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Noncontact, high-fidelity data acquisition has enabled terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) to be widely adopted for bridge geometry measurement and condition monitoring. In TLS applications, point cloud registration directly affects data quality and the correctness of subsequent results. For long-span bridges in large-scale scenes, complex geometry and sparse sampling pose challenges to surface-based, data-driven registration methods, and may degrade registration accuracy. A data-driven approach for high-precision point cloud registration, referred to as the Iterative Closest-Surface (IC-Surface) method, is presented in this study. The method extracts neighboring surface patches via a bounding box and applies random sampling-based plane fitting to derive surface features for registration, effectively mitigating the impact of sparse points and outliers in long-span bridges. Regular points are generated on the source patch and projected onto the corresponding target patch to establish high precision correspondences, yielding a stable and accurate transformation. This method effectively overcomes the limitations of the Iterative Closest Point (ICP), which struggles with unreliable correspondences and outliers. Comparative experiments were conducted using synthetic data, large bridge segments, and full-bridge datasets against commonly used registration methods. The results show that the IC-Surface method maintains high accuracy and stability across varying levels of outliers and overlap ratios. In complex scenes, IC Surface achieves higher registration accuracy than both ICP and the sphere target method, with distance errors reduced from 3 mm to 1 mm and inter-plane angle errors reduced from 0.016 rad to 0.009 rad. These findings demonstrate the method’s broad applicability in digital construction and operation and maintenance assessments of long-span bridges. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Developments in Intelligent Construction and Operation of Infrastructures)

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17 pages, 1012 KB

Open AccessArticle

Worth the Wait? The Effect of Comparative Framing on Tourists’ Waiting Intention

by Jun (Justin) Li, Shuaifang Liu, Yiyan Wang, Nuo Dong, Yingshan Guo, Woo Gon Kim and Qinglei Cai

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 167; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020167 (registering DOI) - 25 Jan 2026

Abstract

Queuing is almost inevitable in tourist service experiences, but most tourists are reluctant to wait. Drawing on prospect theory, this study examined how comparative framing influences tourists’ waiting intention. Across three scenario-based experiments, the research found that, compared with non-comparative framing, comparative framing can effectively enhance tourists’ waiting intention. Perceived waiting costs play a mediating role in the impact of the comparative framing on waiting intention. Additionally, the queuing settings play a moderating role, and the mediating effect is stronger in physical queues than in virtual queues. This research shifts the analytical focus from objective waiting time to the framing of waiting-time information, reveals a psychological cost assessment mechanism based on reference points, and enriches the theoretical explanation of tourists’ immediate decision-making in tourism services. It also provides practical references for optimizing service information and queue management during peak hours. Full article

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23 pages, 17688 KB

Open AccessArticle

A GIS-Based Platform for Efficient Governance of Illegal Land Use and Construction: A Case Study of Xiamen City

by Chuxin Li, Yuanrong He, Yuanmao Zheng, Yuantong Jiang, Xinhui Wu, Panlin Hao, Min Luo and Yuting Kang

Land 2026, 15(2), 209; https://doi.org/10.3390/land15020209 (registering DOI) - 25 Jan 2026

Abstract

By addressing the challenges of management difficulties, insufficient integration of driver analysis, and single-dimensional analysis in the governance of illegal land use and illegal construction (collectively referred to as the “Two Illegalities”) under rapid urbanization, this study designs and implements a GIS-based governance system using Xiamen City as the study area. First, we propose a standardized data-processing workflow and construct a comprehensive management platform integrating multi-source data fusion, spatiotemporal visualization, intelligent analysis, and customized report generation, effectively lowering the barrier for non-professional users. Second, utilizing methods integrated into the platform, such as Moran’s I and centroid trajectory analysis, we deeply analyze the spatiotemporal evolution and driving mechanisms of “Two Illegalities” activities in Xiamen from 2018 to 2023. The results indicate that the distribution of “Two Illegalities” exhibits significant spatial clustering, with hotspots concentrated in urban–rural transition zones. The spatial morphology evolved from multi-core diffusion to the contraction of agglomeration belts. This evolution is essentially the result of the dynamic adaptation between regional economic development gradients, urbanization processes, and policy-enforcement synergy mechanisms. Through a modular, open technical architecture and a “Data-Technology-Enforcement” collaborative mechanism, the system significantly improves information management efficiency and the scientific basis of decision-making. It provides a replicable and scalable technical framework and practical paradigm for similar cities to transform “Two Illegalities” governance from passive disposal to active prevention and control. Full article

