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21 pages, 10040 KB  
Article
Design of Monitoring System for River Crab Feeding Platform Based on Machine Vision
by Yueping Sun, Ziqiang Li, Zewei Yang, Bikang Yuan, De’an Zhao, Ni Ren and Yawen Cheng
Fishes 2026, 11(2), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes11020088 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2026
Abstract
Bait costs constitute 40–50% of the total expenditure in river crab aquaculture, highlighting the critical need for accurately assessing crab growth and scientifically determining optimal feeding regimes across different farming stages. Current traditional methods rely on periodic manual sampling to monitor growth status [...] Read more.
Bait costs constitute 40–50% of the total expenditure in river crab aquaculture, highlighting the critical need for accurately assessing crab growth and scientifically determining optimal feeding regimes across different farming stages. Current traditional methods rely on periodic manual sampling to monitor growth status and artificial feeding platforms to observe consumption and adjust bait input. These approaches are inefficient, disruptive to crab growth, and fail to provide comprehensive growth data. Therefore, this study proposes a machine vision-based monitoring system for river crab feeding platforms. Firstly, the Contrast Limited Adaptive Histogram Equalization (CLAHE) algorithm is applied to enhance underwater images of river crabs. Subsequently, an improved YOLOv11 (You Only Look Once) model is introduced and applied for multi-target detection and counting in crab ponds, enabling the extraction of information related to both river crabs and bait. Concurrently, underwater environmental parameters are monitored in real-time via an integrated environmental information sensing system. Finally, an information processing platform is established to facilitate data sharing under a “detection–processing–distribution” workflow. The real crab farm experimental results show that the river crab quality error rate was below 9.57%, while the detection rates for both corn and pellet baits consistently exceeded 90% across varying conditions. These results indicate that the proposed system significantly enhances farming efficiency, elevates the level of automation, and provides technological support for the river crab aquaculture industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Fishery Facilities, Equipment, and Information Technology)
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23 pages, 2170 KB  
Article
Particle Swarm Optimization and Fuzzy Logic Co-Optimization for Energy Efficiency Cooperative Energy Management Strategy of Hybrid Energy Storage Electric Vehicles
by Ning Li, Zhongyuan Huang, Chaopeng Wang and Xiaobin Ning
World Electr. Veh. J. 2026, 17(2), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj17020073 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2026
Abstract
For hybrid energy storage systems requiring efficient energy management to achieve optimal power allocation between the power battery and supercapacitor, this study proposes an optimal energy management method integrating whole-process particle swarm optimization with fuzzy logic control, which simultaneously considers braking safety and [...] Read more.
For hybrid energy storage systems requiring efficient energy management to achieve optimal power allocation between the power battery and supercapacitor, this study proposes an optimal energy management method integrating whole-process particle swarm optimization with fuzzy logic control, which simultaneously considers braking safety and energy efficiency optimization. First, a zonal braking force distribution strategy based on the I-curve, ECE regulations curve, and front wheel lockup curve is designed to maximize energy recovery while ensuring braking safety. On this basis, a whole-process “driving–braking” fuzzy logic control strategy for power distribution is constructed, aiming at maximizing braking energy recovery efficiency and minimizing energy consumption per 100 km. The parameters of the membership functions in the fuzzy controller are optimized using the particle swarm optimization algorithm to achieve global optimization of the control process. Finally, simulation validation of the optimization results demonstrates that, compared with traditional logic threshold control under NEDC conditions, the proposed strategy improves braking energy recovery efficiency by 10.32%, reduces energy consumption per 100 km by 0.96 kWh, and decreases the peak current of the power battery by 6.4%, thereby effectively enhancing vehicle economy and extending battery lifespan. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Energy Supply and Sustainability)
30 pages, 8655 KB  
Article
GAN-MIGA-Driven Building Energy Prediction and Block Layout Optimization: A Case Study in Lanzhou, China
by Xinwei Guo, Shida Wang and Jingyi Li
Urban Sci. 2026, 10(2), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci10020077 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2026
Abstract
With the rapid urbanization in China, building energy consumption has become a critical challenge for sustainable urban development. Conventional simulation methods are computationally intensive and inefficient for large-scale urban layout optimization, highlighting the need for fast and reliable predictive approaches. Existing machine learning [...] Read more.
With the rapid urbanization in China, building energy consumption has become a critical challenge for sustainable urban development. Conventional simulation methods are computationally intensive and inefficient for large-scale urban layout optimization, highlighting the need for fast and reliable predictive approaches. Existing machine learning models often overlook spatial relationships among buildings and rely heavily on manual feature engineering, which limits their applicability at the urban block scale. To address these limitations, the study proposes a building energy consumption prediction model for urban blocks based on Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs), which preserves spatial information while significantly advancing computational speed. The optimal GAN model is further integrated with a Multi-Island Genetic Algorithm (MIGA) to form a GAN-MIGA optimization framework, which is applied to the layout optimization of a target urban block in Lanzhou. Key findings include: (1) the GAN model achieves an average prediction error of 6.8% compared with conventional energy simulations; (2) the GAN-MIGA framework reduces energy consumption by 48.78% relative to the worst-performing solution and by 22.53% compared with the original block layout; (3) the spatial distribution patterns of energy consumption predicted by the GAN are consistent with those obtained from traditional simulation methods; (4) the regression model derived from GAN-MIGA optimization results achieves an R2 value exceeding 0.84; and (5) building layout design strategies are formulated based on key morphological indicators in the regression model. Overall, this study demonstrates the effectiveness of the GAN-based method for urban scale building energy prediction and layout optimization. The proposed GAN-MIGA framework provides practical tools and theoretical support for energy-efficient design, policy formulation, and smart city development, contributing to more sustainable urban energy planning. Full article
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25 pages, 12028 KB  
Article
Neurotoxic Effects of Acute Tributyltin Exposure in Adult Zebrafish: Behavioral Impairments and Mechanistic Insights
by Qi Zheng, Nan Hong, Lin Liu, Cong Wang, Ruixi Gan, Di Xu and Junsong Wang
Metabolites 2026, 16(2), 105; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo16020105 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Tributyltin (TBT) remains a persistent aquatic contaminant with documented neurotoxic effects, yet the underlying mechanisms of its neurotoxicity remain poorly understood. Methods: We investigated the comprehensive molecular mechanisms of TBT-induced neurotoxicity in zebrafish (Danio rerio) through an integrated approach combining [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Tributyltin (TBT) remains a persistent aquatic contaminant with documented neurotoxic effects, yet the underlying mechanisms of its neurotoxicity remain poorly understood. Methods: We investigated the comprehensive molecular mechanisms of TBT-induced neurotoxicity in zebrafish (Danio rerio) through an integrated approach combining histopathological examination, metabolomics analysis, transcriptional profiling, and behavioral assays. Results: Histopathological analysis revealed significant TBT-induced damage to brain tissue architecture. Metabolomic profiling demonstrated that TBT exposure (500 ng/L) severely disrupted cellular energy metabolism, particularly the TCA cycle and purine/pyrimidine metabolism, while exhibiting hormetic responses at lower concentrations. Transcriptional analysis identified widespread downregulation of SNARE complex proteins and neurotransmitter transporters, indicating comprehensive deterioration of synaptic machinery. Conclusions: These molecular perturbations corresponded with systematic disruption of antioxidant defense mechanisms and neurotransmitter signaling pathways, establishing a direct mechanistic link to observed behavioral deficits. Our findings reveal a hierarchical cascade of molecular disruptions triggered by TBT exposure, bridging the critical gap between metabolic dysregulation and synaptic dysfunction. This mechanistic framework provides fundamental insights into the neurotoxicological impact of this widespread environmental contaminant, highlighting potential therapeutic targets for intervention. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Metabolomics)
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11 pages, 859 KB  
Article
Diagnostic Utility of Synovial Cell Count Prior to Revision Compared to Re-Revision Arthroplasty
by Jennifer Straub, Paul M. Schwarz, Laurenz Willmann, Joachim Ortmayr, Kevin Staats, Irene K. Sigmund, Reinhard Windhager and Christoph Böhler
