Biology and Life Sciences Forum

8 pages, 907 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Unsaturated 10H2DA Queen Bee Acid from Royal Jelly Modulates Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in SW-480 Colorectal Cancer Cells

by Milena M. Jovanović and Dragana S. Šeklić

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 43(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025043003 - 26 May 2025

Abstract

Cancer research largely focuses on epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) as a critical mechanism required for the formation of metastases. This process involves the transformation of epithelial cells into mesenchymal cells by acquiring suppressed levels of anti-EMT and elevated expression of pro-EMT markers. Unsaturated fatty [...] Read more.

Cancer research largely focuses on epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) as a critical mechanism required for the formation of metastases. This process involves the transformation of epithelial cells into mesenchymal cells by acquiring suppressed levels of anti-EMT and elevated expression of pro-EMT markers. Unsaturated fatty acid 10H2DA has not been investigated hitherto regarding its potential to target specific EMT markers in colorectal cancer (CRC). In our study, this substance showed successful upregulation of the expression of the anti-EMT marker E-cadherin and downregulation of the expression of pro-EMT markers SNAIL, N-cadherin, and Vimentin at the gene and protein levels. This prominent effect of 10H2DA in modulating the expression of specific and significant EMT markers in CRC should not be neglected in future studies regarding anticancer therapeutic approaches. Full article

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8 pages, 2207 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Drone-Based Multispectral Imaging for Precision Monitoring of Crop Growth Variables

by Devanakonda Venkata Sai Chakradhar Reddy, Rabi N. Sahoo, Tarun Kondraju, Rajan G. Rejith, Rajeev Ranjan, Amrita Bhandari, Ali Moursy, Subhash Chandra Tripathi and Nitesh Kumar

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 41(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025041010 - 23 May 2025

Abstract

This study aimed to demonstrate the efficacy of drone-assisted crop monitoring in precision agriculture by evaluating the relationships between the NDVI, leaf area index (LAI), and leaf nitrogen content (LNC) in three wheat varieties (DBW-187, HD-3086, PBW-826) under eight nitrogen treatments (N0–N210). The [...] Read more.

This study aimed to demonstrate the efficacy of drone-assisted crop monitoring in precision agriculture by evaluating the relationships between the NDVI, leaf area index (LAI), and leaf nitrogen content (LNC) in three wheat varieties (DBW-187, HD-3086, PBW-826) under eight nitrogen treatments (N0–N210). The NDVI was derived from drone-based multispectral imagery at the flowering (90 DAS) and grain-filling (108 DAS) stages. Strong correlations were observed between the NDVI, LAI, and LNC, with the R² values improving from 0.78–0.86 at flowering to 0.88–0.90 at grain filling. These findings highlight the potential of drone-derived indices for efficient crop monitoring, resource use optimization, and yield prediction in precision agriculture. Full article

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1 pages, 145 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Statement of Peer Review

by Michael Wink

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 39(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024039009 - 23 May 2025

Abstract

In submitting conference proceedings to Biology and Life Sciences Forum, the volume editors of the proceedings certify to the publisher that all papers published in this volume have been subjected to peer review administered by the volume editors [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 3rd International Electronic Conference on Diversity: Biodiversity of Animals, Plants and Microorganisms)

10 pages, 674 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Microbial Growth Kinetics of Fermenting Botanicals Used as Gluten-Free Flour Blends

by Peace Omoikhudu Oleghe, Fred Coolborn Akharaiyi and Chioma Bertha Ehis-Eriakha

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 41(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025041009 - 23 May 2025

Abstract

The fragmentary and whole substitution of wheat flour with flour blends is an alternative approach for producing cheaper, nutrient-rich, and comparatively advantageous gluten-free foods through fermentation. Dry samples of sweet potato, pigeon pea, and maize botanicals were purchased from local vendors, authenticated and [...] Read more.

The fragmentary and whole substitution of wheat flour with flour blends is an alternative approach for producing cheaper, nutrient-rich, and comparatively advantageous gluten-free foods through fermentation. Dry samples of sweet potato, pigeon pea, and maize botanicals were purchased from local vendors, authenticated and processed before spontaneous fermentation at room temperature. The pH and microbiological growth patterns of the fermenting botanicals were evaluated every 12 h for 72 h, using standard test protocols. It revealed that the rates of growth of isolated microorganisms were affected by pH; all the botanicals fermented had a reduction in their pH values. Acids were produced during fermentation, leading to a reduction in pH. Bacteria growth on the fermenting samples on nutrient agar reveals that the bacterial load increased with fermentation time, from 7.52 Log₁₀ CFU/g to 10.6 Log₁₀ CFU/g (sweet potato); 6.3 Log₁₀ CFU/g to 10.54 Log₁₀ CFU/g (pigeon pea), and 6.3 Log₁₀ CFU/g to 10.54 Log₁₀ CFU/g (maize). On MacConkey agar, the bacterial load on all samples started after 24 h of fermentation, peaked at 48 h, and gradually reduced towards 72 h of fermentation. There was increase in fungal growth with time from 0 to 36 h across all samples. The microorganisms isolated can be categorized into lactic acid bacteria, spore formers, Enterobacteriaceae, Staphylococcace, yeast, and molds. Fermentation of botanicals over 72 h results in organic acid formation, which lowers pH; this attribute helps in checkmating undesirable microorganisms capable of affecting the production of gluten-free flours with good keeping qualities. Full article

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7 pages, 1056 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Comparing the Effect of Chemical and Biol Fertilization on the Fruit Yield and Selected Traits of Greenhouse-Grown Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)

by Jorge Ortiz-Romero, Vianney Villafranco-Godinez, Isaac Fernando Soriano-Gonzalez, Jonathan Alfredo Fernandez-Mendiola, Fernando Ortiz-Salgado, Edgar Orlando Sotelo-Noguez, Martha Elena Domínguez-Hernandez and Elisa Dominguez-Hernandez

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 41(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025041008 - 22 May 2025

Abstract

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) greenhouse cultivation offers higher yields and quality compared to open-field systems, but success depends on balanced fertilization. This study compared chemical and biol (liquid organic fertilizer) treatments on cucumber yield, fruit number, and size (Centauro 1 variety). Four [...] Read more.

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) greenhouse cultivation offers higher yields and quality compared to open-field systems, but success depends on balanced fertilization. This study compared chemical and biol (liquid organic fertilizer) treatments on cucumber yield, fruit number, and size (Centauro 1 variety). Four treatments—Biol30 (3% biol), Biol70 (7% biol), Nitro (urea), and Comp (complete chemical fertilization)—were applied in a randomized design. Results indicated no statistically significant differences in yield among treatments (p = 0.094), yet Biol70 outperformed Nitro and Comp by 1.44× and 1.18×, respectively. Notably, Nitro produced the largest and heaviest fruits but the lowest fruit count, while organic treatments (Biol30 and Biol70) demonstrated comparable fruit quality and higher yields. The Biol70 treatment, in particular, highlighted the potential of biol as a sustainable alternative, achieving yields of 272.59 kg total production and 34.07 kg per bed, with fruit weights averaging 0.4309 kg and lengths of 26.511 cm. These findings underscore the viability of biol, especially at higher concentrations, as an eco-friendly substitute for chemical fertilizers, aligning with global efforts to promote sustainable agricultural practices. Full article

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5 pages, 712 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Bacterial and Fungal Diversity from the Rhizosphere of Plants Wildly Growing in Agricultural Soil Under Unfavourable Environmental Conditions

by Marta Adalia-Mínguez, Esther Morate-Gutiérrez, Lilyana Tihomirova-Hristova, Sandra Bielsa-Lozoya, Alicia Rodríguez-Cárdenas, Miguel Martínez-Illana and Belén Álvarez

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 39(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024039008 - 20 May 2025

Abstract

Rhizospheres harbor many beneficial microorganisms interacting with the plant ecosystem. However, in agriculture, there is a tendency to remove any plant that is different from that being cultivated. This work aimed to display the root microbial communities of native vegetation growing wild in [...] Read more.

