Degradation Rate Research Articles

Efficient degradation of organics via sodium p-styrene sulfonate modified PbO2 electrode: The role of boosting electrocatalytic performance

In this work, Sodium p-styrene sulfonate (SSS)/PbO2 electrode was successfully prepared and further applied for the electrocatalytic degradation of methyl blue (MB). 95.8 % of methylene blue degradation via PbO2 electrodes was observed at the optimized conditions (100 mg/L-1 of MB solution, current density of 30 mA·cm−2, pH=5, 180 min). When compared with PbO2 electrodes, SSS/PbO2 electrode was found to possess most effective electrocatalytic activity due to its higher oxygen evolution potential, lower charge transfer resistance, and longer service lifetime. When the concentration of SSS increases to 2vt%, the grain size of PbO2 decreases from 21.79 nm to 19.42 nm, and the degradation rate of MB was enhanced for 5 %. Besides, the degradation rate of SSS/PbO2 electrode remained 86 % after 10 cycles, indicating that the stability and catalytic activity of the electrode were improved when the PbO2 was decorated by SSS. Moreover, the law of degradation of MB catalyzed by SSS/PbO2 electrode follows the first order kinetics. Furthermore, the energy consumption and mineralization efficiency of the SSS/PbO2 electrode were 68.73 kWh· L-1 and 4.39 %, respectively. Finally, a possible mechanism was proposed, which was further uncovered by DFT calculations.

Comparative study of random and block SPEEK copolymers for high-temperature proton exchange membrane electrolysis

Traditionally, High-temperature proton Exchange Membrane Electrolysis (HT-PEME) has relied on costly and exceptionally hydrogen-permeable PFSA ionomers like Nafion®, Flemion®, and Aciplex®. Sulfonated Poly (ether ether ketone) (SPEEK) membranes have been developed as potential substitutes for the highly hydrogen permeable Nafion® membranes. The ion exchange capacity (IEC) of SPEEK membranes has been varied, ranging from 0.5 to 2.2 meq/g, to enhance their performance. Furthermore, the incorporation of ion-conducting units into these polymers is explored using both random and block copolymerization approaches. At 75 °C, SPEEK membranes exhibit significantly lower hydrogen diffusivity (35–50 barriers) compared to Nafion® and Flemion® membranes (∼202 barriers). Among SPEEK yttria-stabilized zirconia membranes (YSZM), those produced through random copolymerization exhibit marginally greater proton-to-hydrogen selectivity than YSZM derived from block SPEEK copolymers with a similar ion exchange capacity (IEC). This could be ascribed to the improved hydrogen-blocking capability resulting from an underdeveloped hydrophilic component. Among the SPEEK membranes tested, the random SPEEK membrane with an IEC of approximately 1.9 meq/g demonstrates superior performance (6.8 A/cm2) compared to a similarly thick (∼45 μm) Flemion® membrane (4.4 A/cm2) at 2.2 V. However, during an accelerated stress test involving 410 successive fluctuating flow densities of 2.8 and 0.04 A/cm2 imitating the alternating period's cycles of a water electrolyzer, the random SPEEK membrane exhibits a higher degradation rate (860 μV/h) compared to Flemion® and Nafion® (505 μV/h).

Biocompatibility and osteogenic capacity of additively manufactured biodegradable porous WE43 scaffolds: An in vivo study in a canine model

Magnesium is the most promising absorbable metallic implant material for bone regeneration and alloy WE43 is already FDA approved for cardiovascular applications. This study investigates the cyto- and biocompatibility of novel additively manufactured (AM) porous WE43 scaffolds as well as their osteogenic potential and degradation characteristics in an orthotopic canine bone defect model. The cytocompatibility was demonstrated using modified ISO 10993-conform extract-based indirect and direct assays, respectively. Additionally, degradation rates of WE43 scaffolds were quantified in vitro prior to absorption tests in vivo. Complete blood cell counts, blood biomarker analyses, blood trace element analyses as well as multi-organ histopathology demonstrated excellent biocompatibility of porous y WE43 scaffolds for bone defect repair. Micro-CT analyses further showed a relatively higher absorption rate during the initial four weeks upon implantation (i.e., 36 % ± 19 %) than between four and 12 weeks (41 % ± 14 %), respectively. Of note, the porous WE43 implants were surrounded by newly formed bony tissue as early as four weeks after implantation when unmineralized trabecular ingrowth was detected. After 12 weeks, a substantial amount of mineralized bone was detected inside and around the gradually disappearing implants. This first study on AM porous WE43 implants in canine bone defects demonstrates the potential of this alloy for in vivo applications in humans. Our data further underscore the need to control initial bulk absorption kinetics through surface modifications.

Highly-separated Co anchored on S, O-doped carbon nitride for enhanced peroxymonosulfate activation: Insights into radical and non-radical pathways

Understanding the various catalytic mechanisms of activated peroxymonosulfate (PMS) is crucial for designing high-efficiency metal-supported catalysts. Herein, Co, S, O co-doped carbon nitride (CoCN-x) was constructed. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations for CN doped with different elements revealed that CoCN-x exhibited improved PMS activation capabilities. Optimized CoCN-0.5 achieved a 95 % removal rate of sulfamethoxazole (SMX) within 30 s, with a degradation rate constant of 2.92 min−1, which is 845.34 times higher than that of the original CN. Additionally, the activation mechanism of PMS was thoroughly investigated, revealing the presence of classical radicals such as OH, SO4− and O2− and non-radicals involving 1O2, CoO2+, and electron transfer. Potential SMX degradation pathways were also elucidated using DFT calculations, HPLC-MS, and 3D EEMs. This work provides new insights into the development of catalysts that effectively activate PMS through both radical and non-radical mechanisms.

Anode defects’ propagation in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells stack

This paper investigates how cell manufacturing defects can propagate within healthy areas of the same cell or to adjacent cells within a stack. To do so, a defective stack is assembled on the basis of 30 cells without defect and 5 defective cells with controlled lack of anode catalyst layer. The analysis of the degradation rate showed that the adjacent cells to the defective cells are the ones whose performance degraded the fastest, which implies that the presence of defects within the stack induces a propagation of the performance decrease. Post-mortem analyses are performed in the vicinity of the anode defect in the adjacent cell and highlight a significant degradation of perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) inducing hydrogen leakages through the membrane. The propagation of the degradation of the membrane in the surroundings of the anode defect to the adjacent cell can be discussed based on the stack design and operating conditions.

Regulating cobalt-nitrogen function centers via Cu incorporation enhances ciprofloxacin destruction through peroxymonosulfate activation

Metal-nitrogen (M-N) coupling has shown promise as a catalytic active component for various reactions. However, the regulation of heterogeneous catalytic materials with M-N coupling for peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation to enhance the degradation efficiency and reusability of antibiotics remains a challenge. In this study, an efficient modulation of M-N coupling was achieved through the incorporation of Cu into Co4N to form a Cu-Co4N composite with sea urchin-like morphology assembled by numerous nano-needles using hydrothermal and nitriding processes. This modulation led to enhanced PMS activation for ciprofloxacin (CIP) degradation. The Cu-Co4N/PMS system demonstrated exceptional removal efficiency with a degradation rate of 95.85% within 30 minutes and can be reused for five time without obvious loss of its initial activity. Additionally, the catalyst displayed a high capacity for degrading various challenging organic pollutants, as well as remarkable stability, resistance to interferences, and adaptability to pH changes. The synergistic effect between Co and Cu facilitated multiple redox cycles, resulting in the generation of reactive oxidized species. The primary active species involved in the catalytic degradation process included 1O2, SO4•-, O2•-, •OH, and e-, with 1O2 and SO4•- playing the most significant roles. The degradation pathways and toxicity of the intermediates for CIP were unveiled. This study offers valuable insights into the regulation of M-N centers for degrading antibiotics through PMS activation.

A simple method for synthesis and photocatalytic performance of a novel boron doped BiOCl

In this study, a fresh boron-doped B/BiOCl was produced utilizing BPO4 as the boron origin. When exposed to visible light, B/BiOCl demonstrated effective degradation of organic dyes like Rhodamine B (RhB), methyl blue (MB), and basic fuchsin (BF). Their degradation rates surpassed those of BiOCl by 1.7 times for RhB, 3.6 times for MB, and 8.35 times for BF, respectively. Furthermore, the introduction of boron into B/BiOCl notably enhanced its photocatalytic reduction capability towards carbon dioxide, leading to a 3.21-fold increase in CH4 production compared to BiOCl. Analysis results revealed a homogeneous distribution of boron within BiOCl, thereby improving its efficiency in charge-hole separation and adsorption. Consequently, the photocatalytic performance of B/BiOCl was significantly augmented.

The critical role of electron donating rate of pyrogenic carbon in mediating the degradation of phenols in the aquatic environment

Phenols are the widely detected contaminants in the aquatic environment. Pyrogenic carbon (PyC) can mediate phenols degradation, but the specific properties of PyC or phenols influencing this reaction remain unknown. The present study investigated the kinetic process and mechanism of removal of various phenols by different PyC in aqueous phase system. To avoid the impact of the accumulated degradation byproducts on the overall reaction, we conducted a short-term experiment, quantified adsorption and degradation, and obtained reaction rate constants using a two-compartment first-order kinetics model. The adsorption rate constants (ka) of phenols by PyC were 10-220 times higher than degradation rate constants (kd), and they were positively correlated. Interestingly, no correlation was found between kd and common PyC properties, including functional groups, electron transfer capacities, and surface properties. Phenols were primarily attacked by •OH in the adsorbed phase. But neither the instantly trapped •OH, nor the accumulated •OH could explain phenol degradation. Chemical redox titration revealed that the electron transfer parameters, such as the electron donating rate constant (kED) of PyC, correlated well with kd (r>0.87, P < 0.05) of phenols. Analysis of 13 phenols showed that Egap and ELUMO negatively correlated with their kd, confirming the importance of the electronic properties of phenols to their degradation kinetics. This study highlights the importance of PyC electron transfer kinetics parameters for phenols degradation and manipulation of PyC electron transfer rate may accelerate organic pollutant removal, which contributes to a deeper understanding of the environmental behavior and application of PyC systems.

Investigating the Z-scheme mechanism on the optimized oxygen vacancies ZnO/Co3S4 photocatalyst for the efficient photocatalytic removal of ciprofloxacin

The waste of human and animal antibiotics is an inescapable problem and a severe threat to the continuation of human life. A logical strategy to face the challenge of antibiotic contamination is to design active, stable, environmentally friendly, and economical photocatalysts. Hence, oxygen vacancies ZnO/Co3S4 (ZnO-OV/Co3S4) photocatalyst was successfully fabricated for the first time and used for the photocatalytic removal of ciprofloxacin (CIP) as a widely used antibiotic under visible light. Several techniques were engaged in exploring the crystallinity, morphology, structure, chemical and elemental composition, and electrochemical and optical properties of the constructed nanocomposites. The band gap of ZnO-OV and Co3S4 nanoparticles was determined at 2.95 and 1.58 eV by evaluating the optical properties and using the Tauc plots. To optimize the conditions of the photocatalytic process, factors such as the weight percentage of the nanocomposite components, the photocatalyst dosage, the initial concentration of CIP, the pH of the test solution, and the presence of bubbled oxygen were varied. The optimal degradation rate constant (0.0720 min−1) was obtained for ZnO-OV/Co3S4 (15%) nanocomposite at pH 9, nanocomposite dosage of 1.5 g/L, and 10 mg/L of CIP in the visible spectrum. The experimental and characterization outcomes indicated that the significantly boosted photocatalytic activity of the ZnO-OV/Co3S4 composite was chiefly attributed to the oxygen vacancies, retard charge carriers recombination by the construction of heterojunction between the ZnO-OV and Co3S4. Finally, the possible Z-scheme mechanism was proposed to illuminate the migration of charge carriers.

Enhanced efficiency and stability in the degradation of triazophosphorus pesticides by Al6Si2O13/WO2.72 nanocomposites through synergistic action of S-scheme heterojunction and oxygen vacancies

The environmental contamination caused by organophosphorus pesticides (for example, triazophos) is an escalating concern. To mitigate this issue, this study introduces a novel Al6Si2O13/WO2.72 (ASO/WO) nanocomposite photocatalyst, which markedly enhances the photocatalytic degradation of triazophos. The optimized nanocomposite material with a 60.0 % ASO loading (60-ASO/WO) achieves a degradation rate of 86.3 % for triazophos within 140.0 min, marginally exceeding 60-ASO/WO3 (72.6 %) and significantly outperforming individual ASO (65.0 %), WO (59.5 %), and WO3 (56.2 %). This catalyst retains 88.9 % of its activity after five cycles, showcasing exceptional efficiency and stability. Additionally, its electrochemical surface area (ECSA, 310 cm2), total organic carbon (TOC, removal rate of 73.7 %), photocurrent, and electrochemical impedance are all optimal. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), and theoretical calculations elucidate the critical role of oxygen vacancies and the S-scheme heterojunction in augmenting charge separation and photocatalytic performance, corroborating the synergistic effect of oxygen defects and the S-scheme. While individual factors can enhance photocatalytic activity, their combination results in a more pronounced effect. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LCMS) identifies the principal degradation intermediates, including 1-phenyl-3-hydroxy-1, 2, 4-triazole, diethyl thiophosphate, and 3, 5, 6-trichloro-2-pyridinol, underscoring the material’s potential in environmental remediation.

Acid-modified hydrochar for higher biodegradation rate of atrazine in various conditions by Paenarthrobacter sp. KN0901: Higher cell viability and bacterial number

Microbial remediation is a viable and eco-friendly approach for decontaminating pollution. However, its effectiveness can be limited by the microorganisms’ survival and growth in changing environments. Hydrochar materials have been utilized in this study to increase the growth and atrazine degradation capabilities of Paenarthrobacter sp. KN0901, a strain capable of atrazine biodegradation. Acid-modified hydrochars exhibited a higher carbonation rate, specific surface area, and number of defect sites compared to raw hydrochar. Following three days of incubation at 15 °C, the atrazine degradation rate increased from 90.7 % to 98.2 % when utilizing H3PO4-modified hydrochar (PHC). Additionally, the addition of PHC resulted in an increase in both bacterial concentration and cell viability of strain KN0901, by 1.6 and 1.4 times, respectively. Under various conditions, including temperatures of 4 ºC and 35 ºC, as well as pH levels of 5 and 9, and dd·H2O media, PHC exhibited a significant enhancement in atrazine degradation and cell viability of strain KN0901. Furthermore, PHC demonstrated the ability to sustain high proliferation and viability of strain KN0901 over five cycles, indicating its remarkable stability and biocompatibility. This study offers a new perspective on the development and application of bioremediation approaches in restoring atrazine-polluted environments, even under challenging conditions.

Optimization of TiO2-natural hydrogels for paracetamol and ibuprofen degradation in wastewaters.

Agarose/micrometer titanium dioxide (TiO2) beads were essayed to test the photocatalytic capacity of two of the most widely prescribed drugs worldwide: paracetamol and ibuprofen. Although the initial tests demonstrated promising degradation rates for both drugs, the presence of turbidity, due to TiO2 leakage, during the photocatalytic essays induced to improve the stability of the photocatalytic composites. Among the different strategies adopted to strengthen such materials, crosslinking with citric acid and the use of alternative gelling agents: gellan, agargel™, and agar were chosen. Composites obtained by merging both strategies were characterized and employed to degrade both drugs under a simulated light that mimics the solar spectrum (indoor). Considering the superior degradation rates obtained when agar and agarose were used to shape the titanium oxide particles (up to 70-75% of drug destruction), such composites were subjected to a more realistic experiment (outdoor): solar illumination, tap water, and higher volumes, that should facilitate its ulterior scale up as a real wastewater depollution procedure. Degradation rates between 80 and 90% are attained under such conditions for both drugs.

Biogenic synthesis of nickel cobaltite nanoparticles via a green route for enhancing the photocatalytic and electrochemical performances

Green synthesis aligns with the global demand for eco-friendly and sustainable technologies, reducing the dependency on harmful chemicals and high-energy processes typically used in conventional synthesis techniques. This study highlights a novel green synthesis route for nickel cobaltite nanoparticles (NiCO2O4 NPs) utilizing Hyphaene thebaica extract as a natural reducing and stabilizing agent. The synthesized NiCO2O4 NPs, with sizes ranging from 20 to 30 nm, exhibited uniform diamond-like structures as confirmed by SEM and TEM imaging. XRD analysis verified the polycrystalline nature of these nanoparticles, while EDS measurements confirmed the elemental composition of Ni and Co. The presence of functional groups was subsequently verified through FT-IR analysis, and Raman spectroscopy further confirmed phase formation. Electrochemical evaluations revealed significant pseudocapacitive behavior, showing a specific capacitance of 519 F/g, demonstrating their potential for high-performance supercapacitors. To further assess the applicability of the synthesized NiCO2O4 NPs, their photocatalytic activity against methylene blue (MB) dye was investigated, resulting in a 99% degradation rate. This impressive photocatalytic efficiency highlights their potential application in environmental remediation. Overall, this work underscores the significant potential of green synthesis methods in producing high-performance nanomaterials while simultaneously reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainable development.

Structure, ingredient, and function-based biomimetic scaffolds for accelerated healing of tendon-bone interface

BackgroundTendon-bone interface (TBI) repair is slow and challenging owing to its hierarchical structure, gradient composition, and complex function. In this work, enlightened by the natural characteristics of TBI microstructure and the demands of TBI regeneration, a structure, composition, and function-based scaffold was fabricated. Methods: The biomimetic scaffold was designed based on the “tissue-inducing biomaterials” theory: (1) a porous scaffold was created with poly-lactic-co-glycolic-acid, nano-hydroxyapatite and loaded with BMP2-gelatinmp to simulate the bone (BP); (2) a hydrogel was produced from sodium alginate, type I collagen, and loaded with TGF-β3 to simulate the cartilage (CP); (3) the L-poly-lactic-acid fibers were oriented to simulate the tendon (TP). The morphology of tri-layered constructs, gelation kinetics, degradation rate, release kinetics and mechanical strength of the scaffold were characterized. Then, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and tenocytes (TT-D6) were cultured on the scaffold to evaluate its gradient differentiation inductivity. A rat Achilles tendon defect model was established, and BMSCs seeded on scaffolds were implanted into the lesionsite. The tendon-bone lesionsite of calcaneus at 4w and 8w post-operation were obtained for gross observation, radiological evaluation, biomechanical and histological assessment. ResultsThe hierarchical microstructures not only endowed the scaffold with gradual composition and mechanical properties for matching the regional biophysical characteristics of TBI but also exhibited gradient differentiation inductivity through providing regional microenvironment for cells. Moreover, the scaffold seeded with cells could effectively accelerate healing in rat Achilles tendon defects, attributable to its enhanced differentiation performance. ConclusionThe hierarchical scaffolds simulating the structural, compositional, and cellular heterogeneity of natural TBI tissue performed therapeutic effects on promoting regeneration of TBI and enhancing the healing quality of Achilles tendon. The translational potential of this articleThe novel scaffold showed the great efficacy on tendon to bone healing by offering a structural and compositional microenvironment. The results meant that the hierarchical scaffold with BMSCs may have a great potential for clinical application.

Post-Translational Modification of PTEN Protein: Quantity and Activity

Post-translational modifications play crucial roles in regulating protein functions and stabilities. PTEN is a critical tumor suppressor involved in regulating cellular proliferation, survival, and migration processes. However, dysregulation of PTEN is common in various human cancers. PTEN stability and activation/suppression have been extensively studied in the context of tumorigenesis through inhibition of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. PTEN undergoes various post-translational modifications, primarily including phosphorylation, acetylation, ubiquitination, SUMOylation, neddylation, and oxidation, which finely tune its activity and stability. Generally, phosphorylation modulates PTEN activity through its lipid phosphatase function, leading to altered power of the signaling pathways. Acetylation influences PTEN protein stability and degradation rate. SUMOylation has been implicated in PTEN localization and interactions with other proteins, affecting its overall function. Neddylation, as a novel modification of PTEN, is a key regulatory mechanism in the loss of tumor suppressor function of PTEN. Although current therapeutic approaches focus primarily on inhibiting PI3 kinase, understanding the post-translational modifications of PTEN could help provide new therapeutic strategies that can restore PTEN’s role in PIP3-dependent tumors. The present review summarizes the major recent developments in the regulation of PTEN protein level and activity. We expect that these insights will contribute to better understanding of this critical tumor suppressor and its potential implications for cancer therapy in the future.

A Critical Review of Biodegradable Zinc Alloys toward Clinical Applications.

Biodegradable zinc (Zn) alloys stand out as promising contenders for biomedical applications due to their favorable mechanical properties and appropriate degradation rates, offering the potential to mitigate the risks and expenses associated with secondary surgeries. While current research predominantly centers on the in vitro examination of Zn alloys, notable disparities often emerge between in vivo and in vitro findings. Consequently, conducting in vivo investigations on Zn alloys holds paramount significance in advancing their clinical application. Different element compositions and processing methods decide the mechanical properties and biological performance of Zn alloys, thus affecting their suitability for specific medical applications. This paper presents a comprehensive overview of recent strides in the development of biodegradable Zn alloys, with a focus on key aspects such as mechanical properties, toxicity, animal experiments, biological properties, and molecular mechanisms. By summarizing these advancements, the paper aims to broaden the scope of research directions and enhance the understanding of the clinical applications of biodegradable Zn alloys.

Enhancing mechanical properties, degradation rate, and water resistance of bioplastic Lignin/Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) by fractionation of lignin

Enhancing mechanical properties, degradation rate, and water resistance of bioplastic Lignin/Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) by fractionation of lignin

Chiral Herbicide Fluorochloridone: Absolute Configuration, Stereoselective Bioactivity, Toxicity, and Degradation in the Potatoes.

Fluorochloridone (FLC) is a chiral herbicide that has four stereoisomers. This study systematically assessed the stereoselectivity of FLC to reveal the selective environmental behavior of its four isomers. Absolute configuration confirmation, evaluation of stereoselective bioactivity toward monocotyledonous and dicotyledonous weeds, toxicity to Danio rerio, and the stereoselective degradation in the potato system under field conditions of FLC were conducted. The four FLC stereoisomers were effectively separated on a superchiral S-AD column. The absolute configurations of the four stereoisomers of FLC were confirmed as (-)-(3S, 4S), (+)-(3S, 4R), (-)-(3R, 4S), and (+)-(3R, 4R)-FLC using single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The activities of the four stereoisomers were in the order of (-)-(3S, 4S)-FLC > (+)-(3R, 4R)-FLC > (+)-(3S, 4R)-FLC > (-)-(3R, 4S)-FLC, and the rate of selective degradation were in the order of (-)-(3R, 4S)-FLC > (+)-(3R, 4R)-FLC > (-)-(3S, 4R)-FLC > (+)-(3S, 4S)-FLC. The toxicity of the isomers were in the order of (-)-(3R, 4S)-FLC > (+)-(3R, 4R)-FLC > (-)-(3S, 4S)-FLC > (+)-(3S, 4R). Based on the results of bioactivity, toxicity, and degradation behavior assessments, the stereoisomer mixture containing (3R,4R)-FLC and (3S,4S)-FLC was concluded to be a better option than racemic FLC for increasing bioactivity and reducing usage.

Biohacking Nerve Repair: Novel Biomaterials, Local Drug Delivery, Electrical Stimulation, and Allografts to Aid Surgical Repair

The regenerative capacity of the peripheral nervous system is limited, and peripheral nerve injuries often result in incomplete healing and poor outcomes even after repair. Transection injuries that induce a nerve gap necessitate microsurgical intervention; however, even the current gold standard of repair, autologous nerve graft, frequently results in poor functional recovery. Several interventions have been developed to augment the surgical repair of peripheral nerves, and the application of functional biomaterials, local delivery of bioactive substances, electrical stimulation, and allografts are among the most promising approaches to enhance innate healing across a nerve gap. Biocompatible polymers with optimized degradation rates, topographic features, and other functions provided by their composition have been incorporated into novel nerve conduits (NCs). Many of these allow for the delivery of drugs, neurotrophic factors, and whole cells locally to nerve repair sites, mitigating adverse effects that limit their systemic use. The electrical stimulation of repaired nerves in the perioperative period has shown benefits to healing and recovery in human trials, and novel biomaterials to enhance these effects show promise in preclinical models. The use of acellular nerve allografts (ANAs) circumvents the morbidity of donor nerve harvest necessitated by the use of autografts, and improvements in tissue-processing techniques may allow for more readily available and cost-effective options. Each of these interventions aid in neural regeneration after repair when applied independently, and their differing forms, benefits, and methods of application present ample opportunity for synergistic effects when applied in combination.

Changes in Soil Microbial Communities Induced by Biodegradable and Polyethylene Mulch Residues Under Three Different Temperatures

Mulching is a common method increasing crop yield and achieving out-of-season production; nevertheless, their removal poses a significant environmental danger. In this scenario, the use of biodegradable plastic mulches comes up as a solution to increase the sustainability of this practice, as they can be tilled in soil without risk for the environment. In this context, it is important to study the microbial response to this practice, considering their direct involvement in plastic biodegradation. This study evaluated the biodegradation of three commercial mulch residues: one conventional non-biodegradable mulch versus two biodegradable ones (white and black compostable Mater-Bi mulches). The experiment was conducted under three incubation temperatures (room temperature 20–25 °C, 30 °C, and 45 °C) for a 6-month trial using fallow agricultural soil. Soil without plastic mulch residues was used as a control. White mater-bi biodegradable mulch residues showed higher degradation rates up to 88.90% at 30 °C, and up to 69.15% at room temperature. Furthermore, incubation at 45 °C determines the absence of degradation for all types of mulch considered. Moreover, bacterial alpha diversity was primarily influenced by plastic type and temperature, while fungal populations were mainly affected by temperature. Beta diversity was impacted by all experimental variables. Predicted functional genes crucial for degrading complex substrates, including those encoding hydrolases, cutinases, cellobiosidases, and lipases, were derived from 16S rRNA gene sequencing data. Cluster analysis based on predicted enzyme-encoding gene abundance revealed two clusters, mainly linked to sampling time. Finally, core microbiome analysis identified dominant bacterial and fungal taxa in various soil-plastic ecosystems during degradation, pinpointing species potentially involved in plastic breakdown. The present study allows an assessment of how different temperatures affect the degradation of mulch residues in soil, providing important insights for different climatic growing zones. It also fills a gap in the literature by directly comparing the effects of biodegradable and polyethylene mulches on soil microbial communities.