Saved Queries

Background/Objectives: Recent advancements in immunotherapy have significantly reduced recurrence rates and improved distant outcomes of patients with non-small cell lung cancer. This review synthesizes literature from 2020 to 2025, concentrating on preoperative immunotherapy outcomes. Methods: We analyzed treatment regimens, focusing on primary endpoints, the percentage of patients who underwent initial surgery, type of surgery, R0 rate, immune-related adverse events and chemotherapy-related toxicities as well as the rate of surgery delays and cancelations. Results: Our findings emphasize the importance of optimizing patient selection, effectively managing adverse events, and implementing strategies to minimize surgical delays and cancelations. Conclusions: We defined areas for improvement, such as increasing the implementation of minimally invasive surgeries and avoiding pneumonectomies. These priorities are essential for increasing the efficacy of immunotherapy in surgical settings for NSCLC, and improving patient outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surgical Treatment for Lung Cancer—2nd Edition)

►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

18 pages, 903 KB

Open AccessReview

Plant–Aphid Interactions in Cereal Crops: Wheat Plant Defense and Aphid Saliva-Mediated Coevolutionary Arms Race

by Xiaobei Liu, Qian Wang, Yong Liu, Yong Zhang, Frédéric Francis and Julian Chen

Insects 2026, 17(7), 672; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects17070672 (registering DOI) - 27 Jun 2026

Abstract

Wheat aphids are among the most destructive pests of wheat, posing a serious threat to wheat production and global food security. The development of aphid-resistant wheat varieties is widely regarded as one of the most economical and sustainable strategies for aphid management. A comprehensive understanding of the plant defense mechanisms is fundamental to the breeding of resistant wheat germplasm. Recent studies have revealed that aphid salivary proteins play critical roles in manipulating host defenses, whereas wheat has evolved multiple layers of defense to perceive and respond to aphid attack. In this review, we summarize current advances in wheat–aphid interactions, focusing on the roles of aphid salivary effectors, aphid-induced immune signaling, physical and chemical defense barriers, herbivore-induced plant volatiles (HIPVs), resistance genes, and non-host resistance mechanisms. By integrating aphid effector biology with host immunity and resistance mechanisms, this review provides a conceptual framework for understanding wheat–aphid interactions and for developing durable and environmentally sustainable resistance strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant–Aphid Interaction Mechanism and Molecular Basis of Aphid Resistance to Insecticides)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1831 KB

Open AccessArticle

Development and Validation of an SNP-Based OpenArray^® Genotyping Panel for Discriminating Coturnix coturnix, Coturnix japonica and Their Hybrids

by Camilla Broggini, Alberto Membrillo, Javier Pérez-González, Romuald Rouger, Ines Sánchez-Donoso, Giovanni Vedel, Montserrat Nácher-Vázquez, José A. Torres, Eduardo Laguna, Celia Vinagre-Izquierdo, Jose Domingo Rodríguez-Teijeiro, Carles Vila and Juan Carranza

Genes 2026, 17(7), 739; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes17070739 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The common quail (Coturnix coturnix) is a game species facing conservation challenges, particularly hybridization with the Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica). To address this issue, one proposed measure is the urgent prohibition of releasing farmed quails into the wild. If authorized, mechanisms should be established to guarantee their genetic origin and prevent contamination of native populations. This work focuses on the development of a genetic tool based on Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) markers that can differentiate between the two species and their hybrids. Our goal was to incorporate the selected markers into an OpenArray^® platform, to allow efficient, rapid, and cost-effective analysis. Methods: We tested two mitochondrial DNA SNPs (previously described in the literature) as diagnostic markers for species differentiation. We also assessed 24 nuclear DNA SNPs for compatibility with the OpenArray^® platform. Results: Of the 26 total SNPs, eight were excluded due to their limited utility. The remaining 18 SNPs achieved an overall genotyping success rate of 96.21%. Using the OpenArray^® platform with these 18 SNPs in a trial with samples from diverse Spanish field populations, we found 1.00% of C. japonica alleles (affecting 15.63% of individuals), suggesting introgression in the field. Population genetic analyses revealed strong differentiation between species and confirmed the presence of admixed individuals in field populations. Conclusions: This paper presents a new tool to differentiate between quail species and to identify foreign alleles in stocks and populations, by using an open platform system that optimizes the practical application of the diagnostic procedure based on the to-date most-reliable SNP markers for this goal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Genetics and Genomics)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 44313 KB

Open AccessArticle

Knowledge Representation Method for Grotto Buddhist Niches Based on Image Semantics and Ontology

by Li Wan, Miaole Hou, Jinru Li, Beibei Zhao, Bingyu Yang, Haoyue Shi and Bo Ning

Buildings 2026, 16(13), 2563; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16132563 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026

Abstract

Grotto Buddhist Niches are important spatial carriers of Buddhist cave art, containing rich architectural, artistic, and historical information. However, image data of these Buddhist niches are fragmented across multiple scales, including visual features, cultural semantics, and spatial structures, which significantly hinders cross-scale correlative analysis. To address this issue, this paper proposes a multi-scale knowledge representation method based on image semantics and ontology. Specifically, we establish a five-tier semantic description model, comprising the visual feature layer, image data layer, entity layer, cultural semantics layer, and relational layer. Furthermore, using Protégé and the classical Seven-Step Method, we develop a domain ontology named Grotto Buddhist Niche Ontology (GBNOnto) to enable unified semantic modeling of multi-scale information. Based on this ontology, a knowledge graph focusing on cave imagery is constructed, with typical caves such as Cave 38 at the Yungang Grottoes selected as case studies. The resulting graph contains 892 entity nodes and 2621 semantic relations, effectively capturing the complex interconnections among architectural typology, artistic characteristics, and cultural semantics within the selected niche instances. The proposed method enables structured and associative integration of multi-scale information in grotto Buddhist niche images. It thus provides a foundational data infrastructure and modeling framework to support effective management, knowledge retrieval, and semantic reasoning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Engineering and Technological Heritage in the Digital Era: Documentation, Preservation, Interpretation and Futures)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 1278 KB

Open AccessArticle

An Innovative Dietary Ingredient Complex with Salidroside and L-Malic Acid Improves Markers of Perceived Stress and Anxiety in Adults: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study

by Vignesh Nathan, Isha Shah, Devin Conley, Michael Lelah and Edward Dosz

Nutraceuticals 2026, 6(3), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/nutraceuticals6030043 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026

Abstract

Adaptogens are substances touted for their ability to promote resilience to stress. With more individuals reporting a greater degree of perceived stress, renewed attention has been focused on novel adaptogen complexes for stress reduction. Salidroside is a potent adaptogen found in the Rhodiola root, traditionally credited with increasing resistance to physical and mental stressors, while recent science has uncovered the neuroprotective effects of L-malic acid. The main objective of this study was to determine if daily supplementation of a novel salidroside and L-malic acid complex, across two dosing levels, could improve markers of perceived stress and its downstream effects, including anxiety and sleep disturbance. A 6-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, clinical study was conducted on individuals who subjectively reported a 30% room for improvement in perceived stress. Post hoc subgroup analysis was also conducted to determine if subpopulations experienced any enhanced benefits. Clinically meaningful improvements were reported in perceived stress and anxiety across the study population. Furthermore, men and non-premenopausal women saw enhanced benefits in emotional appraisal and sleep, suggesting hormonal interactions may be an underlying factor. SalidroPRO™ is a new dietary ingredient complex that may support rapid and sustained psychological well-being. Full article

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 339 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Existence of Mild Solutions for Hilfer Fractional Differential Equations with Infinite Delay in Orlicz Space

by Renqing Suonan, Yuhang Jin, Yanan Wang, Jia Mu and Ling Guo

Fractal Fract. 2026, 10(7), 438; https://doi.org/10.3390/fractalfract10070438 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026

Abstract

The Hilfer fractional derivative effectively captures non-locality, historical dependence, and memory effects, making it valuable for modeling real-world systems, and exponential growth can describe explosive growth phenomena in real-world problems. This paper focuses on the existence of mild solutions for infinite-delay differential equations [...] Read more.

{(- Δ)}^{δ}

, and exponentially growing functions in Orlicz spaces. First, by utilizing standard

L^{p}

L^{q}

estimates for strongly continuous semigroups generated by fractional Laplacian operator, the existence of global solutions in the Orlicz space

exp L^{p} (R^{d})

and the time-weighted

L^{z} (R^{d})

space is established. Then, by leveraging Hölder’s interpolation inequality, the existence of local solutions in

L^{1} (R^{d}) \cap L^{\infty} (R^{d})

is established. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section General Mathematics, Analysis)

20 pages, 10641 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Composition and Differentiation of the Seed-Associated Microbiome in Rapeseed Seeds as Studied Through 218 Rapeseed Transcriptomes

by Lei Sheng, Yu Wang, Peicheng Lu, Guomin Han, Zhongping Hao and Shumin Hou

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(13), 5801; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27135801 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026

Abstract

Rapeseed is one of the most important oil crops in the world. Its yield and quality are severely restricted by biotic stress and abiotic stress. Rapeseed seeds play a crucial role in the propagation process, and the microorganisms in the seeds can be vertically passed on to the next generation, which greatly affects the quality, yield and growth of rapeseed. However, from a group perspective, there is currently a lack of systematic research on the composition of seed-associated microbiome within rapeseed seeds. This study utilized the transcriptome data of 218 rapeseed seeds that have been published, focusing on analyzing and comparing the dynamic changes and functional differences in the composition of seed-associated microbiome in rapeseed seeds under normal growth and development, biologic stress and abiotic stress conditions. Since we used public transcriptome data without surface sterilisation control, we refered to the detected microorganisms as seed-associated microbiome. The advantage of this study lies in its application of this method to a large-scale sample of rapeseed populations, which systematically revealed the response characteristics of seed-associated microbiome under different stress conditions. Interestingly, some widely distributed genera were not detected, while rare taxa were found under specific conditions, warranting further verification. Since these microorganisms originated from the seeds, their compatibility with plants and colonization ability may far exceed those of soil-derived agents. In the future, high-throughput screening of strains with excellent antagonistic or repellent effects against major diseases and pests of rapeseed can be conducted from these unique seed-associated microbiome. These strains that were confirmed by culture-based, amplicon or metagenomic approaches can then be used to develop seed coating agents or soil inoculants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Microbiology)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

37 pages, 1174 KB

Open AccessReview

Post-Transcriptional Regulatory Network of Non-Coding RNAs in Yaks: Molecular Mechanisms of Hypoxia Adaptation and Productive Traits

by Huanyu Guan, Wen Hu, Shuo Zhu, Du’an Chen, Zhuoying Zhao, Hui Wang, Jiabo Wang, Binglin Yue, Jincheng Zhong and Jikun Wang

Animals 2026, 16(13), 1981; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16131981 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026

Abstract

Yaks are uniquely adapted to survive in the harsh environment of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, where oxygen is scarce, temperatures are freezing, and food availability changes drastically with seasons. Understanding how these animals cope with such extreme conditions is crucial for both conservation and agriculture. This review explores the hidden biological mechanisms behind the yak’s remarkable resilience, focusing on a special type of genetic material called non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). Unlike regular genes, these molecules act like master switches, controlling how the yak’s body responds to stress and builds important tissues. We examined how these genetic switches influence the animal’s ability to store fat and muscle, produce milk, develop reproductive organs, and withstand low oxygen levels in the heart and lungs. Our findings reveal that these ncRNAs regulate key biological pathways related to energy usage, cell protection, and tissue structure. By mapping out these genetic controls, this study provides valuable insights that can help scientists breed healthier yaks and better understand how large animals adapt to extreme climates. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Cattle Genetics and Breeding)

29 pages, 1334 KB

Open AccessReview

Physics-Informed Neural Networks for Urban and Building Thermal Environment Modeling: A Review of Evolution, Workflows, and Prospects

by Guodong Zhong, Lei Yuan, Bishan Ye, Tong Zhao, Dongfeng Long and Xuesong Xu

Buildings 2026, 16(13), 2562; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16132562 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026

Abstract

Modeling thermal environments across scales is crucial for climate-adaptive design and energy management. Traditional numerical methods (e.g., CFD) offer high accuracy and physical consistency, but they are computationally expensive. In contrast, purely data-driven models, though efficient, lack physical consistency and generalization capability. This review systematically examines Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINNs), a hybrid paradigm in which physical prior knowledge is embedded directly into the neural network training process. A structured keyword search of the Web of Science Core Collection was performed, and 94 peer-reviewed journal articles were analyzed. The evolution from numerical simulations and data-driven surrogate models to PINNs is outlined. PINN methods are classified according to the stage at which physical prior information is integrated (i.e., dataset development, model construction, or loss function formulation). Current research remains heavily focused on loss function constraints, whereas systematic integration into data augmentation and model construction remains limited. Application domains span indoor environments, outdoor environments, and building systems, with each domain exhibiting unique prior integration strategies tailored to specific problems. Future PINN modeling should evolve toward multi-physics coupling, adaptive loss balancing, cross-scenario transfer learning, and unified evaluation benchmarks. PINNs in this field are promising but remain at an early stage, especially for complex urban-scale deployment. This review synthesizes existing research around the three stages of dataset development, model construction, and loss function formulation, summarizes the prior integration strategies adopted in the domain of building thermal environments, and provides a practical workflow for embedding physical prior knowledge at different stages of model development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Effects of Urban Climate on the Energy Performance and Carbon Emissions of Buildings)

42 pages, 9359 KB

Open AccessArticle

Synthesis and Anticancer Activity of New Quinazolin-4(3H)-one Derivatives: Identification of a Tumor-Selective Anticancer Agent with Potential Inhibition of TGF-βRI (ALK5)

by Nahed N. E. El-Sayed, Sami A. Al-Hussain, Marwa A. Ibrahim, Mohamed R. Elnagar, Zainab M. Almarhoon and Magdi E. A. Zaki

Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(7), 996; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19070996 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Cancer is a multifactorial disease in which drug resistance and limited selectivity remain major therapeutic challenges, highlighting the need for novel anticancer agents. As a privileged scaffold for multitarget anticancer drug discovery, quinazolin-4(3H)-one was selected for the design, synthesis, and evaluation of new derivatives as potential anticancer agents, together with investigation of their mechanisms of action and molecular targets. Methods: Fifteen new quinazolin-4(3H)-one derivatives were synthesized and screened using the NCI-60 human cancer cell line panel. The mechanism of action of the most active compound was investigated through cell cycle, apoptosis, and RT-qPCR analyses. A potential molecular target was identified from transcriptomic data in the Human Protein Atlas, focusing on highly expressed cancer-implicated genes in the most responsive cell lines, followed by molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and in vitro kinase studies. Safety and pharmacokinetic properties were evaluated using an MTT cytotoxicity assay in normal WI-38 fibroblasts and in silico ADME analyses. Results: Compound 3e emerged as the most active and tumor-selective derivative, exhibiting GI₅₀ values ranging from 2.63 to 17.12 µM across 31 cancer cell lines. In A549 cells, selected as a representative responsive model, 3e (GI₅₀ = 10.8 µM, 72 h) induced G2/M cell-cycle arrest (59.58% vs. 26.96% in control), increased early apoptosis (43.94% vs. 0.11% in control), reduced viable cells (49.71% vs. 98.66%), elevated the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio (7.91), and upregulated the expression of caspase-9 and caspase-3 by 2.5- and 4.6-fold, respectively. Integrated target identification studies and an in vitro kinase assay (IC₅₀ = 21.34 nM) suggested TGF-βRI (ALK5) as a plausible molecular target. Compound 3e also showed low cytotoxicity toward WI-38 fibroblasts (IC₅₀ = 88.3 µM) and favorable predicted pharmacokinetic properties; nevertheless, high plasma protein binding and potential CYP2C9 inhibition are anticipated. Conclusions: Compound 3e is a promising tumor-selective anticancer lead with potential TGF-βRI inhibitory activity. Its antiproliferative effects in A549 cells appear to be mediated through G2/M cell-cycle arrest and activation of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway, supporting further development and pharmacokinetic optimization of this scaffold for anticancer therapy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Medicinal Chemistry)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 5977 KB

Open AccessArticle

Physiological Evaluation of Quarter Horses Undergoing Five-Month Taming Focused on Hippotherapy

by Lara C. S. Costa, Emmanuel Arnhold, Jorge D. Passamani, Alexandre R. A. Cardoso, Letícia C. Celeste and Kate M. C. Barcelos

Animals 2026, 16(13), 1980; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16131980 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026

Abstract

Preparing horses for hippotherapy programs requires management approaches that prioritize animal welfare and facilitate adaptation to novel stimuli. This study monitored physiological responses during the implementation of a progressive taming protocol for Quarter Horses intended for hippotherapy. Seven animals were monitored over a five-month period, including an acclimation phase and three taming stages. Continuous heart rate, plasma cortisol concentration, and ocular infrared thermography were assessed before and after exercise. Baseline (p = 0.0466) and minimum (p = 0.0095) heart rate values decreased over time, suggesting progressive physiological adaptation. Maximum heart rate (HR_Max) was higher during the initial phases, coinciding with the introduction of novel stimuli, and decreased in subsequent months (p = 0.0272). Lacrimal caruncle temperature increased at the beginning of taming (p = 0.002), followed by stabilization throughout the experimental period. Plasma cortisol concentrations did not differ between sampling times or among months (p ≥ 0.05). Taken together, the physiological indicators evaluated suggest that the progressive taming protocol supported gradual physiological adaptation throughout the taming period. These findings indicate that a progressive approach may be useful for preparing horses intended for hippotherapy, although additional studies incorporating behavioral and welfare assessments are warranted. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Equids)

38 pages, 3629 KB

Open AccessReview

Macrophage Metabolic Reprogramming in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Pathogenic Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications

by Longping Chen, Siyuan Leng, Xin Liu, Junlan Zhang, Fang Zhao, Zeyu Hu, Xiong Cai and Ye Lin

Cells 2026, 15(13), 1166; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells15131166 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026

Abstract

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterised by persistent synovitis, progressive cartilage destruction and bone erosion. Recent advances in single-cell and spatial omics, together with immunometabolic studies, have revealed marked state heterogeneity among synovial macrophages in RA. Their metabolic reprogramming appears to sustain pathogenic cellular states, drive aberrant intercellular communication and impair the resolution of inflammation. Rather than acting as an independent initiating factor, it more likely operates as a downstream amplifier of disease. In this review, we outline the principal functional states and metabolic features of synovial macrophages in health and RA. We focus on how the rewiring of glucose, lipid and amino acid metabolism links inflammatory transcription, tissue remodelling and bone destruction. These connections are mediated by metabolic enzymes, metabolic intermediates, redox regulation and epigenetic modifications. We further summarise the immunometabolic effects of currently available antirheumatic drugs. We also appraise the preclinical evidence and translational limitations of metabolic pathway inhibitors, natural products and nanodelivery systems. It should be noted that most existing evidence still relies on in vitro polarisation systems and rodent models. Validation of metabolic flux, cell-state specificity and causal relationships in human synovium remains limited. As a narrative review focused on recent studies of synovial macrophage metabolism in health and inflammation, this work aims to delineate how metabolic reprogramming shapes the phenotypic heterogeneity and pathogenic functions of macrophages in RA. It also seeks to appraise the potential value and current boundaries of evidence for therapeutically targeting macrophage metabolism. Full article

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 5141 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Spatial Assessment Framework for Identifying Workation-Suitable Mountain Villages in Depopulation Regions

by Seungho Kim, Chiung Ko and Chuyoun Chang

Land 2026, 15(7), 1154; https://doi.org/10.3390/land15071154 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026

Abstract

This study addresses the limited nationwide examination of Mountain Villages as strategic targets for regional revitalization amid rapid depopulation and population aging. Focusing on Mountain Villages located within Depopulation Regions in the Republic of Korea, this study quantitatively assessed workation suitability at the Eup-Myeon-Dong level and identified priority areas and differentiated policy directions. A workation suitability index was calculated using the CRITIC (Criteria Importance Through Intercriteria Correlation) method, and spatial clustering and potential–demand characteristics were examined through LISA (Local Indicators of Spatial Association) and quadrant analysis. The results showed that transportation accessibility indicators, including travel time to expressway interchanges and railway stations, had high information content in differentiating workation suitability among Mountain Villages. Suitability was high in the border areas between Gyeonggi-do and Gangwon State and parts of the central inland region, whereas low suitability was observed in northern Gangwon State and northern Gyeongsangbuk-do. High–High clusters tended to overlap with high-potential and high-demand areas, while Low–Low clusters were mainly associated with low-potential areas. By integrating suitability, spatial clustering, and demand conditions, this study provides an empirical framework for spatial decision-making. The findings suggest that workation policies for Mountain Villages should distinguish priority implementation areas from foundation-building areas according to accessibility, infrastructure, and demand levels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Land Planning and Landscape Architecture)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

30 pages, 3657 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Hybrid Risk Assessment Framework for Material Conservation in Adaptive Reuse Projects

by Lale Karataş Billor

Buildings 2026, 16(13), 2559; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16132559 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026

Abstract

(1) Background: This study develops a hybrid assessment matrix for the early identification of material-related risks in adaptive reuse projects, with a particular focus on material conservation. The Material Conservation for Adaptive Reuse Risk Evaluation Matrix (M-CARE) integrates UNESCO Tools, the ICCROM ABC Method and its agents of deterioration, and the material damage classifications of the MDCS Damage Atlas. (2) Methods: The framework was tested through a case study of Issız Han, an Early Ottoman caravanserai. Risk mechanisms identified through M-CARE were compared with deterioration patterns documented after 18 years of post-reuse operation. The comparison focused on the degree of correspondence between predicted deterioration mechanisms and observed deterioration patterns. (3) Results: The findings indicate a high degree of correspondence between the deterioration mechanisms identified through M-CARE and the deterioration patterns documented during field surveys. In particular, moisture-related deterioration patterns showed substantial correspondence with the risks identified during the assessment stage. The results also highlight the influence of cumulative microclimatic factors and the value of complementary analytical approaches for evaluating long-term deterioration processes. (4) Conclusions: M-CARE provides a practical and rapidly applicable decision-support framework for the early identification and classification of material-related risks in adaptive reuse projects, supporting more informed conservation planning and proactive heritage management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 542 KB

Open AccessArticle

Loneliness and Psychosocial Well-Being in Nursing Homes: A Cross-Sectional Study of Older Adults

by Rogelio Hernández-Díaz, Claudia Oteo de Miguel, Alejandra Aguilar-Latorre, Isabel Blasco-González and Mª Rosa Magallón-Botaya

Healthcare 2026, 14(13), 1873; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14131873 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Loneliness is a major public health concern in later life and may be especially prevalent among older adults living in nursing homes. Evidence from Spain remains limited regarding modifiable correlates of different loneliness dimensions. This study aimed to describe social and existential loneliness among nursing home residents and examine their associations with sociodemographic, institutional, functional, and psychosocial factors. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study in Spanish nursing homes using face-to-face structured interviews with residents aged ≥65 years (n = 139). Social loneliness was assessed with the ESTE-II scale and existential loneliness with the existential loneliness subscale of the ESTE-R. Functional dependence was measured with the Barthel Index. Health literacy, locus of control, institutional variables, and suicidality-related items were also collected. Spearman correlations and multiple linear regression models with BCa bootstrapped 95% confidence intervals (5000 resamples) were used. Results: Social and existential loneliness were moderately correlated (ρ = 0.481, p < 0.001). Greater activity engagement was independently associated with lower social (B = −1.105, p < 0.001) and existential loneliness (B = −0.732, p = 0.029). Receiving visits regularly was associated with lower social loneliness (B = −4.083, p = 0.002), but not existential loneliness. Greater functional independence was associated with lower existential loneliness (B = −0.044, p = 0.023). Conclusions: Activity engagement was a consistent correlate across loneliness dimensions, whereas regular visits were mainly related to social loneliness and functional independence to existential loneliness. These findings support feasible long-term care strategies focused on meaningful activities, relational contact, and functional support. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychological Health and Social Wellbeing Among Older Adults: Second Edition)

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Error

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

Displaying article 1-50 on page 1 of 2000.

Go to page 1 2 3 4 5

Search Results (138,766)

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI