Saved Queries

by Zhiyao Zhou, Yarong Jin, Dan Yang, Chunli Mao, Jie Zhu, Wei Luo, Yun Zhong, Yuheng Li, Qinglin Li, Ruiming Yang, Haidong Yan and Linkai Huang

Agriculture 2026, 16(3), 373; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture16030373 - 4 Feb 2026

Abstract

Pearl millet, an African-origin crop with exceptional heat tolerance, maintains normal flowering and seed production even under extremely high temperatures. The MADS-box transcription factor family plays a central role not only in floral organs, but also in abiotic stress responses. However, its specific function in pearl millet’s heat stress response remains unclear. In this study, a total of 63 MADS-box genes were identified. These genes were classified into five subfamilies and distributed across seven chromosomes, with chromosome 6 containing the highest number (12 genes). Additionally, expression analysis revealed that 53 MADS-box genes exhibited increased expression levels following heat stress under high-temperature conditions. Differential expression analysis identified five key MADS-box genes responding to heat stress. Further analysis of their expression trends using qRT-PCR revealed that the expression levels of these genes first increased and then decreased after heat stress treatment, with differences in the timing of peak expression among different genes. PMA1G07218.1 was selected for further functional characterization, which exhibited a significant response to heat stress treatment and reached a peak at 6 h. Subcellular localization analysis confirmed that the encoded protein is exclusively nuclear-localized. Through the yeast one-hybrid method (Y1H), we found that PMA1G07218.1 interacts by binding to the AG cis-acting element of F-box gene PMA1G04890.1. These findings provide valuable insight into the role of MADS-box genes in the high-temperature stress response of pearl millet, highlighting PMA1G07218.1 as a promising candidate for enhancing thermotolerance in this species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Mechanisms and Breeding Techniques of Forage Crops)

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33 pages, 2564 KB

Open AccessReview

Iron (Oxyhydr) Oxides in Heterogeneous Fenton Processes: Structure-Activity Relationships in Hydrogen Peroxide Decomposition Pathways

by Yi Wang, Yufan Chen and Deli Wu

Catalysts 2026, 16(2), 169; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16020169 - 4 Feb 2026

Abstract

Iron (oxyhydr)oxides serve as foundational catalysts in heterogeneous Fenton systems, yet their catalytic efficacy varies significantly across distinct mineral species. This review systematically explores the structure-activity relationships governing these variations to provide a clearer understanding of the underlying catalytic mechanisms. The intrinsic physicochemical properties of various mineral phases are examined to elucidate how structural features influence the formation of reactive species, including the highly reactive hydroxyl radical, substrate-dependent high-valent Fe(IV)-oxo species, and selective singlet oxygen generated from hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) decomposition. Furthermore, recent optimization strategies aimed at overcoming kinetic barriers and enhancing reaction selectivity are summarized. The discussion concludes with an outlook on future research directions, including catalyst evolution under reaction conditions and the characterization of reactive intermediates, while providing a theoretical framework for the rational design of iron-based catalysts with enhanced stability and oxidative performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Catalysis)

28 pages, 6765 KB

Open AccessArticle

Elucidating the Mechanisms of SA–4–1BBL-Mediated Cancer Immunoprevention Through Advanced Informatics Approaches

by Mohit Verma, Feyza Nur Arguc, Mohammad T. Malik, Pallav Singh, Sameep Dhakal, Yen On Chan, Manish Sridhar Immadi, Sabin Dahal, Vahap Ulker, Mohammad Tarique, Lalit Batra, Esma S. Yolcu, Haval Shirwan and Trupti Joshi

Biomolecules 2026, 16(2), 252; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom16020252 - 4 Feb 2026

