Box-Behnken Experimental Design Research Articles

Design of a Contact-Type Electrostatic Spray Boom System Based on Rod-Plate Electrode Structure and Field Experiments on Droplet Deposition Distribution

Spraying is currently one of the main methods of pesticide application worldwide. It converts the pesticide solution into fine droplets through a sprayer, which then deposit onto target plants. Therefore, in the process of pesticide application, improving the effectiveness of spraying while minimizing or preventing crop damage has become a key issue. Combining the advantages of electrostatic spraying technology with the characteristics of ground boom sprayers, a contact-type electrostatic boom spraying system based on a rod–plate electrode structure was designed and tested on a self-propelled boom sprayer. The charging chamber was designed based on the characteristics of the rod–plate electrode and theoretical analysis. The reliability of the device was verified through COMSOL numerical simulations, charge-to-mass ratio, droplet size, and droplet size spectrum measurements, and a droplet size prediction model was established. The deposition characteristics in soybean fields were analyzed using the Box–Behnken experimental design method. The results showed that the rod–plate electrode structure demonstrated its superiority with a maximum spatial electric field of 2.31 × 106 V/m. When the spray pressure was 0.3 MPa and the charging voltage was 8 kV, the droplet size decreased by 26.6%, and the charge-to-mass ratio reached 2.88 mC/kg. Field experiments showed that when the charging voltage was 8 kV, the spray pressure was 0.3 MPa, the traveling speed was 7 km/h, and the number of deposited droplets was 8517. This study provides some basis for the application of electrostatic spraying technology in large-scale field operations.

Optimization of kraft pulping process for Sesbania aculeata (dhaincha) stems using RSM

Abstract The shortage of superior grade wood fibers is a prime problem faced by Indian pulp and paper industries. As a result, the pulp and paper industry find it difficult to withstand the competition in the market, which had grown extremely competitive. In order to increase the utilization of non-wood fibers resources in the production of high quality eco-friendly papers, dhaincha, a non-wood fiber resource has potential industrial application. In this research, pulp and paper were developed from Sesbania aculeata stem using kraft pulping followed by bleaching. Optimization of conditions for pulping was carried out by Response Surface Methodology. The relationship between three variables and three responses were studied using Box–Behnken experimental design. The developed pulp was evaluated for kappa number, brightness index, viscosity, FTIR and TGA. Then paper was developed by using optimized pulp and evaluated for physical properties. The statistical analysis (ANOVA) was carried out in order to establish the relationship between the concentration of NaOH, Na2S, treatment time and temperature with kappa number, brightness index and viscosity. The physical properties of pulp and developed handmade paper highlights the sustainable use of dhaincha plant in pulp and paper industry.

Resveratrol-Loaded Dissolving Microneedles: Fabrication and in vitro Evaluation

AbstractResveratrol (Res), an active ingredient derived from a multitude of plants, exhibits multiple pharmacological activities. However, its poor water solubility and low bioavailability present significant challenges to its clinical application. Our study aimed to improve the transdermal absorption of Res using dissolving microneedle (MN) technology, which could effectively overcome the stratum corneum barrier. Res-loaded dissolving microneedles (Res-MNs) were fabricated using polyvinyl pyrrolidone K90 (PVP K90) as the matrix material, and a two-step casting procedure was employed. The process was optimized using the Box–Behnken experimental design approach. The characteristics of Res-MNs in vitro, including morphology, solubility, safety evaluation, and skin permeation, were studied. The results showed that the optimum preparation conditions of Res-MNs were a centrifugation time of 10 minutes, a solvent concentration of 25%, and a prescription ratio (Res: matrix) of 0.375. The skin permeability of the Res-MNs was enhanced compared with Res suspension and Res gel. The cumulative release of Res-MNs in vitro was 75%, which was approximately 5 and 3 times that of the Res suspension group and Res gel group. These results suggest that dissolving MNs may represent a potential approach for enhancing the transdermal delivery of poorly absorbed drugs such as Res.

DEVELOPMENT OF GABAPENTIN-LOADED SOLID LIPID NANOPARTICLE FOR ALLEVIATING SEIZURE ACTIVITY IN PICROTOXIN AND BICUCULLINE-INDUCED RATS

Objective: The current research aimed to prepare gabapentin-loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN) for alleviating seizure activity in picrotoxin and bicuculline-induced Wistar rats. Methods: Gabapentin-loaded SLNs were formulated using a Box-Behnken experimental design with three-level three-factor consisting of 17 experimental runs by micro-emulsification. Three independent parameters were considered in this study, namely sodium glyceryl tripalmitate (A), RPM (B), and Poloxamer-188 (C). Particle size, drug release, and Encapsulation Efficiency (EE) as dependent variables. The formulation was evaluated for drug release, EE, Attenuated Total Reflection (ATR), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), surface morphology, particle size, zeta potential, in vivo anti-convulsion study. Results: The data collected during the experiment includes the measurements of EE (Encapsulation Efficiency), drug release at the 12th h, and particle size. It was reported that formulations containing a high concentration of Glyceryl tripalmitate (50%) had a high Encapsulation Efficiency (EE). The in vitro release results indicate that F17 demonstrated a maximum drug concentration of 99.99% within a 12 h. The optimization process was conducted using mathematical and graphical methods. From ATR spectra, it was found that there are no such major interactions between gabapentin and excipients. A significant endothermal peak was seen in the DSC investigation at 208.81 °C. X-ray diffraction revealed that gabapentin was present in the crystalline form. Drug crystals and SLN were seen to be dispersed and scattered from Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The optimized formulation's particle size was found to be 203.4 nm, the Polydispersity Index (PI) of 0.426, and the zeta value of 16.5 mV; indicating stability. Following a lethal and chronic dosage of picrotoxin, the gabapentin-SLN exhibited a higher anticonvulsant efficacy, according to in vivo research on rats (p<0.05). Conclusion: Compared to the Bicuculline model, the optimized SLN demonstrated superior outcomes regarding seizure initiation in the Picrotoxin-induced convulsion.

OPTIMIZATION OF LC-MS/MS METHOD FOR THE SIMULTANEOUS DETERMINATION OF METFORMIN AND ROSIGLITAZONE IN HUMAN PLASMA WITH BOX-BEHNKEN DESIGN

Objective: The objective of this study was to develop a robust Liquid Chromatography – Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) methodology for the precise quantification of metformin and rosiglitazone in human plasma. Methods: A Design of Experiments (DOE) framework was utilized, specifically employing a Box-Behnken experimental design, to optimize critical parameters such as Capillary voltage, Cone voltage, Desolvation temperature, and Collision energy. Sample preparation involved protein precipitation using acetonitrile, simplifying the procedure. Chromatography was performed with a mobile phase of 0.1% formic acid and acetonitrile (60:40 V/V) to enhance sensitivity and reproducibility. Quantification was achieved through Multiple Reaction Monitoring (MRM) of the transition’s m/z 130.1 → m/z 60.1 for metformin, m/z 358.2 → m/z 134.9 for rosiglitazone, and m/z 206.3 → m/z 59.9 for phenformin. The methodology was validated according to regulatory guidelines. Results: The developed methodology demonstrated selectivity, linearity, accuracy, precision, recovery, and stability. The calibration curve showed linearity over the concentration range of 5 ng/ml to 1000 ng/ml for metformin and 1.5 ng/ml to 300 ng/ml for rosiglitazone. Accuracy and precision were within acceptable limits across calibration and quality control standards. Assessments of extraction recovery and matrix effects confirmed the robustness of the extraction procedure, with negligible interference from plasma components. Stability studies indicated that the method maintained acceptable limits for metformin and rosiglitazone concentrations under various storage and handling conditions. Conclusion: The validated Liquid Chromatography – Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) methodology provides a reliable and accurate platform for the quantification of metformin and rosiglitazone in human plasma. This method shows potential applications in pharmacokinetic studies and clinical research, ensuring consistent performance in routine analysis.

A Novel Delivery System for the Combined Use of Natural Ingredients: The Preparation of Berberine Hydrochloride-Matrine Liposomes and Preliminary Exploration of Their Anti-Tumor Activity.