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26 pages, 3744 KB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Vegetation Dynamics and Phenotypic Differentiation in Five Triticale (×Triticosecale Wittm.) Varieties Using UAV-Based Multispectral Indices

by Asparuh I. Atanasov, Hristo P. Stoyanov, Atanas Z. Atanasov and Boris I. Evstatiev

Agronomy 2026, 16(3), 303; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy16030303 (registering DOI) - 25 Jan 2026

Abstract

This study investigates the vegetation dynamics and phenotypic differentiation of five triticale (×Triticosecale Wittm.) varieties under the region-specific agroecological conditions of Southern Dobruja, Bulgaria, across two growing seasons (2024–2025), with the aim of evaluating how local climatic variability shapes vegetation index patterns. UAV-based multispectral imaging was employed throughout key phenological stages to obtain reflectance indices, including NDVI, SAVI, EVI2, and NIRI, which served as indicators of canopy development and physiological status. NDVI was used as the primary reference index, and a baseline value (NDVIbase), defined as the mean NDVI across all varieties on a given date, was applied to evaluate relative varietal deviations over time. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to assess the relationship between NDVI and baseline biometric parameters for each variety, revealing that varieties 22/78 and 20/52 exhibited reflectance dynamics most closely aligned with expected developmental trends in 2025. In addition, the relationship between NDVI and meteorological variables was examined for the variety Kolorit, demonstrating that relative humidity exerted a pronounced influence on index variability. The findings highlight the sensitivity of triticale vegetation indices to both varietal characteristics and short-term climatic fluctuations. Overall, the study provides a methodological framework for integrating UAV-based multispectral data with meteorological information, emphasizing the importance of region-specific, time-resolved monitoring for improving precision agriculture practices, optimizing crop management, and supporting informed variety selection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Precision and Digital Agriculture)

24 pages, 2078 KB

Open AccessArticle

SymXplorer: Symbolic Analog Topology Exploration of a Tunable Common-Gate Bandpass TIA for Radio-over- Fiber Applications

by Danial Noori Zadeh and Mohamed B. Elamien

Electronics 2026, 15(3), 515; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics15030515 (registering DOI) - 25 Jan 2026

Abstract

While circuit parameter optimization has matured significantly, the systematic discovery of novel circuit topologies remains a bottleneck in analog design automation. This work presents SymXplorer, an open-source Python framework designed for automated topology exploration through symbolic modeling of analog components. The framework enables a component-agnostic approach to architecture-level synthesis, integrating stability analysis and higher-order filter exploration within a streamlined API. By modeling non-idealities as lumped parameters, the framework accounts for physical constraints directly within the symbolic analysis. To facilitate circuit sizing, SymXplorer incorporates a multi-objective optimization toolbox featuring Bayesian optimization and evolutionary algorithms for simulation-in-the-loop evaluation. Using this framework, we conduct a systematic search for differential Common-Gate (CG) Bandpass Transimpedance Amplifier (TIA) topologies tailored for 5G New Radio (NR) Radio-over-Fiber applications. We propose a novel, orthogonally tunable Bandpass TIA architecture identified by the tool. Implementation in 65 nm CMOS technology demonstrates the efficacy of the framework. Post-layout results exhibit a tunable gain of 30–50 dB

