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16 pages, 391 KB  
Article
The Effects of Interval Resistance—Aerobic Training and Fisetin Supplementation on Asprosin and Selected Adipokines in Obese Men: A Double-Blind Randomized Control Trial
by Mehran Alipour, Ayoub Saeidi, Keyvan Hejazi, Rashmi Supriya and Hassane Zouhal
Nutrients 2026, 18(3), 433; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18030433 - 28 Jan 2026
Abstract
Objective: This double-blind, parallel-group randomized controlled trial is the first to investigate the synergistic effects of interval resistance plus progressive aerobic training with fisetin supplementation on adipokines in obesity. Methods: Sixty sedentary men with obesity (BMI < 30 kg/m2) completed 12 [...] Read more.
Objective: This double-blind, parallel-group randomized controlled trial is the first to investigate the synergistic effects of interval resistance plus progressive aerobic training with fisetin supplementation on adipokines in obesity. Methods: Sixty sedentary men with obesity (BMI < 30 kg/m2) completed 12 weeks of thrice-weekly interval resistance training (eight exercises, 3 × 13 reps at 60% 1RM with 20% 1RM active rest), immediately followed by staged aerobic bouts (50–70% HRmax). Participants were randomized into the control-placebo (P), fisetin (F; 200 mg/day), training-placebo (TP), or training + fisetin (TF) groups. The primary outcomes were asprosin, MCP-1, and adiponectin; secondary outcomes included leptin and lipid profile. Data were analyzed via ANCOVA with Bonferroni post hoc tests. Results: Statistical analyses were conducted following the intention-to-treat (ITT) principle using an analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) model, which revealed extensive effects of the interventions on the participants’ anthropometric and biochemical indices. Regarding body composition, after adjusting for baseline values, a significant difference in mean body weight was observed between groups (F (3, 55) = 9.444, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.340); Bonferroni post hoc tests confirmed that the training plus fisetin (TF), training-placebo (TP), and fisetin (F) groups all achieved significant weight loss compared to the placebo (P) group. Furthermore, body mass index (BMI) showed a significant inter-group difference (p = 0.021), with post hoc analysis revealing that only the TF group reached a statistically significant reduction compared to the placebo (p = 0.024; 95% CI [−3.760, −0.172]). In the assessment of biochemical and inflammatory variables, the interventions exerted a highly significant effect on asprosin (F (3, 55) = 36.047, p < 0.001; ηp2 = 0.663) and MCP-1 (F (3, 55) = 29.570, p < 0.001; ηp2 = 0.617). The findings indicated that the TF group experienced the most substantial reductions in both asprosin (−60.71%) and MCP-1 (−46.50%) levels. Regarding adipokines, significant increases in adiponectin levels were observed in the TP (29.38%) and TF (27.67%) groups (p < 0.05), whereas changes in leptin were statistically significant only in the TF group relative to the placebo (p = 0.049). The lipid profile results indicated a statistically significant difference in the TF group in improving all markers; this group achieved greater reduction compared to other groups, including reductions in LDL-C, triglycerides (TG), and total cholesterol (TC) (p < 0.001), while simultaneously showing a significant elevation in HDL-C. Post hoc analyses confirmed robust statistical differences in all lipid parameters for both the TF and TP groups compared to the placebo group (p < 0.05), whereas the placebo group experienced a deterioration in status characterized by a significant increase in LDL-C (p = 0.027) and a significant decline in HDL-C concentrations (p = 0.006). Conclusions: In conclusion, 12 weeks of combined interval resistance–aerobic training and fisetin supplementation significantly reduced pro-inflammatory adipokines and improved lipid profiles in obese men. These findings suggest that asprosin serves as a potential modulator in metabolic risk reduction; however, since direct mechanistic assays were not conducted, these implications remain hypothetical. Future research employing molecular readouts is warranted to confirm the underlying pathways involved. Full article
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28 pages, 1547 KB  
Article
Identifying Dominant Inflation Risks in Residential Construction Projects Using Fuzzy Truth Qualification
by Burak Oz and Merve Kocyigit
Sustainability 2026, 18(3), 1317; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18031317 - 28 Jan 2026
Abstract
Persistent inflation has intensified uncertainty in the construction industry, particularly in volatile economies. Inflation-driven risks affecting Turkish residential projects are examined in this study, focusing on rising costs, fluctuating labor and material prices, and associated risks. The power-based linguistic hedges were used to [...] Read more.
