Search Results (13,639)

Biodiesel, as one of the alternatives to fossil fuels, faces significant challenges in large-scale industrial production due to its high production costs. In addition to raw material costs, catalyst costs are also a critical factor that cannot be overlooked. This review summarizes various methods for preparing biodiesel catalysts from solid waste. These methods not only enhance the utilization rate of waste but also reduce the production costs and environmental impact of biodiesel. Finally, the limitations of waste-based catalysts and future research directions are discussed. Research indicates that solid waste can serve as a catalyst carrier or active material for biodiesel production. Methods such as high-temperature calcination, impregnation, and coprecipitation facilitate structural modifications to the catalyst and the formation of active sites. The doping of metal ions not only alters the catalyst’s acid-base properties but also forms stable metal bonds with functional groups on the carrier, thereby maintaining catalyst stability. The application of microwave-assisted and ultrasound-assisted methods reduces reaction parameters, making biodiesel production more economical and sustainable. Overall, this study provides a scientific basis for the reuse of solid waste and ecological protection, emphasizes the development potential of waste-based catalysts in biodiesel production, and offers unique insights for innovation in this field, thereby accelerating the commercialization of biodiesel. Full article

This paper presents a comprehensive review of the environmentally friendly management and reutilization of electronic waste (e-waste) plastics in flexible pavement construction. The discussion begins with an overview of e-waste management challenges and outlines key recycling approaches for converting plastic waste into asphalt-compatible materials. This review then discusses the types of e-waste plastics used for asphalt modification, their incorporation methods, and compatibility challenges. Physical and chemical treatment techniques, including the use of free radical initiators, are then explored for improving dispersion and performance. Additionally, in situations where advanced pretreatment methods are not applicable due to cost, safety, or technical constraints, the application of alternative approaches, such as the use of low-cost complementary additives, is discussed as a practical solution to enhance compatibility and performance. Finally, the influence of e-waste plastics on the conventional and rheological properties of asphalt binders, as well as the performance of asphalt mixtures, is also evaluated. Findings indicate that e-waste plastics, when combined with appropriate pretreatment methods and complementary additives, can enhance workability, cold-weather cracking resistance, high-temperature anti-rutting performance, and resistance against moisture-induced damage while also offering environmental and economic benefits. This review highlights the potential of e-waste plastics as sustainable asphalt modifiers and provides insights across the full utilization pathway, from recovery to in-field performance. Full article

Plasma-activated water (PAW), enriched with reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS), presents oxidative and antimicrobial characteristics with potential in cosmetic applications. This study examined the effects of two PAW formulations—nitrate-rich (PAW-N) and peroxide-rich (PAW-P)—on human hair types classified as straight (Type 1), wavy (Type 2), and coily/kinky (Type 4). The impact of PAW on hair structure and chemistry was evaluated using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), UV–Vis spectrophotometry, and physicochemical analyses of the liquids (pH, ORP, conductivity, and TDS). PAW-N, with high nitrate content (~500 mg/L), low pH (2.15), and elevated conductivity (6244 µS/cm), induced significant damage to porous hair types, including disulfide bond cleavage, protein oxidation, and lipid degradation, as indicated by FTIR and EDS data. SEM confirmed severe cuticle disruption. In contrast, PAW-P, containing >25 mg/L of hydrogen peroxide and exhibiting milder acidity and lower ionic strength, caused more localized and controlled oxidation with minimal morphological damage. Straight hair showed greater resistance to both treatments, while coily and wavy hair were more susceptible, particularly to PAW-N. These findings suggest that the formulation and ionic profile of PAW should be matched to hair porosity for safe oxidative treatments, supporting the use of PAW-P as a gentler alternative in hair care technologies. Full article

