Search Results (632)

The eutrophication of aquatic ecosystems often triggers the excessive growth of cyanobacteria, many of which release toxic metabolites such as microcystins (MCs). When irrigation water is contaminated by these compounds, adverse consequences may arise for plants as well as for animal and human health. In contrast, certain non-toxic cyanobacterial species like Limnospira platensis are increasingly regarded as valuable tools for sustainable agriculture, given their ability to enhance plant nutrition, growth, yield, and stress tolerance while also mitigating the detrimental impacts of MCs. The present work aimed to investigate the potential of L. platensis extract to enhance growth, physiological responses, and tolerance of radish (Raphanus sativus) plants stressed with Microcystis aeruginosa extract containing microcystins. Experiments were conducted in a hydroponic system under controlled environmental conditions, where radish seedlings were cultivated in perlite and exposed for 45 days to M. aeruginosa extract (10 and 40 µg/L of MCs) and L. platensis extract (0.1 and 1 g/L), applied either separately or in combination. The results showed that the application of L. platensis extract, especially at 1 g/L in combination with 40 µg/L of MCs, decreased the bioaccumulation of MCs from 8.81 to 5.35 µg/kg FW in the leaves and from 14.64 to 10.15 µg/kg FW in the taproots. In addition, it significantly stimulated radish growth and improved several biochemical parameters. In contrast, exposure to MCs at 10 and 40 µg/L negatively affected growth, chlorophyll pigments and protein contents while promoting the accumulation of malondialdehyde (MDA), polyphenols and sugars. The activities of peroxidase (POD), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) were also increased under MCs stress, suggesting activation of the antioxidant defense system in response to oxidative damage. Combinations of MCs with L. platensis extract, especially at 1 g/L, improved antioxidant enzyme activities by significantly reducing MDA levels, biometric parameters, chlorophyll pigment, and protein and sugar contents. These results indicate that the application of L. platensis extract as a biostimulant can improve radish development, growth, and tolerance to MC-induced stress. Full article

The growing demand for air connectivity, coupled with the forecasted increase in passengers by 2040, implies an exigency in the aviation sector to adopt sustainable approaches for net zero emission by 2050. Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is currently the most promising short-term solution; however, ensuring its overall sustainability depends on reducing the life cycle carbon footprints. A key challenge prevails in hydrogen usage as a reactant for the approved ASTM routes of SAF. The processing, conversion and refinement of feed entailing hydrodeoxygenation (HDO), decarboxylation, hydrogenation, isomerisation and hydrocracking requires substantial hydrogen input. This hydrogen is sourced either in situ or ex situ, with the supply chain encompassing renewables or non-renewables origins. Addressing this hydrogen usage and recognising the emission implications thereof has therefore become a novel research priority. Aside from the preferred adoption of renewable water electrolysis to generate hydrogen, other promising pathways encompass hydrothermal gasification, biomass gasification (with or without carbon capture) and biomethane with steam methane reforming (with or without carbon capture) owing to the lower greenhouse emissions, the convincing status of the technology readiness level and the lower acidification potential. Equally imperative are measures for reducing hydrogen demand in SAF pathways. Strategies involve identifying the appropriate catalyst (monometallic and bimetallic sulphide catalyst), increasing the catalyst life in the deoxygenation process, deploying low-cost iso-propanol (hydrogen donor), developing the aerobic fermentation of sugar to 1,4 dimethyl cyclooctane with the intermediate formation of isoprene and advancing aqueous phase reforming or single-stage hydro processing. Other supportive alternatives include implementing the catalytic and co-pyrolysis of waste oil with solid feedstocks and selecting highly saturated feedstock. Thus, future progress demands coordinated innovation and research endeavours to bolster the seamless integration of the cutting-edge hydrogen production processes with the SAF infrastructure. Rigorous techno-economic and life cycle assessments, alongside technological breakthroughs and biomass characterisation, are indispensable for ensuring scalability and sustainability. Full article

