Potential of biogenic and non-biogenic waste materials as flocculant for algal biomass harvesting: Mechanism, parameters, challenges and future prospects.

In this review article, waste materials (biogenic/non-biogenic) are focused as the flocculants for harvesting of algal biomass. Chemical flocculants are widely utilized for the effective harvesting of algal biomass at a commercial scale while the high cost is a major drawback. The waste materials-based flocculants (WMBF) are started to utilize as one of the cost-effective performance for dual benefits of waste minimization and reuse for sustainable recovery of biomass. The novelty of the article is articulated with the objective that presents an insight of WMBF, classification of WMBF, preparation methods of WMBF, mechanisms of flocculation, factors affecting flocculation-mechanism, challenges and future recommendations that are required for harvesting of algae. The WMBF are shown similar flocculation mechanisms and flocculation efficiencies as chemical flocculants. Thus, the utilization of waste material for the flocculation process of algal cells minimizes the waste load into the environment and transforms the waste materials into valuable resources.

Antiviral activity of plant juices and green tea against SARS-CoV-2 and influenza virus in vitro

Many plant juices, extracts and teas have been shown to possess antiviral activity. We here analyzed the virucidal activity of black chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa), pomegranate (Punica granatum), and elderberry (Sambucus nigra) juice, as well as green tea (Camellia sinensis) against different respiratory viruses. We found that all tested plant derived products effectively inactivated influenza virus, whereas only chokeberry juice diminished SARS-CoV-2 and vaccinia virus infectivity. None of the products inactivated non-enveloped human adenovirus type 5. Thus, black chokeberry juice exerts virucidal activity against different enveloped viral pathogens under in vitro conditions. Whether application of virucidal juices or green tea as oral rinses may lower viral loads in the oral cavity in vivo remains to be evaluated.

Experimental Kinetic Analysis of Potassium Extraction from Ultrapotassic Syenite Using NaCl-CaCl2 Salt Mixture.

This kinetic experimental analysis reports on the application of a eutectic NaCl-CaCl2 salt system for the extraction of potassium from ultrapotassic microsyenite. The reaction parameters, time, temperature, salt composition, and salt to ore ratio, were systematically analyzed. It was found that a salt mixture increases the potassium cation extraction in comparison with using either pure NaCl or pure CaCl2. It was also found that adding CaCl2 into pure NaCl has a considerably stronger effect on increasing the potassium recovery than adding NaCl to pure CaCl2. The salt as a melting agent offers a reduction in the reaction temperature due to its lower melting temperature when compared to pure salts (NaCl or CaCl2). Approximately 70% of K+ in the deposit was extracted at 650 °C. Different characteristic methods have been used to understand the reaction mechanism of the salt mixture and ore, as well as to qualify and quantify the end product mineral phases.

Maximising renewable gas export opportunities at wastewater treatment plants through the integration of alternate energy generation and storage options.

Decarbonisation of all sectors of the economy is required if humanity will meet the Paris Agreement. Emissions from the electricity sector have fallen considerably in the past 10 years, however, other sectors of the economy have not been able to keep pace due to their reliance on natural gas. Wastewater treatment plants are in a unique position to help these sectors as they are able to generate renewable biogas which can be used as a substitute for natural gas. Currently, some wastewater treatment plants burn their biogas to meet onsite energy requirements; however, there is growing scepticism in the industry as to whether this is the most effective use of this resource. The current study investigates whether it would be economically and environmentally beneficial for these wastewater treatment plants to sell their biogas and generate energy through other means. To this end a case study assessment of a plant in Adelaide, South Australia was undertaken. Results showed that all studied cases resulted in significant economic and environmental gains over the traditional biogas-only system, suggesting that there is considerable potential for future changes to the way wastewater treatment plant are operated to realise their full potential as urban resource recovery facilities.

Radiology-Pathology Conference: Bilateral renal oncocytomas.

Oncocytoma is an uncommon benign, typically solitary renal tumor first reported in 1942. Renal oncocytomas are rarely multiple and/or bilateral. Accurate preoperative diagnosis and differentiation from renal carcinoma is difficult. We report the radiology and pathology of a patient with bilateral renal oncocytomas and review the literature of this rare presentation.