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The construction of traditional underground utility tunnels faces prominent challenges, including high costs, long construction cycles, and limited workspace. Although 3D printing technology offers an effective solution to these issues, its practical application is largely constrained by key performance factors such as the printability, early strength, and interlayer bonding of concrete materials. This study aims to develop a 3D-printable concrete material specifically suited for the construction of underground utility tunnels. Through collaborative optimization of parameters such as the water–binder ratio, additives, and fiber content using single-factor and orthogonal tests, the optimal mix proportion was determined: a water–binder ratio of 0.30, a 10% dosage of rapid-hardening sulphoaluminate cement (R·SAC), a sand-to-binder ratio of 1.0, 20% mineral admixtures (15% fly ash + 5% silica fume), and a 1.0% volume fraction of polypropylene fibers. The results indicate that the fresh paste achieved a flowability of 192 mm, demonstrating excellent printability. Specimens printed using a sawtooth toolpath reached a 3-day compressive strength of 37.8 MPa, with 28-day compressive and flexural strengths increasing to 56.3 MPa and 7.8 MPa, respectively, and an interlayer bond strength of 3.5 MPa. Crucially, the compressive and flexural anisotropy coefficients were as low as 0.023 and 0.066, respectively, showing a preliminary exploratory trend superior to levels reported in some literature and suggesting the potential of printed components to improve structural performance consistency. This material system not only meets the requirements of 3D printing for early strength and workability but also, by introducing R·SAC to form a low-alkalinity binder system, provides a potential pathway for enhancing long-term durability in corrosive environments. This study offers a reliable theoretical and experimental basis for the application of 3D printing technology in underground engineering. Long-term durability will remain a primary focus of subsequent research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in the 3D Printing of Concrete)

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74 pages, 15071 KB

Open AccessArticle

Phylogeny and Systematics of Astigmata with Description of Lycoglyphidae fam. nov. and a Comprehensive Identification Key to Acaroidea

by Pavel B. Klimov, Vasiliy B. Kolesvikov and Barry M. OConnor

Taxonomy 2026, 6(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/taxonomy6010018 (registering DOI) - 20 Feb 2026

Abstract

Astigmata is a diverse lineage of mites with significant ecological, medical, and economic importance, yet higher-level relationships within the group remain contentious due to incongruent morphological and molecular data. Here, we integrate multigene data with comparative morphology and ecological traits to reassess phylogenetic relationships, with a focus on the newly described family Lycoglyphidae fam. nov. associated with puffball fungi. Phylogenetic analyses recover Lycoglyphidae within a well-supported cluster—the AR cluster—comprising Acaridae sensu novo, Rhizoglyphidae sensu novo, and several additional related lineages. Within this framework, previously unrecognized lineages such as Pontoppidaniidae (intertidal seaweed habitats) and Cerophagidae (bee-associated) are supported as monophyletic, showing ecological conservatism. Our phylogeny indicates that mating position is phylogenetically structured, with retroconjugate mating prevalent in the AR cluster (except Histiostomatoidea) and many other lineages, while proconjugate mating is present only in two lineages, Hemisarcoptoidea+Glycyphagidae and Rosensteiniidae+Aeroglyphidae. Finally, to facilitate identification and future research, we provide a taxonomic description of new taxa (Lycoglyphidae with Lycoglyphus gen. nov., Obelacarus gen. nov., and Viedebanttia) and a comprehensive key to the families and genera of Acaroidea based on both adults and deutonymphs. Our results clarify some higher-level relationships within Astigmata, indicate the importance of integrating molecular, morphological, and ecological evidence, and provide a practical resource for identification and comparative studies. Full article

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13 pages, 1490 KB

Open AccessArticle

Elm Blunervirus 1: A Novel Hexapartite Blunervirus Infecting Ulmus parvifolia in China

by Yanxiang Wang, Lifeng Zhai, Junjie Xiang, Wanqing Chen, Jingjing Li, Kai Yin, Xiaoshan Shi, Junming Tu, Xian Xia, Ying Wang and Jianyu Bai

Viruses 2026, 18(2), 266; https://doi.org/10.3390/v18020266 (registering DOI) - 20 Feb 2026

