A new study transforms apple pomace into valuable bioethanol and animal feed ingredients through SHF and SSF. The research highlights the potential of agro-industrial waste as a renewable energy source and nutritious food supplement.
The new journal, SCI Sustainability, aims to break down silos and integrate knowledge to promote sustainable development. It will publish research on policy regulation, sustainable technologies, manufacturing, and supply chains.
A new study has found that grey squirrels are more likely to visit bait feeders in the spring, making it a suitable time to deliver oral contraceptives. The research developed a bait and monitoring system that demonstrated high species-specificity, with only grey squirrels accessing the feeder bait.
A team of researchers found that the use of microbial biofertilisers and algae-based biostimulants can significantly enhance both the yield and quality of organic tomatoes. The treatments improved processes like nutrient absorption and stress tolerance, supporting overall crop performance.
Researchers used a dog-like robot integrated with AI to automate the identification and control of Red Imported Fire Ants, detecting three times more nests with greater precision. The system's effectiveness was tested in field trials, but challenges remain in scaling up production costs.
A novel process for extracting metals from spent alkaline batteries has been developed, offering a promising solution for recycling critical materials. The technique achieves high extraction efficiencies of 99.6% for zinc and 86.1% for manganese, making it cheaper and more energy-efficient than existing methods.
Mithila Jugulam has been appointed Co-Editor-in-Chief of Pest Management Science, bringing expertise in weed physiology and molecular biology. She aims to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation, while maintaining the journal's commitment to scientific rigor and editorial integrity.
Researchers in Italy have successfully monitored invasive stink bugs using drones and AI, reducing disruption and improving data capture. The system achieved a 97% detection accuracy, enabling precise forecasting models for integrated pest management strategies.
Research reveals PFAS contamination in Australian vegetables, posing a marginal risk to human health, particularly for young girls aged 4-8 with lower body mass index and higher vegetable intake. The study identified plant uptake during cultivation as the primary source of PFAS contamination.
Researchers have identified the unique nutritional profile of Canadian sea buckthorn berries, which are rich in polyphenols with potential health benefits for cardiovascular protection and anti-inflammatory properties. The study found that geographical factors influence the polyphenolic profile of the berries, making them a promising s...
Researchers have demonstrated the feasibility of using wearable technology to measure the emotional responses of coffee experts during tastings. The study found significant correlations between biomedical signals and data from conventional questionnaires, confirming the viability of this approach for enhancing coffee quality assessment.
Researchers in Canada develop a new method to control the pepper weevil using gamma irradiation. The study found that insects sterilized at 110 Gy are completely sterile and cannot reproduce, making it an effective strategy for managing this economically significant crop pest.
Researchers in Italy cultivate four species of microgreens with bespoke nutritional profiles, providing a blueprint for soilless cultivation of nutritionally enriched plants. The study successfully produces microgreens with up to 14 times higher iodine content and 45% reduced potassium levels, catering to specific dietary requirements.
Researchers at Delft University of Technology have developed pioneering advancements in the purification of isopropanol and acetone from waste gases through engineered bacteria. The novel process shows high-purity yields with recoveries over 99.2%, marking a significant step forward in sustainable industrial fermentation.
Researchers have documented insecticide resistance in field-collected populations of bluegreen aphids, a worldwide pest of pulses and legume crops. The study highlights the need for new strategies to manage this pervasive pest, as conventional insecticides are no longer effective.
Researchers find laser scarecrows significantly mitigate bird damage to sweet corn, reducing crop loss by up to 20%. The technology is effective when combined with other non-lethal deterrents, offering a silent and sustainable solution for protecting crops.
Researchers in Chile developed a prototype using microorganisms to remove VOCs and PAHs from indoor air, achieving efficiencies above 90%. The system can operate for 8 months without losing efficiency. This breakthrough offers a potentially low-cost solution to improve indoor air quality.
Researchers at ITMO University improved the nutritional value and taste of plant-based milks by using pre-freezing and ultrasound treatment methods. These methods boosted the extraction of beneficial microelements like iron, potassium, and zinc, as well as polyphenols, resulting in improved antioxidant activity.
A study published in Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture proposes a framework to characterise the unique properties of cacao beans in the Buenaventura region. The research highlights the benefits of establishing Denominations of Origin for cacao, including higher market prices, cultural preservation, and sustainable practices.
Researchers have developed a sustainable solution using winery waste as a natural colouring agent and bioactive component in gelatine-based sweets. The use of wine lees improves the texture and flavour profile of jellies, while also providing added health benefits.
A recent study found a compelling link between vitamin B12 deficiency and chronic inflammation, which can lead to various health problems. The research revealed an inverse relationship between vitamin B12 levels and inflammatory markers in humans and mice, suggesting that higher vitamin B12 levels may lower inflammatory markers.
A multidisciplinary team investigates hospital wastewater samples and demonstrates the effectiveness of photocatalytic treatment in reducing pharmaceutically active compounds and bacteria. The study highlights the challenges posed by antibiotic-resistant bacteria and suggests a promising step towards sustainable wastewater treatment.
Researchers found that blueberries infected with Colletotrichum fioriniae emit odors repelling spotted-wing drosophila. By recreating this aroma, farmers can trick flies into perceiving healthy fruit as infected, reducing the need for insecticides.
A study reveals high levels of insecticide resistance among Aedes aegypti populations in Dhaka, compromising mosquito control and increasing dengue burden. Researchers recommend non-insecticidal approaches, such as Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes, to effectively manage dengue vectors.
Researchers from Spain used high-power ultrasound technology to treat Monastrell grapes, resulting in improved color and sensory profile of the rosé. The study found that sonication enhanced the extraction of volatile compounds, such as terpenes, which improve aroma.
Scientists at The Chinese University of Hong Kong have developed an edible, transparent, and biodegradable material for food packaging using bacterial cellulose. The material has high tensile strength, versatility, and can be produced through microbial fermentation, making it a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics.
Researchers have developed a novel and cost-effective anode catalyst that can improve and stabilize power generation performance of MFCs treating vegetable oil industry wastewater. The study investigates modification of electrodes to increase bacterial adhesion and efficient electron transfer.
The five finalists of the Bright SCIdea Challenge will compete for a £5,000 prize by pitching their scientific business ideas that could benefit society. The project ideas include burn treatments and environmental calculators.
The addition of antioxidants to cell cultures can improve the production of monoclonal antibodies by reducing oxidative stress and increasing cell viability. This has potential benefits for therapies targeting cancer and autoimmune diseases.
Researchers developed new spiro-pyrazolo quinazoline derivatives with reduced bee toxicity without compromising insecticidal activity. The compounds showed promising results, including one compound with an LD50 value three to four orders of magnitude lower than fipronil.
Researchers have developed a shellac-based coating to improve the gas barrier properties of moulded pulp materials, making them suitable for food packaging. The coating, combined with nanofibrillated cellulose, provides superior water resistance and thermal stability, while preserving environmental sustainability.
A £5.4 million project, backed by Innovate UK, aims to develop a new value chain to convert industrial waste gases into sustainable materials for consumer products. The consortium, including Unilever and BASF, will seek to demonstrate how the UK can cut 15-20 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions per year.
A new study published in Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture found no evidence to support the view that organically grown crops contain more major and trace elements. The study compared retention of minerals and trace elements in animals fed a diet consisting of conventionally grown crops, organic crops, and a combination of...
A study found that sesame seed extract and konjac gum can bind to E. coli and Salmonella bacteria, potentially preventing them from entering host cells. This natural approach may offer protection against gastro-intestinal infections or reduce symptom severity.
Potatoes with 'green' patches contain a toxic substance called Glycoalkaloids (GA), posing health risks. Cutting away the affected area can eliminate most of the toxin, reducing public health risks. Effective pre-harvest and post-harvest practices, such as proper soil coverage and harvesting timing, can also control GA levels in potatoes.
Researchers found that sea buckthorn leaf extract reduced liver damage in rats, with significant protection observed at higher doses. The study suggests that the leaves' anti-oxidant properties may help ward off liver disease.
A recent study published in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture reveals that oregano oil is as effective as synthetic insecticides in controlling Rhizoppertha dominica beetle infestations. The natural compound works by inhibiting egg laying and larval development, posing no environmental harm.
A new blood test, NuroPro, measures 59 protein biomarkers to distinguish between Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases. The test has been welcomed by researchers but larger studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness.
Researchers found that pre-soaking potatoes can reduce acrylamide formation by up to 23-48%, depending on soaking time and frying color. The study suggests this simple measure may reduce health risks associated with acrylamide consumption.
New research reveals that button mushrooms have equivalent anti-oxidant properties to pricey maitake and matsutake mushrooms. The study found that the body of the mushroom has a higher concentration of anti-oxidants than the stalk.
Researchers have modified the tanning process to make it more environmentally friendly, reducing chemical usage by 82% and energy consumption by nearly 40%. The new method does not compromise on leather quality, making it a significant step towards sustainable manufacturing.
Researchers at Tokyo University of Technology created a batter with the perfect crispiness and reduced fat content by adjusting water content and frying time. A moisture level of 60% and 5-minute fry time resulted in a highly crispy, lower-fat batter.
Research suggests that blue corn tortillas are healthier for diabetics and dieters, with a lower starch content and higher protein levels than white tortillas. This makes them a potential solution for managing metabolic syndrome.
Researchers found that pumpkin extract promotes regeneration of damaged pancreatic cells in diabetic rats, boosting insulin levels and reducing the need for daily insulin injections. The extract's protective effect is attributed to antioxidants and D-chiro-inositol, which may provide a new source of medication for diabetics.
Spanish researchers found that pigs fed large quantities of raw potato starch had a healthier bowel and decreased levels of white blood cells. The study, published in Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, suggests a potential beneficial effect on overall immune system health.
A simple oxygen treatment can extend the shelf life of organic produce, reducing losses and costs. This technique has shown promise in preventing scald formation and physiological diseases in apples, with potential applications for other organic fruits and vegetables.
Researchers in New Zealand have discovered cows with genes to produce skimmed milk, planning to breed herds for commercial production. The milk is low in saturated fats and high in polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, making it a healthier alternative.
Researchers have developed plastic railway sleepers made from waste polystyrene and polyethylene, which can last for centuries compared to wood or concrete sleepers. These biodegradable sleepers also provide a cost-effective solution for Network Rail's goal of using 23% recycled material by 2012.
A new study found that biodiesel from rapeseed could emit nearly the same amount of CO2 equivalents as conventional diesel. However, switching to tree farming for rapeseed production could significantly reduce emissions compared to petroleum diesel.
A baby formula supplemented with leptin, a hunger hormone, has been found to promote permanent weight loss and prevent diabetes in rats. The researchers believe that early introduction of leptin can 'hard-wire' the body's energy balance, leading to more efficient energy expenditure.