Search Results (25,628)

Production of a healthy crop of protein- and oil-rich soybean seeds requires a significant amount of nitrogen. Under ideal conditions, most of this nitrogen comes from the root nodules, where a symbiotic relationship with Bradyrhizobium japonicum fixes nitrogen from the atmosphere. Thus, growers generally think of soybeans as not needing nitrogen fertilization. However, a lack of B. japonicum or other unfavorable field conditions can produce inefficient nodulation, which leads to reduced vigor and yield under conditions of low soil nitrogen availability. Thus, additional resources for identifying nitrogen deficiency in soybean and strategies for the rescue application of nitrogen are needed. To generate a gradient of nitrogen deficiency, we applied different amounts of nitrogen (in the form of urea) to nodulation-deficient soybeans grown in sandy fields in South Carolina. Comparison of the ground truth data and aerial imagery suggest that leaf nitrogen deficiency can be effectively identified in the field based on plant height and color. Side dressing nitrogen fertilizer in the form of urea to nitrogen-deficient plots at the R1 stage was shown to rescue plant growth and increase crop yield. We conclude that identification and fertilization of patches of soybeans with low nitrogen content is a feasible strategy to increase soybean productivity. Although additional studies are needed to expand these results to other soil conditions, we recommend that nitrogen-deficient soybeans be treated with 40–50 pounds per acre (45–56 kg per hectare) of nitrogen at or before flowering to restore yield potential. Full article

This study aimed to investigate the role of ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides (GLP) in mitigating dexamethasone (DEX)-induced immune injury in goslings. Dexamethasone (DEX) is commonly used to establish an animal model of immune suppression, which mimics the immune injury caused by stress or certain pathological conditions in poultry. A total of 180 one-day-old goslings were randomly assigned to three groups: control (Con), DEX, and DEX + GLP, with six replicates of 10 goslings each. The Con and DEX groups were fed a basal diet, whereas the DEX + GLP group received feed supplemented with 0.2% GLP. From days 14 to 21, the DEX and DEX + GLP groups were injected with 3.5 mg/kg body weight (BW) of DEX, while the Con group received normal saline. Growth performance, immune organ indices, serum parameters, organ morphology, and intestinal microbiota were evaluated at 21 and 35 days. At day 21, the Con group exhibited significantly higher BW, average daily gain (ADG), spleen, thymus, and bursa indices, as well as serum total protein (TP), albumin (ALB), globulin (GLOB), IL-6, IgA, and IgG compared to the DEX and DEX + GLP groups (p < 0.01). By day 35, the DEX + GLP group demonstrated greater ADG than the DEX group (p < 0.01) and showed improved TP, ALB, and immune organ indices relative to DEX alone (p < 0.05). Histological analysis indicated that DEX induced bursa plica disorder, spleen parenchyma loosening, and thymus lobule atrophy, all of which were alleviated by GLP supplementation. Regarding the gut microbiota, the Con group displayed higher α-diversity at day 21 than the DEX group (p < 0.05), while at day 35, β-diversity in the DEX group differed markedly from that in the Con and DEX + GLP groups. Furthermore, DEX + GLP was associated with an enrichment of Bacteroidetes, Flavobacterium, and Lactococcus as microbial biomarkers. Overall, GLP effectively mitigated DEX-induced immune injury and partially restored growth performance by improving immune organ morphology, modulating serum factors, and reshaping gut microbiota. Full article

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous blood-derived concentrate increasingly utilized in regenerative medicine for its ability to accelerate healing and tissue repair. PRP is broadly classified by leukocyte content, fibrin architecture, and platelet concentration, with classification systems developed to standardize characterization. Preparation methods, including single- or double-spin centrifugation and buffy coat techniques, influence the final composition of PRP, determining the relative proportions of platelets, leukocytes, plasma proteins, and extracellular vesicles. These components act synergistically, with platelets releasing growth factors (e.g., VEGF, PDGF, TGF-β) that stimulate angiogenesis and matrix synthesis, leukocytes providing immunomodulation, plasma proteins facilitating scaffolding, and exosomes regulating intercellular signaling. Mechanistically, PRP enhances tissue repair through four key pathways: platelet adhesion molecules promote hemostasis and cell recruitment; immunomodulation reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines and favors M2 macrophage polarization; angiogenesis supports vascular remodeling and nutrient delivery; and serotonin-mediated pathways contribute to analgesia. These processes establish a regenerative microenvironment that supports both structural repair and functional recovery. Clinically, PRP has been applied across multiple specialties. In orthopedics, it promotes tendon, cartilage, and bone healing in conditions such as tendinopathy and osteoarthritis. In dermatology, PRP enhances skin rejuvenation, scar remodeling, and hair restoration. Gynecology has adopted PRP for ovarian rejuvenation, endometrial repair, and vulvovaginal atrophy. In dentistry and oral surgery, PRP accelerates wound closure and osseointegration, while chronic wound care benefits from its angiogenic and anti-inflammatory effects. PRP has also favored gingival recession coverage, regeneration of intrabony periodontal defects, and sinus grafting. Although preparation heterogeneity remains a challenge, PRP offers a versatile, biologically active therapy with expanding clinical utility. Full article