Neglected diseases significantly impact the world, and there is a lack of effective treatments, requiring therapeutic alternatives. Thus, the study of the phytochemical and schistosomicidal activity evaluation of Copaifera oblongifolia leaves’ crude extract was conducted. The quercitrin (1) and afzelin (2) were isolated from the crude extract. In the in vitro schistosomicidal activity test, the isolated compounds demonstrated promising results, with 75% mortality at a concentration of 12.5 µM after 72 h. Molecular docking calculations indicated that compounds 1 and 2 could potentially interact with the amino acids of the FAD binding site in the TGR enzyme, a crucial enzyme for the survival of Schistosoma mansoni. These interactions could have binding energies comparable to praziquantel, a preferred drug for treating schistosomiasis. Therefore, in silico and in vitro investigations are crucial for developing new studies that can reveal the antiparasitic potential of compounds of plant origin. Full article

In response to the challenges posed by soil degradation in the arid regions of Xinjiang, China, green and organic management practices have emerged as effective alternatives to conventional agricultural management methods, helping to mitigate soil degradation by promoting natural soil recovery and ecological balance. However, most of the existing studies focus on a single management practice or indicator and lack a systematic assessment of the effects of integrated orchard management in arid zones. This study aims to investigate how different agricultural management practices influence soil physicochemical properties and inter-root microbial communities in apple orchards in Xinjiang and to identify the main physicochemical factors affecting the composition of inter-root microbial communities. Inter-root soil samples were collected from apple orchards under green management (GM), organic management (OM), and conventional management (CM) in major apple-producing regions of Xinjiang. Microbial diversity and community composition of the samples were analyzed using high-throughput amplicon sequencing. The results revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) in soil physicochemical properties across different management practices. Specifically, GM significantly reduced soil pH and C:N compared with OM. Both OM and GM significantly decreased soil available nutrient content compared with CM. Moreover, GM and OM significantly increased bacterial diversity and changed the community composition of bacteria and fungi. Proteobacteria and Ascomycota were identified as the dominant bacteria and fungi, respectively, in all management practices. Linear discriminant analysis (LEfSe) showed that biomarkers were more abundant under OM, suggesting that OM may contribute to ecological functions through specific microbial taxa. Co-occurrence network analysis (building a network of microbial interactions) demonstrated that the topologies of bacteria and fungi varied across different management practices and that OM increased the complexity of microbial co-occurrence networks. Mantel test analysis (analyzing soil factors and microbial community correlations) showed that C:N and available potassium (AK) were significantly and positively correlated with the community composition of bacteria and fungi, and that C:N, soil organic carbon (SOC), and alkaline hydrolyzable nitrogen (AN) were significantly and positively correlated with the diversity of fungi. Redundancy analysis (RDA) further indicated that SOC, C:N, and AK were the primary soil physicochemical factors influencing the composition of microbial communities. This study provides theoretical guidance for the sustainable management of orchards in arid zones. Full article

Natural fiber-based biocomposites are rapidly gaining traction in sustainable manufacturing. However, their supply chain (SC) designs at the feedstock pre-processing stage often lack robust multicriteria decision-making evaluations, which can impact downstream processes and final product quality. This case study proposes a sustainability-driven multicriteria decision-making framework for selecting pre-processing equipment configurations within a hemp-based biocomposite SC. Using a cradle-to-gate system boundary, four alternative configurations combining balers (square vs. round) and hammer mills (full-screen vs. half-screen) are evaluated. The analytical network process (ANP) model is used to evaluate alternative SC configurations while capturing the interdependencies among environmental, economic, social, and technical sustainability criteria. These criteria are further refined with the inclusion of sub-criteria, resulting in a list of 11 key performance indicators (KPIs). To evaluate ranking robustness, a non-linear programming (NLP)-based sensitivity model is developed, which minimizes the weight perturbations required to trigger rank reversals, using an IPOPT solver. The results indicated that the Half-Round setup provides the most balanced sustainability performance, while Full-Square performs best in economic and environmental terms but ranks lower socially and technically. Also, the ranking was most sensitive to the weight of the system reliability and product quality criteria, with up to a 100% shift being required to change the top choice under the ANP model, indicating strong robustness. Overall, the proposed framework enables decision-makers to incorporate uncertainty, interdependencies, and sustainability-related KPIs into the early-stage SC design of bio-based composite materials. Full article

Introduction: Biodegradable Temporizing Matrix (BTM) is a new synthetic dermal substitute suitable for wound closure and tissue regeneration. The data in paediatric population remain limited. The study purpose is to review the indications for BTM application in paediatric patients; evaluate the short-term and long-term results, including complications and functional outcomes, as well as to share some unique observations regarding the use of BTM in paediatric population. Patients and Methods: Patients undergoing reconstructive surgery and BTM application during the last three years were included. Data collected included patient demographics, primary diagnosis, previous surgical management, post-operative complications and final outcomes. BTM was used in 32 patients. The indications varied including epidermolysis bullosa (n = 6), burns (n = 4), trauma (n = 7), infection (n = 4), ischemia or necrosis (n = 11). Results: The results were satisfying with acceptable aesthetic and functional outcomes. Complications included haematomaunderneath the BTM leading to BTM removal and re-application (n = 1), BTM infection (n = 1) and split-thickness skin graft failure on top of BTM requiring re-grafting (n = 2). Conclusions: BTM can be a good alternative to large skin grafts, locoregional flaps or even free flaps. The big advantages over other dermal substitutes or skin grafts are that BTM is less prone to infection and offers excellent scarring by preserving the normal skin architecture. Specifically in children, BTM might not require grafting, resulting in spontaneous healing with good scarring. In critically ill patients, BTM reduces the operation time and there is no donor site morbidity. BTM should be considered in the reconstructive ladder when discussing defect coverage options in children and young people. Full article

The incorporation of residues into rubber composites has gained attention as a sustainable strategy to address waste management challenges while replacing commercial fillers. In this study, we investigated the potential use of water filter cartridge residue after exhaustion, composed of activated carbon, as a reinforcing filler in vulcanized natural rubber composites. Samples were prepared with 5, 10, 15, and 20 phr (per hundred rubber) of residue and compared to unfilled natural rubber. Stress vs. strain tests reached 13.9 MPa of tension at rupture for composites containing 10 phr of carbon-activated residues, representing a 21.9% increase compared to natural rubber. Interestingly, the tension at rupture for NR/AC_10phr reached values close to those of NR/CB_5phr (with carbon black N330) attaining 14.4 MPa. These results indicate that, even at relatively low concentrations, the carbon filter can offer partial substitution for commercial fillers. Moreover, the use of activated carbon from filter cartridges as filler in rubber composites provides an environmentally favorable alternative to energy-intensive regeneration processes for activated carbon. Full article

Hydrogels are widely known for their ability to increase soil water retention and for their potential slow nutrient release mechanism. They have been constantly improved to meet the growing demand for sustainability in agriculture. Research focused on the development of biodegradable hydrogels, produced from industrial cellulose waste, are an ecological and efficient alternative soil ameliorant for the improvement of agricultural land. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impacts of two types of hydrogel (processed in a glass reactor versus a twin-screw extruder) on soils with different textures (clay and sandy loam), testing their water retention capacity, nitrogen leaching, and effects on seed germination. The methodology included the evaluation of water retention capacity at different pressures with different hydrogel addition rates in the soil, leaching tests in columns filled with soil and hydrogel layers, and germination tests of sorghum and corn. The results indicated that the addition of hydrogel significantly improved water retention, especially in sandy loam soils. The hydrogels also reduced nitrogen leaching, acting as nitrification inhibitors and limiting the conversion of ammonium to nitrate, with greater effectiveness in clayey soils. In the tested formulations, it was observed that the hydrogel doses applied to the columns favored nitrogen retention in the region close to the roots, directly influencing the initial stages of germination. This behavior highlights the potential of hydrogels as tools for directing nutrients in the soil profile, indicating that adjustments to the C:N ratio, nutrient release rate, and applied doses can optimize their application for different crops. Full article

This paper presents a critical and comprehensive review of the application of mining waste, specifically waste rock and tailings, in asphalt pavements, with the aim of synthesizing performance outcomes and identifying key research gaps. A systematic literature search yielded a final dataset of 41 peer-reviewed articles for detailed analysis. Bibliometric analysis indicates a notable upward trend in annual publications, reflecting growing academic and practical interest in this field. Performance-based evaluations demonstrate that mining wastes, particularly iron and copper tailings, have the potential to enhance the high-temperature performance (i.e., rutting resistance) of asphalt binders and mixtures when utilized as fillers or aggregates. However, their effects on fatigue life, low-temperature cracking, and moisture susceptibility are inconsistent, largely influenced by the physicochemical properties and dosage of the specific waste material. Despite promising results, critical knowledge gaps remain, particularly in relation to long-term durability, comprehensive environmental and economic Life-Cycle Assessments (LCA), and the inherent variability of waste materials. This review underscores the substantial potential of mining wastes as sustainable alternatives to conventional pavement materials, while emphasizing the need for further multidisciplinary research to support their broader implementation. Full article

This research focuses on designing polymer membranes as biocompatible materials using home-built electrospinning equipment, offering alternative solutions for tissue regeneration applications. This technological development supports cell growth on biomaterial substrates, including hepatocellular carcinoma (Hep-G2) cells. This work researches the compatibility of polymer membranes (fiber mats) made of polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) for possible use in cellular engineering. A standard culture medium was employed to support the proliferation of Hep-G2 cells under controlled conditions (37 °C, 4.8% CO₂, and 100% relative humidity). Subsequently, after the incubation period, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) assays were conducted in a physiological environment to characterize the electrical cellular response, providing insights into the biocompatibility of the material. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed to evaluate cell adhesion, morphology, and growth on the PVDF polymer membranes. The results suggest that PVDF polymer membranes can be successfully produced through electrospinning technology, resulting in the formation of a dipole structure, including the possible presence of a polar β-phase, contributing to piezoelectric activity. EIS measurements, based on R_ct and C_dl values, are indicators of ion charge transfer and strong electrical interactions at the membrane interface. These findings suggest a favorable environment for cell proliferation, thereby enhancing cellular interactions at the fiber interface within the electrolyte. SEM observations displayed a consistent distribution of fibers with a distinctive spherical agglomeration on the entire PVDF surface. Finally, integrating piezoelectric properties into cell culture systems provides new opportunities for investigating the influence of electrical interactions on cellular behavior through electrochemical techniques. Based on the experimental results, this electrospun polymer demonstrates great potential as a promising candidate for next-generation biomaterials, with a probable application in tissue regeneration. Full article

Aquatic vegetation plays a crucial role in freshwater ecosystems by providing habitats, regulating water quality, and supporting biodiversity. This study aims to monitor and analyze the dynamics of aquatic vegetation in Chimaditida Shallow Lake, Greece, using Sentinel-2 satellite imagery, with validation from field measurements. Data processing was performed using Google Earth Engine and QGIS. The study focuses on discriminating and mapping two classes of aquatic surface conditions: areas covered with Floating and Emergent Aquatic Vegetation and open water, covering all seasons from 1 March 2024, to 28 February 2025. Spectral bands such as B04 (red), B08 (near infrared), B03 (green), and B11 (shortwave infrared) were used, along with indices like the Modified Normalized Difference Water Index and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index. The classification was enhanced using Otsu’s thresholding technique to distinguish accurately between Floating and Emergent Aquatic Vegetation and open water. Seasonal fluctuations were observed, with significant peaks in vegetation growth during the summer and autumn months, including a peak coverage of 2.08 km² on 9 September 2024 and a low of 0.00068 km² on 28 December 2024. These variations correspond to the seasonal growth patterns of Floating and Emergent Aquatic Vegetation, driven by temperature and nutrient availability. The study achieved a high overall classification accuracy of 89.31%, with producer accuracy for Floating and Emergent Aquatic Vegetation at 97.42% and user accuracy at 95.38%. Validation with Unmanned Aerial Vehicle-based aerial surveys showed a strong correlation (R² = 0.88) between satellite-derived and field data, underscoring the reliability of Sentinel-2 for aquatic vegetation monitoring. Findings highlight the potential of satellite-based remote sensing to monitor vegetation health and dynamics, offering valuable insights for the management and conservation of freshwater ecosystems. The results are particularly useful for governmental authorities and natural park administrations, enabling near-real-time monitoring to mitigate the impacts of overgrowth on water quality, biodiversity, and ecosystem services. This methodology provides a cost-effective alternative for long-term environmental monitoring, especially in regions where traditional methods are impractical or costly. Full article

Climbing vines have recently induced increasing threats to forest growth under favourable environmental changes. In mangrove forests, the native vine Derris trifoliata became invasive and is now one of the main threats. Yet current management relies on manual removal with low efficiency. Exploring an alternative, cost-effective method is required. To assess the potential of a proposed biological control method, this study performed a pot-plant experiment using Cuscuta japonica to infect D. trifoliata and three common mangrove species in Beihai, China. Results showed that D. trifoliata had a higher infection rate and high host mortality (90%) than mangrove (0%). It also had significantly decreased moisture by 4%, nitrogen by 14%, phosphorus by 27%, potassium by 49% and increased soluble sugar by 49% and protein by 20%, whereas only moisture (2% reduction) and one or two minerals of Excoecaria agallocha and Aegiceras corniculatum were influenced. Only Kandelia obovata had neither effective haustoria nor any nutrients impact from the infection. This study indicated that C. japonica can cause more damage to D. trifoliata than to mangrove species and has the potential to be used as a biological control agent for the threatened mangrove forests of A. corniculatum and K. obovata with monitoring and control. Further field tests are required to bring this method into practice. Full article

Recent archaeological discoveries across the Aegean, Cyprus, and western Anatolia have renewed interest in pre-Neolithic seafaring and early island colonization. However, the environmental contexts that support such early coastal occupations remain poorly understood, largely due to the submergence of Pleistocene shorelines following post-glacial sea-level rise. This study addresses this gap through an integrated geoarchaeological investigation of the pre-Neolithic site of Ouriakos on Lemnos Island, northeastern Aegean (Greece), dated to the mid-11th millennium BCE. By reconstructing both the terrestrial and submerged paleolandscapes of the site, we examine ecological conditions, resource availability, and sedimentary processes that shaped human activity and site preservation. Employing a multiscale methodological approach—combining bathymetric survey, geomorphological mapping, soil micromorphology, geochemical analysis, and Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) dating—we present a comprehensive framework for identifying and interpreting early coastal settlements. Stratigraphic evidence reveals phases of fluvial, aeolian, and colluvial deposition associated with an alternating coastline. The core findings reveal that Ouriakos was established during a phase of environmental stability marked by paleosol development, indicating sustained human presence. By bridging terrestrial and marine data, this research contributes significantly to the understanding of human coastal mobility during the Pleistocene–Holocene transition. Full article

Carbon emissions from freshwater aquaculture can exacerbate the greenhouse effect, thereby impacting human life and health. Consequently, it is of great significance to explore the carbon peak process and the role of emission reduction data in China’s freshwater aquaculture industry. This study innovatively employs the Logarithmic Mean Divisia Index model (LMDI) and the Tapio decoupling model to conduct an in-depth analysis of the relationship between carbon emissions and output values in the freshwater aquaculture industry, accurately identifying the main driving factors. Meanwhile, the global and local Moran’s I indices are introduced to analyze its spatial correlation from a new perspective. The results indicate that from 2013 to 2023, carbon emissions from China’s freshwater aquaculture industry exhibited a quasi-“N”-shaped trend, reaching a peak of 38 million tons in 2015. East China was the primary contributor to carbon emissions, accounting for 46%, while South China, Central China, and Northeast China each had an average annual share of around 14%, with Southwest, North China, and Northwest China contributing relatively small proportions. The global Moran’s I index showed a decreasing trend, with a p-value ≤ 0.0010 and a z-score > 3.3, indicating a 99% significant spatial correlation. High-high clusters were concentrated in some provinces of East China, while low-low clusters were found in Northwest, North, and Southwest China. The level of fishery economic development positively drove carbon emissions, whereas freshwater aquaculture production efficiency, industrial structure, and the scale of the aquaculture population had negative effects on carbon emissions. During the study period, carbon emissions exhibited three states: weak decoupling, strong decoupling, and expansive negative decoupling, with alternating strong and weak decoupling occurring after 2015. Full article