Saved Queries

by Jesús Martín Muñoz-Bautista, Ariadna Thalía Bernal-Mercado, Oliviert Martínez-Cruz, Armando Burgos-Hernández, Alonso Alexis López-Zavala, Saul Ruiz-Cruz, José de Jesús Ornelas-Paz, Jesús Borboa-Flores, José Rogelio Ramos-Enríquez and Carmen Lizette Del-Toro-Sánchez

Agronomy 2025, 15(8), 1878; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15081878 (registering DOI) - 3 Aug 2025

Abstract

The extensive use of conventional pesticides has been a fundamental strategy in modern agriculture for controlling pests and increasing crop productivity; however, their improper application poses significant risks to human health and environmental sustainability. This review compiles scientific evidence linking pesticide exposure to oxidative stress and genotoxic damage, particularly affecting rural populations and commonly consumed foods, even at levels exceeding the maximum permissible limits in fruits, vegetables, and animal products. Additionally, excessive pesticide use has been shown to alter soil microbiota, negatively compromising long-term agricultural fertility. In response to these challenges, recent advances in nanotechnology offer promising alternatives. This review highlights the development of nanopesticides designed for controlled release, improved stability, and targeted delivery of active ingredients, thereby reducing environmental contamination and increasing efficacy. Moreover, emerging nanobiosensor technologies, such as e-nose and e-tongue systems, have shown potential for real-time monitoring of pesticide residues and soil health. Although pesticides are still necessary, it is crucial to implement stricter laws and promote sustainable solutions that ensure safe and responsible agricultural practices. The need for evidence-based public policy is emphasized to regulate pesticide use and protect both human health and agricultural resources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Nanomaterials for Diseases and Pest Control in Agriculture)

17 pages, 1105 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Group Fitness Programs Zumba and MoFit on Body Composition Parameters in Women

by Armin Zećirović, Dejan Ćeremidžić, Aleksandar Joksimović, Tatjana Ćeremidžić, Dina Joksimović, Nikola Aksović, Lazar Toskić, Cristian-Corneliu Dragoi, Vasile Cătălin Ciocan, Anghel Mihaela, Tatiana Dobrescu and Daniel-Lucian Dobreci

Life 2025, 15(8), 1225; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15081225 (registering DOI) - 3 Aug 2025

Abstract

(1) Background: Physical inactivity is a major public health concern in modern society. Group fitness programs are widely used to promote physical activity, combining choreographed movements with various dance steps and music. This study aimed to examine the effects of Zumba and MoFit group fitness programs on body composition parameters in women. (2) Methods: The study included 98 female participants (Mean age = 27.8 ± 2.9 years), divided into three groups: E1 (n = 33), which followed the experimental Zumba program; E2 (n = 31), which followed the experimental MoFit program; and a control group (n = 34), which continued with their usual daily activities for 10 weeks. Body composition was assessed using 14 variables measured with the InBody 270 analyser. Statistical analyses included paired t-tests, MANCOVA, and ANCOVA. (3) Results: The findings confirmed the positive effects of both group fitness programs on most body composition parameters in women (p < 0.001). However, Bonferroni post hoc test results indicated that the Zumba program led to significantly greater improvements in most body composition variables compared to the MoFit program. (4) Conclusions: Both Zumba and MoFit programs were effective in reducing body fat, increasing muscle mass, total body water, and mineral content, whereas the control group did not achieve positive changes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physiology and Pathology)

17 pages, 1724 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Eriobotrya japonica (Thunb.) Lindl. Leaf Extract on Zebrafish Embryogenesis, Behavior, and Biochemical Pathways

by Jorge Barros, Irene Gouvinhas, Carlos Venâncio, Daniel Granato, Ana Novo Barros and Luís Félix

Molecules 2025, 30(15), 3252; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30153252 (registering DOI) - 3 Aug 2025

Abstract

Eriobotrya japonica (Thunb.) Lindl. leaves are rich in polyphenolic compounds, yet their toxicological effects in aquatic models remain poorly understood. This study evaluated the impact of a hydroethanolic E. japonica leaf extract on zebrafish embryos through the use of morphological, behavioral, and biochemical parameters. The 96 h LC₅₀ was determined as 189.8 ± 4.5 mg/L, classifying the extract as practically non-toxic, according to OECD guidelines. Thereby, embryos were exposed for 90 h to 75 and 150 mg/L concentrations of the E. japonica leaf extract. While no significant effects were noted at the lowest concentration of 150 mg/L, significant developmental effects were observed, including reduced survival, delayed hatching, underdevelopment of the swim bladder, and retention of the yolk sac. These malformations were accompanied by marked behavioral impairments. Biochemical analysis revealed a concentration-dependent increase in superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activity, suggesting the activation of antioxidant defenses, despite no significant change in reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. This indicates a potential compensatory redox response to a pro-oxidant signal. Additionally, the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity was significantly reduced at the highest concentration, which may have contributed to the observed neurobehavioral changes. While AChE inhibition is commonly associated with neurotoxicity, it is also a known therapeutic target in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting concentration-dependent dual effects. In summary, the E. japonica leaf extract induced concentration-dependent developmental and behavioral effects in zebrafish embryos, while activating antioxidant responses without triggering oxidative damage. These findings highlight the extract’s potential bioactivity and underscore the need for further studies to explore its safety and therapeutic relevance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activities of Traditional Medicinal Plants, 2nd Edition)

15 pages, 1407 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Expression of Recombinant Hirudin in Bacteria and Yeast: A Comparative Approach

by Zhongjie Wang, Dominique Böttcher, Uwe T. Bornscheuer and Christian Müller

Methods Protoc. 2025, 8(4), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/mps8040089 (registering DOI) - 3 Aug 2025

Abstract

The expression of recombinant proteins in heterologous hosts is a common strategy to obtain larger quantities of the “protein of interest” (POI) for scientific, therapeutic or commercial purposes. However, the experimental success of such an approach critically depends on the choice of an appropriate host system to obtain biologically active forms of the POI. The correct folding of the molecule, mediated by disulfide bond formation, is one of the most critical steps in that process. Here we describe the recombinant expression of hirudin, a leech-derived anticoagulant and thrombin inhibitor, in the yeast Komagataella phaffii (formerly known and mentioned throughout this publication as Pichia pastoris) and in two different strains of Escherichia coli, one of them being especially designed for improved disulfide bond formation through expression of a protein disulfide isomerase. Cultivation of the heterologous hosts and expression of hirudin were performed at different temperatures, ranging from 22 to 42 °C for the bacterial strains and from 20 to 30 °C for the yeast strain, respectively. The thrombin-inhibitory potencies of all hirudin preparations were determined using the thrombin time coagulation assay. To our surprise, the hirudin preparations of P. pastoris were considerably less potent as thrombin inhibitors than the respective preparations of both E. coli strains, indicating that a eukaryotic background is not per se a better choice for the expression of a biologically active eukaryotic protein. The hirudin preparations of both E. coli strains exhibited comparable high thrombin-inhibitory potencies when the strains were cultivated at their respective optimal temperatures, whereas lower or higher cultivation temperatures reduced the inhibitory potencies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular and Cellular Biology)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 1143 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Accumulated Radiolysis Products on the Mechanisms of High-Temperature Degradation of Two-Component Lithium-Containing Ceramics

by Inesh E. Kenzhina, Saulet Askerbekov, Artem L. Kozlovskiy, Aktolkyn Tolenova, Sergei Piskunov and Anatoli I. Popov

Ceramics 2025, 8(3), 99; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8030099 (registering DOI) - 3 Aug 2025

