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To in situ and efficiently degrade irreversible membrane contaminants under mild conditions, SiC ceramic membranes (CMs) were imparted a catalytic ozonation functionality. A spinel-type CoFe₂O₄ catalyst was fabricated via a citrate-assisted sol–gel method and subsequently impregnated into the macropores of SiC ceramic membranes through a urea-assisted one-step combustion technique. The as-prepared catalytic membranes (CoFe₂O₄-CM) were systematically characterized by SEM, EDS, XRD and XPS techniques, and the catalytic ozonation performance was evaluated in an integrated catalytic ozonation–membrane separation system (CoFe₂O₄-CM/O₃). A flux recovery rate (FRR) of 93.33% was achieved at an ozone concentration of 70.27 mg·L⁻¹ within 30 min, indicating that a catalytic self-cleaning membrane was successfully developed. The possible catalytic reaction mechanism was elucidated by identifying reactive oxygen species generated using free radical quenching tests and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) analysis. This study offers a promising and environmentally friendly strategy for ceramic membrane cleaning in various membrane separation fields. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Catalysts for Energy Conversion and Environmental Protection)

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29 pages, 706 KB

Open AccessArticle

Agrifood Efficiency: DEA Evidence for Rural Competitiveness in Bulgaria

by Mariya Peneva and Yovka Bankova

Sustainability 2026, 18(8), 3810; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18083810 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2026

Abstract

This study evaluates the productive efficiency in the agrifood sector of 21 rural Bulgarian districts as a proxy for territorial competitiveness. Output-oriented Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) was performed using district-level data from 2022 to 2024. The analysis incorporates five inputs related to labor, land, and capital and three economic outputs from agriculture and food processing. Results indicate substantial variation in efficiency among rural districts. Twelve districts form the efficiency frontier, with effective resource use and diverse structures; nine are inefficient due to scale or organizational/technological constraints. Bootstrap bias correction revealed standard DEA underestimates efficiency gaps. Frontier districts include large plains, mountainous regions and smaller, specialized systems, indicating diverse paths to competitiveness. A composite Territorial Competitiveness Index (TCI) showed frontier status does not guarantee efficiency, often due to underused manufacturing capital. Cluster analysis identified four performance groups needing different policy support, ranging from near-frontier territories that need knowledge transfer to deeply underperforming districts that require restructuring. No geographic clustering of efficiency was found, pointing to structural and institutional, rather than geographic, drivers. These results highlight the need for territorially tailored rural policies within the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and offer an empirical basis for diagnosing regional agrifood efficiency gaps. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Opportunities of Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in the Agrifood Economy—2nd Edition)

24 pages, 3132 KB

Open AccessArticle

Role of ZrO₂ and Porosity Induced by Activated Carbon and Starch Templates in NiMo/Al₂O₃-ZrO₂ Catalysts for Naphthalene Hydrogenation and 4,6-Dimethyldibenzothiophene Hydrodesulfurization

by Esneyder Puello Polo, Elíseo Díaz Varela and Carlos A. T. Toloza

Inorganics 2026, 14(4), 109; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14040109 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2026

