Due to scheduled maintenance work on our servers, there may be short service disruptions on this website between 11:00 and 12:00 CEST on March 28th.
Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Article Types

Countries / Regions

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Search Results (9,090)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = pH stability

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
12 pages, 268 KB  
Article
Relationship Between Dietary Protein Source (Soybean Meal vs. Canola Meal) and Meat Quality Traits in Feedlot-Fattened Indigenous Dairy Lambs
by Panagiotis Simitzis, Michael Goliomytis, Eirini Tsimpouri, Aphrodite I. Kalogianni, Marianna Lagonikou, Agori Karageorgou, Gregoria Dandoulaki, Efthimios Touranakos and Athanasios I. Gelasakis
Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(4), 327; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13040327 - 27 Mar 2026
Abstract
Although soybean meal (SBM) is generally used as the main protein source in livestock diets, canola meal (CM) appears as a sustainable alternative, since it lowers diet cost, especially when regionally produced, while still meeting animal nutritional needs. The objective of this study [...] Read more.
Although soybean meal (SBM) is generally used as the main protein source in livestock diets, canola meal (CM) appears as a sustainable alternative, since it lowers diet cost, especially when regionally produced, while still meeting animal nutritional needs. The objective of this study was therefore to assess the effects of dietary protein source (SBM vs. CM) on carcass traits and meat quality characteristics of feedlot-fattened dairy lambs. A total of 193 weaned lambs, approximately 3 months of age, from two indigenous Greek dairy breeds (75 Chios and 118 Serres), were used. Lambs were randomly assigned to one of two isocaloric and isonitrogenous dietary treatments: a control ration containing SBM as the primary protein source, and an alternative ration in which SBM was completely replaced by CM. After a fattening period of 13 weeks for Chios lambs and 15 weeks for Serres lambs, animals were slaughtered upon reaching a live weight of 35–40 kg, and hot and cold carcass weights were recorded. After 24 h of carcass storage at 4 °C, Longissimus lumborum muscle was sampled and used for the measurement of pH, colour attributes, cooking loss, shear force, and intramuscular fat content. Lipid oxidation was evaluated on days 1, 3, 6, and 9 of refrigerated storage at 4 °C. The substitution of SBM by CM as the main dietary protein source did not affect carcass traits in Serres lambs, whereas CM- treated Chios lambs showed an increased hot and cold carcass weight (p < 0.05). Meat quality characteristics were not affected by the dietary treatment in either Chios or Serres lambs, with the exception of meat oxidative stability that was deteriorated in CM compared to SBM Serres lambs (p < 0.001). In conclusion, the utilization of canola instead of soybean meal did not negatively influence carcass traits or meat quality characteristics in either Chios or Serres lambs, with the exception of lipid oxidation which was significantly higher in CM supplemented Serres lambs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Barn to Table: Animal Health, Welfare, and Food Safety)
16 pages, 1692 KB  
Review
Photoelectrochemical Production of Peroxydisulfate (PDS), a Clean Oxidant: Recent Development and Challenges
by Zeeshan Haider, Muhammad Imran and Tahir Muhmood
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(7), 3066; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27073066 - 27 Mar 2026
Abstract
Peroxydisulfate (PDS, S2O82−) is an important oxidant for a wide range of industrial applications, including organic synthesis, polymer preparation, wastewater treatment and environmental remediation. Currently, PDS is commercially produced by electrolysis of sulfate solution. Photoelectrochemistry (PEC) provides an [...] Read more.
Peroxydisulfate (PDS, S2O82−) is an important oxidant for a wide range of industrial applications, including organic synthesis, polymer preparation, wastewater treatment and environmental remediation. Currently, PDS is commercially produced by electrolysis of sulfate solution. Photoelectrochemistry (PEC) provides an alternative approach to PDS generation by reducing the energy required to drive this process. Because PEC uses solar light as an abundant, free resource, it is an attractive technique for PDS generation compared to electrolysis. WO3, owing to its excellent stability in acidic environments, is an excellent metal oxide candidate for producing PDS. Withstanding stronger acidic pH as well as absorption of visible light as a major fraction of solar light renders WO3 a promising material for PEC-based PDS production when compared with other semiconductors. This mini review examines light-assisted, sustainable production of PDS on WO3 photoanodes. It mainly involves the oxidation of the anion bisulfate, HSO4−, in a highly acidic pH. The efficiency of photoelectrochemical generation of PDS is greatly influenced by important factors, including suppressing recombination of photoinduced charge carriers, cocatalyst loading, minimizing competing side reactions, and establishing coupled reactions. In this review, we briefly discussed the key highlights to date in the application of WO3 as a stable photoanode material for producing PDS. It provides insight into the potential of photocatalysis as an emerging route for the sustainable synthesis of PDS as a valuable chemical oxidant. Besides the significant progress made so far, the PDS production rate remains low, and minimizing the recombination tendency to achieve a higher photocurrent density could further boost PEC-based PDS production. Full article
15 pages, 2531 KB  
Article
Pilot Study on Nanofiltration Process for Surface Water Treatment and Optimization in Northern Jiangsu Region
by Jiaming Jin, Sicheng He, Tao Zhang and Shengji Xia
Membranes 2026, 16(4), 117; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16040117 - 27 Mar 2026
Abstract
Nanofiltration (NF) is increasingly applied for advanced drinking water treatment, but achieving stable operation at high recovery rates remains challenging for surface waters with high scaling potential. This pilot study investigated the performance and optimization of a three-stage NF270 system (4:2:1 tapered array) [...] Read more.
Nanofiltration (NF) is increasingly applied for advanced drinking water treatment, but achieving stable operation at high recovery rates remains challenging for surface waters with high scaling potential. This pilot study investigated the performance and optimization of a three-stage NF270 system (4:2:1 tapered array) for treating coagulated surface water in northern Jiangsu, China, aiming to identify sustainable operating conditions for high-recovery applications. The NF system was operated at recoveries of 80–90% with a feed flux of 20–23 LMH, and the effects of forward flushing frequency, acid dosing location, and concentrate recirculation on fouling behavior were evaluated. The NF270 membrane achieved consistent removal of organic matter (effluent chemical oxygen demand (CODMn) < 0.5 mg/L), hardness (40–60% rejection), and alkalinity (~20% rejection), meeting Jiangsu Province drinking water standards. However, operation at 90% recovery resulted in rapid third-stage fouling, with permeate flow declining by >60% within 2.5 h. Osmotic pressure analysis (local concentrate osmotic pressure: 3.8–4.2 bar; net driving pressure: 0.8–2.2 bar) confirmed physical scaling rather than hydraulic limitation as the dominant mechanism. Stage-wise concentration factor calculations (CF1 = 1.6, CF2 = 2.9, CF3 = 4.4) revealed local Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) values of 1.8–2.2 in the third stage, identifying CaCO3 supersaturation as the primary scaling cause. Reducing recovery to 85% and flux to 20 LMH with 2 h forward flushing extended stable operation. Acid addition effectively mitigated scaling, but dosing location was critical: first-stage addition (pH 8.1 → 7.6) reduced third-stage LSI to 0.7–0.9 and stabilized performance, whereas third-stage addition (pH 8.0 → 7.3) inadvertently promoted Al(OH)3 precipitation from residual coagulant (feed Al: 0.07–0.11 mg/L). Concentrate recirculation (90% ratio) did not alleviate fouling. These findings demonstrate that for aluminum-rich coagulated surface waters, optimizing recovery, flushing frequency, and acid dosing location is essential for sustainable NF operation, and provide engineering guidance for full-scale applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Membrane-Based Technology for Drinking Water Treatment)
Show Figures

Figure 1

38 pages, 5253 KB  
Review
Eco-Friendly Bioinspired Synthesis and Environmental Applications of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Mediated by Natural Polysaccharide Gums: A Sustainable Approach to Nanomaterials Fabrication
by Jose M. Calderon Moreno, Mariana Chelu and Monica Popa
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(7), 407; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16070407 - 27 Mar 2026
Abstract
The green synthesis of nanomaterials has emerged as a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach, gaining significant attention in recent years for its potential in a wide range of multifunctional applications. Among these materials, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) stand out due to their [...] Read more.
The green synthesis of nanomaterials has emerged as a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach, gaining significant attention in recent years for its potential in a wide range of multifunctional applications. Among these materials, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) stand out due to their remarkable versatility and effectiveness in fields such as industry (food, chemistry, and cosmetics), nanomedicine, cancer therapy, drug delivery, optoelectronics, sensors, and environmental remediation. This study focuses on bioinspired strategies for the facile synthesis of ZnO NPs, employing natural polysaccharide gums as mediators. Acting as both reducing and stabilizing agents, natural gums not only facilitate the eco-friendly production of ZnO NPs but also enhance their stability and functionality. Natural gum-mediated green synthesis typically yields stable, spherical ZnO particles, often in the 10–100 nm range. Typical reaction conditions are the use of zinc acetate dihydrate or zinc nitrate (0.01–0.5 M) as precursors, with low gum concentrations of 0.1–1.0% (w/v) in distilled water, alkaline conditions (pH from 8 to 12), often achieved by adding NaOH, which aids in the reduction and capping by the gum, at reaction temperature between 60 °C and 80 °C, under continuous stirring. The dried precipitate is often calcined at 400 °C to 600 °C to remove organic residues and enhance crystallinity. This approach underscores the potential of biopolymer-assisted synthesis in advancing green nanotechnology for sustainable and practical applications. Utilizing environmentally benign materials such as natural gums for the synthesis of ZnO NPs offers significant advantages, including enhanced eco-friendliness and biocompatibility, making them suitable for a wide range of applications without the involvement of toxic reagents. This review provides an in-depth analysis of the synthesis and characterization techniques employed in the eco-friendly production of ZnO NPs using different natural gums from biological sources and its environmental applications (e.g., pollutant removal and increased agriculture sustainability). Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

20 pages, 2120 KB  
Article
Grape Pomace Extract-Loaded Liposomes Enriched Cream Formulations for Skincare
by Cristiana Radulescu, Radu Lucian Olteanu, Ramona-Daniela Pavaloiu, Fawzia Sha’at, Gabriela Stanciu and Mihaela Nechfor (Tudorache)
Antioxidants 2026, 15(4), 421; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15040421 - 27 Mar 2026
Abstract
This study aims to develop and characterize novel dermatocosmetic formulations designed to hydrate the skin, improve its appearance, reduce wrinkles, and provide antioxidant, anti-ageing, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory benefits, along with potential protection against UVA and UVB radiation. The formulations contain the following ingredients: [...] Read more.
This study aims to develop and characterize novel dermatocosmetic formulations designed to hydrate the skin, improve its appearance, reduce wrinkles, and provide antioxidant, anti-ageing, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory benefits, along with potential protection against UVA and UVB radiation. The formulations contain the following ingredients: xanthan gum (0.5%), Calendula officinalis oil (5%), Argania spinosa oil (5%), Helianthus annuus oil (5%), liposomes containing a hydroalcoholic extract of pomace from local red or white grapes (2%), an olive oil-based emulsifier (6%), vitamin E (0.5%), cetearyl alcohol (3%), propylene glycol (8%), and purified water (up to 100%). The natural ingredients used in these formulations, i.e., the red or white grape pomace extract from the aforementioned Romanian varieties, the oils of Calendula officinalis, Argania spinosa, and Helianthus annuus, xanthan gum, and the olive oil-based emulsifier (Olliva), promote the concept of ‘green cosmetics’. The use of liposomes to deliver bioactive substances from hydroalcoholic extracts allows the gradual release of active ingredients into the skin. An alternative for incorporating grape pomace extract into a cream-type matrix involves the use of liposomes. Liposomes loaded with red or white grape pomace extract were prepared using the thin-film hydration technique, followed by ultrasonication and extrusion. The obtained formulations were characterized using bio-physico-chemical analysis procedures in terms of consistency, colour, homogeneity, aroma, pH, stretch, texture, stability, and antioxidant activity/free radical scavenging capacity, as well as in vitro polyphenol release behaviour. These newly developed dermatocosmetic formulations were the subject of a patent application in Romania. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Materials and Their Antioxidant Potential, 3rd Edition)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

15 pages, 1379 KB  
Article
Preparation and Characterization of Eugenol and 1,8-Cineole Nanoemulsions for Enhancing Anesthetic Activity in Guppy Fish (Poecilia reticulata)
by Surachai Pikulkaew, Saransiri Nuanmanee, Banthita Saengsitthisak, Kantaporn Kheawfu, Charatda Punvittayagul and Wasana Chaisri
Macromol 2026, 6(2), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/macromol6020020 - 27 Mar 2026
Abstract
This study aimed to prepare and characterize nanoemulsions containing eugenol and 1,8-cineole using the emulsification method and to investigate their anesthetic effects on guppy fish. The optimized formulation comprised a 5–10% mixture of eugenol and 1,8-cineole in a 1:2 ratio, stabilized with 15–20% [...] Read more.
This study aimed to prepare and characterize nanoemulsions containing eugenol and 1,8-cineole using the emulsification method and to investigate their anesthetic effects on guppy fish. The optimized formulation comprised a 5–10% mixture of eugenol and 1,8-cineole in a 1:2 ratio, stabilized with 15–20% Tween 80. The selected formulations displayed mean particle sizes below 15 nm, a low polydispersity index (PDI) (<0.5), and a zeta potential that was more negative than −40 millivolts (mV), indicating stable emulsions. Their pH ranged from 6.50 to 6.63, indicating slight acidity. The formulations exhibited non-Newtonian rheology, as well as thinning under shear stress. Three formulations (F2, F6, and F12) remained stable after both accelerated and long-term stability testing. All nanoemulsions were able to induce guppy fish to the third stage of anesthesia. The nanoemulsions with concentrations of 50 mg/L and 100 mg/L eugenol effectively induced sedation and anesthesia in both sexes and reduced the induction and recovery times compared with the ethanol solution. In conclusion, this study highlights nanoemulsions as a promising drug delivery system for alternative anesthetics in aquaculture. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

13 pages, 2926 KB  
Article
Rietveld Refinement and Structural Analysis of TiO2 Nanotubes Growth by Anodization of Ti° Coatings Deposited by Cathodic Arc
by Aurora M. Estrada-Murillo, Diana Litzajaya García-Ruiz, Guillermo M. Herrera, Guillermo César Mondragón-Rodríguez, Mohamed Boutinguiza and Rafael Huirache-Acuña
Processes 2026, 14(7), 1068; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr14071068 - 27 Mar 2026
Abstract
Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a versatile material that exhibits a high refractive index, strong light-scattering capability, effective UV-absorption, wide band gap semiconductor behavior (3.0–3.2 eV), and excellent chemical stability. Owing to this unique combination of properties, TiO2 is widely used [...] Read more.
Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a versatile material that exhibits a high refractive index, strong light-scattering capability, effective UV-absorption, wide band gap semiconductor behavior (3.0–3.2 eV), and excellent chemical stability. Owing to this unique combination of properties, TiO2 is widely used in applications such as cosmetic and healthcare products, architectural and automotive coatings, and photocatalytic degradation of environmental pollutants. In photocatalytic applications, the crystal structure, phase composition and electronic properties of TiO2 play a critical role in determining its performance. In the present study, TiO2 nanotubes were synthesized by anodization of Ti° coatings deposited via a semi-industrial arc-PVD process. A post-anodization heat treatment was carried out at 430 °C for 1 h to promote the formation of the anatase phase within the TiO2 nanotube structures. The structural characterization of the synthesized film was performed using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Rietveld refinement. This methodology enabled the identification of the formed oxide phases, structure, and crystalline, confirming the formation of mixed oxides in the coating. To address the difficulty of refinement of these crystalline phases, the Le Bail method was applied. This refinement strategy allowed the identification of the crystalline phases that are present in the TixOy coating, including a hexagonal structure characteristic of α-Ti (space group P63/mmc, No. 194), the tetragonal anatase TiO2 (space group I41/amd, No. 141) phase, and the trigonal Ti2O3 phase (space group R-3/c No. 167). Key crystallographic parameters such as lattice constants, bond lengths and angles, crystallite sizes, unit cell distortion and electron density were systematically evaluated for each phase. In addition, the Wyckoff positions and interatomic distances of the constitutive atoms were calculated, providing a comprehensive description of the TiO2+Ti2O3/Ti° crystallographic system. The topographic and surface oxidation states were recorded by using profilometry and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, respectively. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 275 KB  
Article
Bovine Blood Xenotransfusion as a Therapeutic Approach for the Treatment of Acute Blood Loss in Sheep
by José Felipe Napoleão Santos, Valesca Marques Melo, Samuel Barbosa Macedo, Rayara Silva de Freitas, Filipe Lima Costa, Aline Silva de Sant’ana, Ruan da Cruz Paulino, Antonio Humberto Hamad Minervino, Rejane Santos Sousa, Talyta Lins Nunes and Raimundo Alves Barrêto Junior
Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(4), 323; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13040323 - 27 Mar 2026
Abstract
Hemotherapy in small ruminants is indicated for several acute and chronic conditions; however, its clinical use is often limited by the difficulty in identifying suitable donors, particularly regarding blood volume availability and hematologic compatibility. Xenotransfusion in small ruminants with bovine blood may represent [...] Read more.
Hemotherapy in small ruminants is indicated for several acute and chronic conditions; however, its clinical use is often limited by the difficulty in identifying suitable donors, particularly regarding blood volume availability and hematologic compatibility. Xenotransfusion in small ruminants with bovine blood may represent a practical alternative in emergency situations involving severe anemia when homologous donors are unavailable. This study evaluated the clinical, hematologic, biochemical, and blood gas responses of sheep subjected to acute blood loss followed by bovine whole blood xenotransfusion. Six healthy adult castrated male sheep (mean body weight 44.3 ± 7.2 kg) underwent removal of 40% of their estimated total blood volume. Parameters were assessed before hemorrhage induction (T0) and at times T30, T6h, T12h, T24h, T48h, T72h, T96h, T5d, T6d, T7d, T8d and T16d after transfusion. Acute blood loss significantly reduced packed cell volume and erythrocyte count at T0 (p < 0.05). After xenotransfusion, packed cell volume increased at T30min, T6h, and T12h and remained stable until T72h (p < 0.05), with progressive erythrocyte recovery and sustained macrocytosis. Total leukocyte count remained unchanged, whereas platelets increased at T7D (p < 0.05). Total protein decreased at T0 and subsequently increased. Transient elevations in urea, creatinine, glucose, pO2, and SO2 were observed (p < 0.05), without acid–base imbalance. Clinical parameters progressively stabilized, and no severe transfusion reactions occurred. Bovine whole blood xenotransfusion may represent a promising therapeutic alternative for sheep subjected to acute blood loss under the experimental conditions evaluated in this study. The procedure was associated with improvements in clinical, hematological, and biochemical parameters, and no severe transfusion reactions were observed during the monitoring period. These findings support the potential clinical applicability of this approach as an emergency intervention in situations where homologous donors are not readily available. Full article
38 pages, 2133 KB  
Article
Engineering Active PET Packaging via Corona Treatment and Natural Biocide Coating: Carvacrol and Trans-Cinnamaldehyde for Food Preservation
by Pantelis Karaboulis, Areti A. Leontiou, Christos Tsakonas, George Paterakis, Margarita Dormousoglou, Andreas Giannakas, Panagiota Stathopoulou, Charalampos Proestos, Costas Galiotis, Constantinos E. Salmas and Aris E. Giannakas
Polymers 2026, 18(7), 809; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym18070809 - 26 Mar 2026
Abstract
The food packaging industry requires sustainable solutions to reduce plastic waste and replace synthetic additives. This study addresses the need for scalable methods to transform conventional polyethylene terephthalate (PET) packaging into active food preservation systems using natural biocides. Commercial PET packaging was surface-activated [...] Read more.
The food packaging industry requires sustainable solutions to reduce plastic waste and replace synthetic additives. This study addresses the need for scalable methods to transform conventional polyethylene terephthalate (PET) packaging into active food preservation systems using natural biocides. Commercial PET packaging was surface-activated using industrial-scale corona treatment, followed by coating with natural biocides—carvacrol (CV) and trans-cinnamaldehyde (tCN). The resulting active packaging materials (PET-CV and PET-tCN) were characterized using XRD, FTIR, SEM, AFM, and desorption kinetics. Packaging properties including mechanical strength, oxygen barrier, antioxidant (DPPH), and antibacterial activity (against S. aureus and E. coli) were evaluated. Real-food preservation tests were conducted using fresh minced pork (4 °C, 6 days) and table olives (23 °C, 21 days), monitoring microbiological (TVC), colorimetric (CIE L*a*b*), and pH changes. Corona treatment successfully anchored both biocides through physical adsorption, with tCN exhibiting stronger surface interaction (desorption energy: 128.0 kJ/mol). Both coatings significantly improved oxygen barrier properties (61% reduction for PET-CV, 80% for PET-tCN). PET-tCN demonstrated superior antibacterial activity (inhibition zones: 15.0 mm against E. coli). In pork preservation, PET-tCN achieved a 2-log reduction in TVC, maintained meat redness (a*: 12.80 vs. 5.10 for control), and stabilized pH. For olives, PET-tCN reduced TVC by 2.35 log cycles and preserved green color. This corona-assisted coating approach, demonstrated here at laboratory scale, successfully transforms inert PET into multi-functional active packaging with potent antimicrobial, antioxidant, and barrier properties, significantly extending food shelf-life and offering a sustainable solution for reducing food waste. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Trends and Innovations in Polymer Packaging Materials)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

19 pages, 715 KB  
Article
Comparative Evaluation of Hanging Objects as Environmental Enrichment Tools on Broiler Behavior, Welfare, Growth, Serum Chemistry, and Meat Quality Traits
by Taslim Amin, Sobia Alyas, Muhammad Usman, Muhammad Abbas Khan, Tarek Amin Ebeid, Muhammad Waqas, Muhammad Muneeb, Mudassir Ahmad, Ali R. Al Sulaiman, Sohail Ahmad and Ala E. Abudabos
Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(4), 321; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13040321 - 26 Mar 2026
Abstract
This study evaluated the effects of different environmental enrichment tools on broiler chickens from 1 to 21 days of age. A total of 120,000 one-day-old broiler chicks were randomly assigned to five treatments, each consisting of four replicates with 6000 birds per replicate. [...] Read more.
This study evaluated the effects of different environmental enrichment tools on broiler chickens from 1 to 21 days of age. A total of 120,000 one-day-old broiler chicks were randomly assigned to five treatments, each consisting of four replicates with 6000 birds per replicate. Replicates were housed in pens measuring approximately 362 m2. The treatments included: T1, green balls (approximately 40 balls per pen); T2, hanging toys (8–10 toys per pen); T3, hanging strings (8–10 string bundles per pen); T4, rotational use of green balls, hanging toys, and strings at equivalent densities; and T5, a control group without enrichment. Data were collected on growth performance, foot health, behavioral activity, serum biochemical parameters, and carcass and meat quality traits. Birds provided with hanging enrichment tools showed significantly improved growth performance (p ≤ 0.05) compared with the control group. Among enriched treatments, T2 yielded the highest body weight and weight gain, as well as the lowest feed conversion ratio. Enrichment treatments also resulted in significant improvements (p ≤ 0.05) in carcass characteristics and selected meat quality parameters, including lightness (L*) and pH stability. Behavioral observations indicated substantially higher activity levels in enriched groups relative to the control. Toe damage scores differed significantly among treatments (p = 0.004), with the lowest scores observed in T1 and the highest in T4; however, no significant differences were detected in footpad dermatitis or hock burn scores (p > 0.05). In conclusion, hanging environmental enrichment tools, particularly hanging toys, can effectively enhance growth performance, behavioral activity, and selected carcass and meat quality traits in broiler production systems, while their effects on footpad health appear limited under the conditions of this study. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 6478 KB  
Article
Multidimensional Drivers of Phytoplankton Assembly in a Karst Reservoir: Seasonal Dynamics and Regulatory Implications
by Zhongxiu Yuan, Mengshu Han, Lan Chen, Yan Chen, Jing Xiao, Qian Chen, Qiuhua Li and Yongxia Liu
Plants 2026, 15(7), 1024; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15071024 - 26 Mar 2026
Abstract
Baihua Reservoir, a typical large waterbody in the karst region of southwestern China and an essential drinking water source, is characterized by a high carbonate buffering capacity that profoundly shapes the structure and function of its phytoplankton community. This study systematically elucidates the [...] Read more.
Baihua Reservoir, a typical large waterbody in the karst region of southwestern China and an essential drinking water source, is characterized by a high carbonate buffering capacity that profoundly shapes the structure and function of its phytoplankton community. This study systematically elucidates the multi-dimensional driving mechanisms underlying seasonal phytoplankton community assembly in karst reservoirs by integrating multiple analytical models—including the Neutral Community Model, β-diversity decomposition, co-occurrence network analysis, XGBoost-SHAP machine learning, and Partial Least Squares Path Modeling—based on monthly sampling at five sites from 2020 to 2024. The results revealed that: (1) Stochastic processes dominated community assembly across all four seasons, while deterministic processes played a crucial role in local species turnover. (2) The co-occurrence network structure showed significant seasonal dynamics, with the composition of keystone species adaptively shifting in response to changing environmental conditions. (3) The key environmental factors influencing the phytoplankton community exhibited clear seasonal patterns, primarily pH, NH3-N, and CODMn in spring; water temperature, CODMn, and NH3-N in summer; TN, TP, and pH in autumn; and pH, water temperature, and DO in winter. To support the sustainable management of karst reservoirs, we propose seasonally differentiated strategies derived from our phytoplankton community analysis: target CODMn reduction in spring and summer, focus on TN and TP load control in autumn, prioritize water column stability in winter, and maintain hydrological connectivity and pH monitoring year-round. This approach enhances phytoplankton community stability, safeguards drinking water safety, and provides a targeted management model for similar reservoir ecosystems globally. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Algal Responses to Abiotic and Biotic Environmental Factors)
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 1622 KB  
Article
Posterior Teflon-Felt-Reinforced Coronary Button Anastomosis in a Modified Bentall Procedure: Early Outcomes in a Single-Center Retrospective Study
by Özgür Akkaya, Izatullah Jalalzai and Ümit Arslan
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(7), 2546; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15072546 - 26 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background: Coronary button reimplantation is a key determinant of operative safety in the modified Bentall procedure (MBP), and technical modifications aimed at improving anastomotic stability and hemostasis continue to evolve. This study investigated the early outcomes of a posterior Teflon-felt-reinforced coronary button [...] Read more.
Background: Coronary button reimplantation is a key determinant of operative safety in the modified Bentall procedure (MBP), and technical modifications aimed at improving anastomotic stability and hemostasis continue to evolve. This study investigated the early outcomes of a posterior Teflon-felt-reinforced coronary button technique in comparison with the conventional approach. Methods: Between January 2021 and May 2025, a total of 57 patients who underwent an elective modified Bentall procedure were included and divided into two groups: the conventional coronary button group (CCB, n = 30) and the posterior Teflon-felt-reinforced coronary button group (RCB, n = 27). Operative variables and early postoperative outcomes (including bleeding, re-exploration, and 30-day mortality) were compared between the two groups. Results: The CCB group included 9 women and 21 men with a mean age of 59.5 ± 9.6 years, whereas the RCB group consisted of 5 women and 22 men with a mean age of 57.3 ± 8.9 years. The mean maximum aortic root diameter was 49.6 ± 5.3 mm, and the mean ascending aortic diameter was 50.8 ± 4.9 mm. Aortic cross-clamp (ACC) and cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) times were similar between the groups (p = 0.330 and p = 0.214, respectively). After excluding patients who underwent planned coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG; n = 8), the incidence of unplanned CABG was higher in the CCB group than in the RCB group [6 (24.0%) vs. 2 (8.3%); p = 0.136]. Postoperative 24-h chest tube drainage tended to be lower (p = 0.060), and re-exploration for bleeding occurred less frequently (11.1% vs. 30.0%, p = 0.076), with no coronary button-related bleeding after reinforcement. The RCB group required significantly fewer transfused blood products, including red blood cells, fresh frozen plasma, and platelets (all p < 0.01). Intensive care unit stay was shorter in the reinforced group (p < 0.01), with a trend toward reduced hospital stay (p = 0.085). Early mortality was comparable (p = 0.356). Conclusions: Posterior Teflon-felt-reinforced coronary button anastomosis may improve early hemostatic stability and provide additional mechanical support during coronary reimplantation in the modified Bentall procedure; confirmation in larger cohorts is required. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 1611 KB  
Review
Lactic Acid-Loaded Hydrogels for Post-Episiotomy Wound Healing: Microenvironment Engineering and Regenerative Strategies—A Narrative Review
by Dragos Brezeanu, Ana-Maria Brezeanu and Vlad Tica
Molecules 2026, 31(7), 1094; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31071094 - 26 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background: Post-episiotomy wound healing remains largely managed through supportive care, despite growing evidence that local biochemical conditions critically influence tissue regeneration. Lactic acid is of particular interest in this context because it is both an endogenous metabolic intermediate and a physiologic component [...] Read more.
Background: Post-episiotomy wound healing remains largely managed through supportive care, despite growing evidence that local biochemical conditions critically influence tissue regeneration. Lactic acid is of particular interest in this context because it is both an endogenous metabolic intermediate and a physiologic component of the vaginal microenvironment, where it contributes to acidic pH maintenance, microbial homeostasis, and mucosal protection. Beyond these local effects, lactate has emerged as a signaling metabolite involved in angiogenesis, immune regulation, and extracellular matrix remodeling, making it a relevant candidate for regenerative wound care. Methods: This narrative translational review integrates evidence from molecular biology, biomaterials science, and clinical obstetrics to examine the therapeutic potential of lactic acid-loaded hydrogels for post-episiotomy tissue repair. Literature from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science was analyzed to evaluate physicochemical design parameters, lactate-mediated signaling pathways, and available clinical outcomes. Results: Lactic acid may function both as a microenvironmental regulator and as a metabolic signal capable of stabilizing hypoxia-inducible factor-1α signaling, enhancing vascular endothelial growth factor expression, modulating macrophage polarization, and influencing fibroblast-mediated extracellular matrix synthesis. Hydrogel matrices provide tunable platforms for controlled lactate release, pH buffering, and mucosal compatibility. Clinical studies suggest improved epithelialization, reduced infection risk, and lower pain scores following topical lactic acid formulations in episiotomy repair. In parallel, platelet-rich plasma provides autologous growth factor enrichment that may complement regenerative signaling pathways. Conclusions: Integrating microenvironment stabilization through lactic acid-based hydrogels with biologically active regenerative strategies represents a promising direction for post-episiotomy wound healing. Further controlled trials and standardized biomaterial characterization are required to define optimal therapeutic protocols and confirm long-term clinical benefit. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Functional Hydrogels in Biomedicine)
Show Figures

Figure 1

29 pages, 8562 KB  
Review
Efficiency and Sustainability in Industrial Biogas Plants: Bibliometric Review of Key Operating Parameters and Emerging Process Metrics
by Yoisdel Castillo Alvarez, Johan Joel Cordero Noa, Gerald Vasco Quispe Soto and Reinier Jiménez Borges
Sci 2026, 8(4), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci8040071 - 26 Mar 2026
Abstract
Industrial-scale Anaerobic Digestion (AD) is a key technology for the energy recovery of agro-industrial and municipal waste and for the mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions; however, the actual operational performance of industrial biodigesters continues to show significant discrepancies with respect to the theoretical [...] Read more.
Industrial-scale Anaerobic Digestion (AD) is a key technology for the energy recovery of agro-industrial and municipal waste and for the mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions; however, the actual operational performance of industrial biodigesters continues to show significant discrepancies with respect to the theoretical values reported in the scientific literature. In this context, there is still a lack of systematic analysis to identify which operating parameters are consistently monitored in industrial settings and which remain insufficiently explored, particularly those that describe the overall state of the digestion environment. To address this gap, a systematic literature review was conducted in the Scopus database for the period 2000–2026, complemented by a bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer software v1.6.18. 3. After applying inclusion criteria focused exclusively on industrial-scale and pilot systems, 1327 documents corresponding to the category of operating parameters were selected and analyzed using keyword co-occurrence networks and evaluation of occurrence frequencies and total link intensities. The analysis shows a marked concentration of the literature on a small set of classic parameters, highlighting pH (154 occurrences, 3667 link intensities), temperature (147 occurrences, 3255 link intensities), and ammonia (131 occurrences, 2824 link intensities) as the most recurrent variables in the industrial operation of anaerobic digesters. Complementarily, parameters such as chemical oxygen demand, total and volatile solids, and hydrogen sulfide have progressively increased their presence since 2015, mainly associated with effluent quality assessment, nutrient recovery, and overall process sustainability. In contrast, variables that integrate the state of the environment, such as electrical conductivity, oxidation-reduction potential, and the rheological properties of digestate, appear in less than 5% of the studies analyzed, despite their ability to integrate information on stability, buffer capacity, and overall operating conditions. Taken together, these findings highlight an imbalance between the intensive use of traditional parameters and the limited incorporation of integrative indicators in industrial monitoring, suggesting that their systematic inclusion, together with the development of soft sensors and predictive models, could contribute to improving operational control and reducing the gap between the theoretical performance and actual behavior of industrial biodigesters. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental and Earth Science)
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 1785 KB  
Article
An Anaerobic Trickle-Bed Reactor Filled with Siporax™ as a Novel Approach for Biomethanation of Hydrogen and Carbon Dioxide
by Gert Hofstede, Arjan Kloekhorst, Janneke Krooneman, Kemal Koç, Kor Zwart, Folkert Faber, Jan-Peter Nap and Gert-Jan Euverink
Bioengineering 2026, 13(4), 382; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering13040382 - 26 Mar 2026
Abstract
To broaden the application of biomethanation for energy storage and renewable integration, this study investigates the performance of a trickle-bed reactor (TBR) for hydrogen (H2) utilisation in biogas upgrading, using both pure Carbon dioxide (CO2) and biogas-derived CO2 [...] Read more.
To broaden the application of biomethanation for energy storage and renewable integration, this study investigates the performance of a trickle-bed reactor (TBR) for hydrogen (H2) utilisation in biogas upgrading, using both pure Carbon dioxide (CO2) and biogas-derived CO2 as substrates for methane (CH4) production. Renewable sources such as wind and solar are inherently variable, increasing the need for scalable storage solutions. Converting surplus electricity into H2 and CH4 via biological methanation offers an efficient and safer alternative to direct H2 storage. By reducing CO2 produced by biogas plants, methanogenic archaea produce CH4, enabling H2 valorisation and enhanced biogas yields. This study demonstrates that TBR technology can achieve CH4 formation rates up to 15 L-CH4/L-reactor/day under optimised conditions. Siporax carrier material supported dense biofilm formation and effective gas–liquid mass transfer, facilitating high conversion efficiency. The system showed operational robustness, with rapid recovery after prolonged idle periods and stable production rates of 10–12 L-CH4/L/day. Wastewater was used as a realistic medium to assess reactor performance under complex, variable conditions. Reactor design focused primarily on enhancing gas–liquid mass transfer and supporting sustained microbial activity through adequate nutrient supply, ensuring sufficient buffer capacity to maintain pH stability. These results demonstrate the potential of TBR-based systems for high-rate, stable biomethanation and highlight their applicability in future energy infrastructures for integrating H2 through decentralised biogas upgrading. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Anaerobic Biotechnologies for Energy and Resource Recovery from Waste)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop