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19 pages, 722 KiB  
Review
Karst Multi-Source Organic Solid Waste Bio-Enhanced Composting: The Potential of Circular Utilization to Enhance Soil Quality and Control Contaminants
by Chen Huang, Xinyu Zhao, Hui Zhang, Zihan Wang and Beidou Xi
Fermentation 2025, 11(8), 426; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation11080426 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 448
Abstract
The dual environmental challenges of karst areas lie in organic solid waste’s (OSW) massive generation scale and diffuse dispersion, which accelerate bedrock exposure and soil contamination, while simultaneously representing an underutilized resource for soil amendments through optimized composting. Bio-enhanced composting of multi-source OSW [...] Read more.
The dual environmental challenges of karst areas lie in organic solid waste’s (OSW) massive generation scale and diffuse dispersion, which accelerate bedrock exposure and soil contamination, while simultaneously representing an underutilized resource for soil amendments through optimized composting. Bio-enhanced composting of multi-source OSW yields compounds with dual redox/adsorption capabilities, effectively improving soil quality and restoring ecological balance. The recycling and circular utilization of OSW resources become particularly critical in karst regions with vulnerable soil ecosystems, where sustainable resource management is urgently needed to maintain ecological balance. This review elucidates the ecological impacts of multi-source OSW compost applications on soil environments in ecologically fragile karst regions, specifically elucidating the mechanisms of heavy metals (HMs) migration–transformation and organic contaminant degradation (with emphasis on emerging pollutants), and the functional role of microbial carbon pumps in these processes. Furthermore, establishing a sustainable “multi-source OSW−compost−organic matter (adsorption and redox sites)−microorganisms−pollution remediation” cycle creates a green, low-carbon microenvironment for long-term soil remediation. Finally, this study evaluates the application prospects of the refined composting technology utilizing multi-objective regulation for OSW resource recycling and utilization in karst areas. This review provides critical insights for optimizing soil remediation strategies in karst ecosystems through organic waste valorization. Full article
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17 pages, 3121 KiB  
Article
Bio-Inspired Mamba for Antibody–Antigen Interaction Prediction
by Xuan Liu, Haitao Fu, Yuqing Yang and Jian Zhang
Biomolecules 2025, 15(6), 764; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom15060764 - 26 May 2025
Viewed by 869
Abstract
Antibody lead discovery, crucial for immunotherapy development, requires identifying candidates with potent binding affinities to target antigens. Recent advances in protein language models have opened promising avenues to tackle this challenge by predicting antibody–antigen interactions (AAIs). Despite their appeals, precisely detecting binding sites [...] Read more.
Antibody lead discovery, crucial for immunotherapy development, requires identifying candidates with potent binding affinities to target antigens. Recent advances in protein language models have opened promising avenues to tackle this challenge by predicting antibody–antigen interactions (AAIs). Despite their appeals, precisely detecting binding sites (i.e., paratopes and epitopes) within the complex landscape of long-sequence biomolecules remains challenging. Herein, we propose MambaAAI, a bio-inspired model built upon the Mamba architecture, designed to predict AAIs and identify binding sites through selective attention mechanisms. Technically, we employ ESM-2, a pre-trained protein language model to extract evolutionarily enriched representations from input antigen and antibody sequences, which are modeled as residue-level interaction matrixes. Subsequently, a dual-view Mamba encoder is devised to capture important binding patterns, by dynamically learning embeddings of interaction matrixes from both antibody and antigen perspectives. Finally, the learned embeddings are decoded using a multilayer perceptron to output interaction probabilities. MambaAAI provides a unique advantage, relative to prior techniques, in dynamically selecting bio-enhancing residue sites that contribute to AAI prediction. We evaluate MambaAAI on two large-scale antibody–antigen neutralization datasets, and in silico results demonstrate that our method marginally outperforms the state-of-the-art baselines in terms of prediction accuracy, while maintaining robust generalization to unseen antibodies and antigens. In further analysis of the selective attention mechanism, we found that MambaAAI successfully uncovers critical epitope and paratope regions in the SARS-CoV-2 antibody examples. It is believed that MambaAAI holds great potential to discover lead candidates targeting specific antigens at a lower burden. Full article
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18 pages, 5617 KiB  
Article
Static Magnetic Field Increases Polyhydroxyalkanoates Biosynthesis in Haloferax mediterranei: Parameter Optimization and Mechanistic Insights from Metabolomics
by Ze-Liang Gao and You-Wei Cui
Polymers 2025, 17(9), 1190; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17091190 - 27 Apr 2025
Viewed by 581
Abstract
Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), as biosynthetic and biodegradable polymers, serve as alternatives to petroleum-based plastics, yet face critical cost barriers in large-scale production. While magnetic field (MF) stimulation enhances microbial activity, the optimal MF parameters and metabolic mechanisms for PHA biosynthesis remain unexplored. This study [...] Read more.
Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), as biosynthetic and biodegradable polymers, serve as alternatives to petroleum-based plastics, yet face critical cost barriers in large-scale production. While magnetic field (MF) stimulation enhances microbial activity, the optimal MF parameters and metabolic mechanisms for PHA biosynthesis remain unexplored. This study optimized magnetic field parameters to increase PHA biosynthesis in Haloferax mediterranei. A custom-engineered electromagnetic system identified 110 mT of static magnetic field (SMF) as the optimal level for biosynthesis, reaching 77.97 mg/(L·h) PHA volumetric productivity. A pulsed magnetic field caused oxidative stress and impaired substrate uptake despite increasing PHA synthesis. Prolonged SMF exposure (72 h) maximized PHA productivity, while 48 h of exposure attained 90% efficiency. Metabolomics revealed that SMF-driven carbon flux redirection via regulated butanoate metabolism led to a 2.10-fold increase in (R)-3-hydroxybutanoyl-CoA), while downregulating acetoacetate (0.51-fold) and suppressing PHA degradation (0.15-fold). This study pioneers the first application of metabolomics in archaea to decode SMF-induced metabolic rewiring in Haloferax mediterranei. Our findings establish SMF as a scalable bioenhancement tool, offering sustainable solutions for the circular bioeconomy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biobased and Biodegradable Polymers)
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13 pages, 1264 KiB  
Article
Design and Fabrication of Bio-Enhancing Surfaces for Coral Settlement
by Despina Linaraki
Architecture 2025, 5(1), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/architecture5010020 - 20 Mar 2025
Viewed by 1168
Abstract
Coral reefs are vital ecosystems facing rapid degradation. This research explores architectural design solutions for bio-enhancing modular prototypes to support coral attachment and growth. Inspired by coral polyps, nine biomimetic designs were created using Maya and Rhinoceros 3D to optimise surfaces for coral [...] Read more.
Coral reefs are vital ecosystems facing rapid degradation. This research explores architectural design solutions for bio-enhancing modular prototypes to support coral attachment and growth. Inspired by coral polyps, nine biomimetic designs were created using Maya and Rhinoceros 3D to optimise surfaces for coral settlement. A total of 75 prototypes (15 × 15 cm) were fabricated, incorporating four materials—PETG, concrete, oyster concrete, and clay—and seven colour variations—sand, translucent green, translucent brown, red, pink, grey, and reddish. The findings indicate that 3D printing with PETG was the most efficient fabrication method but required structural support and long-term underwater testing, while oyster concrete demonstrated potential for self-sustaining structures. This study highlights the role of architectural design in marine restoration, promoting biodiversity and resource-efficient solutions. By integrating corals into the design, these structures can self-grow and adapt, reducing material consumption and long-term maintenance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Architectural Responses to Climate Change)
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21 pages, 5438 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Lignocellulose Degradation and Mycotoxin Reduction in Co-Composting with Bacterial Inoculation
by Cheng Chen, Xiaolong Tang, Chaosheng Liao, Xiaokang Huang, Mingjie Zhang, Yubo Zhang, Pan Wang, Siqi Yang, Ping Li and Chao Chen
Microorganisms 2025, 13(3), 677; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13030677 - 18 Mar 2025
Viewed by 712
Abstract
The burgeoning global silage industry has precipitated challenges related to the sustainable utilization of mycotoxin-contaminated silage. To understand the effect of bio-enhancement on lignocellulose degradation and mycotoxin reduction, mycotoxin-contaminated silage and rape straw were co-composted without (CK) or with different bacterial agents and [...] Read more.
The burgeoning global silage industry has precipitated challenges related to the sustainable utilization of mycotoxin-contaminated silage. To understand the effect of bio-enhancement on lignocellulose degradation and mycotoxin reduction, mycotoxin-contaminated silage and rape straw were co-composted without (CK) or with different bacterial agents and their combinations. Compared to CK, the inoculation of Weissella paramesenteroides and Bacillus subtilis could increase the degradation rate of cellulose by 39.24% and lignin by 22.31% after composting. Inoculation of W. paramesenteroides and Paenibacillus sp. significantly enhanced cellulose and lignin degradation rates by 26.75% and 15.48%, respectively. Furthermore, this treatment significantly reduced mycotoxin levels (p < 0.05), including Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1, 64.48% reduction), T-2 toxin (65.02%), Ochratoxin A (OTA, 61.30%), Zearalenone (ZEN, 67.67%), and Vomitoxin (DON, 48.33%). Inoculation with Paenibacillus sp. and other bacteria increased total nitrogen by 48.34–65.52% through enhancing microbiological activity. Therefore, Paenibacillus sp. in combination with other bacteria could increase compost efficiency and reduce mycotoxin presence for better and safer utilization of agricultural waste by-products, enabling faster conversion of contaminated silage into safe soil amendments, which could reduce agricultural waste management costs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Microbiology)
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14 pages, 4389 KiB  
Article
Growth and Rhamnolipid Production Performance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa on Crude Biomass Carbohydrates and Bioenhancer-Based Growth Media
by Rajat Sharma and Buddhi P. Lamsal
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 2531; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15052531 - 26 Feb 2025
Viewed by 896
Abstract
Novel growth media formulations for improved rhamnolipid production from Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 were evaluated on four carbohydrate sources: glucose, glycerol, soy hull hydrolysate (SHH), and mimicking soy hull hydrolysate (MSH) along with bioenhancers and other media components. This study is aimed at understanding [...] Read more.
Novel growth media formulations for improved rhamnolipid production from Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 were evaluated on four carbohydrate sources: glucose, glycerol, soy hull hydrolysate (SHH), and mimicking soy hull hydrolysate (MSH) along with bioenhancers and other media components. This study is aimed at understanding the effect of different types of human neuroendocrine bioenhancers on growth performance and rhamnolipid titer generation of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 in a growth media containing sustainable crude biomass carbohydrates. Optimization of the media factors for improved rhamnolipid titers with Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 was performed through a high-throughput response surface study for the best growth rate for concentrations of carbohydrates; bioenhancers, norepinephrine (NE) and dopamine (DP); and iron (Fe). In the high-throughput study, the microbial growth rates for all sugar types ranged between 0.2 and 0.5 log numbers in OD (optical density, indicating the concentration of bacterial cells within a liquid culture, as determined by a spectrophotometer) h−1 at 600 nm, with glucose providing the highest growth rate in the best response surface media combination at 2.5% glucose concentration, 160 µM norepinephrine, 66 µM dopamine, 0.03% Fe concentration. The effect of this media on growth and rhamnolipid production was further verified in 100 mL shake flasks. The highest OD and rhamnolipid titers were achieved for glucose- and glycerol-based media at 2.78 g/L and 2.72 g/L, respectively, whereas significantly lower titers at 1.98 g/L and 1.72 g/L were observed for SHH- and MSH-based media, respectively. No significant growth enhancement effects by the bioenhancers norepinephrine and dopamine were observed at the concentrations evaluated. Full article
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9 pages, 547 KiB  
Commentary
Psychedelics for Moral Bioenhancement in Healthy Individuals—A Violation of the Non-Maleficence Principle?
by Bor Luen Tang
Psychoactives 2025, 4(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychoactives4010005 - 6 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1589
Abstract
Several authors have advanced the idea that psychedelics such as psilocybin might be effective means for achieving moral bioenhancement (MBE). Here, I discuss some reservations on this assertion from both neuropharmacological and bioethical perspectives, and surmised that there is little, if any, good [...] Read more.
Several authors have advanced the idea that psychedelics such as psilocybin might be effective means for achieving moral bioenhancement (MBE). Here, I discuss some reservations on this assertion from both neuropharmacological and bioethical perspectives, and surmised that there is little, if any, good justification for such a claim. The indication of psychedelics for MBE is undermined by their hallucinogenic properties and the risk of adverse psychosis. There is also a lack of sound bioethical basis for using psychedelics to enhance morality. Based on our current understanding, the use of psychedelics specifically for MBE in healthy individuals would violate the ethical principle of non-maleficence. Unless there is unequivocal demonstration that psychedelics could enhance morality, or that new non-hallucinogenic derivatives become available, an indication for psychedelics in MBE would be untenable. Full article
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9 pages, 1547 KiB  
Article
A First-Order Derivative Spectrophotometric Method for the Quantification of Saquinavir in the Presence of Piperine in a Eutectic Mixture
by Tamara Quesada-Soto, Luis Felipe Vargas-Huertas, José Roberto Vega-Baudrit, Mirtha Navarro-Hoyos and Andrea Mariela Araya-Sibaja
Analytica 2024, 5(4), 632-640; https://doi.org/10.3390/analytica5040042 - 18 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1439
Abstract
Saquinavir is a drug used as an HIV treatment, with recent reports of new uses. It has poor aqueous solubility and very low oral bioavailability. However, when prepared in a eutectic mixture with the natural bioenhancer, piperine, it demonstrated improvements in these drawbacks. [...] Read more.
Saquinavir is a drug used as an HIV treatment, with recent reports of new uses. It has poor aqueous solubility and very low oral bioavailability. However, when prepared in a eutectic mixture with the natural bioenhancer, piperine, it demonstrated improvements in these drawbacks. Therefore, considering that EMs can be easily produced and scaled-up, it could potentially be used in new pharmaceutical formulations. For this purpose, an analytical method capable of quantifying SQV in the presence of PIP is required for quality control purposes. In this context, UV–Vis equipment is simpler to use and cheaper than HPLC, and it is commonly available in most laboratories. Therefore, a derivative spectrophotometry method at 245 nm was developed and validated to quantify SQV. The method showed good linearity from 0.5 to 100.0 mg/L, with a limit of detection and limit of quantification of 0.331 mg/L and 0.468 mg/L, respectively. Furthermore, it was precise, accurate, and demonstrated good specificity up to a 1:4.3 SQV:PIP ratio. Consequently, the results demonstrate that the method can be employed for SQV quantification in the presence of PIP as an economical and simple technique. This contribution could be the basis for a quality control technique for these types of products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Analytical Techniques and Methods in Pharmaceutical Science)
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25 pages, 5413 KiB  
Article
Whole-Genome Profiling of Endophytic Strain B.L.Ns.14 from Nigella sativa Reveals Potential for Agricultural Bioenhancement
by Dimitra Douka, Tasos-Nektarios Spantidos, Polina C. Tsalgatidou, Panagiotis Katinakis and Anastasia Venieraki
Microorganisms 2024, 12(12), 2604; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12122604 - 16 Dec 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1544
Abstract
Endophytic microbes in medicinal plants often possess beneficial traits for plant health. This study focuses on the bacterial endophyte strain B.L.Ns.14, isolated from Nigella sativa leaves, which demonstrated multiple plant growth-promoting properties. In vitro tests showed that B.L.Ns.14 supports plant growth, colonization, and [...] Read more.
Endophytic microbes in medicinal plants often possess beneficial traits for plant health. This study focuses on the bacterial endophyte strain B.L.Ns.14, isolated from Nigella sativa leaves, which demonstrated multiple plant growth-promoting properties. In vitro tests showed that B.L.Ns.14 supports plant growth, colonization, and tolerance to abiotic stress. The strain also exhibited antifungal activity against phytopathogens such as Rhizoctonia solani, Colletotrichum acutatum, Verticillium dahliae, and Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. radicis-lycopersici. Whole-genome analysis, supported by ANI and dDDH values, identified B.L.Ns.14 as Bacillus halotolerans. Genome mining revealed 128 active carbohydrate enzymes (Cazymes) related to endophytism and biocontrol functions, along with genes involved in phosphate solubilization, siderophore and IAA production, biofilm formation, and motility. Furthermore, genes for osmolyte metabolism, Na+/H+ antiporters, and stress response proteins were also identified. The genome harbors 12 secondary metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters, including those for surfactin, plipastatin mojavensin, rhizocticin A, and bacilysin, known for their antagonistic effects against fungi. Additionally, B.L.Ns.14 promoted Arabidopsis thaliana growth under both normal and saline conditions, and enhanced Solanum lycopersicum growth via seed biopriming and root irrigation. These findings suggest that Bacillus halotolerans B.L.Ns.14 holds potential as a biocontrol and plant productivity agent, warranting further field testing. Full article
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19 pages, 3066 KiB  
Review
Role of Natural Phytoconstituents as a Potential Bioenhancer of Anti-Cancer and Anti-Microbial Agents: Spotlight on the Mechanism of Action, Clinical Studies and Patents
by Dhanalekshmi Unnikrishnan Meenakshi, Gurpreet Kaur Narde, Alka Ahuja, Md Jawaid Akhtar and Shah Alam Khan
Processes 2024, 12(10), 2060; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12102060 - 24 Sep 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2601
Abstract
A drug design strategy with reduced side effects and economic feasibility is desirable for fatal diseases. Increasing the bioavailability of a drug using a bioenhancer is a smart strategy. Herbal/natural bioenhancers with no probable side effects are an ideal choice to enhance the [...] Read more.
A drug design strategy with reduced side effects and economic feasibility is desirable for fatal diseases. Increasing the bioavailability of a drug using a bioenhancer is a smart strategy. Herbal/natural bioenhancers with no probable side effects are an ideal choice to enhance the pharmacokinetics of a therapeutic drug synergistically. The mechanism of bioenhancers relies on the retention of the drug molecule in the cell without causing any changes in the metabolic activity. Most of the herbal bioenhancers achieve this feat by inhibiting metabolic enzymes such as cytochrome P450 and Uridine 5′-diphospho-glucuronosyltransferase. The efflux pump p-glycoprotein, responsible for removal of xenobiotics, is also inhibited by herbal/natural bioenhancers. The increased bioavailability because of the higher Cmax and tmax of chemotherapeutics or anti-infectious agents such as rifampicin can result in a lower drug dosage regimen. The reduction in drug dosage is directly linked to fewer side effects and economic viability. Further, there is a significant effort in clinical trials to incorporate bioenhancers in drug regimens for cancer. The role of herbal/natural bioenhancers and their potential to augment the bioavailability of therapeutics used in cancer and infectious diseases, with a focus on the mechanisms of action, clinical studies and patents, have been summarized in this review article. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Section “Pharmaceutical Processes”)
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30 pages, 4928 KiB  
Review
Technological Advancements and Prospects for Near-Zero-Discharge Treatment of Semi-Coking Wastewater
by Bingxu Quan, Yuanhui Tang, Tingting Li, Huifang Yu, Tingting Cui, Chunhui Zhang, Lei Zhang, Peidong Su and Rui Zhang
Water 2024, 16(18), 2614; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16182614 - 15 Sep 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1765
Abstract
This review examines the technological bottlenecks, potential solutions, and future development directions in the treatment and resource utilization of semi-coking wastewater (SCOW) in China. By comprehensively investigating the semi-coking industry and analyzing wastewater treatment research hotspots and existing projects, this study systematically explores [...] Read more.
This review examines the technological bottlenecks, potential solutions, and future development directions in the treatment and resource utilization of semi-coking wastewater (SCOW) in China. By comprehensively investigating the semi-coking industry and analyzing wastewater treatment research hotspots and existing projects, this study systematically explores the current status and challenges of each treatment unit, emphasizing the necessity for innovative wastewater treatment technologies that offer high efficiency, engineering feasibility, environmental friendliness, and effective resource recovery. This review highlights prospects and recommendations, including the development of novel extractants for phenol and ammonia recovery, a deeper understanding of biological enhancement mechanisms, exogenous bio-enhancement materials, and the creation of cost-effective advanced oxidation process (AOP)-based combined processes. Additionally, it underscores the potential for repurposing SCOW as a valuable resource through appropriate treatment, whether recycling for production or other applications. Full article
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13 pages, 217 KiB  
Article
Transhumanism within the Natural Law: Transforming Creation with Nature as Guide
by Daniel T. Crouch
Religions 2024, 15(8), 949; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15080949 - 6 Aug 2024
Viewed by 1959
Abstract
Transhumanism is an unsettling prospect for proponents of a natural law ethic. The goal of transhumanism is to fundamentally alter our human nature, while the natural law tradition relies on this nature for producing normative claims. The tension seems clear. But beyond the [...] Read more.
Transhumanism is an unsettling prospect for proponents of a natural law ethic. The goal of transhumanism is to fundamentally alter our human nature, while the natural law tradition relies on this nature for producing normative claims. The tension seems clear. But beyond the need to explore this underdeveloped relationship, it may be that natural law provides precisely the sort of ethical framework—a framework centered on human nature—for best evaluating transhumanism and bioenhancement technologies. Building on the work of Jason T. Eberl and Brian Patrick Green, I articulate how a Thomistic theory of natural law can guide us in a brave new world. Along the way, I note ways in which both Eberl and Green are too limiting in their interpretations of natural law, but in offering these critiques, I hope to bring out how natural law proves an invaluable guide for navigating life in creation—even a creation that has been tampered with. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Religion and/of the Future)
12 pages, 230 KiB  
Article
The Pilgrim’s Progress or Regress? The Case of Transhumanism and Deification
by Kimbell Kornu
Religions 2024, 15(8), 904; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15080904 - 26 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1886
Abstract
Transhumanism presents a view of human progress by transcending the human, regarding finitude and suffering to be fundamental problems that must be overcome by radical bioenhancement technologies. Recent theologians have compared Christianity and transhumanism as competing deifications via grace and technology, respectively. Ron [...] Read more.
Transhumanism presents a view of human progress by transcending the human, regarding finitude and suffering to be fundamental problems that must be overcome by radical bioenhancement technologies. Recent theologians have compared Christianity and transhumanism as competing deifications via grace and technology, respectively. Ron Cole-Turner is a cautious yet optimistic interpreter of the relationship between Christian deification and transhumanism, regarding them, on the one hand, to be incompatible based on self-centeredness vs. kenosis, while on the other hand, they can be compatible through a robust theology of creation and transfiguration such that creative human efforts via technology will be an active agent in transforming the world in glory. In this way, Christian transhumanism offers a vision of human progress in deification that transfigures creation through technology. In this paper, I challenge this proposal. I wish to show how transhumanism in any stripe, whether secular, Christian, or other, is fundamentally incompatible with Christian deification for two reasons: (1) incompatible views of progress and (2) incompatible views of human agency in deification. I will address each in turn. I then propose that human progress is infinite growth in the love of Christ. Finally, I suggest how a view of human agency affects how we think about suffering as a means to human progress. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Religions and Humanities/Philosophies)
17 pages, 2166 KiB  
Article
Characterization of Biofertilization and Biocontrol Potential of Bacillus velezensis KHH13 from Organic Soils
by Tai-Yuan Chen, Yuh Tzean, Tsai-De Chang, Xing-Ru Wang, Chun-Min Yang and Ying-Hong Lin
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1135; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061135 - 26 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2777
Abstract
Efficient and sustainable food production is crucial in global agricultural development. Overuse of chemical fertilizers leads to soil acidification, destruction of soil properties, and harm to soil micro-organisms. Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) have emerged as a solution, enhancing soil fertility and crop yields [...] Read more.
Efficient and sustainable food production is crucial in global agricultural development. Overuse of chemical fertilizers leads to soil acidification, destruction of soil properties, and harm to soil micro-organisms. Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) have emerged as a solution, enhancing soil fertility and crop yields while reducing chemical fertilizer dependency and disease occurrence. In this study, Bacillus strains KHC2, KHH5, and KHH13, isolated from organic rice field soils in Taiwan, were identified through molecular techniques as B. velezensis (KHC2, KHH13) and B. amyloliquefaciens (KHH5). The strains exhibited various hydrolytic enzymes (including protease, cellulase, amylase, and lecithinase), with KHH13 showing the highest phosphate solubilization (2186.1 µg mL−1 day−1) and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) production (63.067 ± 0.595 ppm mL−1). These properties indicate KHH13’s potential as a bio-enhancer for plant growth. Therefore, we hypothesized that KHH13 can enhance plant growth and control soil-borne diseases. A greenhouse experiment demonstrated that KHH13, KHC2, and KHH5 effectively promoted the growth of red lettuce, with KHH13 showing superior efficacy. The study also found KHH13’s treatment enhanced the growth of various vegetables, including tomato, cucumber, and red lettuce. In terms of disease control, KHH13 significantly reduced Fusarium wilt in cucumbers, as evidenced by the reduction in disease index from 74.33% to 41.67% after KHH13 treatment. The treatment group displayed better plant growth, including plant height and fresh weight, compared to the control group in the greenhouse experiment. Furthermore, oral and pulmonary acute toxicity analysis in rats showed no adverse effects on rat weight or mortality, indicating KHH13’s safety for mammalian use. These findings suggest B. velezensis KHH13 as a safe, effective, and sustainable biological agent for enhancing vegetable growth and controlling soil-borne diseases, with potential applications in sustainable agriculture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytopathogens and Crop Diseases)
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19 pages, 11069 KiB  
Article
Comparative Studies on the Strength and Swell Characteristics of Cohesive Soils Using Lime and Modified Enzyme-Induced Calcite Precipitation Technique
by Abdullah Almajed, Arif Ali Baig Moghal, Mohammad Nuruddin and Syed Abu Sayeed Mohammed
Buildings 2024, 14(4), 909; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14040909 - 27 Mar 2024
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2105
Abstract
Enzyme-induced calcite precipitation (EICP) emerges as a highly effective and well-established technique within bio-cementation approaches, offering notable advantages over traditional methods. Conversely, lime, known for its accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and efficacy, serves as a valuable material in enhancing the engineering properties of problematic soils. [...] Read more.
Enzyme-induced calcite precipitation (EICP) emerges as a highly effective and well-established technique within bio-cementation approaches, offering notable advantages over traditional methods. Conversely, lime, known for its accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and efficacy, serves as a valuable material in enhancing the engineering properties of problematic soils. This study explores the application of EICP and lime treatments separately on two distinct soils (low-plastic and high-plastic soil) exhibiting different mineralogical and plasticity characteristics to assess their impact on strength and swell characteristics. Various combinations of treatments, including jack bean (JICP), soya bean (SICP), and bio-enhancer (BICP), were employed for EICP treatment. Bio-enhancer, rich in natural urea and urease enzyme, was particularly remarkable due to its compatibility with urea supplementation. Similarly, jack bean and soya bean exhibited high efficacy in natural urease enzyme content. The study has revealed that the unconfined compression strength (UCS) of red soil increased significantly by six times at the end of 21 days of the curing period with JICP treatment, while lime treatment was more effective for the black soil. Specifically, the UCS of black cotton soil increased by 11 and 17 times when treated with Enzyme-Induced Calcite Precipitation (EICP) and lime, respectively. Moreover, EICP with J2 solution (jack bean solution with 1M urea and 4 g/L non-fat milk powder) reduced swell pressure by 60% and 67.5% in low-plastic and high-plastic soil, respectively. Lime treatment, on the other hand, led to a swell pressure reduction of 47% and 70% in low-plastic and high-plastic soil, respectively. As a result, EICP proved efficient in mitigating swell pressure for red soil, whereas lime treatment performed exceptionally well for black soil, highlighting the soil-specific effectiveness of each method. Furthermore, a life cycle assessment revealed substantial carbon footprint emission savings with EICP treatment strategy. In brief, this paper contributes to understanding the phenomena and significance of these two treatment techniques on distinct mineralogical soils. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Technologies in Concrete Structures)
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