Abstract

The influence of zirconia incorporation and template type on the physicochemical properties of NiMo/Al₂O₃-ZrO₂ catalysts was investigated for the hydrodesulfurization (HDS) of 4,6-dimethyldibenzothiophene (4,6-DMDBT) and the hydrogenation (HYD) of naphthalene (N). Catalysts were prepared by co-impregnation on supports synthesized via a sol-gel method using starch (A) and activated carbon (C) as structure-directing templates, followed by zirconium incorporation through a grafting procedure. The resulting materials were characterized by SEM–EDX, N₂ physisorption, H₂-TPR, XPS, HRTEM, and pyridine-FTIR. SEM-EDX confirmed homogeneous metal distributions and compositions close to nominal values (Mo = 20 wt%, Ni = 5 wt%, Zr = 11 wt%) with Ni/(Ni + Mo) = 0.30. N₂ adsorption–desorption isotherms correspond to type IV(a) with H3-H4 hysteresis loops, characteristic of mesoporous structures. After metal incorporation, surface areas decreased to 96 m² g⁻¹ for NiMo/Al₂O₃ and 81 m² g⁻¹ for Zr-modified catalysts, while the activated carbon-templated sample preserved a larger mesoporous volume (0.335 cm³ g⁻¹) and higher macroporosity (72%). H₂-TPR profiles indicated improved reducibility for Zr-containing catalysts. XPS revealed an increase of MoS₂ species from 45% in NiMo/Al₂O₃ to 75% in NiMo/Al₂O₃-ZrO₂(C), accompanied by a higher degree of sulfidation index (DSI) from 47.1% to 73.9%. HRTEM analysis of Zr-modified catalysts revealed longer MoS₂ slabs (11.8–12.1 nm) and higher edge-to-corner ratios (17–17.4) compared with NiMo/Al₂O₃ (6.2 nm; fe/fc = 8.2). Pyridine-FTIR showed a substantial increase in total acidity from 91 to 421 μmol g⁻¹ upon Zr addition. Catalytically, NiMo/Al₂O₃-ZrO₂(C) exhibited the highest HDS conversion (40%), reaction rate (10.5 × 10⁻⁹ mol s⁻¹ g⁻¹), and TOF (4.69 × 10⁻⁵ s⁻¹), whereas NiMo/Al₂O₃-ZrO₂(A) reached the highest naphthalene conversion (97.18%), with a reaction rate of 27.4 × 10⁻⁷ mol s⁻¹ g⁻¹ and TOF of 12.9 × 10⁻³ s⁻¹. These results demonstrate that Zr incorporation and the activated carbon template favored hydrodesulfurization, whereas the starch template promoted hydrogenation performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multifunctional Composites and Hybrid Materials)

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16 pages, 2469 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Genetically Truncated RGD-Containing Peptide rLj-RGD4 Exhibits Potent In Vivo Antitumor Activity via Induction of Multi-Pathway Apoptosis and EGFR-Targeted Signaling Suppression

by Yuyao Song, Huijie Yan, Yuebin Zhang, Jingyu Zhang, Li Lv and Jihong Wang

Molecules 2026, 31(8), 1266; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31081266 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2026

Abstract

Although the parental recombinant protein rLj-RGD3 exhibits antitumor activity, it carries immunogenicity risks owing to its large molecular size (13.5 kDa). We generated a genetically truncated mutant, rLj-RGD4 (6.27 kDa, four RGD motifs), which inhibited B16 melanoma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro. However, the in vivo efficacy and mechanisms of action remain unclear. Here, B16 xenograft mice were treated with rLj-RGD4 (5, 10, and 20 μg/kg i.p. daily for 14 days). Tumor growth was measured, and histopathology/apoptosis was evaluated using hematoxylin and eosin (HE), Masson’s dye, Hoechst, and TUNEL staining. Apoptotic pathways (mitochondrial, death receptor, and MAPK) were analyzed via Western blotting, whereas endocytosis mechanisms were explored using inhibitors (filipin III, NaN₃, cytochalasin D), and EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) interactions via fluorescence co-localization and phosphoprotein assays. The results demonstrated dose-dependent tumor growth inhibition (21.60–89.26% volume reduction, 41.03–86.51% weight reduction), with histological evidence of tissue loosening, fibrosis, and apoptosis. rLj-RGD4 induced apoptosis by activating the mitochondrial (Bax/Bcl-2 upregulation), death receptor (caspase-8 activation), and MAPK (JNK/p38 phosphorylation) pathways. Internalization was blocked by NaN₃ and cytochalasin D, indicating actin-dependent macropinocytosis. Direct EGFR binding was confirmed, accompanied by reduced EGFR expression and the inhibition of FAK/AKT/Src signaling. In conclusion, rLj-RGD4 exerts potent in vivo antitumor activity via two mechanisms: induction of multi-pathway apoptosis and EGFR-targeted suppression of pro-survival signaling. RGD4 exerts its antitumor function in vivo by targeting and co-internalizing with EGFR. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Anticancer Compounds and Therapeutic Strategies, 2nd Edition)

