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18 pages, 5562 KB

Open AccessArticle

Symmetry-Aware Face Illumination Enhancement via Pixel-Adaptive Curve Mapping

by Jieqiong Yang, Yumeng Lu, Jiaqi Liu and Jizheng Yi

Symmetry 2025, 17(9), 1560; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17091560 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Face recognition under uneven illumination conditions presents significant challenges, as asymmetric shadows often obscure facial features while overexposed regions lose critical texture details. To address this problem, a novel symmetry-aware illumination enhancement method named face shadow detection network (FSDN) is proposed, which features [...] Read more.

Face recognition under uneven illumination conditions presents significant challenges, as asymmetric shadows often obscure facial features while overexposed regions lose critical texture details. To address this problem, a novel symmetry-aware illumination enhancement method named face shadow detection network (FSDN) is proposed, which features a nested U-Net architecture combined with Gaussian convolution. This method enables precise illumination intensity maps for the given face images through higher-order quadratic enhancement curves, effectively extending the low-light dynamic range while preserving essential facial symmetry. Comprehensive evaluations on the Extended Yale B and CMU-PIE datasets demonstrate the superiority of the proposed FSDN over conventional approaches, achieving structural similarity (SSIM) indices of 0.48 and 0.59, respectively, along with remarkably low face recognition error rates of 1.3% and 0.2%, respectively. The key innovation of this work lies in its simultaneous optimization of illumination uniformity and facial symmetry preservation, thereby significantly improving face analysis reliability under challenging lighting conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Computer)

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15 pages, 910 KB

Open AccessArticle

Clinicopathological Factors Affecting Prognosis in Patients with Advanced Cervical Cancer Undergoing Concurrent Chemoradiation Therapy

by Maitreyee Parulekar, Min Kyung Kim, Joseph J. Noh, Dong Hoon Suh, Kidong Kim, Yong Beom Kim and Jae Hong No

Cancers 2025, 17(18), 3042; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17183042 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

Background: Concurrent chemoradiation therapy (CCRT) is the standard treatment for patients with locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC), including those with parametrial or lymphatic metastasis. However, therapeutic outcomes vary, and prognostic factors remain inadequately defined. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study involving 128 patients [...] Read more.

Background: Concurrent chemoradiation therapy (CCRT) is the standard treatment for patients with locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC), including those with parametrial or lymphatic metastasis. However, therapeutic outcomes vary, and prognostic factors remain inadequately defined. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study involving 128 patients with cervical cancer who received definitive CCRT between 2003 and 2022 at Seoul National University Bundang Hospital. We evaluated clinicopathological variables, including age, height, body weight, histologic type, tumor size, human papillomavirus (HPV) type, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) antigen levels, and involvement of the parametrium, lower vagina, and lymph nodes. Survival outcomes were analyzed using Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox proportional hazards models. Results: Stage IIIC1r, according to the 2018 FIGO staging system, was the most common disease stage among the study population. Para-aortic lymph node metastasis was significantly associated with increased recurrence risk (odds ratio [OR] = 5.892; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.030–17.097; p = 0.001) and was linked to poorer progression-free survival (PFS, p = 0.001), overall survival (OS, p = 0.014), and treatment-free interval (TFI, p = 0.001). Obesity (body mass index ≥ 25 kg/m²) was also associated with higher recurrence risk (OR = 2.737; 95% CI: 1.093–6.855; p = 0.032) and reduced PFS (p = 0.0089). Conclusions: Para-aortic lymph node metastasis and obesity are significant prognostic factors in patients undergoing definitive CCRT for LACC. These findings highlight the need for risk-adapted treatment strategies and potential incorporation of adjunctive therapies to improve clinical outcomes in high-risk patient subgroups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Updates on Imaging and Staging of Gynecologic Cancers)

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11 pages, 254 KB

Open AccessArticle

Distortion Theory of Biunivalent Holomorphic Functions

by Samuel L. Krushkal

Axioms 2025, 14(9), 704; https://doi.org/10.3390/axioms14090704 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

Biunivalent holomorphic functions form an interesting class in geometric function theory and are associated with special functions and solutions of complex differential equations. This paper provides a complete distortion theory for such functions, in particular, the sharp coefficient estimates. Another interesting feature is [...] Read more.

Biunivalent holomorphic functions form an interesting class in geometric function theory and are associated with special functions and solutions of complex differential equations. This paper provides a complete distortion theory for such functions, in particular, the sharp coefficient estimates. Another interesting feature is that (in contrast to general collections of univalent functions) one obtains in the same fashion the sharp bounds for coefficients of biunivalent functions with k-quasiconformal extension for any

k < 1

. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mathematical Analysis and Applications IV)

22 pages, 4981 KB

Open AccessArticle

Data-Driven Design and Additive Manufacturing of Patient-Specific Lattice Titanium Scaffolds for Mandibular Bone Reconstruction

by Nail Beisekenov, Bagdat Azamatov, Marzhan Sadenova, Dmitriy Dogadkin, Daniyar Kaliyev, Sergey Rudenko and Boris Syrnev

J. Funct. Biomater. 2025, 16(9), 350; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb16090350 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

The reconstruction of segmental bone defects requires patient-specific scaffolds that combine mechanical safety, biological functionality, and rapid manufacturing. We converted CT-derived mandibular geometry into a functionally graded Ti-6Al-4V lattice and optimised porosity, screw layout, and strut thickness through a cyber-physical loop that joins [...] Read more.

