Found 565 results
Open Access
Article
30 January 2026Photocatalytic Transformation of Guanine Using Colloidal CdS Nanoparticles
Investigations into the photoinduced reactions of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) bases are important for human health. Herein, we have synthesized colloidal CdS nanoparticles by a method reported in the literature. The mean particle diameter of the semiconductor was about 55 nm. The colloidal CdS particles were used as a photocatalyst to investigate the organic transformation of guanine (2-amino-6-oxopurine). The products of the semiconductor-induced reaction were analyzed by liquid chromatography-mass chromatography (LC-MS) measurements. The solitary product of the photocatalytic reaction of guanine was revealed as 2,5-diamino-4H-imidazol-4-one. The likely reaction pathway for the formation of the product has been presented. To our understanding, the present work is the first account on the mechanistic aspects of the semiconductor-induced photocatalytic reaction of guanine.
Open Access
Article
29 January 2026A Comprehensive Study on the Phase Structure, Surface Properties, and Active Oxygen Species of A2B2O7 Composite Oxides
A2B2O7 complex oxides have a great potential to be used in high-temperature catalytic processes. Herein, a series of A2B2O7 (A = La, Nd, Sm, Gd, Er, Yb; B = Ti, Sn, Zr, Ce) compounds with all four kinds of typical sub-crystalline phases were synthesized to study their bulk and surface properties. FTIR spectroscopy was adopted as a novel method in this study to identify distinctively these phases. Whereas, it cannot be used to distinguish the subtle structure difference between disordered and ordered pyrochlores, nor that between the disordered defect fluorite and the rare earth. To discriminate these exquisite phase differences, XPS spectra must be supplementarily used. Specifically, it was discovered that the coordination numbers of the A- and B-site cations are the key factor affecting their binding energies. Furthermore, the electronegativity of the A- and B-site elements significantly influences the binding energy of surface lattice oxygen, reflecting their electrophilic and nucleophilic properties, which can thus be used to effectively identify the sub-crystalline phase. The oxygen vacancy concentration of different sub-crystalline phases is the primary factor controlling the amount of surface chemisorbed oxygen species on A2B2O7 compounds, with superoxide anions (O2−) identified as the major species.
Open Access
Article
28 January 2026Enhanced High-Temperature Oxidation Resistance of Refractory High-Entropy Alloys Al-Cr-Mo-Ta-Ti by Aluminizing Using Pack Cementation
Refractory high-entropy alloys (RHEAs) show promising properties for applications as structural materials in high-temperature applications, such as high solidus temperature and high strength. Improving their density, oxidation resistance, and room temperature ductility are still the aims of research in alloy development. In this study, Al-rich diffusion coatings by pack cementation are developed for three different alloys in the system Al-Cr-Mo-Ta-Ti in order to improve their high-temperature oxidation resistance. Equimolar AlCrMoTaTi, Al-rich Al3CrMoTaTi, and Ti-rich AlCrMoTaTi3 are synthesized by vacuum arc melting with subsequent milling to powder, consolidation to bulk material by field-assisted sintering technology/spark plasma sintering (FAST/SPS), and homogenization heat treatment. The applied aluminizing coatings are investigated by gravimetry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Experimental analyses are supplemented by CALPHAD simulations. Compact, uniform, and adhesive Al-rich diffusion coatings are produced on all three substrate RHEAs and exhibit single-layered D022 Al3(Cr,Mo,Ta,Ti) intermetallic compound analogous to Al3Ti in the binary Al-Ti system. Isothermal oxidation at 1000 °C for 48 h in ambient air results in the formation of 1–2 µm thin protective single-layered alumina scale—in contrast to multi-layered oxide scales in uncoated condition—and mass gains as low as binary Al3Ti and Ni-based superalloys.
Open Access
Perspective
28 January 2026The Double Face of Exosomes Derived from Mesenchymal Stromal Cells in Fibrotic Lung Diseases: Pathology Contribution or Treatment?
Several studies have attempted to clarify the role of exosomes and/or microvesicles derived from mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) (collectively indicated as extracellular vesicles: MSCs-EVs) in pulmonary fibrosis. Depending on their origin and on the micro-environmental context, MSCs-EVs may support or attenuate the fibrotic invasion of the lung, a hallmark of all Interstitial Lung Diseases (ILDs). Indeed, EVs have emerged as pivotal intercellular mediators and their potential diagnostic and therapeutic applications have been suggested. We aim here to elucidate the dual role of MSCs-derived exosomes and microvesicles: the contribution to pulmonary fibrosis progression, exerted by the MSCs-EVs originated from resident MSCs, or the potential therapeutic activity of those generated from healthy MSCs. Actually, MCSs-EVs appear as the frontiers of cell-free therapy and nano-medicine research in a great number of pre-clinical studies, but developments are needed to optimize and standardize their isolation, production and delivery. Interestingly, since the respiratory system directly communicates with the external environment, lung treatment could be approached by MSCs-EVs nebulization as a preferential administration route, integrating targeted pulmonary delivery with an enhanced patient’s compliance. Hence MSCs-EVs may contribute to ILD pathogenesis, display a potential as biomarkers, and still hold promise as therapeutic agents to reduce lung fibrosis. However further researches are needed to validate their clinical application.
Open Access
Review
27 January 2026Emergent Superorganisms: Grass Rings Shaped by Individual Growth and Mortality
The grass ring phenomenon remains an interesting and enduring puzzle. Previous research has proposed various mechanisms, including Environmental stress and physical disturbance, Nutrient and water depletion, and the Self-Organization hypothesis, to explain ring formation. However, this process is highly complex and dynamic, hindering the development of a unified theory. This is primarily because grass rings of different origins, and even those at different developmental stages, are influenced by diverse factors. Furthermore, existing studies have often been limited to isolated cases, which highlights the need for more comprehensive, global-scale studies. Through a systematic analysis of publications, this review proposes three claims. First, they are classified based on genetic origin into single and multiple individual origins, which align with formation driven primarily by death-based and growth-based formation modes, respectively. Second, the grass ring is essentially a superorganism. Third, although grass rings are globally widespread, their formation mechanisms in regions above 4000 m remain elusive. Future research should prioritize key directions, including quantifying complete life cycles and elucidating mechanisms of high-altitude formation. This requires establishing international monitoring networks that integrate multi-omics with hyperspectral remote sensing to predict how grass rings develop under global climate change.
Open Access
Review
26 January 2026Data Caring While Caring for Human Remains: Challenges of Legacy Collections
Museum collections are essential for scientific research and are diverse in nature. They include human remains and associated information. Many experience discomfort due to historical legacies and procurement practices that are often not openly discussed, which, in an age that advocates Open Science, need open discussion. Within Open Science, open Data Sharing and the FAIR principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) are key guidelines for research data decisions—emphasizing “as open as possible, as closed as necessary”. This manuscript explores how data management and Open Science practices may impact on human ancestral remains, risking perpetuating practices of human remains objectification, reinforcing historical violence through digital means, if not balanced with restrictive access protocols. There is a growing concern for data care and stewardship amongst museums and allied institutions, and although the argument is based on the fairness of sharing and conscious, ethical sharing, source collection and associated data need to be questioned at its origins. Hence, the emphasis is placed on CARE principles (Collective Benefit, Authority to Control, Responsibility, Ethics) prioritising dignity, sovereignty, relationality, and ethics, moving from data accumulation and universal openness toward context-driven, community-controlled, and ethically reflexive stewardship. This approach advocates restraint, challenging museums, researchers, and funders to reconsider the objectification of ancestors and the ethical responsibilities surrounding their digital and material legacies. Ethical issues no longer relate solely to ancestral remains; they extend to their data and metadata across matters related to governance, circulation, “ownership?”, and repatriation. Alongside FAIR, one must practice CARE, and above all, allow for detachment and critical thinking.
Open Access
Review
26 January 2026Synergistic Natural Products in Anti-Ageing: Mechanistic Insights, Experimental Evidence, and Translational Perspectives
Ageing is characterised by a progressive decline in physiological function driven by oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and metabolic imbalance. Natural products contain diverse bioactive compounds capable of regulating these interconnected processes through convergent molecular pathways. This review synthesises current evidence across six major classes of natural bioactives, including polyphenols, terpenoids, polyamines, polysaccharides, fatty acids, and bioactive peptides, and examines their roles within metabolic, redox, inflammatory, and epigenetic networks. Individually, these compounds enhance mitochondrial function, modulate AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)–sirtuin 1 (SIRT1)–mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signalling, activate the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)–antioxidant response element (ARE) antioxidant pathway, suppress nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation, and improve cellular stress resilience. When used in combination, they exhibit synergistic interactions that amplify antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic benefits, resulting in measurable improvements in lifespan and healthspan. Quantitative analyses demonstrate that rationally designed combinations achieve approximately 20–35 percent greater efficacy than single agents, reflecting coordinated multi-target reinforcement rather than simple additive effects. Overall, these insights highlight the mechanistic rationale, experimental evidence, and translational potential of synergistic natural bioactives as promising strategies for promoting healthy ageing and mitigating age-related decline.
Open Access
Article
26 January 2026Investigating the Interplay of Springshed Phenomenon and Its Crucial Role in Fostering Sustainable Practices and Community Resilience: Reflection from the Indian Himalayan Regions
This study examines the critical role of springsheds in fostering resilient communities and sustainable practices in the Indian Himalayan regions, focusing on Kalimpong I (Kalimpong) and Bhurung (Sikkim). The research addresses the pressing environmental challenges, particularly resource depletion and water scarcity, that threaten these ecologically sensitive areas. By integrating physical, environmental, and socio-economic analyses, the study compares the spring water quality, utility, and mobility in the two springsheds. It also identifies obstacles residents face in accessing these water sources. Utilizing mixed methods, including field surveys, in-depth interviews, GIS-based mapping, and water quality analysis, the study reveals the indispensable role of springs in daily life, providing essential water for drinking, agriculture, and domestic use. The findings emphasize the need to integrate traditional knowledge with sustainable practices, such as rainwater harvesting and afforestation, to enhance community resilience. This research highlights the importance of community-driven approaches to environmental sustainability, offering valuable insights for similar ecological settings worldwide.
Open Access
Article
22 January 2026Therapies Targeting Metabolic Pathways in Lung Fibrosis: Advances and Future Perspectives
Pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive lung disease associated with high morbidity and mortality. Increasing evidence indicates that metabolic reprogramming is a central driver of fibrogenesis. Multiple cell types in the fibrotic lung, including fibroblasts, alveolar epithelial type II (AEC2) cells, and macrophages, exhibit enhanced glycolysis, dysregulated lipid turnover, and altered amino acid utilization. These metabolic changes promote fibroblast activation, sustain ECM production, and impair epithelial repair. Recent studies have identified key regulatory pathways—such as hypoxia-inducible factor-1α(HIF-1α)-mediated glycolysis, aberrant fatty acid and cholesterol metabolism, and glutamine-dependent anabolic processes—that collectively shape the profibrotic microenvironment. Targeting these metabolic vulnerabilities has shown promising antifibrotic effects in preclinical studies, supporting glycolysis inhibitors, lipid-modulating agents, and amino acid metabolism blockers as potential therapeutic approaches. This review summarizes recent advances in glucose, lipid, and amino acid metabolic reprogramming in pulmonary fibrosis, with IPF discussed as a representative and well-studied subtype, and highlights emerging metabolic-targeted therapeutic strategies. Understanding cell-specific metabolic adaptations may provide new opportunities to develop effective interventions for pulmonary fibrosis, whereas most metabolic mechanisms are shared across fibrotic lung diseases.
Open Access
Article
21 January 2026Milling Mechanism of Sheet Fiberglass Plastic by a Tungsten Carbide Tool with Diamond and Diamond-like Wear-Resistant Coatings
The study focuses on identifying the specific mechanisms of the FR4 fiberglass composite milling process using tungsten carbide end mills with wear-resistant diamond-like and diamond coatings. The processing was carried out at cutting speeds from 115 to 300 m/min and feed of 0.075 and 0.15 mm/tooth. At the same time, the vibroacoustic signal was recorded in three formats: changes in the RMS value and the amplitude of the acoustic emission in the low-frequency and high-frequency ranges, as well as the parameter Kf, which is the ratio of the RMS amplitudes of the signals in the low-frequency and high-frequency ranges. It is shown that the coating material has a predominant effect on the surface roughness. The minimum roughness value was RA = 0.2 µm for the case of a diamond-coated tool. In addition, the coating improves processing performance by increasing the cutting speed for tools with DLC by 1.3 times and for tools with diamond coating by 1.7 times, provided that the RA increases slightly but does not exceed 0.36 µm. When processed with an uncoated instrument, the mill captures the fiber, bends it and breaks it into bundles, creating grooves. The mechanism of glass fiber destruction by a DLC mill is similar, with the difference that the length of the fragmented fiber sections is noticeably reduced due to reduced friction. The mechanism of cutting fiberglass with a diamond-coated milling cutter is significantly different. There are characteristic scratches on the worn sections of the fiber, and there are no signs of destruction of the composite between the matrix and the fiber. Studies of vibration signals have shown that frequency ranges up to 20 kHz and from 33 to 48 kHz are informative enough to diagnose the fiberglass milling process. The most significant values of the Kf parameter were observed at large amplitudes of low-frequency vibrations, typical for processing with uncoated and DLC milling cutters. The lowest Kf values were obtained using diamond-coated milling cutters. A correlation was found between the values of the Kf parameter and the roughness values of the treated end surface of the fiberglass plate.
