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Keywords = oxygen reduction

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14 pages, 1117 KB  
Article
Straight-Channel NiO/CeO2 Ceramic Reactor Fabricated via Mesh-Assisted Phase Inversion for Catalytic Oxidation of Ventilation Air Methane
by Fangsheng Liu, Enming Shi, Zhiqiang Cao, Xuemei Ou, Fangjun Jin, Dingying Zhou, Zhen Wang, Xinyi Han, Shiru Le and Yeqing Wang
Materials 2026, 19(9), 1718; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19091718 - 23 Apr 2026
Abstract
Ventilation air methane (VAM) has an extremely low concentration, making its abatement exceptionally challenging. Catalytic oxidation offers a promising route for VAM treatment, but industrial application requires integrated catalysts with high activity and efficient mass transfer. In this study, a novel straight-channel NiO/CeO [...] Read more.
Ventilation air methane (VAM) has an extremely low concentration, making its abatement exceptionally challenging. Catalytic oxidation offers a promising route for VAM treatment, but industrial application requires integrated catalysts with high activity and efficient mass transfer. In this study, a novel straight-channel NiO/CeO2 ceramic reactor was fabricated via mesh-assisted phase inversion, with NiO content systematically optimized to screen the optimal ratio. The 60 wt% NiO was the optimal composition, exhibiting excellent VAM oxidation performance. Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis confirmed that this optimal ratio yielded the largest specific surface area. Furthermore, H2-temperature-programmed reduction (H2-TPR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) confirmed that this optimal ratio facilitated the formation of abundant NiO–CeO2 active interfaces, effectively inducing surface Ce3+ species and oxygen vacancies. These merits significantly enhanced the reactor’s oxygen adsorption capacity and redox properties, thus realizing efficient methane activation in catalytic oxidation. Moreover, the optimal reactor successfully passed 10 thermal cycle tests, further verifying the thermal stability of the catalytic structure. In addition, it exhibited outstanding long-term stability during a 100 h test, with no carbon deposition or active phase sintering observed. This work develops an optimized straight-channel NiO/CeO2 ceramic reactor and offers a practical and scalable design strategy for VAM oxidation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Advanced and Functional Ceramics and Glasses)
18 pages, 1772 KB  
Article
Enhanced Electrochemiluminescence by Nanocatalyst-Supported Nanochannel–Surfactant Micelle Assembly for Ultrasensitive Detection of Rifampicin
by Jiahui Lin, Zhongping Mao and Fei Yan
Biosensors 2026, 16(5), 236; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios16050236 - 23 Apr 2026
Abstract
Developing an ultrasensitive electrochemiluminescence (ECL) detection platform remains challenging due to the limited enrichment efficiency of ECL emitters and co-reactants at the electrode interface, as well as the insufficient catalytic enhancement of co-reactant conversion. Moreover, simultaneous in situ analyte enrichment and efficient anti-interference [...] Read more.
Developing an ultrasensitive electrochemiluminescence (ECL) detection platform remains challenging due to the limited enrichment efficiency of ECL emitters and co-reactants at the electrode interface, as well as the insufficient catalytic enhancement of co-reactant conversion. Moreover, simultaneous in situ analyte enrichment and efficient anti-interference capability are often difficult to achieve in a single sensing interface. Herein, a new ECL platform was developed based on nanocatalyst-supported nanochannel-confined surfactant micelle (SM) system, which integrates an enhanced luminol-dissolved oxygen (DO) ECL response for the ultrasensitive detection of antibiotic rifampicin (RIF). A nanocomposite comprising nitrogen-doped graphene quantum dots and a molybdenum disulfide nanosheet (NGQDs@MoS2) was modified on an indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode. This nanocomposite layer catalyzed the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), boosting the co-reactant efficiency of DO. Vertically ordered mesoporous silica film filled with surfactant micelles (SM@VMSF) was subsequently grown in situ on the NGQDs@MoS2 surface. The hydrophobic micelles enable the simultaneous enrichment of luminol, DO, and RIF. Integrating the triple-enrichment effect of surfactant micelles with the high electrocatalytic effect of NGQDs@MoS2 nanocomposite results in significant ECL enhancement of the luminol–DO. SM@VMSF also provides an excellent molecular sieving effect, endowing the sensor with high anti-interference capability and stability. RIF quenches the ECL signal by consuming superoxide anion radicals, enabling sensitive detection. Detection of RIF was established with a high sensitivity (2927 a.u. per nM) wide linear range (10 pM to 10 μM) and a low limit of detection (LOD, 2.5 pM). The fabricated sensor exhibits good selectivity and high fabrication reproducibility (relative standard deviation, RSD, of 1.9%). Additionally, the determination of RIF in eye drops and seawater samples was realized. This work offers new insights for the design of high-performance ECL sensing interfaces and sensitive detection of RIF. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Developments in Nanomaterial-Based Electrochemical Biosensors)
19 pages, 4705 KB  
Article
C5-alkyl and C5-aryl Substituted 5-Deazaflavin as Sensitizers for Photodehalogenation of Aryl Halides
by Huimin Guo, Xing Guan, Heping Li and Weihua Guo
Molecules 2026, 31(9), 1400; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31091400 - 23 Apr 2026
Abstract
Aryl halides are important intermediates for chemical synthesis. However, the negative reduction potential up to −2.7 V (vs. SCE) makes photoredox conversion of aryl halides by reductive dehalogenation to aryl radicals for chemical transformations difficult. Inspired by the outstanding photophysical properties of deazaflavin [...] Read more.
