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26 pages, 11094 KB  
Review
Interfacial Stability, Matrix Effects, and Functional Performance of Nanobubbles in Food Systems
by Javier Silva, Jaime Gómez, Suleivys Nuñez and Javiera Toledo-Alarcón
Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(3), 48; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10030048 (registering DOI) - 22 Jun 2026
Viewed by 180
Abstract
Nanobubbles have attracted increasing interest in food systems because they can modify gas dispersion, interfacial transport, washing performance, preservation processes, and the structures of dispersed matrices. However, their behavior cannot be interpreted based on bubble size alone. Proteins, polysaccharides, lipids, salts, colloidal particles, [...] Read more.
Nanobubbles have attracted increasing interest in food systems because they can modify gas dispersion, interfacial transport, washing performance, preservation processes, and the structures of dispersed matrices. However, their behavior cannot be interpreted based on bubble size alone. Proteins, polysaccharides, lipids, salts, colloidal particles, gas composition, and processing conditions can alter interfacial adsorption, gas transfer, bubble persistence, and matrix organization in food systems. This review examines the physicochemical mechanisms proposed to explain nanobubble persistence and functionality, with an emphasis on surface charge, interfacial adsorption, gas supersaturation, confinement, and interactions with food biopolymers. A central distinction is made between passive nanobubble-containing systems and externally activated systems involving hydrodynamic cavitation, ultrasound, plasma, pressure fluctuations, and reactive gases. Under passive conditions, nanobubbles mainly act as gas–liquid interfaces that influence local transport and adsorption. In activated systems, microbial inactivation, reactive oxygen species formation, and apparent mass-transfer enhancement often arise from external energy input, gas chemistry, turbulence, and transient supersaturation rather than from nanobubbles alone. Interfacial stability is used here as an organizing concept to connect nanobubble persistence, food-matrix interactions, generation methods, characterization limitations, and interpretation of reported technological effects. Current methods, such as dynamic light scattering and nanoparticle tracking analysis, provide useful size and concentration estimates but cannot unambiguously distinguish nanobubbles from protein aggregates, fat droplets, micelles, polysaccharide assemblies, and other colloidal structures in complex matrices. Therefore, reliable interpretation requires complementary methods, appropriate controls, and standardized reporting of gas composition, generation method, energy input, matrix properties, and processing conditions. Thus, nanobubble-containing technologies show promise for food processing; however, their value depends on the separation of nanoscale interfacial effects from concurrent hydrodynamic, chemical, and matrix-dependent phenomena. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Interfacial Properties)
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13 pages, 645 KB  
Article
Hemodynamic and Vascular Stressor Exposure and Outcomes Among Inpatient Hospitalization with Chronic Kidney Disease: A Nationwide Study
by Brent Tai, Chijioke Okonkwo, Yaroslav Zuyev and Derek Snyder
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(12), 4747; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15124747 (registering DOI) - 18 Jun 2026
Viewed by 106
Abstract
Background: Hospitalized adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD) experience high morbidity and mortality. Acute inpatient events frequently occur in combination, yet most studies evaluate individual conditions in isolation. Acute hemodynamic and vascular stressors may represent interacting physiological stressors that define heterogeneous patterns of [...] Read more.
Background: Hospitalized adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD) experience high morbidity and mortality. Acute inpatient events frequently occur in combination, yet most studies evaluate individual conditions in isolation. Acute hemodynamic and vascular stressors may represent interacting physiological stressors that define heterogeneous patterns of inpatient risk. Methods: Acute hemodynamic stressors (sepsis, shock, acute decompensated heart failure, and mechanical ventilation) and vascular stressors (acute myocardial infarction, major bleeding, stroke, pulmonary embolism, and deep vein thrombosis) were identified using ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS codes. Stressor burden was defined as the number of stressors (0, 1, 2, or ≥3). Hospitalizations were categorized into mutually exclusive domains: none, hemodynamic only, vascular only, or both. Survey-weighted multivariable regression models examined associations with mortality, acute kidney injury (AKI), length of stay (LOS), and hospital charges. Prespecified sensitivity analyses excluded inter-hospital transfers, and interaction analyses assessed modification by age. Results: Among 1,062,813 CKD hospitalizations, 66.1% experienced at least one acute stressor. Increasing stressor burden demonstrated a marked dose–response relationship with mortality, with adjusted odds ratios of 2.15 (95% CI: 2.08–2.23), 7.36 (95% CI: 7.09–7.64), and 31.65 (95% CI: 30.40–32.95) for 1, 2, and ≥3 stressors, respectively. Increasing stressor burden was also associated with higher odds of AKI, longer LOS, and greater hospital charges. Significant dose–response relationships were observed for all outcomes (all P-trend < 0.001). Isolated hemodynamic stressors were associated with greater mortality risk than isolated vascular stressors (aOR: 4.97 vs. 2.15), while hospitalizations experiencing both domains had the greatest risk (aOR: 13.10, 95% CI: 12.52–13.71). These findings were robust in sensitivity analyses excluding inter-hospital transfers. The relative increase in mortality associated with higher stressor burden was greater among patients younger than 65 years than among older adults (P for interaction <0.001). Conclusions: Acute hemodynamic and vascular stressors define heterogeneous patterns of inpatient risk among hospitalized adults with CKD. Both cumulative stressor burden and stressor domain are strongly associated with mortality, AKI, and resource utilization, with robust dose–response relationships that highlight acute physiological stress as an important determinant of inpatient outcomes in CKD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nephrology & Urology)
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15 pages, 2926 KB  
Article
Low-Loading Pt Nanoparticles Anchored on Niobium Nitride for Highly Efficient Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution
by Siyi Yang, Guimin Wang, Wei Yang, Xiaoru Li, Chunmei Lv, Aiping Wu, Haijing Yan and Yanqing Jiao
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(12), 751; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16120751 - 15 Jun 2026
Viewed by 211
Abstract
Pt-based catalysts remain the premier hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) electrocatalysts for anion-exchange membrane water electrolyzers. Faced with insufficient abundance and high cost, developing low-Pt electrocatalysts that can accelerate the Volmer step while maintaining high durability is critically important yet challenging. Herein, we propose [...] Read more.
Pt-based catalysts remain the premier hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) electrocatalysts for anion-exchange membrane water electrolyzers. Faced with insufficient abundance and high cost, developing low-Pt electrocatalysts that can accelerate the Volmer step while maintaining high durability is critically important yet challenging. Herein, we propose niobium nitrides with excellent conductivity and stability as supports for Pt to enhance the alkaline HER. A polyoxoniobate-based molecular self-assembly strategy was ingeniously designed to fabricate Nb4N5 nanospheres, on which ultrafine Pt nanoparticles (NPs) were successfully immobilized, forming Pt/Nb4N5 heterostructures (denoted as Pt/Nb4N5). The rich interface structures with metal–support interactions drive charge transfer from Pt to Nb4N5, which modulates the electronic structure of Pt and Nb sites, collectively lowering interfacial charge transfer resistance, generating abundant active sites, and improving catalyst durability. Consequently, the Pt/Nb4N5 catalyst achieves exceptional HER performance, including a low overpotential (22 mV@10 mA cm−2), a small Tafel slope (26 mV dec−1), an 11.5-fold higher mass activity at 150 mV, and remarkable durability, drastically surpassing the commercial Pt/C catalyst. Notably, the Pt/Nb4N5-based electrolyzer requires only 1.508 V to drive 10 mA cm−2. This work offers a viable pathway to engineer highly active and durable low-Pt electrocatalysts for energy-related applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nanomaterials in Electrocatalysis)
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44 pages, 2223 KB  
Review
Biochar-Based Catalysts for Sustainable Wastewater Treatment: Advances, Mechanisms, and Future Perspectives
by Aminur Rahman, Md Mahbubur Rahman, Md Azizul Haque, Pottathil Shinu, Muhammad Muhitur Rahman, Aftab Ahmad Khan and Sayeed Rushd
Catalysts 2026, 16(6), 538; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16060538 - 10 Jun 2026
Viewed by 477
Abstract
The emergence and the growing influence of contaminants in wastewater has driven the development of advanced and efficient treatment technologies. Catalysts based on biochar have become a promising material because of their cheapness, adjustable physicochemical characteristics, and environmental compatibility. This study comprehensively reviews [...] Read more.
The emergence and the growing influence of contaminants in wastewater has driven the development of advanced and efficient treatment technologies. Catalysts based on biochar have become a promising material because of their cheapness, adjustable physicochemical characteristics, and environmental compatibility. This study comprehensively reviews recent developments in biochar-based catalytic processes to treat wastewater with an emphasis on AOPs and photocatalysis. The main categories of catalysts including metal-loaded biochar, heteroatom-doped biochar, biochar-supported semiconductor composites, and magnetic biochar are extensively discussed with regard to their synthesis, structure, and performance in the elimination of organic, emerging, and heavy metal contaminants. Emphasis is placed on catalytic reactions, radical (•OH, SO4) and non-radical (singlet oxygen and electron transfer) reactions, as well as the effect of functional groups on the surface, defects, and electronic features in the control of activity. Engineered biochar has a better performance in charge separation, reactive species generation, and synergistic interactions between adsorption and degradation. Nevertheless, there are issues such as heterogeneity in biochar properties, insufficient understanding of structure–activity interactions, catalyst stability, and the absence of studies of biochar under real wastewater conditions. The future perspectives focus on rational catalyst design, integration of processes, and scaling up to practical applications. Overall, biochar-based catalysts have emerged as a sustainable platform for advanced wastewater treatment, but additional studies are needed to enable their large-scale use. Full article
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17 pages, 6077 KB  
Article
Interfacial Engineering of V2O5 via Conductive Polyaniline for Accelerated Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
by Chaitany Jayprakash Raorane and Seong-Cheol Kim
Polymers 2026, 18(11), 1408; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym18111408 - 5 Jun 2026
Viewed by 313
Abstract
The hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) plays a pivotal role in electrochemical water splitting for sustainable hydrogen production. However, its practical implementation is hindered by sluggish kinetics and the reliance on costly noble-metal catalysts. In this work, a conductive polymer-inorganic hybrid electrode based on [...] Read more.
The hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) plays a pivotal role in electrochemical water splitting for sustainable hydrogen production. However, its practical implementation is hindered by sluggish kinetics and the reliance on costly noble-metal catalysts. In this work, a conductive polymer-inorganic hybrid electrode based on vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) and polyaniline (PANI) is rationally designed and fabricated on carbon cloth via a combined hydrothermal synthesis and electropolymerization strategy. Initially, hierarchical V2O5 nanoflowers were synthesized, followed by controlled PANI deposition through cyclic voltammetry at varying cycle numbers to tailor the interfacial architecture and electronic properties. Morphological and structural analyses reveal the formation of well-defined V2O5 nanoflowers uniformly decorated with PANI nanorods, establishing an interconnected conductive network. Among the prepared samples, the optimized V2O5-PANI-2 electrode exhibits superior interfacial integration and structural homogeneity. Electrochemical evaluation in 1.0 M KOH demonstrates that V2O5-PANI-2 achieves a low overpotential of 79.9 mV at −10 mA cm−2, accompanied by a small Tafel slope of 46.6 mV dec−1, indicating accelerated HER kinetics. Furthermore, the electrode shows reduced charge-transfer resistance and an enhanced electrochemically active surface area (ECSA), facilitating efficient charge transport and abundant active site exposure. The catalyst also delivers excellent durability, maintaining stable performance over 5000 CV cycles and prolonged 24 h operation. The enhanced HER performance is attributed to the synergistic interaction between V2O5 and the conductive PANI matrix, which promotes charge redistribution, improves electrical conductivity, and optimizes the adsorption/desorption energetics of hydrogen intermediates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Polymers for Catalysts)
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22 pages, 3437 KB  
Article
Boosting Hydrogen Photogeneration via Controlled CdS Nucleation on PEI-Modified Graphene Surfaces
by José J. Chica-Armenteros, Joan Vernet-García, Rubén Cruz-Sánchez, Celeste García-Gallarín, Antonio Peñas-Sanjuán and Manuel Melguizo
Molecules 2026, 31(11), 1920; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31111920 - 2 Jun 2026
Viewed by 298
Abstract
The performance of CdS-based photocatalysts can be enhanced by incorporating graphene co-catalysts in close contact with the photoactive phase. However, assembling these distinct components remains a bottleneck, as their differing chemical natures often limit effective interfacial interaction when they are synthesized separately. In [...] Read more.
The performance of CdS-based photocatalysts can be enhanced by incorporating graphene co-catalysts in close contact with the photoactive phase. However, assembling these distinct components remains a bottleneck, as their differing chemical natures often limit effective interfacial interaction when they are synthesized separately. In this work, we present an adaptable PEI-mediated interfacial assembly strategy for promoting the nucleation and growth of nanocrystalline CdS phases on different graphene-based supports within a common, yet support-adapted, approach. Specifically, by functionalizing the surface of various graphene materials with hyperbranched polyethyleneimine (PEI) as a multifunctional interlayer mediator, we achieve controlled CdS formation. This strategy provides a common chemical framework for producing CdS nanocrystals closely associated with the carbon surface, regardless of the substrate. Diverse materials, including low-defect graphene sheets (G-Sheets), graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs), and graphene oxide (GO), were integrated using tailored architectures: noncovalent PDI-anchoring for GNP and G-Sheets and direct covalent functionalization for GO. In the latter case, PEI acts simultaneously as a mild reducing agent, yielding a covalently grafted reduced graphene oxide hybrid (rGO-PEI). XRD patterns confirm comparable CdS crystallinity across all hybrids, while photocatalytic hydrogen evolution measurements reveal a strong dependence on the nature of the graphene support. rGO-PEI@CdS exhibits the highest hydrogen evolution rate (0.44 mmol g−1 h−1) without any noble-metal cocatalyst, highlighting the role of surface defects and oxygen functionalities in interfacial charge transfer. Thermal treatment of rGO-PEI@CdS enhances activity (average 1.20 mmol g−1 h−1) but leads to partial deactivation over time. Overall, this study provides an adaptable PEI-mediated framework for integrating diverse graphene-type materials as co-catalysts within CdS-based photocatalytic materials and investigates structure–function relationships in graphene@CdS systems. Full article
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21 pages, 4608 KB  
Article
Atomic-Scale Understanding of Doping Effects in BaTiO3 in the Presence of Water: Implications for Photocatalytic Water Splitting
by Zhadyra Ye. Zakiyeva, Ulzhan Zh. Tolegen, Talgat M. Inerbaev, Eugene Kotomin, Aisulu U. Abuova, Beksultan Akilbekov, Ayaulym Amankeldiyeva, Arailym Zhomartova, Anatoli I. Popov, Omirzak K. Abdirashev and Fatima U. Abuova
Materials 2026, 19(11), 2336; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19112336 - 1 Jun 2026
Viewed by 382
Abstract
The search for efficient photocatalysts for sustainable hydrogen production has driven growing interest in barium titanate (BaTiO3)-based materials, particularly through polymorph control, surface engineering, and nonmetal and transition-metal doping. In this work, we provide an atomic-scale understanding of structural modifications in [...] Read more.
The search for efficient photocatalysts for sustainable hydrogen production has driven growing interest in barium titanate (BaTiO3)-based materials, particularly through polymorph control, surface engineering, and nonmetal and transition-metal doping. In this work, we provide an atomic-scale understanding of structural modifications in nitrogen-, fluorine-, and rhodium-doped BaTiO3 using Density Functional Theory (DFT), as well as pristine and fluorine-substituted BaTiO3 using reactive force-field molecular dynamics (ReaxFF-MD) simulations. DFT results for pristine and doped tetragonal BaTiO3, as well as pristine hexagonal BaTiO3, reveal that nitrogen and rhodium substitutions enhance the covalent character of Ti-N and Rh-O bonds and promote the redistribution of electron density, as evidenced by noncovalent interaction (NCI) and critical point (QTAIM) analyses, whereas fluorine substitution leads to more ionic Ti-F bonding. ReaxFF-MD simulations of pristine and fluorine-substituted BaTiO3 in contact with water molecules demonstrate that fluorine substitution suppresses interfacial O-H bond formation and promotes ordered molecular hydration layers near titanium sites, as reflected in bond statistics and radial distribution functions. This study provides molecular insights into the role of N, F, and Rh doping in BaTiO3 using DFT, and the role of fluorine doping in BaTiO3 at the water–solid interface using ReaxFF-MD simulations, demonstrating that this integrated computational approach provides a solid basis for the rational design of next-generation materials for energy-related applications. Direct calculations of photocatalytic activity, charge transfer rates, and ferroelectric polarization effects were not performed in this work and remain important directions for future study. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Catalytic Materials)
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9 pages, 1242 KB  
Communication
Covalent Organic Cage Directs EDA Complex Reactivity in Tetralone Synthesis
by Cheng Wang, Guohua Liu and Chunxia Tan
Chemistry 2026, 8(6), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemistry8060074 - 1 Jun 2026
Viewed by 231
Abstract
Photocycloaddition reactions provide an efficient strategy for converting alkenes into structurally complex and high-value molecules that are often difficult to access under conventional thermal conditions. Herein, two readily accessible triarylamine-based imine molecular cages possessing distinct cavity environments were investigated as supramolecular photocatalysts for [...] Read more.