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18 pages, 723 KB

Open AccessReview

Single-Cell Immune Atlases to Map Small Extracellular Vesicle Cargo in Tuberculosis–Diabetes Comorbidity: A Narrative Review and Conceptual Roadmap

by Ramona Cioboata, Silviu Gabriel Vlasceanu, Denisa Maria Mitroi, Anca Lelia Riza, Mara Amalia Balteanu, Oana Maria Catana and Mihai Olteanu

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(8), 3437; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27083437 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2026

Abstract

Tuberculosis–diabetes mellitus (TB-DM) is increasingly recognized as a syndemic in which chronic metabolic dysregulation amplifies tuberculosis severity, delays treatment response, and increases relapse and mortality. However, conventional systemic correlates soluble cytokines and bulk whole-blood transcriptomic signatures often appear broadly similar between TB and TB-DM. This highlights a key gap: clinically meaningful immune dysfunction in TB-DM likely resides in specific lung and blood cell states that are poorly resolved by bulk assays. Small extracellular vesicles (EVs) in plasma and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) provide a tractable “liquid biopsy” layer because their RNA and protein cargo can integrate information from infected macrophages, neutrophils, and epithelial/endothelial compartments, and may also include pathogen-derived components. Yet most EV studies remain bulk and cell-agnostic, and interpretation is constrained by heterogeneous vesicle mixtures, selective cargo packaging, and co-isolated non-vesicular contaminants, issues that are especially problematic for nucleic-acid claims without rigorous controls. In this targeted narrative review (2010–2026), we argue that single-cell and multimodal immune reference atlases, including scRNA-seq/CITE-seq, provide a needed scaffold to link EV cargo patterns to specific immune cell states, pathways, and anatomic compartments in TB-DM, enabling prioritized candidates and testable hypotheses. We outline three complementary frameworks: reference-atlas anchoring to project EV cargo modules onto atlas-defined immune states; orthogonal triangulation combining computational inference with immunoaffinity enrichment, targeted validation, and functional assays; and cautious use of “droplet-era” extracellular signals as hypothesis-generating priors for EV-producing states. Implemented in longitudinal, clinically annotated cohorts with standardized EV workflows, atlas-guided EV profiling could yield cell-of-origin–resolved biomarkers of TB-DM immunopathology and treatment response, while prioritizing mechanistically plausible targets for host-directed intervention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Pathology, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics)

24 pages, 4414 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dual-Speed Reassembly of Soil Microbial Networks Under Intensive Ornamental Planting: Divergent Stability Strategies of Bacteria and Fungi in Botanical Garden Cinnamon Soils

by Tai Gao, Dakang Zhou, Baibing Wang, Ruifeng Wang, Gan Xiao, Han Quan and Yu Wei

Microorganisms 2026, 14(4), 865; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms14040865 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2026

Abstract

Intensive ornamental planting is increasingly prevalent in urban green spaces, yet its effects on soil microbial community assembly and interaction networks remain poorly understood. Here, we examined shifts in soil properties, microbial diversity, community composition, and interaction networks across successive planting cycles. Bacterial alpha-diversity remained relatively stable, whereas fungal communities showed pronounced sensitivity to early planting stages. Beta-diversity analyses revealed that bacterial community composition was jointly influenced by planting stage and site type, while fungal communities were primarily structured by site characteristics. Co-occurrence network analysis revealed contrasting reassembly trajectories between microbial groups. Bacterial networks exhibited increasing complexity and modularity, indicating enhanced interaction intensity and competitive structuring under intensive management. In contrast, fungal networks displayed reduced connectivity but maintained or recovered modular organization, suggesting structural buffering. Notably, keystone taxa remained taxonomically conserved, indicating that network reorganization was driven by interaction rewiring rather than species turnover. We propose a dual-speed reassembly framework in which bacteria function as fast-responding components with dynamic interaction networks, whereas fungi act as slow-buffering, structurally persistent elements. This decoupling of short-term functional responsiveness and long-term stability provides new insights into how intensive management reshapes soil microbiomes in botanical garden ecosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Microbiology)

