MDPI - Publisher of Open Access Journals

18 pages, 317 KB

Open AccessReview

Patient Voice and Treatment Nonadherence in Cancer Care: A Scoping Review of Sentiment Analysis

by Leon Wreyford, Raj Gururajan, Xujuan Zhou and Niall Higgins

Nurs. Rep. 2026, 16(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/nursrep16010018 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Background: Treatment nonadherence in oncology is common. Surveys often miss why patients do not follow recommendations. We synthesised Natural Language Processing (NLP) studies, mainly sentiment analysis, of patient-generated content (social media, forums, blogs, review sites, and survey free text) to identify communication and [...] Read more.

Background: Treatment nonadherence in oncology is common. Surveys often miss why patients do not follow recommendations. We synthesised Natural Language Processing (NLP) studies, mainly sentiment analysis, of patient-generated content (social media, forums, blogs, review sites, and survey free text) to identify communication and relationship factors linked to nonadherence and concordance. Methods: We conducted a scoping review (PRISMA-ScR). Searches of PubMed, CINAHL, and Scopus from 2013 to 15 June 2024 identified eligible studies. We included 25 studies. Data were charted by source, cancer type, NLP technique, and adherence/concordance indicators, then synthesised via discourse analysis and narrative synthesis. Results: Four themes emerged: (1) unmet emotional needs; (2) suboptimal information and communication; (3) unclear concordance within person-centred care; and (4) misinformation dynamics and perceived clinician bias. Sentiment analysis helped identify emotions and information gaps that surveys often miss. Conclusions: Patient-voice data suggest practical actions for nursing, including routine distress screening, teach-back, misinformation countermeasures, and explicit concordance checks to improve adherence and shared decision making. Registration: Not registered. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 4190 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Two Calcium Levels and a Chicken Manure-Based Soil Amendment on Tomato Hybrid Performance

by Carlos David Carretillo Moctezuma, Abraham Francisco Aponte Herrera, José Terrones Salgado, Edgar Pérez Arriaga, Flaviano Godínez-Jaimes, María Guzmán Martínez, José Francisco Díaz-Nájera, Ramón Reyes Carreto, José C. García-Preciado and Juan Antonio Chamú-Baranda

Crops 2026, 6(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/crops6010011 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

Calcium (Ca) is essential for tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) fruit quality and for preventing physiological disorders such as blossom-end rot. However, high total soil Ca does not necessarily translate into plant-available Ca due to factors such as soil pH and limited mobility. [...] Read more.

Calcium (Ca) is essential for tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) fruit quality and for preventing physiological disorders such as blossom-end rot. However, high total soil Ca does not necessarily translate into plant-available Ca due to factors such as soil pH and limited mobility. This study evaluated soil Ca availability and the effect of a chicken manure-based soil amendment on the growth and yield of four tomato genotypes (Pony Express F1, Palomo F1, Toro F1, and Perseo F1) grown on a loam–clay–sand soil containing 4886 ppm Ca. In the first cycle, conducted in a shade house, two Ca application levels (0% and 25% of the crop’s requirement) were tested. The 0% treatment outperformed the 25% treatment regarding yield-related traits, indicating that native soil Ca met crop demand; application of 25% Ca reduced total fruit weight and fruit number by 19.7% and 5.9%, respectively, while the 0% treatment produced 40.8% more first-quality fruits. Perseo F1 (Perseo) produced the highest yield of first-quality fruits (20.61 t ha⁻¹), exceeding Pony Express F1 (Pony express), Palomo F1 (Palomo), and Toro F1 (Toro) by 10.8%, 6.6%, and 51.4%, respectively. In a second cycle under open-field conditions, incorporation of the chicken manure amendment significantly enhanced growth and yield: treated plants reached a 0.85 m height 58 days after transplanting, and overall yield increased to 70.08 t ha⁻¹ compared with 50.30 t ha⁻¹ in the control (21.9% increase). These results indicate that, while native soil Ca can satisfy crop requirements under the studied conditions, soil amendment under field conditions substantially improves plant performance and commercial yield potential. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 516 KB

Open AccessArticle

Avoiding Post-DMEK IOP Elevation: Insights from a Standardized Surgical Approach

by Stephanie D. Grabitz, Anna L. Engel, Mohammad Al Hariri, Adrian Gericke, Norbert Pfeiffer and Joanna Wasielica-Poslednik

J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(2), 521; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15020521 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background: Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) is the most frequently performed keratoplasty procedure in many countries. One of the most common early complications is an elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP). The aim of this study was to characterize early postoperative IOP behavior following [...] Read more.

Background: Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) is the most frequently performed keratoplasty procedure in many countries. One of the most common early complications is an elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP). The aim of this study was to characterize early postoperative IOP behavior following DMEK performed with 10% sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆) tamponade and to determine the frequency and timing of required IOP-lowering interventions within the first 48 h. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed postoperative outcomes of 116 consecutive DMEK procedures between May and December 2024 at the University Medical Center in Mainz, Germany. No specific exclusion criteria were applied. All surgeries included a surgical iridectomy at the 6 o’clock position, 10% (SF₆) tamponade, and maintaining a mid-normal IOP at the end of surgery. Postoperative assessments included IOP measured using Goldmann applanation tonometry, the percentage of gas fill in the anterior chamber evaluated at the slit lamp, and the need for IOP-lowering interventions as determined by the on-call resident at 3, 24, and 48 h after surgery. IOP-lowering interventions consisted of venting in cases of elevated IOP, gas fill > 90%, and/or suspected angle closure or pupillary block, as well as intravenous or oral acetazolamide in cases of moderate IOP elevation with a lower gas fill and a patent iridectomy. If a single intervention was insufficient, a combined approach was used. Results: A total of 116 eyes from 98 patients (62 female, mean age 73.0 ± 9.8 years) were analyzed. DMEK was combined with cataract surgery in 41 eyes, and 4 eyes underwent phakic DMEK. Postoperatively, all iridectomies remained patent, and no cases of pupillary block occurred. Mean IOP and gas fill were within normal limits and declined steadily during the first 48 h. IOP-lowering procedures were performed in 11 eyes (9.5%), including venting (n = 3), acetazolamide administration (n = 7), and a combination of both (n = 1). There was no difference between DMEK and triple-DMEK regarding postoperative gas fill, IOP, or the need for IOP-lowering interventions. Mean postoperative IOP was significantly higher, and IOP-lowering interventions were more frequent in glaucoma vs. non-glaucoma patients. Re-bubbling was performed in 12 eyes (10.3%). Two cases of primary graft failure (1.7%) were recorded. Conclusions: In our patient cohort, a standardized surgical approach incorporating a surgical iridectomy at the 6 o’clock position, 10% SF₆ tamponade, and maintaining a mid-normal IOP at the end of surgery effectively prevented pupillary block. We recommend early postoperative assessment of IOP and percent gas fill to promptly identify and manage impending IOP elevation, which is particularly important in patients with glaucoma. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Diagnosis and Management of Corneal Diseases)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 7153 KB

Open AccessArticle

State-Dependent CNN–GRU Reinforcement Framework for Robust EEG-Based Sleep Stage Classification

by Sahar Zakeri, Somayeh Makouei and Sebelan Danishvar

Biomimetics 2026, 11(1), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics11010054 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

Recent advances in automated learning techniques have enhanced the analysis of biomedical signals for detecting sleep stages and related health abnormalities. However, many existing models face challenges with imbalanced datasets and the dynamic nature of evolving sleep states. In this study, we present [...] Read more.

Recent advances in automated learning techniques have enhanced the analysis of biomedical signals for detecting sleep stages and related health abnormalities. However, many existing models face challenges with imbalanced datasets and the dynamic nature of evolving sleep states. In this study, we present a robust algorithm for classifying sleep states using electroencephalogram (EEG) data collected from 33 healthy participants. We extracted dynamic, brain-inspired features, such as microstates and Lempel–Ziv complexity, which replicate intrinsic neural processing patterns and reflect temporal changes in brain activity during sleep. An optimal feature set was identified based on significant spectral ranges and classification performance. The classifier was developed using a convolutional neural network (CNN) combined with gated recurrent units (GRUs) within a reinforcement learning framework, which models adaptive decision-making processes similar to those in biological neural systems. Our proposed biomimetic framework illustrates that a multivariate feature set provides strong discriminative power for sleep state classification. Benchmark comparisons with established approaches revealed a classification accuracy of 98% using the optimized feature set, with the framework utilizing fewer EEG channels and reducing processing time, underscoring its potential for real-time deployment. These findings indicate that applying biomimetic principles in feature extraction and model design can improve automated sleep monitoring and facilitate the development of novel therapeutic and diagnostic tools for sleep-related disorders. Full article

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

19 pages, 2403 KB

Open AccessArticle

Glutamine Modulates mVOC Biosynthesis in Streptomyces alboflavus Through a gluR-Dependent Signaling Pathway and Enhances Its Inhibitory Activity Against Aspergillus flavus

by Wangqiang Li, Mingguan Yang, Zehua Dong, Tong Liu, Xiuyu Liu, Dan Liu, Chengfang Ding, Laifeng Lu, Wentao Ding, Zhenjing Li, Huanhuan Liu, Zhifang Wang, Qingbin Guo and Changlu Wang

Foods 2026, 15(2), 228; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15020228 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

Aspergillus flavus and its aflatoxins pose serious threats to human and animal health, negatively affecting agricultural productivity and the global economy. Although chemical preservatives are widely used, their effectiveness remains limited by increased fungal resistance and environmental concerns, highlighting the need for sustainable [...] Read more.

Aspergillus flavus and its aflatoxins pose serious threats to human and animal health, negatively affecting agricultural productivity and the global economy. Although chemical preservatives are widely used, their effectiveness remains limited by increased fungal resistance and environmental concerns, highlighting the need for sustainable alternatives. Microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) represent a promising biocontrol strategy. Here, we investigate how glutamine regulates mVOC biosynthesis in Streptomyces alboflavus TD-1 and enhances its antifungal activity against A. flavus. Antifungal assays showed that supplementation with 40 mM glutamine significantly enhanced inhibitory activity, leading to 69.0% inhibition of conidial germination and 64.5% inhibition of mycelial biomass. Transcriptome profiling identified 283 differentially expressed genes, including the two-component system regulator gluR, which was strongly upregulated. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated disruption of gluR confirmed its regulatory role. Specifically, the mutant strain produced reduced levels of antifungal mVOCs, such as dimethyl trisulfide and o-anisidine, and exhibited diminished inhibition of A. flavus. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that exogenous glutamine enhances the mVOC-mediated suppression of A. flavus by S. alboflavus TD-1 through nutrient-sensing and transcriptional regulation of volatile biosynthesis. Although aflatoxin levels were not quantified in this study, the enhanced growth inhibition and the identified mVOC shifts provide a mechanistic basis for future studies that directly quantify aflatoxin production under storage-relevant conditions. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 1110 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Impact of CT Intensity and Contrast Variability on Deep-Learning-Based Lung-Nodule Detection: A Systematic Review of Preprocessing and Harmonization Strategies (2020–2025)

by Saba Khan, Muhammad Nouman Noor, Imran Ashraf, Muhammad I. Masud and Mohammed Aman

Diagnostics 2026, 16(2), 201; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16020201 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, and early detection using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) substantially improves survival outcomes. However, variations in CT acquisition and reconstruction parameters including Hounsfield Unit (HU) calibration, reconstruction kernels, slice thickness, radiation dose, [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, and early detection using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) substantially improves survival outcomes. However, variations in CT acquisition and reconstruction parameters including Hounsfield Unit (HU) calibration, reconstruction kernels, slice thickness, radiation dose, and scanner vendor introduce significant intensity and contrast variability that undermine the robustness and generalizability of deep-learning (DL) systems. Methods: This systematic review followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines and searched PubMed, Scopus, IEEE Xplore, Web of Science, ACM Digital Library, and Google Scholar for studies published between 2020 and 2025. A total of 100 eligible studies were included. The review evaluated preprocessing and harmonization strategies aimed at mitigating CT intensity variability, including perceptual contrast enhancement, HU-preserving normalization, physics-informed harmonization, and DL-based reconstruction. Results: Perceptual methods such as contrast-limited adaptive histogram equalization (CLAHE) enhanced nodule conspicuity and reported sensitivity improvements ranging from 10 to 15% but frequently distorted HU values and reduced radiomic reproducibility. HU-preserving approaches including HU clipping, ComBat harmonization, kernel matching, and physics-informed denoising were the most effective, reducing cross-scanner performance degradation, specifically in terms of AUC or Dice score loss, to below 8% in several studies while maintaining quantitative integrity. Transformer and hybrid CNN–Transformer architectures demonstrated superior robustness to acquisition variability, with observed AUC values ranging from

0.90

to

0.92

compared with

0.85

–

0.88

for conventional CNN models. Conclusions: The evidence indicates that standardized HU-faithful preprocessing pipelines, harmonization-aware modeling, and multi-center external validation are essential for developing clinically reliable and vendor-agnostic AI systems for lung-cancer screening. However, the synthesis of results is constrained by the heterogeneous reporting of acquisition parameters across primary studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence in Diagnostics)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 3127 KB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization of the Probiotic Fermentation Process of Ganoderma lucidum Juice and Its In Vitro Immune-Enhancing Potential

by Dilireba Shataer, Xin Liu, Yanan Qin, Jing Lu, Haipeng Liu and Liang Wang

Foods 2026, 15(2), 227; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15020227 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

Fermented products have recently garnered substantial interest in both research and commercial contexts. Although probiotic fermentation is predominantly practiced with dairy, fruits, vegetables, and grains, its application to dual-purpose food-medicine materials like Ganoderma lucidum has been comparatively underexplored. In this study, Ganoderma lucidum [...] Read more.

