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17 pages, 7250 KB  
Article
Evaluation of Active Components of Black Pine Essential Oil as Sustainable Corrosion Inhibitors–Part II
by Anđela R. Simović, Dušan Berber, Mihajlo Etinski, Branimir N. Grgur and Jelena B. Bajat
Metals 2026, 16(7), 716; https://doi.org/10.3390/met16070716 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2026
Abstract
This study evaluates the corrosion inhibition performance of α-pinene, β-pinene, and caryophyllene, constituents of black pine (Pinus nigra) essential oil, on carbon steel in 1 M HCl. At concentrations reflecting their natural abundance in 100 ppm essential oil, α-pinene (66.5 ppm) showed the [...] Read more.
This study evaluates the corrosion inhibition performance of α-pinene, β-pinene, and caryophyllene, constituents of black pine (Pinus nigra) essential oil, on carbon steel in 1 M HCl. At concentrations reflecting their natural abundance in 100 ppm essential oil, α-pinene (66.5 ppm) showed the highest efficiency among individual compounds (up to 94.99%), while β-pinene and caryophyllene exhibited lower efficiencies due to their minor natural content. At an identical concentration (80 ppm), caryophyllene displayed the highest inhibition efficiency after 4 h immersion (96.16%), exceeding α-pinene (92.46%), β-pinene (89.75%), and slightly surpassing the essential oil (95.26%). Electrochemical measurements revealed time-dependent enhancement of protection for all inhibitors. Potentiodynamic polarization indicated mixed-type inhibition with predominant cathodic control and a decrease in corrosion current density from 173.33 μA cm−2 (blank) to 7.03 μA cm−2 (caryophyllene). SEM confirmed reduced surface degradation in inhibited systems, while contact angle measurements showed increased hydrophobicity after prolonged exposure to caryophyllene, indicating formation of a stable adsorbed film. DFT calculations corroborated experimental trends, identifying caryophyllene as the most efficient inhibitor due to favorable electronic properties. The results highlight individual phytochemicals as promising sustainable corrosion inhibitors. Full article
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29 pages, 17021 KB  
Article
Integrated LIBS-EPMA and Multivariate Statistical Analysis for Ge-Bearing Mineral Characterization: A Tool for High-Tech Critical Metals Exploration
by Nicolas Afanassieff, Emilie Janots, Octave Reignier, Vincent Motto-Ros, Valentina Batanova, Dennis Lahondès, Etienne Le Goff, Jérémie Melleton and Bénédicte Cenki
Minerals 2026, 16(7), 685; https://doi.org/10.3390/min16070685 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2026
Abstract
Germanium (Ge) is a high-tech critical metal typically hosted at trace levels in sphalerite, making its detection and characterization challenging in both primary ores and mine residues. This study presents a multi-scale analytical workflow combining laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), electron probe micro-analysis (EPMA), [...] Read more.
Germanium (Ge) is a high-tech critical metal typically hosted at trace levels in sphalerite, making its detection and characterization challenging in both primary ores and mine residues. This study presents a multi-scale analytical workflow combining laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), electron probe micro-analysis (EPMA), and multivariate statistics to detect, map and quantify Ge distribution in a representative Pb-Zn sample from the Les Malines deposit (France). µ-LIBS mapping enables rapid centimeter-scale screening at 15 µm resolution and identifies Ge-bearing domains over large areas, which are subsequently investigated at micrometer scale using EPMA chemical mapping and quantitative analyses. Results reveal a strong µm-scale heterogeneity of Ge distribution within sphalerite, with Ge systematically concentrated in an Fe-rich intermediate zonation associated with prismatic growth textures, while Cu/Cd/Ag are enriched in distinct collomorph domains. Multivariate statistical analyses (correlation matrices and PCA) confirm a strong geochemical structuring opposing an Fe/Ge association against a Cu/Cd/Ag pole. These findings demonstrate that Ge incorporation is controlled by localized growth conditions rather than bulk composition. The proposed workflow provides an efficient and scalable framework for exploration, enabling rapid targeting of critical metal enrichments and supporting their extension to multiple mineralization stages, Pb-Zn deposits, and other high-tech critical metals (HTCMs) such as Ga and In. Full article
16 pages, 3525 KB  
Article
Multiscale Molecular Dynamics and Quantum–Electrostatic Modelling of Graphene Electric Double-Layer Transistors for β2-Microglobulin Biosensing
by Ghassem Baridi, Arslan Liaquat, Leonardo Martini, Federico Rapuzzi, Herath Mudiyanselage Kasun Gayanga Anuradha Herath, El Hadj Abidi, Maria Celeste Maschio, Vito Clericò, Yahya Moubarak Meziani, Mario Amado, Enrique Diez, Stefano Corni, Giorgia Brancolini, Luigi Rovati and Francesco Rossella
Electronics 2026, 15(13), 2837; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics15132837 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2026
Abstract
Biosensors are rapidly emerging as a pivotal technology with far-reaching implications in fields such as medical diagnostics, environmental analysis and pharmaceutical research. Among the various biosensing platforms, Graphene Field-Effect Transistor (GFET) biosensors have attracted considerable interest due to their exceptional sensitivity, potential for [...] Read more.
