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

Bioresource technology • 2025

Nitrate and ammonium co-contamination poses a major challenge for sustainable nitrogen removal, especially under microoxic conditions. This study investigated the effect of magnetite on microbial nitrogen metabolism and nitrite accumulation in biocathodes of bioelectrochemical systems under 0.25 mg/L dissolved oxygen. Magnetite improved total nitrogen removal by 22.8 %, reduced peak nitrite levels by 22.6 %, and lowered residual ammonium by 49.2 %. Magnetite promoted interspecies cooperation, driving modular specialization in nitrite reduction while suppressing dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium. Concurrently, it stimulated ammonia-oxidizing bacteria activity, accelerating ammonium conversion and mitigating nitrite accumulation through enhanced denitrification. A cooperative microbial pattern emerged, with dominant species such as Hanamia sp. and Moheibacter sp. carrying out nitrite reduction, while less abundant species performed single nitrogen metabolic processes. This study highlights the role of magnetite in integrating aerobic and anaerobic nitrogen pathways, offering a sustainable strategy for controlling complex nitrogen pollution.

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

Environmental research • 2025

Addressing the challenge of high energy consumption in conventional wastewater treatment, this study develops a zero-energy microbial electrochemical system (MES) featuring an algal-bacterial symbiotic biocathode. Under simulated day-night cycles, this configuration achieves simultaneous and efficient removal of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus pollutants while recovering electrical energy. During the illuminated phase, algal photosynthesis generates oxygen to sustain a stable voltage output (∼600 mV) without external aeration. In the dark phase, the system promotes denitrification, thereby enabling effective nitrogen removal. A petal-like NiO-modified carbon felt biocathode was fabricated, significantly enhancing the cathode's specific surface area and active sites, thereby effectively promoting the formation of a microbial-algal composite biofilm and cathodic reduction reaction. This innovative design and operational strategy enable zero-energy wastewater treatment coupled with resource recovery, offering a promising pathway toward energy self-sufficiency and carbon neutrality in practical wastewater treatment applications.

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

Trends in biotechnology • 2025

CH 4 -producing bioelectrochemical systems (BES) are a promising alternative to convert CO 2 and electricity into CH 4 . However, not much is known about the local conditions and possible gradients at CH 4 -producing biocathodes, especially when using granular activated carbon (GAC) as the electrode material. Detecting local conditions at different depths and heights of this 3D material provides better insights on possibly existing limitations. Process conditions and reactor design can be changed to tackle limitations and improve rates and efficiencies. Here, H 2 , pH, and oxidation reduction potentials (ORP) were measured locally within the biocathode. First, H 2 was detected locally at -0.63 V cathode potential (versus Ag/AgCl), whereas no H 2 was detected in the outlet gas, suggesting efficient biological use of H 2 as an intermediate. Second, gradients in all three parameters were observed at different depths in the biocathode. Hence, to improve biological activity, it is critical to consider H 2 as a mediator and pH dead zones.

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

Journal of hazardous materials • 2025

Efficient and eco-friendly purification of uranium-bearing wastewater is essential for the safety of the water ecosystem and sustainable development of the nuclear energy industry. Although bioelectrochemical systems show great prospect for uranium bioremediation, the uranium removal efficiency is often limited by the ineffective quality of biofilm formation and unsatisfactory electron transfer. Here we propose a rapid self-assembled biofilm formation strategy to construct a sulfate-reducing bacteria-carbon cloth biohybrid cathode (CF-PQ7) modified with cotton-derived carbon fibers for the simultaneous removal of uranium and sulfate. Electrochemical characterizations show that pyridinic-N and graphitic-N species in highly conductive carbon fibers promote electron transfer at the uranium reduction interface between the biofilm and the electrode by optimized electron transfer dynamics. Moreover, spectroscopic and biofilm analysis demonstrate that a rapid self-assembled electroactive biofilm is formed by coating polyquaternium-7 in situ on the microbial surface to improve the viability and detoxification capacity of the biofilm. Impressively, CF-PQ7 biocathode demonstrates uranium removal efficiency of 93.8 %, achieving a 7.8-fold and 3.9-fold increase compared to sulfate-reducing bacteria and bare electrode, respectively, indicating its promising potential for uranium bioremediation. This work provides a safe, clean, and sustainable uranium reduction strategy and puts forward new perspectives and opportunities for uranium-bearing wastewater remediation.

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

Bioresource technology • 2025

Electrotrophic biocathodes enable rapid biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) sensing but face challenges like slow colonization, low current, and poorly understood microbial interactions. This study employed exogenous quorum sensing signals (C6-HSL and 3O-C12-HSL) to enhance biofilm development on oxygen-reducing biocathodes. These two N-acyl-homoserine lactones (AHLs) accelerated formation and boosted current density 5-6 times. Candidatus Tenderia served as key electrotrophs, while non-electroactive Moheibacter promoted early adhesion and extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) production. Metagenomics showed upregulation of genes related to iron metabolism, adhesion, and electron transfer, alongside increased fulvic-like shuttle secretion. A cascade model was proposed: AHLs initiate non-electrotrophic EPS production, facilitating electrotrophs colonization and electron transfer. AHL-enhanced biofilm showed improved BOD sensing sensitivity and linearity, providing a new strategy and mechanistic basis for developing efficient biocathode biosensors.

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

Bioelectrochemistry (Amsterdam, Netherlands) • 2025

The cathodic reduction of nitrate and sulfate by autotrophic organisms in microbial fuel cells (MFC) has received much attention. However, systematic investigations into the feasibility of methane-driven nitrate and sulfate reduction remain limited. In this study, an MFC integrating an autotrophic biocathode with dissolved methane (CH 4 ) as the electron donor was developed to couple methane-driven reduction of nitrate and sulfate with electricity generation. The biology reductive properties, microbial characteristics and functional metabolic mechanisms were investigated under single electron acceptor (NO 3 - /SO 4 2- ) and mixed electron acceptor (NO 3 -  + SO 4 2- ) working conditions. The results showed that with nitrate and sulfate acting as electron acceptors alone, MFC achieved the maximum removal rates of nitrate and sulfate of 89.1 % and 26 %, respectively. With mixed electron acceptors provided, the removal rates of nitrate and sulfate decreased by 62.5 % and 14.2 %, respectively. However, the anaerobic oxidation of methane (AOM) was promoted, and its output voltage reached a maximum. The anode chambers of all methane autotrophic denitrification‑sulfur removing MFCs shared similar microbial structures, with dominant functional genera including Methylocystis, Hyphomicrobium and Methylomonas, and the dominant bacteria in the cathode chamber were Pseudomonas, Nitrospira, Desulfovibrio, Hyphomicrobium and Acidovorax. The genes coding for methane metabolism were upregulated when nitrate and sulfate coexisted, while the genes related to sulfur metabolism and denitrification metabolism were downregulated. These findings provide novel insights into the application of AOM-MFC systems for the treatment of wastewater with nitrogen and sulfur contaminants.

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

Journal of hazardous materials • 2025

Efficient removal and recovery of uranium (U(VI)) from mining wastewater are vital for environmental protection and resource sustainability. Zero-valent iron-assisted microbial U(VI) reduction shows great potential, yet is hindered by inefficient electron utilization, surface passivation, and operational complexity of hybrid systems. This study demonstrated a Fe(0)-based spontaneous microbial electrochemical (Fe(0)-SMEC) system capable of simultaneously removing U(VI) and generating electricity. By spatially separating anodic Fe(0) oxidation from microbial U(VI) reduction at the biocathode, the system significantly enhanced both electron utilization and uranium removal efficiency. Within 48 h, the Fe(0)-SMEC system removed 81.7 %-96.4 % of U(VI) from synthetic wastewater (5-25 mg/L) and 73.3 %-78.7 % from real uranium mine wastewater, achieving removal kinetics 2.8-5.5 times faster than those of Fe(0)-microbe mixed systems. At the same time, the system delivered power outputs of 0.136 W and 0.109 W for synthetic and real wastewater, respectively. Mechanistic analyses indicated that U immobilization was driven by microbial bioreduction and phosphate biomineralization, leading to the formation of uranyl phosphate and non-crystalline U(IV) precipitates. Biofilms enriched with electroactive and metal-reducing bacteria played a central role in U(VI) reduction, supported by functional genes associated with direct electron transfer (c-type cytochromes, e-pili), mediated electron transfer (flavins, phenazines), intracellular redox regulation (thioredoxin), and energy metabolism, indicating that U(VI) reduction proceeded through integrated extracellular, periplasmic, and cytoplasmic pathways. This work offers a promising and cost-effective strategy for sustainable uranium recovery from contaminated wastewater.

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

Analytica chimica acta • 2025

Patulin, a hazardous mycotoxin widely present in moldy fruits, poses a serious threat to food safety and human health. The development of efficient detection methods has become a top priority. Current detection methods, however, are restricted by their poor portability and complicated operation procedures, which limit their extensive application and practical effectiveness in real-world food testing scenarios. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a more innovative and practical solution to address these challenges and improve the detection of patulin in food products.

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

Inorganic chemistry • 2025

The enzymatic reduction of substrate O 2 to H 2 O is an essential reaction in multicopper oxidases (MCOs), which has recently been intensively studied and applied to biofuel cell cathodes to achieve higher current efficiency. However, a full understanding of the catalytic mechanism of MCOs still remains elusive, especially with regard to the exact order of the electron/proton transfer in structural details. Our molecular mechanics and quantum mechanics calculations reveal that the hydroxide ligand of T2Cu favors the first protonation of O 2 at the trinuclear copper (TNC) cluster. The protonation of the T2Cu hydroxide ligand drives the cleavage of the HO-O bond for the formation of a native intermediate. In the three subsequent protonation reactions, the oxidation state of T1Cu in the reactants plays a crucial role in determining the corresponding reaction efficiency. The cuprous T1Cu facilitates the following three-step protonation reactions of O 2 derivatives with low energy barriers. In contrast, cupric T1Cu causes the corresponding reactions to encounter high energy barriers. The protonation of the O 2 derivative simultaneously drives the reduction of the four cupric ions of laccase. Therefore, the first three steps of oxygen reduction catalyzed by laccase occur via a similar water-mediated double-proton-coupled electron transfer mechanism with electron transfer from T1Cu to TNC and simultaneously indirect proton transfer from Glu451 to the O 2 derivative through a bridging H 2 O at the same time. The fourth-step protonation takes place via a double proton concerned transfer mechanism. These findings have significant implications for the understanding of the elaborate proton-coupled electron transfer mechanism for the catalytic action of MCOs and inspire further work on the construction of biocathodes for the oxygen reduction reaction.

[object Object], [object Object]

Trends in biotechnology • 2025

In a recent study, Bachar et al. developed an enzymatic biocathode-based bioelectrocatalytic platform for efficient synthesis of chiral compounds. They then integrated this system with a semiconductor-based photoanode to construct a light-driven, bias-free photobioelectrochemical cell (PBEC). The system is versatile and adaptable for any process requiring NADPH-dependent enzymes, in vivo or in vitro.

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

Bioelectrochemistry (Amsterdam, Netherlands) • 2025

An integrated bubble column reactor-microbial fuel cell (BCR-MFC) was developed for simultaneous aerobic toluene vapor biodegradation, nitrification, heterotrophic denitrification, and electricity generation. The BCR-MFC was tested under various inlet loading rates (ILRs) of toluene to the bio-cathode chamber. The maximum elimination capacity (EC max ) reached 248 g m -3  h -1 at an ILR of 456 g m -3  h -1 . Optimal performance occurred at an ILR of 306 g m -3  h -1 , yielding an EC of 208 g m -3  h -1 and a voltage output of 522 mV based on the integrated efficiency parameter (ε). The highest power density (4.8 W m -3 ) was obtained at the lowest ILR (70 ± 6 g m -3  h -1 ). At an ILR of 316 ± 30 g m -3  h -1 , NH₄ + -N decreased from 1.3 g L -1 to 0.134 g L -1 , and NOₓ - -N from 1.3 g L -1 to 0.239 g L -1 . Microbial community analysis revealed increased abundance of toluene-degrading bacteria, heterotrophic denitrifiers, and nitrifiers, including Pseudomonas, Paracoccus, Zoogloea, and Bacillus. These results highlight the BCR-MFC ability to couple efficient toluene degradation with nitrogen compound removal while producing bioelectricity, facilitated by the coexistence of essential microbial species in the bio-cathode chamber.

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

ACS sensors • 2026

Multifunctional DNA nanonets were used to design an ultrasensitive self-powered biosensor for tobramycin (TOB) detection based on a bimetallic metal-organic framework, i.e., Fe/Co-MIL-88(NH 2 ). In the bioanode, Fe/Co-MIL-88(NH 2 ) shows peroxidase-like activity toward H 2 O 2 catalysis and cascades with glucose oxidase to catalyze glucose oxidation. In the biocathode, carbon nanotubes decorated with gold nanoparticles (CNTs@AuNPs) are used to improve the conductivity. When TOB is present, DNA nanonets form double-stranded structures to adsorb [Ru(NH 3 ) 6 ] 3+ , amplifying the signal and generating a high open-circuit voltage ( E OCV ). Moreover, a capacitor is used to amplify the instantaneous current by storing charges from enzyme biofuel cells. A smartphone allows real-time readout of the test's instantaneous current via Bluetooth technology. The self-powered biosensor exhibits ultrasensitive TOB detection with a limit of detection of 0.41 fM in the range of 1.0-10 7 fM and possesses excellent selectivity, good stability, high reproducibility, and outstanding applicability to monitor TOB in actual samples.

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

Managerial Finance • 2026

Purpose To investigate the relationship between corporate environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance and trade credit, with a particular focus on the moderating role of institutional variables. Design/methodology/approach An empirical analysis was conducted using a comprehensive panel dataset of European listed firms included in the STOXX 600 Index from 2015 to 2022. The research employs panel regression techniques, with an ordinary least squares estimation with robust standard error and the application of the Heckman two-stage test to address the possible issue of sample selection bias. Findings Higher ESG performance improves trade credit use by fostering supplier trust and reducing information asymmetry. Crucially, this relationship is moderated by the institutional environment. Firms operating in countries with a less efficient legal system and/or higher corruption rely more heavily on their ESG performance to secure trade credit, indicating a compensatory effect. Practical implications Financial managers in countries with weak institutional frameworks should prioritise their ESG performance, as it serves as a high-impact signal for accessing trade credit. For policymakers, the results stress the importance of integrating sustainability indicators and institutional reforms into policies that promote access to trade credit. Originality/value This article offers novel evidence by highlighting the dual role of ESG performance as both a general signal of creditworthiness and a compensatory mechanism in institutional contexts characterised by weak rule of law and high corruption. It extends the trade credit literature by integrating firm-level ESG factors with country-level institutional quality.

[object Object]

Comparative Reflections in Private Law • 2026

Abstract The chapter examines how the protection of contractual performance and the role of reasonableness in the context of remedies have evolved in England and France over recent decades. While reasonableness remains central in the English law of remedies, over time greater protection has been afforded to contractual performance. In particular, there has been a notable trend towards recognizing that the promisee has an ‘interest in obtaining performance’ that is worthy of protection. However, the corresponding interest of the promisor in ‘rendering performance’ has rarely received attention and remains an underdeveloped concept. In France the commitment to performance remains strong, but reasonableness now plays a more prominent role in remedies law. Reasonableness, and the closely related concept of proportionality, were introduced to the provisions on remedies by the 2016 reforms of the contract law section of the Civil Code as limiting mechanisms to achieve greater balance between the competing interests of the parties. While these changes have brought about a rapprochement between English and French law, the contrast between them remains significant. The chapter observes that this is mainly due to the fact that the mitigation principle still plays a central role in English law, whereas it has no place in French law.

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

Materials Science Forum • 2026

CO 2 emissions from cement production have significantly increased, leading to the search for alternative materials that optimize the process and reduce environmental impact. In this context, the present study investigates the use of microsilica (MS) and fan shell powder (PCA) as cement replacements. Material characterization tests were conducted, and six mix designs were made, including 5% PCA and 10% MS replacements individually, as well as combinations of 10% MS with 5%, 7.5%, and 10% PCA. Additionally, compression strength properties were analyzed at 3, 7, and 28 days, and flexural strength at 7 and 28 days. The findings regarding mechanical strength were favorable, except for the mix with 10% MS and 10% PCA, which indicates the maximum substitution percentage. Furthermore, a CO 2 emission analysis was conducted according to the Greenhouse Gas Protocol, achieving a reduction of up to 11.16% compared to the control concrete. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that the combination of 10% MS and 5% PCA is the optimal replacement, improving compressive strength by 6.99% and flexural strength by 1.33%, while reducing CO 2 emissions by 10.44%.

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

Emotional Regulation at Work • 2026

Abstract In this chapter, we address the widely reported underperformance of Mergers and Acquisitions (M A), often linked to “merger syndrome,” in which individuals face behavioral and performance challenges. Despite its prevalence, the mechanisms driving these within-person changes remain poorly understood. Adopting a managerial and organizational cognition perspective, we examine how goals, emotions, self-regulation, psychological capital (PsyCap), and emotional memories interact to shape individual behavior during organizational change. Drawing on over 20 interviews across a financial services firm that underwent two consecutive mergers, from senior leadership to frontline staff, we explore how people recall the merger experience and how those memories shape their outlook. Our analysis focuses on shifts in self-regulatory (SR) processes during the transition. We propose that behavioral and performance variations stem from increased affective-cognitive load that depletes self-regulatory resources (SRR). Factors such as shifting goals and PsyCap (hope, self-efficacy, optimism, and resilience) influence SRR depletion and use while autobiographical emotional memories (AEMs) further shape goal orientation and PsyCap. We present a process model linking these elements, supported by initial qualitative evidence. Based on this model, we suggest managerial interventions aimed at positively shaping AEMs, reducing resource depletion, and enhancing PsyCap. By targeting these within-person dynamics, organizations can better support employees and increase the likelihood of successful post-merger integration (PMI).

[object Object], [object Object]

Performance Enablement • 2026

Abstract This chapter is grounded in the critical question, “What is the purpose of performance management?” The purpose of PM today is primarily to facilitate reward distribution as part of an organization’s pay-for-performance philosophy. This purpose remains at the center of this practice, despite little research to support it. An organization design lens suggests PM should be a part of an organization’s management control processes, helping to steer the organization toward its desired goals. The authors argue PM should adopt a more enabling approach to control instead of a more coercive approach, relying more on social, psychological, and cultural mechanisms to influence employee behavior, versus evaluations, differentiation, and pay for performance.

[object Object]

Journal of Hunan University Natural Sciences • 2026

The construction sector is under increasing pressure to enhance project performance, particularly through strengthening project manager competencies (PMC). Although the importance of managerial competencies has been widely acknowledged, limited research has examined how PMC influence project performance (PP) through underlying organizational mechanisms. This study addresses this gap by investigating the direct effect of PMC on PP and the mediating roles of team performance (TP) and stakeholder engagement (SE). A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted among 288 project team members in Pakistan’s construction sector. The data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The results indicate that PMC have a significant positive effect on PP. Furthermore, TP and SE significantly mediate this relationship, highlighting the critical role of effective team dynamics and proactive stakeholder involvement in translating managerial competencies into improved project outcomes. This study contributes to the literature by integrating the Resource-Based View and stakeholder theory to explain the mechanisms linking managerial competencies to project performance. The findings provide practical implications for construction firms and policymakers by emphasizing the strategic importance of developing managerial competencies, strengthening team collaboration, and enhancing stakeholder engagement across the project lifecycle. Keywords: Project manager competencies; Project performance; Team performance; Stakeholder engagement; Resource-Based View; Stakeholder theory; Construction industry.

[object Object], [object Object]

Performance Enablement • 2026

Abstract This chapter shares the research on the effectiveness of goal-setting, what has gone wrong with goal-setting in organizations today, and how to create enabling goal-setting practices. Setting goals for employees and teams is a fundamental part of Performance Enablement. Goals provide direction, context, purpose, and meaning for employees and help connect their work to the goals of the organization, reducing the need for micromanagement and other coercive control mechanisms. Many companies fail to align individual goals with organizational objectives, emphasize individual goals at the expense of team collaboration, focus too much on metrics and accountability, and set rigid goals that quickly become outdated. This chapter shares agile approaches to goal-setting, such as OKRs and FAST, that promote adaptability, transparency, and frequent feedback, ensuring that goals remain relevant and drive meaningful outcomes. A case study sharing the value of the OKR process is provided.

[object Object]

Education Quarterly Reviews • 2026

Higher education systems worldwide face intensifying pressures for accountability, quality, and effective governance amid continual reform. This article presents a comprehensive integrative analysis framing leadership as a governance mechanism in higher education, synthesizing insights from three prior studies on distributed leadership, contextual leadership challenges, and quality assurance. Drawing on findings that distributed leadership fosters trust and collective efficacy, that higher education leaders navigate complex challenges (e.g. bureaucratic constraints, political interference, resource limitations) especially in developing contexts, and that leadership is pivotal in implementing quality assurance for improved institutional performance, this article proposes a unifying conceptual framework. In this framework, leadership fulfills key governance functions – coordinating institutional efforts, translating accountability demands into improvement-oriented practices, and building trust – which collectively enhance institutional outcomes. The analysis is grounded in contemporary higher education governance debates and offers a model whereby leadership (encompassing both formal and distributed forms) links governance processes to educational quality and performance. By reframing leadership through a governance lens, this article contributes a novel theoretical integration and practical insights for higher education leaders and policymakers striving to improve institutional governance and outcomes.

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

Environmental science and pollution research international • 2026

The role of redox mediators in improving electron transport from electrochemically active bacteria to the anode is crucial for enhanced bioelectricity output from microbial fuel cells (MFCs), which makes the selection of an ideal mediator very important. This study aims at exploring a new redox mediator niacin (vit B3) for enhanced bioelectricity generation in MFC while treating distillery wastewater through facile modification of anode electrode by niacin doping (MFC-NME) and simple application of niacin to the anolyte (MFC-NAA). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) of NME confirmed the effective adsorption of niacin onto the carbon felt surface. Notably, MFC-NME exhibited a significantly higher power density (PD) of 6.36 W/m 3 compared to MFC-NAA (4.59 W/m 3 ) and control MFC (3.49W/m 3 ). The charge transfer resistance (R CT ) in MFC-NME (1.73 Ω) and MFC-NAA (2.06 Ω) were lowered by more than half than that in control MFC (4.33 Ω), which underscores the efficacy of niacin as a redox mediator. SEM analysis revealed improved bacterial attachment over the bioanode in the MFC-NME as compared to that of MFC-NAA and control MFC. Removal of chemical oxygen demand (COD) was higher in MFC-NAA (85%) and MFC-NME (80%) than in control MFC (73%) suggesting that niacin in the anolyte supported greater organic matter removal due to enriched microbial activity. Niacin used in anode modification shows great potential for improved electron transfer and enhanced bioelectricity production and supports greater wastewater treatment performance. The modified bioanode NME exhibits excellent stability.

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

Bioprocess and biosystems engineering • 2025

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) have been proven to be a green technology for solving energy crises, but their low power density limits their large-scale practical applications. In this paper, a three-dimensional porous composite hydrogel polyvinyl alcohol/polypyrrole (PVA/PPy) with good biocompatibility was prepared by temperature-field regulation via alternating cycles between low temperature (- 20 °C) and room temperature (25 °C) and used as the anode in MFC. The three-dimensional network structure of PPy nanospheres compressed by ice crystal stress exhibited excellent charge conduction capability and ion transport performance, which significantly improved the interfacial charge transfer efficiency of PVA/PPy-5 bioanode. Besides, the addition of PVA endowed the hydrogel with mechanical properties to resist the external forces. As the results, the maximum power density of PVA/PPy-5 MFC was 1521.04 mW/m 2 , which was 1.76, 2.16 and 8.32 times higher than that of PVA/PPy-0, PPy-5 and carbon felt MFCs, respectively. Such enhancement could be attributed to the combined effects of three factors, including the FT process, biocompatibility of PVA, and bioelectrocatalytic activity of polypyrrole. The high-throughput sequencing technology revealed that the PVA/PPy-5 hydrogel anode, which facilitated the selective enrichment of electrogenic microbes, played a crucial role on the regulation of functional biofilm. This work provides a new approach for developing high-performance electrodes for MFC.

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

Analytica chimica acta • 2025

Early detection of Fusarium sacchari, the causative agent of sugarcane pokkah boeng disease, is critically hindered by the insufficient sensitivity of existing detection methods. This limited sensitivity leads to diagnostic delays, thereby complicating timely disease management and control in sugarcane cultivation. Early and accurate detection is essential to preventing the spread of the disease and minimizing crop loss, thus highlighting the urgent need for innovative diagnostic solutions. These solutions must overcome the limitations of traditional methods, offering more sensitive, reliable, and efficient approaches for early intervention and disease prevention in agricultural practices.

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

Biosensors • 2025

We have developed a new bioanode based on a cascade of reactions catalyzed by two enzymes. A glassy carbon electrode is modified with β-glucosidase and glucose oxidase enzymes entrapped within an osmium redox polymer. Cellobiose, the fuel for the anode, is hydrolyzed by β-glucosidase ( Tx GH116), yielding two molecules of D-glucose. Glucose is then oxidized by glucose oxidase (GOx) into δ-gluconolactone and produces electrons that are transferred to the electrode mediated by osmium redox polymer. We investigated the kinetic parameters of both enzymes at different temperatures. For GOx, the effect of enzyme loading and enzyme/polymer ratio were also optimized. The proposed bioanode is coupled to a biocathode based on horseradish peroxidase (HRP) in which H 2 O 2 , the oxidant, is reduced. We investigated the performance of the biofuel cell on cellobiose and sugarcane hydrolysates subjected to different pretreatments. Alkaline pretreatments of biomass were found to be more effective than phosphoric acid pretreatment. Adding Tx GH116 β-glucosidase further enhanced current generation, even when commercial cellulase was used.

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

Frontiers in Soft Matter • 2026

Foam cleaning represents an environmentally and economically attractive alternative to conventional cleaning-in-place (CIP) processes for removing microbial contamination in food and bioprocessing industries. This study systematically compared three surfactants, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), Ammonyx® LO, and Capstone® FS-30, to understand how surfactant type influences foam structure and cleaning performance. Stainless steel coupons contaminated with Bacillus subtilis 98/7 spores were cleaned under identical flow conditions using foam generated at a nominal air fraction of 0.5 and a mean velocity of 1.8 cm s -1 . SDS achieved the highest spore removal (1.9 log 10 reduction after 20 min), with superior kinetic detachment (K 1 = 114.75 s -1 ; f = 98.2%), while Ammonyx® LO (0.83 log 10 ) and Capstone® FS-30 (0.55 log 10 ) performed significantly worse. These differences were attributed to foam structural properties: SDS produced fine, stable bubbles persisting for 24 h, while Ammonyx® LO and Capstone® FS-30 collapsed after 8 and 3 h, respectively. Image analysis revealed local air fractions of 0.88 (SDS), 0.79 (Ammonyx), and 0.96 (Capstone) in the test section, confirming dry foam behavior. Theoretical analysis using Bretherton’s model and microscopic observations showed that SDS’s low capillary number promotes strong Marangoni stabilization and thin lamellae, generating sustained wall shear stress fluctuations essential for spore detachment. This study demonstrates that foam cleaning efficiency is primarily determined by surfactant-controlled variations in bubble size, foam stability, and interfacial properties. SDS provides the optimal balance for achieving efficient and sustainable foam-based cleaning.

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

Polymers • 2026

Hydrogels have attracted significant interest in multifunctional applications. Among them, self-healing hydrogel stands out for its ability to autonomously repair damage through reversible interactions, yet achieving both rapid self-healing and superior mechanical strength remains challenging. In this study, we report the fabrication of a dual cross-linked hydrogel (PAA-Alg-B) prepared via free radical polymerization of acrylic acid and alginic acid, employing N,N′-methylenebisacrylamide, or vinyl-modified nanocellulose as primary cross-linker, with Fe3+ or borax serving as an additional dynamic cross-linker. The resulting borax based hydrogel (PAA-Alg-B) exhibits remarkable fast self-healing efficiency enabled by reversible borate ester bonds and hydrogen bonding. It demonstrates tunable mechanical strength with toughness of 137 kJ/m3 and elongation at break up to 1117%, alongside exceptional swelling capacity (448 g/g). The adsorption studies reveal high removal efficiencies for heavy metals, with maximum capacities of 87.57 mg/g (Cr3+), 114.02 mg/g (Ni2+), and 99.42 mg/g (Cu2+), governed by chemisorption kinetics. The PAA-Alg-B can also be used as a promising solid-state electrolyte and separator for flexible supercapacitors. Protonic modulation via H2SO4 soaking significantly enhances ionic conductivity, electrochemical performance, and cycling stability. These findings highlight the potential of natural polymer-based, mechanically robust, self-healing hydrogels for sustainable wastewater treatment and advanced energy storage applications.

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

Journal of hazardous materials • 2026

The widespread coexistence of veterinary antibiotics in aquaculture wastewater constitutes a significant environmental hazard, severely inhibiting anaerobic digestion (AD) by disrupting microbial metabolism and electron transfer pathways. This study focuses on the realistic co-occurrence effects of oxytetracycline (OTC) and sulfamethoxazole (SMX), revealing that their interaction exhibits distinct antagonistic characteristics. To mitigate this complex inhibition, a zero-valent iron-modified biochar (ZVI-BC) was prepared via facile high-energy ball milling. This mechanochemical modification caused the micropore volume ratio to surge from 6.7 % to 52.5 %, creating a multifunctional material capable of alleviating antibiotic shock through enhanced adsorption and pH buffering. Experimental results indicated that the coexistence of OTC and SMX markedly destabilized AD, leading to a 54.50 % reduction in COD removal and severe acidification. However, the addition of ZVI-BC (optimal dosage 10 g·L -1 ) effectively mitigated this toxic stress, enabling the system to operate stably for 32 days with a cumulative methane yield of 2571 mL. Mechanistic analyses revealed that ZVI-BC functioned through synergistic pathways: reducing antibiotic bioavailability via microporous adsorption and facilitating interspecies electron transfer (IET) via zero-valent iron. Crucially, FAPROTAX prediction provided novel metabolic insights, confirming that ZVI-BC successfully maintained the acetoclastic methanogenesis pathway and restructured the microbial community toward increased resilience (e.g., enrichment of Methanothrix). These results demonstrate that ball-milled ZVI-BC is a cost-effective strategy for safeguarding anaerobic digestion systems against combined antibiotic stress.

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

Water research • 2026

Sulfur-driven partial denitrification coupled with anammox (SPDA) process is a promising sustainable nitrogen removal pathway. However, its microbial adaptability and metabolic mechanism under long-term organic-rich conditions remain poorly understood. In this study, a single-stage mixotrophic partial denitrification-anammox (MPDA) system, driven by both thiosulfate and organic carbon from real domestic wastewater, was established and operated for 292 days. The system demonstrated excellent and robust performance, achieving average ammonia and total nitrogen removal efficiencies of 93.3% and 90.9%, respectively, despite fluctuating organic loading rates (0.35-0.45 kg COD/m³/d). 15 N isotopic tracing revealed that the PDA processes driven by thiosulfate and organic carbon contributed 51.3% and 27.7% of nitrogen removal, respectively. DNA-SIP experiments identified key facultative mixotrophic sulfur-oxidizing bacteria (SOB) (e.g., Thiobacillus and norank_f_Hydrogenophilaceae) as primary contributors to nitrite supply. Notably, the core anammox bacteria, Candidatus Brocadia, exhibited a positive correlation with organic load and was actively labeled by organic 13 C-carbon, suggesting previously overlooked organoautotrophic activity. Metagenomic analysis revealed that Thiobacillaceae employed the Calvin cycle for carbon fixation and possessed a complete pentose phosphate pathway, while Brocadiaceae utilized the Wood-Ljungdahl pathway alongside a near-complete TCA cycle and robust glycogen metabolism to support their mixotrophic capabilities. This study provides novel insights into the metabolic plasticity and synergistic interactions between SOB and anammox bacteria, demonstrating the feasibility and mechanism of the MPDA process for efficient nitrogen removal in organic-laden wastewater.

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

Chemosphere • 2026

Linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS) is one of the most widely used anionic surfactants and is frequently detected in wastewater, while its removal under anaerobic conditions remains limited and unstable. This study evaluated the independent and combined effects of the redox mediator anthraquinone-2-sulfonate (AQS) and controlled microaeration on LAS biodegradation in upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactors. Two reactors treating synthetic wastewater containing 15 mg L -1 LAS were operated for 90 days: R1, a strictly anaerobic UASB, and R2, a micro-aerated UASB. Each reactor was assessed without (Period I) and with AQS addition (50 μM, Period II). Under strictly anaerobic conditions without AQS, LAS removal was low and highly unstable (32 ± 16%), with pronounced performance fluctuations. The addition of AQS alone significantly improved LAS removal to 65 ± 4% without affecting methane production, indicating enhanced LAS transformation via electron shuttling rather than changes in methanogenic activity. Microaeration combined with AQS yielded the best overall performance, increasing LAS removal to 77 ± 1%, COD removal to 92.3 ± 3.8%, total methane production to 5.6 ± 0.7 L/day, and specific methane yield to 0.50 ± 0.11 LCH 4 ·gCOD app -1 . Microaeration without AQS improved process stability but did not achieve LAS removal comparable to AQS. Microbial analyses showed that AQS promoted the enrichment of hydrogenotrophic methanogens, particularly Methanobacterium, and syntrophic taxa such as midas_g_2229, while microaeration increased microbial richness. The combined condition exhibited the highest archaeal enrichment and microbial richness. Results demonstrate that AQS and microaeration act through complementary mechanisms, and that their combination effectively overcomes limitations of anaerobic LAS removal.

[object Object], [object Object]

Frontiers in microbiology • 2026

Hexamine and its by-products (formaldehyde and ammonia) are classified as organic pollutants. Formaldehyde has antibacterial properties, while increased ammonia levels contribute to eutrophication, both of which disrupts microbial communities in aquatic ecosystems. Hexamine is considered a common pollutant released from various industries.

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

Journal of environmental management • 2026

Bioretention systems are commonly employed in urban stormwater runoff treatments because of the synergistic effects of plants, fillers, and microorganisms. Conventional bioretention systems often face challenges posed by stringent plant requirements and the risk of media failure. Therefore, this study selected drought and flood-tolerant Chlorophytum comosum 'Green' (spider plant) and porous oyster shells fillers to establish modified bioretention systems. The systems operated continuously for 197 days to investigate their comprehensive performance under varying pollutant loads. Results indicated that the C. comosum-oyster shell system (with 20% oyster shell particles) exhibited significantly higher permeability coefficients and retention rates than the systems without plants or oyster shells (p < 0.05). During the low-load influent stage, the system achieved removal rates exceeding 90% for ammonia nitrogen (NH 4 + -N), nitrate nitrogen (NO 3 - -N), and total nitrogen (TN). Furthermore, its chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal performance excelled that of conventional bioretention systems under all influent loading conditions. A significant positive correlation was observed between the total biomass of C. comosum and the nitrogen removal efficiency of the system (p < 0.05). The synergistic effect of plants and oyster shells notably increased the relative abundance of functional microbial communities involved in nitrogen and phosphorus transformation, including Nitrospira, Thauera, and Bacillus. Taken together, the combined application of C. comosum and oyster shell fillers can simultaneously enhance the hydraulic characteristics and pollutant removal performance of bioretention systems, providing new insights into urban runoff pollution control and sustainable water resource management.

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

Journal of environmental management • 2026

Recalcitrant chemical accident wastewater, especially nitrobenzene-containing wastewater, has posed a significant treatment challenge due to complex hazardous compounds as well as elevated toxicity. Activated carbon combined activated sludge processes can effectively remove hazardous organic pollutants from chemical wastewater. However, the interaction mechanism between activated carbon and activated sludge remains unclear. This study proposed the activated carbon enhanced activated sludge (ACEAS) process for treating nitrobenzene-containing wastewater. Combined with material characterization and metagenomic analysis, the removal efficiency of nitrobenzene was evaluated, and the interaction mechanisms between activated carbon and activated sludge was further investigated. The key findings include: The effluent nitrobenzene concentration in conventional activated sludge (AS) process was 6.5 and 9.2 times higher than in the original ACEAS (OS) and regenerated ACEAS (RS) processes, respectively. Without activated carbon replenishment, chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiency in OS and RS processes increased by 10.19%-15.86% and 11.41%-14.60%, respectively, compared to AS process during long-term operation (6-24 h). Due to the formation of biofilms on the surface of activated carbon, and the content of C-O/C=O and C-N/C=N on OS increased by 13.2% and 17.3%, respectively, compared to original activated carbon (OC). Eventually, four enhanced mechanisms of activated carbon were proposed, each contributing to distinct degradation stages in the ACEAS system. In prophase, activated carbon might reduce toxicity and improve microbial degradation capacity by adsorption. During metaphase, biofilms on activated carbon surface further diminished adsorption/desorption effect. In the telophase, microbial carrier's fixation affected strengthens, reshaping microbial community structure, functional gene expression, and metabolic pathway selection, thereby enhancing activated sludge degradation efficiency.

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

Kybernetes • 2026

Purpose This study explores how artificial intelligence (AI) assistance, likened to a modern “Solon’s Compass” – a metaphor inspired by Solon, the Athenian lawgiver known for wise and equitable reforms, symbolizing AI’sguidance toward precise, efficient and ethically aware decisions – impacts decision-making in complex commercial disputes, focusing on accuracy, efficiency and perceived ethical quality. It addresses gaps in understanding AI’srole in enhancing these dimensions through three pre-registered randomized experiments. Design/methodology/approach Three pre-registered randomized experiments were conducted. Study 1 involved university students resolving contract disputes with and without AI assistance. Study 2 used a diverse sample from Amazon Mechanical Turk to assess decision times and accuracy. Study 3 examined the cognitive mechanisms, including cognitive load, trust in AI and ethical decision-making. Findings The results reveal that AI assistance improves decision-making speed and increases perceived ethical quality, such as fairness and transparency, based on self-assessments. Participants with AI support reported higher perceptions of accuracy and perceived improvements in fairness, potentially influenced by their assumptions about AI’scapabilities, compared to those without assistance, highlighting AI’spotential to influence self-reported decision quality in ethically and legally complex scenarios. Originality/value This research contributes to the underexplored area of AI’srole in complex, ethically sensitive decision-making processes. By focusing on commercial disputes, it provides new insights into AI’spotential to improve efficiency and increases self-assessment about ethical aspects.

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

Sage Sphere International Journal • 2026

El presente estudio analiza comparativamente la eficiencia del Juicio de Amparo en México y la Acción de Protección en Ecuador como mecanismos de tutela judicial de derechos fundamentales en grupos en situación de vulnerabilidad, desde la perspectiva del Sistema Interamericano de Derechos Humanos. La investigación se enmarca en un enfoque cualitativo jurídico-dogmático, apoyado en el método comparado y el análisis jurisprudencial de decisiones constitucionales emblemáticas y precedentes interamericanos relevantes. Se evaluaron criterios como accesibilidad procesal, alcance de las decisiones, aplicación del control de convencionalidad y enfoque de igualdad material. Los resultados evidencian que la Acción de Protección ecuatoriana presenta mayor flexibilidad formal y posibilidad de efectos reparadores directos, coherentes con un modelo constitucional garantista. Por su parte, el Juicio de Amparo mexicano, fortalecido tras la reforma constitucional de 2011, ha ampliado su integración del bloque de convencionalidad, aunque mantiene mayores exigencias técnicas procesales. Se concluye que la eficiencia de ambos mecanismos no depende únicamente de su diseño normativo, sino de su capacidad para eliminar barreras estructurales de acceso a la justicia e incorporar de manera efectiva los estándares interamericanos. El estudio contribuye al debate sobre la efectividad real de la justicia constitucional en América Latina.

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

e+i Elektrotechnik und Informationstechnik • 2026

Abstract This paper presents the design and analysis of a synchronous reluctance machine, with particular emphasis on optimizing efficiency to achieve an ultra premium efficiency class. The study commences with the fundamental concept of a synchronous reluctance machine (SynRM), from which the geometric and electromagnetic parameters are systematically varied and their effect is investigated using numerical simulation methods. The objective of this study is to analyze the influence of specific parameters on the efficiency and operational behavior of the machine. These parameters include rotor and stator geometry, the air gap, and the material properties as well as the operating parameters. A comprehensive parametric study is utilized to identify correlations between the design parameters and the resulting loss mechanisms. The results obtained facilitate an evaluation of sensitive influencing factors and provide a solid foundation for the targeted optimization of the machine design. The findings of the study are summarized and conclusions are drawn for the efficient design of high power synchronous reluctance machines.

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

Microbiome • 2026

Abstract Background The gut microbiota influences poultry health, nutrition, feed efficiency (FE), and overall productivity. However, the relationship between gut microbes, including bacteria and phages, and FE in ducks remains underexplored. To address this, we integrated cecal 16S amplicon, metagenome, microbiota-derived short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) profiling, liver transcriptome, and serum metabolome data to illustrate the contribution of the gut microbiome (bacteria and viruses) to duck FE. Results We reconstructed viral genomes and prokaryotic metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) and annotated their genes using comprehensive databases. Prokaryotic hosts of viruses were also predicted to understand virus-host dynamics within the gut ecosystem. Our results revealed that high-FE ducks have higher concentration of propionate and butyrate in cecum compared with low-FE ducks. The metagenome sequencing revealed distinct cecal microbiota profiles between two groups, with increased relative abundance of representative SCFA producers, especially Paraprevotella sp905215575 and Bacteroides sp944322345 , and enhanced SCFA-biosynthesis pathways in high-FE ducks. Virome genome assembly identified two phages encoding auxiliary metabolic genes (AMGs) involved in pyruvate metabolism, enhancing nutrient availability for host bacteria to produce SCFAs (e.g., temperate phage-encoded pyruvate phosphate dikinase) or exploiting host central metabolic pathways for viral replication (e.g., lytic phage-encoded formate C-acetyltransferase). Furthermore, these representative SCFA-producing bacteria and phage consortia were associated with serum metabolites (including L-histidine and 4-hydroxydecanedioylcarnitine) linked to duck FE. Conclusion Collectively, these findings provide novel insights into the gut microbial factors regulating FE in ducks, offering potential strategies to optimize poultry nutrition and productivity.

[object Object]

Proceedings of the Komi Science Centre of the Ural Division of the Russian Academy of Sciences • 2026

Phosphine (PH3) remains the primary fumigant for protecting grain reserves in Russia. However, its efficiency depends on temperature, air humidity, pest development stages, and grain sorption. Optimal conditions are temperature +25...+30 °C and relative humidity 60–70 %. Temperature below 15 °C or humidity below 50 % sharply decreases the toxicity of phosphine. The authors analyse the differential sensitivity of pest development stages: larvae are highly susceptible, eggs – highly resistant. The paper highlights the molecular mechanisms of resistance (rph1, rph2 mutations), phosphine sorption by grain (20–40 %), and gas permeability. It includes practical recommendations for fumigation optimisation and resistance monitoring.

[object Object]

Journal of Applied Finance & Banking • 2026

This paper exploits China’s Graduated Dividend Tax (GDT) policy as a quasi-natural experiment and applies a difference-in-differences approach to examine the effect of dividend tax adjustments on firms’ investment efficiency. The results show that the policy improves investment efficiency, mainly by curbing overinvestment. Mechanism analyses indicate that the GDT policy operates by increasing individual investors’ patience and improving corporate governance, including reducing information asymmetry. Heterogeneity analyses further show that the effects are more pronounced for highly leveraged firms with more frequent shareholder meetings. Overall, the results suggest that the GDT policy improves firms’ investment efficiency by strengthening corporate governance and curbing overinvestment. JEL classification numbers: G32, G34, D22. Keywords: GDT policy, Investment efficiency, Long-term shareholding; Corporate governance.

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

bioRxiv (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory) • 2026

Background: Natural killer (NK) cell degranulation is a key immune defense mechanism where exposure to tumor or virus-infected cells triggers the fusion of cytoplasmic granules containing apoptotic proteins, perforin, and granzyme with the cell membrane. This process transiently expresses CD107a on the NK cell surface, and measuring CD107a is a standard method to assess NK cell activity. Methods: We compared two stimulation protocols differing only in duration (6-hour vs. 18-hour) using K562 target cells to induce NK cell degranulation. Isolated PBMCs without stimulation served as controls to assess spontaneous degranulation. Anti-CD107a-PE antibody was present throughout stimulation in both test and control samples. After stimulation, cells were stained with anti-CD45, anti-CD3, and anti-CD56 and analyzed by flow cytometry. Results: For 6 of 7 healthy controls, results from both methods fell within 2 standard deviations. Notably, longer (18-hour) stimulation resulted in lower CD107a expression than the 6-hour assay. Interlaboratory comparisons of two samples showed no significant difference (p 0.05). In a suspected hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) case, two labs reported similarly reduced CD107a expression (9% and 7%). Inter-day variability was observed in a donor across both time points. The 6-hour assay showed higher sensitivity and specificity than the 18-hour assay. A resting period before ex vivo PBMC assays was found necessary. Conclusion: Stimulation periods beyond 6 hours are unsuitable for clinical NK degranulation assays. Screening for HLH should include multiple stimulants to improve assay reliability.

[object Object]

Economics & Business Management • 2026

Comprehensively advancing rural revitalization is the core task of building a country strong in agriculture in the new era. As the lifeblood of the modern economy, finance is the key to break the funding constraints on the development of agriculture, rural areas and farmers, and activate the vitality of the rural economy. In recent years, the annual Central Document No.1 has continuously focused on the development of a coordinated fiscal and financial support mechanism for agriculture. China's policy system for agriculture-related finance has been continuously improved, the scale of agriculture-related credit has expanded steadily, and the coverage and availability of rural financial services have been significantly enhanced. However, constrained by the urban-rural dual structure, the inherent vulnerability of the agricultural industry, and information asymmetry in the rural financial market, the current rural financial services still face pain points such as mismatch between supply and demand, high transaction costs, and an inadequate risk mitigation mechanism, which restrict the further improvement of the quality and efficiency of financial support for agriculture. Based on the theory of rural financial development and the theory of imperfectly competitive markets, this paper sorts out the practical effects of China's financial services for agriculture, rural areas and farmers, analyzes the core bottlenecks in the current rural financial market, and proposes a systematic path to improve the quality and efficiency of financial services for agriculture, rural areas and farmers from the dimensions of policy coordination, supply optimization, model innovation, digital empowerment, and credit system construction, so as to provide theoretical reference and practical guidance for boosting comprehensive rural revitalization and building a country strong in agriculture.