Search Results (7,522)

Phosphorus (P) is essential for plant growth but is frequently limited in soils. Lespedeza species are well-known for their ecological and economic benefits, as well as their tolerance to nutrient-poor soils. This study investigated the P acquisition strategies and adaptive mechanisms of three Lespedeza species (L. davurica, L. bicolor, and L. cuneata), focusing on biomass allocation, P distribution, root exudation, and absorption kinetics under P deficiency. Under P deficiency, L. davurica and L. bicolor allocated more biomass to roots to enhance P acquisition, whereas L. cuneata increased specific root length and area. Moreover, all three species preferentially allocated P to roots, but L. bicolor showed higher P content in stems and leaves than the others. P absorption kinetics indicated that Michaelis constant (K_m) and equilibrium concentration (C_min) were significantly decreased in all three species under P deficiency, with L. bicolor exhibiting the strongest P affinity and acquisition capacity. Secretion analysis revealed that while L. davurica and L. cuneata secreted higher levels of organic acids under P deficiency, exudates from L. bicolor were significantly enriched in acid phosphatase activity. Overall, the three Lespedeza species developed distinct P acquisition and adaptive strategies to cope with P deficiency, with L. bicolor demonstrating the greatest low-P tolerance and most efficient adaptive mechanisms. Full article

Lattice structures produced by additive manufacturing are increasingly used in lightweight, load-bearing applications, yet their mechanical performance is strongly influenced by geometry, process parameters, and boundary conditions. This study investigates the compressive behavior of body-centered cubic (BCC) 316L stainless steel lattices fabricated by laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). Four relative densities (20%, 40%, 60%, and 80%) were achieved by varying the strut diameter, and specimens were built in both vertical and horizontal orientations. Quasi-static compression tests characterized the elastic modulus, yield strength, energy absorption, and mean force, while finite element simulations reproduced the deformation and hardening behavior. The experimental results showed a direct correlation between density and mechanical properties, with vertically built specimens performing slightly better due to reduced processing defects. Simulations quantified the effect of strut–joint rounding and the need for multi-cell configurations to closely match the experimental curves. Regardless of the boundary conditions, for a density of 20%, simulating a single cell underestimated stiffness because of unconstrained strut buckling. For higher densities and thicker struts, this sensitivity to boundary conditions strongly decreased, indicating the possibility of using a single cell for shorter simulations—a point rarely discussed in the literature. Both experiments and simulations confirmed Gibson–Ashby scaling for elastic modulus and yield strength, while the tangent modulus was highly sensitive to boundary conditions. The combined experimental and numerical results provide a framework for the reliable modeling and design of metallic lattices for energy absorption, biomedical, and lightweight structural applications. Full article

Starch is a promising alternative to petroleum-based polymers due to its biodegradability and renewable nature. However, its widespread use in non-food applications raises ethical concerns. Mango kernels, a major byproduct of mango processing, represent an abundant yet underutilized starch source. However, conventional starch extraction requires costly purification steps with significant environmental impact. This study explores the development of extruded biocomposites, using corn starch and mango kernel flour (MKF) as a more sustainable alternative. The influence of lignin, extractives, amylose, and amylopectin content on the material properties was assessed. MKF was obtained by removing both tegument and endocarp from the mango kernels, grinding them in a colloidal mill, and finally drying the ground kernels. The resulting flour was blended with corn starch, processed in an internal mixer, and injection-molded. The composites were characterized through mechanical testing, water absorption analysis, colorimetry, and UV absorption assays. Notably, the composite containing ~20% MKF exhibited mechanical properties comparable to commercial polyethylene (PE-PB 208), with a tensile strength of 9.53 MPa and a Young’s modulus of 241.41 MPa. Additionally, MKF enhanced UVA protection. These findings suggest that mango kernel flour can partially replace starch in the production of injection-molded biopolymers, offering a more sustainable approach to biodegradable plastic development. Full article

The widespread use of neonicotinoid insecticides has led to increasing resistance in non-target organisms, including the egg parasitoid Trichogramma dendrolimi, a crucial biological control agent. Film-residue bioassays on 17 geographic strains revealed striking inter-strain variability in susceptibility to imidacloprid, with mortality at a discriminating dose of 0.1 mg/L ranging from 25.7% to 87%. The most tolerant (FS) and least tolerant (HA) strains were subsequently selected for evaluation of biological parameters and comparative transcriptomics. Tolerant strains (FS) showed adaptive trade-offs: extended longevity (5.47 ± 0.57 d) and emergence (93.6 ± 1.9%), but reduced fecundity (54.6 ± 4.9 eggs) compared to HA. Transcriptome analysis revealed 2115 differentially expressed genes, with GO enrichment highlighting metabolic and detoxification pathways. KEGG analysis the most enriched pathways were “Protein digestion and absorption” and “Neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction”. RT-qPCR confirmed overexpression of CYP4C1, CYP6K1, and GstS1 in FS, indicating their potential roles in metabolic resistance if present. This study presents preliminary evidence of potential fitness trade-offs and molecular mechanisms that could underly imidacloprid resistance in T. dendrolimi, which may lead to important insights for resistance monitoring and more sustainable integrated pest management strategies. Full article

In this study, nanostructured ferberites (FeWO₄) were synthesized via hydrothermal routes in an acidic medium. It was then investigated as an efficient photocatalyst for degrading organic dye molecules, with methylene blue (MB) as a model pollutant. The formation mechanism of ferberite revealed that the physical form of the precursor, FeSO₄·7H₂O, acts as a decisive factor in morphological evolution. Depending on whether it is in a solid or dilute solution form, two distinct nanostructures are produced: nanoplatelets and self-organized microspheres. Both structures are composed of stoichiometric FeWO₄ (Fe: 49%, W: 51%) in a single monoclinic phase (space group P2/c:1) with high purity and crystallinity. The p-type semiconductor behavior was confirmed using Mott–Schottky model and the optical analysis, resulting in small band gap energies (≈1.7 eV) favoring visible absorption light. Photocatalytic tests under simulated solar irradiation revealed rapid and efficient degradation in less than 10 min under near-industrial conditions (pH 5). This was achieved using only a ferberite catalyst and a low concentration of H₂O₂ (4 mM) without additives, dopants, or artificial light sources. Advanced studies based on photocurrent measurements, trapping and stability tests were carried out to identify the main reactive species involved in the photocatalytic process and better understanding of photodegradation mechanisms. These results demonstrate the potential of nanostructured FeWO₄ as a sustainable and effective photocatalyst for water purification applications. Full article

The demand for sesame oil is increasing due to its nutritious and medicinal qualities and industrial applications such as biodiesel production. Mechanical oil extraction is commonly used although yield is lower. Roasting conditions could improve oil yield. The present study investigated heating conditions (temperature: 40, 50, and 60 °C and time: 15, 30, and 45 min) on oil extraction parameters of yellowish and blackish sesame varieties under a screw pressing operation based on a factorial design involving twenty-six experimental runs. The determined amounts of moisture content of yellowish and blackish sesame samples were 3.49 ± 0.19% w.b. and 6.69 ± 0.07% w.b. In that order, the oil contents of the samples were 38.73 ± 2.61% and 45.31 ± 6.51%. The overall optimal factor levels for explaining the calculated parameters (weight loss, seedcake, sediments in the oil, extraction loss, extracted crude oil, oil yield, and oil expression efficiency) were the heating temperature of 50 °C and time of 22.5 min for yellowish sesame, whereas those of blackish sesame were 60 °C and 15 min. The determined regression models with the significant terms predicted the crude oil, oil yield, and oil expression efficiency of yellowish sesame with the amounts of 25.496 g, 25.806%, and 66.631% in comparison with blackish sesame with the amounts of 20.449 g, 22.215%, and 49.029%. Yellowish sesame produced higher oil output than blackish sesame under the heating conditions. Similarities of absorption peaks were observed which can be used to assess adulteration and oil quality parameters. Full article

