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42 pages, 828 KB  
Review
Sleep and Cognitive Dysfunction in Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Scoping Review
by Dayeon Son, Julia K. Veitinger, Revika Singh, Alptug Kaynar, Noreen Hassan, Benedikt Haupt, Fang Yu and Sherry H.-Y. Chou
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(3), 1002; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15031002 - 26 Jan 2026
Abstract
Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a devastating form of stroke that disproportionately affects younger individuals and often results in long-term disability, even among those who achieve favorable outcomes on traditional clinical scales. This scoping review uses the PRISMA-ScR protocol to evaluate independent studies from [...] Read more.
Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a devastating form of stroke that disproportionately affects younger individuals and often results in long-term disability, even among those who achieve favorable outcomes on traditional clinical scales. This scoping review uses the PRISMA-ScR protocol to evaluate independent studies from 1980 to 2025 and synthesizes current evidence on sleep and cognitive dysfunction in SAH survivors, highlighting their prevalence, impact, and gaps in assessment and management. A total of 2243 publications were screened across three databases (PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science), which resulted in 115 studies analyzed for review. Sleep disturbances—including insomnia, hypersomnia, and sleep apnea—are common across all phases of recovery and are closely linked to fatigue, mood disorders, and impaired cognitive function. Cognitive deficits, particularly in memory, executive function, and attention, persist in most survivors and are significant barriers to return to work and reintegration. Despite their clinical relevance, these domains are underrepresented in SAH research and inadequately captured by standard outcome measures such as the modified Rankin Scale. Compared to moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury (TBI), the SAH literature lacks standardized assessment tools, longitudinal data, and interventional studies. Neuroinflammation may underlie both sleep and cognitive sequelae, offering a potential therapeutic target. This review underscores the need for patient-centered outcome measures, integrated sleep and cognitive assessments, and targeted interventions to improve long-term brain health in SAH survivors. Full article
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18 pages, 489 KB  
Article
Sarcopenia, Obesity, and Sarcopenic Obesity in Relation to Functional Limitations in Older Adults
by Marika Murawiak, Marta Lewandowicz-Czarnecka, Beata Kaczmarek, Ewa Deskur-Śmielecka, Katarzyna Wieczorowska-Tobis and Roma Krzymińska-Siemaszko
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(3), 1000; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15031000 - 26 Jan 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Sarcopenia, obesity, and sarcopenic obesity (SO) are common in older adults and may be associated with functional limitations in Basic (BADL) and Instrumental (IADL) Activities of Daily Living. This study aimed to evaluate the association between body composition phenotypes and BADL/IADL [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Sarcopenia, obesity, and sarcopenic obesity (SO) are common in older adults and may be associated with functional limitations in Basic (BADL) and Instrumental (IADL) Activities of Daily Living. This study aimed to evaluate the association between body composition phenotypes and BADL/IADL limitations among older adults. Methods: A cross-sectional study included 440 community-dwelling adults aged ≥60 years (281 women, 159 men; mean age 74.7 ± 7.8 years). Sarcopenia was diagnosed according to EWGSOP2 criteria, obesity was defined as Percent Body Fat > 42% in women and >30% in men, and SO was classified based on the ESPEN/EASO recommendations. The reference phenotype was ‘non-sarcopenic, non-obese’. Functional status was evaluated using the Katz and Lawton scales, with limitations defined as BADL ≤ 5 and IADL ≤ 26 points, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to determine associations between body composition phenotypes and BADL/IADL limitations. Results: Over half of the participants (57.1%) had abnormal body composition: 31.6% obesity, 11.4% sarcopenia, and 13.2% SO. Sarcopenic obesity was associated with nearly threefold higher odds of BADL limitations (OR = 2.86; p = 0.003) and 3.7-fold higher odds of IADL limitations (OR = 3.68; p < 0.001), compared to the reference phenotype. Sarcopenia was associated with IADL limitations only in the unadjusted model (OR = 2.44; p = 0.010). Beyond adverse body composition phenotypes, BADL/IADL limitations were also associated with lower muscle strength, multimorbidity, and poorer nutritional status. Conclusions: SO was linked to both BADL and IADL limitations, while sarcopenia was associated only with IADL deficits. Isolated obesity showed no consistent relationship with functional impairment. These findings support prioritizing SO in screening and prevention, although the cross-sectional design precludes causal inference. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chronic Disease Management and Rehabilitation in Older Adults)
35 pages, 2782 KB  
Article
Demand Forecasting for the Scale of Underground Space Development in Existing Urban Industrial Areas—A Case Application of Saint-Gobain Industrial Area in Xuzhou City
by Haifeng Zhang, Yuan Zhang, Jian Cui, Zhang Qu and Xiaochun Hong
Sustainability 2026, 18(3), 1245; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18031245 - 26 Jan 2026
Abstract
Against the backdrop of urban renewal, the transformation and functional enhancement of Existing Urban Industrial Areas (EUIAs) play a crucial role. Focusing on the rational development of underground space in EUIAs, this study explores forecasting methods for the development demand of such underground [...] Read more.
Against the backdrop of urban renewal, the transformation and functional enhancement of Existing Urban Industrial Areas (EUIAs) play a crucial role. Focusing on the rational development of underground space in EUIAs, this study explores forecasting methods for the development demand of such underground space, aiming to alleviate the contradiction between the protection of industrial heritage and intensive land use in EUIAs. This paper systematically sorts out the forecasting methods for the scale demand of underground space. Firstly, through a literature review, two major categories of factors influencing underground space demand—driving factors and conditional factors—are summarized, and an indicator system consisting of 23 indicators is constructed. On this basis, the modified Delphi method is employed to screen 7 dominant indicators, including the protection value of industrial heritage, the spatial distribution of industrial heritage, existing underground space, development functions, rail transit, spatial location, and surrounding supporting facilities. Based on the matrix of industrial heritage protection levels and land use nature, the development potential of underground space is evaluated, and a demand level correction model is introduced. Demand intensity is quantified through expert experience-based assignment with reference to typical domestic cases, thereby establishing a demand forecasting model for the underground space scale in EUIAs. Finally, the model is applied to the Saint-Gobain Industrial Area. Through the analysis of its industrial heritage value assessment, land use planning, and location characteristics, the areas with demand for underground space are delineated and their levels are corrected, forecasting a total underground space demand of 224,600–454,600 m2. The research results provide a theoretical basis and methodological support for the underground space planning of EUIAs, and offer references for the development practice of similar regions. Full article
10 pages, 1530 KB  
Article
Anodization and Its Role in Peri-Implant Tissue Adhesion: A Novel 3D Bioprinting Approach
by Béla Kolarovszki, Alexandra Steinerbrunner-Nagy, Dorottya Frank, Gábor Decsi, Attila Mühl, Beáta Polgár, Péter Maróti, Ákos Nagy, Judit E. Pongrácz and Kinga Turzó
J. Funct. Biomater. 2026, 17(2), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb17020061 - 26 Jan 2026
Abstract
Background: Soft tissue stability around dental implant abutments is critical for maintaining a functional peri-implant seal. Yellow anodization is used to improve the aesthetic and surface characteristics of titanium abutments, yet its epithelial effects under more physiologically relevant 3D conditions remain insufficiently explored. [...] Read more.
Background: Soft tissue stability around dental implant abutments is critical for maintaining a functional peri-implant seal. Yellow anodization is used to improve the aesthetic and surface characteristics of titanium abutments, yet its epithelial effects under more physiologically relevant 3D conditions remain insufficiently explored. Objective: To develop a 3D bioprinted in vitro peri-implant mucosa model and to compare epithelial cell responses on yellow anodized versus turned titanium abutment surfaces. Methods: Commercial Grade 5 (Ti6Al4V) titanium abutments were anodized and compared with turned controls. A collagen-based 3D bioprinted “collar-like” construct incorporating YD-38 epithelial cells was fabricated using a custom holder system to simulate peri-implant mucosal contact. Samples were cultured for 14 and 21 days. Cell distribution and morphology were assessed by optical microscopy and HE staining, while cytoskeletal organization was evaluated by TRITC-phalloidin/Hoechst staining and confocal microscopy. Quantitative fluorescence analysis was performed at 21 days. Results: Both surfaces supported epithelial coverage in the 3D environment. Anodized specimens showed more pronounced actin cytoskeletal organization and the presence of actin-rich, filamentous cellular extensions compared with turned controls. Quantitative image analysis demonstrated significantly higher TRITC-phalloidin signal intensity at 21 days on anodized samples (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Within the limitations of a 3D epithelial in vitro model using YD-38 cells, yellow anodization was associated with enhanced epithelial cytoskeletal organization compared with turned titanium. The presented 3D bioprinted platform may serve as a practical in vitro tool for screening abutment surface modifications relevant to peri-implant soft tissue integration. Full article
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17 pages, 6740 KB  
Article
A Noncanonical Auxin-Sensing Mechanism Uncovered by Screening the Auxin Response Factor 3 Interacting Proteins in Tomato
by Lin Wang, Xirong Yang, Sidratul Muntha, Liepeng Dong, Qingmin Xie, Taotao Wang, Chunmei Shi and Changxian Yang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(3), 1227; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27031227 - 26 Jan 2026
Abstract
Within the canonical auxin signaling pathway, Auxin Response Factors (ARFs) are transcriptionally repressed by AUX/IAA proteins under low auxin conditions, and this repression is alleviated as auxin concentrations increase. By contrast, ARF3 functions as a central regulator of gynoecium morphogenesis in Arabidopsis via [...] Read more.
Within the canonical auxin signaling pathway, Auxin Response Factors (ARFs) are transcriptionally repressed by AUX/IAA proteins under low auxin conditions, and this repression is alleviated as auxin concentrations increase. By contrast, ARF3 functions as a central regulator of gynoecium morphogenesis in Arabidopsis via a non-canonical auxin-sensing mechanism that relies on dose-dependent modulation of its protein–protein interaction network. To investigate whether an analogous regulatory mechanism operates in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), we identified the tomato ARF3 homolog (SlARF3) and utilized it as bait in a yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) screen. This screening approach yielded 137 positive clones, corresponding to 118 putative interacting proteins. Notably, all of these interactions were abolished in the presence of 3-indoleacetic acid (IAA), indicating that SlARF3 engages in auxin-sensitive protein–protein interactions and thereby mediates auxin-dependent signal transduction. Among these, we identified an auxin-sensitive interaction between SlARF3 and TM29, a central regulator of parthenocarpy, underscoring its critical role in this developmental pathway. Functional analyses further demonstrated that silencing SlARF3 induces parthenocarpic fruit formation. Taken together, these findings define a previously uncharacterized SlARF3-centered interaction network and provide a conceptual framework for elucidating non-canonical auxin signaling pathways underlying tomato development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Development and Hormonal Signaling)
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26 pages, 1299 KB  
Article
Function Meets Environment–Approach for the Environmental Assessment of Food Packaging, Taking into Account Packaging Functionality
by Alina Siebler, Jonas Keller, Mara Strenger, Tim Prescher, Stefan Albrecht and Markus Schmid
Sustainability 2026, 18(3), 1222; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18031222 - 26 Jan 2026
Abstract
As food typically accounts for substantially higher resource use and potential environmental impacts than its packaging, packaging-related food wastage must be considered in environmental assessments of food packaging. However, this is not currently performed as standard in Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). This article [...] Read more.
As food typically accounts for substantially higher resource use and potential environmental impacts than its packaging, packaging-related food wastage must be considered in environmental assessments of food packaging. However, this is not currently performed as standard in Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). This article proposes a conceptual framework as an approach to systematically integrating packaging functionality into LCA by incorporating packaging-related food wastage depending on shelf-life and due to technical emptiability. Based on literature data, a segmented non-linear regression is proposed to estimate shelf-life-dependent food wastage at retail level. Two exponential models provide a consistently decreasing relationship between shelf-life and food wastage, with S = 0.064 for products with ≤30 days shelf-life and S = 0.036 for >30 days shelf-life. These values indicate a satisfactory internal fit within both shelf-life segments. In addition, established experimental procedures for quantifying packaging emptiability are integrated to capture further packaging-related food wastage. The approach yields a pragmatic estimation of packaging-related food wastage that can be operationalized in packaging LCAs. Rather than predicting exact amounts of food wastage, the framework enables a more holistic, function-oriented assessment of food packaging by making environmental trade-offs between packaging design, shelf-life effects and emptiability transparent for screening-level LCA. Full article
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18 pages, 3927 KB  
Systematic Review
Extracellular Vesicle Associated Proteomic Biomarkers in Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Nahad Al-Mahrouqi, Hasan Al-Sayegh, Shoaib Al-Zadjali and Aafaque Ahmad Khan
Cells 2026, 15(3), 231; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells15030231 - 26 Jan 2026
Abstract
Breast cancer continues to be the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women worldwide and remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Despite advances in imaging and biopsy-based approaches, current diagnostic methods are invasive, costly, and often insufficient to capture the molecular heterogeneity of [...] Read more.
Breast cancer continues to be the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women worldwide and remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Despite advances in imaging and biopsy-based approaches, current diagnostic methods are invasive, costly, and often insufficient to capture the molecular heterogeneity of tumors. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as promising non-invasive biomarkers owing to their role in intercellular communication and their enrichment with tumor-specific cargo. This study conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of published literature to investigate proteomic alterations in EVs derived from breast cancer samples. From an initial 1097 records screened, four eligible studies were identified, reporting 628 differentially expressed proteins, of which 38 were consistently observed across multiple datasets. Functional enrichment analyses revealed predominant localization of these proteins to vesicle-associated compartments and significant involvement in biological processes related to cell growth, immune regulation, and tumor progression. Pathway analysis further highlighted integrin-mediated interactions, platelet activation, and hemostasis pathways as key molecular mechanisms represented within breast cancer EVs. Overall, the findings reveal a distinct EV proteomic signature in breast cancer that could support early detection and patient monitoring through minimally invasive testing. Future large-scale and standardized studies are needed to validate these candidate proteins and advance EV proteomics toward clinical application in breast cancer management. Full article
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18 pages, 6294 KB  
Article
Screening Candidate Genes for Body Size Traits in Dongfeng Sika Deer Bucks Based on Genome-Wide Association Analysis
by Yan Zhang, Xinyuan Zhang, Lieping Zhao, Zhen Zhang, Yao Zhao, Wenxi Qian, Guanghui Gai, Huixin Bai, Peize Du and Huansheng Han
Biology 2026, 15(3), 227; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15030227 - 26 Jan 2026
Abstract
This study aimed to screen candidate genes related to body size traits in Dongfeng sika deer bucks by genome-wide association analysis. A total of 266 adult Dongfeng sika deer underwent 20× whole-genome resequencing. Genome-wide association analysis (GWAS) was performed using a mixed linear [...] Read more.
This study aimed to screen candidate genes related to body size traits in Dongfeng sika deer bucks by genome-wide association analysis. A total of 266 adult Dongfeng sika deer underwent 20× whole-genome resequencing. Genome-wide association analysis (GWAS) was performed using a mixed linear model (MLM), and gene annotation was conducted on SNP loci. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were subsequently conducted to identify biological functions and pathways associated with body size regulation. The GWAS results screened 774 SNP sites significantly associated with body size. Functional enrichment analysis further identified that four genes—CDH4, TSHR, SLC23A2, and RIMS1—were potentially associated with body size traits. This study provides a reference basis for subsequent functional exploration of candidate genes. Full article
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17 pages, 261 KB  
Review
Protective Cultures Applied in Meat Products: Technological Functions, Safety Aspects and Current Advances: A Review
by Miroslav Jůzl, Libor Kalhotka, Josef Kameník, Marta Dušková, Simona Ondruchová and Jan Slováček
Processes 2026, 14(3), 425; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr14030425 - 26 Jan 2026
Abstract
Protective cultures are an increasingly industrially relevant biopreservation tool for meat and meat products, responding to simultaneous demands for microbiological safety, extended shelf life, and reduced reliance on synthetic preservatives within clean-label frameworks. This review summarizes current advances in protective cultures applied to [...] Read more.
Protective cultures are an increasingly industrially relevant biopreservation tool for meat and meat products, responding to simultaneous demands for microbiological safety, extended shelf life, and reduced reliance on synthetic preservatives within clean-label frameworks. This review summarizes current advances in protective cultures applied to meat systems, with emphasis on technological functions, efficacy boundaries, and safety-related due diligence. We discuss the dominant inhibitory mechanisms of lactic acid bacteria and related protective taxa—acidification, competitive exclusion, and antimicrobial metabolites (including bacteriocins)—and highlight why performance is strongly strain- and matrix-dependent under realistic storage conditions. Practical applications are reviewed across raw meats (spoilage delay under refrigeration and vacuum/MAP) and processed or ready-to-eat products, where post-processing surface application emerges as a critical control point for limiting Listeria monocytogenes outgrowth during chilled storage. Key implementation constraints include technological compatibility and sensory neutrality, which are influenced by product buffering capacity, salt content, available fermentable substrates, packaging atmosphere, and temperature. From a safety perspective, we synthesize evidence on antimicrobial resistance in food-associated cultures and outline contemporary qualification strategies combining phenotypic susceptibility testing with genome-based screening to exclude acquired and potentially transferable resistance determinants. Overall, protective cultures should be viewed as a targeted hurdle integrated into holistic preservation systems rather than a standalone substitute for hygiene and process control. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Process Engineering)
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31 pages, 2194 KB  
Review
Research Advances in Glanimal Models of Glaucoma: Exploring Multidimensional Mechanisms and Novel Therapeutic Strategies
by Jinshen Liu, Hui Zhang, Jiaqi Chen, Jiamin Zhou, Yujia Yu, Feng Cheng, Jie Bao, Chunhan Feng, Xiangqu Yu, Zhao Xia, Rao Ding, Zhonghui Li and Xiang Li
Pharmaceutics 2026, 18(2), 152; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics18020152 - 25 Jan 2026
Abstract
Objective: Glaucoma is a complex optic neuropathy characterized by the progressive loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Animal models are crucial tools for deciphering its multidimensional pathogenesis and evaluating novel therapeutic strategies. This review aims to systematically summarize the establishment methods, application [...] Read more.
Objective: Glaucoma is a complex optic neuropathy characterized by the progressive loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Animal models are crucial tools for deciphering its multidimensional pathogenesis and evaluating novel therapeutic strategies. This review aims to systematically summarize the establishment methods, application advances, and future development trends of various glanimal models. Methods: The literature for this review was identified through systematic searches of electronic databases, including PubMed, Web of Science Core Collection, and Google Scholar. The search strategy utilized a combination of keywords and their variants: “glaucoma”, “animal models”, “retinal ganglion cells”, “intraocular pressure”, “neuroprotection”, “immune inflammation”, “fibrosis”, and “filtration surgery”. The search focused on articles published between 2015 and 2025 to cover the major advances of the last decade. The scope encompassed original research articles, reviews, and meta-analyses. Results: Diverse glanimal models successfully replicate different facets of glaucoma, elucidating multidimensional pathogenesis involving mechanical stress, immune inflammation, excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, and fibrosis. These models have played an indispensable role in screening neuroprotective agents, evaluating anti-fibrotic strategies, and validating the application of advanced imaging and functional assessment technologies. Current research is evolving towards model standardization, multi-factor simulation, and the integration of novel drug delivery systems and immunomodulatory strategies. Conclusions: The diversification of glanimal models provides a powerful platform for in-depth investigation of disease mechanisms and the development of innovative therapies. Future research should focus on establishing standardized models that better mimic the clinical pathological state and deeply integrating multimodal assessment technologies with targeted therapies. This will facilitate the translation of basic research into clinical applications, ultimately achieving personalized precision medicine for glaucoma. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Pharmaceutics)
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23 pages, 1672 KB  
Review
Field-Evolved Resistance to Bt Cry Toxins in Lepidopteran Pests: Insights into Multilayered Regulatory Mechanisms and Next-Generation Management Strategies
by Junfei Xie, Wenfeng He, Min Qiu, Jiaxin Lin, Haoran Shu, Jintao Wang and Leilei Liu
Toxins 2026, 18(2), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxins18020060 - 25 Jan 2026
Abstract
Bt Cry toxins remain the cornerstone of transgenic crop protection against Lepidopteran pests, yet field-evolved resistance, particularly in invasive species such as Spodoptera frugiperda and Helicoverpa armigera, can threaten their long-term efficacy. This review presents a comprehensive and unified mechanistic framework that [...] Read more.
Bt Cry toxins remain the cornerstone of transgenic crop protection against Lepidopteran pests, yet field-evolved resistance, particularly in invasive species such as Spodoptera frugiperda and Helicoverpa armigera, can threaten their long-term efficacy. This review presents a comprehensive and unified mechanistic framework that synthesizes current understanding of Bt Cry toxin modes of action and the complex, multilayered regulatory mechanisms of field-evolved resistance. Beyond the classical pore-formation model, emerging evidence highlights signal transduction cascades, immune evasion via suppression of Toll/IMD pathways, and tripartite toxin–host–microbiota interactions that can dynamically modulate protoxin activation and receptor accessibility. Resistance arises from target-site alterations (e.g., ABCC2/ABCC3, Cadherin mutations), altered midgut protease profiles, enhanced immune regeneration, and microbiota-mediated detoxification, orchestrated by transcription factor networks (GATA, FoxA, FTZ-F1), constitutive MAPK hyperactivation (especially MAP4K4-driven cascades), along with preliminary emerging findings on non-coding RNA involvement. Countermeasures now integrate synergistic Cry/Vip pyramiding, CRISPR/Cas9-validated receptor knockouts revealing functional redundancy, Domain III chimerization (e.g., Cry1A.105), phage-assisted continuous evolution (PACE), and the emerging application of AlphaFold3 for structure-guided rational redesign of resistance-breaking variants. Future sustainability hinges on system-level integration of single-cell transcriptomics, midgut-specific CRISPR screens, microbiome engineering, and AI-accelerated protein design to preempt resistance trajectories and secure Bt biotechnology within integrated resistance and pest management frameworks. Full article
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21 pages, 3143 KB  
Article
Effects of Basal Fertilization Supplemented with Graphene and/or Microbial Inoculants on Growth and Fruit Quality of Winter Jujube Based on Metabolomics Analysis
by Bingxin Chen, Dengyang Lu, Hengzhou Yuan, Xiaofeng Zhou, Yan Wang and Cuiyun Wu
Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 133; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020133 - 25 Jan 2026
Abstract
Winter jujube is highly favored by consumers, and improving both the fruit quality and yield during cultivation is a key issue in horticultural research. Fertilization is a critical measure regulating growth. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of basal fertilizer combined with [...] Read more.
Winter jujube is highly favored by consumers, and improving both the fruit quality and yield during cultivation is a key issue in horticultural research. Fertilization is a critical measure regulating growth. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of basal fertilizer combined with two novel synergistic additives—graphene and microbial inoculants—on the growth, fruit quality, and metabolic profiles of winter jujube, providing new fertilization strategies. The selected doses of graphene (0.38 g/plant) and microbial inoculant (0.26 g/plant) were based on the previous literature to balance efficacy, cost, and environmental safety. The graphene used was functionalized graphene oxide provided by Shanxi Datong University, chosen for its enhanced dispersibility and plant compatibility. Although this study focused on physiological and metabolic responses, the economic feasibility and potential environmental implications of these additives are discussed in the context of sustainable jujube production. Six-year-old winter jujube trees were treated with four fertilization regimes: basal fertilizer + graphene (T1), basal fertilizer + microbial fertilizer (T2), basal fertilizer + graphene + microbial fertilizer (T3), and basal fertilizer only (CK). Growth indices, mineral element contents in different organs, and fruit quality traits were measured. Widely targeted metabolomics was used to analyze metabolic variations among treatments. Compared with CK, all three synergistic fertilizer treatments tended to promote growth, increasing leaf area, chlorophyll content, and jujube bearing shoot length; contributed to the accumulation of P, K, Ca, Mg, and other minerals in various organs; and helped improve fruit quality by increasing the total sugars and flavonoids. T1 and T3 exhibited relatively better overall performance. Metabolomic analysis revealed significant differences in the metabolite profiles of winter jujube fruits across different treatments. Phenolic acids and flavonoids were closely associated with the improvement in fruit quality; further screening identified seven differential metabolites, predominantly belonging to phenolic acids. Basal fertilizer combined with graphene alone or with microbial inoculants may effectively promote growth and improve fruit quality by optimizing mineral uptake and regulating metabolic processes. These findings provide potential theoretical and practical support for high-quality, high-yield fertilization strategies for winter jujube. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Breeding and Genetic Improvement of Fruit Crops)
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20 pages, 1009 KB  
Article
Early Screening of Sleep-Disordered Breathing Using a Smartphone-Based Portable System in Stroke Patients and Its Relevance for Rehabilitation: A Prospective Observational Study
by Sergiu Albu, Yolanda Castillo-Escario, Alicia Romero Marquez, Mónica López Andurell, Raimon Jané and Hatice Kumru
Sensors 2026, 26(3), 794; https://doi.org/10.3390/s26030794 - 24 Jan 2026
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Abstract
Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is common after stroke and may negatively influence recovery, yet it is frequently underdiagnosed. Portable respiratory monitoring devices could facilitate early SDB screening in these patients. We estimated the prevalence of sleep apnea (SA) using a smartphone-based monitoring system in [...] Read more.
Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is common after stroke and may negatively influence recovery, yet it is frequently underdiagnosed. Portable respiratory monitoring devices could facilitate early SDB screening in these patients. We estimated the prevalence of sleep apnea (SA) using a smartphone-based monitoring system in post-stroke patients and examined associations between respiratory indices, stroke severity and disability (NIHSS, mRS), and rehabilitation outcomes (motor and cognitive Functional Independence Measure; FIM). Consecutive patients admitted to inpatient rehabilitation within three months after a stroke underwent an overnight assessment with a smartphone-based respiratory monitoring device, which estimated the apnea–hypopnea index (AHI), mean and minimum SpO2, time with SpO2 < 94% and <90%, and hourly oxygen desaturation events (≥3% and ≥4%). Of the 104 screened patients, 59 were recruited, while 56 had valid recordings. Most patients (89%) had previously undiagnosed SA: 11% mild (AHI ≥ 5 and <15), 38% moderate (AHI ≥ 15 and <30), and 41% severe (AHI ≥ 30). Greater event burden and nocturnal hypoxemia were associated with older age, worse baseline disability (mRS), lower admission motor FIMs, and poorer rehabilitation metrics. Smartphone-based portable monitoring is an accessible, easy-to-use approach that may enable earlier identification of SA, particularly in individuals with substantial hypoxemia or respiratory event burden. Full article
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20 pages, 9864 KB  
Article
Glutamine Synthetase 1 Functions in Spermatogenesis in the Silkworm, Bombyx mori
by Zelin Fan, Lulu Zhang, Surui Zhang, Jiayin Zhang, Cuiqi Fang, Xiuping Lu and Xingfu Zha
Insects 2026, 17(2), 135; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects17020135 - 24 Jan 2026
Viewed by 45
Abstract
Glutamine synthetase, a critical enzyme catalyzing the conversion of glutamate and ammonia into glutamine, has been shown to influence sperm development in mammals. Here, we carried out functional analysis of Bombyx mori homolog of glutamine synthetase 1 (BmGS1) and screened its [...] Read more.
Glutamine synthetase, a critical enzyme catalyzing the conversion of glutamate and ammonia into glutamine, has been shown to influence sperm development in mammals. Here, we carried out functional analysis of Bombyx mori homolog of glutamine synthetase 1 (BmGS1) and screened its small-molecule inhibitor. RT-PCR and qPCR showed that BmGS1 was specifically expressed in the testis of the silkworm, with the highest expression in the moth stage. Subcellular localization revealed that the BmGS1 protein was localized in mitochondria and cytoplasm. Identification of upstream regulatory factors revealed that the expression of BmGS1 is positively regulated by the sex-related transcription factor Bmdsx. Virtual screening, molecular docking and MD simulations showed that the small molecule Ethylhexyl triazone (ET), as well as the known GS inhibitor L-Methionine -DL-sulfoximine (MSX), could be stably bound to BmGS1. Subsequently, site-specific mutation and fluorescence binding assays revealed that the putative key sites of ET binding to the protein were E79 and R265, and the putative key sites of MSX binding to the protein were E81, R245, and R286. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that inhibitor treatment significantly attenuated BmGS1 enzymatic activity. Inhibitor-injected silkworms showed reduced fertilization rates compared to control groups. Our findings raise BmGS1 as a potential target for silkworm sterility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Studies on Resource Insects)
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22 pages, 897 KB  
Review
Digital and Technology-Based Nutrition Interventions, Including Medically Tailored Meals (MTMs) for Older Adults in the U.S.—A Scoping Review
by Nishat Tabassum, Lesli Biediger-Friedman, Cassandra Johnson, Michelle Lane and Seanna Marceaux
Nutrients 2026, 18(3), 385; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18030385 - 24 Jan 2026
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Abstract
Background/Objectives: Older adults often face nutrition challenges due to mobility issues, chronic conditions, and limited access to adequate nutrition. Digital and technology-based interventions, including those with nutrition education, nutrition counseling and Medically Tailored Meals [MTMs], can help address these barriers. However, the extent [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Older adults often face nutrition challenges due to mobility issues, chronic conditions, and limited access to adequate nutrition. Digital and technology-based interventions, including those with nutrition education, nutrition counseling and Medically Tailored Meals [MTMs], can help address these barriers. However, the extent and characteristics of such programs in the United States remain unclear. This scoping review aimed to map the existing evidence on digital and technology-based (“digi-tech”) nutrition interventions for older adults in the United States, with particular attention to the presence, characteristics, and gaps related to MTMs. Methods: This scoping review followed the PRISMA-ScR framework to map existing evidence on technology-enabled nutrition care interventions for older adults aged ≥ 60 years in the United States. Systematic searches were conducted across multiple databases, yielding 18,177 records. Following title and abstract screening, full-text review, and eligibility assessment, 16 intervention studies were included. Study designs comprised randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental and non-randomized studies, mixed-methods feasibility studies, pilot studies, and one retrospective longitudinal cohort study. Data were extracted on study design, population characteristics, intervention components, technology modalities, outcomes, feasibility, acceptability, and reported barriers. Results: Interventions varied in duration [8 weeks to ≥12 months] and content. Foci ranged from remote nutrition education and mobile app-based tracking to multicomponent interventions integrating exercise, nutrition counseling, health literacy, and meal delivery. Telehealth was the most commonly used technology modality, followed by mobile health applications, wearable devices, and online educational platforms. Most interventions reported high feasibility and acceptability, with improvements in diet quality, adherence to healthy eating patterns, clinical measures such as HbA1c and blood pressure, and functional performance. Common implementation barriers included declining technology use over time, digi-tech literacy, and access to devices or the internet. Notably, no studies evaluated a digi-tech-based MTMs intervention exclusively for older adults in the U.S. Conclusions: Digital and technology-based nutrition interventions show promise for improving dietary and health outcomes in older adults, but there is insufficient empirical evidence. Future research might develop and evaluate hybrid digi-tech intervention models that leverage the potential of digi-tech tools while addressing barriers to technology adoption among older adults. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Health Throughout the Lifespan)
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