Biosensors are rapidly emerging as a pivotal technology with far-reaching implications in fields such as medical diagnostics, environmental analysis and pharmaceutical research. Among the various biosensing platforms, Graphene Field-Effect Transistor (GFET) biosensors have attracted considerable interest due to their exceptional sensitivity, potential for cost-efficient fabrication, and compatibility with scalable manufacturing processes. This work computationally addresses sensing mechanisms and design strategies associated with GFET-based biosensors, with a focus on the influence of electrolyte gating on device performance, tackling the role of graphene’s quantum capacitance and testing the electrical detection of β2-microglobulin as a case study. Molecular dynamics is used to rationalize the details of the physisorption of a single biomolecule onto the graphene surface, while finite element method simulations are employed to evaluate device sensitivity and figure of merit. Results reveal that incorporating quantum capacitance into the model leads to a Sensitivity-over-FWHM_min figure of merit exceeding 100 L/g being achievable for a β2-microglobulin concentration of 0.001 g/L. These computational outcomes highlight the relevance of quantum-electrostatic effects in GFET biosensor performance and suggest potential routes towards the optimization of graphene-based electronic biodetector engineering. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Bioelectronics, Wearable Systems and E-Health)
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10 pages, 2009 KB  
Communication
Study on the Enhancement of Mechanical Properties and Electromagnetic Performance of Imidazolium Ionogels by Doping with Magnetic Triiron Tetraoxide Nanoparticles
by Xueqi Zhao, Zhanrong Zhou, Peijia Ding, Yang Gao, Xingyu Xie, Hongfu Qiang and Jian Hu
Polymers 2026, 18(13), 1614; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym18131614 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2026
Abstract
Ionogels combining ionic liquids with polymer networks show promise for flexible electronics, but their mechanical and functional performance often needs enhancement. Here, we report a series of magnetic nanocomposite ionogels fabricated by doping triiron tetraoxid (Fe3O4) nanoparticles into a [...] Read more.
Ionogels combining ionic liquids with polymer networks show promise for flexible electronics, but their mechanical and functional performance often needs enhancement. Here, we report a series of magnetic nanocomposite ionogels fabricated by doping triiron tetraoxid (Fe3O4) nanoparticles into a [C2mim]+[EtSO4]-dispersed cross-linked PAA matrix. The effect of PAA content (10–20 wt%) on the optical, mechanical, and dielectric properties of pure imidazolium ionogels was first investigated. Increasing PAA concentration enhanced tensile strength (up to ~0.7 MPa) and compressive modulus (~0.65 MPa) while reducing optical transmittance; dielectric relaxation peaks around 6–8 GHz were observed, with the 15 wt% sample showing the highest permittivity. Subsequently, Fe3O4 nanoparticles (0–20 wt%) were incorporated into the 10 wt% PAA ionogel. The resulting magnetic ionogels exhibited reduced tensile strength, but significantly increased elongation (up to ~12 strain), indicating network softening. Magnetic hysteresis measurements confirmed superparamagnetic behavior with saturation magnetization reaching ~2.5 emu/g at 20 wt% Fe3O4 loading. This work demonstrates a facile strategy to simultaneously tune mechanical, dielectric, and magnetic properties in imidazolium ionogels, providing guidelines for designing soft multifunctional materials for microwave absorption, magnetic actuation, and flexible sensor applications. Full article
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22 pages, 6676 KB  
Article
Neurophysiological Responses to Inhalation of Osmanthus fragrans Volatiles: A Combined Electronic Nose and Electroencephalogram (EEG) Study on Concentration-Dependent Effects
by Seong Jun Hong, Hyeonjin Park, Younglan Ban, Se Young Yu, Hee Sung Moon, Ji Sun Kim, Daeyong Shin, Kiseong Kim, Young Jun Kim, Jae Kyeom Kim and Eui-Cheol Shin
Plants 2026, 15(13), 2006; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15132006 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2026
Abstract
Fragrant olive (Osmanthus fragrans var. aurantiacus (O. fragrans)) extract is known to influence neurophysiological responses through inhalation, yet research on concentration-dependent effects and sex-specific variations remains insufficient. This study utilized an electronic nose (E-nose), electroencephalography (EEG), and standardized low-resolution electromagnetic [...] Read more.
Fragrant olive (Osmanthus fragrans var. aurantiacus (O. fragrans)) extract is known to influence neurophysiological responses through inhalation, yet research on concentration-dependent effects and sex-specific variations remains insufficient. This study utilized an electronic nose (E-nose), electroencephalography (EEG), and standardized low-resolution electromagnetic tomography (sLORETA) to characterize the volatile profiles and neurophysiological impacts of O. fragrans at 3% and 5% concentrations. E-nose analysis identified 48 volatile compounds, with chemometric modeling (PCA, HCA) showing clear discrimination between concentrations. EEG results demonstrated that inhalation induced significant concentration-dependent changes—specifically increasing sedation-related alpha waves and decreasing tension-related gamma waves—with 5% O. fragrans eliciting more widespread cortical responses than the 3% concentration. Notably, no significant sex-related differences were observed in general EEG patterns; however, sLORETA revealed that 5% inhalation specifically suppressed high beta and gamma activities in male participants within Brodmann areas 13, 21, 22, and 44, regions associated with emotional and multisensory processing. In conclusion, this study successfully quantified the relationship between volatile profiles and human brain responses using an integrated biomimetic and neurophysiological approach. These findings provide objective evidence that O. fragrans inhalation, particularly at 5%, modulates neural oscillations toward a relaxed state, offering valuable data for olfactory perception and potential applications as functional volatile compounds. Full article
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18 pages, 3263 KB  
Article
Structural, Optical, and Toxicological Features of Au-Modified ZnO Nanoparticles
by Daniel Muñoz-Flores, Jexairys Sostre-Figueroa, Amanda Rodríguez-Cadiz and Sonia J. Bailón-Ruiz
Compounds 2026, 6(3), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/compounds6030036 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2026
Abstract
Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles are semiconductor nanomaterials widely used in biomedical, environmental, and catalytic applications due to their unique physicochemical properties. However, their increasing environmental release has raised concerns regarding potential toxicity in aquatic ecosystems. In this study, pure ZnO, 1% Au-modified ZnO, [...] Read more.
Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles are semiconductor nanomaterials widely used in biomedical, environmental, and catalytic applications due to their unique physicochemical properties. However, their increasing environmental release has raised concerns regarding potential toxicity in aquatic ecosystems. In this study, pure ZnO, 1% Au-modified ZnO, and 5% Au-modified ZnO nanoparticles were synthesized via a reflux-assisted method to evaluate the effects of Au incorporation on morphology, crystallinity, optical behavior, surface chemistry, and ecotoxicological responses, using Artemia salina as a marine bioindicator. Structural characterization was performed using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), electron diffraction, high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM), and energy-dispersive X ray spectroscopy (EDS) elemental mapping, while optical and surface analyses were conducted using UV–Vis and Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. Although Au-rich domains were identified, the available data do not allow definitive determination of whether Au is incorporated into the ZnO lattice or present as surface-associated metallic Au. Increasing Au content promoted greater nanoparticle agglomeration and broader particle size distributions while preserving the hexagonal wurtzite ZnO crystalline structure. UV-Vis and FT-IR analyses demonstrated that Au modification altered the optical response and surface chemical environment of the nanoparticles. Toxicological evaluations revealed concentration- and time-dependent toxicity. Pure ZnO nanoparticles exhibited LC50 values of 531.25 ppm after 24 h and 65.15 ppm after 48 h exposure. In contrast, 1% Au-modified ZnO nanoparticles showed reduced toxicity, whereas 5% Au-modified ZnO nanoparticles exhibited increased toxicity after prolonged exposure. These findings demonstrate that Au modification significantly influences the physicochemical properties and biological interactions of ZnO nanoparticles. Full article
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23 pages, 4525 KB  
Article
Corrosion Behavior of 304 Stainless Steel During Three-Year Atmospheric Field Exposure in Antarctica
by Ting Peng, Shicheng Wang, Sizhi Zuojiang, Zihao Tian, Yijing Sun, Xuzhou Jiang and Dongbai Sun
Materials 2026, 19(13), 2754; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19132754 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2026
Abstract
Three-year atmospheric field-exposure tests were conducted on 304 austenitic stainless steel at the Great Wall and Zhongshan Stations in Antarctica to evaluate its corrosion behavior under severe polar conditions. The exposed specimens were dominated by localized corrosion with pronounced pitting characteristics at both [...] Read more.
Three-year atmospheric field-exposure tests were conducted on 304 austenitic stainless steel at the Great Wall and Zhongshan Stations in Antarctica to evaluate its corrosion behavior under severe polar conditions. The exposed specimens were dominated by localized corrosion with pronounced pitting characteristics at both sites. Corrosion was more severe at Zhongshan Station, and the mean corrosion rates at Great Wall and Zhongshan Stations were 1.428 and 1.643 μm y−1, respectively. The mean/maximum pit depths were 4.16/5.51 μm at Great Wall Station and 5.85/8.24 μm at Zhongshan Station. Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), grazing-incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXRD), and focused ion beam-transmission electron microscopy (FIB-TEM) showed that the corrosion products consisted mainly of β-FeOOH, α-FeOOH, and γ-Fe2O3, and the Antarctic exposure substantially altered the thickness, structure, and electrochemical response of the passive film. Compared with the unexposed specimen, the exposed specimens exhibited markedly lower charge-transfer resistance and higher donor density, indicating degradation of the protective passive film. Combined with the site-specific environmental features, the lower temperature, more intense freeze–thaw cycling, freezing-induced concentration of electrolytes, and stronger irradiation at Zhongshan Station are inferred to promote Cl enrichment in localized surface liquid films and destabilization of the passive film, thereby accelerating pit initiation and growth. These findings provide a mechanistic basis for material selection and corrosion-protection design for 304 stainless steel in polar engineering environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advanced Failure Analysis of Materials)
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18 pages, 2539 KB  
Article
Differential Effects of Mesenchymal Stem Cell- and Natural Killer Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles on Cisplatin Responsiveness in Endometrial Cancer Cells
by Ren-Jun Hsu, Cheng-Shuo Huang, Ming-Kung Yeh, Zheng-Zong Lai, Cheng-Ping Yu, Jar-Yi Ho and Fung-Wei Chang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(13), 5842; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27135842 (registering DOI) - 28 Jun 2026
Abstract
Cisplatin (cis-diamminedichloroplatinum(II) [DDP]) is a key chemotherapeutic agent for advanced endometrial cancer; however, chemoresistance substantially limits its clinical benefit. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) mediate intercellular communication and influence tumour cell behaviour and therapeutic response. We investigated whether mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs) and [...] Read more.
Cisplatin (cis-diamminedichloroplatinum(II) [DDP]) is a key chemotherapeutic agent for advanced endometrial cancer; however, chemoresistance substantially limits its clinical benefit. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) mediate intercellular communication and influence tumour cell behaviour and therapeutic response. We investigated whether mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs) and natural killer cell-derived extracellular vesicles (NK-EVs) modulate cisplatin responsiveness in endometrial cancer cells (RL95-2 and HEC-1A). MSC-EVs and NK-EVs were isolated and characterised using nanoparticle tracking analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and EV marker profiling. MSC-EVs and NK-EVs reduced RL95-2 and HEC-1A cell viability in a dose-dependent manner, with MSC-EVs exhibiting substantial effects at lower particle concentrations. In a cisplatin-resistant HEC-1A (HEC-1A DDP-R) model, MSC-EVs were associated with greater reductions in cell viability under cisplatin treatment conditions, whereas NK-EVs showed comparatively modest effects. Mechanistic analyses demonstrated altered expression of apoptosis- and cell cycle–related proteins, including increased cleaved poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase and cleaved caspase-3 levels and reduced cyclin A and cyclin D1 expression following MSC-EV treatment. Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide flow cytometry demonstrated increased apoptotic cell populations after MSC-EV treatment, with MSC-EV + DDP co-treatment resulting in the highest apoptotic fraction in chemoresistant HEC-1A cells. Collectively, these findings indicate that MSC-EVs are associated with altered cellular responses to cisplatin in chemoresistant endometrial cancer cells, accompanied by changes in apoptosis-related protein expression, apoptotic cell populations, and cell-cycle regulators. Further investigation is required to determine their mechanistic role and therapeutic potential in overcoming chemoresistance. Full article
14 pages, 365 KB  
Article
Cancer Risk in Clinically Recognized Celiac Disease: A Nationwide Propensity-Matched Cohort Study
by Reem Zabit, Ahmad Shibly, Jamal Zidan, Ofir Cohen and Ismaell Massalha
Med. Sci. 2026, 14(3), 352; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci14030352 (registering DOI) - 27 Jun 2026
Viewed by 80
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Celiac disease (CD) is common, but its cancer-risk profile remains incompletely defined. Estimates vary because of referral patterns, diagnostic era, outcome definitions, and surveillance around diagnosis. We evaluated cancer-category-specific associations in a matched cohort of clinically recognized CD. Methods: We used longitudinal [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Celiac disease (CD) is common, but its cancer-risk profile remains incompletely defined. Estimates vary because of referral patterns, diagnostic era, outcome definitions, and surveillance around diagnosis. We evaluated cancer-category-specific associations in a matched cohort of clinically recognized CD. Methods: We used longitudinal electronic health record (EHR) data from Clalit Health Services for a propensity-matched cohort. Adults with EHR-coded CD were matched to controls on demographic, socioeconomic, comorbidity, and inflammatory variables. Pre-index invasive malignancies and non-invasive neoplasms were excluded. Dated EHR-coded invasive oncology outcomes were analyzed using Cox models. A restricted dated-event cohort, lag analyses, competing-risk modeling, hemoglobin adjustment, and age-at-index strata assessed robustness. Results: The primary matched cohort included 8143 individuals: 1006 with CD and 7137 controls, contributing 49,330.5 person-years. CD was associated with increased hazard of an EHR-coded invasive oncology outcome (hazard ratio [HR] 1.61, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.47–1.77; p<0.001). Strongest signals were hematological malignancy codes (HR 1.99), lymphoma codes (HR 1.90), and gastrointestinal (GI) cancer codes (HR 2.71). Associations persisted after one-year and two-year lags. In the dated-event sensitivity cohort (161 CD; 1610 controls), CD remained associated with invasive cancer (HR 1.68, 95% CI 1.31–2.14), with the strongest signals for lymphoma (HR 2.81) and GI cancer (HR 2.25). The association was essentially unchanged under competing-risk modeling (Fine–Gray subdistribution HR 1.69) and after hemoglobin adjustment (HR 1.61), and was present in both age strata. Neither breast nor lung cancer was associated. Lymphoma codes included peripheral T-cell lymphomas recorded at intra-abdominal and extranodal sites, the pattern most consistent with enteropathy-associated T-cell lymphoma (EATL). Conclusions: In clinically recognized CD, cancer hazard was elevated and category-specific, concentrated in hematological, lymphoid, and GI codes with a gut-oriented T-cell lymphoma signal. The findings support targeted clinical vigilance, not expanded screening, and describe relative associations that require registry-linked confirmation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insights into the Modern Landscape of Cancer Therapeutics)
32 pages, 9441 KB  
Article
Architecture-Dependent Thermal Decomposition of RAFT-Modified Polypropylene Glycol Maleate-Acrylic Acid Copolymers: Results of TG–MS and Kinetic Analysis
by Akmaral Zh. Sarsenbekova, Almagul S. Makhmutova, Meruyert S. Zhunissova, Nazigul S. Remetova, Meruyert B. Issabayeva, Gulnissa K. Kurmantayeva, Mussa E. Zholdasbayev and Bibigul B. Ashirbekova
Polymers 2026, 18(13), 1599; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym18131599 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026
Viewed by 254
Abstract
The effect of reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization on the structure, morphology, and thermal degradation behavior of polypropylene glycol maleate–acrylic acid copolymers (p-PGM:AA) was investigated using 2-cyano-2-propyl dodecyl trithiocarbonate (CPDT) as the RAFT agent. Copolymers synthesized at different CPDT concentrations were characterized [...] Read more.
