Search Results (723)

In severely saline-alkali soils, surface salt accumulation caused by intense water evaporation results in elevated salinity, low organic matter content, and suppressed microbial activity, collectively impairing plant physiological metabolism and growth. Superabsorbent polymers hold significant potential for ameliorating saline-alkali soils by regulating soil water–salt dynamics. Biochar, a carbon-rich organic material, plays a pivotal role in enhancing soil organic matter storage, whereas vermicompost, a microbiologically active organic amendment, contributes substantially to improving soil microbial functions. Therefore, this study developed a novel superabsorbent polymer reinforced with vermicompost and biochar (VB-SAP) and further investigated its effects on metabolic pathways associated with enhanced S. cannabina stress resistance in severely saline-alkali soils. The results showed that VB-SAPs significantly increased soil water and organic matter contents by 10.9% and 38.7% (p < 0.05), respectively, and decreased topsoil salinity of saline soils by 44.9% (p < 0.05). The application of VB-SAP altered the soil bacterial community structure and increased the complexity of the bacterial co-occurrence network, specifically enriching members of the phylum Pseudomonadota, which are widely recognized as common plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria. Moreover, VB-SAPs significantly upregulated root-associated salt tolerance genes involved in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, tryptophan metabolism, and arginine–proline pathways, thereby enhancing root biomass accumulation, nutrient uptake, and shoot growth of S. cannabina. Collectively, these findings reveal that the new type of superabsorbent polymer reinforced with vermicompost and biochar may enhance the salt tolerance and growth of S. cannabina by reshaping the rhizosphere microenvironment, including reducing soil salinity, increasing soil water and organic matter contents, and promoting beneficial bacteria in severely saline-alkali soil, thereby providing novel strategies for the integrated improvement of saline soils. Full article

This investigation examines diffusion processes for predicting whole-stand volume, incorporating the variability and uncertainty inherent in regional, operational, and environmental factors. The distribution and spatial organization of trees within a specified forest region, alongside dynamic fluctuations and intricate uncertainties, are modeled by a set of nonsymmetric stochastic differential equations of a sigmoidal nature. The study introduces a three-dimensional system of stochastic differential equations (SDEs) with mixed-effect parameters, designed to quantify the dynamics of the three-dimensional distribution of tree-size components—namely diameter (diameter at breast height), potentially occupied area, and height—with respect to the age of a tree. This research significantly contributes by translating the analysis of tree size variables, specifically height, occupied area, and diameter, into stochastic processes. This transformation facilitates the representation of stand volume changes over time. Crucially, the estimation of model parameters is based exclusively on measurements of tree diameter, occupied area, and height, avoiding the need for direct tree volume assessments. The newly developed model has proven capable of accurately predicting, tracking, and elucidating the dynamics of stand volume yield and growth as trees mature. An empirical dataset composed of mixed-species, uneven-aged permanent experimental plots in Lithuania serves to substantiate the theoretical findings. According to the dataset under examination, the model-based estimates of stand volume per hectare in this region exhibited satisfactory goodness-of-fit statistics. Specifically, the root mean square error (and corresponding relative root mean square error) for the living trees of mixed, pine, spruce, and birch tree species were 68.814 m³ (20.4%), 20.778 m³ (7.8%), 32.776 m³ (37.3%), and 4.825 m³ (26.3%), respectively. The model is executed within Maple, a symbolic algebra system. Full article

Understanding the dynamics of soil water and root systems is essential for managing and restoring ecosystems impacted by coal mining subsidence. However, existing research treats soil and plant responses separately, also with limited comparisons across different soil types, which hampers our understanding of their coupled effects. We examined the distribution of plant roots, soil water content and stable isotopes within the root zone in the subsidence and non-subsidence plots located in mining areas with sand-capped loess and sandy soil. Our results show that coal mining subsidence induces cracks and fissures in both sand-capped loess and sandy soil, enhancing soil infiltration and increasing deep soil water (>1 m). The increase in deep soil water was more pronounced in sand-capped loess, where subsidence exhibited near-precipitation lc-excess values (−5.9‰ to −0.2‰) and also shifted the soil water infiltration mechanism from piston flow to preferential flow. Moreover, land subsidence provides a more suitable soil physical environment that supports the growth of deeper and more extensive plant roots. The coupling degree (D) between the soil water system and root system was significantly higher in subsidence areas (D > 0.4), indicating enhanced root water absorption. These changes benefit plant physiological activities and stress response, providing an adaptive mechanism for plants in subsidence regions. This study provides new insights into the effects of coal mining subsidence on the root-soil interface in Earth’s Critical Zones and serves as a foundation for ecological restoration and management in subsidence-impacted areas. Full article

Previous research showed that a strain of Leuconostoc mesenteroides, isolated from goat’s raw milk cheese, was effective in slowing down the growth and reducing the maximum concentration of L. monocytogenes when evaluated in a milk model; furthermore, the extent of inhibition was dependent on the milk’s initial pH. The objectives of this study were as follows: (1) to determine whether the growth of L. monocytogenes in goat’s pasteurized milk cheese during maturation could be approximated from growth data obtained in the milk model medium, either in monoculture or in coculture with L. mesenteroides, and if so, (2) to model a milk-to-cheese conversion factor (Cf) for L. monocytogenes growth rate. Challenge tests were conducted by inoculating L. monocytogenes in monoculture and in coculture with L. mesenteroides in goat’s pasteurized milk adjusted at initial pH levels of 5.5, 6.0, and 6.5. The process of cheesemaking continued, and cheeses were ripened at 12 °C for 12 days. Each experimental growth curve was adjusted to a pH-driven dynamic model where the microbial maximum growth rate is a function of pH. As observed in the milk model medium, in coculture with L. mesenteroides, the optimum growth rate (μ_opt) of L. monocytogenes in maturing cheese was affected by the initial pH of milk: the lowest rate of 0.863 ± 0.042 day⁻¹ was obtained at the initial pH 5.5, in comparison to 1.239 ± 0.208 and 1.038 ± 0.308 day⁻¹ at pH 6.0 and 6.5, respectively. Regardless of the milk’s initial pH, L. mesenteroides did not reduce the maximum load of L. monocytogenes in maturing cheeses, as it did in the milk medium. On the contrary, at the milk’s initial pH of 5.5, 6.0, and 6.5, L. mesenteroides was able to decrease, on average, 2.2-fold, 1.5-fold, and 1.9-fold the μ_opt of L. monocytogenes in both milk medium and cheese, without significant differences between matrices. Following such validation in goat’s cheese, the square root of milk-to-cheese Cf for L. monocytogenes was estimated as 0.751 (SE = 0.0108), and the type of culture (monoculture and coculture) was not found to affect Cf (p = 0.320). In conclusion, this work validated the pre-acidification of milk as an efficient strategy that, when combined with the use of a protective culture, can synergically enhance the control of L. monocytogenes in cheese. Full article

Root exudates are key mediators of plant–soil–microbe interactions, shaping rhizosphere dynamics and influencing agroecosystem resilience. Comprising diverse primary and secondary metabolites, these compounds are actively secreted through specific transport pathways and are modulated by intrinsic plant traits and environmental conditions. Root exudates serve as chemical signals that recruit and structure microbial communities, facilitating nutrient mobilization, microbial feedbacks, and the regulation of plant growth and stress responses. By modulating soil chemical, physical, and biological properties, exudates contribute to carbon cycling, soil health, and the maintenance of ecosystem services. Moreover, they play multifunctional roles in enhancing plant tolerance to abiotic and biotic stresses, while also mediating interactions with neighboring plants. This review provides a holistic perspective on root exudation, encompassing their mechanisms and drivers, roles in rhizosphere ecology and plant stress adaptation, and methodological advances, while highlighting opportunities to harness these processes for resilient, productive, and sustainable agroecosystems. Full article

Plant root growth and architectural modifications are well-documented responses to phosphorous (P) starvation. The spatiotemporal dynamics of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) in mediating root development under P deficiency, especially in cereal crops like wheat, remain insufficiently understood. A nutrient solution experiment was conducted to grow two varieties of wheat, including SM15 and HG35, with the treatments of 0.005 and 0.25 mmol/L P supply. Exogenous H₂O₂ and its scavenger ascorbic acid (AsA), and a NADPH oxidase inhibitor diphenylene iodonium (DPI) were added. The distribution of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in roots were detected by chemical staining and fluorescent probe technology. Low P supply did not change the root dry weight and total root length, while it decreased the lateral root density. The increase in the primary root and lateral root growth in P-starved wheat coincided with more ROS in the cell wall of the elongation zone. ROS production and oxidative enzyme activity of P-starved roots increased significantly. Low H₂O₂ induced the formation of lateral roots and significantly increased lateral root density under low P conditions. High H₂O₂ significantly reduced lateral root density but stimulated the nodal root formation. Exogenous AsA or DPI addition reversed the promotion of root growth imposed under the low P treatment or H₂O₂ addition. Furthermore, exogenous H₂O₂ treatment reduced the inhibitory effect of the DPI treatment on nodal root formation. It is suggested that the involvement of ROS in the regulation of wheat root system architecture under low P supply. Full article

