Search Results (4,691)

Superhydrophobic magnetic nanomaterials (SHMNMs) are emerging as multifunctional platforms for efficient oil–water separation due to their combination of extreme water repellency, strong oil affinity, and external magnetic responsiveness. This review presents a comprehensive analysis of recent advances in the design, synthesis, and environmental application of SHMNMs. The theoretical foundations of superhydrophobicity and the physicochemical behavior of magnetic nanoparticles are first outlined, followed by discussion of their synergistic integration. Key fabrication techniques—such as sol–gel synthesis, electrospinning, dip-coating, laser-assisted processing, and the use of biomass-derived precursors—are critically assessed in terms of their ability to tailor surface morphology, chemical functionality, and long-term durability. The review further explores the mechanisms of oil adsorption, magnetic separation, and material reusability under realistic environmental conditions. Special attention is paid to the scalability, mechanical resilience, and environmental compatibility of SHMNMs in the context of water treatment technologies. Current limitations, including reduced efficiency in harsh media, potential environmental risks, and challenges in material regeneration, are discussed. This work provides a structured overview that could support the rational development of next-generation superhydrophobic materials tailored for sustainable and high-performance separation of oil and organic pollutants from water. Full article

Tribocatalysis is receiving more and more attention for its great potential in environmental remediation. In this study, a special tribocatalysis was explored as a powder-free catalytic technology for the degradation of organic dyes. Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and titanium (Ti) disks were first assembled as magnetic rotary disks and then driven to rotate through magnetic stirring in dye solutions in beakers with PTFE, Ti, and Al₂O₃ disks coated on bottoms separately. PTFE and Ti generated dynamic friction with the disks on the beaker bottoms in the course of magnetic stirring, from which some interesting dye degradations resulted. Among those dynamic frictions generated, 40 mg/L rhodamine b (RhB), 30 mg/L methyl orange (MO), and 20 mg/L methylene blue (MB) were effectively degraded by the one between PTFE and PTFE, the one between Ti and Ti, and the one between PTFE and Ti, respectively. Hydroxyl radicals and superoxide radicals were detected for two frictions, one between PTFE and PTFE and the other between Ti and Ti. It is proposed that Ti in friction increases the pressure in blocked areas through deformation and then catalyzes reactions under high pressure. Mechano-radicals are formed by PTFE through deformation, and are responsible for dye degradation. This work demonstrates a powder-free tribocatalysis for organic pollutant degradation and suggests an especially eco-friendly catalytic technology to wastewater treatment. Full article

Herein, a bi-functional composite photocatalyst was synthesized by integrating carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphitic carbon nitride (GCN) via a facile electrostatic self-assembly strategy. The resulting CNTs/GCN composite served dual roles as both a solid emulsifier and a photocatalyst, enabling highly efficient photocatalytic benzyl alcohol oxidation within a Pickering emulsion system. The relationship between emulsion droplet size and solid emulsifier dosage was investigated and optimized. The enhanced photocatalytic function was supported by an improved photocurrent response and reduced charge-transfer resistance, attributed to superior charge separation efficiency. Consequently, the benzyl alcohol conversion efficiency achieved in the Pickering emulsion system (58.9%) was three-fold of that observed in a traditional oil–water non-emulsion system (19.0%). Key active species were identified as photoholes, and an interfacial reaction mechanism was proposed. This work provides a new approach for extending photocatalytic applications in aqueous environments to diverse organic conversion reactions through the construction of multifunctional photocatalysts. Full article

In this study, a Z-scheme Ho₂InSbO₇/Ag₃PO₄ (HAO) heterojunction photocatalyst was successfully fabricated for the first time by ultrasound-assisted solvothermal method. The structural features, compositional components and morphological characteristics of the synthesized materials were thoroughly characterized by a series of techniques, including X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectrum, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. A comprehensive array of analytical techniques, including ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflectance absorption spectra, photoluminescence spectroscopy, time-resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy, photocurrent testing, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, electron paramagnetic resonance, and ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy, was employed to systematically investigate the optical, chemical, and photoelectronic properties of the materials. Using oxytetracycline (OTC), a representative tetracycline antibiotic, as the target substrate, the photocatalytic activity of the HAO composite was assessed under visible light irradiation. Comparative analyses demonstrated that the photocatalytic degradation capability of the HAO composite surpassed those of its individual components. Notably, during the degradation process, the application of the HAO composite resulted in an impressive removal efficiency of 99.89% for OTC within a span of 95 min, along with a total organic carbon mineralization rate of 98.35%. This outstanding photocatalytic performance could be ascribed to the efficient Z-scheme electron-hole separation system occurring between Ho₂InSbO₇ and Ag₃PO₄. Moreover, the adaptability and stability of the HAO heterojunction were thoroughly validated. Through experiments involving the capture of reactive species and electron paramagnetic resonance analysis, the active species generated by HAO were identified as hydroxyl radicals (•OH), superoxide anions (•O₂⁻), and holes (h⁺). This identification provides valuable insights into the mechanisms and pathways associated with the photodegradation of OTC. In conclusion, this research not only elucidates the potential of HAO as an efficient Z-scheme heterojunction photocatalyst but also marks a significant contribution to the advancement of sustainable remediation strategies for OTC contamination. Full article