The effect of reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization on the structure, morphology, and thermal degradation behavior of polypropylene glycol maleate–acrylic acid copolymers (p-PGM:AA) was investigated using 2-cyano-2-propyl dodecyl trithiocarbonate (CPDT) as the RAFT agent. Copolymers synthesized at different CPDT concentrations were characterized by 1H/13C NMR spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography (GPC), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), thermogravimetric analysis coupled with mass spectrometry (TG–MS), isoconversional kinetic methods, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. 1H NMR spectroscopy revealed a progressive decrease in the relative intensity of vinyl proton signals with increasing CPDT concentration, indicating enhanced conversion of unsaturated fragments during copolymerization. Alkaline hydrolysis followed by 1H NMR and GPC analysis of the degradation products confirmed cleavage of polyester segments and yielded low-molecular-weight fragments with Mn = 1370 g mol−1 and narrow dispersity (Đ = 1.035), providing additional information on the architecture of the vinyl-polymerized segments. Increasing CPDT concentration resulted in lower molecular weights and narrower molecular weight distributions of the soluble copolymer fractions. TEM analysis demonstrated broader domain size distributions and increased morphological heterogeneity in RAFT-modified samples, accompanied by an increase in swelling degree. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that RAFT-modified systems undergo multi-stage thermal degradation with the appearance of an additional low-temperature stage associated with thermolabile fragments. TG–MS revealed earlier evolution of CO2 and oxygen-containing species and changes in the distribution of volatile products. DFT calculations indicated a decrease in the HOMO–LUMO energy gap and suggested the participation of RAFT-derived fragments in the energetic characteristics of decarboxylation processes. Isoconversional and nonlinear kinetic analyses demonstrated increased kinetic heterogeneity for branched copolymer s synthesized at elevated CPDT concentrations, whereas cross-linked systems exhibited more uniform degradation behavior. The combined experimental and theoretical results demonstrate that RAFT polymerization provides an effective route for tuning the macromolecular architecture, morphology, and thermal degradation pathways of p-PGM:AA copolymers. Full article
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18 pages, 9582 KB  
Article
Physicochemical Properties and Fluoride Release of Compomer Materials Modified with Silver and Copper Oxide Particles
by Adam Lubojański, Katarzyna Szyszka, Adam Watras, Bartosz Mielan, Maciej Dobrzyński and Rafal J. Wiglusz
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(13), 6408; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16136408 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026
Viewed by 133
Abstract
Background: Compomer materials combine the advantages of composite resins and glass ionomer cements, including fluoride release, durability, and aesthetics. This study evaluated the effects of silver nanoparticles (nAg0) and copper oxide (CuO) particles on fluoride ions release and the structural properties [...] Read more.
Background: Compomer materials combine the advantages of composite resins and glass ionomer cements, including fluoride release, durability, and aesthetics. This study evaluated the effects of silver nanoparticles (nAg0) and copper oxide (CuO) particles on fluoride ions release and the structural properties of a commercially available compomer. Methods: Compomer discs modified with 0.125 wt.%, 0.25 wt.%, and 0.5 wt.% nAg0 or CuO were prepared and analyzed in demineralized water and artificial saliva at various pH levels for 168 h. Fluoride release was measured using a fluoride-selective electrode, while structural and morphological properties were examined using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results: Under most of the tested conditions, the modified materials exhibited higher fluoride release than the unmodified compomer, with the greatest increase typically observed at higher additive concentrations. XRD analysis confirmed the presence of crystalline phases of Ag0 and CuO while maintaining the amorphous nature of the compomer matrix. SEM observations revealed better particle dispersion at lower additive concentrations and increased agglomeration at a 0.5% content. Conclusions: These results indicate that the incorporation of nAg0 and CuO particles may enhance the fluoride-releasing potential of compomer materials; however, further studies are necessary to evaluate their mechanical, antibacterial, cytotoxic, and aesthetic properties prior to clinical application. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Applied Dentistry and Oral Sciences)
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26 pages, 7002 KB  
Article
Proteomics and Metabolomics Reveal Novel Impacts of Choline Supply on Calf Hepatocytes Experiencing Accumulation During a Fatty Acid Challenge
by Yaqi Chang, Bin Jia, Yaran Si, Zexin Zhang, Jiachen Liu, Yue Gao, Junhao Wang, Yanhui Wang, Juan J. Loor, Bingbing Zhang and Wei Yang
Metabolites 2026, 16(7), 451; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo16070451 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026
Viewed by 159
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Exposure to high and sustained levels of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) in the peripartal period is the main cause of fatty liver disease in dairy cows. Rumen-protected choline is often fed as part of the nutritional management of peripartal cows, with in [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Exposure to high and sustained levels of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) in the peripartal period is the main cause of fatty liver disease in dairy cows. Rumen-protected choline is often fed as part of the nutritional management of peripartal cows, with in vivo and in vitro data indicating positive effects of this nutrient on alleviating liver lipid accumulation. Although hepatic molecular mechanisms associated with choline supply have been studied using a target gene, protein, or metabolite approach, application of high-throughput technologies could vastly enhance fundamental knowledge on the functional role of choline. The main objective was to challenge isolated hepatocytes with a mixture of NEFA and determine proteome- and metabolome-wide effects in response to choline supply. Methods: Three healthy female calves (1 d old, 30–45 kg) were sacrificed to harvest hepatocytes. During a 12 h incubation, isolated hepatocytes were challenged without NEFA (control), 1.2 mM NEFA (c9-18:1, 18:2, 16:0, 18:0, and c9-16:1 at 43.5%, 4.9%, 31.9%, 14.4%, and 5.3% of total NEFA, respectively), or NEFA for 6 h followed by 10 μM choline chloride for another 6 h (NEFA + Chol). iTRAQ labeling-based protein profiling and GC/MS-based metabolomics profiling were used to determine changes in proteins and metabolites. Differentially abundant proteins for each group comparison were determined at a threshold of 1.4-fold change. Differences in metabolite profiles were assessed via pairwise comparisons. A subset of differentially abundant proteins was validated via qRT-PCR and Western blotting. Results: Compared with the control, there were 90 proteins and 22 metabolites in the NEFA group, and 83 proteins and 29 metabolites in the NEFA + Chol. Compared with NEFA, there were 49 proteins and 17 metabolites in the NEFA + Chol group. Greater abundance of hexokinase-1 (HK1), fructose-bisphosphate aldolase (ALDOA), mitochondrial pyruvate carrier 1 (MPC1), and increased concentrations of lactate with high NEFA treatment alone suggested greater glycolytic and TCA cycle activity. Accumulation of triacylglycerol in the NEFA group was associated with lipotoxicity and markers of inflammation, such as greater abundance of prostaglandin reductase 1 (PTGR1), serious cell autophagy processes, such as greater abundance of cell division cycle 42 (CDC42), and NFκB-related proteins. Choline supplementation reduced TAG partly due to greater VLDL secretion driven by greater abundance of diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT1), perilipin 3 (PLIN3), and apolipoprotein C-III (APOC3). In addition, a greater abundance of carnitine O-palmitoyltransferase 1b (CPT1B) with choline suggested enhanced mitochondrial β-oxidation. Activation of the CDC42/JNK pathway and ROS/NFκB axis-related proteins, along with depressed PI3K/AKT/RAC-related proteins, indicated enhanced mitochondrial autophagy in response to NEFA. Conclusions: Overall, data confirmed published effects of choline on TAG accumulation, VLDL secretion, and fatty acid oxidation, while highlighting negative effects of NEFA on the respiratory electron transport chain, autophagy, and inflammatory processes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metabolic Research in Dairy Cattle Health)
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13 pages, 12682 KB  
Article
Separation of Manganese Oxides from Iron–Manganese Ores by Preliminary Hydrogen Reduction
by Nurlybay Kosdauletov, Assylbek Nurumgaliyev, Galymzhan Adilov, Bakyt Suleimen, Bauyrzhan Kelamanov, Yerbol Kuatbay, Kagan Benzesik, Assylbek Abdirashit, Gulzat Bulekova and Yeleussiz Nurassyl
Metals 2026, 16(7), 696; https://doi.org/10.3390/met16070696 (registering DOI) - 25 Jun 2026
Viewed by 156
Abstract
The present study investigates the possibility of selective iron reduction from the Keregetas iron–manganese ore deposit (Kazakhstan) using hydrogen, followed by the separation of iron- and manganese-containing phases. The relevance of the research is associated with the need to develop environmentally sustainable processing [...] Read more.
The present study investigates the possibility of selective iron reduction from the Keregetas iron–manganese ore deposit (Kazakhstan) using hydrogen, followed by the separation of iron- and manganese-containing phases. The relevance of the research is associated with the need to develop environmentally sustainable processing technologies for low-grade iron–manganese ores under the conditions of metallurgical industry decarbonization. Experimental studies were carried out at temperatures of 800–900 °C in a high-purity hydrogen atmosphere, followed by magnetic separation and liquid-phase separation of the reduction products. The phase and chemical compositions of the samples were analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). It was established that during the reduction process, iron oxides were predominantly transformed into the metallic state with the formation of α-Fe, whereas manganese oxides were mainly reduced to MnO and Mn3O4. Magnetic separation demonstrated limited selectivity due to the simultaneous transfer of iron-containing and manganese-containing phases into the magnetic fraction. At the same time, liquid-phase separation of the pre-reduced material at 1650 °C ensured effective separation of metallic and slag phases, with manganese concentrated in the slag and minimal losses in the metallic product. A technological flowsheet for the processing of iron–manganese ores is proposed, including hydrogen reduction, magnetic separation, and subsequent high-temperature phase separation. The obtained results demonstrate the prospects of hydrogen metallurgy for the development of low-carbon technologies for the integrated processing of iron–manganese raw materials. Full article
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19 pages, 8188 KB  
Article
Identification of Pathogens Causing Foxtail Millet Blast and Screening of Chemical Fungicides and Biocontrol Bacteria
by Jinhua Wang, Qi Tian, Tian Li, Weishuo Yu, Aiying Zhang, Shuqi Dong, Jianguo Ma, Hui Cao, Chi Hao, Xiangyang Yuan, Huiling Du, Xizhong Yan and Chunyan Hu
Agronomy 2026, 16(13), 1234; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy16131234 - 25 Jun 2026
Viewed by 179
Abstract
Foxtail millet is one of the important minor cereal crops and is highly valued for its nutritional quality and drought tolerance. With the continuous expansion of the foxtail millet industry, the harm caused by foxtail millet blast has become increasingly severe. In this study, 53 [...] Read more.
