Search Results (4,223)

Land desertification poses a major ecological challenge and threatens agricultural productivity. This study investigated the seed endophytic microbiomes of desert plants as a potential resource for mitigating salt stress in crops. Using high-throughput sequencing, we characterized the bacterial and fungal communities within seeds of 12 desert plant species. Dominant taxa included Firmicutes (particularly Bacillus), Bacteroidota, Proteobacteria, Ascomycota, and Basidiomycota. Culturable bacteria were subsequently isolated from Haloxylon ammodendron (C.A.Mey.) Bunge (HB) and Hedysarum scoparium Fisch. & C.A.Mey. (HSA) seeds. These isolates were screened for plant growth-promoting (PGP) traits and tolerance to salt (NaCl) and alkali (NaHCO₃). Selected strains, including the high indole-3-acetic acid (IAA)-producing Bacillus sp. HB-4, were used to inoculate wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under 150 mM NaCl or 150 mM NaHCO₃ stress. Inoculation with strain HB-4 significantly improved wheat growth under stress. This improvement was associated with increased chlorophyll and proline content, enhanced activities of the antioxidant enzymes catalase and peroxidase, and reduced levels of malondialdehyde, a marker of oxidative damage. Our results demonstrate that desert plant seeds harbor taxonomically distinct and functionally resilient endophytes. The successful application of a desert-adapted Bacillus strain to alleviate salt stress in wheat highlights the potential of such microbiomes as a novel source of inoculants for sustainable agriculture in saline-affected regions. Full article

Water is a critical resource underpinning natural, societal and economic development, and its importance will grow bigger in the next decades. Interfacial solar evaporators are a promising and cost-effective technology for the generation of freshwater from saline and polluted waters. Yet, although these devices effectively reject salts and non-volatile pollutants, the presence of volatile organic compounds in the water source may lead to low water quality of the distillate. This review addresses the introduction of photocatalytic materials in solar evaporator devices to improve water quality, highlighting in particular possible synergies and incompatibilities between the materials promoting these functionalities. The interactions of the photocatalyst with photothermal materials are described, along with an overview of the materials most commonly selected for both functionalities. A positive interaction clearly emerges, with the photothermal materials not only accelerating evaporation but also generally stimulating the photocatalytic degradation of VOCs. Limits to the implementation of such a combination are described, including those due to electrolyte content and salt accumulation, reaction rate and mass transfer. Finally, recommendations regarding testing conditions and future studies are presented. Full article

Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR), represent a promising tool for the development of sustainable agriculture practices. Although numerous strains have been described in the literature, their characterisation often overlooks the ability to sustain functional activity under common abiotic stress conditions, such as water deficit and high salinity. The present study aimed to isolate putative PGPR strains from different environmental and biological matrices, characterise their key plant growth-promoting traits, and evaluate their effectiveness in improving plant growth under water and salt stress conditions. The isolated strains were initially tested in vitro for phytohormone production, phosphate solubilisation, and siderophore production. Selected Bacillus and Pseudomonas strains exhibiting the most promising traits were tested in a preliminary greenhouse pot test using lettuce (Lactuca sativa), followed by assays under drought stress (50% water reduction) and salt stress (100 mM NaCl). The results demonstrated that the two Bacillus velezensis strains (PB_8 and CSS_12) significantly enhanced plant growth by increasing foliar biomass and root development improving pigment content, and mitigating stress-induced damage. Overall, these findings support the potential of PGPR-based strategies for low-impact agricultural practices and enhancing plant resilience under stress conditions. Full article

Superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) are materials that can absorb and retain water solutions with a mass of several hundred times greater than their own. This work aimed to synthesise and evaluate the effects of highly absorbent starch phosphate-g-poly(acrylic acid) copolymers on the microbiological activity of soils previously used for agriculture. The biopolymers studied were obtained by thermal and chemical oxidation of starch phosphates and copolymerized with potassium salts of acrylic acid. Basic physicochemical parameters were determined in the applied soil. Following SAP application, the basal respiration rate was measured at 22 °C with a constant soil moisture content of 60% WHC. The incubation time in constant temperature and moisture conditions was 78 days. After this period, their microbiological activity (microbial and organic phosphorus fractions) was assessed, thereby enabling the determination of the direction of change in the soil environment. The addition of SAP increases the soil’s water-holding capacity and respiration. The SP-g-PAA polymers serve as slow-release sources of potassium and phosphorus ions. These elements were bound to the polymer network by ionic and covalent bonds. Analysis of the results shows that within two weeks, 47–80% of the starch hydrogel undergoes microbial degradation. No differences were found in the content of labile forms of phosphorus in soils with SAP additions compared to soils without polymer additions. The use of modified starch reduces the consumption of vinyl monomers, while the resulting product is characterised by high absorbency and low water content, which reduces the amount of energy needed to obtain the finished product, thus contributing to sustainable development. Full article

This study systematically investigates the effects of varying Cl⁻/${\mathrm{S}\mathrm{O}}_4^{2-}$ concentration ratios in saline solutions on the drying shrinkage, mechanical properties, and microstructure evolution of a cementitious system under simulated saline–alkali conditions. The underlying influence mechanism is elucidated via TG-DTG, XRD, and SEM analyses. Experimental results indicate that increasing the Cl⁻/${\mathrm{S}\mathrm{O}}_4^{2-}$ concentration ratio of the mixing water from 0.2 to 2.5 leads to a significant rise in early-age drying shrinkage, with an increase of approximately 19%, while it simultaneously enhances the early-age compressive strength of the cementitious matrix, achieving increases of approximately 13% at 1 d, 14% at 3 d, 14% at 7 d, and stabilizing at about 7% by 28 d. Microscopic characterizations reveal that as the Cl⁻/${\mathrm{S}\mathrm{O}}_4^{2-}$ concentration ratio increases, the ettringite content decreases, the contents of Friedel’s salt and calcium hydroxide increase, and the cementitious microstructure accordingly becomes denser. This work aims to provide theoretical and experimental references for the durability design and performance optimization of cement-based materials in saline–alkali regions. Full article

Limonium irtaense is an endangered halophyte endemic to coastal Castellón (Spain). This study aimed to support its conservation by assessing the effects of salinity on seed germination and seedling performance, as well as plants’ physiological and biochemical responses to salt stress during early vegetative growth. Seed germination was tested in the presence of 0 to 300 mM NaCl, followed by recovery assays for non-germinated seeds. Seedlings were grown under three salinity levels, by irrigation with water (control), 300 mM NaCl or 600 mM NaCl. Growth parameters, photosynthetic pigments, osmolytes, ion contents, oxidative stress markers and antioxidant compounds were determined in plants derived from the initial germination tests and the recovery of germination assays and subjected to the different salt treatments. Germination was highest in distilled water and declined with increasing salinity; however, salt-inhibited seeds germinated rapidly and efficiently in the recovery assays. Seedlings from salt-primed seeds showed higher survival rates and biomass than those from control germination tests. Salt treatments significantly reduced growth, with plants derived from salt-treated seeds generally showing higher tolerance, probably because of enhanced proline accumulation, more efficient transport and sequestration of toxic ions in leaf vacuoles, and potassium retention. These findings provide insights into L. irtaense adaptation mechanisms and support using salt-priming to improve conservation and translocation efforts for this endangered species. Full article

Photobioreactor-based microalgae cultivation offers an integrated approach for nutrient-rich wastewater treatment while producing valuable biomass. One of the main microalgae components is proteins, making them a biotechnological target. In this work, to develop efficient and greener extraction methodologies, aqueous two-phase systems (ATPSs) based on natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs) were evaluated for one-step protein extraction from microalgae cultivated in swine wastewater. Six ATPSs combining two NADES—betaine:levulinic acid (Bet:2LA) and choline chloride:urea (ChCl:2Urea)—and their individual components (Bet or ChCl) with phosphate salts were compared. Systems {NADES + K₃PO₄ + water} were characterized and reported for the first time. Protein recovery yield (PRY) and selectivity (protein-to-carbohydrate mass ratio, R) were assessed for three extraction times and at room temperature. The ATPS {Bet:2LA + K₃PO₄ + H₂O} achieved a PRY of 16.4% and remarkable selectivity after 30 min (R = 2.17 g·g⁻¹), with proteins concentrated in the NADES-rich phase, and negligible recovery in the salt-rich phase. Although the maximum PRY (18.2% at 120 min) was achieved with the precursor betaine, the ATPS with Bet:2LA at 30 min offered an optimal balance between efficiency and process time. With a water content of up to 50%, these systems underscore the potential of NADES-based ATPSs as sustainable platforms for protein recovery. Full article

Although salt acclimation is a recognized strategy for improving crop salt tolerance, its specific role in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) remains unclear. This study investigated the effects of salt acclimation on enhancing salt tolerance in tomato seedlings through physiological and transcriptomic analyses. Here, we found that T3 acclimation treatment (irrigation with 14 mL of 7.5 g L⁻¹ NaCl solution per plant) effectively conferred enhanced salt tolerance in tomato seedlings, with plant height, stem diameter, leaf area, chlorophyll content, net photosynthetic rate, and soluble protein content increasing by 4.52, 5.13, 3.16, 10.78, 11.85, and 25.96%, respectively, compared with the control. T3 treatment also reduced oxidative damage and ionic stress, as evidenced by reduced electrolyte leakage, lower malondialdehyde content, and a decreased root Na⁺/K⁺ ratio, while simultaneously boosting antioxidant enzyme activities. Membership function analysis confirmed T3 as the optimal treatment, with a 9 d duration consistently benefiting multiple cultivars. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that salt acclimation upregulated genes associated with phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, lignin catabolic process, and peroxidase activity, suggesting that these pathways might mediate acclimation-induced salt tolerance through promoting lignin biosynthesis to reduce Na⁺/K⁺ ratio and enhancing reactive oxygen species’ scavenging capacity to maintain cellular homeostasis. Our results indicate that tomato seedlings acclimated with 14 mL of 7.5 g L⁻¹ NaCl solution per plant for 9 d significantly improves salt tolerance through coordinated physiological adjustments and transcriptional reprogramming. Full article

Polylactide (PLA) composites were prepared and doped with starch (10% by weight), and mineral salts used as mineral fertilisers (MgSO₄, KNO₃, Ca(NO₃)₂ and Ca₃(PO₄)₂) were prepared. The content of the added fertilisers was 2% by mass in the composites. The tensile strength properties of the obtained composites were tested. The effect of the addition of fertilisers on the structure of polylactide was analysed using spectroscopic methods (FTIR and FTRaman). The thermal properties of the obtained composites were tested using thermogravimetry (TG/DTG) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). PLA composites with fertilisers were tested for biodegradability in two types of soil—field soil and horticultural soil—and in compost. Biodegradability was assessed based on the mass loss of biodegraded composites, spectroscopic tests and visual assessment of changes occurring in the composites. Tests were performed on the respiratory activity of microorganisms in the compost extract in which the tested composites were placed. The addition of mineral salts used in the tested composites significantly influenced the biodegradation rate of the composites. Mineral compounds (MgSO₄, KNO₃ and Ca(NO₃)₂) added to the PLA–starch composite improve its mechanical properties. It should also be noted that the addition of mineral salts to the prepared composites did not affect the chemical structure of polylactide. The addition of mineral salts to PLA also did not significantly affect its thermal properties, as demonstrated by DSC and TG thermal analysis. Full article

Moisture damage severely compromises the material properties, structural integrity, and decorative layer integrity of historic buildings, presenting a critical technical challenge in architectural heritage conservation. Electromagnetic wave dehumidification technology has garnered attention for its minimal intervention, low cost, and high efficiency, yet its practical engineering applications remain limited. This paper categorizes electromagnetic wave dehumidification devices into two main types based on their active moisture removal capability: “water-blocking type” and “dewatering type”. Research indicates that electromagnetic wave dehumidification devices utilizing electroosmosis principles require precise control of electric field strength (≥40 V/m) and Joule effect, making them more suitable for historic buildings where the material surface carries a net negative charge and low salt content. Among moisture-blocking devices, those neutralizing water molecules perform best during humidity maintenance phases. Devices that primarily alter the structure of water molecules struggle to meet heritage dehumidification requirements. Experimental analysis indicates that external factors like moisture sources and seasonal environments significantly influence technical evaluations. This paper recommends that future research should optimize experimental design, strengthen comparative studies, and explore composite mechanisms to enhance the systematic reliability of electromagnetic wave dehumidification technology in architectural heritage conservation. This research helps to clarify some of the conceptual uncertainties associated with the use of electromagnetic wave dehumidification technology. Furthermore, it proposes a principle-based experimental framework that can be used to guide future experimental designs and the application of this technology in the field of cultural heritage preservation. Full article

Soil salinization threatens crop production; however, in multi-crop field systems, evidence for the effectiveness of waste biomass-functional microorganism composite amendments remains limited. Here, we developed a composite microbial soil conditioner (F2) using pine needles and crushed corn cobs as carriers combined with salt-tolerant strains Bacillus subtilis (K1), Azotobacter chroococcum (Y1), and Bacillus gelatinus (J3) to remediate moderately saline-alkali soil from central Gansu (pH 8.36 ± 0.18; EC 1658 ± 55.24 μS·cm⁻¹). Saturation screening identified an optimal carrier ratio of pine needles:corn cobs = 1:2 and an inoculum ratio of K1:Y1:J3 = 1:2:1. In pot experiments, F2 increased soil organic matter and water-holding capacity, enhanced alkaline phosphatase, urease, and sucrase activities, and significantly reduced soil pH and EC. Maize seedling height and chlorophyll content increased by 53.87% and 38.88%, respectively. Amplicon-based microbiome profiling indicated enrichment of beneficial microbial taxa and strengthened primary metabolic functions under F2. Field validation across five crops (flax, potato, edible sunflower, sorghum, and maize) showed consistent growth and yield-related improvements. Overall, these results demonstrate that the biomass–microbe composite amendment effectively alleviates saline-alkali constraints by jointly improving soil properties, microbial functions, and crop performance. Full article

The edible and sensory quality of fermented fish products, particularly the formation of garlic clove-structured muscle flakes (GCMF), play critical roles in consumer acceptance and consumption. Herein, aiming to obtain the optimal technical process, this study systematically explored the generation and dynamic evolution of GCMF structure of fermented mandarin fish, especially the integrity and peeling properties of GCMF, which would profoundly determine the textural properties of fish flesh. Meanwhile, flavor profiles were also concentrated during the formation of GCMF. Specifically, our results showed that the optimal fermentation conditions were 3% salt concentration and 7 days of fermentation at 7 °C. Under these conditions, the physicochemical indicators (moisture, pH, TVB-N) of the fermented fish remained within reasonable ranges and the sensory score; peeling integrity of GCMF and the texture properties reached the highest values. In addition, with the increase in fermentation time, the content of undesirable flavor compounds, especially nonanal and 1-octen-3-ol, gradually decreased. Overall, these findings provide a theoretical framework for the evaluation of GCMF structure and for understanding flavor development in fermented mandarin fish, thereby laying a foundation for improved quality control of fermented fish products. Full article

Saline–alkali stress is one of the important abiotic stresses, which affect plant growth and development. However, the understanding of miRNA pathways in different saline–alkali stress is still limited. In order to better understand the salt–alkali stress response mechanism of wheat, we analyzed miRNA transcription levels in two wheat varieties differing in saline–alkali tolerance (Qingmai 6, QM, tolerant; Meisheng 0308, MS, sensitive) under mixed saline–alkali stress (150 mmol·L¹ and 300 mmol·L¹) for 7 days. High-throughput sequencing identified 11,368 miRNAs (106 conserved, 11,262 non-conserved), among which four miRNAs (miR9653b, miR5384-3p, miR9777, and miR531) exhibited a consistent expression trend across both varieties and all stress concentrations. Additionally, a potential miRNA-mediated regulatory network (including miR408 and miR1135) was predicted to regulate reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism via cytochrome P450, plant hormone signal transduction, and MAPK pathways. Saline–alkali-tolerant and sensitive wheat cultivars exhibited distinct miRNA expression patterns under stress. QM maintained higher contents of non-enzymatic antioxidants (ascorbic acid, AsA; reduced glutathione, GSH) and activities of key antioxidant enzymes (ascorbate peroxidase, APX; glutathione reductase, GR), which contributed to balanced ROS homeostasis and enhanced saline–alkali tolerance. Full article

Salt stress is one of the main abiotic stresses that restrict crop production. Melatonin (MT), a signal molecule widely present in plants, plays an important role in regulating abiotic stress response. In this study, celery seedlings were used as experimental materials, and the control, salt stress, and exogenous MT treatment groups under salt stress were set up. Through phenotypic, physiological index determination, transcriptome sequencing, and expression analysis, the alleviation effects of MT on salt stress were comprehensively investigated. The results showed that exogenous MT treatment significantly reduced seedling growth inhibition caused by salt stress. Physiological measurements showed that MT significantly reduced malondialdehyde content, increased the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT), promoted the accumulation of free proline and soluble protein, and increased photosynthetic parameters such as chlorophyll, ΦPSII, Fv/Fm, and ETR. Transcriptome analysis showed that MT regulates the expression of several genes associated with carbon metabolism, including β-amylase gene (AgBAM), sucrose-degrading enzyme genes (AgSUS, AgINV), and glucose synthesis-related genes (AgAG, AgEGLC, AgBGLU). The results of qRT-PCR verification were highly consistent with the transcriptome sequencing data, revealing that MT synergistically regulates starch and sucrose metabolic pathways, and effectively alleviates the damage of celery seedlings under salt stress at the molecular level. In summary, exogenous MT significantly improved the salt tolerance of celery by enhancing antioxidant capacity, maintaining photosynthetic function, promoting the accumulation of osmotic adjustment substances, and synergistically regulating carbon metabolism-related pathways. The concentration of 200 μM was identified as optimal, based on its most pronounced alleviating effects across the physiological parameters measured. This study provides an important theoretical basis for utilizing MT to enhance plant salt resistance. Full article

Targeted synthesis of Ni/C-containing composite materials was carried out using the matrix isolation method. The Ni content was varied (5–20 wt.% from chitosan). The morphology and physicochemical properties of the obtained materials were characterized using a number of methods: elemental analysis, SEM, TEM, XRD, FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, TPR–H₂, and SSA. FTIR showed that nickel ions are immobilized on the chitosan molecule, and heat treatment of the polymer molecule results in the formation of polyconjugation centers. It was also revealed that heat treatment of the salt–polymer films results in the formation of a graphite-like structure (Raman spectroscopy) with the inclusion of nickel in metallic form (XRD, TPR–H₂), with a particle size from 2 to 10 nm (TEM). The composites were shown to have a SSA of up to 269 m²/g. The resulting composite materials were used as catalysts for the decomposition of methane to produce hydrogen. High activity was observed in the catalytic methane decomposition at 700 °C (methane conversion up to 25.8%; hydrogen yield up to 1.98 g_H2/g_Ni/h). Full article