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Keywords = or Co oxides

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18 pages, 2977 KiB  
Article
Unraveling the Excellent High-Temperature Oxidation Behavior of FeNiCuAl-Based Alloy
by Guangxin Wu, Gaosheng Li, Lijun Wei, Hao Chen, Yujie Wang, Yunze Qiao, Yu Hua, Chenyang Shi, Yingde Huang and Wenjie Yang
Materials 2025, 18(15), 3679; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18153679 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
This study synthesized FeNiCuAlX high-entropy alloys (HEAs) (where X = Cr, Co, Mn) using arc melting and investigated their high-temperature oxidation behavior in air at 900 °C. The oxidation kinetics of all alloys followed a parabolic rate, with the oxidation rate constants (kp) [...] Read more.
This study synthesized FeNiCuAlX high-entropy alloys (HEAs) (where X = Cr, Co, Mn) using arc melting and investigated their high-temperature oxidation behavior in air at 900 °C. The oxidation kinetics of all alloys followed a parabolic rate, with the oxidation rate constants (kp) of FeNiCuAlCr, FeNiCuAlCo, and FeNiCuAlMn being approximately two to three orders of magnitude lower than that of the FeNiCu alloy. Specifically, FeNiCuAlCr exhibited the lowest kp value of 1.72 × 10−6 mg2·cm4/s, which is significantly lower than those of FeNiCuAlCo (3.29 × 10−6 mg2·cm4/s) and FeNiCuAlMn (1.71 × 10−5 mg2·cm4/s). This suggests that the addition of chromium promotes the formation of a dense Al2O3/Cr2O3 oxide layer, significantly enhancing the oxidation resistance. Furthermore, corrosion resistance was assessed through potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in a 3.5% NaCl solution. FeNiCuAlCr demonstrated exceptional resistance to localized corrosion, as indicated by its low corrosion current density (45.7 μA/cm2) and high pitting potential (−0.21 V), highlighting its superior corrosion performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Characterization, Properties, and Applications of New Metallic Alloys)
15 pages, 4751 KiB  
Article
Electrocatalytic Oxidation for Efficient Toluene Removal with a Catalytic Cu-MnOx/GF Electrode in a Solid-State Electrocatalytic Device
by Haozhen Liu, Mingxin Liu, Xiqiang Zhao, Ping Zhou, Zhanlong Song, Wenlong Wang, Jing Sun and Yanpeng Mao
Catalysts 2025, 15(8), 749; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15080749 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
A series of Cu-MnOx/GF catalytic electrodes, with graphite felt (GF) pretreated via microwave modification as the catalyst carrier, were prepared under various hydrothermal conditions and characterized using X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), N2 adsorption–desorption, [...] Read more.
A series of Cu-MnOx/GF catalytic electrodes, with graphite felt (GF) pretreated via microwave modification as the catalyst carrier, were prepared under various hydrothermal conditions and characterized using X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), N2 adsorption–desorption, and Raman spectroscopy. The catalytic oxidation activity of catalytic Cu-MnOx/GF electrodes toward toluene was evaluated in an all-solid-state electrocatalytic device under mild operating conditions. The evaluation results demonstrated that the microwave-modified catalytic electrode exhibited high electrocatalytic activity toward toluene oxidation, with Cu-MnOx/700W-GF exhibiting significantly higher catalytic activity, indicating that an increase in catalyst loading capacity can promote the removal of toluene. Only CO2 and CO were detected, with no other intermediates observed in the reaction process. Moreover, the catalytic effect was significantly affected by the relative humidity. The catalytic oxidation of toluene can be fully realized under a certain humidity, indicating that the conversion of H2O to strongly oxidizing ·OH on the catalytic electrode is a key step in this reaction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalytic Removal of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs))
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18 pages, 1602 KiB  
Article
Interacting Effects of Heat and Nanoplastics Affect Wheat (Triticum turgidum L.) Seedling Growth and Physiology
by Debora Fontanini, Stefania Bottega, Monica Ruffini Castiglione and Carmelina Spanò
Plants 2025, 14(15), 2426; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14152426 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Nano- and microplastic pollution, together with the ongoing rise in global temperatures driven by climate change, represent increasingly critical environmental challenges. Although these stressors often co-occur in the environment, their combined effects on plant systems remain largely unexplored. To test the hypothesis that [...] Read more.
Nano- and microplastic pollution, together with the ongoing rise in global temperatures driven by climate change, represent increasingly critical environmental challenges. Although these stressors often co-occur in the environment, their combined effects on plant systems remain largely unexplored. To test the hypothesis that their interaction may exacerbate the effects observed under each stressor individually, we investigated the response of seedlings of Triticum turgidum to treatments with fluorescent polystyrene nanoplastics under optimal (25 °C) and elevated (35 °C) temperature conditions. We evaluated seedling growth, photosynthetic pigment content, and oxidative stress markers using both biochemical and histochemical techniques. In addition, we assessed enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant responses. The use of fluorescently labeled nanoplastics enabled the visualization of their uptake and translocation within plant tissues. Elevated temperatures negatively affect plant growth, increasing the production of proline, a key protective molecule, and weakly activating secondary defense mechanisms. Nanoplastics disturbed wheat seedling physiology, with these effects being amplified under high temperature conditions. Combined stress enhances nanoplastic uptake in roots, increases oxidative damage, and alters antioxidant responses, reducing defense capacity in leaves while triggering compensatory mechanisms in roots. These findings underscore a concerning interaction between plastic pollution and climate warming in crop plants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Physiology and Metabolism)
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19 pages, 3220 KiB  
Review
Integrated Technology of CO2 Adsorption and Catalysis
by Mengzhao Li and Rui Wang
Catalysts 2025, 15(8), 745; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15080745 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
This paper discusses the integrated technology of CO2 adsorption and catalysis, which combines adsorption and catalytic conversion, simplifies the traditional process, reduces energy consumption, and improves efficiency. The traditional carbon capture technology has the problems of high energy consumption, equipment corrosion, and [...] Read more.
This paper discusses the integrated technology of CO2 adsorption and catalysis, which combines adsorption and catalytic conversion, simplifies the traditional process, reduces energy consumption, and improves efficiency. The traditional carbon capture technology has the problems of high energy consumption, equipment corrosion, and absorbent loss, while the integrated technology realizes the adsorption, conversion, and catalyst regeneration of CO2 in a single reaction system, avoiding complex desorption steps. Through micropore confinement and surface electron transfer mechanism, the technology improves the reactant concentration and mass transfer efficiency, reduces the activation energy, and realizes the low-temperature and high-efficiency conversion of CO2. In terms of materials, MOF-based composites, alkali metal modified oxides, and carbon-based hybrid materials show excellent performance, helping to efficiently adsorb and transform CO2. However, the design and engineering of reactors still face challenges, such as the development of new moving bed reactors. This technology provides a new idea for CO2 capture and resource utilization and has important environmental significance and broad application prospects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalysis Accelerating Energy and Environmental Sustainability)
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21 pages, 1245 KiB  
Article
Geochemical Behaviour of Trace Elements in Diesel Oil-Contaminated Soil During Remediation Assisted by Mineral and Organic Sorbents
by Mirosław Wyszkowski and Natalia Kordala
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8650; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158650 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
The topic of environmental pollution by petroleum products is highly relevant due to rapid urbanisation, including industrial development, road infrastructure and fuel distribution. Potential threat areas include refineries, fuel stations, pipelines, warehouses and transshipment bases, as well as sites affected by accidents or [...] Read more.
The topic of environmental pollution by petroleum products is highly relevant due to rapid urbanisation, including industrial development, road infrastructure and fuel distribution. Potential threat areas include refineries, fuel stations, pipelines, warehouses and transshipment bases, as well as sites affected by accidents or fuel spills. This study aimed to determine whether organic and mineral materials could mitigate the effects of diesel oil pollution on the soil’s trace element content. The used materials were compost, bentonite and calcium oxide. Diesel oil pollution had the most pronounced effect on the levels of Cd, Ni, Fe and Co. The levels of the first three elements increased, while the level of Co decreased by 53%. Lower doses of diesel oil (2.5 and 5 cm3 per kg of soil) induced an increase in the levels of the other trace elements, while higher doses caused a reduction, especially in Cr. All materials applied to the soil (compost, bentonite and calcium oxide) reduced the content of Ni, Cr and Fe. Compost and calcium oxide also increased Co accumulation in the soil. Bentonite had the strongest reducing effect on the Ni and Cr contents of the soil, reducing them by 42% and 53%, respectively. Meanwhile, calcium oxide had the strongest reducing effect on Fe and Co accumulation, reducing it by 12% and 31%, respectively. Inverse relationships were recorded for Cd (mainly bentonite), Pb (especially compost), Cu (mainly compost), Mn (mainly bentonite) and Zn (only compost) content in the soil. At the most contaminated site, the application of bentonite reduced the accumulation of Pb, Zn and Mn in the soil, while the application of compost reduced the accumulation of Cd. Applying various materials, particularly bentonite and compost, limits the content of certain trace elements in the soil. This has a positive impact on reducing the effect of minor diesel oil pollution on soil properties and can promote the proper growth of plant biomass. Full article
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12 pages, 671 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
The Role of Industrial Catalysts in Accelerating the Renewable Energy Transition
by Partha Protim Borthakur and Barbie Borthakur
Chem. Proc. 2025, 17(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemproc2025017006 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Industrial catalysts are accelerating the global transition toward renewable energy, serving as enablers for innovative technologies that enhance efficiency, lower costs, and improve environmental sustainability. This review explores the pivotal roles of industrial catalysts in hydrogen production, biofuel generation, and biomass conversion, highlighting [...] Read more.
Industrial catalysts are accelerating the global transition toward renewable energy, serving as enablers for innovative technologies that enhance efficiency, lower costs, and improve environmental sustainability. This review explores the pivotal roles of industrial catalysts in hydrogen production, biofuel generation, and biomass conversion, highlighting their transformative impact on renewable energy systems. Precious-metal-based electrocatalysts such as ruthenium (Ru), iridium (Ir), and platinum (Pt) demonstrate high efficiency but face challenges due to their cost and stability. Alternatives like nickel-cobalt oxide (NiCo2O4) and Ti3C2 MXene materials show promise in addressing these limitations, enabling cost-effective and scalable hydrogen production. Additionally, nickel-based catalysts supported on alumina optimize SMR, reducing coke formation and improving efficiency. In biofuel production, heterogeneous catalysts play a crucial role in converting biomass into valuable fuels. Co-based bimetallic catalysts enhance hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) processes, improving the yield of biofuels like dimethylfuran (DMF) and γ-valerolactone (GVL). Innovative materials such as biochar, red mud, and metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) facilitate sustainable waste-to-fuel conversion and biodiesel production, offering environmental and economic benefits. Power-to-X technologies, which convert renewable electricity into chemical energy carriers like hydrogen and synthetic fuels, rely on advanced catalysts to improve reaction rates, selectivity, and energy efficiency. Innovations in non-precious metal catalysts, nanostructured materials, and defect-engineered catalysts provide solutions for sustainable energy systems. These advancements promise to enhance efficiency, reduce environmental footprints, and ensure the viability of renewable energy technologies. Full article
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21 pages, 4907 KiB  
Article
Integrated Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Analysis Reveals the Molecular Mechanisms Involved in the Adaptations of Mandarin Fish (Siniperca chuatsi) to Compound Feed
by Yunyun Yan, Yuan Zhang, Junjian Dong, Fubao Wang, Hetong Zhang, Fengying Gao, Xing Ye, Chengbin Wu and Chengfei Sun
Fishes 2025, 10(8), 379; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes10080379 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Siniperca chuatsi is an important high-quality freshwater aquaculture species in China. In nature, it feeds exclusively on live food. In this study, domesticated juvenile S. chuatsi were divided into three groups and fed live food (group L), compound feed (group C), or [...] Read more.
Siniperca chuatsi is an important high-quality freshwater aquaculture species in China. In nature, it feeds exclusively on live food. In this study, domesticated juvenile S. chuatsi were divided into three groups and fed live food (group L), compound feed (group C), or a mixed diet (group M) for three months to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying adaptation to compound feed. Histopathological examination revealed that compound feed consumption induced looser liver cell arrangement, hepatocyte morphological irregularities, and vacuolization. A total of 1033 and 1428 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), and 187 and 184 differential metabolites (DMs), were identified in the C vs. L and C vs. M groups, respectively. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that the significantly and commonly enriched metabolic pathways shared by both comparison groups were predominantly involved in amino acid, carbohydrate, and lipid metabolisms. Metabolomic analysis demonstrated that the significantly and commonly enriched metabolic pathways shared by both comparison groups were the arachidonic acid metabolism, linoleic acid metabolism, oxidative phosphorylation, and PPAR signalling pathways. Integrated omics analysis showed that the PPAR signalling pathway was the only significantly co-enriched pathway across both omics datasets. This study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms of compound feed adaptation and provides theoretical support for selecting feed traits in S. chuatsi. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Genetics and Biotechnology)
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20 pages, 4055 KiB  
Article
Biphasic Salt Effects on Lycium ruthenicum Germination and Growth Linked to Carbon Fixation and Photosynthesis Gene Expression
by Xinmeng Qiao, Ruyuan Wang, Lanying Liu, Boya Cui, Xinrui Zhao, Min Yin, Pirui Li, Xu Feng and Yu Shan
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7537; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157537 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Since the onset of industrialization, the safety of arable land has become a pressing global concern, with soil salinization emerging as a critical threat to agricultural productivity and food security. To address this challenge, the cultivation of economically valuable salt-tolerant plants has been [...] Read more.
Since the onset of industrialization, the safety of arable land has become a pressing global concern, with soil salinization emerging as a critical threat to agricultural productivity and food security. To address this challenge, the cultivation of economically valuable salt-tolerant plants has been proposed as a viable strategy. In the study, we investigated the physiological and molecular responses of Lycium ruthenicum Murr. to varying NaCl concentrations. Results revealed a concentration-dependent dual effect: low NaCl levels significantly promoted seed germination, while high concentrations exerted strong inhibitory effects. To elucidate the mechanisms underlying these divergent responses, a combined analysis of metabolomics and transcriptomics was applied to identify key metabolic pathways and genes. Notably, salt stress enhanced photosynthetic efficiency through coordinated modulation of ribulose 5-phosphate and erythrose-4-phosphate levels, coupled with the upregulation of critical genes encoding RPIA (Ribose 5-phosphate isomerase A) and RuBisCO (Ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase). Under low salt stress, L. ruthenicum maintained intact cellular membrane structures and minimized oxidative damage, thereby supporting germination and early growth. In contrast, high salinity severely disrupted PS I (Photosynthesis system I) functionality, blocking energy flow into this pathway while simultaneously inducing membrane lipid peroxidation and triggering pronounced cellular degradation. This ultimately suppressed seed germination rates and impaired root elongation. These findings suggested a mechanistic framework for understanding L. ruthenicum adaptation under salt stress and pointed out a new way for breeding salt-tolerant crops and understanding the mechanism. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Biology)
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17 pages, 5839 KiB  
Article
Salvianolic Acid A Activates Nrf2-Related Signaling Pathways to Inhibit Ferroptosis to Improve Ischemic Stroke
by Yu-Fu Shang, Wan-Di Feng, Dong-Ni Liu, Wen-Fang Zhang, Shuang Xu, Dan-Hong Feng, Guan-Hua Du and Yue-Hua Wang
Molecules 2025, 30(15), 3266; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30153266 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Ischemic stroke is a serious disease that frequently occurs in the elderly and is characterized by a complex pathophysiology and a limited number of effective therapeutic agents. Salvianolic acid A (SAL-A) is a natural product derived from the rhizome of Salvia miltiorrhiza, [...] Read more.