Abstract

Cancer immunoprevention leverages the immune system’s surveillance mechanisms to mitigate tumor development. Vaccines that constitute a tumor antigen and an immune adjuvant are perceived as immunoprevention modalities. However, relevant tumor antigens are unknown for non-viral cancers, which constitute most human cancers. Our group has recently shown that SA–4–1BBL, a novel agonist of CD137 receptor, but not antibodies, shows immunoprevention efficacy against various tumors. Advanced bioinformatics analyses of bulk RNA-seq data were conducted to elucidate mechanisms underlying cancer immunoprevention. Mice received subcutaneous injections of SA–4–1BBL or agonistic 3H3 antibody, and the injection-site tissue (IS) and draining lymph nodes (LN) were analyzed for differential gene expression. SA–4–1BBL induced a compartmentalized and temporally dynamic immune program characterized by early effector activation at IS and sustained immune regulation in draining LN. K-means clustering of 4564 DEGs identified eight functionally distinct clusters. IS-enriched clusters contained activation genes for CD4⁺ T and NK cells, including Cd28, Klra1, Cd4, Cd40, and Cd40l, while LN clusters were enriched for regulatory genes (Tnfaip3, Irf5, Col1a2) that ensure immune priming and homeostatic restraint for a balanced response. SA–4–1BBL generated a more selective and durable activation of adaptive immunity, TCR signaling, Th1/Th2 differentiation, and NK cytotoxicity. 3H3 activated broader innate inflammatory programs, including Toll-like receptor and neurodegeneration-linked pathways. IMPRes analysis showed that SA–4–1BBL activates sequential immune-regulatory circuits centered on Stat1, Cd247, and Ifng and modulates the CD151–TGF-β axis. These findings demonstrate that SA–4–1BBL elicits a balanced immune response, ensuring both safety and efficacy in preventing cancer development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Bioinformatics and Systems Biology Section)

24 pages, 3620 KB

Open AccessArticle

Combinations of Favipiravir with Doxycycline, Azithromycin or Ivermectin Exert Synergistic Effects Against Influenza A H3N2 Virus Replication

by Kuan Chien Tan, Julia H. Y. Neo, Thai Tran and Vincent T. K. Chow

Pathogens 2026, 15(2), 169; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens15020169 - 4 Feb 2026

Abstract

Influenza A viruses constantly threaten the global population, with seasonal outbreaks occurring in different parts of the world, including avian influenza. Severe influenza A virus infections are strongly associated with the cytokine storm, which can contribute significantly to morbidity and even mortality. The virulence and high mutability of these viruses necessitate more effective treatment strategies and regimens to manage patients, especially those with a severe disease. Favipiravir is an antiviral agent approved in Japan for treating influenza virus strains resistant to the current antivirals. The objective of this study is to investigate the combination treatment of Favipiravir paired with selected repurposed drugs to determine the effectiveness of these combinations against influenza A virus replication as well as their effects on cytokine expression. Specific combinations of Favipiravir with Doxycycline, Azithromycin or Ivermectin were identified to be highly synergistic and effective in inhibiting live virus titers of an influenza H3N2 clinical strain by 4 log₁₀. Furthermore, combinations of Favipiravir with Doxycycline or Azithromycin also exhibited immunomodulatory effects on pro-inflammatory cytokines by strongly reducing the relative mRNA expression of IFN-γ, IL-6, TNF-α and IL-1β. Notably, monotherapy with Andrographolide also completely inhibited influenza virus titers by 4 log₁₀. Specific combinations of Favipiravir with Artesunate or Andrographolide revealed additive effects by inhibiting influenza virus titers by about 2 or 1.5 log₁₀, respectively. Our findings indicate that specific drug combinations show promising efficacy and potential in the treatment of influenza and warrant further studies using influenza models of human cell, tissue and animal infection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antiviral Strategies Against Human Respiratory Viruses)

14 pages, 1888 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

TiO₂ Photocatalyst Inactivates Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus and H1N1 Seasonal Influenza Virus via Multi-Antiviral Effects

by Ryosuke Matsuura, Akatsuki Saito, Fumihiro Nagata, Noriko Fukushi, Yasunobu Matsumoto, Takashi Fukushima, Kazuhiro Fujimoto, Masato Kozaki, Junichi Somei and Yoko Aida

