Hemicellulose: Structure, Chemical Modification, and Application

Applications, life cycle assessment, and circular economy of bamboo torrefaction for sustainability: A state-of-the-art review

This review comprehensively explores the characteristics and applications of torrefied bamboo. Bamboo has a high volatile matter (VM) content (73.9-93.0 %), which results in substantial liquid byproducts during torrefaction. The higher heating value (HHV) of biochar produced from wet torrefaction (WT) is greater than that made from dry torrefaction (DT). When the torrefaction severity factor is 8.7, the bamboo hydrochar's HHV from WT can achieve 29.3 MJ⋅kg-1, whereas bamboo biochar from DT only have 23.3 MJ⋅kg-1. Bamboo vinegar and tar, byproducts from bamboo torrefaction, are effective biopesticides and have diverse applications, including polyurethane coatings and insecticides. Life cycle assessments reveal that bamboo-based building materials can reduce carbon footprints by 46.2 % to 87.6 % compared to traditional construction materials. Furthermore, bamboo materials are highly beneficial for the circular economy and environmental sustainability. In summary, bamboo biochar's applications are extensive, and its derived products are commercially competitive and environmentally friendly.

Impact of anti-solvents on the characteristics of hemicellulose fractionated from bleached bamboo pulp using lithium bromide hydrates

Selective fractionation/dissolution of hemicellulose with no or less degradation from biomass resources is a prerequisite for its high-value material utilization. Yet, the impact of anti-solvents on the properties of regenerated/precipitated hemicellulose after dissolution is still unclear. Herein, lithium bromide (LiBr) hydrate as a green solvent was used for fractionating hemicellulose from bleached bamboo pulp (BBP). Subsequently, the effect of anti-solvents (i.e., water, ethanol and acetone) on the characteristics of regenerated hemicellulose was comprehensively investigated. Results showed that the maximum removal rate of hemicellulose was 84.4 %, and the corresponding yield of pure hemicellulose precipitated by acetone was up to 84.0 %, which was influenced by the polarity of anti-solvent. Structural characterizations revealed that resultant hemicelluloses with degree of polymerization of 184-290 were arabinoxylan, and the molecular structure of the regenerated hemicellulose did not change significantly after fractionation and regeneration. However, importantly, it was found that the hemicellulose regenerated with different anti-solvents exhibited distinct multiscale morphology and nanostructures, which was attributed to the different reconstruction of hydrogen bonding and different extent of recrystallization among hemicellulose chains during regeneration with distinct anti-solvents. The obtained results could provide a theoretical basis for further modification, processing, and more advanced applications of hemicellulose.

Back to the Wastes: The Potential of Agri-Food Residues for Extracting Valuable Plant Cell Wall Polysaccharides

The agro-industrial sector generates large volumes of fruit waste each year, leading to environmental concerns and sustainability challenges. In this study, we evaluate the potential of fruit residues-apple, pear, blueberry, tomato, papaya, and a mixed fruit juice blend-as alternative sources of high-value polysaccharides, including pectins, hemicelluloses, and cellulose. Additionally, white strawberry, included as a reference from fresh fruit rather than agro-industrial waste, was analyzed to expand the comparative framework. These biopolymers, naturally derived from the plant cell wall, are renewable and biodegradable, and they possess physicochemical properties suitable for applications in food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, textile, and bioenergy industries. Using a combination of cell wall fractionation, biochemical characterization, and immunodetection of specific structural domains, we identified significant variability in polysaccharide composition and structure among the samples. Blueberry, pear, and apple residues showed high levels of rhamnogalacturonan-I (RG-I) with extensive branching, while variations in rhamnogalacturonan-II (RG-II) dimerization and the degree of methylesterification of homogalacturonan were also observed. These structural differences are key to determining the gelling properties and functional potential of pectins. In the hemicellulose fractions, xylans and xyloglucans with distinct substitution patterns were especially abundant in apple and pear waste. Our findings demonstrate that fruit processing waste holds significant promise as a sustainable source of structurally diverse polysaccharides. These results support the reintegration of agro-industrial residues into production chains and emphasize the need for environmentally friendly extraction methods to enable industrial recovery and application. Overall, this study contributes to advancing a circular bioeconomy by transforming underutilized plant waste into valuable functional materials.

Potential of size-exclusion chromatography and asymmetric flow field-flow fractionation in separation and characterization of plant polysaccharides

Size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) and asymmetric flow field-flow fractionation (AF4) are elution-based techniques for separation and characterization of (bio)macromolecules including plant polysaccharides. These two techniques separate the macromolecules according to their hydrodynamic volume in solution. The primary reason for the separation of polysaccharides with a dispersed nature is the need for accurate information on the molar mass distribution (MMD), which cannot be obtained without the separation of macromolecular species into narrowly distributed fractions. Depending on the detectors coupled to the separation, other information such as size, branching, and conformation can also be obtained across the separated fractions. This review summarizes the SEC and AF4 methodology used for separation and characterization of plant polysaccharides with industrial and/or nutritional importance. The key differences between the two techniques are highlighted and recommendations are given for method selection.

Saccharide Alterations in Spruce Wood Due to Thermal and Accelerated Aging Processes

This work is devoted to the changes in polysaccharides in thermally treated wood after its accelerated aging with the aim of its optimal utilization after its original use has ended. Spruce wood samples were treated by the Thermowood process at temperatures of 160 °C, 180 °C, and 210 °C and subjected to accelerated aging in wet mode. The influence of treatment temperature and accelerated aging was monitored by wet chemistry, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), size exclusion chromatography (SEC), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). During thermal treatment, hemicelluloses are mainly degraded. At the temperature of 210 °C, aromatic compounds formed as degradation products of lignin and hemicelluloses bind to cellulose fibers and increase cellulose yield. Preferential decomposition of the amorphous portion of cellulose leads to an increase in its crystallinity, while higher temperatures cause degradation of the crystal lattice. The degree of polymerization in both cellulose and hemicelluloses decreases due to the cleavage of glycosidic bonds. Accelerated aging does not significantly affect the changes in polysaccharides. The results obtained can be used in the processing of cellulose and hemicelluloses from thermally modified wood at the end of its life cycle in various industrial fields.

A review of fire performance of plant-based natural fibre reinforced polymer composites

Natural fibre from plant-based reinforced polymer composites (NFRPCs) offers an attractive solution for various applications due to their cost-effectiveness, sustainability, and favourable properties. These materials provide high strength and stiffness while remaining lightweight, which is especially advantageous in weight-sensitive applications. However, their susceptibility to high flammability poses a significant challenge for applications requiring robust fire resistance. Consequently, researchers and engineers face the primary task of enhancing flame retardancy and thermal stability in NFRPCs. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the flammability and flame retardancy aspects of NFRPCs, delving into critical elements such as modification methods, the interfacial bond between natural fibres and the polymer matrix, fibre type, loading ratio, fibre orientation, polymer type, and composite structure. Understanding these factors is crucial for improving material fire resistance. The paper explores various flame-retardant strategies for NFRPCs, including additives, coatings, treatments, and nanomaterial hybridization. Detailed insights into mechanisms and characterization techniques related to thermal and flame retardancy are provided, covering aspects like thermal degradation, char formation, gas-phase reactions, fire testing methods, universally accepted standards, and specific flame-retardant requirements for NFRPCs in diverse applications such as automotive, aerospace, marine, and civil construction. The discussion on future directions emphasizes the development of innovative flame-retardant materials, improving composite design and fabrication improvements, and assessing fire performance and environmental impact.

