Search Results (9,047)

The stability of nitrogen gas foam hinders its applicability in petroleum applications. Fly ash nanoparticles and clay improve the N₂ foam stability, and flue gas foams provide a cost-effective solution for carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS). This study examines the stability, volume, and bubble structure of foams formed using two anionic surfactants, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate (SDBS), along with the cationic surfactant cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), selected for their comparable interfacial tension properties. Analysis of foam stability and volume and bubble structure was conducted under different CO₂/N₂ mixtures, with half-life and initial foam volume serving as the evaluation criteria. The impact of fly ash and clay on SDS-N₂ foam was also evaluated. The results showed that foams created with CTAB, SDBS, and SDS exhibit the greatest stability in pure nitrogen, attributed to low solubility in water and limited gas diffusion. SDS showed the highest foam strength attributable to its comparatively low surface tension. The addition of fly ash and clay significantly improved foam stability by migrating to the gas–liquid interface, creating a protective barrier that reduced drainage. Both nano fly ash and clay improved the half-life of nitrogen foam by 11.25 times and increased the foam volume, with optimal concentrations identified as 5.0 wt% for fly ash and 3.0 wt% for clay. This research emphasizes the importance of fly ash nanoparticles in stabilizing foams, therefore optimizing a foam system for enhanced oil recovery (EOR). Full article

Introduction: Osteoarthritis (OA), a leading cause of disability among the elderly, is characterized by progressive joint tissue destruction. Fucoidan, a sulfated polysaccharide with known anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, has been investigated for its potential to protect against interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β)-induced articular tissue damage. Methods: Human primary chondrocytes and synovial fibroblasts were pre-treated with 100 μg/mL fucoidan before stimulation with 1 ng/mL of IL-1β. The protective effects of fucoidan were assessed by measuring oxidative stress markers and catabolic enzyme levels. These in vitro findings were corroborated using a rat anterior cruciate ligament transection-induced OA model. To explore the underlying mechanisms, particularly the interaction between microRNAs (miRs) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), five candidate miRs were identified in silico and experimentally validated. Luciferase reporter assays were used to confirm direct interactions. Results: Fucoidan exhibited protective effects against IL-1β-induced oxidative stress and catabolic processes in both chondrocytes and synovial fibroblasts, consistent with in vivo observations. Fucoidan treatment restored HO-1 expression while reducing inducible nitric oxide synthase and matrix metalloproteinase levels in IL-1β-stimulated cells. Notably, this study revealed that fucoidan modulates the miR-22/HO-1 pathway, a previously uncharacterized mechanism in OA. Specifically, miR-22 was upregulated by IL-1β and subsequently attenuated by fucoidan. Luciferase reporter assays confirmed a direct interaction between miR-22 and HO-1. Conclusion: The results demonstrate that fucoidan mitigates OA-related oxidative stress in chondrocytes and synovial fibroblasts through the novel modulation of the miR-22/HO-1 axis. The miR-22/HO-1 pathway represents a crucial therapeutic target for OA, and fucoidan may offer a promising therapeutic intervention. Full article

Green synthesis of copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles offers a sustainable alternative to conventional chemical methods that often involve toxic reagents and harsh conditions. This study investigates the use of Tithonia diversifolia, an invasive species in Sri Lanka, as a bioreductant for the eco-friendly fabrication of CuO nanoparticles. Using copper sulfate (CuSO₄·5H₂O) as a precursor, eight treatments were conducted by varying precursor concentration, temperature, and reaction time to determine optimal conditions. A visible color change in the reaction mixture initially indicated nanoparticle formation. Among all the conditions, treatment T4 (5 mM CuSO₄, 80 °C, 2 h) yielded the most favorable results in terms of stability, morphology, and crystallinity. UV-Vis spectroscopic analysis confirmed the synthesis, with absorbance peaks between 265 and 285 nm. FTIR analysis revealed organic functional groups and characteristic metal–oxygen vibrations in the fingerprint region (500–650 cm⁻¹), confirming formation. SEM imaging showed that particles were mainly spherical to polygonal, averaging 125–150 nm. However, dynamic light scattering showed larger diameters (~240 nm) due to surface capping agents. Zeta potential values ranged from −16.0 to −28.0 mV, indicating stability. XRD data revealed partial crystallinity with CuO-specific peaks. These findings support the potential of T. diversifolia in green nanoparticle synthesis, suggesting a low-cost, eco-conscious strategy for future applications. Full article

Heavy metal contamination in freshwater ecosystems poses persistent threats to aquatic organisms and public health. This study evaluates the transgenerational toxicity of cadmium chloride and copper sulfate on Culex pipiens, focusing on development, reproduction, and midgut histopathology over two successive generations. Larval bioassays showed cadmium chloride to be more toxic than copper sulfate, with early instars exhibiting higher sensitivity (LC₅₀ = 8.66 μg/L for Cd; 175.63 μg/L for Cu). Both metals significantly delayed larval and pupal development, reduced fecundity, and decreased egg hatchability in a dose-dependent manner. Histopathological examination revealed midgut epithelial degeneration, vacuolation, and brush border loss, with copper sulfate inducing more severe cytotoxicity. These findings confirm that sublethal, chronic metal exposure can impair physiological and reproductive traits across generations. Moreover, this study highlights the utility of mosquitoes as sensitive bioindicators of aquatic pollution, and underscores the long-term ecological implications of heavy metal contamination on vector dynamics and disease transmission. Full article

Herein, α-MnO₂-supported Pt-Pd bimetal (xPd-yPt/α-MnO₂; x and y are the weight loadings (wt%) of Pd and Pt, respectively; x = 0, 0.23, 0.47, 0.93, and 0.92 wt%; and y = 0.91, 0.21, 0.46, 0.89, and 0 wt%) catalysts were prepared using the polyvinyl alcohol-protected NaBH₄ reduction method. The physicochemical properties of the catalysts were determined by means of various techniques and their catalytic activities for toluene oxidation were evaluated. It was found that among the xPd-yPt/α-MnO₂ samples, 0.93Pd-0.89Pt/α-MnO₂ showed the best catalytic performance, with the toluene oxidation rate at 156 °C (r_cat) and space velocity = 60,000 mL/(g h) being 6.34 × 10⁻⁴ mol/(g s), much higher than that of 0.91Pt/α-MnO₂ (1.31 × 10⁻⁴ mol/(g s)) and that of 0.92Pd/α-MnO₂ (6.13 × 10⁻⁵ mol/(g s)) at the same temperature. The supported Pd-Pt bimetallic catalysts possessed higher Mn³⁺/Mn⁴⁺ and O_ads/O_latt molar ratios, which favored the enhancement in catalytic activity of the supported Pd-Pt bimetallic catalysts. Furthermore, the 0.47Pd-0.46Pt/α-MnO₂ sample showed better resistance to sulfur dioxide poisoning. The partial deactivation of 0.47Pd-0.46Pt/α-MnO₂ was attributed to the formation of sulfate species on the sample surface, which covered the active site of the sample, thus decreasing its toluene oxidation activity. In addition, the in situ DRIFTS results demonstrated that benzaldehyde and benzoate were the intermediate products of toluene oxidation. Full article

Hericium coralloides is a highly valued gourmet and medicinal species with growing market demand across East Asia, though industrial production remains limited by cultivation challenges. This study investigated the molecular characteristics, biological traits, domestication potential, and cultivation protocols of Hericium coralloides strains collected from the Changbaishan Nature Reserve (Jiling, China). Optimal conditions for mycelial growth included mannose as the preferred carbon source, peptone as the nitrogen source, 30 °C incubation temperature, pH 5.5, and magnesium sulfate as the essential inorganic salt. The fruiting bodies had a protein content of 2.43% g/100 g (fresh sample meter). Total amino acids comprised 53.3% of the total amino acid profile, while essential amino acids accounted for 114.11% relative to non-essential amino acids, indicating high nutritional value. Under optimized domestication conditions—70% hardwood chips, 20% cottonseed hulls, 8% bran, 1% malic acid, and 1% gypsum—bags reached full colonization in 28 days, with a 15-day maturation phase and initial fruiting occurring after 12–14 days. The interval between flushes was 10–12 days. The average yield reached 318.65 ± 31.74 g per bag, with a biological conversion rate of 63.73%. These findings demonstrate that Hericium coralloides possesses significant potential for edible and commercial applications. This study provides a robust theoretical foundation and resource reference for its artificial cultivation, supporting its broader industrial and economic utilization. Full article

Compared with vanadium extraction by sodium roasting followed by water leaching, the calcification roasting–sulfuric acid leaching method is considered a promising approach for the comprehensive utilization of vanadium titanomagnetite, as it avoids the introduction of alkali metals. However, during vanadium extraction by sulfuric acid heap leaching, the diffusion of leaching reagents and leaching products was hindered by the deposition of leaching solid products. To address this issue, this study systematically investigated the leaching kinetics and the mechanisms underlying the deposition of leaching solid products. The results indicated that vanadium leaching was governed by a combination of liquid film diffusion and internal diffusion through solid-phase products during days 0–2, and by internal diffusion alone from day 2 to day 9. The primary solid products formed during leaching were calcium sulfate and silica gel. Calcium sulfate precipitated and grew within the pore via two-dimensional nucleation, while silicates formed silica gel through dehydration. By optimizing the sulfuric acid leaching conditions—specifically, maintaining an H⁺ concentration of 2 mol/L, a leaching temperature of 40 °C, and a liquid-to-solid ratio of 5:1—the formation of calcium sulfate and silica gel was effectively suppressed. Under these conditions, the vanadium leaching efficiency reached 75.82%. Full article

The continuous occurrence of steroidal pharmaceutical dexamethasone (DXM) in aqueous environments indicates the need for an efficient removal technology. The frequent detection of DXM in surface water could be substantially reduced by the application of photo-induced advanced oxidation technology. In the present study, Fe²⁺ and UVA-light activated peroxo compounds were applied for the degradation and mineralization of a glucocorticoid, 25.5 µM DXM, in ultrapure water (UPW). The treatment efficacies were validated in real spring water (SW). A 120 min target pollutant degradation followed pseudo first-order reaction kinetics when an oxidant/Fe²⁺ dose 10/1 or/and UVA irradiation were applied. Acidic conditions (a pH of 3) were found to be more favorable for DXM oxidation (≥99%) regardless of the activated peroxo compound. Full conversion of DXM was not achieved, as the maximum TOC removal reached 70% in UPW by the UVA/H₂O₂/Fe²⁺ system (molar ratio of 10/1) at a pH of 3. The higher efficacy of peroxymonosulfate-based oxidation in SW could be induced by chlorine, bicarbonate, and carbonate ions; however, it is not applicable for peroxydisulfate and hydrogen peroxide. Overall, consistently higher efficacies for HO^•-dominated oxidation systems were observed. The findings from the current paper could complement the knowledge of oxidative removal of low-level DXM in real water matrices. Full article

Background/Objectives: In recent years, the discharge of antibiotics into rivers and irrigation canals has increased. However, few studies have addressed the impact of these compounds on agricultural fields that use such water to meet crop demands. Methods: In this study, the transport of two types of gentamicin (pure gentamicin and gentamicin sulfate) was modeled at concentrations of 150 and 300 μL/L, respectively, in a soil with more than 60 years of agricultural use. Infiltration tests under constant head conditions and gentamicin transport experiments were conducted in acrylic columns measuring 14 cm in length and 12.7 cm in diameter. The scaling parameters for the Richards equation were obtained from experimental data, while those for the advection–dispersion equation were estimated using inverse methods through a nonlinear optimization algorithm. In addition, a fractal-based model for saturated hydraulic conductivity was employed. Results: It was found that the dispersivity of gentamicin sulfate is 3.1 times higher than that of pure gentamicin. Based on the estimated parameters, two simulation scenarios were conducted: continuous application of gentamicin and soil flushing after antibiotic discharge. The results show that the transport velocity of gentamicin sulfate in the soil may have short-term consequences for the emergence of resistant microorganisms due to the destination of wastewater containing antibiotic residues. Conclusions: Finally, further research is needed to evaluate the impact of antibiotics on soil physical properties, as well as their effects on irrigated crops, animals that consume such water, and the soil microbiota. Full article

The global cement industry remains a significant contributor to carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions, prompting substantial research efforts toward sustainable construction materials. Lithium slag (LS), a by-product of lithium extraction, has attracted attention as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM). This review synthesizes experimental findings on LS replacement levels, fresh-state behavior, mechanical performance (compressive, tensile, and flexural strengths), time-dependent deformation (shrinkage and creep), and durability (sulfate, acid, abrasion, and thermal) of LS-modified concretes. Statistical analysis identifies an optimal LS dosage of 20–30% (average 24%) for maximizing compressive strength and long-term durability, with 40% as a practical upper limit for tensile and flexural performance. Fresh-state tests show that workability losses at high LS content can be mitigated via superplasticizers. Drying shrinkage and creep strains decrease in a dose-dependent manner with up to 30% LS. High-volume (40%) LS blends achieve up to an 18% gain in 180-day compressive strength and >30% reduction in permeability metrics. Under elevated temperatures, 20% LS mixes retain up to 50% more residual strength than controls. In advanced systems—autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC), one-part geopolymers, and recycled aggregate composites—LS further enhances both microstructural densification and durability. In particular, LS emerges as a versatile SCM that optimizes mechanical and durability performance, supports material circularity, and reduces the carbon footprint. Full article

Osteoarthritis (OA) remains a major contributor to pain and disability; however, the current management is largely reactive, focusing on symptoms rather than preventing irreversible cartilage loss. This review first examines the mechanistic foundations for pharmacological chondroprotection—illustrating how conventional agents, such as glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate, can potentially restore extracellular matrix (ECM) components, may attenuate catabolic enzyme activity, and might enhance joint lubrication—and explores the delivery challenges posed by avascular cartilage and synovial diffusion barriers. Subsequently, a practical “What–How–When” framework is introduced to guide community pharmacists in risk screening, DMOAD selection, chronotherapeutic dosing, safety monitoring, and lifestyle integration, as exemplified by the CHONDROMOVING infographic brochure designed for diverse health literacy levels. Building on these strategies, the P4–4P Chondroprotection Framework is proposed, integrating predictive risk profiling (physicians), preventive pharmacokinetic and chronotherapy optimization (pharmacists), personalized biomechanical interventions (physiotherapists), and participatory self-management (patients) into a unified, feedback-driven OA care model. To translate this framework into routine practice, I recommend the development of DMOAD-specific clinical guidelines, incorporation of chondroprotective chronotherapy and interprofessional collaboration into health-professional curricula, and establishment of multidisciplinary OA management pathways—supported by appropriate reimbursement structures, to support preventive, team-based management, and prioritization of large-scale randomized trials and real-world evidence studies to validate the long-term structural, functional, and quality of life benefits of synchronized DMOAD and exercise-timed interventions. This comprehensive, precision-driven paradigm aims to shift OA care from reactive palliation to true disease modification, preserving cartilage integrity and improving the quality of life for millions worldwide. Full article

The purpose of this work was to obtain specialized enrichment cultures from an original extreme acidophilic consortium of extremely acidophilic microorganisms and to study their microbial community composition and biotechnological potential. At temperatures of 25, 35, 40 and 50 °C, distinct enrichments of extremely acidophilic microorganisms used in the processes of bioleaching sulfide ores were obtained using nutrient media containing ferrous sulfate, elemental sulfur and a copper sulfide concentrate as nutrient inorganic substrates, with and without the addition of 0.02% yeast extract. The microbial community composition was studied using the sequencing of the V3–V4 hypervariable region of the 16S rRNA genes. The different growth conditions led to changes in the microbial composition and relative abundance of mesophilic and moderately thermophilic, strict autotrophic and mixotrophic microorganisms in members of the genera Acidithiobacillus, Sulfobacillus, Leptospirillum, Acidibacillus, Ferroplasma and Cuniculiplasma. The dynamics of the oxidation of ferrous iron, sulfur, and sulfide minerals (pyrite and chalcopyrite) by the enrichments was also studied in the temperature range of 25 to 50 °C. The study of enrichment cultures using the molecular biological method using the metabarcoding method of variable V3–24 V4 fragments of 16S rRNA genes showed that enrichment cultures obtained under different conditions differed in composition, which can be explained by differences in the physiological properties of the identified microorganisms. Regarding the dynamics of the oxidation of ferrous ions, sulfur, and sulfide minerals (pyrite and chalcopyrite), each enrichment culture was studied at a temperature range of 25 to 50 °C and indicated that all obtained enrichments were capable of oxidizing ferrous iron, sulfur and minerals at different rates. The obtained enrichment cultures may be used in further work to increase bioleaching by using the suitable inoculum for the temperature and process conditions. Full article

Background: Ulcerative colitis (UC), characterized by chronic intestinal inflammation, epithelial barrier dysfunction, and immune imbalance demands novel ameliorative strategies beyond conventional approaches. Methods: In this study, the probiotic properties of Lactobacillus paracaseiL21 (L. paracaseiL21) and its ability to ameliorate colitis were evaluated using an in vitro lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced intestinal crypt epithelial cell (IEC-6) model and an in vivo dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC mouse model. Results: In vitro, L. paracaseiL21 decreased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-8) while increasing anti-inflammatory IL-10 levels (p < 0.05) in LPS-induced IEC-6 cells, significantly enhancing the expression of tight junction proteins (ZO-1, occludin, claudin-1), thereby restoring the intestinal barrier. In vivo, both viable L. paracaseiL21 and its heat-inactivated postbiotic (H-L21) mitigated weight loss, colon shortening, and disease activity indices, concurrently reducing serum LPS and proinflammatory mediators. Interventions inhibited NF-κB signaling while activating HIF1α/AhR pathways, increasing IL-22 and mucin MUC2 to restore goblet cell populations. Gut microbiota analysis showed that both interventions increased the abundance of beneficial gut bacteria (Lactobacillus, Dubococcus, and Akkermansia) and improved faecal propanoic acid and butyric acid levels. H-L21 uniquely exerted an anti-inflammatory effect, marked by the regulation of Dubosiella, while L. paracaseiL21 marked by the Akkermansia. Conclusions: These results highlight the potential of L. paracaseiL21 as a candidate for the development of both probiotic and postbiotic formulations. It is expected to provide a theoretical basis for the management of UC and to drive the development of the next generation of UC therapies. Full article

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

Background/Objetives: Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a multifaceted issue that the World Health Organization (WHO) identifies as one of the primary threats to global health for humans, animals, and the environment. In Colombia, AMR has been extensively studied at the hospital level; however, there are limited environmental studies, particularly concerning leachates from landfills. The objective of this study was to identify and determine the genetic relationships, as well as the sensitivity profiles to antibiotics and heavy metals, of ten Pseudomonas mendocina isolates from a leachate pond. Methods: Identification was conducted using MALDI-TOF (Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight), while genotyping was performed via rep-PCR. Antibiotic susceptibility to β-lactams, aminoglycosides, and quinolones was assessed using the Kirby-Bauer method. Additionally, sensitivity profile to heavy metals was evaluated using the broth microdilution technique. Results: Rep-PCR analysis indicated that 60% (n = 6/10) of the isolates exhibited a clonal relationship. Sensitivity testing revealed that 30% (n = 3/10) of the isolates displayed reduced sensitivity to aminoglycosides and β-lactams. Finally, the broth microdilution showed that 90% (n = 9/10) of the isolates were tolerant to copper sulfate. Conclusions: These results provide evidence that landfill leachates may serve as a potential reservoir for bacteria harboring antimicrobial resistance determinants. Full article