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Objectives: This study aimed to assess stroke coordination and biomechanics in elite U23 male kayakers under valid on-water conditions (instrumented K1 kayak on a competition lake) across race-relevant stroke frequencies (60, 80, and 100 strokes·min⁻¹). Methods: To achieve our aims, twelve male athletes (age 21.00 ± 0.47 years) completed 500 m trials at three randomized paddle frequencies (60, 80, 100 strokes·min⁻¹) with 10 min of passive recovery in-between. Data were collected with inertial measurement units, and a customized seat/footrest with integrated strain-gauge sensors. Results: Principal Component Analysis identified four key components: Mechanical Work, Mechanical Energy, Stroke Variability (PCI, Phase Coordination Index), and boat acceleration, accounting for 76% of total variance. Linear mixed-effects models (within-subject LME; Participant random intercept; Satterthwaite df) revealed that Mechanical Work (χ² = 17.10, p < 0.001) and Mechanical Energy (χ² = 53.10, p < 0.001) increased significantly with stroke frequency. Phase Coordination Index showed a significant increase at 60 and 100 strokes·min⁻¹ (χ² = 16.78, p < 0.001; t = 4.78, p < 0.001), while boat acceleration was not significantly affected (χ² = 4.95, p = 0.08). The PCI correlated negatively with Mechanical Work (r = −0.37, p = 0.022) and positively with boat acceleration (r = 0.39, p = 0.010). Effect sizes were moderate to large (ηp² = 0.18–0.36; corresponding 95% confidence intervals are reported in the main text). For the primary mechanical indicator (Paddle Factor), the mixed-effects model yielded a marginal R² = 0.57, reflecting the proportion of variance explained by cadence. Conclusions: Approximately 80 strokes·min⁻¹ may represent a condition in which coordination metrics appear comparatively favorable. These findings are exploratory and hypothesis-generating, not prescriptive. No causal inference can be drawn, and any training application attempts should await replication in larger, longitudinal and randomized studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sports Biomechanics)

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17 pages, 696 KB

Open AccessArticle

Constitutive NF-kB Activation Is Amplified by VSV in Aggressive PC3 Prostate Cancer Cells That Resist Viral Oncolysis

by Alaa A. Abdelmageed, Jack F. Smerczynski, Mukul Kandwal, Lute J. Douglas, Tori L. Russell, Matthew C. Morris, Stephen Dewhurst and Maureen C. Ferran

Viruses 2026, 18(1), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/v18010067 (registering DOI) - 1 Jan 2026

Abstract

Cancer cells often have defects in antiviral pathways, making them susceptible to oncolytic viruses like vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV). However, some cancer cells resist viral infection through the constitutive expression of interferon-stimulated genes. This study examined whether NF-κB activation and NF-κB-dependent antiviral signaling contribute to resistance to VSV infection in the PC3 cell line, derived from an aggressive metastatic prostate cancer (PrCa) tumor. We found that NF-κB localized to the nucleus in VSV-infected PC3 cells, but not in the VSV-susceptible LNCaP PrCa cell line. Analysis of the upstream NF-κB inhibitor IκB-α revealed higher levels of both total and phosphorylated IκB-α in PC3 cells compared to LNCaP cells, indicating constitutive activation of the NF-κB pathway via an IκB-α-dependent mechanism. Notably, VSV infection did not alter IκB-α phosphorylation in PC3 cells, suggesting that VSV may amplify NF-κB signaling through an IκB-α–independent pathway. Furthermore, PC3 cells displayed elevated levels of the NF-κB p65 protein subunit compared to LNCaP cells, with its phosphorylated form significantly increased upon VSV infection. These results from phosphorylation assays confirm that multiple steps in the NF-κB pathway are differentially activated in PC3 and LNCaP cells. Finally, the expression of several NF-κB-dependent cytokines and proinflammatory genes, including IL12 and IL6, was upregulated following VSV infection in PC3 cells, as compared to LNCaP cells. Collectively, these findings suggest that enhanced NF-κB signaling may underlie the resistance of PC3 cells to VSV oncolysis, potentially offering new insights into therapeutic strategies targeting NF-κB in resistant prostate cancers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Human Virology and Viral Diseases)

