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21 pages, 978 KB  
Review
Artificial Intelligence for Computer-Aided Detection in Endovascular Interventions: Clinical Applications, Validation, and Translational Perspectives
by Rasit Dinc and Nurittin Ardic
Bioengineering 2026, 13(4), 399; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering13040399 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background: Artificial intelligence-based computer-aided detection (AI-CAD) systems are increasingly being used in endovascular practice to support time-sensitive detection, triage and prioritization tasks in imaging and procedural workflows. Despite rapid technological advancements and expanding regulatory clearances, the translation to lasting clinical benefit varies. Objective: [...] Read more.
Background: Artificial intelligence-based computer-aided detection (AI-CAD) systems are increasingly being used in endovascular practice to support time-sensitive detection, triage and prioritization tasks in imaging and procedural workflows. Despite rapid technological advancements and expanding regulatory clearances, the translation to lasting clinical benefit varies. Objective: This narrative review synthesizes AI-CAD applications in endovascular interventions and proposes an evaluation-oriented framework to support responsible clinical translation; this framework emphasizes detection-specific metrics, external validation, bias-aware assessment, and workflow integration. Methods: A structured narrative review was conducted using targeted searches in PubMed, Google Scholar, and IEEE Xplore (2020–2026); this review was supported by an examination of US FDA device databases and citation tracking. Evidence was assessed using a pragmatic hierarchical classification framework based on regulatory status and validation rigor. Results: AI-CAD applications were mapped across four main endovascular domains: neurovascular interventions (e.g., large vessel occlusion triage), coronary interventions (CCTA-based stenosis detection and intravascular imaging support), aortic interventions/EVAR (endoleak detection and sac monitoring), and peripheral interventions (lesion detection and angiographic decision support). Across the domains, performance reporting was heterogeneous and often relied on retrospective, single-center assessments. Key barriers to clinical readiness included acquisition variability and dataset shift due to artifacts, limited multicenter validation, annotation variability, and human–AI workflow factors. Evaluation priorities included whether to assess at the lesion level or case level, false positive burden and calibration, external validation under real-world heterogeneity, and clinical impact measures such as treatment timing and procedural decision-making. Conclusions: AI-CAD systems hold significant potential for improving endovascular care; however, clinical readiness depends on rigorous, endovascular feature-specific assessment and transparent reporting, beyond retrospective accuracy. The proposed evidence level framework and assessment checklist provide practical tools for distinguishing mature technologies from research prototypes and guiding future validation, implementation, and post-market monitoring. Full article
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17 pages, 1706 KB  
Article
Electrochemical Properties and Rate-Limiting Processes in Nd2NiO4+δ Cathode for Intermediate-Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
by Sinuhe U. Costilla-Aguilar, M. J. Escudero-Berzal, J. F. López-Perales, Edén A. Rodríguez, Daniel Arturo Acuña Leal, A. Torres-Castro and R. F. Cienfuegos-Pelaes
Inorganics 2026, 14(4), 96; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14040096 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2026
Abstract
Nd2NiO4+δ was investigated as a Ruddlesden–Popper (RP) cathode material for intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cells (IT-SOFCs), with particular emphasis on its electrochemical performance and oxygen reduction reaction mechanism. The material was synthesized via a polymeric sol–gel route derived from Pechini’s [...] Read more.