25 pages, 3222 KB

Open AccessArticle

CoFiWaveMamba: A Coarse-to-Fine Wavelet-Guided Mamba Network for Single Image Dehazing

by Qiang Fu, Boyu Lu and Chongyao Yan

Electronics 2026, 15(8), 1599; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics15081599 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2026

Abstract

Single image dehazing remains challenging because haze simultaneously distorts global illumination, scene structure, and fine textures, making rigid low–high frequency decoupling prone to error propagation and detail inconsistency. To address this issue, we propose CoFiWaveMamba, a coarse-to-fine wavelet-guided Mamba network for single image dehazing. The proposed method first employs wavelet decomposition to separate low- and high-frequency components. For low-frequency restoration, a 2D selective-scan Mamba-based module is introduced to capture long-range dependencies, combined with lightweight high-frequency-guided spatial modulation and Shuffle-guided Sequence Attention, we design a progressive coarse-to-fine refinement strategy that combines Fourier-domain global spectral consistency with wavelet-domain directional detail representation, enabling more targeted recovery of edges and textures. Experiments on synthetic and real dehazing benchmarks, including Haze4K, RESIDE-6K, HSTS-SYNTHETIC, I-Haze, NH-Haze, Dense-Haze, and O-HAZE, as well as ablation studies, verify the effectiveness of the proposed design. Overall, CoFiWaveMamba provides a more coordinated solution for global haze removal and local detail reconstruction, helping suppress residual haze, ringing artifacts, oversharpening, and texture inconsistency while restoring clearer and more natural images. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Computer Vision and Image Processing, 3rd Edition)

19 pages, 407 KB

Open AccessArticle

Renewable Energy Transition and Environmental Quality in OECD Economies: Evidence from Second-Generation Dynamic Panel Estimation

by Noura Ben Mbarek

Sustainability 2026, 18(8), 3805; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18083805 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2026

Abstract

This study explores the impact of renewable energy consumption on environmental quality in ten OECD economies over the period 1990–2024, aiming to assess its contribution as a structural driver of decarbonization in advanced economies. Given the presence of strong cross-sectional dependence and heterogeneous country dynamics, the analysis employs second-generation panel econometric techniques. Stationarity is assessed using the CIPS unit root test. Long-run relationships are examined using the Westerlund error-correction-based cointegration approach. Long-run elasticities are estimated using the Common Correlated Effects Mean Group (CCE-MG) and Augmented Mean Group (AMG) estimators. Short-run dynamics are analyzed within a panel error-correction framework. The results confirm the existence of a stable long-run equilibrium relationship among the variables. Renewable energy consumption is associated with a negative effect on CO₂ emissions, with the CCE-MG estimate indicating that a 1% increase in renewable energy reduces emissions by approximately 0.067%, although the long-run statistical significance remains marginal. In the short run, renewable energy is also associated with lower emissions, indicating both structural and immediate mitigation dynamics. By contrast, energy consumption and financial development increase emissions, while economic growth does not exhibit a robust long-run effect, providing no support for the Environmental Kuznets Curve hypothesis. The error-correction term confirms rapid convergence toward long-run equilibrium. Robustness analysis using carbon intensity as an alternative environmental indicator yields consistent findings. In sum, the results suggest that renewable energy expansion should be complemented by energy efficiency policies and the reorientation of financial systems toward green investments to achieve effective decarbonization. From a policy perspective, coordinated strategies integrating renewable deployment, efficiency improvements, and sustainable finance are essential for achieving long-term environmental sustainability in OECD economies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)

