brain axis dysfunction and persistent inflammatory activation. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this overlap remain incompletely understood, and effective multitarget interventions are lacking. Objectives: This study aimed to identify quercetin as a potential bioactive compound for IBS-D-associated insomnia and to investigate whether its protective effects are associated with modulation of the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway. Methods: CID- and IBS-D-related targets were collected from public databases. Candidate compounds were screened using bioinformatics and network pharmacology analyses, followed by molecular docking. Experimental validation was conducted in 36 male C57BL/6J mice assigned to control, CID+IBS-D model, quercetin-treated, and quercetin-plus-Recilisib-treated groups. Sleep-related behavior, EEG/EMG-derived sleep architecture, intestinal function, inflammatory markers, and pathway-related proteins were assessed. Results: Quercetin was identified as a core candidate compound. Network pharmacology revealed 43 shared targets among CID, IBS-D, and quercetin, with significant enrichment in PI3K/AKT-related signaling. In vivo, quercetin improved sleep-associated phenotypes and intestinal dysfunction; reduced visceral hypersensitivity; restored ZO-1 and Occludin expression; suppressed hypothalamic and colonic inflammatory responses; and was accompanied by reduced phosphorylation of PI3K, AKT, IκB, and NF-κB p65 in the hypothalamus. Quercetin also increased hypothalamic 5-HT1A and GABA_A Rα5 expression. These effects were partially reversed by Recilisib, supporting the involvement of PI3K/AKT-associated signaling in quercetin-mediated protection. Conclusions: Quercetin alleviated key sleep-related and IBS-D-like phenotypes in a composite murine model of gut–sleep comorbidity. The protective effects were associated with reduced inflammatory activation and modulation of PI3K/AKT/NF-κB-related signaling. These findings support quercetin as a promising candidate for gut–brain axis-related comorbid disorders, while further studies are needed to define pathway specificity, tissue exposure, and translational applicability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cell Biology and Pathology)
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16 pages, 1572 KB  
Article
Lessons from Two Early COVID-19 Hospital Outbreaks in Germany to Inform Strategies for Controlling Emerging Nosocomial Outbreaks of Highly Transmissible Respiratory Viruses
by Sofia Burdi, Felix Reichert, Barbara Mühlemann, Victor M. Corman, Terry C. Jones, Martin Hölzer, Susanne B. Schink, Patrick Larscheid, Jakob Schumacher, Gudrun Widders, Inas Abdelgawad, Christian Brandt, Nicole Dinsel, Katharina Jelavic, Nadine Kurzke, Jörg Hofmann, Janine Michel, Annika Brinkmann, Stephan Fuchs, Christian Drosten, Tim Eckmanns and Muna Abu Sinadd Show full author list remove Hide full author list
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(6), 2290; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15062290 (registering DOI) - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Nosocomial outbreaks of viral respiratory infections strain healthcare systems and endanger patients and healthcare workers (HCWs). We describe two large nosocomial outbreaks with the SARS-CoV-2 Alpha variant, during its initial emergence in Germany, to assess transmission dynamics, effectiveness of control measures, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Nosocomial outbreaks of viral respiratory infections strain healthcare systems and endanger patients and healthcare workers (HCWs). We describe two large nosocomial outbreaks with the SARS-CoV-2 Alpha variant, during its initial emergence in Germany, to assess transmission dynamics, effectiveness of control measures, and challenges in managing highly transmissible respiratory viruses. Methods: Confirmed cases were inpatients, HCWs, or their contacts testing SARS-CoV-2-positive since 1 January 2021 (Hospital A [HA])) or 21 January 2021 (Hospital B [HB])) with N501Y and delH69/V70 spike gene mutations. We conducted case interviews, reviewed medical records and shift schedules, and performed sequencing, genome reconstruction, and phylogenetic analysis. We describe cases, transmission chains, and control measures. Results: HA reported 18 patient cases, 20 HCW cases, and 33 community cases (N = 71). HB reported 48 patient cases, 43 HCW cases (13 in a COVID-19 ward), and 27 community cases (N = 118). In-hospital transmission occurred patient-to-patient, HCW-to-patient, patient-to-HCW, and HCW-to-HCW. HA halted admissions immediately after the initial cases; HB implemented measures gradually. Regular testing detected pre-symptomatic (HA = 6; HB = 18) and asymptomatic cases (HA = 3; HB = 13). Testing of agency staff was incomplete. The suspected primary case was an HCW in HA and a patient in HB who required resuscitation shortly after admission. Conclusions: Early COVID-19 outbreaks offer valuable lessons for managing emerging nosocomial outbreaks of highly transmissible respiratory viruses. Our findings provide empirical evidence for effective interventions, including rapid response, testing, HCW protection, and rigorous contact tracing in high-risk emergency situations. Managing agency staff remains a major challenge. Full article
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25 pages, 9933 KB  
Article
Effect of Double Substitutional Doping (2C → 2N/2S) in Graphene on the Interfacial Adhesion of CMC and LCmA: A DFT Study Aimed at Sustainable Lithium-Ion Battery Electrodes
by Joaquín Hernández-Fernández, Rafael González-Cuello and Rodrigo Ortega-Toro
J. Compos. Sci. 2026, 10(3), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs10030163 (registering DOI) - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
Density functional theory (DFT) was used to investigate how bisubstitution doping in graphene alters its electronic structure and interfacial stability with two model lignocellulosic binders, carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), and a representative aromatic fragment (LCmA). The properties were evaluated at the ωB97X-D/LANL2DZ level for pristine [...] Read more.
