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The study aimed to demonstrate the nutritional value of banana peels. The analysis of the chemical composition of banana peels showed that the percentage of moisture, fat, protein, ash, and carbohydrates reached 3.97, 2.90, 7.23, 9.07, and 76.83%, respectively. The total phenols in the ethanolic and methanolic extracts were 240.58 and 212.4 mg GAE/100 g, respectively, with an IC50 value of 2.39 µg/ml for banana peels. HPLC analysis revealed gallic acid, Rutin, Ferulic acid, Apigenin, Catechine, and Qurcetine in banana peels. They also contain vitamins (C, A, E, B6) and minerals (Na, P, Ca, Cu, Mg, K). Replacing cookies with different proportions of banana peels showed a change in the chemical estimates of its components. The percentages of moisture, fat, protein, ash, and carbohydrates ranged between (5.42 - 8.21) %, (23.62 - 23.87) %, (9.35 - 15.99) %, (4.39 - 5.90) %, and (50.33 -52.92) %, respectively. The substitution's effect on the cookie product's physical properties was (diameter 4.26-4.33 cm, thickness 1.45-1.62 cm, diffusion ratio 2.65-2.67). The antioxidant properties also increased significantly, as the total phenolic content ranged between 16.14−21.65 mg GAE/100 g, and the antioxidant activity ranged between 53.80−73.71% in the cookie product to which different concentrations of banana peel powder were added. Sensory evaluation of cookies with 5 and 7.5% banana peel powder revealed positive qualities.

Machine learning approaches are utilized to identify patterns in behavior and generate predictions across various applications. The objective of this work is to create a highly efficient model for accurately measuring and analyzing the levels of soil organic carbon (SOC) in the Chambo river subbasin, which is situated in the province of Chimborazo. The model evaluation entails the application of diverse machine learning algorithms and approaches to determine the most efficient regression model. Regression models are improved using techniques such as Artificial Neural Networks, Support Vector Machines, and Decision Trees. The Resilient Backpropagation method yields the most precise model, as it accounts for a greater proportion of the variability in SOC content for the test data. This aligns with the findings from the training data, demonstrating a relatively low mean absolute error and a processing time that is approximately 400 times faster than that of the Multilayer Perceptron algorithm. The evaluation of estimating models is an objective procedure that considers not only the findings and precise metrics derived from the model's design, but also other relevant elements. The effectiveness of the Random Forest approach, specifically the quantile regression forests technique, has been established for estimating SOC contents in the Chambo river sub-basin data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to demonstrate the nutritional value of banana peels. The analysis of the chemical composition of banana peels showed that the percentage of moisture, fat, protein, ash, and carbohydrates reached 3.97, 2.90, 7.23, 9.07, and 76.83%, respectively. The total phenols in the ethanolic and methanolic extracts were 240.58 and 212.4 mg GAE/100 g, respectively, with an IC50 value of 2.39 μg/ml for banana peels. HPLC analysis revealed gallic acid, Rutin, Ferulic acid, Apigenin, Catechine, and Qurcetine in banana peels. They also contain vitamins (C, A, E, B6) and minerals (Na, P, Ca, Cu, Mg, K). Replacing cookies with different proportions of banana peels showed a change in the chemical estimates of its components. The percentages of moisture, fat, protein, ash, and carbohydrates ranged between (5.42 - 8.21) %, (23.62 - 23.87) %, (9.35 - 15.99) %, (4.39 - 5.90) %, and (50.33 -52.92) %, respectively. The substitution's effect on the cookie product's physical properties was (diameter 4.26-4.33 cm, thickness 1.45-1.62 cm, diffusion ratio 2.65-2.67). The antioxidant properties also increased significantly, as the total phenolic content ranged between 16.14−21.65 mg GAE/100 g, and the antioxidant activity ranged between 53.80−73.71% in the cookie product to which different concentrations of banana peel powder were added. Sensory evaluation of cookies with 5 and 7.5% banana peel powder revealed positive qualities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant derived natural fibers have been widely investigated as alternatives to synthetic fibers in reinforcing polymers. Researchers over the years have explored many plant fibers using different extraction processes to study their physical, chemical, and mechanical properties. In this context, the present study relates to the extraction, characterization, and optimization of Typha angustata L. stem fibers. For this purpose, desirability functions and response surface methodology were applied to simultaneously optimize the diameter (D), linear density (LD); yield (Y), lignin fraction (L), and tenacity (T) of Typha stem fibers. Typha stems have been subjected to both alkali (NaOH) and enzymatic (pectinex ultra-SPL) treatments. Three levels of process variables including enzyme concentration (10, 15, and 20 ml/L) and treatment duration (10, 15, and 20 days) were used to design the experiments according to the factorial design. Experimental results were examined by analysis of variance and fitted to second order polynomial model using multiple regression analysis. The Derringer's desirability function released that the values of process variables generating optimized diameter, linear density, yield, lignin ratio and tenacity are 20 ml/L and 20 days for concentration of pectinex ultra-SPL enzyme and treatment duration, respectively. Confirmation was performed and high degree of correlation was found between the experimental and statistical values. Moreover, the morphological structure has been investigated by the scanning electron microscope, showing a crenelated structure of ultimate fiber bundles of cellulose composing the Typha fiber. Compared to Typha stem non-treated fibers (TSNTF), Typha stem combined treated fibers (TSCTF), brings to improve mechanical properties. This change in mechanical properties is affected by modifying the fiber structure showing alpha cellulose of (66.86%) and lignin ratio of (10.83%) with a crystallinity index of (58.47%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All technosols belong to slightly alkaline substrates, with the exception of dark gray shale clay (pH 6.6). The concentration of soluble salts and manganese was the highest in the dark gray schist clay. The humus content does not exceed 1.4% in the phytomeliorated rocks. It was established that phyrtomelioration led to change intensity of reflectance of loess like loam from 0.6 to 0.53. The presence of fossil carbon was reflected in the spectrum of dark gray schist clay. The interpretation of VIS-NIR spectra of overburdened rocks should be done taking into account their geological age, formation and the stage of phytomelioration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adaptation of lignocellulosic materials such as Cannabis sativa L. as a new renewable energy source is linked to the fact that the technology must be developed to be able to adapt to local market conditions. Bioenergy consumers are faced with this problem because, when it comes to the selection of briquettes and pellets for energy production, there are only individual standards in place. This research is intended to provide a better understanding of hemp product potential as a new material that can be used in the production of pellets and briquettes for biofuel purpose. Nevertheless, the anisotropic raw material interferes with the compaction process and may expose a poor durability of the pellets and briquettes. The research that was conducted evaluated the conditions of the biofuels by measuring the physical and chemical parameters. The ash content, compressive strength, and durability of the samples were examined. The statistical data analysis was performed after the strength tests on the prepared samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presented universal recommendations for the reduction of crud formation, reviewing various aspects affecting the loss of diluent and extractant due to the formation of a third phase (crud), encountered in many hydrometallurgical plants using copper solvent extraction. In this paper introduce the reasons of the crud formation , description of the stable emulsions containing solid particles and choice of technological scheme. An analysis of operations to be considered in the operation of copper solvent extraction plants is presented, due to the deterioration of copper grade below 0.5% in ore and the increase in aluminum content up to 20–25%. Results of use of extraction properties of modified extractants of ACCORGA series and unmodified extractant Lix984N on pregnant leached solution of the most important deposits (Almaly and Aktogay) are given. It is established that for solutions of Almaly deposit, ACCORGA5640 and unmodified Lix984 extractants have high selectivity to copper. Distribution of iron, silica, and copper ions during extraction was studied, and it was found that high selectivity to copper/iron and copper/silica is possessed by extractant Lix 984N, ACCORGA5640. It was found that for solutions of the Aktogay deposit, the ratio of interphase suspension in both extractants is the same, and phase separation in experiments with the use of extractant Lix 984N was 10 s shorter with the use of extractant ACCORGA5640. It was found that the addition of ACCORGACR60 reagent in the amount of 5-10 ppm also leads to a decrease in the volume of crud by 13%, for a stronger suppression of crud. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research conducted with the aim of manufacturing healthy products (yoghurt and local cream cheese) rich in bioactive compounds and healthy fatty acid using avocado fruit pulp. Avocado pulp used in the manufacture of yoghurt at two, four, and six percent, and the yoghurt stored at 4ﹾ C for seven days. Local cream cheese was handmade by replacing animal butter with 15% avocado pulp. The content of phenolic compounds in fresh avocado pulp determined using HPLC, where it was found to be rich in kaempferol 30.88 ppm, ferulic acid 30.25 ppm, apigenin 22.58 ppm, quercetin 18.98 ppm, and P-coumaric acid 12.66 ppm, as well as rich in some fatty acids: oleic 59.58%, palmitic 17.58%, and α-linolenic 18.05%. Compared to the control sample at the first day of storage, the avocado-fortified yoghurt led to an increase in antioxidant activity by 10.86%, 25.12%, and 34.63%, and in total phenolic content by 129.55%, 343.18%, and 404.55%. The yoghurt sample at four percent was the most accepted in texture, taste, flavor, and general acceptance, and the avocado added a buttery, astringent, and distinct taste to the avocado-fortified samples. Also, the manufactured of local cream cheese by avocado led to a decrease in moisture and fat, and an increase in acidity and total solids, and it was possible to obtain a low-fat functional food with high nutritional value. Results showed that supporting yoghurt with avocado had a positive effect on reducing the total number of microorganisms and was free of molds, yeasts, and coliform growths during storage.

Micronutrients such as Zn, Cu, Fe, and Mn are required metals for plant crops to increase their yield and quality. Metals are included in numerous biochemical reactions as enzymes, co-enzymes, and co-factors. Copper, zinc, and manganese are essential for the development and growth of animal as pigs and broiler chicks. Amino acids are of significant importance and are used in many applications, fields, and industries such as food, animal feed, supplement, pharmaceutical production, and as biofertilizers. Fertilizers of inorganic mineral structure are hardly diffused from the leaf surface into the plant, while chelated minerals with amino acids provide a great advantage in increasing the absorption efficiency and translocation of minerals within the plant. Also, it was known that derivatives of free or chelated amino acids have marked antioxidant activity and are able to inhibit the development of tumor tissues and leading to increase immune protective abilities of the organisms. Nanotechnology increased the application efficiency of metal-amino acid complexes. Using nano fertilizers to plants is one of critical importance due to their unique properties in size and increased surface areas. It released the nutrients on demand and regulates plant growth (such as wheat, rice, barley, and rapeseed plants). Metal chelating complexes have found extensive applications in various fields of human interest. Chelators are used in medical applications; water softeners are included as ingredients in many commercial products such as shampoos and food preservatives and control heavy metal pollution in aquacultures. Amino acids may be used separately in chelation process as free amino acids or can be separated from plant or animal wastes. It can be separated by hydrolysis of plant or agricultural crop wastes as thrones of tomato and sugar beet plants. Also, it can be separated from animal origin as leather wastes and chicken feather waste or from whey of cow milk after mozzarella cheese formation. So, amino acid production from wastes decreases the cost of metal-chelated complex formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this research was to investigate the production and properties of wood plastic pellets (WPP) made from rubberwood sawdust and refuse-derived fuel (RDF). WPP samples were tested for chemical and physical properties and compared to standard wood pellets. The results showed that when using RDF, the elemental compositions of WPP can affect the content of Zn, Cu, Pb, Cd, Cr, and As. In addition, RDF samples had a higher heating value of 21.19–22.09 MJ/kg. The physical properties of the samples revealed that they had a density of 1175–1286 kg/m3, a mechanical durability of 98%, and a moisture content of 5.38–11.27%. According to the study's findings, these manufactured mixed pellets have the potential to be beneficial for alternative sustainable green energy as fuels. Moreover, using RDF, which comes from MSW, could help in global warming mitigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this research was to investigate the production and properties of wood plastic pellets (WPP) made from rubberwood sawdust and refuse-derived fuel (RDF). WPP samples were tested for chemical and physical properties and compared to standard wood pellets. The results showed that when using RDF, the elemental compositions of WPP can affect the content of Zn, Cu, Pb, Cd, Cr, and As. In addition, RDF samples had a higher heating value of 21.19–22.09 MJ/kg. The physical properties of the samples revealed that they had a density of 1175–1286 kg/m3, a mechanical durability of 98%, and a moisture content of 5.38–11.27%. According to the study’s findings, these manufactured mixed pellets have the potential to be beneficial for alternative sustainable green energy as fuels. Moreover, using RDF, which comes from MSW, could help in global warming mitigation.

Soil fertility is important in influencing productivity in agroecosystems. The interaction of trees and crops in different agroforestry systems considerably affects soil fertility and crop productivity. Information on the effect of different land-use systems on soil physicochemical properties in the Gedeo, Southern Ethiopia is insufficient. Therefore, the objective of this study was to examine the influence of three different types of agroforestry systems (Home garden/HG/, Ficha system/FS/, and Parkland/PL/) on soil physicochemical properties. The soil sample was investigated in two soil depths (0–30 cm and 30–60 cm), and a total of 54 composite samples representing different agroforestry systems. The result revealed that the soil pH of HG and FS had significantly higher (P

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of replacement of wheat flour (72% ext.) with 20, 25 and 30% pomace of pomegranate seeds or date press powder on physico-chemical and organoleptic properties of sweet biscuit. The obtained data show that both pomace of pomegranate seeds and date press powder contained the highest amount from ether extract, ash and crude fiber. By increasing the percent of replacement with the previous two sources in the produced biscuits lead to increase of ether extract, ash, crude fiber and mineral contents, while crude protein, available carbohydrates and energy were gradually decreased compared with the control sample. Also, the moisture content and water activity values were increased significantly by increasing the replacement percent with pomace of pomegranate seeds or date press powder. During storage period the pH value of biscuit samples was significantly decreased by increasing the replacement percent with pomace of pomegranate seeds or date press powder. Also, results revealed that the pH value of all biscuits samples increased with the increase of storage period up to 6 months. At the same time, both of acid value and proxide value of biscuit samples significantly increased with increasing of storage period up to 6 months. Finally, it could be noted that, sweet biscuits produced by partially replacement of wheat flour with pomace of pomegranate seeds and date press powder until level 30% had characterized with a good sensory properties and acceptability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review article provides basic information about cannabis, its structure, and its impact on human development at the turn of the century. It also contains a brief description of the cultivation and application of these plants in the basic branches of the economy. This overview is also a comprehensive collection of information on the chemical composition of individual cannabis derivatives. It contains the characteristics of the chemical composition as well as the physicochemical and mechanical properties of hemp fibers, oil, extracts and wax, which is unique compared to other review articles. As one of the few articles, it approaches the topic in a holistic and evolutionary way, moving through the plant's life cycle. Its important element is examples of the use of hemp derivatives in polymer composites based on thermoplastics, elastomers and duroplasts and the influence of these additives on their properties, which cannot be found in other review articles on this subject. It indicates possible directions for further technological development, with particular emphasis on the pro-ecological aspects of these plants. It indicates the gaps and possible research directions in basic knowledge on the use of hemp in elastomers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment was conducted in the laboratories of the Food Science Department - College of Agriculture - Tikrit University, the study aimed to produce cookies by replacing the wheat flour with the pomegranate peels by 0, 1.5, 3, 4.5%, and study its impact on the chemical, physical, sensory properties and antioxidant activity of the produced cookies. The results of replacing cookies with different percentages of pomegranate peels showed a change in the chemical estimates of its components, as the proportions of moisture, ash, fat, protein, fiber and carbohydrates for the control sample (TO) (4.13, 0.58, 22.64, 6.89, 0.54, 65.22) %, and (3.56, 0.61, 22.12, 6.84, 0.80, 66.07) % for the sample (T1) replaced by 1.5% pomegranate peel, and (3.48, 0.65, 21.97, 6.78, 0.95, 66.17) % for the sample (T2) replaced with 3% pomegranate peels, And (3.36, 0.69, 21.79, 6.71, 1.18, 66.27)% for the sample (T3) replaced with 4.5% pomegranate peels. The effect of substitution on the physical properties of the cookie product, it showed a significant decrease in the diameter of the additive sample of 1.5, 3, and 4.5% of the pomegranate peel, reaching 4.71, 4.66 and 4.56 cm, respectively, and a decreased in the thickness with increasing the concentration, as the thickness reached (1.41, 1.36, 1.35, 1.33) cm for the parameters T0, T1, T2, and T3, respectively, while, the diffusion ratio was 3.46, 3.45 and 3.43 cm for T1, T2, and T3 parameters, respectively. The results of estimation of phenols indicated that the concentration of total phenols in the cookies product was 74.92 mg/100 g, 78.89 mg / 100 g, 83.39 mg/100 g, and 88.85 mg/100 g for samples (T0, T1, T2, T3), respectively, while the percentage for free radical inhibiting activity in cookies samples with different concentrations of pomegranate peels added was 21.20% in the control group (T0) and in the treatments T1, T2 and T3 (24.07, 25.18 and 27.12), respectively. The results of the sensory evaluation of the cookie product under study showed, transaction T1 outperformed the rest of the transactions in overall product acceptance, the results showed that there were no significant differences (P≤0.05) in the taste quality between the treatments (T0, T1, T2) and also between the two treatments (T2, T3), The results also showed that there were no significant differences between the treatments (T0, T1) and the coefficients (T1, T2), and between the treatments (T2, T3) in the color, while the results showed that there were no significant differences in the parameters T0, T1, T2 and T3 for the crispiness, also, the results showed of the sensory evaluation that were no significant differences (P≤0.05) between all treatments for the characteristics of texture and overall acceptability.

seeking spinning and Weaving industries are to produce eco-friendly fiber Natural . fibers have distinct properties like high strength, low weight, low cost processing and bio degradability than synthetic fibers(1). banana fibers have the advantage of coming from an agricultural residue. Egypt produces around 65,000 feddans annually from banana trees and these trees are disposed of in a polluting environment . Fibers have been extracted by mechanical means from banana tree(2). The aim of this paper is to examines how to extract banana fiber and study the mechanical , chemical and physical properties of fiber.

In the current study, the geotechnical properties of the near-surface geological units are collected, tested, correlated, evaluated, and then mapped. In addition, the groundwater level is estimated through comprehensive geotechnical investigations conducted in and around the entire Holy city of Makkah Al-Mukarramah. Based on the measured standard penetration test (SPT), the soil materials vary from soft to very dense materials where SPT ranges from 4 to >50 and increases with depth. On the other hand, the calculated rock quality designation (RQD), the rock quality spans from very poor to good where RQD changes from 0 to 80%. Accordingly, the ground conditions of Makkah can de differentiated into eight subsoil and rock units with various geotechnical properties. Moreover, it is indicated that the physical and chemical nature of these sub-soil and rock units have a considerable effect on the foundations of the constructions that may be risky in the future. The continuous evaluation of the geotechnical and chemical properties for the future projects on these soils and even rock units is highly recommended. These results will greatly support civil engineers and urban designers in the Makkah Al-Mukarramah municipality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of chicken eggs on a widespread industrial level has led to the generation of a large amount of egg shells. These egg shells are considered to be bio-hazardous waste materials although they are a rich source of amino acids and minerals. In the present investigation, effort has been made to incorporate waste poultry egg shell particles (ESP) both in carbonized (C) as well as uncarbonized (UC) form into the matrix of an Aluminum-Silicon (Al-Si) alloy to improve its mechanical properties. Various mechanical properties of the resulting composites such as tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, hardness, toughness, impact and compressive strengths have been determined and found to increase after the addition of the ESPs confirming that the incorporation of waste ESPs in the Al-Si matrix serve as reinforcements. The increase in mechanical properties such as the hardness (10.2% - UC, 19% - C), tensile (6.61% - UC, 10.61% - C), compressive (9.12% - UC, 63.94% - C) and impact strengths (30.07% - UC, 302.35% - C) is more pronounced in the case of carbonized ESPs. Field-Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM) has been conducted to determine the compositions of the matrix materials as well as the composites.

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The use of various types of biomass for energy production provides great prospects for reducing the consumption of fossil fuels and the negative impact on the environment. However, the use of biomass, in particular agromass for this purpose, results in relatively large amounts of bottom ashes and fly ashes, the composition and properties of which also raise a number of additional environmental problems. The composition and properties of fly ash are investigated in the paper, taking into account the possibilities of utilizing them for soil fertilization and other applications. Fly ash samples were collected from bunkers of flue gas cleaning equipment (electrostatic precipitator and cyclones) installed after water heating boilers, which are firing wood chips and chuffed straw. The composition of fly ash was determined using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES) and Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) while particle size distribution was obtained using scattered-light aerosol spectrometer. Electrical Low Pressure Impactor (ELPI) was used to separate fly ash into 14 groups by particle diameter, and the analysis of their composition showed differences in the composition of the fly ash collected in cyclones and Electrostatic Precipitators (ESP). An analysis of the composition of samples in regard to the existing heavy metals norms and considering concentrations of elements beneficial to the growth of plants, enables to prepare recommendations for fertilization. The determined alkalinity of fly ash pH 13 confirms the possibility of their use for reducing soil acidity. The analysis of fly ash composition has shown that they contain elements, important for plant growth (Ca, Mg, K, P, N, S), and their concentrations determine the further use for soil quality improvement because the amount of these elements in the acid soils is reduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: the use of municipal solid waste (MSW) compost in agriculture as a soil conditioner is increasing day by day because of its positive effects on biological, physical, and chemical soil properties. However, some of the composts because of contamination with heavy metals and other impurities can have deleterious effects on groundwater quality, agricultural environment, food chain, plant growth and activity of soil microorganisms. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the physical and chemical properties, fertilizing potential and heavy metal polluting potential of two types of municipal solid waste composts with processing time between 4 to 8 years (type A) and between1 to 4 years (type B) produced in Sanandaj city with the aim of using it as an organic fertilizer. Materials and Methods: Sanadaj city, the center of Kurdistan province, with a population of about 335,000 is located in the west of Iran. The current solid waste generation from the city is about 320 t/day, which are not separated at source of generation. About 200 t of the total produced wastes are composted using an open windrows system at the Sanandaj MSW Composting Plant, which is located in 10 km of Sanadaj-Kamiaran road and the rest are disposed at the landfill site. The compost manufactured by the composting plant has been collected around it in two different locations. The first belonges to the product of 2004-2008 (type A) and the second belonges to the product of 2009-2013 (type B). Till now, due to lack of quality information associated with these products, they have remained unused. Therefore, in this study, we sampled 3 samples composed of six subsamples (each containing 2 kg) from the products in March 2013. The samples were analyzed to determine the physical properties (including undesirable impurities, initial moisture content, particle size distribution, particle density, bulk density (ρb), porosity, and maximum water holding capacity), and the chemical properties (including organic carbon, ash content, pH and salinity) and total amounts of N, P, Ca, Mg, K, Na, Mn, Fe, Cr, Zn, Pb, Ni and Cd using standard methods. Results and Discussion: The results showed that bulk density, ash content, and the amounts of elements based on the dry weight of compost increased with composting time, however particle size decreased. It is well known that dry bulk density increased with composting time as ash content increased and particle size decreased by decomposition, turning and screening. The decreases of particle size with composting time cause an enrichment of metals based on the dry weight of compost. It is likely due to solubilization of metals in waste by organic acid produced during the microbial decomposition of organic matter and their subsequent adsorption on finer particles due to the higher surface area and the higher ion exchangeable capacity. The evaluation of the fertilizing potential of the surveyed composts by comparing their properties with different standard sets showed that the both composts under test in this study were failed to meet the standard permissible limits with regard to glass content (on average, 21.7 times over the permissible limit), gravel content (on average, 1.4 times over the permissible limit), lead content (on average, 1.6 times over the permissible limit), and salinity content (on average, 1.4 times over the permissible limit). Furthermore, compost type B also failed to meet the standard permissible limits with regard to initial moisture content (on average, 1.4 times over the permissible limit) and ρb (0.2 gcm-3, less than permissible limit) for agricultural purposes. The results showed that excessive amount of glass impurity bigger than 2 mm, salinity and lead contents are the major problems in the use of the composts for agricultural purposes. It should be noted that according to the maximum permissible limit of lead (150-300 mg kg-1) for compost C1 quality class described by Australian standard; both the composts can be used as fertilizers or soil amendments. In order to eliminate glass impurity, remediation approaches such as fine milling and pelleting is needed to disguise the residual glasses and render it as relatively harmless. A feasible approach to eliminate these problems is probably physical fractionation of the studied composts. It allows us to assess the distribution of nutrients and contaminants values in the different physical fractions of the composts, which is useful to detect and to eliminate of the particle sizes which are the responsible for these impurities. Conclusion: The assessment of MSW-based compost for use in agricultural soil as fertilizer or conditioner is a sustainable recycling practice owing to its nutrient content and its positive effects on soil physico-chemical properties. Thus, we evaluated the fertilizing potential of two MSW composts produced in Sanandaj city for agricultural purposes. Altogether, the results of the study showed that excessive amount of glass impurity bigger than 2 mm and salinity were the major problems in the use of the composts for agricultural purpose. As a result, the quality of the surveyed composts was not suitable for agricultural purposes without appropriate remediation of these restrictions.

This research included a comparison between the chemical and physical aspects of Sawa Lake water and the chemical and physical aspects of wells water, which are located around Sawa Lake. This research has chosen four wells that are located near Sawa Lake and then the laboratory tests were done for the samples of wells water and Sawa Lake water a long three months (November, December and January 2014-2015). The results showed, there are large differences between the chemical and physical aspects of wells water, in comparison with the chemical and physical aspects of Sawa Lake water. The high concentration of salinity for the water of Sawa Lake and the differences of temperature between the water of Sawa Lake and wells was the distinguishing feature. The average temperature for well (1) water was (24.5ºC) whereas for Sawa Lake was (12ºC). In addition, the average of electrical Conductivity for Sawa Lake water was (37600µs/cm) whereas for well (1) was (5244µs/cm) and well (4) (5730µs/cm). In addition, there were very large differences in the Chloride concentrations between the Sawa lake water (8987 mg/L), the water of first well (993.3 mg/L) and the water of second well (1135 mg/L).

The paper deals with comprehensive quality and physical parameters of commercial cokes. It aims to present comparative analysis of acquired values with standards found in other literature sources. There were analysed 15 samples of coke from current industrial operation. There were carried out chemical analysis, CSR and CRI characterization. Density, porosity, compressive strength, friction coefficient, volume of particles were determined. There was performed one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) by Statistica v.12.0 (StatSoft, Inc., Tulsa, USA) to determine significant correlation between the measured parameters. The highest correlation coefficents were noted between the pycnometer density of cokes and CSR index (r = 0.925) and CRI index (r = −0.828). The comparative analysis of quality and physical parameters with values mentioned in literature revealed the significant differences in the values of apparent density, bulk density and true density of pulverized samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Compared to pyrolysis temperature feedstock types has obviously effects on biochar physical properties and inorganic N holding ability. • High pyrolysis temperature significantly enhanced CEC,pH,C and organic matter content but decreased nutrient element content. • Biochar derived from herbaceous biomass had relatively lower yield and C content compared with that of wooden biomass at the same pyrolysis temperature. Abstract Biochar not only provides an important way to utilize agricultural and forestry waste, but also plays an important role in soil improvement and soil carbon sequestration. This study mainly investigated the effect of pyrolysis temperatures(300, 500 and 650 °C) and feedstock types including Banana Leaf (BL), Banana Stalk (BS), Banana Pseudo stem (BP), Sugarcane Leaf (SL), Sugarcane Stalk (SS), Cassava Stem (CS), Mulberry Stalk (MS), and Eucalyptus Branches (EB) on the biochar properties an its inorganic N holding ability. The results showed that the physical properties of biochar were more affected by agricultural and forestal residues types e.g.; herbaceous feedstock materials resulted in lower surface area (2–70 m2/g) while woody materials obtained relatively higher surface area (200-380 m2/g). However, the chemical properties of biochar were affected by pyrolysis temperature, as results indicated that BL biochar obtained pH 10.0 at 650 °C, while 8.45 at 300 °C, BS got highest CEC value 13.79 cmol kg−1 at 650 °C, while 6.83 cmol kg−1at 300 °C. NH 4 +-N sorption amount was ranging from 609.59 to 2040.40 mg/kg by different biochars, BS biochar adsorbed the highest amount of NH 4 +-N (1668.11 to 2040.4 mg/kg) among all the feedstock materials. Biochar derived from herbaceous biomass had relatively lower yield and C content as compared with that of wooden biomass. However, herbaceous biochars showed relatively better chemical properties than that of wooden biochars. The inorganic nitrogen holding ability of biochar was significantly affected by feedstock resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study has examined the effectiveness of characteristically different cement kiln dusts (CKDs) as a partial replacement for the ground granulated blastfurnace slag (GGBFS) in the development and production of three types of blastfurnace cements (CEM III/A, B, C) according to the standard EN 197-1.27 CEM III cement blends, 9 blends per type of cement, i.e., CEM III/A, CEM III/B and CEM III/C, were prepared in the laboratory mill from industrial starting materials (Portland cement clinker, gypsum, GGBFS, CKDs). The addition of gypsum as the setting regulator was fixed at 4 mass % in all blends studied. The content of both CKDs (cement clinker dust and cement filter dust) as slag replacements was 4 mass % in all CKD blends studied. The ordinary Portland cement (OPC) type CEM I 42.5N was used as the control cement. The results have shown that the chemical composition and chemical and physical properties of prepared CEM III/A, B, C cement blends meet the EN 197-1 requirements. Strength development in these cement blends is obviously related to the Portland cement clinker-to-GGBFS ratio. When compared to OPC, the blastfurnace cement developed lower compressive strength at early ages, but equal or higher at later ages in more cases, i.e., all 9 CEM III/A and 7 CEM III/B cement blends meet, while no CEM III/C cement blend meets the EN 197-1 requirements for standard compressive strength Class 42.5N. From the perspective of strength, the presence of the cement clinker dust is more effective than that of the cement filter dust due to their different chemical and mineralogical compositions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate some physical and chemical properties of local materials with potential as substrate for the production of vegetable seedlings: coconut fiber (FC), coffee husk (CC), pine sawdust (AP), the combinations FC+AP, FC+CC, CC+AP and the commercial product Sogemix. The properties such as bulk density (Da), total porosity (Pt), air filled porosity (Pa), water holding capacity (CRH), cationic exchange capacity (CIC), pH and electric conductivity (CE) were evaluated under a complete randomized design with seven treatments and three repetitions. The results show that the physical and chemical properties of substrates FC and CC are adequate and similar to control (Sogemix), and have great potential for use as components of substrates for seedlings of vegetables. The AP showed limitations for total porosity (Pt), apparent density (Da) and pH. The combinations FC+AP, FC+CC and CC+AP showed limitations for Pt, Da, CRH and pH. Likewise, there were negative correlations in Da vs. Pt, Pa vs. CRH and CIC vs. pH. The best material with potential use as substrate component was FC for presenting values within the range considered as optimum according to specialized literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Production of compost is an environment-friendly method for managing the large biomass of fallen ginkgo leaves. The present study investigated the effect of ginkgo leaf compost (GLC) as a soil amendment for the rooting and growth of New Guinea impatiens (Impatiens hawkerivar. ‘Java’) cuttings. Chemical and physical properties of the amended soil were analysed together with various root growth parameters and antioxidant enzyme activities in plantlets grown in soils with different additions of GLC (0, 50, 100, or 200 g to 2 kg soil). Correlation analyses were used to explore the relationship between the various root growth parameters. The results showed that the electrical conductivity (EC) values of the amended soils were suitable for plant growth. Furthermore, nutrient concentrations, root growth parameters, and activity of antioxidant enzymes of the roots increased significantly with the addition of GLC. At 15 d post planting, root fractal dimensions and root abundance showed no significant differences, whereas at 65 d post planting, there was a significant difference in both parameters. Additionally, the results showed that root fractal dimensions and root abundance were significantly correlated with other root growth parameters and with the nutrient concentrations in the soils. It was concluded that GLC improved the chemical and physical properties of the soil and promoted root growth of New Guinea impatiens cuttings. Overall, it was found that 100 g GLC in 2 kg of soil was the optimal concentration for promoting root growth of New Guinea impatiens cuttings. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Soil is a suitable place for vegetation and plant growth. When this valuable resource is not preserved, shortage of food, erosion and damage of natural resources will be respected. Soil is a heterogeneous, diverse and dynamic system and investigation of its temporal and spatial changes is essential. In this paper spatial variability of some chemical and physical soil were investigated. Three hundred fifty eight soil samples were collected by systematic sampling strategy at 20 cm depth on a regular grid spacing of 500 × 500 m under different vegetation cover and processed for analysis in the laboratory. Soil chemical and physical parameters including pH, electrical conductivity, organic carbon, available phosphorus, available nitrogen, available potassium, sulphur, calcium, magnesium and sodium were measured. After data normalization, classical statistical analysis was used to describe soil properties and geo-statistical analysis was used to illustrate spatial correlation of soil characteristics. By using interpolating techniques, spatial distribution of these properties were prepared. Results indicated that calcium and phosphorus had strong and weak spatial dependence, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the influence of cellulose on the physicochemical properties and the gasification reactivity of co-pyrolysis char was investigated. A specific surface area analyzer and an X-ray diffraction system were used to characterize the pore structure and the micro-crystalline structure of char. Fractal theory and deconvolution method were applied to quantitatively investigate the influence of cellulose on the structure of co-pyrolysis char. The results indicate that the improvements in the pore structure due to the presence of cellulose are more pronounced in the case of anthracite char with respect to bituminous char. Cellulose promotes the ordering of micro-scale structure and the uniformity of both anthracite and bituminous char, while the negative synergetic effect was observed during gasification of co-pyrolysis char. The exponential relationships between fractal dimension and specific surface area were determined, along with the relations between the gasification reactivity index and the microcrystalline structure parameter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The purpose of this study is comparison of frying stability of sunflower and olive pomace oil. Refined sunflower oil and olive pomace oil-refined olive pomace oil blend (50:50) were used as material. Frying was performed 40 times using potatoes at 180°C for 3 min. Along these frying treatments, free fatty acids, smoke point, p-anisidine, polar material, viscosity, polymer triglyceride and color of the oils were performed. Considerable increases in free fatty acids, p-anisidine, polar material, viscosity, polymer triglyceride and color of the oils were observed in oils while smoke points decreased. Smoke point of olive pomace oil deceased less than 170°C before sunflower oil. However, compared to sunflower oil, olive pomace oil had less polymer triglyceride and lower viscosity. The differences in the oil properties before and after frying were also lower in olive pomace oil. These results indicate that oxidation rate in olive pomace oil during frying is lower than that of sunflower oil, which is possibly because of its lower iodine value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gac fruit (Momordica cochinchinensis L.) pulp is high in carotenoids and fiber; however, it is discarded during process. Both maturity stages of matured gac fruit could be used in the drying experiments. Gac fruit pulp was dried by different drying methods including tray drying (40-60 °C), heat pump-assisted dehumidified drying (40-60 °C), microwave drying (450-900W), mixed-mode solar drying and freeze drying. The Modified Henderson model presented the best fit of desorption isotherms. New model proposed was the best drying model. Quality evaluation by β-carotene, lycopene, lutein, total phenolics and antioxidant activity revealed that heat pump-assisted dehumidified drying at 60 °C provided the highest lutein, total phenolics and antioxidant activity and could reduce drying time by 25% and increased lutein, total phenolics and antioxidant activity by 12.6%, 32.0% and 0.3%, respectively and is more promising drying method for gac fruit pulp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review provides a comprehensive survey on the characterization methods used to study the properties and performances of thin film composite nanofiltration (NF) membranes in water separation processes. In general, the intrinsic properties of NF membranes are characterized with respect to chemical properties and physical properties using various analytical instruments. For instance, FTIR spectroscope, zeta potential analyzer, XPS, XRD, and NMR spectroscope are some of the widely used instruments to evaluate the membrane chemical properties while SEM, FESEM, TEM, AFM, contact angle goniometer, and positron annihilation spectroscopy are those that have been commonly employed to study the membrane structural properties. With respect to permeability and selectivity, NF membranes are generally characterized through filtration experiments using appropriate feed properties under specific testing conditions. Furthermore, this review also covers the characterization techniques used to study the resistance of NF membranes against chlorination, solvent, thermal, and fouling. These resistance tests can be individually conducted, depending on the practical applications of the membranes. Overall, this review attempts to give readers insights into the experimental planning and subsequent interpretation of the above-mentioned characterization techniques. It is also expected to help new researchers in the field of NF to quickly learn various NF characterization methods. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Introduction: Based on bioactive group splicing, classical bioisosterism, and the rule of alkene insertion, forty-eight aurone, and indanone derivatives were designed and synthesized. They were evaluated for inhibitory activity against C. albicans, E. coli, and S. aureus. Among them, thirty compounds exhibited moderate to excellent antibacterial activity., Methods: The maximum circle of inhibition was 18 mm (compounds B15, B16, and E7), and the minimum values of MIC and MBC were respectively 15.625 μM (compounds A5 and D2) and 62.5 μM (compounds A6, A8, and E7)., Results: The SAR showed that aurone and indanone derivatives could strongly inhibit the growth of Gram-positive bacteria. The introduction of electron-withdrawing groups or hydroxyl is beneficial to the activity. It was exciting that the 3-phenylallylbenzofuranone and 3-allylindanone skeletons with antimicrobial activity were first reported in this study. Compounds A5 and E7 were selected for molecular docking studies with targets MetRS (PBD: 7WPI) and PBP (PDB: 6C3K) to determine the binding interactions at the active site., Conclusion: On this basis, the physicochemical and pharmacological properties of the compounds were predicted and analyzed. The influence of these properties on antimicrobial activity and their implications for subsequent work were discussed. The ADMET (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion, Toxicity) predictions showed that most of the compounds had good pharmacokinetic profiles and high safety profiles., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)

Chloro(glycinato- N,O)(1,10-phenanthroline- N,N′)‑copper(II) trihydrate complex was synthesized through the slow evaporation method. The crystal's structural, thermal, magnetic, and vibrational properties were obtained by X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), thermal analyses, magnetization, Raman, and Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. XRPD results showed that the crystalline complex belongs to a monoclinic system (P 2 1 / n). Thermal analyses revealed that around 333 K, the material undergoes a thermodynamically irreversible process. Magnetic data showed a paramagnetic behavior with weak ferromagnetic interactions. Moreover, all the Raman- and infrared-active bands were assigned from computational calculations based on the density functional theory (DFT) to analyze intra-molecular vibrational modes. In addition, the cytotoxic assay on colorectal cancer cells was performed to evaluate the antitumor activity of this ternary compound. Therefore, the antineoplastic activity of [Cu(1,10-phenanthroline)(glycine)Cl]•3H 2 O complex in HCT-116 cells was confirmed, showing a potent cytotoxic effect. Synopsis: [Cu(1,10-phenanthroline)(glycine)Cl]•3H 2 O (PGCu) complex has been synthesized, and its physicochemical properties are studied. Furthermore, density functional theory calculations have been applied to study the electronic properties and intra-molecular vibration modes. Cytotoxic assay on colorectal cancer cells has been performed to evaluate the antitumor activity of this ternary compound. [Display omitted] • [Cu(1.10-phenanthroline)(glycine)Cl]•3H 2 O crystals • Structural, thermal, electronic, vibrational, and magnetic properties • Quantum chemical studies • Potent antineoplastic activity against HCT-116 cells • X-ray diffraction, thermal, vibrational techniques and density functional theory calculations [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]