The geochemistry of the fatty acids in the modern sediments in the Northern South Yellow Sea is still poorly studied, and studies on the geochemistry of the fatty acids in relatively long-core sediment samples are lacking. Thus, the fatty acids in the core sediments in the Northern South Yellow Sea were separated and identified to study their components and distribution characteristics, and the sources of organic matter and the early diagenetic evolution of the fatty acids in the sediments were discussed. The results show that saturated straight-chain fatty acids (methyl ester) have the highest content in the core sediments in the Northern South Yellow Sea, which account for 83.89% of the total fatty acids (methyl ester). nC_16:0 is dominant, accounting for 30.48% of the n-saturated fatty acids (methyl ester). Unsaturated fatty acids (methyl ester) account for 7.59% of the total fatty acids (methyl ester). Binary unsaturated fatty acids (methyl ester) can only be detected in some samples, which are low in content and dominated by C_18:2. Based on the components and distribution of the fatty acids (methyl ester) in the core sediments in the Northern South Yellow Sea, combined with the characteristics of other lipid biomarker compounds, the actual geological background, and previous research results, it is considered that the sources of organic matter in the core sediments are marine–terrestrial mixed materials, with terrestrial materials dominating. The fatty acids’ (methyl ester) CPI, the relative content of short-chain saturated fatty acids (methyl ester), and the unsaturated fatty acids (methyl ester) in the core sediments show non-obvious variation as the burial depth increases, reflecting that the fatty acids in the core sediments are strongly degraded at the early diagenetic stage, and this degradation is controlled by various complicated factors. Full article

The increasing use of pharmaceutically active compounds (PhACs), endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs), and personal care products (PCPs) has led to the widespread presence of organic micropollutants (OMPs) in aquatic environments, posing a significant global challenge for environmental conservation. In recent years, advanced materials-based nanofiltration (NF) technologies have emerged as a promising solution for water and wastewater treatment. This review begins by examining the sources of OMPs, as well as the risk of OMPs. Subsequently, the key criteria of NF membranes for OMPs are discussed, with a focus on the roles of pore size, charge property, molecular interaction, and hydrophilicity in the separation performance. Against that background, this review summarizes and analyzes recent advancements in materials such as metal organic frameworks (MOFs), covalent organic frameworks (COFs), graphene oxide (GO), MXenes, hybrid materials, and environmentally friendly materials. It highlights the porous nature and structural diversity of organic framework materials, the advantage of inorganic layered materials in forming controllable nanochannels through stacking, the synergistic effects of hybrid materials, and the importance of green materials. Finally, the challenges related to the performance optimization, scalable fabrication, environmental sustainability, and complex separation of advanced materials-based membranes for OMP removal are discussed, along with future research directions and potential breakthroughs. Full article

The aim of this study was to prevent the development of microorganisms in the refrigerated storage of tench by releasing allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) produced by black mustard seeds. Tench reared in an aquaculture centre were sacrificed and the fillets were separated. Different amounts of defatted mustard seed (300, 400 and 500 mg) were added to hermetic polypropylene trays. Microbiological, sensory, and gas chromatography with MS detection analysis were done. AITC release increased progressively until the third day of storage, significantly delaying the development of microorganisms in samples with higher mustard seed content. The tasting panel detected positive aromas at the beginning of the study, but these decreased and negative aromas appeared. The mustard seed treatment resulted in a higher positive aroma at the end of the storage, reducing rotting and ammonia odours. A total of 31 volatile compounds were detected and grouped into hydrocarbon, alcohol, benzenoid, isothiocyanate, ketone, acetate, aldehyde, and others. Butylated hydroxytoluene, an indicator of bacterial contamination, was the major aromatic compound found during storage. The release of AITC resulted in fewer organic compounds with negative aromas appearing during storage. PCA analysis allowed us to classify the assays during storage according to their volatile profiles, confirming the differences observed between treatments. Thus, adding mustard seed to fish packaging could be a viable alternative to extending the product’s shelf life and ensuring food safety. Full article

The paradigm-shift idea of murburn concept is no hypothesis but developed directly from fundamental facts of cellular/ecological existence. Murburn involves spontaneous and stochastic interactions (mediated by murzymes) amongst the molecules and unbound ions of cells. It leads to effective charge separation (ECS) and formation/recruitment of diffusible reactive species (DRS, like radicals whose reactions enable ATP-synthesis and thermogenesis) and emission of radiations (UV/Vis to ELF). These processes also lead to a chemo-electromagnetic matrix (CEM), ascertaining that living cell/organism react/function as a coherent unit. Murburn concept propounds the true utility of oxygen: generating DRS (with catalytic and electrical properties) on the way to becoming water, the life solvent, and ultimately also leading to phase-based macroscopic homeostatic outcomes. Such a layout enables cells to become simple chemical engines (SCEs) with powering, coherence, homeostasis, electro-mechanical and sensing–response (PCHEMS; life’s short-term “intelligence”) abilities. In the current review, we discuss the coacervate nature of cells and dwell upon the ways and contexts in which various radiations (either incident or endogenously generated) could interact in the new scheme of cellular function. Presenting comparative evidence/arguments and listing of systems with murburn models, we argue that the new perceptions explain life processes better and urge the community to urgently adopt murburn bioenergetics and adapt to its views. Further, we touch upon some distinct scientific and sociological contexts with respect to the outreach of murburn concept. It is envisaged that greater awareness of murburn could enhance the longevity and quality of life and afford better approaches to therapies. Full article

We report a case of catheter-associated bloodstream infection caused by a putative novel species in the genus Erwinia, identified using whole-genome sequencing (WGS). A female adolescent receiving long-term home parenteral nutrition via a central venous catheter (CVC) presented with a fever. Gram-negative rods were isolated from two CVC-derived blood culture sets, while peripheral cultures remained negative. Conventional identification methods, including VITEK 2, Phoenix M50, MALDI-TOF MS, and 16S rRNA and rpoB gene sequencing, failed to achieve species-level identification. WGS was performed on the isolate using Illumina MiSeq. Genomic analysis revealed a genome size of 5.39 Mb with 56.8% GC content and high assembly completeness. The highest average nucleotide identity (ANI) was 90.3% with Pantoea coffeiphila, and ≤85% with known Erwinia species, suggesting that it represents a distinct taxon. Phylogenetic analyses placed the isolate within the Erwinia clade but separate from any known species. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing showed broad susceptibility. This case highlights the utility of WGS for the identification of rare or novel organisms not captured by conventional methods and expands the clinical spectrum of Erwinia species. While the criteria for species delineation were met, the phenotypic characterization remains insufficient to formally propose a new species. Full article

Background: Phoebe zhennan and Phoebe chekiangensis are valuable evergreen trees recognized for their unique aromas and ecological significance, yet the organ-related distribution and functional implications of aroma-active volatiles remain insufficiently characterized. Methods: In this study, we applied an integrated GC-MS-based volatile metabolomics approach combined with a relative odor activity value (rOAV) analysis to comprehensively profile and compare the volatile metabolite landscape in the seeds and leaves of both species. Results: In total, 1666 volatile compounds were putatively identified, of which 540 were inferred as key aroma-active contributors based on the rOAV analysis. A multivariate statistical analysis revealed clear tissue-related separation: the seeds were enriched in sweet, floral, and fruity volatiles, whereas the leaves contained higher levels of green leaf volatiles and terpenoids associated with ecological defense. KEGG pathway enrichment indicated that terpenoid backbone and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathways played major roles in shaping these divergent profiles. A Venn diagram analysis further uncovered core and unique volatiles underlying species and tissue specificity. Conclusions: These insights provide an integrated reference for understanding tissue-divergent volatile profiles in Phoebe species and offer a basis for fragrance-oriented selection, ecological trait evaluation, and the sustainable utilization of organ-related metabolic characteristics in breeding and conservation programs. Full article

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) interact with a variety of biomolecules, including DNA, mRNAs, microRNA, and proteins, to regulate various cellular processes. Recently, their interactions with lipids have gained increasing attention as an emerging research area. Both lipids and lncRNAs play central roles in cellular regulation, and growing evidence reveals a complex interplay between these molecules. These interactions contribute to key biological functions, such as cancer progression, lipid droplet transport, autophagy, liquid−liquid phase separation, and the formation of organelles without membranes. Understanding the lipid−lncRNA interface opens new avenues for unraveling cellular regulation and disease mechanisms, holding great potential not only for elucidating the fundamental aspects of cellular biology but also for identifying innovative therapeutic targets for metabolic disorders and cancer. This review highlights the biological relevance of lipid–lncRNA interactions by exploring their roles in cellular organization, regulation, and diseases, including metabolic and cancer-related disorders. Full article

Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as advanced porous crystalline materials due to their highly ordered structures, ultra-high surface areas, fine-tunable pore sizes, and massive chemical diversity. These features, arising from the coordination between an almost unlimited number of metal ions/clusters and organic linkers, have resulted in significant interest in MOFs for applications in gas storage, catalysis, sensing, energy, and biomedicine. Beyond their stand-alone properties and applications, recent research has increasingly explored the integration of MOFs with other substrates, particularly electrodes, polymeric thin films, and glass surfaces, to create synergistic effects that enhance material performance and broaden application potential. Coating MOFs onto these substrates can yield significant benefits, including, but not limited to, improved sensitivity and selectivity in electrochemical sensors, enhanced mechanical and separation properties in membranes, and multifunctional coatings for optical and environmental applications. This review provides a comprehensive and up-to-date summary of recent advances (primarily from the past 3–5 years) in MOF coating techniques, including layer-by-layer assembly, in situ growth, and electrochemical deposition. This is followed by a discussion of the representative applications arising from MOF-substrate coating and an outline of key challenges and future directions in this rapidly evolving field. This article aims to serve as a focused reference point for researchers interested in both fundamental strategies and applied developments in MOF surface coatings. Full article

Background: Patient blood management (PBM) strategies have been shown to significantly reduce the use of blood products and enabled surgical procedures to be carried out safely without the need for transfusions. This evidence has raised questions about the possibilities of the “extreme” application of PBM strategies for complex surgical interventions, such as organ transplants, even in patients in whom it is not possible to proceed with transfusion. The aim of this scoping review was to identify and describe the current evidence available in the medical literature on the transplant of the four main solid organs: kidney, heart, liver, and lung in patients declining blood transfusions. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed from January 2000 to February 2025. Only articles reporting cases, case series, population samples, or comparative studies describing solid organ transplantation without the use of blood components were included. The results are presented separately for each solid organ. Results: Kidney: Nine studies were included, seven of which reported case reports or case series of kidney or kidney–pancreas transplants, and two articles were comparative studies. Liver: Nine studies reported bloodless liver transplants, eight were case reports or case series, and one was a comparative observational study. Heart: Five studies were included, four of which were case reports of heart transplants; in addition there was a comparative study describing eight heart transplants without the use of blood components to 16 transfusable transplant patients. Lung: Five studies reporting lung transplant without transfusion were reported, four of which were case reports performed in the absence of deaths, and two of which were bilateral. Furthermore, there was an article describing two single lung transplants without the use of blood components compared to ten transfusable transplant patients. Conclusions: The analysis performed demonstrates the possibility, depending on the organ, of performing solid organ transplant procedures without the use of blood components in selected and carefully prepared patients by experienced multidisciplinary teams. Full article

Allium ursinum (wild garlic) has long been collected and consumed as food and medicine in the north temperate zone, where its popularity is growing. Colchicum autumnale and Convallaria majalis contain toxic alkaloids. Their habitats overlap, and without flowers, their vegetative organs are similar. Confusing the leaves of Colchicum or Convallaria with the leaves of wild garlic has repeatedly led to serious human and animal poisonings. Our goal was to find a histological characteristic that makes the separation of these leaves clear. We compared the anatomy of foliage leaves of these three species grown in the same garden (Debrecen, Hungary, Central Europe). We used a bright-field microscope to characterize the transversal sections of leaves. Cell types of epidermises were compared based on peels and different impressions. We established some significant differences in the histology of leaves. The adaxial peels of Allium consist of only “long” cells without stomata, but the abaxial ones show “long”, “short” and “T” cells with wavy cell walls as a peculiarity, and stomata. Convallaria and Colchicum leaves are amphystomatic, but in the case of Allium, they are hypostomatic. These traits were confirmed with herbarium specimens. Our results help to clearly identify these species even in mixed, dried plant material and may be used for diagnostic purposes. Full article