Chitosan-Based Biocomposite Hydrogels with Squid Pen Protein for Anionic Dyes Adsorption.

Growing environmental concerns have driven the search for sustainable wastewater treatment solutions, particularly for the removal of persistent synthetic dyes. This study explores hydrogels made from squid pen protein (SPP) and chitosan, biodegradable polymers, for anionic dye adsorption-reactive blue 4 (RB4) and methyl orange (MO). A 50%/50% SPP/chitosan hydrogel was optimal for RB4 adsorption while minimizing chitosan use.

Preparation of hybrid β-chitosan - squid pen protein hydrogel beads by ionic liquid regeneration for adsorption of copper(II) and zinc(II) from wastewater.

This study explores the use of squid pen protein to enhance the chemical stability and heavy metal ion (Cu and Zn) affinity of β-chitosan. Hydrogel beads with enhanced porosity and scalability were prepared using 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate, ([BMIM][OAc]), which simultaneously functionalized β-chitosan by decreasing its crystallinity and enhancing binding site access, as indicated by Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, which revealed intensification of functional group expression. Notably, this functionalization compensated for the effects of glutaraldehyde crosslinking.

Fractionation of Squid Pens with Ionic Liquids-An Upgraded β-Chitin and Shellfish Protein Production.

This study investigates the utilization of squid pen waste through a biocompatible ionic liquid approach, focusing on choline acetate, [Ch][OAc]. This ionic liquid effectively extracts over 80 wt % of protein from squid pen waste. To optimize the extraction process, a factorial design of experiments was employed to achieve a protein recovery of 75% at an estimated purity of 86%, along with highly acetylated, crystalline β-chitin with a purity of up to 95%.

Exploring Perspectives Towards the Gambling Industry and Its Marketing Strategies Among Young People in Western Australia.

Issue Addressed: The gambling industry utilises a range of strategies to attract and retain customers and limit meaningful gambling reform. Industry marketing strategies have demonstrated appeal to young people; however, little is known regarding how young people perceive and engage with gambling and industry marketing strategies in a Western Australian context. Young people's perspectives are vital to effectively respond to the harmful impacts of such commercial determinants on health and social outcomes.