Babies who grow up around dogs may have a lower risk of developing childhood asthma

No protective effect found for living with cats

European Respiratory Society

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Jacob McCoy

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Credit: Jacob McCoy / ERS

Babies exposed to dog allergens in the home have a lower risk of developing asthma by the age of five years, according to research that will be presented at the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Congress in Amsterdam, the Netherlands [1]. The researchers also studied babies’ exposure to cat allergens but did not find the same protective effect.

 

The research was by a team from The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) in Toronto, Canada, led by Dr Makiko Nanishi, and will be presented by Dr Jacob McCoy. Speaking ahead of the Congress Dr McCoy said: “Asthma is a very common chronic respiratory illness in children, with the highest rates in the first four years of life. It is caused by complex interactions between genetic factors and the environment, including infections, allergies and air pollution.

 

“Children spend most of their time indoors, so in this research we wanted to study allergens in the home. These are an important risk factor that we could potentially alter to reduce asthma.”

 

The research included a group of 1050 children who were part of the Canadian CHILD cohort study. Researchers analysed samples of dust from the children’s homes taken when they were between three and four months old. For each child, researchers measured the quantities of three potential allergens in the dust: Can f1 (a protein shed in dog skin and saliva), Fel d1 (a protein shed in cat skin and saliva) and endotoxin (a molecule on the surface of bacteria).

 

When the children were five years old, they were assessed for asthma by a doctor, and their lung function was measured according to how much air they could blow out in one second after a deep breath in (forced expiratory volume in one second or FEV1). The children also gave blood samples so they could be assessed for genetic risk factors for asthma and allergies.

 

The researchers found that babies exposed to higher levels of the dog allergen Can f1 had around a 48% lower risk of developing asthma by the age of five years, compared to other babies. Babies exposed to higher levels of dog allergen also had better lung function. This protective effect was even stronger in babies who were at higher genetic risk of worse lung function.

 

The researchers found no protective effect for babies exposed to the cat allergen Fel d1 or the bacterial endotoxin.

 

Dr McCoy said: “In this study, we examined pet allergens from dogs and cats. We found that, while cat allergens showed no association, exposure to dog allergens was linked to improved lung function and a reduced risk of asthma. We don’t know why this happens; however, we do know that once a person becomes sensitive to dog allergens, they can make asthma symptoms worse. This suggests that early exposure to dog allergens could prevent sensitisation, perhaps by altering the nasal microbiome – the mixture of microbes living inside the nose – or by some effect on the immune system.

 

“Our findings highlight the potential protective role of dog allergens, but we need to do more research to understand the link between early-life exposure to dog allergens, lung function and asthma during early childhood.”

 

Dr Erol Gaillard, Chair of the European Respiratory Society’s expert group on paediatric asthma and allergy and Associate Professor at the University of Leicester, UK, who was not involved in the research, said: “Asthma is the most common long-term condition among children and young people and is also one of the main reasons for children being admitted to hospital for emergency treatment. Although there are good treatments that can reduce or stop asthma symptoms, we also want to reduce risk factors to try to prevent asthma.

 

“This study suggests that babies who grow up around dogs may have a lower risk of developing asthma. This is potentially good news for families with pet dogs; however, we need to know more about this link and how living with pets affects children’s developing lungs in the longer term.”

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Method of Research

Observational study

Subject of Research

People

 

Turning a problem into a resource: Scientists transform biomass tar into high-value carbon materials

Biochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University

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Preparation of bio-carbon by polymerization of bio-tar: a critical review on mechanisms, processes, and applications
 

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Credit: Yuxuan Sun, Jixiu Jia, Lili Huo, Xinyi Zhang, Lixin Zhao, Ziyun Liu, Yanan Zhao & Zonglu Yao

A sticky, toxic by-product that has long plagued renewable energy production may soon become a valuable resource, according to a new review published in Biochar.

When biomass such as crop residues, wood, or other organic matter is heated to produce clean energy and biochar, it also generates a thick liquid known as bio-tar. This tar easily clogs pipelines, damages equipment, and poses environmental risks if released into the atmosphere. For decades, researchers have sought ways to eliminate or neutralize it.

Now, a team led by scientists at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences argues that instead of being treated as waste, bio-tar can be converted into “bio-carbon”—a novel material with applications ranging from water purification to clean energy storage.

“Our review highlights how turning bio-tar into bio-carbon not only solves a technical problem for the bioenergy industry, but also opens the door to producing advanced carbon materials with high economic value,” said senior author Dr. Zonglu Yao.

The review examines how chemical reactions inside bio-tar, particularly those involving oxygen-rich compounds like carbonyls and furans, naturally promote polymerization—processes where small molecules link together to form larger, more stable carbon structures. By carefully adjusting temperature, reaction time, and additives, researchers can harness this process to produce bio-carbon with tailored properties.

The resulting material, the authors note, is distinct from ordinary biochar. Bio-carbon typically has higher carbon content, lower ash, and unique structural features that make it especially suited for advanced uses. Early studies suggest that bio-carbon could serve as:

• Adsorbents to clean polluted water and air by trapping heavy metals and organic contaminants.

• Electrode materials for next-generation supercapacitors, which are vital for renewable energy storage.

• Catalysts that speed up industrial chemical reactions more sustainably than traditional fossil-based options.

• Clean-burning fuels with lower emissions of harmful nitrogen and sulfur oxides.

Importantly, recent economic and life-cycle assessments suggest that converting bio-tar into bio-carbon can deliver net-positive energy, financial, and environmental benefits. For example, replacing coal with bio-carbon fuels could cut carbon dioxide emissions by hundreds of millions of tons annually, while also generating profits for biomass processing plants.

Still, challenges remain. The chemical complexity of bio-tar makes it difficult to fully control the polymerization process, and large-scale production has not yet been achieved. The authors recommend combining laboratory experiments with computer simulations and machine learning to optimize reaction pathways and design bio-carbon with specific functions.

“Bio-tar polymerization is not just about waste treatment—it represents a new frontier for creating sustainable carbon materials,” said first author Yuxuan Sun. “With further research, this approach could significantly improve the efficiency of biomass energy systems while providing new tools for environmental protection and clean technology.”

The study provides a roadmap for scientists and industry partners to turn one of bioenergy’s biggest obstacles into a powerful resource for the future.

 

 

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Journal Reference: Sun, Y., Jia, J., Huo, L. et al. Preparation of bio-carbon by polymerization of bio-tar: a critical review on mechanisms, processes, and applications. Biochar 7, 90 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s42773-025-00477-9 

 

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About Biochar

Biochar is the first journal dedicated exclusively to biochar research, spanning agronomy, environmental science, and materials science. It publishes original studies on biochar production, processing, and applications—such as bioenergy, environmental remediation, soil enhancement, climate mitigation, water treatment, and sustainability analysis. The journal serves as an innovative and professional platform for global researchers to share advances in this rapidly expanding field. 

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Journal

Biochar

DOI

10.1007/s42773-025-00477-9 

Method of Research

Literature review

Subject of Research

Not applicable

Article Title

Preparation of bio-carbon by polymerization of bio-tar: a critical review on mechanisms, processes, and applications

 

New study reveals hidden “electron highways” that power underground chemistry and pollution cleanup

Biochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University

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Different scales of electron transfer processes in the subsurface
 

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Credit: Yanting Zhang, Man Tong, Peng Zhang, Andreas Kappler & Songhu Yuan

Beneath our feet, an invisible world of electron exchanges quietly drives the chemistry that sustains ecosystems, controls water quality, and even determines the fate of pollutants. A new review published in Environmental and Biogeochemical Processes sheds light on how electrons travel through soils and sediments across surprisingly long distances—sometimes spanning centimeters to meters—reshaping our understanding of underground environments and offering new strategies for pollution cleanup.

Redox reactions—the give-and-take of electrons between chemical species—are fundamental to life and environmental stability. They govern how nutrients cycle, how contaminants move, and how microbes harvest energy. Traditionally, scientists believed these reactions were confined to microscopic “hotspots” at mineral or microbial surfaces. But the new study, led by researchers from the China University of Geosciences, shows that electron transfer (ET) in the subsurface can extend far beyond the nanoscale, linking distant chemical zones into vast underground electron networks.

At the smallest scales, ET occurs directly at mineral–water or microbe–mineral interfaces, where single molecules or cells exchange electrons over nanometers. But recent discoveries reveal more dramatic processes: conductive minerals, natural organic molecules, and even specialized bacteria known as “cable bacteria” can act as electron bridges, transmitting charges across centimeters. In some cases, stepwise connections form “long-distance ET chains” that span tens of centimeters or more, effectively creating underground electron highways.

“These findings challenge the old view that electron transfer is strictly local,” said corresponding author Prof. Songhu Yuan. “We now know that redox processes can connect across surprisingly large distances, coupling reactions in one zone with those in another. This has profound implications for contaminant remediation and environmental sustainability.”

The review highlights how these multiscale ET processes influence both natural cycles and human-driven pollution management. For example, long-distance ET can enable “remote remediation,” in which contaminants are degraded in hard-to-reach zones without direct chemical injection. Conductive minerals or added biochar can expand microbial activity, while cable bacteria help couple oxygen at the sediment surface with sulfide deep below, reducing harmful emissions.

The authors also outline the next frontiers in ET research: developing better tools to measure electron flows across scales, creating models that integrate nanoscale reactions with field-scale processes, and designing remediation technologies that harness these natural electron pathways.

“Our work provides a conceptual framework for thinking about the subsurface as an interconnected redox system,” said co-author Dr. Yanting Zhang. “By understanding how electrons move underground, we can better predict the fate of nutrients and pollutants and design more effective strategies to protect groundwater and ecosystems.”

This synthesis bridges fundamental science with practical applications, offering hope that tomorrow’s environmental engineers may one day plug into Earth’s own “electron grid” to restore contaminated soils and aquifers.

 

 

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Journal reference: Zhang Y, Tong M, Zhang P, Kappler A, Yuan S. 2025. Different scales of electron transfer processes in the subsurface. Environmental and Biogeochemical Processes 1: e002 https://www.maxapress.com/article/doi/10.48130/ebp-0025-0003 

 

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About the Journal:

Environmental and Biogeochemical Processes is a multidisciplinary platform for communicating advances in fundamental and applied research on the interactions and processes involving the cycling of elements and compounds between the biological, geological, and chemical components of the environment. 

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DOI

10.48130/ebp-0025-0003 

Method of Research

Literature review

Subject of Research

Not applicable

Article Title

Different scales of electron transfer processes in the subsurface

Article Publication Date

22-Sep-2025

Beyond adsorption: Dalian scientists uncover biochar’s hidden superpower—direct pollutant destruction

Dr. Yuan Gao and team at Dalian University of Technology reveal how biochar doesn’t just trap pollutants—it zaps them, opening new frontiers in green water purification

Biochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University

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Structure-performance relationship of biochar for direct degradation of organic pollutants
 

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Credit: Fan Zhang, Yuan Gao, Yajie Gao & Rui Han

The Biochar Myth-Buster

We’ve all heard the story: biochar cleans water by adsorbing pollutants—trapping them like a sponge. Or, in fancier setups, it acts as a catalyst to help oxidants like hydrogen peroxide break down toxins. But Dr. Gao’s team asked a bold question: What if biochar can degrade pollutants all by itself? Turns out—it can. And it’s been doing it quietly all along.

The Electron Ninja: Biochar’s Secret Power

The secret lies in electron transfer—a natural ability of biochar that’s been overlooked for years. Think of it like this: instead of just catching a bad guy (adsorption), biochar can now take them down on its own (direct degradation). Using advanced electrochemical tests, quantification methods, and correlation analysis, the team proved that biochar actively breaks down organic pollutants through direct electron transfer—without needing extra chemicals. In their experiments, direct degradation accounted for up to 40% ± 10% of the total pollutant removal. That’s almost half the cleaning power coming straight from the biochar itself!

What Makes Biochar So Electric?

Not all biochar is created equal. The team discovered that three key features supercharge its electron power:

• C–O and O–H functional groups – the “handholds” for electron transfer
• Graphitic carbon structure – the “highway” for electrons to travel fast
  The better the structure, the more electrons flow, and the faster pollutants vanish.

Even after five reuse cycles, the biochar kept its direct degradation power—nearly 100% stable. That’s sustainability with stamina.

Why This Changes Everything

This study flips the script on how we use biochar in wastewater treatment. It’s not just a passive filter or a sidekick catalyst—it’s an active pollutant destroyer.

This means:

• Fewer chemicals needed in water treatment plants
• Lower costs and less sludge
• Greener, smarter purification for industries and communities

“Biochar has been underestimated,” says Dr. Gao. “It’s not just a sponge—it’s a battery, a conductor, and a degrader all in one. We’re just beginning to tap into its true potential.”

A New Era for Environmental Engineering

With industrial pollution still a global challenge, discoveries like this are more than just lab wins—they’re blueprints for a cleaner future. By clarifying the difference between adsorption, direct degradation, and indirect (catalytic) degradation, this research paves the way for smarter, more efficient biochar design—custom-built for real-world water crises. And at the heart of it all is Dalian University of Technology, shining as a hub of innovation in environmental science and industrial ecology.

Ready to Rethink “Clean”?

Next time you hear “biochar,” don’t just think “carbon-rich charcoal.” Think electron-powered eco-warrior—silently zapping pollutants, one electron at a time. Kudos to Dr. Yuan Gao and the DUT team for pushing the boundaries of green tech. Stay tuned, stay curious, and let’s keep turning science into solutions—for cleaner water, healthier ecosystems, and a more sustainable world.

 

 

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• Title: Structure-performance relationship of biochar for direct degradation of organic pollutants
• Keywords: Biochar properties; Direct degradation; Indirect degradation; Electron transfer
• Citation: Zhang, F., Gao, Y., Gao, Y. et al. Structure-performance relationship of biochar for direct degradation of organic pollutants. Carbon Res. 4, 53 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s44246-025-00219-3

 

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About Carbon Research

The journal Carbon Research is an international multidisciplinary platform for communicating advances in fundamental and applied research on natural and engineered carbonaceous materials that are associated with ecological and environmental functions, energy generation, and global change. It is a fully Open Access (OA) journal and the Article Publishing Charges (APC) are waived until Dec 31, 2025. It is dedicated to serving as an innovative, efficient and professional platform for researchers in the field of carbon functions around the world to deliver findings from this rapidly expanding field of science. The journal is currently indexed by Scopus and Ei Compendex, and as of June 2025, the dynamic CiteScore value is 15.4.

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Journal

Carbon Research

DOI

10.1007/s44246-025-00219-3 

Method of Research

Experimental study

Subject of Research

Not applicable

Article Title

Structure-performance relationship of biochar for direct degradation of organic pollutants

An energy-efficient method to convert water pollutants into useful ammonia

Advanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University

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Structural characterization of NiCuFe-LDHs catalyst. a, b) SEM images, c) TEM image, d) HRTEM image, e) SAED pattern, f) AFM profiles, g) HAADF-STEM image, and the corresponding EDS element mapping. The inset in (d) shows the interplanar distance quantified from the HRTEM image. ©Yuan Wang et al. using 15NO3− and 14NO3− electrolytes over NiCuFe-LDHs nanosheets. f) NH3 yield measured by NMR and UV-vis methods. g) The NH3 FE and NH3 yield in the durability test. h) The comparison of the NitRR performance of NiCuFe-LDHs nanosheets with previously reported advanced catalysts. 

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Credit: ©Yuan Wang et al.

When the current method for producing something is estimated to consume a staggering 1-2% of the annual global energy supply, it means we need to make a change. The Haber-Bosch process produces ample amounts of ammonia (NH3) - a valuable chemical compound that has a wide array of uses in fields such as agriculture, technology, and pharmaceuticals - while consuming a lot of energy.

A research team at Tohoku University has made a significant contribution to an alternate method for converting harmful nitrate pollutants in water into ammonia, addressing both environmental and energy challenges. By utilizing NiCuFe-layered double hydroxide (LDH) catalysts, the study provides an efficient method for cleaning contaminated water. This means cleaner water, reduced pollution, and more sustainable fertilizer and energy resources, which are directly beneficial to public health, food security, and climate protection.

The Haber-Bosch process currently produces almost all of the industrially produced ammonia in the world, but it has major downsides. Not only does it consume an exorbitant amount of energy, the process also releases carbon dioxide emissions as a byproduct, making it even more taxing on the environment. The electrocatalytic nitrate (NO3−) reduction reaction (NitRR) is an alternative option to produce ammonia that has existed for a while, but it never caught on due to being slow and inefficient. However, researchers at Tohoku University's Advanced Institute for Materials Research (WPI-AIMR) found a method to overcome this.

"We created NiCuFe-LDH nanosheets with Ni and Cu sites to help with electroreduction," explains Professor Hao Li (WPI-AIMR). "The NitRR went from being too inefficient to even consider, to a Faradaic efficiency of 94.8%."

They used computational and theoretical analyses to explain the mechanism for this reaction, which involves the added Cu and Ni sites as the stars of the show. Furthermore, they tested a Zn-NO3− battery utilizing NiCuFe-LDH nanosheets to demonstrate its actual efficacy. It performed very well, with a Faradaic efficiency of 85.8%, a high yield of ammonia, and a power density so remarkable that it outperformed most previous reports (12.4 mW cm−2).

The next steps for this project will focus on scaling up and deepening mechanistic understanding. On the practical side, the catalyst performance needs to be validated in real nitrate-contaminated water systems and under continuous-flow reactor conditions to demonstrate industrial feasibility.

The findings were published in Advanced Functional Materials on September 4, 2025.

 

About the World Premier International Research Center Initiative (WPI)

The WPI program was launched in 2007 by Japan's Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) to foster globally visible research centers boasting the highest standards and outstanding research environments. Numbering more than a dozen and operating at institutions throughout the country, these centers are given a high degree of autonomy, allowing them to engage in innovative modes of management and research. The program is administered by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS).

See the latest research news from the centers at the WPI News Portal: https://www.eurekalert.org/newsportal/WPI
Main WPI program site:  www.jsps.go.jp/english/e-toplevel

 

Advanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR)
Tohoku University
Establishing a World-Leading Research Center for Materials Science

AIMR aims to contribute to society through its actions as a world-leading research center for materials science and push the boundaries of research frontiers. To this end, the institute gathers excellent researchers in the fields of physics, chemistry, materials science, engineering, and mathematics and provides a world-class research environment.

AIMR site: https://www.wpi-aimr.tohoku.ac.jp/en/

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Journal

Advanced Functional Materials

DOI

10.1002/adfm.202519238 

Article Title

Modulating Surface-Active Hydrogen for Facilitating Nitrate-to-Ammonia Electroreduction on Layered Double Hydroxides Nanosheets

Article Publication Date

24-Sep-2025