Biopreservation using lactic acid bacteria has gained a growing interest as an alternative to chemical preservatives and/or as a complementary tool to prevent fungal spoilage in dairy products. Among the action mechanisms of antifungal LAB, competitionexclusion for trace elements has recently been highlighted. To further investigate this mechanism, two antifungal LAB strains, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum L244 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus CIRM-BIA1759, were studied in a yogurt model. Firstly, the antifungal activity of these strains against four main dairy spoilage fungi (Penicillium biforme, Mucor racemosus, Galactomyces geotrichum and Yarrowia lipolytica) was evaluated with or without trace element (6 metals and 12 vitamins) supplementation. Only manganese supplementation led to a suppression of the antifungal activity of both L. plantarum L244 and L. rhamnosus CIRM-BIA1759 against P. biforme and/or Y. lipolytica. The scavenging of trace elements was then measured using HR-ICP-MS in both cell-free yogurt whey and fungal biomass. HR-ICP-MS results showed a significant scavenging of Mn in L. plantarum L244 and L. rhamnosus CIRM-BIA1759 whey, as well as Cu for L. rhamnosus CIRM-BIA1759. Moreover, element uptake profiles, including metal and non-metal elements, for each of the target fungi were affected by the use of antifungal cultures. Finally, the role of competitionexclusion for manganese in the inhibition of 25 fungal spoilers was evaluated via oCelloScope growth follow-up. Growth inhibition by antifungal LAB strains was suppressed after Mn supplementation in cell-free whey for the 16 (out of 25) fungi initially inhibited without Mn supplementation. The nine other fungi were not inhibited or were poorly inhibited in the different tested conditions. This study confirmed the role of competitionexclusion for Mn in the antifungal activity of L. plantarum L244 and L. rhamnosus CIRM-BIA1759 strains but also revealed that this mechanism is not generic among fungal species, as the growth behavior of several tested species was not impacted by Mn scavenging. Full article

The improvement of Lavandula angustifolia Mill. seed germination represents a crucial step towards the development of eco-biotechnological solutions for the sustainable propagation of aromatic plants. This study evaluated the effects of four biostimulant formulations, namely Amino 16 (amino acid-based), Razormin (humic–fulvic complex), Germinoseed (phytoextract-based), and Atonik (nitrophenolate), together with a non-treated control, on the germination efficiency and early growth of nine Lavandula genotypes under controlled laboratory conditions. A factorial design (9 × 5) with four replications was applied, and multiple germination indices were calculated. Data were analysed using a two-way ANOVA with genotype and treatment as main factors. Results indicated significant genotype-dependent responses. Amino 16 and Razormin markedly increased germination percentage, speed of emergence, and seedling vigour, achieving up to 100% germination in responsive genotypes such as ‘Ellagance Snow’ and ‘Blue Spear’. Correlation and clustering analyses revealed strong links between seed size, germination rate, and seedling development, suggesting a possible synergistic role of amino and humic substances in stimulating metabolic activation during germination. These findings demonstrate that eco-friendly biostimulants function as effective biotechnological activators of seed physiology, supporting low-input propagation systems and the transition toward a circular green bioeconomy. Full article

This research evaluated deficit irrigation effects on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) growth, yield, and quality in semi-arid Pakistan during 2023–2024. Four treatments were applied: 100% ETc (control), 80% ETc, 60% ETc, and 40% ETc used a randomized complete block design. The treatment with 80% ETc maintained similar yields as full irrigation. It improved water use efficiency from 1.25 kg/m³ to 1.39 kg/m³. Plant height, SPAD values, and leaf area decreased with increasing water stress. Fruit quality parameters, including total soluble solids, improved under moderate deficit conditions. Moderate deficit irrigation (80% ETc) represents an optimal strategy for sustainable tomato production in water-scarce environments. Full article