26 pages, 16690 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Acute Altitude, Speed and Surface on Biomechanical Loading in Distance Running

by Olaf Ueberschär, Marlene Riedl, Daniel Fleckenstein and Roberto Falz

Sensors 2026, 26(1), 276; https://doi.org/10.3390/s26010276 (registering DOI) - 1 Jan 2026

Abstract

Altitude training camps are a popular measure to enhance endurance performance at sea level. This study elucidates the effects of acute altitude-induced hypoxia, running speed and surface on cadence, peak tibial acceleration (PTA), gait asymmetry and residual shock in distance running. Ten healthy, [...] Read more.

{\dot{V}}_{O_{2, p e a k}}

of 54.9 ± 5.9 mL min⁻¹ kg⁻¹) participated in this study. They ran 1500 m bouts of at 50, 1000 and 2300 m above mean sea level on paved roads and natural trails at three different speeds. Those speeds were chosen to represent the most common training zones and were defined as

v_{1} = 90 % \cdot v_{VT 1}

v_{2} = \frac{1}{2} (v_{VT 1} + v_{VT 2})

and

v_{3} = 100 % \cdot v_{VT 2}

, with

v_{VT 1}

and

v_{VT 2}

denoting the speeds at the ventilatory thresholds 1 and 2. Based on the experimental results, cadence increased by +2.2 spm per +1 km h⁻¹ (p < 0.001) and fell by −1.1. spm per +1000 m of elevation (p < 0.001), whereas surface did not show any significant effect. Likewise, PTA was not affected by surface, but grew by 0.9 g per +1 km h⁻¹ (p < 0.001), and decreased by −0.6 g per +1000 m in elevation, with significant effects particularly at speeds beyond v_VT1 (p < 0.049). Absolute lateral asymmetry was not altered by elevation, surface or running speed. Mean shock attenuation increased with running speed by +2.5 percentage points per +1 km h⁻¹ (p < 0.001) but was independent of elevation and surface. In essence, running speed seems to be the predominant factor defining biomechanical loading, even under acute hypoxia and for varying surface conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wearable Sensors in Biomechanics and Human Motion)

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32 pages, 5792 KB

Open AccessArticle

Metabolomics and Transcriptomics Reveal the Effects of Fermented Lycium barbarum (Goji) Berry Residue on Muscle Nutrition and Flavor Quality in Fattening Tan Sheep

by Cong Zhan, Meng Li, Dan Li, Pan Li, Qiming Zhang, Mirou Wu, Guowei Zhong and Xiaochun Xu

Metabolites 2026, 16(1), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo16010039 (registering DOI) - 1 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: In the context of increasing consumer demand for high-quality meat, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of 4% fermented goji berry residue supplementation on meat quality and flavor characteristics in finishing Tan sheep. Methods: Thirty-six male lambs were randomly assigned to a control and FGB group and fed for 68 days. Results: FGB supplementation significantly enhanced Longissimus Dorsi (LD) brightness (L*), redness (a*), and crude protein content, while reducing crude fat (p < 0.05). Amino acid analysis revealed significant increases in lysine, methionine, histidine, glycine, proline, arginine, cysteine, and total sweet-tasting amino acids in the FGB group (p < 0.05). Lactate and inosine monophosphate (IMP) levels were significantly elevated, whereas hypoxanthine levels decreased (p < 0.05). Metabolomics identified 189 metabolites, with 12 differentially expressed, mainly enriched in butanoate metabolism, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, PI3K-Akt, and HIF-1 signaling pathways. Transcriptomics revealed 382 differentially expressed genes, including key regulators of lipid metabolism (FOXO1, SLC2A4, LPIN1, IGF1, SPP1) and amino acid metabolism (COL3A1, GLUL, PSMC1). Conclusions: Fermented goji residue altered amino acid and lipid metabolism in the LD muscle of Tan sheep, affecting meat quality and flavor traits. However, effects on color (L*, a*, b*), protein content, and shear force varied across the four muscles studied, indicating that responses to supplementation are muscle-specific. These findings offer a sustainable strategy for improving meat quality and provide insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying flavor development in ruminants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Metabolism)