Density functional theory (DFT) was used to investigate how bisubstitution doping in graphene alters its electronic structure and interfacial stability with two model lignocellulosic binders, carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), and a representative aromatic fragment (LCmA). The properties were evaluated at the ωB97X-D/LANL2DZ level for pristine graphene and its bisubstitution-doped variants with nitrogen (graphene-2N) and sulfur (graphene-2S), integrating frontier orbitals, electrostatic potential (ESP) maps, electronic localization functions (ELF/LOL), and QTAIM topology. Doping with 2N markedly reduces the HOMO–LUMO gap from 0.16052 eV (graphene) to 0.10560 eV (−34.2%), while 2S reduces it to 0.14222 eV (−11.4%), evidencing different electronic activation mechanisms. The interaction energies show doping-controlled selectivity: In pristine graphene, adsorption strongly favors LCmA (ΔEint = −99.3 kcal·mol−1) over CMC (−23.7 kcal·mol−1); in graphene-2N, CMC coupling intensifies (−93.7 kcal·mol−1) while maintaining a high interaction with LCmA (−74.3 kcal·mol−1); and in graphene-2S, CMC remains favorable (−71.9 kcal·mol−1) while LCmA falls to a practically marginal regime (−4.1 kcal·mol−1). QTAIM the presence of confirms closed-layer interactions in all complexes (∇2Pc > 0, H > 0, |V|/G < 1), with |V|/G close to unity for graphene–LCmA (0.994) and less compaction when doped with 2N (0.760 for 2N–LCmA). The bisubstitution modulates the electronic heterogeneity of the basal plane and redefines the binder–surface compatibility, favoring the multipoint anchoring of polar ligands in 2N and penalizing efficient aromatic stacking in 2S. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Biocomposites, 3rd Edition)
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31 pages, 7409 KB  
Article
TRPC6-Mediated Ca2+ Influx Activates MAPK and NFκB Signaling and Elicits Pro-Inflammatory and Catabolic Responses in Human Intervertebral Disc Cells
by Janitri Venkatachala Babu, Varun Puvanesarajah, Addisu Mesfin, Jonathan P. Japa, Kevin Yoon, Mark Ehioghae, Michael G. Schrlau, Laura S. Stone, Wolfgang Hitzl and Karin Wuertz-Kozak
Cells 2026, 15(6), 534; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells15060534 (registering DOI) - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration is characterized by inflammation, extracellular matrix breakdown, and neurovascular ingrowth, processes that contribute to discogenic, chronic back pain. The transient receptor potential canonical 6 (TRPC6) channel is a calcium-permeable ion channel implicated in inflammation and pain signaling in multiple tissues; [...] Read more.
