Search Results (132)

The present research features an experimental comparative design and the objective of this work was to determine the susceptibility to microbiological contamination in fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) and the FAME–water interface of residual and refined lard, large volume simulating storage conditions as fuel supply chain, and to identify the microorganisms developed. The plates were seeded according to ASTM E-1259 and the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the Bushnell Haas agar. Microbiological growth was observed at the FAME–water interface of FAME obtained from residual lard. Using the MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry technique, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Streptomyces violaceoruber bacteria were identified in the residual lard FAMEs, with the latter being previously reported in FAMEs. The implications of microorganism development on the physicochemical quality of FAMEs are significant, as it leads to an increase in the acid index, which may negatively impact metals by inducing corrosion. The refined lard FAMEs did not show any development of microorganisms. The present research concluded that residual lard tends to be more prone to microbiological attack if the conditions of water and temperature affect microbial growth. The findings will contribute to the knowledge base for a safer introduction of FAMEs into the biofuel matrix. Full article

Dekkera bruxellensis is already known for its great biotechnological potential, part of this due to the ability to assimilate nitrate during fermentation. Despite the previous works on nitrogen metabolism in this yeast, especially regarding nitrate assimilation, the relation between this metabolism and the TOR (Target of Rapamycin) regulatory mechanism remains unexplored. This connection may reveal key regulatory mechanisms to maximize its fermentative performance and biotechnological use. Herein, we evaluated the physiological, metabolic, and gene expression profile of D. bruxellensis GDB 248 cultivated in ammonium and nitrate as nitrogen sources in the presence of TOR complex 1 (TORC1) inhibitor rapamycin. Our results showed that inhibition of the TORC1 significantly reduces cell growth and fermentative capacity, especially in nitrate media. Gene expression analysis revealed that TORC1 plays a central role in regulating genes involved in nitrate assimilation and the adaptive performance of D. bruxellensis in fermentative environments. Therefore, the regulation of nitrate assimilatory genes YNTI, YNRI, and YNI1 responds to a nitrate-dependent mechanism as well as to a TOR-dependent mechanism. These findings expand the understanding of the regulation of nitrogen metabolism in D. bruxellensis, providing valuable information that may aid in the development of future strategies for its use as an industrial yeast. Full article

The global supply chain of wood products plays a key role in sustainable development and climate resilience, but remains fragmented in the academic and technical literature. This systematic review aims to synthesize research published between 2000 and 2025 on wood products’ production, transformation, trade, governance, and sustainability. A comprehensive search was conducted in multiple databases and repositories, including Scopus, FAOSTAT, ScienceDirect, DOAJ, SciELO, CAPES, EMBRAPA, and AGNIC. A total of 784 records were identified and, after applying eligibility and deduplication criteria, 119 documents were included in the final synthesis. The results reveal key thematic trends, including the dynamics of international timber trade, certification and traceability systems, logistical challenges, digitalization, and integration of forest policies. Key gaps include limited inclusion of smallholders, low technology adoption in the Global South, and fragmented governance mechanisms. The results suggest that improving sustainability in global timber supply chains requires coordinated policy frameworks, technological investment, and inclusive market systems. This review contributes a consolidated overview and offers insights for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners in the forestry sector. Full article

Community-acquired infections caused by Enterobacterales are a growing public health concern, particularly in border regions where patient mobility may influence resistance patterns. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) surveillance is critical for establishing local treatment guidelines. The aim of this study was to investigate AMR rates in clinical isolates of Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Proteus mirabilis obtained from community-acquired infections in Mexicali between 2019 and 2021. A retrospective study was conducted, analyzing 2871 Enterobacterales isolates (E. coli, K. pneumoniae, P. mirabilis). Species identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing were performed using MALDI-TOF and VITEK 2 systems, interpreted according to CLSI and EUCAST breakpoints. ESBL production was detected in 37.6% of E. coli, 27.7% of K. pneumoniae, and none of the P. mirabilis isolates. Among ESBL producers, ciprofloxacin resistance reached 90.4% in E. coli and 81.0% in K. pneumoniae, indicating a significant level of co-resistance. Carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae (n = 13) and one E. coli isolate were also identified, all from community-acquired infections. Resistance patterns varied by infection site, with UTIs accounting for the majority of isolates. The high rates of ESBLs and co-resistance to ciprofloxacin among Enterobacterales highlight the urgent need for targeted AMR surveillance and site-specific empirical treatment strategies. Full article

South American coffee producers face growing challenges due to external trade dependencies and climate-induced disruptions. This study investigates the role of export market diversification as a sustainability strategy for four major regional exporters of roasted non-decaffeinated coffee: Brazil, Colombia, Peru, and Ecuador. A quantitative and comparative methodology was applied over a ten-year period using the Herfindahl–Hirschman Index (HHI) to evaluate export market concentration and the Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA) Index—including its normalized variant—to assess international competitiveness by destination. The results reveal substantial disparities: Brazil and Colombia exhibit moderate to high diversification and relative competitiveness in select markets, while Peru and Ecuador remain dependent on a few strategic buyers, with limited or declining comparative advantages. The findings emphasize that sustained export performance in the coffee sector requires not only a broader destination portfolio but also improved positioning through trade agreements, infrastructure development, and climate-resilient innovation. This study concludes with a strategic proposal based on three pillars—commercial, logistical, and technological—to support structural transformation and enhance the long-term sustainability of the coffee trade in South America. Full article

Background/Objectives: Epilepsy is a common neurological condition characterized by the occurrence of a seizure. It affects around 50 million individuals worldwide, and despite the large quantity of anti-seizure medications available, 30% of epileptic patients still suffer from seizures. Therefore, it is necessary to find new therapeutic options. Interestingly, polydatin has shown promising effects on epilepsy treatment due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of polydatin (200, 300, and 400 µM) on a pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-induced seizure model in wild-type zebrafish (Danio rerio) larvae. Methods: Seizure-like behavior, cell death, reactive species (RS) production, and lipid peroxidation were analyzed. Results: Pre-treatment with polydatin at 200 and 300 µM did not have a significant impact on seizure occurrence and the behavior of animals exposed to PTZ. Diazepam decreased seizure occurrence and increased the latency to achieve each seizure stage. Exposure to PTZ increased the swimming activity, and this effect was suppressed by diazepam but not by polydatin. PTZ exposure increased the RS production, which was significantly attenuated by polydatin at 400 µM and DMSO. Cell death and lipid peroxidation were not changed when compared to the experimental groups. Conclusions: Only the experimental positive control (diazepam) showed anti-seizure effects. Therefore, we failed to observe any anti-seizure effects of polydatin using a zebrafish experimental model. However, we cannot rule out its effects in other experimental models and different treatment protocols. Full article

Straw return enhances soil biological properties by increasing carbon and energy availability, thereby improving conditions for microbial communities. However, the introduction of beneficial bacteria, such as Bacillus subtilis, can further shape the rhizosphere bacterial composition. In this study, we combined sugarcane straw return with B. subtilis inoculation to test whether this synergy reduces microbial specialization in the sugarcane rhizosphere. Three treatments were evaluated: (I) bulk soil (bulk), (II) rhizosphere soil with straw return but no B. subtilis inoculation (straw), and (III) rhizosphere soil with straw return and B. subtilis inoculation (straw + Bacillus). The bacterial community, including plant-growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB), was analyzed via 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. Neither straw return nor B. subtilis inoculation significantly altered bacterial richness, diversity, or phylum-level abundance in the rhizosphere. Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, and Proteobacteria dominated the community, with Bacillus, Bradyrhizobium, and Paenibacillus as the predominant PGPB genera. Notably, only Bradyrhizobium abundance increased in the rhizosphere when straw was co-applied with B. subtilis. A co-occurrence network analysis revealed stronger microbial interactions under straw return, while B. subtilis enhanced connectivity among the PGPB. Although niche occupancy remained stable, PGPB specialization was higher with straw alone, suggesting that B. subtilis fosters a more generalist community. In conclusion, while straw return and B. subtilis inoculation did not affect overall bacterial diversity, B. subtilis increased PGPB interactions and reduced functional specialization, promoting a more generalized microbial community. Full article

Hydropower development is rapidly expanding in biodiversity-rich regions like the Ecuadorian Andes, raising major concerns about its ecological impacts. This study evaluates fish species composition and habitat characteristics in the Cristal and Dulcepamba Rivers, with a particular focus on the effects of the San José del Tambo Hydroelectric Project on the Dulcepamba River. Sampling conducted during the dry season (November–December 2023) at 15 sites incorporated fish surveys, habitat analyses, and environmental quality evaluation. The results showed marked declines in fish abundance, richness, and diversity in sections of the Dulcepamba River directly affected by water diversions, with species richness reduced to only three species at a site most impacted by discharge reduction. Conversely, the Cristal River, with its unaltered hydrology, supported considerably greater diversity, including 12 species at one site. Environmental integrity indices (Andean–Amazon Biotic Index, Biological Monitoring Working Party Index, Andean Riparian Quality Index, and Fluvial Habitat Index) further underscored the Cristal River’s superior conservation status. In the Dulcepamba River, reduced discharge in the environmental flow of the Hydroelectric Project—below mandated environmental discharge levels—led to river drying, disrupted connectivity, and impaired fish migration. This study provides essential insights into these highly biodiverse yet poorly studied ecosystems, which are increasingly threatened by anthropogenic pressures. The findings highlight the critical need to reconcile energy development with conservation efforts in these vulnerable Andean environments. Full article

The body’s physiology during physical injuries and diseases depends heavily on the function of acute inflammation. On the other hand, many variables, including iatrogenic, immune system deficiencies, lifestyle, and social and environmental factors, are significant in developing systemic chronic inflammation (SCI). SCI is a major contributor to many diseases and a global cause of death and disability. Therefore, in the present article, we suggest integrative strategies for preventing SCI by addressing receptor overexpression and promoting health improvement. With the objective of reducing chronic inflammation by regulating cytokines, chemokines, and receptor modulation to try to reduce the risk of developing systemic chronic inflammatory diseases (also known as chronic-degenerative diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, cancer, cardiovascular disease, stroke, chronic kidney disease, neurodegenerative disorders, autoimmune diseases, and psychiatric disorders), the strategies we suggest are dietary modifications, exercise, and meditation. Accordingly, the prevention of SCI can be approached holistically with the help of the previous strategies, which may substantially impact public health. Full article

The expansion of sugarcane production has led to increased nitrogen (N) fertilizer use, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental concerns. Optimizing N management is crucial for sustainable agriculture. Soil apparent electrical conductivity (EC_a) has emerged as a valuable tool for mapping soil spatial variability and yield potential, potentially guiding more efficient fertilization strategies. This study evaluated sugarcane yield and N responsiveness across two areas with distinct soil types over two crop cycles. Experimental plots were classified into high (HC) and low (LC) EC_a zones, with randomized blocks receiving four N rates and a control. Higher yields were generally observed in HC plots, except for the second ratoon in area 2 (Ultisol). HC plots required lower N rates to achieve maximum yield compared to LC plots. In area 1 (higher clay content), optimal N rates were lower than in area 2 (lower clay content), indicating that yield potential is linked to soil attributes and spatial variability. Although EC_a alone may not define precise N doses, it effectively identifies zones with different yield potentials, supporting site-specific N management. These findings highlight the potential of EC_a to improve nitrogen use efficiency and contribute to more sustainable sugarcane production. Full article

The increase in demand for timber and global eucalyptus cultivation has generated controversy regarding its potential impact on water resources, especially in regions with limited water availability, with the myth that “eucalyptus dries out the soil” being spread. In this regard, this review study addresses the factors that influence water consumption by eucalyptus, providing solutions to reduce, mitigate, or even avoid any impact on water resources at a given site. In this manuscript, the authors reviewed 200 works published from 1977 to 2024 to survey all information to confirm if the factual background allows someone to state if eucalyptus can deplete soil water. With a solid scientific basis, many research studies show that eucalyptus’ water demand is comparable to that of native forest species and crops worldwide and that species, age, edaphoclimatic conditions, and forest management practices mainly influence water consumption. On the other hand, it is a hasty conclusion that some eucalyptus species can contribute to reduced soil water. Effectively, without proper management, the environmental impacts of a eucalyptus plantation are the same as those of poorly managed crops. Indeed, if cultivated with proper agroclimatic zoning and correct management practices, the growth of eucalyptus culture is an environmentally correct activity. By adopting measures such as maintaining sufficient native forest cover to ensure ecosystem services, cultivation based on zoning maps, and considering local specificities (e.g., deeper, sandier soils are preferable), selection of species appropriate to the carrying capacity of each region, adoption of lower planting densities, and reduced rotation, eucalyptus cultivation will not negatively affect water resources. Sustainable eucalyptus cultivation has several economic and environmental benefits, in addition to positive social impacts on surrounding communities in terms of employment and family income, and its sustainable management can guarantee its viability, demystifying the idea that eucalyptus trees cause water scarcity. The works reviewed herein demonstrated no solid ground to sustain the eucalyptus’ water depletion myth. Full article

Searching for crop cultivars that are resilient to environmental stresses is crucial for maintaining global agricultural production. Our study aimed to screen semiarid-adapted cotton cultivars performing well under water-restricted conditions. Trials were conducted in a greenhouse involving six cotton cultivars (FM 911, FM 912, FM 970, FM 974, FM 978, and FM 985) subjected to four water levels (100, 80, 60, and 40% field capacity—FC). At 20 days post-drought imposition, the growth, leaf succulence, osmotic potential, gas exchanges, photosynthetic pigments, and lipid peroxidation were measured. Cotton plants showed reduced growth and gas exchanges at 60% and 40%, displaying elevated sensibility at 40% FC. Under 60% FC, FM 970 and FM 985 exhibited a superior dry biomass, leaf area, and growth, indicating high drought tolerance. FM 911, FM 912, and FM 978 displayed higher rates of net photosynthesis, transpiration, stomatal conductance, and chlorophyll content under 60% and 40% FC, but also demonstrated an increased lipid peroxidation. Additionally, FM 911, FM 970, and FM 974 had the lowest osmotic potential values. Field capacity at 60% and 40% represent moderate and severe drought conditions for cotton. The superior performance of FM 970, FM 978, and FM 985 under drought is attributed to pigment accumulation and photosynthetic efficiency. Our findings suggest that a water-saving strategy with an 80% FC can enhance sustainable production and identify promising cotton cultivars for cultivation in water-scarce regions. Full article

Iodine(III) reagents have become a highly relevant tool in organic synthesis due to their great versatility as strong but green oxidants. Several transformations involving cyclizations as well as functionalization of different organic cores have been broadly described and reviewed. Herein, the participation of these reagents in photochemical transformations exclusively by direct irradition or in photoredox cycles using some transition metals, will be briefly described as well as some plausible further transformations that potentially can be developed. Full article

The present study aims to evaluate thin plate-injected polypropylene (PP) composites containing short aramid fibers (AF) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs). The aramid fibers were manually cut to a length of 10 mm and added to the polypropylene matrix at a concentration of 10 wt.%. Additionally, GNPs were incorporated at concentrations of 0.1, 0.25, and 0.5 wt.%. Maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (MAPP) was used at a concentration of 2 wt.% to improve the adhesion and compatibility between the polymer matrix and the fillers. Thermal analyses, tensile and flexural tests, and dynamic mechanical thermal analysis were performed, followed by statistical analysis using ANOVA and Tukey’s test. The composites demonstrated significant improvements in storage and loss moduli compared to neat polypropylene. With the addition of AF and GNPs, tensile strength increased to 46.8 MPa, which represents a 265% enhancement compared to PP. Similarly, flexural strength reached 62.4 MPa, significantly higher than the 36.73 MPa for PP, particularly for the composite containing AF and 0.25 wt.% GNPs. The results presented in this study highlight the synergistic effect of aramid fibers and GNPs on PP. These improvements make the proposed composites highly promising for a range of applications, including ballistic interlayered aramid/thin-plate laminates. Full article

Burnout is a factor that affects organizational performance. Researchers have not determined whether an ethical climate and adequate work autonomy provide sufficient emotional stability to dampen burnout or, conversely, increase it. In addition, the abundant literature analyzing the relationship between work autonomy and burnout does not sufficiently establish whether it acts as a stress-reducing resource or a stress-increasing demand. It is also unknown to what extent work autonomy contributes to explaining the relationship between ethical climate and burnout. Therefore, the main aim of this study is to examine the relationship between an ethical climate based on principles and norms and burnout using the moderating effect of work autonomy. We approached this question using a multivariate moderation analysis. The sample consists of 448 employees in the Colombian electric sector. The results show that an ethical climate of principles and work autonomy are positively related to burnout, measured by the dimensions of emotional exhaustion and depersonalization. However, the relationship between an ethical climate of principles and burnout shifts from positive to negative when a rule-demanding work environment is associated with a high perception of work autonomy. In conclusion, when employees have considerable control over their usual tasks, they develop a pattern of behavior that incorporates both the organization’s internal standards and the principles that shape individual morality. In this case, employees are able to balance the workload with the high psychological demands of an ethical climate of principles, without it being a disturbance to their emotional well-being. The results of this research are particularly relevant because they show for the first time that an ethical climate of principles can have opposite effects on employee burnout, both positive and negative, depending on the degree of work autonomy. This opens the door to new strategies for organizations to prevent certain psychosocial occupational risks, such as burnout, which often have a serious impact on employees’ mental health. Moreover, the model of moderation proposed in this article can be replicated in other Latin American countries with similar characteristics to those of Colombia or even transferred to rich countries. Full article