Photocycloaddition reactions provide an efficient strategy for converting alkenes into structurally complex and high-value molecules that are often difficult to access under conventional thermal conditions. Herein, two readily accessible triarylamine-based imine molecular cages possessing distinct cavity environments were investigated as supramolecular photocatalysts for reactions of pyridinium-masked enol (PME) substrates with unactivated alkenes. Spectroscopic studies are consistent with the formation of electron donor–acceptor (EDA) interactions between the electron-rich cage frameworks and electron-deficient PME substrates. Upon blue-light irradiation (450 nm), these charge-transfer assemblies undergo photoinduced activation, likely involving single-electron transfer, N–O bond cleavage, and subsequent radical generation. The resulting radical intermediates participate in formal [4 + 2] cycloaddition reactions to afford tetralone derivatives under metal-free conditions. Comparative studies revealed that the two cages produce distinct product distributions and selectivities, suggesting that subtle variations in cage architecture and confined supramolecular environments influence the fate of reactive radical intermediates and the balance between productive cyclization and competing side pathways. While the detailed mechanistic origin of these effects remains unresolved, this work demonstrates the potential of covalent organic cages as structurally tunable platforms for modulating EDA-mediated photochemical reactivity and radical selectivity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Supramolecular Chemistry)
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32 pages, 10072 KB  
Article
Evolution of Microstructural Features and Electrochemical Corrosion Assessment of Ga-Doped CoCrFeNi High-Entropy Alloys: A Comparative Study
by Emmanuel Georgatis, Anthoula Poulia, Stavros Kiape, Aikaterini Lefa, Christina Prosili, Margarita Ziavra, Theodore E. Matikas and Alexander E. Karantzalis
Alloys 2026, 5(2), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/alloys5020012 - 30 May 2026
Viewed by 336
Abstract
This study investigates the microstructural evolution of the CoCrFeNi system after incorporating Gallium (Ga) at varying concentrations (0, 15, and 20 at.%). The systems were synthesized by Vacuum Arc Melting (VAM) and characterized through X-ray Diffraction diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM/EDS). [...] Read more.
This study investigates the microstructural evolution of the CoCrFeNi system after incorporating Gallium (Ga) at varying concentrations (0, 15, and 20 at.%). The systems were synthesized by Vacuum Arc Melting (VAM) and characterized through X-ray Diffraction diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM/EDS). Findings showed that the CoCrFeNi medium medium-entropy alloy stabilizes in a single-phase Face-Centered Cubic (FCC) structure. Upon the addition of 15 at.% Ga a dendritic morphology with a transition towards a duplex FCC + BCC microstructure was induced, a trend which was further solified in the equiatomic FeCoNiCrGa system. In this case the proportion of the Ga-rich BCC phase was increased from 18–22% to 31–34% for the Ga15 and Ga20 systems respectively. A combined approach of Electrochemical Frequency Modulation (EFM), Cyclic Potentiodynamic Polarization (CPP), and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) was selected for studying the electrochemical corrosion behavior of the produced systems. EFM results indicated a progressive deterioration of corrosion resistance when increasing Ga concentration (Icorr: 4.142, 5.619 and 10.01 μA/cm2, and Rp: 12,035, 10,736 and 7254 Ω for the Ga0, Ga15 and Ga20 alloys respectively). Surface inhomogeneity, rapid passivation, and diffusion-controlled processes caused deviations from the ideal causality factors’ values. CPP measurements revealed increasing corrosion current densities with Ga addition within the Tafel region (2.81 × 10−7, 3.72 × 10−7 and 5.11 × 10−7A/cm2 for the Ga0, Ga15 and Ga20 alloys respectively). All alloys showed positive hysteresis loops and an absence of repassivation, indicating susceptibility to pitting corrosion. Nevertheless, detailed analysis of the forward polarization region highlighted a more complex aspect. Reverse polarization scans confirmed stable pit growth in all alloys, with the absence of a repassivation tendency. EIS tests, performed after the completion of CPP measurements, further clarified the corrosion mechanisms. Equivalent circuit modeling revealed that although Ga-containing alloys exhibited relatively improved film characteristics in the forward polarization stage, the charge transfer resistance (Rct) was highest for the CoCrFeNi alloy, followed by Ga15 and Ga20 (22,620, 11,380, 10,060 Ω respectively). The overall impedance ranking (Ga0 > Ga15 > Ga20, i.e., 27,139 > 20,279.5 > 16,341 ohms respectively) showed that, despite microstructural and entropic effects enhancing certain passivation aspects, the reduced Cr content highly impacted long-term corrosion resistance. This holistic electrochemical approach showcases the complex interactions between compositional alterations, phase structure, grain refinement, passive film chemistry, and diffusion trends in establishing the corrosion performance of Ga-modified CoCrFeNi HEAs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue High-Entropy Alloys)
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14 pages, 1236 KB  
Article
Design of Dipolar Push–Pull Fluorophores Based on Furanone–Nitrile Acceptors for Ratiometric Hydrogen Sulfide Sensing
by Yan-Chi Tseng and Chih-Hsin Chen
Chemosensors 2026, 14(6), 125; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemosensors14060125 - 29 May 2026
Viewed by 239
Abstract
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a toxic and biologically relevant gas, necessitating sensitive and interference-resistant detection methods for environmental monitoring. Here, we develop a donor–acceptor molecular platform incorporating a polarized conjugated double bond bridge and demonstrate its application, using YG2 as the [...] Read more.
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a toxic and biologically relevant gas, necessitating sensitive and interference-resistant detection methods for environmental monitoring. Here, we develop a donor–acceptor molecular platform incorporating a polarized conjugated double bond bridge and demonstrate its application, using YG2 as the representative probe, as a dual-peak ratiometric UV–Vis sensor for H2S. UV–Vis spectroscopy, supported by 1H NMR analysis, indicates HS--induced interaction with the conjugated linkage, leading to disruption of π-conjugation, suppression the intramolecular charge-transfer (ICT) band at 409 nm, and enhancing the locally excited (LE) band at 279 nm. The ratiometric parameter log(Abs279/Abs409) affords a linear response over the concentration range of 1.0 × 10−6–1.0 × 10−4 M with a detection limit of 8.3 × 10−7 M, providing approximately an order-of-magnitude improvement in analytical sensitivity compared with single-wavelength methods, and the reaction reaches completion within ~10 s. YG2 exhibits excellent selectivity toward H2S over common anions and enables accurate quantification in real water samples, with recoveries of 95.43–105.86% and relative standard deviations (RSDs) of 0.56–9.58%. These results suggest that YG2 is a rapid, self-calibrating, and spectroscopically interpretable ratiometric probe suitable for reliable H2S detection in complex aqueous environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers on Luminescent Sensing (Second Edition))
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27 pages, 1172 KB  
Systematic Review
Microbial Fuel Cells for Biomass Valorization: Bridging Climate Action and Terrestrial Ecosystem Protection
by S. Jonathan R.-F., Rafael Liza, Félix Díaz, Daniel Delfin-Narciso, Moisés Gallozzo Cardenas, Renny Nazario-Naveda and Luis Cabanillas-Chirinos
Polymers 2026, 18(11), 1354; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym18111354 - 29 May 2026
Viewed by 372
Abstract
Demographic growth and the global environmental crisis have intensified the need to reconcile energy generation with the protection of terrestrial ecosystems. Traditional organic waste management systems are inefficient in handling high pollutant loads, leading to uncontrolled methane emissions and degradation of soil and [...] Read more.
Demographic growth and the global environmental crisis have intensified the need to reconcile energy generation with the protection of terrestrial ecosystems. Traditional organic waste management systems are inefficient in handling high pollutant loads, leading to uncontrolled methane emissions and degradation of soil and water. In response to this challenge, the present study aimed to conduct a critical review of how Microbial Fuel Cells (MFCs) valorize biomass to align climate action (SDG 13) with the protection of terrestrial life (SDG 15). Through a bibliometric analysis of the Scopus database (2010–2026), supported by tools such as Bibliometrix, 460 documents were examined, complemented by a systematic literature review addressing biomass types, microbial interactions, and electrode modifications. The main findings indicate that MFC research is currently in an exponential growth phase (R2 = 0.99954), with Environmental Sciences (23%) and Chemical Engineering (15%) as the predominant fields. Industrial and plant residues exhibit the highest bioelectric potential, while mixed microbial consortia—particularly fungal–bacterial synergies—outperform pure cultures in degradative efficiency and energy generation, reaching up to 1760 mW/m2 with Geobacter sulfurreducens bioaugmentation. Electrode modification with nanomaterials such as NiO or MWCNTs substantially enhances charge transfer. Standardization of measurement protocols, ecological impact assessment of nanomaterials, and evaluation of the economic–environmental feasibility of MFC-integrated biorefineries are recommended to ensure scalability and effective contributions to SDGs 13 and 15. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Recycling of Polymer Materials)
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23 pages, 8731 KB  
Article
FeS2/CuFeS2 Composite Anodes Based on Seafloor Massive Sulfides Compositions for Lithium-Ion Batteries
by Songkai Yan, Xuefeng Yin, Moxuan Chen, Ouyuan Lu, Chunyu Chen and Dianchun Ju
Materials 2026, 19(11), 2199; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19112199 - 23 May 2026
Viewed by 297
Abstract
Transition metal sulfides are promising anode materials for lithium-ion batteries, but their practical application is limited by severe volume variation and sluggish reaction kinetics during cycling. Inspired by the natural mineral assemblage of seafloor massive sulfides (SMS), FeS2/CuFeS2 composite anodes [...] Read more.