Intervertebral disc degeneration is characterized by inflammation, extracellular matrix breakdown, and neurovascular ingrowth, processes that contribute to discogenic, chronic back pain. The transient receptor potential canonical 6 (TRPC6) channel is a calcium-permeable ion channel implicated in inflammation and pain signaling in multiple tissues; however, its functional role in human disc cells remain unknown. Here, we investigated the expression, activation, and downstream consequences of TRPC6 activation using Hyp9, a pharmacological activator of TRPC6. TRPC6 transcripts were consistently detected across all donors examined (n = 17). Functional TRPC6 activation induced a rapid, dose-dependent calcium (Ca2+) influx across 0.5–100 µM Hyp9. TRPC6 activation did not reduce metabolic activity or increase cytotoxicity at concentrations commonly used for in vitro TRPC6 activation. Mechanistically, TRPC6 activation induced mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathways, as demonstrated by increased phosphorylation of p38 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), degradation of the inhibitor of κB-alpha (IκB-α), and increased nuclear translocation of the NF-κB p65 subunit. Downstream of these early signaling events, TRPC6 activation elicited a robust inflammatory and catabolic response with upregulation of IL-6, IL-8, COX-2, MMP-1, MMP-3, NGF, and VEGF, with corresponding increases in protein secretion. These findings identify TRPC6 as an important signaling node linking calcium influx to inflammatory, catabolic, and neuro- and angiogenesis-associated pathways in disc cells, highlighting TRPC6 as a potential therapeutic target in degenerative disc disease. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) Channels and Health and Disease)
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20 pages, 1296 KB  
Systematic Review
The Limited Evidence Base for Multilevel Lumbar Interbody Fusion and Its Consequences for Clinical Conclusions: A Systematic Review
by Evan R. Simpson, Casey Slattery, Kalyn Smith, Jesse Caballero, Michael Gordon, Gerald Alexander, Jon White, Jeffrey Deckey, Jeremy Smith and Vance Gardner
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(6), 2289; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15062289 (registering DOI) - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Lumbar interbody fusion (LIF) is widely utilized to treat multilevel degenerative lumbar spine pathologies. This systematic review aimed to comprehensively review lateral and posterior multilevel LIF procedures and their clinical and radiographic outcomes. Methods: Following the PRISMA guidelines, a search [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Lumbar interbody fusion (LIF) is widely utilized to treat multilevel degenerative lumbar spine pathologies. This systematic review aimed to comprehensively review lateral and posterior multilevel LIF procedures and their clinical and radiographic outcomes. Methods: Following the PRISMA guidelines, a search of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane identified eligible studies. Patient demographics, as well as clinical and radiographic outcomes were collected. Risk of bias was assessed using the MINORS criteria, while randomized trials were evaluated using the RoB-2 tool. An extensive subgroup analysis was completed when that was possible. Results: A total of 45 studies were included consisting of 5623 patients. The pooled outcomes indicated that TLIF demonstrated the lowest operative duration (198.7 ± 77.83 min) and LOS (5.09 ± 2.5 days), alongside favorable ODI (33.68 ± 6.43), VAS leg pain (5.39 ± 0.66), and VAS back pain (4.67 ± 0.79) score gains. Comparative evidence found that LLIF and OLIF provided advantageous radiographic improvement to the posterior approaches. Comparative evidence on techniques challenged the use of autogenous bone within PLIF, PEEK over HA/PA66 cages, and found no advantages in unilateral decompression within TLIF. There was minimal clinical difference in evidence assessing MIS (minimally invasive) vs. open-TLIF or unilateral vs. bilateral pedicle screw fixation (PSF). Conclusions: This is the first systematic review of the multilevel LIF literature, revealing that while pooled data favored TLIF, a publication bias was detected, and comparative evidence reported advantages for lateral and oblique approaches. Given the lack of conclusive evidence, robust study designs are needed to guide clinical decision-making for multilevel lumbar pathology. Full article
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22 pages, 7216 KB  
Article
Study of Structure and Properties of Fine-Dispersed NiCrFeSiB Coating with WC Additives, Deposited by HVOF Method
by Svetlana Sergeevna Kvon, Evgeniy Viktorovich Skvortsov, Aristotel Zeynullinovich Issagulov, Saniya Kaskataevna Arinova and Tatyana Viktorovna Kovalyova
J. Compos. Sci. 2026, 10(3), 162; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs10030162 (registering DOI) - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
This study investigated the properties of a composite NiCrFeSiB coating with fine-dispersed WC additives, deposited by the HVOF method. The NiCrFeSiB powder alloy with WC additives was applied to a steel substrate. The WC content in the coating was 10, 15, and 20% [...] Read more.