Ω

, a center frequency of 3.5 GHz, and a tuning range of 500 MHz. The design maintains a power consumption of less than 400

μ

W and an input-referred noise density of less than 50 pA/

\sqrt{Hz}

across the passband. Finally, we discuss how this symbolic framework can be integrated into future agentic EDA workflows to further automate the analog design cycle. SymXplorer is open-sourced to encourage innovation in symbolic-driven analog design automation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Circuit and Signal Processing)

24 pages, 4835 KB

Open AccessArticle

Protective Effect of Resolvin D1, D2, and Their Methyl Esters on Oxidative Stress and Hyaluronidase—Induced Hyaluronic Acid Degradation

by Zahra Kariminezhad, Mahdi Rahimi, Julio Fernandes, Hassan Fahmi and Mohamed Benderdour

Antioxidants 2026, 15(2), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15020163 (registering DOI) - 25 Jan 2026

Abstract

Hyaluronic acid (HA) injections are commonly employed in the management of osteoarthritis (OA), yet their therapeutic benefits are often limited by oxidative degradation and enzymatic breakdown within the joint. This study investigates whether Resolvin D1, Resolvin D2, and their methyl ester derivatives can enhance the efficacy of HA injections by acting as dual-function agents with both antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory properties. A comprehensive series of in vitro assays—including ORAC, FRAP, DPPH, ABTS, HRS, and SOD—were performed to evaluate antioxidant capacity, using Trolox, Ascorbic acid, β-Carotene, and Quercetin as reference standards. The potential to inhibit HA degradation was assessed through ROS-induced HA fragmentation and hyaluronidase inhibition assay, with epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) serving as a positive control. The results indicate that Resolvin derivatives, particularly the methyl ester form of Resolvin D1, display mechanism-dependent antioxidant activity, showing pronounced effects in hydrogen atom transfer-based assays (e.g., ORAC and HRS), as well as in ABTS^•+ and superoxide-related systems, along with protection against ROS and enzyme-induced HA degradation. These findings suggest that incorporating Resolvin derivatives may represent a promising strategy to improve HA-based viscosupplementation by enhancing stability and therapeutic persistence in osteoarthritic joints. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Natural and Synthetic Antioxidants)

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15 pages, 1074 KB

Open AccessArticle

Nallan’s Direct Ray: An Innovative Gyroscopic-Guided Radiographic Device for Intraoral Radiography

by Nallan C. S. K. Chaitanya, Nada Tawfig Hashim, Vivek Padmanabhan, Riham Mohammed, Sharifa Jameel Hossain, Sadiah Fathima, Nurain Mohammad Hisham, Neeharika Satya Jyothi Allam, Shishir Ram Shetty, Rajanikanth Yarram and Muhammed Mustahsen Rahman

Diagnostics 2026, 16(3), 386; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16030386 (registering DOI) - 25 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background: Intraoral radiography remains highly operator-dependent, with small deviations in beam angulation or receptor placement leading to geometric distortions, diagnostic inaccuracies, and repeated exposures. This pilot study introduces and evaluates a gyroscopic-guided, laser-assisted radiographic device designed to standardize cone positioning and improve the geometric reliability of bisecting-angle intraoral radiographs. Methods: Eighteen dental graduates and practitioners performed periapical radiographs on phantom models using a charge-coupled device (CCD) sensor over six months. Each participant obtained six standardized projections with and without the device, yielding 200 analysable radiographs. Radiographic linear measurements included tooth height (occluso–apical dimension) and tooth width (mesio-distal diameter), which were compared with reference values obtained using the paralleling technique. Radiographic errors—including cone cut, elongation, proximal overlap, sliding occlusal plane deviation, and apical cut—were recorded and compared between groups. Results: Use of the gyroscopic-guided device significantly enhanced geometric accuracy. Height measurements showed a strong correlation with reference values in the device group (r = 0.942; R² = 0.887) compared with the non-device technique (r = 0.767; R² = 0.589; p < 0.0001). Width measurements demonstrated similar improvement (device: r = 0.878; R² = 0.770; non-device: r = 0.748; R² = 0.560; p < 0.0001). Overall, the device reduced technical radiographic errors by approximately 62.5%, with significant reductions in cone cut, elongation, proximal overlap, sliding occlusal plane errors, and tooth-centering deviations. Conclusions: Integrating gyroscopic stabilization with laser trajectory guidance substantially improves the geometric fidelity, reproducibility, and diagnostic quality of intraoral radiographs. By minimizing operator-dependent variability, this innovation has the potential to reduce repeat exposures and enhance clinical diagnostics. Further clinical trials are recommended to validate performance in patient-based settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Dental Imaging, Oral Diagnosis, and Forensic Dentistry)

28 pages, 2379 KB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Investigation of the Hydrodynamic Performance of a V-Type Wave Dissipation System and Amphibious Landing Equipment Under Different Combined Fields

by Junming Hu, Chengshuai Song, Jiaxian Deng, Xueying Yu and Daiyu Zhang

Water 2026, 18(3), 309; https://doi.org/10.3390/w18030309 (registering DOI) - 25 Jan 2026

Abstract

This study analyzes the hydrodynamic performance of a V-type wave dissipation system and amphibious landing equipment under different combined fields using the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) method. A three-dimensional numerical wave tank is established to simulate regular waves and validate the performance of an airbag-type floating breakwater. This study evaluates the optimal hydrodynamic performance of a V-type wave dissipation system under various configurations in a wave-only field and subsequently compares the efficacy of the better-performing system across multiple environmental conditions. The results show that the V-type wave dissipation system in the configurations of 30° and 45° angles is more favorable for the flow field and the amphibious landing equipment behind it. Compared to the wave-only condition, the time histories of wave heights under both wave-current and wind-wave conditions present an obvious phase advancement. In the wave-current field, a following current reduces the wave height and shortens the wave period. Conversely, in the wind-wave field, a following wind velocity leads to a certain increase in wave height while exerting minimal impact on the wave period. Compared to the wave-only condition, the peak and trough values of the wave height monitoring points in the combined wind-wave-current field show an increasing trend, with a significant increase in resistance and a shorter resistance period for the amphibious landing equipment behind the V-type wave dissipation system. This study shows that the selected V-type wave dissipation system proves to be more effective in wave-only and wave-current conditions, providing valuable references for the engineering application of this system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Offshore Hydrodynamics)

21 pages, 4181 KB

Open AccessReview

Twenty Years of Advances in Material Identification of Polychrome Sculptures

by Weilin Zeng, Xinyou Liu and Liang Xu

Coatings 2026, 16(2), 156; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings16020156 (registering DOI) - 25 Jan 2026

Abstract

Polychrome sculptures are complex, multilayered artifacts that embody the intersection of artistic craftsmanship, material science, and cultural heritage. Over the past two decades, the study of material identification in polychrome sculptures has shown marked interdisciplinary development, driven by advances in analytical technologies that have transformed how these objects are studied, enabling high-resolution identification of pigments, binders, and structural substrates. This review synthesizes key developments in the identification of polychrome sculpture materials, focusing on the integration of non-destructive and molecular-level techniques such as XRF, FTIR, Raman, LIBS, GC-MS, and proteomics. It highlights regional and historical variations in materials and craft processes, with case studies from Brazil, China, and Central Africa demonstrating how multi-modal methods reveal both technical and ritual knowledge embedded in these artworks. The review also examines evolving research paradigms—from pigment identification to stratigraphic and cross-cultural interpretation—and discusses current challenges such as organic material degradation and the need for standardized protocols. Finally, it outlines future directions including AI-assisted diagnostics, multimodal data fusion, and collaborative conservation frameworks. By bridging scientific analysis with cultural context, this study offers a comprehensive methodological reference for the conservation and interpretation of polychrome sculptures worldwide. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Surface Characterization, Deposition and Modification)

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23 pages, 1195 KB

Open AccessArticle

Deeply Pipelined NTT Accelerator with Ping-Pong Memory and LUT-Only Barrett Reduction for Post-Quantum Cryptography

by Omar S. Sonbul, Muhammad Rashid, Muhammad I. Masud, Mohammed Aman and Amar Y. Jaffar

Electronics 2026, 15(3), 513; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics15030513 (registering DOI) - 25 Jan 2026

Abstract

Lattice-based post-quantum cryptography relies on fast polynomial multiplication. The Number-Theoretic Transform (NTT) is the key operation that enables this acceleration. To provide high throughput and low latency while keeping the area overhead small, hardware implementations of the NTT is essential. This is particularly true for resource-constrained devices. However, existing NTT accelerators either achieve high throughput at the cost of large area overhead or provide compact designs with limited pipelining and low operating frequency. Therefore, this article presents a compact, seven-stage pipelined NTT accelerator architecture for post-quantum cryptography, using the CRYSTALS–Kyber algorithm as a case study. The CRYSTALS–Kyber algorithm is selected due to its NIST standardization, strong security guarantees, and suitability for hardware acceleration. Specifically, a unified three-stage pipelined butterfly unit is designed using a single DSP48E1 block for the required integer multiplication. In contrast, the modular reduction stage is implemented using a four-stage pipelined, lookup-table (LUT)-only Barrett reduction unit. The term “LUT-only” refers strictly to the reduction logic and not to the butterfly multiplication. Furthermore, two dual-port BRAM18 blocks are used in a ping-pong manner to hold intermediate and final coefficients. In addition, a simple finite-state machine controller is implemented, which manages all forward NTT (FNTT) and inverse NTT (INTT) stages. For validation, the proposed design is realized on a Xilinx Artix-7 FPGA. It uses only 503 LUTs, 545 flip-flops, 1 DSP48E1 block, and 2 BRAM18 blocks. The complete FNTT and INTT with final rescaling require 1029 and 1285 clock cycles, respectively. At 200 MHz, these correspond to execution times of 5.14 µs for the FNTT and 6.42 µs for the INTT. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Computer Science & Engineering)

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20 pages, 5888 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Multi-Index Performance Framework for Evaluating Binder Synergy and Fly Ash Reactivity in Eco-Sustainable Cementitious Composites

by Mahmoud Abo El-Wafa

J. Compos. Sci. 2026, 10(2), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs10020064 (registering DOI) - 25 Jan 2026

Abstract

This study presents a multi-index performance system that is systematically used to assess the binder synergy and fly ash reactivity of eco-sustainable cementitious composite (ESCC) using the Strength Activity Index (SAI) as a reference in line with ASTM C618. The partial replacements of fly ash with high and low calcium fly ash (HCFA and LCFA) were added to the fly-ash-to-sand (FA/S) ratios of 0, 10, 20, and 30% with a constant mix parameter, such as a 50% ratio of water to slag and a 20% ratio of activator to slag. The Initial Flow Index (IFI) and Flow Retention Index (FRI) were used to measure fresh-state performance, and compressive-, tensile-, and flexural-based indices, i.e., the SAI, Tensile Strength Index (TSI), and Flexural Strength Index (FSI), were used to measure mechanical performance. The results indicate that flowability and workability retention decrease with an increase in the FA/S ratio, with LCFA-based mixtures having better flow retention than HCFA systems. The optimum mechanical performance at a replacement level of 20% FA/S produced the maximum SAI values of about 112% HCFA and 110% LCFA with a consistent increase in TSI and FSI values at 28 days. When the replacement levels were increased (30% FA/S), all strength indices decreased with the effect of dilution and decreased the packing efficiency of the binder. Comparisons of the SAI with the respective TSI and FSI values through correlation analysis showed that the quantitative relationship between compressive, tensile, and flexural behavior was definite and showed that compressive strength alone is not enough to extrapolate mechanical performance. Collectively, the proposed framework provides a reasonable performance-based basis for the manner in which fly ash could be utilized in the most effective way in eco-sustainable cementitious compositions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Cementitious Composites)