Berberine hydrochloride (BH) extracted from Coptis chinensis (CC) and Matrine (MT) separated from Sophora flavescens (SF) are alkaloids with potent anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor effects. Motivated by the clinical practice of using CC and SF together, we aimed to demonstrate that the synergistic application of the natural compounds BH and MT could enhance therapeutic effects and minimize side effects. Two types of liposomes, liposomes containing only BH (BH-LP) and liposomes containing both BH and MT (BH-MT-LP), were successfully prepared via the reverse evaporation method. The liposome preparation process was optimized by single-factor screening and the Box-Behnken experimental design method. The results showed that the liposomes had particle sizes in the range of 222.7 to 235.4 nm, polydispersity indicated in the range of 11.8% to 23.3%, and zeta potentials in the range of -35.9 to -31.1 mv. BH-MT-LP showed superior anti-tumor activity against MDA-MB-231, HepG-2, and HGC-27 cells in vitro. The incorporation of MT effectively promoted the anti-tumor effect of BH, while the controlled release from liposomes further enhanced the therapeutic efficacy of BH. Furthermore, based on the flow cytometry results, we speculated that BH-MT-LP might promote apoptosis by blocking the G1 phase of cells and inducing cell death. In conclusion, BH-MT-LP provides evidence for the combined use of natural compounds as a stable, safe, and practical drug delivery system for the treatment of potential cancers. Meanwhile, the successful preparation for BH-MT-LP also provides a new approach to the combined use of traditional Chinese medicine ingredients.

Study on the influence of pipe effect on the vibration characteristics of electro-hydraulic exciter

In this paper, an electro-hydraulic exciter controlled by an alternating current distribution valve is proposed, and a systematic analysis of the influence of pipe effect on the vibration characteristics of the electro-hydraulic exciter is investigated by simulation and experiments. The vibration characteristics curves for different pipe parameters are obtained, and the relative errors between simulation and experiment are evaluated. Moreover, a significant regression model of pipe parameters and vibration characteristics of the electro-hydraulic exciter is established by using the quadratic regression analysis method and the Box-Behnken experiment design method. Significant differences in the influence of pipe parameters on vibration characteristics are obtained by ANOVA (Analysis of Variance), and the influence of pipe parameter interaction on vibration characteristics is discussed. The results show that the relative importance of pipe parameters on the vibration characteristics of electro-hydraulic exciter, from high to low, is as follows: pipe diameter, elastic modulus, and pipe length. Notably, there is also an interaction between the pipe parameters, and the significance of these interactions is ranked from high to low as the interaction between the layers of steel wire and diameter, the interaction between diameter and length, and the interaction between the layers of steel wire and length.

Clean energy production and wastewater treatment by Exophiala dermatitidis: first findings

A single-chamber microbial fuel cell (MFC) was constructed to evaluate the capacity of Exophiala dermatitidis EXF-8193 as an electron-donor microorganism. The working electrodes were made of unidirectional carbon fiber and the voltage generation was evaluated for 120h. The maximum voltage value reached was 176mV after 93hours of operation. At the same time, the degradation of the Basic Blue 9 (BB9) was studied and a 70% decolorization was achieved in 120h. Optimization studies were conducted to maximize the electrical energy produced. In the first stage, the individual influence of the variables: carbon source, shape and area of the anode was analyzed. It was obtained that glucose, a T-shaped anode and an anodic area of 12 cm2 provided the best voltage values, generating 175.8 ± 0.57mV, 175.8 ± 0.57mV and 310.53 ± 1.22mV, respectively. In the second stage of the investigation, multiparametric optimization was carried out using the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) with a Box Behnken experimental design. A second-order model was the best fit, with R2 = 91.7. Finally, the MFC operation was optimized, with 284mV being the most favorable voltage when the cell is operated maintaining the optimal conditions for each parameter.

Kinetic study and optimization of ginger mediated ochratoxin A reduction: An eco-friendly approach including toxicity evaluation

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a toxic secondary metabolite synthesized by certain fungal strains of Penicillium and Aspergillus and is characterized as a Group 2B carcinogen. OTA infiltrates food and feeds through diverse chains, posing health risks to humans and animals. Herein, seven distinct edible plant materials were screened for their OTA reduction activity. Amidst them, ginger juice in aqueous (2.5%, v/v) showed the highest OTA reduction (95.63%), following first-order reaction kinetics (R2 = 0.92) with 0.72 d−1 rate constant. OTA reduction activity of ginger juice was substantially compromised in the presence of salt (> 2.5%) and temperature (> 40 °C). The response surface methodology-based approach employing Box–Behnken experimental design revealed an integrated effect of temperature, pH, and salt concentrations on OTA reduction (27.44–100%) by ginger juice. In addition, heat treatment (100 °C) and dialysis (12–14 kDa cutoff) of ginger juice implied the inclusion of heat-stable small molecules in reducing OTA. Ginger-treated OTA ameliorated hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cell viability and diminished reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels compared to native OTA. In zebrafish embryos, OTA-induced teratogenic effects, diminished hatching (22.91%), and elevated ROS levels leading to embryo mortality (75%), which was significantly reversed by OTA treated with ginger, underscoring the curtailed toxicity of OTA-converted products by ginger.

Simulation and modeling of methylene blue dye removal by an agri-food waste (Peanut shells)

Our study explores the potential of utilizing peanut shells, an abundant and low-cost food waste, as a natural adsorbent for the removal of industrial dyes, specifically methylene blue. We conducted a detailed investigation of the adsorption process, which revealed that it conforms to both Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms, indicating the ability of peanut shells to adsorb methylene blue effectively. To optimize the adsorption yield, we employed a Box-Behnken experimental design. This approach allowed us to assess the impact of several key factors, including the mass of the adsorbent, dye concentration, pH, temperature, stirring rate, and the ionic strength of salts in the solution. The mathematical model and simulation of the adsorption process helped us identify the best conditions for maximizing the dye removal. Our experiments resulted in a maximum adsorption efficiency of 97%, achieved under optimal conditions: 1.5 g of adsorbent, a methylene blue concentration of 40 mg/L, pH 11, temperature of 65°C, 0 mg/L ionic strength, and a stirring rate of 165 rpm. These findings suggest that peanut shells are a viable, eco-friendly alternative for dye removal, offering a sustainable solution for wastewater treatment and contributing to waste reduction.

Multiobjective optimization of magnetic abrasive finishing process with periodic re-distribution of magnetic abrasive particles on 17-4PH stainless steel

Magnetic abrasive finishing (MAF) exhibits considerable potential as a promising process for enhancing surface finish quality for softer as well as harder materials. This work proposes a novel approach to harness the potential of MAF for obtaining superior surface quality of precipitation-hardening martensitic steel (17-4PH steel) while performing periodic re-distribution of magnetic abrasive particles. The experiments were conducted using the Box-Behnken design of experiments and response surface methodology (RSM). RSM-based desirability function approach and genetic algorithms were used for multiobjective optimization. The set of pareto-optimal solutions obtained through multiobjective optimization were ranked using the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) by assigning equal importance to the selected performance parameters (percentage change in surface roughness (PCSR) and material removal rate (MRR)). The optimized values of PCSR and MRR obtained through the desirability function of RSM and genetic algorithm were validated experimentally and compared with the predicted values obtained through the regression model. Results showed that the desirability function of RSM provided better results than the genetic algorithm for the selected conditions and confirmed the effectiveness of the proposed approach.

Effects of Roller Milling Parameters on Wheat-Flour Damaged Starch: A Comprehensive Passage Analysis and Response-Surface Methodology Optimization.

Damaged starch typically arises from mechanical damage caused by the action of the roller mills during the wheat flour milling process. The content of resulting damaged starch in the flour significantly influences its characteristics, emphasizing the importance of understanding and controlling the formation of damaged starch for the production of specialized flours. A detailed passage analysis from three different commercial mills revealed that starch damage control is primarily achievable at front passages of the sizing and reduction system, which generate the majority of the flour release in the mill. Also, it revealed that damaged starch content increases progressively from the initial to the final passages during milling in the break, sizing and reduction system. To investigate the effects of milling parameters on damaged starch, flour yield, and energy consumption, a three-level and three-variable Box-Behnken experimental design with response surface methodology was applied. As independent variables roll gap (0.05-0.35 mm), feed rate (0.15-0.35 kg/cm min), and fast roll speed (400-800 rpm) were employed. The obtained models were utilized to optimize milling conditions for producing flours with special characteristics.

Surface water removal of Aluminum(III), Iron(III) and Manganese(II) using sustainable natural serpentinite mining tailings, proof of concept

To remediate surface water as the Doce River and spring waters from Minas Gerais, Brazil, this study examined the possibility of natural serpentinite mining tailings as a sustainable alternative for removing aluminum (III), iron (III), and manganese (II). The study used a Box-Behnken experimental design to examine how initial metal concentration, adsorbate dosage, and adsorption time affect metal removal effectiveness. Results demonstrated impressive performance, with removal rates exceeding 80 % for Al(III) and Fe(III) within the initial 5 min, and 60 % for Mn(II) within 30 min. This study delves deeper into the removal mechanisms, kinetics, adsorption isotherms and characterization identify physisorption and chemisorption pathways in which complex formation with released OH− groups and ion exchange with Mg(II) from serpentinite emerged as key contributors to the removal process. Furthermore, ion metal adsorption and regeneration cycles were assessed, exhibit sustained removal efficacy without notable capacity reduction. Each cycle shows an average metal adsorption capacity of 0.32 mg g−1 and an average Mg(II) release capacity of 0.98 mg g−1. Remarkably, the application of serpentinite successfully lowered the metals content of the Doce River and spring water to drinkable standards. A batch and continuous process is proposed for scaling-up serpentinite's metal adsorption. Overall, this study shows serpentinite's potential as a foundation for sustainable and cost-effective methods to treat surface water contamination with Al(III), Fe(III), and Mn(II).

Innovative Design and Optimization of High-Quality Peanut Digging-Inverter

To rapidly dry peanut pods and effectively address mold issues resulting from rainy weather, this article provides an analysis of the current research status of global peanut digging, inverting, and harvesting technologies. Based on a two-stage peanut harvesting model, the operating principles of a high-quality peanut digging-inverter are elaborated upon, and the design of key machine components is discussed. The evaluation metrics for the operation of a high-quality peanut digging-inverter include the rate of vine inverting, the soil content rate, the rate of fallen pods, and the rate of buried pods. Utilizing theoretical analysis, the Box–Behnken experimental design is employed to investigate the operating parameters of these machines, with the tractor’s running speed, the linear speed of the inverting roller, and the linear speed of the conveyor chain serving as the experimental factors in a three-factor, three-level experimental study. A regression model is established to analyze the impact of each factor on operational quality and to comprehensively optimize the influencing factors. The experimental results indicate that all factors significantly affect the rate of vine inverting. The tractor’s running speed (X1) and the linear speed of the inverting roller (X3) significantly influence the rate of buried pods, while the linear speed of the conveyor chain (X2) does not have a significant effect on this rate. Similarly, the tractor’s running speed (X1) and the linear speed of the inverting roller (X3) significantly affect the rate of fallen pods, whereas the linear speed of the conveyor chain (X2) does not. Furthermore, the linear speed of the conveyor chain (X2) and the linear speed of the inverting roller (X3) significantly impact the soil content rate, while the tractor’s running speed (X1) does not. The optimal combination of operating parameters is a tractor running speed of 1 m/s, a conveyor chain linear speed of 1.3 m/s, and an inverting roller linear speed of 2.1 m/s. Under these conditions, the high-quality peanut digging-inverter achieves a vine inverting rate of 89.29%, a buried pod rate of 0.31%, a fallen pod rate of 0.74%, and a soil content rate of 8.11%. The experimental values for each evaluation index exhibit relative errors of 1.14%, 6.45%, 1.35%, and 0.13% compared to the optimized values provided by the Design-Expert software. The findings of this research will facilitate the development of hardware conditions for the future intelligent and information-based harvesting of peanuts, thereby establishing a solid foundation for the high-quality initial processing of oilseeds.

Model study on transmission loss of the split-stream rushing exhaust muffler for diesel engine

Numerical simulation was carried out on the transmission loss of the split-stream rushing exhaust muffler, and the accuracy of the simulation method was verified through experiments. Taking the transmission loss as the response value, the experiment was designed by using Box-Behnken module of Design Expert software. A mathematical regression model of transmission loss with experiment factors was established by using the Box-Behnken experimental design scheme, the experiment factors include the diameter of the interior pipe, the shape of the rushing hole, the center distance of the rushing hole, the cone angle of the interior pipe as well as the number of rushing holes, and the mathematical regression model's significance was tested. The response curvatures of second order interaction to the transmission loss by different variables were obtained and the interaction relationships among variables were analyzed. The results showed that the diameter of the interior pipe and the center distance of the rushing hole are the main factors that affect the transmission loss. The transmission loss increases with the increase of the diameter of the interior pipe. When the diameter of the interior pipe is between 70 mm and 80 mm, the transmission loss firstly increases and then decreases with the center distance of the rushing hole changes from Smin to Smax. When the diameter of the interior pipe is between 80 mm and 90 mm, the transmission loss decreases with the center distance of the rushing hole changes from Smin to Smax. The effect of the rushing hole shape on transmission loss is not significant. The transmission loss increases with the increase of the number of rushing holes, but the increase of transmission loss is not significant with the number of rushing holes changes from 4 to 6 groups. Taking the transmission loss as the optimization index, the better experimental condition was obtained. Compared to the not optimized muffler of the sample engine, the average transmission loss of the optimized muffler is increased by 48.70 % when the frequency is 0-1000 Hz, the average insertion loss of the optimized muffler is increased by 7.4 %. At inlet air velocity of 40 m/s, the pressure loss is reduced by 56.8 %.

Optimization of the Homogenization Process of Ginseng Superfine Powder to Improve Its Powder Characteristics and Bioavailability.

As consumer demands evolve for health supplements, traditional ginseng products are facing challenges in enhancing their powder characteristics and bioavailability. The objective of this study was to prepare a novel ginseng superfine powder using a high-pressure homogenization (HPH) process. Response surface methodology was employed to determine the effects of HPH parameters (pressure, number of passes, and concentration) on particle size and the dissolution of the saponin components of the superfine powders. The Box-Behnken design of experiments was applied to ascertain the optimal HPH parameters for the smallest particle size and the highest dissolution of the saponin components. For the powders obtained at different parameters, the characterization of tap density, bulk density, flowability, water-holding capacity, appearance, and taste were observed. The optimized experimental conditions for the HPH process were as follows: 15,000 psi (pressure), 3 (number of passes), and 1 kg/L (concentration). The optimized values were 55 μm (particle size) and 83 mg/g (dissolution of the saponin components), respectively. The method offered technical support for the application of the HPH process in the preparation of ginseng powders. The objects of this research could be broadened to include a diverse array of botanical materials, addressing contemporary demands for cost-effectiveness and sustainability within the industry.

Elimination of malachite green by modified Fenton like process. Application of Box Behnken design

<p style="line-height:200%;text-align:justify;"><span style="line-height:200%;" lang="EN-US">The aim of this work was to investigate an advanced oxidation process for removing malachite green from aqueous solutions using a modified Fenton-like process. An experimental Box-Behnken design was applied to determine the optimal conditions by examining the effects of catalyst concentration ([Fe<sup>2+</sup>]), oxidant concentration ([K<sub>2</sub>S<sub>2</sub>O<sub>8</sub>]), and stirring speed. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) indicated that oxidant concentration was the most significant factor, with a p-value of 0.001, while catalyst concentration, the quadratic term of the oxidant, and the interaction between catalyst concentration and stirring speed were also significant. The optimal conditions for maximum dye removal were found to be a catalyst concentration of 3.5 ppm, an oxidant concentration of 3.07 ppm, and a stirring speed of 200 rpm, achieving a theoretical degradation yield of 100% and an experimental yield of 98%. This agreement validates the model and the importance of the optimized parameters. Additionally, degradation kinetics studies in various natural waters revealed that oxidation efficiency followed this order: Distilled water (98%) > Seawater ≈ Industrial water (88.97%) > Source water (85.57%) > Mineral water (80.52%).</span></p>

Design and Testing of an Integrated Corn Stubble Residual Film-Recycling Machine

The existing residual film-recycling machines struggle to efficiently recover and separate film stubble in a single operation. With roller-type film-rolling device unloading difficulties and other problems, in order to improve the recovery efficiency of film stubble and the separation effect while reducing human labor and to improve work efficiency, we designed an automatic hydraulic unloading film stubble-recycling integrated residual film-recycling machine. The angle of the membrane lifting device was determined by theoretical calculations using the method of coupled simulation of EDEM and ANSYS Workbench. We analyzed the amount of resistance as well as the maximum stress and deformation during the working process of the membrane-lifting device and focused on the design of the membrane–soil separating device and membrane-rolling device. The depth of the film shovel, the forward speed of the machine, and the rotational speed of the driving wheel of the jogging chain were selected as the test factors, and the residual film recovery rate was taken as the evaluation index. A three-factor, three-level test was designed by applying the principles of the Box–Behnken experimental design. The results show that when the forward speed is 1.36 m/s, the soil depth is 147.16 mm, and the rotational speed of the driving wheel of the shaking chain is 77.89 r/min, the recovery rate of the residual film is 87.56%, and the relative error between the experimental value and the optimized value is 2.73%. The experimental results can provide a theoretical basis for the design of the residual film-recycling machine.

Extraction of fermentable sugars and phenolic compounds from Colombian cashew (Anacardium occidentale) nut shells using subcritical water technology: Response surface methodology and chemical profiling

Subcritical water extraction (SCWE) is a novel technology that uses water at high pressure and temperature to recover bioactive compounds. While promising, further studies are needed to fully understand the potential of SCWE when applied to cashew nut shells (CNS), which are rich in phenolic compounds, carbohydrates, and other natural substances. This study aimed to evaluate SCWE applied to CNS from Vichada, Colombia, using a surface response methodology and to perform a comprehensive chemical profiling of the recovered extracts and the remaining solids. A Box-Behnken experimental design was employed to study the extraction process, focusing on variables such as temperature, pressure, and solid-to-solvent ratio. The liquid extracts were analyzed using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography and gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry, while the extracted solids were characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The liquid extracts revealed a variety of compounds, including xylose, glucose, arabinose, long-chain phenols, organic acids, and furans. Extraction conditions significantly influenced the distribution of these compounds, with the optimal conditions for extracting fermentable sugars and organic acids identified as 180 °C, 15 bar, and a 20:1 mL/g solid-to-solvent ratio. The resulting hydrochar comprised lignin (58.82 ± 3.44 %) and structural carbohydrates (approximately 40 %), showing thermal stability up to 200 °C, OH functional groups on its surface, and a textured morphology under microscopy. These by-products have potential applications in various fields. This study demonstrates that SCWE effectively recovers valuable compounds from CNS for use in fermentation processes, suggesting that the resulting hydrochar could be utilized in soil amendment, adsorption, or energy applications. SCWE is highlighted as an innovative and environmentally friendly technology for managing cashew residual biomass, promoting sustainability and circularity in this production chain.

Green and efficient extraction of an anticaner agent N-methylsansalvamide using ultrasound-assisted deep eutectic solvents from mycelia of strain Frusarium sp. R1

N-methylsansalvamide (SA), one of cyclic pentadepsipeptides produced by several Fusarium strains, is a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of cancer disease. In order to make sufficient amount of SA for drug development, a green and efficient extraction process of SA from the mycelia of strain Fusarium sp. R1 using deep eutectic solvent-assisted ultrasound extraction (DES-UAE) was firstly achieved in this work. Solvent screening results indicated that choline chloride-acetic acid (ChCl-Aa) was shown to be the best DES for SA extraction. Through single-factor trials, Plackett-Burman design (PBD) and BoxBehnken design (BBD) experiments, the optimal conditions for DES-UAE with the highest SA yield of 58.2 ± 1.1 mg/g were obtained as follows: ChCl-Aa ratio of 1:2.0 (M/M), water content of 16.4 %, liquid-solid ratio of 37:1 (mL/g), ultrasonic power of 175 W for 47.4 min at 46.3 °C. Compared to conventional extraction approaches, DES-UAE exhibited better SA yield since it caused more serious damage to the surface of mycelia powder on basis of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. Furthermore, molecular interaction studies suggested that SA has a variety of interactions with ChCl-Aa, including hydrogen and electrovalent bonds as well as van der Waals forces. Finally, the recovery rate of SA reached up to 99.5 % when the ratio of distilled water and DES extracts was 15:1 (V/V). These findings provide the way for large-scale production of SA.