Assessing and optimizing the bioactivities of diverse enzyme-derived protein hydrolysates from Porphyra yezoensis: unlocking the health potential.

The interest in algae-derived bioactive compounds has grown due to their potential therapeutic efficacy against a range of diseases. These compounds, derived from proteins, exhibit diverse functions and profound pharmacological effects. Recent research has highlighted the extensive health benefits of algae-derived bioactive compounds, positioning them as potential natural antioxidants in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. This study focuses on extracting proteins from Porphyra yezoensis using innovative physical pre-treatment methods such as stirring, ball milling, and homogenization, under various acidic and alkaline conditions. Enzymatic hydrolysis, employing commercial enzymes at optimal temperature, pH, and enzyme-substrate ratios, produced distinct fractions according to molecular weight. Pepsin demonstrated the highest hydrolysis rate, with the fraction above 10 kDa identified as the most bioactive hydrolysate. Antioxidant activity was evaluated through DPPH, ABTS, ferrous ion chelation, and reducing power assays, demonstrating high antioxidant potential and the ability to mitigate oxidative stress. The 10 kDa fraction of pepsin hydrolysate exhibited 82.6% DPPH activity, 77.5% ABTS activity, 88.4% ferrous ion chelation activity, and higher reducing power potential (0.84 absorbance at 700 nm). Further exploration of mechanisms, amino acid profiles, and potential in vivo benefits is essential to fully exploit the medicinal potential of these algae-derived hydrolysates.

In vitro evaluation of antioxidant potential of polysaccharides and oligosaccharides extracted from three different seaweeds.

Bioactive polysaccharides and oligosaccharides were successfully extracted from three distinct seaweeds: Sargassum sp., Graciallaria sp., and Ulva sp. utilizing various extraction techniques. The obtained polysaccharides and oligosaccharides were subjected to comprehensive characterization, and their potential antioxidant properties were assessed using a Hep G2 cell model. Analysis via FTIR spectroscopy unveiled the presence of sulfate groups in the polysaccharides and oligosaccharides derived from Sargassum sp. The antioxidant capabilities were assessed through various assays (DPPH, ABTS, Fe-ion chelation, and reducing power), revealing that SAR-OSC exhibited superior antioxidant activity than others. This was attributed to its higher phenolic content (24.6 µg/mg), FRAP value (36 µM Vitamin C/g of extract), and relatively low molecular weight (5.17 kDa). The study also investigated the protective effects of these polysaccharides and oligosaccharides against oxidative stress-induced damage in Hep G2 cells by measuring ROS production and intracellular antioxidant enzyme expressions (SOD, GPx, and CAT). Remarkably, SAR-OSC demonstrated the highest efficacy in protecting Hep G2 cells reducing ROS production and downregulating SOD, GPx, and CAT expressions. Current findings have confirmed that the oligosaccharides extracted by the chemical method show higher antioxidant activity, particularly SAR-OSC, and robust protective abilities in the Hep G2 cells.

Immunotoxicity and oxidative damage in Litopenaeus vannamei induced by polyethylene microplastics and copper co-exposure.

This study examines the combined effects of polyethylene microplastics (PE-MP) and copper (Cu2+) on the immune and oxidative response of Litopenaeus vannamei. PE-MP adsorbed with Cu2+ at 2.3, 6.8, and 16.8 ng (g shrimp)-1) were injected into L. vannamei. Over 14 days, survival rates were monitored, and immune and oxidative stress parameters were assessed. The results showed that combined exposure to PE-MP and Cu2+ significantly reduced the survival rate and decreased total haemocyte count. Immune-related parameters (phagocytic rate, phenoloxidase and superoxide dismutase (SOD)) and antioxidant-related parameters (SOD, catalase and glutathione peroxidase mRNA and enzyme) also decreased, while respiratory burst activity significantly increased, indicating immune and antioxidant system disruption. Additionally, there was a significant increase in oxidative stress, as measured by malondialdehyde levels. Histopathological analysis revealed severe muscle, hepatopancreas, and gill damage. These results suggest that simultaneous exposure to PE-MP and Cu2+ poses greater health risks to white shrimp.

Enhancing photocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI) in water through morphological manipulation of g-C3N4 photocatalysts: A comparative study of 1D, 2D, and 3D structures.

In this research, the dimensional catalysts of pure g-C3N4 photocatalysts (1D, 2D, and 3D) were investigated for the reduction of the highly toxic/carcinogenic Cr(VI) under visible light irradiation. The catalysts underwent explanation through various surface analysis techniques. According to the BET data, the specific surface area of the 3D catalyst was 1.3 and 7 times higher than those of the 2D and 1D CN catalysts, respectively. The 3D catalyst demonstrated superior performance, achieving an efficiency greater than 99% within 60 min under visible light irradiation in the presence of EDTA due to the abundance of active sites. The study also delved into the influence of factors such as the amount of EDTA-hole scavenger, pH, catalyst dosage, and temperature on the photocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI). Moreover, the 3D catalyst showed excellent reusability, maintaining an efficiency of more than 80% even after 10 cycles, and performed effectively in real water samples. The 3D CN catalyst, with its facile synthesis process, excellent visible light harvesting properties, high reduction efficiency that sustains over multiple cycles, and outstanding performance in real water samples, presents a significant advancement for practical applications in environmental remediation. This research contributes to a new understanding of developing efficient degradation methods for heavy metals in polluted water, highlighting the potential of 3D g-C3N4 catalysts in environmental cleanup efforts.

Recent progress in electro-Fenton technology for the remediation of pharmaceutical compounds in aqueous environments.

The global focus on wastewater treatment has intensified in the contemporary era due to its significant environmental and human health impacts. Pharmaceutical compounds (PCs) have become an emerging concern among various pollutants, as they resist conventional treatment methods and pose a severe environmental threat. Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) emerge as a potent and environmentally benign approach for treating recalcitrant pharmaceuticals. To address the shortcomings of traditional treatment methods, a technology known as the electro-Fenton (EF) method has been developed more recently as an electrochemical advanced oxidation process (EAOP) that connects electrochemistry to the chemical Fenton process. It has shown effective in treating a variety of pharmaceutically active compounds and actual wastewaters. By producing H2O2 in situ through a two-electron reduction of dissolved O2 on an appropriate cathode, the EF process maximizes the benefits of electrochemistry. Herein, we have critically reviewed the application of the EF process, encompassing diverse reactor types and configurations, the underlying mechanisms involved in the degradation of pharmaceuticals and other emerging contaminants (ECs), and the impact of electrode materials on the process. The review also addresses the factors influencing the efficiency of the EF process, such as (i) pH, (ii) current density, (iii) H2O2 concentration, (iv) and others, while providing insight into the scalability potential of EF technology and its commercialization on a global scale. The review delves into future perspectives and implications concerning the ongoing challenges encountered in the operation of the electro-Fenton process for the treatment of PCs and other ECs.

Novel food isolates with striking α-glucosidase inhibitory activity and probiotic potential for an antidiabetic role.

In the current study, ten lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolates exhibiting anti-α-glucosidase activity were isolated from fermented food. It is directed at novel supplementary diets to prevent/improve diet-induced carbohydrate metabolism disorders and related chronic diseases. Moreover, to evaluate their safety, functionality, and probiotic potential via in vitro simulated test conditions. From 16s-rRNA sequencing, Pediococcus acidilactici (NKUST 803, 845, 858), Lactobacillus plantarum (NKUST 817, 828, 851), Levilactobacillus brevis (NKUST 816, 855) and Lactobacillus acidophilus (NKUST 803, 863) were identified. The results showed that the isolates possessed anti-pathogenic activity, auto-aggregation ability, hydrophobicity (47.44-96.4%), and gastric acid-resistant activity (79-99.1%), which proved their potential for probiotics in nutraceuticals to render hypoglycemic activity or antidiabetic effects to the host positively. Among tested isolates, L. plantarum 817 and P. acidilactici 858 exhibited maximum α-glucosidase inhibitory (AGI) activity of 35-40%. The heat map clearly showed that L. plantarum 817 exhibited the best AGI activity and probiotic potential, among others. These were studied under various simulated gut conditions and safety tests. However, all isolates possess the potential to be used as probiotics in commercial-scale health applications. Pediococcus sp. possesses notable AGI activity but relatively less colonization potential in the gut hence recommended daily intake for positive health effects.

A review of smart electrochemical devices for pesticide detection in agricultural food and runoff contaminants.

In the evolving field of food and agriculture, pesticide utilization is inevitable for food production and poses an increasing threat to the ecosystem and human health. This review systematically investigates and provides a comprehensive overview of recent developments in smart electrochemical devices for detecting pesticides in agricultural food and runoff contaminants. The focus encompasses recent progress in lab-scale and portable electrochemical sensors, highlighting their significance in agricultural pesticide monitoring. This review compares these sensors comprehensively and provides a scientific guide for future sensor development for infield agricultural pesticide monitoring and food safety. Smart devices address challenges related to power consumption, low cost, wearability, and portability, contributing to the advancement of agricultural sustainability. By elucidating the intricate details of these smart devices, this review offers a comprehensive discussion and roadmap for future research aimed at cost-effective, flexible, and smart handy devices, including novel electrocatalysts, to foster the development of next-generation agricultural sensor technology, opportunity and future direction for food security.

Boosting acetaminophen degradation in water by peracetic acid activation: A novel approach using chestnut shell-derived biochar at varied pyrolysis temperatures.

In this study, biochar derived from chestnut shells was synthesized through pyrolysis at varying temperatures from 300 °C to 900 °C. The study unveiled that the pyrolysis temperature is pivotal in defining the physical and chemical attributes of biochar, notably its adsorption capabilities and its role in activating peracetic acid (PAA) for the efficient removal of acetaminophen (APAP) from aquatic environments. Notably, the biochar processed at 900 °C, referred to as CN900, demonstrated an exceptional adsorption efficiency of 55.8 mg g-1, significantly outperforming its counterparts produced at lower temperatures (CN300, CN500, and CN700). This enhanced performance of CN900 is attributed to its increased surface area, improved micro-porosity, and a greater abundance of oxygen-containing functional groups, which are a consequence of the elevated pyrolysis temperature. These oxygen-rich functional groups, such as carbonyls, play a crucial role in facilitating the decomposition of the O-O bond in PAA, leading to the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) through electron transfer mechanisms. This investigation contributes to the development of sustainable and cost-effective materials for water purification, underscoring the potential of chestnut shell-derived biochar as an efficient adsorbent and catalyst for PAA activation, thereby offering a viable solution for environmental cleanup efforts.

Synergistic microwave and acidic deep eutectic solvent-based pretreatment of Theobroma cacao pod husk biomass for xylooligosaccharides production.

The bioconversion of lignocellulosic biomass into novel bioproducts is crucial for sustainable biorefineries, providing an integrated solution for circular economy objectives. The current study investigated a novel microwave-assisted acidic deep eutectic solvent (DES) pretreatment of waste cocoa pod husk (CPH) biomass to extract xylooligosaccharides (XOS). The sequential DES (choline chloride/citric acid, molar ratio 1:1) and microwave (450W) pretreatment of CPH biomass was effective in 67.3% xylan removal with a 52% XOS yield from total xylan. Among different XOS of varying degrees of polymerization, a higher xylobiose content corresponding to 69.3% of the total XOS (68.22 mg/g CPH) from liquid fraction was observed. Enzymatic hydrolysis of residual xylan from pretreated CPH biomass with low commercial xylanase (10 IU/g) concentration yielded 24.2% XOS. The MW-ChCl/citric acid synergistic pretreatment approach holds great promise for developing a cost-effective and environmentally friendly method contributing to the sustainable production of XOS from agricultural waste streams.

Kumquat peel-derived biochar to support zeolitic imidazole framework-67 (ZIF-67) for enhancing peracetic acid activation to remove acetaminophen from aqueous solution.

This study presents the synthesis of a novel composite catalyst, ZIF-67, doped on sodium bicarbonate-modified biochar derived from kumquat peels (ZIF-67@KSB3), for the enhanced activation of peracetic acid (PAA) in the degradation of acetaminophen (APAP) in aqueous solutions. The composite demonstrated a high degradation efficiency, achieving 94.3% elimination of APAP at an optimal condition of 200 mg L-1 catalyst dosage and 0.4 mM PAA concentration at pH 7. The degradation mechanism was elucidated, revealing that superoxide anion (O2•-) played a dominant role, while singlet oxygen (1O2) and alkoxyl radicals (R-O•) also contributed significantly. The degradation pathways of APAP were proposed based on LC-MS analyses and molecular electrostatic potential calculations, identifying three primary routes of transformation. Stability tests confirmed that the ZIF-67@KSB3 catalyst retained an 86% efficiency in APAP removal after five successive cycles, underscoring its durability and potential for application in pharmaceutical wastewater treatment.

Advancements in Nano-Enhanced microalgae bioprocessing.

Microalgae are promising sources of valuable compounds: carotenoids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, lipids, etc. To overcome the feasibility challenge due to low yield and attain commercial potential, researchers merge technologies to enhance algal bioprocess. In this context, nanomaterials are attractive for enhancing microalgal bioprocessing, from cultivation to downstream extraction. Nanomaterials enhance biomass and product yields (mainly lipid and carotenoids) through improved nutrient uptake and stress tolerance during cultivation. They also provide mechanistic insights from recent studies. They also revolutionize harvesting via nano-induced sedimentation, flocculation, and flotation. Downstream processing benefits from nanomaterials, improving extraction and purification. Special attention is given to cost-effective extraction, showcasing nanomaterial integration, and providing a comparative account. The review also profiles nanomaterial types, including metallic nanoparticles, magnetic nanomaterials, carbon-based nanomaterials, silica nanoparticles, polymers, and functionalized nanomaterials. Challenges and future trends are discussed, emphasizing nanomaterials' role in advancing sustainable and efficient microalgal bioprocessing, unlocking their potential for bio-based industries.

Advanced sustainable processes via functionalized Fe-N co-doped fishbone biochar for the remediation of plasticizer di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate-contaminated marine sediment.

Sediments are important sinks for di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), a plasticizer, and thus, maintaining the sediment quality is essential for eliminating plasticizers in aqueous environments and recovering the sediment ecological functions. To mitigate the potential risks of endocrine-disrupting compounds, identifying an effective and eco-friendly degradation process of organic pollutants from sediments is important. However, sustainable and efficient utilization of slow pyrolysis for converting shark fishbone to generate shark fishbone biochar (SFBC) has rarely been explored. Herein, SFBC biomass was firstly produced by externally incorporating heteroatoms or iron oxide onto its surface in conjunction with peroxymonosulfate (PMS) to promote DEHP degradation and explore the associated benthic bacterial community composition from the sediment in the water column using the Fe-N-SFBC/PMS system. SFBC was pyrolyzed at 300-900 °C in aqueous sediment using a carbon-advanced oxidation process (CAOP) system based on PMS. SFBC was rationally modified via N or Fe-N doping as a radical precursor in the presence of PMS (1 × 10-5 M) for DEHP removal. The innovative SFBC/PMS, N-SFBC/PMS, and Fe-N-SFBC/PMS systems could remove 82%, 65%, and 90% of the DEHP at pH 3 in 60 min, respectively. The functionalized Fe3O4 and heteroatom (N) co-doped SFBC composite catalysts within a hydroxyapatite-based structure demonstrated the efficient action of PMS compared to pristine SFBC, which was attributed to its synergistic behavior, generating reactive radicals (SO4•-, HO•, and O2•-) and non-radicals (1O2) involved in DEHP decontamination. DEHP was significantly removed using the combined Fe-N-SFBC/PMS system, revealing that indigenous benthic microorganisms enhance their performance in DEHP-containing sediments. Further, DEHP-induced perturbation was particularly related to the Proteobacteria phylum, whereas Sulfurovum genus and Sulfurovum lithotrophicum species were observed. This study presents a sustainable method for practical, green marine sediment remediation via PMS-CAOP-induced processes using a novel Fe-N-SFBC composite material and biodegradation synergy.

Development in health-promoting essential polyunsaturated fatty acids production by microalgae: a review.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) found in microalgae, primarily omega-3 (ω-3) and omega-6 (ω-6) are essential nutrients with positive effects on diseases such as hyperlipidemia, atherosclerosis, and coronary risk. Researchers still seek improvement in PUFA yield at a large scale for better commercial prospects. This review summarizes advancements in microalgae PUFA research for their cost-effective production and potential applications. Moreover, it discusses the most promising cultivation modes using organic and inorganic sources. It also discusses biomass hydrolysates to increase PUFA production as an alternative and sustainable organic source. For cost-effective PUFA production, heterotrophic, mixotrophic, and photoheterotrophic cultivation modes are assessed with traditional photoautotrophic production modes. Also, mixotrophic cultivation has fascinating sustainable attributes over other trophic modes. Furthermore, it provides insight into growth phase (stage I) improvement strategies to accumulate biomass and the complementing effects of other stress-inducing strategies during the production phase (stage II) on PUFA enhancement under these cultivation modes. The role of an excessive or limiting range of salinity, nutrients, carbon source, and light intensity were the most effective parameter in stage II for accumulating higher PUFAs such as ω-3 and ω-6. This article outlines the commercial potential of microalgae for omega PUFA production. They reduce the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), cancer, and hypertension and play an important role in their emerging role in healthy lifestyle management.

Sustainable production of cellulose and hemicellulose-derived oligosaccharides from pineapple leaves: Impact of hydrothermal pretreatment and controlled enzymatic hydrolysis.

Globally, the demands for sustainably sourced functional foods like prebiotic oligosaccharides have been constantly increasing. This study assessed the potential of pineapple leaves (PL) as lignocellulosic feedstock for sustainable production of cellulose and hemicellulose-derived oligosaccharides through its hydrothermal pretreatment (HT) followed by controlled enzymatic hydrolysis. PL was subjected to HT at 160, 175, and 190 °C for 20, 30, 60, and 90 min without any catalyst for xylooligosaccharide (XOS) production, whereas, the resulting solid content after HT was subjected to controlled enzymatic hydrolysis by commercial cellulase using conduritol B epoxide (0.5-5 mM) for glucooligosaccharides (GOS) production. HT at 160 °C for 60 min resulted in maximum yield of XOS and GOS at 23.7 and 18.3 %, respectively, in the liquid phase. Controlled enzymatic hydrolysis of HT treated (160 °C) PL solids for 20 and 30 min yielded âˆ¼ 174 mg cellobiose/g dry biomass within 24 h, indicating overall high oligosaccharide production.

Controlling effects of terrestrial organic matter on metal contamination and toxicity risks in port sediments.

The contents of metals, total carbon, total nitrogen (TN), total organic carbon (TOC), and stable isotope composition (δ13Corg and δ15N) of sediment organic matter (SOM) were investigated to explore the sources and spatial distribution of metals and SOM in the surface sediments (Kaohsiung Port, Taiwan). Results showed that TOC and metals in estuarine sediments are high, gradually decreasing toward the port entrances. The δ13Corg, δ15N, and TOC/TN ratios indicate that SOM comes mainly from terrestrial sources. This study proposes a befitting model between metal pollution and toxicity risk index and SOM sources in port sediments by combining stable isotope composition, correlation matrix, and multiple linear regression analysis. The model indicates that the degree of metal pollution and toxicity risk in sediments are mainly affected by TOCterr content and SOM source. The results help to understand the influence of organic matter sources in port sediments on metal concentration distribution.

Combined toxicity of microplastics and copper on Goniopora columns.

As microplastics (MP) become ubiquitous, their interactions with heavy metals threatens the coral ecosystem. This study aimed to assess the combined toxicity of MP and copper (Cu) in the environment of coral. Goniopora columna was exposed to polyethylene microplastics (PE-MP) combined with Cu2+ at 10, 20, 50, 100, and 300 µg/L for 7 days. Polyp length and adaptability were recorded daily, and coral samples were collected at 1, 3, 5, and 7 days to analyse zooxanthellae density and antioxidant activity. Tissue observations and the analysis of MP and Cu2+ accumulation were conducted on the 7th day. After 1 day of exposure, PE-MP combined with different concentrations of Cu2+ significantly decreased polyp length and adaptability compared with PE-MP alone. Simultaneously, a significant increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) content, lead to coral oxidative stress, which was a combined effect with PE-MP. After 3 days of exposure, PE-MP combined with Cu2+ at >50 µg/L significantly reduced zooxanthellae density, damaging the coral's symbiotic relationship. In antioxidant enzyme activity, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity decreased significantly after 1 day of exposure. After 3 days of exposure, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity significantly increased with Cu2+ at >20 µg/L. After 5 days of exposure, PE-MP combined with different concentrations of Cu2+ significantly reduced catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), and glutathione transferase (GST) activity, disrupting the antioxidant enzyme system, and acting antagonistically to PE-MP alone. Tissue observations revealed that the PE-MP combined with Cu2+ at >50 µg/L caused severe mesenteric atrophy, vacuolar, and Cu2+ accumulation in the coral mesenteric compared with PE-MP alone. The results suggest that combined exposure of PE-MP and copper leads to more severe oxidative stress, disruption antioxidant enzyme system, tissue damage, and Cu2+ accumulation, resulting in a significant maladaptation of corals to the environment.

Pretreatment of marine sediment for the removal of di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate by sulfite in the presence of sorghum distillery residue-derived biochar and its effect on microbiota response.

This study investigates the mechanism behind the oxidation di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) in marine sediment by coupling sulfite using biochar prepared from sorghum distillery residue (SDRBC). The rationale for this investigation stems from the need to seek effective methods for DEHP-laden marine sediment remediation. The aim is to assess the feasibility of sulfite-based advanced oxidation processes for treating hazardous materials such as DEHP containing sediment. To this end, the sediment in question was treated with 2.5 × 10-5 M of sulfite and 1.7 g L-1 of SDRBC700 at acidic pH. Additionally, the study demonstrated that the combination of SDRBC/sulfite with a bacterial system enhances DEHP removal. Thermostilla bacteria were enriched, highlighting their role in sediment treatment. This study concludes that sulfite-associated sulfate radicals-driven carbon advanced oxidation process (SR-CAOP) offers sustainable sediment pretreatment through the SDRBC/sulfite-mediated microbial consortium, in which the SO3•- and 1O2 were responsible for DEHP degradation. SDRBC/sulfite offers an effective and environmentally friendly method for removing DEHP. Further, these results can be targeted at addressing industry problems related to sediment treatment.

Graphene-based functional electrochemical sensors for the detection of chlorpyrifos in water and food samples: a review.

Prolonged and excessive use of chlorpyrifos (CPS) has caused severe pollution, particularly in crops, vegetables, fruits, and water sources. As a result, CPS is detected in various food and water samples using conventional methods. However, its applications are limited due to size, portability, cost, etc. In this regard, electrochemical sensors are preferred for CPS detection due to their high sensitivity, reliability, rapid, on-site detection, and user-friendly. Notably, graphene-based electrochemical sensors have gained more attention due to their unique physiochemical and electrochemical properties. It shows high sensitivity, selectivity, and quick response because of its high surface area and high conductivity. In this review, we have discussed an overview of three graphene-based different functional electrochemical sensors such as electroanalytical sensors, bio-electrochemical sensors, and photoelectrochemical sensors used to detect CPS in food and water samples. Furthermore, the fabrication and operation of these electrochemical sensors using various materials (low band gap material, nanomaterials, enzymes, antibodies, DNA, aptamers, and so on) and electrochemical techniques (CV, DPV, EIS, SWV etc.) are discussed. The study found that the electrical signal was reduced with increasing CPS concentration. This is due to the blocking of active sites, reduced redox reaction, impedance, irreversible reactions, etc. In addition, acetylcholinesterase-coupled sensors are more sensitive and stable than others. Also, it can be further improved by fabricating with low band gap nanomaterials. Despite their advantages, these sensors have significant drawbacks, such as low reusability, repeatability, stability, and high cost. Therefore, further research is required to overcome such limitations.

Phthalate esters and nonylphenol concentrations correspond with microplastic distribution in anthropogenically polluted river sediments.

This paper presents the phthalate esters (PAEs), nonylphenol (NPs), and microplastics (MPs) in river sediments. Results showed that sediments near residential areas were mainly composed of fine particles, potentially influencing the adsorption of PAEs and NPs in the area. The concentrations of Σ10 PAEs in the sediments ranged between 2448 and 63,457 µg/kg dw, dominated by DEHP and DnOP. Microplastics were detected in all samples, with higher abundances found in sediments near residential areas dominated by polypropylene. Toxicological risk assessment indicated potential risks to sensitive aquatic organisms exposed to the sediments. Correlations between MPs, PAEs, and NPs suggest that MPs may serve as possible sources of PAEs in the sediments. Principal component analysis explained 95.4 % of the pollutant variability in the sediments. Overall, this study emphasizes the significance of monitoring and understanding the presence and interactions of PAEs and MPs in river sediments to assess their potential impacts on aquatic ecosystems.

KHCO3-activated high surface area biochar derived from brown algae: A case study for efficient adsorption of Cr(VI) in aqueous solution.

The current study aimed to assess the effectiveness of biochar formed from algae in the removal of Cr(VI) through the process of impregnating brown algae Sargassum hemiphyllum with KHCO3. The synthesis of KHCO3-activated biochar (KBAB-3), demonstrating remarkable adsorption capabilities for Cr(VI), was accomplished utilizing a mixture of brown algae and KHCO3 in a mass ratio of 1:3, followed by calcination at a temperature of 700 °C. Based on the empirical evidence, it can be observed that KBAB-3 shown a significant ability to adsorb Cr(VI) within a range of 60-160 mg g-1 across different environmental conditions. In addition, the KBAB-3 material demonstrated the advantageous characteristic of easy separation, allowing for the continued maintenance of a high efficiency in removing Cr(VI) even after undergoing numerous cycles of reuse. In conclusion, the application of KBAB-3, a novel adsorbent, exhibits considerable prospects for effective removal of Cr(VI) from diverse water sources in the near future.