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Open AccessArticle

Public–Private Wage Differentials and Wage-Gap Convergence Across Thai Industries After the Onset of COVID-19

by Weerasak Sawangloke, Nut Thancharoen, Saksiri Saokomut, Praewpailin Janposri and Chotima Jotikasthira

Economies 2026, 14(10), 436; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies14100436 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

This study examines public–private wage differentials and wage-gap convergence across Thai industries, with particular attention to whether the adjustment of wage gaps changed after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The public–private wage gap is measured as the log difference between government-sector and [...] Read more.

This study examines public–private wage differentials and wage-gap convergence across Thai industries, with particular attention to whether the adjustment of wage gaps changed after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The public–private wage gap is measured as the log difference between government-sector and private-sector wages. Using quarterly industry-level panel data for Thailand from 2011Q1 to 2024Q4, the study applies fixed-effects panel regressions, interaction models for the period after the onset of COVID-19, initial-gap heterogeneity analysis, and σ-convergence analysis. The period after the onset of COVID-19 is operationally defined as 2020Q1 onward. The fixed-effects results indicate conditional mean reversion in public–private wage gaps within industries, with larger previous gaps associated with stronger subsequent adjustment. The effective adjustment coefficient was more negative after the onset of COVID-19, changing from −0.73 in the pre-COVID period to −0.84 from 2020Q1 onward, although the statistical evidence for this difference weakens under alternative inference methods. Baseline estimates also suggest stronger adjustment among low-initial-gap industries, although this between-group difference is not robust across all alternative specifications. The σ-convergence results show that cross-industry wage-gap dispersion declined over the study period. However, the change in the dispersion trend after 2020Q1 was not statistically significant. The results indicate within-industry conditional mean reversion and declining cross-industry wage-gap dispersion. The study contributes to the public–private wage-differential literature by shifting attention from static wage premia or penalties to the dynamic adjustment of wage gaps over time, while distinguishing within-industry conditional mean reversion from changes in cross-industry wage-gap dispersion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic Development)

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17 pages, 19788 KB

Open AccessReview

Research Trends in Exercise Interventions for Functional Health in Older Adults: A Bibliometric Analysis (2000–2025)

by Yong Zhang, Xiaofang Ying, Zhaofeng Meng and Yajun Zhang

Healthcare 2026, 14(19), 3236; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14193236 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Although physical activity and exercise are important for improving functional decline in older adults, the research focuses and trends in this field remain unclear. This study aimed to identify research trends and characteristics in this field and to provide guidance for [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Although physical activity and exercise are important for improving functional decline in older adults, the research focuses and trends in this field remain unclear. This study aimed to identify research trends and characteristics in this field and to provide guidance for research and practice. Methods: A bibliometric analysis was conducted using data retrieved from Web of Science. A predefined search strategy was applied to identify relevant publications between 2000 and 2025. Data were analyzed and visualized using CiteSpace and VOSviewer. Results: A total of 5705 publications were included for the bibliometric analysis. The number of papers published in this field had increased over the past 26 years, with an average of over 400 papers published annually since 2021. The United States had the most published papers, at 2113. China was second, with 941. The focuses of keywords shifted from “disability” prior to 2016 to “mobility”, “quality of life”, “balance”, “walking”, “activities of daily living”, “muscle strength”, “falls” and “executive function” between 2017 and 2019, and finally to “cognitive impairment”, “sarcopenia” and “frailty” since 2020. The keywords with the citation bursts from 2000 to 2010 were “disability”, “risk factors” and “quality of life”; those from 2010 to 2020 were “skeletal muscle”, “community”, “lower-limb function”, “intensity”, “predictors”, “body composition”, “obesity”, “gait”, “blood pressure”, “aerobic exercise”, “balance” and “executive function”; and those after 2020 were “cognitive impairment”, “tai chi”, “management”, “instrumental activity”, “scale”, “muscle mass” and “healthy ageing”. Conclusions: Exercise intervention for functional health in older adults remains a hot topic in research. Research institutions and teams in this field are diverse, with the United States and China emerging as the leading countries. Specific aspects of physical function performance related to disability and quality of life—including cognitive and executive functions—and the corresponding exercise interventions are the focuses of current research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health, Behavioral, and Functional Outcomes of Exercise Interventions for Aging and Longevity)

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20 pages, 665 KB

Open AccessReview

Beyond BMI: The Clinical Relevance of Sarcopenia and Muscle Quality in Gynecologic Oncology from Meta-Analyses to Practice—The Potential Role of Body Composition Assessment, Including BIA, in Supportive Care

by Beata Pięta, Karolina Gajewska, Małgorzata Mikołajczyk, Michalina Wiśniewska, Alicja Rzymska, Bartłomiej Burzyński and Paweł Rzymski

Cancers 2026, 18(19), 3164; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18193164 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

Sarcopenia, low muscle mass, and low muscle radiodensity are increasingly being considered factors associated with treatment outcomes in patients with gynecological malignancies. Despite the growing body of evidence, body composition assessment is not routinely incorporated into clinical practice. The aim of this review [...] Read more.

Sarcopenia, low muscle mass, and low muscle radiodensity are increasingly being considered factors associated with treatment outcomes in patients with gynecological malignancies. Despite the growing body of evidence, body composition assessment is not routinely incorporated into clinical practice. The aim of this review was to present current evidence on the associations of muscle parameters with survival, complications, systemic treatment toxicity, and quality of life, as well as to discuss the opportunities and limitations of computed tomography (CT) and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) in body composition monitoring. A narrative literature review was conducted using the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, primarily covering publications from 2019 to 2026, together with earlier studies relevant to the topic. Systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and selected observational, longitudinal, and interventional studies were included. The available evidence indicates that low muscle mass and low muscle radiodensity are primarily associated with poorer overall survival and an increased risk of selected postoperative complications. Evidence regarding progression-free survival, disease recurrence, chemotherapy toxicity, and quality of life remains less consistent. Low muscle mass may occur independently of body weight and body mass index (BMI); therefore, routine anthropometric assessment may fail to identify adverse changes in body composition. CT image analysis enables quantitative assessment of muscle mass and evaluation of muscle radiodensity, whereas BIA may serve as a complementary tool for repeated body composition monitoring. However, its use is limited by the effects of hydration status, edema, and ascites, as well as by the lack of validated cut-off values for patients with gynecological malignancies. Body composition assessment should be interpreted in conjunction with evaluations of muscle strength, physical performance, nutritional status, treatment toxicity, and quality of life. Prospective studies are needed to determine whether body composition monitoring and the implementation of targeted supportive care improve treatment tolerance and clinical outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Research in Cancer)

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21 pages, 36442 KB

Open AccessArticle

Seismic-Based Characterization of Marine Geohazards in the Offshore Region of Pakistan

by Majid Khan, Umair Khan, Akbar Ali, Xuehong Gao and Ibrahim M. Hazem

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2026, 14(19), 1814; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse14191814 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

The accurate identification of offshore geotechnical hazards is essential for the structural reliability and design optimization of offshore energy infrastructure in tectonically complex continental margins. The offshore domain, which hosts critical energy, pipeline, and foundation infrastructure, is often characterized by significant subsurface uncertainties [...] Read more.

