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28 pages, 3586 KB  
Article
Assessing the Interplay of Personal and Behavioral Factors on Indoor Thermal Comfort in North Texas
by Atefe Makhmalbaf, Kayvon Khodahemmati, Mohsen Shahandashti and Santosh Acharya
Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4494; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094494 (registering DOI) - 2 May 2026
Abstract
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems struggle to maintain optimal thermal comfort because perception is subjective and varies significantly across individuals. Traditional uniform cooling strategies often overlook demographic diversity, leading to inequitable comfort outcomes and inefficient building operations. To address this limitation, [...] Read more.
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems struggle to maintain optimal thermal comfort because perception is subjective and varies significantly across individuals. Traditional uniform cooling strategies often overlook demographic diversity, leading to inequitable comfort outcomes and inefficient building operations. To address this limitation, this study analyzed a web-based survey of 366 university occupants using a partial proportional odds model with multiple imputation and inverse-frequency weighting. Interaction terms, specifically Age–Activity, Gender–Clothing, and Age–Clothing, were included to assess combined effects that reflect demographic disparities in adaptive capacity. The results show that clothing insulation, activity, age, gender, race/ethnicity, and space type significantly influence thermal responses. Notably, male occupants were more than three times as likely to report feeling too warm (odds ratio [OR] = 3.24), whereas older adults exhibited significantly lower odds of reporting feeling too warm (OR = 0.42). Substantial variation was observed across racial and ethnic groups (ORs ranging from 2.4 to 6.5). These findings highlight the limitations of traditional population-average comfort approaches and provide valuable scientific insights for demand-response-ready HVAC strategies that adjust temperature setpoints dynamically without sacrificing comfort. By offering accurate, real-time estimates across diverse thermal ranges, these occupant-centric models reduce HVAC energy use and associated emissions at the building scale while supporting ancillary services for flexible load shifting and smarter coordination within low-carbon electric grids. Ultimately, incorporating demographic and contextual diversity into building controls reduces unnecessary cooling waste while promoting thermal equity, establishing a human-centric foundation for sustainable built environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Low-Energy Buildings and Low-Carbon Grid Systems)
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30 pages, 21327 KB  
Article
UAV-Borne RGB Imagery and Machine Learning for Estimating Soil Properties and Crop Physiological Traits in Peanut (Arachis hypogaea): A Low-Cost Precision Agriculture Approach
by Wilson Saltos-Alcivar, Cristhian Delgado-Marcillo, Ezequiel Zamora-Ledezma, Carlos A. Rivas and Henry Antonio Pacheco Gil
AgriEngineering 2026, 8(5), 177; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriengineering8050177 (registering DOI) - 2 May 2026
Abstract
Modern agriculture must balance productivity with sustainability. In this context, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) offer flexible, cost-effective tools for crop and soil monitoring in precision agriculture. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of UAV-borne RGB imagery, combined with vegetation indices and machine [...] Read more.
Modern agriculture must balance productivity with sustainability. In this context, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) offer flexible, cost-effective tools for crop and soil monitoring in precision agriculture. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of UAV-borne RGB imagery, combined with vegetation indices and machine learning, to estimate surface soil properties and crop physiological traits in peanut (Arachis hypogaea) cultivation. A factorial field experiment with four varieties, two planting densities, and two tillage systems was monitored using high-resolution RGB orthomosaics acquired at key phenological stages. From these images, 17 RGB-based indices were computed and related to soil variables and crop traits using Spearman correlation and two regression algorithms: Random Forest (RF) and k-Nearest Neighbors (KNN). RF models outperformed KNN, with the Red Chromatic Coordinate (RCC) index achieving an R2 of 0.87 for predicting soil organic matter content. Indices such as visible NDVI and the Green Vegetation Index also provided robust estimates of canopy condition and leaf chlorophyll. Overall, the results demonstrate that UAV RGB imagery, processed through simple vegetation indices and RF models, constitutes an effective, low-cost approach for monitoring key agronomic parameters in peanut farming. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Digital Agriculture, Smart Farming and Crop Monitoring)
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10 pages, 1023 KB  
Case Report
Successful Treatment of Posterior Cortical Atrophy: A Case Report
by Kerry Mills Rutland, Neil Nathan, Chi Kim and Dale E. Bredesen
Int. J. Transl. Med. 2026, 6(2), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijtm6020020 (registering DOI) - 2 May 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Posterior cortical atrophy, also referred to as Benson’s syndrome, is a presentation of Alzheimer’s disease that occurs in 5–15% of Alzheimer’s patients. Visual processing is the predominantly affected modality in posterior cortical atrophy, and symptoms such as prosopagnosia, simultanagnosia, alexia, optic [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Posterior cortical atrophy, also referred to as Benson’s syndrome, is a presentation of Alzheimer’s disease that occurs in 5–15% of Alzheimer’s patients. Visual processing is the predominantly affected modality in posterior cortical atrophy, and symptoms such as prosopagnosia, simultanagnosia, alexia, optic ataxia, and visual hallucinations may occur, as well as blurred vision and visual distortions. Posterior cortical atrophy is considered to be a disease without a known cause or effective treatment. Methods: Here, we report a patient with posterior cortical atrophy who responded to a personalized, precision medicine protocol. Results: The patient had improved MRI volumetrics, symptoms, and cognitive testing. She regained the ability to read, use a computer, and undertake computer-based brain training, among other cognitive improvements. She has now sustained this improvement for over one year and continues to regain her independence and confidence. Conclusions: These results argue for additional laboratory testing in the evaluation of patients with posterior cortical atrophy, and they support the possibility of utilizing a similar approach in a proof-of-concept trial. Full article
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19 pages, 2725 KB  
Article
Extreme Wind Speed Projection Based on Clustering-Elastic Net Regularization Fused Extreme Value Mixed Model
by Yunbing Liu, Shengnan Dong, Xiaoxia He and Chunli Li
Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4492; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094492 (registering DOI) - 2 May 2026
Abstract
Wind energy is a cornerstone of the global transition to renewable and sustainable energy systems. However, the same meteorological processes that generate this clean energy can also produce extreme wind events that threaten the structural integrity and operational reliability of wind turbines and [...] Read more.
Wind energy is a cornerstone of the global transition to renewable and sustainable energy systems. However, the same meteorological processes that generate this clean energy can also produce extreme wind events that threaten the structural integrity and operational reliability of wind turbines and power grids. Therefore, accurately predicting extreme wind speeds is a critical link between promoting clean energy and ensuring infrastructure resilience. Traditional models often struggle to capture the multimodal characteristics of extreme wind speeds under complex meteorological conditions due to fixed distribution assumptions or unstable training of mixture models, leading to estimation biases that undermine planning reliability and may result in catastrophic turbine failures or overly conservative designs. To address these issues—particularly weight imbalance and overfitting–this study proposes an enhanced regularized extreme value mixture model (ERDC-EVMM). This method integrates elastic network regularization and Kullback–Leibler divergence constraints within a Mixture of Experts framework, and employs K-means initialization and momentum-based training to enhance convergence stability. Validated using daily extreme wind speed sequences from coastal and inland wind farms, the model outperforms standard GEV and mixture models in terms of goodness-of-fit, percentile accuracy, and return period estimates, while achieving a convergence speed that is more than 30% faster (82 iterations). By balancing accuracy and training stability, the ERDC-EVMM model provides a reliable statistical tool for extreme wind speed forecasting, supporting the safe expansion of wind energy infrastructure and the design of climate-resilient communities. Full article
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22 pages, 11231 KB  
Article
Resource Recovery from High-Salinity Rare Earth Metallurgy Wastewater by Coupling Electrolysis and Membrane Processes
by Yanxin Xie, Jiuyang Lin, Yinhua Wan, Chao Wang, Kaibo Hu, Wenjing Yuan, Ning Li and Xuewei Li
Separations 2026, 13(5), 140; https://doi.org/10.3390/separations13050140 (registering DOI) - 2 May 2026
Abstract
The treatment of high-salinity wastewater generated from the use of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) in rare-earth metallurgy poses significant environmental and resource-recovery challenges. Conventional methods are often economically unfeasible due to their high energy consumption and limited value recovery. To address these limitations, this [...] Read more.
The treatment of high-salinity wastewater generated from the use of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) in rare-earth metallurgy poses significant environmental and resource-recovery challenges. Conventional methods are often economically unfeasible due to their high energy consumption and limited value recovery. To address these limitations, this study proposes an innovative integrated electrochemical process designed not only to desalinate the wastewater efficiently but also to valorize it through the simultaneous co-production of NaOH, chlorine (Cl2), and hydrogen (H2). Systematic optimization reveals a critical trade-off between ion transport efficiency and side reactions, with optimal performance achieved at 2 mol L−1 NaCl, 80 mA cm−2 current density, 2 mm electrode spacing, 30 mL min−1 flow rate, and 5000 mg L−1 initial NaOH concentration. The system maintains exceptional long-term stability, sustaining 97.5% Cl removal over 4410 min of continuous operation without membrane fouling, a key advantage over conventional processes. Validation with authentic rare earth wastewater achieves 90.3% desalination within 5 h. Techno-economic analysis shows that the market value of recovered NaOH nearly offsets the energy cost, achieving near-cost-neutrality. This work establishes electrolysis–membrane coupling as a technically viable and economically attractive strategy for transforming high-salinity industrial waste streams into valuable resources. Full article
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7 pages, 1156 KB  
Case Report
Severe Macular Commotio Retinae Following a Fall from a Horse in a Pediatric Patient
by Bogumiła Wójcik-Niklewska, Zofia Oliwa, Karina Dzięcioł and Adrian Smędowski
Pediatr. Rep. 2026, 18(3), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/pediatric18030065 (registering DOI) - 2 May 2026
Abstract
Background and Clinical Significance: Blunt ocular trauma is a significant but often underestimated cause of visual impairment, particularly among adolescents involved in high-risk activities such as horseback riding. While most equestrian injuries affect the head and extremities, ocular trauma, especially commotio retinae, can [...] Read more.
Background and Clinical Significance: Blunt ocular trauma is a significant but often underestimated cause of visual impairment, particularly among adolescents involved in high-risk activities such as horseback riding. While most equestrian injuries affect the head and extremities, ocular trauma, especially commotio retinae, can result in severe visual complications. Case Presentation: We report the case of a 15-year-old girl who sustained blunt ocular trauma to the left eye following a fall from a horse and presented with decreased visual acuity. Multimodal imaging revealed outer retinal abnormalities on spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT), including ellipsoid zone irregularities. Early-phase fluorescein angiography showed central hypofluorescence in the foveal region with surrounding mild mottled hyperfluorescence, without clear vascular abnormalities. Fundus photography demonstrated subtle macular changes. Visual acuity improved significantly following treatment, with partial resolution of macular changes, although mild outer retinal irregularities persisted on follow-up imaging. Conclusions: These findings underscore the importance of early ophthalmic evaluation and advanced retinal imaging in blunt ocular trauma. Given the high risk of visual injury during equestrian activities, especially in pediatric and adolescent populations, preventive strategies such as mandatory helmet use and rider education are essential. Implementation of standardized follow-up protocols is also recommended to monitor long-term retinal changes in patients with traumatic maculopathy. Full article
22 pages, 13397 KB  
Article
Stabilization Performance and Mechanism of the Gravelly Soil Stabilizer Prepared from Waste Foam Concrete
by Jizhong Gan, Xiantao Liang, Yang Song, Bingxu Chen, Dongsheng Liu, Wanzhi Cao and Danhua Chen
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(9), 4490; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16094490 (registering DOI) - 2 May 2026
Abstract
Gravelly soil is widely used in western China but suffers from poor gradation, low water stability, and weak freeze–thaw resistance. Traditional cementitious stabilizers involve high energy and carbon emissions. To address these issues, a novel, eco-friendly gravelly soil stabilizer was prepared from waste [...] Read more.
Gravelly soil is widely used in western China but suffers from poor gradation, low water stability, and weak freeze–thaw resistance. Traditional cementitious stabilizers involve high energy and carbon emissions. To address these issues, a novel, eco-friendly gravelly soil stabilizer was prepared from waste foamed concrete (WFC) via crushing, ball milling, and high-temperature calcination. This study systematically evaluated stabilization performance and mechanisms. Results indicate that the WFC stabilizer significantly enhances soil properties. At the optimal 30% dosage, the 28-day unconfined compressive strength (UCS) reached 6.5 MPa (a 333% increase), and water stability was significantly improved. Under freeze–thaw conditions, the 30% dosage yielded a mere 2% mass loss after five cycles, with the UCS reaching 9.56 MPa (a 437% increase). Microstructural analyses (XRD, SEM) revealed that hydration generates calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) gel and katoite (Ca3Al2(SiO4)3−x(OH)4x). These products effectively fill soil pores and the spaces of the particles, optimizing the microstructure. This study provides a sustainable pathway for WFC recycling and offers a relatively lower energy consumption, low-carbon and high-performance stabilizer for reinforcing gravelly soil subgrades in cold regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Research in Frozen Soil Mechanics and Cold Regions Engineering)
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24 pages, 378 KB  
Article
Medical Aesthetics Clinic Location Selection Using SMART Single-Valued Neutrosophic TOPSIS
by Napat Harnpornchai and Worrawat Saijai
Logistics 2026, 10(5), 106; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics10050106 (registering DOI) - 2 May 2026
Abstract
Background:Location decision plays a key role in strategic logistics and business success. The beauty business in Thailand has continuously grown, and medical aesthetics clinic location is one of the critical factors for business success. The problem is also related to sustainable urban [...] Read more.
Background:Location decision plays a key role in strategic logistics and business success. The beauty business in Thailand has continuously grown, and medical aesthetics clinic location is one of the critical factors for business success. The problem is also related to sustainable urban service accessibility. Methods: This paper presents, for the first time, a systematic selection of medical aesthetics clinic location as a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) problem. The Simple Multi-Attribute Rating Technique (SMART) and Single-Valued Neutrosophic TOPSIS (SVN-TOPSIS) are combined to solve the location selection problem. SMART determines criterion weights, whereas SVN-TOPSIS evaluates alternatives using linguistic terms understandable to non-technical decision makers. Results: The proposed SMART SVN-TOPSIS is applied to a real investment problem in which two investors select the best clinic location from five alternatives with nine criteria. Siam Square—the heart of shopping, fashion, and youth culture in Bangkok—is recommended as the top location. Conclusions: The results indicate that the proposed method is capable of generating a consistent ranking of alternatives and differentiating between locations that exhibit similar evaluation characteristics. The findings may also support sustainable urban service planning and healthcare-related facility location decisions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Humanitarian and Healthcare Logistics)
16 pages, 1838 KB  
Article
Hydrological Variability and Socio-Ecological Responses in Flood-Prone Riverine Communities of the Niger Delta, Nigeria: Women’s Lived Experiences
by Turnwait Otu Michael
Limnol. Rev. 2026, 26(2), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/limnolrev26020018 (registering DOI) - 2 May 2026
Abstract
Riverine systems in tropical deltaic environments are increasingly exposed to hydrological variability driven by climate change, sea level rise, and extreme precipitation. In Nigeria’s Niger Delta, recurrent flooding and environmental degradation are intensifying pressures on freshwater ecosystems and dependent communities. This study examines [...] Read more.
Riverine systems in tropical deltaic environments are increasingly exposed to hydrological variability driven by climate change, sea level rise, and extreme precipitation. In Nigeria’s Niger Delta, recurrent flooding and environmental degradation are intensifying pressures on freshwater ecosystems and dependent communities. This study examines hydrological stressors in riverine settlements of Bayelsa State and explores associated socio-ecological responses. Using an exploratory qualitative design, data were collected from 51 women residing in highly vulnerable riverine communities through 24 in-depth interviews and three focus group discussions. Thematic analysis identified prolonged flooding, riverbank erosion, salinity intrusion, water quality deterioration, and oil pollution, as key drivers of declining fisheries, reduced agricultural productivity, and household water insecurity. These stressors have prompted relocation, livelihood diversification, and reliance on indigenous adaptation practices. The study recommends: (1) installation of community-based flood early warning systems; (2) routine monitoring of surface water quality and salinity; (3) enforcement of oil spill remediation and pollution control measures; (4) rehabilitation of wetlands and natural drainage channels; and (5) targeted support for climate-resilient livelihoods such as aquaculture and elevated farming systems. These measures are critical for sustaining freshwater ecosystems and strengthening resilience in vulnerable deltaic communities. Full article
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14 pages, 1687 KB  
Article
Evidence for Threshold-like Dynamics in Aedes Mosquito Populations Under Sustained Mass Trapping on Tropical Islands
by Maximilian Epple, Andreas Rose, Martin Geier and Bart G. J. Knols
Insects 2026, 17(5), 472; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects17050472 (registering DOI) - 2 May 2026
Abstract
Mass trapping of adult mosquitoes is increasingly promoted as an environmentally friendly alternative to insecticide-based vector control, yet quantitative evidence for its long-term population-level effects remains limited. We analyzed adult Aedes mosquito Biogents trap data from four tropical islands (three in the Maldives, [...] Read more.
Mass trapping of adult mosquitoes is increasingly promoted as an environmentally friendly alternative to insecticide-based vector control, yet quantitative evidence for its long-term population-level effects remains limited. We analyzed adult Aedes mosquito Biogents trap data from four tropical islands (three in the Maldives, one in the Philippines) where mass trapping was implemented at different trap densities. Using equilibrium-constrained population models, we describe how adult Aedes populations differ across trap densities, with outcomes ranging from partial suppression to near-zero levels at higher trap densities. At low to intermediate densities (4–6 traps·ha−1), populations stabilized at non-zero equilibrium levels, whereas operational elimination was consistently observed at densities ≥ 10 traps ha−1. A descriptive curve is shown to illustrate the decline in equilibrium abundance with increasing trap density, while a conceptual sigmoid model is used to illustrate how a transition in the recruitment–removal balance may occur under theoretical conditions. Limited larval source management was implemented on two islands, but elimination was also observed in the absence of larval interventions, indicating that sustained adult removal appears to have been the dominant driver of suppression. These findings indicate that mass trapping, when deployed at sufficiently high densities, is associated with rapid declines to near-zero population levels and may serve as an effective component of integrated vector management, particularly in geographically bounded settings or as a rapid-response intervention during outbreaks of arboviral diseases. Full article
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16 pages, 1952 KB  
Article
The Influence of Cellulose Fiber Content on the Mechanical Properties of Composites Based on Modified Thermoplastic Starch
by Mariusz Fabijański and Jacek Garbarski
Processes 2026, 14(9), 1480; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr14091480 (registering DOI) - 2 May 2026
Abstract
This study presents the results of evaluating composites based on modified thermoplastic starch (TPS) with BWW40 and FD600/30 cellulose fibers at varying mass contents. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of filler type and quantity on mechanical properties and [...] Read more.
This study presents the results of evaluating composites based on modified thermoplastic starch (TPS) with BWW40 and FD600/30 cellulose fibers at varying mass contents. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of filler type and quantity on mechanical properties and water absorption. Test samples were prepared using the injection molding method. It was shown that increasing fiber content led to a reduction in strength of approximately 36% for BWW40 fibers and approximately 37% for FD600/30 fibers at maximum fill. Similar results were observed for elongation at break. Young’s modulus increased by approximately 15% for BWW40 fibers and approximately 13% for FD600/30 fibers. Water absorption also increased with increasing fiber content, which is due to the hydrophilic nature of both the starch matrix and the reinforcing phase. The main conclusion drawn from the conducted research is that by properly selecting the type and content of fibers, it is possible to consciously shape the stiffness and dimensional stability of such composites while maintaining their biodegradability. The results obtained allow for a better assessment of the application potential of these materials in the context of developing sustainable material solutions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Materials Processes)
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20 pages, 471 KB  
Article
Time–Money Segment Differences in Ideation and Collaboration Readiness in Sustainable Tourism Education
by Dejan Križaj
Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4490; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094490 (registering DOI) - 2 May 2026
Abstract
This study examines whether tourism students’ self-reported time–money use patterns are related to their readiness to collaborate on idea development, and whether sustainability emerges spontaneously in their tourism innovation ideas. Using an anonymised dataset of open-ended questionnaire responses from Slovenian higher education tourism [...] Read more.
This study examines whether tourism students’ self-reported time–money use patterns are related to their readiness to collaborate on idea development, and whether sustainability emerges spontaneously in their tourism innovation ideas. Using an anonymised dataset of open-ended questionnaire responses from Slovenian higher education tourism students (N = 597; 2019–2025), we applied deterministic rule-based coding to classify the presence of actionable ideas and sustainability framing, as well as collaboration readiness and conditions. Actionable ideas were common (53.4%), but sustainability framing was uncommon (7.5%). Most respondents were unconditionally willing to collaborate (69.3%), while 30.7% expressed conditional willingness or unwillingness. Time–money behavioural segments were significantly associated with collaboration reservations, whereas segment differences in ideation and sustainability framing were not significant. Among students expressing reservations, topic match and perceived team quality were the most frequently stated conditions. These findings indicate that sustainability-oriented tourism education should support both sustainability integration and low-risk collaboration through clear project briefs, topic-based matching, and team-process supports. The conclusions should be interpreted with reasonable caution as they are context-specific evidence based on self-reported, rule-coded responses, particularly for sustainability framing, where positive cases were rare. In this context, segmentation should be regarded as a diagnostic tool for course design rather than as a basis for labelling students. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Education and Approaches)
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21 pages, 3126 KB  
Article
Sandwich Mycelium-Based Composite Panels Fabricated with a Lightweight Core from Forest Waste Using Ganoderma lucidum and Pleurotus ostreatus
by Melannie Mayorga-Jiménez and Roger Moya
J. Fungi 2026, 12(5), 330; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof12050330 (registering DOI) - 2 May 2026
Abstract
The present study aims to determine the properties of sandwich mycelium-based composite panels (sandwich-MBC-panel) fabricated with a lightweight core of mycelium-based composites (MBCs) of Ganoderma lucidum and Pleurotus ostreatus and veneers of Gmelina arborea and Vochysia guatemalensis wood. Physical and mechanical properties, acoustic [...] Read more.
The present study aims to determine the properties of sandwich mycelium-based composite panels (sandwich-MBC-panel) fabricated with a lightweight core of mycelium-based composites (MBCs) of Ganoderma lucidum and Pleurotus ostreatus and veneers of Gmelina arborea and Vochysia guatemalensis wood. Physical and mechanical properties, acoustic capacity, chemical composition (determined by FT-IR), thermal degradation, and inorganic components were evaluated. The results showed that the sandwich-MBC-panel presented a density of 0.27–0.40 g/cm3, an MC between 14.56 and 24.71%, and a water absorption between 43.64 and 61.32%. Regarding mechanical characteristics, the sandwich-MBC-panel with the highest MOR, MOE, and internal bond was that composed of G. lucidum and G. arborea. The treatment with the best tensile force value was the mixture of G. lucidum with O. pyramidale. The sandwich-MBC-panel constructed with balsawood showed the lowest noise reduction coefficient, while the panel composed of G. lucidum and P. ostreatus showed good substrate properties and appropriate carbon and nitrogen content. FT-IR spectroscopy revealed substrate degradation by fungal mycelium formation, and TGA curves showed that the MBC containing G. lucidum presented higher thermal degradation than the panel without G. lucidum, without fungal attack. The main results of this study showed that sandwich MBC panels, in which the MBC is used as a lightweight core and wood veneers are used on the faces, have the potential for use as acoustic panels and could represent a sustainable alternative to panels that are generally fabricated from synthetic materials and of low densities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Fungi in the Circular Economy)
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18 pages, 3812 KB  
Review
Advances in the Control of Plant Fungal Pathogens
by Paloma Sánchez-Torres
J. Fungi 2026, 12(5), 331; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof12050331 (registering DOI) - 2 May 2026
Abstract
Fungi are the main causative agents of plant diseases and are responsible for substantial and recurrent damage to agricultural systems. Their activity causes significant reductions in crop productivity and food quality, ultimately contributing to plant deterioration and economic losses. It is estimated that [...] Read more.
Fungi are the main causative agents of plant diseases and are responsible for substantial and recurrent damage to agricultural systems. Their activity causes significant reductions in crop productivity and food quality, ultimately contributing to plant deterioration and economic losses. It is estimated that phytopathogenic fungi can compromise up to 30% of global agricultural production. To mitigate microbial deterioration, a wide range of control strategies have been employed, with chemical fungicides being one of the most widely used interventions. However, current approaches to fungal control are rapidly transforming owing to the growing prevalence of fungicide resistance, increasingly stringent regulatory frameworks governing chemical applications, and evolving market demands. Taken together, these factors impose new constraints and drive the development of more sustainable alternative options for effective food control. This review examines the diverse strategies used to control fungal diseases in plants, emphasizing advances in biocontrol agents and biofungicides, as well as emerging tools in the molecular biology, genomics, and biotechnology fields. The aim is to highlight recent developments and prospects that can be integrated into comprehensive disease-management approaches. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in the Control of Plant Fungal Pathogens)
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21 pages, 2511 KB  
Article
Comparative Analysis of Streptozotocin, Streptozotocin–Nicotinamide and Alloxan-Based Diabetes Models in Female Wistar Rats
by Sabrina-Gabriela Mîndruț, Cristina Pop, Sorin-Marian Mârza, Alexia-Teodora Hoța, Flaviu-Alexandru Tăbăran, Ibrahima Mamadou Sall, Ana Uifălean, Emilia-Laura Mogoșan, Oliviu Voștinariu and Cristina-Ionela Mogoșan
Methods Protoc. 2026, 9(3), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/mps9030072 (registering DOI) - 2 May 2026
Abstract
Experimental diabetes models induced by streptozotocin (STZ) and alloxan are widely used in preclinical research; however, direct standardized comparisons in female rodents remain limited. The present study evaluated multiple chemical induction protocols in female Wistar rats, including STZ (40 and 65 mg/kg), STZ [...] Read more.
Experimental diabetes models induced by streptozotocin (STZ) and alloxan are widely used in preclinical research; however, direct standardized comparisons in female rodents remain limited. The present study evaluated multiple chemical induction protocols in female Wistar rats, including STZ (40 and 65 mg/kg), STZ at the same doses combined with nicotinamide (110 mg/kg), and alloxan (130 mg/kg). Glycemic progression, oral glucose tolerance test, body weight evolution, oxidative stress markers, and multi-organ histopathology were assessed over a 14-day period. High-dose STZ (65 mg/kg) and alloxan produced rapid, sustained hyperglycemia (p < 0.0001), significant body weight reduction, increased lipid peroxidation (elevated MDA), nitric oxide overproduction, thiol depletion, and pronounced pancreatic and renal structural damage. In contrast, STZ–nicotinamide protocols generated moderate but stable hyperglycemia with partial preservation of islet architecture, attenuated oxidative imbalance, and improved systemic tolerability. Oral glucose tolerance test confirmed impaired glucose handling in the STZ–nicotinamide group, consistent with a type 2 diabetes-like phenotype rather than complete insulin deficiency. These results demonstrate that induction strategy critically determines metabolic stability, oxidative stress burden, and tissue remodeling patterns, supporting model selection according to specific experimental objectives. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomedical Sciences and Physiology)
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