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Scedosporium apiospermum is an emerging filamentous fungus of increasing clinical relevance in human and veterinary medicine. Previously regarded as a ubiquitous soil saprophyte, it is now recognized as an opportunistic pathogen causing a wide spectrum of localized and systemic infections, particularly in immunocompromised hosts. Although infections in animals are considered rare, they are likely underdiagnosed or misidentified as aspergillosis or fusariosis due to overlapping clinical features and morphological similarities. The first confirmed animal isolate of S. apiospermum in the Western Balkans, identified in 2024 from the milk of a cow with clinical mastitis, highlights the need for increased awareness and accurate diagnostic approaches for this neglected pathogen in veterinary practice. This review outlines key information on S. apiospermum infections in animals, including routes of infection, predisposing factors, clinical and pathological features, laboratory diagnostic principles, and antifungal susceptibility profiles of animal-derived isolates. Additionally, we present a chronologically organized, tabulated overview of documented cases of scedosporiosis in domestic animals, highlighting the diversity of affected species and the variability in treatment outcomes. This review aims to support early recognition, facilitate differential diagnosis, and contribute to improved management of S. apiospermum infections in veterinary practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Diseases in Animals, 4th Edition)

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26 pages, 8853 KB

Open AccessArticle

Leaf Functional Traits and Water-Use Strategies of Two Riparian Tree Species in an Urban Environment

by Erna Vastag, Lazar Kesić, Claudia Cocozza, Velisav Karaklić, Vladimir Višacki, Marko Ilić and Srđan Stojnić

Forests 2026, 17(3), 339; https://doi.org/10.3390/f17030339 (registering DOI) - 9 Mar 2026

Abstract

Urban roadside environments are characterized by altered microclimate and soil conditions that impose recurrent drought stress on trees, affecting their physiological performance and adaptive capacity. Understanding species-specific physiological and structural responses to drought stress is crucial for selecting tree species that are suitable for urban environments. In the present study, we investigated the species-specific and temporal (monthly) patterns of the in situ leaf physiological status and structural traits of two riparian tree species, Quercus robur L. and Carpinus betulus L., cultivated as urban roadside trees in Novi Sad, Serbia, throughout the growing season (from June to September). This was achieved by assessing leaf gas exchange and rapid light curves of chlorophyll a fluorescence together with leaf structural traits. Under drought stress, Q. robur exhibited sustained photosynthetic activity and transpiration rates due to reduced stomatal sensitivity, indicative of a more anisohydric behavior with respect to its water relations strategy. In contrast, C. betulus exhibited tighter stomatal regulation and showed lower assimilation rates accompanied by reduced cooling capacity, indicating stricter, more conservative water-balance management indicative of isohydric species. Fluorescence indices revealed contrasting behavior: C. betulus showed enhanced NPQ values accompanied by a decline in photosynthetic efficiency, while Q. robur exhibited lower NPQ, suggesting better maintenance of photosynthetic performance and electron transport in PSII under the observed drought stress. These patterns were further supported by higher stomatal density combined with smaller stomatal size, indicating faster stomatal response rates in C. betulus compared to Q. robur. Overall, these results suggest that C. betulus is a more promising riparian tree species for urban landscapes, particularly under drought-prone conditions and predicted climate changes, in comparison to Q. robur. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Water Use Efficiency of Forest Trees)

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25 pages, 1804 KB

Open AccessArticle

Data Asset Quality Evaluation Model Considering the Requirements of Circulation Scenarios

by Tao Xu, Lu Jiang, Jianxin You and Hengjia Zhang

Systems 2026, 14(3), 287; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems14030287 (registering DOI) - 9 Mar 2026

Abstract

High-quality datasets are increasingly recognized as foundational inputs to economic development, industrial upgrading, and public governance. A rigorous evaluation system for data asset quality is therefore needed to improve data governance and to enable value realization in circulation. Focusing on three representative circulation scenarios—data interaction, data exchange, and data trading—this study develops an indicator system from technical, business, and benefit-oriented dimensions. The Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) method is used to identify causal relationships among indicators and key drivers. To integrate multi-expert judgments under uncertainty, hesitant linguistic variables and evidence theory are adopted, and the Best–Worst Method (BWM) is applied to derive more consistent indicator weights. The resulting weights are combined with the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) to obtain a comprehensive ranking of data asset quality with scenario-adjustable emphasis. A traffic-flow dataset from a data technology enterprise is used to demonstrate applicability and effectiveness. The proposed framework advances scenario-adaptive data quality evaluation and supports enterprise data governance, data transaction pricing, and the implementation of high-quality dataset policies. Full article

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26 pages, 6466 KB

Open AccessArticle

Geospatial Assessment of Land Use/Land Cover Dynamics and Future Predictions Using Markov Chain Cellular-Automata Simulations in Rajouri District of Jammu and Kashmir, India

by Qamer Ridwan, Suhail Ahmad, Avtar Singh Jasrotia and Mohd Hanief

Reg. Sci. Environ. Econ. 2026, 3(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/rsee3010004 (registering DOI) - 9 Mar 2026

Abstract

Land use/land cover (LULC) change significantly influences a range of environmental and socio-economic issues, including climate change, deforestation, biodiversity loss, soil degradation, ecosystem services, and food security, at local, regional, and global levels. In the northwestern Himalayan region, particularly in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), LULC change has profound environmental and socio-economic implications. Understanding the temporal and spatial dimensions of LULC change is crucial for assessing the impact of human activities on the region’s environment. The present study aimed to analyze LULC change in Rajouri district of J&K, India over a 30-year period from 1990 to 2020 and to project future LULC dynamics for the next 30 years up to 2050. Landsat imagery with a supervised classification technique was used for classification and generation of LULC maps. Moreover, CA Markov model was used to predict the future LULC status of the area. The model validation exhibited strong performance, with Kappa statistics exceeding 0.90, indicating a high level of reliability in the projections. The results indicate considerable changes in different land use classes from 1990 to 2020. Over the 30-year period, dense forest showed the maximum reduction of about −20.69 Km², followed by open forest (−15.87 Km²) and grassland (−13.75 Km²). Wasteland showed the maximum increase of about +28.24 Km², followed by built-up (+17.90 Km²) and cropland (+12.50 Km²). The cumulative impact of deforestation from 1990 to 2020 amounts to approximately 43.17 Km², while afforestation efforts only managed to reclaim 6.61 Km² of land. The future prediction using the CA Markov model suggests further changes in LULC patterns, with built-up, cropland, and wasteland projected to increase exponentially by 2050, accompanied by sharp declines in forests. Therefore, policymakers should prioritize sustainable land management and forest conservation strategies to mitigate the potential negative impacts of LULC changes on the environment, ensuring balanced and sustainable development. Full article

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12 pages, 779 KB

Open AccessArticle

An Action-Based Psychosocial Group Intervention in Psychiatric Inpatient Care: A Pragmatic Add-On Study to Talk-Based Psychotherapy

by Jyu-Ming Hu, I-Fei Chen, Chun-Chu Lin, Li-Ting Huang, Nien-Hwa Lai and Ming-Wei Lin

Healthcare 2026, 14(5), 687; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14050687 (registering DOI) - 9 Mar 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Psychiatric inpatient care emphasizes pharmacological stabilization, yet psychosocial interventions remain essential for addressing complex emotional, interpersonal, and behavioral needs. While talk-based psychotherapy (TBP) is standard inpatient psychosocial care, some patients face barriers to exclusively verbal engagement during acute crises. This study examined the feasibility and implementation of psychodrama as a pragmatic add-on to routine inpatient TBP under real-world ward conditions. Methods: A quasi-experimental pragmatic add-on design was used (N = 84). All participants received routine TBP; the experimental group (n = 47) additionally participated in psychodrama co-facilitated by a multidisciplinary team (MDT). Outcomes were assessed using the ASEBA-ASR. Non-parametric tests with effect sizes and 95% confidence intervals were used to evaluate pre–post symptom changes over four weeks, and between-group differences were assessed using change-score comparisons. Results: Both groups demonstrated significant within-group symptom reductions following the intervention. However, between-group comparisons of change scores showed no statistically significant differences (all p > 0.05), with small effect sizes and confidence intervals including zero. Conclusions: Psychodrama appears feasible to implement as an action-based psychosocial add-on in acute inpatient settings. Although statistical superiority over TBP alone was not demonstrated, the intervention allowed for the characterization of symptom trajectories under real-world constraints, suggesting that psychodrama may represent an action-based option to diversify psychosocial pathways within MDT-delivered care. Future adequately powered studies are needed to examine how action-based modalities may fit within multidimensional, complexity-informed inpatient care pathways. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Mental Health and Psychosocial Well-being)

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20 pages, 1991 KB

Open AccessReview

The Ecology of Yam Food Culture in the Yam Belt of West Africa

by Jude Ejikeme Obidiegwu, Emmanuel Matthew Akpabio, Anthony Ugochukwu Okere and Cynthia Adaku Chilaka

Culture 2026, 2(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/culture2010006 (registering DOI) - 9 Mar 2026

Abstract

Yam (Dioscorea rotundata) is a major staple crop in West Africa and plays a central role in regional food security, rural livelihoods, and cultural identity. Its wide ecological adaptation, diverse maturity periods, and in-ground storage capacity make yams critical to seasonal food availability and resilience of smallholder farming systems. Despite its importance, existing yam research has largely emphasized biophysical and agronomic dimensions, with limited integration of the socio-cultural and ecological factors that shape yam-based food systems. This review addresses this gap by synthesizing interdisciplinary knowledge on yam food ecology, focusing on how socio-cultural values, beliefs, behaviours, and interactions influence production, utilization, and sustainability of yam systems. We examine the roles of culture, politics, power relations, gender dynamics, and community organization in structuring yam production and consumption across the West African yam belt. The review further explores the long-standing human–yam relationship and the implications of eroding traditional knowledge for future food system resilience. By adopting a systems and ecological perspective that integrates life and social sciences, this review provides a framework to inform sustainable yam crop improvement, value chain development, and inclusive policy interventions, thereby supporting long-term food security and rural development in West Africa. Full article

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2 pages, 124 KB

Open AccessAbstract

From Dissection to Neuromodulation: Anatomical–Clinical Brachial Plexus Framework for Pain Management in Plexopathies

by Daniel Assunção Aires Moreira, Catarina Quezado Duval and Enzo Kauan Mendes Rodrigues

Proceedings 2026, 137(1), 115; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026137115 (registering DOI) - 9 Mar 2026

Abstract

Introduction: Brachial plexopathies often associated with refractory neuropathic pain [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 6th International Congress on Health Innovation—INOVATEC 2025)

12 pages, 633 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrating the Sensation–Emotion–Cognition (SEC) Model into Tinnitus Care: A Preliminary Exploratory Study of a Comprehensive Tinnitus Management Protocol

by María del Carmen Moleón González, Farzon Danesh and Ali A. Danesh

Audiol. Res. 2026, 16(2), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/audiolres16020043 (registering DOI) - 9 Mar 2026

Abstract

Background: Tinnitus, the perception of sound in the absence of an external source, is a prevalent condition that can substantially affect physical and mental health. Although tinnitus is not typically curable, it is often manageable with structured, multidisciplinary care. This pilot research describes the Sensation–Emotion–Cognition (SEC) model, a practical audiological framework developed by Danesh et al. that targets three core dimensions of the tinnitus experience. Methods: We integrate findings from an exploratory retrospective cohort and a prospective expansion study. The SEC protocol included sound therapy, counseling and relaxation training, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) delivered through either unguided, module-based internet CBT, clinician-guided module-based internet CBT, or six therapist-led CBT sessions. The objective was to evaluate whether this multifactorial approach is associated with reductions in tinnitus-related distress. Results: In this prospective study, preliminary results from 16 participants who completed the study were associated with significant pre–post changes in tinnitus-related outcomes: 4C management confidence increased from M = 30.38 to 60.19 (p < 0.001; Cohen’s dz = 1.04), and SAD-T emotional distress decreased from M = 4.75 to 2.38 (p = 0.001; Cohen’s dz = 0.99). Conclusions: These findings suggest the potential value of an integrated management strategy; however, given the single-group pre–post design and attrition, the results should be interpreted as exploratory and warrant confirmation in larger controlled trials. Full article

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14 pages, 771 KB

Open AccessArticle

Multidisciplinary Treatment of Inguinoscrotal Sarcomas: Analysis of 39 Cases Treated by Surgical Approach

by Roger Homs Samsó, Lorena Cambeiro Cabré, Sandra González Abós, Mireia Solans Solerdelcoll, Katarina Majercakova, Ana Sebio García, Isidre Gracia Alegria, Manuel Fernández Garrido, Antonio Moral Duarte and José Antonio González López

Cancers 2026, 18(5), 876; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18050876 (registering DOI) - 9 Mar 2026

Abstract

Background: Inguinoscrotal sarcomas are a rare sarcoma subtype. The treatment of choice is radical inguinal orchiectomy with wide local resection of the surrounding soft tissues. However, consensus regarding prognostic factors is lacking. We present our experience at a referral sarcoma center concerning the management, oncologic results, and prognostic factors pertaining to this disease. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent surgery for inguinoscrotal sarcomas between 2005 and 2023 at a sarcoma referral hospital. Results: The study included 39 patients. The most frequent histology was liposarcoma. Seven patients required surgical reconstruction with a microvascularized free flap. Four patients presented major postoperative complications. Mean follow-up was 46 months. Overall survival rates were 97.4%, 81.7%, and 64.8% at one, three, and five years. High-grade tumors were correlated with worse overall and disease-free survival. Conclusions: The chance finding of a sarcoma in the inguinal region poses a diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma when considering options for treatment with curative intent. Vascular and muscle resection followed by vascular and/or free flap reconstruction may be necessary to achieve complete surgical resections; therefore, a multidisciplinary approach is needed. A preoperative biopsy should be performed to establish the histological grade, which may be the main prognostic factor. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Soft Tissue and Bone Sarcoma (2nd Edition))

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17 pages, 4035 KB

Open AccessArticle

Cooling Strategies for the Effective Mitigation of Summer Thermal Stress in City Laneways

by Priyadarsini Rajagopalan, Jean Jonathan Duverge, Andrew Carre and Mary Myla Andamon

Buildings 2026, 16(5), 1079; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16051079 (registering DOI) - 9 Mar 2026

Abstract

This study explored a range of cooling interventions suitable for city laneways where space for greening opportunities is constrained. Five individual cooling interventions namely, PVC shading, cool pavement, small canopy trees, green wall and water mist, as well as multiple combinations of these individual cooling interventions were tested in a narrow laneway in the temperate setting of Melbourne, Australia. The impact of various cooling interventions was assessed by evaluating microclimatic parameters—air temperature (T_a), relative humidity (RH), mean radiant temperature (T_MRT)—alongside two thermal comfort indices, Physiological Equivalent Temperature (PET) and Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI). When each intervention was analysed individually, water mist was the best performing with T_a, PET and UTCI reduction. This was followed by PVC shading, small canopy trees and green walls. Cool pavement had the lowest T_a reduction and minimal thermal comfort impact. While green provided marginal reductions in thermal comfort indices, the effects were insufficient for standalone cooling. They were most effective when integrated with other cooling interventions. For example, when green walls were combined with water mist, a T_a reduction of 1.49 K and a T_MRT reduction 2.57 K were obtained. The water mist system as an individual cooling intervention or as part of a combined intervention had an impact on T_a with a reduction of maximum 1.3 K and 1.76 K, respectively. The water mist had a UTCI reduction of 1.25 K, and the water mist combined with green wall had a PET reduction of 1.84 K. The novel contribution of this study to climate-sensitive urban design is the suite of practical, site-specific interventions for extreme summer conditions. These findings provide a framework for planners and designers to evaluate and implement optimal cooling strategies tailored to the unique microclimate demands of narrow urban laneways. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Performance-Based Urban Design: Integrated Urban Analytics, Simulation and Climate-Responsive Design)

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15 pages, 1742 KB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Insulin Therapy Adherence Through Technology: Which Needles Do People with Diabetes Prefer?

by Sandro Gentile, Raffaella Fiorentino, Maddalena Lettieri, Giuseppina Guarino, Giampiero Marino, Elisabetta Tommasi, Vera Frison, Ersilia Satta, Maria Chiarello, Giuseppe Caccavale, Emilia Masuccio and Felice Strollo

Diabetology 2026, 7(3), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/diabetology7030056 (registering DOI) - 9 Mar 2026

Abstract

Background: Despite major advances in insulin formulations and delivery systems since 1921, many people with diabetes (PwDs) still fail to achieve recommended glycemic targets. Common reasons include inadequate education, injection errors, and poor adherence due to factors such as needle phobia and pain. Recognition of these barriers has driven the development of improved injection systems, particularly thinner and shorter needles. An experimental study previously identified the Pic Insupen 34 G 3.5 mm needle as high performing. We therefore conducted an observational study to assess its acceptability directly among PwDs. Methods: This multicentre, open-label, real-world study enrolled 300 insulin-treated PwDs who compared their usual pen needle (30–33 G) with the new 34 G × 3.5 mm needle over two two-week periods. The primary outcome was perceived puncture pain. Results: Participants overwhelmingly preferred the 34 G needle, based on the following findings: Pain perception: 62% of 34 G users reported minimal or no pain, compared with only 8% using their previous needle. Conversely, 22% of participants reported the highest pain score with their old needle, compared with just 5% using the 34 G. Ease of use: 77% rated the 34 G needle at the highest level of ease of use, compared with 20% for their previous needle. Complications: The 34 G needle was linked to significantly fewer hypo-/hyperglycemic episodes and local skin complications such as bruising or irritation. Eighty per cent reported no glycemic fluctuations while using the 34 G needle. Robustness: Ninety-four per cent of PwDs never observed the 34 G needle bending during use, compared with 64% using their previous needle, confirming greater robustness despite its thinner profile. Conclusions: The Insupen^® 34 G × 3.5 mm needle substantially reduces puncture pain and improves the overall manageability of insulin injections. Its innovative design—combining reduced thickness with optimised tip geometry—is associated with fewer complications and enhanced injection performance. Because reduced pain and ease of use are critical for improving adherence to insulin therapy, the features of the 34 G needle should inform future prescribing decisions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diabetes Technology Trends: Latest Innovations and Future Perspectives)

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14 pages, 2436 KB

Open AccessArticle

Date Palm Pollen (Phoenix dactylifera L.) Phytoestrogens as Natural Modulators of Estrus in Goats: A Molecular and Phytochemical Insight

by Amr Kchikich, Anass Ben Moula, Ayoub Kounnoun, Said Barrijal, Mohammed El Maadoudi, Nathalie Kirschvink, Youssef Chebli, Samira El Otmani, Bouchra El Amiri, Naoual Alahlah and Mouad Chentouf

Molecules 2026, 31(5), 898; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31050898 (registering DOI) - 9 Mar 2026

Abstract

Reproductive management in goats remains challenging due to seasonal breeding and the use of hormones that raise concerns about immunogenicity, cost, sustainability, and animal welfare. In this study, we evaluated date palm pollen (Phoenix dactylifera L.) (DPP) as a natural source of estrogenic compounds capable of modulating reproductive function. DPP was extracted using methanol, ethanol, acetone, and hexane, and the extracts were analyzed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography. Quercetin and coumestrol were detected in the methanolic and ethanolic extracts at comparable levels (quercetin 0.043–0.044 mg/g; coumestrol 0.987–1.015 mg/g of extract) (p > 0.05). The acetone extract contained significantly lower concentrations (quercetin 0.017 mg/g; coumestrol 0.033 mg/g of extract), while the hexane extract showed no detectable amounts. Molecular docking using the crystallographic structure of estrogen receptor alpha (PDB:6PIT) showed that both compounds interact with key residues of the receptor’s ligand-binding domain. Coumestrol exhibited the highest affinity (−9.3 kcal/mol), surpassing 17-β estradiol (−8.9 kcal/mol), forming several hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic contacts. Quercetin showed a lower affinity (−7.2 kcal/mol) but maintained stabilizing interactions compatible with partial agonist activity. Overall, methanol and ethanol were the most effective solvents for extracting phytoestrogens from DPP, and the findings support their potential as natural alternatives to hormones for estrus induction in goats. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Volatile Organic Compounds: Extraction, Characterization and Biological Activities)

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12 pages, 462 KB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of the Disinfection Capacity of Electrolyzed Water and Growth Rates of Listeria monocytogenes on Chives at Different Storages for Ensuring Microbiological Quality of Fresh Vegetable Foods

by Hyeongmo An and Hyeja Chang

Foods 2026, 15(5), 957; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15050957 (registering DOI) - 9 Mar 2026

Abstract

Fresh vegetables, especially green onions and chives, are raw ingredients widely consumed by Koreans, and have been linked to Listeria monocytogenes-induced food poisoning. This study aimed to assess microbial contamination levels in commercially available fresh-cut vegetables and produce, compare the effects of different types and concentrations of disinfectants on green onions and chives, and determine the growth rate of L. monocytogenes on chives under different storage conditions. Among the five fresh-cut vegetable mix salad products, the average total mesophilic count (TMC) was 2.00 log CFU/g, whereas the crown daisies exhibited the highest levels of raw produce contamination (TMC of 4.14 log CFU/g). The disinfection experiments indicated the elevated disinfectant capacities of electrolyzed water as well as washing under running water against Escherichia coli and L. monocytogenes. Enhanced anti-TMC ability of electrolyzed water were observed in acidic 30 ppm (pH 3.2) and 60 ppm (pH 5.6) of HOCl, and alkaline 100 ppm (pH 8.1) and 200 ppm (pH 8.8) of NaClO. Moreover, in the L. monocytogenes inoculation experiment in chive, the growth rates at 5 °C, 12 °C, and 30 °C were −0.002, 0.023, and 0.030 log CFU/g/h, respectively. This observation suggests that L. monocytogenes cannot grow on chives if stored at 5 °C but can at 12 °C. This study provides scientific evidence to guide the management of microbial quality of fresh produce and fresh-cut vegetables for safer meal provision in home and eating-out settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Food Quality and Safety)

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27 pages, 1188 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Impact of Serum Phosphate, Potassium and Other Electrolyte Levels on Sudden Cardiac Death and Cardiovascular Mortality in Haemodialysis and Peritoneal Dialysis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Beata Franczyk, Jacek Rysz and Anna Gluba-Sagr

Biomedicines 2026, 14(3), 605; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14030605 (registering DOI) - 9 Mar 2026

Abstract

Background: Dialysis patients have a very high burden of cardiovascular mortality, yet the contribution of specific serum electrolytes to sudden cardiac death (SCD) and cardiovascular death across haemodialysis (HD) and peritoneal dialysis (PD) remains uncertain. Methods: We conducted a PROSPERO-registered systematic review and meta-analysis (2010–2025) of cohort studies reporting adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for the association between baseline or time-averaged serum electrolytes and cardiovascular mortality or SCD in adult maintenance HD and/or PD. Random-effects models with modality-specific and pooled analyses were applied. Results: Thirty-five cohorts (over 200,000 patients) met inclusion criteria. Across modalities, categorical analyses showed that high phosphate and low magnesium were consistently associated with approximately 2-fold higher cardiovascular mortality, while extreme potassium categories conferred similar excess risk, driven largely by PD. In HD, hypomagnesaemia and hyperphosphataemia were each associated with around 2-fold higher risk, and lower continuous sodium levels were linearly related to higher cardiovascular mortality. In PD, severe potassium abnormalities, hypomagnesaemia and high phosphate categories were strongly associated with cardiovascular death, and a lower Na/Cl ratio identified patients at particularly high risk. Heterogeneity was generally modest for categorical magnesium and phosphate, but substantial for some potassium and continuous-exposure models. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of key findings. Conclusions: Across HD and PD, abnormalities in phosphate, magnesium, potassium and sodium are strong and largely consistent markers of cardiovascular mortality, and likely SCD, with important modality-specific patterns. These data support intensified, modality-tailored management of electrolyte profiles as a central component of cardiovascular and SCD risk reduction in dialysis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Chronic Kidney Disease: Biology, Diagnosis and Therapy (3rd Edition))

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14 pages, 847 KB

Open AccessArticle

From Lab to Chairside: Dentists’ Perception of Natural Nanomaterials and Smart Delivery Systems in Regenerative Dentistry

by Dana Emanuela Cot (Pitic), Andreea-Mihaela Kis, Diana Marian, Muntean Călin, Radu Dumitru Moleriu, Lavinia Cristina Moleriu, Adina Feier, Laria Maria Trușculescu, Aura Mara Bodnar and Ramona Amina Popovici

J. Funct. Biomater. 2026, 17(3), 130; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb17030130 (registering DOI) - 9 Mar 2026

Abstract

Background: The clinical translation of natural nanomaterials and smart delivery systems in regenerative dentistry relies heavily on practitioner acceptance; however, end-user perspectives remain under-investigated. Objective: This study evaluated dental practitioners’ self-reported knowledge, attitudes, and perceived barriers regarding these innovations. The questionnaire examined stated intention and self-reported willingness, not clinical behaviour. Methods: A cross-sectional survey using convenience sampling was conducted among 713 Romanian dentists. Statistical analysis included Chi-square tests and odds ratio estimation to identify factors associated with willingness to adopt nano-formulations. Results: Self-reported familiarity was moderate, with only 19.1% of respondents describing themselves as “very familiar” with nanodentistry; nevertheless, 77.3% believed natural nano-formulations could match synthetic efficacy. High costs (36.5%), lack of long-term evidence (35.9%), and staining concerns (46.0%) were identified as primary perceived barriers. Experience with digital technologies (CAD/CAM) was significantly associated with a positive attitude toward adoption (OR = 2.05, 95% CI: 1.41–2.98, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Respondents demonstrated a generally positive attitude toward integrating bioactive nanomaterials, though widespread adoption is currently limited by economic, educational, and evidentiary gaps. Future strategies should focus on establishing clear clinical protocols, providing robust long-term safety data, and improving the aesthetic stability of natural biomaterials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Biomaterials and Regenerative Treatments for Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction)

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