The accurate identification of offshore geotechnical hazards is essential for the structural reliability and design optimization of offshore energy infrastructure in tectonically complex continental margins. The offshore domain, which hosts critical energy, pipeline, and foundation infrastructure, is often characterized by significant subsurface uncertainties tied to seabed instabilities, buried mass transport deposits (MTDs), and overpressure zones. To address these geotechnical risks, this study applies a high-resolution seismic stratigraphic interpretation framework to marine seismic data from the Offshore Indus Basin. This passive-margin yet tectonically reactive setting exhibits rapid sedimentation, fluid anomalies, slump scars, and folded turbidites. This study integrates sub-seabed seismic sequence stratigraphy, facies analysis, and structural mapping to delineate zones of high geotechnical vulnerability, such as under-consolidated muds, slump-prone structural packages, channel fill units, and detachment surfaces. Seismic facies and termination geometries were correlated with gas-prone layers, potential liquefiable units, and shear-weak zones. The results identify spatial hazard domains across three interpreted zones: (1) a shelf-to-slope transition zone with mixed stability and localized liquefaction risk; (2) collapsed and deformed slope sectors exhibiting rotated slumps and overpressure signatures; and (3) a deeply disturbed mass-transport complex with embedded gas zones and faulted strata. These mapped domains provide critical structural constraints for foundation siting, slope stabilization design, and long-term operational resilience in marine underground engineering. This study bridges seismic stratigraphy and geomechanical hazard assessment to support safer subsurface infrastructure design. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Geohazards and Offshore Geotechnics)

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28 pages, 32513 KB

Open AccessArticle

Selected Motion Control Problems for a Robotic Guide Dog

by Artur Babiarz, Krzysztof Jaskot and Maksymilian Grabowy

Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(19), 9744; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16199744 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

This paper presents the design and implementation of a vision-based system enabling a robot to autonomously follow a human in dynamic environments. The proposed solution was developed using the quadruped walking robot Unitree Go2, which provides high mobility, terrain adaptability, and dynamic stability [...] Read more.

This paper presents the design and implementation of a vision-based system enabling a robot to autonomously follow a human in dynamic environments. The proposed solution was developed using the quadruped walking robot Unitree Go2, which provides high mobility, terrain adaptability, and dynamic stability suitable for indoor and outdoor operation. The perception subsystem is based on a modified vision setup utilizing the ZED2i stereo camera. The camera enables real-time acquisition of RGB images and depth information, allowing for three-dimensional human detection and localization. Depth data are used to estimate the relative position and distance of the tracked person with respect to the robot, ensuring robust target tracking even in partially cluttered environments. The computational layer is implemented on the embedded platform NVIDIA Jetson Orin Nano, which provides sufficient GPU-accelerated processing power for real-time image analysis and decision-making. The control architecture is built upon ROS 2, enabling modular system integration, efficient inter-process communication, and scalability. Dedicated ROS 2 nodes handle image acquisition, human detection, depth processing, trajectory generation, and motion control. The developed system integrates perception and locomotion control to generate smooth and stable motion commands that allow the robot to maintain a safe and consistent distance from the human target. The overall architecture emphasizes real-time performance, modularity, and robustness, making it suitable for applications such as personal assistance, inspection, and collaborative robotics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Mobile Robots: Research and Applications)

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15 pages, 521 KB

Open AccessArticle

Advance Care Planning Among People from Ethnic Minority and Non-Ethnic Minority Backgrounds with Poor-Prognosis Cancers: A Single-Site Retrospective Medical Record Review Study

by Ashfaq Chauhan, Ramya Walsan, Davinia Seah, Frances Bellemore, Ursula M. Sansom-Daly and Reema Harrison

Healthcare 2026, 14(19), 3235; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14193235 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Studies indicate inequity in uptake of advance care planning (ACP) for some groups of people from ethnic minority backgrounds. There is limited evidence of disparity in the uptake of ACP among people from ethnic minority and non-ethnic minority backgrounds experiencing cancer in [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Studies indicate inequity in uptake of advance care planning (ACP) for some groups of people from ethnic minority backgrounds. There is limited evidence of disparity in the uptake of ACP among people from ethnic minority and non-ethnic minority backgrounds experiencing cancer in Australia. This exploratory study aimed to fill this gap. Methods: A single-site retrospective medical record review study was conducted. Random sampling was employed to extract data from eligible medical records of patients from ethnic minority and non-ethnic minority backgrounds with a poor-prognosis cancer diagnosis. Results: A total of 102 records were reviewed: 52 patients from ethnic minority backgrounds and 50 from the general population. Any ACP communication was documented in 77 medical records, with no statistically significant difference between groups (χ² = 0.12, p = 0.732). A total of 326 ACP communications were documented. ACP communication rates were lower among patients from ethnic minority backgrounds, across total, formal, and informal communications, although none of the differences were statistically significant. Most ACP communications occurred in the palliative care setting (193/326); only six instances of ACP were about religious or cultural preferences for care. More patients from ethnic minority backgrounds died in acute care hospitals (12/16) when compared to the general population cohort (4/16), with discordance observed between preferred and actual place of death. Conclusions: This descriptive exploratory study found that most patient records reviewed contained at least one documented ACP communication. Whilst the rate of ACP was lower among people from ethnic minority backgrounds when compared to those from the general population, this difference was not statistically significant. Informal ACP communication was documented less frequently compared to formal ACP. Co-designed training and resources may assist cancer care clinicians in initiating timely and culturally appropriate ACP communication. Early referral to palliative care is recommended. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing Cultural Competence in Health Care)

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14 pages, 2667 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Colostrum-Period Fecal Microbiota Transplantation on Growth Performance, Immune Function and Gut Microbiota in Pre-Weaned Calves

by Jingkun Zhang, Yaning Sun, Xintong Li, Duo You, Zhanhe Zhang, Ming Xu and Donglin Wu

Animals 2026, 16(19), 3088; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16193088 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

Neonatal calf diarrhea caused by intestinal microbial dysbiosis severely restricts rearing efficiency, and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) emerges as a promising antibiotic-free strategy for regulating gut homeostasis. Nevertheless, to the best of our knowledge, the effects of colostrum-period FMT and the functional differences [...] Read more.

Neonatal calf diarrhea caused by intestinal microbial dysbiosis severely restricts rearing efficiency, and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) emerges as a promising antibiotic-free strategy for regulating gut homeostasis. Nevertheless, to the best of our knowledge, the effects of colostrum-period FMT and the functional differences between colonic and colostrum delivery routes remain poorly characterized in pre-weaned dairy calves. We hypothesized that colostrum-period FMT would accelerate gut microbiota maturation, improve immune status and reduce diarrhea incidence in pre-weaned calves, with delivery-route-dependent effects. This study aimed to investigate how two colostrum-phase FMT delivery routes shape growth performance, serum immune profiles and gut microbiota in neonatal Holstein calves. Sixty newborn calves were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 20 per group): control (no FMT), colon-FMT (colonic perfusion), and colostrum-FMT (FMT mixed with colostrum). Donor feces were homogenized with sterile saline at a 1:9 ratio for FMT suspension preparation, and the trial lasted 56 days. For growth performance, the colon-FMT calves exhibited significantly higher average daily gain from D29 to D56 (p < 0.05). In terms of intestinal health, the colostrum-FMT group exhibited lower diarrhea incidence during D15-28 (p < 0.05) but markedly higher diarrhea rates during D29-56 (p < 0.01). For serum immunity, colon-FMT calves had elevated serum IgG at D14 (p < 0.05). At D56, the concentrations of IL-2 (p < 0.01) and IL-4 (p = 0.05) were significantly lower in the colostrum-FMT group than the colon-FMT group; no intergroup differences were detected for other serum cytokines and immunoglobulins. 16S rRNA gene sequencing of D28 fecal samples revealed that the colon-FMT group possessed a significantly higher relative abundance of Lactobacillus compared with the other two treatments (p < 0.05). Collectively, colonic FMT is associated with remodeling intestinal microbiota by enriching beneficial Lactobacillus, improved late-stage growth and sustained long-term intestinal health in pre-weaned calves, whereas colostrum-mediated FMT only provides transient protection against early diarrhea. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cattle)

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19 pages, 13993 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Study on the Formation, Structure, and Properties of Granular Cold-Water-Swelling Oat Starch by Subcritical Ethanol–Water Treatment at High and Low Temperatures

by Yue Teng, Zijie Xie, Maojun Yao, Ji Yu and Yuntong Li

Foods 2026, 15(19), 3506; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15193506 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

Granular cold-water-swelling oat starch was prepared under both low-temperature (90–130 °C) and high-temperature (150–190 °C) conditions using subcritical ethanol–water treatment, and the resulting structural and property changes were systematically investigated. The low-temperature treatment largely retained the native orthorhombic crystal structure and produced granules [...] Read more.

Granular cold-water-swelling oat starch was prepared under both low-temperature (90–130 °C) and high-temperature (150–190 °C) conditions using subcritical ethanol–water treatment, and the resulting structural and property changes were systematically investigated. The low-temperature treatment largely retained the native orthorhombic crystal structure and produced granules with finer morphology, whereas the high-temperature treatment induced crystallization of a new orthorhombic amylose phase and generated a swollen granular state with superior cold-water swelling capacity (11.60 g/g vs. 1.99 g/g for native starch). X-ray diffraction analysis showed that the proportion of nanocrystals with the native orthorhombic crystal structure decreased, while the proportion of the new orthorhombic phase increased with increasing temperature. The gelatinization endotherm of modified oat starch obtained by the high-temperature method disappeared. The molecular weight of modified oat starch exhibited a broad distribution, with weight-average molecular weight (Mw) values ranging from 86,633.57 to 140,842.31 kDa and a polydispersity index (PDI) between 5.80 and 9.70. These findings demonstrate that elevated temperatures primarily drive the crystallization of the new orthorhombic amylose phase, providing a foundation for designing functional starch-based materials with tailored properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrocolloids in Food Systems: Extraction and Intermolecular Interactions)

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10 pages, 236 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of the Turkish Version of the MMSE, MoCA, and ACE-R for Screening Mild Vascular Cognitive Impairment

by Zeliha Yücel and Merve Akgül Günay

Healthcare 2026, 14(19), 3234; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14193234 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

Aim: Vascular cognitive impairment (VCI), which affects many people, is important to distinguish from other types of cognitive impairment because vascular risk factors can slow disease onset and progression. In our study, we aimed to determine the most appropriate cognitive screening tool [...] Read more.

Aim: Vascular cognitive impairment (VCI), which affects many people, is important to distinguish from other types of cognitive impairment because vascular risk factors can slow disease onset and progression. In our study, we aimed to determine the most appropriate cognitive screening tool for vascular cognitive impairment. Methods: This study included 110 patients with mild VCI and a control group of 90 volunteers aged over 55 and was conducted between July 2024 and September 2025. Mild VCI was diagnosed according to DSM-5 criteria. We administered the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), the Standardized Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination Test (ACE-R) to all participants. Results: Our findings demonstrate that all three screening tools significantly differentiate patients with mild VCI from healthy controls. ACE-R had the highest area under the curve (AUC = 0.967) and showed 90% sensitivity and 100% specificity at a cut-off of 68.5. MoCA also showed relatively high sensitivity (86.4%) and specificity (91.1%), with high diagnostic accuracy (AUC = 0.946). In contrast, the MMSE showed a slightly lower diagnostic performance (AUC = 0.926) but still had high specificity (92.2%). Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that the ACE-R is the most accurate screening tool for detecting mild vascular cognitive impairment, with the MoCA trailing by a very small margin, while the MMSE may be less sensitive in the early stages. Given the administration time, the MoCA can be a quicker alternative to the ACE-R. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Mental Health and Psychosocial Well-being)

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27 pages, 2208 KB

Open AccessArticle

On the Limitations of InSAR Decomposition Imposed by Displacement Direction and Coordinate System

by Álvaro Hernández-Cabezudo, Alfredo Fernández-Landa, Jaime Sánchez-Fernández, Vrinda Krishnakumar, Candela Sancho, Antonio Miguel Ruiz-Armenteros and Miguel Marchamalo-Sacristán

Remote Sens. 2026, 18(19), 3354; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs18193354 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

Satellite-based Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) is widely used to monitor ground deformation over large areas. However, each InSAR observation measures only the scalar projection of the three-dimensional displacement vector onto the satellite line of sight. Consequently, two independent ascending and descending line-of-sight [...] Read more.

Satellite-based Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) is widely used to monitor ground deformation over large areas. However, each InSAR observation measures only the scalar projection of the three-dimensional displacement vector onto the satellite line of sight. Consequently, two independent ascending and descending line-of-sight observations can determine only two independent displacement components unless an additional physical constraint or external observation is introduced. This study examines the bias and noise sensitivity of two-geometry InSAR displacement decomposition when the additional constraint is expressed in different global and local coordinate systems. We formulate the decomposition in the East–North–Vertical and the slope-oriented Upwards–Transverse–Normal reference frames and analyze how the estimated components are affected by the true displacement direction, the orientation of the constrained axis, and its relationship with the null direction of the observation geometry. Synthetic numerical experiments are used to evaluate conventional zero-North, vertical–planimetric, slope-aligned, and null-direction-aligned decompositions. The results show that a constraint aligned with the null direction prevents the unobservable displacement component from biasing the two estimated components, whereas even small coordinate-system misalignments with respect to the true displacement direction may produce substantial errors when the constrained direction is poorly oriented with respect to the null direction. An interactive dashboard is provided to support geometry-specific sensitivity analysis and the selection of physically meaningful coordinate systems for practical InSAR applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Engineering Remote Sensing)

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43 pages, 8561 KB

Open AccessArticle

Identifying Two-Parameter Pasternak Foundation Stiffness from Plate Vibration Frequencies: A Bayesian Framework with Cross-Platform Verification for Soft-Ground Highway Widening

by Dan Peng, Wangxi Zhang and Li Li

Buildings 2026, 16(19), 3907; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16193907 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

Winkler models transmit no shear and cannot reproduce the differential settlement and lateral squeezing that drive soft-ground widening distress. The Pasternak model restores shear coupling, but its shear layer stiffness has remained unmeasurable without static loading. This study identified the compression coefficient k [...] Read more.

Winkler models transmit no shear and cannot reproduce the differential settlement and lateral squeezing that drive soft-ground widening distress. The Pasternak model restores shear coupling, but its shear layer stiffness has remained unmeasurable without static loading. This study identified the compression coefficient k and shear layer stiffness

\hat{G}

from lightweight plate vibration tests. A Hamiltonian eigenvalue formulation distinguished the parameters through their different geometric weights in the fundamental mode; a Chebyshev–Ritz solver established internal convergence, with independent verification by a SAP2000 v27 solid model against laboratory frequencies. Bayesian MCMC with a K₃₀-informed prior and a resolution-consistent noise model returned k = 5.99 ± 0.58 MPa/m and

\hat{G}

= 0.153 ± 0.008 MN/m, with prior sensitivity and leave-one-plate-out checks. Transferred to Abaqus 2026 and SAP2000 v27 without retuning, the model agreed with a published finite element benchmark—a consistency check, not a field validation—within 5% on the shear-driven responses, whereas a matched-stiffness Winkler model deviated by roughly 20%. Recalibrating the Winkler stiffness closed that gap only by shifting the stiffness estimate by approximately two posterior standard deviations from the identified value, and the trough extent remained unreproduced. The Sobol indices indicated that these responses were driven primarily by

\hat{G}

. A three-plate campaign can be completed within one working day without requiring lane closure; field instrumentation is under way. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Structural Health Monitoring and Intelligent Safety Assessment in Civil Engineering)

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14 pages, 5762 KB

Open AccessArticle

High-Transmittance Beam-Scanning Antenna Based on Double-Layer Quasi-One-Dimensional Periodic Trapezoidal Metallic Lines

by Min Mao, Ruolin Xu, Hang Qian, Chunfeng Fan, Qing Liu and Ke Gong

Electronics 2026, 15(19), 4493; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics15194493 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

This article presents a high radio-frequency (RF) transmittance beam-scanning antenna based on a double-layer quasi-one-dimensional (QOD) structure, realized by periodically loading two trapezoidal metallic lines on both sides of a central feeding structure. The trapezoidal strips are hollowed out to improve RF transmittance. [...] Read more.

This article presents a high radio-frequency (RF) transmittance beam-scanning antenna based on a double-layer quasi-one-dimensional (QOD) structure, realized by periodically loading two trapezoidal metallic lines on both sides of a central feeding structure. The trapezoidal strips are hollowed out to improve RF transmittance. The measured prototype achieves a wide scanning range of 58° over 13.5–18.5 GHz, covering both backward and forward quadrants, with a peak gain of 12.7 dBi and an in-band gain consistently above 5.9 dBi. The measured RF transmittance peaks at nearly 90%, and the experimental results agree closely with the simulations. Compared with conventional two-dimensional (2D) periodic structures, the proposed QOD structure exhibits superior RF transmittance, making it more suitable for electromagnetic stealth device design. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Electronic Materials, Devices and Applications)

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20 pages, 14972 KB

Open AccessArticle

Investigation of Selected Compounds in Nectar and the Antioxidant, Amylase and Glucosidase Inhibitory Capabilities of Canna Flower Nectar (Canna × generalis)

by Nguyen Thi My Duyen, Nguyen Tan Qui, Le Hoang Bao Ngoc, Tran Trung Hieu, Bui Van Thai and Do Tan Khang

Horticulturae 2026, 12(10), 1226; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12101226 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

Floral nectar is not only an important nutritional source for pollinators but also contains numerous biologically valuable compounds. This study evaluated the nectar characteristics, phytochemical composition, and biological potential of four Canna × generalis cultivars (CG-1, CG-2, CG-3, and CG-4) at different times [...] Read more.

Floral nectar is not only an important nutritional source for pollinators but also contains numerous biologically valuable compounds. This study evaluated the nectar characteristics, phytochemical composition, and biological potential of four Canna × generalis cultivars (CG-1, CG-2, CG-3, and CG-4) at different times throughout the day. Nectar volume and soluble solids content (°Brix) were measured. Phytochemical constituents were screened using spectrophotometric methods, while total phenolic, flavonoid, and alkaloid contents were determined using the Folin–Ciocalteu, aluminum chloride, and bromocresol green methods, respectively. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using DPPH, ABTS•⁺, and FRAP assays. In addition, α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities and in vitro cytotoxicity against human liver cancer cells (HepG2) and breast cancer cells (MCF-7) of the flower nectar were also determined. The results showed that floral nectar volume ranged from 40.76 to 92.39 µL per flower and reached the highest value in the morning, whereas soluble solids content ranged from 18.76 to 30.81 °Brix and gradually increased from midday to afternoon. Phytochemical analyses revealed the presence of various groups of secondary metabolites, including polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, coumarins, carotenoids, saponins, quinones, and terpenoids. The nectar collected in the morning from the CG-4 cultivar exhibited the highest phenolic content (12.02 ± 0.06 µg GAE/mL) and alkaloid content (2.66 ± 0.00 µg AE/mL), while the highest flavonoid content was recorded in the nectar of CG-4 recorded in the afternoon (8.57 ± 0.09 µg QE/mL). All samples exhibited antioxidant activity and inhibitory activity against α-amylase and α-glucosidase. The nectar of CG-2 collected in the afternoon showed the strongest DPPH radical scavenging activity (IC₅₀ = 19.60 ± 0.09 µg/mL), whereas CG-2N and CG-3M exhibited the strongest ABTS•⁺ radical scavenging activity, with no significant difference between them (CG-2N: IC₅₀ = 13.04 ± 0.08 µg/mL; CG-3M: 13.91 ± 0.30 µg/mL). The nectar of CG-2M at morning showed the strongest α-glucosidase inhibitory activity (IC₅₀ = 0.11 ± 0.00 µg/mL). In addition, CG-4M and CG-4A exhibited the strongest ferric reducing activity, which exceeded the linear range of the assay at the 50% concentration, while CG-4M showed the strongest α-amylase inhibitory activity (IC₅₀ = 78.49 ± 0.14 µg/mL). CG-2 showed no significant cytotoxicity against HepG2 and MCF-7 cells (IC₅₀ > 128 µg/mL). Overall, these findings warrant further investigation of Canna × generalis floral nectar as a potential source of bioactive compounds with in vitro antioxidant and digestive-enzyme inhibitory activities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Phytochemical Properties and Bioactive Compounds of Horticultural Crops)

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16 pages, 553 KB

Open AccessArticle

Chan Aesthetics in Chinese Animation: A Conceptual Framework Integrating Semiotics and Reception Theory

by Weihan Fang, Karmilah Binti Abdullah and Faizul Nizar Bin Anuar

Humanities 2026, 15(10), 143; https://doi.org/10.3390/h15100143 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

Chan aesthetics has become an increasingly prominent cultural resource in contemporary Chinese animation, yet its communicative mechanism and audience meaning-making process remain theoretically underexplored. This paper aims to conceptualize how Chan aesthetics is constructed in animated texts and how it is interpreted by [...] Read more.

Chan aesthetics has become an increasingly prominent cultural resource in contemporary Chinese animation, yet its communicative mechanism and audience meaning-making process remain theoretically underexplored. This paper aims to conceptualize how Chan aesthetics is constructed in animated texts and how it is interpreted by audiences within a media communication context. Drawing on Barthes’ semiotic theory and Reception Aesthetics, the study develops an integrated conceptual framework that connects textual meaning construction with audience reception. Within this framework, the study focuses on five core ideas of Chan aesthetics, namely enlightenment, emptiness, impermanence, non-duality, and not “established upon words and letters”, which are articulated through visual, auditory, and narrative forms at denotative, connotative, and mythic levels, while audiences actively participate in meaning construction based on their horizon of expectations. This paper argues that Chan aesthetics in Chinese animation should be understood as a dynamic process in which animation-specific forms contribute to the articulation of philosophical and aesthetic meanings, while audiences actively participate in their interpretation. The proposed framework provides a more systematic understanding of Chan aesthetic communication in animation and offers a theoretical foundation for future empirical research on audience perception and cultural transmission. Full article

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19 pages, 314 KB

Open AccessEntry

Smart Specialization Strategies for Sustainable Regional Development

by Viktorija Šipilova

Encyclopedia 2026, 6(10), 214; https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia6100214 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Definition

The smart specialization strategy (S3) is a place-based approach to regional development, which rapidly became highly demanded across regions regardless of its novelty. In essence, S3 aims to support regions to transform their economic structures in favor of knowledge-based development. Practical implementation includes [...] Read more.

The smart specialization strategy (S3) is a place-based approach to regional development, which rapidly became highly demanded across regions regardless of its novelty. In essence, S3 aims to support regions to transform their economic structures in favor of knowledge-based development. Practical implementation includes setting a limited number of priorities within development strategies and involving a wide range of stakeholders. The S3 approach differs from conventional innovation policies because it focuses on the process of “self-discovery” and targets a limited number of activities that have the potential to serve as a regional competitive advantage. Today, the approach continues to evolve. The updated vision of regional development accentuates sustainability at the core of regional growth. To achieve better outcomes, regions need to localize the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and discover opportunities based on their own capacity, potential, and vision. Smart specialization strategy for sustainability (S4) aims to embed sustainability into economic activities, aligning them with local characteristics and challenges. The key objective of this transformation-oriented regional development policy is to help regions become places with high business activity and an attractive environment in which to work, live, and invest. A special contribution of S3 and S4 is their support in discovering regional potential, even in declining regions. This can significantly contribute to closing productivity and income gaps. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Encyclopedia of Sustainable Development)

31 pages, 2293 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Clinical Efficacy and Safety of Fosmanogepix in Patients with Invasive and Refractory Fungal Infections: A Systematic Review

by Felix Bratosin, Iulia Bogdan and Silvius Alexandru Pescariu

J. Fungi 2026, 12(10), 733; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof12100733 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

Background: Fosmanogepix is a first-in-class Gwt1 inhibitor with oral and intravenous formulations and broad in vitro activity, but its clinical evidence is scattered across small trials and case reports. We reviewed all identifiable human data from the searched sources on its efficacy and [...] Read more.

Background: Fosmanogepix is a first-in-class Gwt1 inhibitor with oral and intravenous formulations and broad in vitro activity, but its clinical evidence is scattered across small trials and case reports. We reviewed all identifiable human data from the searched sources on its efficacy and safety in serious fungal infections. Methods: PubMed, Google Scholar, ClinicalTrials.gov, congress supplements, and citation lists were searched for publications available up to 1 September 2026. Any report of fosmanogepix given for a fungal infection with a reported outcome was eligible. Quality was appraised with JBI checklists, findings were synthesised narratively and stratified by study design, certainty was rated for each indication with a GRADE-informed approach, and scenario analyses explored patient duplication and reporting bias. Results: Thirty studies (34 reports) describing approximately 223 reported patient-episodes (an estimated 171 to 214 unique patients under duplication scenarios) were included: three phase 2 trials (n = 51), seven expanded-access or cohort series (n = 151) and 20 case-level reports (n = 21). Adjudicated treatment success was 16/20 (80%) in candidaemia and 8/9 (89%) in Candida auris candidaemia; in refractory invasive mould disease, global response was 8/20 (40%) with 25% Day-42 mortality. Physician-assessed favourable responses were 13/17 (76%) and 4/7 (57%) in aspergillosis, 38/50 (76%) and 26/32 (81%) in fusariosis, 7/11 (64%) in mucormycosis, and 8/11 (73%) in coccidioidomycosis. Of 21 individually described patients, 17 were alive at last report. Gastrointestinal intolerance was the main adverse effect, with drug-related discontinuation in 3/21 mould-disease trial participants. GRADE-informed certainty was low for candidaemia other than C. auris candidaemia and for refractory mould disease, and very low for every other indication. Conclusions: Uncontrolled data provide signals of activity, not evidence of comparative effectiveness, in candidaemia, including C. auris, and in fusariosis and other resistant mould infections, with acceptable tolerability during prolonged use. Small samples, absent comparators, overlapping cohorts, and probable publication bias limit the evidence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fungal Pathogenesis and Disease Control)

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13 pages, 395 KB

Open AccessReview

Integration and Combination of GLP-1/GIP Therapies, Bariatric Endoscopy, and Metabolic Surgery in the Treatment of Obesity: A Scoping Review

by Faure Rodríguez-Velásquez, Alejandro D. Tejada-Giraldo, Andrés Montoya-Durán, Laura Goez-Beltran, Nicole Bonilla, Daniela Riaño-Pineda, Alejandra Sogamoso-Bohórquez, Juan Galves-Cetina and Eduardo Tuta-Quintero

Gastrointest. Disord. 2026, 8(4), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/gidisord8040060 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

Background: The development of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 Ras or GLP-1) and dual glucagon-like peptide-1/glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GLP-1/GIP) receptor agonists has expanded the therapeutic options for multimodal obesity management. However, evidence regarding the integration, combination, or sequencing of these therapies with bariatric/metabolic [...] Read more.

Background: The development of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 Ras or GLP-1) and dual glucagon-like peptide-1/glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GLP-1/GIP) receptor agonists has expanded the therapeutic options for multimodal obesity management. However, evidence regarding the integration, combination, or sequencing of these therapies with bariatric/metabolic endoscopy and bariatric/metabolic surgery has not been comprehensively synthesized. Methods: A scoping review was conducted following the methodological framework of Arksey and Levac, the recommendations of the Joanna Briggs Institute, and the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. A systematic search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, and Embase from database inception through 16 May 2026. Studies involving adults that evaluated GLP-1/GIP agonists in relation to endoscopic and/or surgical bariatric/metabolic procedures were included. Data extraction was independently performed by two reviewers, and the evidence was synthesized using descriptive and narrative analyses. Results: All 14 studies directly evaluated strategies involving the integration, combination, or sequencing of pharmacotherapy with bariatric/metabolic endoscopy and/or bariatric/metabolic surgery and therefore contributed to the primary synthesis. The reported sample sizes across the 14 included studies summed to approximately 6401 participants, with individual study sample sizes ranging from 40 to 4901 patients. Most were retrospective cohort studies (10/14; 71.4%), followed by randomized controlled trials or prospective studies (3/14; 21.4%) and comparative observational studies. GLP-1 were the most frequently evaluated pharmacological agents, particularly semaglutide (7/14; 50.0%) and liraglutide (6/14; 42.9%), whereas tirzepatide was investigated in two studies (2/14; 14.3%). Endoscopic interventions were evaluated in 11 of the 14 included studies (78.6%). The most frequently evaluated endoscopic intervention was the intragastric balloon (IGB) (4/14; 28.6%), followed by transoral outlet reduction (TORe) (1/14; 7.1%), endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) (1/14; 7.1%), revisional ESG (R-ESG) (1/14; 7.1%), and other revisional endoscopic procedures. Conclusions: Evidence regarding integrated, combined, sequential, adjuvant, or comparative treatment strategies for obesity management remains limited and is predominantly derived from observational studies. The integration of pharmacotherapy with endoscopic and surgical interventions shows promising results; however, high-quality prospective studies and randomized clinical trials are needed to define the optimal treatment sequence and identify the patients most likely to benefit from these multimodal approaches. Full article

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30 pages, 63069 KB

Open AccessArticle

Frequency-Aware Hierarchical Feature Fusion Network for Tornado Detection Using Dual-Polarization Weather Radar

by Juanping Jiang, Jianxin He, Qiangyu Zeng, Shijie Li, Zhangjun Peng, Mingfei Wan, Rong Tang and Zhigui Liu

Remote Sens. 2026, 18(19), 3352; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs18193352 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

Tornadoes are extremely hazardous weather phenomena characterized by intense vortex structures, and weather radar is currently one of the most effective means for detecting them. The existing detection algorithms rely on threshold judgments of weather radar variables and have insufficient ability to deeply [...] Read more.

Tornadoes are extremely hazardous weather phenomena characterized by intense vortex structures, and weather radar is currently one of the most effective means for detecting them. The existing detection algorithms rely on threshold judgments of weather radar variables and have insufficient ability to deeply represent complex weather features, which leads to a low probability of detection (POD) and high false-alarm ratio (FAR). Therefore, a Frequency-Aware Hierarchical Feature Fusion Network (FA-HFFN) is proposed based on dual-polarization weather radar observations. FA-HFFN adopts a heterogeneous dual-path architecture. The main path incorporates the frequency-aware and high-frequency enhancement module, which is designed to extract high-frequency features associated with localized rapid variations in radar variables and to enhance high-frequency abrupt details. The auxiliary path employs the multi-head attention multi-scale module to capture complex background weather information in the weather radar echoes. The dual paths achieve hierarchical adaptive fusion through a stage-wise gating mechanism to jointly represent the frequency response, spatial structure, and rotational characteristics of tornadoes. Experimental results show that FA-HFFN outperforms the comparison models in overall evaluation metrics, with higher detection sensitivity and stronger false-alarm suppression. In tornado case studies, the detection lead time is extended to 54 min, and the three-dimensional evolution trajectory of the tornado is successfully tracked through continuous multi-elevation detection. This study provides a technical approach for automated tornado detection and intelligent warning under complex severe convective weather conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Atmospheric Remote Sensing)

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21 pages, 8080 KB

Open AccessArticle

AgentCam: Privacy-Aware and Security-Oriented Video Sensing for Heterogeneous Cloud-Edge-Terminal Surveillance Networks

by Zihan Li and Huishu Wu

Electronics 2026, 15(19), 4490; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics15194490 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

Heterogeneous cloud-edge-terminal surveillance networks integrate resource-constrained cameras, edge devices, base stations, and cloud servers for security monitoring in smart campuses, transportation systems, and public spaces. Continuous full-color video uploading increases bandwidth pressure, enlarges the sensing pipeline’s attack surface, exposes privacy-sensitive background content, and [...] Read more.

Heterogeneous cloud-edge-terminal surveillance networks integrate resource-constrained cameras, edge devices, base stations, and cloud servers for security monitoring in smart campuses, transportation systems, and public spaces. Continuous full-color video uploading increases bandwidth pressure, enlarges the sensing pipeline’s attack surface, exposes privacy-sensitive background content, and may delay security analysis under congested edge links. To address these challenges, this paper presents AgentCam, a privacy-aware and security-oriented video sensing framework for heterogeneous surveillance networks. AgentCam combines a dual-mode grayscale-color camera with a cloud-hosted reinforcement learning (RL) agent. The sensing unit first transmits a low-cost grayscale observation; the cloud-side agent then selects security-relevant regions of interest (ROIs), and the terminal/edge unit applies the returned ROI action to transmit only selected color content. The cloud side reconstructs high-fidelity color video from grayscale frames and sparse color ROIs through restoration, temporal inference, and super-resolution. Experiments on surveillance-oriented video datasets show that AgentCam improves reconstruction quality over existing dual-mode reconstruction baselines while substantially reducing transmission overhead. These results indicate that selective ROI transmission can support scalable and privacy-aware security monitoring without continuously exposing full-color video streams. The framework is positioned as sensing-layer visual-data minimization rather than a complete cryptographic or adversarial-defense mechanism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Network Security Management in Heterogeneous Networks, Volume II)

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16 pages, 2585 KB

Open AccessArticle

SSR-Based Genotyping of Korean Native Pear Germplasm for Accession Identity Assessment and Germplasm Management

by Keumsun Kim and Haewon Jung

Horticulturae 2026, 12(10), 1225; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12101225 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

Korean native pear germplasm is valuable for conservation and breeding, but long-term ex situ maintenance may result in accession redundancy and identity uncertainty. This study established simple sequence repeat (SSR) fingerprints, identified putative duplicate accessions, assessed phenotypic consistency within duplicate groups, and characterized [...] Read more.

Korean native pear germplasm is valuable for conservation and breeding, but long-term ex situ maintenance may result in accession redundancy and identity uncertainty. This study established simple sequence repeat (SSR) fingerprints, identified putative duplicate accessions, assessed phenotypic consistency within duplicate groups, and characterized genetic relationships and regional differentiation in the collection. A total of 644 accessions, including 626 Korean native pear accessions and 18 additional Pyrus accessions, were genotyped using 18 SSR markers from the European Cooperative Programme for Plant Genetic Resources and U.S. Pyrus Genetic Resources sets. The markers produced 4–13 alleles per locus, with mean gene diversity, observed heterozygosity, and polymorphic information content values of 0.669, 0.448, and 0.628, respectively. Forty-three putative duplicate groups comprising 142 accessions were identified, with no discrepancies observed in the available flower and young leaf traits. A non-redundant set of 545 accessions was established and used for subsequent genetic analyses. Genetic relationship and population structure analyses revealed diverse genetic backgrounds and broad sharing of genetic components across regions. Regional differentiation was weak but significant, with 92.72% of variation occurring within regions and 7.28% among regions; Ulleungdo accessions showed the most distinctive regional pattern. This study demonstrates the utility of SSR fingerprinting for accession verification, redundancy management, and germplasm curation and provides a non-redundant resource set for subsequent phenotypic evaluation and potential use in pear breeding. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Genetics, Genomics, Breeding, and Biotechnology (G2B2))

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19 pages, 27757 KB

Open AccessArticle

Physical Properties in the Northern Ecuador Subduction Zone Appear to Contribute to the Occurrence of Moderate-to-Strong Earthquakes and Aftershock Propagation

by Dingwen Zhang, Qibo Hu and Guohong Zhang

Remote Sens. 2026, 18(19), 3353; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs18193353 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

Megathrust faults in subduction zones often serve as seismogenic environments for destructive earthquakes. To verify whether the material properties of subduction zones influence aftershock propagation and earthquake magnitude, we investigated the northern Ecuador subduction zone using local 8G network data to locate seismicity [...] Read more.

Megathrust faults in subduction zones often serve as seismogenic environments for destructive earthquakes. To verify whether the material properties of subduction zones influence aftershock propagation and earthquake magnitude, we investigated the northern Ecuador subduction zone using local 8G network data to locate seismicity in July 2016 and obtained the deformation field (the maximum deformation reached about 60 cm) of the 2016 Mw 7.8 earthquake from InSAR. Additionally, we refined the locations of moderate-to-large earthquakes (Mw > 5.2) over the past 20 years via surface waveform relocation and depth-phase modeling based on the global network data. We obtained 895 earthquake events for July 2016 (with horizontal uncertainties < 0.01° and vertical uncertainties < 2 km), and the relocation uncertainties of the historical moderate-to-large events were within 4 km. Both the aftershock and the relocated historical events are found to be concentrated in regions with moderate Vp/Vs ratios (~1.78–1.82), indicating that the material properties in these areas may facilitate subduction zone aftershock propagation and the nucleation of moderate-to-large earthquakes. In contrast, regions with high or low Vp/Vs ratios may act as barriers that inhibit earthquake rupture and constrain rupture scales. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Remote Sensing Image Processing)

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18 pages, 14957 KB

Open AccessArticle

Implementation of NSPWM Algorithm for CMV Reduction in Indirect Matrix Control Fed Induction Motor Drive System

by Yadati Vijaya Suresh, Teegala Bramhananda Reddy and Choppavarapu Sai Babu

Electronics 2026, 15(19), 4495; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics15194495 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

Matrix Converters (MC) are very significant for direct AC-AC conversion instead of AC-DC and DC-AC. In this direct AC-AC conversion, the Common Mode Voltage (CMV) output is very high. The leakage currents that are produced from the common mode voltage due to dv [...] Read more.

Matrix Converters (MC) are very significant for direct AC-AC conversion instead of AC-DC and DC-AC. In this direct AC-AC conversion, the Common Mode Voltage (CMV) output is very high. The leakage currents that are produced from the common mode voltage due to dv/dt rise cause very severe problems, such as making disturbances like electromagnetic noise, that is developed from the equipment which is placed nearer to the converter. The scalar approach provides equivalent performance to the vector approach. In this paper the scalar approach is chosen due to its simplicity. In this paper, a Near State Pulse Width Modulation (NSPWM) is proposed to ensure the operation of the inverter at a steady switching frequency. A positive or negative DC bus is clamped to any phase in each sector over a fundamental cycle of the proposed NSPWM algorithm. Thus, the suggested technique controls the inverter’s switching frequency and reduces switching losses. The experimental findings demonstrate that the suggested NSPWM algorithm performance has been examined and contrasted with traditional PWM techniques. When motor drives are operating within the optimal modulation index range, the method performs better overall and outperforms the most challenging PWM techniques. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Power Electronics)

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31 pages, 23379 KB

Open AccessReview

Constructing Embodied Intelligent Spaces from an Architectural Perspective: Technical Frameworks, Integration Mechanisms, and Implementation Pathways

by Xin Zhou, Yuping Feng, Xiaokai Yan, Jiarui Sun, Yian Lu and Ji Lu

Buildings 2026, 16(19), 3906; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16193906 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

To address the bottleneck of technologically advanced but cognitively limited smart buildings, this paper introduces embodied intelligence to reconstruct the intelligent paradigm of architectural space. It defines embodied intelligent space and develops a Human–Intelligence–Context framework. In this framework, space is regarded as a [...] Read more.

To address the bottleneck of technologically advanced but cognitively limited smart buildings, this paper introduces embodied intelligence to reconstruct the intelligent paradigm of architectural space. It defines embodied intelligent space and develops a Human–Intelligence–Context framework. In this framework, space is regarded as a collaborative spatial agent with a degree of autonomy. Based on a systematic review of 293 studies published from 2017 to 2026, the paper proposes a technical adaptation loop of embodied perception, cognitive decision-making, and embodied actuation. This loop explains how space gains computability, interpretability, and actionability. The paper further develops a scenario–pathway–implementation framework from an architectural perspective. This framework clarifies how intelligent technologies can be structurally embedded into architectural systems. The findings show that embodied intelligent space supports the shift from a passive container to an autonomous spatial agent. This shift is enabled by multimodal perception, spatial large-model reasoning, and edge–cloud collaborative actuation. The study provides theoretical support and implementation pathways for sustainable and human-centered settlement environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Construction Management, and Computers & Digitization)

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21 pages, 1879 KB

Open AccessArticle

Phytochemical Fingerprinting of Nigerian Versus South African Loranthus micranthus Linn. Extracts and Their Antimicrobial Potentials Against Five Resistant Bacteria

by Siyabonga Hlophe and Kokoette Bassey

Molecules 2026, 31(19), 3489; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31193489 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

Background: Loranthus micranthus has been traditionally used in ethnomedicine for managing diabetes, hypertension, and schizophrenia. In response to the escalating issue of antibiotic resistance and the desire for alternatives with fewer side effects, attention has shifted towards natural medicines. This study investigated [...] Read more.

Background: Loranthus micranthus has been traditionally used in ethnomedicine for managing diabetes, hypertension, and schizophrenia. In response to the escalating issue of antibiotic resistance and the desire for alternatives with fewer side effects, attention has shifted towards natural medicines. This study investigated phytochemical fingerprinting and antibacterial activity of the plant from both Nigeria and South Africa because samples from both countries are classified as African. Methods: Standard techniques, including thin-layer chromatography and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry, were used for chemical fingerprint profiling. Minimum inhibitory concentrations assay evaluated the antimicrobial potential of extracts and standards. Results: Notably, thin-layer chromatography analysis unravelled an identical chemical signature for samples from both countries. Distinct colours indicated the presence of anthracene derivatives, coumarins, and phenolic carboxylic acids, among others. The ultra-performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry results mirrored that of the thin-layer chromatography, that is, identical chemical signature and identified peaks including but not limited to stearic acid, quercetin, isoreserpin, and tiamulin in the dichloromethane extracts. Meanwhile, the methanol extracts exhibited compounds like 4-hydroxyhygric acid, quercetin, and catechin-3’-glycoside, among others. The antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus strains, Escherichia coli, and Streptococcus pyogenes afforded minimum inhibitory concentration values of 1.5 × 10⁻² mg/mL for all the bacterial strains except Streptococcus pyogenes with minimum inhibitory concentration = 7.5 × 10⁻³ mg/mL when compared with ciprofloxacin positive control with a minimum inhibitory concentration = 0.0039 mg/mL. Conclusion: The apparent mono-directional thin-layer chromatography, ultra-performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry chemical signature, as well as the minimum inhibitory concentration values obtained from all the samples supported the classification of Loranthus micranthus Linn from both countries as African, and the extracts have the potential to inhibit resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus strains, Escherichia coli, and Streptococcus pyogenes species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products Chemistry)

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16 pages, 2733 KB

Open AccessArticle

Development and Internal Validation of a Preoperative Risk Stratification Model for Difficult Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy in Acute Cholecystitis

by Sinan Aslan and Şebnem Çimen

Diagnostics 2026, 16(19), 3191; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16193191 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

Background: Difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy (DLC) in patients with acute cholecystitis (AC) is associated with greater operative complexity and increased perioperative morbidity, yet reliable preoperative risk stratification remains limited. This study aimed to develop and internally validate a preoperative prediction model for DLC and [...] Read more.

Background: Difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy (DLC) in patients with acute cholecystitis (AC) is associated with greater operative complexity and increased perioperative morbidity, yet reliable preoperative risk stratification remains limited. This study aimed to develop and internally validate a preoperative prediction model for DLC and to compare its predictive performance with that of an alternative C-reactive protein–albumin–lymphocyte (CALLY)-based model. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed consecutive adult patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) for AC at a single center between 1 January 2022 and 31 December 2025. DLC was defined as operative time >90 min, conversion to open surgery, subtotal cholecystectomy or a Nassar grade ≥4. Preoperative clinical, laboratory and ultrasonographic variables were evaluated using multivariable logistic regression. Model performance was assessed by discrimination, calibration, Brier score, decision curve analysis and bootstrap internal validation. Results: Among 8530 screened patients, 7736 met the inclusion criteria and 1736 (22.4%) experienced DLC. In the primary multivariable model, Tokyo Guidelines 2018 (TG18) grade II, TG18 grade III and preoperative C-reactive protein (CRP) were independently associated with DLC. The model demonstrated modest discrimination (area under curve (AUC), 0.617; optimism-corrected AUC, 0.612) with a Brier score of 0.167. In the alternative model, TG18 grade III and a lower CALLY index remained independent predictors; however, predictive performance did not improve (AUC, 0.580; Brier score, 0.171). In the sensitivity analysis excluding operative time, severe DLC occurred in 378 patients (4.9%) and none of the candidate predictors remained independently associated with this endpoint. Conclusions: TG18 severity grade and preoperative CRP were independently associated with the composite DLC endpoint, which was predominantly driven by prolonged operative time. Discrimination was limited and no independent associations were identified for severe DLC when operative time was excluded. The alternative CALLY-based model showed lower discrimination than the conventional model. These findings do not support using the model to guide clinical decisions regarding severe operative difficulty. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing Blood-Based Diagnostics: Innovations, Challenges and Clinical Impact)

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19 pages, 3813 KB

Open AccessArticle

Taxonomic and Functional Profiles of the Gastrointestinal Microbiome Across Digestive Tract Segments in Growing Water Buffaloes

by Jingjing Wen, Jiajie Huang, Guixian Liu, Shasha Liang, Linghu Zeng, Rongchun Huang, Nongqi Yu, Guangsheng Qin, Qiuming Chen and Shengfei Yan

Microorganisms 2026, 14(10), 2206; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms14102206 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

Gastrointestinal segments in ruminants differ in physiological environment and substrate availability. This study characterized taxonomic and gene-encoded functional profiles in 54 shotgun metagenomes from 30 growing male water buffaloes assigned to five dietary formulations. The dataset comprised 30 rumen-fluid samples, six per group, [...] Read more.

Gastrointestinal segments in ruminants differ in physiological environment and substrate availability. This study characterized taxonomic and gene-encoded functional profiles in 54 shotgun metagenomes from 30 growing male water buffaloes assigned to five dietary formulations. The dataset comprised 30 rumen-fluid samples, six per group, and 24 post-slaughter samples from six gastrointestinal sites in five animals. Comparisons among groups A–E yielded p = 0.9816 for final body weight, p = 0.9315 for overall average daily gain, and p = 0.2832 for rumen-fluid pH. Genus-level principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) used Bray–Curtis dissimilarities calculated from Hellinger-transformed relative abundances. In the 30 rumen-fluid samples, PERMANOVA yielded R² = 0.1554, pseudo-F = 1.1499, and p = 0.327. The cross-site profiles were described separately from the dietary-group comparison. Post-slaughter rumen contents had larger proportions of Bacteroidota than the other sampled sites, whereas Bacillota accounted for the largest proportions in the cecum and colon. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) Level 2 profiles and carbohydrate-active enzyme (CAZyme) profiles described the distribution of annotated functions across sites. These data characterize taxonomic assignments and carbohydrate-utilization-related gene profiles from the rumen to the colon in growing water buffaloes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Gut Microbiota)

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19 pages, 1245 KB

Open AccessArticle

Systemic Interactions Between Sustainable Consumption, Energy Transition and Firm Survival in the EU: A Multi-Valued Logic Approach to Sustainability Transitions

by Elżbieta Ociepa-Kicińska, Tomasz Skica and Teresa Mroczek

Energies 2026, 19(19), 4643; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19194643 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

As sustainable consumption and production (SDG 12) and the energy transition become increasingly interconnected components of the European Union (EU) sustainability agenda, their relationships with sector-specific patterns of firm survival remain insufficiently explored. In this study, we examine whether sustainable consumption and national [...] Read more.

As sustainable consumption and production (SDG 12) and the energy transition become increasingly interconnected components of the European Union (EU) sustainability agenda, their relationships with sector-specific patterns of firm survival remain insufficiently explored. In this study, we examine whether sustainable consumption and national energy-transition conditions form consistent configurations associated with firm survival and how these configurations vary across countries, economic sectors, and time. Using a fuzzy logic-based analytical framework, we capture complex relationships between sustainable consumption patterns, national energy consumption, the share of renewable energy in gross final energy consumption, and sector-specific firm survival outcomes over short-, medium-, and long-term horizons between 2014 and 2020. The results show that the transition to sustainable development is not incompatible with firm survival. At the same time, the configurations of institutional and energy adjustment show significant variation between EU Member States and economy sectors. Short-term survival outcomes are more strongly associated with initial market entry conditions and cost pressure. In the longer term, the sustainability of firms is more strongly associated with institutional stability and the coherence of the energy transition. The application of fuzzy logic shows that SDG 12 functions as part of a broader institutional and energy configuration, whose importance for the sustainability of companies becomes apparent gradually over longer survival horizons. These findings should be interpreted as contextual and sector-level associations rather than as causal effects on individual firms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section C: Energy Economics and Policy)

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20 pages, 1146 KB

Open AccessArticle

Has the Early Majority Been Reached? Specialised Inpatient Palliative Care Utilisation in Common Solid Tumours in Germany

by Marcel A. Kamp, Martina Kern, Nazife Dinc, Birgitt van Oorschot, Lukas Radbruch and Christiane von Saß

Cancers 2026, 18(19), 3163; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18193163 (registering DOI) - 1 Oct 2026

Abstract

Background: Randomised trials indicate that early integration of specialised palliative care improves quality of life and, in some studies, survival in advanced cancer, yet its implementation in inpatient oncology remains inconsistent. This study quantifies the coded utilisation of specialised inpatient palliative care in [...] Read more.

Background: Randomised trials indicate that early integration of specialised palliative care improves quality of life and, in some studies, survival in advanced cancer, yet its implementation in inpatient oncology remains inconsistent. This study quantifies the coded utilisation of specialised inpatient palliative care in German hospitals and interprets adoption patterns using the diffusion of innovations theory. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of nationwide hospital cases reimbursed under the German diagnosis-related groups (DRG) system in 2023. The analysis included the most common solid malignancies and assessed the utilisation of specialised inpatient palliative care overall and stratified by metastatic status, tumour entity, comorbidities, and treating medical specialties. Results: Specialised inpatient palliative care was provided in 5.4% of hospital cases involving the most common malignant tumours. Among patients with organ metastases, utilisation increased to a median rate of 15.0% of hospital cases, with the highest rates observed in cases with brain (17.8%), bone (17.0%), and pleural metastases (16.1%). Palliative care involvement correlated positively with in-hospital mortality. Interpreted cautiously through the diffusion of innovations theory, which frames the 15 to 20% band as a heuristic landmark rather than a validated threshold, utilisation even in the metastatic subgroup reaches only the lower edge of this band, indicating that uptake remains confined to innovators and early adopters and has not extended to the early majority. Conclusions: Specialised inpatient palliative care remains underutilised in German oncology, reaching 5.4% of all cases and a median of 15.0% even in metastatic disease. Interpreted cautiously through the diffusion of innovations theory, which frames the 15 to 20% band as a heuristic landmark, uptake appears confined to early adopters and has not yet reached the early majority. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Palliative and Supportive Care in Oncology)

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