Search Results (213)

Nanotechnology offers transformative potential for wastewater treatment, yet its full-scale implementation remains bottlenecked by the “lab–reality gap”. While bench-scale studies using idealized matrices report outstanding pollutant removal efficiencies, performance routinely deteriorates in authentic wastewater due to complex matrix interferences, natural organic matter (NOM) competitive binding, fouling dynamics, and unpredictable nano–bio transformations. Moving beyond traditional reviews that focus heavily on material synthesis and theoretical capacities, this review provides a novel, systems-oriented, and function-driven perspective on environmental nanotechnology. We critically evaluate the operational stability and behavior of nano-enabled systems under realistic conditions, categorizing nanomaterial roles into reactive interfaces, selective barriers, signal generators, and biological modulators. Crucially, this work examines the synergistic integration of nanotechnology with advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), membrane bioreactors, and digital intelligence—including artificial intelligence (AI) and real-time nanosensing—to achieve smart fouling management and circular resource recovery. Finally, we propose a comprehensive, multidimensional evaluation framework that simultaneously assesses technical efficiency, stability, scalability, economic feasibility, environmental safety, and system compatibility. This review delivers a pragmatic roadmap to bridge the chasm between isolated laboratory discovery and robust, sustainable, field-scale wastewater engineering. Full article

The subgenus Megatrypanum Hoare, 1964, with the type species Trypanosoma theileri Laveran, 1902, comprises stercorarian trypanosomes of mammals. A substantial portion of this subgenus consists of T. theileri-like trypanosomes parasitizing cervids and bovids worldwide. Similar to most other members of the genus Trypanosoma that lack obvious economic importance, the biology of T. theileri-like trypanosomes remains poorly understood. In particular, fundamental aspects such as their host specificity, host–parasite interactions, and the morphology of developmental stages have been studied only to a limited extent. In this work, we provide a detailed description of the development and cellular organization of T. theileri-like trypanosomes in the horsefly Hybomitra montana using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). We show for the first time that T. theileri-like trypanosomes possess a well-developed cytostome–cytopharyngeal complex, morphologically similar to those in other stercorarian trypanosomes. This complex is present in the studied trypanosomes at the epimastigote stage and degrades during metacyclogenesis. In the host ileum, epimastigotes and trypomastigotes at different stages of metacyclogenesis are embedded in a fibrillar matrix that isolates them from the gut lumen. This promotes their accumulation in the vector, thereby increasing the efficiency of future infection of the vertebrate host, which occurs via contamination of the oral mucosa. Full article

The present study was conducted to study the effect of exposure time to ultraviolet-C (UV-C) radiation on seed germination, fungal suppression and seedling growth of three Egyptian rice cultivars, namely, Sakha 105, Sakha 108, and Giza 183. Experiments were carried out under controlled laboratory conditions. Rice seeds were exposed to UV-C radiation with a wavelength of 253.7 nm and intensity of 1960 µW cm² for 0 (control), 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 min. Initial seed health testing showed the presence of several seed-borne fungi, mainly Alternaria alternata, Rhizoctonia solani, and Fusarium verticillioides, in addition to Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus. Results revealed that UV-C exposure time, rice cultivar and their interactions significantly (p < 0.05) affected germination percentage, reduction percentage of seed fungal infection, and seedling growth parameters. The optimum exposure time was 30 min, which was found to maximize germination and improve shoot and root growth to achieve high levels of fungal suppression. Giza 183 exhibited the highest average germination percentage (92.40%), while Sakha 105 obtained the highest shoot height (17.00 cm) and root length (12.91 cm). The results indicate that UV-C irradiation is an effective, residue-free and environmentally sustainable seed treatment technology for improving rice seed quality as well as early seedling performance. Full article

Salinity is a major abiotic stress that limits wheat productivity in arid and semi-arid regions. The present study evaluated 20 wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes, including local and improved varieties, under saline soil conditions (ECe ≈ 6.3 and 12.5 dS m⁻¹) to assess their performance and tolerance mechanisms. The experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design with three replicates. Data were recorded for grain yield, number of spikes per square meter, number of kernels per spike, 1000-grain weight, sodium (Na⁺), potassium (K⁺), and K⁺/Na⁺ ratio. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the genotypes for all traits. Grain yield ranged from 0.51 t ha⁻¹ to 1.14 t ha⁻¹, with Bhan 2000, Local, P7, and Sakha 93 showing superior performance, whereas IC15, P6, and IC96 were most affected. A strong positive correlation was observed between grain yield and both kernels per spike (r = 0.75) and K/Na ratio (r = 0.55), whereas Na content was negatively correlated with yield (r = −0.35). Genotypes with higher K⁺/Na⁺ ratios exhibited better ionic balance and salt tolerance. Based on the combined evaluation of productivity and ionic homeostasis, Bhan 2000, Local, P7, and Sakha 93 were clearly identified as the most salt-tolerant genotypes. These genotypes maintained higher grain yields together with optimal K⁺/Na⁺ ratios, reflecting efficient ionic regulation mechanisms. The integrated approach adopted in this study strengthens selection accuracy and highlights these genotypes as promising candidates for cultivation in saline environments and as donor parents in wheat breeding programs targeting salinity tolerance. Full article

Water scarcity is becoming an increasingly critical global challenge, driven by climate change, rapid population growth, pollution, and unsustainable water use. Drought further intensifies this crisis by reducing water availability across agricultural, environmental, and socio-economic systems. In this context, nanotechnology has emerged as a promising tool for improving water management and enhancing drought resilience. This review examines the role of nanotechnology in drought mitigation and water conservation through multiple pathways, including the enhancement of plant drought tolerance, improvement in soil water retention, the development of smart irrigation and nano-sensing systems, and the expansion of water resources through purification, desalination, and wastewater reuse. In addition, the broader drought–water nexus is discussed to position nano-enabled approaches within existing water management strategies. While numerous studies report improvements in water-use efficiency, stress tolerance, and treatment performance under controlled conditions, significant limitations remain. These include concerns related to environmental safety, nanotoxicity, scalability, cost, and the gap between laboratory findings and field-level applications. Overall, nanotechnology should be considered a complementary approach rather than a stand-alone solution for addressing water scarcity under drought conditions. Future research should focus on long-term environmental impacts, techno-economic feasibility, and large-scale field validation to support the safe and effective integration of nanotechnology into sustainable water management systems. Full article

Saline irrigation water is increasingly used in arid and coastal regions, posing serious constraints to soil health and wheat yield, particularly in saline–sodic soils. A two-season field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of compost, biofertilizers (Azospirillum brasilense and Azotobacter chroococcum), and their combinations on soil physicochemical properties, microbial activity, wheat growth, yield, and physiological traits under two irrigation water salinity levels (3 and 6 dS m⁻¹). Two wheat varieties differing in salt tolerance (Miser 4 and Sakha 95) were tested. Salinity significantly increased soil EC and ESP and reduced plant growth, yield, and nutrient content, while integrated bio-organic treatments markedly alleviated these adverse effects. Compost combined with Azotobacter chroococcum markedly improved soil physical conditions, enhanced microbial biomass carbon, reduced sodicity indicators, and promoted wheat productivity across both seasons. Multivariate analyses including principal component analysis (PCA), redundancy analysis (RDA), and self-organizing maps (SOMs) revealed a strong positive association between yield traits, microbial activity, and soil fertility, and negative correlations with salinity stress indicators. The results demonstrate that combining compost with biofertilizers induces both immediate and residual improvements in saline–sodic soils, enhances wheat resilience to salinity stress, and offers a sustainable approach for improving cereal production under salt-affected environments. Full article

Citrulline (CIT), a natural non-protein amino acid and nitric oxide (NO) precursor, plays a vital role in plant physiological regulation. Its use as an eco-friendly biostimulant aligns with global efforts to reduce dependence on synthetic agrochemicals and strengthen sustainable crop production systems. This study represents the first report investigating the effects of exogenous citrulline (0, 0.5, and 1 mM) as a biostimulant/eustressor in two faba bean (Vicia faba) cultivars (Giza 843 and Sakha 1) and the first report to evaluate the variety and dose-dependent responses to foliar CIT application. The morphological, biochemical, and antioxidant responses were assessed. CIT significantly improved several growth and yield attributes in a cultivar-dependent manner, with Giza 843 performing best at 1 mM and Sakha 1 showing optimal shoot performance at 0.5 mM. CIT increased H₂O₂ levels, flavonoids, and catalase activity, which modulate the response mechanisms of treated plants of two varieties of faba bean. In contrast to Giza 843, Sakha 1 increased proline and the activities of peroxidase and ascorbate peroxidase, which is parallel with decreasing soluble sugars and proteins in response to CIT application. These results showed that Sakha 1 had more effective defense mechanisms than Giza 843. These findings demonstrate that CIT at an optimal dose is a promising, eco-friendly biostimulant. It may be suitable to integrate into sustainable crop management programs to enhance crop resilience and productivity. Full article

The mechanization of wheat harvesting in Egypt is a critical step towards enhancing food security. This study evaluated the operational performance, grain loss, and economic viability of four wheat harvesting systems for the ‘Sakha 95’ variety in the Nile Delta. To evaluate and rank the different systems based on multiple criteria, the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) was employed. A Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replicates was used to test three self-propelled combine harvesters (Claas [4.2 m], Field-King [2.0 m], Daedong [1.4 m]) alongside one semi-mechanized system (reaper–binder + stationary thresher). The TOPSIS analysis identified the Field King combine as the most recommended system (Rank 1), providing the optimal balance between operational efficiency and cost. It achieved the lowest direct harvesting cost (3386.66 EGP ha⁻¹) with a minimal grain loss of only 0.05%. The Claas combine secured Rank 2. While it reached the highest effective field capacity (1.18 ha h⁻¹) and near-total grain recovery (0.005% loss), its ranking was influenced by its high initial purchase price and fuel consumption. The reaper–binder system (Rank 3) and Daedong combine (Rank 4) followed. Despite having the highest operational cost (7371.42 EGP ha⁻¹) and higher grain losses (0.72%), the reaper–binder remains a scientifically justified choice for integrated crop-livestock systems, as its ability to produce ready-to-use “soft straw” provides a net economic advantage for smallholders. The study concludes that while large combines are ideal for the “New Lands,” mid-sized units like the Field King are best suited for scaling through cooperatives in fragmented landscapes. Full article

The intraspecific taxonomy of snow sheep (Ovis nivicola) is one of the most controversial issues in Caprinae systematics. Although eight subspecies have been described using morphological traits, the validity of several taxa, particularly those in the eastern part of their geographical range, remains disputed. We investigated the phylogenetic relationships and genetic diversity of snow sheep in the Chukotka Autonomous Okrug using genome-wide single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data (935 loci after filtering) and complete mitochondrial genomes from 57 individuals collected across the Russian Far East (Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, Kamchatka Krai, Magadan Oblast, and Republic of Sakha (Yakutia)). Post SNP-genotyping nuclear genomic studies using principal component analysis (PCA), ADMIXTURE, pairwise F_ST and Neighbor-Net revealed two clearly differentiated groups within Chukotka. One included individuals from the Koryak Mountains that are genetically indistinguishable from the Koryak subspecies (O. n. koriakorum) of northern Kamchatka. The other one encompassed individuals from the Anadyr Plateau and the Chukotka Mountains cluster with the Okhotsk subspecies (O. n. alleni) of the Kolyma Mountains. Bayesian phylogeny of complete mitochondrial genomes fully corroborated the nuclear results: Koryak Mountains samples formed a monophyletic clade, while Anadyr–Chukotka samples grouped with Kolyma Mountains individuals. Genetic diversity indices (_UH_E, A_R, F_IS) in both Chukotka groups were comparable to other studied populations and showed no signs of inbreeding depression. Our results provide important insights and can be used to develop science-based strategies for preserving the population-genetic diversity of snow sheep. Full article

Sb-rich avicennite (first discovery in Russia) was found at the Khokhoy gold deposit, 120 km west of Aldan, Aldan district, Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), Eastern Siberia, Russia. The mineral of critical metal thallium forms irregularly shaped grains up to 0.25 mm in size, in association with amgaite, weissbergite, goethite, gold, and unidentified Tl-bearing phases. Aggregates of colloform structure prevail, represented by rhythmic-, concentric-zonal, kidney-shaped, and spherulitic varieties. Avicennite is black in color, with metallic luster, and it fractures unevenly. No cleavage is observed. The density value of avicennite, obtained using its empirical formula and the unit cell parameters calculated from the powder X-ray diffraction data, is 8.548 g/cm³. In reflected light, avicennite is light gray and isotropic. Internal reflections are absent. Reflection is very low; the reflectivity curve is of mixed type with a small maximum in the blue part. Its chemical composition (average value on 10 analyses, wt.%): Tl₂O₃—85.36, V₂O₅—0.73, As₂O₅—0.85, Sb₂O₅—12.98, Total—99.92; It corresponds to the following empirical formula (calculation for three atoms of O): Tl_1.40Sb⁵⁺_0.30V⁵⁺_0.03As⁵⁺_0.03O₃. The unit cell parameters calculated from the powder X-ray diffraction data are as follows: the mineral is cubic, a = 10.496(6) Å, V = 1156(2) Å3. Full article

Ratoon rice plays a crucial role in sustainable rice production due to its potential for additional harvests; however, the genetic basis of its yield remains to be explored. In this study, we aimed to precisely dissect the genetic basis of yield in ratoon rice by selecting 302 eight-way MAGIC lines that achieved synchronized heading within a 10-day period through staggered sowing. The eight parental lines exhibited distinct yield performances across both main and ratoon crops. Significant correlations were observed between the main and ratoon crops concerning panicle length (R = 0.67) and spikelets per panicle (R = 0.36). Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) revealed a total of 17 quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with five yield-related traits in both main and ratoon crops. Specifically, seven QTLs were detected for yield components in the main crop, while six QTLs were identified in the ratoon crop, in addition to five QTLs associated with ratooning ability. Notably, only one QTL, qPL1, was commonly detected in both crops, exhibiting opposite effects on tiller number across crop types. Among the QTLs specifically identified in the ratoon crop, qGY10 demonstrated the largest effect on ratoon grain yield without compromising the performance of the main crop. The known gene, Ghd7.1, exhibited pleiotropic effects on both ratooning ability and ratoon grain yield. Candidate gene analysis prioritized likely causal genes and defined key haplotypes within these QTL intervals by leveraging the genomic diversity of the eight founders. These findings underscore the distinct genetic determinants for yields in main and ratoon crops, providing a genetic basis for breeding high-yielding varieties in both crop types. Full article

Introduction: Rheumatic diseases, including spondyloarthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, Takayasu’s nonspecific aortoarteritis, Behcet’s disease, and Kawasaki disease, are more prevalent among Asian populations. The indigenous Sakha people, who live in the harsh conditions of the North and the Arctic regions, exhibit a unique pattern of health issues. AIM: The objective of the study is to characterize the ethnic characteristics of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) among children from the indigenous population of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) and compare them with Caucasians (Russians) living in the same region. This comparison aims to inform the development of tailored diagnostic and treatment strategies. Methods: The comprehensive, single-center, retrospective cohort study included medical data of all Sakha (n = 168) and Russian ethnic patients (n = 48) with JIA who were examined and treated at the Pediatric Center’s Cardiorheumatology Department at the Republican Hospital No. 1–M.E. Nikolaev National Center of Medicine—between 2016 and 2023. The ethnicity was self-reported. The standard clinical procedures and laboratory assessments, as well as the current treatment regimen, were thoroughly reviewed. Results: It was found that children of Sakha descent had a later onset of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), which was associated with the enthesitis-related arthritis (ERA) categories (51.2% vs. 18.3%, p = 0.0002). They also exhibited higher prevalence of enthesitis (19% vs. 2.0%, p = 0.003), sacroiliitis (23.8% vs. 2.0%, p = 0.0003), and HLA-B27 antigen positivity (46.3% vs. 14.6%, p = 0.00005). The Sakha population exhibited a notably higher prevalence (41.7%) of ERA, compared to the Russian population (33.3%; p = 0.0003), and they initiated biologic therapy at a later stage. However, remission rates were lower among Sakha children (29.2%) than among Russian children (72.2%, p = 0.002), as was their likelihood of achieving remission (Log-Rank test, p = 0.005), regardless of the JIA categories (p = 0.008). Sakha children had a 64.4% reduced chance of achieving remission on the first bDMARD, compared to Russian children (HR = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.18–0.71, p = 0.004). Conclusions: Distinct variations in the progression and treatment outcomes of JIA were observed between Sakha children and Caucasians. A tailored approach to the care of JIA patients is essential, considering their ethnic background. Full article

The mushroom industry generates a substantial amount of residues each year, encompassing materials such as processing residues and spent substrates. Much of this biomass is discarded, despite its richness in valuable compounds. Mushroom residues contain bioactive substances including β-glucans, phenolic compounds, proteins, and dietary fiber, all of which are well known for their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. While fruit and vegetable residues have been extensively explored as raw materials for eco-friendly packaging, mushroom-derived residues remain a largely underutilized resource. Recent studies have highlighted their potential as a renewable source of functional ingredients for sustainable food packaging. By applying green extraction technologies such as ultrasound- or microwave-assisted methods, researchers can recover stable bioactive compounds and incorporate them into biodegradable polymers. Early results are promising: packaging films enriched with mushroom residue extracts demonstrate improved mechanical strength, enhanced barrier properties, and added bioactivity. This strategy aligns with the principles of the Circular Economy, simultaneously reducing environmental impact and adding value to materials that were previously discarded. Although further optimization is needed, particularly regarding extraction efficiency, compound stability, and scalability, the valorization of mushroom residues represents a promising pathway toward the next generation of sustainable, eco-friendly packaging materials. Full article

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi inoculants are increasingly recognized as effective biofertilizers in sustainable agriculture. Typically, as a first step for AM fungi inoculum production, a trap culture system using mycotrophic host plants is commonly used to isolate AM fungi. However, the influence of traditional host plants and agricultural field soil on the composition of AM fungal communities in trap cultures remains poorly understood. The greenhouse study was conducted to assess the sporulation capacity of AM fungi by applying a trap culture technique using traditional varieties endemic to the semi-arid areas of eastern Kenya as host plants, along with soils sourced from the same area. The traditional varieties used included Kinyaanya maize, Vaasya sorghum, and Katumbuka beans. Soil samples were collected from 34 agricultural fields. Trap culture pots were established and maintained in a greenhouse for 120 days. The experiment was set up in a completely randomized design. AM fungi spores were extracted using the wet-sieving and decanting method, and healthy spores were selected for morphological analysis. Across all three host plants and the control (original agricultural field soils), six AM fungal genera were identified: Acaulospora, Scutellospora, Gigaspora, Dentiscutata, Racocetra, and Funneliformis. Our results demonstrated that traditional host plants differentially influence AM fungal sporulation. Notably, trap cultures revealed AM fungal species that were not detected in the control. The abundance of AM fungal spores showed a weak correlation with soil chemical properties. Additionally, the Maize variety proved to be a more effective host for propagating AM fungal spores compared to the other crops evaluated. These findings suggest that further research is needed to determine whether the co-culturing of multiple traditional host plants is as effective as the monoculture cultivation of a single host plant for AM fungi propagation. Full article