Transition metal sulfides are promising anode materials for lithium-ion batteries, but their practical application is limited by severe volume variation and sluggish reaction kinetics during cycling. Inspired by the natural mineral assemblage of seafloor massive sulfides (SMS), FeS2/CuFeS2 composite anodes were prepared by a mechanochemical ball-milling method with mass ratios of 9:1 and 7:3 to reflect the major compositional characteristics of SMS. Among them, the 9:1 composite (F9C1) exhibited the best overall electrochemical performance, delivering a reversible capacity of 763.4 mAh g−1 after 300 cycles at 1 C and retaining 46% of its baseline capacity at 5 C. Structural and electrochemical analyses suggested that the introduction of a small amount of CuFeS2 likely promoted interfacial interactions between FeS2 and CuFeS2 phases, reduced charge-transfer resistance, and enhanced pseudocapacitive contribution, while preserving the capacity advantage of the FeS2 host phase. These results demonstrate that mineral-inspired compositional design is an effective strategy for improving the lithium-storage performance of sulfide anodes and provides a feasible route for developing electrode materials inspired by naturally coexisting sulfide minerals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Energy Materials)
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19 pages, 2594 KB  
Article
Turning Colombian Banana Waste into a Lignocellulosic Carbocatalyst: A Green Photocatalytic Route for Mercury Remediation
by Hasleidy Úsuga-Guerra, Milton Rojas, John Rojas, Lis Manrique-Losada, Daniel Ávila-Torres, Ricardo A. Torres-Palma and Yenny P. Ávila-Torres
Inorganics 2026, 14(5), 141; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14050141 - 21 May 2026
Viewed by 512
Abstract
Mercury pollution from artisanal and small-scale gold mining remains one of the most persistent environmental threats due to the high toxicity, mobility, and bioaccumulation of Hg(II). In this work, Colombian banana pseudostem waste is valorized into a lignocellulosic carbocatalyst through pyrolysis at 500 [...] Read more.
Mercury pollution from artisanal and small-scale gold mining remains one of the most persistent environmental threats due to the high toxicity, mobility, and bioaccumulation of Hg(II). In this work, Colombian banana pseudostem waste is valorized into a lignocellulosic carbocatalyst through pyrolysis at 500 °C followed by MnCO3-derived MnOx functionalization, producing a sustainable material for Hg(II) remediation. The transformation of the biomass leads from a fibrous structure (~25 µm) to a pyrolyzed carbon matrix (9.56 µm), and finally to a heterogeneous Mn-modified system with bimodal particle distribution (~25 µm and ~0.85 µm), the latter being associated with highly dispersed MnOx redox-active domains. Structural and textural analyses reveal that Mn incorporation significantly enhances surface properties, increasing the BET surface area from 140.8 to 213 m2 g−1 while reducing pore size to the meso–microporous range (~1.9 nm). Importantly, the material retains intrinsic minerals such as Ca, Mg, K, and Si, which contribute to surface basicity and ion-exchange capacity, supporting additional Hg(II) interaction pathways. Optical and electronic characterization shows a wide band gap semiconductor behavior (≈3.4 eV) and a conduction band position at −0.892 V vs. NHE, sufficiently negative to thermodynamically drive Hg2+ reduction to Hg0 under UV-A irradiation. Hg(II) quantification was validated using a UV–Vis method based on the Hg2+–dipicolinic acid (DPA) complex, confirming stable complex formation with 1:2 stoichiometry (Hg2+:DPA) and high analytical reliability (R2 = 0.948, LOD = 1.85 mg L−1). Photocatalytic experiments demonstrated negligible Hg(II) reduction under UV-A light in the absence of catalyst, whereas the carbon-based materials enabled significant Hg transformation through adsorption-assisted photoinduced electron transfer. Electrochemical analyses (Rct ≈ 11 Ω) confirmed efficient charge transport, while cyclic voltammetry evidenced reversible Mn(IV)/Mn(III)/Mn(II) redox cycling, which sustains electron mediation during photocatalysis. Overall, pristine biochar acts primarily through adsorption driven by oxygenated functional groups and porous structure, whereas Mn-functionalized biochar operates via a synergistic adsorption–photocatalytic mechanism. In this system, MnOx species function as redox-active centers that facilitate electron transfer from the carbon matrix to Hg(II), while the conductive lignocellulosic-derived framework enhances charge mobility. The combination of structural carbon stability, dispersed Mn active sites, and inherent mineral functionality establishes a highly efficient and sustainable carbocatalyst, demonstrating a green and scalable approach for mercury remediation in mining-impacted regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inorganic Photocatalysts for Environmental Applications)
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18 pages, 3072 KB  
Article
Probing Flavonoid-Metal and Membrane Interactions by UV-Vis Spectroscopy: Structural Insights into Bioactivity and Bioavailability
by Shuangmei Gong and Xiulong Ou
Membranes 2026, 16(5), 179; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16050179 - 20 May 2026
Viewed by 431
Abstract
This study used UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy to investigate the interactions of flavonoids—baicalein (with ortho-dihydroxyl on the A-ring) and apigenin (with 4′-monohydroxyl on the B-ring)—with metal ions (Co2+, Ce4+) and membrane–mimetic systems (CTAB/SDS micelles, liposomes, vesicles). It revealed how flavonoid [...] Read more.