Catalysts 2026, 16(2), 168; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16020168 - 4 Feb 2026

Abstract

The highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) is widely distributed worldwide and causes significant economic losses. Transmission of HPAIV occurs through direct contact between infected and susceptible birds or indirectly via contaminated materials. In recent years, airborne transmission of HPAIV has also been reported, underscoring the need for novel approaches to effectively inactivate airborne HPAIV. Photocatalysts have attracted significant attention as potential antiviral agents. In this study, we demonstrated that a TiO₂-mediated photocatalytic reaction inactivated HPAIV and H1N1 seasonal influenza viruses in liquid, reducing their infectivity by 90.7% and 94.4%, respectively, after 60 min. Mechanistic analyses revealed decreased virion size and surface structure disruption, as determined by transmission electron microscopy. Additional evidence of viral protein and genome damage was obtained using Western blotting and RT-qPCR, respectively. Given the broad antiviral activity of photocatalysts, these findings suggest that they can inactivate influenza viruses regardless of strain or subtype. Notably, photocatalysts inactivated 80% of aerosolized H1N1 seasonal influenza viruses within 5 min. These results provide strong evidence that photocatalysts are capable of inactivating airborne influenza viruses. This study represents the first demonstration that photocatalysts can inactivate HPAIV and aerosolized influenza viruses. These findings provide strong evidence that photocatalysts represent a promising countermeasure against HPAIV, with potential applicability across different strains and subtypes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalysis for Sustainable Environmental Solutions)

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5 pages, 256 KB

Open AccessShort Note

2-(3′,5′-Bis((dodecyloxy)carbonyl)-2′,6′-dimethyl-1′,4′-dihydro-[3,4′-bipyridin]-1-ium-1-yl)-1,3-dioxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-inden-2-ide

by Mara Plotniece, Krista Arule, Karlis Pajuste, Aiva Plotniece and Arkadij Sobolev

Molbank 2026, 2026(1), M2133; https://doi.org/10.3390/M2133 - 4 Feb 2026

Abstract

Indane-1,3-dione and 1,4-dihydropyridine (1,4-DHP) scaffolds are of significant interest in medicinal chemistry. Herein, we report the synthesis characterization of a new lipid-like indane-1,3-dione–1,4-DHP betaine, 2-(3′,5′-bis((dodecyloxy)carbonyl)-2′,6′-dimethyl-1′,4′-dihydro-[3,4′-bipyridin]-1-ium-1-yl)-1,3-dioxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-inden-2-ide (3). Compound 3 was synthesized from 2,2-dicyanomethylideneindan-1,3-dione (1) oxide and a didodecyl-substituted 1,4-DHP derivative 2 and characterized by UV–Vis spectroscopy, ¹H-NMR, ¹³C-NMR, and HRMS. The obtained results demonstrate a promising strategy for the design of delivery agents, exploiting the lipid-like properties of the synthesized betaine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Heterocycle Reactions)

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33 pages, 5182 KB

Open AccessArticle

Resilient Control Strategies for Urban Energy Transitions: A Robust HRES Sizing Typology for Nearly Zero Energy Ports

by Nikolaos Sifakis

Processes 2026, 14(3), 549; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr14030549 - 4 Feb 2026

Abstract

Ports located within dense urban environments face a major challenge in achieving deep decarbonization without compromising the reliability and safety of critical maritime operations. This study develops and validates a resilience-oriented control and sizing typology for Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems (HRESs), supporting the transition of a medium-sized Mediterranean port toward a Nearly Zero Energy Port (nZEP). The framework integrates five years of measured electrical demand at 15 min resolution to capture stochastic load variability, seasonal effects, and safety-critical peak events. Thirty-five HRES configurations are simulated using HOMER Pro, assessing photovoltaic and wind generation combined with alternative Energy Storage System (ESS) technologies under two grid-interface control strategies: Net Metering (NM) and non-NM curtailment-based operation. Conventional Lead–Acid batteries are compared with inherently safer Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries (VRFBs), while autonomy constraints of 24 h and 48 h are imposed to represent operational resilience. System performance is evaluated through a multi-criteria framework encompassing economic viability (Levelized Cost of Energy), environmental impact (Lifecycle Assessment-based carbon footprint), and operational reliability. Results indicate that NM-enabled HRES architectures significantly outperform non-NM configurations by exploiting the external grid as an active balancing layer. The optimal NM configuration achieves a Levelized Cost of Energy of 0.063 €/kWh under a 24 h autonomy constraint, while reducing operational carbon intensity to approximately 70 gCO₂,eq/kWh, corresponding to a reduction exceeding 90% relative to baseline grid-dependent operation. In contrast, non-NM systems require substantial storage and generation oversizing to maintain resilience, resulting in higher curtailment losses and Levelized Cost of Energy values of 0.12–0.15 €/kWh. Across both control regimes, VRFB-based systems consistently exhibit superior robustness and safety performance compared to Lead–Acid alternatives. The proposed typology provides a transferable framework for resilient and low-carbon port microgrid design under real-world operational constraints. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Process Safety and Control Strategies for Urban Clean Energy Systems)

28 pages, 5466 KB

Open AccessReview

Physicochemical Characteristics and Prospects of Carbon Nanomaterials and Composites for Gas Sorption

by Nazym Asanbek, Almagul Kerimkulova, Leticia F. Velasco, Aitugan Sabitov, Meiram Atamanov, Yersultan Yermoldanov, Yerlan Doszhanov and Guzal Ismailova

Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(3), 1587; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16031587 - 4 Feb 2026

Abstract

This review presents a modern comprehensive analysis of the physicochemical characteristics of carbon materials for the sorption of gases. The main classes of carbon sorbents are considered as follows: nanotubes, activated carbon, graphene, fullerene, composite materials, and organic vapors. Modern methods of modification of carbon materials are systematized. Particular attention is paid to the effect of particle size, morphology, and porous structure on the kinetics and equilibrium characteristics of adsorption. The results of experimental and theoretical studies of the adsorption of the gases (CO₂, SO₂, NO_x, H₂S, NH₃, and CO) are analyzed. A comparative economic analysis of carbon materials is carried out, taking into account the cost of production and estimated costs of modification. Modern areas of application of carbon sorbents are analyzed as follows: industrial gas purification, automotive filters, air conditioning systems, personal protective equipment, and gas sensors. Particular attention is paid to the study of the prospects and future of materials. Prospective development directions are considered, including the creation of hierarchically porous structures, the development of self-healing materials, and integration with artificial intelligence to optimize adsorption processes. The cost of graphene and nanotube production is predicted to decrease by 50–70% by 2030, which will lead to an expansion of their commercial application. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nanotechnology and Applied Nanosciences)

27 pages, 2544 KB

Open AccessReview

Era of Synchronized Physiologic Leadless Pacing: A Novel Approach to Cardiac Pacing and Ongoing Development

by Dhan Bahadur Shrestha, Jurgen Shtembari, Daniel H. Katz, James Storey, Ashlesha Chaudhary, Anuj Garg and Ajay Pillai

J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(3), 1251; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15031251 - 4 Feb 2026

Abstract

Cardiac pacing has undergone a significant transformation in the last decade. Leadless pacing (LP), once only a conceptual idea stemming from the early interest in eliminating lead-related complications of transvenous pacemakers, has now become a reality in clinical practice. Since the introduction of the first human single-chamber asynchronous leadless ventricular pacing in 2012, atrioventricular-synchronized single- or dual-chamber leadless pacing systems have been approved for clinical use since 2020. Leadless cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) has shown optimistic results in case series and awaits its full utility in real-world clinical practice. With the successful feasibility study of leadless conduction system pacing, we are eagerly awaiting long-term safety and efficacy data on a large scale. Another important frontier is the development of self-rechargeable LP, which may be an ideal pacemaker for the future and may reduce the burden of multiple device replacements as batteries near the end-of-service. Totally extravascular percutaneous leadless pericardial micro-pacemaker system implantation is under development. In this state-of-the-art review, we examine the evolution of cardiac pacing, emphasizing the development and utility of LP to meet maximum physiological pacing needs, optimize atrioventricular synchrony and cardiac resynchronization, and broaden its indications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pacemaker Implantation: Past, Present, and Future Challenges)

