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Engineering or mimicking living materials found in nature has the potential to transform the use of materials. Unlike classic synthetic materials which are typically optimized for static properties, economics, and recently also for sustainability, materials of life are dynamic, feedback‐controlled, evolving, and adaptive. Although synthetic materials do not typically exhibit such complicated functionalities, researchers are increasingly challenging this viewpoint and expanding material concepts toward dynamic systems inspired by selected life‐like functions. Herein, it is suggested that such materials can be approached from two perspectives: through engineering of biological organisms and their functions to provide the basis for new materials, or by producing synthetic materials with selected rudimentary life‐inspired functions. Current advances are discussed from the perspectives of (i) new material features based on built‐in memory and associative learning, (ii) emergent structures and self‐regulated designs using non‐equilibrium systems, and (iii) interfacing living and non‐living systems in the form of cellular community control and growth to open new routes for material fabrication. Strategies combining (i)–(iii) provide materials with increasingly life‐inspired responses and potential for applications in interactive autonomous devices, helping to realize next‐generation sensors, autonomous and interactive soft robots, and external control over the bioproduction of self‐organizing structural materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract River discharge to the ocean influences the transport of salts and nutrients and is a source of variability in water mass distribution and the elemental cycle. Recently, using an underwater glider, we detected thick, low-salinity water offshore for the first time, probably derived from coastal waters, in the central-eastern Sea of Japan, whose primary productivity is comparable to that of the western North Pacific. Thereafter, we aimed to investigate the offshore advection and diffusion of coastal water and its variability and assess their impact. We examined the effects of river water discharge on the flow field and biological production. Numerical experiments demonstrated that low-salinity water observed by the glider in spring was discharged from the Japanese coast to offshore regions. The water is discharged offshore because of its interaction with mesoscale eddies. A relationship between the modeled low-salinity water transport to the offshore region and the observed chlorophyll-a in the offshore region was also observed, indicating the influence of river water on offshore biological production. This study contributes to understanding coastal-offshore water exchange, ocean circulation, elemental cycles, and biological production, which are frontiers in the Sea of Japan and throughout the world.

River discharge to the ocean influences the transport of salts and nutrients and is a source of variability in water mass distribution and the elemental cycle. Recently, using an underwater glider, we detected thick, low-salinity water offshore for the first time, probably derived from coastal waters, in the central-eastern Sea of Japan, whose primary productivity is comparable to that of the western North Pacific. Thereafter, we aimed to investigate the offshore advection and diffusion of coastal water and its variability and assess their impact. We examined the effects of river water discharge on the flow field and biological production. Numerical experiments demonstrated that low-salinity water observed by the glider in spring was discharged from the Japanese coast to offshore regions. The water is discharged offshore because of its interaction with mesoscale eddies. A relationship between the modeled low-salinity water transport to the offshore region and the observed chlorophyll-a in the offshore region was also observed, indicating the influence of river water on offshore biological production. This study contributes to understanding coastal-offshore water exchange, ocean circulation, elemental cycles, and biological production, which are frontiers in the Sea of Japan and throughout the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Legumes represent crops with multiple values at the farm level, from an economic and ecological point of view. The study evaluated the variation of biological yield, grain production and some productivity elements in field peas. The research took place in ARDS Lovrin, Romania. The experiment was organized under the conditions of a cambic chernoziom type soil, in a non-irrigated system. The 'Boxer' pea cultivar was cultivated. Fertilization was done with phosphorus, applied in autumn, in five concentrations (0, 40, 80, 120 and 160 kg ha-1 a.s.; a.s. - active substance). On each phosphorus level, nitrogen was applied in spring in five doses (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 kg ha-1 a.s.). The combination of the two fertilizers resulted in 25 experimental variants, in four repetitions. Biological yield recorded values BY=0.800 - 1.640±0.046 kg m-2. Pea grains production recorded values PgP=0.091 - 0.604±0.031 kg m-2. Pea stalks varied between PS=0.584 - 1.026±0.026 kg m-2. Secondary pea production varied between PsP=0.659 - 1.127±0.027 kg m-2. Correlation of variable intensity was recorded between determined parameters. Based on PCA, PC1 explained 72.664% of variance, and PC2 explained 27.217% of variance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron (Fe) is an essential micronutrient for diazotrophs, which are abundant in the Western Tropical South Pacific Ocean (WTSP). Their success depends on the numerous trace metals, particularly Fe, released from shallow hydrothermal vents along the Tonga Arc. This study aimed to explore the spatio‐temporal impact of hydrothermal fluids on particulate trace metal concentrations and biological activity. To identify the composition of sinking particles across a wide area of the WTSP, we deployed sediment traps at various depths, both close and further west of the Tonga Arc. Seafloor sediments were cored at these deployment sites, including at a remote location in the South Pacific Gyre. The sinking particles were composed of a large amount of biological material (up to 88 mg d−1), indicative of the high productivity of the region. A significant portion of this material (∼21 ± 12 wt.%) was lithogenic of hydrothermal origin, as revealed through Al‐Fe‐Mn tracing. The sinking material showed similar patterns between lithogenic and biogenic fractions, indicating that hydrothermal input within the photic layer triggered surface production. A hydrothermal fingerprint was suggested in the sediments due to the high sedimentation rates (>47 cm kyr−1) and the presence of large, heterogeneous, metal‐rich particles. The presence of nearby active deep hydrothermal sources was suspected near the Lau Ridge due to the large particle size (1–976 μm) and the significant excess of Fe and Mn (2–20 wt.%). Overall, this study revealed that hydrothermal sources have a significant influence on the biogeochemical signature of particles in the region. Plain Language Summary: Iron is an essential micronutrient for phytoplankton growth, especially diazotrophs. In a certain area of the Pacific Ocean, they can obtain the iron they need from material released by hydrothermal vents along the Tonga Arc. We demonstrated how hydrothermal sources affect the amount of iron and other materials released into the water column and their influence on phytoplankton. We collected sinking particles and seafloor sediments and examined their chemical composition. The sinking material consisted of a large amount of biological material, indicative of the high productivity of the area. A large part of the particles collected were minerals from hydrothermal vents. These biological and metallic materials displayed similar export patterns, indicating the role of hydrothermal sources in driving surface ocean productivity. Seafloor sediments were also influenced by hydrothermalism, as suggested by their high metal contents, high sedimentation rates and large, heterogeneous particle size. In addition, an undiscovered hydrothermal source was potentially identified near the Lau Ridge based on these data. Overall, this study revealed the significant impact of hydrothermalism on the biogeochemical signature of the particles in the Lau Basin at large spatial and temporal scales. Key Points: Lithogenic material of hydrothermal origin drives the biological production of the Lau BasinHydrothermal sources impact the biogeochemical signature of particles on large spatio‐temporal scalesThe Late'iki volcanic eruption had an impact on the deep layer of the entire Lau Basin [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine isoprene plays a crucial role in the formation of secondary organic aerosol within the remote marine boundary layer. Due to scarce field measurements of oceanic isoprene and limited laboratory‐based studies of isoprene production, assessing the importance of marine isoprene on atmospheric chemistry and climate is challenging. Calculating in‐field isoprene production rates is a crucial step to predict marine isoprene concentrations and the subsequent emissions to the atmosphere. The distribution, sources, and dominant environmental factors of isoprene were determined in the Northwest Pacific Ocean in 2019. The nutrient enrichment in the Kuroshio Oyashio Extension (KOE) surface seawater, driven by the upwelling and atmospheric deposition, promoted the growth of phytoplankton and elevated the isoprene concentration. This was confirmed by observed responses of isoprene to nutrients and aerosol dust additions in a ship‐based incubation experiment, where the isoprene concentrations increased by 70% (t = 4.417, p < 0.001) and 35% (t = 2.387, p < 0.05), respectively. Biogenic isoprene production rates in the deck incubation experiments were positively related to chlorophyll a, temperature, and solar radiation, with an average production of 7.33 ± 4.27 pmol L−1 day−1. Photochemical degradation of dissolved organic matter was likely an abiotic source of isoprene, contributing to approximately 14% of the total production. Driven by high isoprene production and extreme physical disturbance, the KOE showed very high emissions of isoprene of 46.0 ± 13.0 nmol m−2 day−1, which led to a significant influence on the oxidative capacity of the local atmosphere. Key Points: Nutrient enrichment in the surface seawater driven by upwelling and atmospheric deposition promoted the biological production of isoprenePhotochemical production was confirmed as an abiotic source of marine isopreneApproximately 10%∼63% of net isoprene produced in the mixed layer was transferred to the atmosphere [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Levulinic acid (LA) is a polymer with a vast industrial application range and can be co-produced as a minor by-product during the biological production of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA). However, the influence of key parameters as tools for favouring the production of LA over PHA is still unclear. In this study, we investigated how several critical operational conditions, i.e., carbon-nitrogen ratio (C/N), organic loading rate (OLR) and airflow, can be optimised to favour LA accumulation over PHA production by a mixed microbial culture (MMC), using synthetic grape pomace (GP) hydrolysate as the substrate. The results showed that it was possible to direct the MMC towards LA accumulation instead of PHA. The maximum LA yield was 2.7 ± 0.2 g LA/(L·d) using a C/N of 35, an airflow of 5 L/min and an OLR of 4 g sCOD/(L·d). The OLR and, to a lesser extent, the C/N ratio were the main factors significantly and positively correlated with the biological synthesis of LA.

The San Jorge Gulf was declared an area of national economic, commercial, conservation and diversity interest. To contribute to its study, the southern coastal sector of the gulf was characterised in physical and chemical parameters in spring campaigns (November 2016 and 2017). Samples were taken on board the oceanographic vessel Puerto Deseado in three perpendicular to the coast transects and another one to the southeast of the gulf, which crosses a thermohaline front. The perpendicular to the coast transects showed a similar pattern of distribution of physical and chemical properties in the water column. At nearshore stations, the water column was homogeneous and the nutrient concentrations between the surface and bottom layers were similar. At offshore stations, the water column was stratified and the nutrient concentrations were higher near the bottom than at surface. In 2016, a wind induced upwelling front was observed in the southwest of the gulf. Both sides of the thermohaline front did not show significant chemical differences. Throughout the study area, silicic acid and nitrate limited primary production. Satellite chlorophyll-a data and fluorescence profiles showed that the southern sector of the gulf has a high biomass of phytoplankton during November. We conclude that the southern sector of the SJG has different features depending on the external forcing caused by the front. The presence of fronts stimulates the growth of phytoplankton biomass through the injection of nutrients from the homogeneous part to the stratified sector. This would affect phytoplankton community and, thus, the productivity of the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experimental study investigated the hydrodynamic performance of the first free-surface semicircular breakwater supported on piles under regular waves. The research focused on SCB models with porosity levels of 0%, 9%, 18%, and 27%. Experimental tests were conducted in a wave flume to evaluate the transmission (CT), reflection (CR), and energy dissipation (CL) coefficients of the SCB models. Wave disturbance coefficients (CF) in front of the breakwater and within the breakwater chamber (CC) were also examined. Horizontal wave loading was measured using normalized force coefficients (Fn), including force coefficients of wave crests (Fn,c) and wave troughs (Fn,t). Empirical formulas were proposed to provide a quick estimate of the hydrodynamic performance, showing good agreement with the measured data. The findings highlight the impact of varying porosity levels on wave attenuation, with the impermeable SCB model (0% porosity) exhibiting superior performance compared to the perforated SCB models. This research contributes valuable insights into optimizing SCB model design and enables efficient estimation of its hydrodynamic performance under regular wave conditions. The results provide valuable guidance for the design and implementation of SCB structures, enhancing their effectiveness in wave attenuation applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The San Jorge Gulf was declared an area of national economic, commercial, conservation and diversity interest. To contribute to its study, the southern coastal sector of the gulf was characterised in physical and chemical parameters in spring campaigns (November 2016 and 2017). Samples were taken on board the oceanographic vessel Puerto Deseado in three perpendicular to the coast transects and another one to the southeast of the gulf, which crosses a thermohaline front. The perpendicular to the coast transects showed a similar pattern of distribution of physical and chemical properties in the water column. At nearshore stations, the water column was homogeneous and the nutrient concentrations between the surface and bottom layers were similar. At offshore stations, the water column was stratified and the nutrient concentrations were higher near the bottom than at surface. In 2016, a wind induced upwelling front was observed in the southwest of the gulf. Both sides of the thermohaline front did not show significant chemical differences. Throughout the study area, silicic acid and nitrate limited primary production. Satellite chlorophyll-a data and fluorescence profiles showed that the southern sector of the gulf has a high biomass of phytoplankton during November. We conclude that the southern sector of the SJG has different features depending on the external forcing caused by the front. The presence of fronts stimulates the growth of phytoplankton biomass through the injection of nutrients from the homogeneous part to the stratified sector. This would affect phytoplankton community and, thus, the productivity of the system.

Acetoin, a high-value-added bio-based platform chemical, is widely used in foods, cosmetics, agriculture, and the chemical industry. It is an important precursor for the synthesis of: 2,3-butanediol, liquid hydrocarbon fuels and heterocyclic compounds. Since the fossil resources are becoming increasingly scarce, biological production of acetoin has received increasing attention as an alternative to chemical synthesis. Although there are excellent reviews on the: application, catabolism and fermentative production of acetoin, little attention has been paid to acetoin production via: electrode-assisted fermentation, whole-cell biocatalysis, and in vitro/cell-free biocatalysis. In this review, acetoin biosynthesis pathways and relevant key enzymes are firstly reviewed. In addition, various strategies for biological acetoin production are summarized including: cell-free biocatalysis, whole-cell biocatalysis, microbial fermentation, and electrode-assisted fermentation. The advantages and disadvantages of the different approaches are discussed and weighed, illustrating the increasing progress toward economical, green and efficient production of acetoin. Additionally, recent advances in acetoin extraction and recovery in downstream processing are also briefly reviewed. Moreover, the current issues and future prospects of diverse strategies for biological acetoin production are discussed, with the hope of realizing the promises of industrial acetoin biomanufacturing in the near future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We found a decoupling of dissolved oxygen and pH in the Changjiang Estuary. • Decoupling of dissolved oxygen and pH reveals "old" algal blooms. • Simulations and end-member models are used to assess how "old" the algal bloom. • Estimation revealed the algal bloom preceded our cruise by 6–10 days. The stoichiometric ratio between seawater CO 2 and dissolved oxygen (DO) during phytoplankton metabolism holds significant importance in evaluating ecological and biogeochemical processes. We collected high-resolution underway temperature, salinity, DO, and pH data in the East China Sea inner shelf in May 2017. Our results revealed high pH (8.36) and supersaturated DO (171 %) in the outer Changjiang Estuary, indicating the occurrence of an algal bloom event. They were significantly correlated with a regression slope of 0.0029, which roughly followed the Redfield ratio. In contrast, a much higher ratio (0.0088) manifested in a low-salinity patch on north of the Changjiang Estuary, featuring a pH of 8.40 and oxygen saturation of approximately 123 %. The substantially faster air-sea equilibrium rate of O 2 than CO 2 probably caused such decoupling, offering insight into the temporal evolutions of algal bloom. Theoretically, a steeper regression slope implies an earlier onset of algal bloom. An end-member mixing model was constructed to exclude the physical mixing influences on dissolved inorganic carbon (ΔDIC) and DO (ΔDO). Furthermore, we conducted simulations to explore the temporal variations of ΔDIC–ΔDO regression slope with time. Comparing slopes derived from simulation and mixing model suggested that the biological signal of the decoupled waters likely preceded our observations by 6–10 days. Satellite results captured high-Chl a waters southwest of the low-salinity patch a week before our observation, potentially transported northward by prevailing southwest wind. Given that oxygen and pH are frequently measured in aquatic environments, their combined assessment could be a valuable method for assessing temporal algal bloom dynamics. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Edited by James McWilliams, University of California, Los Angeles, CA; received April 19, 2022; accepted September 3, 2022 The expansive gyres of the subtropical ocean account for a significant fraction of global organic carbon export fromthe upper ocean. In the gyre interior, verticalmixing and the heaving of nutrient-rich waters into the euphotic layer sustain local productivity, in turn depleting the layers below. However, the nutrient pathways by which these subeuphotic layers are themselves replenished remain unclear. Using a global, eddy-permitting simulation of ocean physics and biogeochemistry, we quantify nutrient resupplymechanisms along and across density surfaces, including the contribution of eddy-scale motions that are challenging to observe. We find that mesoscale eddies (10 to 100 km) flux nutrients from the shallow flanks of the gyre into the recirculating interior, through time-varying motions along density surfaces. The subeuphotic layers are ultimately replenished in approximately equal contributions by this mesoscale eddy transport and the remineralization of sinking particles.Themesoscale eddy resupply ismost important in the lower thermocline for the whole subtropical region but is dominant at all depths within the gyre interior. Subtropical gyre productivity may therefore be sustained by a nutrient relay, where the lateral transport resupplies nutrients to the thermocline and allows vertical exchanges to maintain surface biological production and carbon export. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experimental study investigated the hydrodynamic performance of the first free-surface semicircular breakwater supported on piles under regular waves. The research focused on SCB models with porosity levels of 0%, 9%, 18%, and 27%. Experimental tests were conducted in a wave flume to evaluate the transmission (CT), reflection (CR), and energy dissipation (CL) coefficients of the SCB models. Wave disturbance coefficients (CF) in front of the breakwater and within the breakwater chamber (CC) were also examined. Horizontal wave loading was measured using normalized force coefficients (Fn), including force coefficients of wave crests (Fn,c) and wave troughs (Fn,t). Empirical formulas were proposed to provide a quick estimate of the hydrodynamic performance, showing good agreement with the measured data. The findings highlight the impact of varying porosity levels on wave attenuation, with the impermeable SCB model (0% porosity) exhibiting superior performance compared to the perforated SCB models. This research contributes valuable insights into optimizing SCB model design and enables efficient estimation of its hydrodynamic performance under regular wave conditions. The results provide valuable guidance for the design and implementation of SCB structures, enhancing their effectiveness in wave attenuation applications.

We investigate the sensitivity of the oxygen content and true oxygen utilization of key low‐oxygen regions Ω to pointwise changes in biological production. To understand how the combined water and biogenic particle transport controls the sensitivity patterns and the fate of oxygen in the ocean, we develop new relationships that link the steady‐state oxygen content and deficit of Ω to the downstream and upstream oxygen utilization rate (OUR), respectively. We find that the amount of oxygen from Ω that will be lost per unit volume at point r is linked to OUR(r) through the mean oxygen age accumulated in Ω. The geographic sensitivity pattern of the Ω‐integrated oxygen deficit is shaped by where the utilization occurs that causes this deficit. The contribution to the oxygen deficit of Ω from utilization at r is controlled by the mean time that water at r spends in Ω before next ventilation at the surface. We illustrate these relationships and the new transport timescales using a simple steady‐state data‐constrained carbon and oxygen model. We focus on Ω being the global ocean, the Pacific Hypoxic Zone (PHZ, [O2] < 62.5 µM), and the North Pacific oxygen minimum zone. The oxygen deficit of the PHZ is most sensitive where mode and intermediate waters form and where increased organic‐matter production directly increases the PHZ's oxygen demand. The fraction of the local oxygen concentration that will be utilized in respiration is as high as 90% in the PHZ and up to 70% in the water column beneath it. Plain Language Summary: Dissolved oxygen is vital for marine animals. Oxygen in the ocean comes primarily from the atmosphere and is consumed throughout the water column by microbes that break down organic matter produced by photosynthesis near the surface. In certain parts of the ocean interior, where oxygen consumption is high and the supply of freshly oxygenated waters is low, the oxygen concentration is lethally low for many animals. As the surface production of organic matter changes due to environmental factors, so does the oxygen demand in the ocean interior. Here we develop new relationships for understanding the fate of oxygen in the ocean and illustrate them with an ocean model. By tracing the oxygen deficit of a given subsurface region back in time to where the oxygen was consumed, we show that the sensitivity of the region's oxygen content to changes in biological productivity is controlled mainly by the time water spends in the region before getting re‐oxygenated at the surface. By tracing oxygen forward in time to where it gets utilized, we show that 70%–90% of the oxygen in the North Pacific below a few hundred meters depth gets utilized in the breakdown of organic matter. Key Points: We map out where the oxygen deficit of low‐oxygen regions originates and link deficit and utilization rates with a new mean transport timeThe sensitivity pattern of low‐oxygen regions to production changes is shaped by the time to next ventilation spent in the regionsIn and below the hypoxic North Pacific 70%–90% of the oxygen concentration will get utilized before next ventilation [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present ΔO2/Ar‐based estimates of mixed layer net community production (NCP) from three summer cruises in the North American Arctic and Subarctic oceans. Coupling shipboard underway and discrete observations with output from an ocean circulation model, we correct the NCP estimates for vertical mixing fluxes impacting the surface O2 budget. Large positive mixing fluxes, exceeding 100 mmol O2 m−2 d−1, were derived in regions of strong wind‐driven mixing, such as the Labrador Sea (LS), and in the physically‐dynamic Canadian Arctic Archipelago. In contrast, flux corrections were small (<10 mmol O2 m−2 d−1, on average) in the density‐stratified Baffin Bay, where mixing was low, and parts of the well‐mixed Hudson Strait (HS), where vertical O2 gradients were weak. The distribution of corrected NCP was highly heterogenous across the study region, reflecting varying contributions of nutrient supply, freshwater input and sea ice dynamics. Elevated NCP was apparent in the LS, HS, and nearshore regions influenced by glacial meltwater and recent ice retreat. Low NCP and localized net heterotrophy occurred in Baffin Bay, and near strong freshwater and organic matter sources in Hudson Bay and the Queen Maud Gulf. A multiple linear regression model developed using available oceanographic data explained ∼58% of the observed NCP variability. Our work demonstrates the spatially explicit influence of vertical mixing on ΔO2/Ar‐based NCP calculations across varied hydrographic conditions, and presents a novel approach to account for this process. This study contributes new knowledge of biological productivity distributions in under‐sampled, rapidly changing, high‐latitude waters. Plain Language Summary: Net community production (NCP; i.e., net organic matter production) constrains the ocean's ability to support marine ecosystems and remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. A common approach to estimating NCP involves measurements of upper ocean oxygen (O2) concentrations. However, while vertical mixing may be a significant component of the surface water O2 budget in some regions, applications of this approach typically do not quantify the magnitude of this flux, which can lead to potentially inaccurate NCP estimates. In this paper, we introduce a method combining ship‐based measurements and the output from an ocean circulation model to refine NCP calculations for vertical mixing effects in North American Arctic and Subarctic oceans. The data set reveals high NCP in the Labrador Sea (Inuktitut: Lâbradorip Imappinga), North Atlantic, Hudson Strait (Ikirasarjuaq) and northern Canadian Arctic Archipelago (CAA), and low values in Baffin Bay (Saknirutiak Imanga) and southern CAA. Riverine freshwater input to Hudson Bay (Tasiujarjuar) and the Queen Maud Gulf (Ugjulik) can reduce local NCP, while glacial meltwater may stimulate NCP elsewhere. Overall, this work provides a new NCP data set in an under‐sampled region. Similar studies will be necessary to document changes in biological productivity in response to changing environmental conditions in polar waters. Key Points: Ship‐based observations and numerical model output were used to correct net community production (NCP) estimates for vertical mixing biasesCorrected NCP was correlated with nutrient supply and sea ice dynamics, as reflected in a multiple linear regressionFreshwater from glaciers and rivers may stimulate productivity or drive local respiration through nutrient and organic carbon inputs [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biosynthesis of nanoparticles using microorganisms as emerging bionanotechnology has received considerable attention due to a growing need to develop environmentl-friendly technologies in materials synthesis. Nanoparticles produced by a biogenic enzymatic process are far superior in biomedical applications to those produced by chemical methods. This study explored the biosynthesis of gold nanoparticles by Arthrospira platensis Gomont. Two series of experiments hence the dose dependency (chloroauric acid solution with different concentrations) and the temperature dependency (room, 75° C, and 90° C temperature) of Au nanoparticles formation, were studied. Optimizing the synthesis of gold nanoparticles and gold nanoparticles concentration determination was done. The results showed that the gold nanoparticles' size is reduced by reducing the gold concentration and raising the reaction temperature. In addition, the size of spherical shape nanoparticles has decreased from 80 nm to 20 nm, and as the concentration increased, nanoparticles became more stable. Extracted nanoparticles solutions were examined by UV-visible Spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), and EDAX or EDS (Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy) analysis. Results indicated that algae extract is very suitable for biosynthesis and are more efficient than biomass. The maximum production efficiency with this method is 98%, which is excellent and economical. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The trisaccharide, 2′-fucosyllactose (Fucα1-2Galβ1-4Glc; 2′-FL), is the most abundant oligosaccharide in human milk. It has numerous significant biological properties including prebiotics, antibacterial, antiviral, and immunomodulating effects, and has been approved as "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS) by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and as a novel food (NF) by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). 2′-FL not only serves as a food ingredient added in infant formula, but also as a dietary supplement and medical food material in food bioprocesses. There is considerable commercial interest in 2′-FL for its irreplaceable nutritional applications. This review aims at systematically elaborating key functional properties of 2′-FL as well as its applications. In addition, several approaches for 2′-FL production are described in this review, including chemical, chemo-enzymatical, and cell factory approaches, and the pivotal research results also have been summarized. With the rapid development of metabolic engineering and synthetic biology strategies, using the engineered cell factory for 2′-FL large-scale production might be a promising approach. From an economic and safety point of view, microbial selection for cell factory engineering in 2′-FL bioprocess also should be taken into consideration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atmospheric mineral dust deposition plays an important role in providing nutrients to marine ecosystems. In this study, the climatology of dust deposition in the Adriatic Sea area was determined for the first time based on Modern‐Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Applications, version 2 reanalysis from 1989 to 2019. The annual cycle of deposition exhibits two maxima: a stronger maxima in March–April and a weaker maxima in November. Wet deposition is a dominant process with a relative contribution to overall deposition from 67.35% to 88.53%. Deposition hot spots are along the Montenegrin coast and Otrant. The average contribution of dust deposition events (DDEs) is 16.5% (60.2 dy yr−1), with the strongest deposition during 1999–2009 and a positive trend in deposited mass during the study period. The effect of dust deposition on primary production is observed by a high level of oxygen saturation up to 250% (usually it is lower, up to 150%) in the stratified middle water layer (5–8 m) of the central Adriatic marine system (Rogoznica Lake) during an intense wet deposition episode. Such extreme values of oxygen saturation can be taken as an indication of biological activity related to an increase in phytoplankton abundance and activity, diatoms in particular. Key Points: Desert dust deposition annual cycle in the Adriatic Sea is bimodalEmpirical orthogonal functions reveal the strongest deposition related to Mediterranean cyclones in springHigh oxygen production in Rogoznica Lake marine system is related to dust deposition events [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Continuous input from the Changjiang River significantly reshuffled the ecosystems in the Changjiang Estuary and adjacent East China Sea, impacting the production, distribution, and emission of marine dimethyl sulfide (DMS). However, the effect of phytoplankton biomass and composition on DMS under different nutrient inputs remains poorly understood. Two comprehensive cruises to characterize their effects were conducted in spring and summer 2015. The areas with high concentrations of DMS, dimethylsulfoniopropionate (precursor of DMS), and dimethyl sulfoxide (photo‐oxidation product of DMS) were largely consistent with high phytoplankton abundances along the front of Changjiang Diluted Water in both seasons. Both the higher conversion ratio of dissolved dimethylsulfoniopropionate to DMS and the higher DMS biological production rate in summer contributed to the higher DMS levels. Once produced in seawater, more than half of the DMS was directly consumed by microbes, resulting in a turnover time of 1–2 days, which was shorter than that driven by ventilation. A ship‐based incubation experiment revealed that, with increasing N/Si and N/P ratios from the Changjiang River, phytoplankton biomass increased and the community shifted from diatom‐dominated to dinoflagellate‐dominated, which was conducive to DMS production. It was noteworthy that strong DMS photo‐degradation induced by high nitrate concentrations may have masked DMS production to some extent, while urea only had a promoting effect and therefore led to a maximum increase in DMS yield. Our findings indicated that the increase in phytoplankton biomass and succession of phytoplankton community induced by changes in nutrient inputs will promote DMS emissions from the Changjiang Estuary. Plain Language Summary: The Changjiang River is the third‐longest river in the world. It persistently discharges a large number of terrestrial materials into the Changjiang Estuary and adjacent seas and therefore results in a major reshuffling of marine ecosystems, inevitably affecting the production, distribution, and emission of marine dimethyl sulfide (DMS). DMS is the largest biogenic sulfur source for the atmosphere and plays a critical role in climate feedback. Therefore, a systematic investigation was conducted in relevant waters to study the effects of different nutrient inputs from the Changjiang River on the production and emission of estuarine DMS. Abundant nutrients imported from the Changjiang Diluted Water have promoted phytoplankton growth and subsequent DMS production. Besides, with the increasing ratios of N/Si and N/P in nutrients, the community succession shifting from diatoms (inefficient producer of DMS) to dinoflagellates (prolific producers of DMS) have further enhanced DMS production. It was noteworthy that strong DMS photo‐degradation induced by high nitrate concentration may mask DMS production to some extent, while urea only has a promoting effect and therefore led to a maximum increase in DMS yield. The resulting increases in DMS concentrations will promote DMS emissions and consequently play a non‐negligible role in regional climate regulation. Key Points: Frequent algal blooms led to drastic fluctuations in the concentrations and sea‐to‐air fluxes of dimethyl sulfideIncreasing trends of nutrient loads from the Changjiang River will enhance estuarine dimethyl sulfide productionIn seawater, urea caused larger increases in the concentrations of dimethyl sulfide than nitrate [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present study explains the disparity in biological production (primary and secondary) with respect to two distinct monsoonal regimes in the western Bay of Bengal, viz., deficit monsoon (DM) and normal monsoon (NM). A combination of in situ and satellite data during the years 2002 (DM) and 2003 (NM) was used to address the physico-chemical and biological responses. The basin was relatively warm (ΔSST = 0.55 °C) and fresh (ΔSSS = −0.55) during DM than NM. Physical processes such as coastal upwelling and cyclonic eddy were prominent during NM. Variations of hydrography between DM and NM were reflected in the biological production as well. Chlorophyll a concentration (0.05 to 5.2 mg m−2) was almost similar during both the periods; however, column production showed higher values during DM. Mesozooplankton standing stock was relatively less during DM than NM. Composition of zooplankton also showed pronounced variation between the periods. This can be attributed to the variability in biological response of the region to the varying environmental condition. Relatively high chlorophyll a and primary productivity observed during DM may be due to the increased light availability (less cloud cover) and extended euphotic depth. In addition, the low mesozooplankton standing stock (low grazing) observed during the period also might have helped in maintaining a relatively high rate of production. The seasonal production of the basin is influenced by duration and intensity of various atmospheric as well as oceanic processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to study the characterization and phytochemical screening of meniran (Phyllanthus niruri linn) extract's nanoparticles used ball mill method. The effect of herbal products would be maximized, a formulation that able to increase solubility, stability, bioavailability, and a targeted system was needed so the use of simplicia would be more effective. One of alternative solutions to this problem was to make the preparation of meniran extract in the form of nanoparticles. Nanoparticles made it easier for extract to be absorbed in blood plasma and were more effective in achieving the target drug itself. The manufacture of meniran nanoparticles used ball mill method. Then, meniran extract nanoparticles characterization and phytochemical screening were carried out. Meniran (Phyllanthus niruri Linn) extract nanoparticle characterization consisted of size, used Particle Size Analyzer (PSA), and morphology, used Scaning Electron Microscope (SEM). Phytochemical screening of meniran extract nanoparticles used qualitative screening by reagent test. The results showed that the meniran extract nanoparticles produced an average size of 192.6 nm. The averange shape of particle was imperfectly amorphous and the dominant composition was Carbon (C). Phytochemical screening showed the content of flavonoids, tannins, saponins, terpenoids and alkaloids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Taiwan, castor meal (CM) is often used by farmers as an organic fertilizer for the supplement of plant nutrition. It can rapidly increase nitrogen availability for crops. However, the excessive application of CM will affect the ecosystem. This study was conducted to evaluate the optimum concentration of CM that can be used as a fertilizer for balancing crop production and soil ecosystem health (by considering earthworms). Pak choi was selected for the experiment. A randomized block design with three replications was used, with treatments consisting of five concentrations of CM (namely 25, 50, 100, 150, and 200 kg/0.1 ha) and fermented livestock compost 800 kg/0.1 ha, represented as CM25, CM50, CM100, CM150, CM200, and LC800, respectively. The results revealed that soil properties, leaf nutrient concentration, and plant traits, namely plant diameter, plant height, and fresh and dry root and shoot matter, improved with the increasing concentrations of CM, and CM100–CM200, and led to the highest production of pak choi which was equivalent to that with LC800. However, the weight of earthworms decreased as CM concentrations increased. The weight of earthworms was similar between CM25, CM50, CM100, and LC800. In conclusion, given the characteristics of high nitrogen as a fertilizer, the optimal dose of CM was 100–150 kg/0.1 ha for obtaining a balance between crop production and ecosystem safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A freshwater-induced barrier layer (BL) is a common physical phenomenon both in coastal waters and the open ocean. To examine the effects of BL on the biological production and the associated carbon export, a physical-biogeochemical survey was conducted in the Bay of Bengal. Severe depletions of surface phosphorus and the deepening of the nutricline were observed at the BL-affected stations due to the vertical mixing prohibition. The lowered surface chlorophyll a (Chl a) and squeezed deep Chl a maximum (DCM) layer also resulted in the ~18% lowered vertically integrated Chl a at the said stations. The composition of the net-sampled zooplankton was altered, and the abundance decreased by half at the BL-affected station (29.68 ind. m−3) compared with the unaffected station (55.52 ind. m−3). Such reductions in major zooplankton groups were confirmed by a video plankton recorder (VPR). The VPR observation indicated that there was a lower (by one-half) abundance of detritus at the BL-affected station, while the much lower carbon export flux rates were estimated to be at the BL-affected station (0.31 mg C m−2 d−1) rather than the unaffected station (0.77 mg C m−2 d−1). An idealized one-dimensional nutrient-phytoplankton-detritus model identified that the existence of BL can lead to decreased surface nutrients and phytoplankton concentrations, squeezed DCM layers, and lower detritus abundances. Finally, this study indicated that BL layers inhibit biological production and reduce carbon export, thus playing an important role in the ocean biogeochemical cycles.

All‐DNA nanomedicines have emerged as potential anti‐tumor drugs. DNA nanotechnology provides all‐DNA nanomedicines with unlimited possibilities in controlling the diversification of size, shape, and loads of the therapeutic motifs. As DNA is a biological polymer, it is possible to genetically encode and produce the all‐DNA nanomedicines in living bacteria. Herein, DNA‐dendrimer‐based nanomedicines are designed to adapt to the biological production, which is constructed by the flexible 3‐arm building blocks to enable a highly efficient one‐pot DNA assembly. For the first time, a DNA nanomedicine, D4‐3‐As‐DzSur, is successfully genetically encoded, biotechnologically produced, and directly self‐assembled. The performance of the biologically produced D4‐3‐As‐DzSur in targeted gene regulation has been confirmed by in vitro and in vivo studies. The biological production capability will fulfill the low‐cost and large‐scale production of all‐DNA nanomedicines and promote clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a data-assimilated model of the ocean's phosphorus cycle that is constrained by climatological phosphate, temperature, salinity, sea-surface height, surface heat and freshwater fluxes, as well as chlorofluorocarbon-11(CFC-11) and natural Δ14C. Export production is estimated to be 5.8±2.0×1012 mol P/yr of which (26±6)% originates in the Southern Ocean (SO) south of 40°S. The biological pump efficiency, defined as the proportion of the ocean's phosphate inventory that is regenerated, is (39±7)%. Dividing the SO south of 40°S into a sub-Antarctic zone (SANTZ) and an Antarctic zone (ANTZ) separated by the latitude of maximum Ekman divergence, we estimate that the SANTZ and ANTZ account, respectively, for (23±5)% and (3±1)% of global export production, (17±4)% and (3±1)% of the regenerated nutrient inventory, and (31±1)% and (43±5)% of the preformed nutrient inventory. Idealized SO nutrient depletion experiments reveal a large-scale transfer of nutrients into circumpolar and deep waters and from the preformed to the regenerated pool. In accord with the concept of the biogeochemical divide, we find that nutrient drawdown in the ANTZ is more effective than in the SANTZ for increasing the efficiency of the biological pump, while having a smaller impact on production in regions north of 40°S. Complete SO nutrient drawdown would allow the biological pump to operate at 94% efficiency by short circuiting the transport of nutrients in northward Ekman currents, leading to a trapping of nutrients in circumpolar and deep waters that would decrease production outside the SO by approximately 44% while increasing it in the SO by more than 725%.

Kestoses, the smallest fructooligosaccharides, are trisaccharides composed of a fructose molecule and a sucrose molecule linked by either β-(2,1) or β-(2,6) linkage. 1-kestose, 6-kestose and neokestose are the three types of kestoses occurring in nature. As the main kind of fructooligosaccharide, kestoses share similar physiological effects with other fructooligosaccharides, and they have recently been determined to show more notable effects in promoting the growth of probiotics including Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Bifidobacterium than those of other fructooligosaccharides. Kestoses exist in many plants, but the relatively low content and the isolation and purification are the main barriers limiting their industrial application. The production of kestoses by enzymatic biosynthesis and microbial fermentation has the potential to facilitate its production and industrial use. In this article, the recent advances in the research of kestoses were overviewed, including those studying their functions and production. Kestose-producing enzymes were introduced in detail, and microbial production and fermentation optimization techniques for enhancing the yield of kestoses were addressed. β-Fructofuranosidase is the main one used to produce kestoses because of the extensive range of microbial sources. Therefore, the production of kestoses by microorganisms containing β-fructofuranosidase has also been reviewed. However, few molecular modification studies have attempted to change the production profile of some enzymes and improve the yield of kestoses, which is a topic that should garner more attention. Additionally, the production of kestoses using food-grade microorganisms may be beneficial to their application in the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Levulinic acid (LA) is a polymer with a vast industrial application range and can be co-produced as a minor by-product during the biological production of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA). However, the influence of key parameters as tools for favouring the production of LA over PHA is still unclear. In this study, we investigated how several critical operational conditions, i.e., carbon-nitrogen ratio (C/N), organic loading rate (OLR) and airflow, can be optimised to favour LA accumulation over PHA production by a mixed microbial culture (MMC), using synthetic grape pomace (GP) hydrolysate as the substrate. The results showed that it was possible to direct the MMC towards LA accumulation instead of PHA. The maximum LA yield was 2.7 ± 0.2 g LA/(L·d) using a C/N of 35, an airflow of 5 L/min and an OLR of 4 g sCOD/(L·d). The OLR and, to a lesser extent, the C/N ratio were the main factors significantly and positively correlated with the biological synthesis of LA., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Correa-Galetote, Serrano, Ciudad and Pinto-Ibieta.)

Supplementation of mushroom substrates has been linked to a higher resistance against insect pests, although few studies show the impact of this supplementation on the different agronomical parameters of mushrooms or even their chemical composition. In this work, the variation in the biological and chemical composition of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus var. florida (Jacq.) P. Kumm) was analysed after varying the substrate supplementation of calcium silicate (0, 0.5, 1, 2, and 4% (w/w%)) during two harvest flushes. Overall, supplementation did not change the weight, the number of fruiting bodies, biological efficiency, yield ratio, and productivity rate of the mushrooms, although the harvest flushes did show significant differences. Furthermore, slight changes were found in the chemical composition with an increase in vitamin D2 and tocopherols for the mushrooms with higher amounts of calcium silicate. Overall, the substrate supplementation did not seem to induce expressive changes or decrease production yields, and can, therefore, continue to be researched as a potential application to fight agronomical pests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The selection of unialgal culture strains suitable as sources of algal hemagglutinins is one of the important factors for success in algal component production. To obtain suitable unialgal culture strains, several Gracilariopsis chorda and Gracilaria vermiculophylla strains were surveyed for hemagglutinating activity, relative growth rates, and fertility difficulty. Fertile tetrasporophyte samples of naturally occurring G. chorda and G. vermiculophylla were collected at each of three different collection sites around Shikoku Island in southwest Japan. Unialgal culture strains were started from isolated tetraspores obtained from each naturally occurring plant. The hemagglutinating activities in algal extracts of the three G. chorda strains (3100–7000 units mg−1) were higher than those of the three G. vermiculophylla strains (920–980 units mg−1). The daily growth rates of the G. chorda strains (8.0–13.8% day−1 at 22 °C) were higher than those of the G. vermiculophylla strains (4.1–4.4% day−1 at 22 °C). Among the unialgal culture strains tested, the one started from isolated tetraspores from G. chorda growing in the Katsuura River had the highest hemagglutinating activity and relative growth rate. This strain also did not become fertile even after a period of 3 years of culture with aeration at 22 °C, in a 14-h light–10-h dark cycle at 60 μmol photons m−2 s−1. Thus, the unialgal culture strain started from isolated tetraspores from G. chorda growing in the Katsuura River seems to be a useful source for hemagglutinin production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

l-Ribose is a non-naturally occurring pentose that recently has become known for its potential application in the pharmaceutical industry, as it is an ideal starting material for use in synthesizing l-nucleosides analogues, an important class of antiviral drugs. In the past few decades, the synthesis of l-ribose has been mainly undertaken through the chemical route. However, chemical synthesis of l-ribose is difficult to achieve on an industrial scale. Therefore, the biotechnological production of l-ribose has gained considerable attention, as it exhibits many merits over the chemical approaches. The present review focuses on various biotechnological strategies for the production of l-ribose through microbial biotransformation and enzymatic catalysis, and in particular on an analysis and comparison of the synthetic methods and different enzymes. The physiological functions and applications of l-ribose are also elucidated. In addition, different sugar isomerases involved in the production of l-ribose from a number of sources are discussed in detail with regard to their biochemical properties. Furthermore, analysis of the separation issues of l-ribose from the reaction solution and different purification methods is presented. Key points •l-Arabinose,l-ribulose and ribitol can be used to producel-ribose by enzymes. • Five enzymes are systematically introduced for production ofl-ribose. • Microbial transformation and enzymatic methods are promising for yieldingl-ribose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the period 2012-2014, in steel-glasshouse on the experimental field of Agricultural University - Plovdiv, was carried out a study about elements of organic tomatoes production technology. The following organic fertilizers have been tested: Evrobio; Osmo Bio garden; Biofa; Orgamax; Agrobiosol; Naturale; Lumbrikompost; Alga 600 PO 2; Hemozim bio 5 N5P3K6; StimAK; Softgard. The organic fertilizers have been introduced in their recommended norms. We have explored the influence of fertilization with organic soil fertilizers and foliar spray on productivity of greenhouse grown tomatoes by late production technology. It was established the nutritional substances were assimilated during the whole vegetation period but with different intensity.More intensive assimilation of N, P, K from the beginning of fruit formation to mass bearing was established in both variants with fertilizers in the soil alone, and with soil fertilizers and foliar sprays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

D-Mannose is an epimer of glucose at the C-2 position and exists in nature as a component of mannan. It has 60 and 86% sweetness than that of sucrose and D-glucose, respectively. Because of its low-calorie and nontoxic features, D-mannose is used widely in food, medicine, cosmetic, and food-additive industries. Besides, it exhibits many physiologic benefits on health: immune system, diabetes mellitus, intestinal diseases, and urinary tract infections. It is used as a starting material to synthesize immunostimulatory agents, anti-tumor agents, vitamins, and D-mannitol. However, D-mannose production using chemical synthesis and plant extraction cannot meet the requirements of the industry. This article presents recent research on the biological production of D-mannose. The physiologic benefits and applications of D-mannose are summarized. Besides, different D-mannose-producing enzymes from various sources are discussed in detail with regard to their biochemical characteristics, catalytic efficiency, and reaction kinetics for D-mannose production. Furthermore, attempts to use enzymatic conversion to produce D-mannose are reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A high‐resolution mooring record from the Changjiang River plume (45‐m depth) is used to investigate how air‐sea CO2 flux responds to typhoon in the productive plume. With strong wind, surface partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2) increased sharply from 369 to 606 μatm due to entrainment of high‐CO2 subsurface water. Though it was followed by pCO2 decrease of 250 μatm and Chl a increase days after the typhoon, the typhoon caused a net CO2 efflux overall. The maximum CO2 efflux (+111.6 mmol·m−2·day−1) is much greater than that under non‐typhoon condition (−2.3 to −11.7 mmol·m−2·day−1). Based on historical typhoon records, we estimate typhoon‐induced CO2 efflux to be +0.27 Tg C/year, which can cancel 18% of summer CO2 influx in the East China Sea shelf. It may likely occur in other coastal waters. Ignoring such contribution may induce large bias in estimating regional air‐sea CO2 flux. Plain Language Summary: Air‐sea CO2 flux estimations in shelf waters are improving in recent decades but still have large uncertainties. Short‐term events, such as tropical cyclones, could have significant influences in air‐sea CO2 flux estimations. In addition, recent climate models suggest tropical cyclones may become more intense over the coming century. We know little about how they influence regional air‐sea CO2 flux. Here, we present a high‐resolution mooring record from the Changjiang River plume to investigate how air‐sea CO2 flux responds to typhoon. In our record, surface partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2) increased sharply from 369 to 606 μatm due to entrainment of high‐CO2 subsurface water. Though it was followed by pCO2 decrease and Chl a increase days after the typhoon, the typhoon caused a net CO2 efflux overall. The typhoon transferred CO2 from surface waters to atmosphere at a maximum rate of 111.6 mmol·m−2·day−1. Based on historical typhoon records, we estimate typhoon‐induced CO2 efflux to be +0.27 Tg C/year, which can cancel out 18% of summer CO2 influx in the East China Sea shelf. It may likely occur in other coastal waters. Ignoring such contribution may induce large bias in estimating regional air‐sea CO2 flux. Key Points: Sea surface pCO2 increased by 237 μatm within 3 days during vertical mixing; it decreased by 250 μatm days after the typhoonEntrainment of high‐pCO2 and hypoxic bottom water by typhoon caused CO2 efflux of +111.6 mmol·m−2·day−1 (CO2 sink under non‐typhoon condition)Typhoon‐induced CO2 efflux is +0.27 Tg C/year, which can cancel out 18% of summer CO2 influx over the East China Sea shelf [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spatial distributions of biogenic dimethylated sulfur compounds (BDSCs), including dimethylsulfide (DMS), dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP), and dimethylsulfoxide, were determined in the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea during a survey in April–May 2014 and the occurrence and fate of BDSCs in the surface seawater were investigated. The concentrations of DMS and DMSP were significantly correlated with the stocks of chlorophyll a and a decreasing trend was observed from the inshore to the offshore areas. In situ incubation experiments indicated that more than half of the degraded dissolved DMSP (DMSPd) was transformed into DMS. Irradiation experiments showed that the photooxidation of DMS under ultraviolet B, ultraviolet A, and visible light accounted for 23.9%, 71.8%, and 4.3% of the total photooxidation of DMS, respectively. The sea‐to‐air fluxes of DMS ranged from 0.24 to 34.11 μmol m−2 day−1 with a mean of 8.84 μmol m−2 day−1. A comparison of the DMS production rate and main removal rates indicated that bioproduction cannot completely maintain the removal of DMS and might not be the only but the primary source of DMS in the surface seawater. Additionally, the average turnover times of microbial consumption, photooxidation, and sea‐to‐air exchange of DMS were 1.53, 1.16, and 4.28 day and the contributions of the three removal pathways were 40.0%, 41.2%, and 18.8% respectively; this indicated that microbial consumption and photooxidation played dominant roles in controlling the removal of DMS from the surface seawater. Plain Language Summary: Dimethylsulfide (DMS) in the atmosphere can alter the environment and climate by its certain oxidation products. DMS emission from the ocean to the atmosphere is the most important source of atmospheric DMS. Therefore, it is of great importance to investigate the distribution, occurrence, and fate of marine DMS. In our study, the concentrations of DMS, dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP, the precursor of DMS), and dimethylsulfoxide (the photooxidation or microbial oxidation product of DMS) in the marine boundary layer of the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea were determined, and in situ deck incubation and irradiation experiments were conducted to research the cycle processes of the dimethylated sulfur compounds. We found that the concentrations of DMS and DMSP were mainly influenced by the freshwater input in the study area. The concentrations of DMS and DMSP were significantly correlated with the stocks of chlorophyll a. DMS in the surface water was primarily removed by microbial metabolism and photooxidation. In addition, the flux of DMS from the study area to the atmosphere was also estimated, suggesting it is an important net source of atmospheric DMS. Key Points: The distributions of biogenic dimethylated sulfur compounds were significantly affected by anthropogenic activity and river dischargeMicrobial consumption and photooxidation were the dominant pathways contributing to the DMS sinkBioproduction was not the sole but the primary source of DMS in the surface seawater in the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ecosystem studies of biological resources in the Sea of Okhotsk Large Marine Ecosystem (LME), launched by the Pacific Research Fisheries Center (TINRO-Center) in the 1980s, are considered in this brief review. Quantitative data on biomass, distribution density and diet of plankton, benthos, nekton, and nektobenthos were collected annually on three to five integrated expeditions annually covering all seasons. These studies show that the biological capacity and the stock size of commercial aquatic species have always been underestimated. According to the latest estimates, the total organic matter produced annually ranges within 17.85–23.9 billion tons of wet weight, of which the primary production accounts for 63–78%. Production of other components is: microzooplankton, up to 2100.0 million t; bacterioplankton, to 5200.0 million t; euryphagous zooplankton (mainly euphausiids and copepods), to 2520.0 million t; predatory zooplankton, to 480.0 million t; zoobenthos, to 340.0 million t; nekton, to 22.7 million t; nektobenthos, to 2.2 million t; marine mammals and birds, 0.1 million t. The stock status of most species of fish and invertebrates are considered to be in good or satisfactory shape. Fishing is regulated based on the precautionary approach. The current annual commercial catch is 1.5–1.7 million tons. In the absence of harvesting of marine mammals, the populations of cetaceans, pinnipeds and sea otter have recovered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2-Phenylethanol (2-PE), an important flavor and fragrance compound with a rose-like smell has been widely used in the cosmetics, perfume, and food industries. Traditional production of 2-PE was mainly through the extraction from plant materials or by chemical synthesis. However, the increasing demand of consumers for natural flavors cannot be met by these methods. Biological production of 2-PE has emerged to be an appealing solution due to an environmental friendly process and the definition of a "natural" product. In this review, we have comprehensively summarized the current status and perspectives for biological 2-PE production in terms of its advantages over classical chemical synthesis and extraction from natural plants. A comprehensive description of 2-PE synthetic pathways and global regulation mechanisms, strategies to increase 2-PE production, and the utilization of agro-industrial wastes as feedstocks has been systematically discussed. Furthermore, the application of in situ product removal techniques have also been highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The oceans are an important source of the methyl halides released into the atmosphere and impacting the stratospheric ozone layer. Marine bacteria such as Erythrobacter and Pseudomonas are known to be sources of methyl halides in marine environments, but the production of methyl halides by thraustochytrids, the other decomposers in the marine ecosystem, have not been studied. Here, we report the productions of three methyl halides, CH 3 Cl, CH 3 Br, and CH 3 I, in cultures of thraustochytrids. Thraustochytrids were incubated at 20 °C, 25 °C, and 30 °C, and the concentrations of methyl halides in the gas phase above these cultures were determined using dynamic headspace gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Growth of thraustochytrids was monitored by measuring optical density at 600 nm during the culture period. Cell density was also measured for some samples of thraustochytrids by counting with a plankton-counting chamber during the culture period. Three of the four tested strains of marine thraustochytrids were found to produce methyl halides in culture: Botryochytrium radiatum produced CH 3 Cl and CH 3 I while Aurantiochytrium sp. and Schizochytrium sp. produced CH 3 Br. Increases of CH 3 Cl, CH 3 Br, and CH 3 I concentrations were observed during the exponential-growth phase in all cultures of the three thraustochytrids, except for the 30 °C culture of B. radiatum. The maximum concentration for CH 3 Cl production by a thraustochytrid (B. radiatum) was increased as the culture temperature increased from 20 °C to 30 °C; the maximum concentrations of CH 3 Cl in the cultures incubated at 20 °C, 25 °C, and 30 °C were about 6000, 9600 and 14,000 pmol L−1, respectively. However, the maximum concentrations for the CH 3 I production of thraustochytrid (B. radiatum) decreased when the temperature was increased from 20 °C to 30 °C. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of methyl halide production by heterotrophic thraustochytrids. Our results suggest that thraustochytrids may be a source of methyl halides in marine environments. Highlights • Methyl halides were produced by three different strains of marine thraustochytrids. • Temperature affected the production of methyl halides by Botryochytrium radiatum. • The maximum concentration of CH 3 Cl at 30 °C was about 2 times higher than that at 20 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was conducted between 2013-2014 in order to establish the influence of organic fertilization on the vegetative behaviour and productivity of greenhouse eggplant, Traviata variety, in conditions of conversion to biological production. Several variants were tested: N24P12K12+Wuxal Macromix, Arcobaleno Super+Hemozym+Amino Total, Italpolina+Biorex+Duetto+Guanito+Biofa, Naturale+Osmo+Nutri Algafid. Best vegetative characteristics had variants fertilized with Italpolina+Biorex+Duetto+Guanito+Biofa by mass fruiting values compared to the control were 115.87% for the mass of branches, 105.38% for the number of leaves, 146.19 to fresh mass of the leaves, 127.15% for the mass of fruits, 131.44% for fresh mass of the whole plant. The highest yield and total yield form plants grown after organic fertilization with Naturale+Osmo+Nutri Algafid, respectively 455.55 and 2049.44 kg / da. The results obtained showed that the Naturale+Osmo+Nutri Algafid is the most suitable for bioproduction of greenhouse eggplant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]