Fermented products have recently garnered substantial interest in both research and commercial contexts. Although probiotic fermentation is predominantly practiced with dairy, fruits, vegetables, and grains, its application to dual-purpose food-medicine materials like Ganoderma lucidum has been comparatively underexplored. In this study, Ganoderma lucidum fermented juice (GFJ) served as the substrate and was fermented with five probiotic strains. The optimal inoculation ratios—determined by employing a uniform design experiment—were as follows: Bifidobacterium animalis 6.05%, Lacticaseibacillus paracasei 9.52%, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus 6.63%, Pediococcus pentosaceus 21.38%, and Pediococcus acidilactici 56.42%. Optimal fermentation parameters established by response surface methodology included 24 h of fermentation at 37 °C, a final cell density of 5 × 10⁶ CFU/mL, and a sugar content of 4.5 °Brix. Experiments with RAW264.7 macrophages revealed that GFJ significantly promoted both phagocytic activity and nitric oxide (NO) secretion, indicating enhanced immune characteristics as a result of fermentation. Untargeted metabolomics profiling of GFJ across different fermentation stages showed upregulation of functional metabolites, including polyphenols, prebiotics, functional oligosaccharides, and Ganoderma triterpenoids (GTs)—notably myricetin-3-O-rhamnoside, luteolin-7-O-glucuronide, raffinose, sesamose, and Ganoderma acids. These increments in metabolic compounds strongly correlate with improved functional properties in GFJ, specifically heightened superoxide dismutase activity and immunomodulatory capacity. These results highlight an effective approach for developing functionally enriched fermented products from medicinal fungi, with promising applications in functional food and nutraceutical industries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Food Nutrition)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

18 pages, 1057 KB

Open AccessArticle

Optimal Complexity of Parameterized Quantum Circuits

by Guilherme I. Correr, Pedro C. Azado, Diogo O. Soares-Pinto and Gabriel G. Carlo

Entropy 2026, 28(1), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/e28010073 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

Parameterized quantum circuits are central to the development of variational quantum algorithms in the NISQ era. A key feature of these circuits is their ability to generate an expressive set of quantum states, enabling the approximation of solutions to diverse problems. The expressibility [...] Read more.

Parameterized quantum circuits are central to the development of variational quantum algorithms in the NISQ era. A key feature of these circuits is their ability to generate an expressive set of quantum states, enabling the approximation of solutions to diverse problems. The expressibility of such circuits can be assessed by analyzing the ensemble of states produced when their parameters are randomly sampled, a property closely tied to quantum complexity. In this work, we compare different classes of parameterized quantum circuits with a prototypical family of universal random circuits to investigate how rapidly they approach the asymptotic complexity defined by the Haar measure. We find that parameterized circuits exhibit faster convergence in terms of the number of gates required, as quantified through expressibility and majorization-based complexity measures. Moreover, the topology of qubit connections proves crucial, significantly affecting entanglement generation and, consequently, complexity growth. The majorization criterion emerges as a valuable complementary tool, offering distinct insights into the behavior of random state generation in the considered circuit families. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Graph Theory and Its Applications in Quantum Mechanics)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 234 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Proactive Health Behavior Framework for Cognitive Impairment in Chinese Older Adults: Based on a Four-Factor and Logistic Regression Analysis

by Shengjiang Wang and Hailun Liang

Healthcare 2026, 14(2), 164; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14020164 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

Objective: In the context of an aging population, the prevention and control of cognitive impairment is a key public health priority. This study aims to investigate the association between proactive health behaviors and the risk of AD8 screening positivity in older adults [...] Read more.

Objective: In the context of an aging population, the prevention and control of cognitive impairment is a key public health priority. This study aims to investigate the association between proactive health behaviors and the risk of AD8 screening positivity in older adults in China, providing an empirical basis for developing targeted intervention strategies. Methods: Based on health behavior data from 1110 older adults in China, the chi-square test was used to analyze the differences in proactive health behaviors (such as limiting salt and alcohol intake, smoking cessation, and vaccination) between the low-risk and high-risk groups for AD8 screening. Factor analysis was used to extract the main factors of proactive health behaviors. Firth penalized logistic regression models were used to analyze the impact of the main factors and sociodemographic factors on the risk of cognitive impairment. Results: The chi-square test showed that there were significant differences between the two groups in salt restriction behavior (χ² = 18.063, p < 0.01) and vaccination (χ² = 29.674, p < 0.01), with a higher proportion of salt restriction (34.7%) and vaccination rates (80.4%) in the low-risk group. Factor analysis extracted four main factors (psychological–social support, information–behavior execution, technology–environment promotion, and addictive behavior control), with a cumulative variance contribution rate of 58.45%. Among them, psychological–social support (31.42% explained variance) and information–behavior execution (28.04%) had the strongest explanatory power. Firth penalized logistic regression showed that psychological–social support (Firth-corrected OR = 0.072, 95% CI: 0.035–0.148, p < 0.01) and information–behavior execution (Firth-corrected OR = 0.008, 95% CI: 0.003–0.021, p < 0.01) had significant protective effects on AD8 screening positivity (standardized OR values indicated that each one-standard-deviation increase in these two factors reduced screening-positive risk by 39% and 53%, respectively), and the risk increased by 21.7% for every 5-year increase in age (OR = 1.217, p = 0.001). Technology–environment promotion (OR = 0.417, 95% CI: 0.250–0.691, p = 0.001) and addictive behavior control (OR = 0.709, 95% CI: 0.490–1.026, p = 0.068) showed no significant protective effects. Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the four-factor structure and core conclusions. Conclusions: Among proactive health behaviors, psychological–social support and information–behavior execution are key protective factors in reducing the risk of AD8 screening positivity in older adults, and age is an important influencing factor. Strengthening psychological support and optimizing access to health information and behavior execution can serve as core strategies for cognitive impairment prevention and control, providing empirical support for the formulation of health policies for older adults. Full article

21 pages, 397 KB

Open AccessReview

Presence, Participation and Learning in Educational Inclusion: A Systematic Mapping Review of Barriers in School Contexts According to Booth and Ainscow

by Miriam Catalina González-Afonso, Carmen de los Ángeles Perdomo-López, Zeus Plasencia-Carballo, Juan Luis Cabanilla-García and David Pérez-Jorge

Educ. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 95; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci16010095 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

From the perspective of educational inclusion proposed by Booth and Ainscow, the transformation of school systems revolves around three key dimensions: presence, participation and learning. These dimensions constitute the axes of the so-called Inclusion Index and allow for a holistic analysis of the [...] Read more.

From the perspective of educational inclusion proposed by Booth and Ainscow, the transformation of school systems revolves around three key dimensions: presence, participation and learning. These dimensions constitute the axes of the so-called Inclusion Index and allow for a holistic analysis of the barriers that limit equity and inclusion in school contexts. Based on this theoretical framework, this study aims to systematically map the barriers documented in recent academic literature (2000–2025) that affect these dimensions at the primary and compulsory secondary education levels, with a special focus on intersectional variables that amplify inequalities (gender, migration, disability, mental health, among others). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Barriers to Learning and Participation in Educational Settings: Lights and Shadows Towards Inclusive Education)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 770 KB

Open AccessArticle

Undernutrition and Feeding Difficulties Among Children with Disabilities in Uganda: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Zeina Makhoul, Moses Fisha Muhumuza, Bella Kyarisiima, Grace Amongin, Maria Nakibirango, Carolyn Moore, Daniella Akellot, Lutgard Musiime, Doreen Alupo, Lorna Mary Namususwa, Pamela Magero, Kate Miller and Douglas Taren

Nutrients 2026, 18(2), 200; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18020200 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Inclusive nutrition services and data on children with disabilities living in low- and middle-income countries remain limited. We estimated the prevalence of undernutrition and described feeding practices and difficulties among children with disabilities ages birth to 10 years at a rehabilitation [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Inclusive nutrition services and data on children with disabilities living in low- and middle-income countries remain limited. We estimated the prevalence of undernutrition and described feeding practices and difficulties among children with disabilities ages birth to 10 years at a rehabilitation hospital in Uganda and identified barriers and opportunities for inclusive nutrition. Methods: This cross-sectional study enrolled 428 children. Data included demographics, weight, height, mid–upper arm circumference (MUAC), hemoglobin levels, risk for feeding difficulties, caregiver-reported feeding practices, and functional difficulties complemented by 32 caregiver and stakeholder interviews. Undernutrition was defined using WHO z-scores, MUAC, and anemia cutoffs. Associations were examined using Pearson’s chi-squared tests and adjusted odds ratios from logistic regression. Results: Over half of participants were boys (56.1%) and 65.9% were <24 months old. Common conditions included cleft lip/palate (55.4%) and cerebral palsy (38.6%). Undernutrition was prevalent: 45.2% were underweight, 38.3% stunted, 16.1% wasted (by MUAC), and 39.5% anemic. Being at risk for feeding difficulties (67.2% of children) increased the odds of underweight [AOR = 2.28 (1.23–4.24)], stunting [2.46 (1.26–4.79)], and wasting [2.43 (1.10–5.35)] after adjusting for covariates. Bottle-feeding increased the odds of stunting [3.09 (1.24–7.70)] in infants with cleft lip/palate <12 months old. Poor access to services, food insecurity, and feeding challenges were key barriers to optimal nutrition. Most caregivers reported using practices that support responsive feeding. Conclusions: Reported barriers to services and high levels of undernutrition, strongly linked to feeding difficulties, underscore the need for targeted feeding interventions and better access to inclusive nutrition services in Uganda. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition in Vulnerable Population Groups)

17 pages, 1461 KB

Open AccessArticle

Semantic Latent Geometry Reveals Imagination–Perception Structure in EEG

by Hossein Ahmadi, Martina Impagnatiello and Luca Mesin

Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 661; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16020661 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

We investigate whether representation-level, semantic diagnostics expose structure in electroencephalography (EEG) beyond conventional accuracy when contrasting perception and imagination and relating outcomes to self-reported imagery ability. Using a task-independent encoder that preserves scalp topology and temporal dependencies, we learn semantic features from multi-subject, [...] Read more.

We investigate whether representation-level, semantic diagnostics expose structure in electroencephalography (EEG) beyond conventional accuracy when contrasting perception and imagination and relating outcomes to self-reported imagery ability. Using a task-independent encoder that preserves scalp topology and temporal dependencies, we learn semantic features from multi-subject, multi-modal EEG (pictorial, orthographic, auditory) and evaluate subject-independent decoding with lightweight heads, achieving state-of-the-art or better accuracy with low variance across subjects. To probe the latent space directly, we introduce threshold-resolved correlation pruning and derive the Semantic Sensitivity Index (SSI) and cross-modal overlap (CMO). While correlations between Vividness of Visual Imagery Questionnaire (VVIQ)/Bucknell Auditory Imagery Scale (BAIS) and leave-one-subject-out (LOSO) accuracy are small and imprecise at n = 12, the semantic diagnostics reveal interpretable geometry: for several subjects, imagination retains a more compact, non-redundant latent subset than perception (positive SSI), and a substantial cross-modal core emerges (CMO ≈ 0.5–0.8). These effects suggest that accuracy alone under-reports cognitive organization in the learned space and that semantic compactness and redundancy patterns capture person-specific phase preferences. Given the small cohort and the subjectivity of questionnaires, the findings argue for semantic, representation-aware evaluation as a necessary complement to accuracy in EEG-based decoding and trait linkage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Brain-Computer Interfaces: Development, Applications, and Challenges)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 3010 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamic Splitting Tensile Behavior of Rubber-Toughened Ceramsite Concrete for Transmission Structure Foundations Under a Wide Range of Strain Rates

by Guangtong Sun, Hanwei Qiu, Wanhui Feng, Lin Chen, Hongzhong Li and Fei Yang

Buildings 2026, 16(2), 269; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16020269 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

To address the impact-induced damage to concrete pile foundations of transmission structures caused by nearby blasting vibrations, this study investigates the dynamic splitting tensile behavior of an environmentally friendly lightweight rubberized concrete—Rubber-Toughened Ceramsite Concrete (RTCC)—under impact loading. Quasi-static tests show that the static [...] Read more.

To address the impact-induced damage to concrete pile foundations of transmission structures caused by nearby blasting vibrations, this study investigates the dynamic splitting tensile behavior of an environmentally friendly lightweight rubberized concrete—Rubber-Toughened Ceramsite Concrete (RTCC)—under impact loading. Quasi-static tests show that the static splitting tensile strength increases first and then decreases with increasing rubber content, reaching a maximum value of 2.01 MPa at a 20% replacement ratio. Drop-weight impact tests indicate that RTCC20 exhibits the highest peak impact force (42.48 kN) and maximum absorbed energy (43.23 J) within the medium strain-rate range. Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) tests further demonstrate that RTCC20 shows the highest strain-rate sensitivity. Overall, RTCC with 20% rubber content provides the best comprehensive performance, achieving a favorable balance between strength and toughness across the entire strain-rate range. These findings offer experimental support for applying RTCC to blast-vibration-resistant transmission structure foundations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 1606 KB

Open AccessReview

The Vaginal Microbiome and Host Health: Implications for Cervical Cancer Progression

by María del Carmen Lagunas-Cruz, Arturo Valle-Mendiola and Isabel Soto-Cruz

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(2), 640; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27020640 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

The vaginal microbiome plays a crucial role in maintaining host health by preserving a balanced microenvironment. Nevertheless, the definition of a “normal” vaginal microbiome remains controversial, as its composition varies depending on factors such as ethnicity and geographical origin. In most cases, members [...] Read more.

The vaginal microbiome plays a crucial role in maintaining host health by preserving a balanced microenvironment. Nevertheless, the definition of a “normal” vaginal microbiome remains controversial, as its composition varies depending on factors such as ethnicity and geographical origin. In most cases, members of the genus Lactobacillus predominate in healthy vaginal microbiomes, protecting against potential pathogens through specific mechanisms such as the secretion of lactic acid and bacteriocins, among others. A reduction in Lactobacillus abundance, accompanied by an increase in anaerobic organisms, predisposes the host to the development of various pathologies. Among these pathologies is infection with human papillomavirus (HPV) and the subsequent development of cervical cancer. A progressive decline in Lactobacillus has been observed as the lesion advances in different populations worldwide. In the case of the Mexican population, several Lactobacillus have been reported in healthy microbiomes: L. gasseri, L. fermentum, L. rhamnosus, L. jensenii, L. crispatus, L. delbrueckii, L. acidophilus, and L. brevis. In contrast, genera reported in dysbiosis include Sneathia, while Brevibacterium aureum and Brachybacterium conglomeratum have been associated with HPV16 infection and/or SIL. The mere presence of some bacteria is not sufficient to modulate the cellular activity of host cells; therefore, the expression, production and activity of different proteins could be affected by the vaginal microbiome. The impact of the microbiome on host cell function is the result of different metabolites produced by the bacteria, which suppress or activate different signaling and metabolic pathways. The molecular interactions between the host and microbiome, as well as their role in cervical carcinogenesis, are still unknown. In this review, we focus on the vaginal microbiome, HPV, and the impact that the interaction of the microbiome with HPV has in cervical cancer development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Research in Gynecological Diseases—2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 2704 KB

Open AccessArticle

Plant-Based Production and Immunogenicity Evaluation of a GCN4pII-Fused PCV2d Cap Protein in Mice

by Thuong Thi Ho, Hoai Thu Tran, Hien Thi Thu Nguyen, My Tra Le, Ha Hoang Chu, Ngoc Bich Pham and Van Thi Pham

Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 662; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16020662 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

Porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) is a DNA virus that is classified in the genus Circovirus of the Circoviridae family, which is a causative agent of Porcine Circovirus-Associated disease (PCVAD). PCVAD continues to cause substantial losses in global pig farming, with PCV2d being the [...] Read more.

Porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) is a DNA virus that is classified in the genus Circovirus of the Circoviridae family, which is a causative agent of Porcine Circovirus-Associated disease (PCVAD). PCVAD continues to cause substantial losses in global pig farming, with PCV2d being the prevalent genotype worldwide, including in Vietnam. In this study, we focused on generating a recombinant PCV2d Cap protein fused to the GCN4pII motif (Cap2d-pII) in a plant-based system and evaluating its immunogenicity. The Cap2d-pII gene was cloned into a plant expression vector and introduced into Agrobacterium tumefaciens for transient expression in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves. Western blot analysis confirmed the high accumulation of the Cap2d-pII protein, which was purified by Immobilized affinity chromatography and used for immunizing mice. ELISA and immunoperoxidase monolayer assay results demonstrated that immunization with the recombinant protein elicited robust humoral and cellular immune responses. At 56 days after immunization, mice vaccinated with the Cap2d-pII protein generated PCV2d-specific IgG titers and IFN-γ responses that were consistent with those in mice receiving the commercial inactivated vaccine. These observations confirm that the plant-expressed Cap2d-pII antigen effectively activates both antibody- and T cell-mediated immune pathways. Collectively, this study identifies the Cap2d-pII protein as a promising plant-derived vaccine candidate for the development of effective and affordable PCV2d subunit vaccines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 850 KB

Open AccessArticle

NT-proBNP as a Predictive and Prognostic Biomarker for Complications in Hypertensive Pregnancy Disorders

by Diana Mocuta, Cristina Aur, Ioana Alexandra Zaha, Carmen Delia Nistor Cseppento, Liliana Sachelarie and Anca Huniadi

J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(2), 519; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15020519 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) remain a significant cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity worldwide. In some healthcare settings, access to angiogenic testing is limited, underscoring the need for affordable biomarkers to guide risk assessment. NT-proBNP, a marker of myocardial wall stress [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) remain a significant cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity worldwide. In some healthcare settings, access to angiogenic testing is limited, underscoring the need for affordable biomarkers to guide risk assessment. NT-proBNP, a marker of myocardial wall stress and cardio-renal dysfunction, may offer complementary prognostic value to the angiogenic sFlt-1/PlGF ratio. Methods: In this prospective multicenter observational study, we enrolled 180 pregnant women and categorized them into preeclampsia (PE, n = 95), non-PE HDP (gestational or chronic hypertension, n = 25), and healthy controls (n = 60). NT-proBNP and sFlt-1/PlGF levels were measured at enrollment, after 20 weeks of gestation, predominantly during the second and third trimesters. Associations with proteinuria, uric acid, creatinine, and maternal–fetal complications were examined using multivariable logistic regression adjusted for maternal age, BMI, and gestational age. Discrimination was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, and the incremental value of NT-proBNP beyond the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio was evaluated using ΔAUC and net reclassification improvement (NRI). Results: Median NT-proBNP levels were significantly higher in PE compared with non-PE HDP and controls (p < 0.01). NT-proBNP ≥200 pg/mL independently predicted maternal–fetal complications (adjusted OR 3.12, 95% CI 1.41–6.90, p = 0.005) and correlated with proteinuria (r = 0.47), creatinine (r = 0.43), and uric acid (r = 0.40) (all p < 0.001). sFlt-1/PlGF alone yielded an AUC of 0.84 (95% CI 0.77–0.89), while NT-proBNP alone demonstrated an AUC of 0.78 (0.71–0.84). Combining both biomarkers improved discrimination (AUC 0.88, 95% CI 0.82–0.92), with a ΔAUC of 0.04 (p = 0.02) and a continuous NRI of 0.21 (p = 0.03). The 200 pg/mL threshold for NT-proBNP achieved 80% sensitivity and 71% specificity (p < 0.001). Conclusions: NT-proBNP provides independent and complementary prognostic value to the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio in predicting maternal–fetal complications in HDP. A practical threshold of 200 pg/mL aids risk assessment, and integrating NT-proBNP into angiogenic models improves prediction. Further multicenter studies are needed to validate multimarker strategies and their cost-effectiveness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Preeclampsia)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 1259 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Novel Online Real-Time Prediction Method for Copper Particle Content in the Oil of Mining Equipment Based on Neural Networks

by Long Yuan, Zibin Du, Xun Gao, Yukang Zhang, Liusong Yang, Yuehui Wang and Junzhe Lin

Machines 2026, 14(1), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines14010076 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

For the problem of online real-time prediction of copper particle content in the lubricating oil of the main spindle-bearing system of mining equipment, the traditional direct detection method is costly and has insufficient real-time performance. To this end, this paper proposes an indirect [...] Read more.

