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14 pages, 3902 KB  
Article
Influence of Oxygen Flow and Stoichiometry on Optical Properties and Damage Resistance of Hafnium Oxide Thin Films
by Amira Guediche, Saaxewer Diop, Raluca A. Negres, Leonardus Bimo Bayu Aji and Colin Harthcock
Coatings 2026, 16(3), 376; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings16030376 (registering DOI) - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
Hafnium oxide (HfO2) is predominantly used as a high-index material in multi-layer dielectric coatings for high-peak- and high-average-power lasers, but laser damage often initiates within the HfO2 layers despite their wide bandgap. Oxygen deficiency during deposition can introduce vacancy-related sub-bandgap [...] Read more.
Hafnium oxide (HfO2) is predominantly used as a high-index material in multi-layer dielectric coatings for high-peak- and high-average-power lasers, but laser damage often initiates within the HfO2 layers despite their wide bandgap. Oxygen deficiency during deposition can introduce vacancy-related sub-bandgap states and absorptive defects, lowering damage resistance. This study investigates how oxygen flow during HfO2 deposition with ion beam sputtering (IBS) affects its stoichiometry, defect formation, and nanosecond laser-induced damage threshold (LIDT) and whether single-layer trends predict multilayer performance. Single layers were deposited at varying oxygen flows, characterized for optical and structural properties, and tested for the LIDT at 1064 nm and 355 nm. Increasing oxygen flow drove the layer toward near-stoichiometric HfO2, reduced the refractive index, and altered the density of surface pinhole-like features. The single-layer LIDT at 355 nm increased with oxygen, whereas the 1064 nm LIDT was comparatively less sensitive to oxygen flow, consistent with the wavelength-dependent roles of absorptive precursors and microstructural defects. In contrast, a HfO2-based high-reflector (HR) showed a higher LIDT at lower oxygen flow, indicating that the family of damage precursors changes between single layers and multilayers; in stacks, structural properties such as stress, gas entrapment and thermal dissipation may outweigh the isolated absorptive defects found in single layers. These results demonstrate that the optimal oxygen flow condition depends on both LIDT wavelength and film architecture. We identified, for single layers, a 15–35 sccm window for maximizing the 1064 nm LIDT and a high-flow optimum (45 sccm) for the 355 nm LIDT and, for 355 nm HR stacks, a distinct lower-flow regime (~10 sccm). Full article
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9 pages, 1109 KB  
Article
Thiol-Amine Processed PbS Thin Films for Enhanced Near-Infrared Photodetection
by Yuanze Hong, Zhipeng Wei and Xiaohua Wang
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(6), 363; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16060363 (registering DOI) - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
Developing reliable processing routes for semiconductor thin films is essential for advancing photodetection technologies. The amine-thiol solvent system, in comparison with other liquid-phase synthesis methods, does not necessitate stepwise ion-exchange reactions. It is capable of obtaining the target semiconductor thin film by directly [...] Read more.
Developing reliable processing routes for semiconductor thin films is essential for advancing photodetection technologies. The amine-thiol solvent system, in comparison with other liquid-phase synthesis methods, does not necessitate stepwise ion-exchange reactions. It is capable of obtaining the target semiconductor thin film by directly dissolving bulk powder followed by subsequent annealing. Although PbO can be dissolved in this solvent as a raw material to obtain PbS thin films, the structural evolution, optical properties, and photodetection performance of the films obtained via this solvent system still require further exploration. This solvent system was employed to prepare PbS thin films, and a comprehensive investigation was carried out on the evolution of their structure, morphology, and optical properties during preheating and annealing treatments. During preheating, the films exhibit directional ordering within the organic matrix, which converts into phase-pure PbS upon annealing. Based on the optimized films, interdigitated photodetectors and hybrid devices integrated with graphene transistors are fabricated. The resulting devices exhibit strong photoresponse and operational stability, demonstrating the viability of amine-thiol-processed PbS films for photodetection applications. Full article
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15 pages, 875 KB  
Article
Influence of a Carbonated Nutritional Beverage on Surface Integrity and Color Stability of 3D-Printed Resin Composite and Hybrid Ceramic Dental Prosthetic Materials
by Mohamed M. Kandil, Tamer M. Hamdy, Ali Abdelnabi, Sahar Ahmed Abdalbary, Anas Abed Alkhormani and Maha S. Othman
Prosthesis 2026, 8(3), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/prosthesis8030030 (registering DOI) - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background: 3D-printed resin composite and hybrid ceramic materials are widely used in prosthetic dentistry for their esthetic, mechanical advantages, and digital compatibility, though their surface properties may be affected by drinking habits. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of a carbonated [...] Read more.
Background: 3D-printed resin composite and hybrid ceramic materials are widely used in prosthetic dentistry for their esthetic, mechanical advantages, and digital compatibility, though their surface properties may be affected by drinking habits. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of a carbonated nutritional beverage multivitamin drink (Oronamin C) on the surface microhardness, roughness, solubility, and color changes in a recently introduced 3D-printed resin composite (Permanent Crown Resin), hybrid ceramic material (Vita Enamic) and a nanohybrid resin composite (Luna). Methods: A total of 120 disk-shaped specimens were distributed according to the type of material into three groups (n = 40). These were divided into four subgroups of specimens for each test (n = 10). The specimens were examined before and after immersion in Oronamin C solution for 12 days. Results: The results showed that there was no significant change in surface microhardness and surface roughness in both 3D-printed resin composite and hybrid ceramic after immersion, while microhardness decreased significantly in the nanohybrid resin composite with an increase in surface roughness. Solubility increased significantly in the nanohybrid and 3D-printed resin composites, but not in the hybrid ceramic. All materials presented clinically acceptable color changes, with mean values lower for both nanohybrid and hybrid ceramic. Conclusions: This study concluded that the hybrid ceramic and 3D-printed resin composite exhibited good stability after Oronamin C beverage exposure, whereas the nanohybrid resin composite exhibited the most impairment among all materials. All materials demonstrated clinically acceptable color changes. Full article
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20 pages, 5328 KB  
Article
Cerium-Based Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs) for Catalytic Hydroxylation of Organic Molecules
by Muath Alharbi, Mostafa E. Salem and Hani Nasser Abdelhamid
Catalysts 2026, 16(3), 271; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16030271 (registering DOI) - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
Three cerium-based metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), Ce-BDC, Ce-BDC-NH2, and Ce-BTC, were used as catalysts for the hydroxylation of several organic compounds, including those not relevant to environmental or biological systems. Structural characteristics were validated by FT-IR spectroscopy, while SEM imaging demonstrated rod-like [...] Read more.
Three cerium-based metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), Ce-BDC, Ce-BDC-NH2, and Ce-BTC, were used as catalysts for the hydroxylation of several organic compounds, including those not relevant to environmental or biological systems. Structural characteristics were validated by FT-IR spectroscopy, while SEM imaging demonstrated rod-like morphologies of 100–200 nm in width for Ce-BDC-NH2 and 50–100 nm for Ce-BTC. The optical properties, ascertained using diffuse reflectance spectra and Tauc analysis, revealed bandgaps of 3.0 eV, 2.9 eV, and 3.6 eV for Ce-BDC, Ce-BDC-NH2, and Ce-BTC, respectively. Catalytic investigations revealed that Ce-MOFs effectively convert phenol into 1,4-dihydroxybenzene with an efficiency of 86–99%, as confirmed by UV–Vis spectroscopy and HPLC analysis using an authentic hydroquinone (1,4-dihydroxybenzene) standard. The Ce-MOFs efficiently oxidize the dyes methylene blue (MB) and Congo red (CR) and also promote the hydroxylation of L-tyrosine, indicating their relevance to biologically significant substrates. The high catalytic performance of Ce-MOF highlights the potential of Ce-based materials for environmental remediation, chemical transformation, and sustainable wastewater treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Catalytic Materials)
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25 pages, 6884 KB  
Article
Investigation of Hardness, Microstructure, and Mechanical Properties of Goat Horn Powder–Reinforced Wood-like Polyurethane Composites
by Lokman Yünlü
Polymers 2026, 18(6), 723; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym18060723 (registering DOI) - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
This study investigates the effect of goat horn powder (GHP) reinforcement on the hardness, microstructure, and mechanical properties of wood-like polyurethane composites. GHP, a keratin-based animal waste, was incorporated into the polyurethane matrix at weight fractions of 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 [...] Read more.
This study investigates the effect of goat horn powder (GHP) reinforcement on the hardness, microstructure, and mechanical properties of wood-like polyurethane composites. GHP, a keratin-based animal waste, was incorporated into the polyurethane matrix at weight fractions of 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 wt.%. The mechanical behavior was evaluated through tensile, three-point bending, Charpy impact, and Shore D hardness tests, complemented by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analyses. Results indicate that GHP significantly enhances impact resistance, with 10 wt.% loading achieving a 140% improvement in impact energy compared to the neat matrix. Tensile stress improved by 12.89% at 5 wt.% loading. However, reinforcement levels exceeding 10–15 wt.% led to a decline in tensile and flexural performance due to particle agglomeration and weak interfacial adhesion. Shore D hardness increased systematically with higher GHP content across all ratios. The study demonstrates that GHP is a functional, sustainable reinforcing element that improves toughness and hardness while supporting environmental waste management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Wood and Wood Polymer Composites)
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34 pages, 6308 KB  
Article
Hybrid Resins Derived from Abies alba Exudate as Matrices for Composite Materials
by Cosmin Mihai Mirițoiu, Paula Adriana Pădeanu and Nicoleta Cioateră
Polymers 2026, 18(6), 722; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym18060722 (registering DOI) - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
This study investigates the utilization of Abies alba exudate resin for the development of hybrid resins intended as matrices for composite materials. The novelty of this work lies in demonstrating that physically hybridized, bio-derived resin systems based on Abies alba exudate can exhibit [...] Read more.
This study investigates the utilization of Abies alba exudate resin for the development of hybrid resins intended as matrices for composite materials. The novelty of this work lies in demonstrating that physically hybridized, bio-derived resin systems based on Abies alba exudate can exhibit distinct mechanical and dynamic behaviors solely by adjusting the solvent-assisted formulation route, without intentional chemical modification and without spectroscopic evidence of co-network formation within the limits of ATR-FTIR analysis, although limited interfacial interactions cannot be excluded. Two formulation routes were explored: (i) dilution of Abies alba exudate in turpentine derived from pine buds, (ii) dilution in ethanol (96%). The diluted resins were subsequently blended with a commercial epoxy system, which was cured with its amine hardener to form solid matrices in which the Abies alba component was physically incorporated. The resulting hybrid resins were characterized by multiple testing methods and further applied in the fabrication of cotton fiber-reinforced composites. The turpentine-based hybrid resin (HR1) showed a rigid mechanical response, with tensile strengths of approximately 13.2–13.5 MPa, compressive strengths of about 30 MPa, Shore D hardness values of 56–58.5, and a low damping ratio (≈0.026). In contrast, the ethanol-based hybrid resin (HR2) exhibited a highly deformable mechanical response, characterized by low tensile strength (≈0.5 MPa), very high elastic recovery, low hardness (<10 Shore D), and a significantly higher damping ratio (≈0.139). To demonstrate their applicability in composite manufacturing, the HR1 matrix was reinforced with cotton fabric, leading to a substantial improvement in tensile strength (25–26 MPa) and flexural strength (35–36 MPa), together with an increased natural frequency. Water absorption tests revealed limited moisture uptake for the neat hybrid resins (≤0.04 g), while the cotton-reinforced composite exhibited higher but largely reversible water absorption (≈21.5%), associated with the hydrophilic nature of the reinforcement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Analysis and Characterization)
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23 pages, 3404 KB  
Review
Alginate-Based Biomaterials: From Fundamental “Egg-Box” Chemistry to Diverse Biomedical and Metabolic Management of Obesity and Diabetes
by Adnan Alsaei, Ahmad Zarwi, Ayah Binrajab, Fatema Rahimi, Renad AlAnsari, Manyam Praveen Kumar, Alexandra E. Butler, Stephen L. Atkin and G. Roshan Deen
Gels 2026, 12(3), 250; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels12030250 (registering DOI) - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
Alginate, a naturally occurring polysaccharide derived from brown algae, has emerged as a versatile cornerstone in the field of biomedical materials. Its widespread adoption is driven by its exceptional biocompatibility and the unique cation-dependent gelation defined by the “egg-box” model. This review examines [...] Read more.
Alginate, a naturally occurring polysaccharide derived from brown algae, has emerged as a versatile cornerstone in the field of biomedical materials. Its widespread adoption is driven by its exceptional biocompatibility and the unique cation-dependent gelation defined by the “egg-box” model. This review examines the fundamental chemistry of alginate, detailing how its crosslinking mechanisms dictate the physicochemical properties essential for clinical performance. The discussion bridges the gap between polymer structure and diverse biomedical applications, including drug delivery, tissue engineering, and the clinical management of gastrointestinal reflux and wound care. Furthermore, the article evaluates the role of alginate-based systems in the biomedical and metabolic management of obesity and diabetes. By analyzing how alginate influences satiety, glycemic index modulation, and lipid absorption through biophysical mechanisms, this review highlights the transition from fundamental chemical architecture to practical clinical utility. By integrating structural chemistry with physiological impact, this work underscores the evolving potential of alginate-based materials as supportive and functional strategies in modern clinical care. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Gel Processing and Engineering)
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14 pages, 3557 KB  
Article
Influence of Secondary Electromagnetic Stirring and Soft Reduction on Slab Macrosegregation Evolution of E355 Steel
by Xin Xie, Peng Shi, Baohui Yuan, Chenhui Wu and Daiwei Liu
Materials 2026, 19(6), 1164; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19061164 (registering DOI) - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
Macrosegregation in continuous casting slabs remains a critical defect that adversely affects the homogeneity and mechanical properties of the final rolled products. Industrial experiments were conducted on E355 steel continuous casting slabs to investigate the effects of electromagnetic stirring (EMS) and soft reduction [...] Read more.
Macrosegregation in continuous casting slabs remains a critical defect that adversely affects the homogeneity and mechanical properties of the final rolled products. Industrial experiments were conducted on E355 steel continuous casting slabs to investigate the effects of electromagnetic stirring (EMS) and soft reduction (SR) on the evolution of slab macrosegregation. Furthermore, the inheritance of segregation from the slab to the rolled plate was analyzed. The results indicate that the equiaxed crystal ratio increases and the centerline segregation decreases with increasing stirring intensity. The application of both secondary EMS and SR minimized the centerline segregation in the slab. When the current intensity was increased from 0 A to 320 A in continuous stirring mode, the equiaxed crystal fraction increased from 22.52% to 32.52%, and the centerline segregation index decreased from 1.23 to 1.17. Compared with the continuous stirring mode, the alternating stirring mode promoted a more pronounced increase in the equiaxed crystal ratio and a further reduction in the centerline segregation. The centerline segregation in the slab correlates with the banded structure observed in the rolled plate. A higher degree of slab centerline segregation corresponds to a more severe banded structure and greater fluctuations in the mechanical properties of the plate. Through parameter optimization, the recommended settings are an alternating stirring mode with a current of 320 A at 5 Hz and an SR amount of 3 mm. Under these optimized conditions, the equiaxed crystal ratio of the slab increased to 35.22%, the centerline segregation index dropped to 1.15, and the banded structure in the rolled plate was reduced to grade 2.0. Consequently, the standard deviations of the tensile strength and elongation were 8.03 MPa and 1.1%, respectively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Metals and Alloys)
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15 pages, 11070 KB  
Article
Quantifying Interphase Evolution in Epoxy/WS2 Nanocomposites: A Raman Spectroscopic Study of Aminoacetic Acid Surface Modification
by Amirbek Bekeshev, Anton Mostovoy, Andrey Shcherbakov and Bibinur Iztleuova
J. Compos. Sci. 2026, 10(3), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs10030161 (registering DOI) - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
The performance of polymer nanocomposites is governed primarily by the structure and properties of the matrix–filler interphase. This study presents a quantitative Raman spectroscopy analysis of interphase evolution in epoxy nanocomposites reinforced with two-dimensional WS2, whose surface chemistry was systematically tuned [...] Read more.
The performance of polymer nanocomposites is governed primarily by the structure and properties of the matrix–filler interphase. This study presents a quantitative Raman spectroscopy analysis of interphase evolution in epoxy nanocomposites reinforced with two-dimensional WS2, whose surface chemistry was systematically tuned via grafting of aminoacetic acid (AA) at concentrations of 2.5, 5.0, and 7.5 wt.%. By tracking peak shifts, linewidths, intensity ratios, and integrated areas of the characteristic WS2 phonon modes (2LA(M) + E2g1, A1g, and defect-related bands), we establish a non-linear, concentration-dependent interfacial response. Minor spectral variations at 2.5 wt.% AA indicate limited interfacial interaction. At 5.0 wt.% AA, suppression of the A1g mode and significant band broadening reflect increased structural disorder. At 7.5 wt.% AA, coordinated red shifts (~−1.8 cm−1) and the appearance of an additional band near 432.8 cm−1 suggest the development of a strain-mediated interfacial state. Overall, increasing AA concentration leads to a non-linear evolution of the WS2–epoxy interface, as reflected in peak positions, linewidths and intensity ratios. These Raman-derived descriptors correlate directly with enhanced mechanical properties (flexural and tensile strength) and thermal stability (Vicat softening point) of the composites. The results demonstrate that effective interfacial coupling requires a critical surface coverage and that Raman spectroscopy serves as a powerful tool for non-destructively probing and optimizing interphase architecture in TMD/polymer systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanocomposites)
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15 pages, 411 KB  
Article
Investigation of the Effect of Chokeberry Powder on the Quality Attributes of Cheese Snacks
by Tamara Tultabayeva, Gulmira Zhakupova, Kadyrzhan Makangali, Assem Sagandyk, Aknur Muldasheva and Aruzhan Shoman
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(6), 2868; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16062868 (registering DOI) - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of black chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) (Michx.) Elliott powder addition (0.1–0.4%) on the quality attributes of cheese snacks produced from a blended camel–goat–cow milk base (60:20:20) using microwave vacuum drying. The snacks were evaluated for chemical composition, [...] Read more.
This study investigated the effects of black chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) (Michx.) Elliott powder addition (0.1–0.4%) on the quality attributes of cheese snacks produced from a blended camel–goat–cow milk base (60:20:20) using microwave vacuum drying. The snacks were evaluated for chemical composition, colour parameters, texture profile and water activity in order to assess how black chokeberry incorporation influences their physicochemical and sensory-related properties. Chemical analysis showed that the high protein content of the dried cheese matrix was maintained across all formulations, while fat, carbohydrate and energy values varied within a relatively narrow range, without a clear dose-dependent trend attributable solely to black chokeberry addition. Black chokeberry powder induced concentration-dependent colour changes, with decreased lightness and increased redness and overall colour difference, indicating visually noticeable shifts that may enhance product differentiation. Texture profile analysis revealed a significant reduction in fracturability at intermediate inclusion levels, suggesting a less brittle structure, whereas other texture parameters showed non-linear but statistically non-significant variations due to limited replication. All snacks exhibited very low water activity, consistent with shelf-stable, low-moisture products. A preliminary sensory test with untrained assessors indicated that black chokeberry-enriched snacks, particularly at around 0.3%, were generally well accepted, although the small panel size limits the strength of these conclusions. Overall, the findings suggest that small additions of black chokeberry powder can be used to develop visually attractive, high-protein cheese snacks with promising textural and sensory characteristics, while more comprehensive studies are needed to characterise their antioxidant properties, detailed nutritional profile and long-term stability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Science and Technology)
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27 pages, 1887 KB  
Article
Influence of Free and Microencapsulated Extracts from Onion Peels on the Performance of Fortified Fresh Cheese
by Sara M. Ferreira and Lúcia Santos
Foods 2026, 15(6), 1048; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15061048 (registering DOI) - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
As a strategy to valorise onion peel (OP), a phenolic-rich extract was obtained and microencapsulated using the double emulsion technique for improved stability. Both free and microencapsulated OP extracts were added to fresh cheese to enhance its nutritional composition. The extract exhibited a [...] Read more.
As a strategy to valorise onion peel (OP), a phenolic-rich extract was obtained and microencapsulated using the double emulsion technique for improved stability. Both free and microencapsulated OP extracts were added to fresh cheese to enhance its nutritional composition. The extract exhibited a high total phenolic content (TPC) and strong antioxidant capacity towards ABTS and DPPH radicals, with IC50 of 9.5 and 36.1 mgExtract∙L−1, respectively. The extract demonstrated inhibitory capacities of 71% against α-amylase and 82% towards β-glucosidase. Quercetin was identified as the main phenolic compound, while potassium was the predominant mineral. The microencapsulation yielded an encapsulation efficiency of 91%, with an average particle size of 17.9 µm. Incorporating free and microencapsulated OP extract into the fresh cheese reduced syneresis, a favourable outcome, while preserving moisture levels, protein and ash content, and the pH. The incorporation of the free and microencapsulated OP extract enhanced the TPC and DPPH scavenging capacity of the cheeses. Results demonstrated the potential of using OP extract to enhance the antioxidant properties of fresh cheese, and to reduce syneresis, while promoting sustainability. These outcomes are particularly relevant from an industrial point of view, since an increase in antioxidant content might contribute to extending the product shelf-life. Full article
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21 pages, 5175 KB  
Article
Carnosic Acid Activates the STING/IRF3 Pathway to Induce Nitric Oxide-Mediated Apoptosis in Osteosarcoma Cells
by Weixiong Guo, Lanlan Yin, Qiang Wu and Jiaqi Chu
Antioxidants 2026, 15(3), 374; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15030374 (registering DOI) - 16 Mar 2026
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is a highly aggressive bone cancer with limited therapeutic options. Carnosic acid (CA), a phenolic diterpene with well-established antioxidant properties, has shown anticancer activity, yet its mechanisms in OS remain unclear. In this study, we found that CA suppressed proliferation and [...] Read more.
Osteosarcoma (OS) is a highly aggressive bone cancer with limited therapeutic options. Carnosic acid (CA), a phenolic diterpene with well-established antioxidant properties, has shown anticancer activity, yet its mechanisms in OS remain unclear. In this study, we found that CA suppressed proliferation and induced apoptosis in human osteosarcoma cells in a dose-dependent manner. Mechanistically, CA activated the STING/IRF3 signaling pathway and enhanced nitric oxide (NO) production, factors closely linked to redox modulation and mitochondrial apoptotic signaling. Pharmacological inhibition or siRNA-mediated knockdown of STING, as well as blockade of NO synthesis, significantly reduced CA-induced apoptosis in vitro. In a xenograft mouse model, CA treatment suppressed tumor growth, and this effect was partially reversed by STING inhibition. These findings suggest that CA exerts antitumor effects in OS through modulation of innate immune and redox-related signaling pathways, supporting its potential as a therapeutic compound that links antioxidant and immunomodulatory actions. Full article
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35 pages, 17144 KB  
Article
Integrated Functional and scRNA-Seq Analyses Reveal Convergence of M-CSF– and GM-CSF–Derived Macrophages Following IL-27 Polarization
by Tomozumi Imamichi, Jun Yang, Qian Chen, Udeshika Kariyawasam, Mayra Marquez, Jeanette Higgins, Jordan Metz, Homa Nath Sharma, Michael W. Baseler and Hongyan Sui
Cells 2026, 15(6), 528; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells15060528 (registering DOI) - 16 Mar 2026
Abstract
Macrophages differentiated with macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) (M-Mac) are widely used as an experimental model. Interleukin 27 (IL-27)-polarized M-Mac (27M-Mac) suppresses HIV replication; however, the effects of IL-27 polarization on granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF)-induced macrophages (GM-Mac) remain less investigation. Here, we compare multiple [...] Read more.
Macrophages differentiated with macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) (M-Mac) are widely used as an experimental model. Interleukin 27 (IL-27)-polarized M-Mac (27M-Mac) suppresses HIV replication; however, the effects of IL-27 polarization on granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF)-induced macrophages (GM-Mac) remain less investigation. Here, we compare multiple functional properties and gene expression profiles of 27M-Mac and IL-27-polarized GM-Mac (27GM-Mac). M-Mac and GM-Mac were generated from monocytes of healthy donors and subsequently treated with IL-27 for three days. HIV replication in 27M-Mac, GM-Mac, and 27GM-Mac was suppressed to nearly 10% of that in M-Mac; however, single-cell RNA sequencing showed that M-Mac clustered with GM-Mac, and 27M-Mac clustered with 27GM-Mac. Expression of CD38 and secretion of CXCL9 and C1q were significantly increased in 27M-Mac and 27GM-Mac compared with M-Mac and GM-Mac. Although CD16 and CD64 expression increased in 27M-Mac and 27GM-Mac relative to their respective controls, phagocytic activity in 27M-Mac and 27GM-Mac was 30% of that in M-Mac. Autophagy was promoted 3.7-fold more strongly in 27M-Mac than in M-Mac, reaching levels comparable to those in GM-Mac and 27GM-Mac. Collectively, these findings indicate that IL-27 polarizes M-Mac and GM-Mac toward transcriptionally and functionally similar subtypes, providing insight into the role of IL-27 in macrophage polarization and plasticity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cellular Immunology)
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37 pages, 4547 KB  
Review
Functionalization of Textile Materials for Advanced Engineering Applications
by Andrey A. Vodyashkin, Mstislav O. Makeev, Dmitriy S. Ryzhenko and Anastasia M. Stoynova
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(6), 2708; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27062708 (registering DOI) - 16 Mar 2026
Abstract
Textile materials represent a versatile class of engineering substrates widely used in apparel, domestic products, and medical protective systems. Despite their extensive application, large-scale textile production has seen limited integration of fundamentally new functionalization strategies. In recent years, however, advances in materials science [...] Read more.
Textile materials represent a versatile class of engineering substrates widely used in apparel, domestic products, and medical protective systems. Despite their extensive application, large-scale textile production has seen limited integration of fundamentally new functionalization strategies. In recent years, however, advances in materials science have enabled the development of textiles with tailored electrical, adaptive, and biological functionalities. This review summarizes recent progress in the functionalization of textile materials with a focus on approaches relevant to engineering and industrial implementation. Particular attention is given to conductive textiles designed for operation under extreme environmental conditions, including low-temperature climates. Methods for integrating electrically conductive elements into fibrous structures are discussed, highlighting their potential for sensing, thermal regulation, and energy-related applications such as powering portable electronic devices. Inkjet printing is presented as a scalable technique for high-resolution deposition of conductive patterns while preserving the mechanical integrity and aesthetic properties of textile substrates. In addition, adaptive and stimuli-responsive textile systems are reviewed, including materials capable of responding to thermal, optical, or chemical stimuli, with applications in camouflage, wearable systems, and multifunctional surfaces. The review further addresses the development of bioactive textiles, emphasizing antibacterial functionalization using organic and inorganic agents to mitigate the spread of pathogenic microorganisms. The relevance of such materials has been underscored by recent global viral outbreaks. Overall, this work aims to provide a materials science perspective on emerging textile functionalization strategies and to facilitate the transition of these technologies from laboratory-scale research to practical engineering applications. Full article
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24 pages, 380 KB  
Tutorial
The Contribution of Bayesian Methods in Solving the Paradoxes of Classical Statistical Tests in Biomedical Research
by Nicolas Meyer
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(6), 2262; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15062262 (registering DOI) - 16 Mar 2026
Abstract
Almost all publications in biomedical literature have employed statistical tests, with p-values being considered of particular importance in the assessment of the presence of a link between two variables. However, these tests and p-values have been the subject of considerable criticism. [...] Read more.
Almost all publications in biomedical literature have employed statistical tests, with p-values being considered of particular importance in the assessment of the presence of a link between two variables. However, these tests and p-values have been the subject of considerable criticism. It may appear paradoxical that tools utilised by the scientific community for nearly a century could possess all the flaws attributed to them. This paradox can partially be explained by the counterintuitive nature of p-values and the fact that the test that generates them is the result of a combination of two tests that were developed to answer statistical questions of a very different nature. The respective characteristics of these two tests are essentially unknown to the majority of users of p-values. The aforementioned paradox can be partially explained by the paucity of publications that seek to elucidate these concepts for users of p-values, the majority of whom are not statisticians. The recently introduced Bayesian methods have properties that enable us to understand the limitations of traditional methods. In Bayesian methods, the use of a specific interpretation of probability allows for better exploitation of clinical research data. The aim of this article is to highlight the limits of non-Bayesian methods and explain the principles and functioning of Bayesian methods to a non-statistical audience. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Research Methods)
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