Hemicellulose/PVA-based bioactive films for food packaging: Effect of the molecular weight of avocado pruning waste-derived hemicellulose on biocomposite properties

The rising demand for sustainable packaging and urgent need for circular strategies in the agri-food sector motivate exploring biopolymer packaging from agri-food by-products. This study presents an efficient method for utilizing avocado pruning waste (APW) by extracting hemicelluloses for polyvinyl-alcohol (PVA)-based food packaging films. Autohydrolysis and tangential-flow diafiltration produced hemicellulose fractions with varying molecular weights: >50, 50-8, 8-1, and 1 kDa. High Mw-hemicelluloses exhibited high antioxidant power (>70 %) owing to their rich ferulic and trans-cinnamic acids, while low Mw-fractions demonstrated superior antimicrobial capacity, with a Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) against L. monocytogenes of 9 mg/mL and 14 mg/mL, respectively. Hemicellulose-enriched PVA-based films displayed heightened antioxidant capacity (>40 %) and excellent UV-light blocking efficiency (>80 %) with minimal transparency loss (80 %). Low Mw-range fractions decreased water solubility (8.4 % and 7.6 % for 5 % <1 kDa and 8-1 kDa films, respectively) enhancing water absorption properties (swelling degree of 766 % for 5 % <1 kDa and 992 % for 10 % 8-1 kDa films, respectively), whereas high Mw-range fractions strengthened mechanical properties and biodegradability (67 % and 59 % improvement, respectively). The differential effects of APW-derived hemicelluloses on PVA films underscore their potential as bio-based polymer source for the packaging industry, showing improved mechanical and bioactive properties.

Preparation technologies, structural characteristics and biological activities of polysaccharides from bee pollen: A review

Bee pollen, a natural honeybee product, is hailed as a treasure trove of human nutrition. Among the nourishing substances of bee pollen, the constituents with a low molecular weight (such as phenolic acids and flavonoid glycosides) have been extensively studied in the past decades, whereas the polysaccharides with a relatively high molecular weight have received much less attention. To deepen our understanding of bee pollen polysaccharides, this review summarizes the published findings related to their preparation technologies, structural characteristics and biological activities. Among the preparation technologies, ultrasonic-assisted extraction is currently the most effective technology for the recovery of polysaccharides from bee pollen, because ultrasound can crack the pollen exine into fragments and facilitate the release of polysaccharides present in the pollen intine. The preliminary structures, including the molecular weight and monosaccharide composition, of bee pollen polysaccharides have been widely reported, but their fine structures have not fully elucidated. Moreover, bee pollen polysaccharides have antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and antitumor activities, exhibiting potential application in functional foods. Furthermore, bee pollen polysaccharides can modulate the composition of gut microbiota and promote the production of short-chain fatty acids. It is expected that this review can provide inspiration for the development and utilization of bee pollen polysaccharides.

Advanced machine learning-driven characterization of new natural cellulosic Lablab purpureus fibers through PCA and K-means clustering techniques

The increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly materials has spurred significant interest in natural fibers as alternatives to synthetic reinforcements in composite applications. This study aims to explore the potential of Lablab purpureus fibers (LPFs) as sustainable materials by employing advanced characterization techniques and machine learning-driven analysis. Chemical analysis identified LPFs' primary composition as cellulose (72.34 %), hemicellulose (11.46 %), and lignin (8.99 %), with minor components including wax (3.45 %) and ash (2.59 %). The average fiber diameter was measured at 237.95 μm, with a density of 1.24 g/cm3, making LPFs lightweight yet robust. Mechanical testing across varying relative humidity (RH) levels revealed a decrease in tensile properties, with fracture stress declining from 420 MPa at 24 % RH to 350 MPa at 81 % RH. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis demonstrated a crystallinity index (CI) of 74.62 % and a crystalline size of 8.73 nm, indicating high structural integrity. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, combined with Principal Component Analysis (PCA), provided insights into the chemical bonds within the fibers, confirming the presence of cellulose I and cellulose II polymorphs. Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) highlighted thermal degradation stages, with hemicellulose decomposition at 220-315 °C, cellulose decomposition at 315-400 °C, and lignin degradation above 400 °C, showcasing thermal stability up to 320 °C. Hydrothermal absorption behavior, analyzed through K-means clustering, revealed distinct absorption patterns, with a maximum moisture uptake of 12.3 % at 81 % RH. Biodegradability tests indicated increased decomposition with higher RH, peaking at 81 % RH with a weight loss of 68.57 % over 16 days. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed intricate fiber morphology, including layered transitions, internal voids, and a honeycomb-like surface structure. Compared to other natural fibers such as Cissus quadrangularis (CI: 82.73 %) and lavender (CI: 65 %), LPFs exhibit a balanced combination of mechanical strength, thermal stability, and biodegradability, making them promising candidates for biocomposites and eco-friendly materials. These findings, supported by machine learning-driven insights, position LPFs as a sustainable alternative to synthetic fibers in industrial applications.

Progress of 0D Biomass-Derived Porous Carbon Materials Produced by Hydrothermal Assisted Synthesis for Advanced Supercapacitors

Supercapacitors are garnering considerable interest owing to their high-power density, rapid charge-discharge capability, and long cycle life. Among the various materials explored, biomass-derived carbon nanomaterials stands out as a sustainable and cost-effective choice, thanks to its natural abundance and eco-friendly characteristics. This review delineates recent advances in the synthesis of zero-dimensional (0D) carbon nanomateirlas from various biomass precursors via hydrothermal assisted synthesis. It offers a comprehensive discussion on the factors affecting the synthesis of 0D carbon nanomaterials, including precursor type, concentration, reaction temperature, and time. Furthermore, the review underscores the impact of different activation methods on the morphology and electrochemical performance of 0D carbon nanomaterials. Finally, we outline the challenges and future prospects of utilizing biomass-derived carbon nanomaterials in supercapacitor applications, emphasizing the importance of optimizing synthesis parameters to attain the desired material properties.

Enhanced Xylan/PVA Composite Films via Nano-ZnO Reinforcement for Sustainable Food Packaging

The development of biodegradable alternatives to petroleum-based packaging is essential for environmental sustainability. This study presents a novel approach to enhance the performance of hemicellulose-based films by fabricating xylan/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composites reinforced with zinc oxide nanoparticles (nano-ZnO). To address nano-ZnO agglomeration, sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP) was utilized as a dispersant, while sorbitol improved film flexibility. The composite films were prepared via solution casting, and the effects of nano-ZnO content (0-2.5 wt%) on mechanical, thermal, and barrier properties were systematically evaluated. Results showed that at 2 wt% nano-ZnO loading, the tensile strength increased from 15.0 MPa (control) to 26.15 MPa, representing a 74% enhancement, while oxygen permeability decreased from 1.83 to 0.50 (cm3·μm)/(m2·d·kPa). Additionally, the thermal stability also improved due to hydrogen bonding and uniform nanoparticle dispersion. At this optimized loading, the hydrophobcity was also maximized, with the contact angle peaking at 74.4° and water vapor permeability decreasing by 18% (1.53·10-6·g·h-1·m-1·Pa-1). Excessive nano-ZnO loading (>2 wt%) induced particle agglomeration, generating stress concentrators that disrupted the polymer-nanoparticle interface and compromised mechanical integrity. These findings highlight the potential of nano-ZnO-modified xylan/PVA films as sustainable, high-performance alternatives to conventional packaging. The synergistic use of SHMP and nano-ZnO provides a strategy for designing eco-friendly materials with tunable properties, advancing the use of biomass in food preservation applications.

High internal phase Pickering emulsions stabilized by surface-modified dialdehyde xylan nanoparticles

Polysaccharide-based particles have attracted considerable attention for stabilizing Pickering emulsions due to their sustainability and biocompatibility. In this study, we developed a novel approach utilizing hemicellulose-based nanoparticles for the stabilization of high internal phase Pickering emulsions (HIPPEs). Polyethylenimine-modified dialdehyde xylan nanoparticles (PEI-DAXNPs) were prepared through periodate oxidation of xylan nanoparticles obtained from esparto pulp, followed by a Schiff base reaction with polyethylenimine (PEI). Oil-in-water HIPPEs were fabricated using PEI-DAXNPs as the sole stabilizer through a one-time homogenization method and exhibited long-term stability after 180 days of storage. Furthermore, gel-like HIPPEs were obtained with a minimum concentration of 0.1 wt% PEI-DAXNPs in the continuous phase and exhibited shear-thinning behavior and promising viscoelastic properties, indicating good processability in the fabrication of soft materials and porous scaffolds. Therefore, the produced PEI-DAXNPs demonstrated significant potential as HIPPE stabilizers, providing inspiration for the valorization of hemicellulose-based nanoparticles.

Biofuel production from waste residuals: comprehensive insights into biomass conversion technologies and engineered biochar applications

Biomass-derived residuals represent a vital renewable energy source, offering sustainable alternatives to mitigate fossil fuel dependency, address climate change, and manage waste. Although biomass generally has a lower calorific value (10-20 MJ kg-1) compared to fossil fuels (40-50 MJ kg-1), its energy recovery potential can be enhanced through advanced conversion technologies such as torrefaction, pyrolysis, and gasification. Additionally, biomass is considered carbon neutral when sourced sustainably, as the CO2 released during combustion is reabsorbed by plants during their regrowth cycle, maintaining a balanced carbon flux in the atmosphere. This review explores the diverse sources of biomass and examines their chemical compositions and inherent properties, emphasizing their transformation into valuable energy carriers and bio-products. It provides a comprehensive analysis of thermochemical, biochemical, and physicochemical conversion technologies, detailing their mechanisms, efficiencies and applications. Special attention is given to biochar, a product of biomass pyrolysis, highlighting its potential in pollution mitigation, carbon sequestration, and as a catalyst in industrial applications. The review delves into synthesis processes of biochar and performance-enhancing modifications, illustrating its significant role in sustainable environmental management. Additionally, the economic and ecological advantages of biomass-derived energy, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions and waste reutilization, are critically evaluated, underscoring its superiority over conventional fossil fuels. Challenges limiting the scalability of biomass energy, such as technology costs, process efficiency, and market dynamics, are addressed, alongside prospective solutions. By consolidating extensive research on biomass conversion technologies and engineered biochar applications, this review serves as a valuable resource for researchers and policymakers. It aims to guide advancements in biomass utilization, fostering a transition toward sustainable energy systems and addressing global energy and environmental challenges.

Improved paper barrier properties based on coating by citric acid crosslinking of hemicellulose

As traditional food packaging materials, usage of petroleum-based plastics leads to serious problems due to poor biodegradability and renewability. The feasibility of using hemicellulose (HC) as a coating to prepare paper packaging materials with barrier properties was explored. Hemicellulose collected as by-product in dissolving pulp production was modified by carboxymethylation and hydroxypropylation, confirmed by FT-IR analysis. The prepared hemicellulose was cross-linked with the green crosslinking agent citric acid (CA) and applied to the surface of the paper to evaluate the effect of the coating on the barrier properties of the paper. When the coating amount reached 9.7 g / m2, the oil-proof grade of the coated paper increased from 0 to 6, and the water contact angle reached 72.60 ± 7.91°. The water vapor transmission rate was reduced from 1082.7 g/ (m2·24 h) to 312.5 g/ (m2·24 h), and the coated paper had good organic solvent resistance. Also, the mechanical properties of the paper and hot oil-resistance were improved. The coating used had high stability and the coated paper could be easily recycled. This work provides an environmentally friendly and facile way for improving the barrier performance of paper, which could be used in food packaging.

Plant-derived biomass-based hydrogels for biomedical applications

Hydrogels made of plant-derived biomass have gained popularity in biomedical applications because they are frequently affordable, readily available, and biocompatible. Finding the perfect plant-derived biomass-based hydrogels for biomedicine that can replicate essential characteristics of human tissues in regard to structure, function, and performance has proved to be difficult. In this review, we summarize some of the major contributions made to this topic, covering basic ideas and different biomass-based hydrogels made of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. Also included is an in-depth discussion regarding the biosafety and toxicity assessments of biomass-based hydrogels. Finally, this review also highlights important scientific debates and major obstacles regarding biomass-based hydrogels for biomedical applications.

Xylan thermoplastics with closed-loop recyclability

Xylan-derived packaging materials have gained considerable popularity owing to their renewability, non-toxicity, and biodegradability. However, thermoforming is challenging owing to its rigid structure and hydrogen-bonding network of the xylan molecular chain, which limits its large-scale production. Herein, a heat-processable xylan derivative, xylan cinnamate (XC), was synthesized via an esterification reaction in ionic liquids. The glass transition temperature of XC can be adjusted by the degree of substitution, ranging from 65 to 150 °C. XC plastics can be obtained by hot pressing and exhibit competitive mechanical properties, excellent water resistance, high transparency, and re-processability. Furthermore, the tensile strength of the XC plastics increased from 25 to 50 MPa after 365 nm ultraviolet (UV) irradiation because the double bonds of the cinnamon substituents were photodimerized under UV irradiation. Compared with commercial polyethylene packaging materials, XC plastics have suitable water vapour and oxygen transmittance, effectively protecting seeds under storage conditions. This study developed a novel strategy for preparing recycled xylan thermoplastics.

Citrus wastes as sustainable materials for active and intelligent food packaging: Current advances

Citrus fruits are one of the most popular crops in the world, and around one quarter of them are subjected to industrial processes, aiming at the production of different food products. Citrus processing generates large amounts of waste, including peels, pulp, and seeds. These materials are rich sources of polymers (e.g., pectin, cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin), phenolic compounds, and essential oils. At the same time, the development of food packaging materials using citrus waste is a highly sought strategy for food preservation, and meets the principles of circular economy. This review surveys current advances in the development of active and intelligent food packaging produced using one or more citrus waste components (polymers, phenolics extracts, and essential oils). It highlights the contribution and effects of each of these components on the properties of the developed packaging, as well as emphasizes the current state and challenges for developing citrus-based packaging. Most of the reported investigations employed citrus pectin as a base polymer to produce packaging films through the casting technique. Likewise, most of them focused on developing active materials, and fewer studies have explored the preparation of citrus waste-based intelligent materials. All studies characterized the materials developed, but only a few actually applied them to food matrices. This review is expected to encourage novel investigations that contribute to food preservation and to reduce the environmental impacts caused by discarded citrus byproducts.

Lignocellulose-Mediated Functionalization of Liquid Metals toward the Frontiers of Multifunctional Materials

Lignocellulose-mediated liquid metal (LM) composites, as emerging functional materials, show tremendous potential for a variety of applications. The abundant hydroxyl, carboxyl, and other polar groups in lignocellulose facilitate the formation of strong chemical bonds with LM surfaces, enhancing wettability and adhesion for improved interface compatibility. Beyond serving as a supportive matrix, lignocellulose can be tailored to optimize the microstructure of the composites, adapting them for diverse applications. This review comprehensively summarizes the fundamental principles and recent advancements in lignocellulose-mediated LM composites, highlighting the advantages of lignocellulose in composite fabrication, including facile synthesis, versatile interactions, and inherent functionalities. Key modulation strategies for LMs and innovative synthesis methods for functionalized lignocellulose composites are discussed. Furthermore, the roles and structure-performance relationships of these composites in electromagnetic shielding, flexible sensors, and energy storage devices are systematically summarized. Finally, the obstacles and prospective advancements pertaining to lignocellulose-mediated LM composites are thoroughly scrutinized and deliberated upon. This review is expected to provide basic guidance for researchers to boost the popularity of LMs in diverse applications and provide useful references for design strategies of state-of-the-art LMs.

Lignocellulolytic Bacterial Engineering for Tailoring the Microstructure of Hard Carbon as a Sodium-Ion Battery Anode with Fast Plateau Kinetics

Lignocellulosic biomass-derived pyrolysis hard carbon (LCB-HC) shows promising commercial potential as an anode material for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs). LCB compromises multiple biopolymer carbon sources, including cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, which influence the formation and microstructure of pyrolysis HC. However, the poor plateau kinetics of LCB-HC is one of the main obstacles that severely limits its energy density with high power density, which could be attributed to the narrow interlayer distance and the lack of abundant closed pores for the intercalation/filling of Na+. Herein, we proposed a bottom-up approach to tailoring the microstructure of LCB-HC by regulating the components of the LCB precursor at the molecular level using bioenzymes secreted by lignocellulolytic bacteria. This mild and efficient enzymatic hydrolysis pathway partially depolymerized the biopolymers of basswood specifically, thereby enabling the construction of a small curved-graphite domain architecture with increased closed pores and an enlarged interlayer distance of LCB-HC, benefiting the low-voltage plateau Na+ storage with accelerated kinetics. As a result, the basswood-derived HC delivers a reversible capacity of 366.4 mAh g-1 and performed remarkable plateau capacity retainability with a high proportion of 74.3% even with increased current density to 1000 mA g-1. Such a microbial-chemistry-assisted approach provided insights into tailoring the microstructure of LCB-HC to construct high-performance SIB anode materials.

Reductions in mesophyll conductance under drought stress are influenced by increases in cell wall chelator-soluble pectin content and denser microfibril alignment in cotton

Plants commonly undergo leaf morphoanatomy and composition modifications to cope with drought stress, and these tend to reduce mesophyll conductance to CO2 diffusion (gm), a key limitation to photosynthesis. The cell wall appears to play a crucial role in this reduction, yet the specific effect of cell wall component on gm and the underlying regulatory mechanisms of cell wall thickness (Tcw) variation are not well understood. In this study, we subjected cotton plants to varying levels of water deficit to investigate the impact of leaf cell wall component and the arrangement patterns of microfibrils within cell walls on Tcw and leaf gas exchange. Drought stress resulted in a significant thickening of cell walls and a decrease in gm. Concurrently, drought stress increased the content of chelator-soluble pectin and cellulose while reducing hemicellulose content. The alignment of cellulose microfibrils became more parallel and their diameter increased under drought conditions, suggesting a decrease in cell wall effective porosity which coincides with the observed reduction in gm. This research demonstrates that reduced gm typically observed under drought stress is related not only to thickened cell walls, but also to ultra-anatomical and compositional variations. Specifically, increases in cellulose content, diameter, and a highly aligned arrangement of cellulose microfibrils collectively contributed to an increase in Tcw, which, together with increases in chelator-soluble pectin content, resulted in an increased cell wall resistance to CO2 diffusion.

Fractionation of High-Yield Noncondensed Lignin and Glucan Oligomers from Lignocellulose in a Novel Biphasic System

Effective fractionation of lignocellulose into hemicellulose, cellulose, and lignin is the precondition for full-component valorization. Generally, harsh reaction conditions are used to improve fractionation efficiency, which leads to severe lignin condensation and inhibits its value-added applications. To address this issue, a novel biphasic system consisting of molten salt hydrates (MSHs) and n-butanol was developed for birch fractionation. After the removal of hemicellulose in dilute acid, the solid residue composed of cellulose and lignin was carried out in biphasic system conversion. Cellulose was selectively converted into 73.3% yield of glucan oligomers and 16.8% glucose in the MSH phase, while lignin was in situ-extracted into the n-butanol phase with a high yield of 98.1%. Mechanism studies revealed that the in situ extraction together with Cα-OH group modification by n-butanol synchronously protected lignin β-O-4 linkages from cleavage, resulting in a high β-O-4 content of 53.7%, indicating that 87.7% of β-O-4 linkages in birch has been preserved. After depolymerization, a promising monophenol yield of 22.4% was obtained, which was 81.5% of the theoretical maximum monophenol yield obtained from birch. This fractionation strategy can also be used in softwood and herbaceous, showing a splendid separation efficiency as well as a high yield of noncondensed lignin production.

Xylooligosaccharides: A comprehensive review of production, purification, characterization, and quantification

Xylooligosaccharides (XOS), short-chain polymers with prebiotic properties, have gained significant commercial attention over the past few decades due to their potential as nutraceutical components. Derived from lignocellulosic biomass (LCB), XOS serve as health promoting compounds with applications across multiple sectors, including food pharmaceutical and cosmetic. This comprehensive review provides an overview of XOS production, purification, characterization, and quantification, highlighting their derivation from various sources such as agricultural waste, agro-economical forest residues, and nutrient-dense energy crops. The production of XOS involves enzymatic hydrolysis, acid hydrolysis, and steam explosion, each offering distinct advantages and limitations in terms of cost-effectiveness and scalability for industrial applications. Methods for purification including chromatographic techniques, membrane filtration, capillary electrophoresis (CE) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) are evaluated based on their efficiency and feasibility. Characterization techniques such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and mass spectrometry (MS) provide detailed insight into XOS structure and composition. Conclusively, XOS are promising biological macromolecules with significant industrial and scientific interest due to their diverse applications and potential for cos-effective large-scale production.

Advances in lignocellulosic feedstocks for bioenergy and bioproducts

Lignocellulose, an abundant renewable resource, presents a promising alternative for sustainable energy and industrial applications. However, large-scale adoption of lignocellulosic feedstocks faces considerable obstacles, including scalability, bioprocessing efficiency, and resilience to climate change. This Review examines current efforts and future opportunities for leveraging lignocellulosic feedstocks in bio-based energy and products, with a focus on enhancing conversion efficiency and scalability. It also explores emerging biotechnologies such as CRISPR-based genome editing informed by machine learning, aimed at improving feedstock traits and reducing the environmental impact of fossil fuel dependence.

Chitosan suspension enriched with phenolics extracted from pineapple by-products as bioactive coating for liposomes: Physicochemical properties and in vitro cytotoxicity

The physicochemical stability of liposomes (L) loaded with bioactive compounds can be improved by coating them with chitosan, to give chitosomes (Ch). In addition, crosslinked chitosan can be obtained by using sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP). This study aimed to prepare L enriched with bioactive compounds extracted from pineapple by-products (PB) without coating or coated with chitosan or crosslinked chitosan-enriched with PB bioactive compounds, to obtain Ch and TPP-Ch, respectively. Then, we evaluated the encapsulation efficiency (EE) of total phenolic compounds (TPC), physicochemical properties, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, and in vitro cytotoxicity. Ch and TPP-Ch had threefold larger content of TPC (331 μg of GAE/mL) and higher antioxidant activity than L (102 μg of GAE/mL) even though L had slightly higher EE than TPP-Ch (66 ± 10 % and 53 ± 9 %, respectively). Ch had the lowest EE (36 % ± 4), which highlights that Ch crosslinking is important for encapsulating bioactive compounds. Regarding in vitro cytotoxicity, avian fibroblast viability started to decrease 48 h after the cells were treated with 5 % L, Ch, or TPP-Ch suspension. Ch and TPP-Ch led to lower cell viability than L. Although Ch and TPP-Ch partially inhibited Staphylococcus aureus growth, only L showed antimicrobial activity against this microorganism, even 170 days after L was prepared. These results suggest that the novel methodology we used to prepare Ch and TPP-Ch can improve certain properties of chitosan-coated liposomes, which is significant for future advancements in food and pharmaceutical applications.

N-doped porous carbon derived from different lignocellulosic biomass models for high-performance supercapacitors: the role of lignin, cellulose and hemicellulose

Biomass-derived porous carbon (PC) has been widely studied in the field of supercapacitors due to its low cost, sustainability and developed pore structure, but how to screen the precursors of high-performance PC is still a major difficulty. Herein, six lignocellulosic biomass models based on different compositions were innovatively constructed and prepared into high-performance PC by a synergistic activation-doping strategy. The results show that the synergistic activation-doping strategy has a certain universality for biomass models. Meanwhile, cellulose and hemicellulose mainly contribute to the formation of micropores, resulting in high specific surface area (SSA), specific capacitance and energy density. While lignin provides some micropores and most mesopores for PC, which enables PC to exhibit excellent rate and cycling performance. Specifically, the MF prepared from the biomass model constructed based on wheat bran has the optimized specific capacitance (474 F g-1 at 1 A g-1), due to its largest SSA (2773 m2 g-1) and high proportion of micropores (76.6%). At 5 A g-1, the coulombic efficiency during 5000 cycles is maintained at 98.8-99.4%, and the final capacity retention is 95.89%. Impressively, an aqueous symmetric supercapacitor based on MF assembled in 1 M Na2SO4 electrolyte delivers an energy density of 27.66 Wh kg-1 at a power density of 82.03 W kg-1. This study provides a reference for the precursor screening of high-performance PC at the composition level, and also contributes an operational idea for PC performance regulation.

Slow-release antimicrobial preservation composite coating based on bamboo-derived xylan-A new way to preserve blueberry freshness

In recent years, the biocompatibility and environmental friendliness of xylan-based materials have demonstrated great potential in the field of food packaging and coatings. In this study, the cationized xylan based composite coating (CXC) was developed using a hybrid system of cationic-modified bamboo xylan (CMX) and sodium alginate (SA) combined with thyme oil microcapsules (TM). The optimized CXC-B was composed of 1.27 % TM, 2.42 % CMX (CMX: SA = 3:2), and 96.31 % distilled water. When applied to the surface of a blueberry, the CXC-B treatment extended the ambient storage time of the fruit to 10 days while substantially reducing its morbidity (P < 0.05) and protecting its texture, flavor, and nutritional integrity. The resulting composite coating provides a promising solution to the problem of blueberry perishability during ambient storage.

Food packaging solutions in the post-per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and microplastics era: A review of functions, materials, and bio-based alternatives

Food packaging (FP) is essential for preserving food quality, safety, and extending shelf-life. However, growing concerns about the environmental and health impacts of conventional packaging materials, particularly per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and microplastics, are driving a major transformation in FP design. PFAS, synthetic compounds with dual hydro- and lipophobicity, have been widely employed in food packaging materials (FPMs) to impart desirable water and grease repellency. However, PFAS bioaccumulate in the human body and have been linked to multiple health effects, including immune system dysfunction, cancer, and developmental problems. The detection of microplastics in various FPMs has raised significant concerns regarding their potential migration into food and subsequent ingestion. This comprehensive review examines the current landscape of FPMs, their functions, and physicochemical properties to put into perspective why there is widespread use of PFAS and microplastics in FPMs. The review then addresses the challenges posed by PFAS and microplastics, emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable and bio-based alternatives. We highlight promising advancements in sustainable and renewable materials, including plant-derived polysaccharides, proteins, and waxes, as well as recycled and upcycled materials. The integration of these sustainable materials into active packaging systems is also examined, indicating innovations in oxygen scavengers, moisture absorbers, and antimicrobial packaging. The review concludes by identifying key research gaps and future directions, including the need for comprehensive life cycle assessments and strategies to improve scalability and cost-effectiveness. As the FP industry evolves, a holistic approach considering environmental impact, functionality, and consumer acceptance will be crucial in developing truly sustainable packaging solutions.

The protective effect of two highly branched polysaccharides from corn silk fermented by Lactobacillus plantarum against acute liver injury

To valorize the natural resource of corn silk as hepatoprotective food supplement, two fractions of polysaccharides (F-CSP-W/S) have been separated and purified from corn silk fermented by Lactobacillus plantarum. F-CSP-W was mainly composed of Glc, Gal, Ara, Xyl, Man (66.62: 11.83: 11.59: 7.89:1.48), traces of GlcN and GlcA; whereas F-CSP-S was mainly composed of Glc, Xyl, Gal, Ara, GlcA, GalA, Rha, Man (39.80: 18.26: 17.04: 11.87: 3.33: 3.18: 3.04: 2.77) and traces of GlcN. The detailed chemical structure analysis showed F-CSP-W/S were highly branched polysaccharides, which possessed the backbone of α-1 → 4-Glcp branched at α-1 → 3-Galp, with the solvated domains of arabinoxylan mainly consisted of β-1 → 4-Xyl, α-Ara and 4-O-Me-α-t-Glcp UA as side chains. F-CSP-S had a higher branch degree with pectin like side chain that contained partial methyl-esterificated α-1 → 4-GalUA and 1 → 2-Rhap covalently bound to arabinoxylan. Meanwhile, F-CSP-S displayed potent anti-oxidant activity in vitro. Both F-CSP-W and F-CSP-S ameliorated CCl4-induced mouse acute liver injury through directly hepatoprotective effect as verified by the organ index, liver function, serum enzymatic activities and histological changes of liver.

Extraction of Natural-Based Raw Materials Towards the Production of Sustainable Man-Made Organic Fibres

Bioresources have been gaining popularity due to their abundance, renewability, and recyclability. Nevertheless, given their diverse composition and complex hierarchical structures, these bio-based sources must be carefully processed to effectively extract valuable raw polymeric materials suitable for producing man-made organic fibres. This review will first highlight the most relevant bio-based sources, with a particular focus on promising unconventional biomass sources (terrestrial vegetables, aquatic vegetables, fungi, and insects), as well as agroforestry and industrial biowaste (food, paper/wood, and textile). For each source, typical applications and the biopolymers usually extracted will also be outlined. Furthermore, acknowledging the challenging lignocellulosic structure and composition of these sources, an overview of conventional and emerging pre-treatments and extraction methods, namely physical, chemical, physicochemical, and biological methodologies, will also be presented. Additionally, this review aims to explore the applications of the compounds obtained in the production of man-made organic fibres (MMOFs). A brief description of their evolution and their distinct properties will be described, as well as the most prominent commercial MMOFs currently available. Ultimately, this review concludes with future perspectives concerning the pursuit of greener and sustainable polymeric sources, as well as effective extraction processes. The potential and main challenges of implementing these sources in the production of alternative man-made organic fibres for diverse applications will also be highlighted.

An improved HPAEC-PAD method for the determination of D-glucuronic acid and 4-O-methyl-D-glucuronic acid from polymeric and oligomeric xylan

Glucuronic acid (GlcA) is an abundant substituent in hardwood xylan, and it is often found in its methylated form as methyl glucuronic acid (MeGlcA). GlcA and MeGlcA are sugar acids, bound to the xylose backbone at position O-2, and their presence can affect the digestibility of the polymer. Currently, detection of released GlcA or MeGlcA from synthetic substrates such as pNP-glucuronic acid can be achieved with colorimetric assays, whereas analysis from natural substrates such as xylan is more complicated. High performance anion exchange chromatography with pulsed amperometric detection (HPAEC-PAD) with an isocratic elution profile has been proposed for quantification of uronic acids in acid-hydrolysed wood samples. However, achieving sufficient separation for comprehensive analysis of hardwood-related xylan components, particularly MeGlcA remains challenging with this methodology. This study offers modified protocols for improved separation by introducing gradient elution profiles to effectively separate hydrolysed hardwood-related compounds, including MeGlcA, and GlcA within a single analytical run. The method showed excellent reproducibility and a standard curve of MeGlcA assured first order linearity in a wide range of concentrations, making the method excellent for quantification.

Functional identification of carbohydrate-binding module 13 and its application to quantification of hemicellulose in gramineous plants

Gramineous biomass is a type of lignocellulose commonly used as a renewable energy source. Accurate quantification of hemicellulose within this biomass is crucial for its efficient conversion. Carbohydrate-binding modules (CBMs) help catalytic domains anchor substrates, representing the potential to be developed as fluorescence probes for hemicellulose content determination. In this study, we discovered a CBM named EmCBM13, derived from the bifunctional enzyme Xyn10A/Fae1A within the bacterial consortium EMSD5. This CBM displays a remarkable ability to bind soluble and insoluble hemicellulose components of gramineous plants. Through molecular docking and mutational analysis, we pinpointed two essential tyrosine residues mediating ligand interaction of EmCBM13. Leveraging the binding characteristics of EmCBM13, we created a fluorescence probe called EmCBM13-GFP by fusing a GFP with EmCBM13. We observed a positive correlation between the fluorescence contents of EmCBM13-GFP bound to hemicellulose and the hemicellulose contents in various gramineous biomasses. Utilizing this correlation, we rapidly determined the hemicellulose content in different gramineous plants with 90-110 % accuracy. This probe shows promise in quickly evaluating the characteristics of gramineous biomass feedstock for research and production purposes.

Polymer Composites Reinforced with Residues from Amazonian Agro-Extractivism and Timber Industries: A Sustainable Approach to Enhancing Material Properties and Promoting Bioeconomy

The Amazon Region (AR), with its vast biodiversity and rich natural resources, presents a unique opportunity for the development of sustainable polymer composites (PCs) reinforced with residues from both timber and agro-extractivism industries. This study explores the potential of Amazonian residues, such as sawdust, wood shavings, and agro-industrial by-products such as açaí seeds and Brazil nut shells, to enhance the mechanical, thermal, and environmental properties of polymer composites. By integrating these natural materials into polymer matrices, significant improvements in the composite performance were achieved, including increased tensile strength, thermal stability, and biodegradability. The study also highlights the environmental and economic benefits of using these residues, promoting waste reduction and supporting a circular economy in the region. Through case studies and detailed analyses, this study demonstrates the feasibility and advantages of incorporating Amazonian residues into composites for a wide range of applications, from construction materials to consumer goods. This approach not only adds value to the by-products of Amazonian industries, but also contributes to the global effort toward sustainable material development.

Valorization of citrus peel industrial wastes for facile extraction of extractives, pectin, and cellulose nanocrystals through ultrasonication: An in-depth investigation

In this work we developed an eco-friendly valorisation of Citrus wastes (CWs), through a solvent-assisted ultrasonication extraction technique, thus having access to a wide range of bio-active compounds and polysaccharides, extremely useful in different industrial sectors (food, cosmetics, nutraceutical). Water-based low-amplitude ultrasonication was examined as a potential method for pectin extraction as well as polar and non-polar citrus extractives (CEs), among which hesperidin and triglycerides of 18 carbon fatty acids were found to be the most representative ones. In addition, citric acid:glycerol (1:4)-based deep eutectic solvent (DES) in combination with ultrasonic extraction was utilized to extract microcellulose (CMC), from which stable cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) with glycerol-assisted high amplitude ultrasonication were obtained. The physical and chemical properties of the extracted polysaccharides (pectin, micro and nanocellulose) were analysed through DLS, ζ-potential, XRD, HP-SEC, SEM, AFM, TGA-DSC, FTIR, NMR, and PMP-HPLC analyses. The putative structure of the extracted citrus pectin (CP) was analysed and elucidated through enzyme-assisted hydrolysis in correlation with ESI-MS and monosaccharide composition. The developed extraction methods are expected to influence the industrial process for the valorisation of CWs and implement the circular bio-economy.

Preservation of freshly-cut lemon slices using alginate-based coating functionalized with antioxidant enzymatically hydrolyzed rice straw-hemicellulose

Food coatings are efficient preservative measures, a crucially needed approach to meet hunger growth as well as food management. In the current study, the construction of an efficient coating using alginate polymer fortified with antioxidant rice straw-hemicellulose hydrolysate was examined. Rice straw hemicellulose fraction was extracted under thermal alkaline conditions with a recovery percentage of 15.8%. The extracted hemicellulose fraction was enzymatically hydrolyzed with microbial xylanase with hydrolysis percentage of 53.8%. Characterization of the produced hydrolysate was performed with the aid of thin layer chromatographic analysis (TLC), high-performance liquid chromatographic analysis (HPLC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis. The reported data showed that xylobiose (240.68 mg/g) in addition to coumaric (383.33 µg/g) and ferulic acid (298.77 µg/g) as the main constituents of the carbohydrate and the polyphenolic contents, respectively. The hydrolysate possessed antioxidant capacity that significantly increased in a direct correlation with the concentration of the hydrolysate. Finally, the prepared coating solution effectiveness in the preservation of lemon slices against fungal growth was monitored up to 20 days with a significant concentration dependent decrease in weight loss and an increase in its antioxidant activity. The combination of xylooligosaccharide-rich rice straw hydrolysate with alginate-based coating not only improved the storage shelf-life of fresh fruits and vegetables but also provided microbial safety and potential benefits for human health.

Hemicellulose and unlocking potential for sustainable applications in biomedical, packaging, and material sciences: A narrative review

Hemicellulose, a complex polysaccharide abundantly found in plant cell walls, has garnered significant attention for its versatile applications in various fields including biomedical, food packaging, environmental, and material sciences. This review systematically explores the composition, extraction methods, and diverse applications of hemicellulose-derived materials. Various extraction techniques such as organic acid, organic base, enzyme-assisted, and hydrothermal methods are discussed in detail, highlighting their efficacy and potential drawbacks. The applications of hemicellulose encompass biodegradable films, edible coatings, advanced hydrogels, and emulsion stabilizers, each offering unique properties suitable for different industrial needs. Current challenges in hemicellulose research include extraction efficiency, scalability of production processes, and optimization of material properties. Opportunities for future research are outlined, emphasizing the exploration of new applications and interdisciplinary approaches to harness the full potential of hemicellulose. This comprehensive review aims to provide valuable insights for researchers and industry professionals interested in utilizing hemicellulose as a sustainable and functional biomaterial.

Structural analysis and biological activity of cell wall polysaccharides and enzyme-extracted polysaccharides from pomelo (Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr.)

Pomelo peel is a valuable source of pectin, but research on its cell wall polysaccharides is limited. This study compared the cell wall polysaccharides of pomelo peel, enzyme-extracted polysaccharides of pomelo peel, and enzyme-extracted polysaccharides of whole pomelo fruit. Cell wall polysaccharides, including water-soluble pectin (WSP), chelator-soluble pectin (CSP), sodium carbonate-soluble pectin (NSP), 1 mol/L KOH soluble hemicellulose (KSH-1), and 4 mol/L KOH soluble hemicellulose (KSH-2), were obtained by sequence-extraction method. Total polysaccharides from whole pomelo fruit (TP) and peel-polysaccharides from pomelo pericarps (PP) were obtained using enzyme-extraction method. The structural, thermal, rheological, antioxidant properties, and wound healing effect in vitro were described for each polysaccharide. WSP had a uniform molecular weight distribution and high uronic acid (UA) content, suitable for commercial pectin. NSP had the highest Rhamnose (Rha)/UA ratio and a rich side chain with highest viscosity and water retention. PP displayed the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity and reducing capacity at 0.1 to 2.0 mg/mL concentration range, with an IC50 of 1.05 mg/mL for DPPH free radicals. NSP also demonstrated the highest hydroxyl radical scavenging activity and promoted Human dermal keratinocyte proliferation and migration at 10 μg/mL, suggesting potential applications in daily chemical and pharmaceutical industries.

Recent advance on lignin-containing nanocelluloses: The key role of lignin

Nanocelluloses (NCs) isolated from lignocellulosic resources usually require harsh chemical pretreatments to remove lignin, which face constraints such as high energy consumption and inefficient resource utilization. An alternative strategy involving the partial retention of lignin can be adopted to endow NCs with better versatility and functionality. The resulting lignin-containing nanocelluloses (LNCs) generally possess better mechanical property, thermal stability, barrier property, antioxidant activity, and surface hydrophobicity than lignin-free NCs, which have attracted extensive interest as a promising green nanomaterial for numerous applications. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the recent advances in the preparation, properties, and food application of LNCs. The effect of residual lignin on the preparation and properties of LNCs is discussed. Furthermore, the key roles of lignin in the properties of LNCs, including particle size, crystalline structure, dispersibility, thermal, mechanical, antibacterial, rheological and adhesion properties, are summarized comprehensively. Furthermore, capitalizing on their dietary fiber and nanostructure properties, the food applications of LNCs in the forms of films, gels and emulsions are also discussed. Finally, the challenges and opportunities regarding the development of LNCs are provided.

Advancing plant cell wall modelling: Atomistic insights into cellulose, disordered cellulose, and hemicelluloses - A review

The complexity of plant cell walls on different hierarchical levels still impedes the detailed understanding of biosynthetic pathways, interferes with processing in industry and finally limits applicability of cellulose materials. While there exist many challenges to readily accessing these hierarchies at (sub-) angström resolution, the development of advanced computational methods has the potential to unravel important questions in this field. Here, we summarize the contributions of molecular dynamics simulations in advancing the understanding of the physico-chemical properties of natural fibres. We aim to present a comprehensive view of the advancements and insights gained from molecular dynamics simulations in the field of carbohydrate polymers research. The review holds immense value as a vital reference for researchers seeking to undertake atomistic simulations of plant cell wall constituents. Its significance extends beyond the realm of molecular modeling and chemistry, as it offers a pathway to develop a more profound comprehension of plant cell wall chemistry, interactions, and behavior. By delving into these fundamental aspects, the review provides invaluable insights into future perspectives for exploration. Researchers within the molecular modeling and carbohydrates community can greatly benefit from this resource, enabling them to make significant strides in unraveling the intricacies of plant cell wall dynamics.

Characterization of Arabidopsis eskimo1 reveals a metabolic link between xylan O-acetylation and aliphatic glucosinolate metabolism

Glucuronoxylan is present mainly in the dicot of the secondary cell walls, often O-acetylated, which stabilizes cell structure by maintaining interaction with cellulose and other cell wall components. Some members of the Golgi localized Trichome Birefringence-Like (TBL) family function as xylan O-acetyl transferase (XOAT). The primary XOAT in the stem of Arabidopsis is ESKIMO1/TBL29, and its disruption results in decreased xylan acetylation, stunted plant growth, and collapsed xylem vessels. To elucidate the effect on metabolic reprogramming and identify the underlying cause of the stunted growth in eskimo1, we performed transcriptomic, targeted, and untargeted metabolome analysis, mainly in the inflorescence stem tissue. RNA sequencing analysis revealed that the genes involved in the biosynthesis, regulation, and transport of aliphatic glucosinolates (GSLs) were upregulated, whereas those responsible for indolic GSL metabolism were unaffected in the eskimo1 inflorescence stem. Consistently, aliphatic GSLs, such as 4-methylsulfinylbutyl (4MSOB), were increased in stem tissues and seeds. This shift in the profile of aliphatic GSLs in eskimo1 was further supported by the quantification of the soluble acetate, decrease in accumulation of GSL precursor, i.e., methionine, and increase in the level of jasmonic acid.

Comparative proteomic analysis provides insights into wood formation in immature xylem at different ages in Eucalyptus urophylla × Eucalyptus grandis

Introduction

Wood formation is a crucial developmental stage in the life cycle of a woody plant; this process has substantial scientific research implications and practical applications. However, the mechanisms underlying woody plant development, especially the process of wood formation, remain poorly understood. As eucalyptus is one of the fastest growing tree species in the world, understanding the mechanism of wood formation in eucalyptus will greatly promote the development of molecular breeding technology for forest trees.

Results

In this study, we investigated the proteomic profile of immature xylem at four different ages of Eucalyptus urophylla × Eucalyptus grandis (E. urograndis) using iTARQ technology. We identified 5236 proteins and 492 differentially abundant proteins (DAPs). The expression profiles of the DAPs corresponding to coding genes associated with wood formation were assessed using qRT-PCR. From the different expression profiles, it is inferred that the genes encoding kinesin, CDKD3, EXPA13, EXPA2, XTH27, EGases, UGT76E2, LAC, CCoAMT, CesA3, PAL, and CAD may undergo posttranscriptional regulation (PTR). Additionally, the genes encoding EIN2, ETR, MC4-like, and XCP may undergo posttranslational modifications (PTMs).

Conclusions

We investigated changes in wood formation-related proteins at the protein abundance level in the immature xylem of E. urograndis, thereby elucidating potential regulatory mechanisms of key proteins involved in eucalyptus wood formation. This study may provide theoretical guidance for further research on molecular breeding techniques and genetic improvement related to the cultivation of rapidly growing and high-quality trees.

Hemicellulose-Based Sensors: When Sustainability Meets Complexity

Hemicelluloses (HCs) are promising sustainable biopolymers with a great natural abundance, excellent biocompatibility, and biodegradability. Yet, their potential sensing applications remain limited due to intrinsic challenges in their heterogeneous chemical composition, structure, and physicochemical properties. Herein, recent advances in the development of HC-based sensors for different chemical analytes and physical stimuli using different transduction mechanisms are reviewed and discussed. HCs can be utilized as carbonaceous precursors, reducing, capping, and stabilizing agents, binders, and active components for sensing applications. In addition, different strategies to develop and improve the sensing capacity of HC-based sensors are also highlighted.

Poly(lactide)-Based Materials Modified with Biomolecules: A Review

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is characterized by unique features, e.g., it is environmentally friendly, biocompatible, has good thermomechanical properties, and is readily available and biodegradable. Due to the increasing pollution of the environment, PLA is a promising alternative that can potentially replace petroleum-derived polymers. Different biodegradable polymers have numerous biomedical applications and are used as packaging materials. Because the pure form of PLA is delicate, brittle, and is characterized by a slow degradation rate and a low thermal resistance and crystallization rate, these disadvantages limit the range of applications of this polymer. However, the properties of PLA can be improved by chemical or physical modification, e.g., with biomolecules. The subject of this review is the modification of PLA properties with three classes of biomolecules: polysaccharides, proteins, and nucleic acids. A quite extensive description of the most promising strategies leading to improvement of the bioactivity of PLA, through modification with these biomolecules, is presented in this review. Thus, this article deals mainly with a presentation of the major developments and research results concerning PLA-based materials modified with different biomolecules (described in the world literature during the last decades), with a focus on such methods as blending, copolymerization, or composites fabrication. The biomedical and unique biological applications of PLA-based materials, especially modified with polysaccharides and proteins, are reviewed, taking into account the growing interest and great practical potential of these new biodegradable biomaterials.

Regulating phenol tar in pyrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass: Product characteristics and conversion mechanisms

The utilization of biomass pyrolysis is a crucial approach for sustainable development. This study used the typical biomass of pine (PI), rice husk (RH), and corn straw (ST) as feedstocks to evaluate the pyrolysis mechanisms, features and conversion mechanisms of the phenol tar product. The phenolic gaseous products were more trailing in ST, which mostly concentrated around 320-500 °C. Primary phenol tar is produced from lignin through the homolytic cleavage of β-O and α-O, and C-C bond breakage, primarily occurring before 550 °C. As the degree of aromatization increases, the oxygenates progressively deoxygenate, and the primary tar demethoxylates to form secondary tar as the temperature increases. The pyrolysis of cellulose produces H radicals, which aid the transformation of lignin into phenol tar. This study can provide a theoretical basis for biomass pyrolysis to select the appropriate process parameters to improve the quality of bio-oil and regulate phenol tar products.

Enzymatic production of xylooligosaccharide from lignocellulosic and marine biomass: A review of current progress, challenges, and its applications in food sectors

Over the last decade, xylooligosaccharides (XOS) have attracted great attentions because of their unique chemical properties and excellent prebiotic effects. Among the current strategies for XOS production, enzymatic hydrolysis is preferred due to its green and safe process, simplicity in equipment, and high control of the degrees of polymerization. This paper comprehensively summarizes various lignocellulosic biomass and marine biomass employed in enzymatic production of XOS. The importance and advantages of enzyme immobilization in XOS production are also discussed. Many novel immobilization techniques for xylanase are presented. In addition, bioinformatics techniques for the mining and designing of new xylanase are also described. Moreover, XOS has exhibited great potential applications in the food industry as diverse roles, such as a sugar replacer, a fat replacer, and cryoprotectant. This review systematically summarizes the current research progress on the applications of XOS in food sectors, including beverages, bakery products, dairy products, meat products, aquatic products, food packaging film, wall materials, and others. It is anticipated that this paper will act as a reference for the further development and application of XOS in food sectors and other fields.

Lignocellulosic biomass-derived functional nanocellulose for food-related applications: A review

In recent years, nanocellulose (NC) has gained significant attention due to its remarkable properties, such as adjustable surface chemistry, extraordinary biological properties, low toxicity and low density. This review summarizes the preparation of NC derived from lignocellulosic biomass (LCB), including cellulose nanofibrils (CNF), cellulose nanocrystals (CNC), and lignin-containing cellulose nanofibrils (LCNF). It focuses on examining the impact of non-cellulosic components such as lignin and hemicellulose on the functionality of NC. Additionally, various surface modification strategies of NC were discussed, including esterification, etherification and silylation. The review also emphasizes the progress of NC application in areas such as Pickering emulsions, food packaging materials, food additives, and hydrogels. Finally, the prospects for producing NC from LCB and its application in food-related fields are examined. This work aims to demonstrate the effective benefits of preparing NC from lignocellulosic biomass and its potential application in the food industry.

Renewable hemicellulose-based materials for value-added applications

The importance of renewable resources and environmentally friendly materials has grown globally in recent time. Hemicellulose is renewable lignocellulosic materials that have been the subject of substantial valorisation research. Due to its distinctive benefits, including its wide availability, low cost, renewability, biodegradability, simplicity of chemical modification, etc., it has attracted increasing interest in a number of value-added fields. In this review, a systematic summarizes of the structure, extraction method, and characterization technique for hemicellulose-based materials was carried out. Also, their most current developments in a variety of value-added adsorbents, biomedical, energy-related, 3D-printed materials, sensors, food packaging applications were discussed. Additionally, the most recent challenges and prospects of hemicellulose-based materials are emphasized and examined in-depth. It is anticipated that in the near future, persistent scientific efforts will enable the renewable hemicellulose-based products to achieve practical applications.

Current status and future prospects of pretreatment for tobacco stalk lignocellulose

With the growing demand for sustainable development, tobacco stalks, as a resource-rich and low-cost renewable resource, hold the potential for producing high-value chemicals and materials within a circular economy. Due to the complex and unique structure of tobacco stalk biomass, traditional methods are ineffective in its utilization, making the pretreatment of tobacco stalk lignocellulose a crucial step in obtaining high-value products. This paper reviews recent advancements in various pretreatment technologies for tobacco stalk lignocellulosic biomass, including hydrothermal, steam explosion, acid, alkaline, organic solvent, ionic liquid, and deep eutectic solvent pretreatment. It emphasizes the impact and efficiency of these pretreatment methods on the conversion of tobacco stalk biomass and discusses the advantages and disadvantages of each technique. Finally, the paper forecasts future research directions in the pretreatment of tobacco stalk lignocellulose, providing new insights and methods for enhancing its efficient utilization.

Extraction and characterization of Bougainvillea glabra fibers: A study on chemical, physical, mechanical and morphological properties

Bougainvillea glabra fibers (BGFs) present a promising avenue for sustainable material development owing to their abundance and favorable properties. This study entails a thorough investigation into the composition, physical characteristics, mechanical behavior, structural properties, thermal stability, and hydrothermal absorption behavior of BGFs. Chemical analysis reveals the predominant presence of cellulose (68.92 %), accompanied by notable proportions of hemicellulose (12.64 %), lignin (9.56 %), wax (3.72 %), moisture (11.78 %), and ash (1.75 %). Physical measurements ascertain a mean fiber diameter of approximately 232.63 ± 8.59 μm, while tensile testing demonstrates exceptional strength, with stress values ranging from 120 ± 18.26 MPa to a maximum of 770 ± 23.19 MPa at varying strains. X-ray diffraction (XRD) elucidates a crystalline index (CI) of 68.17 % and a crystallite size (CS) of 9.42 nm, indicative of a well-defined crystalline structure within the fibers. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirms the presence of characteristic functional groups associated with cellulose, hemicellulose, wax, and water content. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) delineates distinct thermal degradation stages, with onset temperatures ranging from 102.76 °C for water loss to 567.55 °C for ash formation. Furthermore, hydrothermal absorption behavior exhibits temperature and time-dependent trends, with absorption percentages ranging from 15.26 % to 32.19 % at temperatures between 30 °C and 108 °C and varying exposure durations. These comprehensive findings provide essential insights into the properties and potential applications of BGFs in diverse fields such as bio-composites, textiles, and environmentally friendly packaging solutions.

Heat-sealable, transparent, and degradable arabinogalactan/polyvinyl alcohol films with UV-shielding, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties

Petroleum-based packaging materials are nondegradable and unsustainable and thus are harmful to the environment. Renewable packaging films prepared from bio-based raw materials are promising alternatives to petroleum-based packaging materials. In this study, colorless and transparent bio-based films were successfully cast using a solution containing a mixture of arabinogalactan (AG) and poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA). Vanillin was incorporated into the mixture to endow the films with UV-shielding, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties. The morphological, physical, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties of the blend films were then characterized. At an AG:PVA weight ratio of 1:3, and the vanillin content was 0.15 %, the tensile strength of the AG/PVA/Vanillin (APV) films reached ~28 MPa, while their elongation at break reached ~475 %. The addition of vanillin significantly affected the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of the blend films, which exhibited superb UV barrier capacity. The APV films exhibited extremely low oxygen transmittance, delaying the onset of mold/rot in strawberries and reducing their weight loss. Because of the heat sealability of the blend films, they can be used for encapsulating various substances, such as concentrated laundry liquid. Moreover, the blend films were recyclable and biodegradable. Thus, these films have great potential for applications that require sustainable packaging.

Crystalline nanoxylan from hot water extracted wood xylan at multi-length scale: Molecular assembly from nanocluster hydrocolloids to submicron spheroids

As a contribution to expand accessibility in the territory of bio-based nanomaterials, we demonstrate a novel material strategy to convert amorphous xylan preserved in wood biomass to hierarchical assemblies of crystalline nanoxylan on a multi-length scale. By reducing the end group in pressurized hot water extracted (PHWE) xylan to primary alcohol as a xylitol form with borohydride reduction, the endwise-peeling depolymerization is effectively impeded in the alkali-catalyzed hydrolytic cleavage of side substitutions in xylan. Nanoprecipitation by a gradual pH decrease resulted in a stable hydrocolloid dispersion in the form of worm-like nanoclusters assembled with primary crystallites, owing to the self-assembly of debranched xylan driven by strong intra- and inter-chain H-bonds. With evaporation-induced self-assembly, we can further construct the hydrocolloids as dry submicron spheroids of crystalline nanoxylan (CNX) with a high average elastic modulus of 47-83 GPa. Taking the advantage that the chain length and homogeneity of PHWE-xylan can be tailored, a structure-performance correlation was established between the structural order in CNX and the phosphorescent emission of this crystalline biopolymer. Rigid clusterization and high crystallinity that are constructed by strong intra- and inter-molecule interactions within the nanoxylan effectively restrict the molecular motion, thereby promoting the emission of ultralong organic phosphorescence.