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Overestimation of risk is one of the main problems in environmental risk assessments if only total concentration of organic pollutants is considered. In this study, we integrated bioavailability measurements into persistence testing of pollutants in soil to show that it is the key to have a more realistic environmental risk assessment (ERA). To this integration, two standardized methods were used: OECD 307, as persistence test, and ISO 16751: 2020, to bioavailability measurements based on 20 h extractions with a strong adsorbent (Tenax), using pyrene and carbamazepine as model test substances. Because the ISO method was initially designed for nonpolar compounds with log Kow > 3, a slight adaptation was necessary for carbamazepine (log Kow = 2.7), assuming this also as an extension of the applicability domain of the method. During the biodegradation of these compounds, the mineralization extents did not exceed 4 %, giving rise to transformation products. Therefore, the bioavailability measurements covered both the parent compound and the metabolites produced. In the case of pyrene, the partial transformation carried out by a specialized microbial inoculum accounted for, respectively, 32 % or 40 % of the initial concentration (4 mg kg−1) in unamended or compost-amended soil. Only 1 % was present as hydrophilic transformation products that were not trapped by Tenax, but partitioned into the water. The nonbioavailable residue increased in both soils after biodegradation. The distribution of chemicals in the different phases of the system was the key to assess more realistically the shifts in bioavailability during persistence testing. The same procedure was carried out for carbamazepine where an additional desorption study showed a slower desorption rate of the parent compound after incubation. In this case, 25 % of transformation products was mobilized to the aqueous phase. Our results show that bioavailability measurements provide valuable information when integrated

Fipronil is an insecticide widely used in the agricultural and veterinary sectors for its efficacy in pest control. The presence of fipronil in the environment is mainly due to agricultural and domestic practices and is frequently found in different types of environmental matrices in concentrations ranging from µg/L to mg/L and can be hazardous to non-target organisms due to its high toxicity. This study was carried out to obtain and characterize microorganisms from soil which are capable of biodegrading fipronil that could be of great biotechnological interest. For this purpose, bioprospecting was carried out using fipronil (0.6 g/L) as the main source of carbon and nitrogen for growth. Once obtained, the strain was identified by sequencing the 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene and the capacity to degrade fipronil was monitored by GC-MS. Our study showed a presence in soil samples of the strain identified as Enterobacter chengduensis, which was able to metabolize fipronil and its metabolites during the mineralization process. Enterobacter chengduensis was able to biodegrade fipronil (96%) and its metabolites fipronil-sulfone (92%) and fipronil-sulfide (79%) in 14 days. Overall, the results of this study provided a bacterium with great potential that could contribute to the degradation of fipronil in the environment.

Background: High substrate concentrations and high sugar yields are important aspects of enzymatic saccharification of lignocellulosic substrates. The benefit of supporting the catalytic action of lytic polysaccharide monooxygenase (LPMO) through continuous aeration of slurries of pretreated softwood was weighed against problems associated with increasing substrate content (quantitated as WIS, water-insoluble solids, in the range 12.5–17.5%), and was compared to the beneficial effect on the saccharification reaction achieved by increasing the enzyme preparation (Cellic CTec3) loadings. Aerated reactions were compared to reactions supplied with N2 to assess the contribution of LPMO to the saccharification reactions. Analysis using 13C NMR spectroscopy, XRD, Simons’ staining, BET analysis, and SEM analysis was used to gain further insights into the effects of the cellulolytic enzymes on the substrate under different reaction conditions. Results: Although glucose production after 72 h was higher at 17.5% WIS than at 12.5% WIS, glucan conversion decreased with 24% (air) and 17% (N2). Compared to reactions with N2, the average increases in glucose production for aerated reactions were 91% (12.5% WIS), 70% (15.0% WIS), and 67% (17.5% WIS). Improvements in glucan conversion through aeration were larger (55–86%) than the negative effects of increasing WIS content. For reactions with 12.5% WIS, increased enzyme dosage with 50% improved glucan conversion with 25–30% for air and N2, whereas improvements with double enzyme dosage were 30% (N2) and 39% (air). Structural analyses of the solid fractions revealed that the enzymatic reaction, particularly with aeration, created increased surface area (BET analysis), increased disorder (SEM analysis), decreased crystallinity (XRD), and increased dye adsorption based on the cellulose content (Simons' staining). Conclusions: The gains in glucan conversion with aeration were larger than the decreases observed due to increased substrate

In the historic city centre of Amsterdam (NL), the most widespread foundation system consists of wooden piles. With the aim of modelling and predicting remaining service life of these foundations and the piles in particular, one of the possible methods for collecting data and monitoring their condition consists of micro-drilling (MD) measurements. This work evaluates the reliability of MD measurements in identifying decayed portions and specific features of wooden foundation piles, considering different moisture content (MC) values. To this end, 24 segments were selected, sawn from wooden piles extracted from site, and having time in service (TS) of 2 to 294 years (with reference to 2021, the year of extraction). 240 MD measurements were conducted at varying MC values of 7% to 212%. The obtained MD profiles showed for all TS a slight decrease in drilling resistance when increasing MC. However, from the MD signals it is possible to reliably detect the areas affected by biodegradation phenomena (e.g. bacterial decay) along the drilling depth, regardless the MC of the segment or its gradient along the drilling depth. The present study contributes to research aiming at utilizing (in-situ) MD techniques for reliably assessing and quantifying decay and to be used in remaining service life planning of wooden foundation piles., Bio-based Structures & Materials

Introduction: Fossil-based polymers continue to be widely used despite their negative environmental impact. Bioplastics, such as polylactic acid (PLA), offer a promising alternative as they are derived from renewable resources and provide more environmentally friendly end-of-life options. However, marketing PLA assimply biodegradable can be misleading, asthe current PLA degradation strategy contributes to microplastics pollution, thus posing even greater threat. Thisresearch focuses on the upcycling of PLA degradation products into valuable biomaterial - bacterial nanocellulose. Methods: PLA samples were pretreated using ultraviolet and ultrasonic waves, individually and in combination, to enhancessusceptibility to bacterial degradation. Pretreated PLA wassubjected to enzymatic degradation under mild conditions, using various enzyme combinations. The resulting biodegradation products served as a growth medium for nanocellulose producing bacteria Komagataeibacter medellinensis ID13488. Obtained nanocellulose was characterized using SEM, FTIR, AFM, and XRD. Results: The combined PLA pretreatment using ultraviolet and ultrasonic waves, followed by enzymatic degradation with savinase, demonstrated the highest degree of PLA degradation in this study. Furthermore, K. medellinensis ID13488 efficiently utilized the biodegradation products, producing nanocellulose with yields and performance comparable to those obtained through standard cultivation using glucose as a carbon source. Conclusion: This study highlights the potential of combined pretreatment and enzymatic degradation for efficient PLA degradation and sustainable bacterial nanocellulose production. The findings suggest promising avenues for utilizing PLA biodegradation products in the production of other valuable biomaterials. Further research is needed to optimize the pretreatment and degradation processes, facilitating the wider application of biodegradable materials and promoting sustainability.

The biodegradation of polyethylene glycol of molecular weight 400 - PEG 400 was evaluated with the consortium Pseudomonas sp. and Rhizobium trifolii in Batch reactors. To determine the optimal operating conditions of the reactor, a medium with minimum essential salts supplemented with CSMEP peptone was prepared; In these media, the behavior of the consortium was estimated with temperature conditions between 15-37°C, pH in a range of 5-9 and PEG 400 concentration of .1-2%. With the results obtained in these previous tests, three Batch - BK reactors were assembled. 14 samples of the contents of each one of the reactors were analyzed during 20 days to measure the biodegradation of PEG 400 using chemical oxygen demand - COD in a closed digestion system. A decrease of up to 98.5% of the polyether was obtained, which showed that the symbiosis was effective to achieve an important removal of the contaminant., Se evaluó la biodegradación de polietilenglicol de peso molecular 400 - PEG 400 con el consorcio Pseudomonas sp. y Rhizobium trifolii en reactores en Batch; para determinar las condiciones óptimas de operación del reactor se preparó medio con sales mínimas esenciales suplementado con peptonaCSMEP; en estos medios se estimó el comportamiento del consorcio con condiciones de temperatura entre 15-37°C, pH en un rango de 5-9 y concentración de PEG 400 del .1-2%. Con los resultados obtenidos en estos ensayos previos se ensamblaron tres reactores en Batch - BK. Se analizaron 14 muestras del contenido de cada uno de los reactores durante 20 días para medir la biodegradación del PEG 400 usando demanda química de oxígeno - DQO en sistema de digestión cerrado. Se obtuvo una disminución de hasta el 98.5% del poliéter, lo que mostró que la simbiosis fue efectiva para alcanzar una remoción importante del contaminante.

The assessment of persistence (P), bioaccumulation (B), and toxicity (T) of a chemical is a crucial first step at ensuring chemical safety and is a cornerstone of the European Union’s chemicals regulation REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals). Existing methods for PBT assessment are overly complex and cumbersome, have produced incorrect conclusions, and rely heavily on animal-intensive testing. We explore how new-approach methodologies (NAMs) can overcome the limitations of current PBT assessment. We propose two innovative hazard indicators, termed cumulative toxicity equivalents (CTE) and persistent toxicity equivalents (PTE). Together they are intended to replace existing PBT indicators and can also accommodate the emerging concept of PMT (where M stands for mobility). The proposed “toxicity equivalents” can be measured with high throughput in vitro bioassays. CTE refers to the toxic effects measured directly in any given sample, including single chemicals, substitution products, or mixtures. PTE is the equivalent measure of cumulative toxicity equivalents measured after simulated environmental degradation of the sample. With an appropriate panel of animal-free or alternative in vitro bioassays, CTE and PTE comprise key environmental and human health hazard indicators. CTE and PTE do not require analytical identification of transformation products and mixture components but instead prompt two key questions: is the chemical or mixture toxic, and is this toxicity persistent or can it be attenuated by environmental degradation? Taken together, the proposed hazard indicators CTE and PTE have the potential to integrate P, B/M and T assessment into one high-throughput experimental workflow that sidesteps the need for analytical measurements and will support the Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability of the European Union.

Feather waste is a major issue from an economic and environmental point of view. Even though there are already routes for the valorisation of feathers into fertilisers and feather meal, these are considered to have low added value. For more attractive applications, for example in agricultural biodegradable plastics, higher and faster degradability in soil is required. To face this challenge alternative approaches to accelerate biodegradation and disintegration processes are needed. In this context, steam explosion appears as an effective technology to modify the structure of feather and improve its soil degradability. In this work, chicken feathers were treated by steam explosion and the effect of treatment on their structure and physico-chemical and thermal properties were evaluated. Finally, the effect of the process conditions on the disintegration and biodegradation in soil of feathers was also investigated, finding an increased degradation in soil of steam explosion treated feathers. These results open up the possibilities of using feather waste as a component for environmentally friendly agricultural bioplastics that can be degraded in-situ in soil.

Pollution is the greatest human impact on the planet, that is, the environment is made up of natural and artificial elements, their physical, chemical, biological, social and cultural activities and their respective relationships. The objective of this investigation was to analyze the biodegradation of plastics, from larvae of the Tenebrio molitor beetle, as a contribution to the teaching of environmental biotechnology. Basically, the execution of this project was based on 3 stages. The characterization of Tenebrio molitor larvae, the rearing of the larvae and the quantification of the capacity to biodegrade plastic. The results obtained were, they found that sample 1 (M1) had a specific biomass productivity of 6.6 grams while sample 2 (M2) a specific productivity of 2.3 grams was recorded and managed to show a change in terms of color and the amount of feces. Finally, the biodegradation of polystyrene influences the production of compost, benefiting the consumption of plastic. keywords : Biodegradation, Plastic, Tenebrio molitor, Environmental biotechnology, larvae., La contaminación es el mayor impacto humano en el planeta, es decir, el medio ambiente está formado por los elementos naturales y artificiales, sus actividades físicas, químicas, biológicas, sociales y culturales y sus respectivas relaciones. El objetivo de esta indagación fue analizar la biodegradación de plásticos, a partir de larvas del escarabajo Tenebrio molitor, como aporte a la enseñanza de la biotecnología ambiental. Básicamente, la ejecución de este proyecto se basó en 3 etapas. La caracterización de las larvas Tenebrio molitor, la crianza de las larvas y la cuantificación de la capacidad para biodegradar el plástico. Los resultados obtenidos fueron, encontraron que la muestra 1 (M1) tuvo una productividad específica de biomasa de 6.6 gramos mientras que la muestra 2 (M2) una productividad específica de Se registraron 2,3 gramos y logró evidenciar un cambio en cuanto al color y la cantidad de las heces. Finalmente, la biodegradación del poliestireno influye en la producción de compost, beneficiando el consumo de plástico. Palabras clave: Biodegradación, Plástico, Tenebrio molitor, Biotecnología ambiental, larvas.

Background: High substrate concentrations and high sugar yields are important aspects of enzymatic saccharification of lignocellulosic substrates. The benefit of supporting the catalytic action of lytic polysaccharide monooxygenase (LPMO) through continuous aeration of slurries of pretreated softwood was weighed against problems associated with increasing substrate content (quantitated as WIS, water-insoluble solids, in the range 12.5–17.5%), and was compared to the beneficial effect on the saccharification reaction achieved by increasing the enzyme preparation (Cellic CTec3) loadings. Aerated reactions were compared to reactions supplied with N2 to assess the contribution of LPMO to the saccharification reactions. Analysis using 13C NMR spectroscopy, XRD, Simons’ staining, BET analysis, and SEM analysis was used to gain further insights into the effects of the cellulolytic enzymes on the substrate under different reaction conditions. Results: Although glucose production after 72 h was higher at 17.5% WIS than at 12.5% WIS, glucan conversion decreased with 24% (air) and 17% (N2). Compared to reactions with N2, the average increases in glucose production for aerated reactions were 91% (12.5% WIS), 70% (15.0% WIS), and 67% (17.5% WIS). Improvements in glucan conversion through aeration were larger (55–86%) than the negative effects of increasing WIS content. For reactions with 12.5% WIS, increased enzyme dosage with 50% improved glucan conversion with 25–30% for air and N2, whereas improvements with double enzyme dosage were 30% (N2) and 39% (air). Structural analyses of the solid fractions revealed that the enzymatic reaction, particularly with aeration, created increased surface area (BET analysis), increased disorder (SEM analysis), decreased crystallinity (XRD), and increased dye adsorption based on the cellulose content (Simons' staining). Conclusions: The gains in glucan conversion with aeration were larger than the decreases observed due to increased substrate

The clopidogrel bisulfate was degraded under aerobic conditions by two bacterial strains isolated from industrial effluents in El-Harrach, Algeria. The sequencing of their 16S rRNA revealed that these two strains are Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Pseudomonas putida. The experiments showed that this consortium could remove clopidogrel bisulfate at high concentrations (5–1500 mg·L) within 96 h incubation period. The HPLC analysis recorded 75.23% degradation of clopidogrel bisulfate at an initial concentration of 100 mg·L after five days of incubation at pH 7.0 and a temperature of 30 °C. Also, a maximum degradation of 99.08% was carried out at a more basic pH (8.5). While only 41% was degraded at a temperature of 20 °C. Moreover, the presence of supplemental sources of carbon and nitrogen in the mixed culture media effectively improved the biodegradation of clopidogrel bisulfate by the stains. Finally, the morphology of the strains and the properties of the cell's surface were studied using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). This study reports, for the first time, the viability of the aerobic biodegradation of clopidogrel bisulfate in water in a wide range of concentrations.

Groundwater is the most important source for drinking water in The Netherlands. Groundwater quality is threatened by the presence of pesticides, and biodegradation is a natural process that can contribute to pesticide removal. Groundwater conditions are oligotrophic and thus biodegradation can be limited by the presence and development of microbial communities capable of biodegrading pesticides. For that reason, bioremediation technologies such as bioaugmentation (BA) can help to enhance pesticide biodegradation. We studied the effect of BA using enriched mixed inocula in two column bioreactors that simulate groundwater systems at naturally occurring redox conditions (iron and sulfate-reducing conditions). Columns were operated for around 800 days, and two BA inoculations (BA1 and BA2) were conducted in each column. Inocula were enriched from different wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) under different redox-conditions. We observed a temporary effect of BA1, reaching 100% removal efficiency of the pesticide 2,4-D after 100 days in both columns. In the iron-reducing column, 2,4-D removal was in general higher than under sulfate-reducing conditions demonstrating the influence of redox conditions on overall biodegradation. We observed a temporary shift in microbial communities after BA1 that is relatable to the increase in 2,4-D removal efficiency. After BA2 under sulfate-reducing conditions, 2,4-D removal efficiency decreased, but no change in the column microbial communities was observed. The present study demonstrates that BA with a mixed inoculum can be a valuable technique for improving biodegradation in anoxic groundwater systems at different redox-conditions. Graphical abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.].

Bioaugmentation_simulated_gw_systems

Producción Científica, Two efficient feather-degrading bacteria were isolated from honeybee samples and identified as Bacillus sonorensis and Bacillus licheniformis based on 16S rRNA and genome sequencing. The strains were able to grow on chicken feathers as the sole carbon and nitrogen sources and degraded the feathers in a few days. The highest keratinase activity was detected by the B. licheniformis CG1 strain (3800 U × mL−1), followed by B. sonorensis AB7 (1450 U × mL−1). Keratinase from B. licheniformis CG1 was shown to be active across a wide range of pH, potentially making this strain advantageous for further industrial applications. All isolates displayed antimicrobial activity against Micrococcus luteus; however, only B. licheniformis CG1 was able to inhibit the growth of Mycobacterium smegmatis. In silico analysis using BAGEL and antiSMASH identified gene clusters associated with the synthesis of non-ribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPS), polyketide synthases (PKSs) and/or ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs) in most of the Bacillus isolates. B. licheniformis CG1, the only strain that inhibited the growth of the mycobacterial strain, contained sequences with 100% similarity to lichenysin (also present in the other isolates) and lichenicidin (only present in the CG1 strain). Both compounds have been described to display antimicrobial activity against distinct bacteria. In summary, in this work, we have isolated a strain (B. licheniformis CG1) with promising potential for use in different industrial applications, including animal nutrition, leather processing, detergent formulation and feather degradation., Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER) - (TCUE 2021–2023) - (project 067/229111)

Microbial consortia are proven to be one of the most effective tools for the decolorization of textile industrial dyes and effluent. The microbial consortium offers several benefits in bioremediation, some of them include the faster rate of dye degradation and high efficiency, tolerance to drastic environmental changes, possession of concerted metabolic activities due to presence of multiple microbial species that carry out maximum catalysis of dye molecule or sometimes complete mineralization, and its feasibility in practical scale operations due to less requirements of sterile conditions and cost effectiveness. This chapter critically summarizes the basic principles of microbial interactions such as mutualism and commensalism as the most valuable microbial relationships within the consortium that are beneficial for the bioremediation of wastewater. Several different microbial consortia which combined the microbial species of bacteria, fungus, yeast, along with algae and plants which have been used for the treatment of textile dyes/effluent have been thoroughly evaluated. All combinations have their own advantages and disadvantages, which have been explored herein. Bacterial species are fast growing microorganisms while fungal species contain highly catalytic enzymatic system, thus their combinations have been quite successful. Microalgae and plants have recently attracted researcher because of their potential of bioremediation and subsequent utilization of their biomass in biofuel generation which is commercially beneficial along with environmentally sustainable approach. Moreover, this chapter provides a brief introduction on newly emerging high-throughput techniques that deal with the engineering of synthetic microbial consortium for bioremediation and environmental cleanup.

Biodegradable plastics are one of the possible solutions for reducing plastic waste, yet the mechanisms and organisms involved in their degradation in the aquatic environment remain understudied. In this study, we have enriched a microbial community from North Sea water and sediment, capable of growing on the polyester poly(butylene succinate). This culture was grown on two other biodegradable polyesters, polycaprolactone and a poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) blend. The differences between microbial community structure and biodegradation activity on these three polymers were determined by metagenomics, metaproteomics, and respirometry analysis. In this study, we observed that the polymer type drives the community structure and determines its biodegradation capability. When the PBS-enriched culture grew on the poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) blend, the community was more diverse, yet showed the lowest biodegradation percentage, while poly(butylene succinate) and polycaprolactone resulted in a less diverse community but much higher biodegradation activity. The dominating species were Alcanivorax sp., Thalassobius sp., or Pseudomonas sp., depending on the substrate. In general, we have observed that Gammaproteobacteria were more abundant and active within the biofilm on the polymers and Alphaproteobacteria within the free-living fraction of the enrichments. Three putative hydrolases were recombinantly expressed and their hydrolytic activity on all polymers tested was verified. In conclusion, we showed that all three plastics can be biodegraded by bacteria naturally occurring within the marine environment.

Aerogels are fascinating solid materials known for their highly porous nanostructure and exceptional physical, chemical, and mechanical properties. They show great promise in various technological and biomedical applications, including tissue engineering, and bone and cartilage substitution. To evaluate the bioactivity of bone substitutes, researchers typically conduct in vitro tests using simulated body fluids and specific cell lines, while in vivo testing involves the study of materials in different animal species. In this context, our primary focus is to investigate the applications of different types of aerogels, considering their specific materials, microstructure, and porosity in the field of bone and cartilage tissue engineering. From clinically approved materials to experimental aerogels, we present a comprehensive list and summary of various aerogel building blocks and their biological activities. Additionally, we explore how the complexity of aerogel scaffolds influences their in vivo performance, ranging from simple single-component or hybrid aerogels to more intricate and organized structures. We also discuss commonly used formulation and drying methods in aerogel chemistry, including molding, freeze casting, supercritical foaming, freeze drying, subcritical, and supercritical drying techniques. These techniques play a crucial role in shaping aerogels for specific applications. Alongside the progress made, we acknowledge the challenges ahead and assess the near and far future of aerogel-based hard tissue engineering materials, as well as their potential connection with emerging healing techniques.

Aerogels are fascinating solid materials known for their highly porous nanostructure and exceptional physical, chemical, and mechanical properties. They show great promise in various technological and biomedical applications, including tissue engineering, and bone and cartilage substitution. To evaluate the bioactivity of bone substitutes, researchers typically conduct in vitro tests using simulated body fluids and specific cell lines, while in vivo testing involves the study of materials in different animal species. In this context, our primary focus is to investigate the applications of different types of aerogels, considering their specific materials, microstructure, and porosity in the field of bone and cartilage tissue engineering. From clinically approved materials to experimental aerogels, we present a comprehensive list and summary of various aerogel building blocks and their biological activities. Additionally, we explore how the complexity of aerogel scaffolds influences their in vivo performance, ranging from simple single-component or hybrid aerogels to more intricate and organized structures. We also discuss commonly used formulation and drying methods in aerogel chemistry, including molding, freeze casting, supercritical foaming, freeze drying, subcritical, and supercritical drying techniques. These techniques play a crucial role in shaping aerogels for specific applications. Alongside the progress made, we acknowledge the challenges ahead and assess the near and far future of aerogel-based hard tissue engineering materials, as well as their potential connection with emerging healing techniques.

The detection of complex poison recipes applied to ancient hunting weapons has the potentialto provide important insights into traditional pharmacological knowledge systems. Yet, recipescomprising many ingredients can be challenging to decipher, especially in older samples that haveundergone biodegradation. We present the results of our attempt to analyze samples of poisoncollected from nineteenth and twentieth century arrowheads from southern Africa, and from a1000-year-old archaeological bone point. The arrow poison residues and reference samples wereanalyzed by Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR FTIR) andGas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS). The ATR FTIR analysis is primarily able to separatebetween different arrow poison binder recipes. The extractives identified by GC–MS analysis consistof a multitude of components from both binders and active substances, confirming and adding to theresults from the ATR FTIR analyses. We discuss the results in terms of potential biomarkers for arrowpoisons in organic residue analyses of archaeological artefacts; that residues of toxic cardiotonicglycosides can be detected on curated and excavated arrow tips of between about 1000 and 100 yearsold, serves as proof of concept for working with older materials in the future.

The biodegradation of polyethylene glycol of molecular weight 400 - PEG 400 was evaluated with the consortium Pseudomonas sp. and Rhizobium trifolii in Batch reactors. To determine the optimal operating conditions of the reactor, a medium with minimum essential salts supplemented with CSMEP peptone was prepared; In these media, the behavior of the consortium was estimated with temperature conditions between 15-37°C, pH in a range of 5-9 and PEG 400 concentration of .1-2%. With the results obtained in these previous tests, three Batch - BK reactors were assembled. 14 samples of the contents of each one of the reactors were analyzed during 20 days to measure the biodegradation of PEG 400 using chemical oxygen demand - COD in a closed digestion system. A decrease of up to 98.5% of the polyether was obtained, which showed that the symbiosis was effective to achieve an important removal of the contaminant., Se evaluó la biodegradación de polietilenglicol de peso molecular 400 - PEG 400 con el consorcio Pseudomonas sp. y Rhizobium trifolii en reactores en Batch; para determinar las condiciones óptimas de operación del reactor se preparó medio con sales mínimas esenciales suplementado con peptonaCSMEP; en estos medios se estimó el comportamiento del consorcio con condiciones de temperatura entre 15-37°C, pH en un rango de 5-9 y concentración de PEG 400 del .1-2%. Con los resultados obtenidos en estos ensayos previos se ensamblaron tres reactores en Batch - BK. Se analizaron 14 muestras del contenido de cada uno de los reactores durante 20 días para medir la biodegradación del PEG 400 usando demanda química de oxígeno - DQO en sistema de digestión cerrado. Se obtuvo una disminución de hasta el 98.5% del poliéter, lo que mostró que la simbiosis fue efectiva para alcanzar una remoción importante del contaminante.

Bioelectrochemical systems (BES) are increasingly being explored as an auxiliary unit process to enhance conventional waste treatment processes. This study proposed and validated the application of a dual-chamber bioelectrochemical cell as an add-on unit for an aerobic bioreactor to facilitate reagent-free pH-correction, organics removal and caustic recovery from an alkaline and saline wastewater. The process was continuously fed (hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 6 h) with a saline (25 g NaCl/L) and alkaline (pH 13) influent containing oxalate (25 mM) and acetate (25 mM) as the target organic impurities present in alumina refinery wastewater. Results suggested that the BES concurrently removed the majority of the influent organics and reduced the pH to a suitable range (9-9.5) for the aerobic bioreactor to further remove the residual organics. Compared to the aerobic bioreactor, the BES enabled a faster removal of oxalate (242 ± 27 vs. 100 ± 9.5 mg/L.h), whereas similar removal rates (93 ± 16 vs. 114 ± 23 mg/L.h, respectively) were recorded for acetate. Increasing catholyte HRT from 6 to 24 h increased the caustic strength from 0.22% to 0.86%. The BES enabled caustic production at an electrical energy demand of 0.47 kWh/kg-caustic, which is a fraction (22%) of the electrical energy requirement for caustic production using conventional chlor-alkali processes. The proposed application of BES holds promise to improve environmental sustainability of industries in managing organic impurities in alkaline and saline waste streams.

Loose assemblies of cellulose fibers could be employed in the clean-up of oil spills, but the difficulty to separate them from the spill after use makes them impractical. In an effort to tackle this issue, a non-woven sorbent based on recycled jute fibers from the carpet industry was developed. To enhance the porosity and hydrophobicity/oleophilicity of the sorbent, carbonization in an inert atmosphere was carried out. A comparison in oil sorption performance between non-carbonized and carbonized sorbents was made by evaluating the oil capacity in a water medium, buoyancy, oil retention and reusability. Carbonization of sorbent resulted in more than doubled oil sorption capacity independent of oil viscosity. Oil viscosity did not affect the oil sorption capacity of non-carbonized sorbent. Carbonized sorbent showed superior buoyancy in water even after 24 hours, oil retention of approximately 60–80% after 3 hours and only 12–20% decline of oil sorption capacity after five repeated sorption/desorption trials. However, the ability of oiled non-carbonized sorbent to efficiently biodegrade in model compost (up to 45% weight loss after 10 weeks) makes it a sustainable candidate for oil spill clean-up.

Polyacrylzuur wordt veel gebruikt in applicaties die vrijwel nooit worden gerecycled aan het einde van de levensduur. Dat is een probleem omdat deze ‘fossiele’ kunststof niet biologisch afbreekbaar is en daardoor bijdraagt aan de vervuiling met microplastics. Hoogste tijd voor een biobased en biodegradeerbaar alternatief. “De tijd is rijp voor polyASPs”, zegt Katrien Bernaerts, Associate Professor aan de Maastricht University en projectleider van het Interreg V-project GREENER.

Ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride [BMIM][Cl] was used to prepare cellulose (CELL), cellulose/polycaprolactone (CELL/PCL), cellulose/polycaprolactone/keratin (CELL/PCL/KER), and cellulose/polycaprolactone/keratin/ground calcium carbonate (CELL/PCL/KER/GCC) biodegradable mulch films. Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier-Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy, optical microscopy, and Field-Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM) were used to verify the films’ surface chemistry and morphology. Mulch film made of only cellulose regenerated from ionic liquid solution exhibited the highest tensile strength (75.3 ± 2.1 MPa) and modulus of elasticity of 944.4 ± 2.0 MPa. Among samples containing PCL, CELL/PCL/KER/GCC is characterized by the highest tensile strength (15.8 ± 0.4 MPa) and modulus of elasticity (687.5 ± 16.6 MPa). The film’s breaking strain decreased for all samples containing PCL upon the addition of KER and KER/GCC. The melting temperature of pure PCL is 62.3 °C, whereas that of CELL/PCL film has a slight tendency for melting point depression (61.0 °C), which is a characteristic of partially miscible polymer blends. Furthermore, Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) analysis revealed that the addition of KER or KER/GCC to CELL/PCL films resulted in an increment in melting temperature from 61.0 to 62.6 and 68.9 °C and an improvement in sample crystallinity by 2.2 and 3.0 times, respectively. The light transmittance of all studied samples was greater than 60%. The reported method for mulch film preparation is green and recyclable ([BMIM][Cl] can be recovered), and the inclusion of KER derived by extraction from waste chicken feathers enables conversion to organic biofertilizer. The findings of this study contribute to sustainable agriculture by providing nutrients that enhance the growth rate of plants, and hence food production, while reducing environmental pressure. The addition of GCC furthermore provides a source of Ca2+ for plant

Five bacterial strains for biodegradation study were initially isolated from quinalphos exposed soil from cotton field of Indian Agricultural Research Institute, India by Serial dilution and enrichment technique. Amongst them, two strains Pantoea agglomerans and Acinetobacter sp. dcm5A were exposed to different concentrations (50-250 ppm, parts per million) of quinalphos to evaluate their tolerance and the optimum concentration of quinalphos supported growth. Growth kinetics of the isolates was studied by means of optical density of the culture media (150 rpm, rotation per minute) at 30oC for 15 days. The optimal concentration of quinalphos for the growth of Pantoea agglomerans was 100 ppm, while for Acinetobacter sp. dcm5A was 200 ppm. Bacterial strains Pantoea agglomerans and Acinetobacter sp. dcm5A degraded quinalphos 60% and 79.7% respectively in 7 days incubation and 100% degradation by both strains was observed after 13 days of incubation.

Epoxy resins are highly valued for their remarkable mechanical and chemical properties and are extensively used in various applications such as coatings, adhesives, and fiber-reinforced composites in lightweight construction. Composites are especially important for the development and implementation of sustainable technologies such as wind power, energy-efficient aircrafts, and electric cars. Despite their advantages, their non-biodegradability raises challenges for the recycling of polymer and composites in particular. Conventional methods employed for epoxy recycling are characterized by their high energy consumption and the utilization of toxic chemicals, rendering them rather unsustainable. Recent progress has been made in the field of plastic biodegradation, which is considered more sustainable than energy-intensive mechanical or thermal recycling methods. However, the current successful approaches in plastic biodegradation are predominantly focused on polyester-based polymers, leaving more recalcitrant plastics underrepresented in this area of research. Epoxy polymers, characterized by their strong cross-linking and predominantly ether-based backbone, exhibit a highly rigid and durable structure, placing them within this category. Therefore, the objective of this review paper is to examine the various approaches that have been employed for the biodegradation of epoxy so far. Additionally, the paper sheds light on the analytical techniques utilized in the development of these recycling methods. Moreover, the review addresses the challenges and opportunities entailed in epoxy recycling through bio-based approaches., Office of Naval Research Global

The detection of complex poison recipes applied to ancient hunting weapons has the potentialto provide important insights into traditional pharmacological knowledge systems. Yet, recipescomprising many ingredients can be challenging to decipher, especially in older samples that haveundergone biodegradation. We present the results of our attempt to analyze samples of poisoncollected from nineteenth and twentieth century arrowheads from southern Africa, and from a1000-year-old archaeological bone point. The arrow poison residues and reference samples wereanalyzed by Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR FTIR) andGas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS). The ATR FTIR analysis is primarily able to separatebetween different arrow poison binder recipes. The extractives identified by GC–MS analysis consistof a multitude of components from both binders and active substances, confirming and adding to theresults from the ATR FTIR analyses. We discuss the results in terms of potential biomarkers for arrowpoisons in organic residue analyses of archaeological artefacts; that residues of toxic cardiotonicglycosides can be detected on curated and excavated arrow tips of between about 1000 and 100 yearsold, serves as proof of concept for working with older materials in the future.

The detection of complex poison recipes applied to ancient hunting weapons has the potential to provide important insights into traditional pharmacological knowledge systems. Yet, recipes comprising many ingredients can be challenging to decipher, especially in older samples that have undergone biodegradation. We present the results of our attempt to analyze samples of poison collected from nineteenth and twentieth century arrowheads from southern Africa, and from a 1000-year-old archaeological bone point. The arrow poison residues and reference samples were analyzed by Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR FTIR) and Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS). The ATR FTIR analysis is primarily able to separate between different arrow poison binder recipes. The extractives identified by GC–MS analysis consist of a multitude of components from both binders and active substances, confirming and adding to the results from the ATR FTIR analyses. We discuss the results in terms of potential biomarkers for arrow poisons in organic residue analyses of archaeological artefacts; that residues of toxic cardiotonic glycosides can be detected on curated and excavated arrow tips of between about 1000 and 100 years old, serves as proof of concept for working with older materials in the future.

The detection of complex poison recipes applied to ancient hunting weapons has the potential to provide important insights into traditional pharmacological knowledge systems. Yet, recipes comprising many ingredients can be challenging to decipher, especially in older samples that have undergone biodegradation. We present the results of our attempt to analyze samples of poison collected from nineteenth and twentieth century arrowheads from southern Africa, and from a 1000-year-old archaeological bone point. The arrow poison residues and reference samples were analyzed by Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR FTIR) and Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS). The ATR FTIR analysis is primarily able to separate between different arrow poison binder recipes. The extractives identified by GC–MS analysis consist of a multitude of components from both binders and active substances, confirming and adding to the results from the ATR FTIR analyses. We discuss the results in terms of potential biomarkers for arrow poisons in organic residue analyses of archaeological artefacts; that residues of toxic cardiotonic glycosides can be detected on curated and excavated arrow tips of between about 1000 and 100 years old, serves as proof of concept for working with older materials in the future.

The detection of complex poison recipes applied to ancient hunting weapons has the potentialto provide important insights into traditional pharmacological knowledge systems. Yet, recipescomprising many ingredients can be challenging to decipher, especially in older samples that haveundergone biodegradation. We present the results of our attempt to analyze samples of poisoncollected from nineteenth and twentieth century arrowheads from southern Africa, and from a1000-year-old archaeological bone point. The arrow poison residues and reference samples wereanalyzed by Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR FTIR) andGas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS). The ATR FTIR analysis is primarily able to separatebetween different arrow poison binder recipes. The extractives identified by GC–MS analysis consistof a multitude of components from both binders and active substances, confirming and adding to theresults from the ATR FTIR analyses. We discuss the results in terms of potential biomarkers for arrowpoisons in organic residue analyses of archaeological artefacts; that residues of toxic cardiotonicglycosides can be detected on curated and excavated arrow tips of between about 1000 and 100 yearsold, serves as proof of concept for working with older materials in the future.

The detection of complex poison recipes applied to ancient hunting weapons has the potentialto provide important insights into traditional pharmacological knowledge systems. Yet, recipescomprising many ingredients can be challenging to decipher, especially in older samples that haveundergone biodegradation. We present the results of our attempt to analyze samples of poisoncollected from nineteenth and twentieth century arrowheads from southern Africa, and from a1000-year-old archaeological bone point. The arrow poison residues and reference samples wereanalyzed by Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR FTIR) andGas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS). The ATR FTIR analysis is primarily able to separatebetween different arrow poison binder recipes. The extractives identified by GC–MS analysis consistof a multitude of components from both binders and active substances, confirming and adding to theresults from the ATR FTIR analyses. We discuss the results in terms of potential biomarkers for arrowpoisons in organic residue analyses of archaeological artefacts; that residues of toxic cardiotonicglycosides can be detected on curated and excavated arrow tips of between about 1000 and 100 yearsold, serves as proof of concept for working with older materials in the future.

The detection of complex poison recipes applied to ancient hunting weapons has the potential to provide important insights into traditional pharmacological knowledge systems. Yet, recipes comprising many ingredients can be challenging to decipher, especially in older samples that have undergone biodegradation. We present the results of our attempt to analyze samples of poison collected from nineteenth and twentieth century arrowheads from southern Africa, and from a 1000-year-old archaeological bone point. The arrow poison residues and reference samples were analyzed by Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR FTIR) and Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS). The ATR FTIR analysis is primarily able to separate between different arrow poison binder recipes. The extractives identified by GC–MS analysis consist of a multitude of components from both binders and active substances, confirming and adding to the results from the ATR FTIR analyses. We discuss the results in terms of potential biomarkers for arrow poisons in organic residue analyses of archaeological artefacts; that residues of toxic cardiotonic glycosides can be detected on curated and excavated arrow tips of between about 1000 and 100 years old, serves as proof of concept for working with older materials in the future.

The detection of complex poison recipes applied to ancient hunting weapons has the potentialto provide important insights into traditional pharmacological knowledge systems. Yet, recipescomprising many ingredients can be challenging to decipher, especially in older samples that haveundergone biodegradation. We present the results of our attempt to analyze samples of poisoncollected from nineteenth and twentieth century arrowheads from southern Africa, and from a1000-year-old archaeological bone point. The arrow poison residues and reference samples wereanalyzed by Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR FTIR) andGas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS). The ATR FTIR analysis is primarily able to separatebetween different arrow poison binder recipes. The extractives identified by GC–MS analysis consistof a multitude of components from both binders and active substances, confirming and adding to theresults from the ATR FTIR analyses. We discuss the results in terms of potential biomarkers for arrowpoisons in organic residue analyses of archaeological artefacts; that residues of toxic cardiotonicglycosides can be detected on curated and excavated arrow tips of between about 1000 and 100 yearsold, serves as proof of concept for working with older materials in the future.

The detection of complex poison recipes applied to ancient hunting weapons has the potential to provide important insights into traditional pharmacological knowledge systems. Yet, recipes comprising many ingredients can be challenging to decipher, especially in older samples that have undergone biodegradation. We present the results of our attempt to analyze samples of poison collected from nineteenth and twentieth century arrowheads from southern Africa, and from a 1000-year-old archaeological bone point. The arrow poison residues and reference samples were analyzed by Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR FTIR) and Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS). The ATR FTIR analysis is primarily able to separate between different arrow poison binder recipes. The extractives identified by GC–MS analysis consist of a multitude of components from both binders and active substances, confirming and adding to the results from the ATR FTIR analyses. We discuss the results in terms of potential biomarkers for arrow poisons in organic residue analyses of archaeological artefacts; that residues of toxic cardiotonic glycosides can be detected on curated and excavated arrow tips of between about 1000 and 100 years old, serves as proof of concept for working with older materials in the future.

Polyurethanes (PUs) are an exceedingly heterogeneous group of plastic polymers, widely used in a variety of industries from construction to medical implants. In the past decades, we have witnessed the accumulation of PU waste and its detrimental environmental impacts. PUs have been identified as one of the most toxic polymers leaching hazardous compounds derived both from the polymer itself and the additives used in production. Further environmental impact assessment, identification and characterization of substances derived from PU materials and establishing efficient degradation strategies are crucial. Thus, a selection of eight synthetic model compounds which represent partial PU hydrolysis products were synthesized and characterized both in terms of toxicity and suitability to be used as substrates for the identification of novel biocatalysts for PU biodegradation. Overall, the compounds exhibited low in vitro cytotoxicity against a healthy human fibroblast cell line and virtually no toxic effect on the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans up to 500 µg mL−1, and two of the substrates showed moderate aquatic ecotoxicity with EC50 values 53 µg mL−1 and 45 µg mL−1, respectively, on Aliivibrio fischeri. The compounds were successfully applied to study the mechanism of ester and urethane bond cleaving preference of known plastic-degrading enzymes and were used to single out a novel PU-degrading biocatalyst, Amycolatopsis mediterranei ISP5501, among 220 microbial strains. A. mediterranei ISP5501 can also degrade commercially available polyether and polyester PU materials, reducing the average molecular number of the polymer up to 13.5%. This study uncovered a biocatalyst capable of degrading different types of PUs and identified potential enzymes responsible as a key step in developing biotechnological process for PU waste treatment options.

Functional oxide nanoparticles are extensively utilized in the last decades for biomedical purposes due to their unique functional properties. Nevertheless, their biodegradation mechanism by biological species, particularly by proteins at oxide/protein interfaces, still remains limited. Here, a systematic approaches is provided to investigate electrochemical behavior, electronic properties, and biodegradation mechanism of cobalt ferrite (CFO) and cobalt ferrite-bismuth ferrite (CFO-BFO) core-shell nanoparticles in apoferritin-containing media. Scanning Kelvin probe force microscopy results indicate that the presence of a thin shell (≈5 nm) of BFO on CFO causes a significant increase in surface potential. The potentiodynamic polarization measurements in different solutions showed higher anodic current densities for both samples when decreasing pH and increasing apoferritin concentration. Notably, CFO-BFO exhibits lower anodic current densities than CFO due to a slightly higher flat band potential and lower donor density distribution on CFO-BFO than on CFO, which results in lower electrochemical activity. Long-term monitoring reveals that biodegradation of both nanoparticles is accelerated by high apoferritin concentrations and acidic media, resulting in the decrease of electrochemical potentials and impedance values, and enhancement of metal ion release. Thus, this systematic biodegradation study can help to predict the lifespan and toxicity of these functional nanoparticles in biological environments., Materials Science and Engineering, Team Peyman Taheri, Team Yaiza Gonzalez Garcia, Team Arjan Mol

The last two decades have witnessed the emergence of micro- and nanoswimmers (MNSs). Researchers have invested significant efforts in engineering motile micro- and nanodevices to address current limitations in minimally invasive medicine. MNSs can move through complex fluid media by using chemical fuels or external energy sources such as magnetic fields, ultrasound, or light. Despite significant advancements in their locomotion and functionalities, the gradual deterioration of MNSs in human physiological media is often overlooked. Corrosion and biodegradation caused by chemical reactions with surrounding medium and the activity of biological agents can significantly affect their chemical stability and functional properties during their lifetime performance. It is therefore essential to understand the degradation mechanisms and factors that influence them to design ideal biomedical MNSs that are affordable, highly efficient, and sufficiently resistant to degradation (at least during their service time). This review summarizes recent studies that delve into the physicochemical characteristics and complex environmental factors affecting the corrosion and biodegradation of MNSs, with a focus on metal-based devices. Additionally, different strategies are discussed to enhance and/or optimize their stability. Conversely, controlled degradation of non-toxic MNSs can be highly advantageous for numerous biomedical applications, allowing for less invasive, safer, and more efficient treatments., Materials Science and Engineering, Team Yaiza Gonzalez Garcia, Team Arjan Mol

Now-a-days, let out a huge number of bovine trimmings based solid waste from tanneries has caused significant environmental concerns. To overcome this problem, this study emphasizes on bovine trimmings derived collagen based high-performance composite with graphene oxide (Col-GO) by using solvent evaporation method. The Col-GO composite film formation was governed by plasticization with glycerol, crosslinking reaction of collagen chain; and H-bonding interaction between GO and collagen functional groups. The Col-GO composite films were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and contact angle measurements. FTIR and TGA results indicate that interfacial H-bonding interaction between GO with collagen, and thermal stability of Col-GO composites film. Contact angle results indicate that hydrophobicity of Col-GO films was significantly enhanced compared to pure collagen film. The SEM analysis results indicate the homogeneous integration of GO in the Col-GO composite film. The composite film exhibits improvement in tensile strength and Young's modulus (YM) by 45% and 33% respectively. The water and gas barrier properties of the composite film improved by 47.4%, 66.57%, and 87.34%, respectively compared to pure collagen film. The Col-GO composite film showed excellent biodegradation in the soil burial test, degrading 79.47% in 42 days. The potential of the biodegraded Col-GO composite sample as a biofertilizer has been investigated by cultivating Spinacia oleracea seeds. The Col-GO composite film might be a very promising bio-compostable flexible and sustainable packaging film alternative to plastic packaging made from oil. © 2023 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride [BMIM][Cl] was used to prepare cellulose (CELL), cellulose/polycaprolactone (CELL/PCL), cellulose/polycaprolactone/keratin (CELL/PCL/KER), and cellulose/polycaprolactone/keratin/ground calcium carbonate (CELL/PCL/KER/GCC) biodegradable mulch films. Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier-Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy, optical microscopy, and Field-Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM) were used to verify the films’ surface chemistry and morphology. Mulch film made of only cellulose regenerated from ionic liquid solution exhibited the highest tensile strength (75.3 ± 2.1 MPa) and modulus of elasticity of 944.4 ± 2.0 MPa. Among samples containing PCL, CELL/PCL/KER/GCC is characterized by the highest tensile strength (15.8 ± 0.4 MPa) and modulus of elasticity (687.5 ± 16.6 MPa). The film’s breaking strain decreased for all samples containing PCL upon the addition of KER and KER/GCC. The melting temperature of pure PCL is 62.3 °C, whereas that of CELL/PCL film has a slight tendency for melting point depression (61.0 °C), which is a characteristic of partially miscible polymer blends. Furthermore, Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) analysis revealed that the addition of KER or KER/GCC to CELL/PCL films resulted in an increment in melting temperature from 61.0 to 62.6 and 68.9 °C and an improvement in sample crystallinity by 2.2 and 3.0 times, respectively. The light transmittance of all studied samples was greater than 60%. The reported method for mulch film preparation is green and recyclable ([BMIM][Cl] can be recovered), and the inclusion of KER derived by extraction from waste chicken feathers enables conversion to organic biofertilizer. The findings of this study contribute to sustainable agriculture by providing nutrients that enhance the growth rate of plants, and hence food production, while reducing environmental pressure. The addition of GCC furthermore provides a source of Ca2+ for plant

The detection of complex poison recipes applied to ancient hunting weapons has the potential to provide important insights into traditional pharmacological knowledge systems. Yet, recipes comprising many ingredients can be challenging to decipher, especially in older samples that have undergone biodegradation. We present the results of our attempt to analyze samples of poison collected from nineteenth and twentieth century arrowheads from southern Africa, and from a 1000-year-old archaeological bone point. The arrow poison residues and reference samples were analyzed by Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR FTIR) and Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS). The ATR FTIR analysis is primarily able to separate between different arrow poison binder recipes. The extractives identified by GC–MS analysis consist of a multitude of components from both binders and active substances, confirming and adding to the results from the ATR FTIR analyses. We discuss the results in terms of potential biomarkers for arrow poisons in organic residue analyses of archaeological artefacts; that residues of toxic cardiotonic glycosides can be detected on curated and excavated arrow tips of between about 1000 and 100 years old, serves as proof of concept for working with older materials in the future.

The assessment of persistence (P), bioaccumulation (B), and toxicity (T) of a chemical is a crucial first step at ensuring chemical safety and is a cornerstone of the European Union's chemicals regulation REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals). Existing methods for PBT assessment are overly complex and cumbersome, have produced incorrect conclusions, and rely heavily on animal-intensive testing. We explore how new-approach methodologies (NAMs) can overcome the limitations of current PBT assessment. We propose two innovative hazard indicators, termed cumulative toxicity equivalents (CTE) and persistent toxicity equivalents (PTE). Together they are intended to replace existing PBT indicators and can also accommodate the emerging concept of PMT (where M stands for mobility). The proposed "toxicity equivalents" can be measured with high throughput in vitro bioassays. CTE refers to the toxic effects measured directly in any given sample, including single chemicals, substitution products, or mixtures. PTE is the equivalent measure of cumulative toxicity equivalents measured after simulated environmental degradation of the sample. With an appropriate panel of animal-free or alternative in vitro bioassays, CTE and PTE comprise key environmental and human health hazard indicators. CTE and PTE do not require analytical identification of transformation products and mixture components but instead prompt two key questions: is the chemical or mixture toxic, and is this toxicity persistent or can it be attenuated by environmental degradation? Taken together, the proposed hazard indicators CTE and PTE have the potential to integrate P, B/M and T assessment into one high-throughput experimental workflow that sidesteps the need for analytical measurements and will support the Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability of the European Union.

Biochar is a promising solution for pesticide pollution and soil degradation in agriculture. It improves fertilizer efficiency by increasing nutrient availability, and acts as a slow-release fertilizer. Biochar enhances soil fertility by retaining nutrients, and increasing organic matter, water retention, and microbial activity. It also shows potential in pesticide degradation through chemical, and microbial processes. However, the sorption of pesticides on biochar can hinder degradation. Factors like feedstock, pyrolysis temperature, and application rate influence biochar's nutrient retention capabilities. Understanding these factors is crucial for optimizing biochar's effectiveness in agricultural systems.

Biochar is a promising solution for pesticide pollution and soil degradation in agriculture. It improves fertilizer efficiency by increasing nutrient availability, and acts as a slow-release fertilizer. Biochar enhances soil fertility by retaining nutrients, and increasing organic matter, water retention, and microbial activity. It also shows potential in pesticide degradation through chemical, and microbial processes. However, the sorption of pesticides on biochar can hinder degradation. Factors like feedstock, pyrolysis temperature, and application rate influence biochar's nutrient retention capabilities. Understanding these factors is crucial for optimizing biochar's effectiveness in agricultural systems.

Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) has gained attention as a possible substitute for conventional polymers that could be integrated into the organic recycling system. Biocomposites with 15% of pure cellulose (TC) and woodflour (WF) were prepared to analyze the role of lignin on their compostability (58 °C) by tracking the mass loss, CO2 evolution, and the microbial population. Realistic dimensions for typical plastic products (400 µm films), as well as their service performance (thermal stability, rheology), were taken into account in this hybrid study. WF showed lower adhesion with the polymer than TC and favored PHBV thermal degradation during processing, also affecting its rheological behavior. Although all materials disintegrated in 45 days and mineralized in less than 60 days, lignin from woodflour was found to slow down the bioassimilation of PHBV/WF by limiting the access of enzymes and water to easier degradable cellulose and polymer matrix. According to the highest and the lowest weight loss rates, TC incorporation allowed for higher mesophilic bacterial and fungal counts, while WF seemed to hinder fungal growth. At the initial steps, fungi and yeasts seem to be key factors in facilitating the later metabolization of the materials by bacteria.

Methomyl is a widely used carbamate pesticide, which has adverse biological effects and poses a serious threat to ecological environments and human health. Several bacterial isolates have been investigated for removing methomyl from environment. However, low degradation efficiency and poor environmental adaptability of pure cultures severely limits their potential for bioremediation of methomyl-contaminated environment. Here, a novel microbial consortium, MF0904, can degrade 100% of 25 mg/L methomyl within 96 h, an efficiency higher than that of any other consortia or pure microbes reported so far. The sequencing analysis revealed that Pandoraea, Stenotrophomonas and Paracoccus were the predominant members of MF0904 in the degradation process, suggesting that these genera might play pivotal roles in methomyl biodegradation. Moreover, five new metabolites including ethanamine, 1,2-dimethyldisulfane, 2-hydroxyacetonitrile, N-hydroxyacetamide, and acetaldehyde were identified using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, indicating that methomyl could be degraded firstly by hydrolysis of its ester bond, followed by cleavage of the C–S ring and subsequent metabolism. Furthermore, MF0904 can successfully colonize and substantially enhance methomyl degradation in different soils, with complete degradation of 25 mg/L methomyl within 96 and 72 h in sterile and nonsterile soil, respectively. Together, the discovery of microbial consortium MF0904 fills a gap in the synergistic metabolism of methomyl at the community level and provides a potential candidate for bioremediation applications. © 2023 Elsevier B.V.

Loose assemblies of cellulose fibers could be employed in the clean-up of oil spills, but the difficulty to separate them from the spill after use makes them impractical. In an effort to tackle this issue, a non-woven sorbent based on recycled jute fibers from the carpet industry was developed. To enhance the porosity and hydrophobicity/oleophilicity of the sorbent, carbonization in an inert atmosphere was carried out. A comparison in oil sorption performance between non-carbonized and carbonized sorbents was made by evaluating the oil capacity in a water medium, buoyancy, oil retention and reusability. Carbonization of sorbent resulted in more than doubled oil sorption capacity independent of oil viscosity. Oil viscosity did not affect the oil sorption capacity of non-carbonized sorbent. Carbonized sorbent showed superior buoyancy in water even after 24 hours, oil retention of approximately 60–80% after 3 hours and only 12–20% decline of oil sorption capacity after five repeated sorption/desorption trials. However, the ability of oiled non-carbonized sorbent to efficiently biodegrade in model compost (up to 45% weight loss after 10 weeks) makes it a sustainable candidate for oil spill clean-up.

A variety of plant-based materials can be used in innovative methods to treat water pollution through bio-adsorption. This work evaluated, under lab conditions, the presence of native microorganisms in orange peel (OP) and elodea (Egeria densa, ELO), the aerobic degradation and biostability of the bio-adsorbents, and the contribution of microorganisms to the bio-adsorption of Pb (II) and Cr (III). The microbial characterization and biostability of OP and ELO were conducted using 2 g of dried bio-adsorbent and a solution of the metallic ions at 450 mg/L. ELO had a larger number of bacteria, fungi, and yeast than OP. After 2 hours of contact with a 450 mg/L Pb (II) and Cr (III) solution, this value decreased by 80-86% in both bio-adsorbents. After 25 days, the microorganisms showed adaptation to the Pb (II) and Cr (III) concentrations. According to the bio-degradation test, OP had a stability of over 7,01 months, while that of ELO was 2,61 months, with a CO2 value of 1 439,9 mg after 46 days of incubation. The microorganisms tolerated a high metal concentration, but they did not contribute significantly to Cr (III) bio-adsorption in ELO. The microorganisms present in the adsorbents affect the stability of the materials, as the bio-adsorbents provide a nutrient-rich substrate. OP had higher bio-stability and could be used in pilot tests for the treatment of metal-polluted water., Diversos materiales de origen vegetal pueden utilizarse en métodos innovadores para tratar la contaminación del agua mediante la bioadsorción. Este trabajo evaluó, en condiciones de laboratorio, la presencia de microorganismos nativos en la cáscara de naranja (CN) y elodea (Egeria densa, ELO), la degradación aeróbica, la bioestabilidad de los bioadsorbentes y la contribución de los microorganismos en la bioadsorción de Pb (II) y Cr (III). La caracterización microbiana y la estabilidad de CN y ELO se determinaron con 2 g de bioadsorbente seco y una solución de los iones metálicos a una concentración de 450 mg/L. ELO presentó un mayor número de bacterias, hongos y levaduras que CN. Después de 2 horas de contacto con una solución de 450 mg/L de Pb (II) y Cr (III), este valor disminuyó en 80-86% en ambos bioadsorbentes. A los 25 días, los microorganismos mostraron adaptación a las concentraciones de Pb (II) y Cr (III). Según el ensayo de biodegradación, CN presentó una estabilidad de más de 7,01 meses, mientras que la de ELO fue de 2,61 meses, con un valor de CO2 de 1 439,9 mg a los 46 días de incubación. Los microorganismos toleraron una alta concentración de los metales, pero no contribuyeron significativamente a la bioadsorción del Cr (III) en ELO. Los microorganismos presentes en los adsorbentes afectan a la estabilidad de los materiales, ya que los bioadsorbentes proporcionan un sustrato rico en nutrientes. CN presentó una mayor bioestabilidad y puede ser utilizada en pruebas piloto para el tratamiento de aguas contaminadas con metales.

Polyurethanes (PUs) are an exceedingly heterogeneous group of plastic polymers, widely used in a variety of industries from construction to medical implants. In the past decades, we have witnessed the accumulation of PU waste and its detrimental environmental impacts. PUs have been identified as one of the most toxic polymers leaching hazardous compounds derived both from the polymer itself and the additives used in production. Further environmental impact assessment, identification and characterization of substances derived from PU materials and establishing efficient degradation strategies are crucial. Thus, a selection of eight synthetic model compounds which represent partial PU hydrolysis products were synthesized and characterized both in terms of toxicity and suitability to be used as substrates for the identification of novel biocatalysts for PU biodegradation. Overall, the compounds exhibited low in vitro cytotoxicity against a healthy human fibroblast cell line and virtually no toxic effect on the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans up to 500 µg mL−1, and two of the substrates showed moderate aquatic ecotoxicity with EC50 values 53 µg mL−1 and 45 µg mL−1, respectively, on Aliivibrio fischeri. The compounds were successfully applied to study the mechanism of ester and urethane bond cleaving preference of known plastic-degrading enzymes and were used to single out a novel PU-degrading biocatalyst, Amycolatopsis mediterranei ISP5501, among 220 microbial strains. A. mediterranei ISP5501 can also degrade commercially available polyether and polyester PU materials, reducing the average molecular number of the polymer up to 13.5%. This study uncovered a biocatalyst capable of degrading different types of PUs and identified potential enzymes responsible as a key step in developing biotechnological process for PU waste treatment options.

A variety of plant-based materials can be used in innovative methods to treat water pollution through bio-adsorption. This work evaluated, under lab conditions, the presence of native microorganisms in orange peel (OP) and elodea (Egeria densa, ELO), the aerobic degradation and biostability of the bio-adsorbents, and the contribution of microorganisms to the bio-adsorption of Pb (II) and Cr (III). The microbial characterization and biostability of OP and ELO were conducted using 2 g of dried bio-adsorbent and a solution of the metallic ions at 450 mg/L. ELO had a larger number of bacteria, fungi, and yeast than OP. After 2 hours of contact with a 450 mg/L Pb (II) and Cr (III) solution, this value decreased by 80-86% in both bio-adsorbents. After 25 days, the microorganisms showed adaptation to the Pb (II) and Cr (III) concentrations. According to the bio-degradation test, OP had a stability of over 7,01 months, while that of ELO was 2,61 months, with a CO2 value of 1 439,9 mg after 46 days of incubation. The microorganisms tolerated a high metal concentration, but they did not contribute significantly to Cr (III) bio-adsorption in ELO. The microorganisms present in the adsorbents affect the stability of the materials, as the bio-adsorbents provide a nutrient-rich substrate. OP had higher bio-stability and could be used in pilot tests for the treatment of metal-polluted water., Diversos materiales de origen vegetal pueden utilizarse en métodos innovadores para tratar la contaminación del agua mediante la bioadsorción. Este trabajo evaluó, en condiciones de laboratorio, la presencia de microorganismos nativos en la cáscara de naranja (CN) y elodea (Egeria densa, ELO), la degradación aeróbica, la bioestabilidad de los bioadsorbentes y la contribución de los microorganismos en la bioadsorción de Pb (II) y Cr (III). La caracterización microbiana y la estabilidad de CN y ELO se determinaron con 2 g de bioadsorbente seco y una solución de los iones metálicos a una concentración de 450 mg/L. ELO presentó un mayor número de bacterias, hongos y levaduras que CN. Después de 2 horas de contacto con una solución de 450 mg/L de Pb (II) y Cr (III), este valor disminuyó en 80-86% en ambos bioadsorbentes. A los 25 días, los microorganismos mostraron adaptación a las concentraciones de Pb (II) y Cr (III). Según el ensayo de biodegradación, CN presentó una estabilidad de más de 7,01 meses, mientras que la de ELO fue de 2,61 meses, con un valor de CO2 de 1 439,9 mg a los 46 días de incubación. Los microorganismos toleraron una alta concentración de los metales, pero no contribuyeron significativamente a la bioadsorción del Cr (III) en ELO. Los microorganismos presentes en los adsorbentes afectan a la estabilidad de los materiales, ya que los bioadsorbentes proporcionan un sustrato rico en nutrientes. CN presentó una mayor bioestabilidad y puede ser utilizada en pruebas piloto para el tratamiento de aguas contaminadas con metales.