Search Results (9,320)

Euterpe precatoria Mart. is an increasingly important palm for subsistence and income generation in central and western Amazonia with growing demand for its fruit pulp, which is an alternative source of açaí juice for domestic and international markets. This study synthesizes current knowledge on its systematics, ecology, fruit production in natural populations, fruit quality, uses, population management, and related areas, identifying critical research gaps. A systematic literature survey was conducted across databases including Web of Science, Scopus, Scielo, CAPES, and Embrapa. Of 1568 studies referencing Euterpe, 273 focused on E. precatoria, with 90 addressing priority themes. Genetic diversity studies suggest the E. precatoria may represent a complex of species. Its population abundance varies across habitats: the highest variability occurs in terra firme, followed by baixios and várzeas. Várzeas exhibit greater productivity potential, with more bunches per plant and higher fruit weight than baixios; no production data exist for terra firme. Additionally, E. precatoria has higher anthocyanin content than E. oleracea, the primary commercial açaí species. Management of natural populations and cultivation practices are essential for sustainable production; however, studies in these fields are still limited. The information is crucial to inform strategies aiming to promote the sustainable production of the species. Full article

Saproxylic beetles are key bioindicators of forest ecosystem quality and play essential roles in deadwood decomposition and nutrient cycling. However, their populations are increasingly threatened by habitat fragmentation, deadwood removal, and climate-driven environmental changes. For this reason, an integrated sampling method can increase the detection of species with varying ecological traits. We evaluated the effectiveness of integrative sampling methodologies to assess saproxylic beetle diversity within Sila National Park, a Mediterranean forest ecosystem of high conservation value, specifically in two beech forests and four pine forests. The sampling methods tested included Pan Traps (PaTs), Malaise Traps (MTs), Pitfall Traps (PTs), Bait Bottle Traps (BBTs), and Visual Census (VC). All specimens were identified to the species level whenever possible, using specialized dichotomous keys and preserved in the Entomological Collection TB, Unical. Various trap types captured a different number of species: the PaT collected 32 species, followed by the PT with 24, the MT with 16, the VC with 7, and the BBT with 5 species. Interestingly, biodiversity analyses conducted using PAST software version 4.17 revealed that PaTs and MTs recorded the highest biodiversity indices. The GLMM analysis, performed using SPSS software 29.0.1.0, demonstrated that various traps attracted different species with different abundances. By combining multiple trapping techniques, we documented a more comprehensive community composition compared to single-method approaches. Moreover, PaTs, MTs, and PTs recorded 20%, 40%, and 33% of the Near Threatened species, respectively. We report new records for Sila National Park, including the LC species Pteryngium crenulatum (Curculionidae) and the NT species Grynocharis oblonga (Trogossitidae). For the first time in Calabria, the LC species Triplax rufipes (Erotylidae) and the NT species Oxypleurus nodieri (Cerambycidae) and Glischrochilus quadrisignatus (Nitidulidae) were collected. Our results emphasize the importance of method diversity in capturing species with distinct ecological requirements and highlight the relevance of saproxylic beetles as indicators of forest health. These findings support the adoption of multi-method sampling protocols in forest biodiversity monitoring and management programs, especially in biodiversity-rich and structurally heterogeneous landscapes. Full article

The large number of underutilized tree residues in Japan is a matter of concern, and their appropriate application needs to be promoted. Trees are very diverse, and there are differences in the volatile essential oil compounds and biological activities among different tree species. However, the effects of these tree species’ characteristics on human sensitivity and mental and physical functionality remain underexplored. This study investigated the effects of essential oils from multiple tree species on subjective and physiological responses. The essential oils from nine tree species were tested, subjective scent assessments were conducted, and their effect on autonomic nervous activity was measured. The volatile profiles of the oils were analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Our findings revealed clear differences in the composition of volatile essential oils among species, which influenced the scent evaluation and individual preferences. We suggest that scent preferences have the potential to influence physiological responses. The findings indicate that volatile essential oils could play a potential role in making use of tree resources effectively, and they may also be beneficial for maintaining human health. Full article