Bone metastases mark a critical and often terminal phase in cancer progression, where disseminated tumor cells (DTCs) manage to infiltrate and exploit the complex microenvironments of the bone marrow. While most current therapies focus on the well-known late-stage “vicious cycle” of osteolysis, they often overlook the earlier stages, namely, tumor cell colonization and dormancy. During these early phases, cancer cells co-opt hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) niches, using them as sanctuaries for long-term survival. In this review, we bring together emerging insights that highlight a trio of underappreciated cellular players in this metastatic takeover: megakaryocytes, erythroid lineage cells, and perivascular stromal subsets. Far from being passive bystanders, these cells actively shape the metastatic niche. For instance, megakaryocytes and platelets go beyond their role in transport; they orchestrate immune evasion and dormancy through mechanisms such as transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) signaling and the physical shielding of tumor cells. In parallel, we uncover a distinct “erythroid-immune” axis: here, stress-induced CD71⁺ erythroid progenitors suppress T-cell responses via arginase-mediated nutrient depletion and checkpoint engagement, forming a potent metabolic barrier against immune attack. Furthermore, leptin receptor–positive (LepR⁺) perivascular stromal cells emerge as key structural players. These stromal subsets not only act as anchoring points for DTCs but also maintain them in protective vascular zones via CXCL12 chemokine gradients. Altogether, these findings reveal that the metastatic bone marrow niche is not static; it is a highly dynamic, multi-lineage ecosystem. By mapping these intricate cellular interactions, we argue for a paradigm shift: targeting these early and cooperative crosstalk, whether through glycoprotein-A repetitions predominant (GARP) blockade, metabolic reprogramming, or other niche-disruptive strategies, could unlock new therapeutic avenues and prevent metastatic relapse at its root. Full article

Water scarcity continues to challenge arid regions such as Egypt, where growing population demands, climate change impacts, and increasing agricultural pressures intensify the need for sustainable water management. Treated wastewater has emerged as a viable alternative resource, provided that the effluent meets stringent quality standards for safe reuse. The purpose of this study was to develop a comprehensive model of the Khorshed Wastewater Treatment Plant (KWWTP) to depict the processes used for biological nutrient removal. Operational data was gathered and examined over a period of 18 months to describe the quality of wastewater discharged by the Advanced Sequencing Batch Reactor (ASBR) of the plant, using specific physicochemical parameters like TSS, COD, BOD₅, and N-NO₃⁻. A process flow diagram integrating the Activated Sludge Model No. 1 (ASM1) for biological nutrient removal was created using the GPS-X. The study determined the parameters influencing the nutrient removal efficiency by analyzing the responsiveness of kinetic and stoichiometric parameters. Variables related to denitrification, autotrophic growth, and yield for heterotrophic biomass were the main focus of the calibration modifications. The results showed that the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) for the dynamic-state was COD (0.02), BOD₅ (0.07), N-NO₃⁻ (0.75), and TSS (0.82), and for the steady state was COD (0.04), BOD₅ (0.11), N-NO₃⁻ (0.67), and TSS (0.10). Since the model’s accuracy was deemed acceptable, it provides a validated foundation for future scenario analysis and operational decision support that produces a trustworthy model for predicting effluent data for the concentrations of TSS, COD, BOD₅, and N-NO₃⁻ in steady state conditions. Dynamic validation further confirmed model reliability, despite modest discrepancies in TSS and nitrate predictions; addressing this issue necessitates further research. Full article

Plant roots interact dynamically with complex environments, and their capacity to adapt is crucial for growth, development, survival, and productivity. Basic leucine zipper (bZIP) transcription factors have emerged as key regulators in managing the root’s response to various environmental signals. The shift from bulk tissue analysis to single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) has enabled the creation of a highly detailed expression atlas for root bZIPs, significantly enhancing our understanding of their functions. This review first summarizes the classification and structural features of bZIPs in Arabidopsis, and compares representative members with their orthologs in cereal crops. Next, we integrate the expression patterns of various bZIP members in root cells and clarify their roles through single-cell expression profiling. Furthermore, we delineate characterized bZIP regulatory modules that respond to signals spanning light, hormones, nutrients, and stresses, thereby orchestrating transcriptional reprogramming to facilitate plant adaptation. By combining single-cell omics with functional genetics, we reveal how bZIPs control critical processes, including responses to light signals, hormonal interactions, nutrient uptake and balance, and reactions to abiotic stresses. Ultimately, this integrated perspective highlights the potential for targeting bZIP transcription factors in the development of climate-resilient crops with optimized root systems, thereby enabling them to adapt to changing environmental conditions. Full article

