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Corporate Governance: The International Journal of Business in Society • 2026

Purpose This study aims to examine the relationship between boardroom gender diversity (BGD), executive compensation mechanisms tied to environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors and their combined impact on the occurrence of ESG-related controversies. Design/methodology/approach By using structured equation modeling to analyze data collected from 13 countries, this study examines the indirect effects of BGD on ESG-related controversies mediated by executive compensation linked to ESG performance metrics. The study quantifies the extent of this mediation and examines the potential for strengthening these effects through board members’ affiliations. Findings The study documents a significant negative indirect effect of board gender diversity on ESG controversies through ESG-linked executive compensation, with roughly 23% of the total impact operating via this channel. This mediating effect is stronger when board members hold more external affiliations, consistent with a moderated mediation mechanism in which more networked boards translate diversity into ESG-aligned pay and lower controversy risk. Originality/value This study provides novel insights into the governance mechanisms that reinforce sustainable corporate practices, demonstrating how board composition and executive compensation strategies can work synergistically to reduce ESG-related controversies. By highlighting the importance of gender diversity and the strategic linkage of executive rewards to ESG metrics, this research provides valuable guidance for organizations and policymakers seeking to enhance corporate responsibility and ethical governance. The emphasis on the mediating role of ESG-linked compensation and the enhancing effect of board members’ diverse affiliations provides a unique perspective on the practical and policy implications of fostering gender diversity within corporate boards to mitigate ESG risks.

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The Enduring Power of Communism • 2026

Abstract Communist regimes promoted authoritarianism abroad because of their ideological commitment to the norm of “proletarian internationalism”: building up communist states as a bulwark against the imperialist West. Unity gave way to the Sino-Soviet split, an ideological dispute over leadership of the communist movement. Moscow and Beijing sought to promote their versions of communism by providing economic aid abroad. Chinese attacks on Soviet aid caused Moscow to offer economic aid on increasingly favorable terms, abandoning any notion of economic benefits in its pursuit of ideological supremacy. Non-European communist regimes initially responded by balancing between Moscow and Beijing, avoiding taking sides in the conflict. Chinese coercion convinced Mongolia, Cuba, and Vietnam to turn toward Moscow, joining the CMEA (Comecon). Once members, they successfully lobbied for massive increases in aid. Statistical analysis of Soviet aid provision suggests economic aid went primarily to communist regimes (especially CMEA members) and members of the Non-Aligned Movement.

[object Object]

The Enduring Power of Communism • 2026

Abstract Cuba and Mongolia experienced delayed authoritarian consolidation due to their low party scope and limited aid in the initial post-takeover period. Fidel Castro came to power without the help of a communist party and intentionally kept party institutions weak to preserve his personalist power. The Mongolian communist party’s origins in exile left it with a limited membership comprising largely traditional elites. Soviet technical aid and authoritarian practices—such as systemic purges—increased party scope, particularly in Mongolia. Entrance into the CMEA (Comecon) initiated a massive wave of Soviet aid in both states that led to the development of larger state sectors and an expansive social welfare system. Cuba’s personalist leader, Castro, rebelled against the planning sector after it constrained his power. By contrast, Mongolia’s personalist leader, Tsedenbal, did not, precisely because, as a former planner, the planning sector was a key part of his authoritarian coalition.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

World Journal of Methodology • 2026

BACKGROUND Systemic inflammation, especially of white blood cells (WBCs), is being increasingly accepted as a central mechanism underlying the pathogenesis and development of heart failure (HF). Few studies have assessed their effectiveness as accessible and cost-efficient biomarkers for the early detection of left ventricular dysfunction, as well as their potential predictive value in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). AIM To explore the correlation between WBC parameters and low left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in HF patients and to evaluate its predictive potential. METHODS Two-hundred patients with angiographically proven CAD were enrolled in the study. Lymphocyte and neutrophil counts were measured in an automated analyzer. The number of neutrophils was divided by serum level of high density lipoprotein (HDL) to obtain the neutrophil-to-HDL ratio (NHR). Regression analysis was used to examine correlations, and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was employed to identify predictive value of these hematological markers. RESULTS WBC, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and NHR are significantly higher among HF patients with low LVEF. Regression analysis revealed a negative association between LVEF and WBC (r 2 = 0.007), neutrophils (r 2 = 0.019), lymphocytes (r 2 = 0.089), and the NHR (r 2 = 0.013). ROC analysis revealed that the AUC for WBC was 0.61, with a sensitivity of 72% and specificity of 60%, while neutrophils showed the same AUC (0.61) but with 56% sensitivity and 60% specificity. Lymphocytes showed a higher AUC of 0.68 (72% sensitivity, 60% specificity), while NHR had the lowest AUC at 0.59 (65% sensitivity, 52% specificity). CONCLUSION These data indicate that parameters of WBCs, notably lymphocytes, neutrophils, and NHR, can act as useful biomarkers for detection of decreased LVEF in patients with HF. These findings suggest that neutrophils, lymphocytes, and NHR are not only routinely available and cost-effective markers but may also serve as early predictors of reduced LVEF in CAD patients, offering potential utility in clinical risk stratification and management. Further research is needed to validate these findings and explore their potential as clinical risk markers and therapeutic targets in CAD with HF.

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World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews • 2026

This systematic literature review applies quantitative methods to examine the European Union’s (EU) use of soft power in Africa from 2021 to 2026, with a focus on three strategic pillars: education programs, mobility schemes, and cultural diplomacy. By synthesizing recent scholarly literature, the article quantifies thematic trends, methodological approaches, and geographical emphases within current academic discourse. The analysis demonstrates a prevailing scholarly consensus that these instruments function as long-term mechanisms for promoting normative alignment and cultivating transnational elite networks. Quantitative findings indicate a pronounced research emphasis on higher education initiatives, particularly Erasmus+, alongside a growing but still secondary interest in digital cultural diplomacy. The review also identifies a significant gap in empirical studies that assess the perception and reception of these strategies among African publics, in contrast to policy-centric analyses. The findings suggest that, although the EU’s integrated toolkit is widely documented as a coherent soft power projection, its measured effectiveness remains contested and varies across regions. The article argues that future research should incorporate more robust, survey-based data from African stakeholders to move beyond programmatic evaluation and critically evaluate the tangible impact of these strategies on African political and public attitudes toward the EU.

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Research Square • 2026

Abstract Background Belt electrode–skeletal muscle electrical stimulation (B-SES) has been reported to influence bone remodeling and muscle function. However, its potential role in fracture healing remains incompletely understood. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of B-SES on fracture repair in a rat femoral fracture model. Methods Twelve male Sprague–Dawley rats with surgically induced femoral fractures were randomly assigned to either a B-SES group or a control group (n = 6 per group). B-SES was initiated immediately after fracture induction and applied for 20 minutes per day, 5 days per week, for 4 weeks. At 4 weeks post-fracture, femora, tibiae, periosteum, and vastus medialis muscle were harvested for radiographic assessment, micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), histological analysis, biomechanical testing, and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis. Results Radiographic evaluation demonstrated improved cortical continuity and greater callus formation in the B-SES group. Micro-CT analysis revealed significantly increased callus bone volume, trabecular thickness, and trabecular number in fractured femora, as well as improved trabecular microarchitecture in non-fractured tibiae. Biomechanical testing showed significantly higher yield load and toughness in the B-SES group. Histological analysis confirmed increased callus area in B-SES–treated rats. At 4 weeks post-fracture, RT-PCR analysis of the periosteum showed no significant between-group differences in runt-related transcription factor 2 ( Runx2 ), receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand ( Rankl ), or secreted protein acidic and cysteine rich ( Sparc ) expression, whereas Sclerostin ( Sost ) expression was significantly higher in the B-SES group. In skeletal muscle, Myostatin ( Mstn ) expression was significantly reduced in the B-SES group, while insulin-like growth factor 1 ( Igf1 ) expression did not differ significantly between groups. Conclusion B-SES was associated with improved fracture healing parameters, enhanced bone microarchitecture, and increased mechanical strength in this preclinical model. Reduced Mstn mRNA expression suggests a potential contribution of muscle–bone interactions; however, given the single time-point and transcription-level analyses, these findings should be considered preliminary. Further studies are required to clarify the underlying mechanisms and translational relevance of B-SES in fracture management.

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Cumhuriyet Science Journal • 2026

This study presents a novel, simple, and cost-effective electrochemical method for the sensitive determination of Vandetanib (VAN), a clinically important tyrosine kinase inhibitor, using an unmodified glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The electrochemical behavior of VAN was investigated via cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) over a wide pH range, an adsorption-controlled irreversible oxidation process involving equal numbers of protons and electrons, indicating a proton-coupled electron transfer mechanism. Optimization of experimental parameters, including pH, accumulation time, and accumulation potential, demonstrated that 0.5 M H2S04 (pH 0.3) and an accumulation time of 90 seconds provided optimal analytical performance. The DPV method exhibited excellent linearity between 2×10-8 M and 1.5×10-6 M VAN concentrations, with a low detection limit of 5.58×10-9 M. The proposed approach achieved high repeatability with relative standard deviations below 1.2%. Compared to previously reported methods involving complex electrode modifications, this work emphasizes the practicality of a bare GCE platform, eliminating the need for surface modification or surfactant addition. The method’s simplicity, sensitivity, and environmental friendliness make it a promising alternative for rapid VAN quantification.

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Molecules • 2026

Modified electrodes were obtained by immobilizing Mn3+ complexes with the following tetraazamacrocycles (1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane ([12]aneN4), 1,4,8,11-tetrazacyclotetradecane ([14]aneN4), 1,4,7,11-tetrazacyclotetradecane (iso[14]aneN4), and 1,4,8,12-tetrazacyclopentadecane ([15]aneN4) in a Nafion film on the surface of a glassy carbon electrode (GCE). Based on spectroelectrochemical, chronopotentiometric, and chronoamperometric studies, oxidation of mononuclear complexes to dinuclear di-μ-oxo complexes of Mn3+ and Mn4+ was observed, and the mechanism and influence of Nafion on this process were determined. On the basis of voltammetric and chronocoulometric studies, the electroactivity, stability, and diffusion rates of such modified electrodes were demonstrated. Based on voltammetric and chronocoulometric studies, their electrocatalytic properties were analyzed in relation to the oxidation of model compounds used in this type of research, namely, ascorbic acid, glycolaldehyde, and glycolic acid.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

SAE Technical Paper Series • 2026

div class="section abstract" div class="htmlview paragraph" Reliable monitoring of the internal state of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) is crucial for mitigating potential safety hazards. The incorporation of a reference electrode (RE) within the battery constitutes a vital approach for achieving single-electrode monitoring and understanding changes in electrode state during cycling. Among these, the lithium-copper reference electrode (Li-Cu RE) is particularly cost-effective and straightforward to prepare, being fabricated by depositing lithium onto a copper wire. However, Li-Cu RE exhibits a relatively short effective lifespan during long-term cycling, thereby limiting its practical application. In this work, based on a self-fabricated three-electrode single-layer pouch cell, the microstructural changes before and after failure of the Li-Cu RE were characterized and analyzed, revealing its failure evolution process. Post-failure microstructures observations exhibit marked porosity in the electrode, attributed to substantial depletion of surface lithium metal. Concurrently, the copper wire's elevated potential dominantly influences the overall Li-Cu RE potential, causing its potential to rise and destabilize. This induces a sharp decline in the measured electrode's potential curve. Furthermore, comparative analysis of key factors influencing Li-Cu RE lifespan were investigated. In the static state, the theoretical failure time of Li-Cu RE differed by only approximately 9 hours from that in the cycling state. Crucially, isolating the test electrode from the Li-Cu RE nearly doubled its lifespan, revealing that current generated by the potential difference between the test electrode and Li-Cu RE is the primary cause of failure under low-rate cycling. This paper systematically elucidates the observed failure behavior of the Li-Cu RE and comprehensively analyzes the various factors, which aids in further understanding the failure mechanism of the Li-Cu RE and identifying targeted solutions. /div /div

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Nanomaterials Engineering for Supercapacitors • 2026

Two-dimensional (2D) materials have emerged as potential candidates for various technological applications due to their intriguing properties and tunable functionalities. In recent years, considerable focus has been devoted to investigating the potential of 2D materials as electrodes in supercapacitors, owing to their high surface area, excellent electrical conductivity, and exceptional mechanical strength. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the recent developments and challenges in utilizing 2D materials, including graphene, transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), MXenes, and beyond, for supercapacitor electrodes. Each material's unique structural and electronic properties, synthesis methods, and performance as supercapacitor electrodes are discussed. The influence of electrolyte composition on the capacitive behavior and cycling stability of 2D-material electrodes is also highlighted. Furthermore, this chapter highlights the strategies employed to enhance the electrochemical performance of 2D material-based electrodes, such as defect engineering, heterostructuring, and hybridization with other materials. This chapter discusses the outlook for future research directions and emerging opportunities in this rapidly evolving field, including integrating 2D materials into flexible and wearable energy-storage devices and their application in next-generation sustainable energy systems.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

Nature Communications • 2026

Abstract All-solid-state batteries using sulfur-based positive electrodes (cathodes) offer a cost-effective route to achieve high specific energy. However, low active material utilization and cycle life hinder performance. Here, we demonstrate a positive electrode design that employs sulfide solid-state electrolytes, where a high energy synthesis approach forms a metastable and ionically conductive interphase on the active material surface. This interphase facilitates high active material utilization and contributes capacity with cycling. We also show that tailoring active material particle sizes to the micron-scale improves rate performance and cycling stability. Structural analysis reveals that the substantial volume change of sulfur-based positive electrodes during operation can partially offset that of the negative electrodes, thereby mitigating internal mechanical stress. The combined design principles enable sulfur areal capacities up to 11 mAh cm -2 while maintaining stable cycling at 25 °C. We further demonstrate several specific-energy-focused cell architectures, particularly a Li 2 S anode-free pouch cell that operates under “low stack pressure” of 10 MPa. This work outlines practical design strategies for constructing high-specific-energy all-solid-state batteries for a broad range of emerging applications.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

SAE Technical Paper Series • 2026

div class="section abstract" div class="htmlview paragraph" Nickel-rich cathode materials (LiNi sub 1−x−y /sub Co sub x /sub Mn sub y /sub O sub 2 /sub , NCM) are regarded as one of the most promising cathode candidates for solid-state batteries (SSBs) due to their high energy density and low cost. However, during electrochemical cycling, continuous lithium-ion insertion/extraction generates diffusion-induced stress (DIS) that fractures particles and accelerates capacity fade. Furthermore, NCM particles are subjected to external pressure during manufacturing, and inherent process non-uniformities result in varying pressurized coverage (defined as the ratio of covered area of active materials with solid-state electrolytes), which significantly influence particle cracking behavior. Based on chemo-mechanical coupling models, extensive work have investigated particle cracking behavior during charge-discharge processes. While limited research addressing crack evolution under concurrent electrochemical loading and external pressure. Thus, we developed a chemo-mechanical coupling model with globally embedded cohesive elements within polycrystalline NCM (PC-NCM) particles to simulate fracture behavior during single charge-discharge cycles. The effects of external pressure, charge/discharge C-rate and pressurized coverage are evaluated. Simulations demonstrate that external pressure significantly mitigates particle cracking. Notably, this crack-suppression effect intensifies with reduced pressurized coverage. This work provides critical insights into fracture mechanisms of NCM cathodes materials, offering fundamental guidance for electrode design optimization. /div /div

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

Nanomaterials Engineering for Supercapacitors • 2026

Electrode materials play a critical role in determining the performance of supercapacitors. Carbon allotropes such as activated carbon, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and graphene are popular due to their high surface area, electrical conductivity, and chemical stability. Activated carbon is cost-effective and offers a large surface area, though its conductivity is relatively low. CNTs offer excellent conductivity and mechanical strength, ideal for high-power applications, while graphene combines high conductivity, large surface area, and flexibility, despite mass-production challenges. Transition metal oxides such as manganese dioxide, ruthenium oxide, and nickel oxide are notable for their high theoretical capacitance and pseudocapacitance, which enhance energy density, however, challenges remain in addressing their cost, environmental impact, and stability. Conducting polymers like polyaniline and polypyrrole are valued for high pseudocapacitance and conductivity but have poor mechanical stability. Hybrid capacitors, which combine double-layer capacitance and pseudocapacitive mechanisms, are increasingly explored for their potential to enhance energy density and power output. Ongoing research aims to optimize these materials for improved energy-storage capabilities, scalability, and cost-effectiveness, paving the way for the next generation of supercapacitors to meet emerging energy demands.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

Journal of Electrochemical Science and Technology • 2026

p Transition metal oxides that store lithium through a conversion reaction accommodate lithium ions and electrons during charge-discharge cycles, reducing the transition metal to its metallic state. Meanwhile, oxygen combines with lithium to form lithium oxide (Li2O). Although this mechanism offers a high theoretical capacity, it presents several challenges. Strong bonding between transition metals and oxygen induces voltage hysteresis during cycling, resulting in a high overpotential. Furthermore, substantial volume changes during cycling adversely affect long-term stability. To address these issues, this study explored the potential of Mn2SiO4, synthesized via a solidstate reaction method, as a negative electrode material for lithium-ion batteries. Mn2SiO4 was prepared using MnCO3 and SiO2 as precursors and heat-treated at 1000°C under an argon atmosphere, yielding a high-purity material. We aim to evaluate and enhance the electrochemical performance of this material, particularly through its combination with carbon, to offer a novel and effective strategy for high-density energy storage. Notably, incorporating carbon into Mn2SiO4-based composites significantly improved performance, including electrical conductivity, and mitigated volume expansion, resulting in improved cycling stability and rate capability. The utility of carbon in this composite provides a novel direction for maximizing the potential of combined electrochemical storage systems. These findings indicate that Mn2SiO4 has the potential to be used as a negative electrode material in high-capacity lithium-ion batteries and that carbon compositing is a promising strategy for enhancing the electrochemical properties of Mn2SiO4-based negative electrodes. /p

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

APL Electronic Devices • 2026

Single-electrode triboelectric nanogenerators (STENGs) are promising candidates for biomechanical energy harvesting and self-powered sensing due to their simple structure and compatibility with wearable systems. However, their performance is often limited by the intrinsic tribonegativity of polymer friction layers. In this study, we report a facile surface chemistry approach to enhance the triboelectric performance of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) by fluorinated silane functionalization. PDMS films spin-coated on ITO/PET substrates were surface-functionalized using 1H, 1H, 2H, 2H-perfluorooctyl-trichloroethoxysilane (FOTES), introducing fluorine-rich –CF2 and –CF3 groups at the outermost surface. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirmed successful fluorination, while Kelvin probe force microscopy revealed a significant reduction in surface potential, indicating enhanced electron-accepting capability and increased tribonegativity. As a result, the FOTES-functionalized PDMS STENG exhibited a substantial improvement in output performance, with the open-circuit voltage and short-circuit current increasing from ∼91.5 and ∼10 to ∼390 V and ∼65 μA, respectively, under hand-tapping conditions. The enhanced performance was further validated under controlled excitation (30 N, 4 Hz). The device demonstrated practical energy-harvesting capability through efficient rectification, capacitor charging, and instantaneous lighting of 240 commercial LEDs, achieving a maximum power density of 5.53 mW cm−2. In addition, the STENG functioned as a self-powered biomechanical motion sensor, capable of distinguishing different human motions such as clapping, clicking, and hammering based on distinct voltage signatures. This study demonstrates that fluorinated surface functionalization is an effective and scalable strategy to enhance triboelectric performance without increasing device complexity, offering strong potential for wearable energy harvesting and self-powered sensing applications.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

Journal of The Electrochemical Society • 2026

Abstract Surface engineering of carbon electrodes can play a critical role in mitigating interfacial polarization and improving charge-transfer kinetics in aqueous organic redox flow batteries (AORFBs), yet the mechanistic understanding of electrode/electrolyte interactions remains limited. We demonstrate a rational approach to tune the interfacial electrochemical reactivity of graphite felt electrodes through grafting of diazonium salts bearing negatively charged functional groups. The modified surfaces exhibit enhanced hydrophilicity and increased electrochemical capacitance. The impact of surface charge on electron-transfer behavior was systematically investigated using both negatively and positively charged redox probes, revealing a strong dependence of electrochemical activity on electrostatic interactions. While grafted layers partially hindered the ferro/ferricyanide couple, they maintained the reversibility of the [Ru(NH3)6]3+/2+ system, confirming the charge-selective nature of the modified interfaces. When tested in neutral aqueous electrolytes containing nitroxide-based redox mediators, electrodes functionalized with sulfonate groups exhibited improved redox reversibility and reduced polarization. Flow battery tests using 4-OH-TEMPO electrolytes demonstrated up to 15% greater capacity and reduced polarization losses compared to pristine electrodes, particularly at high current densities. These findings establish diazonium chemistry as a versatile and controllable route to tailor electrode/electrolyte interactions in RFBs.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

Frontiers in Medicine • 2026

Background Acute cholecystitis is a common abdominal condition mainly caused by enteric Gram-negative bacilli and Enterococcus species. Advances in microbial detection have highlighted infections by rare pathogens like Shewanella putrefaciens ( S. putrefaciens ), an opportunistic bacterium from aquatic environments affecting mainly immunocompromised or comorbid patients. Its clinical features, antibiotic resistance, and treatment remain unclear. Case presentation This article presents a case study of an 87-year-old female patient with a medical history of gallstones and previous endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), who was admitted to the hospital due to “low back and leg pain.” On November 14, 2023, she developed acute cholecystitis. Initial treatment consisted of cefoperazone/sulbactam and ciprofloxacin. Ultrasound-guided percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage (PTGBD) was performed, revealing purulent bile that tested positive for S. putrefaciens and Enterococcus faecium ( E. faecium ). Based on susceptibility testing, the antibiotic regimen was adjusted to cefoperazone/sulbactam and vancomycin, which was administered until November 24, 2023. The patient’s condition subsequently improved, and she was discharged from the hospital. Conclusion We documented the inaugural case of an elderly patient presenting with acute cholecystitis co-infected with S. putrefaciens and E. faecium . This case underscores the importance of integrating source control via PTGBD with targeted antimicrobial therapy guided by drug susceptibility testing, highlighting their synergistic role in effective management. Furthermore, the monitoring of procalcitonin (PCT) levels offers valuable support for clinical decision-making.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

Environmental science & technology • 2026

The oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in living cells efficiently generates energy but is limited for sustainable applications due to inefficient electron transfer across membranes. Here, we report an interspecies cooperative mechanism, termed electro-mutualism, that enables efficient extracellular ORR using an electrotrophic Acinetobacter venetianus RAG-1 (RAG-1) and a non-CO 2 -fixing electrotrophic Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 (MR-1), sustained by inorganic carbon supplied via a bicarbonate-CO 2 equilibrium. Under cathodic polarization, RAG-1 assimilates inorganic carbon and secretes lactate using electrode-derived electrons, which fuels MR-1. In turn, MR-1 releases flavins that interact with the RnfB complex of RAG-1, thereby accelerating the transmembrane electron transfer. This electro-mutualistic cooperation achieves, to our knowledge, the highest reported whole-cell ORR current density (20.9 A/m 2 ) under O 2 -aerated, neutral-pH conditions, outperforming benchmark Pt/C and laccase cathodes evaluated under identical conditions. The universality of electro-mutualism is further supported by replacing MR-1 with Bacillus subtilis and is predicted to extend across proteobacteria, firmicutes, and actinobacteria. Electro-mutualism thus provides a metal-free, genetically unmodified catalytic strategy for green energy conversion.

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Research Square • 2026

Abstract Geobacter bacteria use conductive pili and redox-active outer membrane vesicles to mediate metal transformations critical to the effectiveness of bioremediation and energy technologies. Mechanistic knowledge into these processes primarily comes from studies with Geobacter sulfurreducens grown in media closely formulated to mirror the mineral chemistry of contaminated sites. Although subtle differences in the media’s cationic strength did not measurably change permeability, they reprogrammed outer membrane-peptidoglycan crosslinks modulating vesiculation and envelope functions impacting growth efficiency and mineralization. Cations that strongly bind and neutralize peptidoglycan carboxylates to prevent cell wall distortions, such as sodium and uranyl ions, ultimately determined the extent of envelope remodeling and cell bias toward pili-driven mineralization or membrane adsorption and release in vesicles. These findings identify cation chemistry as a key regulator of outer membrane vesiculation and the reprogramming of envelope functions ultimately determining the reproducibility of laboratory studies and effectiveness of bioremediation and energy-harvesting applications.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

Frontiers in Plant Science • 2026

Introduction The wheat blast fungus Magnaporthe oryzae pathotype Triticum (MoT) poses a severe threat to global wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.) production, yet the molecular mechanisms underlying tissue invasion remain poorly understood. Methods We performed dual RNA-seq analysis of MoT-inoculated wheat leaves at 0, 24, 36, and 48 hpi, mapping reads separately to the wheat and M. oryzae genomes to capture stage-specific host responses and pathogen gene expression across progressive infection stages. Results Wheat exhibited pronounced stage-specific transcriptional reprogramming, with peak differential gene expression at 36 hpi and visible symptoms at 48 hpi. The 24 hpi stage was characterized by rapid induction of immune- and defense-related pathways, including innate immunity and detoxification processes, along with downregulation of cell wall and membrane biosynthesis. By 36 hpi, wheat maintained sustained activation of immune and detoxification pathways, while chloroplast- and photosynthesis-associated genes were broadly repressed, consistent with transcriptional features of metabolic constraint. At 48 hpi, coinciding with lesion initiation, transcriptomes showed persistent, metabolically costly immune and defense responses together with extensive suppression of photosynthesis- and chloroplast-associated functions, which were associated with metabolic strain and a transition toward necrosis. Analysis of pathogen-derived reads revealed temporal induction of multiple effector candidates, including known M. oryzae orthologs and additional effector-like proteins, highlighting coordinated temporal patterns between host immune and metabolic response as well as stage-specific pathogen effector expression. Discussion Together, these findings provide a temporal framework for wheat blast susceptibility and highlight key host pathways and effector candidates that define critical windows for functional dissection of MoT virulence and wheat susceptibility.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object]

Journal of Experimental Botany • 2026

Abstract Sulfur (S) is an essential macronutrient for plant growth and resilience. The S-amino acids cysteine (Cys) and methionine (Met) are indispensable for protein synthesis and structural integrity, as well as redox homeostasis and cofactor assembly. Over the past several decades, biochemical and molecular genetic studies demonstrated the core steps in sulfate (SO42-) uptake and assimilation pathways, while it has become increasingly evident that S homeostasis in plants cannot be understood in isolation. Robust and reciprocal regulatory interactions link S with phosphorus (P), nitrogen (N), and iron (Fe). Plants remodel membrane lipid compositions, replacing the phospholipids with sulfolipids under P deficiency. Cys/Met biosynthesis is coordinated with N metabolism. The Fe-S cluster assembly requires a balanced supply of Fe and S. These interactions are orchestrated through shared regulatory circuits and specific hub-regulatory transcription factors, including SULFUR LIMITATION 1 (SLIM1), PHOSPHATE STARVATION RESPONSE 1 (PHR1), NIN-LIKE PROTEIN 7 (NLP7), and FER-LIKE IRON DEFICIENCY-INDUCED FACTOR (FIT). Comparative studies reveal both species-specific and evolutionarily conserved regulatory networks. This review deliberately focuses on mechanistic insights into the regulatory circuits revealed from studies with the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana, where the genetic and molecular resolution enabled detailed dissection of the signaling and regulatory networks. This review also highlights unresolved mechanistic gaps and provides insights into systems-level understanding and potential translational approaches that can be implemented to improve crop nutrient use efficiency and stress resilience.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

Frontiers in Plant Science • 2026

Monomeric compounds from Humulus scandens that effectively inhibit Phytophthora nicotianae were isolated, and their antimicrobial effects were analyzed. Methanol extracts were isolated using a combination of activity tracking and chemical separation methods. Compound structures were identified using NMR and other techniques. Antimicrobial activity against P. nicotianae was assessed via the mycelial growth rate method with mycelial morphology further observed using optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Five compounds were isolated from the ethyl acetate (EtOAc) layer of H. scandens , namely, chromone (compound 1), tectochrysin (compound 2), isorhamnetin (compound 3), hyperoside (compound 4), and Apigenin 7-glucoside (compound 5). All compounds exhibited varying degrees of antimicrobial activity. Compounds 1 and 5 demonstrated superior inhibitory effects, with EC 50 values of 51.70 and 31.71 μg/ml and MIC values of 400 and 200 μg/mL, respectively. Microscopic examination revealed that compounds 1 and 5 induced distortion, deformation, shrinkage, collapse, and damage in P. nicotianae mycelia. Additionally, they increased membrane permeability and inhibited mycelial growth by disrupting cellular integrity. This study provides lead compounds for developing green botanical pesticides against tobacco black shank disease and offers data to support green agriculture initiatives.

[object Object], [object Object]

Planta • 2026

Abstract Main conclusion Photorespiration is a dynamic metabolic process that contributes to energy balance, stress resilience, and nutrient flux, warranting its integration into genome-scale models to enhance plant productivity and climate adaptation. Abstract Photorespiration, sometimes referred to as a wasteful byproduct of rubisco’s oxygenation activity, is increasingly recognized as a vital and multifaceted component of plant metabolism. This perspective explores three underappreciated roles of photorespiration: as an alternative energy sink, a marker of stress resilience, and a metabolic hub. Photorespiration consumes significant ATP and reducing equivalents, potentially serving as a photoprotective mechanism under environmental stress. However, its role in energy dissipation remains debated, particularly in relation to non-photochemical quenching. Stress conditions such as drought and heat elevate photorespiratory flux due to Rubisco kinetics and stomatal responses, yet the link between photorespiration and resilience is complex and species-dependent. Metabolites like serine and glycine, key intermediates in photorespiration, correlate with stress responses and may exit the canonical pathway, contributing to one-carbon metabolism and amino acid biosynthesis. Calculations suggest that serine export from photorespiration could explain nitrate assimilation rates, yet protein synthesis alone cannot account for this flux, indicating unknown metabolic sinks. Genome-scale metabolic models (GSMMs) and resource allocation models (RAMs) offer promising tools to integrate photorespiration into broader metabolic frameworks. These models can simulate open-loop versus closed-loop photorespiration, assess energy dissipation capacity, and track amino acid fate. Future research should focus on refining GSMMs to include accurate photorespiratory pathways and leveraging them to understand photorespiration’s role in plant resilience and nutrition, especially under realistic field conditions. This integrated approach is essential for reimagining photorespiration not as a metabolic burden, but as a central player in plant adaptation and productivity.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

World Journal of Gastroenterology • 2026

Pancreatic cancer, a highly malignant gastrointestinal tumor, has a five-year survival rate of only 10%. With the increasing aging population, its incidence is rising across East Asia, North America, and Europe. Chemotherapy remains a basic strategy of the current treatment regimen for pancreatic cancer. However, the development of multidrug resistance poses a significant challenge, drastically reducing the efficacy of chemotherapy agents. The mechanisms underlying resistance in pancreatic cancer remain incompletely understood. To overcome this obstacle, scientists are dedicated to discovering new therapeutic strategies and addressing the issue of resistance. Plant-derived chemicals played essential roles in many documented ancient cultures, such as those in ancient China, ancient Egypt, ancient India, and ancient Babylon. Many modern medications are derived from plants, including paclitaxel, a widely used and effective chemotherapy agent originally derived from the Pacific yew tree. Although the development of plant-based compounds for cancer treatment is still under development, these compounds offer several advantages, including a long history of safe use, fewer side effects, lower costs, and improved patient acceptance. Recent studies have shown that plant-derived chemicals can significantly inhibit tumor cell proliferation and reversal drug resistance. Clinical trials have demonstrated promising therapeutic effects of these compounds in cancer treatment. This review summarizes recent research on the role of plant-derived compounds in overcoming drug resistance in pancreatic cancer. It provides insights into the mechanisms of drug resistance and highlights the potential of plant-based compounds as alternative therapeutic strategies. Considering the limitations of current therapies and the growing issue of drug resistance, plant-derived compounds offer a promising direction for enhancing treatment outcomes. This review aims to inform future research and promote the development of more effective, safer, and patient-friendly treatment options for pancreatic cancer.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

Plant Ecology and Evolution • 2026

Background and aims ndash; Plants display a variety of resistance and tolerance responses to herbivory. Compensation, or changes in growth, allocation, and/or physiology, after damage is one way that plants tolerate herbivory, but geographic patterns in intraspecific plant compensatory responses are understudied. We aimed to study geographic variation in tolerance to herbivory to help explain geographic patterns in the distribution of resistance traits and the relationship between tolerance and resistance traits in common milkweed, Asclepias syriaca . Material and methods ndash; We grew milkweed from 14 different populations in the greenhouse, mechanically applied 25% leaf damage to an experimental group, and compared the control and experimental groups to measure compensatory responses in final biomass, root:shoot ratios, stem investment, and relative growth rate. We compared compensatory responses across populations grouped by latitude and by temperature. Key results ndash; Compared to controls, milkweed plants that were damaged lost mass and expressed reduced root:shoot ratios. However, the effect of damage on total mass, stem investment, and relative growth rate varied among genetic families. In regional contrasts, plants from colder climates grew larger and invested less in stems and roots than plants from warmer climates under control conditions, but they were less able to compensate for damage in terms of biomass. Plants from cold regions also showed a tendency to reduce growth rate and stem investment after damage; whereas, plants from warmer climates tended to increase their growth rate and stem investment in response to damage. Conclusion ndash; While plants from high latitudes and colder climates were less able to compensate for damage than those from lower latitudes, we are not confident that these differences are caused by geographic differences in growth rate, or that they explain differences in resistance to herbivory. Instead, we suspect that differences in the phenology of development in plants from regions with different climates affect the impact of damage and the potential for compensatory growth. Milkweed plants from colder regions with short growing seasons grew larger during our measurement period, while those from regions with longer growing seasons invested more in stems and roots, traits which may have facilitated greater long-term growth, as well as the greater compensatory ability observed in our study. Future studies should explicitly manipulate the timing of damage applied to plants from different regions to test the relationship between phenology and compensation.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

Trends in Ecological and Indoor Environmental Engineering • 2026

Background: Aquaculture intensification generates nitrogenous and phosphorus-rich effluents that threaten aquatic ecosystems. Fermented plant-based feeds are increasingly used to enhance nutrient digestibility and protein availability, yet their impact on effluent water quality remains poorly understood. Understanding how substrates such as banana, jackfruit seeds, and sweet potato influence ammonia, nitrite, BOD, and phosphates is critical for developing sustainable feeding strategies and minimizing environmental pollution in intensive African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) culture. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of solid-state fermented ripe banana, jackfruit seeds, and sweet potato tuber feeds on effluent water quality in African catfish (Clarias gariepinus), focusing on ammonia, nitrites, phosphates, BOD, copper, EC, and microbial composition to identify environmentally safer feed options. Methods: African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) fingerlings were stocked in 50 L glass aquaria and fed either fermented ripe banana, jackfruit seeds, sweet potato tubers, or commercial feed as control. Each treatment was triplicated in a completely randomized design. Effluent water was sampled weekly for four weeks to measure total ammonia nitrogen (TAN), nitrites, phosphates, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD₅), copper concentration, electrical conductivity (EC), pH, and microbial composition. TAN and nitrites were determined using colorimetric HS aqua test kits, phosphates and copper via Palin 7100 photometer, BOD₅ with a magnetic stir BOD system, and microbial counts on nutrient agar. Statistical differences were assessed using Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn's post hoc tests (p 0.05). Results: Effluent water from tanks fed fermented banana and sweet potato exhibited lower total ammonia nitrogen (0.2–0.3 mg L⁻¹) and nitrites (0.01–0.12 mg L⁻¹) compared to jackfruit seeds (TAN 1.3 p 0.05 mg L⁻¹, nitrites 0.75 p 0.05 mg L⁻¹) and commercial feed (TAN 2.7 mg L⁻¹, nitrites 0 mg L⁻¹). Phosphate concentrations and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD₅) exceeded regulatory limits in all treatments except partial reduction in sweet potato tanks. Copper concentrations and electrical conductivity remained below permissible limits across all feeds. Microbial analysis revealed dominance of Bacillus and Lactobacillus species, with highest Bacillus counts in jackfruit seed tanks and Lactobacillus in banana tanks. Kruskal-Wallis tests confirmed significant differences (p 0.05) among treatments for TAN, nitrites, phosphates, BOD₅, copper, EC, and microbial counts. Conclusion: The study demonstrated the potential of specific fermented plant-based feed ingredients to mitigate nitrogen pollution in aquaculture systems. In particular, the inclusion of fermented ripe banana and sweet potato tubers in fish diets was shown to reduce ammonia and nitrite concentrations in culture water and effluent. However, high BOD and phosphate persisted, revealing a knowledge gap on nutrient release and effluent dynamics, guiding future sustainable feed research.

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Trends in Ecological and Indoor Environmental Engineering • 2026

Background: Waterfalls generate strong spatial heterogeneity in hydrological and physicochemical conditions, affecting oxygen dynamics, carbon fluxes, nutrients, and aquatic biota. Studies report pronounced gradients in water chemistry, microbial contamination, and biological assemblages, especially in tropical regions. In Nigeria, increasing anthropogenic pressures contrast with limited limnological data. Insufficient integration of water quality and algal indicators hampers understanding of ecosystem functioning and disturbance gradients, necessitating targeted limnological assessments to support biodiversity conservation and sustainable management of waterfall ecosystems. Objectives: This study aims to conduct a comprehensive limnological and algal assessment of Erin Ijesha Falls, Nigeria. It hypothesizes that spatial variations in physicochemical parameters create distinct water quality gradients that structure algal communities, and that the Palmer Index can reveal anthropogenic organic pollution not detected by conventional physicochemical indicators. Methods: Sampling was conducted during the dry season of 2024 across upper, middle, and lower sections of seven waterfall cascades. Integrated water and periphytic algal samples were collected in triplicate following ISO, APHA, and Nigerian standards. In situ measurements included temperature, pH, conductivity, and dissolved oxygen, while nutrients, major ions, and hardness were analysed in the laboratory. Algae were identified microscopically using standard taxonomic keys, and water quality was evaluated using the Palmer pollution index to assess organic contamination. Results: Air and water temperatures at Erin-Ijesha Waterfall showed clear diurnal warming, with air rising from 20 to 33°C and water from 19 to 26.5°C. Turbidity and colour were low to moderate (6–13 NTU; 1–4 PtCoU), while conductivity, TDS, pH, and alkalinity remained low and stable. Dissolved oxygen was high (8–10.5 mg L⁻¹), and nutrients and hardness were generally low, reflecting a well-oxygenated, soft, and minimally impacted freshwater system. The algal community at Erin-Ijesha Waterfall comprised 78 taxa across four divisions, dominated by Chlorophyta (42.3%) and Bacillariophyta (38.5%). Green algae and diatoms indicate generally good water quality, habitat heterogeneity, and moderate nutrient availability, while the Palmer Index (19) suggests slight organic enrichment without severe pollution. Conclusion: Spatial variation in physicochemical parameters at Erin Ijesha Falls defines a distinct water quality gradient. Algal communities, dominated by Chlorophyta and Bacillariophyta, effectively track hydrochemical conditions and reveal moderate organic enrichment undetected by physicochemical measures. Integrated indicators indicate moderate disturbance, ecological resilience, and the need for regular monitoring.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

Frontiers in Microbiology • 2026

Anaerobic degradation of aromatic hydrocarbons such as toluene plays a critical role in the natural and engineered attenuation of contaminated environments. Here, we developed and characterized a microbial consortium enriched under strictly anoxic conditions, capable of sustained toluene degradation through sulfate reduction. By integrating biodegradation kinetics, long-read 16S rRNA profiling, and genome-resolved metagenomics, we elucidated the structure and function of a multi-guild community. The consortium was co-dominated by Desulfoprunum , a sulfate-reducing bacterium (SRB), and Sulfurovum -affiliated sulfur oxidizers (~34% each), with additional members including Stenotrophomonas, Achromobacter , and Stutzerimonas . Such co-dominance appears uncommon, as sulfate-reducing enrichments are often characterized by low diversity and the predominance of a single lineage, such as Desulfobacula or Desulfosarcina in marine systems. Genome-resolved analyses recovered seven metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) with distinct but complementary metabolic roles. Desulfoprunum encoded the fumarate-addition pathway ( bss/bbs ) for anaerobic toluene activation and dissimilatory sulfate reduction ( aprAB, dsrAB ). In contrast, Sulfurovum and several Gammaproteobacteria encoded sulfide:quinone oxidoreductase ( sqr ), coupling H 2 S detoxification to energy conservation, while a Moranbacterales MAG carried a putative sulfhydrogenase ( hydAB ) potentially catalyzing elemental sulfur (S°) reduction. Additional MAGs encoded assimilatory sulfate reduction ( cys ), suggesting integration of sulfur into biosynthetic pathways. Together, these features are consistent with the presence of a putative distributed sulfur redox loop, in which biogenic H 2 S may be recycled via oxidation and reduction reactions mediated by co-occurring taxa. This sulfur loop is hypothesized to contribute to buffering sulfide toxicity and stabilize redox dynamics, thereby potentially supporting long-term toluene degradation under sulfidic conditions. Our findings highlight anaerobic degradation as a community-driven process enabled by sulfur-cycling interactions. By revealing the role of cryptic sulfur cycling in stabilizing hydrocarbon degradation, this work offers a new framework for designing bioremediation strategies in contaminated anoxic environments.

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Preprints.org • 2026

Rationale: Reproductive tract infections (RTIs), including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), are significant public health concerns among young women, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. The university environment, characterized by communal living and varying access to personal healthcare, provides a unique setting to investigate these infections. Understanding the prevalence, microbial patterns, and antimicrobial resistance in university settings is critical to developing effective health interventions. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of RTIs, identify the microbial pathogens responsible for pelvic inflammatory disease, and determine their antimicrobial susceptibility patterns among female students residing in hostels at Niger Delta University, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. The study also sought to explore the age distribution of affected individuals and the microbial burden in the university hostel environment. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Niger Delta University in Amassoma, Nigeria. Fifty female students within the reproductive age group residing in the university’s hostels participated. Data were collected using high vaginal swabs and midstream urine samples, which were cultured for microbial growth. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method. Descriptive statistical analysis was employed to present the findings. Results: The study found that 52% of participants were in the 18–21 age group, while 48% were in the 22–25 age group. Candida species were the most commonly isolated pathogens (70%), followed by Escherichia coli (30%). The growth rates on Sabouraud dextrose agar revealed a predominance of fungal infections. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing showed varying levels of resistance, with Ciprofloxacin and Levofloxacin exhibiting the highest susceptibility, while higher resistance rates were observed for commonly used antibiotics such as Amoxicillin and Augmentin. Conclusion: The findings suggest that fungal infections, particularly those caused by Candida species, are a significant concern among young female university students. The presence of antimicrobial resistance highlights the need for alternative treatment strategies and enhanced infection control measures. Recommendations: Implement hygiene education and improved sanitation in hostel facilities, introduce routine screening for RTIs and provide access to effective antimicrobial treatments and integrate reproductive health education and regular medical check-ups into the university’s healthcare services. Health Significance: This study underscores the importance of addressing RTIs among young women in university settings to prevent long-term reproductive health issues. The findings contribute to the understanding of microbial resistance patterns, which is essential for the development of effective public health policies and interventions targeting PID and associated complications such as infertility.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

Hygiene • 2026

The process of ensuring the safety of the food supply is dynamic. Both the possibility of contamination and the effectiveness of safety precautions are impacted by changes in the kinds of food consumed, the geographical origins of food products, and the methods by which these foods are processed. For instance, compared to earlier generations, consumers’ general understanding of safe food preparation and handling techniques has decreased due to a higher reliance on prepackaged convenience foods. Nowadays, consumers depend increasingly on other people to make sure the food they eat is safe. Growing consumption of minimally processed foods and growing imports of fresh products from other nations have resulted from changes in consumer tastes and food processing technologies. This review aims to critically synthesize existing knowledge on microbial risks in food, focusing on their sources, mechanisms of contamination, risk evaluation methodologies, and implementation of food safety measures. Major foodborne pathogens, including Salmonella, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, and Norovirus, are discussed alongside factors influencing their survival and transmission. Today Clostridium botulinum, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella spp. remain among the major foodborne pathogens, but during the last two decades food-borne diseases such as shigellosis, listeriosis, campylobacteriosis, and diseases caused by pathogenic strains of Escherichia coli have become increasingly salient. These new concerns necessitate continued investment in research and technology development to improve the safety of the food supply. The review highlights current approaches to microbiological risk assessment, regulatory frameworks, and control strategies, while also addressing emerging challenges such as antimicrobial resistance, biofilms, and ready-to-eat foods. By integrating risk evaluation with practical implementation strategies, this review provides valuable insights for researchers, regulators, and food industry stakeholders seeking to strengthen food safety systems and reduce the burden of foodborne diseases.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

bioRxiv (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory) • 2026

Poorly soluble lanthanide minerals pose challenges for both a sustainable extraction of lanthanides as key resources for decarbonization and lanthanide-dependent microbial metabolism. Microbial use of lanthanides is widespread, yet bacteria's preference for light lanthanides requires differentiation mechanisms that enable downstream utilization. Whether lanthanide discrimination occurs during access, mobilization, uptake, or intracellular processing is mostly unknown and likely controlled by habitat and bioavailability. We studied microbial lanthanide mobilization and uptake from different lanthanide minerals, an alloy, and pure lanthanide compounds. Beijerinckiaceae bacterium RH AL1 served as a model organism for an integrated approach combining transcriptomics, analytics, and electron microscopy. This facultative methylotroph depends on light lanthanides for methanol oxidation and forms periplasmic lanthanide deposits. AL1 grew with all tested lanthanide sources and selectively enriched light lanthanides independent of source type, overall lanthanide content, and the proportion of light lanthanides. Transcriptomics revealed that the type of lanthanide source significantly influenced gene expression beyond lanthanide utilization. Lanthanide discrimination in Beijerinckiaceae bacterium RH AL1 is a multilayered process rooted in the complementary action of chelation, uptake mechanisms, and periplasmic storage. Adaptations that increase lanthanide bioavailability transform mineral-bound lanthanides into shared resources within microbial communities, with implications for sustainable lanthanide use.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

Innovaciencia • 2026

Introduction. Tejuino is an artisanal Mexican fermented corn beverage with limited shelf life, challenging industrial production. Research on microbial safety methods remains scarce despite their cultural importance. Objectives. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of Ultrasound-assisted thermal processing (USTP) on microbial safety and physicochemical properties on tejuino beverage. Materials and Methods. Commercial tejuino samples (200mL) underwent ultrasonic treatment at 0.5 kJ/mL at 20 °C, followed by thermal treatment at 45-65°C (USTP– USTP 65). Fresh, pasteurized (65°C/30 min), and ultrasound-treated samples served as controls. Analyses included microbiological [aerobic mesophilic bacteria (AMB), coliform bacteria (CB), molds and yeasts (MY), lactic acid bacteria (LAB)] and physicochemical parameters (pH, acidity, soluble solids, browning index, density, viscosity, conductivity, turbidity, color), as well as antioxidants [total soluble phenols (TSP), DPPH, ABTS, FRAP]. Results. AMB, CB, and MY counts decreased under USTP treatments while maintaining substantial LAB concentrations in a temperature-dependent response (USTP45–USTP65) compared to controls. All physicochemical properties except density were altered by USTP treatments in a temperature-dependent manner compared to fresh control. USTP45, USTP50, and USTP55 treatments showed similar TSP content and antioxidant activity by DPPH and ABTS compared to ultrasound-treated and fresh controls, while FRAP values decreased significantly in temperatures of 50°C. Conclusions. The ultrasound-assisted thermal processing can be a viable alternative for the industrial manufacturing of tejuino.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

Biology of Sex Differences • 2026

Abstract Background Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder with established sex differences in incidence and progression. Epidemiological evidence suggests nicotine may confer protection against PD, but its mechanisms, particularly regarding sex-specific effects, remain unclear. This study investigated the neuroprotective mechanisms of nicotine in a rotenone-induced PD rat model, with a specific focus on evaluating sex-dependent modulation across behavioral, pathological, and gut-related outcomes. Methods Male and female Sprague-Dawley rats were administered rotenone (2 mg/kg/day, s.c.) for four weeks to induce PD. Nicotine (0.5 mg/kg/day, s.c.) was administered 30 min after rotenone. Motor function was assessed using rotarod and CatWalk XT gait analysis. Neuropathology in the substantia nigra was evaluated via immunofluorescence for α-synuclein and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH). Gut pathology was analyzed through colon histopathology (H E staining) and ELISA for IL-6 and α-synuclein. Gut microbiota composition was assessed by 16 S rDNA sequencing, and serum metabolomics was performed using UPLC-MS/MS. Data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA with Tukey’s post-hoc test. Results Nicotine significantly attenuated rotenone-induced motor impairments: males showed a superior response in balance-related parameters, while females exhibited enhanced efficacy in dynamic gait metrics. Pathologically, nicotine reduced nigral α-synuclein accumulation and TH depletion in both sexes, with males showing greater α-synuclein accumulation following rotenone exposure. Crucially, nicotine exclusively ameliorated colon histopathology, reduced plasma α-synuclein, and suppressed colon IL-6 in females, while attenuating intestinal α-synuclein accumulation in both sexes. Microbiota analysis revealed sex-divergent taxonomic shifts with nicotine treatment. Metabolomics showed significantly more extensive metabolic reprogramming in females, particularly affecting indole derivatives. Pearson correlations revealed significant sex-specific associations between altered serum indole derivatives and gut microbiota genera. Conclusions Nicotine exerts neuroprotection in PD through sex-dependent modulation of multiple pathological pathways, primarily involving the gut-microbiota-metabolite axis. Females benefit from enhanced gastrointestinal protection and metabolic reprogramming, while males show preferential motor balance restoration. These findings underscore the critical importance of sex-stratified therapeutic strategies for PD.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

Journal of Science Innovation and Technology Research • 2026

This study focused on determining the Impact of some herbicides (glyphosate and butachlor) on soil physiochemical properties and microbial population in Mubi, Adamawa State, Nigeria. A field study was carried out from April to October 2025 in the research farm of Adamawa University Mubi. Two (2) different herbicides that include: butachlor, and glyphosate each at four different concentrations were used. The soil sample was collected prior and after application of the different concentrations of the two herbicides at two weeks interval and physiochemical properties using a standard procedures were analyzed. The results revealed that butachlor, and glyphosate  treated soils had no significant effect on most of the physiochemical properties of the soil sample at 0, 2, 4 and 6 weeks after treatment (WAT). A total of eight (8) fungal species, eight (8) Gram positive bacteria, and ten (10) Gram negative bacteria were identified in the treated soils. The concentration of the two different herbicides were found to only have a significant effect on the bacterial population. The 0, 2, 4 and 6 WAT sampling periods, however, had significant effects on both the bacterial and fungal populations. The study concluded that the two herbicides used at different concentrations had no significant effect on most of the physiochemical properties of the soils sampled analyzed at 0, 2, 4 and 6 WAT with the presence of fungi species, and Gram negative and positive bacteria. The herbicides had significant effect with soil sampled at 0 WAT having higher population than 2, 4 and 6 WAT prospectively.

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BMC Biotechnology • 2026

Abstract Background Rising demand for rare earth elements (REEs) and the severe environmental impact of conventional extraction from phosphate minerals (monazite, apatite) have intensified the search for green alternatives. Microbial bioleaching offers a low-energy, low-waste, and a sustainable biotechnological alternative by exploiting the ability of fungi and bacteria to generate organic acids, siderophores, reducing agents, and other metabolites that solubilize REEs. Although interest in REE bioleaching has increased, a biotechnology-focused synthesis of microbial mechanisms, metabolic constraints, and process determinants specific to phosphate matrices remains limited. Methods A PRISMA-guided systematic review was conducted. Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar and other major databases were searched to identify peer-reviewed studies reporting microbial bioleaching of REEs from phosphate minerals. From 443 identified records, 25 studies met the inclusion criteria after screening and eligibility assessment. These studies were evaluated based on microbial species, metabolic mechanisms, culture conditions, mineral substrates, and REE solubilization performance. Results Fungal species, particularly Aspergillus , Penicillium and Paecilomyces demonstrated the highest REE mobilization efficiencies through intensive production of citric, oxalic, and gluconic acids, along with phosphatase activity. Bacterial strains, including Acidithiobacillus , Bacillus , Pantoea , Burkholderia , Pseudomonas , and Klebsiella contributed complementary mechanisms such as proton extrusion, siderophore secretion, and Fe(III) / Fe(II) redox cycling. Bioleaching performance was strongly influenced by media composition, carbon source, nitrogen assimilation, pH evolution, mineralogy of the phosphate substrate, pulp density, and particle size. Across studies, the lack of standardized conditions limited direct comparability, but organic acid dominated pathways consistently produced the most robust REE solubilization. Conclusions Microbial bioleaching is a promising biotechnological platform for REE recovery from phosphate minerals, driven by metabolically diverse acidogenic, chelating, enzymatic, and redox mechanisms. However, advancements remain constrained by heterogeneous methodologies, limited integration of mechanistic studies, and minimal use of engineered strains or controlled bioreactor systems. Future progress requires standardized experimental frameworks, improved mechanistic understanding of organism-specific roles, and rational design of optimized microbial systems. This review offers a biotechnology-centered foundation to guide next-generation research on sustainable REE mobilization from phosphate resources.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

Research Square • 2026

Abstract Allergen immunotherapy directly addresses the biological cause of allergies like those causing asthma. For perennial allergies, the treatment involves exposure to house dust mite (HDM) extracts that aim to block T helper 2 responses. Here, we investigate whether exposure to HDM extracts affects other aspects of innate host defenses against infection using the Drosophila genetic model organism. We find that pre-treatment of flies with HDM extract injection provides a degree of protection against several types of microbial infections, namely Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial infections as well as fungal infections. Interestingly, this protection appears to be achieved through distinct mechanisms. The priming afforded by HDM extracts against Gram-negative bacteria is mediated via a mild induction of the Immune deficiency pathway. In contrast, the protection against a Gram-positive bacterium, Staphylococcus aureus , and some Aspergillus fumigatus mycotoxins may involve the induction of host anti-oxidant defenses. We conclude that HDM extract appears to stimulate distinct host defenses that are differentially relevant according to the nature of the subsequent immune challenge. Future studies on the role of the host anti-oxidant responses in the Drosophila model will reveal how the host is able to cope with deleterious reactive oxygen species that may be generated during infections.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

Frontiers in Psychiatry • 2026

Theoretical framework Cigarette smoking is the leading preventable cause of death worldwide, with nicotine dependence notably common among individuals with Substance Use Disorders (SUD). Smoking exacerbates both physical and mental health issues, further complicating the treatment of SUD. Current therapeutic approaches for SUD often prove inadequate, indicating a need for new strategies. Recent advancements in metabolomics and gut microbiome research have provided valuable insights into the biological mechanisms underlying addiction, warranting further investigation. Objectives This study aims to investigate the therapeutic potential of smoking cessation for individuals with SUD, using a Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) six-week group intervention within a therapeutic community. The research specifically explores the psychobehavioral, metabolic, and gut microbiome domains. It is hypothesized that smoking cessation will improve emotional regulation self-efficacy and reduce substance craving, mediated by changes in metabolic and microbiome profiles linked to brain systems of affect and reward. Methods A randomized controlled trial (N = 100) will be conducted, examining outcomes such as clinical relapse rates as well as microbial and metabolic markers, investigating pathways of short-chain fatty acids, oxidative stress and inflammation, lipid, tryptophan, and one-carbon metabolism. Participants will undergo a CBT smoking cessation intervention, with pre- and post-assessments, compared to a control group receiving treatment as usual. Metabolomic and microbiome analyses will be conducted using blood and stool samples, alongside psychological assessments via questionnaires. Covariate analyses will be undertaken to control for metabolic and gut microbial effects of long-term psychiatric medications (antidepressants, mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and opioid substitutions) present in the sample. Behavioral assessments will be conducted at a 3-month follow-up. The study is registered at clinicaltrials.gov under NCT06803706. Level of originality This research will enhance our understanding of the complex interplay between smoking and mental health, offering potential for more effective treatment strategies for SUD. The current study’s focus on connections between metabolic and gut microbiome pathways with affect and reward is expected to yield valuable insights into addiction mechanisms and improve diagnostic and therapeutic practices. Clinical trial registration https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06803706?cond=metabolomic%20and%20microbial%20biomarkers%20in%20smoking%20cessation amp;rank=1 , identifier NCT06803706.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

bioRxiv (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory) • 2026

The diversity of environmental microbial exposure is a key driver of immune maturation and host defense; however, its impact on brain immunity and neurodegenerative diseases remains poorly documented. Here, we show that controlled indoor rewilding, by introducing a natural farm-like environment into laboratory housing, reshapes peripheral and central nervous system (CNS) immune networks in wild-type (WT) and 5xFAD mice, a model of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Compared with traditional specific pathogen-free (SPF) housing, rewilded mice exhibited systemic shifts toward mature immune phenotypes, including increases in effector and memory B and T cells, expansion of plasma cell populations, and alterations in immunoglobulin isotypes. In the brain, indoor rewilding recalibrated microglial and astrocytic activation of SPF-5xFAD mice, attenuating pro-inflammatory transcriptional programs while enhancing homeostatic, complement, and phagocytic signatures. A strong transcriptional convergence was observed between rewilded and wild mice, with rewilded 5xFAD mice exhibiting greater similarity to human AD transcriptional profiles. Morphological and histochemical analyses confirmed that rewilded microglia adopt metabolically adaptable, homeostatic states that influence amyloid-β plaque binding and clearance. Collectively, these findings suggest that microbial diversity through »dirty» mouse modeling could enhance the translational relevance of neuroimmunology and neurodegenerative disease research.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

Microbiology Spectrum • 2026

ABSTRACT The tumor immune microenvironment and intratumoral microbiota play critical roles in cancer progression and immunotherapy response, yet their integrated functions in stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD) are not well understood. This study conducted a multi-omics analysis of transcriptomic and microbiome data from 348 patients with STAD. Using the ImmuCellAI algorithm, immune cell infiltration (ICI) was estimated, and non-negative matrix factorization classified samples into three immune subtypes (INC-1, INC-2, and INC-3). Differential expression analysis identified immune-related signature genes enriched in immune signaling pathways. Tumor mutational burden, microsatellite instability, immune checkpoint gene expression, and drug sensitivity were compared across subtypes. Microbiome clustering identified three subtypes (MC-1, MC-2, and MC-3), with associations to immune infiltration and microbial composition. The immune subtypes showed distinct patterns of ICI, clinical stage, and gene expression, with differentially expressed genes enriched in immune and tumor-related pathways. Microbiome subtypes exhibited unique diversity metrics and associations with the immune microenvironment. Integration of immune and microbial data improved immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) prediction, with genera like Staphylococcus and Ralstonia correlating with immune genes such as CD22, VIPR2, and FLT3. These findings provide insights into ICB response and support more precise immunotherapy strategies for STAD. IMPORTANCE Deciphering the interactions between the tumor immune microenvironment and the intratumoral microbiota is crucial for advancing precision immunotherapy in stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD). In this study, we present an integrative multi-omics framework that stratifies patients into distinct immune and microbial subtypes, uncovering their associations with immunogenomic profiles, immune cell infiltration patterns, and clinical features. Notably, we identify specific microbial genera correlated with immune-related gene expression and immune checkpoint blockade responsiveness. These findings provide novel insights into the immune–microbiome axis in STAD and underscore the potential of integrative multi-omics approaches to enhance patient stratification and guide more effective immunotherapeutic strategies.

[object Object], [object Object], [object Object] et al.

Current Microbiology • 2026

Abstract The production of high-quality Prunus seedling rootstocks in soilless systems requires optimizing the interaction between genetics, nutrient availability, and rhizosphere microbiology. This study evaluated the morphophysiological response of four peach rootstock genotypes (‘Capdeboscq’, “Okinawa Roxo”, “NR0060408”, and “NR0160305”) to inoculation with Trichoderma asperellum and a microbial consortium ( Bacillus amyloliquefaciens  +  Trichoderma harzianum ), under contrasting doses of controlled-release fertilizer (0 and 4 g dm − 3 of CRF). Longitudinal analysis (0-120 days) demonstrated that nutrient availability is the primary limiting factor; microbial bioinputs did not compensate for the absence of fertilization due to the metabolic cost of symbiosis. However, under nutrient sufficiency (4 g dm − 3 ), strong synergism was observed. The new selections (“NR0060408” and “NR0160305”) exhibited high phenotypic plasticity, maximizing the conversion of biostimulation into shoot biomass and outperforming the “Okinawa Roxo” genotype, which displayed a conservative growth strategy. The Bacillus - Trichoderma consortium was superior to single inoculation in responsive genotypes, potentiating seedling leaf area and height. Furthermore, inoculation promoted the “stay-green” effect, maintaining chlorophyll index stability until the end of the cycle. It is concluded that the use of bioinputs, especially in a consortium, acts as a metabolic catalyst in responsive genotypes, but their efficacy depends on adequate basal nutritional management.