The reconstruction of segmental bone defects requires patient-specific scaffolds that combine mechanical safety, biological functionality, and rapid manufacturing. We converted CT-derived mandibular geometry into a functionally graded Ti-6Al-4V lattice and optimised porosity, screw layout, and strut thickness through a cyber-physical loop that joins high-fidelity FEM, millisecond ANN, and a BN for uncertainty quantification. Fifteen candidate scaffolds were fabricated by direct metal laser sintering and hot isostatic pressing and were mechanically tested. FEM predicted stress and stiffness with 98% accuracy; the ANN reproduced these outputs with 94% fidelity while evaluating 10,000 designs in real time, and the BN limited failure probability to <3% under worst-case loads. The selected 55–65% porosity design reduced titanium use by 15%, shortened development time by 25% and raised multi-objective optimisation efficiency by 20% relative to a solid-plate baseline, while resisting a 600 N bite with a peak von Mises stress of 225 MPa and micromotion < 150 µm. Integrating physics-based simulation, AI speed, and probabilistic rigour yields a validated, additively manufactured scaffold that meets surgical timelines and biomechanical requirements, offering a transferable blueprint for functional scaffolds in bone and joint surgery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Scaffolds for Bone and Joint Surgery)

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28 pages, 3661 KB

Open AccessArticle

From Mountains and Forests to the Seas: The Maritime Spread of the Sanping Patriarch Belief

by Shaosong Huang

Religions 2025, 16(9), 1194; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel16091194 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

As a representative form of popular religion in southern Fujian (Minnan 闽南), the Sanping Patriarch (Sanping Zushi 三平祖師) belief exhibits distinct transregional and cross-cultural characteristics in its dissemination across Taiwan and Southeast Asia. Taking the ancestral temples in Fujian 福建 as a point [...] Read more.

As a representative form of popular religion in southern Fujian (Minnan 闽南), the Sanping Patriarch (Sanping Zushi 三平祖師) belief exhibits distinct transregional and cross-cultural characteristics in its dissemination across Taiwan and Southeast Asia. Taking the ancestral temples in Fujian 福建 as a point of departure, this article systematically analyzes the transmission routes and localization strategies of this belief system in Taiwan and Southeast Asia. Drawing on detailed archival research, fieldwork (including site visits), and interviews, the study reveals how the belief has continually revitalized itself in pluralistic societies through strategies of “orthodoxy preservation” and “localized innovation.” The findings suggest that in Taiwan, the Sanping Patriarch belief primarily relies on kinship networks to maintain traditional practices. At the same time, in Southeast Asia, it spreads across ethnic boundaries through commercial and trade networks. Differences are also evident in the realm of mythological symbols, core rituals, and social functions. This study pays special attention to often-overlooked mythological figures such as the “Serpent Attendant” and “Tiger Attendant,” shedding light on the multilayered structure of folk religious systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Beyond the “Spice Routes”: Indic and Sinitic Religions across the Asian Maritime Realm)

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18 pages, 1837 KB

Open AccessReview

Emerging and Versatile Non-Mammalian Model Organisms for Studying the In Vivo Antioxidant Properties of Food-Derived Bioactive Compounds

by Alejandra Miranda-Carrazco, Verenice Torres-Salas, Rosy G. Cruz-Monterrosa, Monzerrat Rosas-Espejel, Ildefonso Guerrero-Encinas, Javier N. González-González, Luis Quihui-Cota, Andrea M. Liceaga and José E. Aguilar-Toalá

Antioxidants 2025, 14(9), 1127; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14091127 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

In recent years, there has been increased attention to exploring non-mammalian model organisms to study the antioxidant properties of bioactive compounds. These models include both unicellular organisms, such as Escherichia coli and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and multicellular organisms, such as Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila [...] Read more.

In recent years, there has been increased attention to exploring non-mammalian model organisms to study the antioxidant properties of bioactive compounds. These models include both unicellular organisms, such as Escherichia coli and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and multicellular organisms, such as Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila melanogaster, and Danio rerio. In particular, multicellular models have emerged as promising systems due to their ease of establishing systems and maintenance, short duration of experiments, ease of genetic manipulation and genome-wide screening, availability as off-the-shelf models, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Notably, these organisms share a high degree of gene homology with humans, ranging from 65% to 84%, which positions them as powerful platforms for investigating human disease mechanisms. These advantages make them attractive candidates for investigating the potential health benefits of various bioactive compounds before resorting to mammalian models. This review delves into the rationale for utilizing these emerging non-mammalian model organisms during preliminary stages of research, emphasizing their distinct advantages over traditional mammalian models. It also highlights their significant contributions to advancing our understanding of the antioxidant mechanisms of bioactive compounds, shedding light on their potential therapeutic implications for human health. By leveraging these models, researchers can efficiently screen and validate bioactive compounds, laying a robust foundation for subsequent translational studies in mammalian systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring New Frontiers in Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Research: From Model Organisms to Human Disease)

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18 pages, 2852 KB

Open AccessArticle

Manganese(II) Enhanced Ferrate(VI) Pretreatment: Effects on Membrane Fouling and Pollutants Interception

by Chengbiao Xu, Lu Wang, Jun Ma and Yulei Liu

Water 2025, 17(18), 2757; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17182757 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

To mitigate membrane fouling in the ultrafiltration process of surface water, this study focused on the source water from the Songhua River, systematically investigating the efficacy and mechanism of combined ferrate(VI) (Fe(VI)) and manganese(II) (Mn(II)) pretreatment in controlling ultrafiltration membrane fouling. Emphasis was [...] Read more.

To mitigate membrane fouling in the ultrafiltration process of surface water, this study focused on the source water from the Songhua River, systematically investigating the efficacy and mechanism of combined ferrate(VI) (Fe(VI)) and manganese(II) (Mn(II)) pretreatment in controlling ultrafiltration membrane fouling. Emphasis was placed on analyzing the impacts of pretreatment on membrane fouling performance, physicochemical properties of influent and effluent, membrane surface characteristics, and interfacial interactions. The results showed that the combined pretreatment with Fe(VI) and Mn(II) outperformed individual pretreatments and the untreated group significantly. When Fe(VI)/Mn(II) was 2/3, the normalized flux reached 0.66, a 35% increase compared to the untreated group; meanwhile, the pollutants retention was enhanced to 41.5%, with reversible and irreversible fouling resistances reduced by 75% and 77%, respectively. At this optimal ratio, the reaction products of Fe(VI) and Mn(II) coagulation acted as the core mechanism. It enhances pollutant particle repulsion, reduces particle size to form a loose structure, leading to a porous, hydrophilic membrane surface fouling layer with low roughness, thus minimizing membrane pore blockage. The combined pretreatment maintained a repulsive total interaction energy between pollutants and the membrane throughout the process, significantly reducing irreversible adsorption, which further verified the effectiveness of fouling mitigation. This study demonstrated that combined Fe(VI)/Mn(II) pretreatment at a molar ratio of 2:3 could efficiently control ultrafiltration membrane fouling by regulating pollutant characteristics and interfacial interactions, providing a theoretical basis and technical support for advanced treatment of surface water. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Wastewater Treatment and Reuse)

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13 pages, 1109 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing Cognitive–Motor Performance in Table Tennis: Validity and Reliability of the Reactive Table Tennis Test

by Alessandro Guarnieri, Fabiana Laurenti, Salvatore Mazzei, Valentina Presta and Giancarlo Condello

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(18), 10163; https://doi.org/10.3390/app151810163 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

Table tennis (TT) is a high-speed sport requiring integrated cognitive and motor skills. However, the existing assessment tools have failed to replicate its sport-specific demands. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Reactive Table Tennis test designed to [...] Read more.

Table tennis (TT) is a high-speed sport requiring integrated cognitive and motor skills. However, the existing assessment tools have failed to replicate its sport-specific demands. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Reactive Table Tennis test designed to assess cognitive–motor performance in TT. Sixty athletes were recruited from TT, combat sports (CS), team sports (TS), and track and field (TF). Participants were required to react to 10 visual stimuli randomly emitted from three devices placed 3 m frontally by performing 1.5 m lateral or frontal displacements. Athletes passed through a timing gate using either both hands (B) or only one hand (O) under two conditions: with consecutive stimulus presentation (C) and with a 0.8 s delay between stimuli (D), simulating the typical inter-shot time observed during the rallies. Each participant completed three trials per condition on three non-consecutive days. Results showed the highest reliability under the delayed conditions (ICC_BD = 0.969; ICC_OD = 0.961), along with lower coefficients of variation than for the consecutive conditions. TT players performed significantly faster (p < 0.05) than other athletes under BD, OD, and BC but not under OC conditions. The mean of three trials is recommended for more accurate assessments. The proposed test proved to be a valid and reliable tool, especially under the both hand-delay condition, and is suitable for large-scale use in TT. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human Performance and Health in Sport and Exercise—2nd Edition)

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26 pages, 5698 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Integral Assessment of Species of the Genus Allium L. (Amaryllidaceae) in the Western Part of the Kyrgyz Alatau

by Polina V. Vesselova, Gulmira M. Kudabayeva, Daulet Sh. Abdildanov, Bektemir B. Osmonali, Serikbay Ussen, Mikhail V. Skaptsov and Nikolai Friesen

Plants 2025, 14(18), 2890; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14182890 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

This paper presents the results of the current present species composition of the genus Allium L. (Amaryllidaceae) of the western part of the Kyrgyz Alatau. The phylogeny, ploidy, and chorological data are presented, and a checklist of species of the genus Allium in [...] Read more.

This paper presents the results of the current present species composition of the genus Allium L. (Amaryllidaceae) of the western part of the Kyrgyz Alatau. The phylogeny, ploidy, and chorological data are presented, and a checklist of species of the genus Allium in the study area is compiled. The large subgenera of Allium, including Melanocrommyum, have been identified, reflecting their prevalence in the mountainous regions of Central Asia. Ploidy of some species (A. artrosanguineum and A. turkestanicum) of the genus Allium growing in the western part of the Kyrgyz Alatau were studied for the first time using flow cytometry methods. The nrITS sequencing was used to construct a phylogenetic tree including sequences from the NCBI database. The phylogenetic tree of species of the genus Allium of the Kyrgyz Alatau was compiled taking into account previously published data. The list of studied Allium species in the Kyrgyz Alatau is represented by 25 species, which include seven subgenera and 17 sections. Also, the nomenclature of onion species is brought to the modern understanding of some species names. Based on specimens of the genus Allium collected in the western part of the Kyrgyz Alatau, an integral assessment of the current species composition using molecular–genetic, cytometric, and traditional botanical methods was carried out. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Plant Systematics, Taxonomy, Nomenclature and Classification)

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15 pages, 8286 KB

Open AccessArticle

In Situ Growth of Magnesium Oxide Nanoparticles on ITO Electrodes as Electrocatalysts for Detecting Bisphenol A in Thermal Paper

by Abdullah Akhdhar and Waleed A. El-Said

Catalysts 2025, 15(9), 901; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15090901 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

Here, MgO nanoparticles/ITO electrodes were fabricated through the hydrothermal method and utilized for monitoring bisphenol A (BPA). Various characterization analyses were utilized, including SEM, XRD, Raman, and FTIR techniques, to investigate the modified electrode’s morphology and structure. The modified sensor shows an LOD [...] Read more.

Here, MgO nanoparticles/ITO electrodes were fabricated through the hydrothermal method and utilized for monitoring bisphenol A (BPA). Various characterization analyses were utilized, including SEM, XRD, Raman, and FTIR techniques, to investigate the modified electrode’s morphology and structure. The modified sensor shows an LOD of 1.13 nmol L⁻¹ over a linear range of 50 nmol L⁻¹–10 µmol L⁻¹. Here, fourteen thermal paper receipt samples were randomly obtained from the local markets in Jeddah, KSA. Then, BPS was extracted and analyzed using electrochemical methods. The results indicated that (i) forty percent of the samples investigated showed high BPA levels, and (ii) twenty-seven percent of the samples showed low BPA levels, while (iii) twenty-three percent of the samples showed very low or no BPA. The significance of this study is related to its health effects, recent legal restrictions by the EU, and frequent exposure to BPA sources. Our future work will focus on achieving quantitative analysis of BPA in thermal paper samples. Furthermore, we recommend that wearing gloves be mandatory, especially for people with regular work-related exposure to thermal paper. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrochemical and Electrocatalysis with Porous Materials)

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Graphical abstract

14 pages, 1048 KB

Open AccessArticle

Molecular Characterization, Identification of the Volatile Organic Compounds by GC–MS, and Assessment of the Cytotoxic Activity of Leaves of Pimenta dioica L. Merrill Trees from Mexico

by Isis Montalvo-López, María del Rosario García-Mateos, Juan Martínez-Solís, Ramón Marcos Soto-Hernández and Ma Carmen Ybarra-Moncada

Metabolites 2025, 15(9), 617; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo15090617 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

Background: Pimenta dioica is a medicinal plant rich in various natural compounds, giving it significant potential for applications in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, food, and agricultural industries. However, little is known about the metabolites present in the leaves of female and male trees, [...] Read more.

Background: Pimenta dioica is a medicinal plant rich in various natural compounds, giving it significant potential for applications in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, food, and agricultural industries. However, little is known about the metabolites present in the leaves of female and male trees, as well as their toxicity and genetic variability. Therefore, in this study, molecular characterization was conducted, the volatile compounds in the leaves of female and male trees were identified, and their cytotoxicity was assessed. Methods: For molecular characterization, a clustering analysis was performed using Ward’s minimum variance method; genetic distances were determined using Jaccard’s coefficient (similarity) and an analysis of molecular variance. Hexane extracts were obtained using the Soxhlet method and analyzed by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The cytotoxicity of the extracts was evaluated by a bioassay with Artemia salina. Results: Forty-two metabolites were identified in leaf extracts from female and male trees, of which 17 are reported for the first time in this tissue. The female tree exhibited a distinct metabolite profile compared to the male tree and was slightly more toxic than the male tree. However, both were considered to be moderately toxic (282.00 and 222.87 μg/mL, respectively). Conclusions: Pimenta dioica has a high potential for various uses, primarily for anthropocentric purposes due to its composition of specific metabolites and moderate toxicity. The sampled trees showed a high molecular genetic variability among individuals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Metabolites from Plants)

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13 pages, 535 KB

Open AccessArticle

Factors Influencing Nursing Students’ Academic Engagement and Burnout During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Path Analysis

by Ji Hyun Park and Jin-Hwa Park

Nurs. Rep. 2025, 15(9), 339; https://doi.org/10.3390/nursrep15090339 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Increases in unemployment due to the COVID-19 pandemic and doctors’ strike have intensified job-seeking stress among nursing students, contributing to academic pressure, increased stress levels, reduced participation, and a greater risk of burnout. This study investigates the relationships between job-seeking stress, [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Increases in unemployment due to the COVID-19 pandemic and doctors’ strike have intensified job-seeking stress among nursing students, contributing to academic pressure, increased stress levels, reduced participation, and a greater risk of burnout. This study investigates the relationships between job-seeking stress, academic self-efficacy, professor trust, academic engagement, and academic burnout through path analysis. Methods: A total of 496 nursing students enrolled in four-year nursing programs in South Korea participated in this study. Data were gathered using structured questionnaires from 30 August to 13 December 2021. Results: Job-seeking stress, academic self-efficacy, and professor trust significantly influenced academic engagement, accounting for 37.2% of its variance. Academic burnout was primarily explained by job-seeking stress and academic self-efficacy, with an explanatory power of 50.4%. Furthermore, academic self-efficacy played a mediating role in the relationships between job-seeking stress and both academic engagement and burnout. Conclusions: Developing interventions to enhance academic self-efficacy is crucial. Additionally, strategies should be implemented to alleviate job-seeking stress, foster academic engagement, and reduce the risk of burnout among nursing students. Full article

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14 pages, 356 KB

Open AccessArticle

Emotional Regulation and Risk of Eating Disorders in Adolescent Athletes

by Silvia P. Espinoza-Barrón, Abril Cantú-Berrueto, María Á. Castejón and Rosendo Berengüí

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(9), 188; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15090188 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

Eating Disorders (EDs) are more prevalent among athletes due to performance pressure and body ideals. Emotional regulation is a key factor in ED. This study aimed to (1) examine the reliability and structural validity of the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire for Children and Adolescents [...] Read more.

Eating Disorders (EDs) are more prevalent among athletes due to performance pressure and body ideals. Emotional regulation is a key factor in ED. This study aimed to (1) examine the reliability and structural validity of the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire for Children and Adolescents (ERQ-CA) in adolescent Mexican athletes, and (2) analyze associations between emotional regulation strategies (expressive suppression and cognitive reappraisal) and ED risk factors (drive for thinness, body dissatisfaction, and bulimia). An instrumental, cross-sectional design was employed with 295 Mexican athletes (Mage = 16.85, SD = 3.27). The ERQ-CA demonstrated good psychometric properties, with acceptable reliability (ω > 0.70) and excellent fit for the two-factor model (CFI = 0.995, RMSEA = 0.018). Emotional suppression was positively associated with all ED risk indicators, whereas cognitive reappraisal was negatively associated. These findings highlight that individual differences in emotion regulation are linked to ED risk in adolescent athletes. Monitoring expressive suppression and promoting cognitive reappraisal may serve as supportive strategies for coaches, parents, and mental health professionals, enhancing emotional flexibility and potentially reducing ED risk. Full article

13 pages, 694 KB

Open AccessArticle

Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) Dose Dependently Blocks or Substitutes for Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in a Drug Discrimination Task in Rats

by Hakan Kayir, Larissa Kouroukis, Iman Aziz and Jibran Younis Khokhar

Biomolecules 2025, 15(9), 1329; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom15091329 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), a naturally occurring cannabinoid and structural analog of THC, exhibits a dual pharmacological profile as a CB1 receptor agonist/antagonist and a partial CB2 agonist. This study evaluated the effects of THCV in a THC discrimination model in rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats [...] Read more.

Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), a naturally occurring cannabinoid and structural analog of THC, exhibits a dual pharmacological profile as a CB1 receptor agonist/antagonist and a partial CB2 agonist. This study evaluated the effects of THCV in a THC discrimination model in rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 16, 300–340 g, PND60) were trained under a fixed ratio 20 (FR20) schedule to discriminate THC (3 mg/kg) from vehicle. Substitution tests were conducted with THC (0.325–3 mg/kg), THCV (0.75–6 mg/kg), and THC-THCV combinations. THCV produced an inverted U-shaped substitution curve, significantly differing from vehicle (p = 0.008). At 3 mg/kg, THCV partially substituted for THC (54.6% ± 17.82, p = 0.003). Response rate significantly increased during the substitution test with 3 mg/kg of THCV (p = 0.042). THCV (6 mg/kg) reversed THC (0.75 mg/kg)-induced responding (p = 0.040), with no significant change in response rate (p = 0.247). However, THCV combined with THC (1.5 mg/kg) affected response rates (p = 0.012), with 6 mg/kg significantly reducing rates vs. 3 mg/kg (p = 0.013). Blood THC and 11-OH-THC levels remained unchanged when THC was combined with THCV. The findings suggest THCV can partially mimic or block THC’s discriminative effects in a dose-dependent manner, possibly acting as a partial CB1 agonist. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cannabinoids in Neurobehavioral Modulation)

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16 pages, 17489 KB

Open AccessReview

Immature Teratoma of the Ovary—A Narrative Review

by Giuseppe Marino, Serena Negri, Filippo Testa, Jasmine Corti, Daniela Giuliani, Daniele Lugotti, Tommaso Grassi, Marta Jaconi, Alessandra Casiraghi, Cristina Maria Bonazzi and Robert Fruscio

Cancers 2025, 17(18), 3041; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17183041 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

Immature teratoma of the ovary is a rare condition primarily affecting young women and constitutes a significant proportion of ovarian cancer cases in adolescents and young adults. It is commonly diagnosed at stage I, though advanced-stage disease is not infrequent. Accurate diagnosis and [...] Read more.

Immature teratoma of the ovary is a rare condition primarily affecting young women and constitutes a significant proportion of ovarian cancer cases in adolescents and young adults. It is commonly diagnosed at stage I, though advanced-stage disease is not infrequent. Accurate diagnosis and a fertility-sparing approach are central to the management of this condition, as many affected women retain, or have yet to develop, a desire for childbearing. However, due to the rarity of this disease, management is often guided by retrospective data derived from subanalyses of studies on malignant ovarian germ cell tumors, which can complicate the treatment of these patients once diagnosed. The aim of this review is to summarize the current evidence on immature teratoma of the ovary, considering it as a distinct clinical and pathological entity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Primary and Recurrent Gynecological Cancer: Epidemiology, Management and New Therapies)

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21 pages, 3091 KB

Open AccessArticle

Pharmacophore-Based Virtual Screening of Alkaloids and Flavonoids for Designing Drugs with Inhibitory Activity on the Enzyme Monoamine Oxidase B

by Ana Carolina de Jesus Silva, Ana Beatriz Bezerra dos Santos, Mariana Pegrucci Barcelos, Carlos Henrique Tomich de Paula da Silva and Lorane Izabel da Silva Hage-Melim

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(18), 10162; https://doi.org/10.3390/app151810162 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons, resulting in multiple motor and cognitive impairments. Among the hypotheses proposed for its etiology, oxidative stress mediated by the enzyme monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) stands out, as it is directly [...] Read more.

Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons, resulting in multiple motor and cognitive impairments. Among the hypotheses proposed for its etiology, oxidative stress mediated by the enzyme monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) stands out, as it is directly associated with dopamine metabolism. In this context, the search for molecules with potential antiparkinsonian activity and low toxicity, particularly those of natural origin, has been extensively investigated using computational approaches. In the present study, a pharmacophore-based virtual screening was carried out on molecules belonging to the alkaloid and flavonoid groups, followed by the evaluation of their pharmacokinetic, toxicological, and biological activity profiles, as well as ligand–receptor interaction analysis through molecular docking. The results indicated that palmatine, genistein, ZINC00597214, and ZINC72342127 exhibited superior performance compared to the other analyzed structures, considering all evaluated criteria. Therefore, this study, through in silico methodologies, demonstrated the antiparkinsonian potential of several chemical structures, attributable to their inhibitory activity on the MAO-B enzyme. Further experimental investigations, both in vitro and in vivo, are necessary to more comprehensively characterize the properties of these molecules, with the ultimate goal of developing new therapeutic strategies for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. Full article

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13 pages, 1174 KB

Open AccessBrief Report

Estimation of the External Knee Adduction Moment Using Inertial Measurement Unit Sensors on the Shank and Lower Back: A Pilot Study

by Tomoaki Matsuda, Junichi Watanabe, Tasuku Sotokawa, Toru Shishime and Hiroshi Katoh

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(3), 356; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10030356 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

Background: The external knee adduction moment (KAM) is an important biomechanical parameter that reflects the load on the medial tibiofemoral compartment during gait. The KAM is typically evaluated using three-dimensional motion analysis (3DMA) systems. The present study aimed to evaluate and validate the [...] Read more.

Background: The external knee adduction moment (KAM) is an important biomechanical parameter that reflects the load on the medial tibiofemoral compartment during gait. The KAM is typically evaluated using three-dimensional motion analysis (3DMA) systems. The present study aimed to evaluate and validate the waveform similarity between the KAM estimated using only two inertial measurement units (IMUs) sensors, attached to the shank and lower back (IMU-KAM), as a simpler method and that obtained from a 3DMA system (3DMA-KAM) under different step rate conditions. Methods: Three healthy adult men were included. The gait task involved walking in a straight line over a distance of approximately 10 m at three step rate conditions: 115, 100, and 85 steps/min. Data were collected using a 3DMA system, force plates, and IMUs. The primary outcome measures included the KAM waveforms for 3DMA-KAM and IMU-KAM during the early and late phases of the single-limb support (Early-SLS phase and Late-SLS phase, respectively). The coefficient of multiple correlation (CMC) was used to evaluate the waveform pattern similarity. Results: IMU-KAM demonstrated high similarity to 3DMA-KAM waveforms in the Early-SLS phase under 115 and 100 steps/min, with CMC values ranging from 0.66 to 0.99. However, no clear similarity was observed in the Late-SLS phase. Conclusions: In the Preferred and Reduced conditions, wherein the walking rate exceeded 100 steps/min, the KAM waveform pattern during the Early-SLS phase was accurately estimated using IMU sensors attached to the shank and lower back. The findings of this study suggest the potential of simplified gait analysis using IMUs for evaluating knee joint biomechanics and provide foundational data for future clinical applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Posture, Balance, and Gait: Assessment Techniques and Rehabilitation Strategies)

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27 pages, 8010 KB

Open AccessArticle

Deep Learning-Based Short- and Mid-Term Surface and Subsurface Soil Moisture Projections from Remote Sensing and Digital Soil Maps

by Saman Rabiei, Ebrahim Babaeian and Sabine Grunwald

Remote Sens. 2025, 17(18), 3219; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17183219 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

Accurate real-time information about soil moisture (SM) at a large scale is essential for improving hydrological modeling, managing water resources, and monitoring extreme weather events. This study presents a framework using convolutional long short-term memory (ConvLSTM) network to produce short- (1, 3, and [...] Read more.

Accurate real-time information about soil moisture (SM) at a large scale is essential for improving hydrological modeling, managing water resources, and monitoring extreme weather events. This study presents a framework using convolutional long short-term memory (ConvLSTM) network to produce short- (1, 3, and 7 days ahead) and mid-term (14 and 30 days ahead) forecasts of SM at surface (0–10 cm) and subsurface (10–40 and 40–100 cm) soil layers across the contiguous U.S. The model was trained with five-year period (2018–2022) datasets including Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) level 3 ancillary covariables, North American Land Data Assimilation System phase 2 (NLDAS-2) SM product, shortwave infrared reflectance from Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS), and terrain features (e.g., elevation, slope, curvature), as well as soil texture and bulk density maps from the Soil Landscape of the United States (SOLUS100) database. To develop and evaluate the model, the dataset was divided into three subsets: training (January 2018–January 2021), validation (2021), and testing (2022). The outputs were validated with observed in situ data from the Soil Climate Analysis Network (SCAN) and the United States Climate Reference Network (USCRN) soil moisture networks. The results indicated that the accuracy of SM forecasts decreased with increasing lead time, particularly in the surface (0–10 cm) and subsurface (10–40 cm) layers, where strong fluctuations driven by rainfall variability and evapotranspiration fluxes introduced greater uncertainty. Across all soil layers and lead times, the model achieved a median unbiased root mean square error (ubRMSE) of 0.04 cm³ cm⁻³ with a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.61. Further, the performance of the model was evaluated with respect to both land cover and soil texture databases. Forecast accuracy was highest in coarse-textured soils, followed by medium- and fine-textured soils, likely because the greater penetration depth of microwave observations improves SM retrieval in sandy soils. Among land cover types, performance was strongest in grasslands and savannas and weakest in dense forests and shrublands, where dense vegetation attenuates the microwave signal and reduces SM estimation accuracy. These results demonstrate that the ConvLSTM framework provides skillful short- and mid-term forecasts of surface and subsurface soil moisture, offering valuable support for large-scale drought and flood monitoring. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Earth Observation Satellites for Soil Moisture Monitoring)

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27 pages, 9992 KB

Open AccessArticle

Study on Creep Behavior of Wenzhou Remolded Coastal Silt Under One-Dimensional and Triaxial Tests

by Yi Shi, Yongwei Chen, Xiaohui Yi, Wei Qin, Zhijin Zhou, Guoxiang Peng, Kun Lou and Yuanyuan Liu

Buildings 2025, 15(18), 3378; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15183378 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

This study investigates the creep behavior of remolded Wenzhou (China) coastal silt through one-dimensional (1D) and triaxial creep tests. Results show that the secondary consolidation coefficient exhibits a non-monotonic response to stress levels, while it decreases with increasing overconsolidation ratios (OCRs). The e-lgt [...] Read more.

This study investigates the creep behavior of remolded Wenzhou (China) coastal silt through one-dimensional (1D) and triaxial creep tests. Results show that the secondary consolidation coefficient exhibits a non-monotonic response to stress levels, while it decreases with increasing overconsolidation ratios (OCRs). The e-lgt curves reveal four distinct creep stages, and the soil exhibits significant time-dependent behavior that diminishes with depth. Triaxial tests highlight nonlinear stress–strain characteristics, where increasing confining pressure elevates the deviatoric stress required for creep acceleration. A proposed structural parameter exhibits an inverse correlation with creep deformation, which suggests that enhanced soil cementation can improve long-term stability. This finding provides critical insights for the management of silt foundations in Wenzhou. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recycling of Waste in Material Science and Building Engineering)

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20 pages, 4861 KB

Open AccessArticle

Transcriptome Analysis of Chenopodium album in Response to Infection by Botrytis Strain HZ-011

by Haixia Zhu, Le Zhang, Yongqiang Ma and Lu Hou

Microorganisms 2025, 13(9), 2177; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13092177 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

This study conducted a transcriptome sequencing analysis of the interaction between Chenopodium album and Botrytis strain HZ-011 to identify genes involved in the response to fungal infections and elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the interaction. High-throughput RNA-seq technology was employed to analyze the [...] Read more.

This study conducted a transcriptome sequencing analysis of the interaction between Chenopodium album and Botrytis strain HZ-011 to identify genes involved in the response to fungal infections and elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the interaction. High-throughput RNA-seq technology was employed to analyze the transcriptomes of C. album leaves at 1, 4, and 5 days post-inoculation (dpi) with Botrytis strain HZ-011. The results revealed 11,645 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) at 1 dpi, including 7399 upregulated and 4246 downregulated genes; 11,285 DEGs at 4 dpi (7801 upregulated and 3484 downregulated); and 9976 DEGs at 5 dpi (7723 upregulated and 2253 downregulated). GO functional analysis indicated that downregulated DEGs were significantly enriched in chloroplast and plastid functional expression at 1, 4, and 5 dpi. Following infection by Botrytis strain HZ-011, downregulated genes were significantly enriched in pathways related to photosynthesis, including photosynthetic pathways, light-harvesting antenna proteins, and carotenoid biosynthesis. This suggests that the photosynthetic process in C. album was markedly inhibited, disrupting nutrient supply and leading to herbicidal effects. Notably, genes such as PSB28, PSBP, CAP10A, and CRTL-E-1 were significantly enriched in these pathways, indicating their potential roles in the herbicidal mechanism. These findings provide a foundation for understanding the herbicidal activity of strain HZ-011 and identifying potential targets for developing novel microbial herbicides. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Signaling Molecules and Their Roles in Plant–Microbe Interactions for Environmental Stress Resilience)

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18 pages, 8897 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring User Engagement and Purchase Intentions in T-Shirt Retail Through Augmented Reality and Instagram Filters

by Christopher Girsang and Chin-Hung Teng

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(18), 10161; https://doi.org/10.3390/app151810161 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

Augmented reality (AR) technologies—such as Instagram filters—bridge the digital and physical worlds by allowing users to virtually try on clothing, thereby reducing the risk of virus transmission. In the T-shirt retail industry, AR enables product personalization, decreases the need for physical production, minimizes [...] Read more.

Augmented reality (AR) technologies—such as Instagram filters—bridge the digital and physical worlds by allowing users to virtually try on clothing, thereby reducing the risk of virus transmission. In the T-shirt retail industry, AR enables product personalization, decreases the need for physical production, minimizes textile waste, and lowers carbon emissions. It also benefits individuals with limited mobility or those who prefer shopping online. This study tested several hypotheses on 105 active Instagram filter users using filters from the ’Apprecio’ account on mobile devices. Data analyzed using the partial least squares method revealed that interactivity significantly influences both purchase intention and continued use of digital platforms. While hedonic and vivid features enhance the user experience, they have a limited impact on driving purchases or long-term engagement. Customers’ engagement and buying intent are more strongly shaped by practical and interactive elements. The study recommends that companies invest in developing interactive AR features to boost customer satisfaction and foster trust. Future research should involve larger participant samples and investigate specific interactive elements—such as virtual try-on tools—to better understand their impact on consumer behavior. This study highlights the critical role of interactivity in AR for delivering meaningful and engaging shopping experiences. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Human–Machine Interaction)

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12 pages, 2882 KB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial Patterns of Stem Tissue Carbon Content in Fagaceae Species from Typical Forests in China

by Chengke Dong, Yulong Liu, Luna Zhang, Zhecheng Liu, Huabin Zhao, Wenjing Li, Xiaoyi Chao and Xingchang Wang

Forests 2025, 16(9), 1478; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16091478 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

Fagaceae plants are dominant species in subtropical and temperate forests in China. Studying the geographical pattern of their carbon contents can provide key parameter support for high-precision forest carbon accounting. To investigate the spatial variation and influencing factors of carbon content in bark, [...] Read more.

Fagaceae plants are dominant species in subtropical and temperate forests in China. Studying the geographical pattern of their carbon contents can provide key parameter support for high-precision forest carbon accounting. To investigate the spatial variation and influencing factors of carbon content in bark, sapwood, and heartwood, stem samples from 168 individual trees belonging to 41 species of 5 genera in the Fagaceae family were collected from different regions of China. Carbon was determined with the dry combustion method using an elemental analyzer. The variation in carbon content was partitioned, carbon content among tissues were compared, spatial patterns with latitude and longitude and relative importance of interpreting variables were quantified. The carbon content of stem tissues ranged from 411 to 563 mg·g⁻¹. Variation was primarily driven by geographical location (34%–53%), followed by residuals (26%–40%). The inter-species difference also made significant contributions, ranging from 23% (bark) and 21% (sapwood) to 18% (heartwood). Generally, the carbon content among the three tissues followed the order: bark (494 ± 26 mg g⁻¹) (±SD) < sapwood (503 ± 21 mg g⁻¹) < heartwood (509 ± 23 mg g⁻¹). There was an obvious geographical variation pattern in stem carbon content. The carbon content of different tissues gradually decreased with northward latitude and westward longitude. Aridity index (with a relative importance of 22%), longitude (38%), and solar radiation (27%) were the most important driving factors of bark, sapwood, and heartwood C, while the influence of temperature and precipitation was weak. The results highlight the importance of geographical and environmental gradients over taxonomic differences and provide critical parameters for improving forest carbon storage estimates in China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Forest Ecology and Management)

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14 pages, 266 KB

Open AccessArticle

Psychometric Evaluation of the Impulsive-Compulsive Behaviours Checklist (ICB) in a Spanish Prison Population

by Francisca López-Torrecillas, Isabel Ramírez-Uclés, F. Pablo Holgado-Tello and Lucas Muñoz-López

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(9), 187; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15090187 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

Impulsivity and compulsivity are key transdiagnostic constructs implicated in addictive and criminal behaviors, often overlapping under the broader concept of behavioral dysregulation. While impulsivity has been widely assessed using experimental tasks and self-report measures, few tools specifically target compulsivity in forensic populations. This [...] Read more.

Impulsivity and compulsivity are key transdiagnostic constructs implicated in addictive and criminal behaviors, often overlapping under the broader concept of behavioral dysregulation. While impulsivity has been widely assessed using experimental tasks and self-report measures, few tools specifically target compulsivity in forensic populations. This study aimed to adapt and validate the Spanish version of the Impulsive-Compulsive Behaviours Checklist (ICB) in a prison sample. The ICB was administered to 700 incarcerated men (mean age = 37.33 years) following a rigorous translation and back-translation procedure, along with pilot testing for clarity. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses revealed a stable two-factor structure consistent with theoretical expectations. Internal consistency was satisfactory (McDonald’s omega and Cronbach’s alpha = 0.79–0.80), and convergent validity was supported by significant correlations with the UPPS-P Impulsive Behavior Scale, the Obsessive Beliefs Questionnaire (OBQ-44), the European Addiction Severity Index (EuropASI), and the Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R). These findings support the Spanish ICB as a valid and reliable tool for assessing impulsive and compulsive traits in forensic contexts. Its use may enhance the identification of differentiated clinical profiles and inform targeted interventions for mental health and reintegration in prison populations. Full article

26 pages, 1312 KB

Open AccessReview

Depression and Anxiety as Comorbidities in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Comprehensive Narrative Review

by Iulian-Laurențiu Buican, Alina-Cătălina Buican-Chirea, Mădălina Iuliana Mușat and Costin Teodor Streba

Healthcare 2025, 13(18), 2344; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13182344 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a prevalent, progressive condition often associated with psychiatric comorbidities such as depression and anxiety, which negatively affect disease progression, treatment adherence, and quality of life. Methods: A narrative review was conducted by searching PubMed [...] Read more.

Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a prevalent, progressive condition often associated with psychiatric comorbidities such as depression and anxiety, which negatively affect disease progression, treatment adherence, and quality of life. Methods: A narrative review was conducted by searching PubMed and Google Scholar for English-language publications from January 2015 to July 2025. This type of review was selected to allow for a broad and integrative analysis of the current evidence on the association between COPD and psychiatric comorbidities, particularly depression and anxiety. To increase comprehensiveness, the reference lists of the included articles and systematic reviews were manually screened, and data extraction and evaluation were conducted independently by two reviewers. Results: Reported prevalence rates vary widely in COPD patients with depression ranging from 10 to 57% and anxiety from 7 to 50%, largely due to differences in patient populations, diagnostic tools, and disease severity. Identified risk factors include female gender, social isolation, smoking, low BMI, comorbidities, and systemic inflammation. These comorbidities are associated with increased exacerbations, higher hospitalization rates, and poorer clinical outcomes. While inhaled therapies may have limited impact on psychiatric symptoms, antidepressants must be used cautiously. Non-pharmacological interventions, including pulmonary rehabilitation, cognitive-behavioral therapy, physical activity, and social support, demonstrate clear benefits. Conclusions: Effective management of COPD requires integrated approaches that address both pulmonary and psychiatric components. Tailored interventions can improve clinical outcomes and quality of life. This review explores the bidirectional relationship between COPD and psychiatric disorders, aiming to highlight risk factors, diagnostic tools, and both pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prevention and Treatment: Focus More on People with Chronic Illness)

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14 pages, 4024 KB

Open AccessArticle

Pterostilbene Eliminates MRSA Independent of Metabolic State and Effectively Prevents Biofilm Formation in Milk Matrices

by Xiaoyong Huang, Huiting Yang, Chenli Wang, Shiqi Yan, Xiaomin Ren and Zilong Sun

Foods 2025, 14(18), 3236; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14183236 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

The relentless spread of antimicrobial resistance poses a severe threat to global public health, food safety, and environmental security. Natural products with potent antimicrobial activity offer prospective substitutes for traditional antibiotics and chemical preservatives. Here, we demonstrate that pterostilbene (PT), a natural dietary [...] Read more.

The relentless spread of antimicrobial resistance poses a severe threat to global public health, food safety, and environmental security. Natural products with potent antimicrobial activity offer prospective substitutes for traditional antibiotics and chemical preservatives. Here, we demonstrate that pterostilbene (PT), a natural dietary compound, exhibits rapid lytic activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). PT displayed metabolism-independent bactericidal effects, effectively eradicating dormant persister cells within one hour, though its activity was partially attenuated under anaerobic conditions. Mechanistically, PT disrupted membrane integrity by increasing permeability, dissipating membrane potential, depleting cellular ATP, and suppressing reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Its efficacy was modulated by membrane phospholipid composition, with phosphatidylglycerol (PG) and cardiolipin (CL) critically influencing antimicrobial potency. Crucially, PT robustly inhibited MRSA biofilm formation in milk. These findings highlight PT’s potential as a structurally stable, natural antimicrobial for controlling resilient MRSA, particularly against biofilm-associated and persister subpopulations in food systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Food Microbiology)

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20 pages, 1223 KB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of New Yeast Strains Isolated from Local Grape Varieties of the Soufli Region in Northern Greece

by Anastasios Nikolaou, Ioanna Prapa, Ioanna Karapantzou, Vasiliki Kompoura, Niki Proxenia, Yorgos Kotseridis and Yiannis Kourkoutas

Microbiol. Res. 2025, 16(9), 207; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres16090207 (registering DOI) - 18 Sep 2025

Abstract

Over the past few years, consumers’ preference for wines with a distinct regional identity has shifted producers to adopt traditional grape varieties and has increased interest in the indigenous grapevine microbiome, due to its potential influence on the wine quality characteristics. In the [...] Read more.

Over the past few years, consumers’ preference for wines with a distinct regional identity has shifted producers to adopt traditional grape varieties and has increased interest in the indigenous grapevine microbiome, due to its potential influence on the wine quality characteristics. In the present study, indigenous Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains were isolated from 3 local grape varieties (“Keratsouda”, “Karnachalas”, and “Bogialamas”) of the Soufli region in northern Greece. After molecular identification, all strains were evaluated for key oenological traits (ethanol resistance, SO₂ resistance, H₂S production, and aminoacid decarboxylation). Three representative strains (one per grape variety) were further evaluated for their long-term survival after freeze-drying and their fermentation potential at 12 °C and 22 °C. Ethanol content ranged in similar values (11.9–12.5%) for all wines, but kinetic parameters were significantly affected by the strain used and the fermentation temperature. Principal component analysis revealed that the volatile composition as well as practical wine attributes were affected by both the strain used and the fermentation temperature and resulted in distinct sensory profiles in the new products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Microbiology and Technology of Fermented Foods)

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