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25 pages, 1568 KB  
Review
Neonatal Infections Caused by Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria: An Analysis of Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Therapeutic Implications—A Narrative Review
by Elena-Teona Coșovanu, Teodora Ana Balan, Eric-Oliviu Coșovanu, Silvia Ionescu, Costin Damian, Antoneta Dacia Petroaie, Elena-Adorata Coman, Mihaela Grigore, Demetra Socolov, Raluca Anca Balan, Luminita Smaranda Iancu, Irina Draga Căruntu and Ramona Gabriela Ursu
Pathogens 2026, 15(5), 469; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens15050469 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2026
Abstract
Neonatal infections remain a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly among preterm and low-birth-weight infants and in low- and middle-income countries. This burden has intensified with the global increase in multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria, especially in neonatal intensive care units, where prolonged [...] Read more.
Neonatal infections remain a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly among preterm and low-birth-weight infants and in low- and middle-income countries. This burden has intensified with the global increase in multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria, especially in neonatal intensive care units, where prolonged hospitalization, invasive interventions, and exposure to broad-spectrum antibiotics promote colonization, transmission, and invasive infection. In this narrative review, we explore the epidemiology and microbiological characteristics of MDR bacterial infections in newborns, alongside their associated risk factors, diagnostic challenges, treatment outcomes, and prevention strategies. Across different settings, Gram-negative pathogens, particularly Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, and Acinetobacter baumannii, account for a substantial proportion of severe neonatal infections, whereas methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus remains important in selected units. The risk of MDR infection is driven by a complex interplay of factors, ranging from maternal and perinatal exposures to the inherent immunological vulnerability of newborns, hospital-based transmission, antibiotic selection pressure, and structural deficiencies in healthcare infrastructure. Diagnosis remains challenging because clinical presentations are nonspecific and culture-based methods are constrained by low blood volumes, prior antimicrobial exposure, and delayed turnaround times. Treatment is increasingly complicated due to resistance to standard empirical regimens, substantial regional variation in susceptibility profiles, and limited neonatal pharmacokinetic and safety data for reserve agents. Current evidence mainly supports surveillance-informed empirical therapy, susceptibility-guided treatment adjustment, antimicrobial stewardship, and strict infection prevention measures. Future progress will require neonatal-specific clinical trials, harmonized surveillance systems, stronger molecular epidemiology, and more equitable access to microbiological diagnostics and effective treatment. Full article
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23 pages, 1845 KB  
Article
Dynamics and Engagement Mechanisms of the Intangible Cultural Heritage Knowledge Ecosystem: An Integration of Topic Characteristics and User Demands on Social Q&A Platforms
by Liuxing Lu, Xiaoyang Lin, Jiaqi Zhang and Ning Zhang
Systems 2026, 14(5), 468; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems14050468 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2026
Abstract
Despite the rapid digitization of intangible cultural heritage (ICH), the complex mechanisms governing how users interact and co-create knowledge in digital spaces remain underexplored. Understanding the internal dynamics and engagement logic of these interactive environments is therefore essential to developing sustainable heritage knowledge [...] Read more.
Despite the rapid digitization of intangible cultural heritage (ICH), the complex mechanisms governing how users interact and co-create knowledge in digital spaces remain underexplored. Understanding the internal dynamics and engagement logic of these interactive environments is therefore essential to developing sustainable heritage knowledge ecosystems. Conceptualizing the Zhihu community as such an ecosystem, this study investigates ICH thematic structures, knowledge demands, and user participation. By employing an LLM-refined BERTopic framework, this study identified 36 core topics and mapped them onto a four-layer architecture (Cultural Resource Layer, Action Subject Layer, Social Support Layer, and External Interaction Layer) and five knowledge demand dimensions (Basic Knowledge, Cultural Experience, Professional Development, Protection and Inheritance, and Modern Application) through weighted semantic similarity and Spearman correlation analysis. The results reveal a structural configuration dominated by the External Interaction Layer. A dual-track demand mechanism was identified, comprising a professionalized ability-oriented pathway and an affective experience-driven mode. Furthermore, deep engagement was primarily catalyzed by topics that integrate technology, action, and narrative, rather than structural prominence alone. The ICH knowledge ecosystem was characterized by an outward-looking and emotion-driven orientation. This research study contributes an ecosystem framework to heritage information while providing insights for practitioners to optimize digital ICH information services through multi-dimensional semantic integration and public co-creation. Full article
19 pages, 1963 KB  
Article
Influence of Rheological Behavior on Oxygen Transfer and Energetic Efficiency in Pestalotiopsis microspora Cultures
by María Guadalupe Pérez-Loredo, Luis Alberto López-Juárez, Carlos Eduardo Gómez-Sánchez, Claudia Guerero-Barajas, Juan S. Aranda-Barradas and Alberto Ordaz
Processes 2026, 14(9), 1385; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr14091385 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2026
Abstract
High-value metabolites, such as antibiotics and enzymes, are primarily produced using filamentous fungi. However, their morphological complexity increases broth viscosity during biomass growth, hindering industrial scale-up by impairing both power input and mass transfer. The interaction between biomass growth, rheology, power input, and [...] Read more.
