Search Results (800)

The lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) is an ornamental aquatic plant, highly valued in Asian cultures for its religious symbolism, culinary uses, and medicinal properties. However, the lotus exhibits low genetic diversity in nature, which limits the genetic resources available for breeding programs. Gamma irradiation is an effective method for inducing genetic variation in lotus breeding. The present study examines the gamma sensitivity of lotus seedlings, along with the morphological and anatomical changes induced by various gamma dosages. The results showed that high-dose gamma irradiation (≥100 Gy) significantly inhibited seedling growth and altered most anatomical parameters, each exhibiting distinct dose–response patterns except for midrib diameter. The 100 Gy treatment resulted in the maximum stem diameter, while root diameter peaked at 500 Gy, and the highest dose (600 Gy) produced the largest petioles. Gamma irradiation also triggered tannin accumulation and reduced aerenchyma formation in the leaves. The obtained results demonstrate organ-specific responses to gamma irradiation in the lotus, with leaves being the most sensitive, while petioles, stems, and roots exhibited more variable dose-dependent effects. Full article

This study examines the effects of incorporating recycled carbon fibers obtained from decommissioned wind turbine blades into cementitious composites. An extensive experimental program was carried out, varying fiber content (0–8 kg/m³), fiber length (25, 38, 50 mm), water-to-cement ratio (0.4, 0.5), and cement type (CEM I 42.5, CEM II 42.5R/A-V). The mechanical properties of the fiber-reinforced concretes, including compressive strength, flexural strength, splitting tensile strength, and modulus of elasticity, were evaluated. The addition of recycled carbon fibers significantly improved flexural and splitting tensile strengths, with increases exceeding 60% and 100%, respectively, at the highest fiber dosage (8 kg/m³), attributed to efficient crack-bridging capability. Compressive strength was mainly influenced by the water-to-cement ratio, while the modulus of elasticity showed slight reductions in some mixes due to fiber clustering and increased micro-porosity. Regression analysis indicated that shorter fibers (25 mm) were more effective in enhancing flexural strength, whereas longer fibers (50 mm) improved splitting tensile strength. Classical predictive models generally underestimated the flexural capacity of recycled-carbon-fiber-reinforced concretes, highlighting the need for recalibration. Optical microscopy confirmed uniform fiber dispersion at lower dosages and a dominant pull-out failure mechanism. The findings demonstrate the feasibility of using recycled carbon fibers to enhance the mechanical performance of concrete while supporting sustainability through waste diversion and circular economy strategies. Full article

This study presents a plant-fabricated nanoparticle system of zirconia (ZrO₂) using Sonchus asper plant extract, compared with conventionally synthesized ZrO_2, for their efficacy in Cr(VI) removal from aqueous solutions. The nanoparticles were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) for elemental composition, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis. The plant-fabricated ZrO₂ exhibited mesoporosity and enhanced surface functionality, attributed to bioactive compounds from Sonchus asper, which improved adsorption performance via increased surface area and residual organic functional groups. Batch adsorption experiments showed that Cr(VI) removal was optimized at 100 mg/L Cr(VI), 300 mg/L adsorbent dosage, pH 5, and 30 min reaction time at 25 °C. Adsorption followed the Langmuir isotherm and pseudo-second-order kinetics models. According to Langmuir model fitting, the maximum adsorption capacity (qmax) reached 142.24 mg/g for PF-ZrO₂ NPs and 133.11 mg/g for conventional ZrO₂ NPs, indicating the superior adsorption performance of the green-synthesized material. This work highlights the sustainable potential of plant-fabricated ZrO₂ nanoparticles as cost-effective and environmentally friendly nano-adsorbents for heavy metal remediation, contributing to the achievement of UN SDG No. 6 by providing clean water solutions. Full article

Many industries release untreated synthetic dye effluents into water bodies, harming ecosystems and human health. Therefore, an economical and sustainable solution for treating dye-contaminated water must be developed. In this study, mulberry leaves (Morus nigra L.), as a cost-effective and sustainable adsorbent, were prepared to remove Basic Yellow 28 (BY28) and Basic Blue 3 (BB3) cationic dyes from industrial dye wastewater using adsorption. Batch experiments with key variables such as initial dye concentration, adsorbent dosage, contact time, temperature, stirring speed, and pH were conducted to find optimal conditions. The effectiveness of mulberry leaves as an adsorbent after multiple regeneration cycles was examined. The adsorbent was characterized through various instrumental methods, including FTIR, SEM, XRD, and BET analysis. Adsorption performance was analyzed using the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models. The results showed that the mulberry leaf adsorbent best fits the Langmuir model, with R² values of 0.999 for BY28 and 0.973 for BB3. The maximum adsorption capacities were 0.15 mg/g for BY28 and 7.19 mg/g for BB3, indicating their upper limits for dye uptake. The optimal conditions achieving removal efficiencies of over 99% were 1.5 g, 50 mL, 15 min, 180 rpm, and 10 mg/L at 30 °C for BY28 in neutral pH (7) and 1.5 g, 50 mL, 45 min, 100 rpm, and 30 mg/L at 40 °C for BB3 in basic pH (10). The regeneration of mulberry leaves as an adsorbent through acid treatment with 0.1 M HCl and 0.1 M CH₃COOH solutions maintained a high performance, achieving up to 98% dye removal efficiency after two regeneration cycles. It has been observed that successful results can be achieved in terms of reusability. Additionally, the removals of BB3 and BY28 performed in an ultrasonic-bath-assisted environment successfully achieved removal efficiencies of 84.87% and 75.41%, respectively. According to the results, mulberry leaves can effectively be used in wastewater treatment to remove dyes, can be reused multiple times, and thus serve as an environmentally friendly and sustainable adsorbent. Full article

The urgent demand for environmentally responsible construction practices has intensified interest in geopolymer concrete mixtures, which offer low-carbon alternatives to conventional Portland cement by enabling the valorization of industrial by-products. Since the large volume of waste generated by mining activities represents a significant environmental liability, this research aimed to utilize the alkali activation technique in mixtures of soil and bauxite residue, commonly known as red mud (RM), for application in green construction. All raw materials were characterized based on their physical and chemical properties. To evaluate the influence of waste content on the mechanical behavior of the geopolymers, specimens were prepared with soil contents ranging from 70% to 100% and RM dosages ranging from 0% to 30%. These mixtures underwent compaction tests using the standard Proctor energy method to determine maximum dry density and optimum moisture content. Using the optimal mixture compositions, specimens were prepared for unconfined compressive strength (UCS) tests, with NaOH at a concentration of 6 mol/L added as an activator. The experimental tests provided UCS results ranging from 2.23 MPa to 3.05 MPa. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses were performed on raw materials and mixtures containing 70% soil and 30% waste to assess changes in mineralogical compositions due to waste incorporation. The results confirmed the potential of alkali activation for stabilizing mixtures of soil and RM for sustainable construction. Full article

The study aims to promote environmental restoration by shedding light on the potential use of moringa waste as an inexpensive, eco-friendly adsorbent for treating wastewater contaminated with Chromium (VI). FTIR was used to characterise the surface functional groups of moringa waste. The one-factor-at-a-time method was used to study the initial concentration in milligrams per litre, contact time in minutes, temperature in degrees Celsius, pH, and adsorbent dosage in milligrams per litre. The output was the removal percentage. Furthermore, adsorption isotherms, kinetics, and thermodynamic models were applied to understand the process behaviour. FTIR examination revealed the moringa waste structure’s stability and aromaticity, confirmed by peaks located around 1596 cm⁻¹ and the stretching of the hydroxyl group around 3321 cm⁻¹, which are important for enhancing Cr (VI) adsorption due to their capability to establish strong bonds with metal ions. Aromatic rings contribute to a large surface area and porosity and are stable; this is important for adsorption applications. At 60 min of contact time with a pH of 6 and 0.5 g of adsorbent dosage at 45 °C for a concentration of 100 mg/L, the highest removal percentage was found to be 77.03%. Adsorption data values indicated a good fit to the Langmuir isotherm model. The thermodynamic study showed that the process is endothermic and spontaneous, hence making the application of moringa waste in wastewater treatment viable. Full article

The seed residue of Perilla frutescens possesses diverse biological properties and is rich in bioactive phytochemicals, including luteolin, rosmarinic acid, and apigenin. The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-diabetic effects of perilla seed residue crude extract (PCE) and its impact on the composition of the gut microbiome in rats with diabetes induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) and streptozotocin (STZ). Forty male Wistar rats were fed on an HFD for six weeks before receiving an injection of STZ injection to induce diabetes. These rats were then treated for four weeks with metformin (100 mg/kg bw) or PCE (100 and 1000 mg/kg bw) alongside a control group maintained on a normal diet. The results showed that PCE treatment improved metabolic parameters in diabetic rats, as evidenced by reduced water and food intake, increased body weight gain, lower blood glucose levels, and enhanced insulin secretion effects, especially at the 100 mg/kg bw dosage. PCE also promoted the regeneration of pancreatic β-cells and improved utilization of glucose. PCE also suppressed inflammation and oxidative stress, enhanced antioxidant capacity, and reduced circulating triglyceride levels. Most notably, PCE administration increased gut microbial diversity and shifted the microbiome closer to that of healthy controls, demonstrating its prebiotic effect. It promoted the abundance of beneficial bacteria that are linked to improved glucose metabolism and reduced inflammation—specifically, Bacteroides fragilis, Lactobacillus, Clostridium, and Akkermansia. Harmful bacteria associated with inflammation and poor glycemic control were reduced. Collectively, these results suggest that PCE not only helps restore a balanced gut microbiome but also offers metabolic benefits that could improve diabetic outcomes. These findings position PCE as a promising supplement for the management of diabetes and encourage further exploration of the mechanisms associated with its actions. Full article

Dry powder inhalers (DPIs) are the mainstay in the treatment of obstructive pulmonary diseases. However, the performance of DPI formulations is highly dependent on the used inhaler device and the patient’s inspiratory effort. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the aerosolization behavior of three commercially available capsule-based DPI medications—formoterol (Foradil^®), glycopyrronium (Seebri^® Breezhaler), and tiotropium (Spiriva^®)—delivered using three different capsule-based inhalers (Aerolizer, Breezhaler, and Handihaler), under varying flow conditions. Methods: The aerodynamic performance of each formulation–inhaler combination was assessed using the Next-Generation Impactor (NGI) and Dosage Unit Sampling Apparatus (DUSA) methodology. Fine particle dose (FPD) and aerodynamic particle size distribution (APSD) were determined at fixed flow rates of 15, 30, 60, and 100 L/min, as well as at inhaler-specific flow rates corresponding to a 4 kPa pressure drop. Chromatographic quantification of active ingredients was performed using validated HPLC methods specific to each drug. Results: The FPD values increased consistently with higher flow rates across all tested formulations and inhalers. At a 4 kPa pressure drop, Aerolizer and Breezhaler achieved significantly higher FPDs compared to Handihaler. Notably, in some instances, non-dedicated inhalers produced greater respirable fractions than the originally intended devices. APSD profiles revealed that drug deposition shifted toward smaller NGI stages at higher inspiratory flows, supporting enhanced deep lung delivery potential under optimal conditions. Conclusions: Device resistance, capsule orientation, and piercing mechanics substantially influence drug aerosolization. Although non-dedicated inhalers may offer improved FPDs in vitro, clinical use should adhere to approved drug–device combinations, as these have been validated for efficacy and safety under real-world conditions. Full article

To stimulate the progress of clean fracturing fluid systems, an innovative erucyl ultra-long-chain gemini surfactant (EUCGS) was devised and manufactured during the course of this study. The target product was successfully prepared via a two-step reaction involving erucyl primary amine, 3-bromopropionyl chloride, and 1,3-bis(dimethylamino)propanediol, with an overall yield of 78.6%. FT-IR and ¹H NMR characterization confirmed the presence of C₂₂ ultra-long chains, cis double bonds, amide bonds, and quaternary ammonium headgroups in the product structure. Performance tests showed that EUCGS exhibited an extremely low critical micelle concentration (CMC = 0.018 mmol/L) and excellent ability to reduce surface tension (γCMC = 30.0 mN/m). Rheological property studies indicated that EUCGS solutions gradually exhibited significant non-Newtonian fluid characteristics with increasing concentration, and wormlike micelles with a network structure could self-assemble at a concentration of 1.0 mmol/L. Dynamic rheological tests revealed that the solutions showed typical Maxwell fluid behavior and significant shear-thinning properties, which originated from the orientation and disruption of the wormlike micelle network structure under shear stress. In the presence of 225 mmol/L NaCl, the apparent viscosity of a 20 mmol/L EUCGS solution increased from 86 mPa·s to 256 mPa·s. A temperature resistance evaluation showed that EUCGS solutions had a good temperature resistance at high shear rates and 100 °C. The performance evaluation of fracturing fluids indicates that the proppant settling rate (0.25 cm/min) of the EUCGS-FFS system at 90 °C is significantly superior to that of the conventional system. It features the low dosage and high efficiency of the breaker, with the final core damage rate being only 0.9%. The results demonstrate that the EUCGS achieves a synergistic optimization of high-efficiency interfacial activity, controllable rheological properties, and excellent thermal–salt stability through precise molecular structure design, providing a new material choice for the development of intelligent responsive clean fracturing fluids. Full article

Extended-reach drilling (ERD) offers substantial economic and operational benefits by accessing extensive reservoir sections with fewer surface facilities, yet poses significant frictional challenges due to complex wellbore geometries and extreme operating conditions. This study introduces a multi-interface lubrication evaluation framework. It systematically assesses oil-based drilling fluids (OBDFs) across three downhole contact scenarios: metal–rock, metal–mud cake, and metal–metal interfaces under HTHP conditions. We developed a quantitative, normalized scoring system. Benchmarked against distilled water (score 0) and W1-110 mineral oil (score 100), it integrates frictional data from various tests into a unified metric for lubricant comparison. Three candidate lubricants—PF-LUBE EP, PF-LUBE OB, and CX-300—were evaluated at varying dosages, lithologies, and applied loads. Results show that at 2 wt%, PF-LUBE EP achieved the most consistent performance, reducing friction coefficients by 36.8% (metal–rock), 27.5% (metal–mud cake), and 32.5% (metal–metal), with a normalized average score of 155.39, outperforming PF-LUBE OB and CX-300 by 12.5% and 18.3%, respectively. Its superior performance is attributed to a bionic dual-layer film formed by organophosphorus anchoring and alkyl slip layers, enabling self-healing and stability under cyclic loading and HTHP environments. PF-LUBE OB and CX-300 also demonstrated friction reduction but with lower normalized scores (138.06 and 131.27), reflecting less stability across varied conditions. The proposed framework bridges the gap between laboratory testing and field-scale application by capturing multi-interface behaviors, enabling objective lubricant selection and dosage optimization for complex ERD operations. These findings not only validate PF-LUBE EP as a robust additive but also establish a scalable methodology for the development and optimization of next-generation OBDF formulations aimed at reducing torque, drag, and equipment wear in challenging drilling environments. Full article

Wastewater containing synthetic dyes harmful to aquatic environments supposes significant challenges for treatment. This study focuses on how structural characteristics of three N-containing carbons synthesized at high temperatures from polyacrylonitrile (PAN) as a precursor, i.e., an N-doped (PAN-C), an activated carbon (PAN-C-Act), and a carbon also incorporating sulfur (PAN-S-C), influence adsorption of a common dye employed for wood veneers (Red GRA 200%). The impact of pH (1.9–2.3, 6.0–6.8, and 11.8–12.6), adsorbent dosage (S/L, 0.43–0.53 and 1.73–1.91 g L⁻¹), and amount of dye (24–28 mg L⁻¹ and 231–285 mg L⁻¹) on dye removal from aqueous solutions were investigated. In general, the results obtained in the present work indicate that the presence of larger pores in the materials plays an important role in dye adsorption by preventing size exclusion of the dye molecules. The activated carbon (PAN-C-Act) demonstrated the greatest adsorption performance, with an adsorption yield close to 100% achieved at a carbon dose of 0.47 g L⁻¹ and acidic pH for the highest dye concentration and longest experiment time. The pseudo-second-order model best described the kinetics, and both external mass transfer and intra-particle diffusion were confirmed. Full article

In the present research, a novel magnetic adsorbent was developed via the sol–gel method by coating CuFe₂O₄ nanoparticles on biochar sourced from brewed tea waste. The synthesized adsorbent was utilized for the removal of Ni(II) ions from aqueous media. The adsorption efficiency of Ni(II) ions was assessed under crucial experimental conditions such as initial solution pH, contact time, adsorbent dosage, and initial Ni(II) concentration. The adsorbent exhibited rapid adsorption kinetics, achieving equilibrium in approximately 15 min, and maintained high efficiency across a wide pH range. Adsorption experiments were conducted for Ni(II) solutions at their natural pH (5.6) to minimize chemical usage and enhance process simplicity. An impressive maximum adsorption capacity of 232.6 mg g⁻¹ was recorded, outperforming many previously reported adsorbents. Furthermore, desorption studies demonstrated nearly 100% recovery of Ni(II) ions using 1.0 M HCl solution, indicating excellent regeneration potential of the adsorbent. Additionally, the prediction performance of an artificial neural network (ANN) model was evaluated to predict Ni(II) removal efficiency based on experimental variables, showing strong agreement with experimental data. Isotherm and kinetic models were also applied to the data to estimate the adsorption mechanisms. These findings demonstrate the promise of CuFe₂O₄-modified tea waste biochar for sustainable water treatment applications. Full article

Background/Objectives: Iron deficiency without anemia (IDWA) is common among female patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), yet the clinical implications of iron therapy in this population remain uncertain. While iron supplementation is frequently used in anemic CKD patients, evidence regarding its outcomes in non-anemic, iron-deficient individuals is limited and conflicting. Methods: This retrospective cohort study utilized the multi-institutional TriNetX database to examine the 5-year outcomes of iron therapy in adult women with stage 3 CKD, normal hemoglobin (≥12 g/dL), normal mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and low serum ferritin (<100 ng/mL). Primary outcomes included all-cause mortality, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), acute kidney injury (AKI), pneumonia, progression to advanced CKD (estimated glomerular filtration rate ≤30 mL/min/1.73 m²), and gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. Results: We identified 53,769 eligible non-anemic patients with stage 3 CKD, low serum ferritin levels, and normal MCV. Propensity score matching (1:1) was conducted on demographic variables to compare iron-treated (n = 6638) and untreated (n = 6638) cohorts. Over the 5-year follow-up, iron therapy in non-anemic females with stage 3 CKD, low ferritin levels, and iron supplementation was significantly associated with increased risks of MACE, AKI, pneumonia, CKD progression, and GI bleeding (log-rank p < 0.0001). No significant difference in all-cause mortality was observed. Data on transferrin saturation and the dosage of iron supplementation were unavailable. Conclusions: In non-anemic women with stage 3 CKD and low ferritin levels, iron supplementation was linked to increased MACE, renal, and pneumonia risks without evident survival benefits. These findings suggest that iron therapy in this group of patients may not confer cardiovascular benefit and may pose risks. Full article

The increasing demand for critical raw materials such as copper and cobalt highlights the need for efficient beneficiation of low-grade ores. This study investigates a copper–cobalt sulfide ore (0.99% Cu, 0.028% Co) using froth flotation to produce high-grade concentrates. Various types of surfactants are applied in different ways, each serving an essential function such as acting as collectors, frothers, froth stabilizers, depressants, activators, pH modifiers, and more. A series of flotation tests employing different collectors (SIPX, PBX, AERO, DF 507B) and process conditions was conducted to optimize recovery and selectivity. Methyl isobutyl carbinol (MIBC) was consistently used as the foaming agent, and 700 g/L was used as the slurry density at 25 °C. Dosages of 30 and 100 g/t¹ were used in all tests. Notably, adjusting the pH to ~4 using HCl significantly improved cobalt concentrate separation. The optimized flotation conditions yielded concentrates with over 15% Cu and metal recoveries exceeding 80%. Mineralogical characterization confirmed the selective enrichment of target metals in the concentrate. The results demonstrate the potential of this beneficiation approach to contribute to the European Union’s supply of critical raw materials. Full article

Persistent reactive azo dyes released from textile finishing are a serious threat to water systems, but effective methods using sunlight to break them down are still limited. Everzol Yellow 3RS (EY-3RS) is particularly recalcitrant: past studies have relied almost exclusively on physical adsorption onto natural or modified clays and zeolites, and no photocatalytic pathway employing engineered nanomaterials has been documented to date. This study reports the synthesis, characterization, and performance of a visible-active ternary nanocomposite, Cu₄O₃/ZrO₂/TiO₂, prepared hydrothermally alongside its binary (Cu₄O₃/ZrO₂) and rutile TiO₂ counterparts. XRD, FT-IR, SEM-EDX, UV-Vis, and PL analyses confirm a heterostructured architecture with a narrowed optical bandgap of 2.91 eV, efficient charge separation, and a mesoporous nanosphere-in-matrix morphology. Photocatalytic tests conducted under midsummer sunlight reveal that the ternary catalyst removes 91.41% of 40 ppm EY-3RS within 100 min, markedly surpassing the binary catalyst (86.65%) and TiO₂ (81.48%). Activity trends persist across a wide range of operational variables, including dye concentrations (20–100 ppm), catalyst dosages (10–40 mg), pH levels (3–11), and irradiation times (up to 100 min). The material retains ≈ 93% of its initial efficiency after four consecutive cycles, evidencing good reusability. This work introduces the first nanophotocatalytic strategy for EY-3RS degradation and underscores the promise of multi-oxide heterojunctions for solar-driven remediation of colored effluents. Full article