Persistent inflation has intensified uncertainty in the construction industry, particularly in volatile economies. Inflation-driven risks affecting Turkish residential projects are examined in this study, focusing on rising costs, fluctuating labor and material prices, and associated risks. The power-based linguistic hedges were used to quantify dominant severity levels under uncertainty based on descriptive statistics and standard deviation thresholds. Results indicate that inflation mostly impacts projects through budget overruns and wage inflation, which exhibit the highest severity and crisis-level risk behaviors. A number of factors drive material price volatility, particularly macroeconomic instability, currency depreciation, and supply-chain disruptions. There is a sustained pressure on contractor profitability due to wage inflation. In contrast, inflation-related effects on schedule, quality, safety, and contractual disputes are secondary and context-dependent. The findings indicate a structural shift in the risk profile of Turkish residential construction, indicating a need for inflation-resilient cost management, adaptive contracting, and proactive labor planning. Full article
11 pages, 245 KB  
Article
Impact of HIV Status on Fruit and Vegetable Consumption Among Older Adults in Tanzania: A Cross-Sectional Secondary Data Analysis
by Mary V. Mosha, Heavenlight A. Paulo, Victoria T. Ayodele, Bahati Wajanga, Mirlene Perry and Charles Muiruri
Nutrients 2026, 18(3), 430; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18030430 - 28 Jan 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: It is well documented that people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have nearly twice the risk of incident acute myocardial infarction compared to the general population. The elevated risk stems from a multi-layered interplay of factors such as persistent immune activation [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: It is well documented that people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have nearly twice the risk of incident acute myocardial infarction compared to the general population. The elevated risk stems from a multi-layered interplay of factors such as persistent immune activation inherent to HIV infection and higher prevalence of traditional risk factors associated with nutritional needs. A large proportion of people living with HIV (PWH) reside in Sub-Saharan African countries such as Tanzania; however, there is a dearth of data on nutrition, particularly fruit and vegetable (F&V) intake, a key factor in the prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study aimed to contribute to the growing literature on CVD prevention for PWH globally. Methods: We conducted secondary analyses of original data collected from a study using the World Health Organization (WHO) STEPS survey among PWH and the general population in Mwanza City between December 2018 and May 2019. Approval for the parent study was obtained from Bugando Medical Center. Multinomial logistic regression analysis examined F&V intake and associated factors between PWH and people living without HIV (PWoH) using sex, employment, and BMI. Results: A total of 537 participants (277 PWoH and 260 PWH) were included in the analysis. PWH were more likely to consume fruits ≥ 4 days per week than PWoH (38% vs. 25%, p = 0.002), whereas vegetable intake did not differ significantly between groups. Fruit intake was higher in males (OR = 5.63; 95% CI: 2.48–12.79) and employed individuals (OR = 3.85; 95% CI: 1.82–8.14). Conclusions: PWH were more likely to consume more fruits than PWoH in this study, a phenomenon that is more novel than previous research. These findings are encouraging to support nutrition-based interventions for PWH who are at a higher risk of CVD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Public Health)
24 pages, 5779 KB  
Article
Characteristics, Sources of Atmospheric VOCs and Their Impacts on O3 and Secondary Organic Aerosol Formation in Ganzhou, Southern China
by Xinjie Liu, Yong Luo, Zongzhong Ren, Lichen Deng, Rui Chen, Xiaozhen Fang, Wei Guo and Cheng Liu
Toxics 2026, 14(2), 125; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics14020125 - 28 Jan 2026
Abstract
Driven by factors such as meteorology, topography, and industrial structure, the concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) exhibit significant spatial heterogeneity. Investigating the characteristics and sources of VOCs in different regions is therefore crucial for formulating targeted strategies to mitigate their contributions to [...] Read more.
Driven by factors such as meteorology, topography, and industrial structure, the concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) exhibit significant spatial heterogeneity. Investigating the characteristics and sources of VOCs in different regions is therefore crucial for formulating targeted strategies to mitigate their contributions to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and ozone (O3) pollution. This study comprehensively investigated—for the first time—the concentration characteristics, sources, and contributions to secondary organic aerosol (SOA) and O3 formation of VOCs at an urban background site in Ganzhou, a southern Chinese city, based on hourly observations of VOCs during 2023. Analyses included ozone formation potential (OFP), secondary organic aerosol formation potential (SOAFP), and positive matrix factorization (PMF) source apportionment. The influence of photochemical loss was assessed using a photochemical age parameterization method. The results showed an annual average total VOC concentration of 22.6 ± 13.17 ppbv, with higher levels in winter and lower in summer. Alkanes were the dominant species (45.76%). After correcting for photochemical loss, the initial concentration of VOCs (IC-VOCs) was approximately 60% higher than the observed concentration of VOCs (OC-VOCs), with alkenes becoming the dominant group in IC-VOCs (≈72%). OFP analysis indicated that the OFP calculated using initial VOC concentrations (IC-OFP) was substantially higher (by 320 μg/m3) than the values calculated using observed VOC concentrations (OC-OFP), primarily due to the increased contribution of alkenes. SOAFP was higher in spring and winter, and lower in summer and autumn, with aromatic hydrocarbons being the dominant contributors (>85%). PMF results based on month-case studies identified combustion and industrial process sources as the major contributors (>20%) in August, while combustion and vehicle exhaust dominated in January. Photochemical loss significantly influenced source apportionment, particularly leading to an underestimation of biogenic emissions during a warm month (August). These findings underscore the necessity of accounting for photochemical aging and offer a scientific basis for refining targeted VOC control measures in Ganzhou and similar regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Air Pollution and Health)
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14 pages, 349 KB  
Article
High-Dose Intravenous Ferric Carboxymaltose/Derisomaltose Without ESAs for Cancer-Related Anemia in Japan: A Retrospective Single-Center Cohort Study
by Shinya Kajiura, Yudai Ishikawa, Yoko Mizuno, Akihiro Yoshida, Ryutatsu Yuki, Toshihito Horikawa, Mutsuki Furukawa, Kohei Nagata, Iori Motoo, Takayuki Ando, Ichiro Yasuda, Atsushi Kato and Ryuji Hayashi
Cancers 2026, 18(3), 416; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18030416 - 28 Jan 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: In Japan, cancer-related anemia (CRA) is common, and erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) are not approved for chemotherapy-induced anemia. Modern intravenous (IV) iron formulations, such as ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) and ferric derisomaltose (FDI), enable high-dose repletion; however, real-world evidence in ESA-free oncology settings remains [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: In Japan, cancer-related anemia (CRA) is common, and erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) are not approved for chemotherapy-induced anemia. Modern intravenous (IV) iron formulations, such as ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) and ferric derisomaltose (FDI), enable high-dose repletion; however, real-world evidence in ESA-free oncology settings remains limited. Methods: This single-center retrospective study included patients with CRA (N = 55) who received high-dose IV iron (FCM or FDI). Iron phenotypes were classified as absolute iron deficiency (ID), functional ID, or non-ID. The primary endpoint was hemoglobin (Hb) change from baseline to approximately 1 month (21–45 days) in the non-transfused patients. Secondary endpoints included responder rate (ΔHb ≥ 1.0 g/dL), transfusion avoidance rate, dosing adequacy relative to Ganzoni-calculated iron deficit, and safety, particularly hypophosphatemia. Results: Among the non-transfused patients, mean Hb increased from 8.76 ± 1.34 g/dL to 9.73 ± 1.75 g/dL (mean ΔHb +0.92 ± 1.44 g/dL; p < 0.001). The responder and transfusion avoidance rates were 48.9% and 81.8%, respectively. Functional ID was most prevalent (52.7%), with clinically meaningful Hb responses. A total of 38.2% achieved approximately 1000 mg dosing. The safety profile was excellent, and no infusion reactions or symptomatic hypophosphatemia was observed (median serum phosphate changed from 3.4 [3.0–3.9] to 3.2 [2.7–3.8] mg/dL). Conclusions: In this real-world Japanese oncology setting where ESAs were not available for chemotherapy-induced anemia, high-dose IV iron monotherapy (FCM or FDI) was well tolerated and was associated with modest short-term Hb increases and a high observed rate of transfusion avoidance within a 21–45-day assessment window. These findings suggest that a proactive, TSAT-guided IV iron therapy approach may be a pragmatic option for selected patients; however, durability beyond 1 month, optimal re-dosing, and generalizability require confirmation in larger, longer prospective studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cancer Survivorship and Quality of Life)
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24 pages, 1149 KB  
Article
Decolonising Environmental Education Pedagogy: A Participatory Action Research Approach
by Sandra Ajaps
Educ. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 199; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci16020199 - 28 Jan 2026
Abstract
The continued marginalisation of Indigenous knowledges and practices in environmental education sustains curricula and pedagogies grounded in Western worldviews. This exclusion reinforces limited or deficit-oriented perceptions of Indigenous cultures, environments, and epistemologies. Therefore, this study draws on the theory of critical consciousness to [...] Read more.
