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18 pages, 9632 KB  
Article
Hydrogen Production from Corn Stover Pyrolysis Enhanced by Sewage Sludge Pyrolysis Char-CaO
by Jiatao Dang, Meng Yin, Panbo Yang, Xiaoyu Yan, Kaixin Wang, Manman Wang, Zhixuan Jing, Shuheng Zhao, Xiaotong Chen, Nannan Xie and Jianjun Hu
Environments 2026, 13(7), 365; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments13070365 (registering DOI) - 25 Jun 2026
Abstract
Municipal sewage sludge was used to prepare sewage sludge pyrolysis char (SS-PC). The effects of pyrolysis temperature on the morphology and structure of SS-PC were investigated, and the performance of SS-PC-800, prepared at 800 °C, for promoting gas production from corn stover pyrolysis [...] Read more.
Municipal sewage sludge was used to prepare sewage sludge pyrolysis char (SS-PC). The effects of pyrolysis temperature on the morphology and structure of SS-PC were investigated, and the performance of SS-PC-800, prepared at 800 °C, for promoting gas production from corn stover pyrolysis was evaluated in a fixed-bed reactor. The results suggested that adding SS-PC-800 promoted the pyrolysis of corn stover and reduced the activation energy required for thermal decomposition. A further comparison of five metal oxides indicated that CaO had the most pronounced effect on H2 formation under the tested conditions. A synergistic effect was observed when reactive CaO was introduced into SS-PC. At a pyrolysis temperature of 800 °C, when the mass ratio of CaO to SS-PC-800 was 2:3 and the mass ratio of mixed catalyst to corn stover was 1:5, the H2 yield was 26.5% higher than that obtained from corn stover pyrolysis alone. In this study, SS-PC was employed as a catalytic material, and the synergistic interaction between its catalytic components and CaO effectively enhanced H2 production during biomass pyrolysis. These findings can provide a useful reference for the resource utilization of municipal sludge and the development of catalysts for biomass thermochemical conversion. Full article
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16 pages, 1325 KB  
Article
Methods for the Thermal Stabilization of α-L-Rhamnosidase and Inactivation of β-Glucosidase in the Naringinase Complex from Aspergillus niger
by Joanna Bodakowska-Boczniewicz and Zbigniew Garncarek
Molecules 2026, 31(13), 2232; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31132232 (registering DOI) - 25 Jun 2026
Abstract
Naringinase is an enzyme complex composed of α-L-rhamnosidase and β-D-glucosidase, capable of deglycosylating flavonoids such as hesperidin. α-L-rhamnosidase converts hesperidin into rhamnose and hesperetin 7-O-glucoside (Hes-7-G), while β-D-glucosidase further hydrolyses Hes-7-G to hesperetin. Selective inactivation of β-D-glucosidase enables accumulation of Hes-7-G, a compound [...] Read more.
Naringinase is an enzyme complex composed of α-L-rhamnosidase and β-D-glucosidase, capable of deglycosylating flavonoids such as hesperidin. α-L-rhamnosidase converts hesperidin into rhamnose and hesperetin 7-O-glucoside (Hes-7-G), while β-D-glucosidase further hydrolyses Hes-7-G to hesperetin. Selective inactivation of β-D-glucosidase enables accumulation of Hes-7-G, a compound with higher water solubility and bioavailability than hesperidin or hesperetin, making it valuable for food and biotechnological applications. This study aimed to identify conditions allowing selective inhibition of β-D-glucosidase while preserving α-L-rhamnosidase activity for efficient Hes-7-G production. The effects of pH, temperature, and incubation time were investigated, together with the influence of polyols and sugars, including inositol, sucrose, glycerol, xylose, erythritol, xylitol, and sorbitol, on α-L-rhamnosidase thermostability. Among the tested additives, erythritol significantly improved α-L-rhamnosidase thermostability. The highest selectivity was achieved by incubating the enzyme in 1.4 M erythritol at 70 °C for 10 min, resulting in ~5% residual β-D-glucosidase activity and 50% α-L-rhamnosidase activity. Under these conditions, α-L-rhamnosidase activity exceeded β-D-glucosidase activity by more than 60-fold. Selective thermal inactivation of β-D-glucosidase in the presence of erythritol provides an effective strategy for producing Hes-7-G from hesperidin and may enhance flavonoid bioavailability for industrial applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Bioactives and Functional Ingredients in Foods)
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13 pages, 691 KB  
Article
Techno-Economic Assessment for Thorium Recovery from Monazite Ores and REE Tailings: Global Evidence and Implications for Central Asia
by Marat Baipakov, Bakhytzhan Lesbayev, Sandugash Tanirbergenova, Zulkhair Mansurov, Zhanna Alsar, Ahmed Hassanein and Zinetula Insepov
Processes 2026, 14(13), 2056; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr14132056 (registering DOI) - 25 Jun 2026
Abstract
Thorium (Th) is increasingly considered a promising fertile material for sustainable nuclear energy—which is not fissile itself, but convertible to fissile 233U—particularly as a by-product of rare earth element (REE) processing. This study develops a parametric techno-economic assessment (TEA) framework synthesizing published [...] Read more.
Thorium (Th) is increasingly considered a promising fertile material for sustainable nuclear energy—which is not fissile itself, but convertible to fissile 233U—particularly as a by-product of rare earth element (REE) processing. This study develops a parametric techno-economic assessment (TEA) framework synthesizing published data from China, Russia, the USA, India, and Europe to establish the methodological foundation for evaluating thorium recovery economics from monazite ores and REE tailings under Central Asian conditions. Monazite typically contains 4–12% ThO2, while tailings contain 0.1–3%, making secondary resources attractive for future recovery strategies. Particular attention is given to integration with uranium tailings and the application of advanced materials such as nanocomposite sorbents and carbon-based electrodes. Reported production costs of ThO2 range from 50 to 500 USD/kg depending on process scale, feedstock quality, and co-production of REEs. The reviewed studies consistently show that coupling thorium recovery with REE processing improves economic feasibility. Modern approaches, including hybrid technologies and electrosorption systems, may reduce operational costs and improve process efficiency. Despite challenges related to capital investment, market uncertainty, and radioactive waste management, thorium continues to attract growing interest as a potential component of future nuclear fuel cycles and advanced reactor systems, including small modular reactors. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first parametric TEA framework structured around Central Asian conditions, combining literature-derived regional data, scenario-based process economics, and Monte Carlo sensitivity analysis within a single discounted cash flow structure. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-ferrous Metal Metallurgy and Its Cleaner Production)
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28 pages, 7408 KB  
Article
Freeze–Thaw Performance and Microstructural Stability of Alkali-Activated Slag Mortars Incorporating Mussel Shell Waste
by Merve Şahin Yön
Buildings 2026, 16(13), 2511; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16132511 (registering DOI) - 24 Jun 2026
Abstract
This study investigates the use of mussel shells (MSs), a biogenic by-product of the food industry, as a partial replacement for ground granulated blast furnace slag (GBFS) in alkali-activated mortars. Given their high CaCO3 content, MSs represent a sustainable secondary raw material [...] Read more.
This study investigates the use of mussel shells (MSs), a biogenic by-product of the food industry, as a partial replacement for ground granulated blast furnace slag (GBFS) in alkali-activated mortars. Given their high CaCO3 content, MSs represent a sustainable secondary raw material that reduces both waste disposal burden and reliance on natural resources, while offering a low-carbon alternative to conventional cement-based binders. Alkali-activated mussel shell/slag mortars (AAMSs) were produced with MS replacement ratios of 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% by mass of GBFS. Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and sodium silicate (Na2SiO3) were used as alkaline activators. Fresh specimens were cured at 60 °C for 48 h. The experimental program included workability, compressive and flexural strength, water absorption, porosity, density, capillarity, ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV), and freeze–thaw (F-T) resistance tests. Increasing MS content slightly reduced flowability and mechanical strength, while increasing water absorption, porosity, and capillarity. The M0 series achieved the highest 28-day compressive strength (54.06 MPa), while M15 exhibited the highest flexural strength (5.23 MPa). Following F-T cycling, the 5% and 10% MS series demonstrated the best compressive strength (30 MPa). The 10% MS exhibits a relatively balanced overall performance, providing the best balance between mechanical performance, F-T resistance, and microstructural stability, as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM)/energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analyses showing elevated Ca/Si ratios and the formation of Ca-rich crystalline phases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)
22 pages, 2486 KB  
Systematic Review
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Buddleja globosa Hope (Matico): A Systematic Review of Phytochemical Composition, Molecular Mechanisms, and Translational Evidence
by Álvaro Becerra, Felipe Soto, Daniela Millán, Juan José Valenzuela-Fuenzalida, Maria P. Moya, José E. León-Rojas and Manuel E. Cortés
Antioxidants 2026, 15(7), 790; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15070790 (registering DOI) - 24 Jun 2026
Abstract
Background: Buddleja globosa Hope (matico) is a Chilean medicinal plant traditionally used in Mapuche and Aymara ethnomedicine. However, no systematic synthesis of its phytochemical composition and pharmacological evidence has been previously reported. Methods: A PRISMA 2020-compliant systematic review was conducted using Google [...] Read more.