Foxtail millet is one of the important minor cereal crops and is highly valued for its nutritional quality and drought tolerance. With the continuous expansion of the foxtail millet industry, the harm caused by foxtail millet blast has become increasingly severe. In this study, 53 samples of foxtail millet leaves symptomatic of foxtail millet blast were collected from a foxtail millet base in Dingxiang County, Shanxi Province, from June to October 2023. Isolation, culture and identification of the pathogen were carried out, yielding a total of 16 pure isolates, and preliminary studies on the growth inhibition and control effects of the fungus were conducted by determining the plate inhibition rate, scanning electron microscope observations and indoor potted plant experiments. The results showed that based on the morphological characteristics of the isolated strains and the combined analysis of ITS-RPB1-ACT sequences, all 16 pure isolates obtained were identified as Pyricularia oryzae. The results of the antifungal test showed that Bacillus velezensis YQH had the highest inhibition rate of 57.93% against the pathogen of foxtail millet blast; among chemical fungicides, 9% Pyraclostrobin Suspension Concentrate, 45% Prochloraz Emulsifiable Concentrate and 32.5% Difenoconazole–Azoxystrobin Suspension Concentrate had strong inhibitory effects on the fungus, with EC50 values (95% confidence intervals) of 0.328 (0.262–0.400) μg·mL−1, 0.848 (0.578–1.219) μg·mL−1 and 0.310 (0.197–0.484) μg·mL−1, respectively. The results of the potted plant experiment were in accordance with the in vitro antifungal results, and scanning electron microscopy showed that the mycelia in the treatment groups of these three chemical fungicides showed developmental deformities, breakage or surface shrinkage. In conclusion, B. velezensis YQH and the three chemical fungicides (especially 9% Pyraclostrobin Suspension Concentrate and 32.5% Difenoconazole–Azoxystrobin Suspension Concentrate) are effective candidates for controlling foxtail millet blast. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pest and Disease Management)
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19 pages, 17604 KB  
Article
Pore Structure Reorganization and Effective Porosity Regulation in Grey Desert Soil Under Biogas Slurry Drip Irrigation
by Feng Ma, Feng Ding, Huimin Yang, Haohui Zhang and Haijun Yan
Agronomy 2026, 16(13), 1227; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy16131227 - 25 Jun 2026
Viewed by 157
Abstract
Degraded grey desert soils are characterized by severe nutrient deficiencies and structural compaction. This study elucidated how biogas slurry drip irrigation regulates the micro-pore architecture, fertility, and macroscopic hydraulic properties. A one-year field experiment was conducted using a completely randomized design with three [...] Read more.
Degraded grey desert soils are characterized by severe nutrient deficiencies and structural compaction. This study elucidated how biogas slurry drip irrigation regulates the micro-pore architecture, fertility, and macroscopic hydraulic properties. A one-year field experiment was conducted using a completely randomized design with three replications. The experimentation included three irrigation levels (W1: 70% W, W2: 85% W, and W3: 100% W, where W is full irrigation) and three slurry ratios (S1: 60% S, S2: 80% S, and S3: 100% S, where S is the annual nitrogen application rate of 93 kg ha−1), with undisturbed (CK) and chemical fertilizer (CF) controls. Surface soil samples (0–20 cm) were analyzed based on treatment averages using scanning electron microscopy and the van Genuchten (vG) model. The results indicated that W3S2 increased the total porosity to a peak of 42.39% compared with the CK baseline of 25.25%, while expanding the mean pore diameter to 9.24 μm. Concurrently, the application minimized the morphological pore fragmentation, reducing the fractal dimension from 1.82 under CK to 1.61 under W3S3. Although the macroscopic porosity expanded, the effective saturated water content decreased. We hypothesize that this reduction is driven by partial micropore clogging by organic coatings. This mitigated the excessive near-saturation water retention and accelerated drainage, while significantly increasing the specific water capacity at 100–1000 kPa suctions to delay moisture depletion. W2S3 (85% W, 100% S) performed favorably with regard to soil fertility and water retention stability. The W2S3 treatment optimized soil fertility and water retention stability by achieving peak concentrations of 17.69 g kg−1 for SOM and 1.31 g kg−1 for TN. Path analysis suggested that physical microstructural traits dominate macroscopic hydraulic regulation. In conclusion, biogas slurry drip irrigation provides a sustainable framework to optimize structural and hydraulic resilience in dryland agriculture. Full article
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