Raw Materials Research Articles

A Superhydrophobic and Recyclable Coating with Strong Robustness for Anti‐Icing Applications

AbstractConventional superhydrophobic coatings frequently incorporate thermosetting resins as substrates, which are challenging to recycle. This study explores the application of ester‐exchange degradable 4,5‐Epoxyhexane‐1,2‐dicarboxylic glycidyl ester (DGEAC) combined with structurally engineered and perfluorooctyltriethoxysilane (POTS) modified carbon black@silica (CB@SiO2‐POTS) particles to fabricate recyclable superhydrophobic coatings (DGEAC/CB@SiO2‐POTS) using a non‐solvent‐induced phase separation technique. The resulting coatings display superhydrophobic properties, with a contact angle reaching 162.2° ± 1°. The surface exhibits a three‐tier hierarchical micron/micron/nanostructure, imparting remarkable stability as the coating retains its superhydrophobicity after 4000 cm of abrasion with 800‐grit sandpaper under 5 kPa pressure. Furthermore, the coating demonstrates excellent icing delay performance (600 s) and minimal ice adhesion strength (25.7 kPa), along with rapid photothermal de‐icing capability (120 s). The polyester (DGEAC) in the superhydrophobic coating is rapidly degraded within 24 h in the presence of ethylene glycol, which facilitates the release of hydrophobic particles. By filtering out the degraded polyester (DGEAC), the CB@SiO2‐POTS particles are successfully recovered. The coating, re‐prepared from the collected raw materials, maintained its superhydrophobicity over five recycling cycles. This straightforward approach to fabricating and recycling superhydrophobic coatings exhibits notable environmental compatibility and offers a promising reference for advancing the recyclability of superhydrophobic coatings.

Fluid Material: Japan’s Islands as Geo-Political Territory

ABSTRACT This article argues that we should understood island territories in East Asia as geo-political constructs, rather than merely as the objects of geopolitical contestation. The geo-political territorialisation analysed here occurs at the intersection of the terrestrial and maritime, focussing on efforts to represent, enforce, and enumerate control of distant islands. The notion of the geo-political invokes two things of particular importance lacking in classical or critical geopolitical discourse. The first is a close attention to the regional context within which this territorialisation occurs. The second is to recover the ‘geo’ as a material actor in this political process, rather than merely the fixed ground atop which such contestation occurs. The article makes its case for islands as geo-political territories through a detailed analysis of recent Japanese efforts to claim and maintain isolated island spaces. Concern over loss of territory is a characteristic of the region, but insufficient to account for reactions like that displayed to the disappearance of Esanbe Hanakita Kojima, whose presence or otherwise is irrelevant to Japan’s territorial claims against its neighbours. Understanding island spaces as geo-political territory foregrounds their contextual and geophysical significance, and thus draws attention to the fluid material basis of Japan’s territory today.

Анализ элементов блочной технологии поверхностной выемки органогенного сырья

Top-peat raw materials with a low degree of decomposition are widely used in the agro-industrial complex and environmental technologies. Based on the principles of rational environmental management the block technology of surface excavation of organogenic material (peat raw material) from an undrained deposit with the use of temporary decking has been developed. The surface of the deposit is divided into blocks for their sequential development with the formation of lagoons inside the blocks. Within the framework of the work, an experiment was conducted to study the intensity of the process to restore the vegetation layer of the peat deposit after the excavation using the paludiculture principles. The paper proposes a structure of the deposit mining with adding the stage of sphagnum reintroduction into the areas of excavated raw materials in order to increase the intensity of the restoration processes of the disturbed areas. The block technology of surface excavation of the peat raw materials is analyzed, the main indicators of the production process are determined. It has been established that it is expedient to implement the technology with the help of a multifunctional technological module, which can be used to perform auxiliary work on decking and excavation of peat raw materials. The module includes a wheeled tractor, a wheeled semi-trailer with a hydraulic manipulator and a fork clamp. An analysis of the main production process indicators was carried out using the case of the Kameshki peat deposit (north-west of the Leningrad region) with account of the parameters of the selected technological module components and the duration of the mining season, typical for the region. It was established that a technological module with the working tool capacity of 0.13 m3 and the duration of the mining season of 60 days, it is rational to carry out the excavation work in two pre-arranged technological areas with the volume of the excavated raw materials of 960 m3 per a mining season.

Analysis of the Aroma Composition of Different Varieties of Apricot Wine

Fruit wine is favoured by consumers because of its low alcohol content and unique taste, but there are few studies on apricot wine. In order to explore the quality of apricot wine obtained by fermentation of different varieties of apricots and the typical volatile substances in apricot wine, and to find apricot varieties that can brew better quality apricot wine, the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method was used to detect Jinkaite, Katy, Jintaiyang apricots and brewed apricot wine, and the correlation and difference of key odour substances were analyzed. A total of 25 aroma components in 6 categories were detected in the 3 varieties of apricots. Among the components, esters account for the largest proportion at 14 types, followed by both ketones and alcohols at 5 types. Compared with the original juice, the types of volatile substances in fermented apricot wine increased significantly. After aroma component analysis, 42, 36 and 38 odour components were screened out in Jinkaite wine, Kate wine and Jintaiyang wine. They were mainly composed of alcohols and esters. Among the three varieties, the total content of aroma components in “Katy” wine was the highest (114.09 mg·L−1), followed by Jinkaite wine (112.17 mg·L−1), and the total content of aroma components in Jintaiyang wine was lower (108.72 mg·L−1). The following substances were the most important aromatically active compounds identified, and they had low olfactory thresholds: linalool (25 μg·L−1), β-ionone (0.007 μg·L−1), ethyl caprylate (12.87 μg·L−1), methyl caprate (6 μg·L−1), which has a larger OAV value and strongly influences the aroma characteristics. Multi-factor analysis showed that compared with other varieties of apricot wine, the highest score of Kinkate apricot wine is 89 points, which is golden yellow, showing rich floral and fruity aromas, soft and full body, good stability and strong typicality. Jinkaite apricot, as an early-maturing and excellent new variety selected from the natural hybrid seedlings of Katy apricot, can be used as a high-quality new wine-making raw material. The aroma components and content of apricot wine made from different varieties of apricots showed significant differences, which provided an important basis for the selection of raw materials for deep processing of apricots. The research and development of apricot wine products can not only solve the problem of deep processing of apricots, but also conform to the current development trend of the wine market and have a good market prospect.

Raman and IR spectroscopy as a promising approach to rapid and non-destructive monitoring of chlorogenic acid in protein matrices

Sunflower meal, a by-product of the oil extraction process from sunflower seeds, has high-quality protein content. Its low production cost, near-absence of toxic substances, and close to “ideal” amino acid composition give it several advantages over other plant-based protein sources. However, at the moment, the use of sunflower meal in the food industry is still limited. This is due to the high content of phenolic compounds (1-4 wt%), particularly chlorogenic acid. The oxidation products of these compounds easily bind to protein molecules, giving the final product a dark green color and bitter taste. Currently, there is a high demand for the development of methods for rapid monitoring of the content of phenolic compounds in plant materials without special processing at various stages of the technological process without preliminary sample preparation for analysis. In this study, we used non-destructive vibrational spectroscopy techniques–Raman and FTIR–to monitor the content of chlorogenic acid in the raw material. As a result, an approach for the determination of chlorogenic acid in sunflower meal using IR spectroscopy with limit of detection (LOD) 0.75 wt% has been proposed. Its content in the studied sample of sunflower meal was 5.6 wt%, which was confirmed by UV-spectroscopy and HPLC. The paper demonstrates the principal possibility of analyzing protein isolates using Raman scattering, with the LOD for chlorogenic acid content at 1 wt%.

Analisis Nilai Tambah Tempe Biji Trembesi Pada Home Industry di Desa Cadaskertaja Kabupaten Karawang

Trembesi seeds can be used as an alternative raw material for making tempeh considering the erratic fluctuations in soybean prices. This research aims to analyze how much income there is from the business of processing tamarind seeds into tempeh and to analyze the added value of the business of processing tamarind seeds into tempeh in the home industry in Cadaskertajaya Village, Karawang Regency. The data collection technique used was purposive sampling. Researchers used one respondent, namely the owner of the tempe trembesi home industry. This research uses primary data and secondary data. The data analysis method used is a quantitative descriptive method. Quantitative descriptive analysis is used to analyze the business which includes analysis of costs,revenues, income, and added value (added value) for domestic tempe trembesi industry products. The results of the analysis show that the total costs used for processing trembesi bean tempeh are IDR 463,333.2 per month. The average revenue for tempe seeds from trembesi is IDR 720,000 per month. The income obtained by the home industry of tempe seeds from trembesi was IDR 256,666.8 and the profitobtained by the home industry by selling 1 kg was IDR 21,388.9 or a profit of IDR 356.5 / pack. The added value obtained in one month is IDR 51,648 per kg of raw material, which means that every processing of one kg of trembesi seeds into tempeh provides an added value of IDR 51,648 with a value-added ratio of around 86% per kg. Keywords: home industry, revenue, tempe trembesi, value added

Development of nutrient-rich complementary foods using locally sourced ingredients for low-income households in Eastern Ethiopia

BackgroundThe prevalence of malnutrition among infants continues to be a significant issue in Ethiopia. Although commercial complementary foods are accessible in the market, their prohibitive costs render them unaffordable for low-income households. Consequently, this study was undertaken to formulate complementary foods utilizing locally available, nutrient-rich ingredients tailored for low-income households.MethodThe effect of various processing techniques—such as boiling, germination, and roasting—on the physicochemical properties of maize and groundnut flours, including proximate composition, mineral content, phytochemicals, and β-carotene levels, was evaluated using standard methodologies. A complementary food product was developed by varying the blending ratios of maize flour, groundnuts, spinach leaves, and sweet potatoes. Subsequently, the physicochemical and sensory characteristics of the product were assessed.ResultsThe processes of germination and roasting (applied to maize and groundnut) demonstrated minimal impact on the proximate composition, mineral content, and β-carotene levels while also decreasing the amounts of specific phytochemicals (such as tannins, phenols, and phytic acid) found in the raw materials. Consequently, these processed ingredients were used to formulate eight complementary food products. The results of the proximate composition analysis for the eight developed food formulas indicated that the protein content ranged from 15.35 to 16.39%. Additionally, the fat, carbohydrate, and energy values were observed to range from 8.1 to 11.9%, 59.12 to 63.07%, and 383.82 to 412.87 kcal, respectively, indicating a nutritional profile consistent with locally available commercial complementary foods. Similarly, the levels of calcium, zinc, iron, magnesium, and β-carotene were measured to range from 66.75 mg to 102.48 mg, 1.33 mg to 2.48 mg, 6.64 mg to 10.36 mg, 122.60 mg to 181.73 mg, and 113.40 mg to 197.53 mg per 100 g, respectively, alongside notably low levels of anti-nutritional factors.ConclusionIncluding supplementary food is crucial when breastfeeding alone does not adequately meet an infant’s nutritional requirements. As a result, the complementary food developed can provide 5 to 50% of the daily recommended nutrient allowance for infants.

Pretreatment of sweet sorghum silages with Lactobacillus plantarum and cellulase with two different raw material characteristics: fermentation profile, carbohydrate composition, in vitro rumen fermentation and microbiota communities

BackgroundSweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) is a popular forage crop in arid and semi-arid areas due to its high drought tolerance, rapid growth, and low production costs. In addition, sweet sorghum, has relatively specific ensiling characteristics because of its high moisture content and sufficient amount of water soluble carbohydrates. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate the raw material characteristics and exogenous additive pretreatment for the regulation of silage quality. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Lactobacillus plantarum (LP) and cellulase (CEL) on the fermentation profile, carbohydrate composition, in vitro rumen fermentation and microbiota communities of sweet sorghum silages with two different raw material characteristics (fresh sweet sorghum material (MC1); sweet sorghum material wilted outdoors for 6 h after chopping (MC2)).ResultsIn this study, the sweet sorghum treatments were: control (without additives), LP, CEL, or a combination of LP and CEL (LP_CEL). All treated sweet sorghum samples were ensiled for 30 d. A higher content of lactic acid, propionic acid, D-fructose, glucose, sucrose and a lower content of structural carbohydrates were observed in MC1 silage than in MC2 silage. In MC2 silage, the addition of CEL or LP_CEL decreased the content of structural carbohydrates, while it increased the content of D-fructose, glucose, D-arabinose, xylitol, maltose and trehalose (P < 0.05). The in vitro gas production at 48 h was greater in MC1 silage than in MC2 silage, and the addition of CEL or LP_CEL increased the in vitro dry matter digestibility in MC2 silage (P < 0.05). After 30 d of ensiling, disaccharides such as sucrose, maltose and alginate were almost entirely utilized by the microorganisms, while more-consumed monosaccharides included D-fructose, glucose and L-rhamnose. Lactobacillus was the dominant genus (> 80% relative abundance) in all silage samples.ConclusionsRaw material characteristics determine carbohydrate composition, in vitro digestibility, and microbial community of sweet sorghum silage. For wilted sweet sorghum with relatively low moisture content, pretreatment with CEL or LP_CEL reduced the structural carbohydrate content, increased the nonstructural carbohydrate content, and improved the digestibility of the silage. However, additives had no obvious impact on enhancing the fermentation quality of sweet sorghum silage for two raw material characteristics.Graphical abstract

Sustainability-Oriented Innovation in the Textile Manufacturing Industry: Pre-Consumer Waste Recovery and Circular Patterns

The textile manufacturing industry is energy- and water-intensive, and has a great impact on the environment. Sustainability-oriented innovation can support the transition of the textile sector towards a circular economy. This review investigates how the textile manufacturing chain can benefit from sustainability-driven innovation strategies to achieve the main circular economy goals. The review was conducted using the Scopus and Web of Science scientific databases, and it addresses material, process, and organizational innovations and covers the 2015–2024 time window. Five main areas of innovation emerged from the retrieved papers, including digitalization, the need for innovative product and process design and sustainable raw materials, the use of textile waste as new raw material outside the textile value chain, waste recovery within the value chain and environmental remediation, and organizational innovation. The innovative solutions analyzed improve the sustainability of the textile manufacturing industry and enable the achievement of circular economy goals. Finally, we discuss some concerns about the introduction of the suggested innovations, including the need to apply design principles for recyclability and durability while studying the feasibility of adopting novel materials.

Chirality-Dependent Magnetization of Colloidal Squares with Offset Magnetic Dipoles.

Colloidal particles with anisotropic geometries and interactions display rich phase behavior and hence have the potential to serve as the basis of functional materials, which can tunably and reversibly self-assemble into different configurations. External fields are one design parameter that can be used to manipulate how systems of colloidal particles assemble with one another. One challenge in designing new materials using anisotropic colloidal particles is understanding how an individual particle's various anisotropic features, like geometry, affect their overall self-assembly. Here, we present the results of simulation studies that explore the self-assembly of 2D colloidal squares with offset magnetic dipoles in the presence of an external field. Annealing simulations are used to measure the equilibrium-phase behavior of systems of these particles in the ground state, when the magnetic interactions dominate over the thermal forces of the system. We find that the magnetic properties of these systems are strongly influenced by the relative number of squares with opposite "handedness", or chirality, that are present within the system. Systems of squares that contain equal numbers of either chirality are extremely responsive to the external field; a relatively weak external field is required to magnetize them. In contrast, systems that contain only one chirality of squares are significantly less responsive to the external field; a significantly stronger external field is required to elicit the same magnetic response. Ultimately, the differing macroscopic magnetic properties of these systems are related to their microscopic self-assembly in an external field. Simulation snapshots and ground state phase diagrams illustrate how the absence of opposite chirality squares prevents systems of these particles from leaving an energetically favorable antiparallel configuration in the presence of an external field. When opposite chirality squares are present, these magnetic particles assemble into a head-to-tail configuration, therefore inducing a magnetic state.

Enhancing Nickel Matte Grade Prediction Using SMOTE-Based Data Augmentation and Stacking Ensemble Learning for Limited Dataset

To address the limited data availability and low predictive accuracy of nickel matte grade models in the early stages of facility operation, this study introduces a unique stepwise prediction methodology that integrates data augmentation and ensemble learning, specifically tailored for limited industrial datasets. Predicting matte nickel grade accurately is critical for nickel sulfate production, a key precursor in cathode manufacturing. However, in newly adopted facilities, operational data are scarce, posing a major challenge for conventional machine learning models that require large, well-balanced datasets to generalize effectively. Moreover, the nonlinear dependencies between raw material composition, operational conditions, and metallurgical reactions further complicate the prediction task, often leading to high errors in traditional regression models. To overcome these challenges, this study introduces an innovative approach that integrates feature engineering, Gaussian noise augmentation, SMOTE regression, and a stacking ensemble model, using XGBoost (2.0.3) and CatBoost (1.2.7). First, input variables were refined through feature engineering, followed by data augmentation to enhance dataset diversity and improve model robustness. Next, a stacking ensemble framework was implemented to mitigate overfitting and enhance predictive accuracy. Finally, SHAP, an XAI technique that quantifies the impact of each input variable on the model’s predictions based on cooperative game theory, was employed to interpret key process variables, offering deeper insights into the factors influencing nickel grade. The experimental results demonstrate a substantial improvement in prediction accuracy, with the R2 coefficient increasing from 0.3050 to 0.9245, alongside significant reductions in RMSE, MAE, and MAPE. The proposed methodology not only enhances predictive performance in data-scarce industrial environments but also provides an interpretable framework for real-world process optimization. These findings validate its applicability to nickel matte operations, offering a scalable and explainable machine learning approach for metallurgical industries with limited data availability.

Characterization of cis-polyisoprene produced in Periploca sepium, a novel promising alternative source of natural rubber

Natural rubber is an important industrial raw material and is almost exclusively produced from Hevea brasiliensis latex. Because H. brasiliensis is limited its cultivation to specific tropical regions, the insufficient capacity of natural rubber has become increasingly urgent. To develop a novel alternative plant for natural rubber production, we selected a perennial shrub Periploca sepium, which is widely distributed from tropical to temperate regions. P. sepium can produce latex and contains the rubber component polyisoprene with a high-molecular-weight distribution ranging from 104-106. Its main chain structure was identified as cis-1,4-polyisoprene, similar to that of H. brasiliensis. The polyisoprenes were observed to be present mainly in the secondary phloem adjacent to the cambium and pith, and almost entirely overlapped with the distributions of three rubber particle-associated proteins, cis-prenyltransferase (CPT), small rubber particle protein (SRPP) and rubber elongation factor (REF). The three genes were genome edited via CRISPR-Cas9 in P. sepium, and the total contents and high-molecular-mass regions of the cis-polyisoprenes in the transgenic plants with mutations were reduced to different degrees, indicating that the three genes apparently play important roles in natural rubber biosynthesis. This research will promote the development of P. sepium as an alternative source of natural rubber.

The Policy of "Soft Power" of China within the BRICS

Currently, BRICS is one of the most important trans-regional organizations based on the political, national and economic interests of participating countries. China, as one of the founders of BRICS, considers this organization as not only a platform for developing economic relations with important suppliers of raw materials like Russia, Brazil and South Africa but also as a tool to confront the West and create an alternative model for international relations. In the framework of financial security and independence from the US dollar, the People’s Republic of China contributed to the creation of the New Development Bank (formerly known as the BRICS Development Bank). It proposed making the yuan a working currency, which is used among other things in mutual settlements with BRICS countries. The use of “soft power” by China through promoting cultural, educational, and scientific cooperation, including within BRICS, allows it to occupy leading positions in political and economic spheres.

Microplastic Deposits Prediction on Urban Sandy Beaches: Integrating Remote Sensing, GNSS Positioning, µ-Raman Spectroscopy, and Machine Learning Models

This study focuses on the deposition of microplastics (MPs) on urban beaches along the central São Paulo coastline, utilizing advanced methodologies such as remote sensing, GNSS altimetric surveys, µ-Raman spectroscopy, and machine learning (ML) models. MP concentrations ranged from 6 to 35 MPs/m2, with the highest densities observed near the Port of Santos, attributed to industrial and port activities. The predominant MP types identified were foams (48.7%), fragments (27.7%), and pellets (23.2%), while fibers were rare (0.4%). Beach slope and orientation were found to facilitate the concentration of MP deposition, particularly for foams and pellets. The study’s ML models showed high predictive accuracy, with Random Forest and Gradient Boosting performing exceptionally well for specific MP categories (pellet, fragment, fiber, foam, and film). Polymer characterization revealed the prevalence of polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene, reflecting sources such as disposable packaging and industrial raw materials. The findings emphasize the need for improved waste management and targeted urban beach cleanups, which currently fail to address smaller MPs effectively. This research highlights the critical role of combining in situ data with predictive models to understand MP dynamics in coastal environments. It provides actionable insights for mitigation strategies and contributes to global efforts aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 14, aimed at conserving marine ecosystems and reducing pollution.

К управлению состоянием рудовмещающих массивов путем регулирования напряжений при подземной добыче руд

Man-made intervention in the subsurface during mining is accompanied by the development of existing stresses in the ore-bearing rock masses. Insufficient consideration of geomechanical conditions of mining is accompanied by high losses and dilution of ores. Environmental and economic performance of mining facilities can be improved by controlling natural and man-made stresses through introducing the rock masses into the triaxial compression state. Details of the theoretical and practical aspects of stress management in the rock mass are provided by the data obtained in the research. Determination of the structural weakening of rocks, defining regularities in tectonic fracture distribution and confinement to tectonic structures, creation of the engineering-geological model of the rock mass. Modeling of the rock mass state was performed on the equivalent materials based on the geomechanical hazard criterion. Prediction of the geological and structural factors of facilities failure was made through calculation of the rock mass deformations. Regularities in behavior of natural and man-made rock mases have been identified depending on changes in the stress redistribution within the rock mass. A mathematical model has been refined that describes the strength loss processes in the rock structures under the impact of critical stresses. A methodology of environmental assessment as a function of the total of natural and man-made factors has been developed. The rock mass consolidation parameters that are optimized by the factor of resistance to the stress redistribution in the rock massif have been justified. A method to calculate environmentally correct and economically feasible parameters for managing the state of mining facilities is proposed and examples of its implementation are provided. The task of assuring the quality of the mined mineral raw materials is addressed by controlling the stress state of the rock masses and can be solved based on further research. The results of the study can be relevant in the underground development of solid minerals.

Системный подход к эффективному взаимодействию горных предприятий и социально-экономической инфраструктуры в Арктике

The purpose of the study is to identify the development of approaches to organize the formation of management elements of mining industry development in the Arctic conditions. Methods. The study used data obtained through the content analysis of a large number of scientific publications, practical materials, expert opinions, regulations and company reports. Such methods as scientific generalization, classification, economic analysis, expertise and statistics were applied in the course of the work. In addition to the traditional methods, the study included the interdisciplinary approach. Results. The article considers the issues of organizing interaction between mining enterprises and the state in developing socio-economic infrastructure in the Arctic using the case study of the Chukotka Autonomous District. The dynamics of changes in the production volumes of mining companies has been analyzed, the factors influencing the efficiency of mineral and raw materials enterprises and their influence on the growth rate of the regional economy have been considered. The measures of state support of enterprises are investigated, the mechanisms to develop the support settlements in the Arctic, approaches to the creation of their master plans are analyzed. The possibilities of the system approach to the formation of clusters for the development of the region's economic potential in linking industrial facilities with the development of infrastructure and social sphere have been studied. Measures to support family-run business as one of the mechanisms of strengthening the human resources potential of the Arctic zone of the region are justified.

The Influence of Papermaking Process on the Properties of Chinese Handmade Bamboo Paper

Abstract Bamboo paper is one of the most important types of traditional handmade paper in China. The manufacturing processes of bamboo paper can be categorized into cold digestion (uncooked) and hot digestion (cooked) methods. Different production processes have different effects on the properties of paper. This article studies the effects of different processes on the properties of bamboo paper through scientific experiments on basic physical properties, mechanical properties, pH, degree of polymerization, optical properties, chemical structure, crystalline structure, microscopic morphology, and aging resistance of bamboo paper produced by different processes. The results showed that cooking, post-fermentation, and bleaching in the papermaking process were the main factors affecting the properties of bamboo paper. Paper prepared from cooked pulp is superior to paper prepared from uncooked pulp in terms of pH, folding endurance, crystallinity indices, and aging resistance, but long post-fermentation processes and chemical bleaching would have adverse effects on the physicochemical properties and aging resistance of cooked paper. The research results showed that the key to making high-quality bamboo paper lies in the repeated weak alkali cooking of raw materials, a short post-fermentation process, and the minimal use of strong chemical bleaching agents.

A Novel Multi-Gene Combined RT-PCR Assay for Rapid and Sensitive Detection of Maize Dwarf Mosaic Virus

Maize, a staple food and cash crop worldwide, also serves as a critical industrial raw material. However, it is significantly threatened by viral pathogens, particularly maize dwarf mosaic virus (MDMV), the primary cause of maize dwarf mosaic disease, a debilitating condition affecting maize cultivation. This study aims to establish a multi-gene combined RT-PCR assay for the rapid specific, sensitive, and reliable detection of MDMV without the need for special expensive equipment. Samples of imported maize, sorghum, and barley were collected from ports in Fujian and Shanghai. Primers targeting the coat protein (CP) and cytoplasmic inclusion protein (CI) genes of MDMV were designed and optimized. Through the design and screening of primers, as well as the optimization of reaction conditions and primer concentrations, a multi-gene combined RT-PCR assay was established to simultaneously detect both genes. Additionally, a real-time fluorescent-based RT-PCR (RT-qPCR) assay was developed using the CP gene to confirm the accuracy of multi-gene combined RT-PCR assay. The sensitivity of the optimized multi-gene combined RT-PCR assay enables the detection of MDMV in infected maize leaf crude extracts at dilutions of 5.37 pg/μL. This assay exhibited excellent specificity, high sensitivity, and robust repeatability, providing swift and accurate detection of MDMV. The multi-gene combined RT-PCR assay offers precise and efficient technical support for MDMV detection and contributes to improved maize production practices.

Real-Time Monitoring System for Temperature, Humidity, and pH for Composting Process

Straw is an organic material that has the potential to be used as a basic material for making compost. Rice straw rich in cellulose and lignin, requires a long composting process. The use of IoT as a compost monitoring system is needed to predict the level of compost maturity to meet standards. The aim of this study is to design a composter that is integrated with the development of a monitoring system to obtain data on temperature, humidity, and pH distribution in real time as reference to determine the maturity of straw compost. The monitoring system used based on an ESP32 which was connected to DHT22 sensors, DS18B20, soil moisture sensor V1.2, and soil pH sensor. Data collected from these sensors was transmitted and visualized through the Antares website. The temperature of the composter reached its peak on the 7th day with a value of 56.7°C. The temperature of the compost material reached its highest peak on the 7th day with a value of 42.75°C. The pH value is in the range of 5.5 – 7.4 from the beginning to the end of composting. C/N ratio of compost is 18.13 and is in accordance with SNI 19-7030-2004. Monitoring was conducted for 35 days, in accordance with the estimated compost maturity. Keywords: Humidity, pH, Sensors, Straw, Temperature.

A General and Mild Two-Step Strategy Using Bioderived Diols and CO2 for Chemically Recyclable Polycarbonates and Closed-Loop CO2 Fixation.

Developing chemically recyclable polymers using CO2 and sustainable co-feedstocks is an important strategy for achieving carbon-neutral production of new polymers and mitigating plastic pollution. Herein, a series of six-membered cyclic carbonate monomers with different alkyl α-substituents were synthesized using CO2 and bioderived 1,3-alkanediol as raw materials at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. The organocatalytic ring-opening polymerization was systematically studied using a range of common and readily available organocatalysts. Phosphazene base (t-BuP2) was identified as the most effective catalyst, offering excellent control over the entire polymerization. The regioselectivity of the synthesized polycarbonates, ranged from 0.74 to 0.99, with the highest value achieved when the side group was isopropyl (highest steric hindrance). Notably, the α-substituent in the mono-mers reduced the ring strains, allowing the resulting polycarbonates to be fully recycled to the monomers without decarboxylation. The recycling process effectively traps CO2 in a closed loop between monomers and polymers, preventing its release into the atmosphere. The alkyl side groups enhanced the hydrophobicity of the polycarbonates, thereby reducing the likelihood of CO2 release through hydrolysis during their lifecycle, achieving a robust CO2 closed-loop fixation. The utility of CO2-APCs as adhesives and the ability of copolymerization with L-lactide (L-LA) were explored.