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Developing materials for electronics and sensing based on abundant and degradable materials is fundamental for transitioning both fields toward a more sustainable future. In the long run, this approach can unleash these fields from using petroleum‐derived and/or scarce resources, possibly facilitating electronic waste (e‐waste) management at the same time. Starch, one of the most abundant and versatile natural polymers, has shown great potential in the fabrication of degradable/transient devices. In this work, electrically conductive and mechanically robust starch‐Ti3C2Tx MXene nanocomposites are successfully engineered, offering a promising advancement in sustainable electronics. The nanocomposite films exhibit remarkable tunability with varying MXene concentrations (from 0.69 to 2.42 vol%), allowing precise control over their properties. This tunability enables modifications in tensile strength (from 6.4 to 11.2 MPa), electrical conductivity (from 2.31 × 10−3 to 3.98 S m−1), and gauge factor. Such characteristics make these films ideal for various applications, including body movement monitoring, tactile sensing, handwriting recognition, and electronic smart skin. Unlike their petroleum‐based counterparts, the starch‐based films demonstrate significant biodegradability, breaking down within a month after being buried in soil. This rapid degradation highlights the potential of these transient composites for various electronics applications, offering an environmentally friendly alternative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel diester monomer synthesized from 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, a compound which can be derived from lignin, was used to obtain aliphatic-aromatic copolyesters (P1–P4) by melt polymerization with 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol, and either 1,4-butanedioic acid, 1,6-hexanedioic acid, 1,8-octanedioic acid, or 1,12-dodecanedioic acid as aliphatic diacid. Structure-property relations for the copolyesters were established using FTIR and 1H NMR spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, dynamic mechanical analysis and tensile testing. The weight-average molecular weight (Mw) of the samples ranged from 41,400 to 48,300 g/mol. As the spacer length in the aliphatic diacid was increased, the glass transition temperature (Tg) decreased from 90 to 51 °C, the melting point (Tm) from 175 to 147 °C, the tensile modulus from 1800 to 980 MPa, and the yield strength from 76 to 54 MPa, while the elongation at break increased from 270 to 320%. The thermal stability of the copolyesters also decreased for longer aliphatic diacid spacers. The copolyester derived from 1,12-dodecanedioic acid displayed the highest degradation rate in artificial soil, with 4.4% degradation after 30 weeks, and low ecotoxicity in an earthworm viability test. These findings contribute to understanding structure-property relationships and the environmental impact of aliphatic-aromatic copolyesters as potential sustainable materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable underwater adhesives have drawn much interest in promising applications and environmental engineering. However, developing a convenient strategy to combine recyclability and underwater adhesion into adhesive materials remains a formidable challenge. In this work, a degradable and closed‐loop recyclable underwater adhesive tackifier is designed by nucleotide, via the ring‐opening polymerization of thioctic acid in the presence of 5′‐adenosine monophosphate and methacrylatoethyl trimethyl ammonium chloride. The nucleotide‐tackified adhesives present an excellent underwater adhesion for various materials, tissues, and on‐demand detachment adhesion behavior. The underwater adhesives demonstrate reusability, degradability, and closed‐loop recyclability of dual monomers of thioctic acid and 5′‐adenosine monophosphate. Interestingly, the waste residues of the underwater adhesives demonstrate processability and can be employed again in the construction of tough adhesive interfaces in both air and underwater, with further expanding sustainability. It is envisioned that the strategy of nucleotide‐tackified sustainable underwater adhesives would offer promising insights for advancing sustainable and recyclable adhesive materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research investigates the extrusion-based fabrication and characterization of nanocomposites derived from bio-sourced polypropylene (PP) and poly(butylene succinate) (PBS: a biodegradable polymer derived from renewable biomass sources such as corn or sugarcane), incorporating Cloisite 20 (C20) clay nanofillers, with a specific focus on their suitability for electrical insulation applications. The research includes biodegradation tests employing the fungus Phanerochaete chrysosporium to evaluate the impact of composition and extrusion conditions. These tests yield satisfactory results, revealing a progressive disappearance of the PBS phase, as corroborated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations and a reduction in the intensity of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) peaks associated with C-OH and C-O-C bonds in PBS. Despite positive effects on various properties (i.e., barrier, thermal, electrical, and mechanical properties, etc.), a high clay content (5 wt%) does not seem to enhance biodegradability significantly, highlighting the specific sensitivity of the PBS phase to the addition of clay during this process. This study provides valuable insights into the complex interplay of factors conditioning nanocomposite biodegradation processes and highlights the need for an integrated approach to understanding these processes. This is the first time that research has focused on studying the degradation of nanocomposites for electrical insulation, utilizing partially bio-sourced materials that contain PBS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work investigates the essential constituents, production methods, and properties of polycaprolactone (PCL) and Baghdadite fibrous scaffolds. In this research, electrospinning was used to produce fiber ropes. In this study, the Baghdadite powder was synthesized using the sol–gel method and incorporated into PCL's polymeric matrix in formic acid and acetic acid solvents. The present work examined PCL–Baghdadite fibrous scaffolds at 1%, 3%, and 5 wt% for morphology, fiber diameter size, hydrophilicity, porosity, mechanical properties, degradability, and bioactivity. The introduction of Baghdadite nanopowder into pure PCL scaffolds reduced fiber diameter. The wetting angle decreased when Baghdadite nanopowder was added to fibrous scaffolds. Pure PCL reduced the wetting angle from 93.20° to 70.53°. Fibrous PCL scaffolds with Baghdadite nanopowder have better mechanical characteristics. The tensile strength of pure PCL fibers was determined at 2.08 ± 0.2 MPa, which was enhanced by up to 3 wt% by adding Baghdadite nanopowder. Fiber elasticity increased with tensile strength. Baghdadite at a 5% weight percentage reduced failure strain percentage. Fibers with more Baghdadite nanopowder biodegrade faster. Adding Baghdadite ceramic nanoparticles resulted in increased bioactivity and caused scaffolds to generate hydroxyapatite. The results show that Baghdadite PCL-3 wt% fibers have promising shape, diameter, and mechanical qualities. After 24 h, L-929 fibroblast cell viability was greater in the scaffold with 3% Baghdadite weight compared to the pure PCL. PCL-3 wt% Baghdadite fibers generated hydroxyapatite on the surface and degraded well. Based on the above findings, PCL fibers having 3 wt% of Baghdadite are the best sample for tissue engineering applications that heal flaws. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most important problems and the main obstacle of this process is the transformation of the complex structure of lignocellulose. One of the ways to break the lignocellulosic structure is to use suitable pretreatment compounds and nanoparticles with appropriate concentration. For this purpose, the synergistic effect of 6%NaOH pretreatment with different magnetite nanoparticle (MNP) concentrations was assessed for maximizing the biogas production. In this study, the optimal mixing ratio of MSW and SS codigestion was determined from our previous studies (MSW:SS 60:40). Application of the 6%NaOH pretreatment alone increased biogas and methane production by 24.6 and 35.4%, respectively, compared to the control. Also, the 6%NaOH pretreatment alone elevated cellulose by 85% while reducing lignin and hemicellulose by 64 and 33%, respectively. The greatest biogas and methane production was obtained in the reactor of 6%NaOH with an MNP concentration of 110 ppm, experiencing an 86 and 162% increase compared to the control. The greatest reduction in total solids and volatile solids was also obtained in this digestor by 76.6 and 79%, respectively, compared to the control reactor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ethanolic (EE) and hydroalcoholic (HE) extracts of Urochloa brizantha concentrations were developed with the aim of evaluating their effect on rumen fermentation using an in vitro gas production technique. The EE and HE presented 3.62 and 5.38 mg protodioscin/mL, respectively. Ten treatments were evaluated in a completely randomized factorial arrangement (2 × 4 + 2), where the main effects were two extracts (EE and HE) and four levels (50, 100, 150, and 200 mL of extract/kg of DM) plus two controls: one positive (25 ppm of monensin–MON) and one (with no additives–CTL). The extract treatments (EXT, EE, and HE) reduced colonization time by 33.59% compared to the MON. IVDMD (p < 0.001) and IVOMD (p < 0.0001) were negatively affected by EXT addition when compared to CTL. Additionally, EXT reduced the proportion of propionic acid and increased the proportion of butyric acid in relation to CTL and MON treatments. Both EE and HE extracts of U. brizantha were able to alter rumen fermentation kinetic, with HE showing a higher concentration of protodioscin. Further research is needed to optimize extraction methodologies, comprehensively profile secondary compounds, and conduct trials with varying doses to effectively assess the viability of U. brizantha extract as an additive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concerns are constantly growing about our dependance on plastics derived from fossil feedstock, leading to the development of bio-based alternatives. The bio-based polyester poly(ethylene furanoate) (PEF) has attracted increasing attention from the scientific community due to its potential to replace mass-produced poly(ethylene terephtalate) (PET), mainly used in the packaging, film and fibre sectors. PEF can be 100% bio-based since both its monomers can be produced from biological resources, and exhibits superior properties compared to PET, such as its mechanical and gas barrier properties. As PEF gets closer to being produced at a large scale and entering the plastic market, its end-of-life management should be carefully studied in order to mitigate its environmental footprint. This review focusses on the state-of-the art of the main scenarios related to polymers waste, including mechanical and chemical recycling, composting and incineration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research investigates the extrusion-based fabrication and characterization of nanocomposites derived from bio-sourced polypropylene (PP) and poly(butylene succinate) (PBS: a biodegradable polymer derived from renewable biomass sources such as corn or sugarcane), incorporating Cloisite 20 (C20) clay nanofillers, with a specific focus on their suitability for electrical insulation applications. The research includes biodegradation tests employing the fungus Phanerochaete chrysosporium to evaluate the impact of composition and extrusion conditions. These tests yield satisfactory results, revealing a progressive disappearance of the PBS phase, as corroborated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations and a reduction in the intensity of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) peaks associated with C-OH and C-O-C bonds in PBS. Despite positive effects on various properties (i.e., barrier, thermal, electrical, and mechanical properties, etc.), a high clay content (5 wt%) does not seem to enhance biodegradability significantly, highlighting the specific sensitivity of the PBS phase to the addition of clay during this process. This study provides valuable insights into the complex interplay of factors conditioning nanocomposite biodegradation processes and highlights the need for an integrated approach to understanding these processes. This is the first time that research has focused on studying the degradation of nanocomposites for electrical insulation, utilizing partially bio-sourced materials that contain PBS.

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Liquid metal (LM) droplet‐embedded polymer composites with exceptional thermal, electrical, and mechanical characteristics are attractive for applications in soft electronics and thermal management. Generally, a high volume fraction of LMs is required for desirable thermal and electrical properties, and thus recycling of LMs is favorable and cost effective. However, recycling LMs from composites remains a formidable challenge because the LM droplets are typically dispersed into a permanent covalently crosslinked polymer matrix. Here, a facile synthesis of LM‐polymer composites with high electrical conductivity (1800 S cm−1), high stretchability (1400% tensile strain), as well as degradability and recyclability is reported. The composite comprises a poly(2‐hydroxyethyl acrylate) hydrogel that is physically crosslinked by LM nanodroplets as a polymer matrix and either LM microdroplets or silver microflakes as a conductive filler. A postdrying process improves the mechanical performance of the composite while creating percolating pathways via the rearrangement of the conductive fillers, imparting high electrical conductivity to the composite. Moreover, the composites are readily degraded and dissolved in aqueous alkali solutions at room temperature thanks to the reactive nature of LM crosslinks, enabling high recycling efficiency of ≈80% and 95% for composites with LM microdroplets and silver microflakes as conductive fillers, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conductive hydrogels are becoming one of the most important milestones for the development of new scaffolds, biosensors, supercapacitors, and green electronics within the field of biomedicine. In this work, we study the effect of different types of electroactive additives such as poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene), tannic acid, and carbon quantum dots (CQDs), to form different poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)-based hydrogels with enhanced electrochemical properties. Different physicochemical tests are carried out to characterize the different PVA-based hybrid hydrogels and the rates of their degradation and loss of electroactivity throughout an eight-week biodegradation process. This work shows the individual and synergistic effects of the additives on various mechanical properties, including storage modulus and swelling ratio, and electrochemical properties of the PVA hydrogel. The additives have proven to enhance the electroactivity of the PVA-based hydrogels but as well their degradation. Finally, the use of the new hydrogel as a pressure sensor is also investigated. The study provides an insight on the potential use of CQDs, in synergy with other electroactivity enhancers, in the fabrication of novel hybrid conducting hydrogels in green electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an efficient advanced oxidation process, the Fenton-like reaction provides a promising way toward the degradation of organic pollutants; thus, the development of a highly efficient heterogeneous catalyst is of great significance. Herein, the chemical etching behavior of Fe-Si-B metallic glass (MG) ribbons in a dilute HF solution is studied by varying the etching time. Based on this, the uniform nanoporous (NP) structures are successfully fabricated. The Fe-Si-B MG ribbons after etching for 30, 60, and 90 min still maintain an amorphous structure and possess much larger specific surface areas than untreated Fe-Si-B ribbons. The thicknesses of their nanoporous structures, with a pore size range of tens to hundreds of nanometers, are about 92.0, 180.5, and 223.4 nm, respectively. The formation of the nanoporous structure probably follows the pitting corrosion mechanism, mainly referring to the generation of corrosion pits due to the selective leaching of Si and B and pore growth and integration owing to the selective corrosion of Fe. The Fenton-like system of NPFe/H2O2 exhibits enhanced degradation performance toward methyl orange (MO), primarily due to the high intrinsic catalytic activity of the amorphous structure and the large specific surface areas of nanoporous structures, indicating the great potential application of NPFe in wastewater treatments. The mechanism analysis shows that MO degradation mainly contains two sub-processes: the heterogeneous reaction on the catalyst surface and the homogeneous reaction in MO solution, which exhibit a strong synergistic effect with excellent degradation performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Enteric greenhouse gas (GHG) emission remains a challenge in modern livestock production as it relates environmental perspectives to animal production. In view of this, constant attempts are made to use ingredients that reduce enteric GHG emission and improve energy efficiency. This study aimed to investigate the effect of lupin seeds as a functional feed additive on in vitro ruminal fermentation, and methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Lupin seed lowered the proportion of CH4 in the total biogas production. Also, lupin seed increased fiber digestibility, total short-chain fatty acids, acetic acid, propionic acid, and microbial protein. Lupin seed at 2.0% supplementation increased gas production, enhanced nutrient degradability, and reduced the proportion of methane in every volume of biogas produced. The results suggest that lupin seed can be an ecofriendly ingredient that can be added to ruminant diet. The inevitable enteric gas emission from ruminants is considered a modern-day problem from an environmental perspective. Addressing this problem requires nutritional approaches such as the use of phytogenic additives in ruminant diets. In this regard, lupin seed (LS) can be a useful additive due to its phytochemical constituents. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of lupin (Lupinus angustifolius) seed supplementation as a functional and sustainable feed additive in sheep diet (50:50 concentrate-to-forage ratio) on in vitro gas production (GP; mL/g DM), methane (CH4; mL/g DM) and carbon dioxide (CO2; mL/g DM) emissions, fermentation parameters, and nutrient degradability (g/kg DM incubated). Gas production and CH4 were measured per gram of incubated dry matter (DM), degradable DM (dDM), degradable neutral detergent fiber (dNDF), and degradable acid detergent fiber (dADF). Lupin seeds were included at 0 (control), 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2% of the diet. The seeds contained 3.27% essential oils (DM basis), with eucalyptol as the main phytochemical. The highest GP per gram of DM and dDM was observed (p < 0.01) with 2.0% LS supplementation level. While 1.0% LS had the highest GP per gram of dNDF, 0.5% lupin diet had the highest GP per gram of dADF. Asymptotic GP and CH4 emissions linearly and quadratically increased (p < 0.01) with increasing LS level, while lag time decreased. Despite increased CH4 production, the proportion of CH4 in total biogas was lower (p = 0.008) for LS treatments than the control, with the 0.5% LS showing the lowest CH4 proportion. Production of CO2 increased with lupin seed treatments, with 0.5% LS producing the highest proportion (p = 0.027). Degradability of DM, NDF, and ADF was greater (p < 0.01) for the high LS supplementation level, while 0.5% supplementation level decreased ADF degradability. Total short-chain fatty acids, acetic acid, and propionic acid increased (p < 0.05) with LS supplementation level, leading to a reduced acetate:propionate ratio. Rumen pH decreased (p = 0.036) with LS supplementation, while ammonia-N decreased (p = 0.045) and estimated metabolizable energy increased (p < 0.001) linearly. Calculated microbial protein synthesis (p = 0.005) and gas yield (p = 0.047) increased with LS supplementation level. LS supplementation at 2.0% of diet (DM basis) increased GP and CH4 emission (mL/g DM) and enhanced nutrient degradability, suggesting its potential use as a functional feed additive for ruminants when supplemented at a 2.0% level into diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toward a sustainable development of the flexible electronics industry, the design and facile preparation of sustainable flexible substrates with satisfactory mechanical properties and transparency is still a challenge. Herein, taking structural advantages of biobased eugenol and vanillin, a polymerizable aromatic carbonate monomer with α,ω‐diene functionality (2E), and a robust aromatic acetal monomer with α,ω‐tetraene functionality (4E), are designed and prepared. Then, they are cross‐linked with pentaerythritol tetrakis(2‐mercaptoacetate) (4SH) via thiol‐ene click reaction to generate a series of ternary poly(thioether carbonate acetal) thermosets. It is found that the introduction of 4E allows the production of thiol‐ene thermosets with higher crosslink density, which can balance their mechanical, optical, and surface properties. In addition, the thermoset shows good resistance against various natural environmental conditions and can be decomposed into recyclable small molecules under harsher conditions (3 m NaOH, 80 °C). As a result, the optimal thermoset is well‐suited for the fabrication of flexible organic solar cells (OSCs), yielding a power conversion efficiency of 15.41%, which is superior to polyethylene terephthalate‐based OSC. The results provided significant insights for the design and preparation of sustainable polymer substrates for OSCs, even flexible electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ring-opening addition reaction between a tri-aziridine, pentaerythriyol-tris[3-(1-aziridinyl)propionate] (AZOH) or 2,2-bishydroxymethylbutanol-tris[3-(1-aziridinyl)propionate] (AZ), and a thiol-carboxylic acid, thioglycolic acid (TGA) or thiolactic acid (TLA) or 3-mercaptopropionic acid (MPA), at room temperature in ethyl acetate produced porous polymers. The polymer networks were formed by the ring-opening reactions between the aziridine group of the tri-aziridine compounds with both the carboxylic acid and thiol groups of the thiol-carboxylic acids. The morphology of the porous polymers was composed by connected particles, whose averaged diameters ranged from about 2.5 to 7.5 µm. The reaction of AZOH and MPA under a high monomer concentration (40 wt%) yielded the porous polymer with co-continuous monolithic structure, whose backbone was formed by connected small particles of diameters of less than 0.2 µm. The porous polymers formed with TLA showed higher Young's modulus due to small particle size and high density. The porous polymers showed good thermal stability. All porous polymers were decomposed in methanol within 50 days at room temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment aimed to use an artificial rumen in vitro to compare the differences of parameters of gas production and nutrient degradation in vitro between high amylose corn and normal corn, providing a basis for the efficient utilization of high amylose corn in ruminants. The experiment consisted of two groups: high-amylose corn and normal corn. The fully automatic in vitro simulated rumen fermentation technique was ap‐ plied to measure gas production, methane production, dry matter (DM) degradation rates, and starch degradation rates at 3, 6, 12 h and 24 h of fermentation. Nonlinear fitting functions were used to calculate gas production and nutrient degradation model parameters. The results showed that: ① the gas production and initial substrate degradation rate of high amylose corn were significantly lower than those of normal corn (P<0.05), with a decreasing trend in gas production rate (0.05

With the increasing demand for environmentally friendly and sustainable materials, research on cellulose/bio-based polyester composites has received increasing attention. However, the hydrophilicity of cellulose remains a major factor in its poor interaction with hydrophobic bio-based polyester. To prepare microcrystalline cellulose (MCC)/poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) composite monofilaments with high cellulose content to suppress the deformation of PBS, hexadecyltrimethoxysilane (KH1631) was selected for surface silylation of MCC at a mass ratio of 1:0.5 based on the principle of polarity similarity. The physical–chemical double crosslinking of KH1631 with MCC enhanced the interfacial bonding between MCC and PBS, so composite monofilaments with modified MCC (named mMCC) contents up to 35 wt% were prepared by melt spinning. After thermal stretching, mMCC/PBS composite monofilaments exhibited uniformly distributed microporous structure and double yield behaviors. Despite the continuous decrease in breaking strength (from 210 to 84 MPa) and elastic modulus (from 1380 to 590 MPa) due to the addition of mMCC, the yield strength (116 MPa) of the mMCC/PBS composite monofilaments was consistent with that of PBS when the mMCC addition reached 25 wt%, indicating no impact on usage intensity. Moreover, mMCC/PBS composite monofilaments showed excellent tensile elasticity (up to 95%), excellent fatigue resistance, and low residual strains under small deformation (15%). Notably, the addition of 15–35 wt% mMCC increased the degradability of composite monofilaments, the degradation rate following 100 days of treatment in an aqueous environment ranged from 3.8%(PBS) to 4.7% (P-mM25), and the degradation rate following 180 days of burial in soil ranged from 3.9%(PBS) to 12.3% (P-mM35). Overall, our work significantly enhanced the compatibility between MCC and PBS without the use of any high-cost modifiers or complex processing methods, and successfully developed mMCC/PBS composite monofilaments that exhibit excellent dimensional stability during use and quick degradation after disposal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Today, the increase in the world's population, especially in third-world countries, has caused an increase in the demand for livestock products, which will subsequently require more livestock products and more food resources to meet these needs. The use of waste from factories of agricultural transformation industries in feeding livestock helps to make the cost of breeding more economical. Since cotton by-product is considered a product of cotton ginning factories, it can be said that due to its nutritional value, its use in animal diets is to avoid wasting this huge source of feed. Cotton by-product contains 86.9% dry matter, 12.3% crude protein, 57.7% NDF, 12.2% ash, 1.7% calcium, 0.31% phosphorus, and 1.06% net energy. The results of the studies showed that cotton waste can be used as a source of protein in the diet of fattening animals. This study aimed to assess the effect of feeding different levels of cotton by-products on performance, degradability, rumen fermentation parameters, microbial protein, and microbial population in fattening lambs. Materials and methods: In this study, 24 male Afshari lambs with a mean weight of 30±0.7 kg and a mean age of four months were used in a completely randomized design with four treatments and six replications for 90 days. The experimental treatments included: 1) a diet without cotton by-product (control), 2) a diet containing 33.33% cotton by-product instead of alfalfa, 3) a diet containing 66.66% cotton by-product instead of alfalfa, and 4) a diet containing 100% cotton by-product instead. Hay was based on dry matter. The cotton by-product used in this study was obtained from Mahosh cotton ginning factory located in Razavi Khorasan province, Neyshabur city, Iran. After entering the test site, it was chopped and then mixed with alfalfa in certain percentages; it was consumed by experimental lambs. Growth performance traits including daily feed intake, daily weight gain, and feed conversion ratio were measured during the experiment period. To measure ruminal fermentation parameters and bacteria and protozoa populations, the rumen fluid of the experimental lambs was taken from the rumen on the 90th day of the experiment, three hours after morning feeding using an esophageal tube. To determine urine purine derivatives, the total 24-hour urine production of each animal was collected in a special container under the metabolic cage on five sampling days. The number of three fistulaized Afshari sheep with a mean weight of about 50±2 kg and a mean age of approximately 11 months was used to estimate the parameters of degradability of dry matter, crude protein, and NDF. Results and discussion: The growth performance results showed that replacing 100% cotton by-products instead of dry alfalfa increased feed intake, increased daily weight, and decreased feed conversion ratio (P<0.05). The results of ruminal parameters showed that the treatment containing 66.66 and 100% replacement of cotton byproducts instead of dry alfalfa had the highest concentration of total volatile fatty acids, acetic acid, and acetate to propionate ratio (P<0.05). There was no significant difference between the experimental treatments in the amounts of purine excretion derivatives and microbial protein production. The use of 66.66% of the substitute cotton byproduct instead of dry alfalfa in the diet increased the total population of rumen fluid bacteria (P<0.05) but had no significant effect on the protozoan population. The results of meta-measures of dry matter degradability, crude protein, and NDF showed that there was no significant difference between experimental treatments. Conclusions: The general results of the study showed that replacing cotton by-products by 66.66 or 100% instead of dry alfalfa in the diet improved the performance, increased the bacterial population, and concentration of total volatile fatty acids in the rumen fluid of fattening lambs. The use of cotton by-products can be a suitable substitute for alfalfa in the diet of fattening lambs without negative effects on growth performance and rumen fermentation indices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study evaluated the inclusion of fumaric acid and essential oil blends (EOBs) containing anise, cedarwood, clove, cumin, eucalyptus, garlic, ginger, lavender, lemongrass, nutmeg, oregano, and peppermint at different proportions on in vitro dry matter (DM) disappearance (DMD), fiber fraction disappearance, the efficiency of microbial production, and the total volatile fatty acids (VFAs). Ten treatments without (control treatment) or with different EOB/fumaric combinations were used in the study with eight replicates. The EOB inclusion level was 200 μL/g of feed (total mixed ration, (TMR)) while fumaric acid was administered at 3% of the TMR (DM basis). The highest DMD, in vitro true degradable DM, partitioning factor (PF24), and in vitro apparent degradable DM were recorded for the fumaric only treatment and the control. Neutral detergent fiber disappearance was reduced with the inclusion of EOB/fumaric combinations. The production of microbial mass and undegraded DM were higher (p < 0.001) for all EOBs and EOB and fumaric treatments. The inclusion of EOB and fumaric combinations reduced (p < 0.001) the total gas production, methane, and ammonia, with a higher PF24 value noted for EOB3 treatment. The inclusion of individual EOB1 containing garlic, lemongrass, cumin, lavender, and nutmeg in a ratio of 4:2:2:1:1 or combined with fumaric acid yielded the highest propionate concentration across all treatments. We concluded that EOBs decreased methane production and nutrient degradability with better results with the individual EOB1 or EOB1/fumaric combination, which showed a potential enhancement in energy production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of dry turmeric rhizomes on in vitro biogas production and diet fermentability. Turmeric rhizomes were included at gradually increased levels: 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2% of a diet containing per kg dr matter (DM): 500 g concentrate feed mixture, 400 g berseem hay and 100 g rice straw, and incubated for 48 h. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis showed that ar-turmerone, α-turmerone and β-turmerone were the major bioactive compounds in the rhizomes. Turmeric rhizomes increased (p

Abstract Background Dietary supplements based on tannin extracts or essential oil compounds (EOC) have been repeatedly reported as a promising feeding strategy to reduce the environmental impact of ruminant husbandry. A previous batch culture screening of various supplements identified selected mixtures with an enhanced potential to mitigate ruminal methane and ammonia formation. Among these, Q-2 (named after quebracho extract and EOC blend 2, composed of carvacrol, thymol, and eugenol) and C-10 (chestnut extract and EOC blend 10, consisting of oregano and thyme essential oils and limonene) have been investigated in detail in the present study with the semi-continuous rumen simulation technique (Rusitec) in three independent runs. For this purpose, Q-2 and C-10, dosed according to the previous study, were compared with a non-supplemented diet (negative control, NC) and with one supplemented with the commercial EOC-based Agolin® Ruminant (positive control, PC). Results From d 5 to 10 of fermentation incubation liquid was collected and analysed for pH, ammonia, protozoa count, and gas composition. Feed residues were collected for the determination of ruminal degradability. On d 10, samples of incubation liquid were also characterised for bacterial, archaeal and fungal communities by high-throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA and 26S ribosomal large subunit gene amplicons. Regardless of the duration of the fermentation period, Q-2 and C-10 were similarly efficient as PC in mitigating either ammonia (−37% by Q-2, −34% by PC) or methane formation (−12% by C-10, −12% by PC). The PC was also responsible for lower feed degradability and bacterial and fungal richness, whereas Q-2 and C-10 effects, particularly on microbiome diversities, were limited compared to NC. Conclusions All additives showed the potential to mitigate methane or ammonia formation, or both, in vitro over a period of 10 d. However, several differences occurred between PC and Q-2/C-10, indicating different mechanisms of action. The pronounced defaunation caused by PC and its suggested consequences apparently determined at least part of the mitigant effects. Although the depressive effect on NDF degradability caused by Q-2 and C-10 might partially explain their mitigation properties, their mechanisms of action remain mostly to be elucidated.

Introduction: Nowadays, excessive exploitation of natural resources and excessive grazing of pastures has led to a sharp decrease in feed sources for ruminant animals. Considering the fact that today most of the feed materials needed by livestock are expensive, replacing them with cheaper feed materials, in a way that does not result in a decrease in livestock productivity is of great importance. Oak fruit is one of the cheap feed that can be used in animal feed. Livestock feeding with oak fruit is particularly important due to high production per unit area, non-competition with human nutrition and easy access. The Alborz Mountains in the northern part of the country are covered by oak forests, from Talash forests to Naharkhoran forests in Gorgan, according to the climatic conditions and altitude, there are several species of oak trees. Therefore, considering the abundance of oak fruit in the forests of the central part of Mazandaran province and also the lack of scientific studies on the effects of consumption of oak fruit processed with sodium hydroxide and urea on degradability indicators and microbial protein production, the present study is to investigate the effect different levels of oak fruit processed with sodium hydroxide and urea on ruminal fermentation, morphology, ruminal degradability and microbial protein synthesis in crossed Zell and Atabai fattening male lambs.Material and Methods: In the first study, from the number of 20 fattening male lambs mixed with Zel and Atabai with an mean age of 5.5±0.38 months and an initial weight of 27±0.4 kg in a completely randomized design with 4 treatments and 5 repetitions for 90 The day was used. The experimental treatments included the control group (no oak fruit + polyethylene glycol) and treatments containing levels of 10, 20 and 40% in the dry matter of oak fruit processed with sodium hydroxide and urea in the diet. In the second study, the number of 3 fistulaized Zell sheep with mean weight of about 40 kg and an average age of approximately 10 months were used to estimate the parameters of degradability. The oak fruit used in this study was randomly collected from oak trees of the Bolandmazo species (Quercus castaneifolia C. A. Mey) in different forest areas of Mazandaran province from late summer to early autumn. Data obtained were analyzed by statistical software SAS (version 1.9).Results and Discussion: The results of rumen fermentation parameters showed that there was a significant difference between experimental treatments in ammonia nitrogen, total volatile fatty acids, bacterial population and protozoa of rumen fluid (P

Abstract Biodegradable porous Mg scaffolds are a promising approach to bone repair. In this work, 3D-spherical porous Mg–1.5Zn–0.2Ca (wt.%) scaffolds were prepared by vacuum infiltration casting technology, and MgF2 and fluorapatite coatings were designed to control the degradation behavior of Mg-based scaffolds. The results showed that the pores in Mg-based scaffolds were composed of the main spherical pores (450–600 μm) and interconnected pores (150–200 μm), and the porosity was up to 74.97%. Mg-based porous scaffolds exhibited sufficient mechanical properties with a compressive yield strength of about 4.04 MPa and elastic modulus of appropriately 0.23 GPa. Besides, both MgF2 coating and fluorapatite coating could effectively improve the corrosion resistance of porous Mg-based scaffolds. In conclusion, this research would provide data support and theoretical guidance for the application of biodegradable porous Mg-based scaffolds in bone tissue engineering. Graphical Abstract

Background and Aim: Dietary supplements play pivotal roles in promoting productive and reproductive performance in ruminant animals. The aims of the present study were to evaluate the effects of extruded flaxseed and Salmate® (Ballard Group, Inc, OH, USA) inclusion in diets on milk yield and composition, ruminal degradation and fermentation, and flow of fluids and digesta in lactating cattle. Materials and Methods: Six rumen-fistulated Holstein lactating cows were distributed to a 6 × 6 design of Latin square (L.S.). The groups were assorted into a control group fed a basal control diet and two treated groups fed diets containing extruded flaxseed (7.0%) or Salmate® (25 g/head/day). The basal control, extruded flaxseed, and Salmate® diets were formulated as isonitrogenous and isoenergetic. Each L.S. period of the group comprised 21 days, including 10 days for adaptation to the diet and 11 days for data sampling and recording. Results: Feed intake did not differ among the control, extruded flaxseed, and Salmate® groups. Milk yield (kg) and protein and fat composition (%) were improved on feeding the extruded flaxseed diet compared with the Salmate® and control diets. Extruded flaxseed or Salmate® diet had no effect on the values of ruminal pH, ammonia, and volatile fatty acids except isobutyrate, which decreased in the Salmate® group. Degradable efficiency and ruminal digestibility were significantly decreased with the inclusion of extruded flaxseed and/or Salmate® in the diets. The extruded flaxseed and Salmate® groups had a greater digesta passage rate than the control group. The extruded flaxseed and control groups had a greater liquid passage rate than the Salmate® group. Conclusion: The inclusion of extruded flaxseed in the diet improved (p < 0.05) milk yield, milk composition, and milk Omega-6: Omega-3 ratio with no changes in ruminal fermentation, notable negative effects on degradable efficiency and ruminal digestibility.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of chemical treatments of almond hulls (AH) issued from two mediterranean countries (Tunisia and Palestine) on chemical composition, gas production (GP), methane (CH4), and in vitro ruminal fermentation. Treatments included AH untreated, AH supplemented with PEG, treated with NaOH, and with urea for 40 d. Significant (P

In this study, it was aimed to determine the effects of different starch sources on ruminal fermentation and in situ digestibility characteristics and some blood parameters in cows. In the study, three different total mixed rations (TMR) with similar energy, protein and starch contents were prepared and these TMR's formed the groups of the experiment. The main starch sources of the TMR's were from the barley, wheat, and corn grains, respectively. The study was carried out as two consecutive trails using 3 non-lactating Holstein female cattle with rumen cannulate within a 3 × 3 Latin square trial design. These TMRs were fed at ad libitum and then nutrient intakes, ruminal fermentation (pH, acetic, propionic, butyric, and lactic acids), some serum (urea, glucose, total protein, albumin, triglyceride) and blood gas parameters (pH, pCO2, pO2, HCO3-, Na+, K+, Ca++, Cl-, anion gap, lactate) were determined. Also, in situ dry matter and starch degradability were carried out in these animals. Nutrient intakes of cows fed different TMRs were similar (P>0.05), except neutral detergent fiber (NDF) intake (P<0.05). Both ruminal fermentation, serum and blood gas parameters did not change among treatment groups (P>0.05). As a result, it was determined that there were no serious changes in the ruminal fluid, serum, and blood gas parameter values of the subjects due to the content difference of the trial TMR's. On the other hand, it was determined that in situ dry matter (DM) and starch degradability of barley and wheat were significantly different among cereal grains, ruminal DM and starch degradability of corn followed a slower, stable, and gradual increase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To enrich the properties of polylactic acid (PLA)-based composite films and improve the base degradability, in this study, a certain amount of poly(propylene carbonate) (PPC) was added to PLA-based composite films, and PLA/PPC-based composite films were prepared by melt blending and hot-press molding. The effects of the introduction of PPC on the composite films were analyzed through in-depth studies on mechanical properties, water vapor and oxygen transmission rates, thermal analysis, compost degradability, and bacterial inhibition properties of the composite films. When the introduction ratio coefficient of PPC was 30%, the tensile strength of the composite film increased by 19.68%, the water vapor transmission coefficient decreased by 14.43%, and the oxygen transmission coefficient decreased by 18.31% compared to that of the composite film without PPC, the cold crystallization temperature of the composite film increased gradually from 96.9 °C to 104.8 °C, and PPC improved the crystallization ability of composite film. The degradation rate of the composite film with PPC increased significantly compared to the previous one, and the degradation rate increased with the increase in the PPC content. The degradation rate was 49.85% and 46.22% faster on average than that of the composite film without PPC when the degradation was carried out over 40 and 80 days; the composite film had certain inhibition, and the maximum diameter of the inhibition circle was 2.42 cm. This study provides a strategy for the development of PLA-based biodegradable laminates, which can promote the application of PLA-based laminates in food packaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Seasonal variations between the rain and dry seasons are the main obstacle to agricultural productivity in tropical regions, making it essential to conserve surplus for periods of scarcity. One of the limiting factors in ensiling grasses is moisture, requiring the use of additives or withering. Using a mixture of grasses and legumes can be an alternative to balance the advantages and disadvantages of both in the ensiling process, and mata-pasto hay (MPH) can be an option. Aims: This study evaluated different forms of Tanzania grass (Megathyrsus maximum) and MPH silages, as well as silages with increasing levels of MPH. Methods: Silages of Tanzania grass and MPH in their natural form, as well as silages with increasing doses of MPH, were evaluated for nutritional value, degradability in situ. The microbiology was also evaluated. Key results: Among the types of silages, natural MPH and wilted MPH were superior to natural Tanzania grass silage. The use of MPH in Tanzania grass silages improves fermentation processes, the population of beneficial microorganisms, resulting in better nutritional value of these silages. Conclusions: Natural and wilted MPH hay silages are qualitatively better compared to natural Tanzania grass silage. Increasing doses of MPH improve the quality of the silage. A recommended dose is 30% of MPH hay. Implications: Adding MPH to silages is a way to reduce the negative impacts of this weed on pastures. However, further studies with the use of complementary additives are needed. The seasonality between the rainy and dry seasons is a challenge for tropical agriculture. This study evaluated different forms of ensiling Tanzania grass (Megathyrsus maximum) and forest pasture hay (FPH) aiming to improve the conservation and nutritional value of silages. Results showed that the use of 30% FPH improved the fermentative processes and the nutritional value of the silages. This strategy can reduce the negative impacts of weeds on pastures, although further research is needed for complementary additives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduced the influence of the viscosity, conductivity, surface tension of solution, and volatility of solvent on the electrospinning preparation of nanofiber film, classification of electrospinning techieques and the gelatin⁃based nanofiber film using degradable gelatin and other substances as raw materials. The applications of electrospun gelatin⁃based nanofiber films in the edible, antibacterial and antioxidant films, tissue engineering, nanofiber dressing, and filtration were introduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dietary supplements based on tannin extracts or essential oil compounds (EOC) have been repeatedly reported as a promising feeding strategy to reduce the environmental impact of ruminant husbandry. A previous batch culture screening of various supplements identified selected mixtures with an enhanced potential to mitigate ruminal methane and ammonia formation. Among these, Q-2 (named after quebracho extract and EOC blend 2, composed of carvacrol, thymol, and eugenol) and C-10 (chestnut extract and EOC blend 10, consisting of oregano and thyme essential oils and limonene) have been investigated in detail in the present study with the semi-continuous rumen simulation technique (Rusitec) in three independent runs. For this purpose, Q-2 and C-10, dosed according to the previous study, were compared with a non-supplemented diet (negative control, NC) and with one supplemented with the commercial EOC-based Agolin® Ruminant (positive control, PC). Results: From d 5 to 10 of fermentation incubation liquid was collected and analysed for pH, ammonia, protozoa count, and gas composition. Feed residues were collected for the determination of ruminal degradability. On d 10, samples of incubation liquid were also characterised for bacterial, archaeal and fungal communities by high-throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA and 26S ribosomal large subunit gene amplicons. Regardless of the duration of the fermentation period, Q-2 and C-10 were similarly efficient as PC in mitigating either ammonia (−37% by Q-2, −34% by PC) or methane formation (−12% by C-10, −12% by PC). The PC was also responsible for lower feed degradability and bacterial and fungal richness, whereas Q-2 and C-10 effects, particularly on microbiome diversities, were limited compared to NC. Conclusions: All additives showed the potential to mitigate methane or ammonia formation, or both, in vitro over a period of 10 d. However, several differences occurred between PC and Q-2/C-10, indicating different mechanisms of action. The pronounced defaunation caused by PC and its suggested consequences apparently determined at least part of the mitigant effects. Although the depressive effect on NDF degradability caused by Q-2 and C-10 might partially explain their mitigation properties, their mechanisms of action remain mostly to be elucidated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Nowadays, excessive exploitation of natural resources and excessive grazing of pastures has led to a sharp decrease in feed sources for ruminant animals. Considering the fact that today most of the feed materials needed by livestock are expensive, replacing them with cheafa feed materials, in a way that does not result in a decrease in livestock productivity is of great importance. Oak fruit is one of the cheap feed that can be used in animal feed. Livestock feeding with oak fruit is particularly important due to high production fa unit area, non-competition with human nutrition and easy access. The Alborz Mountains in the northern part of the country are covered by oak forests, from Talash forests to Naharkhoran forests in Gorgan, according to the climatic conditions and altitude, there are several species of oak trees. Therefore, considering the abundance of oak fruit in the forests of the central part of Mazandaran province and also the lack of scientific studies on the effects of consumption of oak fruit processed with sodium hydroxide and urea on degradability indicators and microbial protein production, the present study is to investigate the effect different levels of oak fruit processed with sodium hydroxide and urea on ruminal fermentation, morphology, ruminal degradability and microbial protein synthesis in crossed Zell and Atabai fattening male lambs.Material and Methods: In the first study, from the number of 20 fattening male lambs mixed with Zel and Atabai with an mean age of 5.5±0.38 months and an initial weight of 27±0.4 kg in a completely randomized design with 4 treatments and 5 repetitions for 90 The day was used. The exfaimental treatments included the control group (no oak fruit + polyethylene glycol) and treatments containing levels of 10, 20 and 40% in the dry matter of oak fruit processed with sodium hydroxide and urea in the diet. In the second study, the number of 3 fistulaized Zell sheep with mean weight of about 40 kg and an average age of approximately 10 months were used to estimate the parameters of degradability. The oak fruit used in this study was randomly collected from oak trees of the Bolandmazo species (Quercus castaneifolia C. A. Mey) in different forest areas of Mazandaran province from late summer to early autumn. Data obtained were analyzed by statistical software SAS (version 1.9).Results and Discussion: The results of rumen fermentation parameters showed that there was a significant difference between exfaimental treatments in ammonia nitrogen, total volatile fatty acids, bacterial population and protozoa of rumen fluid (P<0.05). The highest and lowest concentrations of ammonia nitrogen were observed in the control group and the 20% processed oak fruit treatment, respectively. In the concentration of total volatile fatty acids, the treatment of 20% of processed oak fruit had the highest concentration and the treatment of 40% of processed oak fruit had the lowest concentration. There was no significant difference between the exfaimental treatments in the results of the morphological characteristics of the rumen villi. Degradability parameters of dry matter and crude protein were determined under the influence of exfaimental treatments (P<0.05). In the parameters of degradability of dry matter and crude protein, rapidly degraded fraction, constant rate of degradation and effective degradability with different passage rate had significant differences between exfaimental treatments (P<0.05). In dry matter degradability parameters, the control group and the treatment group of 40% processed oak fruit had the highest and lowest value of rapidly degraded fraction and constant rate of degradation, respectively. The results of gas production parameters showed that there was a significant difference between exfaimental treatments in gas production potential, short chain acids, digestibility of organic matter and metabolizable energy (P<0.05). The results of excretion of purine derivatives and microbial protein production showed that there was a significant difference between the exfaimental treatments in the amounts of excreted allantoin, xanthine+hypoxanthine, excreted purine derivatives, absorbed purine derivatives and microbial protein (P<0.05).Conclusion: The general results of the current research showed that an increase in the concentration of volatile fatty acids, degradability of dry matter and crude protein, as well as the production of microbial protein was observed with consumption of 40% processed oak fruit. Also, an increase in the population of ruminal fluid bacteria and protozoa was observed in the treatment of 20% processed oak fruit. In general, it is recommended to use the level of 40% of processed oak fruit in feeding fattening lambs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa willd.) is a dual-purpose crop for grain and forage production. Quinoa has excellent properties such as low water requirement for growth, resistance to drought, salinity and nutritional good quality, which are the reason for the great interest in Iran. The objective of this study was to investigate the performance of quinoa forage and determine its digestibility in dried and ensiled forms. Material and methods: Three genotypes of quinoa forage (Sejama, Titicaca and Q12) were used in a completely randomized design in dry in the shade and silage forms. All genotypes were sown at the same time and harvested at the time dough of seeds and then were calculated performance of quinoa forage. The harvested forages were chopped and one part was dried in the shade and the other part was ensiled during 60 days in experimental silos. The silages were appearance characteristics evaluated after opening the silos. The samples were ground to pass a 1-mm screen, and then were used for evaluation of rumen degradability and rumen disappearance of dry matter (via incubating the samples inside the bag (pores 50 micrometers) in the rumen of steers and post-ruminal disappearance of dry matter (via incubating the samples inside the bag in the DAISYII incubator). The samples were incubated in the rumen using polyester bags. All variables were statistically analyzed in a completely randomized design by the Statistical Analysis Systems (SAS). Results: The results show that, the duration of sowing to the dough stage of seeds was 60 days in Kerman condition, and wet plant yield for Sejama, Titicaca and Q12 genotypes were 34500, 30400 and 36610 kg/ha respectively. The appearance characteristics of silages were in an acceptable condition and were scored 16.75, 17.50 and 18.13 for Sejama, Titicaca and Q12 genotypes respectively in a 0 to 20 scoring system (P<0.01). The average of ruminal and gastro intestinal tract DM disappearance varied between 64.64 to 69.86 % and 69.64 to 75.19 % respectively (P<0.01). Furthermore, rapidly degradable DM fraction (a), in dried forage was lower (39.65 vs. 45.23%) than in ensiled forage, and slowly degradable DM fraction (b) and rate constant of degradation of the b fraction (c) in dried forage was higher (41.46 vs. 36.39% and 0.079 vs. 0.063 per hour respectively) than ensiled forage (P<0.01). Conclusion: In general, the results have shown that quinoa forage had an acceptable digestibility and can be used as a substitution feedstuff with low water requirement in ruminant nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Integration of polylactic acid (PLA) textiles with conductive MXene holds great promise for fabricating green electronic textiles (e-textiles) and reducing the risk of electronic waste. However, constructing robust conductive networks on PLA fibers remains challenging due to the susceptibility of MXene to oxidation and the hydrophobicity of PLA fibers. Here, we demonstrate a versatile, degradable, and durable e-textile by decorating the deep eutectic solvent (DES) micro-etched PLA textile with MXene and sericin-modified carbon nanotube hybrid (MXene@SSCNT). The co-assembly of MXene with SSCNT in water not only enhanced its oxidative stability but also formed synergistic conductive networks with biomimetic leaf-like nanostructures on PLA fiber. Consequently, the MXene@SSCNT coated PLA textile (MCP-textile) exhibited high electrical conductivity (5.5 Ω·sq-1), high electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding efficiency (34.20 dB over X-band), excellent electrical heating performance (66.8 ℃, 5 V), and sensitive humidity response. Importantly, the interfacial bonding between the MXene@SSCNT and fibers was significantly enhanced by DES micro-etching, resulting in superior wash durability of MCP-textile. Furthermore, the MCP-textile also showed satisfactory breathability, flame retardancy, and degradability. Given these outstanding features, MCP-textile can serve as a green and versatile e-textile with tremendous potential in EMI shielding, personal thermal management, and respiratory monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Dietary supplements play pivotal roles in promoting productive and reproductive performance in ruminant animals. The aims of the present study were to evaluate the effects of extruded flaxseed and Salmate® (Ballard Group, Inc, OH, USA) inclusion in diets on milk yield and composition, ruminal degradation and fermentation, and flow of fluids and digesta in lactating cattle. Materials and Methods: Six rumen-fistulated Holstein lactating cows were distributed to a 6 × 6 design of Latin square (L.S.). The groups were assorted into a control group fed a basal control diet and two treated groups fed diets containing extruded flaxseed (7.0%) or Salmate® (25 g/head/day). The basal control, extruded flaxseed, and Salmate® diets were formulated as isonitrogenous and isoenergetic. Each L.S. period of the group comprised 21 days, including 10 days for adaptation to the diet and 11 days for data sampling and recording. Results: Feed intake did not differ among the control, extruded flaxseed, and Salmate® groups. Milk yield (kg) and protein and fat composition (%) were improved on feeding the extruded flaxseed diet compared with the Salmate® and control diets. Extruded flaxseed or Salmate® diet had no effect on the values of ruminal pH, ammonia, and volatile fatty acids except isobutyrate, which decreased in the Salmate® group. Degradable efficiency and ruminal digestibility were significantly decreased with the inclusion of extruded flaxseed and/or Salmate® in the diets. The extruded flaxseed and Salmate® groups had a greater digesta passage rate than the control group. The extruded flaxseed and control groups had a greater liquid passage rate than the Salmate® group. Conclusion: The inclusion of extruded flaxseed in the diet improved (p < 0.05) milk yield, milk composition, and milk Omega-6: Omega-3 ratio with no changes in ruminal fermentation, notable negative effects on degradable efficiency and ruminal digestibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The features of the degradation of the ''green'' plastic poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) [P(3HB)] in the soil of various geographical regions were studied: in red ferralitic soil under tropical conditions (Kerala, India) and in chernozem soil under conditions of a sharply continental climate (Eastern Siberia, Russia). Significant differences in the chemical composition, temperature, and humidity of the studied soils were revealed. The number of bacteria and mycelial fungi in the Siberian chernozem was higher than in the red soil of India, from 2-3 to 10 or more times. The degradation of P(3HB) films in the chernozem occurred faster than in the red soil, which was drier, with a low content of humus and minerals, and fewer microorganisms than the chernozem. The half-life of polymer samples in Siberia and India was 64.8 and 126.4 days, respectively. During degradation, a decrease in the molecular weight and an increase in the degree of crystallinity of polymer samples were revealed, which indicates a more active biodegradation of the amorphous phase of the polymer by soil microorganisms. The primary degraders of the polymer have been isolated and identified, and it has been shown that the complexes of degrading bacteria and fungi in different types of soils did not have common species. Despite the presence of species with pronounced depolymerase activity, the rate of film degradation in red ferralitic soils was slowed down by unfavorable environmental conditions. The obtained results confirm the importance of studying the process of PHA degradation in natural conditions.

Polylactide (PLA) is a promising biopolymer from renewable resources but its brittleness and poor gas barrier properties limit flexible packaging applications. Therefore, in this work PLA was blended with a biobased rubbery poly(pentamethylene furanoate) (PPeF), acting as a toughening agent, and a commercial epoxy-functionalized compatibilizer (i.e., Joncryl® ADR-4468) was added to improve the interfacial interaction. The effect of PPeF loading (1–30 wt %) on phase morphology, mechanical properties, oxygen permeability, and degradability in compost was characterized. All blends displayed a sea-island morphology with refined PPeF domains upon compatibilization. Incorporating PPeF induced major tensile ductility enhancements from 5 % strain at break for neat PLA up to 200 % for the blend with 30 wt % PPeF, accompanied by progressive stiffness and strength declines. Through the application of the essential work of fracture (EWF) approach on the prepared films, the specific essential work of fracture (we) was seen climbing from 6.2 to 40.0 kJ/m2 with rising PPeF content, confirming its effectiveness as a toughness enhancer. PPeF contributed to increase the UV- and gas barrier properties of PLA. For example, the oxygen permeability dropped by 37 % for the blend with 30 wt % PPeF. Moreover, compost burial tests also revealed 26 % weight loss of PPeF after 60 days, proving its biodegradability. Hence, finely dispersed PPeF domains induced synergistic property improvements, making PLA/PPeF blends a promising sustainable option for flexible and biodegradable packaging.

The durability and degradability of evaporitic rocks are always a critical concern in geological, civil, and geotechnical engineering applications, necessitating careful consideration for reliable, secure, and sustainable construction. This dataset is based on a comprehensive collection of geotechnical data involving both mechanical and physical properties as well as geochemical analyses for the evaporitic rocks in Abu Dhabi and its vicinity. The purpose of this dataset is to be an important source for construction professionals, engineers, and decision-makers in the region by providing basic insights into the challenges associated with building projects on and in evaporitic rocks. This data is obtained from extensive field investigations and laboratory analyses and will help to ensure that construction activities are carried out safely and efficiently when dealing with evaporitic rock formations. The prevalence of evaporitic rocks in Abu Dhabi highlights the importance of this geotechnical data compilation in facilitating informed decision-making and supporting safe construction.

Peng Guo,1,&ast; Chi Huang,2,&ast; Qin Yang,1 Guofeng Zhong,1 Junbo Zhang,1 Mengyu Qiu,1 Rui Zeng,3 Kaijun Gou,3 Chen Zhang,1 Yan Qu1 1State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Pharmacy, Jiang’an Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yibin, 644200, People’s Republic of China; 3Institute of Tibetan Plateau, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, 610225, People’s Republic of China&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Yan Qu; Chen Zhang, State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, People’s Republic of China, Email quyan028@126.com; chenzhang_1990@126.comAbstract: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by chronic joint inflammation, eventually leading to severe disability and premature death. At present, the treatment of RA is mainly to reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain. Commonly used drugs are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), glucocorticoids, and disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs). These drugs lack specificity and require long-term, high-dose administration, which can cause serious adverse effects. In addition, the oral, intravenous, and intra-articular injections will reduce patient compliance, resulting in high cost and low bioavailability. Due to these limitations, microneedles (MNs) have emerged as a new strategy to efficiently localize the drugs in inflamed joints for the treatment of RA. MNs can overcome the cuticle barrier of the skin without stimulating nerves and blood vessels. Which can increase patient compliance, improve bioavailability, and avoid systemic circulation. This review summarizes and evaluates the application of MNs in RA, especially dissolving MNs (DMNs). We encourage the use of MNs to treat RA, by describing the general properties of MNs, materials, preparation technology, drug release mechanism, and advantages. Furthermore, we discussed the biological safety, development prospects, and future challenges of MNs, hoping to provide a new strategy for the treatment of RA. Keywords: rheumatoid arthritis, dissolving microneedles, transdermal delivery system, degradability, biosafety

The addition of Ca2MgSi2O7 to CaSiO3 bioceramics was investigated in order to modify the dissolution rate of CaSiO3. A series of CaSiO3–xCa2MgSi2O7 composite ceramics with x values of 2, 5, 10, and 20 wt% have been successfully obtained. The effects of Ca2MgSi2O7 addition on CaSiO3–Ca2MgSi2O7 ceramics degradation behavior and apatite formation were comprehensively investigated by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The results showed that the dissolution rate of the achieve system ceramics gradually decreased in succession, and the apatite-forming was delayed by the addition of Ca2MgSi2O7. The suitable dissolution rate and apatite-forming ability of CaSiO3–Ca2MgSi2O7 bioceramics can be expected, indicating that the addition of Ca2MgSi2O7 to CaSiO3 bioceramics may be a promising route for modifying the dissolution behavior and apatite-forming ability of CaSiO3 bioceramics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A degradable superabsorbent polymer of corn stover cellulose graft polyacrylic acid (CSC-g・ PAA) by solution polymerization using com stover cellulose(CSC) and acrylic acid(AA) as raw materials. The structure and morphology of CSC-g-PAA were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy(FTIR) and thermogravimetric analysis(TGA)・ The water holding, water retention and degradability of CSC-g-PAA in soil were studied・ The results showed that the water absorption rate of CSC-g-PAA in deionized water could reach 702・ 89 g/g, and that of CSC・g・PAA after five cycles was about 47. 27% of the irdtial water absorption rate; the water holding rate of soil containing CSC-g-PAA content of 3% was 70. 51%, and after 36 d, the water retention rate was 15. 50%; the degradation rate of CSC-g-PAA was 24. 14% after 50 d・ The maximum loading rate of urea by liquid impregnation method is 81.76% ・ CSC-g-PAA Loaded with urea has slow-release effect on the release of urea in deionized water, and its slow-release performance accords w让h Mt/M = Kf model・ Obviously, CSC■幻 PAA can integrate the functions of water absorption, water retention, nutrient loading and slow release, which has great potential of saving water, reducing fertilizer application and increasing efficiency in agricultural productio n. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial ligament products exhibit various drawbacks in clinical applications, including non-degradability, stress shielding, mid-to long-term fatigue relaxation, and chronic inflammation. Therefore, the development of biodegradable artificial ligament materials with excellent mechanical properties represents the future direction of new-generation artificial ligaments. In the present study, an artificial ligament (AL) prototype with "shell-core" structure was designed through the use of silk fibroin fibers as raw materials, and AL was coated with polyurethane(PU) solution mixed with nanohydroxyapatite( Hap) to obtain coated artificial ligament (CAL) materials. Furthermore, morphology, microstructure, mechanical properties, degradability, cell and tissue compatibility of the CAL were systematically characterized. The results demonstrate a regular "shell-core" structure, smooth surface, and uniform pores. Compared to AL, the mechanical properties of the CAL were significantly improved(P<0.05), and the degradation rate in vitro was significantly delayed. Furthermore, the results of cell and tissue compatibility tests indicate that the CAL exhibits satisfactory cell and tissue compatibility, and mild inflammatory reaction. This study provides a theoretical basis and practical reference for development of new high-strength biodegradable artificial ligament products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While available treatments have addressed a variety of complications in the dentoalveolar region, associated challenges have resulted in exploration of tissue engineering techniques. Often, scaffold biomaterials with specific properties are required for such strategies to be successful, development of which is an active area of research. This study focuses on the development of a copolymer of poly (N-isopropylacrylamide) (pNIPAM) and chitosan, used for 3D printing of scaffolds for dentoalveolar regeneration. The synthesized material was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and the possibility of printing was evaluated through various printability tests. The rate of degradation and swelling was analyzed through gravimetry, and surface morphology was characterized by scanning electron microscopy. Viability of dental pulp stem cells seeded on the scaffolds was evaluated by live/dead analysis and DNA quantification. The results demonstrated successful copolymerization, and three formulations among various synthesized formulations were successfully 3D printed. Up to 35% degradability was confirmed within 7 days, and a maximum swelling of approximately 1200% was achieved. Furthermore, initial assessment of cell viability demonstrated biocompatibility of the developed scaffolds. While further studies are required to achieve the tissue engineering goals, the present results tend to indicate that the proposed hydrogel might be a valid candidate for scaffold fabrication serving dentoalveolar tissue engineering through 3D printing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Few studies have evaluated the impact of a lipid-rich diet with palmitic acid (PA) in ruminal fermentation. The objective was to evaluate the in vitro bath culture of the protected PA on the ruminal fermentative variables. Four diets were used: (a) without protected PA (nPA) and (b) inclusion of protected PA at three levels: PA3 = 3%, PA6 = 6%, and PA9 = 9% dry matter (DM). The maximum gas production occurred without including protected PA and the low gas production given with the inclusion of protected PA9 (p ≤ 0.05). Meanwhile, the inclusion with 3 and 6% of protected PA showed a higher level of gas production kinetics than the other treatments (p ≤ 0.05). DM and organic matter degradation after 72 h of incubation linearly decreased (p ≤ 0.05) with a high level of protected PA. The level of C16:0 in the protected AP increased with the higher level of supplemented AP (p ≤ 0.05). The best efficiency in propionic acid, decrease in methane, and increase in biohydrogenation (79%) occurred with the inclusion of protected PA3 (p ≤ 0.05). In conclusion, supplements with protected PA at 3 and 6% increased PA availability. The results indicate good benefits of protected PA on fermentative variables, and these doses seem ideal for future research in lactating goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Purpose: Biodegradable mulch film is considered an environmentally friendly alternative to non-biodegradable-based mulch film for agricultural use. The purpose of this study is to compare the environmental impact of non-biodegradable mulch film to biodegradable mulch films for use in Nordic conditions, including assessing their plastic pollution potential. Methods: A life cycle assessment was conducted to calculate the potential environmental impacts of the films, while the plastic pollution potential was assessed with a dynamic material flow analysis, considering degradation over time and fate to various environmental compartments. The plastic pollution potential was based on empirical degradation data in Nordic conditions. Results and discussion: The results of the LCA and MFA analyses show that the use of non-biodegradable material in Nordic conditions leads to the lowest environmental impacts and pollution if it is fully collected after use. In fact, biodegradable mulch film leads to higher environmental impacts over its life cycle in most environmental impact categories. However, comparing environmental burdens from non-biodegradable and biodegradable mulch film is difficult due to the lack of data on biodegradable films. The results further highlight that biodegradable films will reach a dynamic equilibrium (a plateau phase) in soils in Nordic conditions between the degradation of old film and the application of new film, if not enough time is given for the films to entirely degrade. Farmers would need to apply biodegradable films with several years of interval, if the films should be entirely degraded. Conclusions: This study supports the recommendations that biodegradable plastic has potential when used as mulch film, but these recommendations should be situation-specific, depending on farmers' ability to handle the mulch film properly. The authors highlight that the LCA results are uncertain due to limited data availability and encourage the biodegradable plastic industry to be more transparent by making their LCIA data available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a widely used plastic, but its short service life and non‐degradable features make it a major source of white pollution. In this context, the efficient recycling and rational reuse of PET have become a global research priority. In this paper, a deep eutectic solvent（DES）is prepared using methylurea and zinc chloride to catalyze the efficient PET glycolysis, which produces a high purity product bis(2‐hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (BHET), in 83.75% of yield. The product is condensed with diethyl adipate to produce Poly (ethyleneadipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PEAT). The relationships between the structural, thermal, mechanical, and degradation properties of PEAT with different intrinsic viscosities and composition ratios are studied. The addition of benzene ring improves the thermal properties and tensile strength of PEAT, but also makes them stiffer and less degradable. An increase in intrinsic viscosity can improve the thermal and mechanical properties to some extent but has little effect on the degradation. In general, the PEAT produced by the above process has good thermal properties, controllable degradation properties, and better mechanical properties than Poly (butyleneadipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT). This work achieves the conversion of waste PET to high value‐added PEAT and has potential development prospects in recycling of PET. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to synthesis biocomposite material that was more bioactive and could be employed as a graft during bone formation. Cordierite was fabricated via sintering a mixture of 51.4% silicon oxide, 34.8% aluminum oxide, and 13.8% magnesium oxide at 1400 °C. The produced substance was identified using X-ray Diffraction (XRD), the patterns showed that just indialite was identified as a single phase. To formulate sample with supreme biological behavior, cordierite was added to hydroxyapatite in 30 wt% and then sintered at 1100 °C. Following, XRD reveals the emergence of the Mg-whitlockite phase. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) had been employed to investigate their morphology and the effect of treatment temperatures. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) employed to assess if there is chemical reaction between cordierite and hydroxyapatite was tack placed. Prepared ceramic powder used as reinforcing phase with 30, 40 and 50 wt% in PCL matrix to formulate biocomposite system. All samples were inspected via SEM to determine their microstructure. FTIR showed there is no chemical reaction occurred between PCL and ceramic powder and it was just a physical blending. Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) showed that Z40 exhibits the better composition, as compared with other samples, in terms of Ca/P ratio. Z40 hybrid composite promotes the better results in terms of microstructure and chemical composition. Also, employed better in vitro behavior represented by degradation rate that equal to 39.86%. The produced grafts shaped the maxillary sinus better, support displaced sinus mucosa, and fill the voids between the sinus floor bone wall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]