Nd2NiO4+δ was investigated as a Ruddlesden–Popper (RP) cathode material for intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cells (IT-SOFCs), with particular emphasis on its electrochemical performance and oxygen reduction reaction mechanism. The material was synthesized via a polymeric sol–gel route derived from Pechini’s method and evaluated in symmetric cells using Ce0.9Gd0.1O2−δ (GDC) as the electrolyte. X-ray diffraction confirmed the formation of a single RP phase and good chemical compatibility with GDC after thermal treatments at 800 °C. Cathode layers with thicknesses of 8–12 µm were deposited by dip-coating. Electrical conductivity measurements revealed a thermally activated semiconducting behavior governed by Ni2+/Ni3+ small-polaron hopping, with an activation energy of ~1.08 eV. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy showed a strong temperature dependence of the area-specific resistance, decreasing from 9.18 Ω·cm2 at 600 °C to 0.39 Ω·cm2 at 800 °C. Distribution of relaxation times (DRT) analysis enabled the identification of the dominant electrochemical processes, indicating that oxygen surface exchange reactions are more favorable than charge transfer at the cathode–electrolyte interface, which remains the main limiting step. These results demonstrate that Nd2NiO4+δ is a promising cathode for IT-SOFC operation, while further optimization of the electrode–electrolyte interface is required to enhance its oxygen reduction kinetics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Ceramics and Refractory Composites)
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24 pages, 3356 KB  
Article
Research on Control Factors and Parameter Optimization of Surfactant Flooding in Low-Permeability Reservoirs Using Random Forest Algorithm
by Yangnan Shangguan, Chunning Gao, Junhong Jia, Jinghua Wang, Guowei Yuan, Huilin Wang, Jiangping Wu, Ke Wu, Yun Bai, Hengye Liu and Yujie Bai
Processes 2026, 14(7), 1108; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr14071108 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2026
Abstract
As oil and gas development increasingly targets low and ultra-low permeability reservoirs, conventional recovery techniques often prove insufficient for mobilizing residual oil. Surfactant flooding, a key chemical enhanced oil recovery (EOR) technology, thus requires careful system optimization and mechanistic investigation. This study focuses [...] Read more.
As oil and gas development increasingly targets low and ultra-low permeability reservoirs, conventional recovery techniques often prove insufficient for mobilizing residual oil. Surfactant flooding, a key chemical enhanced oil recovery (EOR) technology, thus requires careful system optimization and mechanistic investigation. This study focuses on low-permeability reservoirs in the Changqing Oilfield, evaluating three surfactant systems—YHS-Z1 (a 7:3 mass ratio blend of hydroxypropyl sulfobetaine and cocamide),YHS-Z2 (a polyether carboxylate, a nonionic-anionic composite) and a middle-phase microemulsion system (Heavy alkylbenzene sulfonate and hydroxysulfobetaine were combined with a mass ratio of 7:3)—through a series of experiments including interfacial tension measurement, contact angle analysis, static and dynamic oil displacement tests, as well as emulsion transport/retention index assessments, to comprehensively characterize their oil displacement properties. Based on the experimental data, this study constructed four classical regression models: Ridge Regression, Random Forest (RF), Gradient Boosting Regression (GBR), and Support Vector Regression (SVR), and conducted a comparative analysis of their predictive performance. The results demonstrate that the Random Forest (RF) model achieved the optimal prediction performance, with a Mean Absolute Error (MAE) of 1.8245, a Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) of 4.78%, and a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.9428 on the training set. Further analysis using the SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) algorithm revealed that the retention index is the primary global factor (accounting for 49.79% of the variance), while significant intergroup differences exist in the primary factors across different surfactant systems. Concurrently, single-factor and multi-factor sensitivity analyses were conducted to elucidate synergistic effects and threshold behaviors among parameters. The optimal parameter combination, identified via a random search method, achieved a predicted recovery factor of 45.61%, representing a 6.57% improvement over the highest experimental value. This study demonstrates that machine learning methods can effectively identify the dominant factors in oil displacement and enable synergistic parameter optimization, thereby providing a theoretical foundation for the efficient development of surfactant flooding in low-permeability reservoirs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Enhanced Oil Recovery Technologies, 4th Edition)
13 pages, 380 KB  
Article
Limb Strength and Power Asymmetries in Professional Team Sport Athletes at Return-to-Sport Testing Following ACL Reconstruction
by Marko D. M. Stojanović, Nikola Andrić, Tatjana Jezdimirovic Stojanovic, Šime Veršić and Julio Calleja Gonzalez
Medicina 2026, 62(4), 654; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina62040654 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Present assessment methods have not effectively mitigated the risk of recurrent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury following reconstruction (ACLR), suggesting that critical neuromuscular deficits may be underdiagnosed. This study aimed to compare limb asymmetries across strength, concentric and eccentric [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Present assessment methods have not effectively mitigated the risk of recurrent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury following reconstruction (ACLR), suggesting that critical neuromuscular deficits may be underdiagnosed. This study aimed to compare limb asymmetries across strength, concentric and eccentric power, and deceleration metrics during return-to-sport (RTS) testing in professional athletes post-ACLR. Materials and Methods: Forty-four participants (33 males, 11 females; age 22.5 ± 5.8 years, body mass 75.9 ± 13.0 kg, height 180.5 ± 8.38 cm) (mean ± SD) with a unilateral reconstructed ACL (BTB = 33, HT = 11 graft) were included. They underwent isokinetic testing of knee flexor and extensor strength and bilateral countermovement jump (CMJ) assessments to measure concentric and eccentric peak power and deceleration metrics. Limb symmetry indices (LSI) were calculated for each parameter. Welch’s ANOVA and Games–Howell post hoc tests were used to compare LSIs among parameters. Results: Welch’s ANOVA showed that limb symmetry differed significantly across the measured neuromuscular parameters (F = 12,59, p < 0.001). Knee flexor strength LSI was significantly higher than knee extensor strength LSI (p = 0.003; d = 1.18), concentric peak power LSI (p < 0.001, d = 1.44), eccentric peak power LSI (p = 0.001, d = 1.71), and deceleration LSI (p = 0.001, d = 2.09). In addition, deceleration LSI was significantly lower than knee extensor strength LSI (p = 0.001, d = 1.34) and concentric peak power LSI (p = 0.007, d = 1.10). No significant difference was found between concentric and eccentric peak power, nor between knee extensor strength and either concentric or eccentric peak power LSIs. Conclusions: The findings of this study revealed significantly greater asymmetries in load absorption capacity compared to strength and concentric power measures at return-to-sport time frame in professional athletes post-ACLR. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue ACL: From Injury to Return to Sport)
14 pages, 1517 KB  
Article
Efficient Temperature- and Moisture-Compensated Design for Next-Generation Adsorbent-Based Radon Detectors
by Dobromir Pressyanov
Atmosphere 2026, 17(4), 346; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos17040346 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2026
Abstract
Accurate measurement of low-level radon concentrations in the environment is increasingly important for climate research, radon priority area delineation, and atmospheric studies. Adsorbent-based radon detectors offer high sensitivity but suffer from strong temperature dependence of radon adsorption and rapid degradation under humid conditions, [...] Read more.
Accurate measurement of low-level radon concentrations in the environment is increasingly important for climate research, radon priority area delineation, and atmospheric studies. Adsorbent-based radon detectors offer high sensitivity but suffer from strong temperature dependence of radon adsorption and rapid degradation under humid conditions, limiting their applicability in long-term environmental monitoring. This work presents a universal design methodology for temperature- and moisture-compensated radon detectors based on hermetically packaged adsorbents enclosed by radon-permeable polymer foils. Analytical models describing the opposing temperature dependences of radon adsorption in adsorbents and radon permeability in polymers are combined to derive a general optimization criterion that minimizes temperature-induced response variations over a defined temperature range. The method is applicable to arbitrary combinations of adsorbent materials and polymer foils, provided their radon adsorption and permeability characteristics are known. The approach is demonstrated using activated carbon fabrics and common polymers (LDPE, HDPE, and polypropylene), for which optimal design parameters are identified. In addition, water vapor permeation through polymer foils is modeled to estimate moisture protection and permissible exposure durations under high humidity. The results demonstrate that appropriately designed compensation modules can significantly reduce temperature sensitivity while extending operational stability in humid environments, enabling next-generation high-sensitivity radon detectors suitable for environmental applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Atmospheric Techniques, Instruments, and Modeling)
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11 pages, 919 KB  
Article
Safety and Efficacy of Vancomycin–Gentamicin PMMA Bead Pouch Therapy in the Management of Pyogenic Soft Tissue Infections of the Extremities: A Case Series of 19 Patients
by Stavros Goumenos, Sebastian Meller, Konstantinos Dimas, Ioannis Trikoupis, Sokratis Varitimidis, Charalampos Zalavras and Vasileios Kontogeorgakos
Antibiotics 2026, 15(4), 352; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics15040352 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2026
Abstract
Objective: The aim of this case series was to investigate the safety and efficacy of vancomycin–gentamicin embedded PMMA beads (VGPB) in the setting of acute pyogenic soft tissue infections (STIs) of the extremities. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study of 19 [...] Read more.
Objective: The aim of this case series was to investigate the safety and efficacy of vancomycin–gentamicin embedded PMMA beads (VGPB) in the setting of acute pyogenic soft tissue infections (STIs) of the extremities. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study of 19 cases diagnosed with pyogenic STIs of the lower or upper extremity in two academic institutions was conducted between January 2017 and December 2023. All patients underwent surgical debridement, systemic antibiotics and intrawound deposition of vancomycin and gentamicin embedded cement beads (2 g of vancomycin plus 1 g of gentamicin diluted in 40 g of PMMA). Upon second look (4th–7th day post-index surgery) the cement beads were removed, serum samples from the surgical site of infection and from peripheral blood were obtained and the concentration of eluted vancomycin and gentamicin was measured. Furthermore, the white blood cell count (WBC), C reactive protein serum levels (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were measured before the surgical debridement and after the end of the bead therapy. All patients were reevaluated after discharge with a mean follow-up of 4.4 years (range, 1 to 7.6). Results: Wound vancomycin and gentamicin levels were significantly higher than those measured in the serum (34.01 ± 4.47 μg/mL versus 11.96 ± 2.79 μg/mL, p < 0.001 and 5.75 ± 1.22 μg/mL versus 0.51 ± 0.14 μg/mL, p < 0.001 respectively). Serum vancomycin and gentamicin concentrations were below the level of toxicity and no adverse events related to antibiotic-embedded bead treatment were documented. Serum WBC, ESR and CRP levels before debridement (13,446 ± 935.7 c/μL, 42.3 ± 18.7 mm/h and 113.9 ± 20.26 mg/L respectively) were significantly higher than those after the end of treatment (7889 ± 1203.6 c/μL, p < 0.001; 30.3 ± 9.14 mm/h, p = 0.017; and 22.7 ± 6.68 mg/L, p < 0.001 respectively). Two cases (10.5%) had a local recurrence of their STIs. Both of them relapsed within 4 months after their treatment and both had Gram-negative pathogens. Conclusions: Vancomycin–gentamicin PMMA bead pouch therapy appears to be a safe and effective adjuvant treatment for pyogenic soft tissue infections, offering high local antibiotic availability without systemic adverse effects. Full article
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13 pages, 946 KB  
Article
Reliability, Minimum Detectable Change and Construct Validity of the Functional Rating Index in Italian Patients with Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain
by Teresa Paolucci, Letizia Pezzi, Andrea Pantalone, Rocco Palumbo, Roberto Di Deo Iurisci, Federico Arippa, Alice Cichelli, Ronald J. Feise and Marco Monticone
Medicina 2026, 62(4), 653; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina62040653 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background and Objectives: To assess the reliability and construct validity of the Functional Rating Index (FRI) in Italian-speaking individuals with chronic non-specific low back pain (CLBP), in order to improve assessment and clinical management in this population. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: To assess the reliability and construct validity of the Functional Rating Index (FRI) in Italian-speaking individuals with chronic non-specific low back pain (CLBP), in order to improve assessment and clinical management in this population. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study consecutively enrolled 75 individuals with CLBP (52 females; mean age 48.71 ± 19.18 years; mean pain duration 298.64 ± 427.52 weeks). Internal consistency and test–retest reliability were evaluated using Cronbach’s α and the intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC2,1], respectively, while measurement error was estimated through the minimum detectable change (MDC). Construct validity was examined by testing a priori hypotheses through correlations (Pearson’s r) between the FRI and disability measures (Roland–Morris Disability Questionnaire, RMQ; Oswestry Disability Index, ODI), pain intensity (Numerical Rating Scale, NRS), and quality of life (Short-Form Health Survey, SF-36). Results: Cronbach’s α was 0.88, and test–retest reliability showed an ICC2,1 of 0.86 (95%CI: 0.82–0.93). The MDC was 18.05, corresponding to approximately 20% of the total score. The Italian FRI demonstrated strong correlations with the RMQ (r = 0.70) and ODI (r = 0.77), and a moderate correlation with the NRS (r = 0.60). The physical and social domains of the SF-36 showed stronger negative correlations with the FRI than the mental and emotional domains. Conclusions: The Italian version of the FRI is a reliable and valid instrument for individuals with CLBP and is recommended for both clinical practice and research applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Epidemiology & Public Health)
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19 pages, 2965 KB  
Article
Wearable Sensors Reveal Head–Sternum Dissociation as a Latent Deficit in Active Aging
by András Salamon and Gabriella Császár
Sensors 2026, 26(7), 2125; https://doi.org/10.3390/s26072125 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background: Traditional functional mobility assessments often fail to detect subclinical postural decline in active aging populations. This study introduces the Head–Sternum Dissociation Index as a novel digital biomarker to identify latent sensorimotor deficits before macroscopic balance failure occurs. Methods: Ninety-four participants (Young, Middle-Aged [...] Read more.
Background: Traditional functional mobility assessments often fail to detect subclinical postural decline in active aging populations. This study introduces the Head–Sternum Dissociation Index as a novel digital biomarker to identify latent sensorimotor deficits before macroscopic balance failure occurs. Methods: Ninety-four participants (Young, Middle-Aged Civil, Middle-Aged Dancers, and Older Adults) performed instrumented limits of stability tasks, specifically functional and lateral reach tests, utilizing a three-sensor inertial measurement unit configuration. Postural strategies were quantified via the Head–Sternum Dissociation Index and the peak ratio of corrective micro-movements, validating the sensor output against a gold-standard force platform. Results: A significant kinematic breakpoint in postural control was identified at age 55 (p < 0.001). However, Middle-Aged Civilians exhibited early kinematic divergence despite maintaining normal Timed Up and Go test performance. Receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed distinct, sex-specific physiological limits: aging males predominantly adopted a rigid “Stiffness” strategy (peak ratio ≤ 1.15, head–sternum dissociation threshold > 0.63°), while females utilized a broader, more permissive “Continuous” strategy (head–sternum dissociation threshold > 0.31°). Notably, recreational rhythmic training (dance) completely neutralized this age-related decay, with middle-aged dancers maintaining highly efficient, youthful stabilization profiles (Cohen’s d = 2.20). Conclusions: The Head–Sternum Dissociation Index, combined with relative corrective frequency, successfully phenotypes early sensorimotor erosion. These findings advocate for the integration of sex-specific kinematic screening into primary care, allowing clinicians to prescribe targeted interventions well before clinical fall risk manifests. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wearable Inertial Sensors for Human Movement Analysis)
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19 pages, 3743 KB  
Article
Phylogenetic Groups, Virulence Factors, and Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Escherichia coli Associated with Urinary Tract Infections from a Metropolitan Area of Buenos Aires, Argentina
by Nora B. Molina, Ramón A. González Pasayo, Marisa A. López and Mónica D. Sparo
Antibiotics 2026, 15(4), 350; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics15040350 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background: Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is the primary etiological agent of urinary tract infections (UTIs) worldwide. The emergence of strains combining high virulence with multidrug resistance (MDR) poses a significant challenge to public health. This study aimed to characterize the phylogenetic distribution, virulence [...] Read more.
Background: Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is the primary etiological agent of urinary tract infections (UTIs) worldwide. The emergence of strains combining high virulence with multidrug resistance (MDR) poses a significant challenge to public health. This study aimed to characterize the phylogenetic distribution, virulence profiles, and antimicrobial susceptibility of UPEC isolates recovered from patients in the metropolitan area of Buenos Aires (AMBA), Argentina. Methodology: Phylogenetic groups, the ST131 lineage, and virulence-associated genes were identified using PCR-based assays. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) was performed using automated methods and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) production was confirmed using the double-disk synergy test. Colistin (COL) resistance was evaluated by Colistin Drop Test and PCR screening for the mcr-1 (mobile colistin resistance gene 1). Biofilm formation was detected by the Tissue Culture Plate (TCP) method, whereas phenotypic virulence factors (VF) were assessed with Congo Red agar, hemagglutination, and hemolysis assays. Results: Phylogenetic groups B2 (43.8%) and D (26.7%), typically associated with extraintestinal infections, were the most frequent. The high-risk clone B2-ST131 was detected in 6.7% of isolates. Biofilm production was observed in 92.4% of the isolates, with curli fimbriae (87.6%) being the most frequently expressed VF. The highest resistance rates were observed for ampicillin (62.1%), ampicillin-sulbactam (39.8%), and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (25.2%). Interestingly, 3.8% of isolates exhibited colistin resistance, despite the absence of the mcr-1 gene. Conclusions: This study highlights the detection of MDR-UPEC isolates that showed strong resistance to fluoroquinolones and were ESBL producers with high virulence in Argentina, justifying future research encompassing genomic and epidemiological monitoring of local UPEC, which is essential for managing infections and developing new therapeutic and preventive measures. Full article
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22 pages, 1565 KB  
Article
Protective Effects of Vitamin D Against Doxorubicin Chemotherapy–Induced Hepatotoxicity in Wistar Albino Rats: Evidence from 99mTc-Pyrophosphate Scintigraphy and Oxidative–Inflammatory Pathways
by Murat Kalın, Haluk Kerim Karakullukcu, Mina Karakullukcu, Aylin Arslan, Serdar Savaş Gül, Reyhan Toyran, Ömer Faruk Özkan, Gülçin Ercan and Hatice Aygun
Nutrients 2026, 18(7), 1097; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18071097 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2026
Abstract
Objectives: Doxorubicin, a widely used chemotherapeutic agent, is known to induce hepatotoxicity through oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways. Vitamin D has been reported to exert antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects; however, its potential protective role in doxorubicin-induced liver injury remains insufficiently characterized. Materials and [...] Read more.
Objectives: Doxorubicin, a widely used chemotherapeutic agent, is known to induce hepatotoxicity through oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways. Vitamin D has been reported to exert antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects; however, its potential protective role in doxorubicin-induced liver injury remains insufficiently characterized. Materials and Methods: Adult male Wistar albino rats were randomly assigned to six groups (n = 7): Control, Vitamin D (5000 IU/kg), Vitamin D (60,000 IU/kg), Doxorubicin, DOX + Vitamin D (5000 IU/kg), and DOX + Vitamin D (60,000 IU/kg). Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) was administered orally either as a daily dose (5000 IU/kg for 12 days) or as a single bolus dose (60,000 IU/kg). Doxorubicin (6 mg/kg/day, cumulative dose 18 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally on days 10–12. Hepatic injury was evaluated using 99mTc-pyrophosphate (99mTc-PYP) scintigraphy, serum liver enzymes (AST, ALT, LDH, total bilirubin), renal markers (BUN, creatinine), calcium and 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], oxidative stress parameters (MDA, TOS, TAS, GSH, SOD, Nrf2), and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, IL-10). Results: Doxorubicin markedly increased hepatic 99mTc-PYP uptake and significantly elevated AST, ALT, LDH, bilirubin, MDA, TOS, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β levels while reducing Nrf2, GSH, SOD, TAS, and IL-10 (all p < 0.001). Vitamin D supplementation significantly increased serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels compared with controls (32.3 ± 2.7 vs. 74.1 ± 3.8 and 69.3 ± 3.2 ng/mL for the 5000 and 60,000 IU/kg groups, respectively; p < 0.001) and attenuated DOX-induced hepatic injury, as indicated by reduced radiotracer uptake and improved oxidative and inflammatory markers. Vitamin D also mitigated DOX-associated increases in renal injury markers (BUN and creatinine) without inducing hypercalcemia. No significant differences were observed between the two vitamin D dosing regimens in most outcome measures. Conclusion: Vitamin D supplementation exerted protective effects against doxorubicin-induced liver injury, likely through modulation of oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways. Additionally, 99mTc-PYP scintigraphy may serve as a useful imaging tool for detecting acute hepatocellular injury and evaluating therapeutic responses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Micronutrients and Human Health)
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15 pages, 1771 KB  
Article
Deep Learning-Based Generation of Retinal Nerve Fibre Layer Thickness Maps from Fundus Photographs: A Comparative Analysis of U-Net Architectures for Accessible Glaucoma Assessment
by Kyoung Ohn, Harin Jun, Yong-Sik Kim and Woong-Joo Whang
Life 2026, 16(4), 559; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16040559 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2026
Abstract
Introduction: Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is the gold standard for retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) assessment; its high cost and limited accessibility hinder widespread use. This study aims to develop deep learning models that generate RNFL thickness maps from fundus images, providing a [...] Read more.
Introduction: Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is the gold standard for retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) assessment; its high cost and limited accessibility hinder widespread use. This study aims to develop deep learning models that generate RNFL thickness maps from fundus images, providing a cost-effective alternative to OCT. Methods: A dataset of 5000 fundus-OCT image pairs from 5000 unique glaucoma patients was used to train and compare the following four U-Net-based deep learning models: ResU-Net, R2U-Net, Nested U-Net, and Dense U-Net. All models were trained for up to 1000 epochs with early stopping (patience = 50 epochs). Performance was evaluated using Mean Squared Error (MSE), Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR), Structural Similarity Index Measure (SSIM), and Fréchet Inception Distance (FID). Results: ResU-Net demonstrated the best performance, achieving MSE = 0.00061, MAE = 0.01877, SSIM = 0.9163, PSNR = 32.19 dB, and FID = 30.08. These results represent a 108% improvement in SSIM and a 67% improvement in PSNR compared to previously published benchmark for this task. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that deep learning models, particularly ResU-Net, can generate high-fidelity RNFL thickness maps from fundus photographs, substantially outperforming prior published benchmarks. This approach represents a potential contribution toward accessible glaucoma assessment, contingent upon prospective clinical validation and regulatory evaluation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vision Science and Optometry: 2nd Edition)
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9 pages, 251 KB  
Article
Role of Lifestyle and Nutrition in Menstrual Cycle Regularity: Associations with Body Composition and Dietary Habits
by Angela Andreoli, Eugenia Costantini, Qeta Megan, Artida Pashaj, Ersilia Buonomo, Emilio Piccione, Maria De Bonis and Francesco Giuseppe Martire
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(7), 2613; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15072613 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background: Nutritional status and lifestyle factors are increasingly recognized as relevant modulators of women’s reproductive health. However, data remain limited on the relationship between body composition, dietary habits, and menstrual cycle characteristics in apparently healthy young women. This study aimed to assess [...] Read more.
Background: Nutritional status and lifestyle factors are increasingly recognized as relevant modulators of women’s reproductive health. However, data remain limited on the relationship between body composition, dietary habits, and menstrual cycle characteristics in apparently healthy young women. This study aimed to assess nutritional status, body composition, and lifestyle behaviors in young women and to explore their associations with menstrual cycle regularity. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 49 apparently healthy women aged 19–30 years. Anthropometric measurements and body composition were assessed using bioelectrical impedance analysis. Dietary habits were evaluated through a simplified food frequency questionnaire, and adherence to the Mediterranean diet was assessed using the PREDIMED score. Physical activity was estimated using MET values based on the Compendium of Physical Activities. Menstrual cycle characteristics were collected via questionnaire. Group comparisons were performed between women with regular and irregular menstrual cycles. Results: The sample was predominantly normal-weight (mean BMI 22.36 ± 4.26 kg/m2). Anthropometric and bioelectrical impedance parameters did not differ significantly between women with regular and irregular cycles. Women with irregular cycles showed higher resistance and extracellular water and lower phase angle and body cell mass, although differences were not statistically significant. A significant association was found for meat consumption, which was lower in women with irregular cycles (p = 0.007). No associations were observed for other dietary variables, physical activity, or meal frequency. Conclusions: Menstrual regularity in young women was not associated with major anthropometric differences but may be linked to subtle aspects of nutritional status and dietary habits. Lower meat consumption emerged as a potential dietary factor associated with menstrual irregularity. Although associations were modest, these findings support the relevance of nutritional and lifestyle factors in menstrual health. Larger longitudinal studies are needed to clarify these relationships. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Obstetrics & Gynecology)
19 pages, 2298 KB  
Systematic Review
Impact of Influenza Vaccination on Mortality and Major Cardiovascular Events in Adults with Cardiovascular Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
by Sitah Alotaibi, Mazen Bostaji, Anas Alharbi, Latifa Alaqeel, Ghaida Alsharif, Afaf Albalawi, Naif Aloufi, Khaled Khormi, Wedad Almarhbi, Seham Abulkhair, Turki Alshaikh and Abdullah Almaqhawi
Vaccines 2026, 14(4), 309; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines14040309 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and seasonal influenza is a recognized trigger of acute cardiovascular events. The influenza vaccine has been proposed as a secondary preventative measure, though the benefits regarding mortality and cardiovascular [...] Read more.
Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and seasonal influenza is a recognized trigger of acute cardiovascular events. The influenza vaccine has been proposed as a secondary preventative measure, though the benefits regarding mortality and cardiovascular events are unclear. Objective: This study aimed to establish the efficacy of influenza vaccination in lowering mortality and major cardiovascular events in adults suffering from established CVD. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted. Eligible studies were identified from PubMed, Google Scholar, and The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) through November 2025. RCTs involving adults with established CVD evaluating influenza vaccine impact in comparison to placebo or standard care were included. The Cochrane Risk of Bias tool 2 was used to evaluate study quality. Results: A total of eight RCTs met the inclusion criteria. Influenza vaccination was associated with a statistically significant decrease in the composite outcome (of all-cause mortality, acute myocardial infarction, and stent thrombosis) (OR 0.71, 95% CI 0.57–0.90; p = 0.004; I2 = 0%) and major adverse cardiovascular events (OR 0.44, 95% CI 0.26–0.74; p = 0.002; I2 = 0%). Cardiovascular mortality was found to be significantly lower in the vaccination group (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.47–0.86; p = 0.003). However, all-cause mortality was not significantly reduced (OR 1.13, 95% CI 0.79–1.62; p = 0.50; I2 = 88%). Conclusions: Influenza vaccination was associated with a reduction in combined cardiovascular events and mortality due to cardiovascular causes in adults diagnosed with established CVD. In contrast, all-cause mortality was not significantly reduced, and the evidence for this outcome was inconclusive. This supports the routine use of the vaccine as an adjunctive measure in the secondary prevention of CVD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Vaccines and Public Health)
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27 pages, 2398 KB  
Article
Stability Bearing Capacity of 6061-T6 Aluminum Alloy Thin-Walled Tubular Members Under Axial Compression Based on the Continuous Strength Method
by Linna Yin, Haili Shi, Qiujun Ning, Jiawei Lu and Xuesen Li
Buildings 2026, 16(7), 1355; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16071355 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2026
Abstract
In this study, experimental, numerical, and theoretical approaches were conducted to investigate the stability bearing capacity of the 6061-T6 aluminum alloy thin-walled tubular members under axial compression. Initially, a total of 12 6061-T6 aluminum alloy thin-walled tubular members were tested under axial compression, [...] Read more.
In this study, experimental, numerical, and theoretical approaches were conducted to investigate the stability bearing capacity of the 6061-T6 aluminum alloy thin-walled tubular members under axial compression. Initially, a total of 12 6061-T6 aluminum alloy thin-walled tubular members were tested under axial compression, together with initial geometric imperfection measurements. Subsequently, the experimentally validated finite element (FE) model was established using ABAQUS, and a large number of parametric analyses were carried out via this model to investigate the effects of the initial imperfection, the cross-section size and the strain-hardening exponent on the overall stability of the component. Finally, a calculating formula for the strength and overall stability of aluminum alloy axial compression members is proposed based on the continuous strength method (CSM). The analysis results showed that the initial geometric imperfection and strain-hardening exponent have a significant effect on the axial compression stability coefficient of the small slenderness ratio aluminum alloy members. When the relative slenderness ratio is greater than 0.75 and less than 2, the strain-hardening exponent has a great influence on the aluminum alloy axial compression stability coefficient. The proposed strength and overall stability calculation formula of aluminum alloy axial compression members, which is based on CSM, can accurately predict the stability bearing capacity of the aluminum alloy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
15 pages, 1004 KB  
Article
Echoes from the Dyad”: Relational Context of Postpartum Depression Risk
by Wioletta Tuszyńska-Bogucka and Katarzyna Bosowska
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(7), 2608; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15072608 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a clinically significant condition shaped by emotional regulation processes and close relational contexts. Anxiety is often theorized as a mediating mechanism linking relational vulnerabilities to depressive symptoms, yet empirical findings remain mixed. Objectives: This study examined whether state [...] Read more.
Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a clinically significant condition shaped by emotional regulation processes and close relational contexts. Anxiety is often theorized as a mediating mechanism linking relational vulnerabilities to depressive symptoms, yet empirical findings remain mixed. Objectives: This study examined whether state anxiety mediates the association between insecure attachment styles and PPD symptoms or whether its effects depend on relational context, specifically perceived partner support. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a sample of 249 women assessed within 12 months postpartum completed self-report measures of attachment styles in the intimate relationship, state and trait anxiety, perceived partner support, and PPD symptoms. Hypotheses were tested using multiple regression analyses with heteroskedasticity-consistent standard errors, including mediation and moderation models. Results: Both anxious–ambivalent and avoidant attachment styles were associated with greater PPD symptom severity. State anxiety was neither an independent predictor nor a mediator of the attachment–PPD relationship. Instead, its association with PPD symptoms was conditional: anxiety was positively related to depressive symptoms only when perceived partner support was insufficient. Conclusions: Anxiety may function as a context-sensitive amplifier rather than a universal mechanism of postpartum depressive risk. These findings highlight the potential importance of relational context in understanding emotional vulnerability and depressive symptoms during the postpartum period. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postpartum Depression: What Happened to My Wife?)
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