This study investigated the properties of a composite NiCrFeSiB coating with fine-dispersed WC additives, deposited by the HVOF method. The NiCrFeSiB powder alloy with WC additives was applied to a steel substrate. The WC content in the coating was 10, 15, and 20% by weight. The particle size distribution of the mixture ranged from 3 to 10 µm. The WC used was the WC8 alloy (92% WC, 8% Co). The levels of stress, phase composition, hardness, wear resistance, and coating structure were investigated. The studies revealed that the structure was primarily composed of the γ-Ni-Fe solid solution phase, with secondary phases including Ni3B, Fe3B, (Cr,)2B, and carbides of the W2C, WC, M7C3 type. A small amount of the initial WC particles was also present. The use of a fine-dispersed NiCrFeSiB powder mixture with WC particles resulted in a nearly twofold increase in hardness and wear resistance compared to the same parameters of the coating without WC. The coating with 20% WC exhibited the highest hardness. However, its wear resistance was lower than that of the coating with 15% WC. This fact could be explained by a slight difference in the phase composition and an increase in the proportion of the unsolidified WC phase in the structure. This led to the spalling of fine particles and a reduction in wear resistance. The study demonstrated the feasibility of using a fine-dispersed NiCrFeSiB coating with WC additives without additional remelting. Similar hardness and wear resistance results were achieved immediately after HVOF spraying when using a fine-dispersed NiCrFeSiB + 15% WC/Co mixture with a 92/8 composition. This simplification of the technology reduced the coating application process time. It also lowered production costs by eliminating the remelting stage. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Composites Applications)
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14 pages, 991 KB  
Article
Synthesis of Antioxidative p-Terphenyl Dimers via Boronic Acid-Mediated C–C Coupling
by Yong Wang, Yanchao Xu, Linmeng Chen, Dan Wu, Peng Fu, Liping Wang and Weiming Zhu
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(6), 2726; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27062726 (registering DOI) - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
By investigating the conditions for the C–C coupling reaction of p-terphenyls, we successfully synthesized C–C coupled dimeric p-terphenyls for the first time using a reaction system involving air, silica gel, and B(OH)3. Additionally, we developed a novel method to [...] Read more.
By investigating the conditions for the C–C coupling reaction of p-terphenyls, we successfully synthesized C–C coupled dimeric p-terphenyls for the first time using a reaction system involving air, silica gel, and B(OH)3. Additionally, we developed a novel method to synthesize furan-fused p-terphenyl dimers through solvent-free reactions by creatively applying rotary evaporation and heating. Compounds 612, 16, 20, and 22 demonstrated DPPH radical scavenging activity that was either stronger than or comparable to the positive control (vitamin C), with IC50 values ranging from 0.14 to 4.61 μM. Compounds 422 also exhibited significant activity against α-glucosidase, with IC50 values ranging from 0.37 to 17.9 μM, exceeding the efficacy of the positive control, acarbose. Moreover, compounds 614, 1618, 21, and 22 demonstrated greater inhibitory activity against PTP1B compared with the positive control, oleanolic acid, with IC50 values between 0.30 and 9.17 μM. These findings highlight their potential as promising leads or dietary supplements for the treatment and prevention of diabetes, as well as possible application as oxidative agents in food preservation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biochemistry)
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17 pages, 4478 KB  
Article
Whole Transcriptomic Analysis Identifies Candidate Biomarkers from Saliva of Temporomandibular Joint Osteoarthritis Patients
by Nawal Alketbi, Alaa Muayad Altaie, Reem Sami Alhamidi, Ayesha Yusuf Phansupkar, Alaa Mohamed Hamad, Mohamed Haider, Rania Harati, Kathrin Kalies, Wael Talaat and Rifat Hamoudi
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(6), 2727; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27062727 (registering DOI) - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
Temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJOA) is a degenerative disease characterized by progressive cartilage degeneration and subchondral bone remodeling, resulting in chronic pain and functional impairment. Although conservative treatments such as physical therapy and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used, their effectiveness is limited [...] Read more.
Temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJOA) is a degenerative disease characterized by progressive cartilage degeneration and subchondral bone remodeling, resulting in chronic pain and functional impairment. Although conservative treatments such as physical therapy and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used, their effectiveness is limited due to the poorly understood pathophysiology of TMJOA. Identifying reliable molecular biomarkers is essential to improving early diagnosis and guiding therapeutic development. This proof-of-concept study aims to identify candidate salivary biomarkers for TMJOA using an integrative approach combining clinical validation with in silico analysis. RNA sequencing was performed on saliva samples from TMJOA patients and healthy controls. In parallel, publicly available transcriptomic dataset GSE205389 was analyzed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). DEGs were validated using qRT-PCR. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and Metascape were used to explore biological pathways associated with TMJOA. Integration of clinical and in silico RNA sequencing datasets identified 2758 and 3548 DEGs, respectively, with 743 overlapping genes. Pathway enrichment analyses highlighted immune-related, metabolic and osteoclast-related pathways. Four genes, CRIP1, PPA1 and TARS1 (statistically significant) and GCLC (non-significant trend), were validated by qRT-PCR in the clinical saliva samples, confirming elevated expression in TMJOA patients. Validation of the in silico dataset showed an upregulation of PTK2B, ABL1, TNF and IL-1B, supporting their relevance as salivary biomarkers in TMJOA. This exploratory study identifies four candidate salivary genes, CRIP1, PPA1, TARS1 and GCLC, as candidate salivary biomarkers for TMJOA, offering insights into disease mechanisms. Larger studies are needed to validate these findings and assess their clinical utility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Informatics)
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13 pages, 816 KB  
Article
Catalytic Activity of Multi-Boron-Doped Graphene from First Principles
by Rita Maji and Joydev De
ChemEngineering 2026, 10(3), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering10030042 - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
Metal-free electrodes are essential to promote electrochemical reactions, the core of sustainable energy resources. In search of better carbon-based electrode materials, we have explored several spatial arrangements of boron (B) within proximity in the graphene lattice, as evident in recent experimental observations. Multi-boron [...] Read more.