Feeding time is a critical but understudied factor influencing nutrient dynamics and overall productivity in aquaponic systems. This study examined the effects of two feeding schedules on growth performance of common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.), hydrochemical parameters, and the growth of lettuce (Lactuca sativa) cultivated in an integrated aquaponic system. Two 60-day trials were conducted over consecutive years under identical greenhouse conditions. Carp were fed either in the morning and early afternoon (T1: 08:00, 11:00, 14:00) or later in the day (T2: 11:00, 14:00, 17:00). Hydrochemical indicators, including dissolved oxygen, turbidity, ammonium ions (NH₄⁺), and nitrates (NO₃⁻), were continuously monitored through online measurement. Carp reared under T2 displayed significantly higher specific growth rate, final body mass, and improved feed conversion ratio (p < 0.05). The T2 variant also showed higher dissolved oxygen levels and lower turbidity compared to T1, indicating enhanced system stability. Although NH₄⁺ concentrations were higher and NO₃⁻ levels lower in T2, these differences did not compromise water quality due to efficient plant nutrient uptake. Lettuce grown under T2 exhibited greater stem and root development and higher biomass accumulation, suggesting improved nitrogen utilization linked to the NH₄⁺/NO₃⁻ ratio and enhanced root oxygenation. Overall, aligning feeding time with fish circadian rhythms improved fish performance, plant growth, and nutrient cycling efficiency. These findings demonstrate that feeding schedule is a key management factor capable of enhancing sustainability and productivity in aquaponic systems. Full article

Youth unemployment remains one of the most persistent and structurally sensitive challenges in emerging economies, particularly in environments characterized by macroeconomic volatility and frequent shocks. This study investigates the dynamics and forecasting performance of youth unemployment in Turkey by adopting a symmetry-based multivariate framework that explicitly contrasts equilibrium-oriented and asymmetric temporal behaviors. Using monthly data covering the period 2009–2024, youth unemployment is modeled jointly with key macroeconomic indicators, including economic growth, inflation, overall unemployment, labor force participation, migration, exchange rates, and consumer confidence. The empirical strategy integrates traditional econometric models and modern machine learning approaches under a unified and leakage-free evaluation protocol. Stationarity and long-run properties of the series are examined using unit root tests and the Bayer–Hanck cointegration approach, followed by long-run coefficient estimation via FMOLS and DOLS. Forecasting performance is then compared across VARIMA, Prophet, and deep learning models (RNN, LSTM, and GRU), including both vanilla and hyperparameter-tuned specifications. The results reveal a clear performance hierarchy. VARIMA models, particularly the VARIMA (p = 2, q = 0) specification, consistently outperform all alternatives by a wide margin, achieving exceptionally low forecast errors. This finding indicates that youth unemployment in Türkiye is predominantly governed by symmetric co-movements and long-run equilibrium relationships among macroeconomic variables. Prophet and GRU models capture short-term and regime-sensitive fluctuations more flexibly, reflecting asymmetric temporal responses, but at the cost of higher forecast dispersion. In contrast, RNN and LSTM models exhibit limited generalization capability and are prone to overfitting in the small-sample macroeconomic context. As a result, this study positions the estimation of youth unemployment as both an econometric challenge and a symmetry-based analytical problem, offering new methodological and conceptual insights consistent with a fresh perspective. Full article

In arid regions, the ecological restoration of limestone tailings requires sustainable strategies, yet the synergistic effects of substrate optimization and native plant selection remain poorly understood. In this study, we systematically evaluated substrate amendments and native species for rehabilitating limestone tailings in Northern China’s arid zone using a controlled pot experiment. An orthogonal L9(3⁴) experimental design was employed to test three factors: the soil-to-tailings ratio (1:2, 1:1, and 2:1), moisture level (30%, 45%, and 60% of field capacity), and nitrogen addition (0, 5, and 10 g N m⁻²). Five native grass species (Pennisetum centrasiaticum, Setaria viridis, Leymus chinensis, Achnatherum splendens, and Eleusine indica) were grown under these treatment conditions, and plant biomass and key soil nutrient variables were measured. Stepwise regression, structural equation modeling, and principal component analysis were applied to assess plant growth responses and soil nutrient dynamics. The results indicated that a 2:1 soil-to-tailings substrate maintained at 60% moisture content maximized biomass production across all species. Soil total potassium consistently correlated positively with biomass (Standardized β: 0.397–0.603), whereas available potassium showed a negative relationship (Standardized β: −0.825–−0.391). Nutrient dynamics ultimately governed biomass accumulation, accounting for 57.8–84.2% of the biomass variation. P. centrasiaticum ranked as the most effective species, followed by S. viridis, L. chinensis, A. splendens, and E. indica. We concluded that successful restoration under these experimental conditions hinged on key factors: using a 2:1 soil-to-tailings substrate, maintaining 60% soil moisture, and strategically combining deep-rooted P. centrasiaticum with shallow-rooted S. viridis to exploit complementary resource use. This work provides fundamental data and a conceptual framework for rehabilitating arid limestone tailings in similar ecological settings, based on controlled experimental evidence. Full article

Pulpitis is the inflammatory response of the dental pulp to microbial challenge and can range from mild to severe in nature, with severe pulpitis traditionally resulting in pulp removal and root canal treatment (RCT). In the pursuit of more conservative treatments, recent clinical practice guidelines have recommended strategies that preserve the vitality of the dental pulp, rather than RCT, when possible. This has increased the focus on improving the accuracy of pulp diagnosis, which will direct treatment and improve management outcomes. Unfortunately, current point-of-care (PoC) tools are subjective, lack discrimination and rely on the stimulation of pulpal neurons, limiting dentists’ ability to objectively identify the level of inflammation. Molecular biomarker assessment has the potential to dynamically analyse pulpitis and correlate this with inflammatory thresholds and treatment outcomes. Numerous chemokines, cytokines, proteases and growth factors exhibit altered expression during pulpitis and can be collected intraoperatively as part of routine dental treatment. Although current data indicate several markers that could be used as next-generation diagnostic chairside tools for pulpitis, there are currently no commercial kits. Considering the interest in vital pulp treatment, there is an urgent need to engage researchers, industry, dentists and other stakeholders in the development of PoC diagnostic assays for pulpitis. Full article

Understanding rhizosphere microscale processes is essential for evaluating plant–soil interactions under heavy metal stress. In this study, planar optode imaging was used to investigate the spatio-temporal distribution of O₂, pH, and CO₂ in the rhizosphere of Celosia argentea, a Cd hyperaccumulator, grown in Cd-contaminated and uncontaminated soils. The results demonstrated pronounced spatial heterogeneity, with O₂ hotspots concentrated near root surfaces, localized rhizospheric alkalinization at root tips, and elevated CO₂ levels reflecting active root metabolism. Under Cd stress, O₂ levels were initially suppressed, while pH and CO₂ increased, indicating adaptive physiological responses. As plant growth progressed, O₂-enriched zones expanded, pH elevation persisted, and CO₂ efflux continued, suggesting coordinated regulation of the rhizospheric microenvironment. These changes may influence microbial activity and nutrient dynamics in the rhizosphere, potentially supporting root function and plant adaptation under metal stress. This study provides mechanistic insights into root-induced microenvironmental regulation under Cd stress and demonstrates the potential of planar optode imaging for assessing plant-driven remediation processes in contaminated soils. Full article

Rootstock selection plays a pivotal role in determining the ecophysiological performance, growth dynamics, and hydraulic functioning of grafted citrus plants. This study evaluated three citrus rootstocks—Trifoliate Orange (TO), Swingle Citrumelo (SC), and Flying Dragon (FD)—grafted with Citrus clementina cv. SRA 63 (CLM), with the aim of elucidating how the rootstock genotype influences morphological traits, dry matter allocation, hydraulic conductance, and xylem anatomical features. Plants were monitored over two years under controlled agronomic conditions, and biometric, physiological, hydraulic, and anatomical traits were assessed. The results revealed distinct rootstock-dependent patterns. CLM/TO and CLM/SC exhibited greater vegetative vigor, higher total biomass, more extensive absorbing root systems, and larger conductive xylem areas, resulting in superior theoretical hydraulic flow. In contrast, CLM/FD demonstrated reduced growth, a smaller trunk diameter, lower biomass accumulation, and elevated hydraulic resistance in both root and graft union sectors, consistent with its known dwarfing behavior. Despite its lower hydraulic efficiency, FD promoted the highest stomatal conductance, suggesting a distinct water use strategy. Overall, the findings demonstrate that the rootstock genotype markedly influences the hydraulic architecture and growth partitioning of grafted Clementine plants. These insights contribute to our understanding of scion–rootstock interactions and support more informed selections of rootstocks in citrus orchards under diverse environmental and management scenarios. Full article