Rhizospheres harbor many beneficial microorganisms interacting with the plant ecosystem. However, in agriculture, there is a tendency to remove any plant that is different from that being cultivated. This work aimed to display the root microbial communities of native vegetation growing wild in agricultural soil. Thus, high-throughput sequencing of culture-independent marker genes was performed for bacteria and fungi from these habitats after a period of high environmental temperatures. With respect to bacteria, results revealed a number of Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs) ranging from 3210 to 3266. With respect to fungi, the results revealed a number of OTUs ranging from 963 to 973. Information on the composition of the rhizosphere microbial communities favours the understanding of their potential functions and their beneficial effects on the sustainability of the agrosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 3rd International Electronic Conference on Diversity: Biodiversity of Animals, Plants and Microorganisms)

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9 pages, 866 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Impact of Vermicompost on the Quality of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) Seedlings and Plant Productivity

by Kristina Laužikė, Vitalis Laužikas and Julė Jankauskienė

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 41(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025041007 - 19 May 2025

Abstract

Lettuce is the most widely consumed leafy vegetable in the world. Its quality and yield depend highly on the growing conditions, including the growing substrate. Peat is commonly used as a growing substrate, but there is an increasing interest in finding alternatives to [...] Read more.

Lettuce is the most widely consumed leafy vegetable in the world. Its quality and yield depend highly on the growing conditions, including the growing substrate. Peat is commonly used as a growing substrate, but there is an increasing interest in finding alternatives to reduce peat usage. One potential alternative is vermicompost, and this study aims to investigate the impact of vermicompost as an additive to a peat substrate on the quality of lettuce seedlings and yield. This research was carried out in a greenhouse covered with a polymer film at the Institute of Horticulture of the Lithuanian Agricultural and Forestry Research Center. Lettuce seedlings were grown in peat with varying amounts of vermicompost (0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, or 50% vermicompost). Various parameters such as lettuce growth, biometric data, the content of pigments in the leaves, and the accumulation of elements (N, P, K, Ca, Mg) were evaluated. The addition of vermicompost, regardless of its amount, significantly increased plant height (from 7.5 cm in control up to 10.9–11.3 cm with vermicompost), the number of leaves (up to 4.2–4.6), the leaf area (up to 107–131 cm²), and the percentage of dry matter accumulation (up to 6.4–7.5%). Vermicompost also had a positive effect on photosynthesis, resulting in higher yields and a better quality of lettuce. The summarized research results demonstrate the potential of using vermicompost in the production of high-quality lettuce. Full article

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16 pages, 1310 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Exploring How Moroccan Farmers in Khemisset Province Adapt to Climate Change: Perceptions and Strategies

by Noureddine Chaachouay

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 41(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025041006 - 19 May 2025

Abstract

Climate change negatively affects agricultural productivity by altering weather patterns, increasing the frequency of extreme events, and disrupting growing seasons. These changes lead to reduced crop yields, soil degradation, and challenges to food security. This research investigates how climate change affects plant cultivation [...] Read more.

Climate change negatively affects agricultural productivity by altering weather patterns, increasing the frequency of extreme events, and disrupting growing seasons. These changes lead to reduced crop yields, soil degradation, and challenges to food security. This research investigates how climate change affects plant cultivation and agricultural farming operations in Khemisset Province of Morocco. A research study based on surveys of 120 farmers combines quantitative and qualitative methods to determine their views about climate change and their adaptive measures. The researchers select their farmers according to land conditions, plant life, and livestock management patterns. The obtained data demonstrate climate parameter deterioration throughout the period extending from 1985 to 2015, which corresponds with meteorological measurements. Climate variability produces adverse environmental effects which negatively affect agricultural output. The Zemmour tribe members and other farmers use different agricultural adaptation strategies, including fertilizer application, rotational cropping, and planting maturation-premature seeds. The research findings highlight the necessity of developing specific adaptation methods that defend agricultural sectors against climate change risks and secure food supplies. This investigation adds to climate resilience knowledge by delivering important findings that guide agricultural sustainability policy development and implementation. Full article

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20 pages, 263 KiB

Open AccessConference Report

Abstracts of the 3rd International Online Conference on Cells: Charming Micro-Insights into Health and Diseases (Cells 2025), 25–27 March 2025

by Alexander E. Kalyuzhny

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 44(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025044001 - 16 May 2025

Abstract

The 3rd International Online Conference on Cells: Charming Micro-Insights into Health and Diseases (Cells 2025) took place online from 25 to 27 March 2025. This conference report is an abstract collection from sessions of Cells 2025. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 3rd International Online Conference on Cells: Charming Micro-Insights into Health and Diseases)

8 pages, 1851 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Yeast Microbiome of Avicennia officinalis: Differences in Its Taxonomic and Functional Composition Within Plant Compartments

by Kizhakkeyveetil Abdul Saleem Nimsi, Kozhikotte Manjusha and Jasna Vijayan

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 39(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024039007 - 8 May 2025

Abstract

Mangrove ecosystems are renowned for their rich fungal diversity, housing a plethora of multicellular fungi and yeasts. In this investigation, we examined the yeast diversity associated with various compartments (rhizospheric soil, stems, roots, leaves, barks, and flowers) of the widely distributed mangrove tree, [...] Read more.

Mangrove ecosystems are renowned for their rich fungal diversity, housing a plethora of multicellular fungi and yeasts. In this investigation, we examined the yeast diversity associated with various compartments (rhizospheric soil, stems, roots, leaves, barks, and flowers) of the widely distributed mangrove tree, Avicennia officinalis, from the Kumbalam and Puthuvype mangroves in central Kerala, India. Our study revealed that the yeast strains were not uniformly distributed in various compartments. The highest abundance of yeasts was found in leaves (42%), followed by sediment (21%), and the lowest in flowers (5%). Among the 45 isolates, 27% comprised red yeasts. Dominant genera included Rhodotorula (27.5%), Debaryomyces (17.6%), Kluyveromyces (5.9%), Cryptococcus (9.8%), and Candida (7.8%), while genera such as Geotrichum, Lodderomyces, Ogataea, Galactomyces, and Saitozyma were represented by single isolates. Certain yeast species, such as C. tropicalis and Rhodotorula paludegina, exhibited a cosmopolitan distribution in various plant compartments of A. officinalis. An analysis of the proximate composition of different plant compartments of A. officinalis revealed variations in C, N, S, H, Ca, K, and the C/N ratio. Interestingly, these variations were positively correlated with the yeast community composition, suggesting a potential role of the elemental composition of plants in shaping the yeast biome of A. officinalis. However, our understanding of the inter-relationships among yeast communities in different plant compartments remains limited, highlighting the need for further comprehensive investigations in this field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 3rd International Electronic Conference on Diversity: Biodiversity of Animals, Plants and Microorganisms)

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97 pages, 1043 KiB

Open AccessConference Report

Abstracts of the 4th International Electronic Conference on Agronomy

by José David Flores-Félix

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 41(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025041005 - 28 Apr 2025

Cited by 1

Abstract

The 4th International Electronic Conference on Agronomy was organized by the MDPI open access journal Agronomy and held online from 2 to 5 December 2024. The conference spanned various key themes, including breeding/selection technologies and strategies, sustainable soil management and farming systems, crops, [...] Read more.

The 4th International Electronic Conference on Agronomy was organized by the MDPI open access journal Agronomy and held online from 2 to 5 December 2024. The conference spanned various key themes, including breeding/selection technologies and strategies, sustainable soil management and farming systems, crops, precision and digital agriculture, water use and irrigation, plant–crop biology and biochemistry, and biostimulation and microbial-based biocontrol strategies. This electronic conference provided a unique platform for researchers to showcase their work, discuss groundbreaking findings, and engage in meaningful conversations with fellow experts. Full article

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1 pages, 144 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Statement of Peer Review

by Arun K. Bhunia

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 40(1), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024040055 - 17 Apr 2025

Abstract

In submitting conference proceedings to Biology and Life Sciences Forum, the volume editors of the proceedings certify to the publisher that all papers published in this volume have been subjected to peer review administered by the volume editors [...] Full article

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

7 pages, 735 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Evaluation of Alternative Models for Respiration Rate of Ready-to-Eat Strawberry (cv. ‘Ágata’)

by Magdalena Irazoqui, Sofía Barrios and Patricia Lema

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 40(1), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024040054 - 16 Apr 2025

Abstract

Alternative models for the respiration rate (RR) of ready-to-eat strawberries were evaluated as a function of O₂ and CO₂ concentration and temperature. The effect of the gaseous atmosphere and temperature on RR was determined in a total factorial experiment where 45 [...] Read more.

Alternative models for the respiration rate (RR) of ready-to-eat strawberries were evaluated as a function of O₂ and CO₂ concentration and temperature. The effect of the gaseous atmosphere and temperature on RR was determined in a total factorial experiment where 45 treatments were applied by combining factors: oxygen (0–21%) and carbon dioxide (0–15%) concentration at three levels and temperature (4–26 °C) at five levels. Both phenomenological (Michaelis–Menten, Langmuir) and non-phenomenological (Generalized linear and Quadratic) approaches were used to fit RR data. The temperature effect was modeled by Arrhenius, exponential, and power models. Model selection was performed based on R2-adjusted, RMSE, and IAC indicators. Models with R² greater than 0.80, lower RMSE, and AIC were selected. The quadratic model and Michaelis–Menten Uncompetitive-with power model for temperature dependence were the best predictors of the experimental data. An integrated mathematical model based on strawberry respiration activity considering the influence of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and temperature was obtained, allowing its use for MAP modeling. Full article

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

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9 pages, 1779 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Cyclodextrin-Based Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents: Physicochemical Characterization and Application for Green Extraction of Polyphenols from Moringa oleifera Leaves

by Melina Elizabeth Lionello, Cristina Isabel dos Santos Ferreira and María Florencia Mazzobre

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 40(1), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024040053 - 15 Apr 2025

Abstract

Natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs) composed of citric acid and glucose or glycerol and glucose, both with and without the addition of β-cyclodextrin (BCD), were developed and characterized through physicochemical analysis. Parameters such as density, pH, water activity, refractive index, electrical conductivity, and [...] Read more.

Natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs) composed of citric acid and glucose or glycerol and glucose, both with and without the addition of β-cyclodextrin (BCD), were developed and characterized through physicochemical analysis. Parameters such as density, pH, water activity, refractive index, electrical conductivity, and polarity were evaluated. Additionally, their thermal and rheological properties were assessed. The presence of BCD did not significantly affect the polarities of the NADESs but decreased the a_w and increased the pH and the apparent viscosity. The designed NADESs were used to extract polyphenolic compounds from Moringa oleifera leaves, providing a sustainable alternative to conventional organic solvents. The results showed that NADESs achieved high extraction yields, demonstrating their effectiveness and potential applications in food and pharmaceutical industries. This study highlights the versatility of NADESs and their relevance in green chemistry and sustainable extraction technologies. Full article

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

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5 pages, 641 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

mRNA-Based Biomarker Identification for Targeted Therapy Development in Pancreatic Cancer

by Saima Firdaus and Rafat Parveen

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 43(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025043002 - 31 Mar 2025

Abstract

Pancreatic cancer is one of the highly malignant cancers that have poor prognosis and limited treatment options. The development of targeted therapies is important for improving patient outcomes. In this study, we analyzed the datasets from the GEO database to identify potential mRNA [...] Read more.

Pancreatic cancer is one of the highly malignant cancers that have poor prognosis and limited treatment options. The development of targeted therapies is important for improving patient outcomes. In this study, we analyzed the datasets from the GEO database to identify potential mRNA biomarkers for pancreatic cancer. Differentially expressed gene (DEG) analysis was performed in R to identify genes that expressed differentially between tumor and normal samples. TFF1 and LAMC2 emerged as key candidate genes for pancreatic cancer among the identified DEGs. Additionally drugs approved by the FDA were repurposed as an inhibitor against key genes. These findings suggest that these genes play a significant role in pancreatic cancer progression and have the potential to serve as molecular elements for targeted therapies. Full article

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6 pages, 1087 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Bioactivity of Byproducts from the Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus) Juice Industry

by Maria Dolores Rivero-Pérez, Gisela Gerardi, Mónica Cavia-Saiz, Miriam Ortega-Heras and Pilar Muñiz

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 40(1), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024040052 - 28 Mar 2025

Abstract

The blackberry (Rubus fruticosus) is a red fruit with great potential as a functional food thanks to its composition, which is rich in antioxidants. This work focused on the study of two byproducts of blackberry (skins and seeds) after juice production, with [...] Read more.

The blackberry (Rubus fruticosus) is a red fruit with great potential as a functional food thanks to its composition, which is rich in antioxidants. This work focused on the study of two byproducts of blackberry (skins and seeds) after juice production, with the aim of characterizing them and studying their bioactivity. The phenolic composition and antioxidant capacity of the products, determined by ABTS, as well as their colonic fermentation fractions, were analyzed. In addition, their genotoxicity and effect on the intestinal microbiota were evaluated after in vitro gastrointestinal digestion and fermentation. Blackberry byproducts, namely skin and seeds, are rich in phenolic compounds, especially the skin, which is rich in anthocyanins and presents an antioxidant capacity that makes it potentially usable as a functional ingredient. All the fermented samples present in vitro genoprotective activity and a modulation effect on the intestinal microbiota, promoting the growth of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus and reducing the abundance of the Clostridia XIVa cluster and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii. A similar effect was observed for the skin and seeds. The results provide insights into the digestive properties and health benefits of blackberry byproducts after consumption. Full article

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

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19 pages, 234 KiB

Open AccessConference Report

Abstracts of the 2nd International Electronic Conference on Genes

by Selvarangan Ponnazhagan

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 43(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025043001 - 28 Mar 2025

Abstract

The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Genes (IECGE2024) was organized by the MDPI open access journal Genes and held online from the 11th to 13th December 2024. This conference provided leading scientists with an online platform to share their latest research and engage [...] Read more.

The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Genes (IECGE2024) was organized by the MDPI open access journal Genes and held online from the 11th to 13th December 2024. This conference provided leading scientists with an online platform to share their latest research and engage in exciting discussions. The main topics and sessions of the conference were as follows: Non-coding RNAs in Health and Diseases; Genetic Diagnosis and Targeted Therapy in Cancer; Microbial Genetics and Genomics; Technologies and Resources for Genetics Research; Human Genomics and Genetic Diseases. This was an excellent opportunity for researchers and scientists to interact with each other, communicate with their colleagues, learn from each other, share ideas and results, help solve problems, and suggest alternative options for a better future. Full article

8 pages, 475 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Yield, Morphological Traits, and Physiological Parameters of Organic and Pelleted Avena sativa L. Plants Under Different Fertilization Practices

by Aleksandra Stanojković-Sebić, Dobrivoj Poštić, Marina Jovković and Radmila Pivić

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 41(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025041004 - 27 Mar 2025

Abstract

Oat (Avena sativa L.) is one of the most important self-fertilizing field plants belonging to the Poaceae family. It has no significant requirements regarding growing conditions but has a very good reaction to fertilization. The current research evaluated the significance of the [...] Read more.

Oat (Avena sativa L.) is one of the most important self-fertilizing field plants belonging to the Poaceae family. It has no significant requirements regarding growing conditions but has a very good reaction to fertilization. The current research evaluated the significance of the effects of individual applications of mineral (NPK) and organo-mineral (OMF) fertilizers, as well as their individual combination with slaked lime (calcium hydroxide, Ca(OH)₂), on the yield, morphological traits [mean number of leaves per plant—MNLP, minimum leaf length (cm) per plant—MinLL, maximum leaf length (cm) per plant—MaxLL, number of ears per plant—NEP], and physiological parameters (nitrogen balance index—NBI, content of chlorophyll—Chl, flavonoids—Flv, anthocyanins—Ant) of organic and pelleted (graded) oat plants, comparing the treatments and in relation to the control. The experiment was performed in semi-controlled glasshouse conditions, in pots, from the fourth week of March to the fourth week of June 2024, using Vertisol soil. This soil is characterized as light clay with an acid reaction. Physiological parameters were measured using a Dualex leaf clip sensor. The results obtained showed that physiological parameters in both oat types significantly differed (p < 0.05) between the treatments applied and in relation to the control, whereas the morphological traits did not significantly differ (p > 0.05) between the treatments. Statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) in the yield of both oat types were most pronounced in the OMF + Slaked Lime treatment (organic: 4.49 g pot⁻¹; pelleted: 4.61 g pot⁻¹) in relation to the control (organic: 2.48 g pot⁻¹; pelleted: 2.63 g pot⁻¹). The pelleted oats showed slightly better results for the effects of different treatments across all tested parameters compared to organic oats. In conclusion, the best results were obtained with the use of OMF + Slaked Lime, which could be proposed as the optimal fertilization treatment for pelleted and organic oat cultivation based on this research. Full article

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8 pages, 6828 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Comparative Evaluation of Hypoglycemic Activity of Cucumis sativus and Cucurbita pepo Whole Plant Extracts in Normal and Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

by Vikas Gautam and Anand Murari Saxena

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 40(1), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024040051 - 25 Mar 2025

Abstract

Background: Crude extracts are easily available and considered safe and cost-effective in comparison with synthetic extracts and are more accessible compared with purified compounds, making them suitable for initial screening and exploratory studies in drug discovery. Introduction: Cucumis sativus and Cucurbita [...] Read more.

Background: Crude extracts are easily available and considered safe and cost-effective in comparison with synthetic extracts and are more accessible compared with purified compounds, making them suitable for initial screening and exploratory studies in drug discovery. Introduction: Cucumis sativus and Cucurbita pepo are medicinal plants that belong to the Cucurbitaceae family, commonly known as cucumber and pumpkin, comprising a series of phytochemicals such as chlorophylls, carotenoids, oleanolic acid, saponin, and triterpenoids. Materials and Methods: In this study, an ethanol extract of Cucumis sativus and Cucurbita pepo whole plants was used to assess their hypoglycemic effects in a fasted, fed, glucose-loaded and streptozotocin-induced diabetes model of albino rats followed by Molecular Spectroscopic (FTIR and UV-Vis) analysis. Blood sugar levels were determined from samples collected at different intervals (0, 1, 3, and 4 h). Results and Conclusions: A significant blood glucose reduction was observed as a result of both plants’ extracts, while the greatest reduction was shown by Cucumis sativus. The UV-Vis profile showed several absorption bands ranging from 200 to 800 nm, showing the presence of flavonoids, phenolic compounds, terpenoids, carotenoids, and chlorophyll. The FTIR spectra reveal the presence of carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and phenolic compounds, which contribute to the extracts’ nutritional and biological value. Further research is needed to determine the active agents and the likely mechanism of action of both the plants regarding their hypoglycemic effects. Full article

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

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Biology and Life Sciences Forum

Vol. 44

Cells 2025

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IECBS 2024

Vol. 40

Foods 2024

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