Metal-free electrodes are essential to promote electrochemical reactions, the core of sustainable energy resources. In search of better carbon-based electrode materials, we have explored several spatial arrangements of boron (B) within proximity in the graphene lattice, as evident in recent experimental observations. Multi-boron substitution enriches sites by tuning electronic structure and strengthens binding of key intermediates of oxygen reduction, oxygen evolution, and hydrogen evolution reactions facilitating electrocatalytic performance. Our optimal B-doped site shows near thermo-neutral H adsorption (ΔGH*±0.4eV), consistent with experiments. The overpotentials are highly sensitive to the dopant motifs and the spread among configurations shows that experimentally accessible multi-B doping can serve as a practical active site engineering knob to achieve optimized multi-functional performance. In parallel, we find that specific multi-B configurations selectively capture and pre-activate NOx (NO/NO2) under ambient conditions while retaining weak affinity for NH3. These sites also interact with SO2 and related hazardous species, enabling selective air filtration and targeted NOx control within the electrocatalytic scope of this study. Full article
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15 pages, 827 KB  
Article
Gene Expression Profiles of Inflammatory Mediators in Influenza A and B Virus Infections: Insights from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (2020–2023)
by Noorah A. Alkubaisi, Mohamed A. Farrag, Ibrahim M. Aziz, Reem M. Aljowaie and Fahad N. Almajhdi
Genes 2026, 17(3), 325; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes17030325 - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Influenza A (IAV) and influenza B (IBV) viruses pose significant public health threats, with varying epidemiology and immune responses. Limited subtype-specific cytokine data exist for influenza in Saudi Arabia. This study conducted molecular surveillance on 380 NPAs from patients at King Khalid [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Influenza A (IAV) and influenza B (IBV) viruses pose significant public health threats, with varying epidemiology and immune responses. Limited subtype-specific cytokine data exist for influenza in Saudi Arabia. This study conducted molecular surveillance on 380 NPAs from patients at King Khalid University Hospital (KKUH) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, during winter seasons (2020–2023). Methods: NPA samples were collected from hospitalized patients presenting with fever (>38 °C) and respiratory symptoms. RNA was extracted using the QIAamp Viral RNA Kit, followed by RT-PCR for IAV (H1N1, A/H3N2) and IBV detection. Quantitative real-time PCR profiled mRNA expression of 17 cytokines/chemokines in IAV-positive (n = 65) and IBV-positive (n = 20) samples, normalized to GAPDH using the 2−ΔΔCq method. Appropriate statistical tests were applied (p < 0.05 significant). Results: Results showed 17.11% IAV positivity (7.89% A/H1N1, 9.21% A/H3N2) and 5.26% IBV. A/H3N2 predominated, increasing from 6.67% (2020/21) to 12.30% (2022/23). Males had higher IAV rates (25.88% vs. 10.00% females, p < 0.05), while IBV was higher in females (6.67% vs. 3.53%). Age-wise, 0–4 years had peak IAV (28.42%, p < 0.05); IBV peaked at 5–14 years (10.91%). IAV elicited higher mRNA expression IFN-α, IL-10, IL-13, and CCL-2 (p < 0.05); IBV showed elevated IL-1α, IL-6, and IL-33 (p < 0.05). Within IAV, A/H1N1 had higher IL-4, IL-10, IL-13, and IL-17; A/H3N2 elevated TNF-α, IL-6, IL-22, CCL-3, and CCL-4 (p < 0.05). Conclusions: These findings highlight subtype-specific inflammatory profiles and demographic disparities in Saudi Arabia, informing targeted interventions. Post-COVID resurgence underscores surveillance needs amid travel and gatherings. Insights into cytokine dynamics aid prognosis and therapeutics, emphasizing regional molecular monitoring for vaccine optimization and outbreak prevention. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Genetics and Genomics)
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