Search Results (1,385)

The windowpane oyster (Placuna placenta) is common in coastal areas of the Philippines, thriving in brackish waters. Its shells underpin the local craft industries. While its meat is edible, only small amounts are consumed locally, most going to waste. Utilization of this potential nutrient source is hindered by the lack of information concerning its organic and mineral content, the possible presence of heavy metal ions, and the risk of microbial pathogens. We report extensive analysis of the meat from Placuna placenta, harvested during three different seasons to account for potential variations. This comprises proximate analysis, mineral, antioxidant, and microbial analyses. While considerable seasonal variation was observed, the windowpane oyster was found to be a rich source of protein, fats, minerals, and carbohydrates, comparing well with the meats of other shellfish and land animals. Following pre-cooking (~90 °C, 25–30 min), the standard local method for food preparation, no viable E. coli or Salmonella sp. were detected. Mineral content was broadly similar to that reported in fish, although iron, zinc, and copper were more highly represented, nevertheless, heavy metals were below internationally acceptable levels, with the exception of one of three samples, which was slightly above the only current standard, FSANZ. Whether the arsenic was in the safer organic form, which is commonly the case for shellfish, or the more toxic inorganic form remains to be established. This and the variation of arsenic over time will need to be considered when developing food products. Overall, the meat of the windowpane oyster is a valuable food resource and its current (albeit low-level) use should lower any barriers to its acceptance, making it suitable for commercialization. The present data support its development for high-value food products in urban markets. Full article

This study proposes the SMR Smart Net-Zero City (SSNC) framework—a scalable model for achieving carbon neutrality by integrating Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), renewable energy sources, and sector coupling within a microgrid architecture. As deploying renewables alone would require economically and technically impractical energy storage systems, SMRs provide a reliable and flexible baseload power source. Sector coupling systems—such as hydrogen production and heat generation—enhance grid stability by absorbing surplus energy and supporting the decarbonization of non-electric sectors. The core contribution of this study lies in its real-time data emulation framework, which overcomes a critical limitation in the current energy landscape: the absence of operational data for future technologies such as SMRs and their coupled hydrogen production systems. As these technologies are still in the pre-commercial stage, direct physical integration and validation are not yet feasible. To address this, the researchers leveraged real-time data from an existing commercial microgrid, specifically focusing on the import of grid electricity during energy shortfalls and export during solar surpluses. These patterns were repurposed to simulate the real-time operational behavior of future SMRs (ProxySMR) and sector coupling loads. This physically grounded simulation approach enables high-fidelity approximation of unavailable technologies and introduces a novel methodology to characterize their dynamic response within operational contexts. A key element of the SSNC control logic is a day–night strategy: maximum SMR output and minimal hydrogen production at night, and minimal SMR output with maximum hydrogen production during the day—balancing supply and demand while maintaining high SMR utilization for economic efficiency. The SSNC testbed was validated through a seven-day continuous operation in Busan, demonstrating stable performance and approximately 75% SMR utilization, thereby supporting the feasibility of this proxy-based method. Importantly, to the best of our knowledge, this study represents the first publicly reported attempt to emulate the real-time dynamics of a net-zero city concept based on not-yet-commercial SMRs and sector coupling systems using live operational data. This simulation-based framework offers a forward-looking, data-driven pathway to inform the development and control of next-generation carbon-neutral energy systems. Full article

Nanofertilizers (NFs) and engineered nanoparticles (NPs) are increasingly used in agriculture, yet their environmental safety remains poorly understood. This study evaluated the comparative phytotoxicity of zinc oxide (ZnO), titanium dioxide (TiO₂), and clinoptilolite nanoparticles, three commercial nanofertilizers, and potassium dichromate (K₂Cr₂O₇) using Lactuca sativa seeds under adapted OECD-208 protocol conditions. Seeds were exposed to varying concentrations of each xenobiotic material (0.5–3% for NFs; 10–50% for NPs), with systematic assessment of seedling survival, root and hypocotyl length, dry biomass, germination index (GI), and median effective concentration (EC₅₀) values. Nanofertilizers demonstrated significantly greater phytotoxicity than engineered nanoparticles despite lower application concentrations. The toxicity ranking was established as NF1 > NF3 > NF2 > NM2 > NM1 > NM3, with NF1 being most toxic (EC₅₀ = 1.2%). Nanofertilizers caused 45–78% reductions in root length and 30–65% decreases in dry biomass compared with controls. GI values dropped to ≤70% in NF1 and NF3 treatments, indicating concentration-dependent growth inhibition. While nanofertilizers offer agricultural benefits, their elevated phytotoxicity compared with conventional nanoparticles necessitates rigorous pre-application safety assessment. These findings emphasize the critical need for standardized evaluation protocols incorporating both physiological and ecotoxicological endpoints to ensure safe xenobiotic nanomaterial deployment in agricultural systems. Full article

The movement towards low-emission and sustainable building practices has driven increased use of natural, carbon-based materials such as wood. While these materials offer significant environmental advantages, their inherent flammability introduces new challenges for timber building safety. Despite advancements in fire protection standards and building regulations, the risk of fire incidents—whether from technical failure, human error, or intentional acts—remains. The rapid detection of fire onset is crucial for safeguarding human life, animal welfare, and valuable assets. This study investigates the potential of monitoring fire precursor gases emitted inside building structures during pre-ignition and early combustion stages. The research also examines the sensitivity and effectiveness of commercial smoke detectors compared with custom sensor arrays in detecting these emissions. A representative structural sample was constructed and subjected to a controlled fire scenario in a laboratory setting, providing insights into the integration of gas sensing technologies for enhanced fire resilience in sustainable building systems. Full article

Surveillance of swine influenza A virus (swIAV) traditionally focuses on respiratory matrices, yet emerging evidence suggests that fecal shedding and secondary environmental contamination may also contribute to viral dissemination. In this study, we collected and analyzed nasal, rectal, environmental, milk, and colostrum samples from naturally infected pigs in a commercial farm in Minas Gerais, Brazil. IAV RNA was detected in 25% of samples, including 42% from asymptomatic animals, with nasal swabs showing higher detection rates (30%) than rectal swabs (20%), though rectal Ct values were consistently higher, indicative of lower viral loads. We successfully isolated viable viruses from feces and effluent samples. Whole-genome sequencing revealed co-circulation of enzootic pH1N1 clade #2 (HA) and pN1 clade #4 (NA), alongside human-origin H3N2 sequences clustering within clade 3C.2a1b.2a.2a.1, and N2 segments related to pre-3C human lineages from 2001 to 2002. Phylogenetic and p-distance analyses support both recent reverse zoonosis and historical transmission events. Detection of complete HA/NA sequences from rectal swabs and treated effluent further emphasizes the surveillance value of non-respiratory matrices. The integration of respiratory and fecal/environmental sampling appears important to achieve more comprehensive IAV monitoring in swine herds and may have significant implications for One Health strategies in Brazil and beyond. Full article

Effective transport strategies are critical for the survival and welfare of juvenile Ictalurus punctatus, but the effects of pre-transport salt bath treatments remain uncertain. In this study, we systematically evaluated the effects of pre-transport salt bath acclimation at 0‰ (S1), 1‰ (S2), 5‰ (S3), and 9‰ (S4) salinity for 30 min on stress resilience and recovery in fingerlings during 12 h of simulated transport and 24 h of recovery. All fish survived, but total ammonia nitrogen (TAN) increased, and pH decreased in all groups, except S3, which showed significantly lower TAN and higher pH (p < 0.05). The S3 and S4 groups showed attenuated increases in serum cortisol and glucose, with S3 exhibiting the fastest return to baseline levels and stable serum sodium and potassium levels. Liver antioxidant enzyme activities in group S3 remained stable, with the lowest malondialdehyde (MDA) accumulation. Integrated biomarker response (IBR) and histological analyses demonstrated that S3 had the lowest systemic stress and tissue damage, whereas S1 and S4 displayed marked cellular disruption. These results indicate that a 5‰ salt bath applied prior to transport may improve water quality, mitigate stress responses, and preserve tissue integrity in juvenile channel catfish. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings in other species and under commercial transport conditions. Full article

Background: Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is highly sensitive and specific for the rapid diagnosis of invasive fungal disease (IFD) but is not yet widely implemented due to concerns regarding limited standardisation between assays, the lack of commercial options and the absence of clear guidance on interpreting results. Objectives and Methods: This review provides an update on technical and clinical aspects of PCR for the diagnosis of the most pertinent fungal pathogens, including Aspergillus, Candida, Pneumocystis jirovecii, Mucorales spp., and endemic mycoses. Summary: Recent meta-analyses have demonstrated that quantitative PCR (qPCR) offers high sensitivity for diagnosing IFD, surpassing conventional microscopy, culture and most serological tests. The reported specificity of qPCR is likely underestimated due to comparison with imperfect reference standards with variable sensitivity. Although the very low limit of detection of qPCR can generate false positive results due to procedural contamination or patient colonisation (particularly in pulmonary specimens), the rates are comparable to those observed for biomarker testing. When interpreting qPCR results, it is essential to consider the pre-test probability, determined by the patient population, host factors, clinical presentation and risk factors. For patients with low to moderate pre-test probability, the use of sensitive molecular tests, often in conjunction with serological testing or biomarkers, can effectively exclude IFD when all tests return negative results, reducing the need for empirical antifungal therapy. Conversely, for patients with high pre-test probability and clinical features of IFD, qPCR testing on invasive specimens from the site of infection (such as tissue or bronchoalveolar lavage fluid) can confidently rule in the disease. The development of next-generation sequencing methods to detect fungal infection has the potential to enhance the diagnosis of IFD, but standardisation and optimisation are essential, with improved accessibility underpinning clinical utility. Full article

The rapid increase in the global population of older adults presents a significant challenge, but also a unique opportunity to leverage technological advancements for promoting independent living and well-being. This study introduces the CIREI framework, which is a comprehensive model designed to enhance the integration of smart home and assistive technologies specifically for pre-frail older adults. Developed through a systematic literature review and innovative and comprehensive co-design activities, the CIREI framework captures the nuanced needs, preferences, and challenges faced by older adults, caregivers, and experts. Key findings from the co-design workshop highlight critical factors such as usability, privacy, and personalised learning preferences, which directly influence technology adoption. These insights informed the creation of an intelligent middleware prototype named WISE-WARE, which seamlessly integrates commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) devices to support health management and improve the quality of life for older adults. The CIREI framework’s adaptability ensures it can be extended and refined to meet the ever-changing needs of the ageing population, providing a robust foundation for future research and development in user-centred technology design. All workshop materials, including tools and methodologies, are made available to encourage the further exploration and adaptation of the CIREI framework, ensuring its relevance and effectiveness in the dynamic landscape of ageing and technology. This research contributes significantly to the discourse on ageing in place, digital inclusion, and the role of technology in empowering older adults to maintain independence. Full article

Background: Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) has become a cornerstone of liquid biopsy applications, offering promise for early disease detection and monitoring. However, its widespread clinical adoption is limited by variability in pre-analytical processing, especially during isolation. Current extraction methods face challenges in yield, purity, and reproducibility. Methods: We developed and optimized SafeCAP 2.0, a novel magnetic bead-based cfDNA extraction kit, focusing on efficient recovery, minimal genomic DNA contamination, and PCR compatibility. Optimization involved systematic evaluation of magnetic bead chemistry, buffer composition, and reagent volumes. Performance was benchmarked against a commercial reference kit (Apostle MiniMax) using spiked oligonucleotides and plasma from patients with stage IV NSCLC. Results: The optimized protocol demonstrated superior recovery with a limit of detection (LoD) as low as 0.3 pg/µL and a limit of quantification (LoQ) of 1 pg/μL with no detectable PCR inhibition. In comparative studies, SafeCAP 2.0 showed equivalent or improved performance over the commercial kit. Clinical validation using 47 patient plasma samples confirmed robust cfDNA recovery and fragment integrity. Conclusions: SafeCAP 2.0 offers a cost-effective, high-performance solution for cfDNA extraction in both research and clinical workflows. Its design and validation address key pre-analytical barriers, supporting integration into routine diagnostics and precision medicine platforms. Full article

Breeding programs often overlook the use of root traits. Therefore, we investigated the relevance of sorghum root traits in explaining its adaptation to combined drought and heat stress (CDHS). Six (i.e., three pre-release lines + three checks) sorghum genotypes were established at two low-altitude (i.e., <600 masl) locations with a long-term history of averagely very high temperatures in the beginning of the summer season, under two management (i.e., CDHS and well-watered (WW)) regimes. At each location, the genotypes were laid out in the field using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) replicated two times. Root trait data, namely root diameter (RD), number of roots (NR), number of root tips (NRT), total root length (TRL), root depth (RDP), root width (RW), width–depth ratio (WDR), root network area (RNA), root solidity (RS), lower root area (LRA), root perimeter (RP), root volume (RV), surface area (SA), root holes (RH) and root angle (RA) were gathered using the RhizoVision Explorer software during the pre- and post-flowering stage of growth. RSA traits differentially showed significant (p < 0.05) correlations with grain yield (GY) at pre- and post-flowering growth stages and under CDHS and WW conditions also revealing genotypic variation estimates exceeding 50% for all the traits. Regression models varied between pre-flowering (p = 0.013, R² = 47.15%, R² Predicted = 29.32%) and post-flowering (p = 0.000, R² = 85.64%, R² Predicted = 73.30%) growth stages, indicating post-flowering as the optimal stage to relate root traits to yield performance. RD contributed most to the regression model at post-flowering, explaining 51.79% of the 85.64% total variation. The Smith–Hazel index identified ICSV111IN and ASAREACA12-3-1 as superior pre-release lines, suitable for commercialization as new varieties. The study demonstrated that root traits (in particular, RD, RW, and RP) are linked to crop performance under CDHS conditions and should be incorporated in breeding programs. This approach may accelerate genetic gains not only in sorghum breeding programs, but for other crops, while offering a nature-based breeding strategy for stress adaptation in crops. Full article

Carbon capture technologies are largely considered to play a crucial role in meeting the climate change and global warming target set by Net Zero Emission (NZE) 2050. These technologies can contribute to clean energy transitions and emissions reduction by decarbonizing the power sector and other CO₂ intensive industries such as iron and steel production, natural gas processing oil refining and cement production where there is no obvious alternative to carbon capture technologies. While the progress of carbon capture technologies has fallen behind expectations in the past, in recent years there has been substantial growth in this area, with over 700 projects at various stages of development. Moreover, there are around 45 commercial carbon capture facilities already in operation around the world in different industrial processes, fuel transformation and power generation. Carbon capture technologies including pre/post-combustion, oxyfuel and chemical looping combustion have been widely exploited in the recent years at different Technology Readiness level (TRL). Although, a large number of review studies are available addressing different carbon capture strategies, however, studies related to the commercial status of the carbon capture technologies are yet to be conducted. In this review article, we summarize the state-of-the-art of different carbon capture technologies applied to different emission sources, focusing on emission reduction, net-zero emission, and negative emission. We also highlight the commercial status of the different carbon capture technologies including economics, opportunities, and challenges. Full article

Food-borne botulism is a rare but serious disease caused by ingestion of botulinum neurotoxin pre-formed in food by Clostridium botulinum. Between 2006 and 2009, no foodborne botulism cases were reported in the UK. However, the period from 2010 to 2024 saw 13 cases, encompassing seven separate incidents and two outbreaks, with no reported fatalities. Cases were predominantly linked to imported, home-made, and artisanal foods, occasionally to commercial products. Diagnostic and public health challenges include delayed clinical diagnosis, delayed sample collection, inadequate specimen volumes, and the frequent unavailability of suspected food sources, hampering epidemiological investigations. The UK has an extremely low incidence of foodborne botulism with an estimated rate of 0.001 cases per 100,000 people per year, but despite this low occurrence, food botulism remains a public health emergency as it requires timely treatment and rapid reactive intervention to be undertaken by multiple regulatory agencies. Continuous professional training of medical staff, up-to-date clinical guidance, rapid diagnostic, and food investigations are essential for optimising patient outcomes and prevention. Full article

The impacts of renovation actions on pre- and post-retrofitting building performances are complex to analyse, particularly small and potentially self-actuated actions, such as adding insulation layers to a cold roof slab or changing doors. These interventions are widespread in small residential houses and cases where the owners are the residents. However, a large research gap currently remains regarding the impact of sustainable solutions on building performance. This study aims to address this issue by proposing a methodology based on commercial cloud monitoring solutions and middleware development that analyses and reports on the impact of such solutions to end users, allowing for an analysis of real variations in air temperature levels. The methodology is applied to two single/double-family residential houses, acting as demo cases for verification, across a multi-year time horizon. In both cases, measurements were conducted before and after typical limited renovation actions. Alongside the proposed methodology, descriptions of the smart solutions’ requirements are provided. The results mainly focus on temperature variations. Finally, the impact of the solutions on energy consumption was analysed for one of the buildings, and feedback was briefly provided by the users. Full article

This research investigates enhancing the performance of an Archimedes screw-type hydrokinetic turbine (ASHT). A 3D transient computational model employing the six degrees of freedom (6-DOF) methodology within the ANSYS Fluent software 2022 R1, was selected for this purpose. A central composite design (CCD) methodology was applied within the response surface methodology (RSM) to enhance the turbine’s power coefficient ($C_p$). Key independent factors, including blade length (L), blade inclination angle ($\gamma$), and external diameter ($D_e$), were systematically varied to determine their optimal values. The optimization process yielded a maximum $C_p$ of 0.337 for L, $\gamma$, and $D_e$ values of 168.921 mm, 51.341°, and 245.645 mm, respectively. Experimental validation was conducted in a hydraulic channel, yielding results that demonstrated a strong correlation with the numerical predictions. This research underscores the importance of geometric design optimization in improving the energy capture efficiency of the ASHT, contributing to its potential viability as a competitive renewable energy solution in the pre-commercial phase of development. Full article

Downy mildew, caused by Plasmopara viticola, is a major threat to grapevine (Vitis vinifera) cultivation in humid climates. Restrictions on synthetic pesticides and inconsistent efficacy of current biocontrol agents, especially under rainy conditions, complicate disease management. This study evaluated the potential of compost tea to suppress downy mildew in a two-year field experiment (2023 and 2024), combined with reduced synthetic fungicide applications. The study design compared two phytosanitary management strategies on a commercial vineyard: a conventional fungicide against a compost tea strategy supplemented with two cymoxanil applications. The experiment set up had three replicated blocks, each consisting of 100 plants for a total of 600 plants. Mechanistic insights were provided through controlled laboratory experiments involving pre- and post-infection leaf assays, vineyard bacteriome profiling, via 16S rRNA gene sequencing for bacterial communities, across vineyard compartments, i.e., bulk soil, rhizosphere, and phyllosphere, and grapevine metabolomic analysis by GC-MS analysis. Field trials demonstrated that compost tea combined with two fungicide applications effectively reduced disease severity, notably outperforming the fungicide alone in the particularly rainy year of 2023. Bacteriome analysis revealed that compost tea treatment enriched beneficial bacterial genera, including Pseudomonas, Sphingomonas, Enterobacter, Massilia, and Bacillus, known for their growth-promoting and biocontrol activity in the rhizosphere and phyllosphere. Laboratory assays on detached leaves further showed that compost tea alone could suppress both infection and sporulation of P. viticola. Metabolomic analysis highlighted the accumulation of compounds such as tartaric and shikimic acids in compost tea treated leaves, suggesting a potential role in induced resistance. The findings indicate that applying compost tea with reduced fungicide treatments represents a promising and sustainable strategy for managing grapevine downy mildew, even in challenging climates. Full article