This study used UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy to investigate the interactions of flavonoids—baicalein (with ortho-dihydroxyl on the A-ring) and apigenin (with 4′-monohydroxyl on the B-ring)—with metal ions (Co2+, Ce4+) and membrane–mimetic systems (CTAB/SDS micelles, liposomes, vesicles). It revealed how flavonoid spectral properties related to molecular structure and microenvironment. Key findings were as follows: pH affected absorption spectra by altering phenolic hydroxyl protonation. Metal chelation depended on hydroxyl position: baicalein’s A-ring ortho-dihydroxyl formed a stable charge-transfer complex with Cu2+. In acidic medium, apigenin reduced Ce(IV) more effectively than baicalein, which contradicted the classic antioxidant role of ortho-dihydroxyl groups. This showed that reaction microenvironments could change hydroxyl reactivity and electron transfer paths. Membrane–mimetic systems (liposomes/vesicles) raised apparent pKa, enhanced solubility and stability. The study first quantified distinct ΔpKa values for different flavonoids (e.g., quercetin vs. baicalein), which were linked to intramolecular H-bonding and membrane preference. Quercetin’s B-ring ortho-dihydroxyl enabled the formation of hydrophobic interfacial anions in nanocarriers under alkaline pH, ensuring high stability. Kaempferol showed sustained leakage. These findings provided a basis for structure-guided flavonoid carrier design, bioavailability, and antioxidant delivery. By integrating reaction microenvironment, membrane interface effects, and carrier stability, this work clarified flavonoid bioactivity mechanisms and supported targeted delivery strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biological Membranes)
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20 pages, 1279 KB  
Article
Spin Switching in Crystals Containing Tetranuclear Fe2Co2 Clusters as Structural Units: Interplay of Intra- and Intercluster Interactions
by Sophia I. Klokishner and Serghei M. Ostrovsky
Magnetochemistry 2026, 12(5), 59; https://doi.org/10.3390/magnetochemistry12050059 - 20 May 2026
Viewed by 370
Abstract
A microscopic model has been elaborated for the description of charge transfer-induced spin transitions in crystals containing tetranuclear Fe2Co2 clusters as structural units. The model takes into account the energy spectrum of each Fe2Co2 cluster, formed by [...] Read more.
A microscopic model has been elaborated for the description of charge transfer-induced spin transitions in crystals containing tetranuclear Fe2Co2 clusters as structural units. The model takes into account the energy spectrum of each Fe2Co2 cluster, formed by the states arising from its initial configuration, two low-spin FeII and two low-spin CoIII, final configuration two low-spin FeIII, and two high-spin CoII, as well as the states that originate from four intermediate configurations of the type of low-spin FeII, low-spin CoIII, low-spin FeIII, and high-spin CoII. Two different types of cooperative interactions are accounted for in the model, namely, the electron–deformational coupling arising as a result of the observed elongation of the cobalt-nitrogen bonds under the low-spin CoIII high-spin CoII transition and the interaction via the field of phonons that originates from the coupling of the Co-ions with the full symmetric displacements of the nearest ligand surrounding, which are modulated by crystalline vibrations. The role of cooperative interactions is discussed in detail. Different types of spin transitions are predicted, including the gradual and abrupt ones as well as those manifesting hysteretic behavior. Within the framework of the developed approach, a qualitative and quantitative explanation of the experimental data on the {[(Tp*)Fe(CN)3]2[Co(bpyMe)2]2}(OTf)2·2DMF·H2O compound recently reported oniere is given. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Magnetochemistry: Past, Present and Future)
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