Search Results (83)

Marine biowaste (fish and crustacean processing residues) is produced in tens of millions of tons annually, yet remains dramatically underutilized as a feedstock. Hydrothermal carbonization offers a technically attractive valorization route for these high-moisture, non-lignocellulosic materials, converting them to carbon-enriched hydrochar without the energy-intensive pre-drying required by pyrolysis. This focused review treats marine animal waste as the primary studies and micro- and macroalgal hydrothermal carbonization as a comparative benchmark to understand how the current research is going, the impact of production parameters, potential application, and possible research gaps to explore. Crustacean waste yields substantially more hydrochar (37–69%) than fish waste (15–34%) under equivalent conditions, driven by calcium carbonate retention in the solid phase. Unactivated hydrochars have low BET surface areas (<30 m²/g) and modest adsorption capacities (~10 mg/g). Acid deashing followed by KOH activation at 700 °C unlocks nanoporous structures with BET surface areas up to 680 m²/g and oxytetracycline adsorption capacities of 61.3 mg/g. Critical research gaps include the absence of techno-economic analysis, limited life-cycle assessment, and non-standardized reporting conventions. These must be addressed before upscaling to industrial viability can be achieved. Full article

Seed pelleting improves seed handling and precision sowing, but its performance depends strongly on the physicochemical properties of filler materials. This study evaluated the effects of talc-based mineral filler combinations on pellet characteristics, germination, greenhouse emergence, seed vigor, and seedling growth of Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa L. var. pekinensis). Talc (TC) was used alone or combined with bentonite (BE), calcium carbonate (CC), and diatomaceous earth (DE). Pellet physical properties, morphology, and surface elemental composition were analyzed using hardness measurements, porosity analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. TC + BE exhibited excessive swelling-driven water retention, prolonged disintegration time, and severe surface cracking, which were associated with reduced germination, delayed emergence, and poor seed vigor. In contrast, TC + CC + DE showed balanced physicochemical properties, including adequate hardness, moderate porosity, acceptable disintegration time, and improved water-holding capacity, producing superior greenhouse emergence while maintaining seedling growth comparable to the unpelleted control. Overall, successful seed pelleting depended on balancing structural integrity, water retention, and mass transfer properties within the pellet matrix. TC + CC + DE appears to be a promising formulation for Chinese cabbage seed pelleting. Full article

This study investigates accelerated carbonation as a low-energy alternative to autoclave curing in the production of fiber cement composites reinforced with lignocellulosic fibers. The effects of both curing routes on physical–mechanical performance, durability, and microstructural evolution were systematically evaluated before and after 25 wetting–drying cycles. Carbonation-cured composites achieved mechanical performance comparable to autoclaved materials, while exhibiting higher bulk density (≈1.37–1.38 g/cm³) and a reduction of approximately 15% in total void volume. Water absorption values were up to 17% lower than those of autoclaved counterparts. After accelerated aging, both systems showed stable mechanical properties, with increases in modulus of elasticity of approximately 21% (autoclaved) and 26% (carbonated), indicating ongoing hydration and densification processes. Thermogravimetric analysis revealed carbonation degrees of approximately 16–17%, corresponding to CO₂ uptake values of up to 35.8 kg/m³ of fiber cement. X-ray diffraction confirmed the consumption of portlandite and the formation of calcium carbonate phases, contributing to pore refinement and matrix densification. Microstructural observations indicated improved fiber–matrix interaction in carbonated composites due to the precipitation of carbonation products at the interface, whereas autoclaved materials exhibited signs of fiber degradation associated with hydrothermal curing. These effects were reflected in higher deformation capacity and specific energy retention in carbonated systems. Overall, accelerated carbonation represents a promising alternative to autoclave curing, delivering comparable mechanical performance while enhancing fiber durability, refining pore structure, and enabling CO₂ sequestration within the cementitious matrix. Full article

With the requirement for reducing carbon footprint in engineering construction, porous vegetation concrete is increasingly receiving attention for use in completed slope restoration. Cemented soil is introduced after the completion of porous vegetation concrete stabilization and functions mainly as a revegetation substrate. An important consideration for cemented soil in this application is its ability to maintain strength and water stability and possess moisture retention capacity, without causing much increase in alkali release or diffusion. This present study investigated a newly developed twofold stabilization system involving both cement binders and organic waterborne epoxy resin to meet the requirements of synthetically enhancing slope stabilization and restoration. Changes in the unconfined compressive strength and water stability were analyzed, whilst mineralogical composition and microstructure characteristics were investigated. The results indicated that moderate incorporation of triethylenediamine (TETA)-cured epoxy resin (1–2% by soil mass) moderately reduced strength and increased water stability with controlled alkali release in cemented soil. Mineralogical and microstructural analysis revealed that TETA-cured epoxy resin retarded cement hydration and refined particle bonding, exhibiting less consolidated pore structure characteristics. The twofold stabilization was exceptional in enhancing structural stability exposed to repeated humidity variation, albeit it yielded increased strength reduction rate from <7% to 9–16% under UV irradiation. Potentials of calcium sulfoaluminate cement and Portland slag cement were also investigated. A pilot-scale vegetation trial with representative plant species gave general agreement with effects observed in the laboratory in alkali reduction and moisture retention. The results provided an ecological approach for better restoring completed slopes that were stabilized using porous vegetation concrete. Full article

Cadmium (Cd) contamination of agricultural soils poses a serious threat to crop productivity and food safety due to its high mobility, bioaccumulation potential, and toxicity. This study investigated the effects of increasing Cd levels on growth performance, physiological responses, Cd partitioning, mineral nutrient disruption, and Cd accumulation in four Brassicaceae crops (cress, watercress, broccoli, and white cabbage). Plants were grown in plastic pots filled with 4 kg of soil under controlled greenhouse conditions and exposed to five different Cd concentrations (0, 5, 10, 20, and 50 mg kg⁻¹). Cd exposure significantly affected growth and physiological responses in a species-dependent manner. Compared to the control, shoot dry weight decreased by up to 66.4% in broccoli and 51.7% in cress at the highest Cd level, while white cabbage exhibited comparatively greater tolerance. Oxidative stress indicators showed contrasting patterns, with hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) increasing by up to 8.8-fold, whereas proline and membrane permeability (MP) responses varied among species. Photosynthetic pigments declined in cress but increased in broccoli under high Cd conditions, suggesting differential adaptive strategies. Cd accumulated predominantly in roots; however, root retention capacity declined at elevated Cd concentrations (20–50 mg kg⁻¹ soil), leading to greater Cd translocation to shoots. Elevated translocation factors and shoot Cd distribution demonstrated that physiological tolerance did not necessarily limit Cd accumulation in edible tissues. Cd stress also induced notable imbalances in essential mineral nutrients, particularly potassium (K), calcium (Ca), and zinc (Zn), reflecting strong Cd–nutrient interactions at uptake and transport levels. These nutrient disruptions not only exacerbated physiological stress responses but also reduced the nutritional quality of plant tissues. Notably, species maintaining relatively stable growth under moderate Cd exposure still accumulated substantial Cd concentrations in shoots, highlighting a critical disconnect between agronomic performance and food safety. In conclusion, the findings demonstrate that Brassicaceae crops exhibit contrasting strategies in response to Cd stress, with significant implications for Cd entry into the food chain. The study emphasizes the importance of integrating physiological assessment with metal partitioning and nutrient balance analyses when evaluating crop suitability for cultivation in Cd-contaminated soils and for mitigating potential risks to human health. Full article

This study evaluated the effects of thermocomposting followed by vermicomposting on the physicochemical properties of insect frass and its suitability as a germination and growth substrate for kale, tomato, and bell pepper. Vermicomposting improved frass stability by reducing pH, electrical conductivity, carbon content, and the C/N ratio, while increasing total nitrogen, cation exchange capacity, and calcium and magnesium availability, indicating enhanced maturity and nutrient retention. Peat–frass mixtures (20–100%), increased pH from acidic conditions in the control to near neutral in 100% frass and raised electrical conductivity from 0.67 dS m⁻¹ to the highest values in the pure frass treatment. Tomato seedlings exhibited strong tolerance and enhanced growth at all frass proportions, with seedling heights exceeding 33 cm compared with the control. Kale showed optimal growth at 20–60% frass, while 80–100% reduced early development. In bell pepper, emergence declined at high frass proportions, although seedlings grown with ≥40% frass reached heights of approximately 8.3–8.6 cm. Vermicomposted frass also influenced plant metabolism, increasing flavonoid accumulation and modifying antioxidant activity. These findings demonstrate that stabilized frass can serve as a sustainable substrate component, contributing to organic waste valorization and improved seedling production when applied at crop-specific proportions. Full article

Background: Artemisia annua L. is a medicinal plant with documented antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Although widely studied for internal therapeutic applications, its topical use—especially in hydrogel-based systems—has not been thoroughly investigated. The aim of this study was to develop sodium alginate hydrogels containing Artemisia annua extract, supplemented with hyaluronic acid and dexpanthenol, and to evaluate their physicochemical characteristics as well as their biological activities in vitro and in vivo. Methods: Select bioactive constituents of the Artemisia annua extract were quantified using liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS). Hydrogels were prepared by cross-linking sodium alginate with a calcium carbonate–glucono-delta-lactone system and were formulated with or without hyaluronic acid and dexpanthenol. Physicochemical evaluations included measurements of moisture content, water-retention capacity, gelation time, and pH. The hydrogel microstructure was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Antioxidant activity was assessed using three methods: the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay, and the cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC) assay. Biocompatibility and regenerative effects were analyzed using cell viability assays and an in vitro scratch wound model on human keratinocyte cells. In vivo wound-healing efficacy was examined in rats with full-thickness skin excisions. Results: The extract contained high levels of methylated flavonoids and sesquiterpenes characteristic of Artemisia annua. Hydrogels supplemented with hyaluronic acid and dexpanthenol exhibited improved hydration stability and higher porosity. All formulations demonstrated measurable antioxidant activity, and those containing hyaluronic acid showed the strongest effects. The preparations were biocompatible and enhanced keratinocyte migration in vitro, with the combined hyaluronic acid–dexpanthenol formulation promoting the fastest wound closure. In vivo, Artemisia annua hydrogels accelerated wound healing by two to three days compared with untreated wounds. Conclusions: These results confirm the promise of Artemisia annua hydrogels for topical wound care and highlight the beneficial contributions of hyaluronic acid and dexpanthenol to their structural and therapeutic performance. Full article

Complex interactions in soil carbon and nitrogen (C-N) synchronisation in tropical perennial orchards are highly responsive to fertiliser chemistry. However, the intensity and stage-specific dynamics of these interactions are not well quantified. Six nitrogen regimes, namely, urea (URT), ammonium (AMT), nitrate (NT), slow-release fertiliser (SRT), bio-organic fertiliser (BFT), and an unfertilised control, were assessed at the vegetative, flowering, fruit-set, and maturity stages of durian cultivated on highly weathered tropical soils. A two-way ANOVA indicated high to very high treatment × phenology interactions for almost all soil properties (p < 0.001), indicating that nutrient responses were highly stage-dependent. The highest soil organic carbon (SOC) and cation exchange capacity (CEC) values were consistently obtained with the BFT, which was often associated with significant differences compared with synthetic treatments. In contrast, the SRT showed the most consistent nutrient release behaviour, especially in flowering. On the other hand, soil pH did not differ significantly among the treatments during the vegetative and maturity stages. A significant decrease in pH was observed for the URT and NT treatments during the flowering stage, indicating temporary acidification at this stage and steep increases in nitrate nitrogen (NO₃^—N), indicating strong nitrification and attenuated carbon (C) stabilisation. Leaf nutrient responses were increased in phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg) by 23% in response to the SRT and BFT. The NT and URT tended to enhance leaf nitrogen (N) primarily, and PCA (59–69% variance explained) clearly displayed clustering of the fertiliser effects, with the maximum difference at flowering, the peak period of nutrient demand in the crop. In general, fertiliser chemistry and phenophase jointly controlled the C-N partitioning, soil chemical paths, and nutrient yield correlations. The BFT and SRT showed the greatest significant gains in soil fertility and nutrient retention, making them the best high-performance alternatives in sustainable durian production in tropical systems. Full article

Acetyl phosphate (AcP) is a microbial metabolite acting as a link between cell metabolism and signaling, providing the survival of bacteria in the host. AcP was also identified as an intermediate of pyruvate oxidation in mammalian mitochondria and was found in the human blood in some severe pathologies. The possible contribution of circulating AcP to the maintenance of the physiological or pathological states of the body has not been studied. Since AcP can function as a donor of phosphate groups, we have examined in vitro the influence of AcP on calcium signaling in mitochondria and cells by measuring the membrane potential and the calcium retention capacity of mitochondria by selective electrodes and by assaying the cell calcium signaling by Fura-2AM fluorescent radiometry. AcP was shown to induce a concentration-dependent increase in the mitochondrial resistance to calcium ion loading both in the control and in the presence of ADP. This effect was especially pronounced when mitochondria were incubated in a phosphate-free medium; under these conditions, AcP strongly raised the membrane potential and increased the rate of calcium uptake and the calcium retention capacity several times. Moreover, AcP induced similar changes in human cells when calcium signaling was activated by ATP, to a greater extent in neuroblastoma cells than in astrocytes. In the presence of AcP, a tendency for an increase in the amplitude and a decrease in the continuance of the ATP-induced calcium response was observed. These changes are probably associated with the activation of calcium buffering by mitochondria due to the delivery of phosphate during the hydrolysis of AcP. The results show that AcP is involved in the regulation of the Ca²⁺ balance in cells by activating the accumulation of calcium ions by mitochondria, especially under phosphate deficiency. A shift in calcium signaling mediated by AcP supplementation may be caused by hyperphosphatemia, which is now considered as one of basic contributors to cellular dysfunction and progression of various diseases, including sepsis. Full article

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) offer high porosity for water remediation but face challenges in handling as powders. We address these limitations by physically immobilizing Fe–BTC MOF within calcium-crosslinked low-methoxyl pectin matrices (PE–Ca–MOF). Solvent-cast films and freeze-dried foams were fabricated using water-based and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-assisted Fe–BTC dispersions, preserving MOF and pectin structures confirmed by FT–IR. PVP improved Fe–BTC dispersion and reduced particle size, enhancing distribution and plasticizing the matrix proved by DSC. Incorporation of water-dispersed Fe–BTC increased the equilibrium adsorption capacity but reduced the initial adsorption rate, while the PVP-assisted foam further enhanced uptake in comparative batch tests through its more open porous structure. At pH 7, PE–Ca–5%MOF films showed high adsorption capacities and removal efficiencies for paraquat (35.5 mg/g, 70.6%) and tetracycline (14.5 mg/g, 46.8%), while maintaining Zn²⁺ uptake compared to calcium-pectin films without MOF. Adsorption followed pseudo-first-order kinetics and Langmuir isotherms. Green regeneration with acetic acid enabled >80% capacity retention over five adsorption–desorption cycles. Foam architectures increased porosity and active-site accessibility (SEM), improving performance even at lower MOF loadings. Overall, controlling MOF dispersion and composite morphology enables efficient, reusable, and environmentally friendly bio-based adsorbents for water purification. Full article

Superabsorbents are crosslinked polymer networks composed of ionic and non-ionic monomers. Among these, polyacrylates are notable for their capacity to absorb and retain water solutions amounting to several hundred times their own weight. These superabsorbents serve various purposes, particularly in agriculture, where they are employed as soil additives to enhance physical properties and improve moisture retention. Soil respiration is a critical metric that measures the rate of organic matter decomposition and carbon cycling within the soil, both of which are vital for ecosystem functionality. Consequently, assessing the base respiration rate is one of the most prevalent microbiological analyses conducted to evaluate soil quality. This process involves quantifying the amount of carbon dioxide (CO₂) released from a soil sample over a specified duration. This study demonstrates that the incorporation of polyacrylates into sandy soils, in conjunction with calcium carbonate, results in increased carbon dioxide emissions and a significant elevation in soil pH. Such alkalinization may adversely affect the health of cultivated plants, underscoring the need for careful consideration in soil management practices. In acidic loam/silt loam soils, PAA addition did not further increase CO₂ emissions or pH beyond liming alone, whereas in neutral sandy soil, the combination caused a strong CO₂ flush and marked alkalisation. Full article

This study investigated rearrangements in the cristae structure and the possible relationship between these changes and the MICOS levels in the liver mitochondria of rats with experimentally induced hyperthyroidism. In hyperthyroid rats (HRs), the number, area, and perimeter of mitochondria were increased, and organelles of a worm-shaped, branched, highly elongated, or spherical shape appeared. A structural change in the mitochondria of HR liver was detected, consisting of a decrease in the number of cristae relative to the cross-section of the organelle. In some mitochondria, multilamellar bodies were detected. Hyperthyroidism caused an increase in the expression of genes and the level of proteins of the MIC60 subcomplex, with an unchanged level of the MIC10 subcomplex. Moreover, the levels of Sam50 and OPA1 in HRs were reduced. A functional assessment of HR mitochondria revealed changes in oxygen consumption, a decrease in membrane potential, and disruption of Ca²⁺ homeostasis. These data indicate that excess thyroid hormones cause partial changes in liver mitochondrial structure and an imbalance in the levels of Mic60 and Mic10 subcomplex proteins. The decreased levels of Sam50 and OPA1 proteins suggest their potential as targets for correcting mitochondrial dysfunction in metabolic disorders. Full article

Yeast protein (YP) offers nutritional and sustainable benefits; however, its poor gelation properties limit its use in soft material formulations. This study investigates the rheological behavior and the formation of crosslinked networks using YP–polysaccharide mixtures for extrusion-based 3D printing. Binary bioink blends with alginate (Alg) or xanthan gum (XG) showed enhanced viscosity and exhibited shear-thinning properties. However, a high concentration of Alg negatively affected the material’s thixotropic recovery. On the other hand, YP–XG bioink displayed more pronounced elastic behavior and demonstrated thixotropic recovery, though they lacked the capacity for ionic crosslinking. A triple bioink formulation consisting of 8% (w/v) YP, 2% (w/v) Alg, and 0.5% (w/v) XG effectively combined the advantages of both polysaccharides. Alg provided structural stability through calcium crosslinking, while XG offered rheological flexibility. These bioinks were successfully printed using embedded 3D printing and maintained their shape fidelity after printing. The crosslinked triple hydrogel exhibited good mechanical strength, volume retention after crosslinking, structural integrity under compression of up to 70%, and recovery after deformation that indicates high structural stability. This research presents an effective strategy to enhance the application of yeast-derived proteins in sustainable, animal-free 3D printed food products and other soft biomaterials. Full article

This study investigates how the inclusion of refuse-derived fuel (RDF) alters the surface chemistry and electrostatic behavior of oak-based biochar. Biochars were produced using downdraft gasification at 850 °C from 100% oak (HW) and a ternary blend comprising 50% oak, 30% pine, and 20% RDF (HW/SW/RDF). Characterization using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), zeta potential, pH, and electrophoretic mobility was conducted to assess surface functionality and colloidal behavior. The RDF-containing biochar exhibited a 43.3% increase in surface nitrogen content (from 0.24% to 0.90%) and a 6.6% rise in calcium content (from 2.07% to 2.27%) alongside the introduction of chlorine (0.20%) and elevated silicon levels (0.69%) compared to RDF-free counterparts. A concurrent reduction in oxygen-containing functional groups was observed, as O1s decreased from 15.75% in HW to 13.37% in HW/SW/RDF. Electrokinetic measurements revealed a notable decrease in zeta potential magnitude from −31.5 mV in HW to −24.2 mV in HW/SW/RDF, indicating diminished surface charge and colloidal stability. Moreover, the pH declined from 10.25 to 7.76, suggesting a loss of alkalinity and buffering capacity. These compositional and electrostatic shifts demonstrate that RDF inclusion significantly modifies the surface reactivity of biochar, influencing its performance in catalysis, ion exchange, and nutrient retention. The findings underscore the need for tailored post-treatment strategies to enhance the functionality of RDF-modified biochars in environmental applications. Full article

Soil contamination with heavy metals often resulting from industrial activities and wastewater discharge is a major ecological problem. Bone meal, a by-product of the agri-food industry, is a promising material for remediating soils affected by heavy metal pollution. Bone meal, rich in phosphorus, calcium, and other essential minerals, provides advantages both in immobilizing inorganic pollutants and in improving soil fertility. This study explores the potential of bone meal as an ecological and sustainable solution for the retention of zinc from soils polluted with wastewater. This study analyzes the physicochemical properties of bone meal, the mechanisms of its interaction with metal ions through adsorption processes as revealed by equilibrium and kinetic studies, and its effects on plant germination. The results indicate a maximum adsorption capacity of 2375.33 mg/kg at pH = 6, according to the Langmuir model, while the pseudo-second-order kinetic model showed a coefficient of R² > 0.99, confirming the chemical nature of the adsorption. At pH 12, the retention capacity increased to 2937.53 mg/kg; however, parameter instability suggests interference from precipitation phenomena. At pH 12, zinc retention is dominated by precipitation (Zn(OH)₂ and Zn–phosphates), which invalidates the Langmuir assumptions; accordingly, the Freundlich isotherm provides a more adequate description. Germination tests revealed species-specific responses to Zn contamination and bone meal amendment. In untreated contaminated soil, germination rates were 84% for cress, 42% for wheat, and 50% for mustard. Relative to the soil + bone meal treatment (100% performance), the extent of inhibition reached 19–21% in cress, 24–29% in wheat, and 12% in mustard. Bone meal mitigated Zn-induced inhibition most effectively in wheat (+31% vs. soil; +40% vs. control), followed by cress (+23–27%) and mustard (+14%), highlighting its species-dependent ameliorative potential. Thus, the experimental results confirm bone meal’s capacity to reduce the mobility of zinc ions and improve the quality of the agricultural substrate. By transforming an animal waste product into a material with agronomic value, this study supports the integration of bone meal into modern soil remediation strategies, aligned with the principles of bioeconomy and sustainable development. Full article