Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Article Types

Countries / Regions

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Search Results (640)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = seed disperser

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
14 pages, 1436 KiB  
Article
Secoisolariciresinol Diglucoside with Antioxidant Capacity from Flaxseed: A Study on Microwave-Assisted Germination Optimization
by Jinling Hu, Qingyi Zhang, Yaning Li, Qiqi Zhang, Caihua Jia, Fenghong Huang, Qianchun Deng and Cuie Tang
Foods 2025, 14(15), 2716; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14152716 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 166
Abstract
Germination and physical field treatments are processing techniques that have been successfully used to change the amount of active ingredients in flaxseed. However, it is unknown if they work synergistically. This study investigated the effect of microwave-assisted germination on the lignan concentration and [...] Read more.
Germination and physical field treatments are processing techniques that have been successfully used to change the amount of active ingredients in flaxseed. However, it is unknown if they work synergistically. This study investigated the effect of microwave-assisted germination on the lignan concentration and antioxidant activity of several flaxseed tissue components. Lignans were primarily dispersed in the flaxseed seed coat. Microwave treatment and germination significantly affected the levels of lignans in various flaxseed sections. Flaxseed hulls’ lignan content and antioxidant activity could be increased by microwave treatment (130 W for 14 s) after germination of 0, 48, or 96 h. Flaxseed kernels lignan content and antioxidant activity could be increased by microwave treatment (130 W for 10 s) before germination. Whole flaxseeds could be improved by microwave treatment (130 W for 10 s) after germination for 72 h. The findings provided a theoretical basis for reducing the loss of lignan resources in flaxseed, enhancing its use as a functional food ingredient, and clarifying the targeted utilization of various lignan sources. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oils and Fats: Structure and Stability)
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 736 KiB  
Article
Birding via Facebook—Methodological Considerations When Crowdsourcing Observations of Bird Behavior via Social Media
by Dirk H. R. Spennemann
Birds 2025, 6(3), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/birds6030039 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 270
Abstract
This paper outlines a methodology to compile geo-referenced observational data of Australian birds acting as pollinators of Strelitzia sp. (Bird of Paradise) flowers and dispersers of their seeds. Given the absence of systematic published records, a crowdsourcing approach was employed, combining data from [...] Read more.
This paper outlines a methodology to compile geo-referenced observational data of Australian birds acting as pollinators of Strelitzia sp. (Bird of Paradise) flowers and dispersers of their seeds. Given the absence of systematic published records, a crowdsourcing approach was employed, combining data from natural history platforms (e.g., iNaturalist, eBird), image hosting websites (e.g., Flickr) and, in particular, social media. Facebook emerged as the most productive channel, with 61.4% of the 301 usable observations sourced from 43 ornithology-related groups. The strategy included direct solicitation of images and metadata via group posts and follow-up communication. The holistic, snowballing search strategy yielded a unique, behavior-focused dataset suitable for analysis. While the process exposed limitations due to user self-censorship on image quality and completeness, the approach demonstrates the viability of crowdsourced behavioral ecology data and contributes a replicable methodology for similar studies in under-documented ecological contexts. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 1425 KiB  
Article
Blackberry (Rubus spp. Xavante Cultivar) Oil-Loaded PCL Nanocapsules: Sustainable Bioactive for In Vitro Collagen-Boosting Skincare
by Daniela F. Maluf, Brenda A. Lopes, Mariana D. Miranda, Luana C. Teixeira, Ana P. Horacio, Amanda Jansen, Madeline S. Correa, Guilherme dos Anjos Camargo, Jessica Mendes Nadal, Jane Manfron, Patrícia M. Döll-Boscardin and Paulo Vitor Farago
Cosmetics 2025, 12(4), 159; https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics12040159 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 390
Abstract
Background: Blackberry seed oil (BSO), obtained from Rubus spp. Xavante cultivar via supercritical CO2 extraction, contains bioactive lipids and antioxidants, but its cosmetic application is limited by poor solubility and stability. Nanoencapsulation with poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) can overcome these limitations. Methods: BSO was [...] Read more.
Background: Blackberry seed oil (BSO), obtained from Rubus spp. Xavante cultivar via supercritical CO2 extraction, contains bioactive lipids and antioxidants, but its cosmetic application is limited by poor solubility and stability. Nanoencapsulation with poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) can overcome these limitations. Methods: BSO was characterized by Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry and incorporated into PCL nanocapsules (NCBSO) using the preformed polymer deposition method. Physicochemical properties, stability (at 4 °C, room temperature, and 37 °C for 90 days), cytotoxicity, and collagen production were assessed in human fibroblasts. Additionally, a predictive in silico analysis using PASS Online, Molinspiration, and SEA platforms was performed to identify the bioactivities of major BSO compounds related to collagen synthesis, antioxidant potential, and anti-aging effects. Results: NCBSO showed a nanometric size of ~267 nm, low polydispersity (PDI < 0.2), negative zeta potential (−28 mV), and spherical morphology confirmed by FE-SEM. The dispersion remained stable across all tested temperatures, preserving pH and colloidal properties. In particular, BSO and NCBSO at 100 µg.mL−1 significantly enhanced in vitro collagen production by 170% and 200%, respectively, compared to untreated cells (p < 0.01). Superior bioactivity was observed for NCBSO. The in silico results support the role of key compounds in promoting collagen biosynthesis and protecting skin structure. No cytotoxic effects were achieved. Conclusions: The nanoencapsulation of BSO into PCL nanocapsules ensured formulation stability and potentiated collagen production. These findings support the potential of NCBSO as a promising candidate for future development as a collagen-boosting cosmeceutical. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Cosmetic Sciences: Sustainability in Materials and Processes)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

11 pages, 248 KiB  
Article
Food Security Among South Asian Americans: The Role of Availability, Affordability, and Quality of Culturally Appropriate Food
by Monideepa B. Becerra, Farhan Danish and Valentina Chawdhury
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(8), 1169; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22081169 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 272
Abstract
Background: South Asian Americans (SAA) are one of the fastest-growing immigrant groups in the U.S. and face significant health disparities, particularly regarding chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. Dietary patterns play a crucial role in these disparities, with acculturation to Western [...] Read more.
Background: South Asian Americans (SAA) are one of the fastest-growing immigrant groups in the U.S. and face significant health disparities, particularly regarding chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. Dietary patterns play a crucial role in these disparities, with acculturation to Western diets linked to poorer health outcomes. Despite this, the impact of food insecurity on dietary habits among SAAs remains underexplored. This study aims to examine the availability, cost, and quality of ethnic food items and how food insecurity influences dietary practices in Southern California’s SAA population. Methods: The study was conducted in San Bernardino County, California, with field data collection focused on five South Asian ethnicity-specific grocery stores and three Western grocery stores. We assessed the availability and cost of key ingredients for commonly prepared SAA dishes. Additionally, focus group interviews were held with South Asian immigrants to understand food insecurity challenges and dietary adaptations. Results: The study found significant disparities in food availability and cost between SAA-ethnic grocery stores and Western stores. SAA stores were less accessible and more widely dispersed, with an average distance of 10 miles between them. While ingredients like ginger paste and cumin powder were available in both types of stores, items such as ghee, fenugreek seeds, and black gram were harder to find in Western stores. Focus group participants noted that ethnic foods, especially vegetarian ingredients, were more expensive than Western alternatives, leading many to substitute traditional meals with cheaper, less nutritious options. Participants also raised concerns about the poor quality of items in ethnic stores, such as expired produce, which further limited their food choices. Conclusions: Food insecurity, driven by limited availability, high cost, and poor quality of ethnic foods, poses significant challenges to the SAA community’s diet and health. Addressing these barriers could improve food security and health outcomes among SAA immigrants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Role of Social Determinants in Health of Vulnerable Groups)
14 pages, 1410 KiB  
Article
Uptake, Distribution, and Activity of Pluronic F68 Adjuvant in Wheat and Its Endophytic Bacillus Isolate
by Anthony Cartwright, Mohammad Zargaran, Anagha Wankhade, Astrid Jacobson, Joan E. McLean, Anne J. Anderson and David W. Britt
Agrochemicals 2025, 4(3), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/agrochemicals4030012 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 245
Abstract
Surfactants are widely utilized in agriculture as emulsifying, dispersing, anti-foaming, and wetting agents. In these adjuvant roles, the inherent biological activity of the surfactant is secondary to the active ingredients. Here, the hydrophilic non-ionic surface-active tri-block copolymer Pluronic® F68 is investigated for [...] Read more.
Surfactants are widely utilized in agriculture as emulsifying, dispersing, anti-foaming, and wetting agents. In these adjuvant roles, the inherent biological activity of the surfactant is secondary to the active ingredients. Here, the hydrophilic non-ionic surface-active tri-block copolymer Pluronic® F68 is investigated for direct biological activity in wheat. F68 binds to and inserts into lipid membranes, which may benefit crops under abiotic stress. F68’s interactions with Triticum aestivum (var Juniper) seedlings and a seed-borne Bacillus spp. endophyte are presented. At concentrations below 10 g/L, F68-primed wheat seeds exhibited unchanged emergence. Root-applied fluorescein-F68 (fF68) was internalized in root epidermal cells and concentrated in highly mobile endosomes. The potential benefit of F68 in droughted wheat was examined and contrasted with wheat treated with the osmolyte, glycine betaine (GB). Photosystem II activity of droughted plants dropped significantly below non-droughted controls, and no clear benefit of F68 (or GB) during drought or rehydration was observed. However, F68-treated wheat exhibited increased transpiration values (for watered plants only) and enhanced shoot dry mass (for watered and droughted plants), not observed for GB-treated or untreated plants. The release of seed-borne bacterial endophytes into the spermosphere of germinating seeds was not affected by F68 (for F68-primed seeds as well as F68 applied to roots), and the planktonic growth of a purified Bacillus spp. seed endophyte was not reduced by F68 applied below the critical micelle concentration. These studies demonstrated that F68 entered wheat root cells, concentrated in endosomes involved in transport, significantly promoted shoot growth, and showed no adverse effects to plant-associated bacteria. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 3772 KiB  
Article
Phenotypic Diversity Analysis and Integrative Evaluation of Camellia oleifera Germplasm Resources in Ya’an, Sichuan Province
by Shiheng Zheng, Qingbo Kong, Hanrui Yan, Junjie Liu, Renke Tang, Lijun Zhou, Hongyu Yang, Xiaoyu Jiang, Shiling Feng, Chunbang Ding and Tao Chen
Plants 2025, 14(14), 2249; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14142249 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 374
Abstract
As a unique woody oil crop in China, Camellia oleifera Abel. germplasm resources show significant genetic diversity in Ya’an City. This study measured 60 phenotypic traits (32 quantitative, 28 qualitative) of 302 accessions to analyze phenotypic variation, establish a classification system, and screen [...] Read more.
As a unique woody oil crop in China, Camellia oleifera Abel. germplasm resources show significant genetic diversity in Ya’an City. This study measured 60 phenotypic traits (32 quantitative, 28 qualitative) of 302 accessions to analyze phenotypic variation, establish a classification system, and screen high-yield, high-oil germplasms. The phenotypic diversity index for fruit (H’ = 1.36–1.44) was significantly higher than for leaf (H’ = 1.31) and flower (H’ < 1), indicating genetic diversity concentrated in reproductive traits, suggesting potential genetic variability in these traits. Fruit quantitative traits (e.g., single fruit weight CV = 35.37%, fresh seed weight CV = 38.93%) showed high genetic dispersion. Principal component analysis confirmed the fruit factor and economic factor as main phenotypic differentiation drivers. Quantitative traits were classified morphologically, and correlation analysis integrated them into 13 key indicators classified using LSD and range methods. Finally, TOPSIS evaluation selected 10 excellent germplasms like TQ122 and TQ49, with fruit weight, fresh seed yield, and kernel oil content significantly exceeding the population average. This study provides data for C. oleifera DUS test guidelines and proposes a multi-trait breeding strategy, supporting high-yield variety selection and germplasm resource protection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetic Diversity and Germplasm Innovation in Woody Oil Crops)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 4720 KiB  
Article
Optical Response Tailoring via Morphosynthesis of Ag@Au Nanoparticles
by David Oswaldo Romero-Quitl, Siva Kumar Krishnan, Martha Alicia Palomino-Ovando, Orlando Hernández-Cristobal, José Concepción Torres-Guzmán, Jesús Eduardo Lugo and Miller Toledo-Solano
Nanomaterials 2025, 15(14), 1125; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15141125 - 19 Jul 2025
Viewed by 330
Abstract
We present a simple method for customizing the optical characteristics of gold-core, silver-shell (Au@Ag) nanoparticles through controlled morphosynthesis via a seed-mediated chemical reduction approach. By systematically adjusting the concentration of cetyltrimethylammonium chloride (CTAC), we obtained precise control over both the thickness of the [...] Read more.
We present a simple method for customizing the optical characteristics of gold-core, silver-shell (Au@Ag) nanoparticles through controlled morphosynthesis via a seed-mediated chemical reduction approach. By systematically adjusting the concentration of cetyltrimethylammonium chloride (CTAC), we obtained precise control over both the thickness of the Ag shell and the particle shape, transitioning from spherical nanoparticles to distinctly defined nanocubes. Bright field and high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (BF-STEM and HAADF-STEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) were employed to validate the structural and compositional changes. To link morphology with optical behavior, we utilized the Mie and Maxwell–Garnett theoretical models to simulate the dielectric response of the core–shell nanostructures, showing trends that align with experimental UV-visible absorption spectra. This research presents an easy and adjustable method for modifying the plasmonic properties of Ag@Au nanoparticles by varying their shape and shell, offering opportunities for advanced applications in sensing, photonics, and nanophotonics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanophotonics Materials and Devices)
Show Figures

Figure 1

8 pages, 1244 KiB  
Protocol
A Simple Way to Quantify Plastic in Bats (Mammalia: Chiroptera) Using an Ultraviolet Flashlight
by Letícia Lima Correia, Ariane de Sousa Brasil, Thiago Bernardi Vieira, Magali Gonçalves Garcia, Daniela de Melo e Silva, Ana Beatriz Alencastre-Santos and Danielle Regina Gomes Ribeiro-Brasil
Methods Protoc. 2025, 8(4), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/mps8040080 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 320
Abstract
Bats, as key ecological players, interact with a diverse array of organisms and perform essential roles in ecosystems, including pollination, pest control, and seed dispersal. However, their populations face significant threats from habitat contamination, particularly from microplastics (MPs). This study introduces a novel, [...] Read more.
Bats, as key ecological players, interact with a diverse array of organisms and perform essential roles in ecosystems, including pollination, pest control, and seed dispersal. However, their populations face significant threats from habitat contamination, particularly from microplastics (MPs). This study introduces a novel, efficient, and cost-effective method for visualizing transparent microplastics using ultraviolet (UV) light. By employing handheld UV flashlights with a wavelength range of 312 to 400 nm, we enhance the detection of MPs that may otherwise go unnoticed due to color overlap with filtration membranes. All necessary precautions were taken during sampling and analysis to minimize the risk of contamination and ensure the reliability of the results. Our findings demonstrate that the application of UV light significantly improves the visualization and identification of MPs, particularly transparent fibers. This innovative approach contributes to our understanding of plastic contamination in bat habitats and underscores the importance of monitoring environmental pollutants to protect bat populations and maintain ecosystem health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biochemical and Chemical Analysis & Synthesis)
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 2410 KiB  
Article
Nanostructured Cellulose Acetate Membranes Embedded with Al2O3 Nanoparticles for Sustainable Wastewater Treatment
by Ines Elaissaoui, Soumaya Sayeb, Mouna Mekki, Francesca Russo, Alberto Figoli, Karima Horchani-Naifer and Dorra Jellouli Ennigrou
Coatings 2025, 15(7), 823; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15070823 - 15 Jul 2025
Viewed by 352
Abstract
Electrospun nanofiber membranes based on cellulose acetate (CA) have gained increasing attention for wastewater treatment due to their high surface area, tuneable structure, and ease of functionalization. In this study, the performance of CA membranes was enhanced by incorporating aluminum oxide (Al2 [...] Read more.