Ischemic stroke is a serious disease that frequently occurs in the elderly and is characterized by a complex pathophysiology and a limited number of effective therapeutic agents. Salvianolic acid A (SAL-A) is a natural product derived from the rhizome of Salvia miltiorrhiza, which possesses diverse pharmacological activities. This study aims to investigate the effect and mechanisms of SAL-A in inhibiting ferroptosis to improve ischemic stroke. Brain injury, oxidative stress and ferroptosis-related analysis were performed to evaluate the effect of SAL-A on ischemic stroke in photochemical induction of stroke (PTS) in mice. Lipid peroxidation levels, antioxidant protein levels, tissue iron content, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and mitochondrial morphology changes were detected to explore its mechanism. SAL-A significantly attenuated brain injury, reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) and long-chain acyl-CoA synthase 4 (ACSL4) levels. In addition, SAL-A also amplified the antioxidative properties of glutathione (GSH) when under glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), and the reduction in ferrous ion levels. In vitro, brain microvascular endothelial cells (b.End.3) exposed to oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) were used to investigate whether the anti-stroke mechanism of SAL-A is related to Nrf2. Following OGD/R, ML385 (Nrf2 inhibitor) prevents SAL-A from inhibiting oxidative stress, ferroptosis, and mitochondrial dysfunction in b.End.3 cells. In conclusion, SAL-A inhibits ferroptosis to ameliorate ischemic brain injury, and this effect is mediated through Nrf2. Full article
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16 pages, 1313 KiB  
Article
Mycorrhizas Promote Total Flavonoid Levels in Trifoliate Orange by Accelerating the Flavonoid Biosynthetic Pathway to Reduce Oxidative Damage Under Drought
by Lei Liu and Hong-Na Mu
Horticulturae 2025, 11(8), 910; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11080910 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Flavonoids serve as crucial plant antioxidants in drought tolerance, yet their antioxidant regulatory mechanisms within mycorrhizal plants remain unclear. In this study, using a two-factor design, trifoliate orange (Poncirus trifoliata (L.) Raf.) seedlings in the four-to-five-leaf stage were either inoculated with Funneliformis [...] Read more.
Flavonoids serve as crucial plant antioxidants in drought tolerance, yet their antioxidant regulatory mechanisms within mycorrhizal plants remain unclear. In this study, using a two-factor design, trifoliate orange (Poncirus trifoliata (L.) Raf.) seedlings in the four-to-five-leaf stage were either inoculated with Funneliformis mosseae or not, and subjected to well-watered (70–75% of field maximum water-holding capacity) or drought stress (50–55% field maximum water-holding capacity) conditions for 10 weeks. Plant growth performance, photosynthetic physiology, leaf flavonoid content and their antioxidant capacity, reactive oxygen species levels, and activities and gene expression of key flavonoid biosynthesis enzymes were analyzed. Although drought stress significantly reduced root colonization and soil hyphal length, inoculation with F. mosseae consistently enhanced the biomass of leaves, stems, and roots, as well as root surface area and diameter, irrespective of soil moisture. Despite drought suppressing photosynthesis in mycorrhizal plants, F. mosseae substantially improved photosynthetic capacity (measured via gas exchange) and optimized photochemical efficiency (assessed by chlorophyll fluorescence) while reducing non-photochemical quenching (heat dissipation). Inoculation with F. mosseae elevated the total flavonoid content in leaves by 46.67% (well-watered) and 14.04% (drought), accompanied by significantly enhanced activities of key synthases such as phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), chalcone synthase (CHS), chalcone isomerase (CHI), 4-coumarate:coA ligase (4CL), and cinnamate 4-hydroxylase (C4H), with increases ranging from 16.90 to 117.42% under drought. Quantitative real-time PCR revealed that both mycorrhization and drought upregulated the expression of PtPAL1, PtCHI, and Pt4CL genes, with soil moisture critically modulating mycorrhizal regulatory effects. In vitro assays showed that flavonoid extracts scavenged radicals at rates of 30.07–41.60% in hydroxyl radical (•OH), 71.89–78.06% in superoxide radical anion (O2•−), and 49.97–74.75% in 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). Mycorrhizal symbiosis enhanced the antioxidant capacity of flavonoids, resulting in higher scavenging rates of •OH (19.07%), O2•− (5.00%), and DPPH (31.81%) under drought. Inoculated plants displayed reduced hydrogen peroxide (19.77%), O2•− (23.90%), and malondialdehyde (17.36%) levels. This study concludes that mycorrhizae promote the level of total flavonoids in trifoliate orange by accelerating the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway, hence reducing oxidative damage under drought. Full article
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17 pages, 972 KiB  
Article
SARS-CoV-2 Main Protease Dysregulates Hepatic Insulin Signaling and Glucose Uptake: Implications for Post-COVID-19 Diabetogenesis
by Praise Tatenda Nhau, Mlindeli Gamede, Andile Khathi and Ntethelelo Sibiya
Pathophysiology 2025, 32(3), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathophysiology32030039 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: There is growing evidence suggesting that SARS-CoV-2 may contribute to metabolic dysfunction. SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and metabolic dysregulation, all of which may impair liver function and promote glucose intolerance. This study investigated the role of SARS-CoV-2, [...] Read more.
Background: There is growing evidence suggesting that SARS-CoV-2 may contribute to metabolic dysfunction. SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and metabolic dysregulation, all of which may impair liver function and promote glucose intolerance. This study investigated the role of SARS-CoV-2, specifically its Main Protease (Mpro), in accelerating insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction in HepG2 cells in vitro. Methods: HepG2 cells were treated with varying concentrations of Mpro (2.5, 5, 10, 20, 40, 80, and 160 nmol/mL) for 24 h to assess cytotoxicity and glucose uptake. Based on initial findings, subsequent assays focused on higher concentrations (40, 80, and 160 nmol/mL). The effects of Mpro on cell viability, protein kinase B (AKT) expression, matrix metallopeptidase-1 (MMP1), dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4), interleukin-6 (IL-6) expression, and lipid peroxidation were investigated. Results: Our findings reveal that the SARS-CoV-2 Mpro treatment led to a concentration-dependent reduction in glucose uptake in HepG2 cells. Additionally, the Mpro treatment was associated with reduced insulin-stimulated AKT activation, particularly at higher concentrations. Inflammatory markers such as IL-6 were elevated in the extracellular medium, while DPP4 expression was decreased. However, extracellular soluble DPP4 (sDPP4) levels did not show a significant change. Despite these changes, cell viability remained relatively unaffected, suggesting that the HepG2 cells were able to maintain overall metabolic functions under Mpro exposure. Conclusions: This study demonstrated the concentration-dependent impairment of hepatic glucose metabolism, insulin signaling, and inflammatory pathways in HepG2 cells acutely exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 Mpro. These findings warrant further investigation to explore the long-term metabolic effects of SARS-CoV-2 and its proteases in the liver and to develop potential therapeutic approaches for post-viral metabolic complications. Full article
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11 pages, 1745 KiB  
Article
Comprehensive Investigation of Structural and Photocatalytic Properties of Cobalt and Nickel Co-Doped Magnesium Oxide Nanoparticles
by Shafaq Arif, Amna Sarwar and M. S. Anwar
Condens. Matter 2025, 10(3), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/condmat10030041 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Cobalt and Nickel (Co, Ni) co-doped magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles (NPs) have been synthesized using the coprecipitation method. The structural, chemical, and optical properties of the as-synthesized NPs are systematically investigated using X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and UV-visible spectroscopy. [...] Read more.
Cobalt and Nickel (Co, Ni) co-doped magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles (NPs) have been synthesized using the coprecipitation method. The structural, chemical, and optical properties of the as-synthesized NPs are systematically investigated using X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and UV-visible spectroscopy. It is found that the optical bandgap of co-doped MgO NPs reduces from 2.30 to 1.98 eV (14%) with increasing Ni dopant concentrations up to 7%. The Co0.05Ni0.07Mg0.88O NPs exhibit a high photocatalytic degradation efficiency of 93% for methylene blue dye (MB) under natural sunlight irradiation for 240 min. Our findings indicate that the Co0.05NixMg0.95−xO NPs have strong potential for use as photocatalysts in industrial wastewater treatment. Full article
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19 pages, 9135 KiB  
Article
A Study on the Characterization of Asphalt Plant Reclaimed Powder Using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy
by Hao Wu, Daoan Yu, Wentao Wang, Chuanqi Yan, Rui Xiao, Rong Chen, Peng Zhang and Hengji Zhang
Materials 2025, 18(15), 3660; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18153660 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Asphalt plant reclaimed powder is a common solid waste in road engineering. Reusing reclaimed powder as filler holds significant importance for environmental protection and resource conservation. The key factors affecting the feasibility of reclaimed powder reuse are its acidity/alkalinity and cleanliness. Traditional evaluation [...] Read more.
Asphalt plant reclaimed powder is a common solid waste in road engineering. Reusing reclaimed powder as filler holds significant importance for environmental protection and resource conservation. The key factors affecting the feasibility of reclaimed powder reuse are its acidity/alkalinity and cleanliness. Traditional evaluation methods, such as the methylene blue test and plasticity index, can assess reclaimed powder properties to guide its recycling. However, these methods suffer from inefficiency, strong empirical dependence, and high variability. To address these limitations, this study proposes a rapid and precise evaluation method for reclaimed powder properties based on Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). To do so, five field-collected reclaimed powder samples and four artificial samples were evaluated. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were employed to characterize their microphase morphology, chemical composition, and crystal structure, respectively. Subsequently, FTIR was used to establish correlations between key acidity/alkalinity, cleanliness, and multiple characteristic peak intensities. Representative infrared characteristic peaks were selected, and a quantitative functional group index (Is) was proposed to simultaneously evaluate acidity/alkalinity and cleanliness. The results indicate that reclaimed powder primarily consists of tiny, crushed stone particles and dust, with significant variations in crystal structure and chemical composition, including calcium carbonate, silicon oxide, iron oxide, and aluminum oxide. Some samples also contained clay, which critically influenced the reclaimed powder properties. Since both filler acidity/alkalinity and cleanliness are affected by clay (silicon/carbon ratio determining acidity/alkalinity and aluminosilicate content affecting cleanliness), this study calculated four functional group indices based on FTIR absorption peaks, namely the Si-O-Si stretching vibration (1000 cm−1) and the CO32− asymmetric stretching vibration (1400 cm−1). These indices were correlated with conventional testing results (XRF for acidity/alkalinity, methylene blue value, and pull-off strength for cleanliness). The results show that the Is index exhibited strong correlations (R2 = 0.89 with XRF, R2 = 0.80 with methylene blue value, and R2 = 0.96 with pull-off strength), demonstrating its effectiveness in predicting both acidity/alkalinity and cleanliness. The developed method enhances reclaimed powder detection efficiency and facilitates high-value recycling in road engineering applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Approaches in Asphalt Binder Modification and Performance)
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15 pages, 744 KiB  
Article
Investigation of Effects of Low Ruminal pH Values on Serum Concentrations of Macrominerals, Trace Elements, and Vitamins and Oxidative Status of Dairy Cows
by Panagiotis D. Katsoulos, Bengü Bilgiç, Duygu Tarhan, Fatma Ateş, Suat Ekin, Süleyman Kozat, Banu Dokuzeylül, Mehmet Erman Or, Emmanouil Kalaitzakis, Georgios E. Valergakis and Nikolaos Panousis
Ruminants 2025, 5(3), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/ruminants5030035 - 2 Aug 2025
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Abstract
Due to the feeding system (high-concentrate diet) during the early lactation stage, ruminal pH in dairy cows follows a diurnal pattern and can remain below the critical level of 5.5 for extended periods of the day. This study aimed to evaluate the effect [...] Read more.
Due to the feeding system (high-concentrate diet) during the early lactation stage, ruminal pH in dairy cows follows a diurnal pattern and can remain below the critical level of 5.5 for extended periods of the day. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of low ruminal pH on blood concentrations of certain macrominerals, trace minerals, and fat-soluble vitamins and on the oxidative status of dairy cows during the first half of lactation. Fifty-three randomly selected lactating Holstein cows were used; blood and ruminal fluid samples were collected from all cows on days 30, 90 and 150 of lactation. Blood samples were obtained via coccygeal venipuncture, while the ruminal fluid was obtained by rumenocentesis and the pH was measured immediately after collection. Using a threshold pH of 5.5, samples were classified as normal (pH > 5.5) or low pH (pH ≤ 5.5). Serum concentrations of Ca, Mg, K, Cr, Mn, Zn, Se, and vitamins A, D3, E, and K were not significantly affected by ruminal pH, either by days in milk or by their interaction (p > 0.05). Plasma malondialdehyde and reduced glutathione followed the same trend (p > 0.05). Copper concentration was significantly higher (p < 0.05), and Fe concentration tended to be higher in cows with low pH compared to those with normal pH (p = 0.052). On day 150 of lactation, Cu, Fe, and Co concentrations were significantly higher in low-pH cows compared to normal-pH cows (p < 0.05). Low ruminal pH is associated with significant changes in serum concentrations of copper, iron, and cobalt but has no significant effect on the oxidative status of the animals or on the serum concentrations of the macro elements and fat-soluble vitamins studied. Full article
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Article
Antioxidant Effects of Exogenous Mitochondria: The Role of Outer Membrane Integrity
by Sadab Sipar Ibban, Jannatul Naima, Ryo Kato, Taichi Kuroda and Yoshihiro Ohta
Antioxidants 2025, 14(8), 951; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14080951 (registering DOI) - 2 Aug 2025
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Abstract
The administration of isolated mitochondria is a promising strategy for protecting cells from oxidative damage. This study aimed to identify mitochondrial characteristics that contribute to stronger protective effects. We compared two types of mitochondria isolated from C6 cells with similar ATP-producing capacity but [...] Read more.
The administration of isolated mitochondria is a promising strategy for protecting cells from oxidative damage. This study aimed to identify mitochondrial characteristics that contribute to stronger protective effects. We compared two types of mitochondria isolated from C6 cells with similar ATP-producing capacity but differing in outer membrane integrity. To evaluate their stability in extracellular conditions, we examined their behavior in serum. Both types underwent mitochondrial permeability transition to a similar extent; however, under intracellular-like conditions after serum incubation, mitochondria with intact membranes retained more polarized mitochondria. Notably, mitochondria with intact outer membranes were internalized more efficiently than those with damaged membranes. In H9c2 cells, both types of mitochondria similarly increased intracellular ATP levels 1 h after administration under all tested conditions. When co-administered with H2O2, both suppressed oxidative damage to a comparable degree, as indicated by similar H2O2-scavenging activity in solution, comparable intracellular ROS levels, and equivalent preservation of electron transport chain activity. However, at higher H2O2 concentrations, cells treated with mitochondria possessing intact outer membranes exhibited greater survival 24 h after co-administration. Furthermore, when mitochondria were added after H2O2-induced damage and their removal, intact mitochondria conferred superior cell survival compared to damaged ones. These findings suggest that while both mitochondrial types exert comparable antioxidant effects, outer membrane integrity prior to administration plays a critical role in enhancing cell survival under conditions of oxidative stress. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section ROS, RNS and RSS)
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