High-value metabolites, such as antibiotics and enzymes, are primarily produced using filamentous fungi. However, their morphological complexity increases broth viscosity during biomass growth, hindering industrial scale-up by impairing both power input and mass transfer. The interaction between biomass growth, rheology, power input, and oxygen transfer is first addressed here by evaluating mycelial rheology and determining the volumetric mass transfer coefficient (kLa) (dynamic method) and oxygen uptake rate (respirometry) across different operating conditions. These confirmed that the mycelial broth’s pseudoplastic behavior significantly influences volumetric power input and kLa correlations. However, specific power input analysis revealed that operating at higher stirring rates (800 rpm) at higher cell-density cultures is 28.17% more energetically efficient than at low speeds (500 rpm). Furthermore, the oxygen supply-to-demand ratio, calculated via Excel model-fitting, allowed for the estimation of “metabolic power input” which represents the required energy to fit oxygen demand. Results also reveal that at 3.67 ± 0.34 g L−1 of biomass effectively channel up to 51% of total energy toward aerobic metabolism, compared to only 17–30% for 0.73 ± 0.01 g L−1 of biomass. These findings show that volumetric power inputs around 4 kW m−3 improve oxygen transfer efficiency, even at relatively high biomass concentrations. Full article
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28 pages, 5160 KB  
Article
Ecosystem Services–Human Well-Being Coupling in China’s Northeast Black Soil Region: A Two-Level Perspective Incorporating Internal Ecosystem Service Balance
by Wanning Tao, Miao Yu, Yufei Zhang, Chuqiao Wang, Zhichao Dong and Deyang Guan
Land 2026, 15(5), 731; https://doi.org/10.3390/land15050731 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2026
Abstract
There exists a complex and intimate interplay between ecosystem services and human well-being. This coordination not only concerns regional sustainable development but also depends on the structural balance of various service functions within ecosystems. Therefore, based on three-phase data from 2000 to 2020, [...] Read more.
There exists a complex and intimate interplay between ecosystem services and human well-being. This coordination not only concerns regional sustainable development but also depends on the structural balance of various service functions within ecosystems. Therefore, based on three-phase data from 2000 to 2020, this study investigates the coupling coordination relationship between ecosystem services and human well-being in the Northeast Black Soil Region, along with its driving factors and influence pathways. Key ecosystem services and human well-being levels were quantified, introducing a two-level coupling coordination model: D1 (coordination between total ecosystem service provision and human well-being) and D2 (coordination between internal ecosystem service balance and human well-being). Results indicate that: (1) From 2000 to 2020, the Ecosystem Service Index showed an initial rise followed by a decline. Synergistic relationships among ecosystem services strengthened, while trade-offs between cultural services (Shannon diversity index) and other services persisted. High human well-being zones were highly concentrated in provincial capitals, indicating the gradual formation of a priority development pattern. (2) The coupling coordination level of D2 was significantly weaker overall than that of D1. Compared to the overall supply level, the coordination of internal ecosystem service functions was a more critical factor constraining regional comprehensive development. (3) Landscape patterns are the primary factor governing the coupling relationship between regional ecosystem services and human well-being. Future efforts should focus on optimizing landscape configurations to enhance both human well-being and ecosystem coordination. This study contributes to a better understanding of the relationship between ecosystem services and human well-being from the perspectives of both aggregate coordination and internal balance, and also provides valuable insights for research and management measures in regions characterized by intensive agricultural development and rapid urbanization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Land, Biodiversity, and Human Wellbeing)
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13 pages, 2264 KB  
Article
Enhancing the Temperature Forecast Accuracy of the ZJOCF Model Using AI-Based Station-Level Bias Correction
by Yifan Wang, Yiwen Shi, Tu Qian, Zhidan Zhu, Xiaocan Lao, Keyi Xiang, Shiyun Mou and Shujie Yuan
Atmosphere 2026, 17(5), 439; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos17050439 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2026
Abstract
Liuchun Lake area, located in the high-elevation and topographically complex western region of Zhejiang Province, exhibits temperature variability strongly influenced by terrain-induced dynamics and local microclimates. The Zhejiang Operational Consensus Forecasts (ZJOCF) model shows pronounced systematic biases in this area, making it difficult [...] Read more.
