Search

Renewable fuels for internal combustion [IC] engines are needed due to the rapid depletion of fossil fuels. Using alcohol as fuel in compression ignition [CI] engines, either directly or as diesel blends, necessitates adjusting engine settings to reduce emissions without hunting performance. To enhance the efficiency of IC engines and reduce emissions, it is essential to ensure their compatibility with alternative energy sources. The investigation utilized a single-cylinder CI engine capable of operating on both gasoline and diesel. The engine was equipped with an electronic control system for exhaust emissions and a common rail fuel injection system. Various types of fuel were utilized, including diesel fuel [D100], ethanol [E] (10% and 20%), and hydrogen [H] (5 lpm, 10 lpm, 15 lpm). The study utilized an engine operating consistently at 1500 rpm with varying compression ratios [CR15:1–19:1] when it was under full load. The research looked at what happened to engine performance and emissions when different amounts of diesel fuel additives, specifically E (10%) and hydrogen, were used. The study showed that when hydrogen fuel was used, brake-specific fuel consumption [BSFC] went down. At full load, however, it was seen that the in-cylinder pressure values went up as the compression ratio [CR] (CR15:1 to CR19:1) went up. When the release data with the hydrogen fuel sample was examined, it showed that oxides of nitrogen [NOx] emissions went up a lot, which caused haze levels to rise too. Even so, emissions get worse when the hydrogen content goes above 10%. • Hydrogen addition of 5 lpm, 10 lpm, and 15 lpm introduces the diesel-ethanol-hydrogen for fuel mode. • Ternary fuel mode raises the BTE and decreases SFC compared to dual fuel mode. • Ternary fuel mode raises the NO x emission compared to dual fuel mode. • Ternary fuel mode cuts down on CO, and smoke emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the permeation flux equations, Richardson and Paripatyadar kinetic model, and lumen-shell mass balances were combined to develop a simulation model for the integrated CO 2 separation-dry reforming of methane (DRM) reaction in La 0.6 Sr 0.4 Co 0.8 Fe 0.2 O 3-δ (LSCF)-carbonate hollow fibre membrane reactor. The interactions of the reactants for the DRM and reverse water gas shift reactions were simulated at different operating parameters. Greater membrane area gave higher CO 2 and CH 4 conversions and H 2 /CO (syngas) molar ratio of ∼1. Lower temperature of 700 °C provided higher DRM performance in membrane reactor, which was due to the higher CO 2 permeation from the higher electronic conductivity of LSCF. Higher CH 4 amount in the sweep gas facilitated CO 2 permeation, conversion, syngas yield, and ratio. The optimum DRM performance of the membrane reactor was achieved at a lumen-to-shell flow rate ratio of 0.5, whereas the limiting factor was the CH 4 availability at the shell side. [Display omitted] • Richardson and Paripatyadar (R–P) kinetic model was used to simulate DRM and RWGS. • Permeation of CO 2 across LSCF-molten carbonate hollow fibre membrane was simulated. • MATLAB simulation of DRM in a ceramic-carbonate membrane reactor was developed. • Parametric study on temperature, membrane area, and flow conditions were presented. • RSM was used to optimize the DRM performance of membrane reactor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work addresses the scarcity of energy resources and environmental issues by concentrating on the synthesis of biodiesel by the transesterification of waste cooking oil with methanol. Marble sludge (MS), a novel heterogeneous catalyst, was used to speed up the rate of reaction. The catalyst's physical and chemical characteristics were thoroughly examined using a variety of methods, including X-ray diffraction, X-ray Fluorescence, SEM, particle size distribution, and BET analysis. Using the MS catalyst, the study investigated the impact of important parameters on the yield of biodiesel from waste cooking oil with the aid of response surface methodology using Design-Expert version 13 software. These parameters included temperature (50–70℃), reaction time (1–4 h), catalyst concentration (1–5 wt%), and methanol-to-oil molar ratio (5–20 mol/mol). Optimization of the parameters was performed for economic targets to lower the production cost of biodiesel. The results showed that a methanol-to-oil molar ratio of 20:1, a catalyst of 5 wt%, and a reaction time of 1 h at 57℃ were the ideal parameters for obtaining a biodiesel yield of 93.5%. The resultant biodiesel revealed promising characteristics, such as a flash point of 160℃, a kinematic viscosity of 4 mm2/s, and a density of 0.871 g/cm3. The study demonstrates the significant consequences and real-world advantages of using rational engineering methods to use MS as a very effective, stable, and easily recoverable catalyst for the long-term, sustainable generation of biodiesel from waste cooking oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates a novel approach for upgrading coking coal fines by combining wet sieving with flotation. Using a Box-Behnken design and response surface methodology (RSM), we optimized the flotation parameters – collector concentration, pulp density, and frother concentration – to enhance clean coal recovery. Analysis showed that these parameters significantly impacted coal quality and yield. With a fixed pulp density of 10% and an 18% ash target, RSM identified optimal flotation conditions as 0.200 kg/T frother and 0.885 kg/T collector concentrations. The optimal conditions for an 18% ash content were a 6.645% pulp density, 0.200 kg/T frother, and 1.1869 kg/T collector. Under these conditions, clean coal with 18.00% ash content and yields of 34.27% and 39.72% were achieved, with deviations from predicted values under 2%. The study indicates that the RSM-based method is effective, with parameter selection influenced by collector cost and clean coal market price. These findings provide a basis for future research to assess the method’s industrial applicability and economic and environmental viability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Response surface methodology (RSM) and artificial neural network (ANN) approach were used for the modeling-optimization of dye removal by adsorption using poly(ethylene terephthalate)/Fe3O4 nanocomposites nanofibers. The nanoparticles of Fe3O4 were synthesized by the chemical co-precipitation method in the presence of linoleic acid as a stabilizer. The polymer matrix was obtained by recycling PET from plastic water bottles. We used a simple homemade centrifugal spinning device to prepare PET/Fe3O4 nanofibers and the resulting material was characterized by XRD, FTIR and SEM. The performance of the nanofiber material as an adsorbent was examined in water treatment to remove Naphthol Green B anionic dye in batch mode. Box–Behnken-RSM and ANN were employed to optimize the effect of pH, contact time, initial dye concentration, and adsorbent mass. The optimized conditions leading to the maximum predicted dye removal were a pH of 2, a contact time of 60 min, an adsorbent mass of 0.125 g/L, and a dye concentration of 20 mg/L, and. The results demonstrated that both methods showed good predictions of dye removal. The pseudo-first-order kinetic and Langmuir isotherm models were found to be best fitted with the experimental data and rePET/Fe3O4 exhibited a maximum NGB dye adsorption capacity up to 155 mg/g. This study also indicates that magnetite nanoparticles combined with recycled PET in the form of nanocomposite nanofibers could be used for the treatment of dye wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shortage of superior grade wood fibers is a prime problem faced by Indian pulp and paper industries. As a result, the pulp and paper industry find it difficult to withstand the competition in the market, which had grown extremely competitive. In order to increase the utilization of non-wood fibers resources in the production of high quality eco-friendly papers, dhaincha, a non-wood fiber resource has potential industrial application. In this research, pulp and paper were developed from Sesbania aculeata stem using kraft pulping followed by bleaching. Optimization of conditions for pulping was carried out by Response Surface Methodology. The relationship between three variables and three responses were studied using Box–Behnken experimental design. The developed pulp was evaluated for kappa number, brightness index, viscosity, FTIR and TGA. Then paper was developed by using optimized pulp and evaluated for physical properties. The statistical analysis (ANOVA) was carried out in order to establish the relationship between the concentration of NaOH, Na2S, treatment time and temperature with kappa number, brightness index and viscosity. The physical properties of pulp and developed handmade paper highlights the sustainable use of dhaincha plant in pulp and paper industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prehydrolysis liquor from the prehydrolysis Kraft process is rich in sugars and could thus serve as a sustainable feedstock for the production of various chemicals. However, its industrial utilization is impeded by the presence of fermentation inhibitors and extensive lignin precipitation, the latter receiving only little attention in the literature. In order to provide a feedstock suitable for biotechnological or chemical conversion, the prehydrolysis liquor from eucalyptus wood must be detoxified whilst preventing the precipitation of lignin. To increase the yield of monomeric sugars, acid posthydrolysis should be investigated. Various solvents and solvent mixtures were screened for the high temperature liquid–liquid extraction of isothermally separated prehydrolysis liquor. Their capability to prevent lignin precipitation and to extract fermentation inhibitors was assessed using mass balances and size-exclusion chromatography. Based on the solvent screening, a process for simultaneous posthydrolysis and liquid–liquid extraction of eucalyptus prehydrolysis liquor was proposed and investigated using statistic experimental design. Liquid–liquid extraction using aliphatic alcohols effectively prevents lignin precipitation, and the addition of 25% (w/w) tri-n-octylamine was found to increase the overall inhibitor extraction efficiency. The conditions for the simultaneous posthydrolysis were investigated using a Box-Behnken experimental design, allowing for a maximum monomeric sugar yield of 83.0% at a sugar purity of 91.6%. The simultaneous posthydrolysis and liquid-liquid extraction (SIMPLLE) process thus avoids industrial-level problems associated with lignin precipitation. It provides a carbohydrate-rich stream with low levels of fermentation inhibitors, enabling further conversion to value added products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Response surface methodology (RSM) and a Box-Behnken design (BBD) were used to determine optimum conditions for ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. calyces. The current study applied BBD to explore the effects of X1: ultrasonic temperature (30–80 °C), X2: ultrasonic time (20–50 min.), and X3: solid-to-solvent ratio (1:10–1:60) on total anthocyanin content (TAC), total phenolic content (TPC), and antioxidant activities (2,2-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays). ANOVA results revealed that TAC, TPC, DPPH, and FRAP all had R2 values of 0.98, 0.97, 0.98, and 0.98, respectively, indicating that models designed with second-order polynomials were capable of reliably analyzing interactions between parameters (response and independent variables) satisfactorily. It was determined from the RSM study that 80 °C ultrasound temperature, 48 min. ultrasound time, and 1:60 solid-to-solvent ratio were the optimum extraction parameters for maximizing TAC, TPC, DPPH, and FRAP. The experimental values for TAC, TPC, DPPH, and FRAP were 311 ± 5 mg CGE/100 g, 572 ± 7 mg GAE/100 g, 974 ± 3 μmolTE/100 mL, and 2332 ± 3 μmolTE/100 mL, respectively, under the optimal conditions. Also, a good agreement was found between experimental and predicted values, with a residual standard error of less than 5%. Compared to the yield of Soxhlet extraction for TAC (176 ± 4 mg CGE/100 g), TPC (210 ± 3 mg GAE/100 g), DPPH (534 ± 2 μmolTE/100 mL), and FRAP (1732 ± 3 μmolTE/100 mL), the extraction efficacy of the UAE process under optimized conditions demonstrated to be more effective. Therefore, based on the needs of the industry and sustainable development, the UAE process might be an economical alternative to traditional extraction methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Generating value from wastes via pyrolysis has been increasingly researched in recent times. Biochar is a versatile pyrolysis product with yields based on many process parameters, including feedstock type and particle size, and operating conditions such as pyrolysis reactor, heating rate, residence time, and reaction temperature. The heterogeneous nature of waste biomass creates challenges in controlling the pyrolysis' product selectivity. Intensive and time-consuming experimental studies are often required to determine product distribution for the pyrolysis of each unique feedstock. Alternatively, prediction models that learn from a wide range of existing experimental data may provide insight into potential yields for different biomass sources. Several advanced models exist in the literature which can predict the yield of biochar and subsequent products based on operating temperature. However, these models do not consider the combined effect of biomass characteristics and operating conditions on biochar yield, which is considered a decisive factor for biochar formation. As such, the objective of this study is to develop a prediction model based on the biomass' fixed carbon content (14–22%), reaction temperature (350–750 °C), and heating rate (5–10 °C/min) using the response surface methodology. Biomasses, date stones, spent coffee grounds, and cow manure have been used to design a Box-Behnken experiment based on the three factors for the biochar yield response. An empirical equation is developed based on a statistically significant quadratic model to produce optimized biochar yield with high prediction accuracy. The study discussed the 3D response and diagnostic plots and conducted validation experiments to confirm the applicability of the developed model. The biochar yields are significantly affected by the fixed carbon content of the feedstock and the reaction temperature, and the experimental validation confirms the accuracy of biochar yield quantification. The model can be easily applied for further process flow modeling of biomass pyrolysis, only relying on proximate feed analysis, operating temperature, and heating rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflora Hort.) is one of the important horticultural crops belonging to Iridaceae family. It grows in flowerbeds, borders, and containers and has immense potential as cut flowers. In this study, we have optimized the anthocyanin extraction from gladiolus Pusa Suahagin (PS) flower using one-variable-at-a-time (OVAT) and response surface methodology (RSM) methods. The optimum conditions for maximum anthocyanin content of 40.45 g−1 DW was obtained considering the water:hydrochloride (1.8:0.6) ratio, temperature: 52.72 °C, time: 2 h and solid loading: 7% (w/v). MS studies confirmed the presence of pelargonidin, cyanidin, delphinidin, peonidin, petunidin, and malvidin compounds in PS flower extract. Free radical scavenging capability determined by DPPH assay of PS flower extract showed 84.63%, which implies that the PS flower extract can be used as colorant or nutraceutical in food industry and potential agent for enhancement of vase life pertinent to cut flowers in flower industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adsorption techniques are frequently used to eliminate particular forms of pesticides. This work aimed to describe the process of adsorbing abamectin (ABM) from aqueous systems onto adsorbents and some factors affecting the process effectiveness. Eichhornia crassipes, also known as water hyacinth (WH), was chemically processed utilizing calcium alginate-immobilized WH and sodium alginate as adsorbent. The response surface method (RSM) was implemented to enhance the operational aspects of the adsorption procedure on the removal of ABM residues from aqueous solution. The results show that 95.65% of the abamectin was removed under the optimum conditions of pH = 3, 1000 mg/L of immobilized WH, particle size = 5 µm, shaking speed = 200 rpm, and 30 mg/L of ABM concentration throughout 180 min contact time. The model’s predicted response results also show a decent agreement with the experimental data (R² = 86.64%), proving the effectiveness of this approach for developing precise predictions. The responses were assessed using a second-order polynomial multiple regression model, which confirmed a successful adjustment with the obtained data using analysis of variance (R² = 92.0%, R² adj = 88.92%, and R² pred = 82.92%). In conclusion, the results demonstrated the potential application and beneficial adsorption effectiveness of WH in removal of the pesticides from an aqueous solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep Eutectic Solvents (DESs) have emerged as promising eco-friendly pre-treatment agents for lignocellulosic biomass, offering considerable advantages for the nanofibrillation process. This study investigates the impact of DESs on cellulose fibers morphology, focusing on solubilization phenomena in the amorphous regions that may facilitate cellulose nanofiber production. The pre-treatment process combining a DES (triethylmethylammonium chloride and imidazole, TEMA:IMD) with microwave (MW) energy was optimized to enhance the solubility of cellulosic fibers. A response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to optimize the DES-MW-assisted pre-treatment. Results show that the reaction time and the temperature significantly influence the solubility of cellulosic fibers. The optimized conditions resulted in cellulose fibers with low content of hemicellulose and lignin, high crystallinity index, and improved thermal stability. The effectiveness of DES-MW pre-treatment in producing cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) from native and pre-treated fibers was investigated. Cellulose fibers pre-treated with a DES yielded CNFs with a narrower diameter distribution. Overall, optimized DES-MW pre-treatment offers a promising strategy for the efficient and sustainable extraction of CNFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents the development and optimization of La@SnO2–CaO composite catalysts for efficient photocatalytic degradation of malachite green dye in aqueous solutions under UV–vis light irradiation. The catalysts were prepared via conventional incipient-wetness impregnation and thoroughly characterized using advanced analytical techniques, including X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, N2 adsorption–desorption analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. To optimize photodegradation efficiency, the effects of three independent factors were systematically investigated using response surface methodology: Temperature, pH, and Sn/Ca molar ratio. Our results reveal optimal conditions for maximum dye degradation: pH 7, Sn/Ca molar ratio of 0.33, and a process time of 35 min, resulting in a maximum photodegradation efficiency of 98.80% for malachite green dye. Notably, visible light exhibited a more pronounced effect on dye degradation compared to UV light over time, with visible light achieving 25% greater dye removal after 60 min of illumination. Furthermore, the catalyst showed excellent recyclability, retaining 85% of its initial activity after five consecutive cycles. These findings contribute significantly to the development of sustainable methods for dye removal from wastewater and highlight the potential of La@SnO2–CaO composite catalysts in environmental remediation processes, particularly in treating textile industry effluents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydroxyapatite (HA) bioceramics are widely used materials for orthopaedic applications, offering enhanced cellular adhesion and differentiation. However, the lack of antibacterial features makes the HA biomaterials prone to bacterial infections in in-vivo conditions. The osteomyelitis-like conditions are often treated with prolonged doses of antibiotics and may require surgical removal. Such problems can be tackled by inducing the antibacterial characteristics in the biomaterials which prevent such infections. Various research studies have been conducted to improve the mechanical and antibacterial characteristics of biomaterials like HA through doping. The present study focuses on the synthesis, characterization, and antibacterial study of Zn and Fe doped HA (ZFHAp) for application in the treatment of osteomyelitis. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) based Central Composite Design (CCD) approach was used to optimize the process parameters using the Design Expert software. The analyses indicated the presence of Calcium Iron Hydrogen Phosphate (CIHP) and Parascholzite (PS) as major phases. The optimized experimental conditions were estimated as 0.09 M Zn and 0.04 M Fe at 65 °C, corresponding to 71.29 % and 28.71 % of the CIHP and PS phases, respectively. The synthesized nanopowder showed mixed morphology comprising spherical and rod-shaped particles due to biphasic composition. The ZFHAp sample showed a broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, with IC 50 values of 4.02 mg/ml and 4.79 mg/ml against E. coli and S. aureus , respectively. The optimized sample showed excellent biocompatibility with the osteoblast-like cells (MG-63) with improved biomineralization properties. The antibacterial and osteoinductive characteristics of the synthesized biphasic Fe and Zn doped HA suggest its potential application against osteomyelitis-related conditions. • Biphasic composite was prepared with Fe containing CIHP and Zn containing PS phases. • RSM-CCD optimization process suggested conditions as 0.09 M Zn and 0.04 M Fe at 65 °C. • Excellent alkaline phosphatase activity with increased cell proliferation. • Broad spectrum antibacterial activities with IC 50 values less than 5 mg/ml. • Decreased surface energy of ZHHAp than HA indicating increased surface hydrophobicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Soil bacteria offer a promising approach to bioremediate pesticide contamination in agricultural ecosystems. This study investigated the potential of bacteria isolated from rice paddy soil for bioremediating fipronil and thiobencarb, common agricultural pesticides. Methods: Bacterial isolates capable of degrading fipronil and thiobencarb were enriched in a mineral salt medium. A response surface methodology with a Box-Behnken design was utilized to optimize pesticide degradation with the isolated bacteria. Bioaugmentation tests were performed in paddy soils with varying conditions. Results and discussion: Six strains, including single isolates and their mixture, efficiently degraded these pesticides at high concentrations (up to 800 µg/mL). Enterobacter sp., Brucella sp. (alone and combined), and a mixture of Stenotrophomonas sp., Bordetella sp., and Citrobacter sp. effectively degraded fipronil and thiobencarb, respectively. Notably, a single Pseudomonas sp. strain degraded a mixture of both pesticides. Optimal degradation conditions were identified as a slightly acidic pH (6-7), moderate pesticide concentrations (20-50 µg/mL), and a specific inoculum size. Bioaugmentation assays in real-world paddy soils (sterile/non-sterile, varying moisture) demonstrated that these bacteria significantly increased degradation rates (up to 14.15-fold for fipronil and 5.13-fold for thiobencarb). The study identifies these novel bacterial strains as promising tools for bioremediation and bioaugmentation strategies to tackle fipronil and thiobencarb contamination in paddy ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate the multi-objective optimization method for liquid cooling plates in automotive power batteries. The response surface method and NSGA-II were combined to optimize the temperature of the battery system under liquid-cooled conditions and the internal pressure of the liquid-cooled plate. The optimal Latin hypercube sampling method was used for sampling, with the flow channel parameters of the liquid-cooled plate and the cooling fluid inlet flow rate as design variables and the maximum temperature of the battery system and the maximum internal pressure of the liquid-cooled plate as target functions. The response surface model was fitted, and the Pareto solution set for the target to be optimized was obtained using NSGA-II. The LINMAP decision-making algorithm was employed to obtain the optimal solution, which is a maximum temperature of 37.25 °C for the battery and a maximum pressure of 63.3 Pa for the liquid-cooled plate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the response surface methodology (RSM) and genetic algorithm (GA) are applied to the design optimization of permanent magnet couplings. The RSM offers notable advantages in efficiency and flexibility compared to traditional optimization methods, while the GA excels due to its global search capabilities and parallel processing features. The RSM and GA are used to optimize the experimental parameters, aiming to minimize the amount of permanent magnet material used in the permanent magnet coupling while ensuring magnetic torque. Optimization results demonstrate that, while ensuring the magnet torque of the coupling, the volume of the permanent magnet is reduced by 23.00 %, and the magnetic torque density is increased by 21.81 %. A reduction in the use of permanent magnet materials implies that the production costs of couplings can be substantially decreased. Therefore, the proposed method in this paper is a cost-effective solution for optimizing permanent magnet couplings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrohydrodynamic (EHD) printing of polyethylene oxide (PEO) based composites has attracted extensive interests to fabricate micro/nanoscale fibrous structures in the fields of flexible electronics, tissue engineering, and biosensors. As the PEO fiber width varies remarkably with different processing parameters, it is still difficult to obtain an optimal processing condition before the EHD process. In this study, response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to establish a mathematical model and predict the EHD-printed fiber width. The PEO fibers were electrohydrodynamically printed to obtain the original input data for the modeling. Typical processing parameters including feeding rate, stage moving speed, working voltage, and nozzle-to-collector distance were selected to establish the regression model for the prediction of EHD-printed fiber width. Analysis of variance indicates that the feeding rate has the most significant effect on the fiber width. Theoretical analysis and simulation of the electric field intensity demonstrated the validity of the prediction model. Furthermore, the prediction model has also been verified by EHD printing experiments. This study provides a feasible approach to conveniently predict PEO fiber width without conducting EHD processes, which may promote the rapid design and fabrication of tiny structures with desired feature sizes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optimal conditions were explored for the preparation of Spirulina blended liquor (SBL) and Spirulina fermented wine (SFW), respectively. The parameters obtaining highest alga polysaccharide were calculated by response surface methodology. The optimal conditions for SBL preparation were base liquor of 42% vol, ultrasonication time of 37‐min and ultrasonic power of 80 W with polysaccharide content (PC) and alcohol content (AC) of 0.2181 g/L and 39.7% vol, respectively. In the case of SFW, optimum fermentation occurred at 22°C, with a 4% inoculum and 6‐day period with PC and AC of 8.533 g/L and 11.2% vol, respectively. Headspace solid‐phase microextraction–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry was used to quantitatively analyze the volatile components of SBL and SFW. There were 32 and 40 main aroma compounds in SBL and SFW, respectively. Volatile organic compounds, including α‐ionone and β‐ionone, produced by Spirulina were detected in both SBL and SFW. Comparative evaluation of scavenging activity and total reducing power revealed the antioxidant capacity of SFW significantly outperformed that of SBL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extraction process of crude polysaccharides from Agrocybe aegerita was optimized, and the antioxidant and anti-aging effects of the crude polysaccharides were evaluated. The optimal extraction parameters for the polysaccharide were identified using the response surface methodology. The DPPH, hydroxy radical, and superoxide anion radical scavenging capacities were evaluated to determine the antioxidant properties of the AAPs. The effects of the AAPs on the lifespan, head-swing frequency, swallowing frequency, body-bending frequency, and stress resistance of Caenorhabditis elegans were determined. The optimal extraction conditions included a solid-to-liquid ratio that resulted in an extraction solution concentration of 0.034 g/mL, an extraction temperature of 92.64 °C, and an extraction time of 2.82 h. Under these conditions, the yield of the AAPs was 11.325% ± 0.996%. The IC50 of the AAPs for superoxide anion radical scavenging was 4.693 mg/mL. The AAPs reached their maximum activity at concentrations of about 2 mg/mL for DPPH and 5 mg/mL for the hydroxyl radical. The AAPs could prolong the lifespan and improve locomotion and the stress resistance of C. elegans. Our findings illustrate the potential of AAPs as an anti-aging and antioxidant agent, highlighting the use of this natural compound in the fields of food and pharmacology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Batch heterogeneous catalytic ozonation experiments were performed using commercial and synthesized nanoparticles as catalysts in aqueous ozone. The transferred ozone dose (TOD) ranged from 0 to 150 μM, and nanoparticles were added in concentrations between 0 and 1.5 g L−1, with all experiments conducted at 20 °C and a total volume of 240 mL. A Ce-doped TiO2 catalyst (1% molar ratio of Ce/Ti) was synthesized via the sol–gel method. Response surface methodology (RSM) was applied to identify the most significant factors affecting the removal of selected pharmaceuticals, with TOD emerging as the most critical variable. Higher TOD resulted in greater removal efficiencies. Furthermore, it was found that the commercially available metal oxides α-Al2O3, Mn2O3, TiO2, and CeO2, as well as the synthesized CeTiOx, did not increase the catalytic activity of ozone during the degradation of ibuprofen (IBF) and para-chlorobenzoic acid (pCBA). Carbamazepine (CBZ) and diclofenac (DCF) are compounds susceptible to ozone oxidation, thus their complete degradation at 150 μM transferred ozone dose was attained. The limited catalytic effect was attributed to the rapid consumption of ozone within the first minute of reaction, as well as the saturation of catalyst active sites by water molecules, which inhibited effective ozone adsorption and subsequent hydroxyl radical generation (●OH). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present research looked for ways to develop shielded nanoparticles (NPs)-drug transporters made of chitosan (CS) to enhance the bioavailability of edoxaban tosylate monohydrate (ETM) for oral administration by examining the correlation among design aspects and data from experiments using response surface methodology (RSM). ETM-loaded CS nanoparticles (ETM-CS-NPs) were developed using the ionic gelation of CS with tripolyphosphate (TPP). Utilising Zeta-sizer and scanning electron microscopy, the ETM-CS-NPs were evaluated for particle size (PS), zeta potential (ZP), surface morphology, polydispersity index (PDI), entrapment efficiency (EE) and drug loading (DL). Drug and polymer interactions in NPs were assessed using Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy. The response surface approach and Design-Expert software optimised the ETM-CS-NPs. Using RSM, the effects of independent variables such as the amount of CS, the amount of TPP, and the amount of glacial acetic acid on PS, PDI and ZP were analysed. The optimal combination of PS (354.8 nm), PDI (0.509), ZP (43.7 + mV), % EE (70.3 ± 1.3) and % DL (9.1 ± 0.4) has been identified for the optimised ETM-CS-NPs. ETM-CS-NPs' anticoagulant activity was evaluated using activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), prothrombin time (PT) and thrombin time (TT) assays. In conclusion, a practical and consistent method has been established, and its application has been proven in vitro, indicating its utility for future studies of the biological distribution of ETM-CS-NPs in vivo for specific antithrombotic treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oleaginous organisms accrue more than twenty percent of their biomass as lipids and hence are promising feedstocks for biodiesel production. In this study, lipid accumulating bacteria were isolated from diesel-contaminated soils and screened with Sudan black B stain. The most oleaginous was done using 16s rRNA gene sequencing. Lipid production was initially optimized based on media, nitrogen source, pH and temperature. Response surface methodology (RSM) was then employed for the enhancement of lipid weight and content. Obtained lipid was converted to biodiesel using direct transesterification, and both lipid and biodiesel were characterized using FTIR. A total of thirteen bacteria were isolated and the most prominent lipid producer was identified as Providencia vermicola with lab number BA6. Preliminary optimization studies revealed optimum lipid production when nutrient broth and acetic acid served as carbon source; KNO3 as nitrogen source, pH 7.0 and 30 °C. Optimization using RSM resulted in a 5.1% and 74.1% increase in the biomass and lipid content of BA6 respectively. FTIR analyses confirmed the presence of functional groups characteristic of lipids and biodiesel. P. vermicola is a novel oleaginous organism that represents a promising feedstock for biodiesel production. HIGHLIGHTS: The bacterium designated as BA6 identified as Providencia vermicola has the highest lipid contents of the oleaginous bacteria isolated. It accumulates lipids up to 47.73 % of its biomass The percentage lipids accumulation increased to about 74 % when RSM was used. Providencia vermicola is being reported as an oleaginous organism for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study addresses the processing limitations of camel milk for production of textured camel milk cheese by utilising the green carob extract (GCE) as a novel coagulant. The response surface methodology was employed to assess the impact of GCE on the cheese quality parameters. Maximal soft camel cheese yield (24.1%) was achieved using 12% (v/v) of GCE, coagulation at 53.6°C, and incubation time of 9 h 52 min. Compositional analysis revealed the richness of soft camel cheese in dry matter (33.8 ± 81.61%), carbohydrates (3.66 ± 0.45%), and calcium (632.83 ± 68.43 mg/100 g). The addition of GCE enhanced the cheese's flavour and texture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Fried pork rind, a processed pork by‐product, is popular as a snack globally, prized for its distinctive flavor and crisp texture achieved through frying. Although various studies have examined processing factors such as thickness, moisture content, and brine concentration, there is a scarcity of research addressing the effect of frying temperature on the quality of fried pork rinds. In the present study, the effects of varying hot air drying times (12, 18, and 24 h at 50°C), traditional deep‐fat frying temperatures (180°C, 195°C, and 210°C), and frying durations (3, 4, and 5 min) on the oil content, moisture content, breaking force, color, puffing ratio, and microstructural appearance of pork rinds were evaluated. The results revealed a significant correlation between frying temperature and time with the oil content of the pork rinds. The oil content and puffing ratio peaked at approximately 195°C. Moreover, the breaking force of the pork rinds decreased with increased frying time at 180°C, while the opposite trend was observed at 210°C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polygalacturonases (PG) are the enzymes that cause depolymerization of pectin. In current study, bacterial strain was isolated from rotten sample and then purified. It was screened for endo-polygalacturonase activity using PSAM media. It had shown positive response for endo-PG activity. Bacterial DNA was isolated and 16 S rRNA gene amplification was done using universal primer pair of 8 F and 1492 R. Bacterial strain was also amplified by 16 S rRNA gene for sequencing. BLAST of gene sequence on NCBI database had shown that bacterial isolate was identified as Bacillus pumilus. Endo-polygalacturonase enzyme was produced by submerged fermentation to optimize culture conditions by RSM in JMP-12 software. The optimized parameters had shown maximum endo-polygalacturonase activity of 153.2 U/mL/min after using 3 g of orange peels as substrate, 3 mL of inoculum size, 6.5 pH buffer, 40°C temperature and 3 days of incubation. After optimizing fermentation conditions, endo-polygalacturonase was precipitated using 70 % concentration of ammonium sulfate. This partially precipitated sample was dialyzed with dialysis tube and used to find activity of endo-polygalacturonase (1620.6 U/mL/min). This sample was applied to gel filtration chromatography for further purification. Endo-polygalacturonase activity increased many times 2231.44 U/mL/min after gel filtration. The Molecular weight of endo-polygalacturonase was 46 kDa after SDS PAGE characterization. High Vmax value and alkaliphilic nature of endo-polygalacturonase will make it good candidate for food and feed industry near future. [Display omitted] • A bacterial strain was isolated from rotten sample. • Bacillus pumilus was identified through 16 S rRNA gene sequencing. • Maximum enzyme activity of 153.2 U/mL/min was achieved under optimized conditions. • The characterized endo-polygalacturonase has great potential in industrial applications. • Polygalacturonase had shown maximum activity after column chromatography. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the scarcity of water in many parts of the world, wastewater generated by hydrometallurgical processes has been recognized as a valuable resource for recovery or reuse. A method for reusing hydrometallurgical raffinate in the leaching of low-grade oxide copper ore in a counter-current leaching process was evaluated. In the first stage of the investigation, the influential factors on copper leaching, such as the amount of acid consumed (200–400 g/kg of ore), the initial iron concentration of the raffinate (5–25 g/L), the liquid-to-solid ratio (2–10 mL/g), and the duration of the leaching process (15–75 min), were examined using response surface methodology coupled with central composite design. Two responses, copper recovery and final copper concentration, were selected to determine the optimal conditions for the leaching process. Based on the statistical model, it was found that using 325 g/kg of ore of consumed acid, an initial iron concentration of 10 g/L, a liquid-to-solid ratio of 4 mL/g, and a leaching time of 60 min would result in higher values for both responses. Confirmation runs were conducted to validate the selected conditions and the suitability of the statistical model. Additionally, compositional and morphological characterization of samples before and after the leaching process was conducted using field diffusion scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis, which showed the dissolution of compounds such as tenorite and cuprite. In the second stage, a two-unit counter-current leaching system was adopted, as hydrometallurgical processes are usually carried out in multiple stages on an industrial scale. This leaching system was designed to maximize copper dissolution by considering the information obtained from the response surface methodology. The use of this leaching system increased the overall leaching efficiency by up to 80%. By characterizing the solid samples, it was found that the copper extraction percentage in a counter-current leaching system could be increased by simultaneously precipitating iron-bearing compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogenation plays an important role in the production of bulk and fine chemicals. In the present work, the hydrogenation process of 1-cyanocyclohexaneacetic acid (1-CA), a key intermediate in the chemo-enzymatic synthesis of the antiepileptic drug gabapentin, was investigated. The catalysts were screened, the operating parameters for the 1-CA hydrogenation were determined by response surface methodology, and the effects of biological impurities on the reaction and catalysts were investigated. The reaction temperature, reaction solution pH and reaction time were identified as the main factors for hydrogenation by single-factor experiments. Under the optimal reaction conditions: reaction temperature 110 °C, solution pH 12.33, reaction time 3.74 h, hydrogen pressure 2 MPa and stirring speed 500 rpm, the substrate conversion reached 100%, and the total product yield reached 96.40%, which was very close to the prediction (96.88%). It was demonstrated that biological impurities greatly affect the reaction rate of hydrogenation, as well as the activity and reusability of the catalyst, in which protein impurities lead to catalyst deactivation through cumulative deposition on the catalyst surface and within the pores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cereal gluten-free (CGF) products have been popular in recent years, supporting a growing demand as they appeal not only to persons with medical needs but also to consumers seeking a gluten-free diet. The aim of this study was to develop cereal gluten-free pasta by replacing wheat flour with semi-popped makhana (SPM) flour, water chestnut (WCN) flour, and potato flour (PF) and to evaluate the effect of these ingredients on nutritional, technological phytochemical, and sensorial properties of CGF pasta. Optimization and statistical analysis were carried out using Box–Behnken design of response surface methodology using variables: SPM flour (30–50 g), WCN flour (20–30 g), and PF (30–50 g) with constant level of carrot juice. The results showed that incorporation of SPM flour increased total protein, iron, total phenolics, flavonoids, FRAP, and DPPH activity of developed CGF pasta. With increasing addition of PF and WCN in pasta, the L* (lightness) values of pasta decreased gradually, while the a* (redness) and b* (yellowness) values increased. Moreover, SPM flour, WCN flour, and PF had significant effect on technological properties and tensile strength of CGF pasta. Thus, 47.81% SPM flour, 23.50% WCN flour, and 28.69% PF in formulation were optimized for development of CGF pasta with 10.29% total protein, 39.41 mg/100 g calcium, 10.53 mg/100 g iron, 1.59 min cooking time, 2.45 rehydration ratio, peak viscosity as 798 cP, final viscosity as 957 cP, 27.82 g tensile strength, 28.36% DPPH inhibition, 716.83 mg GAE/100 g TPC, and 339.57 mg QE/100 g TFC. In addition, FTIR revealed no structural changes between optimized CGF pasta and control semolina pasta. Sensory data revealed that optimized CGF pasta had overall sensory acceptability of 7.41 and storage stability up to 6 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: This study investigated the effects of γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) combined with ultrasonic stress germination (AUG) treatment on the phenolic content and antioxidant activity of highland barley (HB). Key variables, including germination times (ranging from 0 to 96 h), ultrasonic power (200–500 W), and GABA concentration (5–20 mmol/L), were optimized using response surface methodology (RSM) to enhance the enrichment of phenolic compounds. Furthermore, the study assessed the content, composition, and antioxidant activities of phenolic compounds in HB under various treatment conditions such as germination alone (G), ultrasonic stress germination (UG), and AUG treatment. RESULTS: The study identified optimal conditions for the phenolic enrichment of HB, which included a germination time of 60 h, an ultrasound power of 300 W, and a GABA concentration of 15 mmol L−1. Under these conditions, the total phenolic content (TPC) in HB was measured at 7.73 milligrams of gallic acid equivalents per gram dry weight (mg GAE/g DW), representing a 34.96% enhancement compared to untreated HB. Notably, all treatment modalities – G, UG, and AUG – significantly increased the phenolic content and antioxidant activity in HB, with the AUG treatment proving to be the most effective. CONCLUSION: These obtained results suggest that AUG treatment is a promising processing method for enriching phenolic compounds and improving antioxidant activity in HB. Subsequently, the AUG‐treated HB can be used to develop phenolic‐rich germinated functional foods to further broaden the application of HB. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The release of anaerobically digested dairy wastewater (ANDDW) without a treatment can lead to severe environmental pollution, prompting the exploration of effective and sustainable treatment methods. Amidst various wastewater treatment approaches, the electro-oxidation (EO) process is considered as a promising, clean, and adaptable solution. In this study, the major operational parameters viz. current density, electrolyte concentration, treatment time, and mixing speed of an EO comprising Ti/PbO2 anode and stainless-steel cathode, were optimized using response surface methodology (RSM) for efficient removal of chemical oxygen demand (COD), ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), total phosphorus (TP), orthophosphate (OP), total nitrogen (TN), and total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN) from ANDDW. Optimal conditions were identified as a current density of 90 mA cm−2, 0.08% electrolyte concentration, 180 min treatment time, and 400 rpm mixing speed. Under the optimum conditions, the COD, NH3-N, TP, OP, TN, and TKN removal efficiencies were 78.36, 63.93, 87.41, 92.39, 67.01, and 81.42%, respectively. Furthermore, the reaction rate followed the first-order kinetic model for the pollutants removal with correlation coefficients (R2) close to 1. The findings highlight the potential of using the EO process to treat high pollutant-laden ANDDW and encourage further studies to confirm the corresponding outcomes on a pilot scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The beneficiation of rare earth elements is a crucial process in unlocking the potential of these valuable resources. This study investigates the utilization of response surface methodology in optimizing rare earth beneficiation using a laboratory Knelson concentrator. The experimental design employed response surface methodology to analyze and predict the effects of various parameters, such as feed rate, water pressure, and particle size, on the efficiency of rare earth recovery. Through systematic experimentation and statistical analysis, this research establishes optimal conditions for the Knelson concentrator operation, enhancing the recovery of rare earth elements. The study presents a comprehensive analysis of the impact of individual factors and their interactions on the beneficiation process. The results showed that for −0.5 + 0.074 mm fraction the main influencing factors were in the order of relative centrifugal force > fluidization water flow rate > feeding rate, and the factors acting on −0.074 + 0.02 mm fraction were fluidization water flow rate > relative centrifugal force > feeding rate. The beneficiation performance by Knelson concentrator for −0.074 + 0.02 mm fraction was better than that of −0.5 + 0.074 mm fraction. The findings demonstrate the efficacy of response surface methodology as a tool for optimizing the Knelson concentrator's performance in rare earth beneficiation. This approach offers insights into process optimization and provides a framework for improving the efficiency of rare earth recovery methods, contributing to the sustainable utilization of these critical elements in various industrial applications. Highlights: Employed Response Surface Methodology (RSM) to optimize rare earth element recovery using a laboratory Knelson concentrator. Analyzed multiple parameters, including feed rate, water pressure, and particle size, to enhance recovery efficiency. Addressed the intricate interplay of operational factors to establish optimal conditions for maximizing recovery. Offers practical insights for industrial applications, enabling improved rare earth element recovery processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary objective of this study was to investigate the ability of seven ionic liquids (ILs), NaBF4 salt, and five deep eutectic solvents (DESs) to extract five cannabinoids from hemp tea. Among the solvents examined, 1-butyl-3-methyl-imidazolium chloride (BMIMCl) proved to be a promising solvent for the recovery of cannabinoids, and it was selected for the subsequent optimization of ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) using response surface methodology (RSM). The optimized theoretical conditions were as follows: 0.071 M BMIMCl, a solvent-to-solid ratio of 24.15 mL/g of dried hemp tea material, and an extraction time of 20.80 min. These conditions resulted in theoretical extraction yields of 98.34 μg/g for sample material for cannabichromene (CBC), 1104.69 μg/g for cannabidiol (CBD), 209.64 μg/g for Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), 40.43 μg/g for cannabinol (CBN), and 55.49 μg/g for cannabigerol (CBG). For comparison purposes, the optimized extraction parameters were applied to three more cannabis teas, originating from the Netherlands, Greece, and Italy. The analysis revealed varying levels of detected cannabinoids and exhibited levels of Δ9-THC, ranging from 34.93 ± 0.24 μg/g to 199.46 ± 1.02 μg/g. Consequently, these findings have significant regulatory implications, as none of the examined hemp tea samples met the permitted zero tolerance threshold for Δ9-THC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to improve the adverse engineering properties of saline soil and to comply with the concept of sustainable development, a novel green and pollution-free soil solidification method consisting of a composite of sulfur-free lignin (SFL), basalt fiber (BF), and hydrophobic polymer (HP) was designed for the solidification of saline soil. A quantitative model of solidified material and strength was developed by the response surface method using a central composite rotatable design (CCRD) for the unconfined compressive strength (UCS) test. A series of physicochemical and microstructural analysis tests were conducted to elaborate the hydrophobic mechanism of the composite-solidified soil and to investigate the pore evolution and microstructural characteristics of the composite-solidified saline soil. The results showed that the optimum ratio of composite-solidified saline soil is 9.87%, 0.24%, and 6.29%, and the strength increase rate is 98.87%. The hydrophilic groups (-OH) on the surface of soil particles and lignin are replaced with hydrophobic groups (-CH3) in the composite-solidified soil, increasing the erosion resistance and durability of the soil. At the microscopic level, BF and soil particles provide the spatial conditions and binding forces for SFL and HP, and the gel groups formed by HP attach to the SFL-induced soil particles to form cemented agglomerates and particle clusters. Overall, the composite material together improves the internal structure of the soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel tubular indirect evaporative cooler is proposed. • A theoretical model is developed and experimentally validated. • Regression models for air treatment performance prediction are established. • Multi-objective optimization with relative weights of output responses is obtained. • The regression models can predict the cooler's performance in diverse climates. Indirect evaporative cooling (IEC) technology is an energy-efficient approach for regulating the indoor thermal environment of buildings. The conventional tubular indirect evaporative cooler (TIEC) may have a relatively low cooling efficiency due to poor wettability issues. The application of moisture-conducting fibers provides a feasible way to solve the above problem. However, the integration of moisture-conducting fibers with TIEC is still in the exploratory stage. This study proposed a novel moisture-conducting fiber-assisted TIEC and conducted a multi-objective optimization. An experimental facility and theoretical model of the proposed moisture-conducting fiber-assisted TIEC were developed. Based on the numerical model validated by experiments and response surface methodology (RSM), the regression models for performance prediction of the cooler were established. Eight input parameters including inlet air parameters, operating parameters and geometric parameters were selected, and four performance evaluation indicators were chosen as output responses. The parameter sensitivity of the regression models was analyzed. The multi-objective optimization was performed by considering the influence of different relative weights assigned to the output responses. Furthermore, the performance of the optimized cooler applied in different climate zones was predicted. The results showed that the product air temperature drop could achieve 8.8–11.3 °C after cooling by the cooler. The established regression models can predict the performance of the moisture-conducting fiber-assisted TIEC conveniently and effectively, which is expected to guide the design and optimization of engineering practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to develop a wall material using pea protein isolate and pectin to optimize the encapsulation of Lactobacillus casei by spray drying. Response surface methodology (RSM) and artificial neural network (ANN) were used to analyze the effect of processing parameters. Findings: The results showed that both RSM and ANN could be used to successfully characterize the experimental data, although ANN demonstrated greater predictive accuracy than RSM due to a higher R2 and lower mean square error (MSE). Conclusion: ANN was observed to show more suitability than RSM. The encapsulation efficiency (90.7%), yield (45.5%), and wettability (169 s) of spray‐dried probiotic powder obtained under optimal spray drying conditions (inlet air temperature (132°C); feed flow rate (9.5 mL/min) and pea protein isolate concentration (7.1%)) were observed to be not significantly different (p <.05) from predicted values for all three parameters, demonstrating the validity of applied model. Significance and Novelty: In this study, production technology of vegan base probiotic powder has been developed using mathematical modeling through the spray‐drying method. Therefore, this data can be useful for food processing industries to develop a high‐quality probiotic powder through spray drying. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cellulose nanofiber-reinforced starch-graft-poly(acrylic acid) (St-g-P(AA)) nanocomposite hydrogel was developed as a bioadsorbent to remove chromium ions [Cr(VI)] using a fix-bed adsorption column. The influence of several factors on adsorption column efficiency was investigated in this study, including pH, initial concentration of Cr(VI) ions, and solution input flow rate. Following the first study, the appropriate pH, initial concentration, and flow rate ranges were determined to be 4–6, 20–60 mg/L, and 5–15 mL/min, respectively. The surface response approach based on the Box–Behnken model was used to statistically examine the influence of each independent parameter on response performance (removal efficiency) and anticipate the optimal result. The findings showed that the pH of the solution had the most significant impact. The maximum removal efficiency of the nanocomposite hydrogel was %50.26 at pH = 6, an initial concentration of 20 mg/L, and a flow velocity of 10 mL/min. The Langmuir isotherm model successfully matched the results, and the maximum adsorption capacity was calculated to be 23.47 mg/g. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stevia rebaudiana boasts a wide range of medical and food applications and contains polysaccharides that exert beneficial effects against oxidative stress. In this study, we optimised the extraction of a polysaccharide (SRRP) from S. rebaudiana roots by employing a Box–Behnken design and response surface methodology. The optimal extraction conditions were as follows: 93.57 min, 71.67 °C, and a water-to-raw material ratio of 21.40 mL/g. Under these conditions, 14.00 ± 0.35% of crude polysaccharide was obtained. Treatment of RAW264.7 cells with SRRP prior to the addition of H2O2, a major contributor to oxidative damage, significantly increased cell viability. In addition, SRRP increased the levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione and reduced the levels of malondialdehyde in RAW264.7 cells. Therefore, SRRP can provide effective protection against H2O2-induced oxidative damage. These findings indicate the potential of SRRP as a natural antioxidant in the food and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fragaria × ananassa is one of the fruit crops with high economic value, but due to its thin and long stem structure, it is easily affected by various stresses when being transferred from in vitro to ex vitro conditions. Therefore, it is very important to enhance the relative growth rate (RGR) right from the in vitro stage which is in proportion to the vigorousness of the plant. Nanoparticles are usually known as stimulants in agriculture that promote plant growth and development. In this study, in vitro Fragaria × ananassa shoots transferred on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 0.02 mg/L α-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) were used as control. Silicon dioxide nanoparticles (SiO2NPs) and cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2NPs) at different concentrations (0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 mg/L) were separately added to the similar MS medium in the plantlet formation stage to evaluate their effects on RGR of in vitro Fragaria × ananassa plantlets through their impacts on minerals absorption (K, Ca, Mg) and antioxidant enzymes activity. The results showed that the medium supplemented with 1.0 mg/L SiO2NPs gave the highest minerals absorption while the medium with 1.0–1.5 mg/L CeO2NPs created the most favorable conditions for antioxidant enzymes activity (SOD, CAT, APX) compared to treatments supplemented with SiO2NPs or CeO2NPs at other concentrations and the control. Specifically, plant height and leaf canopy area were recorded highest in the medium supplemented with 1.0 mg/L SiO2NPs, and the medium supplemented with 1.5 mg/L CeO2NPs gave the highest values of leaf petiole diameter, number of roots, root length. Then, the response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the combination of SiO2NPs and CeO2NPs at appropriate concentrations with the aim of finding the most optimal concentrations for the RGR of plantlet. Accordingly, the most optimal concentrations are 1.172 mg/L SiO2NPs and 1.654 mg/L CeO2NPs. The combination of these optimal concentrations in the plantlet formation stage gave plantlet’s RGR (0.596 mg/mg/week) superior to the highest RGR obtained from the supplementation with 1.0 mg/L SiO2NPs or 1.5 mg/L CeO2NPs (0.53 or 0.56 mg/mg/week, respectively). As a result, shoots-derived-plantlets in the combined treatment were taller and had more vigorous growth. This study can be useful in commercial strawberry production, increasing plant growth, vigorousness and resistance right from the in vitro stage, thereby improving crop yield.Key message: SiO2NPs improved minerals absorption. CeO2NPs enhanced antioxidant enzymes activity. Optimizing the combination of SiO2NPs and CeO2NPs by response surface methodology gave positive effect in hardening Fragaria × ananassa plantlets cultured in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The suspension system of a commercial vehicle cab plays a crucial role in enhancing ride comfort by mitigating vibrations. However, conventional rubber suspension systems have relatively fixed stiffness and damping properties, rendering them inflexible to load variations and resulting in suboptimal ride comfort under extreme road conditions. Shape memory alloys (SMAs) represent an innovative class of intelligent materials characterized by superelasticity, shape memory effects, and high damping properties. Recent advancements in materials science and engineering technology have focused on rubber-based SMA composite dampers due to their adjustable stiffness and damping through temperature or strain rate. This paper investigates how various structural parameters affect the stiffness and damping characteristics of sleeve-type rubber-based SMA composite vibration dampers. We developed a six-degree-of-freedom vibration differential equation and an Adams multi-body dynamics model for the rubber-based SMA suspension system in commercial vehicle cabins. We validated the model's reliability through theoretical analysis and simulation comparisons. To achieve a 45% increase in stiffness and a 64.5% increase in damping, we optimized the suspension system's z-axis stiffness and damping parameters under different operating conditions. This optimization aimed to minimize the z-axis vibration acceleration at the driver's seat. We employed response surface methodology to design the composite shock absorber structure and then conducted a comparative analysis of the vibration reduction performance of the optimized front and rear suspension systems. This study provides significant theoretical foundations and practical guidelines for enhancing the performance of commercial vehicle cab suspension systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study addresses the persistent issue of thiamphenicol (THI) accumulation in aquatic environments and its detrimental impact on biological systems. While activated carbon is commonly used for removing such organic micropollutants in advanced wastewater treatment, this research explores the innovative use of olive stones as a feedstock for activated carbon production. The novelty of this study lies in the optimization of the activated carbon preparation process using a fractional factorial design with five critical factors: concentration, heating rate, activation temperature, activation time, and impregnation ratio. By employing the methylene blue method to determine the specific surface area (SSA), the optimal conditions were identified: a phosphoric acid solid-liquid ratio of 1:2 (74.52%), a heating temperature of 550 °C at a rate of 10 °C/min, and an activation period of 120 minutes, resulting in an SSA of 53.07 m²/g. The subsequent THI adsorption tests in a fixed-bed column revealed that THI removal ef- ficiency was inversely proportional to flow rate and initial THI concentration, while positively correlated with bed height. This study fills a critical gap by demonstrating an effective, sustainable method for producing activated carbon from agricultural waste, optimizing the process parameters for maximum efficiency in micropollutant removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vacuum impregnation (VI) stands as an innovative technique, used to create novel food formulations by impregnating vital nutritive compounds into natural food matrices. Process variables were syrup temperature ranging from (50 to 70 °C), syrup concentration (60° to 80° Brix), and VI duration (10 to 20 min). The optimal conditions emerged at 66.81 °C for syrup temperature, 71.58° Brix for syrup concentration, and a precise 11.59 min for the VI duration. At these paramount conditions, the candy exhibited striking attributes such as 50.0% water loss, 12.23% sugar gain, chewiness of 9 N, and lightness value of 22.17. The predicted values using the developed model were validated with experimental data and indicated the adequacy of the generated model. The functional characterization of the optimized nutmeg rind candy showcased a marked reduction in myristicin content, signifying an augmented level of safety for consumption. Furthermore in-vitro anti-bacterial assay, total phenolics, flavonoids and tannin content, anti-oxidant potential, proximate composition and microstructure of the optimized candy were analysed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient steam energy production was essential for reducing energy consumption and operational costs while enhancing productivity, particularly in industrial settings prone to explosions due to boiler parameter control issues. This challenge was especially acute in the food and beverage industry amid rising energy costs and stricter environmental regulations, highlighting the importance of optimizing steam energy production. This study focused on refining operational parameters in a steam production plant to maximize steam energy output. It utilized mathematical models and optimization tools to identify ideal operational conditions and investigate extreme scenarios. Design-Expert version 13.0 statistical software and Response Surface Methodology (RSM) via Centre Composite Design (CCD) were employed to create a comprehensive design matrix encompassing key variables like time, pressure levels, temperature, mass flow rate, and steam energy production across three experimental levels. The research revealed that increased pressure and time significantly boosted steam energy production by leveraging water's energy content rise under initial conditions, thus improving efficiency by reducing required water mass circulation. Moreover, elevated temperature and extended operation enhanced economizer efficiency, leading to increased heat recovery and reduced steam generation. Steam generation also increased with temperature and time due to the pressure rise during boiling, necessitating more energy for steam conversion. An optimum yield of steam energy of 620 Cal was attained at a time, pressure, temperature, and mass flow rate of 1 h, 16.97 MPa, 249.5°C, and 59.85 kg/s, respectively. The mathematical model developed is accurate, reliable, responsive, and can replicate the experimental data due to the high F-value (24.48), low CV (0.94) low p -value (< 0.005), and high R 2 (0.9821) value close to 1. This research promises to enhance the efficiency of steam energy production in the food and beverage industry by reducing the need for resource-intensive experimental procedures, thus lowering costs and resource consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional silane treatment can increase the hydrophobicity of natural cellulosic fibers. This report employs a combination of alkali and dipodal silane treatments. Bridged bis (3-trimethoxysilylpropyl) amine (BAS), a dipodal silane, was used instead of regular ones to enhance the hydrophobicity of ramie plain-woven fabrics. Before silane application, alkali treatment conditions' impact on mechanical properties was optimized using response surface methodology (RSM). The desirability function approach and graphical optimization techniques were employed to find out the optimum condition. The RSM demonstrated that a concentration of 6.11% alkali, a duration of 30 min, and a temperature of 39.10 °C yielded the optimal conditions, resulting in a breaking force of 518.27 N and an elongation of 23.36%. After optimization of parameter, alkali treatment of the fabric was carried out. These alkali-treated fabrics were then bulk-treated with BAS. The Taguchi L9 orthogonal array experimental design was applied to identify a variable that has the highest impact on the hydrophobicity. Furthermore, BAS's impact on water contact angle (WCA), surface morphology, and thermal properties was investigated. Alkali-treated ramie fabrics absorb water due to hemicellulose and lignin removal. However, BAS treatment resulted in a hydrophobic ramie fabric surface, as the combined alkali and BAS-treated fabrics exhibit a WCA greater than 94°, reaching 113.85°. According to thermo-gravimetric analysis, combined alkali and silane treatment improved the degradation temperature of fabrics to 403.25 °C. This improvement is attributed to the formation of six, rather than three, Si–O bonds on the ramie fabric surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Semiconductor photocatalysts with engineered heterostructure are gaining attention for environmental remediations. The combination of two or more metal oxides with support materials has proved an effective strategy for better charge separation to lead to redox reactions. Therefore, the novel combination of tungsten oxide (WO3) and bismuth oxide (Bi2O3) with graphene oxide (GO) was studied to degrade methylene blue dye as a model organic pollutant. The novel composite material was synthesized using a facile hydrothermal route. The photocatalysts (i.e., WO3, WO3/Bi2O3, and GO/WO3/Bi2O3 composite) were characterized in terms of surface morphology by scanning electron microscope, elemental mapping by energy-dispersive X-ray, crystalline structure by X-ray diffraction, and functional group identification by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The characterization analysis confirms the successful synthesis of all pristine and composite materials. The optical response of photocatalysts (WO3/Bi2O3) and composites photocatalyst (GO/WO3/Bi2O3) was checked by UV–visible spectroscopy using the Tauc plot method. The considerable reduction in energy bandgap from 2.9 (for WO3/Bi2O3) to 2.2 (for GO/WO3/Bi2O3) suggests that the proposed composite material is not only effective under natural sunlight but also a potential material with improved charge separation. The optimization of influencing parameters was done, and the best degradation efficiency of about 98% was achieved under pH = 9, composite dose = 30 mg per 100 mL, and H2O2 concentration = 13 mM, with the reaction time of 180 min under ambient sunlight. Kinetic studies confirmed that the photocatalytic degradation process followed the 1st-order kinetic model. The response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to analyze the data statistically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quest for healthier beverage options has led to the development of low-calorie alternatives to conventional sugary drinks. This study focused on the use of ultrasonication-enzymatic extraction to produce a low-calorie ready-to-drink Kangra orthodox black tea with the natural sweetener Stevia rebaudiana. By employing sonication time (9 to 45 min) and temperature (35 to 55 °C) as independent variables, statistical analysis revealed significant effects of these parameters on key quality indicators. In the ultrasonicated-assisted enzymatic extraction, the optimal conditions were 27.58 min at 45.06 °C with 0.0095% Tannase, to maximize the water extract content, total phenolic content, antioxidant capacity, caffeine, tannins content, colour, theaflavins, thearubigins, total colour, brightness, a*, b* colour value and overall acceptability and to minimize the pH, tea cream, and colour value L* of the ultrasonicated-assisted enzymatic extraction of Kangra orthodox black tea. The predicted water extract was 47.69%, the total phenolic content was 233.77 µg GAE/100 mL, the antioxidant capacity was 78.50 mM TE/mL, caffeine was 35.30 µg CAE/100 mL, tannins were 167.14 µg TAE/100 mL, theaflavins were 0.88%, thearubigins were 8.49%, the total colour percentage was 9.22%, the brightness was 14.98%, a* was 5.02, b* was 8.88, the overall acceptability was 8.14, the pH was 5.61, tea cream was 0.36 g/100 mL, and the L* colour value was 23.66 under optimum ultrasonication-assisted enzymatic extraction conditions. To improve the overall palatability of the Kangra Orthodox ready-to-drink tea, sugar (7–11° Brix) was utilized to balance the taste. The optimal sugar concentration for ready-to-drink Kangra orthodox tea based on a sensory score of 10° Brix was the highest. The substitution of sucrose with stevia up to 60% led to an equi-sweet taste eliminating any characteristic bitter aftertaste, in addition to a substantial decline in energy value from 31.44 to 15.72 kcal/100 g. A low-calorie Kangra Orthodox ready-to-drink tea beverage was developed that contained a high level of functional compounds at a reduced energy level. This tea offers a healthy alternative to traditional sweetened beverages and is potentially appealing to a broad market of health-conscious consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]