Background: Energy drink [ED] consumption is common among young adults and has been linked to adverse health effects and risky behaviors. This study compared medical and non-medical university students to assess whether health education influences knowledge, consumption, and attitudes toward EDs. Although medical and non-medical students are not minors, their opinions on the national ban on EDs sales to individuals under 18 provide valuable insight into attitudes toward regulation. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 871 students (42.1% medical, 57.9% non-medical). The questionnaire assessed demographics, ED consumption, knowledge, motivations, and regulatory attitudes. It was pilot-tested on 30 students to ensure clarity, and internal consistency was confirmed (Cronbach’s α = 0.78 for knowledge; α = 0.81 for attitudes). Non-parametric tests (Mann–Whitney U, Kruskal–Wallis) and chi-square analyses compared groups. Results: Participants’ mean age was 22.1 years; most were female (73.2%). Medical students demonstrated significantly better knowledge of ED ingredients (simple sugars, B vitamins, L-carnitine, electrolytes; p < 0.01) and adverse effects (e.g., irritability, dizziness, nausea; p < 0.05). However, ED consumption frequency did not differ between medical and non-medical students. The main reasons for ED use were energy and concentration; social motives were less frequent. Female students more often supported the ban on ED sales to minors and additional advertising restrictions (p < 0.001), while overall confidence in enforcement was low. Conclusions: Despite greater awareness, medical students consume EDs at rates comparable to non-medical students. Educating medical students on safe caffeine use is crucial, since shift work may promote stimulant intake. Combining targeted education with stronger enforcement could enhance the impact of regulatory policies and reduce risky consumption among young adults. Full article

Leishmaniasis is a vector-borne disease of global concern, transmitted by sand flies of the genera Lutzomyia and Phlebotomus. Attractive toxic sugar baits (ATSBs) have emerged as a promising alternative for vector control, leveraging the sugar-feeding behavior of adult sand flies. Mandelonitrile, a plant-derived compound with potent anti-Leishmania activity, has shown promise in reducing parasite load and sand fly longevity. However, key aspects such as bait stability and off-target effects remain poorly understood. In this study, we evaluated the stability of 70% sucrose-based sugar baits supplemented with methylparaben or sodium azide, and quantified mandelonitrile degradation over time using a GC-MS protocol adapted for high-sucrose matrices. We also assessed the physiological impact of mandelonitrile on the non-target model organism Drosophila melanogaster. Results demonstrated that methylparaben and sodium azide can stabilize sucrose solutions for up to seven days, although both compounds affected sand fly survival. Mandelonitrile was undetectable after one week, indicating rapid degradation or volatilization. In D. melanogaster, mandelonitrile reduced longevity and inhibited oviposition. This is the first report on the stability and off-target effects of mandelonitrile sugar baits, highlighting the need for improved formulations and thorough evaluation of their ecological safety, with the goal of developing transmission-blocking sugar baits for leishmaniasis control. Full article

The flavonoids in the flesh significantly impact fruit quality and nutritional value. In this study, the flesh of ‘Heqingxiaoshali’ (HF) and ‘Lunanhuangpingli’ (LF) was analyzed by non-targeted metabolomics and transcriptomics. The results showed that the contents of reducing sugars, titratable acids and total flavonoids in HF flesh were significantly higher than those in LF. Metabolomics analysis revealed significant differences in lipids, organic acids, phenylpropanoids, and polyketides between HF and LF at each developmental stage, with Trilobatin, Cratenacin, and Betuletol 3-galactoside showing significant differences across all stages, and proanthocyanidins being the most abundant flavonoids in HF at harvest. Transcriptome analysis revealed significant differences in genes related to flavonoid biosynthesis between the two varieties, with differentially expressed genes enriched in the “phenylpropanoid biosynthesis” and “flavonoid biosynthesis” pathways across at least four developmental stages. WGCNA suggested that differences in the flavonoid accumulation were closely related to seven structural genes (PAL, CHI, FHT, FLS, DFR, ANS and ANR) and a transcription factor (MYB4), as well as genes related to auxin response and jasmonic acid metabolism. This study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms of flavonoid accumulation in the fruit flesh of pears and offers a theoretical basis for pear fruit quality improvement. Full article

This study explored the utilization of date powder produced from non-marketable Sukkari and surplus dates as a natural sugar substitute in milk chocolate, with the dual objectives of improving product quality and reducing Saudi Arabia’s reliance on imported sugar. Molding chocolates were formulated with 10%, 20%, and 30% sugar substitution, while coating chocolates contained 20%, 40%, and 60%. Physical, chemical, and sensory properties were assessed immediately after production and following six months of refrigerated storage. Increasing substitution levels led to higher viscosity, with peak values observed at 30% in molding chocolate and 60% in coating chocolate. Ash and moisture contents also rose with substitution, whereas fat, protein, and carbohydrate levels remained largely unaffected. Energy content declined as substitution increased, and no significant differences were detected in peroxide or acid values between control and treated samples throughout storage. Sensory evaluations confirmed that molding chocolate with up to 20% substitution and coating chocolate with up to 40% substitution maintained comparable acceptability to control samples both initially and after storage. Overall, the findings recommend sugar replacement with date powder at 20% in molding chocolate and 40% in coating chocolate to achieve high-quality, nutritionally enhanced products with stable sensory and storage characteristics. Full article

In saline soil, legumes are restricted in their growth potential by osmotic stress, ion toxicity, and oxidative damage. We evaluated five halotolerant plant growth-promoting bacteria and selected Pseudomonas putida RT12 for its exceptional EPS production, tolerance to 600 mM NaCl, strong biofilm development, and plant growth-promoting traits (ACC-deaminase 2.86 µM·mg⁻¹; IAA 144 µM·mL⁻¹). RT12 was evaluated on two varieties of peas (peas2009 and 9800-10) with and without inoculation at 0, 75, and 150 mM NaCl concentrations. RT12 markedly protected growth under severe salinity: at 150 mM, shoot length rose to 23.13 cm (peas2009) and 17.44 cm (9800-10), in contrast to 11.18 cm and 12.32 cm in uninoculated specimens; root length and dry weight demonstrated comparable recovery (root length increased from 11.00 to 22.25 cm; dry weight of peas2009 from 0.15 to 0.17 and 0.41 to 0.71 g). RT12 sustained photosynthesis (total chlorophyll increased from 43.5 to 54.5), enhanced relative water content (to 94.1% and 97.2%), elevated osmolytes (total soluble proteins rose from 7.34 to 18.12 µg·g⁻¹ FW; total soluble sugars increased from 19.1 to 41.3 mg·g⁻¹ FW), and augmented antioxidant activities (catalase increased from 2.11 to 4.70; superoxide dismutase rose from 1.20 to 4.83; peroxidase increased from 0.08 to 0.18), while reducing malondialdehyde/hydrogen peroxide levels. RT12 was significant as it inhibited the accumulation of Na⁺ (from 23.95 to 16.32 mg·g⁻¹ DW), elevated K⁺ levels (from 17.76 to 29.12 mg·g⁻¹ DW), and restored the K⁺/Na⁺ ratio to normal (from 0.74 to 1.59) in inoculated plants compared to non-inoculated ones. A multivariate analysis linked growth protection to ionic homeostasis, osmotic control, and the detoxification of reactive oxygen species (ROS). RT12 is a promising bioinoculant for cultivating peas in saline-affected soils. Full article

Artificial sweeteners, or non-caloric sweeteners (NCSs), are widely consumed as sugar substitutes to reduce energy intake and manage obesity. Once considered inert, accumulating evidence now shows that NCSs interact with host physiology, altering gut microbiota composition and neural circuits that regulate feeding. This review synthesizes current knowledge on how NCSs disrupt the gut–brain axis (GBA), with particular focus on microbiota-mediated effects and neural reward processing. In homeostatic regulation, NCS-induced dysbiosis reduces beneficial taxa such as Akkermansia muciniphila and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, diminishes short-chain fatty acid production, impairs gut barrier integrity, and promotes systemic inflammation. These changes blunt satiety signaling and favor appetite-promoting pathways. Beyond homeostasis, NCSs also rewire hedonic circuits: unlike caloric sugars, which couple sweet taste with caloric reinforcement to robustly activate dopaminergic and hypothalamic pathways, NCSs provide sensory sweetness without energy, weakening reward prediction error signaling and altering neuropeptidergic modulation by orexin, neurotensin, and oxytocin. Microbial disruption further exacerbates dopaminergic instability by reducing precursors and metabolites critical for reward regulation. Together, these top-down (neural) and bottom-up (microbial) mechanisms converge to foster maladaptive food seeking, metabolic dysregulation, and increased vulnerability to overeating. Identifying whether microbiome-targeted interventions can counteract these effects is a key research priority for mitigating the impact of NCSs on human health. Full article

Sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) is very sensitive to fluctuations in micronutrient availability, and either an excess or a shortage of boron (B) may reduce the plant’s development and its ability to withstand stress. B is essential for photosynthesis and cell wall integrity, but the physiological requirements for an optimal supply during early development remain unclear. The photosynthetic efficiency and oxidative stress reactions of sugar beet seedlings were tested under five different B concentrations: 0, 50, 500, 1000, and 2000 µM H₃BO₃. Integrating non-invasive methods like SPAD, delayed fluorescence (DF), and maximum quantum efficiency of PSII (Fv/Fm) with red–green–blue (RGB) imaging enabled the detailed processing of both the initial and decay phases of DF. According to the results, SPAD and Fv/Fm were not sensitive indicators of early B stress; however, DF decay slopes and red–green–blue pixel distribution distinguished between optimum (500 µM), inadequate (0 µM), and hazardous (2000 µM) treatments. Moreover, lipid oxidation-related biochemical analyses were used to evaluate the ferric reducing antioxidant capacity (FRAP) and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration. At the extremes of insufficiency and toxicity, MDA levels demonstrated enhanced lipid peroxidation, while FRAP increased with B concentration. The outcome of the research revealed optimum (500 µM) and toxicity-inducing (2000 µM) concentrations at early stages of sugar beet development. The study highlights that the combined use of DF kinetics and RGB analysis provides valuable, non-invasive markers for the early identification of B-stress, which is also confirmed by biochemical indicators, thereby promoting more efficient micronutrient management in sugar beet cultivation. Full article

Proximal humerus fractures are frequent injuries that often require internal fixation. Conventional metallic plates, however, present significant drawbacks such as corrosion, secondary removal surgeries, and adverse reactions in patients with metal hypersensitivity. This study evaluates biocomposite plates fabricated from polylactic acid (PLA) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), reinforced with hydroxyapatite (HA) derived from sugar industry by-products (BCF) at 10% and 20% concentrations. These composites are compatible with both injection molding and 3D printing, enabling the design of patient-specific implants. Characterization by SEM, FTIR, XRD, and DSC confirmed that BCF incorporation enhances strength, stiffness, osteoconductivity, and biocompatibility. Mechanical testing showed that PVA/BCF exhibited greater tensile strength and stiffness, suggesting suitability for load-bearing applications, though their water solubility restricts use in humid environments and prevents filament-based 3D printing. PLA/BCF composites demonstrated better processability, favorable mechanical performance, and compatibility with both manufacturing routes. Finite element analysis highlighted the importance of plate–humerus contact in stress distribution and fixation stability. Compared with non-biodegradable thermoplastics such as PEI and PEEK, PLA/BCF and PVA/BCF offer the additional advantage of controlled biodegradation, reducing the need for secondary surgeries. Cell viability assays confirmed cytocompatibility, with optimal outcomes at 10% BCF in PVA and 20% in PLA. These results position PLA/BCF and PVA/BCF as sustainable, patient-tailored alternatives to metallic implants, combining adequate mechanical support with bone regeneration potential. Full article

Modern agriculture is seeking methods that reduce pesticide use while simultaneously providing high-quality raw materials. The aim of this innovative study was to determine how treating potato planting tubers with ultrasound in an aqueous medium (pre-sowing treatment) affects the subsequent quality of the raw material and the final product. A three-year field experiment was conducted using a split-plot design with three replicates, comparing traditional technology with a technology using ultrasonic treatment of seed potatoes. Eight edible potato varieties were studied. Sonication significantly improved the processing quality of the tubers. Tubers from treated seed potatoes had significantly lower reducing sugar content (0.02 to 0.1%, depending on the variety). As a result, chips produced from sonicated tubers exhibited a lighter color, improved overall aesthetics and flavor, and reduced discoloration and moisture staining. The results obtained suggest that ultrasonic treatment of seed potatoes is a highly effective, non-thermal method for increasing the value of raw materials used in food processing. This is a promising, innovative technology with significant application potential, supporting sustainable agriculture by improving the quality of tubers and the finished product (chips) at the source. In the future, it will be necessary to optimize sonication parameters and evaluate the economic potential of this technology. Full article

Non-nutritive artificial sweeteners (NASs) are xenobiotics widely used in the food industry as sugar substitutes, since they provide few to no calories compared to sucrose. While NASs are considered safe at the acceptable daily intake (ADI) established by regulatory agencies, there is increasing controversy regarding their potential ability to promote metabolic derangements, especially to disrupt the gut microbiome balance. In this study, we analyzed a large cohort of the most commonly consumed beverages in Spain, categorizing them by the type of soda to determine the composition and content of the most frequently used NASs in the food industry. All commercial NAS formulations analyzed contained mixtures of different NASs. The NAS contents were always within regulated limits, although some samples yielded values close to these thresholds. Most soda samples analyzed contained NASs, even though the majority were not labeled as “zero sugars”, “no sugar added”, or “reduced calories”, which may mislead consumers. A preliminary statistical evaluation of the obtained results (cluster analysis) suggests that beverages can be grouped into three distinct clusters based on the total amount of NAS present in the samples. Differences in the total NAS content were significant among the three groups, with one cluster showing two- and four-fold higher levels than the others. Full article

Control strategies for leishmaniasis increasingly target sand fly vectors through sugar feeding approaches containing bioactive compounds. This study investigated the behavioral and toxicological effects of the iridoids plumericin and isoplumericin, isolated from Himatanthus sucuuba, on Lutzomyia longipalpis by integrating computational and experimental approaches focused on gustatory system interactions. The iridoids were purified by column chromatography and characterized by GC-MS. The gustatory receptor A0A1B0CHD5 was structurally characterized through homology modeling, followed by molecular docking and 100 ns molecular dynamics simulations. Behavioral assays evaluated survival, repellency, and feeding preferences using sugar solutions supplemented with an iridoid mixture. Toxicity was assessed in Drosophila melanogaster as a non-target organism model. Molecular docking results revealed comparable binding affinities between sucrose (ChemPLP score 57.96) and the iridoids plumericin (49.08) and isoplumericin (47.75). Molecular dynamics simulations confirmed the stability of the ligand–receptor complexes and revealed distinct conformational changes. The iridoids did not affect L. longipalpis survival, showed no repellency, and did not reduce sugar feeding acceptance. Preference for the control diet was observed only after continuous exposure (48 h), suggesting involvement of post-ingestive sensory processing. No acute toxicity was observed in D. melanogaster (96% survival). These findings demonstrate that iridoids preserve vector feeding behavior and survival while exhibiting low toxicity to non-target organisms, supporting their potential use in gustatory modulation strategies in leishmaniasis vector control without compromising ecological safety. Full article

Background: Childhood obesity is a growing public health challenge, with altered taste perception potentially influencing food choices and contributing to weight gain. Objective: To determine detection thresholds for linoleic acid (fat taste) and sucrose (sweet taste) in children aged 6–12 years, and to explore associations with obesity, dietary intake, and food preferences. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 100 Tunisian children (mean age: 8.05 ± 1.44 years; 54% girls; 45 obese, 55 non-obese) were recruited from an educational support center in Nabeul. Taste sensitivity was evaluated using the 3-alternative forced choice (3-AFC) method with ascending concentrations of linoleic acid (0.018–12.0 mM) for fat taste and sucrose (0.00125–0.32 mol/L) for sweet taste. Participants were categorized as tasters or non-tasters based on detection thresholds. Anthropometric measurements, 24 h dietary recalls, food frequency questionnaires, and food preference assessments were also conducted. Results: Low taste sensitivity was common (93% for sweet, 49% for fat). Girls were more often fat tasters than boys (68.6% vs. 31.4%, p = 0.003). Children with obesity had higher fat taste thresholds (median 3.00 mM, range 0.37–12.0) than non-obese peers (median 1.50 mM, range 0.018–6.0; p = 0.012), indicating reduced fat taste sensitivity. Linear regression showed a significant positive association between fat taste threshold and BMI (p = 0.001), meaning higher detection thresholds corresponded to higher BMI. Sweet taste thresholds did not differ significantly between children with and without obesity (p = 0.731). Sweet non-tasters consumed more sucrose (85.9 ± 64.9 g/d vs. 70.3 ± 62.3 g/d; p = 0.033) and reported more frequent table sugar use (p = 0.047). Fat non-tasters consumed more magnesium (425 ± 414 mg/d vs. 287 ± 60.8 mg/d; p = 0.026) and fiber (22.9 ± 7.51 g/d vs. 20.3 ± 5.32 g/d; p = 0.048) and reported higher intake frequencies of cheese (p = 0.039), sour cream (p = 0.004), and fast food (p = 0.012). Food preferences reflected similar patterns, with non-tasters generally rating high-fat or high-sugar foods more favorably. While most children demonstrated high detection thresholds, girls showed significantly higher fat taste sensitivity compared to boys (p = 0.03). Children with obesity exhibited significantly higher fat taste detection thresholds compared to non-obese children (p = 0.012), with thresholds ranging from 0.37 to 12.0 mM versus 0.018 to 6.0 mM, respectively. No significant difference was observed for sweet taste perception between weight groups (p = 0.731). Conclusions: Nearly half of the children exhibited reduced fat taste sensitivity, which was moderately associated with obesity and positively linked to BMI. Full article

Background: Sarcopenia is a critical complication in hemodialysis patients, associated with poor clinical outcomes, increased morbidity, and reduced quality of life. Despite this, its significance, prevalence, and risk factor data in developing countries remain limited. Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of sarcopenia and identify its independent risk factors in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis, while evaluating its impact on physical performance, nutritional intake, and quality of life. Methods: A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted across three hemodialysis units in Tunisia. Sarcopenia was diagnosed using EWGSOP2 (European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People 2) criteria based on muscle strength, muscle mass, and physical performance. Handgrip dynamometry, mid-arm and calf circumferences, gait speed, Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), and Timed Up and Go (TUG) test were employed. Nutritional intake was assessed using a 7-day food history. Quality of life and functional status were evaluated using the SF-36 and Barthel Index, respectively. Logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors of sarcopenia. Results: Among 118 patients (mean age 56.74 ± 14.44 years), the prevalence of sarcopenia was 42.4% (n = 50). Sarcopenic individuals exhibited significantly poorer physical performance than their non-sarcopenic counterparts. Marked reductions were observed in handgrip strength (p < 0.001, d = −1.60, very large), SPPB scores (p < 0.001, d = −1.55, very large), and increased TUG time (p < 0.001, d = 1.46, very large), indicating substantial functional impairment. Limb circumferences were also significantly lower in the sarcopenic group, including calf circumference (p = 0.002, d = −1.39, large) and mid-arm circumference (p = 0.013, d = −0.87, large). Gait speed was slower (p = 0.010, d = −0.40, small to moderate). Health-related quality of life was significantly compromised in sarcopenic individuals, with lower SF-36 total scores (p = 0.001, d = −1.96, very large) and reduced functional independence as measured by the Barthel Index (p = 0.010, d = −0.97, large). Hemoglobin levels were also significantly lower in the sarcopenic group (p = 0.048, d = −0.96, large). Dietary assessment revealed lower fiber intake (p = 0.006, d = 1.80, very large) and reduced magnesium consumption (p = 0.020, d = 0.94, large) among individuals with sarcopenia. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, diabetes mellitus (OR = 2.14, 95% CI: 1.30–3.67, p < 0.001) and longer duration of hemodialysis (OR = 1.56, 95% CI: 1.20–2.71, p = 0.028) were identified as independent predictors of sarcopenia. A lower SPPB score (OR = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.35–0.65, p < 0.001) was associated with sarcopenia. Conclusion: Sarcopenia is highly common among hemodialysis patients and is independently linked to diabetes, treatment duration, and reduced physical performance. It significantly affects the quality of life and ability to perform daily activities. Routine screening with simple functional tests is crucial, especially in high-risk patients. Early intervention should include physical rehabilitation, nutritional support, and strict blood sugar management to decrease sarcopenia-related complications. Full article