Liuchun Lake area, located in the high-elevation and topographically complex western region of Zhejiang Province, exhibits temperature variability strongly influenced by terrain-induced dynamics and local microclimates. The Zhejiang Operational Consensus Forecasts (ZJOCF) model shows pronounced systematic biases in this area, making it difficult to meet the demand for short-term, fine-scale forecasts in cultural-tourism applications. Using observational data from four stations at different elevations, this study analyzes how ZJOCF temperature forecast errors vary with altitude, develops a station-level machine-learning temperature bias-correction model, and evaluates its performance in terms of accuracy, mean absolute error (MAE), error distribution, and control of extreme errors. Results show that the accuracy of the raw forecasts decreases significantly with increasing elevation, with high-altitude sites exhibiting distinct warm biases and strong fluctuations. After correction, the 72 h forecast accuracy at the four stations increases to 69–71% (up to 40.8% at the mountaintop station), MAE is reduced by more than 60% on average, extreme-error cases decrease by 40–60%, and the error distribution shifts from a scattered multi-peak pattern to a concentrated single-peak structure. These findings demonstrate that station-level machine-learning correction can effectively mitigate structural errors in ZJOCF temperature forecasts over complex terrain, providing a reliable technical pathway for refined meteorological services in mountainous regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Atmospheric Techniques, Instruments, and Modeling)
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20 pages, 2863 KB  
Article
Microbial Drivers of Seed Vigor in Salvia miltiorrhiza: Bacterial Network Stability, Pseudomonas Enrichment, and Identification of Growth-Promoting Strains
by Yate Zhang, Rui Zou, Meng Yu, Jiayi Fu, Hanxin Ye, Xin Chen, Ruiqi Liu, Pengfeng Zhu, Qingdian Han, Ning Sui, Leran Wang and Guoyin Kai
Agronomy 2026, 16(9), 874; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy16090874 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2026
Abstract
The global demand for Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge in the botanical medicine market is steadily increasing. However, its production has long relied on asexual root propagation, making it highly susceptible to germplasm degradation. Transitioning to seed reproduction offers the advantage of genetic renewal, yet [...] Read more.
The global demand for Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge in the botanical medicine market is steadily increasing. However, its production has long relied on asexual root propagation, making it highly susceptible to germplasm degradation. Transitioning to seed reproduction offers the advantage of genetic renewal, yet it is constrained by unstable seed vigor and slow seedling growth. In the present study, comprehensive physiological and microbiome analyses of S. miltiorrhiza seeds from 14 regions across 7 provinces in China were conducted to elucidate the association between the seed microbiome and vigor, and to identify plant growth-promoting (PGP) strains. The results demonstrated: (1) Seed physical traits and germination characteristics varied significantly across geographic origins. Seed vigor, exhibiting the highest coefficient of variation, served as a key parameter reflecting germination quality. (2) High-vigor seeds harbored distinct microbial communities characterized by higher diversity indices, greater network complexity, and the significant enrichment of potentially beneficial bacteria (e.g., Pseudomonas). (3) Through correlation-directed screening of isolated pure cultures, Pseudomonas mendocina P-6 and Enterobacter ludwigii BM-12 were identified as exhibiting robust, multi-trait PGP capacity. In planta validation showed that these two strains significantly promoted the growth of 1-month-old S. miltiorrhiza seedlings, increasing total fresh weight by 33.9–71.3%. This study reveals the microecological drivers of seed vigor and provides candidate strains for inoculant development, thereby supporting the sustainable, seed-based propagation of S. miltiorrhiza. Full article
18 pages, 1015 KB  
Article
Context-Aware Semantic Retrieval for Ancient Texts: A Native Reasoning Approach Based on In-Memory Knowledge Graph
by Tianrui Li and Hongyu Yuan
Electronics 2026, 15(9), 1827; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics15091827 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2026
Abstract
This paper presents a lightweight semantic retrieval framework driven by an in-memory knowledge graph (IMKG) to overcome the limitations of traditional keyword matching and the prohibitive hardware costs of deep learning models in digitizing ancient Chinese literature. By extracting structured metadata from canonical [...] Read more.
