Sulfate Content Research Articles

Exploring the Antineoplastic Properties of the Lebanese Jania rubens Against Colorectal Cancer

Background/Objective: Colon cancer poses a significant health burden, with current treatments often associated with severe side effects and limited effectiveness for some patients. Natural products are gaining interest as adjuvant therapies, potentially reducing side effects and improving responses to conventional treatments. We previously highlighted the potent antineoplastic effects of organic extracts derived from the Lebanese red algae Jania rubens. This study, investigated the anticancer activities of polysaccharide, protein, and lipid extracts from J. rubens, which may serve as adjuvant therapies to enhance conventional treatments. Methods: we employed colorimetric assays, wound healing assays, and cell cycle analysis to evaluate the anticancer activities of the extracts. The polysaccharide extract was characterized for sulfate content and structure using barium chloride-gelatin and FT-IR methods. Results: All J. rubens extracts exhibited significant anticancer effects, with the polysaccharide extract showing particularly strong cytotoxicity, apoptosis induction, and antiproliferative and anti-migratory activities. Conclusion: These findings confirm that J. rubens is a source of bioactive compounds with anticancer potential. Further investigations are needed to elucidate the molecular pathways targeted by J. rubens extracts in cancer cells.

Investigating the appropriate quality of greywater for use in eco-friendly concrete mixing

Owing to serious limitations of freshwater, using unconventional water resources such as greywater is unavoidable. Considering the large amount of water needed for making concrete, in this research, greywater was used to mix eco-friendly concrete. To investigate the appropriate quality of greywater, synthetic and real greywater samples were prepared, and pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), chemical oxygen demand (COD), chloride (Cl−) and sulfate (SO42−) contents were evaluated. Based on a concrete performance index, the maximum appropriate values of COD, TDS and sulfate were determined to be 119, 411 and 134 mg/l, respectively, and the water quality index should be over 67.5. The results of tests conducted on samples containing various types of greywater showed a decrease in mechanical performance, but not durability properties. The results revealed that the quality of concrete mainly depends on the quality of greywater according to the Pearson coefficient. The Pearson coefficient was generally greater than 0.4, revealing a strong correlation between greywater quality and concrete characteristics. Using a combination of greywater and potable water generally provided better performance than the use of greywater alone. Based on the results, although the use of greywater can decrease freshwater consumption, supplementary tests still need to be performed.

Innovative Solution for Sulphate Challenges in Lime Stabilisation of Cochin Marine Clays

The current study focuses on the long term strength reduction in lime stabilised Cochin marine clays with sulphate content. By introducing 6% lime and 4% sulphates to untreated Cochin marine clay, the research aims to investigate the effect of sulphates in these clays. Unconfined compression tests were conducted on lime treated clay both with and without additives, immediately after preparation and over 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year and 2 years of curing. Test results indicated that both sodium sulphate and lithium sulphate has a negative impact on the strength gain of lime stabilised clay. To address this issue, Barium hydroxide, in both its pure laboratory form and the commercial product known as "baryta," was incorporated into the lime stabilised soil. The study showed a consistent increase in shear strength with the addition of both barium hydroxide and baryta. When twice the predetermined quantity of baryta was added to lime stabilised clay, it outperformed pure barium hydroxide in terms of strength enhancement. Results of SEM and XRD analysis align with the strength characteristics. The cost-effective use of baryta offers a practical solution to counteract strength loss in lime stabilised, sulphate bearing Cochin marine clays.

СЕЛЕКЦИЯ ГРЕЧИХИ ПОСЕВНОЙ C ПРИМЕНЕНИЕМ КУЛЬТУРЫ IN VITRO

The purpose of the study is to obtain stress-resistant plants – buckwheat regenerants on selective media in vitro culture and to select samples with improved breeding characteristics in the field. The object of the study is the varieties Kitawasesoba (Japan), Izumrud (Russia), the hybrid Izumrud × Kitawasesoba. A study on the production of regenerated plants of buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) was carried out on the basis of the laboratory of agricultural biotechnology of the Federal Scientific Center for Agricultural Biotechnology of the Far East named after I.I. A.K. Chaika. Microcuttings and callus of buckwheat were cultivated for 25 days on selective media with a mineral base according to Murashige and Skoog (MS) without the addition of hormones, supplemented, depending on the variant of the experiment: zinc sulfate – 202, 404, 606 mg/l or copper sulfate – 23, 46, 69, 161, 184 mg/l. Control – hormone-free MS medium containing 0.025 mg/l copper sulfate and 8.6 mg/l zinc sulfate. Microcuttings of Izumrud buckwheat plants were passaged on media containing salicylic acid (SA) in an in vitro culture of 6.9; 13.8; 20.7; 27.6 mg/l for 24 hours, 48 hours and 24 days. The accumulation of rutin increased by 33.6 % compared with the control after cultivation of buckwheat microshoots of the Izumrud variety under in vitro conditions on a medium with a high content of copper sulfate (161 mg/l). In subsequent generations, in plants grown in a breeding nursery, the increased biosynthesis of rutin was preserved. Short-term exposure for 2 days to salicylic acid (6.9 and 13.8 mg/l) on microshoot tissues contributed to an increase in the content of rutin in regenerated plants by 91.8 and 69.2 %, respectively. The field study of the breeding nursery of seed progeny of 11 regenerative lines tolerant to copper and zinc ions made it possible to select 5 promising lines distinguished by a complex of valuable traits (productivity, coarse grain, stress resistance, genetic flexibility).

Subcritical water hydrolysis of eggshell membrane and its physicochemical characteristics.

The insolubility of eggshell membrane (ESM) limits it application. This study utilized a green process subcritical water (SW), to prepare soluble ESM and compared it with acid hydrolysis. The effect of SW temperature on the yields of total protein, free amino acids, and glycosaminoglycan in the hydrolysate was investigated. Hydrolysates generated at 180-210°C exhibited the highest protein (40.57±2.40mg/g ESM concentrate), peptides (20.36±0.43mg/g), hyaluronic acid (8.19±0.34mg/g), and chondroitin sulfate (11.68±0.76mg/g) content. Acid hydrolysis exhibited significantly lower protein hydrolysis (p<0.05) and total free amino acid content than subcritical water hydrolysis. Collagen was observed in the SW hydrolysate, and its secondary structure transformed from the stable α-helix to unstable β-aggregates as the temperature increased. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed the disruption of the ESM fiber. SDS-PAGE analysis further revealed the presence of low-molecular-weight peptides in the hydrolysate. Compared to acid hydrolysates, hydrolysates obtained from SW exhibited higher degree of hydrolysis, and therefore, demonstrated greater free radical scavenging activity. Hence, SW hydrolysates can be used to develop functional foods from ESM. These results provide promising future directions for preparing active ESM.

Physicochemical Properties, Antioxidant Activity, and Flavor Profile of Strawberry Fruit-Based Novel Drinking Jelly Made with Gracilaria fisheri Seaweed as a Gelling Agent at Varying Concentrations.

Gracilaria fisheri (GF) is a red seaweed that is widely found in Southeast Asia and has gained attention for its potential bioactive compounds and versatile applications in food products. This study explored the potential of GF as a natural gelling agent in the development of sustainable strawberry-based drinking jelly. By utilizing GF at varying concentrations (0.2 (S1), 0.4 (S2), 0.6 (S3), 0.8 (S4), and 1.0% (S5)), the impact on the physicochemical, textural, phytochemical, and flavor profiles of the strawberry concentrate-based drinking jelly was examined. The results demonstrated that GF concentration significantly affected the color characteristics, structural development, and flavor profiles of the drinking jelly samples. Increasing GF levels progressively enhanced the lightness (L*) and redness (a*) values while reducing the yellowness (b*), with optimal visual appeal achieved in the S4 samples compared to others. Microscopical observations revealed that gel matrix development improved with GF concentrations up to 0.8% (S4), transitioning from a sparse, liquid-like structure at lower levels to a compact, over-gelated network at 1.0% (S5). Physicochemical parameters, including pH, total soluble solid (TSS), and TSS/titratable acidity (TA) ratios, increased with GF levels, contributing to a sweeter, less acidic product, while water activity (aw) decreased, enhancing jelly stability. Viscosity and sulfate content increased significantly with GF concentration, indicating improved gel strength but reduced fluidity. Phytochemical analysis revealed that ascorbic acid (AsA) and total phenolic content (TPC) decreased progressively with higher GF levels, leading to a reduction in antioxidant activity (DPPH and ABTS). Volatile compound analysis identified alcohols, esters, and aldehydes as dominant contributors to the flavor profile. 1-Octanol (waxy, citrus-like) and methyl anthranilate (grape-like, sweet) increased substantially, while minor groups such as terpenoids and phenolic compounds contributed floral and woody notes. The findings suggest that S4 samples strike the optimal balance between texture, color, flavor, and antioxidant properties, achieving a cohesive, visually appealing, and flavorful drinking jelly suitable for commercial applications.

Early Strength Enhancement Mechanism of CaO-Modified Electrolytic Manganese Residue-Based Supersulfate Cement.

Electrolytic manganese residue (EMR) is a solid waste generated during the production of electrolytic manganese metal through wet metallurgy, accumulating in large quantities and causing significant environment pollution. Due to its high sulfate content, EMR can be utilized to prepare supersulfate cement when combined with Ground Granulated Blast furnace Slag (GGBS). In this process, GGBS serves as the primary raw material, EMR acts as the sulfate activator, and CaO powder, along with trace amounts of cement, functions as the alkali activator. This results in the preparation of CaO-modified electrolytic manganese residue-based supersulfate cement (Abbreviated as "SSC"), facilitating the harmless and resourceful utilization of EMR. This study aims to determine the optimal dosage of CaO as the alkali activator for GGBS in SSC. A comprehensive analysis was conducted on four groups, including a control group. The mass ratio of EMR, GGBS, and cement in SSC was fixed as 35:60:5, and the optimum mixing ratio of lime powder as an external admixture was investigated through mechanical tests and microscopic experiments. The hydration products and mechanism of the cementitious materials were analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), pH measurements, thermogravimetric and differential thermogravimetric analysis (TG-DTG), mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results indicated that, under the combined influence of trace cement and raw lime powder, EMR effectively activated GGBS. The primary hydration products of the SSC are AFt and hydrated calcium silicate (C-S-H), which contributed to the mechanical strength of the SSC. At a hydration age of 3 days, the optimal CaO blending ratio was found to be 8% by mass of dried EMR. With this ratio, the compressive strength of SSC reached 18.2 MPa, the pore size of hardened slurry was refined, the structure became dense, and hydration products increased. It could be concluded that CaO enhances the early strength of SSC when used as an alkali activator.

Determina tion of melatonin in women of early reproductive age with lung TB

Background. The role of melatonin in many physiological processes has been actively discussed for the last decade. The neuroendocrine hormone melatonin not only transmits information about the light cycle of the environment, but also actively participates in human reproductive ability. The discovery of melatonin synthesis in pineacytes of the epiphysis, and other cells such as Purkinje cells in the cerebellum, T lymphocytes, and NK cells marked the beginning of the definition of a new approach to the regulation of homeostasis and the creation of neuroimmunoendocrinology. Researchers often observe changes in the secretion of melatonin levels in various sleep disorders, depression, stress, some forms of cancer, as well as in impaired sexual development during puberty. Most of the circulating melatonin is metabolized in the liver to 6-hydroxymelatonin, then to 6-sulfatoxymelatonin, which is excreted in the urine. Aim. The quantitative content of melatonin sulfate (6-hydroxymelatonin sulfate) in the urine of women of early reproductive age with tuberculosis was analyzed. Materials and methods.A prospective comparative study based on the materials of the Department of Pulmonary Tuberculosis Therapy No. 1 of the. State Research Institute of Phthisiopulmonology: 29 patients of early reproductive age from 18 to 35 years old were examined and divided into 2 groups. The main group (n=11) with pulmonary tuberculosis and the control group (n=18) with women of early reproductive age who did not have tuberculosis. The women of the main and control groups were surveyed and the determination of melatonin sulfate by enzyme immunoassay was carried out. Results. No changes gave been detected in the melatonin sulfate secretion in the course of comparative analysis of the main and control groups (р ≥0.001).Conclusion. Melatonin sulfate synthesis in the group with pulmonary TB depended on the form and severity of the disease.

Insights into closed-wet ultrasonic carbonation of MSWI fly ash: Carbon sequestration, heavy metals stabilization, and PCDD/Fs migration and degradation.

This study proposed a novel closed-wet accelerated carbonation method based on ultrasonic chemistry for treating municipal solid waste incineration fly ash (MSWI FA), assessing various reaction parameters (time, temperature, CO2 pressure, ultrasonic power, and alkaline additives) on the detoxification and synergistic carbon fixation. The mechanisms of carbon sequestration, heavy metal migration-stabilization, and PCDD/Fs migration-degradation were elucidated. Key findings include the reaction kinetic of MSWI FA ultrasonic carbonation aligning with the surface coverage model (R2>0.999), achieving a carbonation efficiency of 29.4% within 30min. Optimal conditions-room temperature, 1-2MPa CO2 pressure, and 500W ultrasonic power-enhanced carbon sequestration and heavy metal stabilization. The formation of fine calcium carbonate resulted in the co-precipitation of heavy metals, such as Ba, Pb, and Zn, avoiding liquid phase heavy metal pollution and reducing their leaching concentrations in solid samples well below the HJ 1134-2020 standard. The particle size reduction rate was 69.9% (18.6μm) for non-ultrasonic carbonated FA compared to 89.2% (6.7μm) for ultrasonic carbonated FA (UFA). NaOH and ammonia addition effectively decreased calcium concentration in the carbonation reaction solution (<200mg/L) and calcium sulfate content in UFA. The ultrasonic carbonation process prevented PCDD/Fs from migrating into the reaction solution and achieved 35.0% PCDD/Fs degradation. This comprehensive evaluation supports the viability of ultrasonic carbonation for treating MSWI FA.

STUDY OF THE DESULFURIZATION PROCESS OF BRINE FROM THE KARAUMBET AND BARSAKELMES LAKES

The research results on the desulfurization of brine from the Karaumbet and Barsakelmes lakes using distiller liquid, a by-product of soda production, are presented. It is shown that the optimal technological parameters are a distiller liquid dosage of 100-105%, a temperature of 20-30°C and a process duration of 20-30 minutes, under which the degree of desulfurization reaches 95%. Deep purification with sodium carbonate reduces the calcium chloride content by 0.66% and introducing barium chloride in 100% relative to the residual sulfate content reduces the sulfate concentration to 0.001%.

Pengaruh Perbedaan Suhu dan Waktu Pengeringan Terhadap Parameter Mutu Karagenan Dari Eucheuma spinosum

Carrageenan is widely used in various industries, such as food and beverages, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, due to its important role as a viscosity regulator, stabilizer, thickener, developer, gelling agent, and excellent stabilizing agent. Temperature and drying duration are important factors that affect the quality of the final product. This study aims to examine the quality characteristics of carrageenan from Eucheuma spinosum dried using the oven method, considering variations in temperature and drying time. This study used a completely randomized design (CRD) with two factors: temperature and drying time, each of which was repeated three times. Eucheuma spinosum was extracted using the microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) method with 10% KOH solvent in a ratio of 1:10 for 8 minutes. The first factor is the drying temperature, which consists of three levels: 40°C, 50°C, and 60°C. The second factor is the drying time, which also consists of three levels: 24 hours, 27 hours, and 30 hours. The results of the study showed that (1) temperature and drying time affect the quality characteristics of carrageenan from Eucheuma spinosum dried using the oven method, (2) the parameters affected include water content, ash content, sulfate content, viscosity, and gel strength of carrageenan, and (3) the higher the temperature and duration of drying, the more the water content, ash, protein, and crude fiber in the product tend to decrease. This decrease is in line with the viscosity and gel strength of the resulting carrageenan.

Effects of Ultrasound-Assisted Treatment on Physicochemical Properties and Biological Activities of Polysaccharides from Sargassum.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of ultrasonic treatment on the physicochemical properties and bioactivities of polysaccharides from Sargassum samples (SPs) extracted with different solvents. The alkali-assisted extraction of polysaccharide (SPA), acid-assisted extraction of polysaccharides from (SPB), and hot water extraction of polysaccharides (SPCs) were perofrmed on Sargassum. Ultrasonic treatment was performed with the SPA, SPB, and SPC in turn, and named USPA, USPB, and UPSC, respectively. The results showed that SPs mainly consisted of mannose, glucose, xylose, rhamnose, galactose, fucose, glucuronic acid, mannuronic acid and guluronic acid. The molecular weight of SPA (434.590 kDa) was the lowest under different solvent extractions, and the molecular weights of SPA, SPB, and SPC were reduced after sonication. SPA had a high carbohydrate content of (52.59 ± 5.16)%, and SPC possessed a high sulfate content of (3.90 ± 0.33)%. After ultrasonic treatment, the biological activities of SPs were significantly increased. The α-glucosidase inhibition assay reflected that the IC50 values of the ultrasonic treatment SPs were significantly reduced, and USPA showed the best activity, with an IC50 of (0.058 ± 0.05) mg/mL. Antioxidant assays demonstrated that USPC exhibited greater DPPH- and ABTS-scavenging capacity. In the anti-glycosylation assay, SPs after sonication demonstrated excellent inhibition of glycosylation products and protein oxidation products, with USPA showing the highest inhibition rate. In conclusion, the biological activities of SPs were enhanced after ultrasonic treatment. This study provides a theoretical reference for their use in food and medicines.

Preparation of Composite Materials with Slow-Release Biocides and Solidifying Agents for Remediation of Acid Pollution in Coal Gangue

The processes of coal mining and washing generate a substantial amount of coal gangue. During prolonged outdoor storage, this waste can lead to both direct and indirect environmental pollution, as well as geological hazards. Recent research has indicated that the redox processes of coal gangue are regulated by microorganisms. Techniques such as the application of biocides and the facilitation of microbial interactions have proven effective in controlling the acidic pollution of coal gangue in the short term. However, conventional doping methods that couple sulfate-reducing bacteria with biocides face challenges, including a short effective duration and poor stability. To address these issues, this study utilized corn straw biochar as a microbial attachment material and incorporated water-retaining agents as slow-release biocide carriers, resulting in the development of an environmentally friendly microbial remediation material. This study selected 0.6 g of biochar produced from the pyrolysis of corn straw at 700 °C to immobilize sulfate-reducing bacteria. Additionally, 0.6 g of polyacrylamide was used to prepare a slow-release bactericide with 100 mL of a sodium dodecyl sulfate solution at a concentration of 50 mg·L−1. The composite remediation material successfully raises the pH of weathered coal gangue leachate from 4.32 to 6.88. Its addition notably reduces the sulfate ion concentration in the weathered coal gangue, with sulfate content decreasing by 86.45%. Additionally, the composite material effectively lowers the salinity of the weathered coal gangue. The composite immobilizes heavy metal ions within the weathered coal gangue, achieving an approximate removal rate of 80% over 30 days. Following the introduction of the composite material, significant changes were observed in the dominant microbial communities and population abundances on the surface of the coal gangue. The composite demonstrated the ability to rapidly, sustainably, and effectively remediate the acidification pollution associated with coal gangue.

Effect of KCl Concentration on Physicochemical Properties of Refined Ƙ-Carrageenan from Kappaphycus alvarezii of Lemukutan Island

Abstract Carrageenan, a hydrocolloid derived from red seaweeds, is valued in various industries for its gelling, thickening, and stabilizing properties. Kappaphycus alvarezii, a key source of κ-carrageenan, is grown in tropical areas like Lemukutan Island, West Kalimantan. This study examines the impact of potassium chloride (KCl) concentration on the physicochemical properties of refined κ-carrageenan extracted from Kappaphycus alvarezii. Seaweed was treated with different KCl concentrations (1.5%, 2.5%, and 3.5%), and the carrageenan was characterized for yield, moisture content, viscosity, gel strength, ash content, acid-insoluble ash, sulfate content, color, and FTIR spectra. Using De Garmo’s method, 1.5% KCl was identified as the optimal concentration, providing a balance of high gel strength, moderate viscosity, and acceptable yield. The highest gel strength was achieved at 1.5% KCl (330.15 g/cm²), while 3.5% KCl did not form a gel. Color measurements indicated variations in lightness (L*), red-green (a*), and yellow-blue (b*) values. FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of κ-carrageenan characteristic functional groups. This study provides valuable insights for optimizing carrageenan extraction processes for industrial applications, contributing to environmentally friendly food industry practices.

Assessing the chemical composition of natural water using analytical chemistry techniques. a case study in the Orhei district, Republic of Moldova

This study is primarily focused on evaluating the chemical composition of natural water in the locality of Cișmea, situated in the Orhei district, at the coordinates 47°24’56.0"N 28°45’05.9"E. The study includes an ad-hoc analysis of two types of water: surface water and underground water. General parameters were evaluated, such as pH, conductivity, hardness, chloride and sulphate content, as well as the content of certain chemical elements. The study results highlights significant deviations from the maximum admissible concentrations (MAC) for a series of indicators, such as As, Pb, Cd, Na, and B. The determined concentrations of these elements exceed the limits allowed by the legislation of Republic of Moldova and European Union: for As by 1.7–1.9 times; Cd by 3.4–3.5 times; Pb by 1.2–2.3 times; Na by 1.2–4.0 times and B by 1.6–3.3 times. Deviations of conductivity and sulphate parameters indicate the presence of a high level of dissolved solids in the groundwater of the locality’s wells and springs. The study also signalled the presence of significant concentrations of some heavy elements, such as Ba, Tl and Bi, which are not regulated by current legislation.

Effects of sodium bisulfate or sodium sesquicarbonate as a sodium source in broiler chicken diets with or without a coccidiosis challenge.

Broilers commonly experience stressors such as coccidiosis, a parasitic infection that results in intestinal damage, malabsorption, and performance losses. The poultry industry is exploring alternatives to anticoccidials for controlling coccidiosis, especially through the enhancement of gut health. Sodium bisulfate (NaHSO4; SBS), an acid salt, has been used for many years as a litter acidifier to reduce aerial ammonia in poultry housing. More recently, SBS has shown promise as a feed additive that improves growth performance through enhancing gut health in poultry. Two trials of 1,920 broiler chicks each were raised to 42 d in floor pens. Chicks were randomly divided into 1 of 4 treatments (480 chicks/treatment) on d 0 that utilized SBS (0.3 or 0.4% of diet) or control diets using sodium sesquicarbonate (0.2 or 0.3% of diet) as a sodium source. In Trial 2, birds were challenged with a 2 × dose of coccidiosis vaccine on d 0. Growth performance was measured on d 0, 14, 28, and 42. Each trial was analyzed independently to yield results for non-challenged or coccidiosis-challenged conditions. All data were analyzed with means separation using a Duncan's test. SBS and control treatments with equivalent sodium contributions were also directly compared. Significance was accepted at P ≤ 0.05. On d 28, broilers fed 0.4% SBS weighed more (P < 0.05) than broilers from either control, regardless of challenge status. This effect was sustained in the challenged broilers at d 42 but was not different (P > 0.05) in non-challenged broilers. No differences (P > 0.05) in feed intake or mortality were observed in either trial. Birds fed 0.4% SBS had lower feed conversion than both control treatments for d 0-42, regardless of challenge status. Collectively, these results indicate that SBS promoted growth performance with and without a coccidiosis challenge more than that of sodium sesquicarbonate as a supplemental sodium source. Because experimental treatments were balanced for mineral content, it is possible the sulfate content of SBS influenced these results.

Anaerobic membrane bioreactor (AnMBR) with external ultrafiltration membrane for the treatment of sugar beet vinasse.

Vinasse, a by-product of ethanol production, is generated at significant rates. While rich in nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, its high solids, organic matter, acidity, and sulfate content pose challenges when disposed directly on soil, necessitating treatment. Anaerobic digestion is a viable solution, reducing organic pollution while recovering energy in the form of biogas, aligning with the biorefinery concept. Traditionally, sludge bed reactors and anaerobic contact reactors are utilized for vinasse processing, with sludge granulation being vital for treatment success. However, challenges such as sludge wash-out due to recalcitrant compounds, high solids concentration in the influent, low pH, salinity, and temperature hinder granule formation. Anaerobic membrane bioreactors (AnMBR) offer an alternative, simplifying treatment by integrating intensified pre- and post-treatment units. Due to complete sludge retention, AnMBRs achieve high COD removal efficiencies, yielding a suspended solids-free and largely disinfected effluent. Therefore, AnMBRs show promise for vinasse treatment, eliminating the need for sludge granulation and producing nutrient-rich effluent with minimal residual organics and suspended solids. In this study, an AnMBR equipped with an inside-out external crossflow ultrafiltration membrane was proposed for the treatment of vinasse. The AnMBR reached a COD removal efficiency of 95% ± 2.6% and produced 0.3 CH4 L.g COD removed -1 working at organic loading rates of 8g COD. L-1 d-1 and membrane fluxes of 10 LMH. At organic loading rates of 10g COD. L-1 d-1 and fluxes of 12 and 14 LMH, the COD removal efficiency decreased to 77% ± 11% and 73% ± 7.9%, respectively. The AnMBR technology represents an innovation for wastewater treatment, however, more research using the cross-flow configuration and different types of effluents is needed. Literature studies that address the treatment of sugar beet or sugarcane vinasse using AnMBR are still scarce. This study explored the potentials of AnMBR technology for vinasse treatment and contributes to the dissemination of this technology, opening new possibilities for vinasse processing.

Pertubations of Physicochemical Properties and Heavy Metal in the Soil of Coastal Areas of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

This study aimed at assessing the concentrations and perturbations of the physicochemical properties and heavy metals in the soil of the coastal regions of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Sampling was carried out across three mangrove locations (Iko Town, Okoroutip and Uta Ewa) in Eastern Obolo, Ibeno and Ikot Abasi Local Government Areas respectively. Four vegetation plots were randomly selected, and within each plot, three belt transects were established. Physicochemical properties [Sand, Clay, Silt, organic carbon (OC), total nitrogen, sulphate and chlorine content] and heavy metals (Arsenic, Silver, Chromium, Copper, Nickel, Lead, Mercury, Cadmium, Titanium, Vanadium and Zinc) were analyzed using standardized methods. Results from this study revealed considerable variations in the physicochemical properties of soil in the study area. The aforementioned heavy metals were present in both wet and dry seasons in considerable concentrations in the soil samples within the study areas. However, were within and below WHO limits. The variations in the physicochemical properties and the presence of these heavy metals in the samples are indicative of an impacted environment unsuitable for the growth and survival of the endemic flora and fauna species of this unique ecosystem. In view of the current knowledge of the role of mangrove ecosystems in blue-economy of the nation and mitigation of ongoing climate change, we advocate a tripartite alliance between the government, multinational companies operating within the area and the various impacted communities that leads to a concerted efforts of constant monitoring and remediation in the reduction of current and future pollutant levels.

Protective effects of Marinobacter nauticus strain GH3 exopolysaccharide on the Oreochromis niloticus model for Alzheimer’s disease

Marinobacter nauticus strain GH3 was isolated from the Red Sea, Sharm Elshiekh, and classified according to cultural attributes, biochemical properties, and the analysis of genetic relationships using 16 S rRNA sequences. A substantial proportion of exopolysaccharides (EPS) in GH3-EPS contained a sulfate content of 25.4%, uronic acid (12.18%), and N-acetylglucosamine (13.6%). The composition of monosaccharides in this fraction consists of glucose, glucoronic acid, arabinose, and xylose by 2:4:3:3, respectively. SEM showed a flower-like shape with white bundles on the GH3-EPS surface. GH3-EPS enhancement of the RAW264.7 macrophage line RAW 264.7 ATTC number J774 cell proliferation via MTT assay for cell viability. GH3-EPS had a high stimulation effect on releasing TNF-alpha and IL-10. Followed by its effect against cyclooxygenase (COX-2) and lipoxygenase (LOX), with IC50s of 14.74 and 19.4 µg/ml, respectively. Antioxidant activity was evaluated for GPx-4, GSS, and MDA with highly significant results, and for DPPH, ABTS, and iron chelating with IC50 (43.51, 31.27, and 84.96 µg/ml, respectively). AChE was inhibited by a mean of 52.92 ± 4.54 and 68.22 ± 5.64 µg/ml. In a fish animal model, GH3-EPS demonstrated a positive treatment effect for AD, supporting biochemical studies, histopathology for some brain parts, and toxicity.

Enhancing intrinsic TGF-β signaling via heparan sulfate glycosaminoglycan regulation to promote mesenchymal stem cell capabilities and chondrogenesis for cartilage repair

Osteoarthritis burdens patients due to the limited regenerative capacity of chondrocytes. Traditional cartilage repair often falls short, necessitating innovative approaches. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) show promise for regeneration. Heparan sulfate glycosaminoglycans (HS-GAGs) regulate cellular functions, making them a target for cartilage repair. This study highlights how Heparinase III (HepIII) cleaves intact HS-GAGs in bone marrow-derived MSCs (BM-MSCs), enhancing their capabilities and specifically promoting chondrogenesis. HepIII-treated BM-MSCs cultured in a hanging drop device for three days, significantly increased cell number and aggregation into a cell sphere with early chondrogenesis. HepIII promoted BM-MSCs toward chondrogenesis, increasing type II collagen, intact HS-GAGs, and sulfated GAG content, while upregulating chondrogenic and heparan sulfate proteoglycan genes. Treatment with the TGF-β inhibitor (SB-431542) in HepIII-treated BM-MSCs demonstrated enhanced intrinsic transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling and fibronectin expression. This approach also boosted BM-MSC self-renewal, immunosuppressive potential, and modified acetylated histone signatures, offering a cost-effective strategy for cartilage repair by addressing inflammation, metabolic changes, and the high costs of traditional TGF-β methods. From the results, HepIII-treated BM-MSCs show potential for use in combination with other biopolymers as injectable gels to improve cartilage repair in osteoarthritis patients in the near future.