Abstract

The genus Blunervirus comprises plant viruses that infect a diverse range of plants, but no blunervirus has been reported infecting elm trees (Ulmus parvifolia) in China to date. Using high-throughput sequencing and reverse-transcription PCR assays, a novel blunervirus, tentatively named elm blunervirus 1 (ElmBlV1), was identified from a symptomatic elm plant (Ulmus parvifolia) in China. The genome of ElmBlV1 harbors canonical molecular features of blunerviruses and comprises six RNA segments (RNAs1–6), with RNA5 and 6 being two additional genomic components not reported in known blunerviruses. Sequence analyses revealed amino acid (aa) identity of ElmBlV1 proteins ranging from 25.9% (polyprotein encoded by RNA1) to 64.2% (movement protein encoded by RNA4) relative to reported blunerviruses and include five orphan open reading frames. Phylogenetically, ElmBlV1 is most closely related to blueberry necrotic ring blotch virus. Furthermore, ElmBlV1 P37 localizes to both plasmodesmata and the nucleus. Additionally, the RNA reads mapping revealed high read coverage was observed on RNAs3–4 for this virus. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a blunervirus infecting an elm tree in China. Our results enrich the diversity of known viruses in the genus of Blunervirus and expand our understanding of their genomic characteristics and molecular biology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Viruses of Plants, Fungi and Protozoa)

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19 pages, 2491 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sagittal Posture Parameters of the Spine and Exposure to Awkward Postures in Mattress Manufacture Workers: An Analytical Cross-Sectional Study

by Sergio Hijazo-Larrosa, María Orosia Lucha-López, Sofía Monti-Ballano, Eva Barrio-Ollero, César Hidalgo-García, Begoña Martínez-Jarreta, Lucía Vicente-Pina and José Miguel Tricás-Moreno

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2026, 11(1), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk11010087 - 20 Feb 2026

Abstract

Background: Awkward postures are among the most prevalent ergonomic risk factors in occupational environments, including industrial settings. Conventional ergonomic risk assessments rarely address the relationship between sustained awkward postures and alterations in sagittal spinal curvatures. The primary objective of this study was to analyze the association between sagittal spinal posture parameters and exposure to awkward postures in male workers from the mattress manufacturing industry. The potential confounding effects of age, job seniority, body mass index (BMI), and physical activity level were also examined. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted. Data collected included age, job seniority, anthropometric variables, and physical activity level. Sagittal spinal posture parameters—head alignment, thoracic kyphotic curvature, lumbar lordotic curvature, and pelvic tilt—were assessed using photogrammetry. Exposure to awkward postures was recorded according to occupational health surveillance criteria. Results: A total of 116 male workers were randomly selected. BMI showed a significant negative association with head alignment (p = 0.001), with a medium effect size (η² = 0.090). Lower BMI values (β = −0.517) were observed in association with a more posterior head position. In addition, participants not exposed to awkward postures presented, on average, a 6.479° lower thoracic kyphotic curvature angle compared with exposed workers (p = 0.050), indicating a greater kyphotic curvature among those exposed. Conclusions: In this sample, lower BMI was associated with a more posterior head position and improved alignment with the upper trunk. Furthermore, exposure to awkward postures was related to a modest increase in thoracic kyphotic curvature, suggesting postural adaptations to occupational demands. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exercise and Evaluation for Health and Occupational Wellness: Current Trends and Future Directions—2nd Edition)

10 pages, 442 KB

Open AccessArticle

Long-Term Efficacy of Limosilactobacillus Reuteri DSM17938 in the Prevention of Functional Abdominal Pain Disorders

by Flavia Indrio, Antonio Di Mauro, Giacomo Perrone, Annamaria Greco, Simona Filoni, Enea Vincenzo Napolitano and Luca Pecoraro

Nutrients 2026, 18(4), 687; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18040687 - 20 Feb 2026

Abstract

Introduction: Pediatric Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (FGIDs), including infantile colic and constipation, may persist into later childhood and adulthood, sometimes manifesting as functional abdominal pain (FAP). Early exposure to probiotics during critical developmental windows may influence long-term susceptibility to disease. Background/Objectives: Building on our original randomized controlled trial, which demonstrated that Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 reduced acute infantile FGID symptoms, a 10-year follow-up study was performed to evaluate whether this early intervention provided lasting protection against FAP in childhood. Methods: Two hundred participants from the original RCT cohort completed follow-up assessments at age ten. The primary outcome was the presence of FAP, analyzed according to the original randomization group (probiotic vs placebo). FAP was diagnosed at age 10 using the Rome IV criteria, based on a standardized clinical assessment by a pediatric gastroenterologist who was blinded to the original allocation. Results: FAP was diagnosed in 13/99 (13.1%) children in the probiotic group and 81/101 (80.2%) in the placebo group, corresponding to an absolute risk reduction of 67.1% (95% CI 56.8–77.3) and a relative risk of 0.16 (95% CI 0.10–0.27) (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Early supplementation with L. reuteri DSM 17938 was associated with a markedly lower prevalence of FAP at age 10. However, the long-term follow-up was observational and characterized by a 57.2% attrition rate. In addition, longitudinal data on potential confounders were unavailable; therefore, the findings should be interpreted as an association rather than proof of causality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Prebiotics, Probiotics and Postbiotics)

57 pages, 2619 KB

Open AccessArticle

Reliability-Based Design Optimisation of Bridge Systems Within BIM—Robustness, Redundancy and Safety Metrics

by John Dixon, Van Bac Nguyen and Boris Ceranic

Buildings 2026, 16(4), 854; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16040854 - 20 Feb 2026

Abstract

Research shows that structures are often over designed in reliability-based calculations compared to code requirements. To address the knowledge gap in applying Reliability Based Design Optimisation (RBDO) within Building Information Modelling (BIM), this paper presents a novel BIM-integrated RBDO system for highway structures aimed at reducing over design. The approach is aimed at optimising the system reliability index. This value is then applied to the BIM model of the structure as a direct safety metric describing the probability of failure. In addition, minimum robustness and redundancy indices can be derived using this approach to ensure overall compliance with structural design codes, (Eurocodes), yielding key BIM model safety metrics. The system reliability index was optimised by utilising target limit state reliability indices to derive system difference target limits. System element reliability indices were effectively increased or reduced by manipulating element resistance parameters. An optimisation algorithm was employed to ensure compliance with the minimum system difference target limits. A secondary verification was undertaken to ensure minimal element target reliability indices were not compromised. The system reliability-based case studies on one-span bridge structures demonstrated that optimisation resulted in an overall 15% reduction in design resistance compared with the Eurocodes design method. In addition to highlighting element overdesign, the balance between safety and economy is improved by yielding comprehensive structural system safety metrics as a safer approach than direct element reliability-based optimisation. Full article

25 pages, 465 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Simulation-Based Science Instruction on Fifth-Grade Students’ Systems Thinking and Problem-Solving Perceptions

by Ummuhan Ormanci

Systems 2026, 14(2), 222; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems14020222 - 20 Feb 2026

Abstract

The growing emphasis on 21st-century competencies highlights the need to develop students’ systems thinking and problem-solving, particularly in science education, where many concepts involve complex, dynamic relationships. This study examined differences in fifth-grade students’ systems thinking performance and problem-solving perceptions associated with simulation-supported science instruction within the unit Electricity in Our Lives. A quasi-experimental pretest–posttest design was used with two intact classes, in which the experimental group received PhET-supported instruction and a control group followed the national curriculum. Data were collected through a systems thinking test (multiple-choice and open-ended items) and a problem-solving perception scale. The results showed that, after adjusting for baseline scores, the simulation-supported group demonstrated higher posttest systems thinking scores than the control group, with a large effect size. For problem-solving perceptions, the simulation-supported group also showed higher posttest scores compared to the control group. In addition, a moderate positive correlation was observed between systems thinking performance and problem-solving perceptions. Although causal inferences are limited due to the use of two intact classes and the absence of individual-level random assignment, the findings suggest that interactive simulations may support students’ holistic reasoning and engagement in problem-solving processes. The study highlights the potential value of integrating interactive simulations into science curricula to promote deeper cognitive competencies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Systems Thinking in Education: Learning, Design and Technology)

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25 pages, 1039 KB

Open AccessArticle

Engineering Ethics Education for Sustainable Transport: A Dual-Mediation Model of Teaching Satisfaction, Embodied Experience, and Self-Efficacy

by Huili Zhang

Sustainability 2026, 18(4), 2114; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18042114 - 20 Feb 2026

Abstract

Integrating engineering ethics education into the curriculum system of China’s transportation engineering major is crucial for promoting Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11) in the field of transportation engineering in China. However, the mapping relationship between teaching satisfaction and engineering ethics literacy, which are traditional indicators for evaluating teaching effectiveness in China, is not clear. This study constructed a teaching satisfaction transformation model with Experiential Transformer Engagement (ETE) and Self-Efficacy (SE) as dual mediators. Through experimental testing of undergraduate students majoring in transportation engineering from five universities in Hebei Province, it was found that both ETE and SE significantly moderated the conversion of teaching satisfaction to two key ethical abilities: Ethical Decision-Making Competence (EDMC) and Social Responsibility Strength (SRS). Among them, ETE accounted for about 64% of the total indirect impact on the two outcomes, which was significantly stronger than SE’s 48%. In addition, achievement goal orientation has a significant moderating effect. These findings not only address the teaching framework of engineering ethics that is suitable for the Chinese context, but also expand the theoretical basis and implementation plans of teaching models in the early stages of engineering ethics education in developing countries. Full article

21 pages, 4386 KB

Open AccessArticle

Developmental and Reproductive Impacts of Arsenophonus Symbiont on the Population of Nilaparvata lugens

by Qian-Qian Li, Salah M. Mohamed, Yi-Le Hu, Yong-Mao Lian, Adams Ibrahim, Xiang-Zhen Zhu, Feng Chen and Sheng Lin

Insects 2026, 17(2), 222; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects17020222 - 20 Feb 2026

Abstract

The Brown Planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens (Stål.) (Hemiptera: Delphinidae), is one of the most destructive pests of rice. Its reproductive and developmental traits are influenced by various environmental and biological factors including endosymbiotic microorganisms. Arsenophonus, a widespread endosymbiotic bacterium of insects, can affect host fitness and metabolic processes. This study investigates the role of Arsenophonus in modulating the developmental and reproductive traits of N. lugens fed on transgenic cry30Fa1 rice (KF30-14) and its parent variety Minghui 86 (MH86). Life table analysis revealed that Arsenophonus infection (Ars⁺) increased the development time and reduced the reproductive capacity of N. lugens, especially those feeding on KF30-14. The first-instar nymphs in MH86 Ars⁺ (infected) exhibited slower development compared to MH86 Ars⁻ (uninfected). Similarly, the third and fourth-instar nymphs in KF30-14 Ars⁺ exhibited prolonged development time compared to KF30-14 Ars⁻. In addition, KF30-14 Ars⁺ females had significantly reduced reproductive capacity, smaller ovarian tubules and lower relative expression levels of reproduction-related genes including Trehalose transporter (Tret), Vitellogenin (Vg) and Cytochrome P450 hydroxylase (cyp314a1), while Juvenile hormone acid methyltransferase (JHAMT) expression was upregulated. RNA sequencing and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis revealed significant enrichment of genes involved in lipid, amino acid, and vitamin metabolisms, with Long-chain acyl-CoA synthetase implicated as a key regulator of lipid metabolism and reproductive fitness. These results highlight the complex interactions between endosymbionts, host plants and pest biology, offering a solid foundation for sustainable approaches to control N. lugens in rice production systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insect Molecular Biology: From Bioinformatics to Pest Management Applications)

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28 pages, 2393 KB

Open AccessArticle

How the Digital Economy Reduces Agricultural Carbon Emissions: Mechanisms, Threshold Effects, and Policy Implications

by Huaijin Li, Kexin Li, Paravee Maneejuk and Jianxu Liu

Agriculture 2026, 16(4), 478; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture16040478 - 20 Feb 2026

Abstract

The problem of agricultural environmental pollution is increasingly serious, and carbon emissions have become an important form of pollution that must be controlled. This study aims to explore the impact mechanism and heterogeneity of the digital economy on China’s agricultural carbon emission intensity. Based on the panel data of 30 provinces in China from 2012 to 2022, an empirical analysis was conducted using two-way fixed effect models, moderating effect models, and panel threshold models, revealing that the development of the digital economy is significantly and negatively associated with agricultural carbon emission intensity. However, the emission reduction effect is restricted by a complex moderation and threshold framework. Specifically, the improvement of human capital may lead to a decreasing trend in the emission reduction effect of the digital economy, implying the existence of a potential “efficiency rebound” effect. The regional innovation environment can significantly enhance the emission reduction effect of the digital economy, and this effect is most significant when there is both high human capital and a superior innovation environment. In addition, the emission reduction effect of the digital economy exhibits threshold characteristics and is optimal when agricultural technology progress reaches an intermediate level; an institutional environment can play an effective role at the intermediate level, but its independent emission reduction effect tends to be saturated under a highly perfect institutional environment. These findings provide new evidence for understanding the complex relationship between the digital economy and agricultural carbon emissions and provide a theoretical basis and practical guidance for the formulation of differentiated agricultural low-carbon development policies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Environmental Pollution in Modern Agriculture: Causes, Effect, and Control)

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17 pages, 5726 KB

Open AccessArticle

Production and Characterization of Al Alloys Obtained Through Molten Metal Deposition

by Cinzia Menapace, Jonas Galle, Chola Elangeswaran and Advenit Makaya

Metals 2026, 16(2), 238; https://doi.org/10.3390/met16020238 - 20 Feb 2026

Abstract

Two aluminum alloys (4043 and 6061) were fabricated using the innovative Molten Metal Deposition (MMD) technique. Three types of samples were produced by varying selected deposition parameters. The quality of the resulting components was assessed in terms of defects, density, and microstructure. In the 4043 alloy, the microstructure consists of α-Al dendrites surrounded by an Al–Si eutectic phase. All 4043 samples exhibited this microstructure, regardless of the deposition parameters. The mechanical response was preliminarily evaluated through HV0.5 microhardness measurements. The indentations produced under a 500 g load enabled the assessment of the contribution of both the α-Al matrix and the surrounding Al–Si eutectic. As for the 6061 alloy, its microstructure is composed of an α-Al matrix containing dispersed Al–Si–Fe intermetallics. Some oxide particles were observed at the grain boundaries, indicating the need for processing under a controlled atmosphere. In this study, no inert shielding atmosphere was used for the fabrication of the samples. Thanks to its high processing speed, sustainability, and ease of deployment, MMD can be regarded as a viable alternative to more conventional additive manufacturing technologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Processing, Properties, Applications and Recycling of Light Alloys)

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21 pages, 1710 KB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Predictive Markers for Immunotherapy in Colorectal Cancer: Concordance Between MMR Protein Expression and Microsatellite Instability in a Retrospective Series

by Giulia Martinelli, Rossella Bruno, Marco Maria Germani, Anello Marcello Poma, Paola Vignali, Chiara Cremolini and Clara Ugolini

J. Mol. Pathol. 2026, 7(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmp7010009 - 20 Feb 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: In metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) the evaluation of mismatch repair (MMR) and microsatellite instability (MSI) status is essential to identify patients eligible for treatment with immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICI). This study aims to evaluate the potential utility of Comprehensive Genomic Profiling (CGP) in assessing MSI status, in addition to other immunotherapy-predictive biomarkers such as high tumor molecular burden (TMB) and the POLE and POLD1 mutations. Methods: A total of 138 mCRC tumor samples underwent a first-level molecular test (MMR status by immunohistochemistry, MSI by a melting-based PCR approach and RAS/BRAF mutational status by a small next-generation sequencing (NGS) panel) and second-level CGP analysis by the FoundationOne CDx assay. The prevalence of dMMR and MSI tumors was reported. Moreover, the concordance between the MMR and MSI status was determined, and discordant cases were discussed. Results: Twelve cases (8.7%) were MMR-deficient (dMMR); 10 showed high MSI and TMB (>10 mut/Mb). MSI status assessed by CGP and PCR was concordant in all cases except one MSH6-deficient tumor. Two dMMR cases were stable with low TMB. Moreover, in two MLH1/PMS2-deficient cases CGP revealed pathogenic alterations in the MSH2 and MSH6 genes; in both cases, the MLH1 promoter was hypermethylated. A high TMB was the only positive biomarker in 11 cases with a proficient MMR system and no MSI. Conclusions: MSI assessment by CGP analysis showed high concordance (98%) with MMR and was helpful in evaluating ICI eligibility in three out of twelve dMMR cases. Overall, compared to standard methods, analyzing a broader range of microsatellite loci and the simultaneous assessment of multiple predictive biomarkers by CGP may increase diagnostic accuracy and improve therapeutic assessment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing Cancer Diagnosis: Integrating Molecular Pathology into Histopathology for Solid Tumors)

22 pages, 1738 KB

Open AccessArticle

Buffalo Milk: Alternative Use for Soap Preparation Enriched with Vegetables

by Barbara la Gatta, Flavia Dilucia, Maria Teresa Liberatore, Mariacinzia Rutigliano, Aldo Di Luccia, Marzia Albenzio and Mariangela Caroprese

Molecules 2026, 31(4), 734; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31040734 - 20 Feb 2026

Abstract

The surplus in the production of buffalo milk determines the possibility of finding alternative solutions for its use. Indeed, the utilization of milk in cosmetic formulations has been met with great approval by consumers, primarily due to its highly appreciated emollient characteristics. The aim of this research was to test an alternative use of buffalo milk in the production of artisanal solid soaps, using buffalo milk as raw material and Lavender, Thyme, and Grape pomace as sources of natural bioactive compounds. The analytical approach was focused on using vegetable materials in three forms: fresh, dried, and freeze-dried. For this purpose, the chemical features of both raw materials and artisanal soaps were determined in order to understand the feasibility of these productions. All formulated artisanal soaps revealed good chemical characteristics, such as a low moisture content, and got high scores in the sensory evaluation, with those with Lavender and Grape pomace being the most appreciated formulations. Furthermore, adding vegetable materials increased the bioactive molecules content, as demonstrated by the data obtained from total polyphenol content and antioxidant activity. Therefore, the addition of plants and vegetables to the formulation could represent an innovative production of natural soaps and be a further element for the market trends. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Compounds in Food and Cosmetics Processing)

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20 pages, 4323 KB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Infill Density on the Fatigue Performance of FDM-Manufactured Orthopaedic Plates

by Aleksa Milovanović, Simon Sedmak, Aleksandar Sedmak, Filip Vučetić and Katarina Monkova

Materials 2026, 19(4), 816; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19040816 - 20 Feb 2026

Abstract

Orthopaedic plates are long-established medical devices conventionally manufactured from metals, most notably titanium alloys. The introduction of Additive Manufacturing (AM) has created new opportunities to design implants with complex internal architectures, enabling precise control over infill patterns and densities that directly influence mechanical properties and fatigue performance. Biodegradable polymers such as polylactic acid (PLA) have attracted growing interest in biomedical engineering, potentially reducing the need for secondary implant-removal surgery if degradation rates are carefully controlled and clinically approved. Additionally, AM offers the ability to customise internal structure for improved mechanical performance and load-bearing, while also providing the possibility of integrating advanced functionalities, such as controlled drug delivery. Building on previous work by our research group at the University of Belgrade, this study investigates the fatigue behaviour of the best-performing AM-optimised orthopaedic plate design. Numerical models incorporating honeycomb infill structures with the full range of achievable densities were developed to assess structural integrity under fatigue loading. Fatigue crack growth was simulated in ANSYS Mechanical (ANSYS Inc., Canonsburg, PA, USA) software, employing a four-point bending configuration in accordance with the ASTM F382 standard. A validated PLA material model was implemented at a reduced load level (10%) relative to previous studies. Direct comparison with titanium plates was avoided due to fundamentally different material properties, focusing instead on infill architecture to identify optimal AM design strategies for orthopaedic plates. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Materials for Additive Manufacturing)

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21 pages, 2209 KB

Open AccessArticle

Identification of Significant Genomic Changes and Compartmentalization of Simian Foamy Virus in a Human Zoonotically Infected by a Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes troglodytes)

by Haoqiang Zheng, Anupama Shankar, Gunars Osis, Alex Burgin, Mili Sheth, Kaveh G. Kiani, Yen T. Duong, David Cowan and William M. Switzer

Viruses 2026, 18(2), 265; https://doi.org/10.3390/v18020265 - 20 Feb 2026

Abstract

Despite increasing reports of zoonotic simian foamy virus (SFV) infections globally, knowledge of its genetic adaptation in humans and impact on viral transmission and pathogenicity remains limited. We obtained complete SFV genomes using metagenomics analysis of viral isolates from peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) and throat specimens from a worker (Case 6) and source chimpanzee (B1) that bit him. We analyzed viral diversity in three genomic regions (LTR, tas, and bet) involved in replication and latency using longitudinal specimens (PBLs, throat, saliva, urine, and semen) from Case 6 over five years, and PBLs from B1 and five additional chimpanzees over three years. Proviral loads were measured using a validated qPCR assay. Phylogenetic analysis revealed nearly identical SFV genomes in Case 6 and B1. Overall, bet sequences exhibited high genetic stability across body compartments and over time, with evidence of compartmentalization in Case 6 urine and semen specimens. G→A substitutions in GG and GA motifs in bet indicated heterogeneous APOBEC-associated editing across hosts and anatomical compartments following zoonotic transmission. Case 6 had significant deletions in the LTR region that were absent in B1 and other chimpanzees. Length variation in tas, including truncated forms, was observed across longitudinal specimens from Case 6, B1, and other chimpanzees. Proviral loads were consistently low and undetectable in most Case 6 urine specimens. Together, analysis of this SFV transmission pair identifies genomic changes likely to affect viral replication and persistence, highlighting mechanisms that may limit secondary transmission and pathogenicity of SFV in humans. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spumaretroviruses: Research and Applications)

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