Abstract

One of the advantages of the EPR spectroscopy method in assessing structural defects caused by irradiation is the fact that using this method it is possible to determine not only the concentration dependences of the defect structure but to also establish their type, which is not possible with methods such as X-ray diffraction or scanning electron microscopy. Based on the data obtained, the role of variation in the ratio of components in Li₄SiO₄–Li₂TiO₃ ceramics on the processes of softening under high-dose irradiation with protons simulating the accumulation of hydrogen in the damaged layer, as well as the concentration of structural defects in the form of oxygen vacancies and radiolysis products on the processes of high-temperature degradation of ceramics, was determined. It was found that the main changes in the defect structure during the prolonged thermal exposure of irradiated samples are associated with the accumulation of oxygen vacancies, the density of which was estimated by the change in the intensity of singlet lithium, characterizing the presence of E-centers. At the same time, it was found that the formation of interphase boundaries in the structure of Li₄SiO₄–Li₂TiO₃ ceramics leads to the inhibition of high-temperature degradation processes in the case of post-radiation thermal exposure for a long time. Also, during the conducted studies, the role of thermal effects on the structural damage accumulation rate in Li₄SiO₄–Li₂TiO₃ ceramics was determined in the case when irradiation is carried out at different temperatures. During the experiments, it was determined that the main contribution of thermal action in the process of proton irradiation at a fluence of 5 × 10¹⁷ proton/cm² is an increase in the concentration of radiolysis products, described by changes in the intensities of spectral maxima, characterized by the presence of defects such as ≡Si–O, SiO₄³⁻ and Ti³⁺ defects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Ceramics, 3rd Edition)

16 pages, 1961 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Novel Glycosylated Ferulic Acid Conjugate: Synthesis, Antioxidative Neuroprotection Activities In Vitro, and Alleviation of Cerebral Ischemia–Reperfusion Injury (CIRI) In Vivo

by Jian Chen, Yongjun Yuan, Litao Tong, Manyou Yu, Yongqing Zhu, Qingqing Liu, Junling Deng, Fengzhang Wang, Zhuoya Xiang and Chen Xia

Antioxidants 2025, 14(8), 953; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14080953 (registering DOI) - 3 Aug 2025

Abstract

Antioxidative neuroprotection is effective at preventing ischemic stroke (IS). Ferulic acid (FA) offers benefits in the treatment of many diseases, mostly due to its antioxidant activities. In this study, a glycosylated ferulic acid conjugate (FA-Glu), with 1,2,3-triazole as a linker and bioisostere between glucose at the C6 position and FA at the C4 position, was designed and synthesized. The hydrophilicity and chemical stability of FA-Glu were tested. FA-Glu’s protection against DNA oxidative cleavage was tested using pBR322 plasmid DNA under the Fenton reaction. The cytotoxicity of FA-Glu was examined via the PC12 cell and bEnd.3 cell tests. Antioxidative neuroprotection was evaluated, in vitro, via a H₂O₂-induced PC12 cell test, measuring cell viability and ROS levels. Antioxidative alleviation of cerebral ischemia–reperfusion injury (CIRI), in vivo, was evaluated using a rat middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model. The results indicated that FA-Glu was water-soluble (LogP −1.16 ± 0.01) and chemically stable. FA-Glu prevented pBR322 plasmid DNA cleavage induced via •OH radicals (SC% 88.00%). It was a non-toxic agent based on PC12 cell and bEnd.3 cell tests results. FA-Glu significantly protected against H₂O₂-induced oxidative damage in the PC12 cell (cell viability 88.12%, 100 μM) and inhibited excessive cell ROS generation (45.67% at 100 μM). FA-Glu significantly reduced the infarcted brain areas measured using TTC stain observation, quantification (FA-Glu 21.79%, FA 28.49%, I/R model 43.42%), and H&E stain histological observation. It sharply reduced the MDA level (3.26 nmol/mg protein) and significantly increased the GSH level (139.6 nmol/mg protein) and SOD level (265.19 U/mg protein). With superior performance to FA, FA-Glu is a safe agent with effective antioxidative DNA and neuronal protective actions and an ability to alleviate CIRI, which should help in the prevention of IS. Full article

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 2388 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating Lumbar Biomechanics for Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders at Varying Working Heights During Wall Construction Tasks

by Md. Sumon Rahman, Tatsuru Yazaki, Takanori Chihara and Jiro Sakamoto

Biomechanics 2025, 5(3), 58; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomechanics5030058 (registering DOI) - 3 Aug 2025

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of four working heights on lumbar biomechanics during wall construction tasks, focusing on work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Methods: Fifteen young male participants performed simulated mortar-spreading and bricklaying tasks while actual body movements were recorded using Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) sensors. Muscle activities of the lumbar erector spinae (ES), quadratus lumborum (QL), multifidus (MF), gluteus maximus (GM), and iliopsoas (IL) were estimated using a 3D musculoskeletal (MSK) model and measured via surface electromyography (sEMG). The analysis of variance (ANOVA) test was conducted to identify the significant differences in muscle activities across four working heights (i.e., foot, knee, waist, and shoulder). Results: Findings showed that working at foot-level height resulted in the highest muscle activity (7.6% to 40.6% increase), particularly in the ES and QL muscles, indicating an increased risk of WMSDs. The activities of the ES, MF, and GM muscles were statistically significant across both tasks and all working heights (p < 0.01). Conclusions: Both MSK and sEMG analyses indicated significantly lower muscle activities at knee and waist heights, suggesting these as the best working positions (47 cm to 107 cm) for minimizing the risk of WMSDs. Conversely, working at foot and shoulder heights was identified as a significant risk factor for WMSDs. Additionally, the similar trends observed between MSK simulations and sEMG data suggest that MSK modeling can effectively substitute for sEMG in future studies. These findings provide valuable insights into ergonomic work positioning to reduce WMSD risks among wall construction workers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Tissue and Vascular Biomechanics)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 3326 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Zeolite in Vineyard: Innovative Agriculture Management Against Drought Stress

by Eleonora Cataldo, Sergio Puccioni, Aleš Eichmeier and Giovan Battista Mattii

Horticulturae 2025, 11(8), 897; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11080897 (registering DOI) - 3 Aug 2025

Abstract

Discovering, analyzing, and finding a key to understanding the physiological and biochemical responses that Vitis vinifera L. undertakes against drought stress is of fundamental importance for this profitable crop. Today’s considerable climatic fluctuations force researchers and farmers to focus on this issue with solutions inclined to respect the ecosystem. In this academic work, we focused on describing the drought stress consequences on several parameters of secondary metabolites on Vitis vinifera leaves (quercetins, kaempferol, resveratrol, proline, and xanthophylls) and on some ecophysiological characteristics (e.g., water potential, stomatal conductance, and leaf temperature) to compare the answers that diverse agronomic management techniques (i.e., irrigation with and without zeolite, pure zeolite and no application) could instaurate in the metabolic pathway of this important crop with the aim to find convincing and thought-provoking responses to use this captivating and versatile mineral, the zeolite known as the “magic rock”. Stressed grapevines reached 56.80 mmol/m²s gs at veraison and a more negative stem Ψ (+10.63%) compared to plants with zeolite. Resveratrol, in the hottest season, fluctuated from 0.18–0.19 mg/g in zeolite treatments to 0.37 mg/g in stressed vines. Quercetins were inclined to accumulate in response to drought stress too. In fact, we recorded a peak of quercetin (3-O-glucoside + 3-O-glucuronide) of 11.20 mg/g at veraison in stressed plants. It is interesting to note how the pool of metabolites was often unchanged for plants treated with zeolite and for plants treated with water only, thus elevating this mineral to a “stress reliever”. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Crops against Abiotic Stresses: Adaptation Skills and Agronomic Strategies)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 672 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Assessing and Understanding Educators’ Experiences of Synchronous Hybrid Learning in Universities: A Systematic Review

by Hannah Clare Wood, Michael Detyna and Eleanor Jane Dommett

Educ. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 987; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci15080987 (registering DOI) - 2 Aug 2025

Abstract

The rise in online learning, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has led to greater use of synchronous hybrid learning (SHL) in higher education. SHL allows simultaneous teaching of in-person and online learners through videoconferencing tools. Previous studies have identified various benefits (e.g., flexibility) and challenges (e.g., student engagement) to SHL. Whilst systematic reviews have emerged on this topic, few studies have considered the experiences of staff. The aim of this review was threefold: (i) to better understand how staff experiences and perceptions are assessed, (ii) to understand staff experiences in terms of the benefits and challenges of SHL and (iii) to identify recommendations for effective teaching and learning using SHL. In line with the PRISMA guidance, we conducted a systematic review across four databases, identifying 14 studies for inclusion. Studies were conducted in nine different countries and covered a range of academic disciplines. Most studies adopted qualitative methods, with small sample sizes. Measures used were typically novel and unvalidated. Four themes were identified relating to (i) technology, (ii) redesigning teaching and learning, (iii) student engagement and (iv) staff workload. In terms of recommendations, ensuring adequate staff training and ongoing classroom support were considered essential. Additionally, active and collaborative learning were considered important to address issues with interactivity. Whilst these findings largely aligned with previous work, this review also identified limited reporting in research in this area, and future studies are needed to address this. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Higher Education)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 3797 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Amygdalin-Doped Biopolymer Composites as Potential Wound Dressing Films: In Vitro Study on E. coli and S. aureus

by Dorinel Okolišan, Gabriela Vlase, Mihaela Maria Budiul, Mariana Adina Matica and Titus Vlase

Gels 2025, 11(8), 609; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11080609 (registering DOI) - 2 Aug 2025

Abstract

Biopolymer films doped with active substances may become a promising alternative to traditional dressings for skin wounds, as they can deliver drugs while maintaining wound moisture, thus contributing to the healing process. This article describes the preparation of amygdalin-doped biopolymer films for in vitro testing against the bacterial strains typical of chronic wounds: E. coli and S. aureus. Thus, FTIR characterization suggests minimal chemical interaction between amygdalin and the biopolymer matrix components, indicating potential compatibility, while thermogravimetric analysis highlights the thermal behavior of the films as well as the influence of the polymer matrix composition on the amount of bound water and the shift of T_peak value for the decomposition process of the base polymer. Moreover, the identity of the secondary biopolymer (gelatin or CMC) significantly influences film morphology and antibacterial performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Functional Gels for Biomedical Applications (2nd Edition))

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 3470 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatiotemporal Evolution and Influencing Factors of Carbon Emission Efficiency of Apple Production in China from 2003 to 2022

by Dejun Tan, Juanjuan Cheng, Jin Yu, Qian Wang and Xiaonan Chen

Agriculture 2025, 15(15), 1680; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15151680 (registering DOI) - 2 Aug 2025

Abstract

Understanding the carbon emission efficiency of apple production (APCEE) is critical for promoting green and low-carbon agricultural development. However, the spatiotemporal dynamics and driving factors of APCEE in China remain inadequately explored. This study employs life cycle assessment, super-efficiency slacks-based measures, and a panel Tobit model to evaluate the carbon footprint, APCEE, and its determinants in China’s two major production regions from 2003 to 2022. The results reveal that: (1) Producing one ton of apples in China results in 0.842 t CO₂e emissions. Land carbon intensity and total carbon emissions peaked in 2010 (28.69 t CO₂e/ha) and 2014 (6.52 × 10⁷ t CO₂e), respectively, exhibiting inverted U-shaped trends. Carbon emissions from various production areas show significant differences, with higher pressure on carbon emission reduction in the Loess Plateau region, especially in Gansu Province. (2) The APCEE in China exhibits a W-shaped trend (mean: 0.645), with overall low efficiency loss. The Bohai Bay region outperforms the Loess Plateau and national averages. (3) The structure of the apple industry, degree of agricultural mechanization, and green innovation positively influence APCEE, while the structure of apple cultivation, education level, and agricultural subsidies negatively impact it. Notably, green innovation and agricultural subsidies display lagged effects. Moreover, the drivers of APCEE differ significantly between the two major production regions. These findings provide actionable pathways for the green and low-carbon transformation of China’s apple industry, emphasizing the importance of spatially tailored green policies and technology-driven decarbonization strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Economics, Policies and Rural Management)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 3916 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Leveraging Wearable Sensors for the Identification and Prediction of Defensive Pessimism Personality Traits

by You Zhou, Dongfen Li, Bowen Deng and Weiqian Liang

Micromachines 2025, 16(8), 906; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16080906 (registering DOI) - 2 Aug 2025

Abstract

Defensive pessimism, an important emotion regulation and motivation strategy, has increasingly attracted scholarly attention in psychology. Recently, sensor-based methods have begun to supplement or replace traditional questionnaire surveys in personality research. However, current approaches for collecting vital signs data face several challenges, including limited monitoring durations, significant data deviations, and susceptibility to external interference. This paper proposes a novel approach using a NiCr/NiSi alloy film temperature sensor, which has a K-type structure and flexible piezoelectric pressure sensor to identify and predict defensive pessimism personality traits. Experimental results indicate that the Seebeck coefficients for K-, T-, and E-type thermocouples are approximately 41 μV/°C, 39 μV/°C, and 57 μV/°C, respectively, which align closely with national standards and exhibit good consistency across multiple experimental groups. Moreover, radial artery frequency experiments demonstrate a strong linear relationship between pulse rate and the intensity of external stimuli, where stronger stimuli correspond to faster pulse rates. Simulation experiments further reveal a high correlation between radial artery pulse frequency and skin temperature, and a regression model based on the physiological sensor data shows a good fit (p < 0.05). These findings verify the feasibility of using temperature and flexible piezoelectric pressure sensors to identify and predict defensive pessimism personality characteristics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Structural Analyses and Designs for Flexible/Stretchable Electronics, 3rd Edition)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 1024 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Impact of Environmental Factors on the Secretion of Gastrointestinal Hormones

by Joanna Smarkusz-Zarzecka, Lucyna Ostrowska and Marcelina Radziszewska

Nutrients 2025, 17(15), 2544; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17152544 (registering DOI) - 2 Aug 2025

Abstract

The enteroendocrine system of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is the largest endocrine organ in the human body, playing a central role in the regulation of hunger, satiety, digestion, and energy homeostasis. Numerous factors—including dietary components, physical activity, and the gut microbiota—affect the secretion of GI hormones. This study aims to analyze how these factors modulate enteroendocrine function and influence systemic metabolic regulation. This review synthesizes the current scientific literature on the physiology and distribution of enteroendocrine cells and mechanisms of hormone secretion in response to macronutrients, physical activity, and microbial metabolites. Special attention is given to the interactions between gut-derived signals and central nervous system pathways involved in appetite control. Different GI hormones are secreted in specific regions of the digestive tract in response to meal composition and timing. Macronutrients, particularly during absorption, stimulate hormone release, while physical activity influences hormone concentrations, decreasing ghrelin and increasing GLP-1, PYY, and leptin levels. The gut microbiota, through fermentation and metabolite production (e.g., SCFAs and bile acids), modulates enteroendocrine activity. Species such as Akkermansia muciniphila are associated with improved gut barrier integrity and enhanced GLP-1 secretion. These combined effects contribute to appetite regulation and energy balance. Diet composition, physical activity, and gut microbiota are key modulators of gastrointestinal hormone secretion. Their interplay significantly affects appetite regulation and metabolic health. A better understanding of these relationships may support the development of personalized strategies for managing obesity and related disorders. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nutritional Immunology)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 2786 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Xylem Functional Anatomy of Pure-Species and Interspecific Hybrid Clones of Eucalyptus Differing in Drought Resistance

by José Gándara, Matías Nión, Silvia Ross, Jaime González-Tálice, Paolo Tabeira and María Elena Fernández

Forests 2025, 16(8), 1267; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16081267 (registering DOI) - 2 Aug 2025

Abstract

Climate extremes threaten the resilience of Eucalyptus plantations, yet hybridization with drought-tolerant species may enhance stress tolerance. This study analyzed xylem anatomical and functional drought responses in commercial Eucalyptus grandis (GG) clones and hybrids: E. grandis × camaldulensis (GC), E. grandis × tereticornis (GT), and E. grandis × urophylla (GU1, GU2). We evaluated vessel traits (water transport), fibers (mechanical support), and wood density (D) in stems and branches. Theoretical stem hydraulic conductivity (k_Stheo), vessel lumen fraction (F), vessel composition (S), and associations with previous hydraulic and growth data were assessed. While general drought responses occurred, GC had the most distinct xylem profile. This may explain it having the highest performance in different irrigation conditions. Red gum hybrids (GC, GT) maintained k_Stheo under drought, with stable F and a narrower vessel size, especially in branches. Conversely, GG and GU2 reduced F and S; and stem k_Stheo declined for a similar F in these clones, indicating vascular reconfiguration aligning the stem with the branch xylem. Almost all clones increased D under drought in any organ, with the highest increase in red gum hybrids. These results reveal diverse anatomical adjustments to drought among clones, partially explaining their growth responses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Forest Ecophysiology and Biology)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 582 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Xylitol Antioxidant Properties: A Potential Effect for Inflammation Reduction in Menopausal Women?—A Pilot Study

by Ilona Górna, Magdalena Kowalówka, Barbara Więckowska, Michalina Banaszak, Grzegorz Kosewski, Olivia Grządzielska, Juliusz Przysławski and Sławomira Drzymała-Czyż

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(8), 611; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47080611 (registering DOI) - 2 Aug 2025

Abstract

Introduction: Oxidative stress is a key factor in the pathogenesis of many chronic diseases, especially in postmenopausal women. Xylitol, a sugar alcohol with potential antioxidant properties, may affect oxidative balance when used as a sugar substitute. Aim: This pilot study aimed to assess the effect of replacing sucrose with xylitol on serum antioxidant capacity in postmenopausal women. Methods: This study included 34 women aged 50 to 65 years who successively consumed 5 g/d, 10 g/d, and 15 g/d of xylitol. The dietary intervention lasted a total of 6 weeks, with each phase covering a 2-week period. Diet was assessed twice based on a 7-day dietary interview (Diet 6.0, NIZP–PZH, Warsaw). The material for this study was venous blood. Antioxidant capacity was determined using the DPPH radical scavenging method and the ABTS cation radical scavenging method. Results: In both methods, a significant increase in serum antioxidant potential was observed after replacing sugar with xylitol (p < 0.0001). An increase in the ability to neutralize free radicals was observed in almost all women studied. Additional analysis of the effect of selected nutrients on the obtained effects of the nutritional intervention showed that the most significant effect could potentially be exerted by manganese, maltose, sucrose, and mercury, and the strongest positive correlation was exerted by vitamin A, retinol, and vitamin E. Although the values obtained in the constructed models were not statistically significant, the large effect indicates potentially significant relationships that could have a significant impact on serum antioxidant potential in the studied group of women. Conclusions: The results suggest a potential role of xylitol in enhancing antioxidant defense mechanisms in menopausal women. Although the sample size was relatively small, this study was powered at approximately 80% to detect large effects, supporting the reliability of the observed results. Nevertheless, given the pilot nature of this study, further research with larger cohorts is warranted to confirm these preliminary observations and to clarify the clinical significance of xylitol supplementation in populations exposed to oxidative stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Role of Natural Products in Inflammatory Diseases)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Error

Oops... you haven't selected anything for export.

Displaying article 1-50 on page 1 of 2000.

Go to page 1 2 3 4 5

Search Results (169,460)

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI