This study evaluates an integrated bioaugmentation–biostimulation strategy for carbofuran remediation using Ochrobactrum intermedium formulated as water-dispersible granules (WDGs) in combination with biogas slurry (BGS). In minimal salt medium, O. intermedium degraded 92.2

This study explores a novel biorefinery approach by integrating diatom cultivation in rice straw hydrolysate (RSH) followed by hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) of diatom biomass. Diatom Navicula sp. was cultivated in a 30 L bubble column reactor at 26 ± 3 °C, under blue wavelength light (465-430 nm) with an intensity of 110.3 ± 8.2 μmol m-2s-1, following a 16:8-hour light/dark cycle for 4 days. The 30% RSH showed superior growth rates (μmax = 0.5 day-1) and biomass productivity (102.8 ± 24.6 mg L-1 day-1) compared to the control, with increases of 1.7-fold and 2.7-fold, respectively. The diatom biomass comprised carbohydrates (16.6 ± 1.4%), lipids (12.5 ± 1.9%), and proteins (7.3 ± 1.2%). HTL was performed using potassium carbonate (K2CO3) catalyst at a fixed temperature of 300 °C with different reaction times of 20, 40, and 60 min. The highest biocrude yield was achieved at 60 min (24.5%) with a high heating value of 31.9 MJ Kg-1. The biocrude primarily contained oxidised organic compounds like alcohols, long-chain saturated hydrocarbons, and esters, indicating biofuel potential. The second product, mesoporous bio-silica, had a yield of 67.5% at 60 min reaction time. Characterization via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed silica peaks at 1109 cm-1, 1101 cm-1, and 3437 cm-1, with a frustule surface charge of -24.8 ± 0.6 mV. Scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis revealed intact frustules with clean pores and a silica purity of 11.1%. This study highlights HTL as a promising biomass conversion process with biocrude and silica recovery.

Iron oxides, one of the most ancient and earth-abundant materials, have long been studied for their remarkable magnetic, optical, and redox properties—attributes that have intricately linked them to the history of life on Earth. The renewed interest in sustainable materials with reduced dimensions has once again put iron oxides into intensive exploration, particularly for their catalytic, redox, and photoelectrochemical applications. However, the origin of the shape anisotropy in iron oxide nanocrystals and its functional significance in geochemical and photocatalytic processes remains largely unexplored. In this work, we investigated the role of naturally relevant organic ligands from sugar press mud (PM) in inducing shape anisotropy in iron oxide nanocrystals within the framework of non-classical crystallization theory (NCCT). Using an electro-analytical approach, we further examine the dynamic behaviour of these nanocrystals during photocatalysis. Our results reveal that the transformation from spherical to sheet- and rod-like morphologies (~24–44 nm) is consistent with NCCT, even in the presence of PM ligands as additives. However, differences in photocatalytic efficiency (rate constants, k ~ 0.014–0.038 min⁻¹) are better explained by electrochemical work function (Φ_ad^0) and electrochemically active surface area (ECSA) rather than solely by band gap (Eg) and charge carrier (e⁻/h⁺) dynamics. These findings not only provide insight into the fundamental mineralization processes in nature but also contribute to the rational design of sustainable photocatalysts.

Lentinus edodes (L. edodes), a medicinal-edible fungus rich in bioactives, faces challenges in large-scale mycelial production due to low biomass yield and costly substrates. This study explores a repeated fed-batch fermentation strategy using an inexpensive soy flour-dextrose medium to enhance mycoprotein production. Submerged cultivation of L. edodes with 30 g/L glucose, 12.38 g/L soy flour, and a C/N ratio of 12 across four feed cycles yielded 22.6 ± 1.35 g/L biomass (dw), significantly improving bioproductivity by 37

This study explores how ultraviolet-B (UV-B) light can boost the nutritional and medicinal benefits of Pleurotus eryngii mycelia. By exposing freeze-dried P. eryngii mycelia to UVB light for various durations (0-60 min), a significant rise in vitamin D2 levels was observed, peaking at 314.75 mu g/g after 40 min. Total phenols increased from 12.52 to 17.54 mg GAE/g, flavonoids from 1.19 to 1.72 mg QE/g, and beta-glucans from 26.18 % to 32.21 %, along with notable improvements in antioxidant activities. UVB exposure also enhanced the amino acid profile, with substantial boosts in essential amino acids like glutamic acid, arginine, and threonine. Significant changes were observed when comparing the metabolite profiles of control and UV-treated P. eryngii mycelia. Some key compounds, like Isosorbide Dinitrate, increased from 1.56 % to 3.24 %, while n-hexadecanoic acid rose from 19.91 % to 27.73 %, and octadecanoic acid jumped from 0.36 % to 1.09 %. These changes suggest enhanced antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Other compounds, such as phenol, 3,5-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)-, eicosane, Pyrrolo [1,2-a]pyrazine-1,4-dione, and ergosta-5,7,9 (11),22-tetraen-3-ol, also significantly increased, indicating enhanced health benefits and potential anti-cancer properties. Analyses using FTIR spectroscopy and SEM revealed molecular and structural changes due to UVB treatment, and GC-MS confirmed the presence of significant medicinal bioactives. These findings suggest that UVB irradiation can significantly enhance the health-promoting qualities of P. eryngii mycelia, making them even more beneficial as functional foods and nutraceuticals.

This study explores the sustainable cultivation of Agaricus bisporus mycelia using agro-industrial byproducts i.e., corn steep liquor (CSL) and defatted soy flour (DSF) as substrates under submerged fermentation. Preliminary plate study revealed that CSL and DSF supported A. bisporus growth comparable to potato dextrose agar (PDA). Screening of carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N) ratio revealed a C/N ratio of 14 as favorable, with CSL at 25.0 g/L and DSF at 14.2 g/L selected for the initial media formulations. However, DSF at 14.2 g/L formed lumps postautoclaving, necessitating the development of a combined CSL + DSF medium containing 7.5 g/L of each substrate. This formulation achieved a biomass productivity of 0.066 +/- 0.002 g/L.h, surpassing the productivity in CSL media (0.052 +/- 0.001 g/L.h). Scale-up studies in fermenter demonstrated slightly reduced productivity of 0.062 +/- 0.001 g/L.h with CSL + DSF medium. UVB irradiation of the mycelium significantly increased vitamin D2 content (28.69 mu g/g dry mass), surpassing levels in UV-irradiated fruiting bodies (15.45 mu g/g dry mass). Nutritional analysis reveals that the cultivated mycelium is rich in protein, fat, and essential minerals (Zn, Fe, Mg, K, Ca, Co, Cu, and Mn), with (3-D-glucan content comparable to that of the fruiting bodies, supporting its potential as a functional food ingredient. Despite lower total glucan, crude fiber, and amino acid levels, mycelium presents a promising alternative for nutritional enrichment, warranting further optimization. This study integrates agro-industrial byproducts to produce nutrient-dense food, supporting sustainable systems and plantbased alternatives aligned with global food security goals, paving the way for large-scale production and further optimization.

The conventional acid and thermal treatments used for frustule recovery from diatom biomass are hazardous and unsustainable and may distort frustule structure. This is the first study to employ diatoms cultivated in domestic reverse osmosis reject wastewater for mesoporous biogenic silica production by investigating sustainable extraction routes using various surfactant types and bleach treatments at different concentrations. The highest organic matter removal of 81.68 +/- 0.58% (w/w) was attained with a 4% (v/v) bleach treatment, while an 8% (v/v) anionic surfactant treatment yielded an organic matter removal of 81.62 +/- 0.36% (w/w). The results have been confirmed through Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectroscopy, carbon-hydrogen-nitrogen analysis, and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller analysis. FTIR peaks at 1109 cm-1, 1101 cm-1, and 3437 cm-1 indicated silica in the extracted frustule. The bleach-treated frustules had mesoporous structure, exhibiting -17.6 +/- 0.9 mV, 19 m2 g-1, and 31.99 +/- 0.5 nm of surface charge, surface area, and average pore diameter, respectively. Life cycle assessment indicated that the bleach-cleaning process reduced the environmental impact by 99% compared to conventional acid treatment. Hence, this study presents a sustainable approach for extracting biogenic silica from diatoms, offering a greener alternative to conventional methods and reducing reliance on synthetic mesoporous silica.

Recent efforts in structure-activity-based sustainable photocatalyst design for solar energy harvesting highlight the need for a deeper understanding of the photocatalytic process and structural control in synthetic methods. Also, the control over the nanocrystal structure and the shape anisotropy in Earth-abundant materials like iron (mineral) oxide (alpha-Fe2O3), particularly during bottom-up synthetic approaches, is of multiple significance yet poorly understood. Furthermore, the functional correlation of shape anisotropy with photocatalytic efficiency and its fundamental relevance in geochemical processes remains largely unexplored. This work investigated the comparative role of naturally relevant organic ligands from sugar press mud (PM) with chemical surfactants to induce shape anisotropy among iron oxide nanocrystals in an aqueous sol-gel (bottom-up) synthetic approach. Using electroanalytical tools, we further examine the dynamic link between the structure and activity of these nanocrystals during photocatalysis. Our results revealed that the transformation of hematite (alpha-Fe2O3) nanocrystals from spherical to sheet-and rod-like morphologies (similar to 24-44 nm) is broadly consistent with non-classical crystallization theory (NCCT), even in the presence of biogenic ligands (PM) as additives. Moreover, the differences in photocatalytic efficiency (rate constants, k similar to 0.014-0.038 min-1) are better explained by using a combined framework of 'Langmuir-Hinshelwood (L-H) kinetic model and Marcus-Gerischer charge (e-/h+) transfer theory' than solely by the traditional band gap (Eg similar to 2.0 eV) and charge carrier (e-/h+) dynamics approach. These findings may provide insight into the rational design of sustainable photocatalysts for solar energy harvesting and contribute to understanding the fundamental geochemical (light-mineral interaction) processes in nature.

The escalating consumption of synthetic textiles has led to a notable increase in microplastic fiber (MF) generation from the entire life cycle of textiles from its manufacturing to disposal, raising concerns about widespread environmental contamination. While existing literature narrates different aspects of microplastics including sources, fate, and toxicity in various environmental compartments, there is a substantial need to comprehensively explore the prevalent class of microplastics i.e., microfibers (MFs) which is more hazardous owing to their smaller size and length to diameter ratio. Therefore, to address the gap, the current article comprehensively explores the mechanisms underlying MFs release from the entire life span of synthetic textiles. Additionally, it investigates their various ecotoxicological impacts, spanning lower to higher taxa, and proposes innovative eco-friendly mitigation solutions. Notably, the toxicity of MFs is enhanced by the functionalization of textiles and adherence to hazardous materials such as additives and dyes present in textiles, exacerbating the environmental risks. Further, a global perspective is adopted to underscore the concerns worldwide and highlight the limitations of conventional wastewater treatment methods in addressing MF contamination. The review extensively discusses cutting-edge approaches for mitigating MFs, including the development of eco-friendly fabrics and the application of advanced technologies. Additionally, this review engages in a discourse on regulatory standards and evaluates the potential of biochar as an efficient and economical solution. In conclusion, this comprehensive analysis not only focuses on the multifaceted challenges posed by MFs from synthetic textiles but also advocates proactive measures to minimize their environmental risk.

Paddy straw burning is an entrenched issue in the agricultural system, widely recognized for its adverse environmental and health impacts, particularly in South Asian countries. The revolutionary advancements in nanotechnology have paved the way for innovative solutions by valorizing silica-rich paddy straw (PS) into silica nanoparticles (SiNPs). SiNPs are known for their versatile role in agriculture sectors. Nonetheless, the high fabrication cost of SiNPs has limited its utility. Exploring agro-waste PS as a potential source of SiNPs promises resource efficiency and a sustainable solution towards stubble management. The review sheds light on various modes of synthesis of SiNPs, critically featuring the green synthesis approach using PS. The multifaceted potential of SiNPs in alleviating biotic and abiotic stress and delivering essential components in plants is discussed. Given the challenges of synthesizing well-characterized SiNPs, integrating machine learning in synthesis process and design of slow-release formulations is recommended. The review envisions future research encompassing Sustainable Agriculture Matrix, Sensitivity Analysis, and Life Cycle Assessment to seamlessly integrate SiNPs into agriculture. Under the umbrella of PS management, various laws and policies undertaken by the GOI have been discussed. The valorization of PS is proposed as a lucrative opportunity for entrepreneurship programs by authors. While research on SiNPs in agriculture is advancing, much remains to learn about their mechanisms of action, interactions with plants, soils, toxicity, and potential synergies/trade-offs with other agricultural inputs. Moreover, ensuring affordable access to SiNPs for small-scale farmers and resource-limited regions requires considerable attention. Hence, the review endeavors to capture the attention of stakeholders to embrace a comprehensive approach towards stubble management that will contribute towards SDGs and nurturing a thriving circular bioeconomy.

Cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (Cox1), a key enzyme, has a crucial role in cellular respiration in eukaryotes and prokaryotes. Generally, respiratory inhibitors are considered one of the types of chemical pesticides. Thyme oil and licorice aqueous extract have been reported to have antifungal activities against fungal phytopathogens of Capsicum annuum L., i.e., Colletotrichum capsici, Fusarium oxysporum, and Pythium aphanidermatum. The present study focuses on identifying the key bioactive molecules of thyme and licorice botanicals inhibiting the activity of the Cox1 enzymes of the above mentioned phytopathogens, employing the in-silico approach. From a wide range of bioactive molecules screened, the molecular docking indicated trans-carveol, carvacrol, kaempferol 3-rhamnoside 7-xyloside, kaempferitrin, and astragalin 7-rhamnoside as the potential inhibitors for Cox1 of C. capsici, β-Caryophyllene, Caryophyllene acetate, hispaglabridin A, kaempferol 3-rhamnoside 7-xyloside and licorice glycoside A for Cox1 of F. oxysporum and (+)-Longifolen, Caryophyllene acetate, Hispaglabridin A, Neoliquiritin 2''-apioside and Licorice-saponin A3 for Cox1 of P. aphanidermatum. Most of the top-scoring bioactive molecules exhibited higher binding affinity with the targets than the chemical compound, i.e., carbendazim. Density functional theory (DFT) analysis confirmed the reactivity of the top-docked compounds. Molecular dynamic simulations confirmed the stability of docked complexes when evaluated through multiple descriptors. Additionally, MM/PBSA analysis supported the findings, indicating the spontaneous binding of the enzymes to the screened ligands. ADMET analysis revealed the safety of the selected bioactive compounds. The present findings could be useful in developing biopesticidal formulations as efficient and sustainable alternatives to chemical pesticides.

Botanicals, rich in bioactive components, have great promise as plant protectants. The current study aims at developing oil-in-water nanoemulsions using thyme oil (TO) alone and in combination with licorice aqueous extract (LAE) and comparing their efficacies against Colletotrichum capsici, the causal agent of anthracnose disease in Capsicum annuum L. The optimized nanoemulsions developed with TO alone (TFO4) and with LAE (TFO4-10LAE) with droplet size (Z-average diameter) of 24.33 +/- 0.86 nm and 217.0 +/- 5.9 nm, respectively, exhibited promising results pertaining to their stability and shelf life. As evidenced by their two-year shelf life testing, the nanoemulsions were observed to be stable. The TFO4-10LAE, having the bioactive molecules of LAE and TO intact (GC-MS and FT-IR analyses) and inhibiting the production of ergosterol, displayed synergistic and better antifungal activity (Minimum inhibitory concentration, MIC 2.5 mg ml-1) than TFO4 containing only TO (MIC 4 mg ml-1). During in-planta assay, TFO4-10LAE applied as a seedfoliar application at MIC significantly reduced the disease severity index (DSI) to 20.37 % over control (62.96 %), along with the improved activity of induced resistance enzymes and plant growth parameters. The life cycle assessment showed that the production of TFO4-10LAE nanoemulsion has a lesser negative impact on the environment than that of chemical pesticides. This work will pave the path for future research and development of pesticide alternatives that are safer, sustainable, and more effective than synthetic ones for crops of industrial importance.

Nanotechnology appears to be a promising tool to redefine crop nutrition in the coming decades. However, the crucial interactions of nanomaterials with abiotic components of the environment like soil organic matter (SOM) and carbon‒sequestration may hold the key to sustainable crop nutrition, fortification, and climate change. Here, we investigated the use of sugar press mud (PM) mediated ZnO nanosynthesis for soil amendment and nutrient mobilisation under moderately alkaline conditions. The positively charged (+ 7.61 mv) ZnO sheet-like nanoparticles (~ 17 nm) from zinc sulphate at the optimum dose of (75 mg/kg blended with PM (1.4% w/w) were used in reinforcing the soil matrix for wheat growth. The results demonstrated improved agronomic parameters with (~ 24%) and (~ 19%) relative increases in yield and plant Zn content. Also, the soil solution phase interactions of the ZnO nanoparticles with the PM-induced soil colloidal carbon (− 27.9 mv and diameter 0.4864 μm) along with its other components have influenced the soil nutrient dynamics and mineral ecology at large. Interestingly, one such interaction seems to have reversed the known Zn-P interaction from negative to positive. Thus, the study offers a fresh insight into the possible correlations between nutrient interactions and soil carbon sequestration for climate-resilient crop productivity.

Though diatoms as agents to remove silica pollutants have already been tested, the factors governing the photobiological process remain unexplored. The current process was developed to optimize various combinations of abiotic factors like pH (5, 6, 7, 8, and 9), mixing conditions (aeration, magnetic stirrer, and shaking-induced mixing), and light wavelength (red: 665-630 nm, blue: 465-430 nm, and white: 665-420 nm) for silica removal using diatom Navicula sp. from WC media. A combination of pH 7 and magnetic stirrer mixing (80-100 rpm) gave the best silica removal at 11.93 +/- 0.15 mg L(-1)d(-1). This optimized process with blue wavelength light increased the silica removal rate to 14.43 +/- 0.37 mg L(-1)d(-1) and biomass productivity to 95.15 +/- 1.34 mg L(-1)d(-1). Further, bioremediation of cooling tower blowdown water was tested under optimized and unoptimized conditions. A silica removal rate of 13.90 +/- 0.26 mg L(-1)d(-1) was achieved under optimized conditions, 3.69-fold greater than the unoptimized conditions (3.77 +/- 0.42 mg L(-1)d(-1)). Additionally, this process removed >99% of total dissolved phosphate (3.05 +/- 0.10 mg L(-1)d(-1)), nitrate nitrogen (12.27 +/- 0.49 mg L(-1)d(-1)), and 54.27% chemical oxygen demand. Such optimization of abiotic factors using diatoms helps in achieving green silica-rich wastewater bioremediation.

Biodiesel from non-edible oils has recently picked up significant momentum along with the valorization of unutilized residues. The present study investigates the extraction of saponins (Mi-saponin A and Mi-saponin B) from an under-utilized resource, Diploknema butyracea seed cake, and its application against a serious agricultural nematode pest, Meloidogyne incognita. The results showed that LC50 values for J2 juvenile immobility were 4.98, 1.74, and 4.28 mg mL−1 for D. butyracea saponins, prosapogenin, and sapogenin, respectively, at 72 h of exposure. The monodesmodic saponins were found to be more effective than bidesmodic saponins. According to ESI–MS, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and 2D NMR analyses, the structures of prosapogenin and sapogenin were interpreted as "3-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl protobassic acid" and "bassic acid," respectively. In silico analysis against S-adenosylmethionine synthetase (SAMS-1), a major player in controlling cholesterol biosynthesis and lipid metabolism in nematodes, also confirmed the hypothesis. The higher binding ability of prosapogenin with SAMS-1 receptor site confirmed the hypothesis, and it was significantly higher than saponin and sapogenin. The study demonstrated that hampering lipid metabolism in nematodes is the possible mode of action for saponin bioactivity.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are one of the most studied metal oxide NPs (MONPs) owing to their unique physiochemical properties. The last few years have witnessed a growing interest among researchers in adopting the green chemistry approach to fabricate MONPs. We herein report the synthesis of ZnO NPs stabilized by carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) derived from noxious aquatic weed, i.e., Eichhornia crassipes biomass (EC-CMC). The UV-Vis spectra showed maximum absorbance at-380 nm, and the XRD crystallite size of EC-CMC capped ZnO NPs (c-ZnO NPs) (-26 nm) was smaller as compared to virgin ZnO NPs (v-ZnO NPs) (-29 nm). The value of apparent strain (epsilon A x 10-3), root mean square strain (ERMS x 10-3), stress (MPa), and energy density (KJm- 3) for c-ZnO NPs obtained from the SSP plot was-0.893,-0.173,-116 and-51.83 respectively. The study also examined the differential effects of c-ZnO NPs treatment on the growth of two plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), i.e., Pseudomonas fluorescens (Gram-ve), and Bacillus subtilis (Gram +ve). The findings revealed that P. fluorescens (PFL) was more susceptible to c-ZnO NPs than B. subtilis (BST). Furthermore, R. sativus seeds treated with c-ZnO NPs (10-50 ppm) exhibited notable improvements in plumule length, radicle length, vigor index, and biomass content over other treatments and control. The biopriming of R. sativus seeds with PFL and BST showed synergistic effects with 10-ppm c-ZnO NPs treatment and promoted overall seedling growth. The bacterial kinetics and seed germination studies manifest that the c-ZnO NPs at lower doses have growth promoting effects. The combination of PFL + BST+10-ppm c-ZnO NPs showed substantial improvements in the germination indices of R. sativus. The present work has demonstrated the potential of utilizing positive bipartite interaction of PGPRs and bio-stabilized ZnO NPs to develop nanoformulations promoting plant growth management.

Meat products are ubiquitously consumed for their higher protein content and characteristic organoleptic properties. The enhanced capacities of meat production to meet the demands of the rapidly increasing global population is causing serious issues relating to health, environment, and animal welfare. Suitable meat alternatives that are protein-rich, sustainable, and healthier are being continuously explored by scientists globally. In this direction, edible medicinal mushrooms can be used as promising healthier meat alternatives as they provide natural meaty texture, flavors and are also rich in proteins, essential amino acids, beta-glucans, vitamins, minerals, polyphenols, and antioxidants. Mushrooms have proven medicinal benefits including anticancer, immunomodulatory, antiviral, antihypertensive, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory properties. The aim of the present review is to highlight the potential of edible mushrooms to produce meat analogs, various meat and nonmeat-based studies focussing on mushrooms as key meat analog ingredients, impact on the product quality, associated nutraceutical aspects, consumer behavior and market availability of mushroom-based meat analogs. Mushrooms can be a sustainable and healthy ingredient for developing nutritious functional foods. Recent trends in the utilization of mushrooms, techniques used and market availability of food products have been highlighted in the review.image

Paddy straw (PS) burning is a concerning issue in South Asian countries, clamoring for exploring alternative management strategies. Being a rich source of silica, PS can be a potential nanosilica (SiNPs) source. The current study reports a pioneering approach for green synthesis of high-purity mesoporous SiNPs by sol-gel method using the aqueous extract of Sapindus mukorossi seed pericarp as a stabilizer. The mesoporous nature of SiNPs was harnessed as a carrier for the essential oil to develop the carrier-based formulation. SiNPs were characterized using XRD, EDX, FTIR, FE-SEM, TEM, AFM, DLS, water contact angle, and BET analysis. The synthesized SiNPs possessed a spheroid morphology with an average particle size of 20.34 +/- 2.64 nm. XRD results confirmed its amorphous nature. The mesoporous nature of SiNPs was confirmed using BET analysis which showed a cumu-lative pore volume of 2.059 cm3/g and a high surface area of 746.32 m2/g. The SiNPs were further loaded with clove essential oil (CEO), and the encapsulation of CEO was assessed using UV-Vis, FTIR, and BET analysis. The in-vitro antifungal activity of CEO and CEO-loaded SiNPs (CEO-SiNPs) was evaluated using the agar plate assay. UV-Vis results depicted 62.64% encapsulation of CEO in SiNPs. The antifungal efficacy of CEO-SiNPs against F. oxysporum exhibited minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), i.e., 125 mg/L, while the MIC of CEO was found to be 250 mg/L. The study delivers new insights into the holistic utilization of PS and propitious contribution toward the circular economy and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).