Antibiotics 2026, 15(2), 143; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics15020143 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The aim of this study is to investigate how the joint, the number and the type of prior revision surgeries influence the diagnostic thresholds for synovial cell count for patients who undergo their first total hip or knee arthroplasty revision compared [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The aim of this study is to investigate how the joint, the number and the type of prior revision surgeries influence the diagnostic thresholds for synovial cell count for patients who undergo their first total hip or knee arthroplasty revision compared to re-revisions, as different cutoffs might substantially influence treatment courses. Methods: In this retrospective single-center register analysis, data from 214 revised THAs (total hip arthroplasties) and TKAs (total knee arthroplasties) were collected, of which 103 (48.1%) have so far undergone at least one revision surgery. Diagnosis was based on the EBJIS criteria, and we identified 163 (76.2%) septic and 51 (23.8%) aseptic cases. Data on synovial cell count were collected and analyzed for their diagnostic accuracy and optimal cutoffs. For re-revisions, a covariate-adjusted ROC (receiver operating characteristic) for the joint, type of previous surgery and number of surgeries was created. Results: We found no significant differences in cell counts between patients before first revision compared to those undergoing re-revision for septic (p = 0.40) and aseptic indications (p = 0.84). The overall diagnostic accuracy was high for all re-revision cases, with a sensitivity of 0.86, specificity of 0.91, AUC (area under the curve) of 0.92, at an optimal cutoff value of 2439.50 G/L. As for re-revised hip joints, the optimal cutoffs were higher compared to knee joints (2439.5 G/L vs. 2626.5 G/L, hip AUC = 0.90, knee AUC = 0.93, p = 0.14). Furthermore, the AUCs for cell count differed significantly depending on the type of previous surgery in re-revision (p = 0.03). The covariate-adjusted analysis showed no significant differences compared to the unadjusted analysis. Conclusions: Cell count remains reliable for diagnosing periprosthetic joint infection in patients with prior revisions, with minor threshold variations from the EBJIS (European Bone and Joint Infection Society) criteria. While the type of preceding revision affects accuracy, the diagnostic value remains consistently high overall. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostics and Antibiotic Therapy in Bone and Joint Infections)
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10 pages, 822 KB  
Article
Echocardiographic Red Flags in Wild-Type Transthyretin Amyloidosis: Sex-Specific Gaps for Wall Thickness and Left Ventricular Mass
by Emilio Nardi, Carola Maria Gagliardo, Davide Noto, Carlo Maria Barbagallo, Antonina Giammanco, Gianluca Di Rosa, Federica Bellini, Maurizio Averna and Angelo Baldassare Cefalù
Life 2026, 16(2), 237; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16020237 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2026
Abstract
Background: Wild-type transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRwt) diagnosis remains challenging. Echocardiographic “red flags” play a significant role in raising diagnostic suspicion. Methods: Retrospective study including 33 patients diagnosed with ATTRwt. All patients underwent comprehensive echocardiographic evaluation focusing on the red flags for ATTRwt. Left ventricular [...] Read more.
Background: Wild-type transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRwt) diagnosis remains challenging. Echocardiographic “red flags” play a significant role in raising diagnostic suspicion. Methods: Retrospective study including 33 patients diagnosed with ATTRwt. All patients underwent comprehensive echocardiographic evaluation focusing on the red flags for ATTRwt. Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) was defined as interventricular septal wall thickness (IVST) ≥ 12 mm and/or LV mass indexed for body surface area (LVMI) ≥ 115 g/m2 in men and ≥ 95 g/m2 in women. Results: Relative wall thickness > 0.42 and early diastolic myocardial velocity < 7 cm/s were detected in 100% of patients. Severe diastolic dysfunction (grade ≥ 3) (72.7%), apical sparing (36.4%), granular sparkling pattern (30.3%), and pericardial effusion (39.4%) were also observed. Females were younger than males (median age 68 vs. 74.5 years), and IVST ≥ 12 mm was lower in females than in males (64.4% vs. 100%, respectively, p < 0.05). The combined criterion of IVST ≥ 12 mm in men and LVMI ≥ 95 g/m2 in women was encountered in 100% of the global cohort. Conclusions: IVST is a good predictor of LVH in males but shows limited sensitivity for ATTRwt in females; a gender-differenced approach (IVST for men and LVMI for women) might better stratify for ATTRwt suspicion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medical Research)
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10 pages, 486 KB  
Article
Impact of Preexisting Diabetes on Activities of Daily Living Independence at Hospital Discharge in Critically Ill Patients: A Prospective Cohort Study
by Shinichi Watanabe, Kota Yamauchi, Yuji Naito, Ayato Shinohara, Yasunari Morita, Yuki Iida and from the RELIFE Network
Diabetology 2026, 7(2), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/diabetology7020027 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2026
Abstract
Background: Diabetes mellitus is known to affect the prognosis of critically ill patients; however, its impact on independence in activities of daily living (ADL) at hospital dis-charge remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether preexisting diabetes is associated with reduced ADL [...] Read more.
Background: Diabetes mellitus is known to affect the prognosis of critically ill patients; however, its impact on independence in activities of daily living (ADL) at hospital dis-charge remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether preexisting diabetes is associated with reduced ADL independence at hospital discharge among critically ill patients. Methods: In this prospective cohort study, 423 adult intensive care unit (ICU) patients who were admit-ted for ≥48 h were enrolled and categorized by the presence or absence of diabetes. Primary outcomes included time to achieve walking independence (unassisted walking over 50 m) and the Barthel Index at discharge. Secondary outcomes were handgrip strength, ICU length of stay, and highest ICU Mobility Scale (IMS) scores. Multivariable analyses adjusted for age, illness severity, and other confounders. Results: Among the 101 patients with diabetes, time to achieve walking independence at discharge was significantly longer compared to those without diabetes (p = 0.013). The diabetes group also had a lower Barthel Index (p = 0.020), longer ICU stays (p = 0.003), weaker handgrip strength (p = 0.041), and lower maximum IMS scores (p = 0.002). Multivariable analysis confirmed that diabetes was independently associated with reduced ADL independence and poorer physical function at discharge. Conclusions: Preexisting diabetes is an independent predictor of impaired ADL independence in critically ill patients. These findings highlight the importance of early and individualized rehabilitation strategies for patients with diabetes in the ICU. Full article
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23 pages, 5361 KB  
Article
Rheology and Stability of Tunicate Cellulose Nanocrystal-Based Pickering Emulsions: Role of pH, Concentration, and Emulsification Method
by Sumana Majumder, Matthew J. Dunlop, Bishnu Acharya and Supratim Ghosh
Foods 2026, 15(3), 509; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15030509 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2026
Abstract
Tunicate (marine invertebrates)-derived cellulose nanocrystals (T-CNC) possess unique structural and physicochemical properties compared to other wood-based CNCs. This study aimed to characterize and utilize T-CNC as a stabilizer in Pickering emulsion (PE), highlighting a sustainable alternative to conventional surfactant-based emulsifiers. Characterization of T-CNC [...] Read more.
Tunicate (marine invertebrates)-derived cellulose nanocrystals (T-CNC) possess unique structural and physicochemical properties compared to other wood-based CNCs. This study aimed to characterize and utilize T-CNC as a stabilizer in Pickering emulsion (PE), highlighting a sustainable alternative to conventional surfactant-based emulsifiers. Characterization of T-CNC revealed a rod-shaped morphology with dimensions of 1694 ± 925 nm in length and 13 ± 3 nm in width, resulting in an aspect ratio of 122 ± 45, and high crystallinity (87.6%). Its zeta potential ranged from −4.4 to −45.5 mV across pH 2–10 and contact angles <50° indicate strong water wettability. T-CNC at 0.2%, 0.3%, and 0.4% (w/w) at pH 3 and 5 was used to prepare 20 wt% oil-in-water PE using a high-shear homogenizer followed by ultrasonication. Ultrasonication significantly improved the emulsion stability compared to only high-shear homogenization, decreasing droplet size by 31.4–50.8% and 55.7–89.3% for pH 3 and pH 5, respectively. PEs developed at pH 3 demonstrated smaller droplet sizes, better stability with minimal coalescence after 7 days, and enhanced gel-like rheological behaviour compared to PEs at pH 5, which displayed flocculation and coalescence. The gel strength of the pH 3 PEs increased with T-CNC concentration, as evidenced by progressively denser droplet packing, consistent with stronger interfacial anchoring (higher detachment energy) and reduced coalescence. This study underscores T-CNC’s superior efficiency in stabilizing PEs at low concentrations, offering a green, high-performance solution for food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical applications. Full article
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15 pages, 450 KB  
Review
Mechanisms Linking Oxidative Stress and Sarcopenia in Cardiovascular Diseases: A Scoping Review
by Sabina Krupa-Nurcek, Tomasz Semań, Mateusz Szczupak, Jacek Kobak, Wioletta Mędrzycka-Dąbrowska and Kazimierz Widenka
Antioxidants 2026, 15(2), 184; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15020184 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2026
Abstract
Oxidative stress and sarcopenia are increasingly perceived as interdependent processes that significantly affect the course of cardiovascular diseases. Excessive production of reactive oxygen species leads to muscle cell damage, mitochondrial disorders, and chronic inflammation, which promote progressive loss of muscle mass and function. [...] Read more.
Oxidative stress and sarcopenia are increasingly perceived as interdependent processes that significantly affect the course of cardiovascular diseases. Excessive production of reactive oxygen species leads to muscle cell damage, mitochondrial disorders, and chronic inflammation, which promote progressive loss of muscle mass and function. Methods: The aim of the study was to analyze the mechanisms linking oxidative stress and sarcopenia in the course of cardiovascular diseases. Our scoping review initially identified 854 articles, of which 3 were ultimately included in the review (after removing duplicates (n = 118), 736 articles remained; after re-screening the articles according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria (n = 302), 434 articles remained; 196 publications lacked full text and were excluded, leaving 238 articles). Results: An examination of the available literature indicates a potential association between increased oxidative stress and the possible development of sarcopenia in individuals with cardiovascular diseases. The studies identified in this review suggest that elevated levels of reactive oxygen species, together with reduced antioxidant capacity, may contribute to muscle fiber damage, mitochondrial disturbances, and the activation of chronic inflammatory processes, which could in turn be involved in the accelerated decline of muscle mass and strength. Conclusions: These results confirm that oxidative stress is a key pathophysiological element linking both disease entities and may be an important target of therapeutic interventions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Health Outcomes of Antioxidants and Oxidative Stress)
26 pages, 792 KB  
Article
Preservice Elementary Teachers’ Perceptions of Integrated STEM After Participating in an Integrated STEAM Course
by Holly M. Plank, Stefanie D. Livers and Thomas Roberts
Educ. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 214; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci16020214 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2026
Abstract
(1) Background: Although integrated STEM education is an important policy focus, teacher preparation to implement high-quality integrated STEM and STEAM learning experiences in an equitable manner is not widespread. Teacher beliefs significantly impact how they teach; therefore, this study explores preservice teachers’ self-reported [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Although integrated STEM education is an important policy focus, teacher preparation to implement high-quality integrated STEM and STEAM learning experiences in an equitable manner is not widespread. Teacher beliefs significantly impact how they teach; therefore, this study explores preservice teachers’ self-reported perceptions of teaching integrated STEM after participating in an integrated STEAM course. (2) Methods: We employed qualitative methods to explore 47 preservice elementary teachers’ perceptions about teaching integrated STEM based on their lived experiences in an integrated STEAM course. Guided by our conceptual framework, we used deductive methods to better understand preservice elementary teachers’ perceptions. We also used open coding to understand their lived experiences in the course. Pattern coding was used in the second cycle to identify themes. (3) Findings: Three primary themes emerged, including understanding integrated STEM frameworks through a transdisciplinary and critical lens; perceiving STEAM is engaging because it is relevant; and developing self-efficacy for future STEAM integration without infrastructure. (4) Conclusions: Although preservice elementary teachers had positive experiences in the course and believe integrated STEM and STEAM to be important, more work is needed to develop their understanding of equitable integrated STEM and STEAM instruction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cultivating Teachers for STEAM Education)
19 pages, 803 KB  
Review
Analytical Strategies for the Determination of Herbicides in Water: Advances in Sample Preparation, Separation, and Detection
by José Luís Guedes, Luís Durão, Luana M. Rosendo, Tiago Rosado and Eugenia Gallardo
Separations 2026, 13(2), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/separations13020051 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2026
Abstract
Herbicides are widely used agrochemicals and are increasingly recognised as contaminants of emerging concern in aquatic environments due to their extensive application, environmental persistence, and potential ecological and human health impacts. Their determination in water presents significant analytical challenges, as these compounds occur [...] Read more.
Herbicides are widely used agrochemicals and are increasingly recognised as contaminants of emerging concern in aquatic environments due to their extensive application, environmental persistence, and potential ecological and human health impacts. Their determination in water presents significant analytical challenges, as these compounds occur at trace to ultra-trace levels and encompass a wide range of chemical properties, including highly polar and ionic species as well as transformation products. This review provides a critical overview of recent advances in separation technologies for the analysis of herbicides in water, based on peer-reviewed studies published between 2020 and 2025 retrieved from the PubMed and Scopus databases. The discussion focuses on developments in sample preparation, extraction strategies, chromatographic separation, and detection techniques, with particular attention to analytical performance and sustainability. The reviewed studies demonstrate that solid-phase extraction remains central to achieving the lowest detection limits, while miniaturised and greener extraction approaches are increasingly adopted to reduce solvent consumption and simplify workflows. Advances in chromatographic separation and detection, especially liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry, have further enhanced sensitivity and selectivity for a broad range of herbicides. Overall, this review highlights current analytical capabilities and emerging trends, outlining future directions for reliable and sustainable monitoring of herbicides in aquatic environments. Full article
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13 pages, 874 KB  
Article
Sleep Quality Is Associated with Changes in Blood Glucose and Arterial Stiffness Following Postprandial Hyperglycemia
by Ryota Kobayashi and Hideyuki Negoro
Diabetology 2026, 7(2), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/diabetology7020026 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Postprandial hyperglycemia and sleep quality can influence arterial stiffness; however, the interaction between sleep quality and postprandial hyperglycemia-induced changes in arterial stiffness remains poorly elucidated. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate whether sleep quality modifies postprandial changes in blood [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Postprandial hyperglycemia and sleep quality can influence arterial stiffness; however, the interaction between sleep quality and postprandial hyperglycemia-induced changes in arterial stiffness remains poorly elucidated. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate whether sleep quality modifies postprandial changes in blood glucose levels and arterial stiffness following a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test in healthy middle-aged and older adults. Methods: In this study on 104 healthy middle-aged and older adults (50–83 years old), arterial stiffness was assessed using carotid–femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) and brachial–ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) before and 60 min after a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Poor sleep quality was defined as a Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score > 5.5. Results: In the 51 participants with poor sleep quality, baPWV increased significantly from baseline to 60 min after the 75 g OGTT (p < 0.01), whereas no such change was observed in the 53 subjects with good sleep quality. baPWV was significantly higher in the poor-sleep-quality group than in the good-sleep-quality group 60 min after the 75 g OGTT (p < 0.01). Moreover, baPWV and blood glucose levels 60 min after the 75 g OGTT had a positive correlation (p < 0.01, r = 0.64). Conclusions: These findings suggest that a poor sleep quality may enhance postprandial hyperglycemia-induced arterial stiffness, whereas a good sleep quality may help protect vascular function. Full article
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16 pages, 914 KB  
Article
Validation of Preoperative Neoadjuvant Bevacizumab Therapy for Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma via Comparative Analyses with Propensity Score Matching
by Yohei Yamamoto, Akihiko Teshigawara, Ryota Tamura, Jun Takei, Yukina Morimoto, Kyoichi Tomoto, Yasuharu Akasaki, Yuzuru Hasegawa, Yuichi Murayama, Keisuke Miyake, Hikaru Sasaki and Toshihide Tanaka
Cancers 2026, 18(3), 488; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18030488 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The role of preoperative neoadjuvant bevacizumab (neoBev) in newly diagnosed glioblastoma (GB) remains controversial. We evaluated its impact on perioperative and survival outcomes and explored imaging-based associations with prognosis. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 33 patients with newly diagnosed GB who received preoperative [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The role of preoperative neoadjuvant bevacizumab (neoBev) in newly diagnosed glioblastoma (GB) remains controversial. We evaluated its impact on perioperative and survival outcomes and explored imaging-based associations with prognosis. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 33 patients with newly diagnosed GB who received preoperative neoBev (10 mg/kg; surgery performed 21–30 days later). A matched control cohort of 33 patients treated with standard chemoradiotherapy was selected using propensity score matching. Changes in Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS), extent of resection, and volumetric alterations on gadolinium-enhanced T1-weighted MRI (T1Gd) and FLAIR were assessed. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were compared. Results: All patients had GB (31 IDH-wild-type, 2 IDH-mutant). Median KPS improved after neoBev (71 to 83), while no improvement was observed in controls. After matching, median PFS and OS did not differ between the neoBev and control groups (10.2 vs. 13.3 months and 17.9 vs. 18.2 months, respectively). Exploratory analyses in the neoBev cohort showed that greater T1Gd volume reduction was associated with improved PFS and OS, whereas FLAIR changes were not. Conclusions: Preoperative neoBev did not improve survival compared with standard chemoradiotherapy. However, it was associated with improved functional status, and exploratory imaging findings suggested associations between early radiographic response and outcome. NeoBev should not be used routinely but may have a contextual role in selected patients with perioperative challenges. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neurosurgery Research on Brain Tumors)
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12 pages, 620 KB  
Systematic Review
The Role of Agentic AI in Musculoskeletal Radiology: A Scoping Review
by Jonathan Gibson, Praveen Chinniah, Shashank Chapala, Ojasvi Vemuri and Rajesh Botchu
Computers 2026, 15(2), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/computers15020089 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2026
Abstract
Objectives: Artificial intelligence (AI) is a transformative development in the field of medicine. In the field of musculoskeletal radiology, agentic AI is a technology that could flourish, but currently, the limited evidence base is fragmented and sparse, and we present a scoping review [...] Read more.
Objectives: Artificial intelligence (AI) is a transformative development in the field of medicine. In the field of musculoskeletal radiology, agentic AI is a technology that could flourish, but currently, the limited evidence base is fragmented and sparse, and we present a scoping review of it. Methods: Parallel searches were conducted in four databases: PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science. Search terms included all agentic AI and autonomous AI agents, as well as radiology. All papers underwent screening by two independent reviewers, with conflicts resolved through consensus. Initially, inclusion criteria involved all papers on general radiology, which were later stratified for musculoskeletal radiology and applicable papers to ensure inclusion of all suitable studies. A thematic analysis was undertaken by two independent reviewers. Results: Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria, comprising two MSK (musculoskeletal)-specific and nine general radiology papers applicable to MSK workflows. Four key themes emerged. Agentic decision support was demonstrated across five studies, showing improved diagnostic coordination, pathway navigation, and reduced clinician workload. Workflow optimisation was highlighted in four studies, with agentic systems enhancing administrative efficiency, modality selection, and overall radiology throughput. Image analysis and reconstruction were improved in three studies, with multi-agent systems enabling enhanced image quality and automated interpretation. Finally, four studies addressed conceptual, ethical, and governance considerations, emphasising the need for transparency, safety frameworks, and clinician oversight. Conclusion: Agentic AI shows considerable promise for enhancing MSK radiology through improved decision support, image analysis, and workflow efficiency; however, the current evidence remains limited and largely theoretical. Full article
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21 pages, 2342 KB  
Article
On-Demand All-Red Interval (ODAR): Evaluation and Implementation in Software-in-the-Loop Simulation
by Ismet Goksad Erdagi, Slavica Gavric, Marko Vukojevic and Aleksandar Stevanovic
Information 2026, 17(2), 142; https://doi.org/10.3390/info17020142 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2026
Abstract
This study evaluates the On-Demand All-Red Interval (ODAR) at signalized intersections to address red-light running (RLR) issues. Traditional fixed all-red intervals fail to adapt to dynamic traffic conditions, leading to potential safety risks and unnecessary delays. This study introduces a novel approach for [...] Read more.
This study evaluates the On-Demand All-Red Interval (ODAR) at signalized intersections to address red-light running (RLR) issues. Traditional fixed all-red intervals fail to adapt to dynamic traffic conditions, leading to potential safety risks and unnecessary delays. This study introduces a novel approach for dynamically extending the all-red interval on demand to enhance intersection efficiency while maintaining safety by eliminating unnecessary clearance intervals when no risk exists. Utilizing software-in-the-loop simulation, the study assesses the effectiveness of the ODAR method compared to conventional fixed-duration and Dynamic All-Red Extension (DARE) methods, allowing realistic controller testing without field deployment. The ODAR method adapts to real-time traffic conditions by incorporating vehicle speed and signal timing, ensuring vehicles with high collision risk clear the intersection safely. The study is conducted using a microsimulation model based on the Washington Street arterial network in Lake County, Illinois, validated against real traffic conditions. The results demonstrate that ODAR increases throughput and, in specific scenarios, reduces delays and stop occurrences compared to FAR and DARE strategies, based on a field-calibrated microsimulation dataset of a real-world arterial corridor. Importantly, these efficiency improvements are achieved while maintaining comparable intersection safety outcomes, as measured by red-light-running events, conflict frequency, and conflict severity. Full article
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