Search Results (6,962)

Macroalgae (seaweeds) produce unique bioactive metabolites that have enabled their survival for millions of years, offering significant potential for human benefits. In the Israeli Mediterranean Sea, no comprehensive systematic surveys of seaweeds have been published since the 1990s, and their chemical composition remains largely unexplored. This study presents an extensive survey of intertidal seaweed communities along the shallow Israeli coastline, documenting their spatial, temporal, and biochemical diversity. Of the 320 specimens collected, 55 seaweed species were identified: 29 red (Rhodophyta), 14 brown (Phaeophyceae), and 12 green (Chlorophyta). A significant shift in species abundance was documented, with a single dominant annual bloom occurring during spring, unlike previously reported biannual blooms. Chemical analysis of the dominant species revealed significant seasonal variations in compound levels, with higher protein content in winter and increased antioxidant capacity during spring. Phenolic and natural sunscreen compounds (mycosporine-like amino acids, MAAs) showed no general seasonal trend. These findings highlight the optimal environmental conditions for seaweed growth and underscore their potential for aquaculture and biotechnology. We hypothesize that the ecologically unique conditions of the Israeli Mediterranean Sea may foster resilient seaweed species enriched with distinctive chemical properties, suitable for nutritional, health, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical applications, particularly as climate-adaptive bioresources. Full article

Plants and insects are developing strategies to avoid each other’s defense systems. Host plants may release volatile compounds to attract the natural enemies of herbivores; insect pests may also select host plants that are deterrent to natural enemies to avoid such predation. Here we investigated whether the host plant preference of Hyphantria cunea correlates with the attractiveness of these plants to Chouioia cunea, a parasitoid wasp that serves as the primary natural enemy of H. cunea. We found Morus alba was the preferred host plant for female H. cunea. Although M. alba provided suboptimal nutritional value for H. cunea growth and development compared to other plants, it attracted fewer C. cunea relative to alternative host plants. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) coupled with gas chromatography–electroantennographic detection (GC-EAD) analysis identified six distinct compounds among the herbivore-induced plant volatiles (HIPVs) produced following H. cunea feeding. Notably, M. alba was the sole plant species that did not emit tridecane. These results suggest that H. cunea utilizes M. alba as a reduced predation enemy-free space, thereby minimizing parasitization by C. cunea. Our research emphasizes the importance of considering adaptive responses of herbivores within the context of multi-trophic relationships, rather than solely focusing on optimizing herbivore growth on the most nutritionally suitable plant host. Full article

Low-commercial-value natural pistachios (broken, closed, or immature) can be revalorised through oil extraction, obtaining a high-quality oil and partially defatted flour as by-product. This study evaluated the techno-functional and nutritional properties of the flours obtained by hydraulic press (HP) and single-screw press (SSP) systems, combined with pretreatment at 25 °C and 60 °C. The extraction method significantly influenced flour’s characteristics, underscoring the need to tailor processing conditions to the specific technological requirements of each food application. HP-derived flours presented lighter colour, greater tocopherol content, and higher water absorption capacity (up to 2.75 g/g), suggesting preservation of hydrophilic proteins. SSP-derived flours showed higher concentration of protein (44 g/100 g), fibre (12 g/100 g), and minerals, and improved emulsifying properties, enhancing their suitability for emulsified products. Pretreatment at 25 °C enhanced functional properties such as swelling power (~7.0 g/g) and water absorption index (~5.7 g/g). The SSP system achieved the highest oil extraction yield, with no significant effect of pretreatment temperature. The oils extracted showed high levels of unsaturated fatty acids, particularly oleic acid (~48% of ω-9), highlighting their nutritional and industrial value. The findings support the valorisation of pistachio oil extraction by-products as functional food ingredients, offering a promising strategy for reducing food waste and promoting circular economy approaches in the agri-food sector. Full article

Tocopheramines are a class of antioxidants which are distinguished from tocopherols (vitamin E) by the presence of an amino group instead of the phenolic hydroxyl group. α-Tocopheramine is intensively studied for biomedical applications but also as a stabilizer for synthetic and natural polymers, in particular for cellulose solutions and spinning dopes for cellulosic fibers. This study addresses a fundamental difference in the oxidation chemistry of α-tocopheramine and its tocopherol counterpart: while the formation of the ortho-quinone methide (o-QM) involving C-5a is one of the most fundamental reactions of α-tocopherol, the corresponding ortho-iminoquinone methide (o-IQM) derived from α-tocopheramine has been elusive so far. Synthesis of the transient intermediate succeeded initially via 5a-hydroxy-α-tocopheramine, and its occurrence was confirmed by dimerization to the corresponding spiro-dimer and by trapping with ethyl vinyl ether. Eventually, suitable oxidation conditions were found which allowed for the generation of the o-IQM directly from α-tocopheramine. The underlying oxidation chemistry of α-tocopherol and α-tocopheramine is concisely discussed. Full article

Cultured meat is emerging as a sustainable alternative to conventional animal agriculture, with scaffolds playing a central role in supporting cellular attachment, growth, and tissue maturation. This review focuses on the development of gel-based hybrid biomaterials that meet the dual requirements of biocompatibility and food safety. We explore recent advances in the use of naturally derived gel-forming polymers such as gelatin, chitosan, cellulose, alginate, and plant-based proteins as the structural backbone for edible scaffolds. Particular attention is given to the integration of food-grade functional additives into hydrogel-based scaffolds. These include nanocellulose, dietary fibers, modified starches, polyphenols, and enzymatic crosslinkers such as transglutaminase, which enhance mechanical stability, rheological properties, and cell-guidance capabilities. Rather than focusing on fabrication methods or individual case studies, this review emphasizes the material-centric design strategies for building scalable, printable, and digestible gel scaffolds suitable for cultured meat production. By systemically evaluating the role of each component in structural reinforcement and biological interaction, this work provides a comprehensive frame work for designing next-generation edible scaffold systems. Nonetheless, the field continues to face challenges, including structural optimization, regulatory validation, and scale-up, which are critical for future implementation. Ultimately, hybrid gel-based scaffolds are positioned as a foundational technology for advancing the functionality, manufacturability, and consumer readiness of cultured meat products, distinguishing this work from previous reviews. Unlike previous reviews that have focused primarily on fabrication techniques or tissue engineering applications, this review provides a uniquely food-centric perspective by systematically evaluating the compositional design of hybrid hydrogel-based scaffolds with edibility, scalability, and consumer acceptance in mind. Through a comparative analysis of food-safe additives and naturally derived biopolymers, this review establishes a framework that bridges biomaterials science and food engineering to advance the practical realization of cultured meat products. Full article

Forests are considered one of the most valuable natural areas in metropolitan region landscapes. Considering the sensitivity and ecosystem services provided by trees, the definition of urban forest ecosystems is nowadays based on a comprehensive understanding of the entire urban ecosystem. The effective capturing of particulate matter is one of the ecosystem services provided by urban forests. These ecosystems function as efficient biological filters. Plants accumulate pollutants passively via their leaves. Therefore, another ecosystem service provided by city forests could be the use of tree organs as bioindicators of pollution. This paper aims to estimate differences in trace metal pollution between the wooded urban areas of Vienna and Krakow using leaves of evergreen and deciduous trees as biomonitors. An additional objective of the research was to assess the ability of the applied tree species to act as biomonitors. Plant samples of five species—Norway spruce, Scots pine, European larch, common white birch, and common beech—were collected within both areas, in seven locations: four in the “Wienerwald” Vienna forest (Austria) and three in the “Las Wolski” forest in Krakow (Poland). Concentrations of Cr, Cu, Cd, Pb, and Zn in plant material were determined. Biomonitoring studies with deciduous and coniferous tree leaves showed statistically higher heavy metal contamination in the “Las Wolski” forest compared to the “Wienerwald” forest. Based on the conducted analyses and the literature study, it can be concluded that among the analyzed tree species, only two: European beech and common white birch can be considered potential indicators in environmental studies. These species appear to be suitable bioindicators, as both are widespread in urban woodlands of Central Europe and have shown the highest accumulation levels of trace metals. Full article

Using solid particulates as a heat transfer medium for concentrated solar power (CSP) systems has many advantages, positioning them as a superior option compared with conventional heat transfer media such as steam, oil, air, and molten salt. However, a critical imperative lies in the comprehensive evaluation of the properties of potential solid particulates intended for utilization under such extreme thermal conditions. This paper undertakes an exhaustive examination of both ambient and high-temperature thermophysical properties of four naturally occurring particulate materials, Riyadh white sand, Riyadh red sand, Saudi olivine sand, and US olivine sand, and one well-known engineered particulate material. The parameters under scrutiny encompass loose bulk density, tapped bulk density, real density, sintering temperature, and thermal conductivity. The results reveal that the theoretical density decreases with the increase in temperature. The bulk density of solid particulates depends strongly on the particulate size distribution, as well as on the compaction. The tapped bulk density was found to be larger than the loose density for all particulates, as expected. The sintering test proved that Riyadh white sand is sintered at the highest temperature and pressure, 1300 °C and 50 MPa, respectively. US olivine sand was solidified at 800 °C and melted at higher temperatures. This proves that US olivine sand is not suitable to be used as a thermal energy storage and heat transfer medium in high-temperature particle-based CSP systems. The experimental results of thermal diffusivity/conductivity reveal that, for all particulates, both properties decrease with the increase in temperature, and results up to 475.5 °C are reported. Full article

The unique characteristics of desert vegetation, such as different leaf morphology, discrete canopy structures, sparse and uneven distribution, etc., pose significant challenges for remote sensing-based estimation of fractional vegetation cover (FVC). The Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) system can accurately distinguish vegetation patches, extract weak vegetation signals, and navigate through complex terrain, making it suitable for applications in small-scale FVC extraction. In this study, we selected the floodplain fan with Caragana korshinskii Kom as the constructive species in Hatengtaohai National Nature Reserve, Bayannur, Inner Mongolia, China, as our study area. We investigated the remote sensing extraction method of desert sparse vegetation cover by placing samples across three gradients: the top, middle, and edge of the fan. We then acquired UAV multispectral images; evaluated the applicability of various vegetation indices (VIs) using methods such as supervised classification, linear regression models, and machine learning; and explored the feasibility and stability of multiple machine learning models in this region. Our results indicate the following: (1) We discovered that the multispectral vegetation index is superior to the visible vegetation index and more suitable for FVC extraction in vegetation-sparse desert regions. (2) By comparing five machine learning regression models, it was found that the XGBoost and KNN models exhibited relatively lower estimation performance in the study area. The spatial distribution of plots appeared to influence the stability of the SVM model when estimating fractional vegetation cover (FVC). In contrast, the RF and LASSO models demonstrated robust stability across both training and testing datasets. Notably, the RF model achieved the best inversion performance (R² = 0.876, RMSE = 0.020, MAE = 0.016), indicating that RF is one of the most suitable models for retrieving FVC in naturally sparse desert vegetation. This study provides a valuable contribution to the limited existing research on remote sensing-based estimation of FVC and characterization of spatial heterogeneity in small-scale desert sparse vegetation ecosystems dominated by a single species. Full article

This study presents a semi-random mobility model called Semi-Random Elliptical Movement (SREM), developed for relay-oriented Flying Ad Hoc Networks (FANETs). In FANETs, node distribution has a major impact on network performance, making the mobility model a critical design element. While random models offer simplicity and path diversity, they often result in unstable relay paths due to inconsistent node placement. In contrast, planned path models provide alignment but lack the flexibility needed in dynamic environments. SREM addresses these challenges by enabling nodes to move along elliptical trajectories, combining autonomous movement with alignment to the relay path. This approach encourages natural node concentration along the relay path while maintaining distributed mobility. The spatial characteristics of SREM have been analytically defined and validated through the Monte Carlo method, confirming stable node distributions that support effective relaying. Computer simulation results show that SREM performs better than general mobility models that do not account for relaying, offering more suitable performance in relay-focused scenarios. These findings suggest that SREM provides both structural consistency and practical effectiveness, making it a strong candidate for improving the realism and reliability of FANET simulations involving relay-based communication. Full article

Cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) rupture is a common orthopedic disorder in dogs, leading to stifle joint instability and progressive osteoarthritis. This study aimed to develop and biomechanically evaluate a novel intra-articular reconstruction system designed to mimic the natural ligament and restore joint stability following CrCL excision. The system consisted of a 3D-printed thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) graft, cerclage wire, and H-button fixation. Fourteen pelvic limbs from mature mixed-breed cadaveric dogs were used. The inclination angle, dimensions, volume, tensile strength, and elongation of the native CrCL were measured. Seven CrCL-deficient stifles were reconstructed using the proposed system and tested biomechanically. The native CrCL showed a significantly higher tensile strength than the TPU graft; however, the TPU demonstrated a greater flexibility. The reconstruction system successfully stabilized the joint and provided repeatable fixation. Significant correlations were found between CrCL volume and both age and body weight. These findings support the mechanical suitability of the proposed system for ex vivo stifle stabilization and highlight the potential of 3D-printed TPU in ligament reconstruction. Further in vivo studies are recommended to assess long-term performance, including implant integration, tissue remodeling, and clinical outcomes. Full article

Empirical and numerical methodologies for the geomechanical assessment of underground excavations have evolved in recent years to adapt to the geotechnical and structural conditions of natural caves, enabling stability evaluation and ensuring safe conditions for speleological exploration. This study analyzes the evolution of the state of the art of these techniques worldwide, assessing their reliability and application context, and identifying the most suitable methodologies for determining the stability of the Al-Badia lava tube. The research was conducted through bibliographic analysis and rock mass characterization using empirical geomechanical classifications. Subsequently, the numerical boundary element method (BEM) was applied to compare the obtained results and model the stress–strain behavior of the cavity. The results allowed the classification of the Al-Badia lava tube into stable, transition, and unstable zones, using empirical support charts and determining the safety factors of the surrounding rock mass. The study site highlights that empirical methods are rather conservative, and numerical results align better with observed conditions. Full article

Electrochromic devices (ECDs) capable of modulating both visible color and infrared (IR) emissivity are promising for applications in smart thermal camouflage and multifunctional displays. However, conventional transmissive ECDs suffer from limited IR modulation due to the low IR transmittance of transparent electrodes. Here, we report a reflection-type electrochromic zinc-ion battery (HWEC-ZIB) using a self-doped polyaniline nanorod film (SP(ANI-MA)) as the active layer. By positioning the active material at the device surface, this structure avoids interference from transparent electrodes and enables broadband and efficient IR emissivity tuning. To prevent electrolyte-induced IR absorption, a thermal lamination encapsulation method is employed. The optimized device achieves emissivity modulation ranges of 0.28 (3–5 μm) and 0.19 (8–14 μm), delivering excellent thermal camouflage performance. It also exhibits a visible color change from earthy yellow to deep green, suitable for various natural environments. In addition, the HWEC-ZIB shows a high areal capacity of 72.15 mAh cm⁻² at 0.1 mA cm⁻² and maintains 80% capacity after 5000 cycles, demonstrating outstanding electrochemical stability. This work offers a versatile device platform integrating IR stealth, visual camouflage, and energy storage, providing a promising solution for next-generation adaptive camouflage and defense-oriented electronics. Full article

Alperujo, a solid by-product from the two-phase olive oil extraction process, poses significant environmental challenges due to its high organic load, phytotoxicity, and phenolic content. At the same time, it represents a promising feedstock for recovering value-added compounds such as phenols and volatile fatty acids (VFAs). When used as a substrate for white rot fungi (WRF), it also produces ligninolytic enzymes. This study explores the use of two native WRF, Anthracophyllum discolor and Stereum hirsutum, for the biotransformation of alperujo under solid-state fermentation conditions, with and without supplementation of copper and manganese, two cofactors known to enhance fungal enzymatic activity. S. hirsutum stood out for its ability to release high concentrations of phenolic compounds (up to 6001 ± 236 mg gallic acid eq L⁻¹) and VFAs (up to 1627 ± 325 mg L⁻¹) into the aqueous extract, particularly with metal supplementation. In contrast, A. discolor was more effective in degrading phenolic compounds within the solid matrix, achieving a 41% reduction over a 30-day period. However, its ability to accumulate phenolics and VFAs in the extract was limited. Both WRF exhibited increased enzymatic activities (particularly Laccase and Manganese Peroxidase) with the addition of Cu-Mn, highlighting the potential of the aqueous extract as a natural source of biocatalysts. Phytotoxicity assays using Solanum lycopersicum seeds confirmed a partial detoxification of the treated alperujo. However, none of the fungi could entirely eliminate inhibitory effects on their own, suggesting the need for complementary stabilization steps before agricultural reuse. Overall, the results indicate that S. hirsutum, especially when combined with metal supplementation, is better suited for valorizing alperujo through the recovery of bioactive compounds. Meanwhile, A. discolor may be more suitable for detoxifying the solid phase strategies. These findings support the integration of fungal pretreatment into biorefinery schemes that valorize agroindustrial residues while mitigating environmental issues. Full article

Background: Population persistence for organisms to survive in a world with a rapidly changing climate will require either dispersal to suitable areas, evolutionary adaptation to altered conditions and/or sufficient phenotypic plasticity to withstand it. Given the slow growth and geographically isolated populations of many tree species, there is a high likelihood of local adaption or the acclimation of functional traits in these populations across the UK. Objectives: Given the slow growth and often isolated populations of Tilia cordata (lime tree), we hypothesised that there is a high likelihood of local adaptation or the acclimation of metabolic traits in these populations across the UK. Our aim was to test if the functional metabolomic traits of Tilia cordata (lime tree), collected in situ from natural populations, varied within and between populations and to compare this to neutral allele variation in the population. Methods: We used a metabolic fingerprinting approach to obtain a snapshot of the metabolic status of leaves collected from T. cordata from six populations across the UK. Environmental metadata, longer-term functional traits (specific leaf area) and neutral allelic variation in the population were also measured to assess the plastic capacity and local adaptation of the species. Results: The metabolic fingerprints derived from leaf material collected and fixed in situ from individuals in six populations of T. cordata across its UK range were similar, despite contrasting environmental conditions during sampling. Neutral allele frequencies showed almost no significant group structure, indicating low differentiation between populations. The specific leaf area did vary between sites. Conclusions: The low metabolic variation between UK populations of T. cordata despite contrasting environmental conditions during sampling indicates high levels of phenotypic plasticity. Full article

Real-time wildlife monitoring on edge devices poses significant challenges due to limited power, constrained bandwidth, and unreliable connectivity, especially in remote natural habitats. Conventional object detection systems often transmit redundant data of the same animals detected across multiple consecutive frames as a part of a single event, resulting in increased power consumption and inefficient bandwidth usage. Furthermore, maintaining consistent animal identities in the wild is difficult due to occlusions, variable lighting, and complex environments. In this study, we propose a lightweight hybrid tracking framework built on the YOLOv8m deep neural network, combining motion-based Kalman filtering with Local Binary Pattern (LBP) similarity for appearance-based re-identification using texture and color features. To handle ambiguous cases, we further incorporate Hue-Saturation-Value (HSV) color space similarity. This approach enhances identity consistency across frames while reducing redundant transmissions. The framework is optimized for real-time deployment on edge platforms such as NVIDIA Jetson Orin Nano and Raspberry Pi 5. We evaluate our method against state-of-the-art trackers using event-based metrics such as MOTA, HOTA, and IDF1, with a focus on detected animals occlusion handling, trajectory analysis, and counting during both day and night. Our approach significantly enhances tracking robustness, reduces ID switches, and provides more accurate detection and counting compared to existing methods. When transmitting time-series data and detected frames, it achieves up to 99.87% bandwidth savings and 99.67% power reduction, making it highly suitable for edge-based wildlife monitoring in resource-constrained environments. Full article