Aryl halides are important intermediates for chemical synthesis. However, the negative reduction potential up to −2.7 V (vs. SCE) makes photoredox conversion of aryl halides by reductive dehalogenation to aryl radicals for chemical transformations difficult. Inspired by the outstanding photophysical properties of deazaflavin and triphenylamine, as well as results of theoretical calculations, we attached the diphenylamino group to C8 of deazaflavin, and the resulting compounds look fabricated by “fusing” deazaflavin and triphenylamine (TPA) together by sharing the benzene ring. We also introduced alkyl and aryl moieties to C5 and afforded a series of deazaflavin derivatives (dFLs), namely 10-butyl-8-(diphenylamino)-3,5-dimethylpyrimido[4,5b]quinoline-2,4(3H,10H)-dione (TPAdFlMe), 10-butyl-8-(diphenylamino)-3-methyl-5-(trifluoromethyl)pyrimido[4,5-b]quinoline-2,4(3H,10H)-dione(TPAdFlTF) and 10-butyl-8-(diphenylamino)-3-methyl-5-phenylpyrimido[4,5-b]quinoline-2,4(3H,10H)-dione (TPAdFlPh), and investigated their photophysical properties and performance as sensitizers in the photodehalogenation of aryl halides. We showed that the photophysical properties are significantly improved in these dFLs. The absorption bands of dFLs are redshifted and the absorbance is more than double that of riboflavin tetraacetate (RFTA). The singlet oxygen quantum yields of TPAdFlMe, TPAdFlTF and TPAdFlPh are 0.42, 0.25 and 0.39, respectively, and the corresponding redox potentials are −1.75, −0.75 and −1.71 V vs. Ag/Ag+, respectively, comparable to known deazaflavin-based sensitizers. Originating from these properties, TPAdFlMe and TPAdFlPh are capable of sensitizing the full photodehalogenation of 0.038 mmol p-iodoanisole, and the yields of the photodehalogenation of 0.038 mmol p-bromoanisole are 67 and 69%, respectively. They also demonstrate exceptional performance in the photodehalogenation of halides of polycyclic aromatics with yields in the range of 73% for 1-benzhydryl-3-bromobenzene to 100% for 1-bromonapthalene in 18 h runs. The performance of TPAdFlMe and TPAdFlPh in photodehalogenation are already comparable to recently reported deazaflavin-based sensitizers, and we propose the transformation would proceed though the consecutive photo-induced electron transfer (conPET) mechanism with consecutive excitation of charged deazaflavin-based radicals under light irradiation as the key step to generating the aryl radicals, and the vital role of sensitizer-based radicals is further confirmed by mechanistic investigations. We expect the findings will help to design novel flavin-based triplet sensitizers for photoredox catalytic organic transformations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Photochemistry)
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21 pages, 1591 KB  
Article
Trade-Off Between Fruit Yield and Antioxidant Accumulation in Physalis peruviana L. Under Different Water Availability Regimes
by Caroline P. Cardoso, Gabriel M. Napoleão, Fernanda N. Vargens, Larissa S. Rodrigues, Priscila Pegorin, Luisa S. Gonçalves, Lucas Felipe dos Ouros, Sarita Leonel and Carmen S. F. Boaro
Horticulturae 2026, 12(5), 517; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12050517 - 23 Apr 2026
Abstract
Physalis peruviana L., a South American species, has been increasingly cultivated because of its bioactive compounds and high commercial value. This study evaluated the biochemical responses and fruit quality of physalis plants subjected to different water availability regimes (40%, 70%, and 100% of [...] Read more.
Physalis peruviana L., a South American species, has been increasingly cultivated because of its bioactive compounds and high commercial value. This study evaluated the biochemical responses and fruit quality of physalis plants subjected to different water availability regimes (40%, 70%, and 100% of field capacity), followed by recovery periods. The experiment was conducted at São Paulo State University in a randomized block design with split plots. Plants were exposed to different irrigation regimes and subsequently rewatered over a 120-day period. Leaf and fruit analyses showed that water stress at 40% field capacity significantly increased both enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant levels, thereby mitigating oxidative damage, as indicated by lower lipid peroxidation and reduced reactive oxygen species accumulation. However, this defense response was accompanied by marked reductions in fruit yield, fruit number, fresh mass, and fruit quality. Notably, although rewatering reversed several biochemical stress markers at the leaf level, fruit yield and commercial quality did not recover, suggesting irreversible damage to reproductive development during the stress period. These findings indicate that controlled water deficit may enhance antioxidant accumulation, highlighting the potential of stressed plants for pharmaceutical or nutraceutical applications. However, prolonged water stress, even when followed by a recovery period, impairs commercial fruit production. Therefore, irrigation management should be aligned with the intended production objective. Full article
32 pages, 3276 KB  
Review
Retinal Outcomes in Diabetes: Antihyperglycemic Therapy, EWDR, and Perioperative Considerations
by Tongyu Wang, Jiling Zeng, Mengquan Tan, Meiling Zhong, Huixian Zhou, Yaling Dai and Siyuan Song
Biomedicines 2026, 14(5), 963; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14050963 - 23 Apr 2026
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a common cause of vision loss in diabetes, and it often progresses without early symptoms. DR reflects injury of the retinal neurovascular unit (NVU), which includes neurons, Müller glia, astrocytes, endothelial cells, pericytes, and immune cells. Chronic hyperglycemia drives [...] Read more.
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a common cause of vision loss in diabetes, and it often progresses without early symptoms. DR reflects injury of the retinal neurovascular unit (NVU), which includes neurons, Müller glia, astrocytes, endothelial cells, pericytes, and immune cells. Chronic hyperglycemia drives oxidative stress, advanced glycation end products–receptor for advanced glycation end products (AGE–RAGE) signaling, mitochondrial injury, and low-grade inflammation. These changes disrupt endothelial junctions, promote leukostasis, weaken pericyte support, increase basement membrane thickening, and lead to capillary dropout and hypoxia. Hypoxia-related signaling increases anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) activity, which raises vascular leakage and supports neovascular disease. Glial stress and microglial activation add cytokines and reactive oxygen species, and neural dysfunction can appear early and can weaken neurovascular coupling. Modern diabetes care changes the short-term risk landscape because potent therapies can lower HbA1c quickly. Large and rapid HbA1c reductions can trigger early worsening of diabetic retinopathy (EWDR), mainly in patients with high baseline HbA1c and moderate-to-severe baseline DR. Semaglutide’s retinopathy complication signal in SUSTAIN-6 fits an EWDR-like pattern that tracks with rapid glycemic improvement in vulnerable eyes. In parallel, surgery adds acute stress, inflammation, glucose swings, hemodynamic shifts, and medication interruptions. These factors can worsen microvascular instability during recovery. Current perioperative guidelines and regulatory recommendations describe glucose targets and medication safety considerations, including preoperative interruption of SGLT2 inhibitors to reduce euglycemic ketoacidosis risk; however, the retina-specific implications of these measures remain indirect. This review summarizes current evidence linking NVU biology, EWDR risk, and perioperative diabetes-related factors. It discusses how these factors may interact in patients with diabetes and how they may influence retinal outcomes. The review is intended to synthesize current evidence and mechanistic interpretations rather than to provide formal clinical practice recommendations. Full article
23 pages, 4667 KB  
Article
Preparation of a Multifunctional Gel for Fire Prevention and Extinguishing Based on Polyvinyl Alcohol/Polyethyleneimine/Polyaluminum Chloride
by Jianguo Wang, Binyuan Gao and Yueyang Zhou
Polymers 2026, 18(9), 1017; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym18091017 - 23 Apr 2026
Abstract
A ternary gel composed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyethyleneimine (PEI), and polyaluminum chloride (PAC) was prepared to address the limited controllability of gelation and the insufficient high-temperature resistance to re-ignition observed in existing mine fire prevention and extinguishing gels. Based on an orthogonal [...] Read more.
A ternary gel composed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyethyleneimine (PEI), and polyaluminum chloride (PAC) was prepared to address the limited controllability of gelation and the insufficient high-temperature resistance to re-ignition observed in existing mine fire prevention and extinguishing gels. Based on an orthogonal experimental design, the optimal formulation was identified as 14% PVA, 7% PEI, and 5.5% PAC (by mass), achieving a gelation time of 8.2 min. Microscopic characterization revealed that the gel forms a dense, interconnected three-dimensional network structure capable of effectively encapsulating the coal particles. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis showed that gel treatment resulted in a 29.8% reduction in the peak area of free hydroxyl groups. Thermogravimetric–differential scanning calorimetry (TG-DSC) analysis indicated that the gel increased the ignition temperature by 33.27 °C and shifted the maximum exothermic peak temperature by 13.28 °C. Fire suppression experiments demonstrate that the gel could continuously lower the temperature of high-temperature coal without re-ignition, demonstrating significantly superior performance compared to traditional sodium silicate gel. This gel achieves highly efficient fire prevention and suppression through the cooperative effects of water retention, oxygen barriers, and chemical passivation, providing a new material for the prevention and control of spontaneous coal combustion in deep mines. Full article
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14 pages, 831 KB  
Article
La Incorporated into L10-PtFe Nanoalloys as a Highly Active and Durable Oxygen Reduction Catalyst
by Change Yao, Jun Zhu, Shian Wang, Jiayi Liao, Lin Li, Jiahao Jiang, Run Cai, Wenjie Bi, Xin Chen and Zhong Ma
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 373; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050373 - 22 Apr 2026
Abstract
Pt–transition metal intermetallic compounds have been recognized as promising catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). However, further enhancing the activity and durability of this kind of catalyst is still necessary. Herein, we report a novel L10-type PtFe intermetallic nanoalloy with the [...] Read more.
Pt–transition metal intermetallic compounds have been recognized as promising catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). However, further enhancing the activity and durability of this kind of catalyst is still necessary. Herein, we report a novel L10-type PtFe intermetallic nanoalloy with the partial substitution of Fe sites by La as a highly active and stable catalyst towards ORR. This new intermetallic nanoalloy retains an ordered structure after the incorporation of La confirmed by XRD, XPS and TEM results and the ordered PtFe0.5La0.5 nanoparticles are embedded in porous carbon (L10-PtFe0.5La0.5@C) in very uniform particle size of around 2 nm. This L10-PtFe0.5La0.5@C catalyst exhibits a half-wave potential of 933 mV, which is about 12 mV and 70 mV higher than those of L10-PtFe@C and commercial Pt/C catalysts, respectively. Moreover, it also achieves an enhanced mass activity of 0.79 A mgPt−1 at 0.90 V, which outperforms the performance of commercial Pt/C (0.10 A mgPt−1). In addition, it also shows excellent stability with only 3 mV negative shift in half-wave potential after 20k CV cycles of accelerated durability testing. This high activity and stability may be attributed to the incorporation of La in the PtFe lattice, which induces the formation of a compressively strained Pt overlayer in acidic media which not only tunes the surface strain of Pt sites but also possesses robust resistance to the dissolution of Fe and La. This work also provides a new direction for the development of Pt-based intermetallic catalysts for efficient catalysis applications. Full article
14 pages, 1232 KB  
Article
Vegetation-Associated Enhancement of Azo Dye Removal in Constructed Wetlands Without External Carbon Addition
by Satoshi Soda, Shimpei Goto, Hiroki Eguchi and Abd Aziz Amin
Environments 2026, 13(5), 237; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments13050237 - 22 Apr 2026
Abstract
Constructed wetlands (CWs) are a low-energy alternative for treating dye-containing wastewater; however, the mechanisms enabling azo dye removal without external carbon supplementation remain unclear. This study demonstrates that azo dye reduction can proceed under oxic bulk conditions in CWs through vegetation-induced microscale redox [...] Read more.
Constructed wetlands (CWs) are a low-energy alternative for treating dye-containing wastewater; however, the mechanisms enabling azo dye removal without external carbon supplementation remain unclear. This study demonstrates that azo dye reduction can proceed under oxic bulk conditions in CWs through vegetation-induced microscale redox heterogeneity. Lab-scale CWs planted with cattail and papyrus were evaluated for the removal of Reactive Orange 16 (RO16, monoazo) and Reactive Black 5 (RB5, diazo) at influent concentrations of 10–50 mg/L under varying ambient temperature (2–36 °C) and hydraulic retention time (1–15 days). Vegetated CWs consistently outperformed the unplanted system, achieving 60–95% removal for RO16 and up to 98% removal for RB5, whereas the unplanted CW showed substantially inferior performance, with removal efficiencies below 54% for RO16 and below 37% for RB5. Dye-decolorizing bacteria, including Priestia megaterium and Clostridium spp., were isolated exclusively under anaerobic conditions from vegetated CWs despite oxic bulk dissolved oxygen levels. The isolates did not decolorize dyes under aerobic conditions or when dyes were provided as sole carbon sources, indicating that azo dyes functioned as electron acceptors and required additional electron donors. These results suggest that vegetation promotes localized reductive microenvironments and supplies endogenous organic carbon, enabling anaerobic azo bond reduction within otherwise oxic systems. The findings indicate a mechanistic basis for plant–microbe interactions in CWs and support the design of sustainable treatment systems for dye-containing wastewater without external carbon input, particularly in warm regions. This study resolves a long-standing question of how azo dye reduction proceeds in CWs without external carbon input. Full article
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17 pages, 301 KB  
Article
Physicochemical and Microbiological Qualities of the Sundays River Estuary in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
by Noluvuyo Mngcutsha, Kingsley Ehi Ebomah, Abiodun Olagoke Adeniji, Anthony Ifeanyi Okoh and Omobola Oluranti Okoh
Water 2026, 18(9), 992; https://doi.org/10.3390/w18090992 - 22 Apr 2026
Abstract
Freshwater scarcity is a major global issue faced by various regions, and the most common portable water sources globally are estuaries, canals, dams, lakes, and rivers. Existing water resources function as the best sinks for the frequent release of effluents from industrial and [...] Read more.
Freshwater scarcity is a major global issue faced by various regions, and the most common portable water sources globally are estuaries, canals, dams, lakes, and rivers. Existing water resources function as the best sinks for the frequent release of effluents from industrial and residential activities. This common practice often results in water pollution, a deterioration in marine biodiversity, and possible health risks for human populations. This study employed standard analytical methods in assessing the physicochemical and microbial characteristics of water samples collected from the Sundays River estuary in Eastern Cape Province (ECP), South Africa (SA). Microbiological assessment revealed that during the spring season, presumptive Escherichia coli (E. coli) colony counts were 1 cfu/100 mL, while total coliforms (TCs) and fecal coliforms (FCs) were recorded at 42.67 cfu/100 mL and 1 cfu/100 mL, respectively. In the summer season, fecal coliform (FC) counts reached 3.5 cfu/100 mL, while Enterococcus levels were higher, ranging up to 77.75 cfu/100 mL. Furthermore, the average standards of physicochemical parameters assessed in water obtained from both spring and summer seasons ranged as follows: pH (8.71–9.31), temperature (20.98–22.21 °C), turbidity (10–35.55 FNU), total alkalinity (22.25–94.00 mg/L), oxidation–reduction potential (ORP) (8.05–151.6 mV), electrical conductivity (EC) (13,915–40,260 uS/cm), salinity (8.07–25.78 psu), dissolved oxygen (DO) (6.79–7.39 mg/L), total dissolved solids (TDSs) (6960.6–20,125 mg/L), and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) (0.11–2.94 mg/L). The levels of TDS, EC, turbidity, and salinity in the Sundays River estuary water exceeded the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines of 2017, rendering the water unfit for even recreational purposes. Additionally, the bacterial levels identified in this study were above the values set by the South Africa Department of Water Affairs (SA-DWAF). The identified microorganisms are perceived as essential indicators of fecal contamination and have the potential to multiply in the environment. Possible pollution may be a result of various municipal effluents consistently discharged into the waterbody. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Water Pollution Monitoring, Control, and Prevention)
11 pages, 1854 KB  
Communication
In Situ Reconstruction Regenerates Sinter-Degraded NiO-Based Monolithic Ceramic Catalysts for Efficient Methane Oxidation in Ventilation Air
by Fangsheng Liu, Enming Shi, Zhiqiang Cao, Yeqing Wang, Xuemei Ou, Zhen Wang, Xinyi Han, Shiru Le, Zhijiang Wang, Chunlong Cheng and Fangjun Jin
Materials 2026, 19(9), 1677; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19091677 - 22 Apr 2026
Abstract
Monolithic ceramic catalysts are a key technology for the industrial treatment of coal mine ventilation air methane (VAM). The preparation of straight-channel NiO/CeO2 monolithic ceramic catalysts via phase inversion addresses critical bottlenecks for industrial VAM abatement. However, high-temperature sintering leads to irreversible [...] Read more.
Monolithic ceramic catalysts are a key technology for the industrial treatment of coal mine ventilation air methane (VAM). The preparation of straight-channel NiO/CeO2 monolithic ceramic catalysts via phase inversion addresses critical bottlenecks for industrial VAM abatement. However, high-temperature sintering leads to irreversible NiO agglomeration and coarsening, severely reducing catalytic activity. In this study, an in situ reduction–oxidation reconstruction method is developed to regenerate sinter-degraded NiO. The reconstructed catalyst increases methane conversion from below 70% after sintering to over 95% at 550 °C and achieves full conversion at 600 °C. The catalyst maintains near 100% conversion during 400 h of continuous operation at 600 °C and shows no performance degradation over 15 thermal cycles. Moreover, the reconstructed catalyst exhibits excellent steam tolerance with fully reversible deactivation. The reconstructed catalyst presents a refined porous structure with BET surface area rising from 4.5 to 11.4 m2 g−1, an elevated Ni3+/Ni2+ ratio (1.47 to 1.97), a higher surface adsorbed oxygen proportion (36.8% to 48.7%) and significantly strengthened NiO-CeO2 interfacial interaction. This work provides a facile and efficient in situ regeneration strategy, greatly enhancing the VAM oxidation activity and stability of sinter-degraded monolithic ceramic catalysts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Catalytic Materials and Their Applications)
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26 pages, 4364 KB  
Article
Tribological and Oxidation-Induced Degradation of Engine Materials Fueled with Bio-Hydrogenated Diesel–Biodiesel Blends
by Sathaporn Chuepeng, Atthaphon Maneedaeng, Niti Klinkaew, Anupap Pumpuang, Tanongsak Sukkasem and Ekarong Sukjit
Lubricants 2026, 14(4), 178; https://doi.org/10.3390/lubricants14040178 - 20 Apr 2026
Abstract
Although bio-hydrogenated diesel (BHD) offers drop-in compatibility and high oxidative stability, its poor lubricity remains a critical barrier to long-term engine deployment. Previous studies have primarily relied on short-term tribological assessments, leaving insufficient empirical data on sustained wear behavior under realistic conditions. This [...] Read more.
Although bio-hydrogenated diesel (BHD) offers drop-in compatibility and high oxidative stability, its poor lubricity remains a critical barrier to long-term engine deployment. Previous studies have primarily relied on short-term tribological assessments, leaving insufficient empirical data on sustained wear behavior under realistic conditions. This study addresses that gap through a 200 h durability evaluation of BHD–biodiesel blends in a single-cylinder diesel engine under constant load conditions per Thai Industrial Standard TIS 2618-2557. Five fuels, namely diesel, pure BHD, BHD90, BHD70, and pure biodiesel, were tested to identify the critical biodiesel threshold for optimal tribological and oxidative performance. BHD90 (90% BHD + 10% biodiesel) emerged as the optimal formulation, delivering the lowest torque reduction (11.2%) and minimal iron wear particles (101 ppm), while preserving oxidation stability. Biodiesel concentrations exceeding 10% induced accelerated lubricant oxidation through hygroscopic effects, negating the lubricity benefits. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis of piston carbon deposits further revealed that higher biodiesel blends produced more oxygenated compounds, whereas pure BHD and diesel generated predominantly aliphatic hydrocarbons. These findings establish a mechanistic relationship between fuel composition, oxidation, and wear under endurance conditions, providing a practical guideline for renewable diesel formulation that balances lubrication performance, oxidation control, and long-term engine durability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tribological Impacts of Sustainable Fuels in Mobility Systems)
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24 pages, 3486 KB  
Article
Mining and Analysis of Salt Tolerance Genes in Maize at the Seedling Stage
by Zhenping Ren, Zelong Zhuang, Jianwen Bian, Wanling Ta, Xiaojia Hao, Lei Zhang and Yunling Peng
Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2026, 48(4), 423; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb48040423 - 20 Apr 2026
Abstract
Salt stress represents a significant abiotic stress factor that adversely affects plant growth and development. It directly inhibits both vegetative and reproductive growth, resulting in substantial reductions in crop yield and quality. Consequently, the identification of salt tolerance genes and the elucidation of [...] Read more.
Salt stress represents a significant abiotic stress factor that adversely affects plant growth and development. It directly inhibits both vegetative and reproductive growth, resulting in substantial reductions in crop yield and quality. Consequently, the identification of salt tolerance genes and the elucidation of their underlying molecular mechanisms are crucial for improving crop salt tolerance and ensuring agricultural productivity. To investigate the molecular basis underlying differential salt tolerance between Zheng58 and PH4CV, we employed pooled sequencing (BSA-seq) using extreme phenotypic individuals from their F2 population and conducted a comparative transcriptome analysis at the seedling stage of the two genotypes. Phenotypic, physiological, biochemical, and ion content analyses revealed that Zheng58 exhibited significantly superior performance compared to PH4CV under salt stress conditions. BSA-seq analysis identified six genomic regions associated with salt tolerance, encompassing a total of 391 genes. Functional annotation enabled the screening of 151 candidate genes potentially involved in salt stress responses. Transcriptome profiling indicated that differentially expressed genes were significantly enriched in biological processes, particularly plant hormone signal transduction and MAPK signaling pathways. Integrating BSA-seq and transcriptome data, key candidate gene ZmACC2 (Zm00001eb419400) was identified as potentially involved in the regulation of salt tolerance in maize. This gene may modulate Na+/K+/Ca2+ homeostasis and reactive oxygen species metabolism through defense responses mediated by ethylene (ETH) and hydrogen peroxide, as well as through ion homeostasis regulatory pathways. This study provides valuable candidate genes and a theoretical foundation for further dissection of the molecular mechanisms governing salt tolerance in maize. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Hormones, Development, and Stress Tolerance)
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16 pages, 1297 KB  
Article
CytoSorb® Hemoadsorption in Post-Cardiac Arrest Syndrome After Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest: A Propensity Score-Matched Cohort Study
by Julian Kreutz, Klevis Mihali, Vivien Sievertsen, Lukas Harbaum, Georgios Chatzis, Styliani Syntila, Bernhard Schieffer and Birgit Markus
Biomedicines 2026, 14(4), 930; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14040930 - 19 Apr 2026
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Abstract
Background: Post-cardiac arrest syndrome (PCAS) following out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is driven by global ischemia–reperfusion injury, endothelial dysfunction, and a dysregulated inflammatory response. This cascade frequently culminates in profound vasoplegia and multiorgan failure, even when guideline-directed post-resuscitation management is applied. Hemoadsorption using [...] Read more.
Background: Post-cardiac arrest syndrome (PCAS) following out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is driven by global ischemia–reperfusion injury, endothelial dysfunction, and a dysregulated inflammatory response. This cascade frequently culminates in profound vasoplegia and multiorgan failure, even when guideline-directed post-resuscitation management is applied. Hemoadsorption using the CytoSorb device may attenuate hyperinflammation and vasoplegia by removing circulating inflammatory and injury-related mediators. Methods: This single-centre, retrospective cohort study compared adults with PCAS following OHCA who received hemoadsorption with propensity score-matched controls (1:1 matching; n = 50 per group). For patients treated with hemoadsorption, data were analyzed within predefined intervals covering the 24 h preceding therapy initiation (T1) and the 24 h following the completion of the hemoadsorption treatment period (T2). Controls were evaluated at time points aligned to those of their matched hemoadsorption counterparts. Hemodynamic, metabolic, respiratory, and organ injury markers were assessed. Results: Formal between-group comparisons of temporal change between T1 and T2 showed no statistically significant differences between hemoadsorption-treated patients and matched controls across key parameters, including VIS (Δ −18.7 vs. −7.7; p = 0.183) and lactate (Δ −1.8 vs. −1.25 mmol/L; p = 0.780), as well as markers of organ injury, pH, and oxygenation. In exploratory ANCOVA models, only base excess was associated with treatment group (p = 0.035). Survival to hospital discharge was comparable (48% vs. 40%; p = 0.423), with similar neurological outcomes. Within the hemoadsorption group, pre–post comparisons around hemoadsorption initiation (T1–T2) demonstrated marked improvements, including reduced vasoactive support (VIS 70.0 to 12.1; p = 0.039), substantial lactate clearance (4.1 to 1.1 mmol/L; p < 0.001), and declines in organ injury markers (AST, ALT, LDH, myoglobin), alongside more pronounced platelet reduction compared with controls (129 to 57 × 103/µL vs. 189 to 123 × 103/µL). However, adjusted analyses indicated that these changes were primarily driven by baseline shock severity rather than a treatment-specific effect. Conclusions: In this propensity score-matched cohort of PCAS patients after OHCA, hemoadsorption was associated with within-group physiological changes but showed no detectable advantage over matched controls, with similar survival. These findings are hypothesis-generating and warrant prospective studies with standardized timing and phenotype-guided patient selection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular and Translational Medicine)
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25 pages, 1130 KB  
Article
Decentralized Valorization of Associated Petroleum Gas via Modular Oxy-Combustion and Carbon Capture: A Scalable Strategy for Global Flaring Reduction
by Gonzalo Chiriboga, Brandon Núñez, Carolina Montero-Calderón, Christian Gutiérrez, Carlos Almeida, Michael A. Vega and Ghem Carvajal-Chávez
Energies 2026, 19(8), 1949; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19081949 - 17 Apr 2026
Viewed by 133
Abstract
This study evaluates the technical feasibility of deploying containerized oxy-combustion power modules with integrated CO2 capture in remote Ecuadorian Amazon oil fields. Associated petroleum gas is conditioned with a 35 wt.% diethanolamine (DEA) sweetening stage specifically implemented to remove H2S [...] Read more.
This study evaluates the technical feasibility of deploying containerized oxy-combustion power modules with integrated CO2 capture in remote Ecuadorian Amazon oil fields. Associated petroleum gas is conditioned with a 35 wt.% diethanolamine (DEA) sweetening stage specifically implemented to remove H2S and reduce acid-gas loading prior to combustion, improving fuel quality and protecting downstream equipment while increasing methane mole fraction for combustion. System efficiency is governed by stoichiometric oxygen demand, with methane requiring 2 mol O2/mol fuel and hexane requiring 11 mol O2/mol fuel; favoring methane-rich streams reduces ASU energy demand, enhances combustion performance, and lowers separation costs. The combined oxy-combustion cycle attains a thermal efficiency of 33.10% and an exergetic efficiency of 39.98%. Major energy penalties arise from the cryogenic air separation unit and the CCS train, yet operational tuning of CO2 recirculation and steam flow could raise thermal efficiency by up to 2%. The ASU produces oxygen at 96.67% purity with an energy consumption of 0.385 kWh/kg O2, while the CCS achieves 99.99% CO2 capture at 0.41 kWh/kg CO2. Sourcing gas from three production blocks provides flexibility to accommodate supply variability. The modular 272 MW unit demonstrates viability for off-grid power supply, routine flaring reduction, and scalable acid-gas valorization in frontier oilfields. Full article
15 pages, 1707 KB  
Article
Surface Aging and Leaching Characteristics of Polyethylene Microplastics During the Sludge Dewatering Process
by Xinyan Xu, Man Li, Hongyi Zhou, Shengjie Jiang, Yinuo Li, Noreen Khalid and Xiaowei Li
Sustainability 2026, 18(8), 4015; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18084015 - 17 Apr 2026
Viewed by 232
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) in wastewater treatment plants are predominantly retained in sewage sludge, making sludge processing a critical stage for MP transformation and potential pollutant release. However, the aging of polyethylene (PE) MPs and the release of MP-derived dissolved organic matter (MP-DOM) during sludge [...] Read more.
Microplastics (MPs) in wastewater treatment plants are predominantly retained in sewage sludge, making sludge processing a critical stage for MP transformation and potential pollutant release. However, the aging of polyethylene (PE) MPs and the release of MP-derived dissolved organic matter (MP-DOM) during sludge dewatering remain poorly understood. In this study, representative sludge conditioners were set up in dewatering experiments to investigate the changes in PE MP surface properties, pollutant-carrying potential, and MP-DOM release behavior. The results showed that sludge dewatering induced pronounced surface aging of PE MPs, including wrinkling, cracking, particle fragmentation, and the formation of polar oxygen-containing functional groups. These changes significantly increased the Cd adsorption potential of PE MPs, reaching 8228 ± 568 mg kg−1. Lime conditioning promoted stronger fragmentation and a greater reduction in particle size than other conditionings, which likely increased the specific surface area. Meanwhile, a substantial release of PE MP-DOM was observed, with dissolved organic carbon concentrations in sludge process water being 2–30 times higher than those in deionized water. Fluorescence and molecular analyses showed that PE MP-DOM was dominated by protein-like and fulvic-like substances and also contained phthalates, fatty acids, and acetamide-based plasticizers. The magnitude and composition of PE MP-DOM release were strongly regulated by conditioner-induced pH and ionic strength. Alkaline conditions and increasing concentrations of Ca2+ (0.1–2.1 mol L−1) and Fe3+ (0.006–0.6 mol L−1) enhanced PE MP additive release. These findings demonstrate that sludge dewatering is an active process that accelerates PE MP aging and associated organic release. This work provides new insight into the environmental behavior of MPs during sludge treatment and offers a basis for developing sustainable sludge management. Full article
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