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Biology and Life Sciences Forum

Biology and Life Sciences Forum is an open access journal dedicated to publishing findings resulting from conferences, workshops, and similar events, in all areas of biology, life sciences and at the interface of related disciplines. The conference organizers and proceedings editors are responsible for managing the peer-review process and selecting papers for conference proceedings.

Imprint Information Journal Flyer Open Access ISSN: 2673-9976

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Vol. 61

AISAL 2023

2 articles

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Vol. 60

IOCTX 2025

2 articles

Table of Contents

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Vol. 59

IOCFE 2025

4 articles

Table of Contents

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Vol. 58

IOCVS 2025

3 articles

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Vol. 57

IECAG 2025

8 articles

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Vol. 56

Foods 2025

27 articles

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Latest Articles

8 pages, 1417 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Complexation of Molybdenum(VI) with Humic Substances from Greek Leonardite: Spectroscopic Insights and Bioavailability Implications

by Konstantinos Chassapis and Maria Roulia

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2026, 57(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2026057008 - 8 Apr 2026

Humic substances (HS), derived from the degradation of organic matter in terrestrial and aquatic systems, play critical roles in nutrient cycling, metal complexation, and soil fertility. This study investigates whether HS derived from Greek peaty lignite (leonardite) can bind Mo(VI), an essential micronutrient [...] Read more.

Humic substances (HS), derived from the degradation of organic matter in terrestrial and aquatic systems, play critical roles in nutrient cycling, metal complexation, and soil fertility. This study investigates whether HS derived from Greek peaty lignite (leonardite) can bind Mo(VI), an essential micronutrient for nitrogen fixation and assimilation processes. Titration experiments showed that the addition of Mo(VI) to HS solutions decreased pH, indicating Mo(VI)–HS complexation via proton-release reactions. UV-Vis spectra revealed charge-transfer interactions without evidence of Mo reduction, while FTIR analysis confirmed that carboxylic, phenolic, and alcoholic groups participate in Mo(VI)–HS association as indicated by shifts in COO–, C=O, and O–H vibrations. The results demonstrate that HS can effectively complex Mo(VI), increasing its solubility and potentially enhancing its bioavailability in soils. These findings highlight the value of humic-rich materials such as leonardite in sustainable crop nutrition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 5th International Electronic Conference on Agronomy (IECAG 2025))

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Open AccessConference Report

Abstracts of the 1st International Online Conference on Fermentation

by Antonio Morata, Paola Domizio, Alice Vilela, Iris Loira and Manuel Malfeito-Ferreira

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2026, 59(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2026059004 (registering DOI) - 8 Apr 2026

The 1st International Online Conference on Fermentation (IOCFE2025), held on 12–13 November 2025, convened a global assembly of researchers to explore the multifaceted roles of microorganisms in biotechnology, food safety, and human health. Under the chairmanship of Professor Antonio Morata, the symposium was [...] Read more.

The 1st International Online Conference on Fermentation (IOCFE2025), held on 12–13 November 2025, convened a global assembly of researchers to explore the multifaceted roles of microorganisms in biotechnology, food safety, and human health. Under the chairmanship of Professor Antonio Morata, the symposium was structured around four pivotal tracks: biotechnological tools in fermentation, sensory profile impacts, food safety and drink innovation, and the nutraceutical implications of fermented products. A significant portion of the discourse focused on enology, specifically the use of Saccharomyces and non-Saccharomyces yeast derivatives to mitigate climate-related challenges such as high alcohol content and acidity, alongside emerging biopreservation strategies like kefir-enriched coatings and natural antifungal agents. The award-winning research highlighted the breadth of the field, ranging from the development of agri-food biostimulants and enhanced carotenoid production under LED illumination to the genomic characterization of glucose transport in Torulaspora delbrueckii. Furthermore, the sessions on health and nutrition provided a critical appraisal of meta-analytic studies, examining the probiotic potential of Enterococcus faecium and the role of fermented dairy in the Mediterranean diet. By integrating traditional fermentation practices with high-tech interventions like ultra-high pressure homogenization (UHPH) and solid-state biorefinery processes, IOCFE2025 underscored the vital contribution of fermentation science to sustainable agriculture and the global functional food market. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 1st International Online Conference on Fermentation)

5 pages, 678 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Case Report on Canine Parvoviral Enteritis of Mixed-Breed Dog

by Bhavuk Kwatra

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2026, 58(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2026058003 - 8 Apr 2026

This manuscript shows a clinical case of interest that was brought to the Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. Based on the clinical findings, infection with canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2) was a first-line diagnosis [...] Read more.