Electrospun nanofiber membranes based on cellulose acetate (CA) have gained increasing attention for wastewater treatment due to their high surface area, tuneable structure, and ease of functionalization. In this study, the performance of CA membranes was enhanced by incorporating aluminum oxide (Al2O3) nanoparticles (NPs) at varying concentrations (0–2 wt.%). The structural, morphological, and thermal properties of the resulting CA/Al2O3 nanocomposite membranes were investigated through FTIR, XRD, SEM, water contact angle (WCA), pore size measurements, and DSC analyses. FTIR and XRD confirmed strong interactions and the uniform dispersion of the Al2O3 NPs within the CA matrix. The incorporation of Al2O3 improved membrane hydrophilicity, reducing the WCA from 107° to 35°, and increased the average pore size from 0.62 µm to 0.86 µm. These modifications led to enhanced filtration performance, with the membrane containing 2 wt.% Al2O3 achieving a 99% removal efficiency for Indigo Carmine (IC) dye, a maximum adsorption capacity of 45.59 mg/g, and a high permeate flux of 175.47 L·m−2 h−1 bar−1. Additionally, phytotoxicity tests using Lactuca sativa seeds showed a significant increase in germination index from 20% (untreated) to 88% (treated), confirming the safety of the permeate for potential reuse in agricultural irrigation. These results highlight the effectiveness of Al2O3-modified CA electrospun membranes for sustainable wastewater treatment and water reuse. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Aspects in Colloid and Interface Science)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

15 pages, 1199 KiB  
Article
Diversity and Metacommunity Structure of Aquatic Macrophytes: A Study in Mediterranean Mountain Wetlands
by Francisco Guerrero, Fernando Ortega, Gema García-Rodríguez and Juan Diego Gilbert
Sustainability 2025, 17(13), 6103; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17136103 - 3 Jul 2025
Viewed by 300
Abstract
This study investigated the mechanisms determining macrophyte species composition in 23 Andalusian Mediterranean mountain wetlands (southern Spain). We employed a methodology combining two approaches: a pattern-based approach utilizing Elements of Metacommunity Structure (EMS) and a mechanistic approach involving Redundancy Analysis (RDA) and variance [...] Read more.
This study investigated the mechanisms determining macrophyte species composition in 23 Andalusian Mediterranean mountain wetlands (southern Spain). We employed a methodology combining two approaches: a pattern-based approach utilizing Elements of Metacommunity Structure (EMS) and a mechanistic approach involving Redundancy Analysis (RDA) and variance partitioning. This allowed us to identify the relevance of interactions between environmental and spatial factors. Data collection in these wetlands included macrophyte samples and physicochemical variables, alongside spatial variables generated using Moran’s Eigenvector Maps (MEMs). To refine the analysis of metacommunity structuring, the species matrix was partitioned based on macrophyte dispersal strategy (charophytes by spores and macrophyte vascular plants by seeds). Our results reveal that the macrophyte metacommunity in these wetlands exhibits quasi-clumped species loss for the total community, while charophytes and vascular plants showed quasi-random species loss. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that macrophyte communities in Mediterranean mountain wetlands do not follow a simple species replacement pattern. Instead, they are organized in a quasi-nested pattern, strongly shaped by environmental filters and, to a lesser extent, by spatial connectivity, with a prominent role for random processes. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for predicting species responses to environmental changes and for designing effective conservation strategies within these vulnerable ecosystems. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 988 KiB  
Article
Extraction, Isolation, and Purification of Furanocoumarins from Invasive Heracleum sosnowskyi
by Vida Vickackaite, Karina Pilaityte and Vilius Poskus
Separations 2025, 12(7), 175; https://doi.org/10.3390/separations12070175 - 1 Jul 2025
Viewed by 373
Abstract
Heracleum sosnowskyi Manden. (Sosnowsky’s hogweed), originally introduced to Central and Eastern Europe as a fodder crop, has become a highly invasive species due to its ecological adaptability, high reproductive capacity, and efficient seed dispersal. Despite its negative impact on native flora and its [...] Read more.
Heracleum sosnowskyi Manden. (Sosnowsky’s hogweed), originally introduced to Central and Eastern Europe as a fodder crop, has become a highly invasive species due to its ecological adaptability, high reproductive capacity, and efficient seed dispersal. Despite its negative impact on native flora and its health risks to humans and animals, the species also represents a valuable source of biologically active compounds. In this study, we demonstrate that the leaves of H. sosnowskyi contain substantial amounts of furanocoumarins—phototoxic compounds with notable therapeutic potential, particularly as natural photosensitizers in anticancer therapies. To extract furanocoumarins from H. sosnowskyi, microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) was employed, with optimization of key parameters including extraction solvent (hexane), temperature (70 °C), extraction time (10 min), and solvent-to-solid ratio (20:1). Four major compounds—angelicin (2.3 mg/g), psoralen (0.15 mg/g), methoxsalen (0.76 mg/g), and bergapten (3.14 mg/g)—were identified and quantified using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and gas chromatography with flame ionization detection. To purify the extract and selectively isolate the target compounds, a solid-phase extraction method was developed using a Strata Eco-Screen sorbent and stepwise elution with a hexane–acetone mixture. As a result, pure angelicin, pure methoxsalen, and various mixtures of the furanocoumarins were obtained. These findings highlight the potential of H. sosnowskyi as a sustainable source of furanocoumarins for pharmaceutical applications. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 4236 KiB  
Article
Valorisation of Red Gypsum Waste in Polypropylene Composites for Agricultural Applications
by Chiara Pedrotti, Damiano Rossi, Marco Sandroni, Irene Anguillesi, Chiara Riccardi, Pietro Leandri, Miriam Cappello, Sara Filippi, Patrizia Cinelli, Massimo Losa and Maurizia Seggiani
Polymers 2025, 17(13), 1821; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17131821 - 30 Jun 2025
Viewed by 339
Abstract
This study investigates the industrial potential of red gypsum (RG), a major by-product of titanium dioxide (TiO2) production, for the development of thermoplastic polypropylene (PP)-based composites via melt extrusion, targeting agricultural applications. Prior to compounding, RG was thermally treated at approximately [...] Read more.
This study investigates the industrial potential of red gypsum (RG), a major by-product of titanium dioxide (TiO2) production, for the development of thermoplastic polypropylene (PP)-based composites via melt extrusion, targeting agricultural applications. Prior to compounding, RG was thermally treated at approximately 200 °C to remove residual moisture and chemically bound water, resulting in its anhydrous form (CaSO4). PP/RG composites were then formulated with RG loadings up to 20 wt.%, employing stearic acid (SA) as a compatibilizer. The resulting materials were thoroughly characterized and successfully processed through industrial-scale injection molding up to 250 °C. Morphological and FTIR analyses confirmed the role of SA in enhancing both filler dispersion and interfacial adhesion between RG and the PP matrix. SEM images revealed finer and more uniformly distributed RG particles, resulting in a reduced loss of ductility and elongation at break typically associated with filler addition. Specifically, the Young’s Modulus increased from 1.62 GPa (neat PP) up to 3.21 GPa with 20 wt.% RG and 0.6 wt.% SA. The addition of 0.6 wt.% SA also helped limit the reduction in stress at break from 46.68 MPa (neat PP) to 34.05 MPa and similarly mitigated the decrease in Charpy impact energy, which declined slightly from 2.66 kJ/m2 (neat PP) to 2.24 kJ/m2 for composites containing 20 wt.% RG. Preliminary phytotoxicity was assessed using germination tests on Lepidium sativum L. seeds. Eluates from both untreated and SA-treated RG powders resulted in germination indices below 80%, indicating phytotoxicity likely due to high sulfate ion concentrations. In contrast, eluates from composite pellets exhibited germination indices equal to or exceeding 100%, demonstrating the absence of phytotoxic effects. These results highlight the suitability of the developed composites for applications in floriculture and horticulture. The optimized composite pellets were successfully processed via injection molding to manufacture plant pots, which exhibited a dark brown coloration, confirming the effective pigmenting function of RG. These results demonstrate the potential of red gypsum to serve both as a functional filler and pigment in PP composites, providing a sustainable alternative to iron oxide pigments and promoting the valorization of industrial waste through resource recovery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Composites and Nanocomposites)
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 1823 KiB  
Article
Pollen Quantitative and Genetic Competitiveness of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) and Their Effects on Gene Flow
by Ning Hu, Dantong Wang, Qianhua Yuan, Yang Liu, Huizi Jiang and Xinwu Pei
Plants 2025, 14(13), 1980; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14131980 - 28 Jun 2025
Viewed by 284
Abstract
The gene flow rate in rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a critical factor for establishing safe isolation distances between genetically modified (GM) and non-GM varieties and for ensuring varietal purity in rice breeding programs. This study refines existing gene flow models by [...] Read more.
The gene flow rate in rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a critical factor for establishing safe isolation distances between genetically modified (GM) and non-GM varieties and for ensuring varietal purity in rice breeding programs. This study refines existing gene flow models by disentangling two key components of rice pollen dynamics: quantitative pollen competition and genetic competitiveness. We define B as the proportion of GM pollen within mixed pollen, representing quantitative pollen competitiveness. The outcrossing parameter Cb reflects the likelihood of successful fertilization and seed development by foreign pollen, while the hybrid compatibility parameter Cp captures the relative fertilization success of GM versus non-GM pollen within the same pollen pool. Together, Cb and Cp characterize the genetic competitiveness of rice pollen. Our findings reveal a nonlinear relationship between B and the observed GM pollen rate G, which may exhibit either upward or downward curvature. A nonlinear model provides a significantly better fit to this relationship than a linear model, improving R2 by 4.1–21.4% and reducing RMSE by 9.9–47.8%. The parameters Cb and Cp play central roles in determining gene flow; higher values correspond to stronger GM pollen competitiveness, resulting in higher gene flow rates and greater dispersal distances. Specifically, Cb sets the range of the BG curve, while Cp determines its curvature. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Safety of Genetically Modified Crops and Plant Functional Genomics)
Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 500 KiB  
Article
Trait-Based Selection of Seeds Ingested and Dispersed by North American Waterfowl
by Bia A. Almeida, Mihai Costea, Giliandro G. Silva, Leonardo Maltchik, Susan E. W. De La Cruz, John Y. Takekawa and Andy J. Green
Plants 2025, 14(13), 1964; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14131964 - 26 Jun 2025
Viewed by 839
Abstract
There are few studies on the extent to which waterfowl select plant food compared with what is available in wetland ecosystems. We used a new dataset on the presence of seeds in the alimentary canal or feces to identify flowering plant species whose [...] Read more.
There are few studies on the extent to which waterfowl select plant food compared with what is available in wetland ecosystems. We used a new dataset on the presence of seeds in the alimentary canal or feces to identify flowering plant species whose seeds are ingested by North American ducks or geese. These data are a proxy for dispersal interactions because an important fraction of ingested seeds survives gut passage and is dispersed by endozoochory. We compared the plant traits of species whose seeds were ingested with those of species on the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Wetland Plants List (NWPL). Using a global dataset on plant form and function and chi-squared tests, we compared four categorical traits (moisture requirements, growth form, plant height, and seed mass) between species whose seeds are ingested by North American ducks and geese with the NWPL. Our analyses identified significant differences between the trait distributions of plants whose seeds were ingested by waterfowl guilds and those of the NWPL. Geese and ducks (except whistling ducks) ingested more aquatic and semiaquatic plant species than expected from the NWPL. All guilds except sea ducks ingested more herbaceous graminoids and fewer shrubs or trees than expected. Diving ducks interacted with fewer of the taller plants (>5 m) than expected, but otherwise plant height distributions did not differ from those expected. All waterfowl guilds ingested more species of intermediate seed size (1–10 mg) and fewer species of the smallest (<0.1 mg) or largest (>100 mg) size categories than expected. These results help to explain the role of the long-distance dispersal of seeds by migratory waterfowl in plant biogeography and how plant distributions are likely to respond to global change. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

14 pages, 7989 KiB  
Article
Polyacrylonitrile/Silver Nanoparticles Composite for Catalytic Dye Reduction and Real-Time Monitoring
by Christian Narváez-Muñoz, Sebastián Ponce, Carlos Durán, Cristina Aguayo, Cesar Portero, Joseph Guamán, Alexis Debut, Magaly Granda, Frank Alexis, Ezequiel Zamora-Ledezma and Camilo Zamora-Ledezma
Polymers 2025, 17(13), 1762; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17131762 - 26 Jun 2025
Viewed by 365
Abstract
This study presents a one-step electrospinning method to fabricate polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibers embedded with green-synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) for efficient catalytic dye reduction and real-time monitoring. Utilizing avocado seed extract for AgNP synthesis, the resulting composite nanofibers exhibit uniform nanoparticle dispersion and enhanced [...] Read more.
This study presents a one-step electrospinning method to fabricate polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibers embedded with green-synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) for efficient catalytic dye reduction and real-time monitoring. Utilizing avocado seed extract for AgNP synthesis, the resulting composite nanofibers exhibit uniform nanoparticle dispersion and enhanced surface area, significantly improving adsorption and catalytic properties. The membranes demonstrated outstanding catalytic activity, achieving over 95% degradation of methyl orange within 45 min when paired with sodium borohydride, and maintained structural integrity and performance over ten reuse cycles. The integration of a novel 3D-printed support enabled scalability, allowing a 60-fold increase in treatment volume without compromising efficiency. Additionally, the composite’s electrical conductivity changes enabled the real-time monitoring of the dye reduction process, highlighting its dual functionality as both catalyst and sensor. These results encourage the potential of PAN/AgNPs supported on a 3D-printed structure nanofiber membranes for scalable, sustainable wastewater treatment and in situ reaction monitoring. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Composites and Nanocomposites)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop