Search Results (1,324)

Valued for their nutritional content, eggs have recently gained attention as a versatile biomaterial owing to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and unique structural and biochemical composition. This review highlights the biomedical potential of various egg components—eggshell, eggshell membrane, egg white, and egg yolk—and their applications in bone grafting, tissue engineering, wound healing, drug delivery, and biosensors. Eggshells serve as a natural, calcium-rich source for bone tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. The eggshell membrane, with its antimicrobial and structural properties, offers promise as a wound healing scaffold. Egg white, known for its gelation and film-forming capabilities, is utilized in hydrogel-based systems for drug delivery and biosensing. Egg yolk, rich in lipids and immunoglobulin Y (IgY) antibodies, is being explored for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. This review critically examines the advantages and limitations of each egg-derived component and outlines current research gaps, offering insights into future directions for the development of egg-based biomaterials in biomedical engineering. Full article

This study investigates Bimi^® (Brassica oleracea Italica × Alboglabra), a hybrid between kailan and conventional broccoli, to evaluate its compositional, functional, and sensory properties in relation to industrial sous-vide processing and refrigerated storage. Proximate composition, amino acid and fatty acid profiles, and mineral content were determined in raw samples. Color, chlorophyll content, total polyphenols, and antioxidant capacity (FRAP, ABTS, DPPH) were analyzed before and after sous-vide treatment and following 60 days of storage. Microbiological and physicochemical stability was monitored over 90 days under standard (4 °C) and mildly abusive (6–10 °C) storage conditions. Sensory profiling of Bimi^® and conventional broccoli was performed on sous-vide samples. The results showed an increase in total polyphenols and antioxidant activity after processing, while chlorophylls decreased. Microbiological safety was maintained under all conditions, with stable water activity and only moderate acidification. Bimi^® provided a valuable source of protein (4.32 g/100 g FW, 8.63% RDA), appreciable amounts of dietary fiber (2.96 g/100 g FW, 11.85% RDA), and essential minerals such as potassium (15.59% RDA), phosphorus (14.05% RDA), and calcium (8.09% RDA). Sensory evaluation revealed a milder flavor profile than that of conventional broccoli, accompanied by an asparagus-like aroma. These findings support the suitability of Bimi^® for industrial sous-vide processing and its potential as a nutritious convenience food. Full article

This study investigates the feasibility of using volcanic lapillus as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM) in mortar production to improve the sustainability of the cement industry. Cement production is one of the main sources of CO₂ emissions, mainly due to clinker production. Replacing clinker with SCMs, such as volcanic lapillus, can reduce the environmental impact while maintaining adequate mechanical properties. Experiments were conducted to replace up to 20 wt% of limestone Portland cement with volcanic lapillus. Workability, compressive strength, microstructure, resistance to alkali-silica reaction (ASR), sulfate, and chloride penetration were analyzed. The results showed that up to 10% replacement had a minimal effect on mechanical properties, while higher percentages resulted in reduced strength but still improved some durability features. The control sample cured 28 days showed a compressive strength of 43.05 MPa compared with 36.89 MPa for the sample containing 10% lapillus. After 90 days the respective values for the above samples were 44.76 MPa and 44.57 MPa. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed good gel–aggregate adhesion, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) confirmed reduced calcium hydroxide content, indicating pozzolanic activity. Overall, volcanic lapillus shows promise as a sustainable SCM, offering CO₂ reduction and durability benefits, although higher replacement rates require further optimization. Full article

Tropical sandy beaches are dynamic ecosystems where microbial communities play crucial roles in biogeochemical processes and tracking human impact. Despite their importance, these habitats remain underexplored. Here, using amplicon-based sequencing of bacterial (V3-V4 16S rRNA) and fungal (ITS2) markers, we first describe microbial communities inhabiting supralittoral–intertidal sediments of two contrasting sandy beaches in the Tadjoura Gulf (Djibouti Republic): Sagallou-Kalaf (SK, rural, siliceous sand) and Siesta Plage (SP, urban, calcareous sand). Sand samples were collected at low tide along 10 m transects perpendicular to the shoreline. Bacterial communities differed significantly between sites and along the sea-to-land gradient, suggesting an influence from both anthropogenic activity and sediment granulometry. SK was dominated by Escherichia-Shigella, Staphylococcus, and Bifidobacterium, associated with human and agricultural sources. SP showed higher richness, with enriched marine-associated genera such as Hoeflea, Xanthomarina, and Marinobacter, also linked to hydrocarbon degradation. Fungal diversity was less variable, but showed significant shifts along transects. SK communities were dominated by Kluyveromyces and Candida, while SP hosted a broader fungal assemblage, including Pichia, Rhodotorula, and Aureobasidium. The higher richness at SP suggests that calcium-rich sands, possibly due to their buffering capacity and greater moisture retention, offer more favorable conditions for microbial colonization. Full article

The cement sheath is critical for ensuring the long-term safety and operational efficiency of oil and gas wells. However, complex geological conditions and operational stresses during production can induce cement sheath deterioration and cracking, leading to reduced zonal isolation, diminished hydrocarbon recovery, and elevated operational expenditures. This study investigates the development of a novel microbial self-healing well cement slurry system, employing fly ash as microbial carriers and sustained-release microcapsules encapsulating calcium sources and nutrients. Systematic evaluations were conducted, encompassing microbial viability, cement slurry rheology, fluid loss control, anti-channeling capability, and the mechanical strength, permeability, and microstructural characteristics of set cement stones. Results demonstrated that fly ash outperformed blast furnace slag and nano-silica as a carrier, exhibiting superior microbial loading capacity and viability. Optimal performance was observed with additions of 3% microorganisms and 3% microcapsules to the cement slurry. Microscopic analysis further revealed effective calcium carbonate precipitation within and around micro-pores, indicating a self-healing mechanism. These findings highlight the significant potential of the proposed system to enhance cement sheath integrity through localized self-healing, offering valuable insights for the development of advanced, durable well-cementing materials tailored for challenging downhole environments. Full article

To advance the development of protein-rich plant-based foods, a novel binder system for vegan sausage alternatives without the requirement of heat application was investigated. This enables long-term ripening of plant-based analogs similar to traditional fermented meat or dairy products, allowing for refined flavor and texture development. This was achieved by using a poorly water-soluble calcium source (calcium carbonate) to introduce calcium ions into a low-ester pectin—gluten matrix susceptible to crosslinking via divalent ions. The gelling reaction of pectin–gluten dispersions with Ca²⁺ ions was time-delayed due to the gradual production of lactic acid during fermentation. Firm, sliceable matrices were formed, in which particulate substances such as texturized proteins and solid vegetable fat could be integrated, hence forming an unheated raw-fermented plant-based salami-type sausage model matrix which remained safe for consumption over 21 days of ripening. Gluten as well as pectin had a significant influence on the functional properties of the matrices, especially water holding capacity (increasing with higher pectin or gluten content), hardness (increasing with higher pectin or gluten content), tensile strength (increasing with higher pectin or gluten content) and cohesiveness (decreasing with higher pectin or gluten content). A combination of three simultaneously occurring effects was observed, modulating the properties of the matrices, namely, (a) an increase in gel strength due to increased pectin concentration forming more brittle gels, (b) an increase in gel strength with increasing gluten content forming more elastic gels and (c) interactions of low-ester pectin with the gluten network, with pectin addition causing increased aggregation of gluten, leading to strengthened networks. Full article

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a dual role as both essential signaling molecules and harmful mediators of damage. Imbalances in the redox state of the liver can overwhelm antioxidant defenses and promote mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative damage, and inflammation. Complex feedback loops between ROS and immune signaling pathways are a hallmark of pathological liver conditions, such as hepatic ischemia–reperfusion injury (IRI). This is a major cause of liver transplant failure and is of increasing significance due to the increased use of marginally discarded livers for transplantation. This review outlines the major enzymatic and metabolic sources of ROS in hepatic IRI, including mitochondrial reverse electron transport, NADPH oxidases, cytochrome P450 enzymes, and endoplasmic reticulum stress. Hepatocyte injury activates redox feedback loops that initiate immune cascades through DAMP release, toll-like receptor signaling, and cytokine production. Emerging regulatory mechanisms, such as succinate accumulation and cytosolic calcium–CAMKII signaling, further shape oxidative dynamics. Pharmacological therapies and the use of antioxidant and immunomodulatory approaches, including nanoparticles and redox-sensitive therapeutics, are discussed as protective strategies. A deeper understanding of how redox and immune feedback loops interact is an exciting and active area of research that warrants further clinical investigation. Full article

The Amazon represents a key source of food biodiversity and is home to native fruits with high nutritional and functional potential, many of which remain largely unstudied. This research aimed to evaluate the presence of bioactive compounds, as well as the antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of Miconia crenata, Grias neuberthii, Lacmellea oblongata, Pourouma cecprofiilia, and Annona edulis. Physical and chemical parameters, mineral content (atomic absorption), vitamin C, organic acid, carotenoids, chlorophylls, and phenols (liquid chromatography), antioxidant activity (ABTS, DPPH), and antimicrobial activity (against Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus mutans) were determined. High concentrations of calcium, syringic acid, and antioxidant activity were found in the fruits of Miconia crenata; malic and caffeic acids in Grias neuberthii; citric acid, naringenin, and antioxidant activity in Lactuca oblongata; potassium, chlorogenic acid, and ferulic acid in Pourouma cecropiifolia; and tartaric acid and gallic acid in Annona edulis. Additionally, low antimicrobial activity was observed in M. crenata against E. coli (2.7 mg/mL), G. neuberthii against S. aureus (10.3 mg/mL), and L. oblongata against S. mutans (10.4 mg/mL), C. albicans (20.8 mg/mL), and C. tropicalis (20.8 mg/mL). The results confirm that these Amazonian fruits are a relevant source of functional bioactive compounds, highlighting their potential for use in the food, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology sectors. Full article

This study presents a cost-effective, carbon-negative construction material for affordable housing, developed entirely from locally available agricultural wastes: rice husk ash, wood ash, and rice straw—materials often problematic to dispose of in many African regions. Rice husk ash provides high amorphous silica, acting as a strong pozzolanic agent. Wood ash contributes calcium oxide and alkalis to serve as a reactive binder, while rice straw functions as a lightweight organic filler, enhancing thermal insulation and indoor climate comfort. These materials undergo natural pozzolanic reactions with water, eliminating the need for Portland cement—a major global source of anthropogenic CO₂ emissions (~900 kg CO₂/ton cement). This process is inherently carbon-negative, not only avoiding emissions from cement production but also capturing atmospheric CO₂ during lime carbonation in the hardening phase. Field trials in Kenya confirmed the composite’s sufficient structural strength for low-cost housing, with added benefits including termite resistance and suitability for unskilled laborers. In a collaboration between the University of Tartu and Kenyatta University, a semi-automatic mixing and casting system was developed, enabling fast, low-labor construction of full-scale houses. This innovation aligns with Kenya’s Big Four development agenda and supports sustainable rural development, post-disaster reconstruction, and climate mitigation through scalable, eco-friendly building solutions. Full article

This study investigates the heavy metal contamination in urban and peri-urban soils of Thessaloniki, Greece, over a two-year period (2023–2024). A total of 208 composite soil samples were systematically collected from 52 sites representing diverse land uses, including high-traffic roadsides, industrial zones, residential neighborhoods, parks, and mixed-use areas, with sampling conducted both after the wet (winter) and dry (summer) seasons. Soil physicochemical properties (pH, electrical conductivity, texture, organic matter, and calcium carbonate content) were analyzed alongside the concentrations of heavy metals such as Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn. A pollution assessment employed the Geoaccumulation Index (I_geo), Contamination Factor (Cf), Pollution Load Index (PLI), and Potential Ecological Risk Index (RI), revealing variable contamination levels across the city, with certain hotspots exhibiting a considerable to very high ecological risk. Multivariate statistical analyses (PCA and HCA) identified distinct anthropogenic and geogenic sources of heavy metals. Health risk assessments, based on USEPA models, evaluated non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks for both adults and children via ingestion and dermal contact pathways. The results indicate that while most sites present low to moderate health risks, specific locations, particularly near major transport and industrial areas, pose elevated risks, especially for children. The findings underscore the need for targeted monitoring and remediation strategies to mitigate the ecological and human health risks associated with urban soil pollution in Thessaloniki. Full article

The intensifying global demand for sustainable and nutrient-dense food sources necessitates the exploration of underutilized local resources. Arthrospira platensis var. toliarensis, a cyanobacterium endemic to Madagascar, was evaluated for its nutritional, functional, and environmental potential under small-scale, low-input outdoor cultivation. The study assessed growth kinetics, physicochemical parameters, and composition during two contrasting seasons. Biomass increased 7.5-fold in 10 days, reaching a productivity of 7.8 ± 0.58 g/m²/day and a protein yield of 4.68 ± 0.35 g/m²/day. The hot-season harvest showed significantly higher protein content (65.1% vs. 44.6%), enriched in essential amino acids. On a dry matter basis, mineral profiling revealed high levels of sodium (2140 ± 35.4 mg/100 g), potassium (1530 ± 21.8 mg/100 g), calcium (968 ± 15.1 mg/100 g), phosphorus (815 ± 13.2 mg/100 g), magnesium (389.28 ± 6.4 mg/100 g), and iron (235 ± 9.1 mg/100 g), underscoring its value as a micronutrient-rich supplement. The hydroethanolic extract had the highest polyphenol content (4.67 g GAE/100 g of dry extract), while the hexanic extract exhibited the strongest antioxidant capacity (IC₅₀ = 101.03 ± 1.37 µg/mL), indicating fat-soluble antioxidants. Aflatoxin levels (B1, B2, G1, and G2) remained below EU safety thresholds. Compared to soy and beef, this strain showed superior protein productivity and water-use efficiency. These findings confirm A. platensis var. toliarensis as a promising, ecologically sound alternative for improving food and nutrition security, and its local production can offer substantial benefits to smallholder livelihoods. Full article

Magenta Cherry or Eugenia (Syzygium paniculatum Gaertn) is an underutilized berry species with an interesting source of functional components. This study aimed to evaluate these berries’ morphometric, nutritional, and phytochemical characteristics at two ripening stages, CM: consumer maturity (CM) and OM: over-maturity. Morphometric analysis revealed size and weight parameters comparable to commercial berries such as blueberries. Fresh fruits were processed into pulverized material, and in this, a proximate analysis was evaluated, showing high moisture content (88.9%), dietary fiber (3.56%), and protein (0.63%), with negligible fat, indicating suitability for low-calorie diets. Phytochemical screening by HPLC identified gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, hydroxycinnamic acid, ferulic acid, quercetin, rutin, and condensed tannins. Ethanol extracts showed stronger bioactive profiles than aqueous extracts, with significant antioxidant capacity (up to 803.40 µmol _Trolox/g via Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP assay). Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopic analyses established structural transformations of hydroxyl, carbonyl, and aromatic groups associated with ripening. These changes were supported by observed variations in anthocyanin and flavonoid contents, both higher at the CM stage. A notable pigment loss in OM fruits could be attributed to pH changes, oxidative degradation, enzymatic activity loss, and biotic stressors. Antioxidant assays (DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP) confirmed higher radical scavenging activity in CM-stage berries. Elemental analysis identified minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc, although in moderate concentrations. In summary, Syzygium paniculatum Gaertn fruit demonstrates considerable potential as a source of natural antioxidants and bioactive compounds. These findings advocate for greater exploration and sustainable use of this native berry species in functional food systems. Full article

The scientific literature currently lacks studies that evaluate the nutritional composition of the tissues of cattle raised in different systems, so that the nutritional effects can be known and used to enhance consumption and use in the diet. The aim was therefore to assess whether the mineral content of muscle tissue (longissimus lumborum) in cattle finished during the rainy season in the Eastern Amazon is influenced by different farming systems. The treatments consisted of four systems (three pasture production systems and one feedlot system). 1. native wetland pasture in Santa Cruz do Arari (Mesoregion of Marajó); 2. native wetland pasture in Monte Alegre (Mesoregion of Baixo Amazonas); 3. cultivated dryland pasture in São Miguel do Guamá (Mesoregion of Nordeste Paraense); and 4. Confinement in Santa Izabel do Pará (Metropolitan Region of Belém). The analyses were carried out on samples of the longissimus lumborum muscle tissue of 48 male, castrated, crossbred Nelore cattle, twelve per breeding system, from commercial farms, destined for meat production, finished during the rainiest period of the year (between January and June). In systems 1 and 2, the animals were slaughtered in licensed slaughterhouses; the animals in systems 3 and 4 were slaughtered in commercial slaughterhouses. Food sampling and chemical analysis, soil sample collection and analysis, longissimus lumborum muscle tissue collection, sample preparation and digestion, and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry were evaluated. The experimental design was completely randomized in a linear model with four rearing systems and one period (rainy). The data was compared using the Statistical Analysis Systems (SAS) program. All analyses were carried out considering a significance level of 0.05. Samples of the diets offered (pasture and concentrate) were also collected. The Amazon systems influenced the macro- and micromineral content in the muscles of cattle (p < 0.05). The interaction between pasture systems vs. confinement showed differences in the minerals calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), phosphorus (P), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), and manganese (Mn) (p < 0.05). However, there was no difference in the values of sodium (Na), potassium (K), and sulfur (S) between the rearing systems (p > 0.05). By contrast, the cultivated pasture system vs. extensive pasture showed differences in all the elements evaluated (p < 0.05). The rearing systems of the Eastern Amazon influenced the mineral content of beef, which continues to be an excellent source of macro- and microminerals and can compose the human diet. Full article

In this paper, mussel shells were used to produce chitin, chitosan, and calcium acetate using chemical processes, searching for an alternative environmentally friendly biopolymer and calcium source. Mussel shells were treated with acetic acid as a demineralizing agent, resulting in separate solid fractions and calcium solution. The solid was further purified to produce chitin by deproteinization and decolorization processes, and then the deacetylation process was used to obtain chitosan. The calcium solution was evaporated to produce calcium acetate powder. The yields of extracted chitin, chitosan, and calcium acetate from 100 g of mussel shells were 2.98, 2.70, and 165.23 g, respectively. The prepared chitin, chitosan, and calcium acetate were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrophotometry, X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron microscope (SEM) to confirm the chemical and physical properties. The analysis results of chitin and chitosan revealed the similarity to chitosan derived from crustaceans and insects in terms of functional group, structure and morphologies. The prepared calcium acetate shows FTIR and XRD data corresponding to calcium acetate monohydrate (Ca(CH₃COO)₂·H₂O) similar to synthesized calcium acetate in previous research. In addition, the mineral contents of calcium acetate identified by X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis exhibit 97.8% CaO with non-toxic impurities. This work demonstrated the potential of the production process of chitin, chitosan, and calcium acetate for the development of a sustainable industrial process with competitive functional performance against the commercial chitin and chitosan production process using crustacean shells and supported the implementation of a circular economy. Full article

A total of 38% of Americans do not meet the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for calcium including those at risk for osteoporosis. To increase the percentage of patients at risk for osteoporosis who achieve goal calcium RDA intake, a collaborative specialty pharmacy-registered dietitian-nutritionist (RDN) quality improvement program was developed. Patients aged 18 to 90 years old receiving osteoporosis therapy (denosumab, teriparatide, zoledronic acid) or medications that increase bone loss (elagolix, oral prednisone) were provided with a structured assessment and educational intervention. Daily calcium intake included patient self-reported dietary intake plus supplement use. Written and verbal education on increasing dietary intake based on patient preferences was provided with 5 calcium-rich food-source store coupons. Recommendations for supplement selection (citrate vs. carbonate) and/or medication-related problem resolution were provided. Follow-up occurred at 3–6 months. Fifty patients enrolled [94% female, mean age 66.6 years (SD 15.3)] were taking denosumab (36), teriparatide (1), zoledronic acid (1), elagolix (7) and prednisone (5). The mean baseline daily dietary calcium intake was 500 mg (SD 247) with none achieving goal intake with diet alone. Average calcium supplement use in 22 (44%) patients was 686 mg daily (SD 284). At baseline, 17 (34%) met goal daily calcium intake compared to 30 (60%) at post intervention follow-up (p = 0.009). Over half of the store coupons were redeemed. A specialty pharmacy-RDN customized intervention program provides a model for aiding patients to modify calcium intake. Full article