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Donor−Acceptor Pyrrolo[3,2‑b]pyrrolyl- and Dibenzothiophene- Containing Microporous Polymeric Frameworks for Photocatalytic Organic Pollutant Degradation

Research Abstract

ABSTRACT: Conjugated microporous polymers (CMPs) are potential photocatalysts for pollutant remediation, but their undesirable energy band structure limits their practicality. This paper presents the efficient, metal-free, and environmentally benign synthesis of donor−acceptor pyrrolo[3,2-b]pyrrolyl and dibenzo[b,d]thiophene-based CMPs (DBTO-CMP-1 and DBTO-CMP-2) through cyclization processes involving 3,7-diaminodibenzo[b,d]thiophene 5,5- dioxide (DBTO-2NH2), aryl aldehydes, and a 2,3-butadione aimed at the effective photocatalytic degradation of the organic pollutant RhB. The electrical band gap, electrochemical, and photophysical properties of such polymers can be meticulously adjusted by choosing appropriate aldehydes. The resulting DBTO−CMP frameworks demonstrate  impressive porosity, semicrystalline nature, and an enlarged surface area of 140 m2 g−1, along with notable thermal endurance. For application, the DBTO−CMP frameworks demonstrate high performance catalytic activity for the photodegradation of organic dye RhB with reusability. Specifically, RhB can undergo complete photodegradation by DBTO−CMP-1 when subjected to UV−visible light exposure within a span of 3 h, achieving a degradation efficiency of 97.27%. The investigation into the mechanism provides compelling evidence that the efficient photodegradation facilitated by ADBTO−CMP-1 can be chemically elucidated through the presence of superoxide radicals. Furthermore, the phytotoxicity assessment conducted on the bean sprouts reveals that the degradation products of RhB exhibit nontoxic properties and facilitate the growth of bean sprouts. This synthetic technique allows the synthesis of metal-free, easily produced polymeric materials with excellent catalytic properties.
KEYWORDS: microporous polymer, photocatalyst, pyrrolo[3 2-b]pyrrolyl, dibenzothiophene, RhB dye 

Research Authors
Bo Chao, A. Santhana Krishna Kumar,* M. Rashad, Fan Chun Chang, Wei-Lung Tseng, Phuong V. Pham, Wei-Chun Lin, Kamal I. Aly, Rong-Ho Lee, and Ahmed F. M. EL-Mahdy*
Research Date
Research Department
Research Journal
American Chemical Society
Research Member
Research Pages
14
Research Publisher
ACS Applied Polymer Materials
Research Vol
ACS Appl. Polym. Mater. 2025, 7, 998−1011
Research Website
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsapm.4c03535?ref=PDF
Research Year
2025

Redox-innocent scandium (III) as the sole catalyst in visible light photooxidations

Research Abstract

In recent years, the catalytic activity of scandium triflate Sc(OTf)3 has attracted significant attention due to its robust Lewis acidity and the oxophilicity of Sc3+. These features have led to impressive progress in developing diverse organic reactions, including C-C bond formation. The Sc3+ also facilitates single electron transfer in photoinduced reactions either by coordination to an organophotoredox catalyst, which modifies its redox reactivity, or by the formation of a scandium–superoxide anion complex after electron transfer from a light-absorbing redox-active compound. The prior consideration of Sc3+ as a redox-inactive/innocent metal ion initially hampered the investigation of the possibility of using Sc(OTf)3 as a sole visible light photoredox catalyst. This work demonstrates the use of Sc(OTf)3 as a visible light photocatalyst capable of direct and mild aerobic oxidative C-H functionalisation of aromatic substrates by oxidation of the benzylic position and direct cyanation of the aromatic ring.

Research Authors
Amal Hassan Tolba, Ahmed M El-Zohry, Jafar Iqbal Khan, Eva Svobodová, Josef Chudoba, Jiří Klíma, Karol Lušpai, Martin Pižl, Jiří Šturala, Radek Cibulka
Research Date
Research Department
Research Journal
Nature Communications
Research Member
Research Year
2025

Evaluation of bromadiolone combined with ciprofloxacin, vitamin D, aspirin, and cinnamon as an apoptosis-mediated rodenticide strategy

Research Abstract

This manuscript explores whether co-formulation of the second-generation anticoagulant bromadiolone with additives such as ciprofloxacin, vitamin D, aspirin, and cinnamon can enhance rodenticidal efficacy at reduced doses, while assessing hepatic pathomorphology, oxidative stress, coagulation, DNA damage, and apoptosis in wild rats. The study is both timely and relevant, addressing ecological and public health concerns by investigating mechanistic pathways including the p53–p21–caspase axis, lipid peroxidation, comet assay, prothrombin time, and serum enzyme levels. A key strength lies in its novel strategy of combining bromadiolone with pharmacological and food-derived compounds, offering practical implications for minimizing environmental impact. The multidimensional dataset spanning biochemical, molecular, genotoxic, coagulation, and histopathological endpoints provides strong mechanistic depth. Findings suggest that certain additives, particularly cinnamon and aspirin, potentiate oxidative stress and apoptosis, correlating with increased mortality and liver damage. Overall, the integration with existing literature on vitamin K antagonism, cholecalciferol-induced hypercalcemia, NSAID-mediated apoptosis, and coumarin derivatives highlights the study’s mechanistic grounding and translational relevance.

Research Authors
Heba Allah Ahmed Mahmoud Ahmed, Magdy Wilson, Alshaimaa AI Alghriany, Mona M Atia
Research Date
Research Department
Research File
Research Journal
Scientific Reports
Research Publisher
Nature Publishing Group UK
Research Vol
15
Research Website
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-28468-7
Research Year
2025

Graviola Extract versus Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells as Therapeutics in Repairing Liver Damage Caused by 2-Amino-3-Methylimidazo [4, 5-f] quinoline

Research Abstract

The mutagenic and carcinogenic heterocyclic amine, 2-amino-3methylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoline (IQ), is produced while cooking protein-rich foods. Mesenchymalstemcells(MSCs)(ascell-basedtherapy)andAnnonamuricata(graviola) (asanaturalproduct)bothpossesspreventivecapacitiesagainst freeradical toxicity in varioustissues.ThisstudyaimstocomparethetherapeuticpropertiesandeffectsofADMSCsandgraviolaonIQ-induced liver toxicityandDNAdamage inrats. Sixtyadult maleratsweredividedintofourgroups:normalunexposedcontrol, IQ, IQ+graviola, and IQ+AD-MSCs. After 6weeks, the ratswere sacrificed, and liver tissueswere examinedforhistopathological changesusinghematoxylin−eosinstaining. p53protein expressionwasevaluatedbyimmunohistochemistry,andDNAdamagewasmeasuredby using the comet test.Our findings indicated thatAD-MSCtherapy led to themost significantimprovementinDNAdamage,apoptosis,andp53,LPO,AST,andALTlevels causedby IQtoxicity. Additionally, AD-MSCs reducedseverehistological alterations (damageandfibrosis)inlivercellsinducedbyIQ.However, theeffectivenessofgraviolatreatment islimited,severelyrestrictingits useforchroniclivertoxicity. Inconclusion, theinitial stageof IQ-inducedlivertoxicityiscausedbyoxidativestress-inducedDNA damage.Comparedwithgraviola,AD-MSCsexhibitmorepotent therapeuticeffectsagainst IQ-inducedliverdamage.

Research Authors
Doaa Hamada Abd El-Hafeez Thabet, Mona M Atia, Hanem S Abdel-Tawab, Alshaimaa AI Alghriany
Research Date
Research Department
Research Journal
ACS omega
Research Pages
53848-53864
Research Publisher
American Chemical Society
Research Vol
10
Research Website
https://doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.5c03088?urlappend=%3Fref%3DPDF&jav=VoR&rel=cite-as
Research Year
2025

Role of Gallic Acid in Counteracting Depleted Uranium–Induced Renal Toxicity in Rats: Participation of Redox Stabilizers, Nrf2, NF‐Kb, and Caspase‐3

Research Abstract

Uranyl acetate (UA), a form of depleted uranium (DU) extensively applied for military and civilian purposes, poses a health threat to exposed populations. Gallic acid (GA), a phytochemical present in various edible sources, has the potential to restore redox balance and exhibit anti-infammatory and antiapoptotic efects. Tus, we highlighted the potential protective role of GA in mitigating UA-induced renal cytofunctional impairments in rats. To achieve this objective, the rats were randomly divided into three groups. Te frst group was left untreated and served as the control. Te second group (UA group) was administered a single intraperitoneal injection of UA at a dose of 5mg/kg body weight. Te third group (GA+UA) GA wasorally administrated GAvia a gastric tube at a dose of 20mg/kgbodyweight for14days priorto theUAinjection.Inboththe secondandthirdgroups,UA was administered on the 15th day, and the rats were euthanized on the 17th day of the experiment. At the end of the experiment, plasma renal damage biomarkers, renal redox parameters, and histopathological examination were estimated, along with immunohistochemical analysis of caspase-3, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB), and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Ourfndingsindicated thatGAsupplementationinUA-intoxicatedrats reducedplasmaurea andcreatinine levels while increased total antioxidant capacity. It also restored normal kidney levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, reduced glutathione, and nitric oxide. Additionally, it restored kidney glycogen reserves and decreased collagen fber deposition. In the GA+UA group, immunoreaction levels of caspase-3 and NF-kB decreased, while those of Nrf2 increased. In summary, GA has the potential to mitigate DU-associated nephrotoxicity by enhancing the antioxidant defense mechanism, as well as modulating protein expression related to cell death pathways and proinfammatory transcription factors.

Research Authors
Sohair MM Ragab, Alshaimaa AI Alghriany, Mohamed Afifi, Fahad O Alenezi, Nasser S Abou Khalil, Elham A Abd-Allah
Research Date
Research Department
Research Journal
Journal of Food Biochemistry
Research Pages
12
Research Publisher
Wiley
Research Vol
2025
Research Website
https://doi.org/10.1155/jfbc/6847587
Research Year
2025

Structural interpretation and depth-converted mapping of the lower Cretaceous reservoirs in the Silah field, northwestern desert, Egypt

Research Abstract

This study addresses the structural and stratigraphic controls on hydrocarbon entrapment in the Silah field,
northwestern Egypt. This area is considered a rift-basin, where polyphase tectonics strongly influences reservoir
distribution and maturation. The aim was to delineate subsurface structural features and identify high-potential
hydrocarbon traps to guide future appraisal and development. The study integrated thirty 2D seismic lines, VSP
calibration, synthetic seismograms, and wireline logs from five drilled wells to pick key horizons, map faults,
generate isochore/isopach maps, and build a depth-converted 3D structural model. Results show a network of
NE–SW and NW–SE normal faults that produced graben/half-graben geometries and syn-rift thickness variations.
These structures were overprinted by Santonian inversion that formed a central faulted anticline. The principal
depocenter lies in the northwestern area. Isochore/isopach analyses indicate reservoir thickening adjacent to
growth faults. These faults juxtapose reservoir intervals against lithologies that may act as lateral seals, producing
structural configurations. The northwestern fault blocks and the crest of the central inversion anticline
emerge as the most promising structural candidates based on mapped reservoir thickness and closure geometry.
However, quantitative fault-juxtaposition, seal, and risk analyses are required to convert conceptual implications
into quantitative prospect rankings in future studies.

Research Authors
Hamza Ahmed Ibrahim*, Ahmed Hosny Senosy, Mohamed Osman Ebraheem**
Research Date
Research Department
Research Journal
Journal of African Earth Science
Research Member
Research Pages
106103
Research Publisher
Elsevier Ltd.
Research Vol
238
Research Website
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jafrearsci.2026.106103
Research Year
2026

Transition metal type-dependent pseudocapacitance performance of rGO@NiM (M = Cu, Mn, and Co) LDH/SrTiO3 nanocomposites hybrid electrodes for asymmetric supercapacitor application

Research Abstract

This study aims to clarify how different transition metals influence the pseudocapacitive performance of layered double hydroxide (LDH)-based nanocomposites. We investigated reduced graphene oxide (rGO)@NiM LDH/SrTiO3 (M = Cu, Mn, or Co) hybrids to examine the role of metal selection in both structural evolution and electrochemical performance. The morphology of the NiM LDH NCs, decorated on SrTiO₃ nanosheets, varies significantly with the metal additive: Cu-containing hybrids exhibit a nanoparticle morphology, while Mn- and Co-based hybrids display a nanoflower-like structure. Raman and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirm the in-situ formation of rGO during the electrodeposition of NiM LDH, without the need for any external carbon source. Furthermore, the characteristics of the interfacial oxygenated carbon bonds between rGO and NiM LDH NCs and the resulting synergistic interactions depend on the incorporated metal type. Electrochemical testing shows that all rGO@NiM LDH@SrTiO3 hybrids outperform pristine SrTiO3, achieving specific capacitances of 2053–2337 mF·cm⁻2 at 1 mA·cm⁻2 compared to 1182 mF·cm⁻2 for bare SrTiO3. Among assembled asymmetric supercapacitors, Co-based devices deliver the highest energy density (82.3 μWh·cm⁻2 at 5.59 mW·cm⁻2), Mn-based devices provide moderate performance (59.5 μWh·cm⁻2 at 6.12 mW·cm⁻2), and Cu-based devices show the lowest energy density (55.26 μWh·cm⁻2 at 5.87 mW·cm⁻2). However, Cu-based devices exhibit better energy retention, maintaining 46.5 μWh·cm⁻2 at a higher power density of 57.7 mW·cm⁻2. These findings highlight that metal choice critically governs both morphological features and energy storage characteristics, providing guidelines for the design of LDH-based pseudocapacitive materials. Graphical abstract

Research Authors
A. G. Abd-Elrahim; Muhammad Shehroze Malik; Yoon Ho Lee; Doo-Man Chun; Manar A. Ali
Research Date
Research Department
Research Journal
Journal of Materials Science
Research Pages
10395–10420
Research Publisher
Springer
Research Rank
International Journal
Research Vol
61
Research Website
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10853-026-12377-9
Research Year
2026

Effectiveness of Algae as a Low-Cost Alternative Input to Stimulate Sesamum Indicum L. Growth and Productivity for Sustainable Purposes

Research Abstract

Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to investigate how microalgae Spirulina (Arthrospira) platensis and macroalgae (Padina pavonica) were used as sources of bio-stimulants instead of chemical fertilizers. The principal goal is increasing various crop plant quality and productivity, particularly in sesame, while reducing environmental impacts.
Methods Both types of algal biomass were applied to Sesamum indicum L. plants either as a powder (3 g kg− 1 of soil) or water extract (9 g of algae 720 mL− 1 of tap water) during two developmental stages (the vegetative and productive stages).
Results In the vegetative experiment, the application of S. platensis, either powder or extract, had stimulative effects on all growth parameters and some metabolites in shoots and roots of sesame plants, while the application of Padina and Spirulina as a powder or extract induced the antioxidant concentrations. Tracking their effects until the productivity stage showed that the application of all treatments (powder or extract) to the soil improved the productive criteria, such as branch length, capsule numbers, and seed index. Also, similar responses were observed for the mineral composition of different plant parts.
Conclusion The biomass of algae can be used as a biofertilizer in addition to being a source of nutrition to increase crop
production to solve the problems of famine in poor countries. FT-IR analysis was used to qualitatively predict the most
important chemical components of P. pavonica and S. platensis as a powder and aqueous extract, which exhibited several active groups that make them effective as bio-stimulants for the sesame plant.

Research Authors
Rasha M. El-Shazoly1 · Samah Yousef1 · Awatief F. Hifney2 · Dalia A. Abdel-Wahab1
Research Date
Research Journal
Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition
Research Pages
20
Research Publisher
Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition
Research Vol
Volume 25, pages 8006–8025, (2025)
Research Website
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s42729-025-02651-1
Research Year
2025

Harnessing Silicon and Nanosilicon Formulations with Rhizobium/Bradyrhizobium for the Sustainable Enhancement of Biological Nitrogen Fixation in Legumes and Climate Change Mitigation

Research Abstract

Silicon has long been recognized as a beneficial element in plant biology. Recent advances in nanosilicon technology have revealed its transformative potential in legume-rhizobia symbiosis. This review synthesizes current knowledge on how silicon and SiO2 nanoparticles (Si-NPs) influence nodulation, microbial metabolism, and soil–plant interactions. We highlight emerging evidence that Si-NPs enhance symbiotic signaling, strengthen infection pathways, and mitigate oxidative stress, thereby supporting nitrogen fixation efficiency. Beyond the rhizosphere, nanosilicon improves soil structure, microbial diversity, and plant resilience under abiotic stress, offering a multifaceted approach to sustainable agriculture. The novelty of this review lies in its integrative perspective, connecting molecular mechanisms with ecological impacts and climate-smart applications. By examining Si-NPs across three domains—soils, rhizosphere metabolites, and plants—we provide a framework for understanding their role in enhancing productivity while reducing environmental costs. Importantly, we identify critical research gaps, including the need for standardized application protocols, large-scale field validation, sustainable nanosilicon production, and robust regulatory frameworks. These insights position nanosilicon as a promising tool for advancing legume productivity, reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers, and contributing to global food security. This review underscores silicon’s potential not only as a plant nutrient but also as a strategic agent in climate-resilient agriculture.

Research Authors
Mohamed Hemida Abd-Alla, Elhagag A. Hassan, David Mamdouh Khalaf, Esraa A. Mohammed and Shymaa R. Bashandy
Research Date
Research Journal
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
Research Pages
2031
Research Publisher
MDPI
Research Rank
Q1
Research Vol
27
Research Website
https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27042031
Research Year
2026

A novel composite of chitosan and Bacillus subtilis exopolysaccharide for the removal of methylene blue from aqueous solutions

Research Abstract

Dye pollution in water poses serious health and ecological risks, requiring wastewater treatment before discharge and prompting increased research attention due to the widespread use of dyes in various industries. This study investigates the biosorption of methylene blue (MB) using a novel composite of chitosan and Bacillus subtilis exopolysaccharides (EPS). Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis confirmed the presence of essential functional groups for dye adsorption. The biosorption process was pH-dependent, with optimal removal efficiencies at pH 6 for the chitosan/EPS composite and pH 7 for chitosan alone, showing increased adsorption capacity with rising pH from 3.0 to 7.0. Contact time experiments demonstrated efficient MB removal in approximately 30 min, achieving decolorization rates of 71.6% for the composite and 60.62% for chitosan. The composite also demonstrated a higher …

Research Authors
Mohamed Hemida Abd-Alla, Elhagag A Hassan, Esraa A Mohammed, Shymaa R Bashandy
Research Date
Research Journal
Scientific Reports
Research Pages
6349
Research Publisher
Nature Publishing Group UK
Research Rank
Q1
Research Vol
16
Research Year
2026
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