Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026062002

Authors: Jieruiyi Weng Bei-Wen Ying

Bacteria are ubiquitous in indoor environments, yet their growth dynamics on indoor surfaces remain underexplored. We cultured bacterial communities from various indoor objects on agar media with a gradient of nutrient concentrations and quantitatively analyzed colony growth using ten kinetic parameters. Clustering revealed two primary growth patterns: a majority with high growth capacity and a minority with lower growth. Nutrient response analysis identified distinct strategies among communities, with plastic surfaces exhibiting greater heterogeneity in growth and nutrient responsiveness. These findings suggest that surface material partially shapes microbial growth behaviors and their adaptation to nutrient availability. This study provides a quantitative framework linking nutrient conditions, growth dynamics, and surface characteristics, offering new insights into the ecological traits of indoor bacterial communities.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026062003

Authors: Vasileios Papantzikos

Investigating the application of sustainable agricultural approaches, such as the use of biostimulants, is considered more significant than ever, especially in the commercially important species Actinidia deliciosa L., in the face of climate change. In this work, the application of a glycine–betaine–proline-based biostimulant (GBP) and a humic and fulvic acid-based biostimulant (HF) was evaluated on the growth and metabolism of kiwi trees under field conditions. Total phenolic content, proline, and chlorophyll content were analyzed during the experiment. The metabolic data showed that the kiwi trees of the GBP treatment were more robust, as indicated by proline analysis (0.41 ± 0.09 µmol g−1) compared to C (0.28 ± 0.06 µmol g−1). This vigor of GBP treatment was also represented in leaf area (3943.17 ± 211.26 cm2), compared to the C (3484.01 ± 354.19 cm2). The implementation of biostimulants constitutes an ecological approach that can be integrated into biological crop management, as it is environmentally friendly, non-invasive to the ecosystem, and aims for crop resilience to biotic or abiotic stress.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026063001

Authors: Claudio Ferrante Luigi Menghini Maria Loreta Libero Simonetta Cristina Di Simone

The International Conference on Plant Biodiversity and Sustainability is a global forum dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge and collaborative action in plant diversity, conservation, and sustainable development. Bringing together established and early-career researchers as well as students from diverse fields, the conference underscores the urgent need to protect plant resources and foster sustainable solutions. By promoting an open, interdisciplinary environment, the event encourages dialogue among botanists, ecologists, agronomists, biotechnologists, chemists, and related experts, integrating multiple perspectives to address biodiversity challenges comprehensively, especially in the field of medicinal and aromatic plants. Aligned with the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the conference covers a wide range of topics, including habitat conservation, ecological restoration, ethnobotany, climate change adaptation, sustainable agriculture, technological and biotechnological innovation, and science-based policy approaches. The scientific program features keynote lectures by internationally recognized experts, thematic oral sessions, hands-on workshops, and collaborative roundtables designed to stimulate discussion and knowledge exchange. Participants present cutting-edge research, innovative methodologies, and case studies highlighting both theoretical advances and practical applications. Panel discussions and networking opportunities further support new partnerships, joint research efforts, and capacity-building initiatives, strengthening the global community committed to biodiversity protection. Beyond sharing scientific results, the conference emphasizes the importance of connecting research with policy and real-world practice. Contributions therefore address decision-making frameworks, community engagement, nature-based solutions, and the use of emerging technologies for monitoring and managing plant ecosystems. This multidimensional approach ensures that the event not only showcases academic excellence but also contributes to concrete strategies that inform governance, education, and sustainable land-use planning, with a particular focus on plant resources.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026057010

Authors: Tajamul Hussain Muhammad Fraz Ali

The application of manure to field corn has the potential to sustain corn yields and reduce nutrient leaching in the soil profile. A field trial with a randomized complete block design was conducted on Adkins fine sandy loam soil to evaluate the impact of application of manure and synthetic fertilizer on nutrient concentrations (N, P, K and S) in plant and soil as well as field corn yield. Experimental treatments included application of synthetic fertilizer (NPK: T1) and dairy manure application at 12.4-(T2), 24.7-(T3) and 37.1-(T4) tons ha−1 in addition to a non-fertilized control (CK). All manure was applied before planting. Corn was manually harvested, and plants were separated into leaves, stems and cobs to determine dry weights. Post-harvest soil sampling was performed at 0–30, 30–60 and 60–90 cm soil depths. The results indicated that in-season leaf nutrient concentration was significantly different among applied treatments. The application of synthetic fertilizer (T1) resulted in the highest plant height (295 cm) and produced a higher corn yield (112.3 Mg ha−1) compared to CK and application of dairy manure. Application of manure at 12.4 tons ha−1 produced higher corn yield (87.8 Mg ha−1) compared to manure application at 24.7 (64.0 Mg ha−1) and 37.1 tons ha−1 (64.5 Mg ha−1). A similar trend was observed for leaf, stem and cob fresh and dry weights. Nutrient recovery was higher under application of synthetic fertilizer, followed by application of manure at 12.4 tons ha−1. Soil nutrient analysis indicated no significant impact on N, P, K and S concentration among treatments except for NH4+–N. However, nutrient concentration significantly varied under different soil depths. These results suggest that a combination of synthetic fertilizer application and manure might be a practical approach for a balanced nutrient supply for field corn. Further investigations are necessary to explore the potential of manure application to ensure balanced nutrient supply, improved yields and reduced nutrient losses in field corn.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025051020

Authors: Muhammad Azam Khan Muhammad Naveed Anjum Umer Habib Saddam Hussain M. Tahir Akram Rashid Mehmood Rana

The 9th International Horticulture Conference (IHC-2025) was held at PMAS Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan, from 15 to 17 April 2025 [...]

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056030

Authors: Newton Valerio Verbisck Larissa Bortoli de Souza Marita Vedovelli Cardozo Nilton Gabriel Paiva Guimarães Gelson Luis Dias Feijó

Protein profiling generated by MALDI-TOF (matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time-of-flight) was used to distinguish meat from different livestock species and identify meat species. Meat proteins from fresh beef (n = 12), pork (n = 7), chicken (n = 5) and tilapia fish (n = 3) were extracted and analyzed in a MALDI Biotyper mass spectrometer (Bruker Daltonics, Bremen, Germany) with alpha-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid as the matrix. Mass spectra allowed the distinction of meat species, including between Nellore and Angus bovine breeds, and PCA classification revealed possible biomarkers for meat types. Our results corroborate MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry as an interesting tool for meat identification, which is useful for quality control and the certification of meat products.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026058004

Authors: Wentao Li

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 [...]

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026062001

Authors: Fahima Tabassum

The circulatory system of cuttlefish (family Sepiidae) has been extensively studied; however, a comprehensive anatomical reconstruction of bobtail squids (family Sepiolidae) remains limited despite their ecological and evolutionary importance within Decapodiformes. This study reconstructs the circulatory architecture of sepiolids through comparative histological analysis and documents microorganisms or parasites associated with renal tissues. Two bobtail squid species, Rossia bipapillata and Sepiolina nipponensis, were examined using serial histological sections, while four cuttlefish species—Sepia lycidas, Sepia esculenta, Sepia japonica, and Sepia tenuipes—were analyzed for comparative purposes. Morphometric parameters, including sex, total length, and mantle length, were recorded prior to histological processing. Branchial hearts and renal appendages were sectioned using serial microtomy (~120 sections per specimen) and stained with hematoxylin and eosin, periodic acid–Schiff, Masson’s trichrome, and Giemsa to visualize vascular continuity and tissue organization. Histological observations confirmed vascular connections between the gills, branchial hearts, the systemic heart, and renal appendages, enabling reconstruction of the sepiolid circulatory pathway. In addition, the light organ characteristic of Sepiolidae was identified as a tissue receiving oxygenated blood within the circulatory network. Renal tissues revealed the presence of parasitic organisms, including Dicyema in cuttlefish and ciliates of the genus Chromidina in bobtail squids. Morphological observations revealed structural diversity in Chromidina, including characteristic spiral anterior features and variation in body form, as well as developmental variation in nuclear number relative to body length in dicyemids. These findings provide new insights into cephalopod circulatory organization, parasite diversity, and host–parasite interactions.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056029

Authors: Hamza Tami Youssef Ezzaky Mariem Zanzan Mohamed Amellal Fouad Achemchem

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are valuable natural bio-preservatives due to their ability to produce antimicrobial compounds such as organic acids, hydrogen peroxide, and bacteriocins. This study aimed to isolate and characterize LAB from Moroccan camel meat and evaluate their antimicrobial potential against major foodborne pathogens. From 2304 isolates obtained from fresh, fermented, and dried camel meat, 115 exhibited antimicrobial activity against Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella enterica Enteritidis, and Staphylococcus aureus. Seven isolates demonstrated broad-spectrum activity with inhibition zones ranging from 15 to 30 mm. Physiological and biochemical tests, combined with API 20 Strep identification, revealed that most isolates belonged to Enterococcus faecium. These isolates are promising candidates for natural preservation of camel meat, offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic preservatives. These findings highlight the potential of camel-meat-associated lactic acid bacteria as natural, clean-label bio-preservatives, particularly in arid regions where camel meat serves as a vital protein source and limited cold-chain infrastructure increases the risk of spoilage.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025051017

Authors: Muhammad Sanwal Bakhsh Hurmain Aslam Muhammad Usman Abeer Idrees Auon Raza Abdul Shafi Tooba Khalid Muhammad Ali Muhammad Ahmad Murtaza Sehar Tabassum Arooj Akhlaq

The yield loss of tomatoes grown in Punjab is 30–60% due to early blight caused by Alternaria solani during humid monsoons. Five fungicides, namely, Score 250 EC (difenoconazole), Antracol 70 WP (propineb), Topsin-M 70 WP (thiophanate-methyl), Dithane M-45 80 WP (mancozeb), and Kavach 75 WP (chlorothalonil), were evaluated in this laboratory experiment using the poisoned food technique at concentrations of 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3. Score 250 EC showed the highest antifungal activity, resulting in the lowest mean mycelial growth (26.44 mm) and maximum inhibition. All interventions were significantly better than controls (p < 0.01), and the effect became concentration-dependent. Intensive alternation of difenoconazole and Antracol at the IPM levels is an effective way of reducing selection pressure on resistance.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025051019

Authors: Muhammad Abdul Rahman Afraz Hasan

Water scarcity is a global phenomenon, and Pakistan is no exception to it. This study aims to assess the techno-economic efficiency of the irrigation system for guava orchard and melon crop in the Hafizabad District of Punjab province in Pakistan. The study has employed efficiency theory for a comparative analysis of modern and high-efficiency irrigation methods in contrast to old traditional methods of irrigation to estimate differentiating impacts on technical efficiency (TE), economic efficiency (EE), water productiveness, and crop yield. The mixed method approach is exercised on data collected from 108 stratified farmers (large, medium and smallholders) using structured surveys and qualitative insights. Beta-regression models using Cauchit link function are applied to translate determinants of TE/EE by taking into account predictor factors such as farming experience, operational costs and water productivity. Results show that solar irrigation systems have significantly better performance than the conventional system by having better TE and EE scores than conventional system performance. Farming experience and water productivity also have positive effects on efficiencies. Results also show that solar systems increase water productivity, lower costs and increase guava and melon productivity to a significant extent, which in turns aid in reducing the effects of salinity and evaporation in arid conditions. The overall finding supports and emphasizes solar’s supremacy for sustainable horticulture. Findings highlight the importance of incentivizing solar adaptation and agrivoltaic integration in Pakistan to ensure sustainable agriculture in water-stressed areas such as Punjab for food security and resource conservation for the production of guava and melons.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025051018

Authors: Muhammad Sanwal Bakhsh Mujeeb Ur Rehman Ansar Hayat Muhammad Talha Ali Bin Saeed Tooba Sarah Azeem Talal Mustafa Memoona Sher Hashmat Ali

Charcoal rot caused by Macrophomina phaseolina limits mungbean yield around Faisalabad. Fields surveyed during Kharif 2024 showed 43–58% disease incidence. At the research farm, disease severity rose from 8.6% (14 days after sowing) to 62.4% (maturity). Plants with 40–55% infection lost 42% of grain yield (1182 to 684 kg/ha). Soil temperature at a 10 cm depth best predicted disease (r = +0.86). Each 1 °C above 27 °C added 8% more severity. Early sowing in April and resistant varieties were recommended for farmers to cut losses.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025051016

Authors: Xin Meng Mengyi Wang

Garlic has broad-spectrum antibacterial activity. Returning garlic straw to the field can promote crop growth and soil conditions to varying degrees. To explore the effects of different amounts of garlic straw added to the microorganisms in the rhizosphere substrate of eggplants, potted plant experiments were carried out in the climate room of the East Campus of Tianjin Agricultural University. Three treatments were set up: T0 was eggplant single-cropping (CK), T1 was adding straw with fourteen garlic cloves planted in each pot (a total of 60.2 g), and T2 was adding straw with nine garlic bulbs planted in each pot, totalling 108 garlic cloves (a total of 463.5 g). Each treatment was repeated three times. The abundance of microbial species and the diversity of community structure in the rhizosphere matrix of eggplants were determined by high-throughput sequencing technology. The results indicated that adding garlic straw to the substrate could increase the dominant bacterial species in the microbial community structure of the eggplant rhizosphere substrate. The main bacterial phyla in the substrate were Proteobacteria, Chloroflexi, and Actinobacteriota. The genus of substrate bacteria is mainly Hirschia. The stromal fungi phylum is mainly composed of Ascomycota and Basidiomycota. In terms of Alpha diversity, the diversity and richness of bacteria and fungi in the rhizosphere matrix of eggplants have both decreased, indicating that garlic straw has shown good antibacterial properties, inhibiting the growth of certain pathogenic bacteria, reducing the occurrence of diseases, and improving the microbial environment. Therefore, garlic straw can improve the microbial environment of the rhizosphere substrate by increasing the dominant microbial community of the substrate and inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria. This study provides a scientific basis and technical reference for choosing the appropriate way to add garlic straw and researching the microbial environment of the rhizosphere substrate of eggplants.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056028

Authors: Furkan Tığ Süleyman Fatih Kırmızıgöl

Salt and seasoning application plays a critical role in flavor and product consistency in industrial food manufacturing; however, manual recovery of excess salt limits both hygiene and process efficiency. In this study, a closed-loop salt dispensing machine capable of operating between 120–700 kg/h was developed to automatically recover salt that does not adhere to the product surface during processing. The required motor power and torque for achieving the maximum discharge rate of 700 kg/h were analytically calculated and experimentally validated. Homogeneity tests performed on a 1.2-m conveyor indicated maximum and minimum deviations of 5.3% and 7%, respectively. Overall, the system eliminates material waste, enhances hygiene, and provides more controlled salt distribution compared to conventional manual methods.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026059005

Authors: Marinich Net Sophak Phourng Dolla Bros Socheata Mao Yve Wache Reasmey Tan

Cryoprotectants are used to protect biological cells from damage caused by freezing. This study aimed to determine the effect of various types of cryoprotectant on the survival rate of freeze-dried Limosilactobacillus frumenti (L. frumenti) used as a starter culture for cucumber fermentation. Mixtures of freeze-dried L. frumenti with cryoprotectants were prepared using two different ratios (1:2 and 1:10). The survival rate of L. frumenti was determined by viable cell counts (CFU/mL) after freeze-drying, and fermentation performance was evaluated in terms of physicochemical quality and sensory evaluation. Skim milk proved to be the most effective cryoprotectant, yielding a survival rate of approximately 70% (70.07% for the 1:10 ratio and 70.01% for the 1:2 ratio) after 24 h of storage at 4 °C. Sensory evaluation indicated that cucumber fermentation prepared with freeze-dried L. frumenti mixed with skim milk (ratio 1:10) was the most preferred by panelists.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054035

Authors: Sk. Tanjim Jaman Supto Md. Nurjaman Ridoy

Agricultural ecosystems in northeastern Bangladesh are increasingly vulnerable to climate-induced stressors, particularly rising temperatures and seasonal droughts. While previous research has examined the climate’s impact on agriculture in broader contexts, no study has specifically investigated long-term seasonal vegetation and thermal dynamics in Sylhet. This study addresses this gap by assessing spatio-temporal variations in vegetation health under climate stress in the Sylhet region from 2005 to 2025 using remote sensing techniques. To investigate this problem, the study derived the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and land surface temperature (LST) from Landsat satellite imagery and evaluated their seasonal behavior across the major cropping periods Rabi, Kharif I, and Kharif II. The relationship between vegetation health and surface temperature was examined using Pearson’s correlation matrix along with a statistical comparison to identify change patterns, transitions among vegetation and thermal stress classes, and the seasonal intensity of climate stress. The findings indicate that increased LST generally corresponds with reduced vegetation cover in lowland agricultural zones, whereas elevated areas with forest or tree covers show an opposite response. Distinct spatial hotspots of thermal stress and drought-prone zones were also identified, particularly during the dry Rabi season. These results highlight the idea that rising LST corresponds with declining NDVI values, indicating that increasing thermal stress and potential reductions in agricultural vegetation productivity and climate stress across Sylhet’s agricultural landscape have intensified markedly from 2005 to 2025, with clear seasonal differences in vulnerability. NDVI analysis reveals a consistent decline in vegetation health, while LST patterns show widespread transitions from moderate to high and severe thermal stress, particularly during the Kharif seasons. The observed NDVI decline under elevated LST conditions indicates reduced vegetation vigor and potential productivity within agricultural lands, rather than a direct reduction in cultivated areas, since NDVI primarily captures vegetation density and physiological condition. The strongest NDVI–LST inverse relationship occurs in Rabi and Kharif I, indicating vegetation’s cooling role, whereas this linkage weakens in Kharif II due to dominant monsoon-driven atmospheric controls.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026057009

Authors: Santiago C. Vásquez Marlene Molina-Müller Manuel Armijos Johana Pucha Santiago Erazo-Hurtado Fernando Granja Mirian Capa-Morocho Camilo Mestanza-Uquillas Wagner Oviedo-Castillo

Quinoa is a highly nutritious Andean crop with considerable yield potential that remains underexploited in southern Ecuador. This study evaluated the effects of planting method (row seeding, hill seeding, and transplanting) and plant density (8–20 plants m−2) on quinoa growth and yield under Andean highland conditions. A factorial field experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design with three replicates. Plant density significantly affected grain yield, increasing from 4.4 to 4.8 t ha−1 at 8 plants m−2 to a maximum of 6.97 t ha−1 at 20 plants m−2. This increase was mainly driven by a higher grain number per unit area, while thousand-grain weight remained stable across treatments. In contrast, the planting method and its interaction with plant density had no significant effect on yield or yield components. Grain yield showed a strong positive relationship with above-ground biomass, indicating that biomass accumulation was the main driver of yield variation. These results demonstrate that plant density is the primary agronomic factor controlling quinoa productivity under Andean conditions. Optimizing plant density to 15–20 plants m−2 is recommended as a simple and cost-effective management strategy to maximize grain yield, regardless of planting method.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026059004

Authors: Antonio Morata Paola Domizio Alice Vilela Iris Loira Manuel Malfeito-Ferreira

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.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026057008

Authors: Konstantinos Chassapis Maria Roulia

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.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026058003

Authors: Bhavuk Kwatra

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.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025051015

Authors: Mehwish Liaquat Muhammad Azam Khan Shafiq Ur Rehman Aleena Khalid Sarvet Jehan Sakeena Tul-Ain Haider

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.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054036

Authors: Lamia Jallal Salah Er-Raki Saïd Khabba Jamal Ezzahar Zaineb Bouswir Hiba Ait Ben Ahmed Abdelilah Meddich Abdelghani Chehbouni

Canopy cover (CC) is crucial for crop monitoring and model calibration. This study developed an empirical equation relating NDVI to CC for quinoa under four treatments with different irrigation and fertilization levels in Morocco’s water-scarce Chichaoua region. Treatments ranged from optimal (100% irrigation, 100% fertilization) to severe stress (40% irrigation, 25% fertilization), tested from March to June 2023, showing strong NDVI-CC correlations (0.77–0.98). Cross-validation identified the best-performing model, CC (%) = 141.75 × (NDVI) − 30.913, derived from moderate stress conditions. This linear equation demonstrated good predictive accuracy across all treatments (R2 = 0.60–0.96, RMSE = 8.79–14.99 (% CC), NRMSE = 0.26–0.36, EF = 0.54–0.74, d = 0.77–0.90), providing a practical tool for estimating quinoa canopy cover in water-limited environments.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026057007

Authors: Huajian Liu Reddy Pullanagari Dillon Campbell Marnie Denlay Molly Hennekam Hari Dadu Paul Telfer Stewart Coventry Bettina Berger

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.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026057006

Authors: Nosipho Precious Minenhle Phungula Sandile Thamsanqa Hadebe Lucky Sithole Nomali Ziphorah Ngobese

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.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054034

Authors: Effiom Eyo Ita Peggy Obaseojei Willie Ayobami Daniel Abodunrin Julius Oyohosuho Phillip Anthony Agbor Michael Bissong

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.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026057005

Authors: Verónica Carbajal-Rocha Arnulfo Domínguez-Hernández Hernan Campuzano-Cruz Elisa Domínguez-Hernández Martha Elena Domínguez-Hernández

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.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056027

Authors: María Gimena Torres Silvina Cecilia Andrés Nadia Florencia Nagai Gabriel Lorenzo Germán García Colli

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.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025051014

Authors: Abdul Mueed Muhamma Sarwar Yaqub Qurra-Tul-Ain Abdul Haseeb Ahmed Atiqa Aleem Fareeha Shireen Muhammad Daail Rai

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.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056026

Authors: Vasileios Manousakis Stefanos Michailidis Eirini Palamida Christos Plakidis Anna Ofrydopoulou Alexandros Tsoupras

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.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026057004

Authors: Mahlodi R. Maripa Titus Y. Ngmenzuma Felix D. Dakora

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.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056025

Authors: Valter F. R. Martins Ana I. Lopes Manuela Machado Manuela E. Pintado Rui M. S. C. Morais Alcina M. M. B. Morais

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.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026060002

Authors: Chunxiang Li Junxian Lima Ya Li Junye Ma

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.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026057003

Authors: Shefali Vinod Ramteke

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.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054033

Authors: Rajan G. Rejith Rabi N. Sahoo Tarun Kondraju Amrita Bhandari Rajeev Ranjan

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.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056024

Authors: Julio Federico Benites Diego Ricardo Gutiérrez Silvana Cecilia Ruiz Silvia del Carmen Rodriguez

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.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056023

Authors: Ana M. Solivella-Poveda Marta Rodríguez Marcos Rodríguez-Estrada Marina Cano-Lamadrid Esther Sendra

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.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025052002

Authors: 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 Virginia Sara Grancieri do Amaral

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.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025051013

Authors: Rabeea Tariq Umer Habib Muhammad Azam Khan Muhammad Ishaq Zimal Zainab

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.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026061001

Authors: Viola Galligioni Marino Campagnol Paolo De Girolamo Valeria Pagano Marcello Raspa Silvia Sabbioni Paola Zarattini Sara Fuochi

The XXIX Congress of the Italian Association for Laboratory Animal Sciences (AISAL) held its annual meeting in September 2023. The focus of the meeting was on optimal usage of animal models: experimental procedures, team management, and qualitative standards of infrastructures. Among the audience, all stakeholders of AISAL were present: animal caretakers, technicians, facility managers, veterinarians, scientists, and Animal Welfare Officers. The Conference Report includes information on the broad context of the Congress, a summary of oral presentations, and accepted abstracts for the poster session.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026061002

Authors: Viola Galligioni Marino Campagnol Paolo De Girolamo Valeria Pagano Marcello Raspa Silvia Sabbioni Paola Zarattini Sara Fuochi

In submitting conference proceedings to Biology and Life Sciences Forum, the Volume Editors of the proceedings would like to certify to the publisher that all papers published in this volume have been subjected to peer review by the designated expert referees and were administered by the Volume Editors strictly following the policies announced on the conference website (https://www [...]

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026059003

Authors: Lyhour Chhun Reasmey Tan Luka Ly Monychot Tepy Chanto

This research evaluated a soy sauce produced from germinated soybeans with varying salt concentrations. Soybeans were germinated over 48 and 72 h, then homogenized with roasted wheat and 0.1% of Aspergillus oryzae, and kept three days for koji fermentation. They were then homogenized with 18% and 22% salt, and then fermented for 210 days at ambient temperature for moromi fermentation. Moreover, 5 × 107 CFU/mL of Zygosaccharomyces rouxii was used. The quality of soy sauce made from germinated soybeans over 48 h resulted in the best conditions regarding the physicochemical characteristics and sensory evaluation analysis.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054032

Authors: Chijioke Christopher Uhegwu Christian Kosisochukwu Anumudu

The overreliance on chemical pesticides in sub-Saharan African (SSA) for agriculture poses major challenges to sustainable agriculture, ecosystem and human health, biodiversity, and environmental sustainability. While genetically modified (GM) crops have demonstrated potential to lower pesticide use and increase crop yield, their widespread adoption remains limited across SSA, with gaps in knowledge on their yield, benefits and policies impacting their uptake. In this study, a literature-based approach was used to synthesize evidence from peer-reviewed articles and government reports published between 2010 and 2025 on pesticide use, farm productivity, and wellbeing of farmers across three focus countries: Nigeria, South Africa, and Burkina Faso. The summary of approved GM crops, events and utilisation across the three focus countries was also retrieved from the International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications (ISAAA) database. Cross-country comparisons were conducted to highlight lessons learned from successful and stalled GM crop programs and to identify regulatory, socio-cultural, and economic factors shaping adoption. It is shown that while GM crops can significantly reduce pesticide usage and production costs, challenges such as public hesitancy, regulatory hurdles, limited farmer awareness, and concerns about ecological consequences continue to hinder wider uptake across the continent. Similarly, weak seed systems and the lack of regionally harmonized biosafety regulations also constrain adoption. In areas where GM crops have been successfully adopted, it was demonstrated that supportive policy frameworks, transparent biosafety regulations, effective seed certification and distribution systems, and sustained community engagement increased farmer confidence and accelerated adoption. Hence, for GM crops to be more widely adopted for sustainable crop protection in sub-Saharan Africa, governments and stakeholders must strengthen biosafety systems, invest in farmer education, promote regional regulatory coordination, and facilitate public–private partnerships.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056022

Authors: Oulayya Essalhi Youssef Ezzaky Mariem Zanzan Fadil Bakkali Fouad Achemchem

The development of shelf-stable functional foods remains a key challenge in probiotic product formulation, particularly for non-dairy alternatives adapted to traditional diets. Amlou, a Moroccan spread made from argan oil, almonds, and honey or sugar, may serve as a promising plant-based probiotic carrier. This study evaluated the viability of three LAB strains, Lactobacillus gasseri (commercial), Latilactobacillus sakei AE126, and Enterococcus durans Y17, in seven Amlou formulations containing varying argan oil (5–10%) and sugar (0–10%) concentrations. Samples were stored at ambient temperature (25 °C) for 45 days. Viability, pH, and water activity were monitored periodically. Probiotic survival significantly depended on formulation (ANOVA, p < 0.05). Viability losses remained below 1 log CFU/g across all samples. The best results were observed in formulations containing 10% argan oil and either 0% or 5% sugar, depending on the probiotic strain, suggesting a synergistic protective effect of lipids and moderate carbohydrate levels. These findings indicate that Amlou could serve as a shelf-stable, culturally relevant carrier for probiotic delivery.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026057002

Authors: Anas Aboulaiche Mohjat Belaatar

This study analyzes the olive tree in the Menara Garden (Marrakech) to elucidate its role in the resilience of semi-arid urban agroecosystems. By combining hyperspectral remote sensing, bioeconomic modeling, and biophysical analyses, it quantifies the ecosystem services provided by the park (100 ha, 10000 trees). The results demonstrate optimal microclimate regulation (evapotranspiration accounting for 53.21% of the water balance), significant pollutant sequestration (carbon dioxide (CO2), ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), particulate matter (PM)), soil stabilization, and circular valorization of 268 t/year of biomass. These performances stem from adaptive traits (adjustable stomatal conductance, phenotypic plasticity), enabling water savings of 35 ± 5%. The study proposes a framework integrating plant physiology, ecosystem services, and SDGs, advocating for urban policies refocused on green infrastructure as pillars of sustainability in semi-arid zones.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054031

Authors: Alangelico San Pascual Catherine Joy Dela Cruz Maurice Gravidez Annalissa Aquino Glaisa Garcia

Deteriorated seeds of okra varieties ‘Smooth Green’ and ‘Red Ruby’ were reinvigorated by soaking in plasma-activated water (PAW). After PAW treatment, germination and seedling characteristics were determined and compared with hydroprimed deteriorated seeds, unprimed deteriorated seeds, and healthy untreated seeds. Differences among treatments were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey’s HSD test at α = 0.05. PAW-treated deteriorated seeds exhibited higher vigor and faster germination in both varieties compared with untreated seeds. Furthermore, PAW-treated seedlings developed longer and heavier shoots and roots. It is concluded that soaking deteriorated seeds in PAW enhanced germination by 12–16%. These findings demonstrate that PAW treatment can improve the germination and seedling characteristics of deteriorated okra seeds.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054030

Authors: Anshika Parihar

The Sangamner Block in Ahilyanagar District (formerly Ahmednagar), Maharashtra, India, is a semi-arid region that receives low rainfall and is experiencing declining groundwater levels, exacerbating the vulnerability of farmers. This study employed a cross-sectional survey covering 159 farming households from six villages to examine the socioeconomic factors influencing the adoption of drip irrigation. Binary logistic regression identified education, social group, FPO membership, land size, and age as significant predictors. It shows that lower education, smaller landholdings, scheduled tribe status, and lack of farmer producer organisations (FPOs) membership can significantly reduce the likelihood of drip adoption while age and OBC (social group) status increase it. In contrast, neither gender nor government schemes had a significant effect.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054029

Authors: Faruk Salihu Umar Nurudeen Mahmud Ibrahim

The adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies has significantly enhanced precision farming by enabling continuous environmental monitoring and data-driven agricultural management. However, the increasing reliance on distributed sensor networks introduces critical challenges, including sensor faults, data anomalies, and cyber-physical security threats, which can undermine system reliability and decision accuracy. This study proposes an IoT-driven anomaly detection framework for smart agriculture that integrates a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) optimized using a hybrid Particle Swarm Optimization and Genetic Algorithm (PSO–GA). The CNN learns complex spatio-temporal patterns from multivariate sensor data, while the PSO–GA strategy automatically tunes CNN hyperparameters to improve detection accuracy and model stability. To enhance adaptability under dynamic agricultural conditions, the proposed framework incorporates an online learning mechanism that incrementally updates the CNN model using newly arriving sensor data, enabling continuous adaptation to environmental changes and concept drift without full model retraining. Experiments conducted on a publicly available smart agriculture dataset demonstrate that the proposed CNN–PSO–GA framework achieves an accuracy of 74%, precision of 74%, recall of 100%, and an F1-score of 85%, outperforming baseline methods such as One-Class Support Vector Machine and Isolation Forest, particularly in reducing missed anomaly events. The results confirm the robustness, adaptability, and reliability of the proposed approach. Overall, the framework provides a practical and scalable solution for enhancing security, resilience, and operational effectiveness in precision farming systems.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056021

Authors: María Laura Lemos Diego Ricardo Gutiérrez Silvia del Carmen Rodríguez

The influence of passive and active modified-atmosphere packaging (MAP), antioxidants (citric acid and ascorbic acid) and their combinations with a mild thermal process on the shelf life of cut eggplants was evaluated. Eggplant slices were subjected to different treatments (a—MAP: packaged in air with 35 μm polypropylene; b—MAP1: packaged with 3% O2 + 15% CO2; c—MAP2: packaged with 5% O2 + 15% CO2; d—citric acid 1% + MAP; e—ascorbic acid (A2) 1% + MAP; f—A2 + MAP1; g—TT (50 °C for 1 min) + A2 + MAP; h—TT + A2 + MAP1; and i—control: no treatment) and stored for 12 days at 5 °C. The evolution of sensory characteristics such as color and the browning index, ascorbic acid (AA), total phenols (TP), antioxidant capacity (AC), microorganism count (mesophilic and psychrophilic aerobes, enterobacteria, molds and yeasts) and polyphenol oxidase PPO activity were periodically evaluated. Treatment h was the most effective in prolonging shelf life, maintaining eggplant’s optimal sensory characteristics for up to 10 days, with greater retention of AA and AC and without significantly varying the initial level of TP.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054028

Authors: José Plaza Lilyana Tihomirova-Hristova Esther Morate-Gutiérrez Marta Adalia-Mínguez Belén Álvarez Pedro V. Mauri

Interest in the cultivation of rockrose (Cistus ladanifer L.) is focused not only on its commercial products but also on its role in maintaining ecosystems. Very few pests and diseases are known to affect it. However, in cultivated plots in mainland Spain, a high number of plants with symptoms of decline and death were observed. This damage occurred after a period of rain of 21 days in late spring, in tilled soil, and with plants grown from cuttings. Laboratory analysis revealed the presence of the phytopathogenic fungal species Macrophomina phaseolina, Fusarium acuminatum, F. equiseti, and F. tricinctum, which were identified by ITS sequencing. These fungi, along with the agronomic and edaphic–climatic conditions, suggest an association of factors involved in the damage observed in the rockroses, pointing out the need to develop an integrated management strategy for this type of agroecosystem.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056020

Authors: Orquidea Vasconcelos dos Santos Helen Cristina de Oliveira Palheta Jade Vitória Duarte de Carvalho Railanni dos Santos Cantão Andrei de Oliveira Ramos Amanda Ramos Soares Mayara Galvão Martins

Biomasses from agro-industrial practices in the Amazon have generated significant inputs in the last decade for the development of projects and the extension of more sustainable production chains, based on the results of research on both laboratory and pilot scales, and from the rapid expansion in industrial scaling. The rise in the use of biomass includes the use of raw materials from so-called superfruits, notable examples of which include açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.), Brazil nut (Bertholletia excelsa HBK), pupunha (Bactris gasipaes Kunth), tucumã (Astrocaryum aculeatum) and buriti (Mauritia flexuosa). All of these are of great importance to the trade balance of the Amazon region, contributing significantly to the import of products and by-products from Brazil. In view of the above, this research aims to present the nutritional, functional and technological properties of these biomasses as a contribution to industrial innovation in the use of isolated constituents in various segments of the food, pharmaceutical, dermocosmetic and packaging industries. The data show that research into the protein, fibrous and starch-based biopolymers contained in these biomasses has been guided and deepened, with an emphasis on investigations in isolation and on applications of bioactive compounds and starches and fibers in the development of films and packaging with good resistance properties and high environmental biodegradability, these being economically viable as food coatings, acting in synergy with the application of technologies and the increase in the sustainable circular bioeconomy in the Amazon, combining techno-economic and environmental development in the most diverse industrial sectors.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054027

Authors: Jackson Lee Sauers Kambham Raja Reddy Veera Gnaneswar Gude

Nutrients recovered from municipal and dairy wastewaters in a bioelectrochemical system constructed with terracotta and biochar were used in different soil amendments. These amendments included addition of terracotta (TS), biochar (BS), terracotta and biochar nutrient-rich mixtures from bioelectrochemical systems, DWW (dairy wastewater), and SWW (synthetic wastewater), respectively. Corn growth affected by these amendments was compared with control, termed straight soil (SS). The first experimental setup consisted of 60 plants, four replications per group, and nutrient loadings (0%, 50%, and 100% Hoagland Nutrient Solution, HNS) in the fall season. After harvesting, the plants and soil were analyzed for agro-physical characteristics by various methods. At the 100% nutrient treatment, the TS soil had the best yielding plants. Overall, plants grown in DWW and SWW soil amendments with 0% and 50% nutrient treatments had the best results in plant height, total plant dry weight, the average number of leaves per plant, leaf surface area, shoot dry weight, root/shoot ratio, root surface area, and NBI when compared to the control group. Another test was carried out with 80 corn plants grown using five different soil mediums and using four different nutrient treatments in the spring season. Twenty of the plants were put through a simulated drought to evaluate drought resistance (as measured by plant growth) in different soil amendments. In this test, the SWW soil amendment had a negative effect at 0% HNS and in warm weather. The SWW soil medium had large retention in soil moisture, which had a negative growth effect. It is recommended that the irrigation be monitored closely when applying the SWW soil amendment to avoid overwatering. This research provides critical insights into nutrient reuse in crop production.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026060001

Authors: Mathias Harzhauser

The 1st International Online Conference on Taxonomy (IOCTX2025) serves as a critical interdisciplinary nexus for addressing the contemporary “taxonomic impediment” through the lens of integrative systematics and computational innovation. By synthesizing research spanning from Paleozoic fossil records to extant microbial biodiversity, the conference illuminates the evolving methodology of species delimitation, moving beyond traditional morphometrics to incorporate multi-locus molecular phylogenetics, bioacoustics, and high-resolution 3D imaging. Key thematic clusters across the program examine the floristic complexity of Karst landscapes, the resolution of cryptic animal species complexes through genomic and proteomic data, and the role of machine learning in automating the identification of both fossil and living taxa. Furthermore, the proceedings underscore a paradigm shift toward “integrative taxonomy,” where the fusion of morphological rigor with eDNA metabarcoding and automated genomic scanning provides a more robust framework for understanding global biodiversity hotspots. Ultimately, IOCTX2025 reaffirms taxonomy as a high-technology discipline essential for conservation biology and evolutionary theory, providing a standardized scientific language to describe the complexities of the tree of life across deep time and modern ecosystems.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054026

Authors: Marilou M. Sarong Paul Jhon G. Eugenio Gerald Glenn A. Hernandez Franz Marielle N. Garcia Ariel G. Mactal Fernan T. Fiegalan Maria Luisa T. Mason Juvy J. Monserate

Ultramafic soils, particularly those affected by mining, often contain toxic nickel (Ni) levels that hinder plant growth and ecosystem recovery. This study assessed engineered biochar–nanocomposite amendments to improve vetiver (Chrysopogon zizanioides) growth, biomass, and Ni phytoextraction in Ni-rich ultramafic soils from Santa Cruz, Zambales, the Philippines. Seven samples were tested: T1—control (no application); T2—biochar; T3—nanocomposite; T4—biochar + nano-silica; T5—biochar + nano-calcium; T6—biochar + nano-chitosan; and T7—biochar + nanocomposite. Biochar combined with nano-silica (T4) significantly enhanced vetiver growth, producing the highest root, shoot, and total biomass (469.97 g plant−1), indicating improved plant tolerance under Ni stress. The highest shoot Ni concentration (24.52 mg kg−1) and translocation factor (0.56) were observed in the biochar + nano-chitosan treatment (T6), suggesting increased Ni bioavailability and uptake. However, translocation factor values remained below unity across all treatments, indicating limited Ni transfer from roots to shoots and a dominant phytostabilization behavior. Overall, nano-silica-engineered + biochar primarily enhanced biomass production, while nano-chitosan influenced Ni uptake dynamics, highlighting the potential of engineered biochar–nanomaterial amendments for sustainable rehabilitation of Ni-contaminated ultramafic soils.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026059002

Authors: Noelia Silva Silvia Flores Marina de Escalada Pla

Using agro-industrial by-products as substrates for the growth of probiotic strains is an alternative for increasing their added value. This study aimed to design and optimize the production of a functional ingredient (FI) with L. casei immobilized in oat bran (OB). A Box–Behnken experimental design was applied to study the effects of hydration level (HL), milk whey supplementation, and initial inoculum concentration (IC) on probiotic growth. According to the design, systems containing 1 g of OB, supplemented with 0 to 0.4 g of whey/g OB and HL from 5 to 20 mL of water/g OB, were sterilized and inoculated with an IC in the range of 5.61 to 7.61 log (CFU/g OB). After incubation at 37 °C for 24 h with orbital shaking, the systems were washed, centrifuged, and vacuum-dried. Independent variables were optimized to maximize cell count and growth and minimize cell count after drying. The optimal conditions found were for HL: 15 mL of water/g OB; for whey: 0.3 g/g OB; and for the IC: 5.79 log (CFU/g OB), which were recorded within the studied range. This result demonstrates the feasibility of optimizing the production of a dried FI based on OB as a substrate for L. casei.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054025

Authors: Pénéloppe G. T. Gnavo Rodrigue V. Cao. Diogo Luc H. Dossa

To comply with new pastoral regulations in Benin, herders are increasingly adopting sedentary cattle systems, which may pose environmental risks if poorly managed. This study assessed greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from three sedentary cattle farm types: zebu (SZF), taurine (STF), and crossbreed (SCF), across two vegetation zones: Sudanian (SZ) and Guineo-Congolian (GCZ) using the GLEAM-i model, online version. Irrespective of the farm type, the animals were exclusively fed on natural pasture. A total of 12 cattle herds were surveyed to collect input data (herd structure, demographic parameters, milk production and composition, and weight data) for the GLEAM-i. The fat and protein content of the milk (determined using a milkotester device), the live weight, and weight at slaughter of animals were entered into the GLEAM-i, which automatically determines the emission intensity values per kg of protein produced. The results revealed that CH4 was the main GHG emitted (88%), followed by CO2 (6–7%) and N2O (6%). The highest and lowest total GHG emissions (kgCO2-eq/year) were recorded in SZF (188,497) and STF (52,003) farms, respectively. With regard to emission intensity (kgCO2-eq/kg protein), this varied from 506.59 to 3043.73 for meat and from 588.86 to 3043.73 for milk. Overall, preliminary trends suggest lower emission intensities for taurine in the GCZ and for zebu in the SZ. However, these results would be more meaningful and more accurate if emission values were directly measured from individual animals using the GreenFeed Technology under current production conditions, using various pasture resources and controlled allocation. These would allow us to make firm recommendations for breeding strategies to reduce GHG emissions in Benin’s extensive livestock production system.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054024

Authors: Ajit Singh Loke Kha Chun Xiaoyu Jiang

Rapid urbanization and population growth demand sustainable food systems. This study investigated hydroponic vertical farming with LED lighting for Chinese kale (Brassica oleracea var. alboglabra), comparing white LEDs (WL), 20% red + 80% blue (20% RL: 80% BL), and 80% red + 20% blue (80% RL:20% BL). Plants grown under control conditions were assessed at weeks 2, 4, and 6. The 80% RL:20% BL treatment enhanced fresh weight, leaf area, root length, and biomass, while 20% RL:80% BL maximized chlorophyll, anthocyanin, and phenolics. Leaf number and quantum yield remained similar, though stress was evident. The findings of this research highlight red-dominant light for growth and blue-dominant light for phytochemical enrichment.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054022

Authors: Sabrina BenGhida Sonia BenGhida Djamil BenGhida Riad BenGhida

Policy instability and regulatory barriers remain key obstacles to the long-term viability of agriphotovoltaics (APV) deployment. The Penthéréaz case in Switzerland provides empirical evidence of how cooperative governance and collective self-consumption can restore project feasibility after subsidy withdrawal. Using a single-case study and process-tracing approach based on cooperative documentation and regulatory records, the analysis explains how Penthéréaz Énergie Photovoltaïque S.A. cooperative (PEP)., initially structured as a subsidy-dependent venture, transitioned into a resilient collective self-consumption network supported by a private micro-grid. Following the withdrawal of federal feed-in tariffs, the project faced major economic risk and responded through decentralized financial restructuring, including community-funded debt at a 2% interest rate. The installation comprises 1180 photovoltaic panels with an installed capacity of 283 kWp, producing approximately 290,000 kWh per year while providing water-tightness and light permeability for agricultural infrastructure. The findings further indicate that operational success contributed to Swiss regulatory adjustments, enabling private distribution networks to cross public roads and secure geographic continuity for local energy sharing. With a reported self-consumption rate of 40% across a diversified user base including agri-food and residential consumers, the case demonstrates the operational value of local load-matching. The findings propose six context-dependent lessons derived from a single case, emphasizing governance capacity, tariff risk management, regulatory adaptability, and demand-oriented system design.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054023

Authors: Nachiket Aparajithan Magesh Khin Thandar Tun Veera Gnaneswar Gude

As the global population grows rapidly, effective wastewater management and resource recovery is increasingly critical. Conventional wastewater treatment is energy-intensive, and it increases reliance on fossil fuel supplies. Microbial Electrochemical Systems (MES) offer a sustainable alternative by treating wastewater and producing renewable electricity. This study evaluates a combined MES–hydroponic system facilitating Lactuca sativa growth in cathodes via nutrient transport across a cation exchange membrane (CEM) from municipal wastewater being treated in the anode chamber. The system achieved 56 ± 11% COD removal, 48 ± 21% N removal, 4.32 mW/m2 peak power density, and a 25% increase in plant wet weight. In contrast, a standard air-cathode cell had 60 ± 15% COD removal, 55 ± 20% N removal, and 0.29 mW/m2 peak power density. Findings demonstrate the potential of combined MES–hydroponic systems for wastewater treatment and agriculture in a circular economy framework.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054021

Authors: Yasas Gamagedara Nuwan K. Wijewardane

Demand for rapid and cost-effective soil analysis has increased the use of spectroscopy, particularly in the visible–near-infrared (Vis–NIR) and mid-infrared (MIR) regions. Using 8304 soil samples from the United States Department of Agriculture spectral library, this study evaluated the effects of raw and preprocessed spectra on the prediction accuracy of eleven key soil properties across Vis–NIR and MIR regions using multiple machine learning algorithms. Spectral preprocessing, combining baseline correction and standard normal variate transformation, consistently improved prediction accuracy compared to the raw spectra. Overall, MIR-based models consistently outperformed Vis–NIR across all soil properties, with the largest performance gains observed for potassium, bulk density, and nitrate nitrogen. Among the machine learning approaches evaluated, artificial neural networks and categorical boosting algorithms provided the strongest and most consistent predictive performance across both spectral regions. These findings demonstrate that combining appropriate spectral preprocessing, spectral region selection, and advanced machine learning algorithms can substantially improve soil property prediction using spectroscopy.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026059001

Authors: Sara Gusmão Ana Lima Gabriela Lima Joana Ferreira

The valorization of fruit by-products represents a sustainable strategy for developing functional foods. This study evaluated the incorporation of orange peel into kefir-based cream cheese as a value-added ingredient. Dried and ground peel was added at 1% and 5% (w/w), in non-fermented and brine-fermented forms, and its effects on physicochemical, microbiological, and functional properties were assessed. Orange peel enhanced texture and imparted a yellow–orange hue, slightly lowered pH, and increased titratable acidity, indicating improved acidification. Total phenolic content (50–300 mg GAE/100 g dw) and antioxidant activity (40–140 µmol TE/g dw) were markedly enhanced, supporting the potential of citrus by-products in functional dairy formulations.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054020

Authors: Benan Yazıcı Karabulut

This study investigates the occurrence and electrochemical removal of four commonly used pesticides—lufenuron, ethoprophos, dichlobenil, and picloram—from groundwater in a semi-arid agricultural basin in Southeastern Türkiye. Groundwater samples were collected from two locations within the study area. At the first sampling site, pesticide concentrations were 0.54 µg/L (lufenuron), 0.14 µg/L (ethoprophos), 0.38 µg/L (dichlobenil), and 0.61 µg/L (picloram), while corresponding values at the second site were 0.48 µg/L, 0.42 µg/L, 0.26 µg/L, and 0.17 µg/L, respectively. An electrocoagulation (EC) process employs aluminum electrodes. Following electrocoagulation treatment, the concentrations of all target pesticides were reduced to levels below the European Union drinking water limit for individual pesticides (0.1 µg/L), as defined by Directive (EU) 2020/2184.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056019

Authors: Gamze Özçakır

This study aimed to collect natural pigments of edible mushroom waste (stalk and cap) via adsorption on a heavy metal at room temperature. At 45 min of adsorption, the sample concentrations were recorded as initial levels (t = 0 min). Then, concentrations over time were noted (t = 10, 20, 45 min). Maximum RE (removal efficiency) and AC (adsorption capacity) values were obtained at a 0.4 g/L Ni (II) solution concentration and a 45 min adsorption time, equaling 61% and 3783 mg dried mushroom pigment/g Ni (II). Furthermore, the most suitable kinetic model for all the studied Ni (II) solution concentrations was determined to be the pseudo-second-order model (R2 ≥ 0.9). ANOVA analysis, applied to the experimental data, showed that AC was mostly affected by time and initial concentration parameters.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056018

Authors: Luis Carlos Morán-Alarcón María del Mar Contreras Alfonso M. Vidal Cristina Marzo-Gago Irene Gómez-Cruz Juan Miguel Romero-García Eulogio Castro

This study aimed to evaluate the aqueous extraction of phenolic compounds from olive tree pruning. Soxhlet extraction and aqueous extraction at 120 °C were performed in two types of pressurized reactors and different scales. The highest total phenolic content was obtained using Soxhlet (3809.8 mg/100 g biomass), followed by the other extraction strategies (up to 1500 mg/100 g). The content of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylglycol, hydroxytyrosol, and oleuropein also varied depending on the extraction conditions. Overall, aqueous extraction at 120 °C can be used to partially recover phenolic compounds, albeit in a shorter time compared to Soxhlet extraction and using higher solid loads to facilitate scaling up. This type of extraction can be applied in the future to recover these high-value compounds from olive tree pruning, a common agricultural byproduct of the Mediterranean region.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056017

Authors: Carolina Antonella Paulino Candela Shaiel Mendinueta Morales María Laura Coppo Facundo Carlos Namor

Berry pulps are valued for their intense color and bioactive compounds, which are susceptible to degradation during processing and storage. This study provides a comparative analysis of the effects of pasteurization (85 °C, 15 min) and frozen storage (−18 °C) on the physicochemical stability of four Patagonian berry pulps, including blackberry, raspberry, sour cherry, and blueberry, over a 12-month storage period. Color changes were evaluated using the CIELab system. Pasteurization caused significant increases in ΔE and L*, and reductions in a* and Chroma (p < 0.05), whereas frozen pulps showed minor changes and null ΔE at time zero. Hue angle shifts were mainly driven by storage time (p < 0.05). Overall, freezing better preserved color stability and bioactive quality.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054017

Authors: Jevie Jaranilla Sam Michael Decatoria Romnic Cabelin Hanzel Pedrosa Jesimiel Curbita Ma. May Opino Mari Neila Quintos

Sugarcane productivity in the Philippines is threatened by ringspot disease caused by Epicoccum sorghinum. This study evaluated the antagonistic potential of sugarcane endophytic bacteria against E. sorghinum using Dual Culture (DCA) and Volatile Compound Assays (VCA). Molecular identification via 16S rRNA sequencing confirmed the bacterial identities. Burkholderia gladioli exhibited the highest inhibition in DCA (57.79%), while Bacillus zhangzhouensis was most effective in VCA (49.56%). Stenotrophomonas rhizophila also demonstrated inhibitory activity (16.55%). These results indicate that these endophytic strains are promising, sustainable biocontrol alternatives to chemical pesticides for managing sugarcane ringspot disease. Future work should focus on validation in screenhouse and field testing.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026058002

Authors: Andreia Garcês Isabel Pires

Cutaneous papillomaviruses (PVs) are host-specific DNA viruses that cause papillomas in many wild cervids, including red deer, moose, roe deer, white-tailed deer, and reindeer. Species-specific PVs such as CePV1 and AaPV1 typically induce rough, verrucous skin and mucosal lesions that, while usually benign, can impair feeding, movement, vision, or mating. A high prevalence—especially in young or immunocompromised animals—may affect population health. Transmission occurs through contact, skin microtrauma, or possibly ectoparasites. PV lesions can resemble more serious diseases, complicating diagnostics. Understanding PV diversity and ecology is important for wildlife health monitoring, conservation planning, and assessing cross-species transmission risks.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056016

Authors: Bruna Carbas Pedro Sampaio Sílvia Cruz Barros Andreia Freitas Ana Sanches Silva Carla Brites

Fumonisins and deoxynivalenol (DON) are toxic secondary metabolites, produced by Fusarium species frequently contaminating maize, representing a critical challenge to food safety and human health. Conventional analytical methods, such as HPLC and ELISA, are accurate but time-consuming and require complex sample preparation. In contrast, near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR) has emerged as a rapid, non-destructive, and cost-effective alternative for mycotoxin screening. This study investigates the potential of NIR spectroscopy combined with chemometric techniques to detect and quantify fumonisins (primarily FB1 and FB2) and DON in maize. A total of 60 maize samples were analyzed with mean concentrations of 534 µg/kg for FB1, 208 µg/kg for FB2, and 130 µg/kg for DON. The highest cumulative contamination of FB1 + FB2 reached 3420 µg/kg. While 30% of the samples showed no detectable fumonisin contamination, DON was absent in 17% of the samples. The best performing predictive models were developed using second-derivative pre-processing of the NIR spectra. The NIR calibration model yielded coefficients of determination (R2) of 0.91 for FB1, 0.88 for FB2, and 0.92 for DON, with corresponding root mean square errors (RMSE) of 683, 282, and 115 µg/kg, respectively. These results demonstrate that NIR spectroscopy, particularly when integrated with multivariate analysis, is a promising tool for distinguishing contaminated from uncontaminated maize and estimating mycotoxin levels with reasonable accuracy. These findings support the application of NIR as a practical tool for routine screening and quality control in the maize supply chain.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056015

Authors: Arun K. Bhunia

The 6th International Online Conference on Foods—Future Horizons in Foods and Sustainability (Foods 2025) was hosted by the MDPI Journal Foods (ISSN 2304-8158, Impact Factor 5.1) from 28–30 October 2025, bringing together global experts, researchers, and practitioners to discuss the latest advancements and explore the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of food science and sustainability. As the demand for innovative and sustainable food solutions continues to grow, the role of food science in addressing global challenges has never been more vital. Foods 2025 aimed to foster collaboration and inspire breakthroughs to enhance food quality, safety, security, and sustainability. Furthermore, Personalized Foods or Foods as Medicine will drive future innovations.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054019

Authors: Farook Sattar

The aim is to develop a simple and efficient AI audio-based approach to recognize chickens’ key behaviors, such as eating, greeting, foraging, hunting, and tidbitting, to improve poultry farming. First, the proposed study performs cepstral and entropy analyses on the chickens’ vocalizations to extract new vocal features. Second, a simple deep unsupervised clustering method is proposed to recognize the behaviors of the chickens. Alternations in recognized behaviors can be indicators of lameness in chickens. Here, we used an open access chicken language dataset consisting of a total of 74 distinct chicken calls with their probable meanings as based on careful observations. Promising results are obtained by the proposed scheme for chicken behavior monitoring, enabling poultry personnel to accurately determine the health and well-being of chickens.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054018

Authors: Farook Sattar

In this study, we design a deep learning-based intelligent recognition method capable of accurately distinguishing abnormal chicken vocalizations among complex sound signals. Our proposed framework is based on the wavelet scattering transform (WST) and a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) network, and uses preprocessed chicken vocalizations processed through a denoising scheme, adopting an audio image generation model (AIGM) based on rectified STFT (Short-Term Fourier Transform). We have used a public chicken language dataset that consists of a total of segments for each of the two categories (Healthy or Sick), totaling 4000 five-second audio clips from actual farming environments, which are labeled by veterinary experts. The proposed method achieves promising performance, outperforming state-of-the-art methods for detecting poultry respiratory diseases and enabling poultry personnel to accurately assess the health and well-being of the chickens.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054016

Authors: Idrissa Diédhiou Rosa Isabella Rossi Franco Josafath A. Otero Hugo M. Ramírez-Tobias

Climate change poses an increasing challenge to tropical agriculture, particularly for heat-sensitive crops such as local varieties of beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). This study evaluated the effects of induced passive heat on the root architecture and symbiotic interactions of two local genotypes, Tayní and Bruncas, using Open Top Chambers under field conditions. Both varieties were included in the analysis and exhibited consistent qualitative responses to warming, with no contrasting cultivar-specific trends detected. Both varieties developed more roots and greater root area compared to the control, while mycorrhizal colonization increased up to 80% under warming. Soil temperature emerged as the main environmental factor influencing root expansion. These findings highlight the adaptive plasticity of local bean varieties under induced passive heat.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056014

Authors: Mary Michelle Velasquez Jin Mark Pagulayan Casiana Blanca Villarino

Coconut residue (CR) is a major by-product generated during the wet processing of virgin coconut oil (VCO). Despite its potential as a raw material for value-added products such as dietary fiber, it remains underutilized due to its perishable nature, highlighting the need for appropriate pretreatment to improve safety and quality prior to valorization. This study evaluated the effects of thermal pretreatments, namely pan-roasting at 65–70 °C, hot-air drying at 50 °C and 60 °C, and their combinations, on the microbiological and physicochemical properties of CR. Microbiological quality was assessed through aerobic plate count, yeast and mold count, and total coliform analysis, while physicochemical properties were evaluated using pH, titratable acidity (TA), and instrumental color measurements. Results showed that CR subjected to pan-roasting, either alone or followed by drying at 60 °C, maintained acceptable microbial counts and generally exhibited lower TA and higher pH compared to other treatments, suggesting improved stability and reduced acidity development. However, pan-roasting caused color changes as reflected by a significant reduction in lightness (L*) values relative to the control. Overall, pan-roasting could serve as a promising thermal pretreatment step to enhance microbiological safety and preserve the physicochemical quality of CR. While these results indicate its potential for preparing CR for dietary fiber valorization, confirmation through analysis of fiber content, techno-functional properties, and validation using CR from commercial VCO processing facilities is still required.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054015

Authors: David Draper Fani Tinitana Ángel Benítez Isabel Marques

Inga edulis Mart. (Fabaceae) is a multipurpose fruit tree widely cultivated in Ecuador. We explored how contrasting cultivation systems are associated with variation in fruit traits and genetic diversity by comparing agroforestry plantations and traditional home gardens. Trees in agroforestry systems exhibited significantly larger pods whereas home-garden populations showed higher levels of genetic diversity. These patterns suggest a potential trade-off between productivity-oriented management and the maintenance of genetic variation, possibly reflecting differences in management practices and seed sourcing. These results highlight the complementary roles of agroforestry and home gardens in the sustainable use and in situ conservation of I. edulis within traditional landscapes.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056013

Authors: Nancy N. Esposito Verónica M. Busch María del P. Buera Carolina E. Genevois

The aim of this study was to characterize the sensory profile of two gluten-free (GF) bread formulations developed with powders obtained by dry grinding from the endocarp–seed (ESP) and epicarp–mesocarp (EMP) fractions of the Neltuma affinis pods. Two GF bread formulations optimized previously by experimental design were tested: FA with 20.0% ESP, and FB with 20.0% ESP and 2.4% EMP. Check-All-That-Apply, Just-About-Right scaling, and 9-point Hedonic Scale were used in a mix panel with regular and gluten-related disorders consumers (N = 105). Both formulations exhibited different sensory profiles; FA was characterized as “tasty” and “light crumb”, receiving an acceptability of 7 ± 2 points in overall acceptability. FB was described as “moist” and “very airy crumb”, with a 6 ± 2 point in overall acceptability. Penalty analysis showed “taste”, “odour”, “firmness”, and “moisture” as sensory attributes to be improved in FA and FB.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054014

Authors: Devanakonda Venkata Sai Chakradhar Reddy Dheebakaran Ga Thiribhuvanamala Gurudevan Sathyamoorthy Nagaranai Karuppasamy Divya Dharshini Saravanan Selvaprakash Ramalingam Hirekari Chandrakant Raj Sake Manideep

Agriculture in semi-arid regions faces increasing challenges from temperature extremes and moisture stress, necessitating climate-smart and resource-efficient production systems. This study examined maize–mushroom intercropping as a climate-smart strategy for semi-arid regions. Field experiments conducted at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University evaluated four maize planting geometries, with and without mulch, in 2022. Results showed that close-maize spacing (45 × 25 cm) with mulch moderated temperature, increased humidity, and improved mushroom yield and biological efficiency. The treatment achieved a land equivalent ratio above one, indicating superior land use efficiency. Optimal microclimatic conditions (26–33 °C; 80–98% RH) enhanced paddy straw mushroom growth, demonstrating that simple field-level modifications can stabilize microclimate and promote resilient farming in semi-arid ecosystems.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056010

Authors: Elaine Rizza P. Javinal Gerieka R. Anapi

Few studies exist on the handling practices and microbial quality of ready-to-eat (RTE) Filipino steamed rice cakes sold in public markets. This study assessed the correlation between food handling practices of public market vendors (n = 15) and the microbiological quality of steamed rice cakes. Vendors showed very good handling practices (mean = 12), though some observations deviated from self-reports. Physicochemical (pH = 4.82–5.91; aw = 0.94–0.97) and microbial analyses (Aerobic Plate Count (APC) = 8.37–12.7 log CFU/g; Yeast and Mold Count (YMC) = 9.47–10.60 log CFU/g; Escherichia coli = <1.8–3.15 MPN/g) exceeded standards. Weak negative correlations (APC = −0.62; E. coli = −0.18) and low positive correlations (YMC = 0.15) indicate a need for improved food safety guidance.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056012

Authors: Silvana Cecilia Ruiz Diego Ricardo Gutierrez Yesica Noemí Gramajo Dominguez Julio Federico Benites Silvia del Carmen Rodriguez

The agronomic performance and quality of different strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa) varieties produced in Santiago del Estero, Argentina, were studied. The following varieties were evaluated in 2023 and 2024 under semi-forced cultivation and bioinputs: Rociera (RO), Frontera (FR), Sahara (SH), Savana (SV), and Sabrina (SB). The crop performance was evaluated through yield production, and fruit quality was determined through titratable acidity (TA), soluble solids (SSs), firmness, and instrumental color with L* (luminosity), a* (red-green color), and b* (blue-yellow color) parameters. The results obtained indicate that the evaluated varieties had good productive performance, especially FR and RO, through viable production yields.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054013

Authors: Tarun Teja Kondraju Rabi N. Sahoo Rajan G. Rejith Amrita Bhandari Rajeev Ranjan Devanakonda V. S. C. Reddy Selvaprakash Ramalingam

Google Earth Engine (GEE) has revolutionised remote sensing. The GEE cloud platform lets users quickly analyse large satellite imagery datasets with custom programmes, enhancing global-scale analysis. Crop condition monitoring using GEE would greatly help in decision-making and precision agriculture. Estimating canopy chlorophyll content (CCC) is an effective way to monitor crops using remote sensing because leaf chlorophyll is a key indicator. A hybrid model that combines radiative transfer models (RTMs), such as PROSAIL, with Gaussian Process Regression (GPR) can effectively estimate crop biophysical parameters using remote sensing images. GPR has proven to be one of the best methods for this purpose. This study aimed to develop a hybrid model to estimate CCC from S2 imagery and transfer it to the GEE platform for efficient data processing. In this work, the CCC (g/cm2) data from the S2 biophysical processor toolbox for the S2 imagery of the ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) on 23 February 2023 were used as observation data to train the hybrid algorithm. The hybrid model was successfully validated against the 155 input data with an R2 of 0.94, RMSE of 10.02, and NRMSE of 5.04%. The model was integrated into GEE to successfully generate a CCC-estimated map of IARI using S2 imagery from 23 February 2023. An R2 value of 0.96 was observed when GEE-estimated CCC values were compared against CCC values estimated locally. This establishes that the GEE-based CCC estimation with the PROSAIL + GPR hybrid model is an effective and accurate method for monitoring vegetation and crop conditions over large areas and extended periods.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056011

Authors: Ana. O. S. Jorge M. Carpena J. Echave P. Barciela R. Nogueira-Marques M. A. Prieto Maria. B. P. P. Oliveira

Heavy metal contamination of seafood remains a critical challenge for public health and industrial processing. Emerging research demonstrates that post-mortem treatments can reduce toxic elements through distinct mechanistic pathways, including diffusion-driven leaching, ligand-specific chelation, thermal redistribution, and physicochemical separation. This article synthesizes recent evidence to evaluate innovative processing approaches through a mechanistic and technology-oriented lens. Acidified marinades promote proton-mediated desorption and diffusion of arsenic, achieving reductions approaching 90%. Chelation strategies using food-grade ligands such as sodium acetate or combined cysteine–EDTA systems show strong affinity for divalent metals, removing up to 88.6% of lead, 80% of nickel, and over 90% of mercury. In parallel, advanced green technologies, such as supercritical CO2 extraction and electrocoagulation, enable 90–98% removal.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054012

Authors: Bin Gao

This collection presents the accepted abstracts for the 3rd International Online Conference on Agriculture (IOCAG2025), organized by the MDPI journal Agriculture, and held online from 22 to 24 October 2025. The event highlighted integrative solutions and data-driven innovations for building resilient agricultural systems, spanning topics from climate-smart practices, precision water management, and AI-enhanced smart farming to sustainable crop protection, soil health, and advanced crop genetics. Discussions emphasized translating research into practical applications that balance productivity with environmental stewardship. Collectively, IOCAG2025 showcased forward-looking approaches and collaborative insights aimed at advancing sustainable, efficient, and climate-adapted agriculture on a global scale.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026058001

Authors: Wentao Li

The 1st International Online Conference on Veterinary Sciences (IOCVS 2025) took place online from 3 to 5 December 2025. This conference report is an abstract collection from five different sessions of IOCVS 2025.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054011

Authors: Abhisek Shrestha Bharti Thapa Santosh Marahatta Krishna Hari Dhakal Dhurva Prasad Gauchan Tirth Narayan Yadav

Barley is a marginalized crop subjected to several types of abiotic stress but need to intensify for future climate smart crop. This study investigated the drought resistance of barley landraces focusing on agro-morphological and physiological traits under controlled drought conditions. The experiment employed a two-factorial completely randomized design (CRD) with 14 barley landraces (of which 8 completed the maturity period examination) subjected to drought stress at three growth stages (CRI, tillering, and grain filling). Key parameters such as SPAD values (chlorophyll content), tiller number, and yield attributes were measured and analyzed using drought tolerance indices. Fourteen genotypes were initially tested, of which six failed to reach maturity; eight genotypes completed the full growth cycle and were used for yield and stress index analysis. Results revealed significant genotypic variation in drought response. Eight landraces exhibited higher SPAD values under drought, indicating better photosynthetic retention. Notably, AFU202501 demonstrated high yield stability (Stress Tolerance Index, STI = 1.782) under both stress and non-stress conditions, while Saptari Local showed exceptional drought avoidance (low Stress Susceptibility Index, SSI = −0.068) through early maturity and minimal yield reduction. In contrast, genotypes like Muktinath and NGRC 6010 were highly sensitive to drought, with significant yield losses (49–87%). Physiological traits such as chlorophyll retention and phenological plasticity (e.g., accelerated maturity under stress) were critical for drought adaptation. The findings highlight the potential of landraces like AFU202501 and Saptari Local as genetic resources for breeding climate-resilient barley varieties. The study underscores the importance of integrating traditional landraces into modern breeding programs to enhance food security in drought-prone regions.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056009

Authors: Sina Makouie Joanna Bryś Jolanta Małajowicz Eliza Gruczyńska-Sękowska Marko Obranović

Milk thistle seed cake, a by-product of silymarin production, contains residual oil with valuable bioactive compounds. This study compared oils extracted using microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) and Soxhlet extraction. MAE produced higher yields and better preserved polyunsaturated fatty acids. It also generated oils with lower acid and peroxide values, higher total phenolic content, and greater antioxidant capacity. Oxidative stability evaluated by pressure differential scanning calorimetry (PDSC) showed longer induction times for MAE-derived oils, indicating improved resistance to oxidation. These trends are consistent with the shorter extraction times and reduced thermal exposure associated with MAE. Overall, MAE proved more effective for recovering high-quality oil from milk thistle seed cake, supporting its use as a valuable resource in waste-to-value applications.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026057001

Authors: Vasileios Papantzikos

The demand for high-quality agricultural products is increasing; however, this requirement is becoming increasingly challenging due to the effects of climate change, which can cause abiotic stress. In this research, we studied the performance of kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa var. ‘Hayward’) 60 days after storage for two different cultivation periods, in which a glycine betaine biostimulant (GB) was applied to the kiwi trees via irrigation under field conditions. Postharvest analysis was performed by measuring the fresh and dry weight of the kiwifruit, the soluble solids content, and titratable acidity. To assess the antioxidant traits of the kiwifruit, DPPH and ascorbic acid contents were recorded. Data analysis revealed that the GB treatment proved beneficial for kiwifruit during storage, enhancing their antioxidant capacity as indicated by their higher ascorbic acid content (vitamin C) compared to the control. This qualitative difference may benefit the commercial requirements of kiwifruit cultivation under the abiotic conditions of climate change, which prompts us to further investigate the application of amino acid biostimulants. This research complements the existing literature on the implementation of biostimulants, as reports regarding their application in kiwifruit cultivation are limited, and provides an optional solution for meeting the commercial needs of kiwifruit cultivation and improving the adaptability of kiwifruit cultivation under abiotic stress conditions.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056008

Authors: Kumar Gaurav Naresh Kumar Mehta

This study aimed to develop an edible egg white protein coating to reduce fat uptake and mitigate protein oxidation in deep-fried Labeo rohita fillets. Fillets (4 × 4 × 2 cm) were coated with 2.5–25% egg white protein and analyzed for proximate composition, frying yield, coating pickup, protein solubility, water-holding capacity, carbonyls, sulfhydryl groups, texture, colour, and sensory attributes. Increasing coating concentration improved coating pickup (2.65–8.36%), frying yield (70.45–80.26%), and reduced fat uptake (9.67–48.66%), while offering partial oxidative protection. Sensory evaluation identified 15% egg white protein coating as most acceptable, and it also effectively lowered fat absorption while preserving protein quality, yielding a healthier fried fish product.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054010

Authors: Muhilan Gangadaran Bagavathi Ammal Uma Sankar Ramasamy Mummadi Thrivikram Reddy Hemavathi Manivannan

Soil micronutrient assessment is crucial for ensuring sustainable crop production and environmental quality, particularly in intensively cultivated regions. This study aimed to evaluate and map the spatial distribution of Diethylenetriamine Pentaacetic Acid (DTPA)-extractable micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu) in agricultural lands of Thirunallar commune, Karaikal, for augmenting site-specific nutrient management. A total of 233 geo-referenced surface soil samples (0–20 cm) were collected using a handheld GPS on a pre-defined grid and analyzed for available micronutrients. The spatial variability and distribution patterns were generated in ArcGIS 10.8.2 using semivariogram-based kriging interpolation. The results indicated that Fe, Mn and Cu were sufficient across the study area, with concentrations ranging from 4.74 to 99.80 ppm, 3.70–97.40 ppm, and 1.46–12.40 ppm, respectively, mainly due to the presence of iron-rich minerals, reduced manganese forms, and continuous application of copper-based inputs. Zinc showed greater variability (0.52–17.20 ppm), ranging from deficient to sufficient levels, likely influenced by fertilizer application and organic matter additions. The findings emphasize the importance of site-specific nutrient management to optimize fertilizer usage and crop productivity, particularly in fine-textured clay soils. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of geostatistical approaches for supporting precision agriculture in micronutrient-deficient areas.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054009

Authors: Wareesha Ayub Muhammad Sameer Muhammad Ali Sharaf Hussain

Precise prediction of wheat yield plays a crucial role in food security and resource management in Pakistan. The current research suggests an artificial intelligence-driven framework based on 23 years of agro-meteorological and yield data that predicts wheat production. Several machine learning models were compared, and a two-layer LSTM model performed better because it was able to capture temporal dependencies. The model managed to achieve high accuracy (R2 = 0.979) and low prediction errors, confirming the applicability of deep learning in agricultural forecasting in climate-sensitive regions and its applicability to other staple crops.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054008

Authors: Kwanele Phiwinhlanhla Msele Caswell Munyai Ewald Hendrik Albertse Lawrence Nkosikhona Malinga

Eldana saccharina Walker is a major sugarcane pest in South Africa, primarily controlled with chemical insecticides, though resistance threatens their effectiveness. Laboratory bioassays at the South African Sugarcane Research Institute evaluated the baseline susceptibility of E. saccharina to six concentrations of Coragen® (chlorantraniliprole). Mortality and larval weight data were analysed using probit analysis to determine LC50 and LC95 values and assess growth inhibition. Mortality and weight reduction increased with concentration, with the highest concentration causing 79% mortality.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056007

Authors: Rosa Zapata Lorena Martínez-Zamora Francisco Artés-Hernández

Lemon peel, which contains a wide variety of antioxidant compounds and biopolymers, is an interesting byproduct for valorization. In this study, pectin and cellulose were obtained from lemon peel with 36% and 23% extraction yields. Meanwhile, when evaluating the extraction of secondary metabolites using various enzymes, it was found that their concentrations increased the most in the case of pectin methylesterase, by up to 21.7% for eriocitrin, although the solid residue was not affected spectroscopically by the enzymatic activity. In contrast, enzyme mixes with β-glucosidase activity showed no presence of the O-glycosylated flavonoids, suggesting their hydrolysis into the aglycones.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056005

Authors: Cinzia Zolfanelli Vincenzo Lauciello Alessio Di Ciancia Alessio Vagliasindi Theodoros Varzakas Teresa D’Amore

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), such as butyrate, acetate, and propionate, are the result of microbial fermentation and have been demonstrated to exert anticancer effects in different experimental models. We systematically reviewed 27 studies on postbiotics in colorectal cancer models, enclosing a range of study types including cell lines, animal models, and organoids. Eight studies that focused specifically on SCFAs were identified and analyzed. SCFAs promoted apoptosis through caspase activation, influenced NF-κB and MAPK signaling, increased mucin expression, and strengthened barrier function. Butyrate has also been demonstrated to induce autophagy via LKB1–AMPK signaling. Studies using SCFA-containing supernatants showed similar effects, although the presence of multiple biomolecules limited attribution. Overall, these findings provide a robust foundation for further research, particularly in the context of translational studies that can bridge the gap between preclinical and clinical research.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056006

Authors: Patronelli Renzo Goñi Sandro Arballo Javier Campañone Laura

Microwave technology offers a sustainable alternative to fossil fuel-based drying of particulate materials. Its combination with fluidized bed systems enhances process efficiency and product quality. A pilot-scale dryer with two magnetrons was used to study soybean and pumpkin seed drying. Samples were dried at 50 °C with air velocities twice the minimum fluidization value. Microwave power levels of 0, 350, and 750 W were applied. Weight loss after 30 min reached 32.2–42.5% for soybeans and 42.0–48.2% for pumpkin seeds. Moderate microwave power improved drying efficiency, highlighting the potential of microwave-assisted fluidized bed drying for food processing sustainability.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056004

Authors: Youssef Ezzaky Latifa Bouddouch Kaoutar Boussif Mariem Zanzan Fouad Msanda Fouad Achemchem

This study explores the biopreservative and antioxidant potential of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated from low-sodium vegetable fermentations. Five vegetables, green pepper, tomato, eggplant, carrot, and cabbage, were fermented with varying NaCl concentrations (0–3%) for 45 days. Fifty-six presumptive LAB were isolated, and eight LAB strains exhibiting strong antimicrobial activity against Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus were selected for further analysis. The isolates showed significant tolerance to salinity (6.5–18% NaCl), alkaline pH (9.6), and heat stress (45 °C and 60 °C for 30 min). Antimicrobial assays against eight indicator pathogens confirmed a broad inhibition spectrum attributed to bacteriocin-like substances, while antioxidant assays indicated significant antioxidant activity (27–65%), with strain L10 showing the highest radical scavenging potential (p < 0.05). API 20 STREP profiling revealed three dominant taxa: Leuconostoc, Lactococcus lactis, and Enterococcus faecium. These findings highlight LAB as stress-tolerant, multifunctional strains with promising applications as natural biopreservatives and probiotic candidates for developing functional, low-sodium fermented foods.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054007

Authors: P. Ankit Krishna Gurugubelli V. S. Narayana Siva Krishna Kotha Debabrata Pattnayak

The contemporary agricultural market is profoundly volatile, where agricultural prices are based on a complex supply chain, climatic irregularity or unscheduled market demand. Prices of crops need to be predicted in a reliable and timely manner for farmers, policy-makers and other stakeholders to take evidence-based decisions ultimately for the benefit towards sustainable agriculture and economic sustainability. Objective: The objective of this study is to develop and evaluate a comprehensive machine learning model for predicting agricultural prices incorporating logistic, economic and environmental considerations. It is the desire to make agriculture more profitable by building simple and accurate forecasting models. Methods: An assorted dataset was collected, which covers major factors to constitute the dataset of temperature, rainfall, fertiliser use, pest and disease attack level, cost of transportation, market demand-supply ratio and regional competitiveness. The data was subjected to pre-processing and feature extraction for quality control/quality assurance. Several machine learning models (Linear Regression, Support Vector Machines, AdaBoost, Random Forest, and XGBoost) were trained and evaluated using performance metrics such as R2 score, Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE), and Mean Absolute Error (MAE). Results: Out of the model approaches that were analysed, predictive performance was superior for XGBoost (with an R2 Score of 0.94, RMSE of 12.8 and MAE of 8.6). To generate accurate predictions, the ability to account for complex non-linear relationships between market and environmental information was necessary. Conclusions: The forecast model of the XGBoost-based prediction system is reliable, of low complexity and widely applicable to large-scale real-time forecasting of agricultural monitoring. The model substantially reduces the uncertainty of price forecasting, and does so by including multivariate environmental and economic aspects that permit more profitable management practices in a schedule for future sustainable agriculture.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056002

Authors: Julio Federico Benites Diego Ricardo Gutiérrez Silvana Cecilia Ruiz Silvia del Carmen Rodríguez

This study evaluated the effects of different UV-C radiation doses combined with modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) on the conservation of minimally processed grated anco squash. The squash, obtained from producers in Santiago del Estero (Argentina), was washed, sanitized, cut, peeled, grated, and centrifuged. It was then subjected to UV-C treatments of 5 kJ/m2 (T5), 15 kJ/m2 (T15), 30 kJ/m2 (T30), and 50 kJ/m2 (T50). An immersion treatment with NaClO (100 ppm, 3 min) (TH) and an untreated control (TC) were also included. All samples were packaged in PVC trays and sealed with 35 μm polypropylene film, forming a passive MAP. Treatments T5 and T15 preserved acceptable sensory quality for up to 8 days, and no significant differences in color parameters were observed among treatments during storage. Overall, PC decreased by 12–20% and C by 15–37%, while AC increased by 15–40% after 8 days. Treatments T15, T30, and T50 effectively reduced psychrophilic microorganisms for up to 4 days, achieving reductions of 1–2 log compared to TH and TC (6 log CFU/g). By day 8, all treatments reached the microbial limit. In conclusion, the T15 treatment was the most suitable for preserving grated anco squash for up to 4 days at 5 °C, offering a potential alternative to sodium hypochlorite–based sanitization.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056003

Authors: Isabel Casanova-Martínez Nuria Jiménez-Redondo David Lopéz-Lluch Ángel A. Carbonell-Barrachina Esther Sendra Marina Cano-Lamadrid

Sensory evaluation is essential for analyzing fish quality, as it describes its organoleptic profile and reflects consumer perception. Attributes such as appearance, smell, taste, and texture can vary depending on the origin of the fish, its diet, and thermal processing. In order to obtain reproducible results, it is necessary to control factors such as temperature, cooking time, and portion thickness during fish sample preparation for testing. This study develops a standardized guide for the sensory evaluation of cooked fish, particularly Sparus aurata. The guide includes detailed preparation protocols, a structured descriptive method, and a tasting sheet to ensure objective, reproducible evaluations that are applicable in research, industry, training, and quality control.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025051011

Authors: Israr Ali Muhammad Azam Khan Muhammad Tahir Akram Rashid Mehmood Rana Inaba Hawraa Hina Nawaz Feroz Ahmed Tipu

The research for crop improvement is a continuous process that enhances plant quality, yield, and ameliorates their adaptability to changing climatic conditions. Chilli is cultivated worldwide as a vegetable, spice, or natural colour additive and is an economically and medicinally important crop. A basic requirement for crop improvement in breeding programmes is the presence of genetic diversity within the crop. Smallholder farmers of chilli usually face challenges in acquiring commercial hybrid seeds because of their high cost and the need for annual purchases. Open-pollinated varieties (OPVs) can serve as a sustainable alternative that provides broader genetic variability, allowing adaptation to local growing conditions, and enabling farmers to save seeds for successive planting season. These characteristics make OPVs economically viable and valuable genetic resources for future chilli cultivation and breeding programmes. This review highlights the potential of OPVs in promoting sustainable chilli cultivation, enhancing genetic diversity, and supporting breeding to develop resilient and economically viable cultivars.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025051012

Authors: Inaba Hawraa Muhammad Azam Khan Muhammad Tahir Akram Rashid Mehmood Rana Feroz Ahmed Tipu Israr Ali Hina Nawaz Muhammad Hashir Khan

Chilli (Capsicum annuum) is a popular spice and vegetable crop of significant economic importance that is cultivated worldwide in warm and humid climatic zones. Although chilli is a thermophilic crop, its quality and yield potential are significantly affected due to various abiotic factors, including extremely fluctuating temperatures beyond the optimum temperatures (18–30 °C). Global warming and anthropogenic activities lead to adverse climatic changes, imposing severe stress on growth, development, and productivity. High temperatures above 43–45 °C adversely affect chilli crops, especially during the reproductive stages, by causing immature fruit dropping, poor seed vigour, reduced number of flowers, flower abscission, aborted reproductive organs, reduced fruit set, and significant yield loss by 50%. Therefore, to reduce quantitative and qualitative losses, heat management is necessary from April to June in Pakistan, when the temperature rises beyond 40 °C. For heat management, the hybridisation of heat-resilient and high-yielding genotypes to develop heat-tolerant high-yielding hybrids appears to be a rational approach. These genetically improved hybrids inherit such characteristics that assist in maintaining vigorous growth, fruit quality, and stable yield without significant yield losses even under heat-stressed conditions. Hence, the thermotolerant chilli hybrids developed through hybridisation help to satisfy the escalating demand for chilli and guarantee the financial stability of farmers.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2026056001

Authors: Irem Kılınç Hayal Boyacıoğlu Berna Kılınç

This study investigates the predictive modeling of total Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAH) concentrations in smoked fish products based on various smoking parameters using machine learning techniques in the Waikato Environment for Knowledge Analysis (WEKA) software environment. Key input variables included fish fat content, smoking temperature, and wood type, all of which were statistically significant predictors of PAH levels (p < 0.05). A multiple linear regression analysis conducted in SPSS revealed a strong correlation between predictors and PAH concentration (r = 0.801), with an explained variance of 64.1% (R2 = 0.641) and a standard error of 3.52. Among the evaluated machine learning algorithms—Linear Regression, SMOreg, Multilayer Perceptron, M5P, Random Forest, and IBk—performance was assessed using five criteria: Correlation Coefficient, Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE), Relative Absolute Error (RAE), and Root Relative Squared Error (RRSE). All models were validated using 10-fold cross-validation. For classification tasks based on fish species, Logistic Regression outperformed the Random Forest and J48 algorithms, indicating superior predictive capability. This integrated analytical framework demonstrates the effectiveness of machine learning in food safety monitoring and provides a scientific basis for optimizing smoking processes to mitigate PAH contamination. Overall, the findings underscore the practical value of machine learning tools in the predictive modeling of PAH contamination in smoked fish. The approach not only offers high predictive accuracy but also serves as a scientific framework for improving food safety by optimizing smoking conditions to minimize PAH formation. This integrated model can aid food technologists and manufacturers in establishing safer processing parameters while maintaining product quality.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025054006

Authors: Nosipho Precious Minenhle Phungula Sandile Thamsanqa Hadebe Lucky Sithole Morgan Nadioo Nomali Ziphorah Ngobese

Smallholder farmers’ yields fluctuate yearly due to the variability of climate, resources, and diseases. The study aimed to assess genotypes-by-environment interactions under different management practices using additive main effects and multiplicative interaction models. Potato cultivars (Mondial, Electra, Sababa, and Panamera) were grown in five environments (Mbalenhle, Hlathikhulu, Mbhava, Stezi, and Gobizembe) for three seasons (2021–2023). Potatoes were planted under mulch (non-mulched and mulched) and fungicide (sprayed and unsprayed) management practices. The results revealed that the genotype–environment effect had a minimal contribution to tuber yield, ranging from 8.42% to 11.01% across management practices. For instance, in the absence of fungicide application with mulch and non-mulched practices, resulted in genotype effects of 69.92% and 60.62% and environments effects of 20.52% and 30.95%, respectively.

Biology and Life Sciences Forum doi: 10.3390/blsf2025051010

Authors: Sher Ali Shoaib Rashid Saleem Muhammad Naveed Anjum Muhammad Amin Adeel Ahmad Khan Chaudhary Muhammad Subhan Khadija Maroof

The northern areas of Pakistan are highly vulnerable to climate change due to anthropogenic activities and deforestation, which directly affect the precipitation pattern and variations in temperature. Due to these climate fluctuations, cloud bursts, extreme events like floods and droughts, and the melting of glaciers occur. This study presents the statistical trend analysis of the Dasu watershed in northern Pakistan using a non–parametric approach. In this study, the hydroclimatic data of 16 meteorological stations from 1980 to 2022 were used and the major focus was on an annual Rabi and Kharif seasonal trend analysis. Research revealed that the rate of precipitation increased from the east to west side of the study area in the annual Kharif season, while in the Rabi season, only four stations showed an increasing trend, and the remaining showed a decreasing trend, of which shendor2 showed a significantly decreasing trend with a rate of −3.91 mm/year. On the contrary, annual temperature was declining in the east side of the study area, while three stations showed significantly increasing temperature trends in the central region of the study area. Kharif season showed a decreasing trend in the major part of the study area, while Rabi season’s temperature revealed a significantly increasing trend in most of the stations and a decreasing trend in some eastern parts of the area. Overall, the majority of the study area revealed non–significant warming trends across the annual Rabi season, while the kharif season showed a decreasing trend. Precipitation trends remained largely non–significant but increasingly variable. The findings of this research can be utilized by research institutions and farmers to modify their cropping patterns and cropping calendar to optimize crop productivities.