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24 pages, 7758 KB

Open AccessArticle

Spt7 Deletion Reveals Vulnerabilities in Cryptococcus neoformans Stress Adaptation and Virulence

by Chendi Katherine Yu, Christina J. Stephenson, Benjamin L. Schulz and James A. Fraser

Microorganisms 2026, 14(1), 95; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms14010095 (registering DOI) - 1 Jan 2026

Abstract

The Spt-Ada-Gcn5 acetyltransferase (SAGA) complex is a conserved transcriptional coactivator that coordinates histone modifications and transcriptional regulation in eukaryotes. In Cryptococcus neoformans, SAGA governs key virulence traits, yet the roles of several core scaffold subunits remain undefined. Here, we characterize the functional roles of Spt7, a core SAGA component, in C. neoformans. Comparative genomics revealed that C. neoformans Spt7 retains conserved histone fold and bromodomain motifs. Deletion of SPT7 produced pleiotropic phenotypes, including defective melanization and capsule formation, impaired titan cell development, and heightened sensitivity to thermal, metal, antifungal, and cell wall stresses. The spt7Δ mutant exhibited strong sensitivity to the echinocandin micafungin, implicating Spt7 in maintaining cell wall integrity. The spt7Δ mutant was avirulent in a murine inhalation model. At the chromatin level, SPT7 deletion disrupted SAGA-dependent histone post-translational modifications, increasing H2B ubiquitination while reducing H3K14ac and H3K18ac levels. Proteomic profiling revealed reduced abundance of ribosomal, mitochondrial, and translational proteins and upregulation of lipid metabolic and secretory pathway components. Collectively, our findings establish Spt7 as a central integrator of SAGA-mediated chromatin regulation, proteomic balance, and virulence in C. neoformans and highlight the SAGA core as a potential antifungal target. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Fungal Pathogens, Diagnostic Innovations, and Clinical Strategies in the Era of Antifungal Resistance)

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12 pages, 1763 KB

Open AccessArticle

Label-Free Electrochemical Detection of K-562 Leukemia Cells Using TiO₂-Modified Graphite Nanostructured Electrode

by Martha Esperanza Sevilla, Rubén Jesús Camargo Amado and Pablo Raúl Valle

Biosensors 2026, 16(1), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios16010028 (registering DOI) - 1 Jan 2026

Abstract

This manuscript presents the development of an electrochemical biosensor designed to detect K-562 chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) cells. The biosensor was made of highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG), functionalized with -OH and -COOH groups by surface etching with strong acids, and subsequently coated with modified titanium dioxide (TiO₂-m). TiO₂-m is TiO₂ modified during its synthesis process using carbon nanotubes functionalized with -OH and -COOH groups. These changes improve the electron transfer kinetics and physicochemical properties of the electrode surface. TiO₂-m improves the sensitivity and selectivity towards leukemic cells. The detection process involved three stages: cell culture, cell adhesion onto the TiO₂–m electrode, and measurement of the electrochemical signal. Fluorescence microscopy and SEM-EDS confirmed cell adhesion and pseudopod formation on the TiO₂-m surface, which is an important finding because K-562 cells are typically nonadherent. Cyclic voltammetry (VC) and differential pulse voltammetry (VDP) demonstrated rapid and sensitive detection of leukemic cells within the concentration range of 6250 to 1,000,000 cells/mL, achieving high reproducibility and strong linearity (R² = 98%) with a detection time of 25 s. The VC and VDP demonstrated rapid and sensitive detection of leukemic cells over a concentration range of 6250 to 1,000,000 cells/mL, achieving adequate reproducibility and stable linearity (R² = 98%), with a detection time of 25 s. These results indicate that the TiO₂-m biosensor is a promising platform for the rapid and efficient electrochemical detection of leukemia cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Biosensors in Medicine, the Food Industry, and Disease Diagnosis)

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14 pages, 809 KB

Open AccessArticle

Detection, Identification, and Diffusion of Yeasts Responsible for Structural Defects in Provolone Valpadana PDO Cheese Using Multiple Research Techniques

by Miriam Zago, Barbara Bonvini, Lia Rossetti, Milena Povolo, Luca Ballasina, Vittorio Emanuele Pisani, Flavio Tidona and Giorgio Giraffa

Foods 2026, 15(1), 129; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15010129 (registering DOI) - 1 Jan 2026

Abstract

The aim of this work was to identify the microbial agent(s) responsible for a structural defect in Provolone Valpadana, Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) cheese, and to establish their spread along the production line. Repeated sampling of defective cheeses and analyses of processing intermediates following two inspections at the cheese factory identified yeasts as the main causative agents. Microbiological analysis highlighted an almost constant presence of yeasts, which dominate over the other microbial groups. Forty yeast isolates from defective cheeses were identified by sequencing the D1/D2 region of the 26S rRNA gene. Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Kluyveromyces marxianus, and Debaryomyces hansenii dominated in all sampled cheeses, followed by D. tyrocola, Pichia kudriavzevii, and Torulaspora delbrueckii. Yeast and bacterial metabarcoding on three cheeses with a yeast count > log 4.0 CFU/mL indicated D. hansenii as the dominant yeast taxon and confirmed the absence of gas-producing bacterial taxa. RAPD-PCR analysis suggested the presence of yeast biofilms in the dairy environment or along the production line, as confirmed by the repeated isolation of specific genotypes of S. cerevisiae, K. marxianus, and D. hansenii in different defective cheeses sampled between April and August 2023, as well as in samples taken following two inspections at the production site, during cheese processing and ripening. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research Progress in Detection Technology for Dairy Food Quality and Safety)

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26 pages, 3762 KB

Open AccessArticle

Benchmarking Automated Machine Learning for Building Energy Performance Prediction: A Comparative Study with SHAP-Based Interpretability

by Zuyi Tang, Jinyu Chen and Jiayu Cheng

Buildings 2026, 16(1), 185; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16010185 (registering DOI) - 1 Jan 2026

Abstract

The growing demand for energy-efficient buildings necessitates innovative approaches to reduce energy consumption during early design stages. While traditional physics-based simulations remain time- and expertise-intensive, automated machine learning (AutoML) offers a promising alternative by enabling data-driven building performance prediction with minimal human intervention. This study conducts a benchmark evaluation of AutoML’s potential in building energy applications through three objectives: (1) a literature review revealing AutoML’s nascent adoption (10 identified studies) and primary use cases (heating/cooling prediction, energy demand forecasting); (2) a benchmark comparing three AutoML frameworks (AutoGluon, H2O, Auto-sklearn) against baseline and ensemble ML models using R², RMSE, MSE, and MAE metrics; and (3) SHAP (SHapley Additive exPlanations)-based interpretability analysis. Results demonstrate AutoGluon’s superior accuracy (R² = 0.993, RMSE = 2.280 kWh/m²) in predicting energy performance, outperforming traditional methods. Key influential features, including solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) and U-values, were identified through SHAP, offering actionable design insights. The primary novelty of this work lies in its two-step methodology: a focused review to identify pertinent AutoML frameworks, followed by a comparative benchmarking of these frameworks against traditional ML for early-stage prediction. This process substantiates AutoML’s potential to democratize energy modeling and deliver practical, interpretable workflows for architectural design. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Energy in Built Environment and Building)

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15 pages, 1916 KB

Open AccessArticle

An Exploratory Study on the Impact of MIPEF-Assisted Extraction on Recovery of Proteins, Pigments, and Polyphenols from Sub-Standard Pea Waste

by Stella Plazzotta, Alberto Saitta, Sofia Melchior and Lara Manzocco

Foods 2026, 15(1), 128; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15010128 (registering DOI) - 1 Jan 2026

Abstract

The growing demand for sustainable protein sources has intensified the need for efficient valorisation of legume by-products. This study investigated the application of moderate intensity pulsed electric fields (MIPEF; 5 kV/cm, 4 μs, 500 pulses) as a green technology for assisting the co-extraction of proteins, pigments, and polyphenols from industrial substandard peas (Pisum sativum L.). Aqueous pea dispersions (20 g/100 g) were subjected to alkalinization (pH 9–12), and MIPEF applied either before or after the pH adjustment. The highest protein recovery was achieved when MIPEF was applied after alkalinization at pH 9.0, due to the increased conductivity and energy input enhancing electroporation-driven protein release. Although higher pH levels increased energy delivery, they did not significantly improve protein extraction. Conversely, MIPEF application decreased total polyphenol and pigment concentrations in the extract, likely due to aggregation phenomena. Overall, these preliminary results indicate that combining mild alkalinization with MIPEF might represent a promising and energy-efficient approach for protein recovery from legume side-streams. Further optimization is required to improve protein recovery while preserving the stability of co-extracted bioactive compounds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Different Strategies for the Reuse and Valorization of Food Waste)

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33 pages, 1221 KB

Open AccessReview

Antibiotic Resistance in Klebsiella pneumoniae and Related Enterobacterales: Molecular Mechanisms, Mobile Elements, and Therapeutic Challenges

by Veronika Zdarska, Gabriele Arcari, Milan Kolar and Patrik Mlynarcik

Antibiotics 2026, 15(1), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics15010037 (registering DOI) - 1 Jan 2026

Abstract

Drug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae and related Enterobacterales represent an escalating global public health threat, increasingly limiting therapeutic options in both healthcare- and community-associated infections. This review summarizes how resistance in K. pneumoniae emerges from the synergy of intrinsic barriers and acquired determinants. Key molecular mechanisms include reduced permeability via porin remodeling (notably OmpK35/OmpK36), multidrug efflux (e.g., AcrAB-TolC and OqxAB), and enzymatic drug inactivation driven by extended-spectrum beta-lactamases and carbapenemases (e.g., KPC, OXA-48-like enzymes, and metallo-beta-lactamases). We also highlight clinically meaningful pathways underlying polymyxin/colistin resistance, including mgrB inactivation and PhoPQ/PmrAB-mediated lipid A modification. In addition to stable genetic resistance, adaptive programs can shape transient tolerance and persistence, including stress responses that modulate gene expression under antibiotic and host-imposed pressures. The ability of these organisms to form biofilms, particularly on medical devices, further complicates treatment and eradication. Finally, we discuss therapeutic implications and current options and limitations—including novel beta-lactam/beta-lactamase inhibitor combinations and siderophore cephalosporins—and emphasize the importance of aligning therapy and surveillance with the underlying resistance mechanisms and circulating high-risk lineages. Full article

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34 pages, 2115 KB

Open AccessArticle

Designing a Sustainable Off-Grid EV Charging Station: Analysis Across Urban and Remote Canadian Regions

by Muhammad Nadeem Akram and Walid Abdul-Kader

Batteries 2026, 12(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/batteries12010017 (registering DOI) - 1 Jan 2026

Abstract

Electric vehicles are becoming more commonplace as we shift towards cleaner transportation. However, current charging infrastructure is immature, especially in remote and off-grid regions, making electric vehicle adoption challenging. This study presents an architecture for a standalone renewable energy-based electric vehicle charging station. The proposed renewable energy system comprises wind turbines, solar photovoltaic panels, fuel cells, and a hydrogen tank. As an energy storage system, second-life electric vehicle batteries are considered. This study investigates the feasibility and performance of the charging station with respect to two vastly different Canadian regions, Windsor, Ontario (urban), and Eagle Plains, Yukon (remote). In modeling these two regions using HOMER Pro software, this study concludes that due to its higher renewable energy availability, Windsor shows a net-present cost of $2.80 million and cost of energy of $0.201/kWh as compared to the severe climate of Eagle Plains, with a net-present cost of $3.61 million and cost of energy of $0.259/kWh. In both cases, we see zero emissions in off-grid configurations. A sensitivity analysis shows that system performance can be improved by increasing wind turbine hub heights and solar photovoltaic panel lifespans. With Canada’s goal of transitioning towards 100% zero-emission vehicle sales by 2035, this study provides practical insights regarding site-specific resource optimization for electric vehicle infrastructure that does not rely on grid energy. Furthermore, this study highlights a means to progress the sustainable development goals, namely goals 7, 9, and 13, through the development of more accessible electric vehicle charging stations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Battery Management and Advanced Energy Storage/Conversion Technologies in Renewable Power Systems: From Batteries to Fuel Cells and Hybrid Solutions)

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15 pages, 288 KB

Open AccessArticle

On the Existence of Optimal (v,5,1) and (v,6,1) Binary Cyclically Permutable Constant-Weight Codes

by Tsonka Baicheva and Svetlana Topalova

Axioms 2026, 15(1), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/axioms15010035 (registering DOI) - 1 Jan 2026

Abstract

The problem of the existence of optimal

(v, k, 1)

binary cyclically permutable constant-weight (CPCW) codes has been completely solved for codeword weights

k < 5

. We consider the smallest open cases, namely

k = 5

and [...] Read more.

The problem of the existence of optimal

(v, k, 1)

binary cyclically permutable constant-weight (CPCW) codes has been completely solved for codeword weights

k < 5

. We consider the smallest open cases, namely

k = 5

and

k = 6

. We present such codes for small values of the code length v and derive necessary conditions for the existence of optimal

(k (k - 1) t + 2, k, 1)

CPCW codes. These necessary conditions can be used to construct such codes, as well as to show that optimal codes with some parameters do not exist. In particular, we use them to prove that an optimal

(92, 6, 1)

CPCW code does not exist. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational Algebra, Coding Theory and Cryptography: Theory and Applications, 2nd Edition)

16 pages, 2316 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Temperature-Dependent Visco-Hyperelastic Constitutive Model for Carbon Fiber/Polypropylene Prepreg

by Haochen Zhu and Mingrui Liu

J. Compos. Sci. 2026, 10(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs10010012 (registering DOI) - 1 Jan 2026

Abstract

This study first heat-treats the surface of plain-woven carbon fibers to remove the surface sizing. The treated carbon fibers were then hot-pressed with polypropylene films to produce a carbon fiber/polypropylene prepreg. The resulting prepreg was subjected to uniaxial and off-axis tensile tests, providing fundamental data for constructing a constitute model for the carbon fiber/polypropylene prepreg. The relative error between the model predictions and experimental data is maintained within ±10%. Based on the experimental results, a temperature-dependent viscoelastic–hyperelastic constitutive model for carbon fiber/polypropylene is proposed. This model decomposes the unit volume strain energy function into four components: matrix isochoric deformation energy, fiber tensile strain energy, fiber–fiber shear strain energy, and fiber-matrix shear strain energy. The matrix energy is strain rate-dependent, exhibiting viscoelastic mechanical behavior. The material parameters of the constitutive model were identified by fitting the experimental data. The model was implemented in MATLABR2024a, and off-axis tensile tests were performed at temperatures ranging from 423 K to 453 K. Numerical simulations were compared with experimental results to validate the model. This work provides guidance for the development and validation of constitutive models for thermoplastic polypropylene prepregs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advanced Composites Manufacturing and Plastics Processing, 2nd Volume)

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27 pages, 3408 KB

Open AccessArticle

Graph Attention Network with Mutual k-Nearest Neighbor Strategy for Predictive Maintenance in Nuclear Power Plants

by Stefano Frizzo Stefenon, Laio Oriel Seman and Kin-Choong Yow

Technologies 2026, 14(1), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/technologies14010026 (registering DOI) - 1 Jan 2026

Abstract

This study presents a graph-based framework for improving predictive maintenance in nuclear power plants (NPPs), integrating data balancing techniques with a proposed Graph Attention Network (GAT) with a Mutual k-Nearest Neighbor (Mk-NN) strategy, named GAT-Mk-NN. To enhance the system’s ability to discriminate between genuine faults and sensor anomalies, we introduce a novel procedure for generating synthetic false positives that simulate realistic sensor failures. To mitigate class imbalance, we employ structured oversampling and multiple synthetic data generation strategies. Our results demonstrate that our GAT-Mk-NN model achieves the best trade-off between accuracy and computational efficiency, reaching an F1-score of 0.882 and an accuracy of 0.884. Performance analysis reveals that low to moderate graph connectivity enhances both robustness and model generalization. Our GAT-Mk-NN model structure outperformed other state-of-the-art graph architectures (enhanced GCN, GraphSAGE, GIN, graph transformer, ChebNet, TAG, ARMA graph, simple GCN, GATv2, and hybrid GNN). The findings highlight the potential of graph-based learning for fault detection in sensor-dense industrial environments, offering actionable insights for deploying fault-tolerant diagnostics in critical systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue AI for Smart Engineering Systems)

22 pages, 4723 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Paraffin Microcapsule and Carbon Nanotube Content on the Thermal Behavior of Thermoplastic Polyurethane Nanocomposites with Thermal Energy Storage Capability

by Daniele Rigotti, Andrea Dorigato and Alessandro Pegoretti

J. Compos. Sci. 2026, 10(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs10010010 (registering DOI) - 1 Jan 2026

Abstract

The development of multifunctional polymer composites capable of both heat conduction and latent heat storage is of great interest for advanced thermal management applications. In this work, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nanocomposites containing microencapsulated paraffin-based phase change materials (PCMs) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were systematically investigated. The microstructure, thermal stability, specific heat capacity, thermal diffusivity and conductivity of these composites were analyzed as a function of the PCM and MWCNTs content. SEM observations revealed the homogeneous dispersion of PCM microcapsules and the presence of localized MWCNT aggregates in PCM-rich domains. Thermal diffusivity measurements indicated a monotonic decrease with increasing temperature for all compositions, from 0.097 mm²·s⁻¹ at 5 °C to 0.091 mm²·s⁻¹ at 25 °C for neat TPU, and from 0.186 mm²·s⁻¹ to 0.173 mm²·s⁻¹ for TPU with 5 vol.% MWCNTs. Distinct non-linear behavior was observed around 25 °C, i.e., in correspondence to the paraffin melting, where the apparent diffusivity temporarily decreased due to latent heat absorption. The trend of the thermal conductivity (λ) was determined by the competing effects of PCM and MWCNTs: PCM addition reduced λ at 25 °C from 0.162 W·m⁻¹·K⁻¹ (neat TPU) to 0.128 W·m⁻¹·K⁻¹ at 30 vol.% PCM, whereas the incorporation of 5 vol.% of MWCNTs increased λ up to 0.309 W·m⁻¹·K⁻¹. In PCM-containing nanocomposites, MWCNT networks efficiently bridged the polymer–microcapsule interfaces, creating continuous conductive pathways that mitigated the insulating effect of the encapsulated paraffin and ensured stable heat transfer even across the solid–liquid transition. A one-dimensional transient heat-transfer model confirmed that increasing the matrix thermal conductivity accelerates the melting of the PCM, improving the dynamic thermal buffering capacity of these materials. Therefore, these results underlined the potential of TPU/MWCNT/PCM composites as versatile materials for applications requiring both rapid heat dissipation and effective thermal management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Journal of Composites Science in 2025)

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