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15 pages, 2205 KB

Open AccessArticle

Activation of the S100A8/A9 Alarmin Amplifies Inflammatory Pathways in Equine Ascending Placentitis

by Kirsten E. Scoggin, Shimaa I. Rakha, Ahmed M. Abdellatif, Fatma Adlan, Yosra A. Helmy, Rebecca Ruby, Barry Ball, Yatta Boakari and Hossam El-Sheikh Ali

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(3), 1550; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27031550 - 4 Feb 2026

Abstract

Ascending placentitis is a significant cause of equine pregnancy loss, yet the upstream inflammatory triggers are poorly defined. Recently, we identified S100A8/S100A9 (S100A8/A9) alarmins as potential upstream regulators in a chronic equine placentitis model. The current study aimed to determine whether this upregulation is sustained in the acute model and in clinical cases, and to elucidate the expression of their downstream inflammatory mediators. Using an experimental model, we quantified S100A8/A9 mRNA expression in acute (n = 5) and chronic (n = 6) placentitis induced by Streptococcus equi ssp. zooepidemicus. We found mRNA expression of S100A8 and S100A9 was significantly upregulated in chorioallantois during both acute (p < 0.001) and chronic (p < 0.0001) disease compared to controls (n = 5), demonstrating their role is not limited to chronic pathology. A strong positive correlation (r = 0.945) underscored their coordinated expression. Immunohistochemistry revealed minimal staining in controls but dense infiltrations of S100A8/A9-positive neutrophils and macrophages in placentitis tissues. To define the clinical relevance of the downstream pathway, we analyzed RNA sequencing data from clinical placentitis cases (placentitis, n = 4) compared to normal postpartum placenta (control, n = 4). This confirmed upregulation of S100A8/A9 and revealed a concurrent increase in their receptors (TLR4, RAGE) and a spectrum of NF-κB-driven effectors, including pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL1β, IL6, TNF), chemokines (CXCL8, CCL2, CXCL10), and the apoptotic mediator CASP3. Our findings establish that S100A8/A9 upregulation is a sustained feature of equine placentitis and delineates a coherent S100A8/A9-TLR4/RAGE-NF-κB signaling axis that drives inflammation and tissue damage in clinical disease. These findings highlight the diagnostic potential of S100A8/A9 and position this alarmin system as a promising therapeutic target for mitigating infection-induced pregnancy loss. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Insights into Placental Pathology)

21 pages, 2396 KB

Open AccessArticle

Gelatin–Chitosan–PVA Hydrogels Incorporating Trichoderma and Their Application in the Control of Phytopathogens

by Lizbeth de Jesús Martínez-Vela, Mayra Itzcalotzin Montero-Cortés, Joaquín Alejandro Qui-Zapata, Vania Sbeyde Farias-Cervantes, Julio César López-Velázquez, Arturo Moisés Chávez-Rodríguez, Jonathan M. Barba-Godínez and Zaira Yunuen García-Carvajal

Gels 2026, 12(2), 144; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels12020144 - 4 Feb 2026

Abstract

The utilization of microorganisms as biocontrol agents represents a sustainable alternative to agrochemicals. Trichoderma spp. has been identified as a fungus that promotes plant growth and suppresses phytopathogens. Nonetheless, conventional commercial formulations are constrained by factors such as their limited shelf life, environmental sensitivity, and inadequate carrier systems. In this study, Trichoderma harzianum (T22) and T. viride (T18) strains were encapsulated in a hydrogel composed of chitosan, gelatin, and polyvinyl alcohol, which was prepared by pH-induced gelation via alkaline precipitation. The characterization of the hydrogels was conducted in several domains. Initially, the water absorption of the samples was examined at varying pH values. Secondly, the morphology of the samples was investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and stereo microscopy. Thirdly, the chemical interactions in the hydrogels were analyzed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The final stage of the experiment involved assessing the degradation behaviour of the hydrogels in both sterile and inoculated soils. The efficacy of the isolates in protecting chilli plants from Phytophthora capsici was subsequently evaluated. As demonstrated in the extant research, encapsulation techniques have been shown to preserve the viability of fungal organisms and promote their growth after 10 days of storage at ambient temperature. These effects have been observed to exhibit strain-dependent variations. It is noteworthy that hydrogels loaded with T. viride (HT18) induced resistance against P. capsici, resulting in complete symptom suppression and enhanced plant growth, whereas hydrogels loaded with T. harzianum (HT22) showed no protective effect. These results demonstrate the potential of the hydrogel formulated with T18 as an effective carrier, as it maintains Trichoderma spp. viability and protects chilli plants against P. capsici infection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Biopolymer Gels (2nd Edition))

18 pages, 1131 KB

Open AccessArticle

Insecticidal and Sublethal Effects of Artemisia scoparia Essential Oil on Liriomyza sativae

by Sicheng Zuo, Rui Zhang, Bin Yan, Yuze Zhang, Zheng Duan, Jingyi Sun, Haibin Yuan and Xing Huang

Insects 2026, 17(2), 170; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects17020170 - 4 Feb 2026

Abstract

Liriomyza sativae is a serious pest of horticultural and ornamental crops worldwide. The overuse of chemical insecticides has caused resistance and environmental pollution, demanding alternative control methods. Plant essential oils, with their insecticidal activity, serve as promising natural alternatives to synthetic insecticides. This study characterized the chemical composition of Artemisia scoparia essential oil using GC-MS and evaluated its insecticidal and growth inhibitory effects against L. sativae. The results showed that the major components were agropyrene (18.96%), o-cymene (12.60%), and caryophyllene oxide (11.35%). The essential oil of A. scoparia demonstrated significant fumigant toxicity against L. sativae adults, with an LC₅₀ value of 0.40 µL/L air after 8 h of exposure. Sublethal concentrations (LC₁₀ and LC₂₀) prolonged the pre-adult developmental stages and reduced the longevity of female adults. The oviposition period and fecundity were significantly reduced compared to the control group. Additionally, reproductive parameters, including the net reproductive rate (R₀), gross reproduction rate (GRR), intrinsic rate of increase (r), and finite rate of increase (λ), were significantly lower than the control group. The results indicate that A. scoparia essential oil has potent fumigant and growth-inhibitory effects on L. sativae, offering a promising and sustainable alternative to chemical insecticides for pest control in agriculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Efficacy of Insecticides and Botanicals Against Pests—2nd Edition)

23 pages, 3767 KB

Open AccessArticle

Time-Resolved Oxygen Dynamics Reveals Redox-Selective Apoptosis Induced by Cold Atmospheric Plasma in HT-29 Colorectal Cancer Cells

by Hamideh Mohammadi, Kamal Hajisharifi, Esmaeil Heydari, Hassan Mehdian, Sara Emadi, Yuri Akishev, Svetlana A. Ermolaeva, Augusto Stancampiano and Eric Robert

Antioxidants 2026, 15(2), 209; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15020209 - 4 Feb 2026

Abstract

Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) has emerged as a promising anticancer approach because of its ability to selectively eliminate malignant cells. Among the proposed mechanisms of this selectivity, the Bauer theory emphasizes the synergistic action of plasma-derived hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and nitrite (NO₂⁻), leading to the transient generation of primary singlet oxygen (¹O₂). This early event inactivates membrane-bound catalase, allowing tumor cell-derived H₂O₂ and peroxynitrite to initiate a self-amplifying cycle that produces secondary ¹O₂, as a hallmark of CAP selectivity. To test this hypothesis, in this work, we monitored extracellular dissolved oxygen (DO) dynamics in HT-29 colorectal cancer cells treated with an argon plasma jet using time-resolved phosphorescence lifetime spectroscopy. Temporal variations in DO likely reflect the cumulative effect of rapid ¹O₂ production and its reactions with cells. A delayed surge in extracellular ¹O₂ was observed specifically in dying cancer cells within the 10–20 min window predicted by the model. Intracellular ROS imaging confirmed a strong correlation between intracellular ROS, extracellular ¹O₂ dynamics, and viability loss. Together, these results provide mechanistic validation of Bauer’s redox model and suggest that early oxygen dynamics after CAP exposure can serve as predictive markers for treatment efficacy in plasma or photodynamic therapies. Full article

20 pages, 712 KB

Open AccessArticle

Targeting Stress Mindset and Irrational Beliefs to Improve Performance and Reduce Anxiety and Depression Symptoms in Academy Athletes

by Paul Mansell, Katie Clark, Jordan Brookes, Jason Wright, Samuel Westley, Katherine Sparks and Matthew Slater

Psychol. Int. 2026, 8(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/psycholint8010009 - 4 Feb 2026

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate whether a multimodal cognitive behavioural intervention could enhance academy athletes’ stress mindset, self-compassion, and performance, as well as reduce irrational beliefs and symptoms of anxiety and depression. We delivered 6 × 1 h group workshops at five different football (n = 4) and rugby (n = 1) academies in the United Kingdom. We hypothesised that there would be increases in stress mindset, self-compassion, and perceived performance coupled with decreases in irrational beliefs, anxiety, and depressive symptoms as a result of the intervention, and that such changes would remain evident one month later. Sixty-seven participants (n = 59 males, n = 8 females, Mage = 17.03 years, SD = 2.55) completed assessment at baseline, post-intervention, and at a follow-up. Through paired-sample t-tests, our results demonstrated support for the hypotheses with principally small effect sizes. Findings offer support for the use of a multimodal cognitive behavioural programme in academy athletes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Psychology of Peak Performance in Sport)

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33 pages, 1962 KB

Open AccessReview

Iodinated Contrast Media—From Clinical Use to Environmental Concern and Treatment Possibilities

by Katarzyna Wrzesińska, Michał Kwiatkowski, Piotr Terebun, Dawid Zarzeczny, Agata Sumara, Tomoyuki Murakami, Nobuya Hayashi, Frantisek Krcma, Evgenia Benova, Karol Hensel, Zdenko Machala, Emilia Fornal and Joanna Pawłat

Molecules 2026, 31(3), 551; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31030551 - 4 Feb 2026

Abstract

Iodine-based contrast agents (ICMs) are crucial substances in medical imaging because of their potent X-ray characteristics and chemical stability. However, their persistence and poor removal in conventional wastewater treatment have led to increasing environmental concern. Although ICMs exhibit low acute toxicity, their transformation during water disinfection can generate iodine-based disinfection by-products (I-DBPs), like iodo-trihalomethanes, which display notable cytotoxic, genotoxic, and ecotoxic effects and compromise drinking water quality. Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) have become promising methods for breaking down persistent ICMs and limiting the formation of I-DBPs. Techniques including ozonation, UV/H₂O₂, UV/chlorine, photocatalysis with TiO₂, Fenton reactions, and electrochemical oxidation utilize highly reactive radicals to decompose persistent compounds like iopamidol, iohexol, iopromide, and diatrizoate. Despite high degradation efficiencies under laboratory conditions, limitations such as incomplete mineralization, secondary product formation, and elevated operational costs hinder large-scale implementation. Future research should focus on optimizing AOP conditions under realistic water matrices, evaluating by-product toxicity, and developing cost-effective hybrid systems. Advancing these technologies is critical to reducing the environmental burden of ICMs and safeguarding aquatic ecosystems and public health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Review Papers in Physical Chemistry)

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