Background: Buddleja globosa Hope (matico) is a Chilean medicinal plant traditionally used in Mapuche and Aymara ethnomedicine. However, no systematic synthesis of its phytochemical composition and pharmacological evidence has been previously reported. Methods: A PRISMA 2020-compliant systematic review was conducted using Google Scholar, PubMed, EBSCOhost, and Springer Nature databases from inception to March 2026. Studies reporting phytochemical characterization and/or biological activities of B. globosa were included. Methodological quality was assessed using an adapted five-criterion tool for non-clinical studies. The protocol was registered in OSF. Results: Fourteen studies (1989–2026), mainly from Chilean research groups, identified 27 bioactive compounds across leaves, roots, and flowers. These included phenylethanoid glycosides (e.g., verbascoside/acteoside, echinacoside, forsitoside B, and linarin), flavonoids (luteolin 7-O-glucoside, apigenin 7-O-glucoside, myricetin, catechin, and epicatechin), pentacyclic triterpenes (α/β-amyrins and β-sitosterol), iridoid glycosides, and clerodane diterpenoids (buddledines A–C), as well as four newly reported phenylethanoids. Antioxidant activity was the most frequently evaluated endpoint (11/14 studies), mainly mediated through hydrogen atom transfer and single-electron transfer mechanisms linked to caffeoyl and flavonoid structures. Anti-inflammatory effects (five studies) involved COX and 5-LOX inhibition and reduced PGE2 production in LPS-stimulated macrophages. Additional reported activities included antihepatotoxic, antiplatelet, wound-healing, antibacterial, and antifungal effects. Conclusions:B. globosa exhibits a coherent phytochemical profile supporting strong preclinical antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The main limitation for clinical translation is the low oral bioavailability of phenylethanoid glycosides. Nanoformulation strategies, investigation of colonic metabolites, and topical delivery systems represent promising approaches to bridge the preclinical-to-clinical gap. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Research in Chile—2nd Edition)
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18 pages, 4420 KB  
Article
Anomalous Ozone Pollution in Xiamen During Spring 2025
by Chen Chen, Guanjie Jiao, Jingyi Fan and Sijia Lou
Atmosphere 2026, 17(7), 628; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos17070628 (registering DOI) - 24 Jun 2026
Abstract
Ozone (O3) pollution is highly sensitive to meteorological variability and regional transport, particularly in coastal southeastern China. During April–May 2025, Xiamen experienced an atypical, persistent springtime O3 episode substantially exceeding the 2014–2024 baseline. Using surface observations and ERA5 reanalysis data, [...] Read more.
Ozone (O3) pollution is highly sensitive to meteorological variability and regional transport, particularly in coastal southeastern China. During April–May 2025, Xiamen experienced an atypical, persistent springtime O3 episode substantially exceeding the 2014–2024 baseline. Using surface observations and ERA5 reanalysis data, this study investigates the meteorological drivers and formation mechanisms. At Hongwen station, the MDA8 O3 > 160 μg m−3 exceedance frequency reached 11.5% (historical average: 0.1%). This anomaly was closely linked to an anomalous Western Pacific Subtropical High (WPSH) configuration, characterized by northward displacement and accompanying westward extension. Compared to historical high-pollution conditions, surface temperature and downward solar radiation increased by 2.32 °C and 51 W m−2, while wind speed and planetary boundary layer height decreased by 15.3% and 24.2%, favoring O3 production and precursor accumulation. Two distinct pollution periods were identified. Period 1 (29 April–1 May) featured local photochemical enhancement under stagnant conditions; regional mean NO2 increased by 31 μg m−3 before the peak, indicating substantial precursor accumulation. Simultaneously, the mean nighttime O3 concentration at the Huli site during Period 1 was 50.5 μg m−3 (43% lower than that at Hongwen) due to enhanced NO titration from port emissions. Period 2 (12–14 May) involved regional transport, where persistent 850-hPa southwesterly flow facilitated pollutant transport along the coastal corridor, increasing O3 and PM2.5 by 40 μg m−3 and 38 μg m−3. Thus, extreme springtime O3 over southeastern coastal China resulted from anomalous large-scale circulation, regional transport, and local photochemical processes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Meteorological Extreme in China)
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27 pages, 10722 KB  
Article
Spleen Metabolome Reveals Immune-Mediated Responses Modulated by Onion Peel Extract in Salmonella-Infected Broiler Chicks
by Odinaka C. Iwuozo, Paul C. Omaliko, Oluteru E. Orimaye, Safiu A. Suberu, Hye Won Kang and Yewande O. Fasina
Microorganisms 2026, 14(7), 1397; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms14071397 (registering DOI) - 24 Jun 2026
Abstract
Onion peel extract (OPE) is rich in polyphenolic compounds with antimicrobial potential. Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) infection in young broiler chicks causes morbidity, reduced growth, and contributes to human gastroenteritis through contaminated poultry products. The spleen is a key secondary lymphoid organ coordinating systemic [...] Read more.
Onion peel extract (OPE) is rich in polyphenolic compounds with antimicrobial potential. Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) infection in young broiler chicks causes morbidity, reduced growth, and contributes to human gastroenteritis through contaminated poultry products. The spleen is a key secondary lymphoid organ coordinating systemic responses to pathogens in chicken. This study evaluated how dietary OPE influences spleen metabolic profiles during SE infection. Day-old Ross 708 male chicks (n = 128) were assigned to four treatments: CON, CON-SE, OPE (6 g/kg), and OPE-SE. Chicks in CON and OPE received sterile broth, whereas CON-SE and OPE-SE received 2.25 × 108 CFU/mL SE at 2 d of age. At 5 and 12 dpi, spleens from six chicks per treatment were collected for untargeted HPLC-MS metabolomics. A total of 857 metabolites were identified and analyzed using MetaboAnalyst 6.0 (p < 0.05; fold change ≥ 2.0; VIP score > 1.0). In CON-SE chicks, energy generating metabolites (6-phosphogluconic acid, methylmalonic acid, propionic acid) increased, while 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin D2 and kynurenic acid decreased. Dietary OPE elevated several dipeptides (L-Val-Gly, L-Leu-Gly, Gly-Gly-Leu, L-Val-L-Met) and reduced ATP linked metabolites (3,6-di-O-methyl-beta-D-glucose and 3-O-beta-D-galactosyl-sn-glycerol). Enrichment analysis showed that SE infection altered valine, leucine, and isoleucine degradation and aromatic amino acid biosynthesis, whereas OPE enriched galactose and biotin metabolism in uninfected chicks, but enriched tryptophan, taurine and hypotaurine metabolism in SE-infected chicks. Overall, dietary OPE optimized response of metabolic pathways associated with immune activation, unlike corresponding pathways in CON-SE birds. Full article
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22 pages, 14974 KB  
Article
Metabolic Adaptation and Potential Regulatory Mechanisms of Longissimus Dorsi-Derived Skeletal Muscle Satellite Cells from Hu Sheep Under Insulin Induction
by Haotian Yuan, Xiongxiong Li, Zengkui Lu, Chao Yuan, Tingting Guo, Lixia Sun, Jianbin Liu and Bowen Chen
Animals 2026, 16(13), 1954; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16131954 (registering DOI) - 24 Jun 2026
Abstract
The bidirectional differentiation potential of skeletal muscle satellite cells (SMSCs) enables them to differentiate into myofibers or intramuscular adipocytes, which affects meat quality in livestock. However, how insulin regulates ovine SMSC metabolism remains poorly understood. SMSCs were isolated from the longissimus dorsi muscle [...] Read more.
The bidirectional differentiation potential of skeletal muscle satellite cells (SMSCs) enables them to differentiate into myofibers or intramuscular adipocytes, which affects meat quality in livestock. However, how insulin regulates ovine SMSC metabolism remains poorly understood. SMSCs were isolated from the longissimus dorsi muscle of 1-day-old Hu sheep, cultured, identified, and induced to differentiate with insulin. After induction, lipid droplet formation and the number of nuclei per cell were assessed, and samples were collected before adipogenic induction (No_AD) and after adipogenic induction (AD) for qPCR and whole-transcriptome sequencing. Immunofluorescence confirmed cells were positive for PAX7 and DESMIN. Bodipy, Oil Red O, and hematoxylin staining revealed lipid droplets and multinucleated cells. Sequencing and qPCR indicated that insulin promoted fatty acid uptake and utilization, inhibited adipogenic differentiation, and promoted myogenic differentiation. Integrated ceRNA analysis suggested that miR-2447-z and MSTRG.8123.1 may coordinate muscle development and lipid metabolism. In conclusion, under insulin induction, ovine SMSCs may undergo metabolic adaptation through the ceRNA network mediated by miR-2447-z and MSTRG.8123.1, exhibiting enhanced myogenesis, suppressed adipogenesis, and lipid droplet accumulation. These findings provide new insights into insulin-regulated SMSC metabolism, suggesting that leveraging the bidirectional differentiation potential of SMSCs to in-fluence muscle characteristics and fat deposition may be a feasible approach for im-proving meat production traits in sheep. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Small Ruminants)
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18 pages, 9786 KB  
Article
Evaluation of Marine By-Products in Fishmeal-Free Diets for Juvenile Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides): Insights into Growth, Feed Utilization, Liver Health, and Intestinal Microbiota
by Wanjie Cai, Juncheng Cao, Hui You, Samwel Joseph, Yanjian Jin, Zhiyong Dong, Bo Shi, Yuexing Zhang and Liying Huang
Fishes 2026, 11(7), 377; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes11070377 (registering DOI) - 24 Jun 2026
Abstract
The replacement of fishmeal (FM) in aquafeeds for carnivorous fish remains challenging due to reduced palatability and adverse effects on liver health and intestinal microbiota. Marine by-products-based additives containing fish protein hydrolysates and seaweed polysaccharides have shown potential to overcome these limitations. This [...] Read more.
The replacement of fishmeal (FM) in aquafeeds for carnivorous fish remains challenging due to reduced palatability and adverse effects on liver health and intestinal microbiota. Marine by-products-based additives containing fish protein hydrolysates and seaweed polysaccharides have shown potential to overcome these limitations. This study evaluated the effects of graded supplementation of Haiweisu (HWS), a multi-marine by-product formulated with squid viscera hydrolysate, small-molecule components from fish protein hydrolysate, seaweed polysaccharides, and seaweed residue as a carrier, in a FM-free diet for juvenile largemouth bass. Four isonitrogenous and isolipidic diets were prepared: a FM-free control diet (CON) and three diets supplemented with 10, 20, or 30 g/kg HWS (designated S10, S20, and S30, respectively). Each diet was fed to triplicate groups of fish (29.26 ± 2.61 g) for 56 days. Results showed that HWS supplementation linearly increased final body weight, weight gain rate, and feed intake, while significantly reducing the feed conversion ratio (p < 0.05). All HWS-supplemented groups exhibited markedly lower hepatic lipid accumulation and plasma total cholesterol levels compared with the CON group, accompanied by alleviated hepatocellular steatosis and inflammatory infiltration as revealed by Oil Red O and H&E staining. Moreover, HWS significantly enhanced intestinal microbiota alpha diversity (Ace, Chao, Sobs, and Shannon indices), decreased the relative abundance of the dominant genus Mesomycoplasma, and enriched potentially beneficial genera including Methylobacterium, Delftia, and Sphingomonas (p < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary HWS supplementation effectively improved growth performance, alleviated hepatic steatosis and inflammation, and beneficially reshaped the intestinal microbiota in juvenile largemouth bass fed a FM-free diet. These findings support HWS as a promising functional additive for sustainable FM-free aquafeeds in carnivorous fish species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Feeding)
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14 pages, 1593 KB  
Article
Mitigating Effect of Iron Chlorin e6 to Silage Maize’s Root System Under Saline-Alkali Stress: An Insight into Iron Chlorin e6’s Effect on Morphology, Respiration, and Antioxidant Systems
by Zhiheng Zhang, Meijun Liu, An Yan, Yi Deng, Yuan Tian, Shihui Mai, Wenjing Liu and Yingqi Wang
Agronomy 2026, 16(13), 1225; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy16131225 (registering DOI) - 24 Jun 2026
Abstract
Silage maize (Zea mays L.) serves as a key source of high-quality roughage for ruminants, yet its production and the development of the silage maize industry in Xinjiang are severely constrained by saline–alkali stress. In this study, root growth phenotypes, root energy [...] Read more.
Silage maize (Zea mays L.) serves as a key source of high-quality roughage for ruminants, yet its production and the development of the silage maize industry in Xinjiang are severely constrained by saline–alkali stress. In this study, root growth phenotypes, root energy metabolism, cell membrane stability, osmotic regulatory substances, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism were examined to elucidate the mechanisms by which iron chlorin e6 (ICe6) enhances saline–alkali tolerance in maize roots. The results showed that saline–alkali stress significantly suppressed root growth in maize seedlings, leading to increased malondialdehyde (MDA) content and relative conductivity. This suggests that membrane lipid peroxidation has intensified, resulting in increased cell membrane permeability. Meanwhile, ICe6 enhanced antioxidant enzyme (SOD, POD, CAT, and APX) activities, scavenged H2O2 accumulation, reduced MDA content, and stabilized cell membrane integrity, as indicated by reduced ion leakage. Moreover, ICe6 optimized root respiratory pathways, improved root vigor, and ATP synthesis to provide adequate energy for growth, while decreasing free proline accumulation to maintain cellular osmotic balance. These findings demonstrate that ICe6 mitigates saline–alkali stress in silage maize roots through coordinated regulation of energy metabolism, antioxidant defense, and osmotic adjustment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Grassland and Pasture Science)
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18 pages, 1528 KB  
Article
Protective Effect of Eucalyptus radiata Essential Oil-Based Nanoemulsion Against Pathogenic Bacteria and Spoilage Microorganisms on Fresh Beef Chunks
by Afranur Özçoban and Ayça Gedikoğlu
Foods 2026, 15(13), 2264; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15132264 (registering DOI) - 24 Jun 2026
Abstract
The antimicrobial effect of Eucalyptus radiata essential oil nanoemulsion (EON) on Staphylococcus aureus and spoilage microorganisms was evaluated on fresh beef chunks during cold storage at days 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8. For this purpose, nanoemulsion was prepared using 2% eucalyptus oil [...] Read more.
The antimicrobial effect of Eucalyptus radiata essential oil nanoemulsion (EON) on Staphylococcus aureus and spoilage microorganisms was evaluated on fresh beef chunks during cold storage at days 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8. For this purpose, nanoemulsion was prepared using 2% eucalyptus oil combined with high methoxyl pectin, glycerol, and Tween 80, employing high shear force. Then the following were evaluated: (1) the essential oil’s chemical profile and in vitro antioxidant and antimicrobial capacities; (2) the nanoemulsion characteristics; and (3) the microbial counts of the beef treatments. The results showed that the essential oil’s primary components were o-cymene (45.4%), 2-bornene (26.29%), 1,8-cineole (11.31%), and α-pinene (9.25%). The EON had a particle size of 52.04 nm and a zeta potential of −9.16 mV. The in vitro studies revealed that both the essential oil and its nanoemulsion demonstrated significant antibacterial activity. Similarly, in in situ examinations, when the meat samples were spiked with S. aureus (0.1 × 108 CFU/mL), the EON-treated meat samples had significantly (p ≤ 0.05) lower microbial counts than the untreated meat samples throughout the storage period; the difference between the treatments ranged between 1.62 and 2.44 log CFU/g. Additionally, the EON exhibited excellent antimicrobial efficacy against spoilage microorganisms on beef pieces during shelf life. On day 4, the maximum inhibitory activity was observed against total coliform, Pseudomonas spp., and yeast in reductions of 1.96, 2.09, and 2.18 log CFU/g in microbial counts, respectively. Moreover, application of meat samples with the EON delayed spoilage by 4 days. Therefore, the results of this study showed that coating beef chunks with the EON enhanced both product safety and shelf life. Full article
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20 pages, 729 KB  
Review
Molecular Mechanisms of Photobiomodulation in Retinal Diseases: Cytochrome c Oxidase, Mitochondrial Bioenergetics and Cytoprotective Signalling
by Rubens Camargo Siqueira
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(13), 5683; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27135683 (registering DOI) - 24 Jun 2026
Abstract
Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a non-invasive therapeutic strategy that uses red and near-infrared (NIR) light in the 590–950 nm range to modulate the cellular and molecular pathways involved in retinal homeostasis. At the molecular level, PBM acts primarily through photon absorption by cytochrome c [...] Read more.
Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a non-invasive therapeutic strategy that uses red and near-infrared (NIR) light in the 590–950 nm range to modulate the cellular and molecular pathways involved in retinal homeostasis. At the molecular level, PBM acts primarily through photon absorption by cytochrome c oxidase (CcO, complex IV of the mitochondrial electron transport chain), whose four metal centres—two copper (CuA and CuB) and two heme groups (heme a and heme a3)—absorb light across approximately 600–1000 nm. Photon capture promotes photodissociation of inhibitory nitric oxide (NO) from the binuclear CuB–heme a3 centre, accelerates electron transfer, restores the proton-motive force and increases ATP synthesis. These primary events trigger a coordinated molecular programme that includes (i) transient mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) bursts that activate the Nrf2/Keap1/ARE axis and upregulate phase II antioxidant enzymes (HO-1, NQO1, GCLC, SOD2, catalase, GPx); (ii) calcium- and cAMP-dependent secondary signalling that converges on PI3K/Akt, MAPK/ERK, AMPK and mTOR pathways; (iii) suppression of NF-κB-driven cytokine production (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) and of NLRP3 inflammasome activation; (iv) downregulation of the HIF-1α/VEGF axis, particularly at 590 nm; (v) anti-apoptotic remodelling of the Bcl-2/Bax ratio with reduced cytochrome c release and caspase-3/9 activation; and (vi) PGC-1α/TFAM/NRF1-driven mitochondrial biogenesis, alongside restoration of fission/fusion homeostasis (Drp1, Mfn1/2, Opa1) and PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy. Wavelength specificity has a defined molecular basis: 590 nm modulates VEGF signalling and RPE pump activity, 660 nm interacts with the CuB centre and enhances O2 binding at CcO, and 850 nm is absorbed by CuA and supports electron entry into complex IV. A second molecular axis is the bidirectional crosstalk between PBM and the circadian system: mitochondrial respiration, ATP turnover and CcO activity oscillate over the 24 h cycle under the control of the BMAL1/CLOCK and PER/CRY core machinery, the NAD+/SIRT1–SIRT3 axis and REV-ERBα. Preliminary preclinical and human observations suggest that NIR-induced bioenergetic and functional gains may be coupled to this rhythm, with greater benefit reported when light is delivered in the morning window (≈08:00–11:00); this time dependence should be regarded as an emerging hypothesis rather than an established clinical principle. The clinical evidence is unevenly developed across indications. It is most robust for non-exudative age-related macular degeneration, where multiwavelength PBM (590/660/850 nm; Valeda Light Delivery System) has shown disease-modifying potential in randomized controlled trials (LIGHTSITE I–III and the LIGHTSITE IIIB extension), with sustained BCVA gains and reduced incidence of geographic atrophy over 24 months and beyond. Evidence for retinitis pigmentosa, central serous chorioretinopathy and, with red-light monotherapy, childhood myopia is at present limited to small or short-term studies and remains preliminary. This narrative review synthesizes the molecular machinery engaged by PBM, integrates clinical findings across retinal diseases and discusses how chronotherapeutic delivery of light, aligned with the molecular clock, may further optimize therapeutic efficacy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Progress in Photobiomodulation Therapy)
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12 pages, 1566 KB  
Article
Development and Validation of a Rapid Titer Assay for the Oncolytic Virus oHSV2 Expressing a PD-L1/CD3 Bispecific Antibody
by Shengjie Zhang, Qingrui Song, Runyang Wang, Rui Chen, Han Hu, Binlei Liu and Yang Wang
Viruses 2026, 18(7), 694; https://doi.org/10.3390/v18070694 (registering DOI) - 24 Jun 2026
Abstract
Oncolytic viruses represent a promising class of anticancer therapeutics, and rapid, accurate quantification of viral titers is critical for ensuring both efficacy and safety during clinical development. Conventional viral titering methods, such as 50% cell culture infectious dose (CCID50), are time-consuming [...] Read more.
Oncolytic viruses represent a promising class of anticancer therapeutics, and rapid, accurate quantification of viral titers is critical for ensuring both efficacy and safety during clinical development. Conventional viral titering methods, such as 50% cell culture infectious dose (CCID50), are time-consuming and limited in sensitivity, thereby restricting their application in real-time clinical monitoring. This study aimed to develop and validate a rapid titer assay for oHSV2-PD-L1/CD3-BsAb, an oncolytic herpes simplex virus expressing a PD-L1/CD3 bispecific antibody, to support preclinical and clinical monitoring. A dual-reporter cell system was established using Vero-PD-L1-GFP (Vero cells expressing PD-L1 and GFP) cells as target cells and Jurkat-NFAT-Fluc (Jurkat cells expressing NFAT and Fluc) cells as effector cells. Viral infection activates the NFAT signaling pathway, driving Fluc expression, thereby enabling rapid quantification of infectious virus. The assay was evaluated for specificity, limit of detection (LOD), and lower limit of quantification (LLOQ), and compared with the conventional CCID50 method. Its applicability was further assessed using clinical simulation samples, including PBMCs and swabs. The rapid titer assay accurately quantified virus at 103 CCID50/mL after 8 h of incubation, consistent with CCID50 results, while extending the incubation to 18 h improved the LLOQ to 102.5 CCID50/mL, demonstrating enhanced sensitivity. The assay exhibited high reproducibility and stability in both PBMC and swab samples, enabling reliable quantification of low-titer virus in complex biological matrices. Compared with CCID50, the method substantially reduced assay time (from 3–5 days to 8–18 h) while improving sensitivity and specificity. The developed rapid titer assay for oHSV2-PD-L1/CD3-BsAb provides a sensitive and specific platform for viral quantification. It offers a valuable tool for oncolytic virus development, production quality control, and clinical monitoring, facilitating efficient safety evaluation and risk management in ongoing and future clinical applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Human Virology and Viral Diseases)
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17 pages, 1674 KB  
Article
Modeling of Light Intensity and Temperature Effects on Algae Growth in Batch and Continuous Bioreactors
by Zarook Shareefdeen and Salma Mansour
ChemEngineering 2026, 10(7), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering10070080 (registering DOI) - 23 Jun 2026
Abstract
Excessive concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere lead to adverse environmental effects. Biologically assisted processes that rely on organisms such as microalgae (i.e., Chlorella vulgaris) are common in capturing CO2 from the atmosphere. Microalgae are rich in [...] Read more.
Excessive concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere lead to adverse environmental effects. Biologically assisted processes that rely on organisms such as microalgae (i.e., Chlorella vulgaris) are common in capturing CO2 from the atmosphere. Microalgae are rich in proteins, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids. Thus, microalgae production serves both health and environmental sectors. Varying light intensity and temperature are shown to influence algae growth. To quantify algae production under different light intensity and temperature conditions, and monitoring or scaling-up of biological reactors, reliable mathematical models are required. In this work, mathematical models that incorporate light intensity and temperature effects on algae growth in batch and continuous bioreactors are developed. Based on the modeling, the growth rate is maximum at Topt = 25 °C, reaching the value of μmax = 0.14 day−1. The growth rate exponentially increases until light intensity (I) reaches around 150 μmolm2s, which is approximately the optimal light intensity for Chlorella vulgaris. The effect of T on growth rate is found to be more sensitive than light intensity (I) in both batch and continuous reactor systems. When there are too many parameters in models, uncertainties exist and parameter estimation and model predictions become cumbersome. For these reasons analytical solutions to the models are presented in simplified forms and these models are more practical and easier to implement. The novelty of the work is also the presentation of the models in analytical forms. Analytical solutions to the two reactor models (batch and continuous) will help quantify biomass production as a function of time under the varying light intensity and temperature conditions encountered. Full article
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18 pages, 26694 KB  
Article
Adsorption and Diffusion Behaviors of Multi-Component Mixtures in CO2 Methanation over Ni/ZSM-5: Effects of Temperature and Si/Al Ratio
by Jingpeng Gan, Peng Chen, Wei Xia, Xinrui Wang, Mingyuan Dong, Zhenhua Jiang, Yanli Zhang, Di Wang, Kun Chen and Dong Liu
Catalysts 2026, 16(7), 578; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16070578 (registering DOI) - 23 Jun 2026
Abstract
CO2 methanation with renewable hydrogen is a promising strategy for carbon valorization and synthetic natural gas (SNG) production. However, the molecular mechanisms behind catalyst-dependent adsorption and mass transport in zeolite-confined spaces are still not fully elucidated. Herein, we performed comparative molecular simulations [...] Read more.
CO2 methanation with renewable hydrogen is a promising strategy for carbon valorization and synthetic natural gas (SNG) production. However, the molecular mechanisms behind catalyst-dependent adsorption and mass transport in zeolite-confined spaces are still not fully elucidated. Herein, we performed comparative molecular simulations on HZSM-5, Ni/ZSM-5 and Ru/ZSM-5 by combining density functional theory (DFT), grand canonical Monte Carlo (GCMC) and molecular dynamics (MD) methods, aiming to clarify the thermodynamic and mass transport mechanisms of reactant enrichment and product desorption in CO2 methanation. The electronic structures of the three systems were systematically evaluated via Mulliken charge analysis, differential charge density mapping, and frontier molecular orbital calculations. We further quantified the adsorption thermodynamics and diffusion kinetics of reactants and products, focusing specifically on the effects of temperature and framework Si/Al ratio for Ni/ZSM-5. The results show that Ni doping greatly modulates the local electronic environment of the ZSM-5 framework, enhancing the adsorption of CO2 (−121.9 kJ·mol−1) and H2 (−81.6 kJ·mol−1) and weakening the adsorption of CH4 and H2O. A higher Si/Al ratio reduces CO2 adsorption capacity, while elevated temperatures inhibit reactant adsorption and lower the diffusion selectivity of CH4. This demonstrates that moderately low temperatures and moderate Si/Al ratios can optimize the adsorption and diffusion behaviors of reactants and products. This work provides molecular-level insights into the adsorption and diffusion behaviors of Ni/ZSM-5 and offers theoretical references for the rational development of high-performance CO2 methanation catalysts. Full article
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