This manuscript shows a clinical case of interest that was brought to the Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. Based on the clinical findings, infection with canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2) was a first-line diagnosis and later confirmed by a rapid antigen detection kit. Disease prognosis is influenced by viral virulence and host response, with early therapeutic intervention being critical for survival. The dog was given intensive supportive management including fluid therapy, antibiotics, antiemetics, antidiarrheals, antacids, and vitamin supplementation for six days. The dog became progressively better clinically, the gastrointestinal signs resolved completely, and the dog recovered fully. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 1st International Online Conference on Veterinary Sciences)

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7 pages, 710 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Testing the Feasibility of Aquaponics in Farming Poor Communities of Potohar

by Mehwish Liaquat, Muhammad Azam Khan, Shafiq Ur Rehman, Aleena Khalid, Sarvet Jehan and Sakeena Tul-Ain Haider

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 51(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025051015 - 3 Apr 2026

The demand for food has increased due to the world’s expanding population, which has also put pressure on vital resources like water, land, and nutrients. Therefore, in order to guarantee food security, it is imperative to establish alternative, sustainable, and dependable strategies. In [...] Read more.

The demand for food has increased due to the world’s expanding population, which has also put pressure on vital resources like water, land, and nutrients. Therefore, in order to guarantee food security, it is imperative to establish alternative, sustainable, and dependable strategies. In recent decades, researchers have developed novel food production methods that collectively enhance the efficiency and sustainability of food systems. Among these, aquaponics stands out as an advanced and eco-friendly agricultural technology that integrates aquaculture and hydroponics. In this system, fish waste from the aquaculture unit is utilized as a nutrient medium in the hydroponic subsystem to grow edible plants. This review aims to assess the potential of aquaponics to produce high-quality fruits, vegetables, and fish while minimizing environmental impacts without relying on chemical fertilizers. The study focuses on system design, nutrient cycling, and productivity parameters to assess its feasibility under Potohar conditions. The expected outcome is to demonstrate that aquaponics can enhance food quality, conserve resources, and uplift the socio-economic status of farming communities by alleviating poverty. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 9th International Horticulture Conference & Expo)

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5 pages, 185 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Evaluating the Nutritional Value of Fruits of Two Edible Wild Monkey Kola Species of West African Origin

by Effiom Eyo Ita, Peggy Obaseojei Willie, Ayobami Daniel Abodunrin, Julius Oyohosuho Phillip, Anthony Agbor and Michael Bissong

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 54(1), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025054034 - 1 Apr 2026

Monkey kola is a common name given to the edible wild relatives of the West African kolanut. These are neglected and underutilized indigenous tropical fruit species growing in the West and Central African forests. Knowledge of the nutrient and antinutrient composition of the [...] Read more.

Monkey kola is a common name given to the edible wild relatives of the West African kolanut. These are neglected and underutilized indigenous tropical fruit species growing in the West and Central African forests. Knowledge of the nutrient and antinutrient composition of the fruits is highly inadequate. In this study, mature fruits of two wild monkey kola species (Cola pachycarpa and Cola lepidota) were collected and evaluated for phytochemical, proximate, vitamin and mineral composition. There were significant (p < 0.05) differences in the proximate, mineral, and vitamin composition of the two species. C. lepidota was richer in moisture, protein, fat, alkaloids, phosphorus, calcium, and iron, while C. pachycarpa was richer in ash content, crude fibre, flavonoids, magnesium, potassium, sodium, zinc, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin E. However, there were no significant (p > 0.05) differences between the two monkey kola species in their saponins, tannins and phytate composition. The abundance of a wide variety of minerals, vitamins and other bioactive compounds in both kola species justifies their wide consumption by natives in regions where they grow. The fruits of these species should be fully exploited for their potential health benefits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 3rd International Online Conference on Agriculture)

19 pages, 5552 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Detection of Net Blotch Disease of Barley Using UAV-Based RGB and Multispectral Imagery at Plot Scale

by Huajian Liu, Reddy Pullanagari, Dillon Campbell, Marnie Denlay, Molly Hennekam, Hari Dadu, Paul Telfer, Stewart Coventry and Bettina Berger

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2026, 57(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2026057007 - 1 Apr 2026

Net blotch, caused by Pyrenophora teres, is a major barley disease that occurs in two forms, spot form net blotch (SFNB) and net form net blotch (NFNB), reducing grain yield and quality worldwide. Accurate detection is critical for disease management and breeding [...] Read more.

Net blotch, caused by Pyrenophora teres, is a major barley disease that occurs in two forms, spot form net blotch (SFNB) and net form net blotch (NFNB), reducing grain yield and quality worldwide. Accurate detection is critical for disease management and breeding resistant cultivars; however, traditional disease scoring is labour-intensive and error-prone. This study evaluates the use of UAV-based red–green–blue (RGB) and multispectral imagery, combined with machine learning, for determining net blotch infection levels at the plot scale across multiple sites and seasons in Australia. Various colour features, vegetation indices, and algorithms were tested, including a cross-domain testing for model generalisation. We propose a robust UAV-driven pipeline enabling precise disease monitoring and phenotyping in barley breeding programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 5th International Electronic Conference on Agronomy (IECAG 2025))

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11 pages, 566 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Assessment of Mulching and Fungicide Application in Relation to the Nutritional Quality of Potato Tubers

by Nosipho Precious Minenhle Phungula, Sandile Thamsanqa Hadebe, Lucky Sithole and Nomali Ziphorah Ngobese

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2026, 57(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2026057006 - 1 Apr 2026

Substandard agronomic practices commonly used by smallholder farmers compromise potato tuber nutritional quality, limiting the crop’s contribution to food and nutrition security. This study evaluated the effects of integrating cultivar selection, mulching, and fungicide application on potato tuber quality under selected smallholder localities. [...] Read more.

Substandard agronomic practices commonly used by smallholder farmers compromise potato tuber nutritional quality, limiting the crop’s contribution to food and nutrition security. This study evaluated the effects of integrating cultivar selection, mulching, and fungicide application on potato tuber quality under selected smallholder localities. Four varieties were tested across five localities over two seasons using a factorial randomized complete block design, under different management practices, mulching (mulched and non-mulched), and fungicide application (sprayed and unsprayed). Late and mid-maturing cultivar Panamera and Electra, respectively, combined with fungicide application, consistently showed high dry matter up to 24.6%, carbohydrate (17.0%), and energy up to 378 kJ. Mineral composition varied across treatments, potassium was the abundant mineral (204.6–360.5 mg/100 g), while magnesium (9.55–18.57 mg/100 g) and phosphorus (23.35–51.90 mg/100 g) also showed variation across treatments. This study highlights the importance of integrated management strategies to improve potato nutritional value for resource-constrained farmers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 5th International Electronic Conference on Agronomy (IECAG 2025))

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8 pages, 1394 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Evaluation of Phytotoxicity of Manure-Derived Fertilisers Using Seed Germination and Root Elongation Bioassays

by Verónica Carbajal-Rocha, Arnulfo Domínguez-Hernández, Hernan Campuzano-Cruz, Elisa Domínguez-Hernández and Martha Elena Domínguez-Hernández

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2026, 57(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2026057005 - 27 Mar 2026

Poultry manure is a valuable nutrient source, but insufficient stabilisation may cause phytotoxic effects during early plant development. This study evaluated the phytotoxicity of fresh and composted poultry manure using seed germination and root elongation bioassays. Elutriates of aerated and static compost mixtures, [...] Read more.

Poultry manure is a valuable nutrient source, but insufficient stabilisation may cause phytotoxic effects during early plant development. This study evaluated the phytotoxicity of fresh and composted poultry manure using seed germination and root elongation bioassays. Elutriates of aerated and static compost mixtures, poultry manure composts, and fresh manure were tested on sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.), mungbean (Vigna radiata L.), and white mustard (Sinapis alba L.). Germination and relative root growth indices were calculated. Aerated compost mixtures showed minimal phytotoxicity, whereas fresh and partially composted manure strongly inhibited seedling development. Mungbean was the most sensitive species. Root elongation was more sensitive than germination, confirming bioassays as reliable tools for assessing compost maturity and fertiliser safety. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 5th International Electronic Conference on Agronomy (IECAG 2025))

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10 pages, 1052 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Life Cycle Assessment of Argentinian Dry Bean Flour

by María Gimena Torres, Silvina Cecilia Andrés, Nadia Florencia Nagai, Gabriel Lorenzo and Germán García Colli

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2026, 56(1), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2026056027 - 26 Mar 2026

Plant-based sources are being assessed as alternatives to animal-based foods as a strategy to reduce environmental impacts. This study aimed to calculate the environmental footprint of dry bean flour made from Phaseolus vulgaris sp. cultivated in the Argentine Northwest. Since grain pre-treatment influences [...] Read more.

Plant-based sources are being assessed as alternatives to animal-based foods as a strategy to reduce environmental impacts. This study aimed to calculate the environmental footprint of dry bean flour made from Phaseolus vulgaris sp. cultivated in the Argentine Northwest. Since grain pre-treatment influences the flour’s nutritional value, three different processing methods were evaluated. A comparative Life Cycle Assessment was conducted for 1 kg of flour. Primary stages assessed were seed and grain production, transportation, processing, and flour production. Agrochemicals used in the field stages had a significant impact on ecotoxicity. Energy consumption from non-renewable sources represents a significant burden on pretreated flour. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 6th International Electronic Conference on Foods)

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11 pages, 589 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Sustainable Recovery of Antioxidant Amphiphilic Bioactives from Avocado By-Products via Green Extraction for Food and Cosmetic Applications

by Vasileios Manousakis, Stefanos Michailidis, Eirini Palamida, Christos Plakidis, Anna Ofrydopoulou and Alexandros Tsoupras

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2026, 56(1), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2026056026 - 26 Mar 2026

This study explores the sustainable extraction, quantification, and functional evaluation of antioxidant amphiphilic (TAC) and lipophilic (TLC) compounds from avocado (Persea americana) products and by-products using green, solvent-efficient extraction, for potential applications in functional foods and/or cosmetics. Juice derived from organically [...] Read more.

This study explores the sustainable extraction, quantification, and functional evaluation of antioxidant amphiphilic (TAC) and lipophilic (TLC) compounds from avocado (Persea americana) products and by-products using green, solvent-efficient extraction, for potential applications in functional foods and/or cosmetics. Juice derived from organically grown domestic (Greek) avocado and the remaining juicing pulp by-products were subjected to a green extraction and partitioning fractionation process to obtain separately the extracted TLC and TAC. Quantitative analyses of total phenolic (TPC) and carotenoid contents (TCC), as well as antioxidant activity (DPPH, ABTS, FRAP), were performed using UV–Vis spectroscopy just after the extraction. ATR–FTIR spectroscopy was used to structurally characterize TAC bioactives compared to standards (gallic acid, quercetin, beta-carotene, soy phospholipids). TAC extracts exhibited higher TPC and superior antioxidant capacity across all assays, in comparison to the TLC, especially in the by-products. Despite relatively modest absolute phenolic and carotenoid concentrations compared to the literature, the extracts retained potent bioactivity, indicating selective enrichment of functional compounds. UV–Vis spectral peaks (240 nm, 310 nm) confirmed the presence of conjugated systems, suggesting potential for anti-UV photo-protective cosmetic applications. ATR–FTIR analysis further identified functional groups of key amphiphilic constituents, including simple phenolics, flavonoids, polyphenols, carotenoids and polar lipids. TAC extracts were successfully integrated into plant-based jelly prototypes as functional food supplements. Antioxidant stability of the jelly was retained for 15 days under refrigeration, though shelf-life limitations due to moisture and microbial growth highlight the need for preservative strategies. This work demonstrates a circular bioeconomy approach to food waste valorization, with significant implications for sustainable innovation in functional foods and clean-label cosmetics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 6th International Electronic Conference on Foods)

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11 pages, 1014 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Horticultural Plant Production Using Hydroponic Technique

by Abdul Mueed, Muhamma Sarwar Yaqub, Qurra-Tul-Ain, Abdul Haseeb Ahmed, Atiqa Aleem, Fareeha Shireen and Muhammad Daail Rai

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 51(1), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025051014 - 26 Mar 2026

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) is a leafy herb that contains many useful nutrients, allowing it to easily overcome the threats to food security in countries of the Global South by adding fiber/bulk, folate and other available nutrients. In 2020, almost 220 metric [...] Read more.

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) is a leafy herb that contains many useful nutrients, allowing it to easily overcome the threats to food security in countries of the Global South by adding fiber/bulk, folate and other available nutrients. In 2020, almost 220 metric tons of lettuce was produced in Pakistan. This high production needs attention to meet the demand. Southern Pakistan is facing water crises and the hydroponic system is one revolutionary technique which can allow the region to meet its food demand. In this experiment, different treatment combinations were used to study their effects and evaluate the best combination of nutrients to get the maximum production of lettuce. Results are concluded on the basis of last-week (5th week) production of shoot and root mass. Treatment one (T1) performed outstanding overall out of all four treatments across all parameters. Maximum average root and shoot length (RL, SL) was observed in treatment one (T1) at 5.94 cm and 15.50 cm respectively. Shoot length is directly proportional to production of the head of the plant. For root and shoot weight (RW, SW) treatment 1 (T1) is more effective than treatment 2 (T2). For treatment 1, root weight (RW) was recorded at 0.09 g and shoot weight (SW) was 0.22 g. The hydroponic system demands huge capital investment, which can be compensated by high production of crops. To increase the efficiency of the system, there is a dire need to calculate optimum nutrient combinations for application to the crop for a sound food security plan. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 9th International Horticulture Conference & Expo)

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13 pages, 658 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Nannochloropsis sp. Extract as a Potential Functional Ingredient for Food Applications

by Valter F. R. Martins, Ana I. Lopes, Manuela Machado, Manuela E. Pintado, Rui M. S. C. Morais and Alcina M. M. B. Morais

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2026, 56(1), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2026056025 - 25 Mar 2026

This present study provides a comprehensive and novel assessment of Nannochloropsis sp. extracts as multifunctional ingredients for food applications, combining lipid profiling, nutritional quality indices, and antimicrobial activity. The extracts were obtained by ultrasound-assisted hydroethanolic extraction (90% EtOH solution; 20 kHz pulses of [...] Read more.

This present study provides a comprehensive and novel assessment of Nannochloropsis sp. extracts as multifunctional ingredients for food applications, combining lipid profiling, nutritional quality indices, and antimicrobial activity. The extracts were obtained by ultrasound-assisted hydroethanolic extraction (90% EtOH solution; 20 kHz pulses of 30 s during 10 min). Nannochloropsis sp. biomass exhibited a high lipid content (36.6%), and GC-FID analysis of its extract revealed high concentrations of palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Nutritional quality indices—including the index of atherogenicity (AI), the index of thrombogenicity (TI), and the hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic ratio (HH)—were favorable, and the health-promoting index (HPI) was high. Although the extract exhibited low antioxidant activity in ABTS, DPPH, and ORAC assays, it demonstrated inhibitory activity against Gram-negative (Yersinia enterocolitica, Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica Serovar Enteritidis) and Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus, and Listeria monocytogenes) foodborne pathogens, with a minimal inhibitory concentration of 6.3–12.5 mg/mL. These findings highlight the novelty of positioning Nannochloropsis sp. extracts as multifunctional ingredients that couple favorable lipid nutrition with antimicrobial functionality, rather than as single-purpose bioactives. The results support their potential for application in healthy food formulations and shelf-life extension strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 6th International Electronic Conference on Foods)

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12 pages, 285 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Selecting 27 Field-Grown Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Genotypes for Symbiotic Performance and Drought Tolerance at Malkerns Research Station, Eswatini

by Mahlodi R. Maripa, Titus Y. Ngmenzuma and Felix D. Dakora

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2026, 57(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2026057004 - 25 Mar 2026

Legume crops, such as the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), are significant in many Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries, including Eswatini, due to their numerous health benefits, including high protein, fiber, vitamins, and mineral content. Common beans are a staple food in many [...] Read more.

Legume crops, such as the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), are significant in many Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries, including Eswatini, due to their numerous health benefits, including high protein, fiber, vitamins, and mineral content. Common beans are a staple food in many parts of the world and play a crucial role in nitrogen fixation, thereby improving soil fertility. A field experiment was conducted at Malkerns research station, Eswatini, using 27 common bean genotypes to assess their ability for N-fixation and water relations using the ¹⁵N and ¹³C natural abundance techniques. The data revealed significant differences among the common bean genotypes. Genotypes Cim-Rm-36 and Mwctz20a-Rm19 recorded an increase in plant growth by (6% and 5.74%), N content (5.69% and 5.97%) and greater C content (6.1% and 5.67%) while genotype Mwctz20a-Rm19 also showed an increase in N-fixation (155.73 kg.ha⁻¹). Genotype Mwctz20a-Rm-4 had the highest grain yield (1747.39 kg.ha⁻¹), while genotype Cim-Rm-14-Als61 had the highest N concentration (3.50%), indicating efficient N uptake. The genotypes with the lowest δ¹³C values (−27.38‰ to −28.06‰) suggested similar water use efficiency among the genotypes. The findings of this study revealed that common beans can make a significant contribution to N fertility under drought conditions. Genotypes Cim-Rm-36, Mwctz20a-Rm19, and Mwctz20a-Rm-4 showed desirable characteristics and can be good candidates for possible inclusion in breeding programs. These results have implications for improving common bean production in drought-prone areas and promoting sustainable agriculture practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 5th International Electronic Conference on Agronomy (IECAG 2025))

8 pages, 6822 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Fossil of the Austral Tree Fern Genus Lophosoria (Dicksoniaceae) from Mid-Cretaceous Myanmar Amber

by Chunxiang Li, Junxian Lima, Ya Li and Junye Ma

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2026, 60(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2026060002 - 25 Mar 2026

A new tree fern species, Lophosoria myanmarica sp. nov. (Dicksoniaceae, Cyatheales), is described from mid-Cretaceous Myanmar amber. The fossil preserves a fertile lamina segment with well-defined sori, sporangia, paraphyses, and in situ trilete spores. It is characterized by exindusiate, round sori terminating free [...] Read more.

A new tree fern species, Lophosoria myanmarica sp. nov. (Dicksoniaceae, Cyatheales), is described from mid-Cretaceous Myanmar amber. The fossil preserves a fertile lamina segment with well-defined sori, sporangia, paraphyses, and in situ trilete spores. It is characterized by exindusiate, round sori terminating free veins, abundant pluricellular paraphyses, sporangia with an oblique annulus, and distinctive trilete spores bearing a conspicuous equatorial flange and a pitted distal surface. The combination of flanged spores and exindusiate, paraphysate sori supports assignment to Lophosoria. The new species differs from the extant L. quadripinnata and the Early Cretaceous L. cupulata in its smaller spores and less deeply dissected pinnules. This fossil represents the earliest macrofossil evidence of Lophosoria from Southeast Asia and indicates that the genus had achieved a broader Cretaceous distribution than previously documented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 1st International Online Conference on Taxonomy)

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8 pages, 4783 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Hybrid Machine Learning Approach for Monitoring Wheat Crop Traits Using Proximal Hyperspectral Remote Sensing

by Rajan G. Rejith, Rabi N. Sahoo, Tarun Kondraju, Amrita Bhandari and Rajeev Ranjan

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 54(1), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025054033 - 23 Mar 2026

This study employs a hybrid methodology that integrates a physical process-based radiative transfer (RT) model and machine learning regression to assess three key wheat crop traits: leaf area index (LAI), leaf chlorophyll content (LCC), and canopy chlorophyll content (CCC). The non-imaging hyperspectral data [...] Read more.

This study employs a hybrid methodology that integrates a physical process-based radiative transfer (RT) model and machine learning regression to assess three key wheat crop traits: leaf area index (LAI), leaf chlorophyll content (LCC), and canopy chlorophyll content (CCC). The non-imaging hyperspectral data collected proximally using the ASD FieldSpec Spectroradiometer were spectrally resampled to 269 spectral bands ranging from 400 to 1000 nm for the retrieval of these crop traits. Upon validating against in situ measurements, good accuracies in terms of NRMSE values, 10.65%, 11.63%, and 13.85%, were achieved for LAI, LCC, and CCC, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 3rd International Online Conference on Agriculture)

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12 pages, 945 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Agronomic and Resource-Use Evaluation of an IoT-Controlled Microclimate System (Mushroom Kothi) for Seasonal Resilience in Button Mushroom Cultivation in India (Bharat)

by Shefali Vinod Ramteke

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2026, 57(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2026057003 - 23 Mar 2026

Button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) cultivation in India is highly seasonal due to strict microclimatic requirements and limited access to controlled environment infrastructure among smallholder farmers. This study evaluates an IoT-controlled microclimate system (Mushroom Kothi) designed to stabilize temperature, relative [...] Read more.

Button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) cultivation in India is highly seasonal due to strict microclimatic requirements and limited access to controlled environment infrastructure among smallholder farmers. This study evaluates an IoT-controlled microclimate system (Mushroom Kothi) designed to stabilize temperature, relative humidity, and ventilation during late winter to early summer transition periods. Multi-site field evaluations across distinct agro-climatic regions demonstrated improved microclimate stability, enabling extension of the viable cultivation window by approximately 1.5–2 months beyond the conventional seasonal cutoff. The system supported continuity of production, improved water-use efficiency, and reduced manual intervention without reliance on energy-intensive cooling. The findings highlight the potential of low-cost, digitally assisted microclimate stabilization to enhance seasonal resilience, resource efficiency, and ease of cultivation in smallholder mushroom farming systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 5th International Electronic Conference on Agronomy (IECAG 2025))

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10 pages, 448 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Influence of the Application of Tea Tree Essential Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) on the Sensory, Microbiological and Antioxidant Quality of Minimally Processed Anco Squash

by Julio Federico Benites, Diego Ricardo Gutiérrez, Silvana Cecilia Ruiz and Silvia del Carmen Rodriguez

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2026, 56(1), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2026056024 - 19 Mar 2026

This study evaluated the effect of applying tea tree essential oil (TTEO) on the sensory, microbiological, and antioxidant quality of grated anco squash (Cucurbita moschata). To this end, different application methodologies and concentrations of TTEO were applied to the product, and [...] Read more.

This study evaluated the effect of applying tea tree essential oil (TTEO) on the sensory, microbiological, and antioxidant quality of grated anco squash (Cucurbita moschata). To this end, different application methodologies and concentrations of TTEO were applied to the product, and their effect on sensory characteristics, microbiological quality and bioactive compounds was evaluated. The anco squash was washed, disinfected, cut, peeled, grated, and then treated with TTEO at concentrations of 4 and 8 μL/mL using different application methods: spraying (TS), immersion (TI), and absorbent strips impregnated with EO attached to the trays to generate vapors (TV). In addition, an immersion treatment with NaClO (100 ppm, 3 min) (TH) and a water-immersion control (TC) were included. All samples were packaged in PVC trays, sealed with 35 µm polypropylene bags, and stored at 5 °C for 8 days. According to sensory evaluation, TTEO spray treatments (TS) maintained the highest scores until day 4, and were therefore identified as the most effective strategy for application. Antioxidant capacity initially increased for all TTEO treatments compared to the control, while phenolic compound levels remained stable and carotenoid content decreased progressively during storage. Overall, TTEO treatments maintained the quality of grated anco squash for up to 4 days at 5 °C, highlighting their potential to improve nutraceutical properties and extend shelf life when integrated with complementary preservation technologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 6th International Electronic Conference on Foods)

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11 pages, 726 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Fish-Based Pureed Baby Foods: A Preliminary Scientific Literature Review on Their Metal(loid) Levels and Limited Availability on the Spanish Market

by Ana M. Solivella-Poveda, Marta Rodríguez, Marcos Rodríguez-Estrada, Marina Cano-Lamadrid and Esther Sendra

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2026, 56(1), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2026056023 - 18 Mar 2026

Fish is recommended in early childhood mainly because of its omega-3 fatty acid content. However, it can be a source of metal(loid)s, which pose a health risk. The main objective of this study was to conduct a literature review on metal(loid) levels in [...] Read more.

Fish is recommended in early childhood mainly because of its omega-3 fatty acid content. However, it can be a source of metal(loid)s, which pose a health risk. The main objective of this study was to conduct a literature review on metal(loid) levels in pureed baby foods (PBFs). To support and contextualize the information obtained on fish-based PBFs, an evaluation of the labelling information on fish-based PBFs marketed in Spain was carried out. Fish-based PBFs accounted for only 12.04% to 13.13% of the total supply of PBFs, with a fish content around 8%, revealing a nutritional deficiency. According to the studies reviewed (n = 11), fish-based PBFs had the highest levels of As and Hg, which should be minimized. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 6th International Electronic Conference on Foods)

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7 pages, 869 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Standardization of a qPCR Assay for Seb and Stx1 Detection and Its Applications in Biodefense Systems

by Victor Hugo Gonçalves Pinto, Samuel Dias da Silva, Beatriz de Paiva Mendes, Victor Hugo Giordano Dias, Marcos Dornelas Ribeiro, Caleb Guedes Miranda dos Santos, Vanessa dos Santos Silva, Tatiana Lúcia Santos Nogueira and Virginia Sara Grancieri do Amaral

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 52(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025052002 - 17 Mar 2026

Bacterial toxins, such as Staphylococcal Enterotoxin B (SEB) and Shiga Toxins (STX1, STX2), pose severe public health risks and significant biological threats, demanding rapid and precise qPCR detection. This study reports the initial stages of standardization for uniplex qPCR components, serving as a [...] Read more.

Bacterial toxins, such as Staphylococcal Enterotoxin B (SEB) and Shiga Toxins (STX1, STX2), pose severe public health risks and significant biological threats, demanding rapid and precise qPCR detection. This study reports the initial stages of standardization for uniplex qPCR components, serving as a foundational step toward a future multiplex detection system. The annealing temperature was successfully optimized for the stx1, seb, and 16S rRNA targets, showing high consistency in Cq values and fluorescence intensities at 58.4 °C. The optimized primer ratios ensure maximum amplification efficiency while minimizing potential molecular competition. These optimized assays provide a robust foundation for the multiplex qPCR platform. Once fully validated, this protocol will enhance timely and effective responses, as well as improve preparedness and readiness within the Brazilian biodefense system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 3rd International Online Conference on Toxins)

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8 pages, 802 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Protected Cultivation of Medicinal Hemp: A Climate-Resilient Strategy for Sustainable Production

by Rabeea Tariq, Umer Habib, Muhammad Azam Khan, Muhammad Ishaq and Zimal Zainab

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 51(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025051013 - 13 Mar 2026

Medicinal hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) has gained global attention due to its high-value phytocannabinoids, particularly cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which exhibit significant therapeutic potential. Protected cultivation offers a climate-resilient and sustainable strategy to optimize hemp production by controlling environmental factors, ensuring [...] Read more.

Medicinal hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) has gained global attention due to its high-value phytocannabinoids, particularly cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which exhibit significant therapeutic potential. Protected cultivation offers a climate-resilient and sustainable strategy to optimize hemp production by controlling environmental factors, ensuring year-round supply, and improving quality attributes. This paper outlines the key principles and technologies for protected hemp cultivation, including light spectrum management, temperature and humidity control, CO₂ enrichment, nutrient and water management, pest and disease suppression, and post-harvest handling techniques. Advanced greenhouse and indoor production systems enable precise regulation of microclimate, reduce crop losses, and enhance cannabinoid and terpene profiles compared to open-field production. The integration of smart technologies and autonomous control systems can further enhance operational efficiency and consistency. The paper concludes that protected cultivation systems represent an effective approach to overcome climatic uncertainties and meeting the increasing demand for medicinal hemp production on sustainable grounds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 9th International Horticulture Conference & Expo)

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