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15 pages, 1863 KB

Open AccessArticle

Designing a Cr³⁺-Based Transition Metal Catalyst: Redox-Mediated Low-Temperature Activation for Strong Solid Base Generation

by Tiantian Li, Xiaowen Li, Hao Wu, Qunyu Chen, Hao Zhou, Xiaochen Lin and Dingming Xue

Inorganics 2026, 14(2), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14020034 (registering DOI) - 25 Jan 2026

Abstract

Solid base catalysts hold significant promise for replacing traditional homogeneous bases with green chemical processes. However, the construction of their strong basic sites typically relies on high-temperature calcination, which often leads to the collapse of the carrier structure and high energy consumption. This study proposes a novel “carrier reducibility tuning” strategy, which involves endowing the carrier with intrinsic reducibility to induce the low-temperature decomposition of alkali precursors via a redox pathway, thereby enabling the mild construction of strong basic sites. Low-valence Cr³⁺ was doped into a mesoporous zirconia framework, successfully fabricating an MCZ carrier with a mesostructure and reducible characteristics. Characterization results indicate that a significant redox interaction between the Cr³⁺ in the carrier and the supported KNO₃ occurs at 500 °C. This interaction facilitates the complete conversion of KNO₃ into highly dispersed, strongly basic K₂O species, while Cr³⁺ is predominantly oxidized to Cr⁶⁺. This activation temperature is approximately 300 °C lower than that required for the conventional thermal decomposition pathway and effectively preserves the structural integrity of the material. In the transesterification reaction for synthesizing dimethyl carbonate, the prepared catalyst exhibits superior catalytic activity, significantly outperforming classic solid bases like MgO and other reference catalysts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transition Metal Catalysts: Design, Synthesis and Applications)

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19 pages, 1857 KB

Open AccessReview

Prognostic Role of Worst Pattern of Invasion in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma

by Lucrezia Togni, Marco Mascitti, Paolo Maria Antonio Staffinati, Giuseppe Consorti, Gaetano Isola, Lucio Lo Russo and Andrea Santarelli

J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(3), 965; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15030965 (registering DOI) - 25 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The pattern of invasion describes the arrangement of neoplastic cells along the tumor infiltrative front and refers to the way cancer infiltrates tissue at the tumor/host interface. Accumulating evidence suggested that the Worst Pattern of Invasion (WPOI) represents an independent prognostic factor in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). However, it is still considered a minor prognostic criterion, and it is recommended as an optional report component in the College of American Pathologists (CAP) guideline. Methods: Therefore, the study aims to extensively review the literature data regarding the prognostic role of the WPOI in OSCC. Results: The WPOI resulted as an independent prognostic factor for locoregional recurrences (LRRs), lymph node metastasis (LMN), overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival (DSS), and bone tissue infiltration, regardless of the oral subsite and the pathological stage. Moreover, several authors suggested the evaluation of the WPOI to lead the postoperative management and to determine the occult LNM in early-stage OSCC. Conclusions: The prognostic relevance of the WPOI in OSCC highlights its evaluation in pathological daily practice. Therefore, the WPOI-detection method and scoring system should be validated based on the tumor stage and site. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Oral Mucosal Diseases)

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16 pages, 1576 KB

Open AccessArticle

Hip Joint Synovial Cavity Thickness in Early Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Without Effusion: A Cross-Sectional Ultrasound Study

by Zbigniew Żuber, Wojciech Kmiecik, Krzysztof Batko, Elżbieta Mężyk, Joanna Ożga, Magdalena Krajewska-Włodarczyk, Tomasz Madej and Bogdan Batko

J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(3), 962; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15030962 (registering DOI) - 25 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background: The clinical meaning of hip joint synovial cavity thickness (HJSCT) on ultrasound (US) in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) without effusion is uncertain. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we analyzed 369 children (187 JIA; 182 controls) undergoing hip US at a referral center in Kraków, Poland. JIA examinations were performed upon initial referral, early in the care pathway. We excluded patients with hip effusion and pre-existing inflammatory, traumatic or degenerative hip pathology. HJSCT was defined as the distance from the outer capsule margin to the femoral neck cortex. We used a Toshiba Aplio 400 system with a 12 MHz probe to measure and derive mean bilateral HJSCT. Bilateral concordance was assessed. Iterative multivariable linear regression modeling was used to compare groups, adjusting for non-linear age effects (natural splines) and WHO height-for-age z-scores (HAZ). Results: Left–right HJSCT agreement was high (ICC 0.947; mean difference 0.03 mm; 95% limits of agreement −0.64–0.70). In unadjusted analysis, mean (SD) HJSCT was similar in JIA versus controls: 5.83 (1.09) vs. 5.95 (0.99) mm, respectively (p = 0.25). In the final model (adj. R2 0.656), HJSCT was strongly associated with age (non-linear, p < 0.001) but not significantly associated with HAZ (β = 0.04; p = 0.11) or JIA status (β = 0.07; p = 0.30). Predicted HJSCT showed a steep increment in childhood and plateau in adolescence. Conclusions: In children without hip effusion, HJSCT mainly reflects physiological growth and does not differ significantly between early JIA patients and healthy controls. These findings suggest that capsular thickening is not a reliable standalone marker for early disease in the absence of effusion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Arthritis: From Diagnosis to Treatment)

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18 pages, 586 KB

Open AccessArticle

Performance of Twelve Apple Cultivars Grafted onto SH40 Dwarf Interstock: Comprehensive Fruit Quality Evaluation and Selection of Adapted Varieties in Lingwu, Ningxia

by Zhikai Zhang, Yu Wang, Wenyan Ma, Jiayi Zhai, Xuelian Huang, Wenjing Xue, Jun Zhou, Jing Wang, Xin Zhang, Binbin Si, Lan Luo and Wendi Xu

Agriculture 2026, 16(3), 303; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture16030303 (registering DOI) - 25 Jan 2026

Abstract

This study evaluated the fruit quality of 12 apple cultivars grafted onto the cold-resistant dwarfing interstock SH40 in the arid region of Lingwu, Ningxia, to identify well-adapted varieties for local production. A total of 21 indicators were measured, encompassing three major aspects: external quality (e.g., fruit size, shape index, peel color), internal flavor (e.g., soluble solids, soluble sugars, titratable acids, vitamin C content), and textural attributes (e.g., hardness, crispness, chewiness), and data were analyzed using principal component analysis and membership function methodology. The cultivars exhibited distinct quality profiles under identical management: ‘Red General’ performed well in fruit size, weight, and sugar–acid balance; ‘Yanfu 6’ showed the highest firmness and crispness; ‘Shengli’ had the greatest soluble solids content; and ‘Granny Smith’ was richest in vitamin C. Four principal components were extracted, explaining 80.06% of the total variance and simplifying the quality evaluation system. Based on the comprehensive membership function scores, ‘Red General’, ‘White Winter Pearmain’, and ‘Huashuo’ ranked highest in overall fruit quality. In conclusion, these three cultivars perform excellently on SH40 and are recommended for promotion, whereas ‘Red Delicious’ is not recommended due to poor performance. These findings offer a practical reference for selecting apple cultivars paired with SH40 in similar arid regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fruit Quality Formation and Regulation in Fruit Trees)

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