Search Results (16,524)

The increasing demand for alcohol-free craft beers with functional properties and distinctive sensory attributes has motivated the brewing industry to investigate alternative production strategies, such as the application of non-Saccharomyces yeasts, to obtain sour beers while reducing production time and associated costs. This study explores the combined use of Lachancea thermotolerans L31 and Metschnikowia pulcherrima M29 in the production of beers brewed with blueberries or enriched with grape anthocyanin concentrate. Physicochemical parameters such as pH, color, bitterness, total polyphenols, antioxidant capacity, and anthocyanin and volatile profiles were evaluated, and a sensory analysis was performed. The results showed that both the addition of blueberries and that of anthocyanin concentrate and fermentation with Lachancea and Metschnikowia significantly influenced the chemical and sensory properties of the beer. Mainly, pH values decreased from 4.35 to 3.50 and from 3.69 to 3.26, while antioxidant activity increased from 3 to 10 times, depending on the type of yeast and the addition of fruit. Alcohol content remained constant at approximately 5.0% v/v. This strategy allows for the production of beer with a distinctive profile and functional benefits, representing a step forward in craft beer development and opening new avenues for research and innovation in the sector. Full article

Iron (oxyhydr)oxides serve as foundational catalysts in heterogeneous Fenton systems, yet their catalytic efficacy varies significantly across distinct mineral species. This review systematically explores the structure-activity relationships governing these variations to provide a clearer understanding of the underlying catalytic mechanisms. The intrinsic physicochemical properties of various mineral phases are examined to elucidate how structural features influence the formation of reactive species, including the highly reactive hydroxyl radical, substrate-dependent high-valent Fe(IV)-oxo species, and selective singlet oxygen generated from hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) decomposition. Furthermore, recent optimization strategies aimed at overcoming kinetic barriers and enhancing reaction selectivity are summarized. The discussion concludes with an outlook on future research directions, including catalyst evolution under reaction conditions and the characterization of reactive intermediates, while providing a theoretical framework for the rational design of iron-based catalysts with enhanced stability and oxidative performance. Full article

This study systematically investigates the influence of short carbon-fiber (SCF) content on the mechanical, thermal, and tribological properties of self-lubricating polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) composites filled with PTFE and MoS₂, addressing the critical need for high-wear resistance in Carbon-Fiber-Reinforced Thermoplastic (CFRTP) structural applications. The results identified 10 wt% SCF as the optimal content that achieved the best balance between load-bearing capacity and friction performance. The coefficient of friction μ and wear amount were reduced by 29.28% and 29.29%, respectively, compared to the PPS/PTFE/MoS₂ composite material without SCF, and by 14.67% and 20.75%, respectively, compared to the material with excessive SCF filling (20 wt%). Finite-Element Analysis-Representative Volume Element (FEA-RVE) reveals the mechanism by which excessive content of SCF at the microscopic level leads to a slight decrease in mechanical properties. Critically, the tribological performance exhibited a discrepancy with bulk mechanical properties: above 15 wt% SCF, the wear rate worsened despite high mechanical strength, revealing that increased fiber agglomeration and micro-abrasion effects were the primary causes of performance deterioration. Further in-depth XPS analysis revealed a synergistic lubrication mechanism: In the optimal sample, an ultra-dense PTFE transfer film was formed to mask the underlying MoS₂. This masking, coupled with the high surface activity of MoO₃ particles leads to stronger physicochemical interactions with the polymer matrix, ensures the exceptional durability and stability of the tribo-film. This research establishes a complete structure–performance relationship by integrating mechanical, thermal, and tribo–chemical mechanisms, offering critical theoretical guidance for the design of next-generation high-performance self-lubricating CFRTPs. Full article

Limonene is one of the most abundant, natural, bio-based monoterpenes. In recent years, it has attracted growing attention in both industrial and scientific communities due to its versatile physicochemical properties and wide spectrum of biological activities, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. Its renewable origin and biodegradability make limonene an ideal candidate for sustainable development and as a key building block in green chemistry. The industrial relevance of limonene spans multiple sectors, ranging from its use as a solvent and flavoring agent to its application in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, polymers, and renewable fuels. Nevertheless, despite its numerous advantages, certain limitations and safety concerns have emerged. Prolonged or high-level exposure may result in sensitization, irritant reactions, or secondary oxidation products that pose potential health risks. Moreover, its oxidative instability can lead to the formation of reactive compounds under specific environmental conditions that influence indoor air quality and may contribute to secondary organic aerosol formation. Current research focuses on several key challenges: improving extraction and purification yields through biotechnological and enzymatic pathways; enhancing oxidative stability via encapsulation or chemical modification; and standardizing toxicological assessment protocols for both occupational and clinical settings. In this review, we analyze and discuss studies published predominantly in the last five years that explore the dual nature of limonene, its valuable industrial applications and its potential environmental and health-related challenges. Full article

This study investigated the characterization and application of organoclay formulations in a chemoautotrophic biofloc system. Organoclays were produced using the calcination method and bentonite, chitosan, corn, and tapioca starches as ingredients. Thermogravimetric analysis confirmed the high thermal stability of bentonite, whereas biopolymers (tapioca, chitosan, and corn starch) exhibited greater thermal sensitivity and a lower residual mass. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that organoclays had increased porosity (4–21 µm) compared to bentonite, while energy-dispersive spectroscopy confirmed the retention of key chemical elements. X-ray diffraction and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy indicated structural modifications due to thermal processing. In aqueous conditions, bentonite and organoclays disaggregated into particles with sizes between 0.76 and 1.24 μm. Based on these physicochemical properties, three formulations were selected for nitrification trials due to their stability in water, O1 (bentonite + tapioca), O2 (bentonite + tapioca + chitosan), and O6 (bentonite + corn starch), along with a 100% bentonite treatment and a control group (C) supplemented with inorganic salts and artificial Needlona^® substrates. All treatments achieved full nitrification within 37 days, with O1 exhibiting the best performance by maintaining ammonia and nitrite levels within safe thresholds. These findings suggest that organoclays, particularly O1, can enhance nitrification stability, providing a promising strategy for water quality management in intensive aquaculture systems. Full article

Recycled powder (RP), a by-product with a particle size smaller than 150 μm, is generated during the processing of construction and demolition waste (CDW) for recycled aggregate production. RP mainly consists of recycled concrete powder and recycled brick powder. Previous studies have demonstrated that RP can serve as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM) in concrete production. Due to the heterogeneity of parent materials with different ages, service environments, and compositions, the physicochemical properties and reactivity of RP vary significantly, which largely accounts for the inconsistent results reported in the literature. This paper presents a critical review of the application of RP as an SCM in construction. The preparation technologies, chemical and physical properties, microstructural characteristics, and activation methods of RP are systematically examined. Owing to its irregular and rough surface morphology, RP tends to reduce workability and increase water demand when incorporated as an SCM. Nevertheless, when the replacement level and median particle size are limited (typically below 30% and 20 μm, respectively), RP can contribute through micro-filling, nucleation, and limited pozzolanic effects, thereby mitigating adverse impacts on mechanical and durability properties. The mechanisms and effectiveness of mechanical grinding, thermal activation, chemical activation, and CO₂ treatment are comparatively evaluated. Moreover, the incorporation of RP in cement-based materials offers significant economic and environmental benefits. Full article

Antiviral substances are considered emerging contaminants. Once released into the environment, they may affect organisms through complex and often still-unknown mechanisms. This study focuses on a class of antiviral substances with potential use in treating COVID-19 patients, aiming to identify specific structural characteristics that significantly contribute to their ecotoxicity. An empirical approach called quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) was used for this purpose. The study examined 13 antiviral substances: atazanavir, daclatasvir, darunavir, emtricitabine, favipiravir, lopinavir, nirmatrelvir, oseltamivir, remdesivir, ribavirin, ritonavir, and sofosbuvir. The ecotoxicity of these antivirals was assessed using three tests: the Aliivibrio fischeri test, the Chlorella sp. test, and the Pseudomonas putida test. These three microorganisms represent different trophic levels in aquatic and soil ecosystems. Ecotoxicity was expressed as EC₂₀ and EC₅₀, and these values served as the dependent variables in the QSAR models. A large set of numerical descriptors calculated from the molecular structures of the antivirals was used as an independent variable. EC₂₀-based QSAR models offer insight into the effects of antivirals under sub-lethal exposure conditions. The results indicated that sub-lethal exposure in Aliivibrio fischeri was associated with favorable electronic properties and compact structures that promote cellular accumulation, while long-range fragments reduced toxicity. In Chlorella sp., sub-lethal exposure was driven by optimal molecular size, chain length, and specific electronic groups enabling cell penetration and biochemical inhibition. For sub-lethal exposure in P. putida, lipophilicity and reactive group geometry enhanced toxicity, while high short-range polarity mitigated it by limiting membrane permeability. Acute toxicity patterns showed similar trade-offs: strong electronic reactivity increased potency, but steric bulk, long-range polarity, or unfavorable mass distribution frequently restricted bioavailability and reduced toxic effects. Overall, the models demonstrated that antiviral toxicity results from a balance of electronic activity, structural accessibility, and physicochemical constraints, providing a mechanistic basis for predicting the environmental risk of selected antiviral substances. Full article

Fresh wet tuber-based vermicelli is prized for its soft and elastic texture, which relies on high moisture content. However, this leads to water exudation and texture hardening during storage, limiting industrial application. This study employed immersion as a moisture regulation strategy, analyzing changes in water distribution, hardness, microstructure, and reheating quality during immersion and storage. Results indicated that moisture content increased rapidly within the first 20 min and stabilized after 40 min, accompanied by a significant reduction in hardness and gelatinization enthalpy. Microstructural analysis revealed that an immersion time of 30–40 min (62–63% moisture) was optimal, preserving suitable hardness and structural integrity. During storage, these samples achieved stable water distribution by day 35. In contrast, samples immersed for 50–60 min (64–65% moisture) showed markedly increased free water and notable structural damage. Reheating tests further confirmed that immersion for 30–40 min helped maintain moderate hardness post-storage. Therefore, controlling immersion to 30–40 min effectively balances texture, storage stability, and reheating quality. Full article

The mineral composition of Ilex paraguariensis is strongly shaped by the physicochemical characteristics and natural fertility of the soils in which it is cultivated. This study evaluated macro- and microelement concentrations in fresh leaves from fourteen rural properties in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, and examined how soil texture, pH, organic matter content, cation exchange capacity (CEC), and aluminum saturation influence nutrient availability and foliar accumulation. Soil, leaf, and environmental data were analyzed using ANOVA, intraclass correlation coefficients, Bayes factors, and principal component analysis (PCA). Sandy and dystrophic soils with low CEC and reduced organic matter showed greater variability in micronutrient retention and favored leaching, resulting in higher fluctuations in foliar Cu, Zn, and Mn. In contrast, clayey eutrophic soils with high CEC and higher organic matter promoted greater nutrient stability and more homogeneous foliar concentrations of K, Mg, and P. PCA confirmed that differences in soil geochemistry, particularly in Se, Cr, Mn, and Zn availability, were reflected in leaf composition. Chromium remained low in leaves despite elevated soil levels, indicating restricted uptake and translocation. Overall, the results demonstrate that edaphic conditions govern the nutritional profile of I. paraguariensis, emphasizing the need for region-specific soil management to maintain leaf quality in emerging cultivation areas. Full article

Driven by the imperative for enhanced battery safety, solid electrolytes have emerged as a leading strategy in next-generation energy storage technologies. Beyond conventional polymer, oxide, and sulfide systems, chloride-based inorganic solid electrolytes have recently garnered significant attention due to their unique combination of high ionic conductivity, favorable electrochemical stability, and processability. This work presents a comprehensive review of chloride solid electrolytes, examining their crystal structures, synthesis approaches, ionic transport mechanisms, and physicochemical stability under operational conditions. Furthermore, we discuss critical considerations for integrating these materials into practical all-solid-state batteries (ASSBs), including performance across wide temperature ranges, scalable cell fabrication methods, and cost-effectiveness. By bridging fundamental material properties with device-level engineering challenges, this review aims to provide a roadmap for future research and development, highlighting the substantial promise of chloride electrolytes in enabling safe, high-performance solid-state batteries. Full article

Edible films are increasingly recognized as promising sustainable packaging alternatives, but often face challenges such as poor mechanical strength, limited barrier properties, and low oxidative stability. This study aimed to enhance the physicochemical performance of collagen fiber–starch composite films by incorporating polyphenols (including tannic acid (TA), caffeic acid (CA), and their oxidized forms, OTA and OCA) as natural cross-linkers and antioxidants. Results showed that the addition of 0.1% TA increased the tensile strength by approximately 45% compared to the control, while simultaneously reducing the water vapor permeability from 1.32 to 1.26 g·mm/kPa·h·m², with TA outperforming CA due to its higher molecular weight and stronger intermolecular interactions. Oxidized polyphenols further improved the mechanical and water vapor barrier properties via quinone-induced covalent cross-linking, thereby forming a denser film network. The films also exhibited enhanced UV–visible light shielding, with nearly complete ultraviolet blockage (transmittance is close to zero in the 200–280 nm range). Non-oxidized polyphenols showed higher antioxidant activity in the ABTS and reducing power assays, while release kinetics analysis revealed the highest release rate in 50% ethanol, indicating a pronounced solvent-dependent behavior. Specifically, films with 0.1% TA exhibited an ABTS radical scavenging activity of over 80%, significantly higher than the control. Overall, polyphenols effectively improve film performance through cross-linking and structural modification, offering a theoretical foundation for designing active packaging for targeted food systems. Full article

Adjuvants are chemical substances used in vaccines to enhance immunogenicity. Among them, aluminum-based nanoparticles are some of the oldest and most widely employed adjuvants in vaccine formulations. A key function of aluminum adjuvants is thought to involve acting as an antigen depot, enabling slow antigen release and providing sufficient time for effective immune activation. Therefore, understanding antigen–adjuvant interactions is essential, as these interactions influence antigen stability, release kinetics, and overall vaccine performance. In this study, we investigated how the physicochemical properties of aluminum hydroxide nanoparticles modulate antigen–protein interactions and affect protein stability. Nanoparticles synthesized under acidic (pH » 5.0) to near-neutral (pH » 7.1) conditions exhibited lower crystallinity, reduced hydroxyl density, and higher interfacial hydration, whereas those prepared under basic conditions (pH » 9.0) displayed increased crystallinity, enriched surface hydroxyl groups, and markedly reduced hydration. Antigen proteins bound to low-crystallinity aluminum hydroxide nanoparticles showed improved thermal stability, while those associated with highly crystalline nanoparticles exhibited reduced thermal stability. Complementary ITC study further suggests that these stability differences are accompanied by changes in their interaction behavior. These findings indicate that the structural and interfacial properties of aluminum hydroxide nanoparticles strongly influence their interactions with antigen proteins and the resulting physical stability. Together, our results demonstrate that the balance among crystallinity, hydroxyl organization, and interfacial hydration governs the thermal behavior of antigen proteins adsorbed onto aluminum hydroxide. This work provides a rational design principle for engineering aluminum-based adjuvants that optimize antigen–protein stability in vaccine formulations. Full article

Background/Objectives: The main objective of optimizing the composition of dental implants is to improve tissue compatibility for enhanced biological/biochemical performance. In this context, research on the development of new titanium alloys in dental implantology considers the careful selection of alloying elements, both in terms of biocompatibility (their lack of toxicity) and their potential to improve the metallurgical processing capacity (thermal and/or thermomechanical), which through controlled microstructural changes lead to the optimal combination of properties for functionality and durability of the implant. The purpose of the research is to study the influence of alloying elements on the phase composition and physical–mechanical properties of experimental titanium alloys. Methods: Four alloys with original chemical compositions were developed, coded in the experiments as follows: Ti1, Ti2, Ti3, Ti4. The characterization of the alloys was carried out by detailed analysis of the chemical composition, phase structure and by testing the physico-mechanical properties (HV hardness, tensile strength, yield strength, elongation, modulus of elasticity), by standardized modern methods. Characterization methods, such as optical microscopy, SEM, EDS and XRD were performed, followed by tensile tests based on ASTM EB/EBM-22 and EN ISO 6892-1-2009 standards. Results: The research results provide information regarding the relationship between the composition and the physico-mechanical properties (Rm, Rp, HV, A, G, E) of the experimental alloys (Ti1–Ti4). Depending on the value level of the properties, these have been highlighted: compositions in which the alloy can be indicated for conditions of intense stress (Ti3), compositions that describe highly ductile alloys, easy to process and adapt to clinical requirements (Ti4), but also alloys compositions characterized by a balanced combination of strength, plasticity/ductility (Ti1, Ti2). Conclusions: Research for the development of new titanium alloys through the optimization of chemical composition has taken into account the requirements regarding the biological/biomechanical compatibility of biomaterials. Analyzed in comparison with Cp-Ti grade 4 and Ti6A4V, the experimental alloys (Ti1–Ti4) can be characterized as follows: The mechanical strength properties (Rm and Rp) are higher than those of pure commercial titanium (Cp-Ti grade 4) for all compositions Ti1–Ti4, but slightly lower than those of alloy Ti6Al4V. The plasticity–ductility properties have values comparable to those of Cp-Ti grade 4 (Ti4 and Ti2 compositions) and Ti6Al4V (Ti1 composition), with one exception, the Ti3 alloy. All four experimental alloys have a lower modulus of elasticity than Cp-Ti grade 4 (102–104 GPa) and Ti6Al4V (113 GPa), commonly used in dental implants. An in-depth analysis, which will also consider information on corrosion behavior and cellular testing, may support the selection of some of the four experimental alloys studied. The research aims to continue the progress to a higher level of testing, through the realization of dental implants (e.g., fatigue, wear, osteointegration capacity, etc.). Full article

The sustainable management and valorisation of agricultural and agro-industrial residues are essential to reduce environmental impacts, enhance resource efficiency, and support circular economy strategies. In Mediterranean regions, large quantities of residual biomass are annually produced from olive and citrus supply chains, representing promising feedstocks for biochar production. In this study, biochar was obtained at 600 °C in a fixed-bed reactor under a N₂ atmosphere from four representative feedstocks: olive pruning (OPr), citrus pruning (CPr), olive pomace (OPo), and citrus peel (CPe). The resulting biochar was characterized in terms of physico-chemical, energetic, and structural properties, including proximate and ultimate analyses, fuel properties, cation exchange capacity (CEC), pH, elemental ratios (O/C, H/C, N/C), thermal stability, bulk density, metal content, and surface morphology (SEM), in order to assess parameters relevant to environmental potential applications. The results highlighted clear feedstock-dependent differences. OPoB and CPeB exhibited the highest thermal stability (0.56–0.66), indicating a strong potential for long-term carbon sequestration. CPeB showed the highest CEC (47.2 cmol kg⁻¹). From an application-oriented perspective, this high CEC suggests that, when applied to soil at typical amendment rates (2–5 wt%), CPeB could potentially increase soil CEC by approximately 10–30%, thereby improving nutrient retention and cation availability. Energy yields were highest for citrus-derived biochar (42.0–47.5%), while OPoB exhibited the lowest solid yield due to its higher volatile content. SEM analysis revealed marked structural differences, with OPrB retaining an ordered lignocellulosic porous structure, whereas OPoB and CPeB displayed highly irregular morphologies, favorable for surface reactivity. Overall, this study demonstrates that olive and citrus residues are suitable feedstocks for producing biochar with differentiated properties, and that a rapid screening methodology can support feedstock selection and biochar design for targeted energy, soil amendment, and carbon management applications. Full article

Background/Objectives: Oleuropein is a bioactive phenolic compound from olive leaves with antimicrobial and antioxidant activity. This study aimed to develop a sprayable oral gel containing an oleuropein-rich aqueous extract and to evaluate its pharmaceutical performance antimicrobial efficacy and in ovo biological response. Methods: Oleuropein content was quantified using a validated chromatographic method. Polymeric systems were screened to select an optimized sprayable formulation. Physicochemical stability, dose uniformity, and antimicrobial activity against major cariogenic bacteria were evaluated. In ovo biological evaluation was conducted using the chick chorioallantoic membrane angiogenesis model together with histopathological examination of embryonic heart and liver tissues. Results: Oleuropein content was determined as 288.6 µg/mL in the olive leaf extract and 255.1 µg/mL in the final formulation. The optimized oral spray showed stable physicochemical properties, with pH maintained at 6.90 ± 0.02 and no relevant changes in viscosity during storage. The mean delivered dose per actuation was 0.128 ± 0.015 g, corresponding to 32.6 µg oleuropein per spray. The formulation exhibited inhibitory activity against all tested cariogenic microorganisms, with MIC values ranging from 13.3 to 170.7 µg/mL and MBC values generally two-fold higher. In the CAM assay, significant concentration- and time-dependent antiangiogenic effects were observed after 24–48 h at moderate and higher concentrations. Histopathological evaluation revealed dose-dependent acute degenerative and congestive changes in heart and liver tissues without evidence of fibrosis or steatosis. Conclusions: The oleuropein-based sprayable oral gel is a promising localized delivery system with adequate stability dose uniformity and antimicrobial efficacy. In ovo findings provide a conservative assessment of systemic exposure and support further development for oral biofilm and caries-related applications. Full article