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19 pages, 4530 KB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization of the Mechanical Isolation Process of Mucilage from Chia Seeds (Salvia hispanica L.): Physicochemical, Morphological, and Rheological Characterization

by Frida R. Cornejo-García, Ricardo M. González-Reza, Isela Rojas-Molina, Adriana Rojas-Molina, José L. Sánchez-Millán, Carlos T. Quirino-Barreda and Elsa Gutiérrez-Cortez

Polysaccharides 2026, 7(2), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/polysaccharides7020045 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2026

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate how hydration temperature, rotational speed, and screw restriction influence the extraction efficiency, physicochemical characteristics, and monosaccharide composition of chia seed mucilage (CSM). Optimal extraction conditions (43.7 Hz, 100% screw restriction and 50 °C) yielded an extraction efficiency of 65.69% and a mucilage yield of 7.66%, producing a material with an average particle size of 15.28 μm, a ζ-potential of 9.7 mV, and weak-gel rheological behavior. Structural analyses confirmed the absence of insoluble fiber and revealed crystalline phases including MgO, Ca₅P₈, K₂S, K₄P₆, and CaCO₃, along with typical polysaccharide functional groups (–OH, –CH, C=O, COO⁻, C–O). Moderate hydration temperature combined with controlled mechanical conditions favored the release of mucilage enriched in xylose, glucose, and arabinose, which are characteristic of seed coat polysaccharides. In contrast, minimal mechanical action or excessive seed disruption shifted the monosaccharide profile toward cell wall structural carbohydrates, indicating reduced mucilage purity. Elevated hydration temperature (75 °C) enhanced the solubilization of uronic acids and arabinose, suggesting increased extraction of acidic polysaccharide fractions associated with the seed coat matrix. These findings demonstrate that extraction parameters strongly determine CSM composition, structural integrity, and functional attributes. The results provide a basis for tailoring chia-derived polysaccharides for applications in hydrocolloid systems, bio-based materials, and functional polymer formulations. Full article

44 pages, 2085 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Novel Ceramic and Refractory Composites for Masonry Bricks and Blocks: A Systematic Review of Materials, Properties, and Sustainability

by Hugo Martínez Ángeles, Cesar Augusto Navarro Rubio, Margarita G. García-Barajas, José Gabriel Ríos Moreno, Luis Angel Iturralde Carrera, Leonel Díaz-Tato, Saúl Obregón-Biosca, Roberto Valentín Carrillo-Serrano and Mario Trejo Perea

Technologies 2026, 14(4), 222; https://doi.org/10.3390/technologies14040222 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2026

Abstract

Masonry bricks and blocks are among the most widely used construction materials worldwide; however, their conventional production relies on energy-intensive firing processes and virgin raw materials, leading to significant environmental impacts. In response to increasing sustainability and decarbonization demands in the construction sector, numerous novel ceramic and refractory materials have been proposed for masonry applications. This systematic review provides a comprehensive assessment of recent advances in ceramic and refractory materials for masonry bricks and blocks, focusing on material classification, processing routes, microstructure–property relationships, and sustainability performance. Following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, the peer-reviewed literature published between 2018 and 2025 was systematically identified, screened, and analyzed. An analytical framework based on well-established relationships from ceramic science was adopted to support consistent comparison of mechanical, thermal, acoustic, durability, and sustainability-related properties across heterogeneous material systems. Conventional fired ceramics, waste-derived ceramics, lightweight and porous systems, alkali-activated and unfired materials, and advanced engineered ceramics were comparatively evaluated. The results reveal a clear shift from dense traditional fired ceramics toward materials incorporating industrial and agricultural residues, engineered porosity, and low-temperature or unfired processing routes. Waste-derived and geopolymer-based systems demonstrate significant potential for reducing CO

_{2}

emissions and energy consumption while maintaining functional performance suitable for masonry applications. Lightweight and porous ceramics exhibit enhanced thermal and acoustic behavior, often accompanied by reduced mechanical strength, highlighting application-dependent trade-offs. Overall, this review provides an integrated perspective linking composition, processing, microstructure, performance, and environmental impact, identifying key research trends and knowledge gaps relevant to sustainable masonry construction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Innovations in Materials Science and Materials Processing)

15 pages, 5305 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of the AUSM Scheme for Near-Nozzle Flow Field Characterization of Under-Expanded Hydrogen Jets

by Oscar Vento, Carmelo Baronetto and Alessandro Ferrari

Energies 2026, 19(8), 1871; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19081871 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2026

Abstract

Hydrogen is a carbon-free energy carrier that can support decarbonization of the energy and transport systems. Its usage as a fuel in internal combustion engines can abate the pollutants and CO₂ emissions but also presents various challenges. Among these, the formation of under-expanded jets requires proper injector design and accurate control of the injection process. CFD can accelerate the development of hydrogen engine technologies towards market readiness. Low-dissipative density-based schemes are essential to accurately describe the complex flow structures, that affect mixture formation in under-expanded injections. In the present work, the AUSM scheme was implemented in the OpenFOAM library, and successfully used to simulate an experimental hydrogen-into-nitrogen injection. The numerical method, validated against experimental Schlieren images, was compared with the Kurganov–Noelle–Petrova scheme implemented in the current density-based OpenFOAM solver. The numerical results highlighted the reduced dissipation of the AUSM scheme, leading to improved jet penetration and gas mixing. The investigation demonstrated the superior performance of the AUSM scheme, suggesting it as an alternative OpenFOAM solver. Nevertheless, the study identified areas for improvement and critical issues associated with this type of simulations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internal Combustion Engines in the Energy Transition: Efficiency, Control, and Sustainable Fuels)

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23 pages, 5239 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Acid-Controlled SBA-15 on Catalytic Performance of CaO/Cr-SBA-15 Dual-Functional Materials

by Daoguang Yu, Wei Gao, Mingdong Li, Yangzhou Guo, Li Xu, Ziying Shi, Miaomiao Hao and Xiaohan Ren

Catalysts 2026, 16(4), 343; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16040343 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2026

Abstract

Based on the acid-sensitive characteristics of SBA-15 during synthesis, this study varied the acid types, pH values, and mixed acid ratios during SBA-15 preparation to enhance the performance of CaO/Cr-SBA-15 dual-functional materials (DFMs) in integrated CO₂ capture and utilization for oxidative dehydrogenation of ethane (ICCU-ODHE). It was found that the SBA-15 support synthesized in an H₂SO₄ environment exhibited a high specific surface area and abundant surface silanol groups, which facilitated the dispersion of Cr and increased the proportion of Cr⁶⁺ active sites, thereby achieving the highest ethane conversion. In contrast, the moderate surface acidity of the HCl-prepared support facilitated the selective dehydrogenation of ethane over Cr active sites, effectively inhibiting side reactions and maximizing ethylene selectivity. Further investigations into the effects of pH and mixed acids revealed that pH 1 is optimal for SBA-15 preparation. At this value, the support reached its maximum mesoporous ordering and specific surface area, allowing for optimal Cr dispersion. Consequently, the ethane conversion, ethylene selectivity, and DFM yield all reached their peak values. Any deviation from this pH led to degradation of the support structure and reduced Cr dispersion, resulting in a significant decline in catalytic performance. Among the tested materials, the CaO/Cr-SBA-15-Cl-S DFM synthesized with an HCl-H₂SO₄ mixed acid demonstrated the superior reactivity, achieving an ethylene yield of 33.95%. Long-term cycling tests indicated that the material possesses good stability, with its performance attenuation primarily attributed to coking and adsorbent sintering. Full article

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16 pages, 2762 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Co-Administration of Fluoroquinolones Strongly Increases the Anticancer Efficacy of Carboplatin Treatment—Novel Insights for Breast Cancer Chemotherapy from the Canine Mammary Tumor Model

by Michele Tomanelli, Lorella Maniscalco, Katia Varello, Chaimae Sellak, Isabella Martini, Tullio Florio, Paola Modesto and Aldo Pagano

Biology 2026, 15(8), 604; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15080604 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2026

Abstract

Human breast cancer (HBC) is the most common and often lethal malignancy in women. Canine mammary tumors (CMTs) share significant molecular and clinical characteristics with HBC, which makes dogs a valuable spontaneous model for the study of HBC. HBC chemotherapy treatment relies mainly on carboplatin, which is effective but, in turn, highly toxic. Here we tested enrofloxacin, a Minichromosomal Maintenance Complex Component (MCM2) inhibitor, for its ability to increase tumor cell sensitivity to platinum-based drugs, thus suggesting a potential synergistic therapeutic strategy. CMT samples were used to establish primary cell cultures. Cells were treated with carboplatin, enrofloxacin, and their combination at different concentrations. Cytotoxic and antiproliferative effects were assessed using xCELLigence and MTT assays. Single-drug treatments exert limited effects on cell proliferation, while enrofloxacin significantly enhances carboplatin efficacy, leading to a complete growth arrest within 48 h. The MTT assay confirms a strong synergistic effect of the two drugs, whereas the Dose Reduction Index analysis indicates that carboplatin could be decreased without losing effectiveness. These findings suggest that combined therapy could represent a more effective and less toxic option for HBC and CMTs. This work also strengthens the possible use of the canine model for cancer studies within a One Health framework. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cancer Biology)

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24 pages, 1003 KB

Open AccessArticle

Consumer Mood, Anxiety, and Cognition in Green Purchasing Decisions During Extreme Weather Conditions

by Li-Wei Lin, Shuo Wang and Fei-Ye Du

Sustainability 2026, 18(8), 3796; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18083796 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2026

Abstract

This study adopts the theory of planned behavior to investigate consumers’ purchasing decisions under extreme weather conditions. Specifically, this paper examines how extreme global weather events motivate consumers to consider purchasing green products and prioritize environmental sustainability in their consumption choices. It further explores whether consumers’ adoption of green products enhances their satisfaction under abnormal global climate conditions, as well as how consumer satisfaction subsequently improves individuals’ mood, anxiety, and cognitive states. Structural equation modeling was employed to test the hypothesized model using data collected from 352 valid respondents in China. As the global community strives to achieve net-zero CO₂ emissions by 2050, numerous firms and manufacturers have incorporated green product concepts to advance sustainable operations. The empirical results reveal that anxiety and cognition are positively related to green purchasing decisions, which in turn exert a positive influence on consumer satisfaction. Based on these findings, this study proposes actionable strategies to promote green consumption behavior by accounting for relevant psychological factors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Entrepreneurship, Economic Analysis, and Business Strategy from a Sustainable Perspective)

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17 pages, 2285 KB

Open AccessArticle

Oxidative Dry Reforming of Methane in a Reactor with a Porous Membrane Catalyst

by Mikhail Tarasenko, Andrey Makarov, Mark Neshin, Valery Skudin, Roman Kozlovskiy, Maria Myachina and Natalia Gavrilova

Membranes 2026, 16(4), 145; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16040145 (registering DOI) - 11 Apr 2026

Abstract

Oxidative dry reforming of methane (ODRM) in a membrane reactor can become the basis for creating an energy-efficient process for converting greenhouse gases into a sought-after chemical raw material for gas chemistry. The process was carried out in a distribution mode in a reactor with a membrane porous catalyst (MPC) at a temperature of 850 °C. The reagents CH₄ and CO₂ were supplied to the MPC through a volume of retentate, and O₂ mixed with N₂ through a volume of permeate. The mixture of reaction products was removed from the shell side. In the experiment, the effect of the O₂/CO₂ ratio on the conversion of CH₄, CO₂ and O₂, as well as on the thermal effect of the process, was established. When oxygen enters the reactor during dry reforming of methane (DRM), the temperature inversion in the volumes of retentate and permeate occurs, as well as a decrease in electricity consumption in the resistor furnace. The observed effects of the ODRM process in MPC were interpreted using the hypothesis of active mass transfer occurring in pore channels. It is assumed that part of the carbon deposits in MPC will be gasified by oxygen. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Membrane Applications for Energy)

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