Climate change causes unpredictable weather patterns, leading to more frequent and severe droughts. Investigating the effects of drought and irrigation on soil water status and the performance of various cassava genotypes can provide valuable insights for mitigating drought through designing appropriate genotypes and water management strategies. The objective of this research was to evaluate soil moisture, growth rates, and final yields (total dry weight, storage root dry weight, harvest index and starch yield) of six cassava genotypes cultivated under drought conditions during the late growth phase, as well as under full irrigation. The study utilized a split-plot randomized complete block design with four replications, conducted over two growing seasons (2022/2023 and 2023/2024). The main plots were assigned as two water regimes to prevent water movement between plots: full irrigation and drought treatments. The subplot consisted of six cassava genotypes. Measurements included soil properties before planting, weather data, soil moisture content, relative water content (RWC) in cassava leaves, and several growth rates: leaf growth rate (LGR), stem growth rate (SGR), storage root growth rate (SRGR), crop growth rate (CGR), relative growth rate (RGR), as well as final yields. The results revealed that low soil moisture contents for drought treatment led to variation in RWC, growth, and yield among cassava genotypes. Variations in soil and weather conditions between the 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 growing seasons resulted in differences in the performance of the genotypes. Kasetsart 50 (2022/2023) and CMR38–125–77 (2023/2024) were top performers under late drought stress regarding storage root dry weight and starch yield, showing vigorous recovery upon re-watering, evidenced by their significant increase in LGR (between 240 and 270 DAP) and their high RGR (240–360 DAP). Rayong 9 (2023/2024) demonstrated strong performance in both during the drought period (180–240 DAP), efficiently allocating resources under water scarcity, with SRGR and starch yield reduced by 26.4% and 9.5%, respectively, compared to full irrigation. These cassava genotypes are valuable genetic resources for cassava cultivation and can be used as parental material in breeding programs aimed at improving drought tolerance. Full article

With the growing global demand for renewable energy, the pump as turbine (PAT) exhibits significant potential in the micro-hydropower sector. To reveal its internal unsteady flow characteristics and energy loss mechanisms, this study analyzes the internal flow field of an ultra-low specific speed pump as turbine (USSPAT) by employing a combined approach of entropy generation theory and dynamic mode decomposition (DMD). The results indicate that the outlet pressure pulsation characteristics are highly dependent on the flow rate. Under low flow rate conditions, pulsations are dominated by low-frequency vortex bands induced by rotor-stator interaction (RSI), whereas at high flow rates, the blade passing frequency (BPF) becomes the absolute dominant frequency. Energy losses within the PAT are primarily composed of turbulent and wall dissipation, concentrated in the impeller and volute, particularly at the impeller inlet, outlet, and near the volute tongue. DMD reveals that the flow field is governed by a series of stable modes with near-zero growth rates, whose frequencies are the shaft frequency (25 Hz) and its harmonics (50 Hz, 75 Hz, 100 Hz). These low-frequency modes, driven by RSI, contain the majority of the fluctuation energy. Therefore, this study confirms that RSI between the impeller and the volute is the root cause of the dominant pressure pulsations and periodic energy losses. This provides crucial theoretical and data-driven guidance for the design optimization, efficient operation, and stability control of PAT. Full article

Guacamole is an avocado-based Ready-to-Eat (RTE) salad product, consumed globally and increasingly popular due to health trends. Its composition, characterized by a relatively neutral pH and stable water activity, creates favorable conditions for microbial proliferation, leading to spoilage, and resulting in a limited shelf-life of the product. Natural antimicrobials, such as essential oils (EOs), organic acids, chitosan, etc. have the potential to control microbial populations, therefore delaying spoilage and consequently providing a shelf-life extension. This study evaluated the effects of different concentrations of the selected natural antimicrobials [citric acid, mastic essential oil (EO), chitosan] added, either singly or combined, on the indigenous microbial (“spoilage”) association of guacamole during two storage conditions (chill, mild) for a period of 7 days. Results showed that of all the species enumerated in the present study, yeasts and molds were the predominant species, followed by Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB), Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonas spp., at populations ranging from 3.6 to 2.0 and 2.65 to 1.45 log CFU/g, at 4 and 10 °C, respectively, in the control (CNL) avocado-based salad samples. Reductions in the range 1 to 2 log CFU/g were obtained for Pseudomonas spp., Enterobacteriaceae, and yeasts and molds under the triple antimicrobial treatment (citric acid, mastic EO, chitosan; CACHM), whereas interestingly, for LAB the highest reduction (1.74 log CFU/g) was achieved by chitosan and mastic EO (CHM), followed by CACHM (1.5 log CFU/g). Refrigeration (chill, 4 °C) as a hurdle acted as an additional barrier delaying microbial growth in all samples. To our knowledge, this is the first study to (a) evaluate the effect of natural antimicrobials (added, either singly or combined), namely citric acid, mastic EO, and chitosan on the microbiota of guacamole and (b) assess the possible application of the aforementioned natural antimicrobials in potentially increasing the shelf-life of a RTE avocado-based product (guacamole, in this study). Full article

To investigate the seepage and deformation failure characteristics of deep unloaded rock mass under cyclic loading and unloading disturbance, a series of triaxial cyclic loading and unloading tests were conducted on granite. These tests were performed under varying seepage pressures and unloading conditions to analyze the mechanical properties, seepage behavior, and fracture failure characteristics of the material. The findings indicate the following: (1) An increase in seepage pressure and unloading magnitude results in pronounced radial expansion characteristics in the rock specimens following cyclic loading and unloading. Additionally, the axial, radial, and volumetric residual strains exhibit a nonlinear acceleration in growth as the number of cyclic loading and unloading applications increases. (2) The elastic modulus of rocks exhibits two distinct phases: an initial rapid decline followed by a steady-state decrease. Concurrently, Poisson’s ratio demonstrates an initial decrease, which is subsequently followed by a consistent increase. Furthermore, when considering the effects of unloading, the inflection point of the Poisson’s ratio curve will occur earlier. (3) The interplay between seepage pressure and unloading conditions markedly exacerbates the damage and degradation of the rock. Specifically, under conditions of 70% unloading and a seepage pressure of 4 MPa, the peak stress of the rock specimen is reduced by 21.90%, and the peak intensity permeability increases by 446.70%. (4) Under conditions of high confining pressure and elevated seepage pressure, V-shaped conjugate shear fracture surfaces are likely to develop during the cyclic loading failure of granite, accompanied by a limited number of secondary shear cracks. Concurrently, tensile failure surfaces that are parallel to the maximum principal stress are also observed under the influence of unloading. Full article

This review indicates that microalgae may serve as a sustainable supply of bioactive compounds and lipids over the long run. It also discusses the significance of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and Saccharomyces cerevisiae in biotransformation processes. Microalgae contribute to food security and environmental sustainability due to their rapid growth and diverse applications, including food, feed, and biofuels. Fermentation with LAB and S. cerevisiae enhances the nutritional and functional properties of microalgal biomass, rendering it more digestible, bioactive, and palatable. This review discusses the metabolic characteristics of LAB and S. cerevisiae, their ability to modify microalgal components through enzymatic action, and the resultant products, including enhanced fatty acid profiles and bioactive compounds. Furthermore, the biotransformation of pigments during LAB fermentation is examined, revealing significant alterations in the hue and bioactivity of the pigments, hence enhancing the appeal of microalgal products. Future perspectives emphasize the necessity for further investigation to identify optimal fermentation conditions and to explore the synergistic interactions between LAB and S. cerevisiae in the production of novel beneficial components from microalgae using both microbes. Full article

The method and results of evaluating the kinetics of austenite isothermal decomposition in austempered ductile iron (ADI) samples are presented based on the dimensional changes in austenitized and isothermally hardened cast iron samples. Experimental measurements were carried out on samples intended for the production of ADI castings under industrial conditions of ODLEWNIE POLSKIE S.A. A partial solution of the Kolmogorov–Johnson–Mehl–Avrami statistical theory of phase transformations as proposed by Avrami was applied to analyze the experimental results of dilatometric measurements. It is shown that Avrami diagrams can be used to evaluate changes in the kinetics of phase transformations occurring in ADI samples during the first stage of isothermal austenite decomposition. The application of the proposed method has made it possible to identify three steps of ausferrite growth during the first stage, with two statistically significant slowdowns. Using quantitative metallography methods, it is demonstrated that the slowdown in the rate of austenite decomposition during the transition from the first to the second step is related to the development of the microstructure of the metallic matrix of cast iron. Full article

Actinomycetes, especially Streptomyces, are prolific producers of bioactive metabolites, including pigments with potential applications in foods, textiles, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Motivated by increasing concerns about the safety and environmental impact of synthetic pigments, this study aimed to optimize the production of an extracellular pigment-rich fraction from Streptomyces parvulus and to evaluate its bioactivities relevant for cosmeceuticals. A Plackett–Burman design was used to identify key variables influencing metabolite production, followed by optimization with a Box–Behnken design. The pigment-rich fraction was obtained after extraction with ethyl acetate from lyophilized supernatants and chemically characterized by IR and LC–MS. Biological assays were conducted to assess anti-tyrosinase, immunomodulatory, and antimicrobial activities. Temperature, incubation time, and agitation speed were identified as the most significant factors, with optimal conditions of 30 °C, 50 rpm, and 7 days yielding a pigment concentration of 465.3 μg/mL. LC–MS analysis revealed three 1,4-naphthoquinone-containing compounds, annotated as juglomycin Z (1), WS-5995B (2), and naphthopyranomycin (3), as the main constituents. The pigment-rich fraction showed modest anti-tyrosinase activity (10.9% at 300 μg/mL), immunomodulatory effects (TNF-α inhibition up to 36.9% and IL-10 stimulation up to 38.4% in macrophages), and antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus epidermidis (15.8 mm inhibition halo, 91% growth reduction). The optimized fermentation model enhances pigment yield while reducing resource consumption, and the pigment-rich fraction exhibits multifunctional bioactivities, underscoring its potential as a natural cosmeceutical ingredient. Full article

Wax apple (Syzygium samarangense) is highly perishable postharvest. Even under refrigerated storage conditions, its shelf life typically lasts only about one week. This study developed a novel antibacterial food packaging membrane to extend its shelf life and explored the underlying preservation mechanisms. A composite fiber membrane was fabricated via solution blow spinning (SBS) using polyethylene oxide (PEO) and oxidized sesbania gum (OSG) incorporated with ε-polylysine (ε-PL). The composite membrane demonstrated exceptional antibacterial activity against both E. coli and S. aureus by disrupting cell wall and membrane integrity, as evidenced by increased protein leakage, alkaline phosphatase activity, and electrical conductivity. Morphological observations through scanning electron microscopy confirmed extensive cellular damage and bactericidal effects. During nine days of ambient storage, the PEO/OSG/PL membrane significantly maintained the postharvest quality of wax apples. This was evidenced by a lower decay index (2.22 ± 0.19) and weight loss rate (5.32 ± 0.16%) compared to the control group, alongside better preservation of firmness (4.11 ± 0.08 N) and color stability. The treatment suppressed respiratory rate and delayed the degradation of soluble solids and titratable acidity. Furthermore, it enhanced antioxidant capacity through higher peroxidase activity and reduced malondialdehyde accumulation, indicating attenuated oxidative stress. Non-targeted metabolomics analysis revealed that the membrane treatment modulated critical metabolic pathways, particularly phenylalanine metabolism and linoleic acid metabolism. These metabolic adjustments contributed to enhanced defense responses and delayed senescence. The results show that the PEO/OSG/ε-PL fiber membrane acts as an effective active packaging material by inhibiting microbial growth and regulating metabolism. This provides a potential method to extend the shelf life of perishable fruits. Full article

Permeability evolution is one of the key parameters influencing the efficient exploitation of deep unconventional energy resources, as it reflects the dynamic development of pore-fracture structures under complex engineering effects. Using fractal geometry to describe the pore-fracture system, rock permeability enhancement can be quantitatively evaluated. In this study, fractured coal specimens were analyzed under simulated mining-induced stress relief and CH₄ release conditions based on fractal geometry theory. The permeability-enhancement rate was derived and verified through CT (Computed Tomography) characterization of the pore-fracture network. The fractal dimension of the fracture aperture distribution and the tortuosity of fracture paths were determined to establish a fractal permeability-enhancement model, and its sensitivity was analyzed. The results indicate that permeability evolution undergoes four distinct stages: a stable stage, a slow-growth stage, a rapid-growth stage, and a stable or declining stage. The mining-induced stress relief and gas desorption effects significantly accelerate permeability enhancement, providing new insights into the mechanisms governing gas flow and pressure relief in deep coal seams. The proposed model, highly sensitive to the fracture aperture ratio (λ_min/λ_max), reveals that a smaller aperture span leads to greater permeability enhancement during the damage and fracture stage. These findings offer practical guidance for predicting permeability evolution, optimizing gas drainage design, and enhancing the safety and efficiency of coal mining and methane extraction operations. Full article