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Edible mushrooms are rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds, but their browning affects their quality and commercial value. This article reviews various methods to inhibit polyphenol oxidase (PPO)‐induced browning in mushrooms. Physical methods such as heat treatment, low temperatures, irradiation, and ultrasound effectively reduce PPO activity but may affect mushroom texture and flavor. Chemical inhibitors, including synthetic chemicals and natural plant extracts, provide effective PPO inhibition but require careful monitoring of their content. Biological methods, including gene editing and microbial fermentation, show promise in targeting PPO genes and enhancing antioxidant production. Combining these methods offers a comprehensive strategy for preserving mushroom quality, extending shelf life, and maintaining nutritional value. Practical Application: These approaches can be applied in the food industry to improve post‐harvest mushroom preservation, enhance product quality, and reduce waste, benefiting both producers and consumers. Further research and innovation are needed to optimize the practical application of these methods in large‐scale processing and storage conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing volume of wastewater discharged in urban areas poses a significant environmental challenge, particularly due to the potential for organic carbon overload in aquatic ecosystems. This study aimed to identify the bacterial isolates with the potential to mitigate this burden by effectively degrading organic matter and exhibiting antagonistic activity against common aquatic pathogens. Through a screening process, two bacterial strains, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens and Bacillus licheniformis, were isolated based on their high amylolytic, cellulolytic, proteolytic and lipolytic activity indices. In addition, in relation to all effective strains for these activities, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens differed in the cellulolytic index (4.48 ± 0.12), while Bacillus licheniformis had a lipolytic index of 1.73 ± 0.10. Both strains were further characterized by their strong antagonistic activity against Aeromonas, a prevalent pathogen in aquatic environments. These findings suggest that B. amyloliquefaciens and B. licheniformis hold promise as bioremediation agents for wastewater treatment, potentially contributing to the sustainable management of urban wastewater and the protection of aquatic ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quest for sustainable agricultural practices has led to a surge in research focused on innovative wastewater treatment methods. This review explores the emerging biological treatment approaches designed to address the challenges of eco-friendly agricultural wastewater treatment and subsequent reuse. The investigation centers around three novel techniques: constructed wetlands, algae-based systems, and microbial fuel cells. Constructed wetlands (CWs) mimic natural processes to treat agricultural wastewater, providing habitat for various plant species that collaboratively remove contaminants. Algae-based systems(ABs) harness the photosynthetic prowess of algae to absorb nutrients and pollutants, producing biomass that can be repurposed. Meanwhile, microbial fuel cells (MFCs) employ microorganisms to break down organic matter in wastewater while generating electricity as a valuable byproduct. This review aims to provide insights into the potential of these biological treatment methods to revolutionize wastewater management in agriculture. By mitigating environmental impact, conserving water resources, and yielding reusable outputs, these techniques will offer a sustainable pathway towards addressing the pressing challenges of agricultural wastewater treatment and enhancing the overall ecological balance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Significant concerns over energy security and environmental impact reduction will drive all stakeholders to generate proper alternative energies. Biodiesel is a prospective cleaner-burning biofuel that can contribute on addressing these concerns globally. Presently, pure biodiesel (B100) application is still facing several obstacles, principally in terms of its cold flow properties. Improvement in cold flow behavior parameters is the solution to promoting biodiesel implementation at a higher percentage and wider environmental temperature range. This study provides a detailed review of several improvement methods, both physical, chemical, and biological, from various scientific sources, to elevate the cold fluidity characteristics of biodiesel. The investigated methods convincingly offer proper enhancement in the cold flow properties of biodiesel. Mostly, this improvement is accompanied by an alleviation in oxidation stability, cetane number, and/or viscosity. However, the skeletal isomerization method presents promising cold fluidity refinement with minimal reduction in other physical properties. Therefore, the continuous development of these methods promises global sustainable application of high-quality biodiesel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing volume of wastewater discharged in urban areas poses a significant environmental challenge, particularly due to the potential for organic carbon overload in aquatic ecosystems. This study aimed to identify bacterial isolates with the potential to mitigate this burden by effectively degrading organic matter and exhibiting antagonistic activity against common aquatic pathogens. Through a screening process, two bacterial strains, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens and Bacillus licheniformis, were isolated based on their high amylolytic, cellulolytic, proteolytic and lipolytic activity indices. In addition, in relation to all effective strains for these activities, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens differed in the cellulolytic index (4.48 ± 0.12), while Bacillus licheniformis had a lipolytic index of 1.73 ± 0.10. Both strains were further characterized by their strong antagonistic activity against Aeromonas, a prevalent pathogen in aquatic environments. These findings suggest that B. amyloliquefaciens and B. licheniformis hold promise as bioremediation agents for wastewater treatment, potentially contributing to the sustainable management of urban wastewater and the protection of aquatic ecosystems.

Abstract The quest for sustainable agricultural practices has led to a surge in research focused on innovative wastewater treatment methods. This review explores the emerging biological treatment approaches designed to address the challenges of eco-friendly agricultural wastewater treatment and subsequent reuse. The investigation centers around three novel techniques: constructed wetlands, algae-based systems, and microbial fuel cells. Constructed wetlands (CWs) mimic natural processes to treat agricultural wastewater, providing habitat for various plant species that collaboratively remove contaminants. Algae-based systems(ABs) harness the photosynthetic prowess of algae to absorb nutrients and pollutants, producing biomass that can be repurposed. Meanwhile, microbial fuel cells (MFCs) employ microorganisms to break down organic matter in wastewater while generating electricity as a valuable byproduct. This review aims to provide insights into the potential of these biological treatment methods to revolutionize wastewater management in agriculture. By mitigating environmental impact, conserving water resources, and yielding reusable outputs, these techniques will offer a sustainable pathway towards addressing the pressing challenges of agricultural wastewater treatment and enhancing the overall ecological balance.

Water is an indispensable resource for human activity and the environment. Industrial activities generate vast quantities of wastewater that may be heavily polluted or contain toxic contaminants, posing environmental and public health challenges. Different industries generate wastewater with widely varying characteristics, such as the quantity generated, concentration, and pollutant type. It is essential to understand these characteristics to select available treatment techniques for implementation in wastewater treatment facilities to promote sustainable water usage. This review article provides an overview of wastewaters generated by various industries and commonly applied treatment techniques. The characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of physical, chemical, and biological treatment methods are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthetic dyes, exceeding 100,000 types on the market and produced at a global scale of over 700,000 tons annually, are extensively used in the textile industry. This industry, a leading contributor to water contamination, relies on dyes like reactive, azo, anthraquinone, and triphenylmethane, resulting in substantial water usage and significant effluent generation. A significant modern challenge is the pollution caused by dye-mixed wastewater, releasing hazardous chemicals into water bodies and posing threats to ecosystems, plants, and human health. Traditionally, physicochemical techniques have addressed textile dye-containing wastewater, but their drawbacks, including cost, inefficiency, and potential secondary pollution, have steered attention towards biological alternatives. Utilizing microorganisms and enzymes, these biological methods, such as microbial cell enzyme immobilization, the biofilm technique, bioreactors, biofuel/bioelectricity production, and genetic engineering, have emerged as promising, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solutions for efficient dye removal from wastewater. This review paper specifically highlights advanced biological techniques and emphasizes their efficacy in addressing the challenges posed by synthetic textile dyes. Through a systematic review of recent research papers, published results, and observations, this review paper provides insights into emerging biological treatment strategies for effectively removing synthetic textile dyes and contaminants from wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advanced industrialization requires an enormous amount of water, dyes, and chemicals, and it continuously releases toxic effluents into the environment and water bodies. In textile, paper, leather, and other industries, dyes are the compounds being used to provide color to the substances. Among all of the dyes utilized in the dyeing sector, azo dyes contribute about 60 % of all dyestuffs used globally. Synthetic dyes harm the aesthetic qualities of water resources by elevating COD (Chemical oxygen demand) and BOD (Biological oxygen demand), toxic substances, turbidity, hindering photosynthesis, stifling plant development, contaminating the food chain, inducing recalcitrance, and accumulation, and effectively stimulating toxicity, carcinogenicity, as well as mutagenicity. To minimize negative impacts on the surroundings, people, and natural water bodies, wastewater comprising dye pollutants must be removed effectively through eco-friendly technology. As a result, treatment of these textile effluents is required before they are eliminated into the surroundings. Physical, chemical, physio-chemical, and biological methods are among those used for treating textile wastewater. Biological methods, such as treatment with bacteria, bacterial enzymes, fungi, and plants, were used due to their environment-friendly and cost-effective method. The classification of dyes and their degradation mechanism by bacteria are addressed in this paper.

This article explores the use of microbial methods to remove heavy metals from industrial effluent in the pharmaceutical industry. The effluent contains metallic cations that can contaminate the soil and food chain. Traditional treatments for metal-containing waste have limitations, so researchers are investigating alternative biological methods involving bacteria and bio surfactants. The article also presents a study on the effects of microbial treated and untreated tannery effluent on the growth of green gram. The study concludes that bacteria are effective in removing heavy metals from pharmaceutical effluent. [Extracted from the article]

This study outlines the characteristics of microbial aerosol emissions from bioreactors, analyzes the mechanism of microbial aerosol generation, and the effects of several factors, such as microbial growth conditions, gas composition, and gas flow rate and inlet loading, on bioaerosol emissions・ In addition, exposure risks in microbial aerosol environments and different control measures are presented as potential solutions to reduce microbial aerosol emissions・ The aim of this paper is to make more people aware of the importance of controlling microbial aerosol emissions and to make biotechnology treatment of VOCs more environmentally friendly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are a primary environmental concern, threatening freshwater ecosystems and public health and causing economic damages in the billions of dollars annually. These blooms, predominantly driven by phytoplankton species like cyanobacteria, thrive in nutrient-rich, warm, and low-wind environments. Because of the adverse impacts of HABs, this review examines various control methods, focusing on biological strategies as sustainable solutions. While effective in disrupting algal populations, traditional chemical and physical interventions carry ecological risks and can be resource-intensive. Biological control methods, including biomanipulation and using algicidal microorganisms such as Streptococcus thermophiles, Myxobacteria, and Lopharia spadicea, emerge as eco-friendly alternatives offering long-term benefits. Additionally, barley and rice straw application has demonstrated efficacy in curbing HAB growth. These biological approaches work by inhibiting algal proliferation, disrupting cellular structures, and fostering algal cell aggregation. Despite their advantages over conventional methods, biological controls face challenges, including intricate ecological interactions. This article delves into the latest biological techniques aimed at eradicating HABs, intending to diminish their frequency and reduce toxin levels in aquatic environments. While most research to date has been confined to laboratory settings, scaling these methods to field applications presents hurdles due to the variability and complexity of natural ecosystems. The review underscores the need for further research and development in this critical area of environmental science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The amount of suspended solid and medicinal micropollutants, such as fungicides, personal care products, contraceptive medications, antibiotics and aromatic hydrocarbons are increasing daily and has reached an alarming level. The micropollutant present in wastewater must be treated before its release because it forms adverse effect on mortal health. Because some harmful micropollutants are incredibly difficult to remove from WWTPs because of their nonbiodegradability, poor adsorption capability, complex nature and traditional wastewater treatments are precious or insufficient for decontamination. For the micropollutant declination some of the conventional physicochemical has been used. The use of powdered activated carbon (PAC) for water purification has been proven to be effective without harming the environment. Advanced oxidation technologies (AOTs), typically applied after natural processes have recently emerged as effective tertiary treatments for the withdrawal of micropollutants at high concentrations. Various methods have been developed and studied for the removal of these micropollutants from wastewater. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the different methods employed, including physical, chemical, and biological processes, highlighting their effectiveness and limitations in micropollutant removal. As well as improving treatment efficiency, they can also remove any accumulation of dangerous byproducts produced during treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and premature aging, caused by free radicals, have spurred a demand for extensive research into finding effective antioxidants. Currently, there is an abundance of both natural and synthetic antioxidants, including metal nanoparticles with high antioxidant activity. Among these, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) stand out as favoured antioxidants because of their minimal toxicity, simple synthesis, and detectability. The antioxidant properties of AuNPs enhance its wide-ranging potential for use in healthcare including applications as anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and wound healing agents, as well as treatment for various diseases. This review highlights recent progress in the synthesis of AuNPs as antioxidants and method for assessing their antioxidant capacity as well as delves into their mechanism of action and explores their potential health applications. In conclusion, considering the physicochemical and biological properties, along with the benefits and potential challenges for future development, AuNPs are deemed promising and effective antioxidants suitable for clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The article discusses the long-term results of the study concerning the problem of substantiation of biological methods for restoring the protective functions of forest areas contaminated with toxic solid waste from the mining industry for the creation of forest plantations. The object of research was a technogenic system, including waste, technology, recultivated and non-recultivated forest areas within the boundaries of the Amur-Primorsky coniferous-broadleaf forest region of the Far Eastern Federal District of Russia. A comprehensive geoecological assessment of the impact of waste within the boundaries of non-recultivated sites on the environment and human health using various methods, namely, using mathematical apparatus and GIS technologies, made it possible to assess the ecological state of the studied area as critical and catastrophic. Biological methods have been developed to restore the protective functions of technogenically polluted forest areas with the use of microorganisms and humic preparations for the rehabilitation of areas disturbed by tin mining. The novelty of the proposed methods is confirmed by Patents of the Russian Federation. For 30 years, the technogenic landscape has been developing soils according to soil-ecological functions as close as possible to the background soils. In the same direction, the formation of not only embryozems, but also the formation of a complex plant community and the restoration of the protective functions of forest areas were found, which indicates the possibility of using recultivated areas to create forest plantations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigating soil pipes and pipe collapses that lead to gully headcut formation, and considering the role of biological activities leads to a better understanding of soil erosion processes. Soil organisms and animal activities can both increase soil erosion by creating underground tunnels that may lead to the formation of soil pipes, and decrease it by reinforcing plant presence, soil porosity, and soil stability as a result of their mixing activities. The main aim of this study was to assess the role of plant and animal species on soil pipe formation in a semi-arid region affected severely by piping and gully erosion. The study was conducted in the Sarakhs Plain, in the Razavi Khorasan Province in Iran. Four study sites were selected: a slope with erosion (i.e., gully headcuts and pipe collapses), a slope without erosion, a location with dominant plant species (i.e., Artemisia annua, Camphorosma monspeliaca), and a location with dominant animal species [i.e., Formicidae (ants), termites, and Libycus Merio]. Four groups of methods were applied: bioecological tests (microbial respiration and biomass, ecological stoichiometry, and spatial point pattern analysis), geophysical test (ground penetration radar—GPR), geochemical–microscopic tests (scanning electron microscope—SEM, energy-dispersive X-ray—EDX, microanalysis TIN section, X-ray diffraction), and pedological analyses (doing soil profiles in the field and laboratory analyses of physical and chemical properties of soil samples taken in the field) to design models which can help to explain the formation of closed depressions, underground tunnels, and gully headcuts. The results showed that wherever the microbial respiration was increased, the greater the number of underground tunnels was formed. In the case of ecological stoichiometry, there was a significant difference between the slope without erosion and other test locations. The positive relationship between soil piping and biological activities was proved by bivariate pair correlation tests. The effects of soil organisms on piping were positively recognized using GPR. The results of EDX in the slope with erosion showed the presence of SiO2 and Al2O3, although there were small amounts of Na (Albite) and Ca (Wollastonite) in regions with dominant animal species, and K (MAD-10 Feldspar) in regions with dominant plant species. The TIN section made on the slope with erosion showed high silt content in comparison with the slope without erosion. The physical and chemical soil properties in four test groups, using the Duncan statistical test, showed the highest levels of significance in silt content, calcium carbonate, and bulk density. Finally, we have presented models of soil piping processes resulting from the action of living organisms. We confirmed a complex relationship between biological activity and soil pipe formation underlining the need for further interdisciplinary research on these relationships to better understand land degradation processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nature is still the main focus of scientific and technological research, particularly in nanotechnology and because of its remarkable properties; nanotechnology has acquired much interest in recent years. This review focuses on up-to-date overview of classification of nanoparticles, characterization, methods of preparation, characterization and application of nanoparticles. Initial section of the review gives insight on various techniques for the synthesis nanoparticles, encompassing both bottom-up and top-down approaches. Different methods for the synthesis of nanoparticles are discussed in details. Highlighting the importance of controlling shape, size, and composition to develop nanoparticles and enhance the properties of nanoparticles. These properties include enhanced surface area, unique optical, electronic, and magnetic characteristics, as well as improved mechanical properties. Understanding these attributes is essential for harnessing nanoparticles in different applications effectively. Broad spectrum of applications for nanoparticles is also discussed. Additionally, nanoparticles have found applications in catalysis, environmental remediation, and antimicrobial coatings, contributing to sustainable development and environmental protection. Overall, nanoparticles represent a progressive area of research with tremendous potential for innovation and societal impact. Our evaluation will serve as a solid reference, assisting the scientific community to comprehend the discussed topic better by showing the role of each technique in a comparable manner. As the field of nanoparticles is constantly evolving, this review incorporates the latest research, developments, and advancements up to the time of its publication. A comprehensive understanding of their properties, synthesis and applications is decisive for realizing the full potential of nanoparticles in various scientific and industrial domains.

The amount of suspended solid and medicinal micropollutants, such as fungicides, personal care products, contraceptive medications, antibiotics and aromatic hydrocarbons are increasing daily and has reached an alarming level. The micropollutant present in wastewater must be treated before its release because it forms adverse effect on mortal health. Because some harmful micropollutants are incredibly difficult to remove from WWTPs because of their nonbiodegradability, poor adsorption capability, complex nature and traditional wastewater treatments are precious or insufficient for decontamination. For the micropollutant declination some of the conventional physicochemical has been used. The use of powdered activated carbon (PAC) for water purification has been proven to be effective without harming the environment. Advanced oxidation technologies (AOTs), typically applied after natural processes have recently emerged as effective tertiary treatments for the withdrawal of micropollutants at high concentrations. Various methods have been developed and studied for the removal of these micropollutants from wastewater. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the different methods employed, including physical, chemical, and biological processes, highlighting their effectiveness and limitations in micropollutant removal. As well as improving treatment efficiency, they can also remove any accumulation of dangerous byproducts produced during treatment.

This paper outlines the shift to forwardlooking biological methods of pest control to address environmental concerns arising from chemical use. Biological control relies on the balance of species interactions, which can be disrupted by agrotechnical practices or excess chemicals. Pheromones and hormones regulate insect behaviour without toxic effects, contributing to selectivity. Biological control research includes various strategies such as faunal composition studies and pheromone traps targeting specific pests. Pheromone traps, which use speciesspecific compounds, effectively reduce insect populations while maintaining ecological balance. Recognising pest flight patterns helps both biological and non-biological strategies for optimal interventions. This study evaluates the efficacy of pheromone traps for Cydia pomonella L. through mass male reception, revealing correlations between flight frequency and temperature. Inclement weather delayed pest flight in 2023, while pheromone control substantially reduced attacks, maintaining crop health. This research highlights the success of pheromone traps as a sustainable pest management tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) has resulted in increasingly severe harm to the environment and human health. In recent years, biological methods have become the preferred technology for VOC removal due to their environmental friendliness and economic advantages. Based on the theory of bibliometrics, this study analyzed research articles and reviews on biological methods for VOC removal published in the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC) database from 1966 to 2021. The knowledge map visualization software CiteSpace was utilized to analyze research progress in different countries, co-citation clustering, co-citation bursts, and keyword clustering in the literature data. The results indicated that early research on VOC biological treatment focused on the removal of odorous gases and single components of volatile organic waste gases. Subsequently, benzene contents (BTEX), hydrophobic VOCs, and multi-component VOCs have gradually become the focus of research. In recent years, improving VOC removal efficiency by studying packing materials and microbial communities has become an important research topic both domestically and internationally. Future research should focus on continuously improving the performance of reactors, developing novel reactors, and investigating technologies for treating complex and recalcitrant VOCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. A reliable assessment of the quality and safety of medical products (MP) by biological indicators is directly related to the use of culture media (CM) that meet the established requirements. However, when conducting trial, it is necessary to take into account the peculiarities of culture media due to the presence in their composition of components of biological origin. In particular, a high degree of variability and unstable stability of raw materials, as well as possible mistakes in producing and storage of media, create the prerequisites for deviations. The use of industrial culture media also does not guarantee their suitability for the appropriate test. Therefore to obtain reliable results, the compliance of each batch CM with the specified criteria be confirmed must be confirmed by standard methods using the full range of meaningful indicators. The current lack of a state standard in the Russian Federation regulating the requirements for the use of culture media when confirming the quality of medical products makes it much more difficult to assess the suitability, comparability and reliability of the analysis results, both themselves CM and drugs.Text. The article discusses the draft General Pharmacopoeia Article (GPM) "Culture media", which presents the general requirements for of culture media when used in pharmacopoeia analysis. The standard is intended for specialists involved in the development, improvement and application of methods and / or techniques necessary for confirming the properties of medical products for the purpose of registration, entry into civil circulation, as well as in their production. The document was drawn up taking into account modern domestic and international approaches of good pharmaceutical practices to the assessment of the drugs that involve the use of culture media. The project identifies the key factors that most affect the quality of culture media. Based on the principle of continuity, compiled and described in detail a set of standardized control methods, including tests on physical-chemical and biological indicators. For exploring of specific properties, there are requirements for test cultures have been established. Governs special requirements for culture media used to obtain biological medical products are regulated. The procedure for storage and disposal of culture media unsuitable for use is described.Conclusion. The introduction of the GPM "Culture media" into the practice of domestic pharmacopoeic analysis will increase the reliability of the results of the evaluation of the effectiveness and safety of drugs, and as a result will lead to a reduction in production risks and risks of harm to health patients during in pharmacotherapy and immunoprophylaxis. The proposed approaches can also be used in other branches of science and industry.

As a substitute for banned brominated flame retardants (BFRs), the use of organophosphate esters (OPEs) increased year by year with the increase in industrial production and living demand. It was inevitable that OPEs would be discharged into wastewater in excess, which posed a great threat to the health of human beings and aquatic organisms. In the past few decades, people used various methods to remove refractory OPEs. This paper reviewed the photocatalysis method, the adsorption method with wide applicability, and the biological method mainly relying on enzymolysis and hydrolysis to degrade OPEs in water. All three of these methods had the advantages of high removal efficiency and environmental protection for various organic pollutants. The degradation efficiency of OPEs, degradation mechanisms, and conversion products of OPEs by three methods were discussed and summarized. Finally, the development prospects and challenges of OPEs' degradation technology were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of dyes in aquatic environments can have harmful effects on aquatic life, including inhibiting photosynthesis, decreasing dissolved oxygen levels, and altering the behavior and reproductive patterns of aquatic organisms. In the initial phase of this review study, our aim was to examine the categories and properties of dyes as well as the impact of their toxicity on aquatic environments. Azo, phthalocyanine, and xanthene are among the most frequently utilized dyes, almost 70–80% of used dyes, in industrial processes and have been identified as some of the most commonly occurring dyes in water bodies. Apart from that, the toxicity effects of dyes on aquatic ecosystems were discussed. Toxicity testing relies heavily on two key measures: the LC50 (half-lethal concentration) and EC50 (half-maximal effective concentration). In a recent study, microalgae exposed to Congo Red displayed a minimum EC50 of 4.8 mg/L, while fish exposed to Disperse Yellow 7 exhibited a minimum LC50 of 0.01 mg/L. Anaerobic membrane bioreactors (AnMBRs) are a promising method for removing dyes from water bodies. In the second stage of the study, the effectiveness of different AnMBRs in removing dyes was evaluated. Hybrid AnMBRs and AnMBRs with innovative designs have shown the capacity to eliminate dyes completely, reaching up to 100%. Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Bacteroidetes were found to be the dominant bacterial phyla in AnMBRs applied for dye treatment. However, fouling has been identified as a significant drawback of AnMBRs, and innovative designs and techniques are required to address this issue in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depression is a common mental disorder with a high burden of disease worldwide and requires effective treatment. On behalf of the General Advisory Council for Psychiatry, clinical recommendations were formed to help clinicians make decisions to improve the treatment of patients with unipolar depressive disorder; several international guidelines served as the basis for developing these recommendations. In terms of therapeutic approaches, pharmacological treatment is discussed with additional recommendations on the management of a partial response to treatment and treatment resistance. Psychotherapy, psychoeducation, and other psychosocial approaches represent non-pharmacological interventions for the treatment of depressive disorder. Biological methods for treating depression include non-invasive brain stimulation methods. The second part of the recommendations addresses special populations: children and adolescents, the elderly, and the treatment of depression in the perinatal period.

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are a primary environmental concern, threatening freshwater ecosystems and public health and causing economic damages in the billions of dollars annually. These blooms, predominantly driven by phytoplankton species like cyanobacteria, thrive in nutrient-rich, warm, and low-wind environments. Because of the adverse impacts of HABs, this review examines various control methods, focusing on biological strategies as sustainable solutions. While effective in disrupting algal populations, traditional chemical and physical interventions carry ecological risks and can be resource-intensive. Biological control methods, including biomanipulation and using algicidal microorganisms such as Streptococcus thermophiles, Myxobacteria, and Lopharia spadicea, emerge as eco-friendly alternatives offering long-term benefits. Additionally, barley and rice straw application has demonstrated efficacy in curbing HAB growth. These biological approaches work by inhibiting algal proliferation, disrupting cellular structures, and fostering algal cell aggregation. Despite their advantages over conventional methods, biological controls face challenges, including intricate ecological interactions. This article delves into the latest biological techniques aimed at eradicating HABs, intending to diminish their frequency and reduce toxin levels in aquatic environments. While most research to date has been confined to laboratory settings, scaling these methods to field applications presents hurdles due to the variability and complexity of natural ecosystems. The review underscores the need for further research and development in this critical area of environmental science.

Heavy metals stress is of great concern as it contaminates the environment affecting human health and the growth and quality of different plants including the medicinal ones. The use of soil microbes is among the most efficient methods for treating heavy-metal polluted soils. The objective was to investigate the effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi (Glomus mosseae) on the nutrient uptake (N, P, K, Fe, and Mn,) and Cd removal of different plants including rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus), amaranth (Amaranthus sp.), and ornamental cabbage (Brassica oleracea) in a Cd-polluted soil. The experiment was a three-way factorial on the basis of a randomized complete block design with three replicates. The experimental soil was sprayed with Cd (0, 10, 25, 50, 75 and 100 mg kg−1), and after 2 months it was inoculated with 100 g of mycorrhizal inoculums, and was planted in 4-kg pots. Plant growth (root and aerial part) and nutrient uptake as well as Cd removal from the contaminated soil were significantly affected by the experimental treatments. AM fungi significantly increased plant P uptake (35%) compared with N (24%), K (4%), Fe (24%) and Mn (13%). According to the results, rosemary was the most effective plant for the bioremediation of the soil. There were significant differences between plant roots and aerial part in terms of plant nutrient uptake and phytoremediation potential. Although increasing Cd concentration decreased plant growth and nutrient uptake, mycorrhizal fungi was able to alleviate the stress by significantly increasing plant growth, nutrient uptake and phytoremediation potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a secondary metabolite of several fungi and widely exists in various species of foods. The establishment of effective methods for OTA reduction is a key measure to ensure food processing and human health. This article reviews the current research of OTA reduction by biological approaches, summarizes the characteristics and efficiency of them, and evaluates the transformation pathways and metabolites safety of each degradation technology. The shortcomings of various methods are pointed out and future prospects are also proposed. Biological methods are the most promising approaches for OTA control. The defect of them is the long processing time and the growth of microbial cells may affect the product quality. Therefore, the control of OTA contamination should be conducted according to the food processing and their product types. Besides, it is significant for the exploitation of new strains, enzyme and novel adsorbents.

Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most susceptible crops to pathogenic fungal infections, and in particular to the Fusarium species. Secondary metabolites of Fusarium spp.—mycotoxins are not only phytotoxic, but also harmful to humans and animals. They can cause acute or chronic diseases with various toxic effects. The European Union member states apply standards and legal regulations on the permissible levels of mycotoxins in food and feed. This review summarises the most recent knowledge on the occurrence of toxic secondary metabolites of Fusarium in maize, taking into account modified forms of mycotoxins, the progress in research related to the health effects of consuming food or feed contaminated with mycotoxins, and also the development of biological methods for limiting and/or eliminating the presence of the same in the food chain and in compound feed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Essential oils are produced by a large number of plant species. Plants from several families, which include Asteraceae (Compositae), Apiaceae (Umbelliferae), Geraniaceae, Labiatae (Lamiaceae), Lauraceae, Myrtaceae, Rosaceae, Rutaceae, Santalaceae, Zingiberaceae, etc. are being studied closely because they may be promising sources of essential oils with strong repellent and/or insecticidal properties. Botanical garden collections necessitate close attention to the condition of the grown plants as well as the health of those who visit the botanical gardens. The use of effective chemical insecticides in crowded places is prohibited. The use of solutions of various oils (fatty and essential), non-toxic for warm-blooded animals and humans, opens up the prospect of developing an environmentally friendly way to combat phytophages and plant diseases. A review of several publications demonstrating the insecticidal, repellent, and antimicrobial properties of essential oils is provided. New areas of research can be identified by analyzing published works on the search for essential oils with repellent and/or insecticidal properties. Many years of research in the protection of collection plants in the Peter the Great Botanical Garden using a mixture of natural oils has demonstrated its efficacy. Regular treatments (every 25-30 days) with an aqueous emulsion of neem oil (Azadirachta indica) containing essential oils from various families (Lamiaceae, Lauraceae, Myrtaceae, and so on) reduce the number of insect pests by 60-80%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background:The main habitat of microalgae is natural or man-made aquatic environments. Microalgae are used in the process of water and wastewater treatment or biomass production that can be used in the production of biodiesel, biofertilizers, supplements and feed for poultry and aquatic animals. Microalgae extraction methods from aqueous medium such as gravitational deposition, centrifugation, filtration and screening, flotation, electrolyte separation and flocculation have been used. Methods: In the flocculation method, different flocculants have been proposed for the deposition of microalgae (sulfate and chloride compounds of metals such as iron, aluminum and zinc, cationic compounds such as cationic starch and biopolymers such as chitosan, etc.). Disadvantages such as the high amount of flocculants required, the production of wastes that need to be re-separated, the low sedimentation efficiency and the high price of flocculants have made the search for cheap. Results:Low-consumption flocculants without the need for re-separation seriously considered by researchers. Factors such as quantity and type Biofluccolants and environmental factors such as temperature, pH, mixing rate play a role in biofluctuation efficiency. Studies show that the isolation of microalgae in the bioflucculation method in some cases increases up to 99%. Conclusion: The present review shows that sedimentary microorganisms such as bacteria, diatoms and specific microalgae can be used as bioflucculants and microalgae can be harvested and isolated for various purposes in an environmentally friendly manner.

As a substitute for banned brominated flame retardants (BFRs), the use of organophosphate esters (OPEs) increased year by year with the increase in industrial production and living demand. It was inevitable that OPEs would be discharged into wastewater in excess, which posed a great threat to the health of human beings and aquatic organisms. In the past few decades, people used various methods to remove refractory OPEs. This paper reviewed the photocatalysis method, the adsorption method with wide applicability, and the biological method mainly relying on enzymolysis and hydrolysis to degrade OPEs in water. All three of these methods had the advantages of high removal efficiency and environmental protection for various organic pollutants. The degradation efficiency of OPEs, degradation mechanisms, and conversion products of OPEs by three methods were discussed and summarized. Finally, the development prospects and challenges of OPEs’ degradation technology were discussed.

The vulnerability of buildings and structures to rain and flooding due to a lack of adaptive capacity is an issue all over the world. Exploring the bio-resources availability and engineering performance is crucial to increase infrastructure's resilience. The current study analyses earth-based mortars using mineral precipitation as a biostabiliser (bio) and compares their performance with cement-based mortars. Cultures of S. oneidensis with a concentration of 2.3 × 108 cfu/mL were used to prepare earth-based and cement-based mortars with a ratio of 6% of binder. Microstructure analyses through SEM/EDS, water absorption, moisture buffering, mechanical strength, and porosity are discussed. The biostabiliser decreases water absorption in tidal-splash and saturated environments for earth and cement mortars due to calcium carbonate precipitation. The biostabiliser can prevent water migration more effectively for the cement-based (60% reduction) than for the earth-based mortars (up to 10% reduction) in the first 1 h of contact with water. In an adsorption/desorption environment, the conditions favour desorption in cem+bio, and it seems that the biostabiliser precipitation facilitates the release of the chemicals into the mobile phase. The precipitation in the earth+bio mortar porous media conditions favours the adsorption of water molecules, making the molecule adhere to the stationary phase and be separated from the other sample chemicals. The SEM/EDS performed for the mortars confirms the calcium carbonate precipitation and shows that there is a decrease in the quantity of Si and K if the biostabiliser is used in cement and earth-mortars. This decrease, associated with the ability of S. oneidensis to leach silica, is more impressive for earth+bio, which might be associated with a dissolution of silicate structures due to the presence of more water. For the tested earth-based mortars, there was an increase of 10% for compressive and flexural strength if the biostabiliser was added. For the cement-based mortars, the strength increase was almost double that of the plain one due to the clay surface negative charge in the earth-based compositions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]