Search Results (37,281)

The prospects for long-distance space flights are becoming increasingly realistic, and one of the key factors for their implementation is the creation of sustainable systems for producing food on site. Therefore, the aim of our work is to assess the prospects for using millet in biological life support systems and to create predictive models of yield components for automating plant cultivation control. The study found that stress from hypergravity (800 g, 1200 g, 2000 g, and 3000 g) in the early stages of millet germination does not affect seedlings or yield. In a closed system, millet yield reached 0.31 kg/m², the weight of 1000 seeds was 8.61 g, and the yield index was 0.06. The paper describes 40 quantitative traits, including six leaf and trichome traits and nine grain traits from the lower, middle and upper parts of the inflorescence. The compiled predictive regression equations allow predicting the accumulation of biomass in seedlings on the 10th and 20th days of cultivation, as well as the weight of 1000 seeds, the number of productive inflorescences, the total above-ground mass, and the number and weight of grains per plant. These equations open up opportunities for the development of computer vision and high-speed plant phenotyping programs that will allow automatic correction of the plant cultivation process and modeling of the required yield. Predicting biomass yield will also be useful in assessing the load on the waste-free processing system for plant waste at planetary stations. Full article

Among the various renewable-powered pathways for green hydrogen production, solar photovoltaic (PV) technology represents a particularly promising option due to its environmental sustainability, widespread availability, and declining costs. However, the inherent intermittency of solar irradiance presents operational challenges for electrolyzers, particularly in terms of stability and efficiency. This study presents a MATLAB-based dynamic model of an off-grid, DC-coupled solar PV-Anion Exchange Membrane (AEM) electrolyzer system, with a specific focus on realistically estimating hydrogen output. The model incorporates thermal energy management strategies, including electrolyte pre-heating during startup, and accounts for performance degradation due to load cycling. The model is designed for a comprehensive analysis of hydrogen production by employing a 10-year time series of irradiance and ambient temperature profiles as inputs. The results are compared with two simplified scenarios: one that does not consider the equipment response time to variable supply and another that assumes a fixed start temperature to evaluate their impact on productivity. Furthermore, to limit the effects of degradation, the algorithm has been modified to allow the non-sequential activation of the stacks, resulting in an improvement of the single stack efficiency over the lifetime and a slight increase in overall hydrogen production. Full article

Planting patterns and irrigation amounts are key factors affecting maize yield. This study adopted a two-factor experimental design, with planting pattern as the main plot and irrigation amount as the subplot, to investigate the effects of irrigation levels under different planting patterns (including uniform row spacing and alternating wide-narrow row spacing) on spring maize yield and water use efficiency in Xinjiang. Through this approach, the study examined the mechanisms by which planting pattern and irrigation amount influence maize growth, yield formation, and water use efficiency. Experiments conducted at the Agricultural Science Research Institute of the Ninth Division of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps demonstrated that alternating wide-narrow row spacing combined with moderate irrigation (5400 m³/hm²) significantly optimized maize root distribution, improved water use efficiency, and increased leaf area index and net photosynthetic rate, thereby promoting dry matter accumulation and yield enhancement. In contrast, uniform row spacing under high irrigation levels increased yield but resulted in lower water use efficiency. The study also found that alternating wide-narrow row spacing enhanced maize nutrient absorption from the soil, particularly phosphorus utilization efficiency, by improving canopy structure and root expansion. This pattern exhibited comprehensive advantages in resource utilization, providing a theoretical basis and technical pathway for achieving water-saving and high-yield maize production in arid regions, which holds significant importance for promoting sustainable agricultural development. Full article

This study investigates the potential of residual clays from a traditional ceramic-producing region in southern Portugal as raw materials for red ceramic applications. This work aims to support more sustainable ceramic practices through the local valorization of naturally available, underutilized clay resources. A multidisciplinary approach was employed to characterize clays, integrating mineralogical (XRD), chemical (XRF), granulometric, and thermal analyses (TGA/DTA/TD), as well as technological tests on plasticity, extrusion moisture, shrinkage, and flexural strength. These assessments were designed to capture both the intrinsic properties of the clays and their behavior across key ceramic processing stages, such as shaping, drying, and firing. The results revealed a broad diversity in mineral composition, particularly in the proportions of kaolinite, smectite, and illite, which strongly influenced plasticity, water demand, and thermal stability. Clays with higher fine fractions and smectitic content exhibited excellent plasticity and workability, though with increased sensitivity to drying and firing conditions. Others, with coarser textures and illitic or feldspathic composition, demonstrated improved dimensional stability and lower shrinkage. Thermal analyses confirmed expected dehydroxylation and sintering behavior, with the formation of mullite and spinel-type phases contributing to densification and strength in fired bodies. This study highlights that residual clays from varied geological settings can offer distinct advantages when matched appropriately to ceramic product requirements. Some materials showed strong potential for direct application in structural ceramics, while others may serve as additives or tempering agents in formulations. These findings reinforce the value of integrated characterization for optimizing raw material use and support a more circular, resource-conscious approach to ceramic production. Full article

In the current era, Indian agriculture faces a significant demand for increased food production, which has led to the integration of advanced technologies to enhance efficiency and productivity. Drones have emerged as transformative tools for enhancing precision agriculture, reducing costs, and improving sustainability. This study provides a comprehensive review of drone adoption in Indian agriculture by examining its effects on precision farming, crop monitoring, and pesticide application. This research evaluates technological advancements, regulatory frameworks, infrastructure, farmers’ perceptions, and the financial accessibility of drone technology in the Indian agricultural context. Key findings indicate that, while drone adoption enhances efficiency and sustainability, challenges such as high costs, lack of training, and regulatory barriers hinder widespread implementation. This paper also explores the growing market for agricultural drones in India, highlighting key industry players and projected market growth. Furthermore, it addresses regional differences in adoption rates and emphasizes the increasing social acceptance of drones among Indian farmers. To bridge the gap between potential and practice, the study proposes several policy and institutional recommendations, including government-led financial incentives, training programs, and public–private partnerships to facilitate drone integration. Moreover, this review article also highlights technological advancements, such as AI and IoT, in agriculture. Finally, open issues and future research directions for drones are discussed. Full article

Swietenia macrophylla King, commonly known as Brazilian mahogany, is a high-value neotropical tree species currently threatened due to intensive logging in previous decades. Technologies aimed at clonal production are essential for this species’ conservation and sustainable use at times of climate change and increasing demand for ecological restoration. The aim of the present study is to develop a low-cost protocol for mahogany clonal propagation through mini-cutting by assessing clonal mini-hedge nutrition, vegetative propagule type and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) application effects on rooting and early clone growth. The experiment was conducted in nursery under controlled conditions based on using basal and apical mini-cuttings rooted in a low-cost mini-greenhouse subjected to three nutrient solution concentrations (50%, 100%, and 200%) and five IBA doses (0–8000 ppm). The mini-cutting technique proved efficient and led to over 90% survival after the hardening phase. The 200% nutrient solution concentration allowed balanced performance between cutting types and optimized clonal yield. IBA concentration at 4000 ppm accounted for higher root percentages at the bottom of the tube and the trend towards higher dry biomass production at 160 days. The results highlighted mini-cutting’s potential as a viable mahogany conservation and sustainable production technique. It also supported tropical forestry sector adaptation to challenges posed by climate change. Full article

To develop sustainable strategies for mitigating ruminal methanogenesis and improving nitrogen efficiency in dairy systems, this study investigated how low-dose tannic acid (T), tea polyphenols (TP), and their combination (T+TP; 50:50) modulate rumen microbiota and function. A sample of Holstein cows were given four dietary treatments: (1) control (basal diet); (2) T (basal diet + 0.4% DM tannic acid); (3) TP (basal diet + 0.4% DM tea polyphenols); and (4) T+TP (basal diet + 0.2% DM tannic acid + 0.2% DM tea polyphenols). We comprehensively analyzed rumen fermentation, methane production, nutrient digestibility, milk parameters, and microbiota dynamics. Compared with the control group, all diets supplemented with additives significantly reduced enteric methane production (13.68% for T, 11.40% for TP, and 10.89% for T+TP) and significantly increased milk protein yield. The crude protein digestibility significantly increased in the T group versus control. The results did not impair rumen health or fiber digestion. Critically, microbiota analysis revealed treatment-specific modulation: the T group showed decreased Ruminococcus flavefaciens abundance, while all tannin treatments reduced abundances of Ruminococcus albus and total methanogens. These microbial shifts corresponded with functional outcomes—most notably, the T+TP synergy drove the largest reductions in rumen ammonia-N (34.5%) and milk urea nitrogen (21.1%). Supplementation at 0.4% DM, particularly the T+TP combination, effectively enhances nitrogen efficiency and milk protein synthesis while reducing methane emissions through targeted modulation of key rumen microbiota populations, suggesting potential sustainability benefits linked to altered rumen fermentation. Full article

Sustainable development and the circular economy have become key challenges in the modern food sector, calling for innovative solutions that reduce waste and promote the efficient use of resources. The aim of this study was to develop a functional food product by utilizing by-products from chokeberry processing, thereby contributing to circularity in food systems. The integration of design thinking with fermentation of chokeberry pomace is presented in this study as an approach to developing value-added food ingredients. Qualitative consumer research (focus group interviews, n = 36) identified preferences and expectations regarding functional foods containing by-products. Conducted by an interdisciplinary team, the project followed five stages, involving both qualitative and quantitative research. Liquid surface fermentation was performed using Aspergillus niger, selected for its proven ability to enhance the antioxidant capacity and polyphenol content of plant matrices. The optimal process was 2-day fermentation under controlled pH conditions with glucose supplementation, which significantly enhanced the quality and nutritional value of the final product. Antioxidant activity (ABTS, FRAP, CUPRAC assays), total polyphenols, anthocyanins, and proanthocyanidins were determined, showing significant increases compared to non-fermented controls. The outcome was the development of a dried, fermented chokeberry pomace product that meets consumer expectations and fulfils sustainability goals through waste reduction and innovative reuse of fruit processing by-products. Full article

Enhancing forage protein is key to sustainable ruminant nutrition. The nutritive value of Hedysarum coronarium L. was investigated by studying different preservation systems (fresh vs. dehydrated pellet vs. hay) (Exp. 1) and morphological fractions (flowers vs. leaves vs. stems) (Exp. 2). For the fresh and pelleted systems, two cuts were used. Proximately, total polyphenols and condensed tannins were detected. In vitro fermentation characteristics were studied by incubating samples with buffered sheep rumen fluid, estimating methane production by volatile fatty acids. Fresh and pelleted sulla were more nutritionally advantageous than hay, in terms of metabolizable energy and protein-to-fiber ratio. Pelleting at the beginning of flowering proved to be a suitable forage for sheep feeding due to protein (15.1% DM), metabolizable energy (9.64 MJ/kg DM), structural carbohydrates (39.5% DM), and total polyphenols (13.5 GAE g/kg DM) content. This cut showed an in vitro fermentation rate (9.86 mL/h), organic matter degradability (55.7%), and volatile fatty acids (87.3 mmoL/g) that were higher (p < 0.05) than hay. Flowers and leaves showed higher (p < 0.05) levels of secondary metabolites than stems as well as lower methane production. These results suggest the potential influence of these compounds in reducing rumen emissions. Dehydration and pelleting resulted in an effective preservation method for maintaining nutrients in sulla forage. Full article

Waste activated sludge (WAS), a byproduct of livestock wastewater treatment, poses significant disposal challenges due to its low biodegradability and potential environmental impact. Anaerobic digestion (AD) offers a sustainable approach for methane recovery and sludge stabilization. This study evaluates the biomethane potential (BMP) of WAS and its co-digestion with swine slurry (SS), water lily (Nymphaea spp.), and lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) shoot biomass to enhance methane yield. Batch BMP assays were conducted at substrate-to-inoculum (S/I) ratios of 1.0 and 0.5, with methane production kinetics analyzed using the modified Gompertz model. Mono-digestion of WAS yielded 259.35–460.88 NmL CH₄/g VS_added, while co-digestion with SS, water lily, and lotus increased yields by 14.89%, 10.97%, and 16.89%, respectively, surpassing 500 NmL CH₄/g VS_added. All co-digestion combinations exhibited synergistic effects (α > 1), enhancing methane production beyond individual substrate contributions. Lower S/I ratios improved methane yields and biodegradability, highlighting the role of inoculum availability. Co-digestion reduced the lag phase limitations of WAS and plant biomass, improving process efficiency. These findings demonstrate that co-digesting WAS with nutrient-rich co-substrates optimizes biogas production, supporting sustainable sludge management and renewable energy recovery in livestock wastewater treatment systems. Full article

Economic systems face critical challenges, including widening income inequality, unemployment driven by automation, mounting public debt, and environmental degradation. This study introduces Economocracy as a transformative framework aimed at addressing these systemic issues by integrating democratic principles into economic decision-making to achieve social equity, economic efficiency, and environmental sustainability. The research focuses on two core mechanisms: Economic Productive Resets (EPRs) and Economic Periodic Injections (EPIs). EPRs facilitate proportional redistribution of resources to reduce income disparities, while EPIs target investments to stimulate job creation, mitigate automion-related job displacement, and support sustainable development. The study employs a theoretical and analytical methodology, developing mathematical models to quantify the impact of EPRs and EPIs on key economic indicators, including the Gini coefficient for inequality, unemployment rates, average wages, and job displacement due to automation. Hypothetical scenarios simulate baseline conditions, EPR implementation, and the combined application of EPRs and EPIs. The methodology is threefold: (1) a mathematical–theoretical validation of the Cycle of Money framework, establishing internal consistency; (2) an econometric analysis using global historical data (2000–2023) to evaluate the correlation between GNI per capita, Gini coefficient, and average wages; and (3) scenario simulations and Difference-in-Differences (DiD) estimates to test the systemic impact of implementing EPR/EPI policies on inequality and labor outcomes. The models are further strengthened through tools such as OLS regression, and Impulse results to assess causality and dynamic interactions. Empirical results confirm that EPR/EPI can substantially reduce income inequality and unemployment, while increasing wage levels, findings supported by both the theoretical architecture and data-driven outcomes. Results demonstrate that Economocracy can significantly lower income inequality, reduce unemployment, increase wages, and mitigate automation’s effects on the labor market. These findings highlight Economocracy’s potential as a viable alternative to traditional economic systems, offering a sustainable pathway that harmonizes growth, social justice, and environmental stewardship in the global economy. Economocracy demonstrates potential to reduce debt per capita by increasing the efficiency of public resource allocation and enhancing average income levels. As EPIs stimulate employment and productivity while EPRs moderate inequality, the resulting economic growth expands the tax base and alleviates fiscal pressures. These dynamics lead to lower per capita debt burdens over time. The analysis is situated within the broader discourse of institutional economics to demonstrate that Economocracy is not merely a policy correction but a new economic system akin to democracy in political life. Full article

Seeds of Cucurbitaceae crops represent a promising yet underexplored source of bioactive compounds with potential applications beyond nutrition, particularly in the cosmetics industry. This review examines the seeds of Citrullus lanatus (watermelon), Cucumis melo (melon), and Cucurbita pepo (pumpkin), focusing on their biochemical composition and evaluating their functional value in natural cosmetic development. Although these fruits are widely consumed, industrial processing generates substantial seed by-products that are often discarded. These seeds are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, proteins, carbohydrates, and phytochemicals, positioning them as sustainable raw materials for value-added applications. The incorporation of seed-derived extracts into cosmetic formulations offers multiple skin and hair benefits, including antioxidant activity, hydration, and support in managing conditions such as hyperpigmentation, acne, and psoriasis. They also contribute to hair care by improving oil balance, reducing frizz, and enhancing strand nourishment. However, challenges such as environmental instability and low dermal permeability of seed oils have prompted interest in nanoencapsulation technologies to improve delivery, stability, and efficacy. This review summarizes current scientific findings and highlights the potential of Cucurbitaceae seeds as innovative and sustainable ingredients for cosmetic and personal care applications. Full article

The rapid development of digital technology is reshaping the global economic landscape. However, its impact on firms’ capacity utilization rate (CUR), particularly through technological innovation, remains unclear. This study investigates this issue by developing an endogenous growth model that connects digital technology to CUR. The empirical analysis is based on data from Chinese A-share manufacturing firms. The methods employed include quantile regression, instrumental variable techniques, and various tests to explore underlying mechanisms. CUR is calculated using a special model that looks at random variations, and digital transformation is assessed using text analysis powered by machine learning. The findings indicate that digital transformation significantly enhances CUR, especially for firms with average capacity utilization levels, but has a limited effect on low- and high-end firms. Moreover, technological innovation mediates this relationship; however, factors like “double arbitrage” (involving policy and capital markets) and “herd effects” tend to prioritize quantity over quality, which constrains innovation potential. Improvements in CUR lead to enhanced firm performance and productivity, generating industry spillovers and demonstrating the broader economic externalities of digitalization. This study uniquely applies endogenous growth theory to examine the role of digital transformation in optimizing CUR. It introduces the “quantity-quality” technology innovation paradox as a crucial mechanism and highlights industry spillovers to address overcapacity while offering insights for fostering sustainable economic and social development in emerging markets. Full article

This research contributes to advance the sustainable production of biofuels and provides insights into the energy and exergy assessment of bio-oil, which is essential for developing environmentally friendly energy production solutions. Energy and exergy analyses were performed to evaluate the pyrolysis of beech wood biomass at 500 °C in an Auger reactor. To improve the quality of the obtained bio-oil, its catalytic deoxygenation was performed within an in-line fluidized catalytic bed reactor using a catalyst based on HZSM5 zeolite modified with 5 wt.% Iron (5%FeHZSM-5). A thermodynamic analysis of the catalytic and non-catalytic pyrolysis system was carried out, as well as a comparative study of the calculation methods for the energy and exergy evaluation for bio-oil. The required heat for pyrolysis was found to be 1.2 MJ/kg_biomass in the case of non-catalytic treatment and 3.46 MJ/kg_biomass in the presence of the zeolite-based catalyst. The exergy efficiency in the Auger reactor was 90.3%. Using the catalytic system coupled to the Auger reactor, this efficiency increased to 91.6%, leading to less energy degradation. Calculating the total energy and total exergy of the bio-oil using two different methods showed a difference of 6%. In the first method, only the energy contributions of the model compounds, corresponding to the major compounds of each chemical family of bio-oil, were considered. In contrast, in the second method, all molecules identified in the bio-oil were considered for the calculation. The second method proved to be more suitable for thermodynamic analysis. The novelties of this work concern the thermodynamic analysis of a coupled system of an Auger biomass pyrolysis reactor and a fluidized bed catalytic deoxygenation reactor on the one hand, and the use of all the molecules identified in the oily phase for the evaluation of energy and exergy on the other hand. Full article

This study examines the adverse environmental impacts of solar photovoltaic parks located in established protected areas, aiming to determine the level of landscape fragmentation through the calculation of relevant landscape metrics. For this purpose, a case study was carried out in a Mediterranean Natura 2000 Special Protection Area (SPA), and landscape metrics were calculated using Geographic Information System spatial analysis tools. The analysis of metrics showed that the installation of renewable energy parks within the designated protected area negatively affect landscape fragmentation and the absence of carefully defined and evidence-based mitigation measures. The land cover categories that are significantly affected are those considered critical habitats of bird species that have been designated as SPAs. The results of this study highlight the need to integrate, in the National Renewable Energy Spatial Plans, specific biodiversity objectives, such as conservation objectives and the suspension of the installation of photovoltaic parks in certain areas that are important for conservation of biodiversity, in order to ensure the overall sustainability of renewable energy production. Full article