The continued marginalisation of Indigenous knowledges and practices in environmental education sustains curricula and pedagogies grounded in Western worldviews. This exclusion reinforces limited or deficit-oriented perceptions of Indigenous cultures, environments, and epistemologies. Therefore, this study draws on the theory of critical consciousness to examine the need for Indigenous peoples and educators to become critically aware of the forces shaping their educational experiences and to use this awareness to transform their lives and teaching practices for a sustainable future. To illustrate how this transformation might occur, a qualitative study was conducted with ten Nigerian secondary school teachers who engaged with the design and implementation of a decolonisation model for environmental education. Findings show that seven participants successfully adopted the model, and several demonstrated notable shifts in their perspectives during the process. The study offers two key contributions: a conceptual framework for understanding decolonisation in environmental education and a practical decolonisation model for teachers. These contributions have broader relevance for educational reform and environmental education in countries with similar contexts to Nigeria and in marginalised communities in the Global North, where learners are often alienated from their local realities in favour of globalist perspectives. Full article
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15 pages, 1262 KB  
Article
Structural Insights into HLA-DQ–Associated Susceptibility to Celiac Disease Through an Integrated Genetic and In Silico Approach in a Sardinian Population
by Faustina Barbara Cannea, Daniela Diana, Rossano Rossino and Alessandra Padiglia
Genes 2026, 17(2), 145; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes17020145 - 28 Jan 2026
Abstract
Background: Celiac disease (CD) is a multifactorial autoimmune disorder strongly associated with specific HLA class II molecules, particularly HLA-DQ–encoding haplotypes. Although the genetic contribution of these loci is well established, the structural features accompanying allele-specific disease susceptibility remain incompletely explored. Methods: In this [...] Read more.
Background: Celiac disease (CD) is a multifactorial autoimmune disorder strongly associated with specific HLA class II molecules, particularly HLA-DQ–encoding haplotypes. Although the genetic contribution of these loci is well established, the structural features accompanying allele-specific disease susceptibility remain incompletely explored. Methods: In this study, molecular HLA typing was integrated with in silico secondary structure analysis to examine the relationship between genetic predisposition and structural organization of HLA class II molecules in a Sardinian population. A total of 100 patients with CD and 100 healthy controls were genotyped for HLA-DR and HLA-DQ alleles, and allelic and haplotypic distributions were compared between groups. Secondary structure predictions were performed using PSIPRED on selected HLA class II alleles, focusing on groove-forming domains of HLA-DRB1 and HLA-DQA1. Results: CD patients showed a marked enrichment of the DR3–DQ2.5 haplotype, together with a population-specific predominance of DQ2.5 and a reduced contribution of DQ8. Secondary structure analysis of the HLA-DRB1 β1 domain revealed a largely conserved organization, with only modest allele-dependent variations. In contrast, comparative analysis of HLA-DQA1 identified localized differences within the α1 domain, with the DQ2.5 molecule displaying a more coherent secondary structure organization compared with the lower-risk DQ2.2 variant. Conclusions: By integrating genetic and in silico structural analyses, this study highlights that HLA-associated susceptibility to celiac disease reflects not only allele and haplotype distribution but also subtle, allele-specific features in the structural organization of peptide-binding regions. These findings provide a refined framework for interpreting HLA-DQ–mediated genetic risk and support the relevance of structural coherence as a complementary dimension in the assessment of disease susceptibility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Bioinformatics)
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18 pages, 1109 KB  
Article
Renal Safety of Distal Renal Denervation on Kidney Function in Diabetic Patients with Resistant Hypertension
by Musheg Manukyan, Victor Mordovin, Stanislav Pekarskiy, Irina Zyubanova, Valeria Lichikaki, Ekaterina Solonskaya, Simzhit Khunkhinova, Anna Gusakova and Alla Falkovskaya
Medicina 2026, 62(2), 274; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina62020274 - 28 Jan 2026
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The combination of resistant hypertension (RHTN) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) accelerates the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD), which may be largely associated with sympathetic hyperactivity. Distal renal denervation (dRDN) effectively reduces sympathetic flow to the kidneys, causing [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: The combination of resistant hypertension (RHTN) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) accelerates the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD), which may be largely associated with sympathetic hyperactivity. Distal renal denervation (dRDN) effectively reduces sympathetic flow to the kidneys, causing renal vasodilation and increased renal perfusion. However, this effect may be limited by nephrotoxicity due to the multiple increase in the number of contrast injections, as well as a significant blood pressure (BP) reduction, which naturally worsens renal perfusion. This study aimed to test the hypothesis that dRDN prevents the progressive decline in kidney function in patients with RHTN and T2DM. Materials and Methods: The prospective interventional study (REFRAIN, NCT04948918) included men and women > 20 y.o. with true RHTN. Eligible patients underwent dRDN. The primary endpoint was a change in eGFR from baseline to 12 months. Secondary endpoints were changes in 24 h BP, serum lipocalin-2, cystatin C, 24 h urinary albumin excretion, renal blood flow, and kidney volumes (by MRI). Multiple regression analysis was used to find independent predictors of individual estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) change. Results: A total of 29 patients with RHTN and T2DM were included in the study (61.6 ± 7.2 y.o., 10 males, mean 24 h ambulatory BP: 158.1 ± 21.4/81.8 ± 12.4 mmHg (systolic/diastolic, respectively)), HbA1c: 7.8 ± 1.4%, and eGFR 56.7 ± 19.9 mL/min/1.73 m2, 23 (79%) patients with CKD, and 2 patients with albuminuria only. There were no perioperative complications. Twenty-seven (93%) participants completed 12 month follow-up. eGFR did not change from baseline: +1.3 mL/min/1.73 m2 [95% CI: −9.6, 12.1], despite the expected decrease due to a significant decrease in 24 h systolic BP (−18.2 mmHg [95% CI: −28.6, −7.8]). No changes in other secondary endpoints were observed. Independent predictors of individual eGFR change were baseline 24 h pulse pressure (p = 0.030) and HbA1c (p = 0.010). Conclusions: Distal RDN demonstrates a substantial nephroprotective effect in patients with RHTN and T2DM, which may be partly mediated by a reduction in arterial stiffness and is negatively dependent on baseline hyperglycemia. Full article
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24 pages, 899 KB  
Article
Toward a Sustainable MICE Destination: A Triangulated Mixed-Methods Assessment of Quality Readiness, Tourist Perceptions, and Stakeholder Governance
by Sirikamol Kaewsaengorn, Onanong Cheablam, Kittachet Krivart, Arpaporn Sookhom and Yeamduan Narangajavana Kaosiri
Tour. Hosp. 2026, 7(2), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/tourhosp7020031 - 28 Jan 2026
Abstract
The Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector has become a strategic driver of regional economic development, yet secondary cities often lack the structural, governance, and experiential capacities required for competitive MICE positioning. This study proposes and empirically validates a triangulated analytical framework [...] Read more.
The Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector has become a strategic driver of regional economic development, yet secondary cities often lack the structural, governance, and experiential capacities required for competitive MICE positioning. This study proposes and empirically validates a triangulated analytical framework that integrates structural readiness, stakeholder governance capacity, and tourist perceptions to capture systemic misalignments in emerging MICE destinations, going beyond conventional applied readiness assessments. This study evaluates the preparedness of Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, to develop as a sustainable MICE destination using a triangulated mixed-methods design comprising (1) a city readiness assessment based on TCEB’s eight criteria, (2) a survey of 400 tourists and MICE visitors, and (3) in-depth interviews with 20 key stakeholders. The weighted assessment indicated a moderate overall readiness score (3.48/5), with strengths in environmental management, safety, supporting activities, and accommodation. However, MICE venue capacity and city image remained notably weak. Tourists consistently perceived high readiness across most areas, whereas stakeholders highlighted major systemic issues, including fragmented governance, inconsistent MICE service quality, limited capacity for large events, and inadequate transportation integration. Triangulating these viewpoints reveals three analytically distinct preparation gaps—structural, policy implementation, and experience expectations—demonstrating a fundamental misalignment between experiential appeal and institutional capabilities. This study conceptualizes preparedness as a relational outcome impacted by infrastructure, governance procedures, and market perceptions, adding to the MICE destination and governance literature. The methodology can be used to examine comparable misalignments in other emerging or secondary MICE destinations. The findings guide governance-driven MICE city development plans for sustainability and competitiveness. Full article
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26 pages, 1563 KB  
Article
Artificial Intelligence and Learning Gaps: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Personalized Pathways
by Gina Paola Barrera Castro, Andrés Chiappe, Diego Fernando Becerra Rodríguez and Felipe Sepúlveda
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(3), 1302; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16031302 - 27 Jan 2026
Abstract
The integration of Generative AI (GAI) in education has opened new possibilities for personalized learning, yet its effectiveness in mitigating learning gaps remains underexplored. This study examines the impact of Personalized Learning Pathways (PLPs), generated through AI models (Gemini 2.5 Pro, ChatGPT 5), [...] Read more.
The integration of Generative AI (GAI) in education has opened new possibilities for personalized learning, yet its effectiveness in mitigating learning gaps remains underexplored. This study examines the impact of Personalized Learning Pathways (PLPs), generated through AI models (Gemini 2.5 Pro, ChatGPT 5), on secondary school students’ learning outcomes. Using a short-term longitudinal panel design, the research compares homogeneous instructional strategies with AI-driven personalized learning to assess differences in knowledge acquisition and cognitive skill development. Findings indicate that AI-generated PLPs significantly reduce lower-order learning gaps, though higher-order skills remain challenging. The study also reveals that learning styles influence student engagement with AI-driven education, suggesting that hybrid models combining AI and teacher mediation may optimize outcomes. These findings contribute to the ongoing discourse on AI in education, emphasizing the need for equitable, adaptive, and ethical AI applications in learning environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Generative AI for Intelligent Knowledge Systems and Adaptive Learning)
18 pages, 1046 KB  
Article
Professional Development in Enhancing Teachers’ Cybersecurity Awareness: Current Status and Future Directions of Media Literacy Training
by Suzanne Lok Tung Leung, Wing Ho and Warren Ka Chun Tam
Educ. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 196; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci16020196 - 27 Jan 2026
Abstract
Cyberattacks in education are a serious concern (e.g., breaches and system intrusions) that teachers need to respond to by cultivating cybersecurity awareness, engaging in continuous professional development, and modeling safe digital practices in their daily work, while technical prevention and mitigation are primarily [...] Read more.
Cyberattacks in education are a serious concern (e.g., breaches and system intrusions) that teachers need to respond to by cultivating cybersecurity awareness, engaging in continuous professional development, and modeling safe digital practices in their daily work, while technical prevention and mitigation are primarily the responsibility of institutional IT services and system-level governance. Strengthening cybersecurity depends on fostering awareness of how information is collected, analyzed, and used, thereby enabling users to take proactive steps to protect data, which are key components of teachers’ professional media literacy, particularly in managing personal and student information across social media, email, and cloud platforms. This quantitative study was conducted in Hong Kong with 120 early childhood, primary, secondary, and tertiary education teachers (88.3% female, age range = 18–54, Mage = 23.76) via an online survey. The study focused on social media, email, and cloud storage, and administered the Perceived Severity, Perceived Vulnerability, and Self-Efficacy Scales; the Data Protection Strategies Scale; and the Data Fabrication Strategies Scale, along with questions assessing awareness of data protection. Results revealed significant positive relationships among data protection awareness, psychological factors, and use of protection strategies. Awareness and protection strategies were also moderately linked to data fabrication behaviors. The findings indicate concerning gaps in teachers’ awareness of cyberattacks and their limited understanding of media literacy concepts, highlighting the need to integrate comprehensive media literacy training into teacher education programs and also provide intensive, mandatory on-site training for in-service early childhood, primary, secondary, and tertiary education teachers. Full article
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49 pages, 6470 KB  
Article
National Inventory of Ammonia Emissions from Anthropogenic Sources in Thailand
by Agapol Junpen, Jirataya Roemmontri and Savitri Garivait
Environments 2026, 13(2), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments13020072 - 27 Jan 2026
Abstract
Ammonia (NH3) is a key precursor to secondary particulate matter in Southeast Asia, yet Thailand has lacked a country-specific, policy-focused emission inventory. This study creates the first spatially gridded (12 × 12 km) and monthly resolved national NH3 inventory for [...] Read more.
Ammonia (NH3) is a key precursor to secondary particulate matter in Southeast Asia, yet Thailand has lacked a country-specific, policy-focused emission inventory. This study creates the first spatially gridded (12 × 12 km) and monthly resolved national NH3 inventory for 2019, using detailed agricultural activity data, survey-based livestock management practices, and crop-specific fertilizer application profiles. Satellite-derived burned-area data were included to constrain emissions from open burning. National NH3 emissions are estimated at 459.1 kt per year, with an overall uncertainty of ±15.3%. Agriculture accounts for 95.8% of total emissions. Livestock and manure management contribute 225.3 kt per year (49.1%), reflecting high densities of poultry, cattle, and pigs, as well as regional differences in manure handling and storage practices that enhance ammonia volatilization. Fertilizer-related emissions total 192.4 kt per year (41.9%), with seasonal peaks during primary planting cycles, in contrast to the more episodic biomass-burning emissions. Comparison with the global EDGARv8.1 inventory shows significant sectoral and temporal differences, including considerably higher livestock emissions and lower fertilizer emissions in this study, due to Thailand-specific emission factors and temporal emission allocation methods. These findings clarify the spatial and temporal drivers of NH3 emissions in Thailand and offer actionable insights for targeted mitigation—notably improved manure management and optimized nitrogen use in regions where dry-season emissions coincide with severe PM2.5 episodes. The THAI-NH3 Inventory provides a strong foundation for chemical-transport modeling and evidence-based policymaking to reduce ammonia-related haze in Thailand. Full article
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15 pages, 634 KB  
Article
Efficacy of Combined Cervical Pessary and Progesterone in Women at High-Risk of Preterm Birth
by Marcelo Santucci França, Gabriela Ubeda Santucci França, Alan Roberto Hatanaka, Evelyn Traina, Tatiana Emy Kawanami Hamamoto, Danilo Brito Silva, Edward Araujo Júnior, Rosiane Mattar, Antonio Braga and Rodolfo de Carvalho Pacagnella
Diagnostics 2026, 16(3), 402; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16030402 - 27 Jan 2026
Abstract
Objective: This study assessed the efficacy of the cervical pessary combined with progesterone to prevent preterm birth in pregnant women with short cervix and previous preterm birth. Methods: This post hoc analysis of the randomized, multicenter P5 trial examined the efficacy of the [...] Read more.
Objective: This study assessed the efficacy of the cervical pessary combined with progesterone to prevent preterm birth in pregnant women with short cervix and previous preterm birth. Methods: This post hoc analysis of the randomized, multicenter P5 trial examined the efficacy of the cervical pessary associated with vaginal progesterone versus progesterone alone for preventing recurrent preterm birth in 155 pregnant women with cervical length ≤30 mm and prior spontaneous preterm birth (sPPTB) (main subgroup), and in 85 women with cervical length ≤25 mm and sPPTB (higher-risk population). The primary outcome was spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB) before 34 weeks; secondary outcomes included sPTB rates before 37, 32, and 28 weeks, analyzed using Odds Ratio (OR) and Kaplan–Meier curves. A secondary objective was to identify predictive factors for sPTB recurrence in the cohort with prior preterm birth (n = 479), irrespective of treatment allocation. Results: Demographic profiles were balanced between groups. The addition of a cervical pessary to progesterone did not result in a significant reduction in sPTB before 34 weeks: to cervix ≤30 mm, OR 1.169 (95% CI 0.524–2.609; p = 0.703) and 1.167 (95% CI 0.466–2.921; p = 0.742) for ≤25 mm; similar null findings were observed across all gestational age thresholds. Kaplan–Meier survival curves demonstrated no significant differences between groups (p > 0.05). Secondary analysis (n = 479) identified principal predictors of sPTB recurrence, regardless of the cervical length: higher education (OR 2.37; 95% CI 0.99–5.63; p = 0.024), previous cervical conization (OR 4.78; 95% CI 1.08–21.19; p = 0.039) previous low birth weight < 2.5 kg (OR 2.43; 95% CI 1.22–4.85; p = 0.051), prior miscarriages (OR 1.36; 95% CI 1.10–1.69; p = 0.005), current twin pregnancy (OR 14.86; 95% CI 4.35–50.68; p < 0.001) and cervical funneling (OR 3.60; 95% CI 1.79–7.24; p < 0.001). Predictive models achieved an AUC of 0.719, with 87.0% sensitivity and 58.8% specificity. Conclusions: These findings do not support the routine use of cervical pessary combined with progesterone in women with dual risk factors. In this Brazilian population, specific clinical and obstetric characteristics—including higher education, cervical funneling, prior low birth weight delivery, previous conization, current twin gestation, and prior miscarriage—could identify women at increased risk for recurrent preterm birth. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Maternal-Fetal Medicine: Diagnosis, Prognosis and Clinical Features)
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17 pages, 622 KB  
Review
Bacillus velezensis S141: A Soybean Growth-Promoting Rhizosphere Bacterium
by Ken-ichi Yoshida and Neung Teaumroong
Plants 2026, 15(3), 387; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030387 - 27 Jan 2026
Abstract
Soybean (Glycine max) is a globally important crop, as it has high protein and lipid content and plays a central role in sustainable agriculture. Recent advances in rhizosphere biology have highlighted the critical role of soybean root exudates, particularly isoflavones and [...] Read more.
Soybean (Glycine max) is a globally important crop, as it has high protein and lipid content and plays a central role in sustainable agriculture. Recent advances in rhizosphere biology have highlighted the critical role of soybean root exudates, particularly isoflavones and other secondary metabolites, in shaping microbial community structure and function. These exudates mediate complex, bidirectional signalling with rhizosphere microorganisms, influencing nutrient acquisition, stress resilience, and disease suppression. This review describes current knowledge on soybean–microbe interactions, with a focus on the emerging concept of the rhizosphere as a dynamic communication network. Particular attention is given to Bacillus velezensis S141, a plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium (PGPR) with distinctive traits, including β-glucosidase-mediated isoflavone hydrolysis, phytohormone production, and drought resilience. Coinoculation studies with Bradyrhizobium spp. demonstrate enhanced nodulation, nitrogen fixation, and yield, supported by transcriptomic and ultrastructural evidence. Comparative genomic analyses further underscore host-adaptive features of S141, distinguishing it from other Bacillus strains. Despite promising findings, mechanistic gaps remain regarding metabolite-mediated signalling and environmental robustness. Future research integrating metabolomics, synthetic ecology, and microbial consortia design will be essential to harness rhizosphere signalling for climate-resilient, low-input soybean cultivation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Microbial Solutions for Sustainable Agriculture)
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23 pages, 4785 KB  
Article
Spatiotemporal Dynamics and Evaluation of Groundwater and Salt in the Karamay Irrigation District
by Gang Chen, Feihu Yin, Zhenhua Wang, Yungang Bai, Shijie Cai, Zhaotong Shen, Ming Zheng, Biao Cao, Zhenlin Lu and Meng Li
Agriculture 2026, 16(3), 310; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture16030310 - 26 Jan 2026
Abstract
Inland depression irrigation districts in the arid regions of Xinjiang, owing to the absence of natural drainage conditions, exhibit unique groundwater-salt dynamics and face prominent risks of soil salinization, thus necessitating clarification of their water-salt transport mechanisms to ensure sustainable agricultural development. This [...] Read more.
Inland depression irrigation districts in the arid regions of Xinjiang, owing to the absence of natural drainage conditions, exhibit unique groundwater-salt dynamics and face prominent risks of soil salinization, thus necessitating clarification of their water-salt transport mechanisms to ensure sustainable agricultural development. This study takes the Karamay Agricultural Comprehensive Development Zone as the research subject. The study examines the distribution characteristics of soil salinity, groundwater depth, and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) of groundwater across diverse soil textures, elucidates the correlative relationships between groundwater dynamics and soil salinity, and forecasts the evolutionary trajectory of groundwater levels within the irrigation district. The findings reveal that groundwater depth in silty soil regions (3.24–3.11 m) substantially exceeds that in silty clay regions (2.43–2.61 m), whereas TDS of groundwater demonstrates marginally elevated concentrations in silty clay areas (19.05–16.78 g L−1) compared to silty soil zones (18.18–16.29 g L−1). Soil salinity exhibits pronounced surface accumulation phenomena and considerable inter-annual seasonal variations: manifesting a “spring-peak, summer-trough” pattern in 2023, which inversely transitioned to a “summer-peak, spring-trough” configuration in 2024, with salinity hotspots predominantly concentrated in silty clay distribution zones. A significant sigmoid functional relationship emerges between soil salinity and groundwater depth (R2 = 0.73–0.77), establishing critical depth thresholds of 2.44 m for silty soil and 2.72 m for silty clay, beneath which the risk of secondary salinization escalates dramatically. The XGBoost model demonstrates robust predictive capability for groundwater levels (R2 = 0.8545, MAE = 0.4428, RMSE = 0.5174), with feature importance analysis identifying agricultural irrigation as the predominant influencing factor. Model projections indicate that mean groundwater depths across the irrigation district will decline to 2.91 m, 2.76 m, 2.62 m, and 2.36 m over the ensuing 1, 3, 5, and 10 years, respectively. Within a decade, 73.33% of silty soil regions and 92.31% of silty clay regions will experience groundwater levels below critical thresholds, subjecting the irrigation district to severe secondary salinization threats. Consequently, comprehensive mitigation strategies encompassing precision irrigation management and enhanced drainage infrastructure are imperative. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Water Management)
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