For the problem of online real-time prediction of copper particle content in the lubricating oil of the main spindle-bearing system of mining equipment, the traditional direct detection method is costly and has insufficient real-time performance. To this end, this paper proposes an indirect prediction method based on data-driven neural networks. The proposal of this method is based on a core assumption: during the stable wear stage of the equipment, there exists a modelable statistical correlation between the copper particle content in the oil and the total amount of non-ferromagnetic particles that are easy to measure online. Based on this, a neural network prediction model was constructed, with the online metal abrasive particle sensor signal (non-ferromagnetic particle content) as the input and the copper particle content as the output. The experimental data are derived from 100 real oil samples collected on-site from the lubrication system of the main shaft bearing of a certain mine mill. To enhance the model’s performance in the case of small samples, data augmentation techniques were adopted in the study. The verification results show that the average prediction accuracy of the proposed neural network model reaches 95.66%, the coefficient of determination (R²) is 0.91, and the average absolute error (MAE) is 0.3398. Its performance is significantly superior to that of the linear regression model used as the benchmark (with an average accuracy of approximately 80%, R² = 0.71, and the mean absolute error (MAE) = 1.5628). This comparison result not only preliminarily verified the validity of the relevant hypotheses of non-ferromagnetic particles and copper particles in specific scenarios, but also revealed the nonlinear nature of the relationship between them. This research explores and preliminarily validates a low-cost technical path for the online prediction of copper particle content in the stable wear stage of the main shaft bearing system, suggesting its potential for engineering application within specific, well-defined scenarios. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vibration Energy Harvesting and Intelligent Monitoring for Rotating Machinery)

19 pages, 1896 KB

Open AccessArticle

Extended Heterosubtypic Neutralization and Preclinical Model In Vivo Protection from Clade 2.3.4.4b H5 Influenza Virus Infection by Broadly Neutralizing Antibodies

by Valeria Caputo, Martina Libera, Yailin Campos Mota, Kaito Nagashima, Ana Maria Moreno Martin, Claudia Maria Trombetta, Francesca Dapporto, Jarrod J. Mousa, Emanuele Montomoli, Giuseppe A. Sautto and Roberta Antonia Diotti

Vaccines 2026, 14(1), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines14010071 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background/Objective: The influenza virus remains one of the most prevalent respiratory pathogens, posing significant global health and economic challenges. According to the World Health Organization, the seasonal influenza virus infects up to 1 billion people and causes up to 650,000 deaths, annually. [...] Read more.

Background/Objective: The influenza virus remains one of the most prevalent respiratory pathogens, posing significant global health and economic challenges. According to the World Health Organization, the seasonal influenza virus infects up to 1 billion people and causes up to 650,000 deaths, annually. Despite influenza vaccination is the most effective available preventive strategy, its reliance on strain predictions and yearly updates limits its effectiveness. The virus’ ability to cause both epidemics and pandemics, driven by zoonotic transmissions, underscores its continuous threat. The ongoing H5N1 avian influenza outbreak is the perfect example, renewing concerns due to its ability to infect over 70 mammalian species and sporadically transmit to humans. This study aims to evaluate the protective potential of two human monoclonal antibodies against diverse and recent influenza virus strains. Method: PN-SIA28 and PN-SIA49 monoclonal antibodies were previously isolated from an individual undergoing seasonal influenza vaccination and with no known recent influenza virus exposure. Their breadth of recognition, neutralization, and conferred in vivo protection were assessed against multiple influenza viruses, including pre-pandemic strains. Structural analyses were performed to characterize antibody–antigen interactions for epitope identification. Results: Both antibodies recognize a broad range of strains and neutralize pre-pandemic avian influenza viruses, including the currently circulating H5N1 clade. Moreover, a structural analysis revealed that PN-SIA49 binds a conserved HA stem region, overlapping with epitopes recognized by other broadly neutralizing antibodies. Conclusions: These findings underscore the potential of broadly neutralizing antibodies as a basis for universal influenza countermeasures against both seasonal and pandemic threats. Additionally, they provide guidance for the design of targeted vaccine strategies to steer immune responses toward broadly protective epitopes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Influenza Virus Infections, Vaccines and Diagnosis)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 6027 KB

Open AccessArticle

Acoustic Performance of Stone Mastic Asphalts with Crumb Rubber and Polymeric Additives in Warm, Dry Climates

by Jesús Campuzano-Ríos and Juan José Jorquera-Lucerga

Materials 2026, 19(2), 260; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19020260 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

Traffic noise is one of the main sources of environmental problems and a growing challenge for national traffic authorities. It is widely accepted that tire-pavement interaction is the main cause of traffic noise at speeds between 40 and 90 km/h. Typically, noise attenuation [...] Read more.

Traffic noise is one of the main sources of environmental problems and a growing challenge for national traffic authorities. It is widely accepted that tire-pavement interaction is the main cause of traffic noise at speeds between 40 and 90 km/h. Typically, noise attenuation strategies include earthworks, tree belts, or noise barriers. However, a solution that is almost always viable is the use of low-noise pavements, which are characterized by their porous macrotexture, such as Stone Mastic Asphalt (SMA) mixtures. These mixtures are increasingly used for heavy traffic volumes because of their many advantages, including drainage properties and mechanical strength. Based on the experimental results obtained on different roads in southern Spain, this paper compares noise reduction in an SMA standard mixture due to the incorporation of different additives, such as crumb rubber and polymeric additives. According to the analysis, increasing the additives content by 1% reduces CPX by 1.18 decibels, approximately, and none of the analyzed sections shows increases greater than 3 dB within 24 months. Additionally, the paper proposes design recommendations regarding macrotexture and the percentage of voids for zones with warm, dry climates, such as Mediterranean Spain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Eco-Friendly Intelligent Infrastructures Materials)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 2887 KB

Open AccessArticle

Tribological and Rheological Characterization of 3D Printed Polycarbonate: Effect of Layer Orientation, Surface Topography, and Lubrication Conditions

by Jovana Marković, Marija Matejić, Damjan Rangelov, Milan Banić, Jasmina Skerlić, Nevena Jeremić and Miloš Matejić

Lubricants 2026, 14(1), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/lubricants14010028 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

Understanding the tribological behavior of additively manufactured polymers is essential for their reliable use in sliding components. Tribological tests were performed on a linear reciprocating tribometer pin-on-plate configuration using a polycarbonate sample (PC–PC). To assess the influence of additive-manufacturing-induced anisotropy, three build orientations [...] Read more.

Understanding the tribological behavior of additively manufactured polymers is essential for their reliable use in sliding components. Tribological tests were performed on a linear reciprocating tribometer pin-on-plate configuration using a polycarbonate sample (PC–PC). To assess the influence of additive-manufacturing-induced anisotropy, three build orientations (0°, 45°, 90°) were examined. Two normal loads of 39.24 N and 58.86 N, and two sliding velocities of 15 and 20 mm/s were selected to represent typical low-load operating conditions of polymeric components. Tests were conducted in dry contact and with two commercial lubricants exhibiting distinct rheological characteristics. Surface topography was characterized before and after testing to evaluate orientation-dependent roughness evolution, while rheological measurements provided effective viscosities at shear rates corresponding to imposed velocities. Frictional behavior was analyzed through the Stribeck parameter, showing that all configurations operated within boundary or early mixed lubrication regimes. Longitudinal specimen layer orientation (90°) was expected to give the lowest friction. In fact, dominant lowest friction in most of the examination regimes gave the 45° build orientation, whereas the 0° orientation hindered lubricant entrainment and produced the highest boundary interaction. Differences in lubricant viscosity influenced Stribeck positioning and the magnitude of friction reduction, demonstrating strong coupling between layer orientation, roughness evolution, and lubrication performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Machine Design and Tribology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 990 KB

Open AccessReview

Reference Diameters of the Abdominal Aorta and Iliac Arteries in Different Populations

by Hyangkyoung Kim, Sungsin Cho and Jin Hyun Joh

J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(2), 518; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15020518 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

Aortic and iliac artery aneurysms are potentially fatal conditions requiring precise timing for intervention. Current guidelines for repair, including those from SVS, ESVS, and ACC/AHA, rely on fixed diameter thresholds primarily derived from Western populations. However, growing evidence shows that both aortic and [...] Read more.

Aortic and iliac artery aneurysms are potentially fatal conditions requiring precise timing for intervention. Current guidelines for repair, including those from SVS, ESVS, and ACC/AHA, rely on fixed diameter thresholds primarily derived from Western populations. However, growing evidence shows that both aortic and iliac dimensions vary significantly among racial and ethnic groups. East Asian individuals generally present with smaller baseline vessel diameters and may be at risk of rupture at smaller sizes, while African American and Hispanic populations exhibit distinct remodeling patterns and risk profiles. This narrative review synthesizes the current literature on variations in aortic and iliac artery diameters, aneurysm prevalence, and rupture risk across racial groups. It examines the limitations of universal thresholds for repair, highlights the underrepresentation of non-Caucasian populations in early imaging registries, and introduces alternative, population-specific definitions of aneurysmal disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cardiovascular Medicine)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 823 KB

Open AccessArticle

Unraveling User Switching Dynamics in P2P Mobile Payments: Investigating Satisfaction and Trust in a Duopoly Market

by Claudel Mombeuil and Sadrac Jean Pierre

FinTech 2026, 5(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/fintech5010007 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

Research on users’ switching intentions in peer-to-peer (P2P) mobile payment systems, particularly in developing markets, remains limited. This study examines how two satisfaction dimensions, transaction-based satisfaction and experience-based satisfaction, influence switching intentions through two layers of trust: institution-based trust and disposition to trust. [...] Read more.

Research on users’ switching intentions in peer-to-peer (P2P) mobile payment systems, particularly in developing markets, remains limited. This study examines how two satisfaction dimensions, transaction-based satisfaction and experience-based satisfaction, influence switching intentions through two layers of trust: institution-based trust and disposition to trust. Grounded in Expectancy-Disconfirmation Theory, data from 529 users of Haiti’s leading P2P mobile payment platform were analyzed using structural equation modeling. Results show that while transaction-based satisfaction has minimal impact on switching intentions, experience-based satisfaction strengthens institution-based trust, which in turn significantly reduces switching intentions. These findings highlight the central role of institutional reliability in shaping post-adoption behavior in duopolistic and resource-constrained markets. The study extends satisfaction-trust theory to digital financial ecosystems and offers practical insights for improving user retention through sustained institutional credibility and long-term service reliability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modeling Behavioral and Cognitive Drivers of FinTech Adoption: Trust, Emotion and Digital Decision-Making)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 723 KB

Open AccessArticle

Understanding Teachers’ Intention and Behaviour Towards Inclusive Education in Ghana: Applying the Theory of Planned Behaviour

by Michael Amponteng, Danielle Tracey and William Nketsia

Educ. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 93; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci16010093 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 advocates for equitable access to and participation in quality inclusive education for all learners. Inclusive education has gained worldwide recognition for promoting equity and social justice for students with special educational needs. Although the existing literature acknowledges [...] Read more.

United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 advocates for equitable access to and participation in quality inclusive education for all learners. Inclusive education has gained worldwide recognition for promoting equity and social justice for students with special educational needs. Although the existing literature acknowledges the significant role of teachers’ intention and behaviour towards the successful implementation of inclusive education, this area is under-researched in Sub-Saharan countries, including Ghana. In this study, applying the theory of planned behaviour (TPB), 484 teachers at pilot inclusive schools completed an online survey assessing the factors predicting their intention and teaching behaviour towards inclusive education. A path analysis of the TPB variables revealed that only attitude and self-efficacy significantly predicted the teachers’ intention to teach in inclusive classrooms. Moreover, both self-efficacy and intention were found to significantly predict inclusive behaviour. This study’s findings will strengthen the national commitment to implementing inclusive education policy and guide future research aimed at improving and expanding inclusive education in Ghana. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Teachers and Teaching in Inclusive Education)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 4789 KB

Open AccessArticle

Pseudomonas spp. Isolated from the Rhizosphere of Angelica sinsensis (Oliv.) Diels and the Complementarity of Their Plant Growth-Promoting Traits

by Shengli Zhang, Xiuyue Xiao, Ying Sun, Rong Guo, Dong Lu, Yonggang Wang and Xiaopeng Guo

Agronomy 2026, 16(2), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy16020161 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

Pseudomonas has been revealed as an important member of plant probiotics, with its rich species diversity implying complementary plant growth-promoting (PGP) traits. However, information on Pseudomonas species in the microecology of Angelica sinensis and medicinal plants in general remains to be further investigated. [...] Read more.

Pseudomonas has been revealed as an important member of plant probiotics, with its rich species diversity implying complementary plant growth-promoting (PGP) traits. However, information on Pseudomonas species in the microecology of Angelica sinensis and medicinal plants in general remains to be further investigated. This study examined the microecological characteristics, PGP traits, and their underlying molecular mechanisms of Pseudomonas. Filling this gap will provide an important reference for microbial community design centered on dominant functional bacterial genera. In this study, we characterized the microecological traits, PGP properties, and their underlying molecular mechanisms of Pseudomonas strains. Microbiome analysis identified Pseudomonas as the dominant genus in the rhizosphere and a core endophytic genus, exerting significant influences on both (path coefficients = 0.971, 0.872). Comparative phenomics suggested potential functional complementarity among different strains. Our observations revealed significant differentiation in PGP traits: P. umsongensis X08 showed exceptional performance in IAA and siderophore production (IAA: 1.24 mg/mL, siderophore halo diameter: 2.04 cm); P. frederiksbergensis X06 exhibited advantages in ACC deaminase activity and potassium solubilization; and P. allii X32 demonstrated high organic phosphorus solubilization capability (3.98 mg/L). Finally, genomic data revealed that P. allii X32 possesses a rich repertoire of PGP-related genes and metabolic pathways, providing a basis for establishing molecular mechanistic hypotheses for these traits. In summary, Pseudomonas strains from different species, which exhibit complementary probiotic functions without antagonism in the A. sinensis microecosystem, provide valuable microbial resources for the ecological cultivation of A. sinensis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Interactions between Plants and Soil Microbes in Natural Ecosystem)

17 pages, 579 KB

Open AccessArticle

TMPRSS6 Non-Coding Variants in the Expression of Iron Refractory Iron Deficiency Anemia in Monoallelic Subjects

by Vera Hoving, Albertine E. Donker, Roel J. P. Smeets, Bert P. W. J. van den Heuvel, Saskia E. M. Schols and Dorine W. Swinkels

Genes 2026, 17(1), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes17010074 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background: Iron-refractory iron deficiency anemia (IRIDA) is a rare hereditary disorder caused by pathogenic variants in TMPRSS6, characterized by microcytic anemia, low circulating iron levels, and inappropriately high hepcidin levels. Although IRIDA is typically an autosomal recessive disorder, some individuals with a [...] Read more.

Background: Iron-refractory iron deficiency anemia (IRIDA) is a rare hereditary disorder caused by pathogenic variants in TMPRSS6, characterized by microcytic anemia, low circulating iron levels, and inappropriately high hepcidin levels. Although IRIDA is typically an autosomal recessive disorder, some individuals with a monoallelic pathogenic exonic TMPRSS6 variant exhibit the phenotype, suggesting additional contributing factors. The mechanisms underlying monoallelic IRIDA remain unclear, complicating diagnosis. This study aimed to investigate the potential role of non-coding TMPRSS6 variants and polygenic inheritance in monoallelic IRIDA. Methods: We performed full-gene sequencing of TMPRSS6 in a cohort of 27 subjects, including 6 families (7 symptomatic monoallelic, 7 asymptomatic monoallelic, and 4 wild-type subjects) and 9 isolated symptomatic monoallelic subjects. Whole-exome sequencing of other iron-regulating genes was conducted to evaluate polygenic inheritance. Non-coding variants were assessed for inheritance patterns using family segregation analysis, when available, and for pathogenic potential using in silico prediction tools. Results: Sequencing identified 219 non-coding variants, of which 31 (14 trans-inherited and 17 with unknown inheritance) were exclusive to symptomatic subjects. Two trans-inherited variants (rs80140288 (c.229+945C>T) and rs146953827 (c.230-938_230-937del)) were predicted to affect splicing, while two additional variants (rs78987624 (c.-7001G>A) and rs117575523 (c.*503C>G)) were located in regulatory regions (with unknown inheritance). Whole-exome sequencing did not support polygenic involving other iron-regulating genes. Conclusions: This study highlights four candidate non-coding variants that may contribute to IRIDA expression in monoallelic subjects, offering new insights into its genetic basis. Functional validation is required to confirm their role in disease pathogenesis, refine genotype-phenotype correlations, and improve diagnostic accuracy in monoallelic IRIDA. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Genetic Diagnosis)

26 pages, 460 KB

Open AccessArticle

Rapid Minimum Wage Increases and Societal Sustainability: Evidence from Labor Productivity in China

by Yixuan Gao, Yongping Ruan and Zhiqiang Ye

Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 651; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18020651 (registering DOI) - 8 Jan 2026

Abstract

Minimum wage is an important tool for reducing income inequality and supporting social welfare. Consequently, governments around the world have established minimum wage systems. As such, minimum wage policies connect distributive justice with the economy’s capacity to sustain broad-based welfare over time, placing [...] Read more.

Minimum wage is an important tool for reducing income inequality and supporting social welfare. Consequently, governments around the world have established minimum wage systems. As such, minimum wage policies connect distributive justice with the economy’s capacity to sustain broad-based welfare over time, placing the equity–efficiency trade-off at the center of societal sustainability. However, the micro-level impact of the minimum wage system on firms has always been an important topic for scholars. This study uses panel data from listed Chinese manufacturing firms over a period from 2005 to 2021 to construct an indicator of the minimum wage standards implemented in the firm locations. Employing the multiple linear regression model, this paper empirically examines the effects of minimum wage on labor productivity. The empirical findings demonstrate that minimum wage significantly reduced the sample firms’ labor productivity. Moreover, the negative impact of the minimum wage was primarily concentrated among non-state-owned firms, labor-intensive firms, firms operating in industries characterized by intense product market competition, firms situated in regions with strong legal protections, firms with comparatively low average employee wages, and export-oriented firms. Subsequently, this study delves into the mechanism through which minimum wage negatively affects labor productivity. We find that implementation of minimum wage leads to a reduction in corporate investment, indicating that there is no significant substitution relationship between capital and labor. These adjustment margins provide microfoundations through which statutory wage floors can influence the resilience and inclusiveness of development, indicating that the pace and design of wage increases should balance income protection with the preservation of productive capacity to support sustainable human development—grounded in steady productivity growth, equitable income distribution, and stable firm investment. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of the mechanism through which minimum wage affects labor productivity in theory, while concurrently furnishing policy insights for the optimization of the minimum wage system and maintaining sustainable societal development in practice. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Recent Articles

Open Access Journals

Highly Accessed Articles

Latest Books

News

Blog Posts

Topics

Selected Special Issues

Selected Collections

Journals by Subject

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI