Search Results (13,117)

The overuse of mineral fertilizers has brought about numerous matters such as deteriorating soil health, crop safety concerns, and environmental pollution. The global requirements for effective waste handling and sustainable agricultural production have been growing continuously. Therefore, integrated nutrient management method might be a key way to achieve circular agriculture, such as replacing chemical fertilizers with organic fertilizers. In modern agriculture, digestate that is a byproduct of anaerobic digestion as a fertilizer is becoming increasingly favored as a viable method for improving crop yield and quality. However, the application of digestate in agriculture have not yet been fully explored. This review addresses a knowledge gap by synthesizing current research on digestate as a fertilizer. Firstly, the physical–chemical and biological properties of digestate are discussed. Following that, this review focuses on its specific impact on crop growth and quality. Lastly, it outlines the challenges faced in the application of digestate and looks ahead to future trends. With appropriate policy support and technological innovation, digestate holds promise for advancing environmental sustainability. This review aims to provide direction and reference for future research on the application of digestate. Full article

Olive leaves are an abundant agro-industrial by-product rich in oleuropein, yet they remain largely underutilized. The objective of this study is to a) develop a green microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) method for an oleuropein-rich extract, b) encapsulate it into edible natural zeolite to form OLE@NZ nanohybrids, and, c) evaluate their application in fortified salt and active gelatin films. MAE using only water at 96 °C for 5 min yielded a dry extract with 25.4% (w/w) oleuropein and a total phenolic content of 781 mg GAE/100 mL. The extract was successfully adsorbed onto clinoptilolite-type zeolite and the resulting nanohybrids showed strong antioxidant activity (EC_50,DPPH = 2.74 mg, TPC = 426 mg GAE/g). A fortified salt containing 5% w/w OLE@NZ fully preserved the nanohybrid’s antioxidant activity. Extruded gelatin films incorporating 5–15% OLE@NZ exhibited a concentration-dependent increase in antioxidant activity (up to 14-fold higher than the blank film), together with a 5- to 7-fold enhancement, while maintaining good mechanical properties. The total phenolic content of the films correlated linearly with nanohybrid loading, with phenolic recovery of 68% both at 5 and 10% loading and 58% at 15%). Overall, these findings demonstrate that MAE is a rapid, and environ-mentally friendly approach for obtaining oleuropein-rich olive leaf extract (OLE), while OLE@NZ nanohybrids provide effective antioxidant additives for functional salt formulations and active gelatin films, supporting a circular bioeconomy strategy. Full article

Rice bran is a nutrient-rich agricultural by-product, and most of the bioactive compounds in it are bound and thus have poor bioavailability. Research has demonstrated that targeted microbial fermentation is a high-efficiency bioprocess for the degradation and modification of complex macromolecules to release phenolic compounds, flavonoids, dietary fibre derivatives and other new biologically active substances. Fermentation can be used to increase the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and metabolically regulatory effects of rice bran more efficiently by changing its structure and increasing the content of active components compared with the conventional extraction method. Although some studies have investigated how to obtain suitable microbial strains and substrates, optimisation of the processing conditions for improving metabolic and functional performance has not been achieved; otherwise, other problems will still arise in the event of industrial-scale application, such as fluctuations in raw material supply, process instability, and high production costs. In the future, the integration of process analytical technology (PAT), artificial intelligence and microbial engineering will build a large-scale intelligent and controllable fermentation system. Therefore, the specific route of fermentation for valorising rice bran into high-value functional ingredients has been identified, and the scientific foundation for developing sustainable foods and nutraceuticals has been established. Full article

As a major global sugar crop and lignocellulosic feedstock, sugarcane processing traditionally suffers from single-product dependency and low byproduct utilization, causing resource waste and environmental factors. To address this, the ‘sugarcane processing tree’ framework offers a pathway for full-component valorization. This review systematically summarizes the high-value utilization pathways for sugarcane juice, bagasse, and filter mud. Key quantitative insights reveal that the functional sugars offer high profitability due to premium market prices; bagasse pretreatment constitutes 40–50% of overall biorefinery costs; and crude wax recovery from filter mud stagnates at only 5–8%, limiting commercial scale-up. Current bottlenecks are characterized by low pretreatment efficiency, subpar strain performance, and high isolation costs. Future advancements must integrate coupled biorefining, synthetic biology, and standardized frameworks to spearhead the low-carbon, circular transition of the sugarcane industry for sustainable development. Full article

Adipogenesis is one way by which adipose tissue expands in our body. It is a complex tightly regulated process involving differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into mature, lipid-containing adipocytes. One of the byproducts of this mechanism is leptin, an adipokine that plays a pivotal role in regulating food intake and energy homeostasis. While the increase in leptin secretion in proportion to fat mass expansion shows that leptin functions as a downstream marker of adipogenesis, emerging studies suggest that leptin itself may influence the adipogenesis process and act as a regulator. However, despite much research done to explore this, its role remains incompletely understood and often contradictory, with studies reporting pro-adipogenic, anti-adipogenic, or neutral effects depending on experimental context. These discrepancies highlight the influence of factors such as leptin concentration, timing of exposure, cell type, adipose depot, and species differences. This review gathers current evidence on leptin’s role in adipogenesis, integrating findings from diverse experimental models and biological systems. We further examine the underlying molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways involved, aiming to clarify the context-dependent effects of leptin and identify key knowledge gaps to guide future research in adipose tissue biology and metabolic disease. Full article

Ilex guayusa Loes., an Amazonian holly cultivated by indigenous Kichwa communities, is valued for its caffeine-rich leaves (2.0–3.5% dry weight). However, industrial processing generates substantial by-products that remain undercharacterized and underutilized. This study provides baseline quantitative assessment and physicochemical characterization of guayusa processing residues from the Kallari cooperative (Napo, Ecuador) to explore their potential within a circular bioeconomy framework. Granulometric analysis showed that processing produces predominantly coarse material (>425 μm, 67.5%), while intermediate and fine fractions (<425 μm) account for 32.5% of total biomass. Comparative analysis of pooled fractions (n = 10 subsamples per fraction) did not show clear compositional differences across twelve physicochemical parameters (p > 0.05), suggesting relatively comparable compositional profiles within the analyzed material. Residues contained relevant bioactive compounds, including total phenolics (15.7–16.0 mg GAE g⁻¹ DW) and condensed tannins (9.4–10.0 mg GAE g⁻¹ DW). Preliminary caffeine analysis (n = 2 composite samples) indicated values of 1.89–2.09% DW. Correlation analysis showed a negative association between protein and tannins (r = −0.785, p = 0.007) and a positive relationship between fiber and tannins (r = 0.660, p = 0.038). Exploratory principal component analysis suggested structural–phenolic patterns, although results should be interpreted cautiously due to the limited sample size. At the cooperative scale (18–25 t yr⁻¹), these residues represent 5.8–8.1 t yr⁻¹ of underutilized biomass. While the findings suggest potential suitability for applications such as functional ingredients, bioactive extraction, and cosmetic formulations, further validation including independent biological replication, compound-specific profiling, and techno-economic assessment is required. This study establishes a baseline dataset to support future valorization strategies within Amazonian indigenous bioeconomy contexts. Full article

The valorization of winery by-products is a sustainable strategy for receiving valuable bioactive compounds. The aim of this study was to obtain Syrah grape seed extract and investigate the stability of extract phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity. Separated grape seeds from grape pomace were dried under two different conditions: 23 °C for 10 days and 40 °C for 24 h. Polyphenols were extracted from the dried seeds using 70% aqueous ethanol under magnetic stirring at 600 rpm for 3 h. The yield, color, nutrition value, and mineral contents of the extract were determined. The obtained extracts from the seeds dried at different temperatures were concentrated using a vacuum evaporator. The concentrate was subsequently divided into three forms: liquid, lyophilized, and dried at 40 °C. The individual phenolic components of the lyophilized grape seed extract were determined by HPLC. All extracts were stored at 4 °C and 23 °C for 10 months. The effect of the grape seed drying conditions, extract forms, storage temperature, and time on the total phenolic content, total flavonoids, procyanidins, and antioxidant capacity of the extracts was investigated. Changes in these parameters were evaluated at 0, 3, 6, and 10 months of storage. Degradation kinetics on the basis of antioxidant activity during extracts storage were calculated. Additionally, the individual phenolic composition of liquid and lyophilized Syrah grape seed extracts stored for 10 months was determined by HPLC. The degradation degree of the individual compounds in the extracts was calculated. Full article

Seawater and sea sand as constituents in concrete are valuable alternatives to freshwater and river sand. Further, the use of seawater and sea sand in projects located in the proximity of a sea/ocean can reduce the overall project cost and lower the carbon footprint. Nevertheless, seawater contains high concentrations of chloride (Cl⁻), sulphate (SO₄²⁻) and magnesium (Mg²⁺), which can react with tricalcium aluminate (C₃A) in cement and the byproduct calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂), and form Friedel’s salt, delayed ettringite and brucite, respectively. These chemical compounds are aggressive and can degrade the strength and durability of the concrete. Differences in the physical properties of sea sand compared to river sand can also lead to weak and porous concrete. In reinforced concrete, steel bars are susceptible to corrosion due to the formation of corrosion products as a result of high concentrations of Cl⁻. Whilst mitigation strategies such as the use of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) and fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) reinforcements have been investigated in the literature, no validated method that enables the use of concrete with seawater and sea sand has been established. Based on research reported in the literature, the present study investigates the chemistry, strength and microstructure of concrete mixed with seawater and sea sand as a means of establishing their use in concrete without compromising the properties of the concrete. The study shows that the compressive strength of seawater–sea sand mixed concrete (SWSSC) is increased in the short term (up to 28 days) due to the formation of additional chemical compounds in the former. However, the long-term (i.e., beyond 28 days) compressive strength of concrete reduces by up to 20% after one year due to the weakening of the microstructure (more flaws/expansions), which further reduces the durability of the reinforced concrete. Although the long-term degradation of SWSSC has been noticed, the underlying causes are not fully understood. The present critical review study provides chemical and microstructural insight into the degradation of concrete with seawater and sea sand, and the current developing understanding is used to develop a mitigation strategy towards the use of seawater and sea sand in real-world concrete applications. Full article

Background: This review summarizes the current knowledge on the composition, bioactive constituents, health-related effects, and by-product utilization of sea buckthorn (Hippophaë rhamnoides L.) seed and pulp oils. Review approach: This review covers studies on fatty acid composition, minor bioactive compounds, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, lipid metabolism-related effects, and the valorization of processing by-products, with evidence primarily derived from in vitro and in vivo studies. Results: Sea buckthorn produces two distinct oils: seed oil, characterized by high levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids, tocopherols, and phytosterols, and pulp oil, which is rich in palmitoleic acid and carotenoids. These compositional differences contribute to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-regulating activities. In addition, the utilization of by-products, particularly polyphenol- and fiber-rich residues, has gained increasing attention for improving resource efficiency and sustainability of the industry. Conclusions: Sea buckthorn oil is a promising source of functional lipids and bioactive compounds. However, current evidence is largely based on experimental studies, and further research is needed to clarify the mechanisms of action, bioavailability, dose–response relationships, and clinical efficacy. Advances in green extraction technologies and integrated utilization strategies may further support the sustainable development of sea buckthorn resources. Full article

The aqueous extract of Diaphragma Juglandis Fructus (AED), a by-product of Juglans regia L., represents a promising food-derived functional ingredient with potential benefits for intestinal health. This study evaluated the anti-colitis effects of AED and explored its underlying mechanisms using LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages and a DSS-induced colitis mouse model. In DSS-induced colitis in mice, AED at 10 μg/mL suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokine production and inhibited JAK1/STAT3 signaling. In DSS-induced colitis in mice, AED at 600 mg/kg for 7 days mitigated DSS-induced colonic injury, restored tight junction proteins, and improved epithelial barrier integrity. Integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses identified AED-associated alterations in arginine-polyamine and taurine-hypotaurine metabolism, while network pharmacology and molecular docking suggested angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and von Willebrand factor (VWF) as candidate functional targets for further investigation. Collectively, these findings indicate that AED exerts anti-colitis effects in association with coordinated changes in inflammatory signaling, metabolic pathways, and barrier-related markers, supporting its potential as a food-derived functional ingredient candidate for ulcerative colitis management. Full article

Water scarcity has become a major challenge for agriculture, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions where irrigation is essential for sustaining crop and forage production. As freshwater supplies face growing pressure from climate change, urban growth, and industrial use, there is increasing interest in exploring alternative water sources to support sustainable agriculture. Produced water, a byproduct of oil and gas extraction, may represent an alternative water source in water-limited regions like the southwestern United States and the Middle East. However, raw produced water often contains high levels of salinity, trace metals, hydrocarbons, and naturally occurring radioactive materials, which cause risks to soils, crops, livestock, and food systems. This review synthesizes peer-reviewed studies up to January 2026 and reports on the agricultural application of treated produced water, focusing on its effects on soil properties, crop growth, yield, and forage nutritive quality. Existing research shows that treated produced water could be used for grain as well as forage crops under controlled conditions, but poorly treated and managed applications can lead to increases in soil salinity, structural degradation, reduced nutrient uptake, and hindered crop performance. In forage systems, irrigation with treated produced water has also been associated with changes in nutritive value, increasing concerns for livestock health. Several knowledge gaps remain, including limited long-term field studies, insufficient information on crop-specific contaminant thresholds, incomplete assessment of treatment and remediation strategies under different environmental conditions, and the absence of a consistent framework for classifying the chemistry of treated produced water for agricultural applications. Addressing these gaps through integrated soil, crop, and water research and the development of clear policies and guidelines is essential for determining whether treated produced water can be safely and sustainably used in agriculture under growing water scarcity. Full article

One of the fundamental recommendations for sustainable agricultural practices is protecting soil biodiversity by increasing the use of organic fertilizers and substrates. According to EU regulations, certain animal by-products (including horn shavings) may be used as crop fertilizers; however, insufficient information is available on the impact of this fertilizer substrate on the soil environment. This study was conducted to determine the effects of annual soil application of horn shavings on selected characteristics of Lumbricidae communities and physicochemical properties of the soil. Experimental plots had the following treatments of cattle horn shavings (CHS): CHS100 (100%; 1.3 t·ha⁻¹; equivalent to 161 kg N/ha), CHS75 (75%; 0.98 t·ha⁻¹), CHS50 (50%; 0.65 t·ha⁻¹), and SL (control without fertilization). After 2 years of application, an electrical method was used to collect earthworms over the following 3 years. Earthworms found belonged to five species representing three ecological groups: Dendrobaena octaedra, Dendrodrilus rubidus tenuis, Lumbricus rubellus, Aporrectodea caliginosa, and Lumbricus terrestris. Significantly higher values of earthworm metrics were demonstrated between the plot with the highest fertilization (CHS100) and the plots with lower horn shavings additions (abundance: CHS100 > CHS75 and CHS50 by a mean of 43.2%; biomass: CHS100 > CHS75 and CHS50 by a mean of 43%). Species richness was not affected but an increase in CHS application led to a greater biodiversity index. CHS treatments affected selected soil parameters to varying degrees, with soil moisture having the greatest influence on the given earthworm traits. Cattle horn shavings used as a fertilizer are a positive promoter of earthworms in soils and further research in this area may be warranted. Full article

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) oil production generates substantial quantities of seed cake, an underutilized by-product with potential as a source of nutrients and bioactive compounds. This study aimed to characterize milk thistle cakes from two industrial sources (MTC1 and MTC2) and their corresponding seeds (MTS1 and MTS2), focusing on compositional properties, fatty acid profile, and antioxidant activity assessed using the DPPH scavenging assay. Proximate analysis showed that the cakes retained significant residual oil (9.26–14.51 g 100 g⁻¹) and protein (16–19 g 100 g⁻¹), with low water activity (<0.33), indicating good storage stability. Fatty acid analysis revealed a predominance of polyunsaturated fatty acids (49–52%), mainly linoleic acid (C18:2 n-6), confirming their nutritional value. Differences between industrial sources indicated variability associated with raw material and processing conditions. Extraction solvent significantly affected bioactive compound recovery from the oil fraction. Dichloromethane extracts exhibited higher total phenolic content (up to 8.87 mg GAE g⁻¹) and stronger DPPH radical scavenging activity (up to 28.07%) compared to hexane extracts, which may be attributed to a greater extraction of moderately polar phenolic compounds, including flavonolignan-type constituents potentially associated with silymarin complex. Overall, milk thistle cake represents a promising raw material for the recovery of natural antioxidants and valuable lipids, supporting its application in functional food or feed products and sustainable biorefinery processes. Full article

The buildup of non-biodegradable plastic waste and poor management of agro-industrial by-products have caused a major environmental crisis. The present research addresses the development of novel materials supporting the circular bioeconomy. This study aimed to develop and characterize bio-composite films derived from native Oxalis tuberosa starch and keratin microparticles (KMPs) extracted from cattle horn waste. The experimental methodology employed a 2³ factorial design and involved the characterization of the films included the evaluation of physical and optical properties and the identification of functional groups via spectroscopy, mechanical tests, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The results revealed significant interactions (p ≤ 0.05). Higher processing temperatures were the main reason for the drop in water activity (a_w) and moisture content (MC) levels. Concurrently, the incorporation of KMPs reduced water solubility, increased opacity, and enhanced thermal stability. FTIR analysis confirmed the existence of intermolecular interactions between the hydroxyl and amide functional groups. In conclusion, bio-composites composed based on Oxalis tuberosa starch and keratin microparticles represent a sustainable alternative to mitigate the use of conventional plastics in the industry. Full article

The use of underutilized biomass improves resource-use efficiency and reduces agricultural waste, particularly in temperate systems cultivating tropical crops. Papaya (Carica papaya L.), grown as an annual crop in these systems, produces substantial trunk biomass that is typically discarded after harvest. This study evaluated the potential of papaya trunk xylem rays as an edible resource through compositional, sensory, and functional analyses. Trunks were harvested at the end of the fruiting period (December) and after exposure to a cold wave (January) and were classified by organ types and maturity level. Xylem rays showed moisture and carbohydrate contents comparable to those of green papaya fruit, and were judged as edible by all panelists (100%) in December-harvested samples. However, exposure to a cold wave reduced sweetness and increased bitterness, resulting in decreased overall acceptability. Nevertheless, boiling effectively reduced bitterness and improved palatability even in cold-exposed samples. In addition, xylem rays exhibited higher total polyphenol content than green papaya fruit, while showing comparable DPPH radical scavenging activity. These results suggest that xylem rays have potential as an edible plant resource with antioxidant-related properties, contributing to resource-use efficiency and potentially providing opportunities for biomass valorization in temperate production systems. Full article