The Amazon region is home to a remarkable diversity of plant species that are used in traditional medicine and cuisine. This study aimed to evaluate the functional, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties of the leaves of Allium schoenoprasum, Brugmansia candida (white and pink), and Cyclanthemum bipartitum. Bioactive compounds (L-ascorbic acid, organic acids, carotenoids, phenolic compounds, and chlorophylls) were quantified using liquid chromatography. The ABTS and DPPH methods were used to assess the antioxidant capacity. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus mutans, Candida albicans, and Candida tropicalis was evaluated. The results revealed a high content of L-ascorbic acid (7.6 mg/100 g dry weight) and total carotenoids (509.0 mg/100 g dry weight), as well as high antioxidant capacity (4.5 mmol TE/100 g dry weight) and broad antimicrobial activity in Brugmansia candida ‘pink’. The White variety had the highest concentration of total chlorophylls (1742.8 mg/100 g DW), Cyclanthemum bipartitum had the highest total organic acid content (2814.5 mg/100 g DW), and Allium schoenoprasum had the highest concentration of total phenolic compounds (11,351.6 mg/100 g DW). These results constitute a starting point for future research, emphasizing the potential health risks that certain species may pose. Full article

The chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is a key legume crop in Mediterranean agriculture, valued for its nutritional profile and adaptability. However, its productivity is severely impacted by drought stress. To identify microbial solutions that enhance drought resilience, we isolated seven Mesorhizobium strains from chickpea nodules collected in southern Spain and evaluated their cultivar-specific symbiotic performance. Two commercial cultivars (Pedrosillano and Blanco Lechoso) and twenty chickpea germplasms were tested under growth chamber and greenhouse conditions, both with and without drought stress. Initial screening in a sterile substrate using nodulation assays, shoot/root dry weight measurements, and acetylene reduction assays identified three elite strains (ISC11, ISC15, and ISC25) with superior symbiotic performance and nitrogenase activity. Greenhouse trials under reduced irrigation demonstrated that several strain–cultivar combinations significantly mitigated drought effects on plant biomass, with specific interactions (e.g., ISC25 with RR-98 or BT6-19) preserving over 70% of shoot biomass relative to controls. Whole-genome sequencing of the elite strains revealed diverse taxonomic affiliations—ISC11 as Mesorhizobium ciceri, ISC15 as Mesorhizobium mediterraneum, and ISC25 likely representing a novel species. Genome mining identified plant growth-promoting traits including ACC deaminase genes (in ISC11 and ISC25) and genes coding for auxin biosynthesis-related enzymes. Our findings highlight the potential of targeted rhizobial inoculants tailored to chickpea cultivars to improve crop performance under water-limiting conditions. Full article

Background/Objectives: In recent years, lipids have emerged as critical regulators of different disease processes, being involved in cancer pathogenesis, progression, and outcome. Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometry Imaging (MALDI-MSI) has significantly expanded the technology’s reach, enabling spatially resolved profiling of lipids directly from tissue, including formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) specimens. In this context, MALDI matrix selection is crucial for lipid extraction and ionization, influencing key aspects such as molecular coverage and sensitivity, especially in such specimens with already depleted lipid content. Thus, in this work, we aim to explore the feasibility of mapping lipid species in FFPE clinical samples with MALDI-MSI using 6-aza-2-thiothymine (ATT) as a matrix of choice. Methods: To do so, ATT performances were first compared to those two other matrices commonly used for lipidomic analyses, 2′,5′-dihydroxybenzoic acid (DHB) and Norharmane (NOR), on lipid standards. Results: As a proof-of-concept, we then assessed ATT’s performance for the MALDI-MSI analysis of lipids in FFPE brain sections, both in positive and negative ion modes, comparing results with those obtained from other commonly used dual-polarity matrices. In this context, ATT enabled the putative annotation of 98 lipids while maintaining a well-balanced detection of glycerophospholipids (60.2%) and sphingolipids (32.7%) in positive ion mode. It outperformed both DHB and NOR in the identification of glycolipids (3%) and fatty acids (4%). Additionally, ATT exceeded DHB in terms of total lipid count (62 vs. 21) and class diversity and demonstrated performance comparable to NOR in negative ion mode. Moreover, ATT was applied to a FFPE glioblastoma tissue microarray (TMA) evaluating the ability of this matrix to reveal biologically relevant lipid features capable of distinguishing normal brain tissue from glioblastoma regions. Conclusions: Altogether, the results presented in this work suggest that ATT is a suitable matrix for pathology imaging applications, even at higher lateral resolutions of 20 μm, not only for proteomic but also for lipidomic analysis. This could enable the use of the same matrix type for the analysis of both lipids and peptides on the same tissue section, offering a unique strategic advantage for multi-omics studies, while also supporting acquisition in both positive and negative ionization modes. Full article

Background: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a promising tool in regenerative medicine due to their ability to secrete paracrine factors that modulate tissue repair. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) released by MSCs contain bioactive molecules (e.g., mRNAs, miRNAs, proteins) and play a key role in intercellular communication. Methods: This study compared the transcriptomic profiles (mRNA and miRNA) of equine MSCs derived from adipose tissue (AT-MSCs), bone marrow (BM-MSCs), and ovarian fibroblasts (as a differentiated control). Additionally, miRNAs present in EVs secreted by these cells were characterized using next-generation sequencing. Results: All cell types met ISCT criteria for MSCs, including CD90 expression, lack of MHC II, trilineage differentiation, and adherence. EVs were isolated using ultracentrifugation and validated with nanoparticle tracking analysis and flow cytometry (CD63, CD81). Differential expression analysis revealed distinct mRNA and miRNA profiles across cell types and their secreted EVs, correlating with tissue origin. BM-MSCs showed unique regulation of genes linked to early development and osteogenesis. EVs contained diverse RNA species, including miRNA, mRNA, lncRNA, rRNA, and others. In total, 227 and 256 mature miRNAs were detected in BM-MSCs and AT-MSCs, respectively, including two novel miRNAs per MSC type. Fibroblasts expressed 209 mature miRNAs, including one novel miRNA also found in MSCs. Compared to fibroblasts, 60 and 92 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified in AT-MSCs and BM-MSCs, respectively. Conclusions: The results indicate that MSC tissue origin influences both transcriptomic profiles and EV miRNA content, which may help to interpret their therapeutic potential. Identifying key mRNAs and miRNAs could aid in future optimizing of MSC-based therapies in horses. Full article

Although marine caves are among the most species-diverse habitats in the Mediterranean Sea, most available studies have focused on their sessile fauna. This study provides the first quantitative assessment of motile fauna in 27 marine caves across four geographical subareas of the Aegean and Ionian Seas, using a rapid assessment visual census protocol, applied through 3 min time transects in each ecological cave zone. Multivariate analysis revealed that the motile community structure of the cave entrance was differentiated from that of the semidark and dark zones. Deeper caves were distinct from shallower ones while caves of the east Aegean differed from those around Crete Island. A total of 163 taxa were recorded, 27 of which are reported herein for the first time in marine caves of the eastern Mediterranean Sea, while three species (two native and one introduced) are recorded in Greek waters for the first time, enriching our knowledge on the permanent and occasional cave residents. Seventeen species were introduced, comprising more than half of the total fish abundance in the southeasternmost cave. Our limited knowledge of the motile fauna of Mediterranean marine caves coupled with the continued spread of introduced species highlights the urgent need for monitoring and conservation actions, especially within marine protected areas. Full article

The successful transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease, depends on intricate interactions with its insect vector. In Mexico, Meccus pallidipennis is a relevant triatomine species involved in the parasite’s life cycle. In the gut of these insects, the parasite moves from the anterior midgut (AMG) to the posterior midgut (PMG), where it multiplies. Finally, T. cruzi differentiates into its infective form by metacyclogenesis in the proctodeum or rectum (RE). This study aimed to characterize and compare the protein and glycoprotein profiles of the anterior midgut (AMG) and rectum (RE) of M. pallidipennis, and to assess their potential association with T. cruzi metacyclogenesis, with special attention to sex-specific differences. Insects were infected with the T. cruzi isolate ITRI/MX/12/MOR (Morelos). Protein profiles were analyzed by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, while glycoproteins were detected using ConA, WGA, and PNA lectins. The metacyclogenesis index was calculated for male and female triatomines. A lower overlap of protein fractions was found in the RE compared to the AMG between sexes, suggesting functional sexual dimorphism. Infected females showed greater diversity in glycoprotein patterns in the RE, potentially related to higher blood intake and parasite burden. The metacyclogenesis index was significantly higher in females than in males. These findings highlight sex-dependent differences in gut protein and glycoprotein profiles in M. pallidipennis, which may influence the efficiency of T. cruzi development within the vector. Further proteomic studies are needed to identify the molecular components involved and clarify their roles in parasite differentiation and suggest new targets for disrupting parasite transmission within the vector. Full article

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is frequently accompanied by gastrointestinal disturbances, dietary selectivity, and altered stress responses, with growing evidence pointing to gut–brain axis involvement. While intestinal microbiota has been extensively studied, the role of the oral microbiota remains underexplored. This study investigates the associations between oral microbiota composition and behavioral, gastrointestinal, dietary, and neuroendocrine parameters in children with ASD. A total of 45 children aged 2–18 years comprised the study group. Data collection included oral swabs for 16S rRNA gene sequencing, salivary cortisol sampling, dietary records, and standardized behavioral assessments using the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale. A total of 363 microbial species across 11 phyla were identified. Significant correlations were observed between specific bacterial taxa and functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs), dietary patterns, salivary cortisol rhythms, and functioning. Children with FGIDs, food selectivity, or macronutrient imbalances exhibited enriched pro-inflammatory taxa (e.g., Selenomonas, Megasphaera), whereas those with typical cortisol secretion or higher adaptive functioning showed greater microbial diversity and abundance of health-associated genera (e.g., Bifidobacterium dentium). These findings suggest that oral microbiota profiles may reflect systemic physiological and neurobehavioral traits in children with ASD. Further longitudinal studies are needed to clarify causal relationships and support the development of microbiota-targeted interventions. Full article

Willow stands (Salix spp.) are an essential part of riparian ecosystems, as they sustain biodiversity and provide bioenergy solutions. The present review synthesizes the global scientific literature about the management of willow stands. In order to achieve this goal, we used a dual approach combining bibliometric analysis with traditional literature review. As such, we consulted 416 publications published between 1978 and 2024. This allowed us to identify key species, ecosystem services, conservation strategies, and management issues. The results we have obtained show a diversity of approaches, with an increase in short-rotation coppice (SRC) systems and the multiple roles covered by willow stands (carbon sequestration, biomass production, riparian restoration, and habitat provision). The key trends we have identified show a shift toward topics such as climate resilience, ecological restoration, and precision forestry. This trend has become especially pronounced over the past decade (2014–2024), as reflected in the increasing use of these keywords in the literature. However, as willow systems expand in scale and function—from biomass production to ecological restoration—they also raise complex challenges, including invasive tendencies in non-native regions and uncertainties surrounding biodiversity impacts and soil carbon dynamics over the long term. The present review is a guide for forest policies and, more specifically, for future research, linking the need to integrate and use adaptive strategies in order to maintain the willow stands. Full article

Rickettsia, Anaplasma, and Ehrlichia species are emerging tick-borne pathogens that cause zoonotic diseases, including rickettsiosis, anaplasmosis, and ehrlichiosis in both human and animal populations. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of these pathogens in cattle-associated ticks from Ganzhou City, Jiangxi Province, China. Through molecular characterization using multilocus sequence analysis (16S rRNA, gltA, groEL, and ompA genes), we analyzed 392 Rhipicephalus microplus ticks collected from March to September in 2022. The PCR results showed that eight Rickettsiales bacteria were detected, including two species of Rickettsia (51/392, 13.0%), four species of Anaplasma (52/392, 13.3%), and two species of Ehrlichia (70/392, 17.9%). Notably, the circulation of multiple pathogen species within R. microplus populations demonstrates significant microbial diversity in this region. Further consideration and investigation should be given to the possible occurrence of rickettsiosis, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis in humans and domestic animals. Our study provides critical baseline data for developing targeted surveillance strategies and informing public health interventions against tick-borne diseases in southeastern China. Full article

The genus Curcuma (Zingiberaceae) is a diverse group of plants widely distributed across tropical Asia, with several new species recently described in Thailand. This study documents and clarifies the taxonomic status of a new species, Curcuma nivea Saensouk, P.Saensouk & Boonma sp. nov., discovered in eastern Thailand, and evaluates its horticultural potential. Morphological comparisons were conducted with closely related species in the Curcuma subgenus Hitcheniopsis (Baker) K. Schum., focusing on diagnostic vegetative and floral traits. Curcuma nivea is characterized by its compact habit and white flowers marked with two reddish lines at the base of the labellum, lacking the yellow blotch typical of related species. Additionally, it shows the absence of both epigynous glands and anther spurs, consistent with subgeneric features. Its distinctive morphology and attractive floral display have led to its cultivation as an ornamental pot plant. The discovery of C. nivea contributes to the growing documentation of Curcuma diversity in Thailand and underscores the significance of ongoing botanical exploration and conservation. Furthermore, its compact form and unique floral traits highlight its promise for use in ornamental horticulture and breeding programs. Full article

Urban wildlife conservation is emerging as a critical component of sustainable city ecosystems. Rather than simply increasing tree abundance or species richness, conservation management should focus on key species. In this research, Xishan Forest Park in Beijing was chosen as a case study. Our aim was to identify keystone taxa critical for avian foraging and nesting during the breeding season. We performed a network analysis linking bird species, their diets, and nest plants. Dietary components were detected using DNA metabarcoding conducted with avian fecal samples. Nest plants were identified via transect surveys. Two indices of the network, degree and weighted mean degree, were calculated to evaluate the importance of the dietary and nest plant species. We identified 13 bird host species from 107 fecal samples and 14 bird species from 107 nest observations. Based on the degree indices, fruit trees Morus and Prunus were detected as key food sources, exhibiting both the highest degree (degree = 9, 9) and weighted mean degree (lnwMD = 5.21, 4.63). Robinia pseudoacacia provided predominant nesting sites, with a predominant degree of 7. A few taxa, such as Styphnolobium japonicum and Rhamnus parvifolia, served dual ecological significance as both essential food sources and nesting substrates. Scrublands, as a unique habitat type, provided nesting sites and food for small-bodied birds. Therefore, targeted management interventions are recommended to sustain or enhance these keystone resource species and to maintain the multi-layered vertical vegetation structure to preserve the diverse habitats of birds. Full article

The main objective of this study was to select indigenous fungal species suitable for the potential mycoremediation of the soils polluted by organic pollutants. As a sampling area, Litvínov City (North Bohemia, Czech Republic) was selected. The city is characterized by intensive coal mining, coal processing, and the chemical industry, predominantly petrochemistry. The elevated contents of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) such as polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) were identified in urban soils due to the long-term industrial pollution. The results confirmed elevated contents of PAHs in all the analyzed soil samples with high variability ranging between 0.5 and 23.3 mg/kg regardless of the position of the sampling area on the city map. PCBs and PCDD/Fs exceeded the detection limits in the soil at the sampling points, and several hotspots were revealed at some locations. All the sampling points contained a diverse community of saprotrophic and mycorrhizal fungi, as determined according to abundant basidiomycetes. Fungal species with a confirmed ability to degrade organic pollutants were found, such as species representing the genera Agaricus from the Agaricaceae family, Coprinopsis from the Psathyrellaceae family, Hymenogaster from the Hymenogasteraceae family, and Pluteus from the Pluteaceae family. These species are accustomed to particular soil conditions as well as the elevated contents of the POPs in them. Therefore, these species could be taken into account when developing potential bioremediation measures to apply in the most polluted areas, and their biodegradation ability should be elucidated in further research. The results of this study contribute to the investigation of the potential use of fungal species for mycoremediation of the areas polluted by a wide spectrum of organic pollutants. Full article