This paper presents a lightweight semantic retrieval framework driven by an in-memory knowledge graph (IMKG) to overcome the limitations of traditional keyword matching and the prohibitive hardware costs of deep learning models in digitizing ancient Chinese literature. By extracting structured metadata from canonical texts, we construct a dense, bidirectional graph schema. Diverging from resource-intensive neural architectures, our system abandons heavyweight vector embeddings in favor of a highly optimized, template-based heuristic matching engine natively implemented in Java. This purely symbolic approach ensures deterministic execution, zero-dependency deployment, and seamless operation on standard CPU-only servers. To handle complex historical inquiries, the framework integrates a context-aware dialogue manager for multi-turn anaphora and ellipsis resolution, alongside a synergistic tiered caching mechanism. Extensive evaluations on a benchmark of 13,652 annotated queries demonstrate that the system achieves an exceptional intent recognition accuracy of 97.14%, robust context retention, and ultra-low response latency (≤17 ms). Ultimately, this architecture provides a sustainable, highly reproducible, and cost-effective paradigm for the semantic exploration of classical textual heritage, exceptionally suited for small-to-medium cultural institutions. Full article
20 pages, 802 KB  
Brief Report
Artifact Construction Illuminating Wellbeing Amongst Saudi Arabian Women Academic Leaders: A Methodological Mapping in Four Artifacts
by Claire Alkouatli and Rasis Alanazi
Educ. Sci. 2026, 16(5), 680; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci16050680 - 24 Apr 2026
Abstract
This paper reports upon the visual research methodology of artifact construction employed in semi-structured interviews to explore how Saudi women in academic leadership positions cultivate and maintain wellbeing. Ten Saudi Arabian women academic leaders were invited to draw, diagram, or annotate how they [...] Read more.
This paper reports upon the visual research methodology of artifact construction employed in semi-structured interviews to explore how Saudi women in academic leadership positions cultivate and maintain wellbeing. Ten Saudi Arabian women academic leaders were invited to draw, diagram, or annotate how they cultivate, maintain, and express wellbeing in a rapidly changing cultural context. Four exemplary artifacts were selected for analysis. Findings include that while semi-structured interviewing made themes visible, artifact construction extended the themes and illuminated unique aspects of the research question. Specifically, the artifacts illustrate wellbeing as holistic, interwoven of hedonic and eudaimonic aspects, and positioning self and others in a lattice of being well. It is intentional, balanced, spiritually sourced and sustained. It is generous and generative, animating abundance as both a process and a product of wellbeing. The artifacts are more than just a visual complement to the research story; they methodologically tap into the research question differently than verbal methods alone. While not every research participant accepted the invitation to construct an artifact, and methodological drawbacks are considered, the ones who did accept the invitation demonstrated that artifact construction captures complexity at the conceptual intersection of wellbeing and female academic leadership. This paper contributes new knowledge on the efficacy of artifact construction; in this case, in research sites beyond culturally ‘western’ ones. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Educational Leadership Complexity: Theories, Methods, and Practices)
25 pages, 1343 KB  
Review
Harnessing Cancer Stem Cells and 3D Organoids in Unravelling Spatial and Cellular Heterogeneity in Cancer
by Eunsong Kwak, Haneul Kim and Eunhye Kim
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(9), 3790; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27093790 - 24 Apr 2026
Abstract
Cancer exhibits pronounced heterogeneity at both spatial and cellular levels, contributing to variability in therapeutic responses and the emergence of treatment resistance. This heterogeneity is underscored by the diverse genetic, epigenetic, and phenotypic variations found within tumor cell populations. Cancer stem cells (CSCs), [...] Read more.
Cancer exhibits pronounced heterogeneity at both spatial and cellular levels, contributing to variability in therapeutic responses and the emergence of treatment resistance. This heterogeneity is underscored by the diverse genetic, epigenetic, and phenotypic variations found within tumor cell populations. Cancer stem cells (CSCs), although representing a minor fraction of tumor cells, possess the capacity to self-renew and differentiate, thereby driving the dynamic evolution of tumor heterogeneity. CSCs interact intricately with various elements of the tumor microenvironment (TME), further amplifying this heterogeneity. Recent advancements in organoid technology have facilitated the development of CSC-derived organoid models that more faithfully recapitulate the TME and intratumoral heterogeneity, which conventional 2D culture systems fail to replicate. These CSC-derived organoid systems not only preserve the structural and genomic characteristics of tumors, but they also enable the exploration and evaluation of therapeutic strategies that reflect tumor complexity. However, CSC-derived organoid systems face several challenges, such as the rarity of CSCs, lack of standardized culture conditions, absence of TME components, limited predictive accuracy, and insufficient modeling of tumor heterogeneity. This review discusses these limitations and explores potential solutions, including the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance treatment predictability. These innovations may improve the utility of organoid models for therapeutic evaluation and for targeting tumor heterogeneity. Ultimately, CSC-derived organoids may serve as a valuable platform for advancing precision medicine and cancer research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stem Cells in Health and Disease: 3rd Edition)
17 pages, 4786 KB  
Article
In Vitro Antitumor Activity of Metal Complexes of Salinomycin with Cobalt (Co(II)), Copper (Cu(II)) and Zinc (Zn(II)) Ions Against Human Cervical Cancer (HeLa) and Melanoma (A375, SH-4) Cells
by Tanya Zhivkova, Hristo Hristov, Radostina Alexandrova, Abedulkadir Abudalleh, Lora Dyakova, Peter Dorkov and Juliana Ivanova
Inorganics 2026, 14(5), 121; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14050121 - 24 Apr 2026
Abstract
In this study, we present new data about the cytotoxic activity of metal complexes of salinomycin with Co(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) against human cervical cancer (HeLa) and melanoma (A375, SH-4) cell lines. The effect of the compounds on cell viability and proliferation was [...] Read more.
In this study, we present new data about the cytotoxic activity of metal complexes of salinomycin with Co(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) against human cervical cancer (HeLa) and melanoma (A375, SH-4) cell lines. The effect of the compounds on cell viability and proliferation was evaluated in short-term experiments (up to 72 h) with monolayer cultures using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) test, neutral red uptake (NR), crystal violet staining (CV) and double staining with acridine orange (AO) and propidium iodide (PI). The cytotoxic effect of the metal complexes of salinomycin was found to be comparable and even superior to that of the commercial antitumor agents cisplatin and oxaliplatin. Long-term experiments revealed the ability of the compounds to completely suppress 3D cell growth when applied at concentrations ≥ 3.1 μM (for HeLa cells) and ≥6.2 µM (for A375 cells). Embryonic Lep-3 cells are highly sensitive to the influence of the complexes investigated, whereas non-tumor HaCaT human keratinocytes exhibit relatively higher resistance to their cytotoxic effect compared to tumor cell lines. The Zn(II) disalinomycinate exerted the highest selectivity index among the tested compounds against melanoma cells, whereas the non-coordinated antibiotic showed pronounced selectivity toward HeLa cells. Full article
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15 pages, 2272 KB  
Data Descriptor
Dataset on Visitor Experience and Digital Technologies at the Archaeological Site of Ancient Dodona
by Elissavet Kosta, Fotios Bosmos, Nikolaos Giannakeas and Alexandros Τ. Tzallas
Data 2026, 11(5), 93; https://doi.org/10.3390/data11050093 - 24 Apr 2026
Abstract
This paper presents a dataset collected through a visitor questionnaire survey conducted at the Archaeological Site of Ancient Dodona, Greece, a large-scale, spatially complex open-air archaeological site. The dataset documents visitors’ experiences, perceptions, and information needs, as well as their attitudes toward the [...] Read more.
This paper presents a dataset collected through a visitor questionnaire survey conducted at the Archaeological Site of Ancient Dodona, Greece, a large-scale, spatially complex open-air archaeological site. The dataset documents visitors’ experiences, perceptions, and information needs, as well as their attitudes toward the use of digital technologies for heritage interpretation and engagement. The questionnaire was administered in printed form to adult visitors at the entrance and exit of the archaeological site. A total of 99 valid responses were collected. The dataset includes information on visitor demographics, visit characteristics, perceptions of existing interpretive material, spatial behavior within the site, and attitudes toward digital applications such as augmented reality, digital storytelling, and interactive tools. All data are fully anonymized and contain no personally identifiable or sensitive information. The dataset supports research in the fields of visitor studies, cultural heritage interpretation, digital heritage, and cultural tourism, and may be reused for comparative studies or for the design and evaluation of digital mediation applications in archaeological contexts. The dataset enables cross-tabulation analyses exploring associations between visitor characteristics and attitudes toward digital mediation, thereby supporting visitor segmentation and the evidence-based development of digital interpretation strategies in archaeological contexts. Full article
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25 pages, 2193 KB  
Review
Obesity, Inflammation, and Tumor Microenvironment in Three-Dimensional Models of Breast Cancer
by Yarely M. Salinas-Vera, Yussel Pérez-Navarro, Jonathan Puente-Rivera, María Elizbeth Álvarez-Sánchez and César López-Camarillo
Cells 2026, 15(9), 761; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells15090761 - 24 Apr 2026
Viewed by 52
Abstract
Obesity is recognized as a risk factor for breast cancer development and progression. Adipocytes exert their oncogenic effects through complex and interconnected biological mechanisms that encompass metabolic dysfunction, chronic low-grade inflammation, and systemic endocrine alterations. Herein, we reviewed the current evidence explaining how [...] Read more.
Obesity is recognized as a risk factor for breast cancer development and progression. Adipocytes exert their oncogenic effects through complex and interconnected biological mechanisms that encompass metabolic dysfunction, chronic low-grade inflammation, and systemic endocrine alterations. Herein, we reviewed the current evidence explaining how obesity induces a state that reprograms adipose tissue and remodels the breast cancer tumor microenvironment (TME). We first discuss the systemic and local mechanisms linking obesity to inflammation and how these alterations reshape the functional organization of the mammary gland. Then, we discuss how the chronic exposure to tumor-derived signals, together with the altered metabolic state of obese adipose tissue, induces a functional reprogramming of adipocytes, giving rise to so-called cancer-associated adipocytes (CAAs), which actively contribute to tumor progression. Also, the strengths and limitations of biological models to study the crosstalk between adipocytes and tumor cells, including two-dimensional (2D) monolayers and three-dimensional (3D) cell cultures, as well as animal models, are discussed. Special emphasis is placed on 3D co-culture models, which more accurately reproduce spatial organization, direct cell–cell contact, and diffusion dynamics, providing a more physiologically relevant environment for studying how obesity and inflammation reshape the TME in breast cancer. Finally, we highlight the limitations of conventional experimental models and review recent advances in 3D-based platforms, emphasizing their mechanistic insights and translational potential. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 3D Cultures and Organ-on-a-Chip in Cell and Tissue Cultures)
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28 pages, 8172 KB  
Article
Integrating Heritage Conservation, Adaptive Reuse, and Sustainable Tourism: A Value-Based Framework for Historic Urban Quarters
by Syed Hamid Akbar, Muhammad Shaker, Waqas Ahmed Mahar and Naveed Iqbal
Heritage 2026, 9(5), 159; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9050159 - 23 Apr 2026
Viewed by 180
Abstract
At the international level, heritage is widely recognised as a critical component of sustainable development. However, in South Asian countries such as Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh, historic cities continue to struggle to preserve and integrate built heritage amid rapid urbanisation, socio-economic transformation, and [...] Read more.
At the international level, heritage is widely recognised as a critical component of sustainable development. However, in South Asian countries such as Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh, historic cities continue to struggle to preserve and integrate built heritage amid rapid urbanisation, socio-economic transformation, and evolving contemporary urban demands. Heritage places in these contexts are shaped by complex interrelations between collective memory, the built environment, and socio-cultural identity. Yet, conservation practices have been mainly implemented through fragmented, building-by-building approaches that neglect urban-scale coherence and intangible cultural dimensions. This article addresses this gap by examining adaptive reuse as a value-based conservation strategy in historic urban quarters, where heritage serves as both a repository of cultural memory and a catalyst for sustainable, experience-based tourism. Drawing on qualitative fieldwork, heritage value assessment matrices, and doctoral research, this study uses the Saddar Bazaar Quarter in Karachi, Pakistan, as a case study to explore how tangible and intangible heritage values can be systematically integrated into conservation and regeneration processes. The findings demonstrate that heritage-led adaptive reuse, when embedded within a comprehensive urban-scale conservation framework, can sustain everyday socio-cultural practices, reinforce local identity, and enhance the legibility of historic urban environments. Rather than positioning tourism as a primary driver, the study shows that culturally sensitive and community-oriented tourism emerges as an outcome of successful heritage integration, grounded in lived urban experience rather than commodified representation. Based on these insights, the article proposes a value-based integration framework that aligns heritage conservation, adaptive reuse, and sustainable tourism within historic urban quarters. The framework offers transferable methodological guidance for revitalising heritage places and collective memories, while providing policy-relevant insights for heritage governance that support sustainability objectives, community resilience, and inclusive urban regeneration in post-colonial contexts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Revitalizing Heritage Places and Memories for Sustainable Tourism)
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14 pages, 345 KB  
Article
A New Investigation into the Confucian Translations and Interpretations of Claude de Visdelou S.I.
by Ying Luo
Religions 2026, 17(5), 510; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel17050510 - 23 Apr 2026
Viewed by 180
Abstract
Claude de Visdelou, a French Jesuit missionary who arrived in China in the 17th century, was renowned for his remarkable linguistic talent and profound knowledge of Sinology. He left behind numerous Latin translations of Chinese classics, many of which were preserved in manuscript [...] Read more.
Claude de Visdelou, a French Jesuit missionary who arrived in China in the 17th century, was renowned for his remarkable linguistic talent and profound knowledge of Sinology. He left behind numerous Latin translations of Chinese classics, many of which were preserved in manuscript form and are currently held in Biblioteca Apostolica Vaticana. Based on an examination of Visdelou’s life and his Latin translations of Confucian documents, such as Daxue, this paper aims to analyze the complex reasons why Visdelou openly opposed the Jesuit policy of tolerance toward Chinese rituals and was promoted by the Roman Curia for his opposition to the Jesuit’s approach. The paper also reflects on his translation activities as a personal intellectual struggle and as a means of cross-cultural knowledge construction from the perspective of Sino-Western cultural exchange history. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Religions and Humanities/Philosophies)
15 pages, 652 KB  
Review
A Comparative Analysis of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Awareness, Acceptance, and Barriers Among Populations of Men Who Have Sex with Men in Global Settings: An Integrative Literature Review
by Won Ju Hwang, Hwiyun Kim and Nancy R. Reynolds
Nurs. Rep. 2026, 16(5), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/nursrep16050148 - 22 Apr 2026
Viewed by 171
Abstract
Background: Although pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has demonstrated strong clinical efficacy in preventing HIV infection among men who have sex with men (MSM), real-world utilization remains suboptimal. In South Korea, MSM constitute a major population within the domestic HIV epidemic; however, PrEP uptake [...] Read more.
Background: Although pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has demonstrated strong clinical efficacy in preventing HIV infection among men who have sex with men (MSM), real-world utilization remains suboptimal. In South Korea, MSM constitute a major population within the domestic HIV epidemic; however, PrEP uptake has not increased pro-portionally to awareness. This discrepancy has been conceptualized as the “awareness–uptake gap,” reflecting multi-level barriers beyond individual knowledge. Purpose: This integrative review aimed to compare PrEP awareness, acceptance, and utilization among MSM populations in South Korea and international settings, and to identify structural, institutional, and psychosocial determinants contributing to the awaness, uptake gap. The study further sought to derive practical implications for nursing practice and health policy. Methods: An integrative literature review was conducted following Whittemore and Knafl’s five-step methodology and reported in line with PRISMA guidance. Electronic searches were performed in PubMed, Google Scholar, RISS, ScienceON, and DBpia for peer-reviewed studies published between 2015 and 2025 in English or Korean. The final search was completed on 31 January 2026. A total of 5952 records were identified, and 187 studies met the inclusion criteria after screening and duplicate removal. Quality appraisal was conducted using AXIS, Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, RoB 2.0, CASP, and MMAT according to study design, and the findings were synthesized within an environmental–structural–individual framework. Results: The included studies consistently showed that awareness of PrEP exceeded actual uptake. Across settings, the awareness–uptake gap was shaped by policy environment, service accessibility, stigma, privacy concerns, economic burden, institutional complexity, and provider preparedness. Comparative evidence from China, Thailand, Belgium and France, Brazil, and West Africa further suggested that awareness alone did not ensure uptake when service pathways were fragmented, culturally unsafe, or poorly understood. Conclusions: Closing the awareness–uptake gap requires integrated policy and practice strategies that extend beyond cost reduction. Strengthening confidentiality systems, simplifying service pathways, and enhancing provider competency—particularly through nurse-centered PrEP navigation and counseling models—may support more sustainable PrEP expansion among MSM populations in global settings. Full article
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