As one of the world’s most widely used packaging materials, paper obtains its properties from its major component: wood. Variations in the species of wood result in variations in the paper’s mechanical properties. The pulp and paper production industry is known to be a polluting industry and a consumer of a large amount of energy but remains an essential heavy industry globally. Paper production, based largely on the kraft process, is mainly intended for the food packaging sector and, thus, is associated with contamination risks. The lack of standardized regulations and the different analytical techniques used make information on the subject complex, particularly for inorganic elements where little information is available in the literature. Most research in this field is based on sample preparation using mineralization via acid digestion to obtain a liquid and homogeneous matrix, mainly with a HNO₃/H₂O₂ mixture. The most commonly used techniques are Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS), Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry (ICP-AES), and Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), each with its advantages and disadvantages, which complicates the use of these tech-niques for routine analyses on an industrial site. In the same field of inorganic compound analysis, Microwave Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry (MP-AES) has become a real alternative to techniques such as AAS or ICP-AES. This technique has been used in several studies in the food and environmental fields. This publication aims to examine, for the first time, the state of the art regarding the analysis of inorganic elements in food packaging and different matrices using MP-AES. The entire manufacturing process is studied to identify possible sources of inorganic contaminants. Various analytical techniques used in the field are also presented, as well as research conducted with MP-AES to highlight the potential benefits of this technique in the field. Full article

Background/Objectives: Neurological and psychiatric disorders share overlapping mechanisms, such as oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and neurotransmitter imbalance. In this context, multitarget natural molecules have gained attention. 1-nitro-2-phenylethane (1N2PE), a major constituent of Aniba canelilla essential oil, is known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticholinesterase effects, yet its neuropharmacological profile remains poorly understood. Methods: This study integrated in silico predictions and in vivo behavioral assays to characterize 1N2PE. Results: Pharmacokinetic analyses indicated favorable drug-like properties, with high gastrointestinal absorption, blood–brain barrier penetration, and no P-gp substrate profile. Molecular docking and dynamics revealed stable interactions with dopamine transporter (DAT, ΔG = −26.26 kcal/mol), prostaglandin-H synthase-1 (PGHS-1, ΔG = −20.27 kcal/mol), serotonin transporter (SERT, ΔG = −18.20 kcal/mol), and acetylcholinesterase (AChE, ΔG = −16.58 kcal/mol). In vivo, using a scopolamine-induced impairment model, 1N2PE significantly improved spatial memory and cognition in the Morris water maze. Treated animals reduced the distance to the target zone by ~40% compared with scopolamine-only rats (p < 0.01), normalized latency during training, and exhibited 30% less immobility (p < 0.05), indicating antidepressant-like effects. Moreover, 1N2PE attenuated anxiety-like thigmotaxis, restoring exploratory patterns (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Together, these findings highlight 1N2PE as a multitarget candidate for cognitive and psychiatric disorders, combining favorable pharmacokinetic properties with preclinical efficacy, warranting further biochemical and translational investigations. Full article

The present study examined the impact of adding methionine (Met) and its conjugated form (Met-Met) on Cornu aspersum snails. The primary focus was on the animals’ growth performance, the chemical composition of their carcass (whole body without the shell), the mineral profile, and the mechanical properties of their shells. In two experiments conducted under controlled laboratory conditions, diets supplemented with varying levels of Met addition (0.3, 0.6, 1.4 g/kg feed) were used, and the effects of free methionine, Met-Met and their mixture (1.4 g/kg feed) were compared. The study incorporated measurements of body weight, shell width, and mortality of snails. Analyses encompassing protein, fat, sulphur amino acids, glutathione levels, oxidative stress indices (DPPH, TAC, TBARS), and macro- and micronutrient content of carcass and shells were conducted. The findings demonstrated that adding 1.4 g Met/kg feed significantly enhanced the shells’ weight gain (+56% vs. Control), shell weight (+56%) and crushing force (+135%). Furthermore, an increase in the Met content of the carcass was observed (+18%), along with elevated carcass Ca (+28%) and P (+30%) and higher shell Ca (+12%) and Zn (+87%), alongside reduced carcass Fe (−38%) and Cu (−19%). In Experiment II, the Met-Met group exhibited the highest carcass weight (+16% vs. Control), the greatest carcass-to-body weight ratio, and the highest proportion of mature individuals (+27%). Moreover, Met-Met supplementation improved Cu absorption and retention in the carcass (+19%). Also, the results suggest that the conjugated form of methionine may improve Cu absorption and storage in the carcass (+19%). The study’s findings indicate that methionine addition, especially in Met-Met form, can substantially impact the efficiency of C. aspersum farming, enhancing both the productivity outcomes and the quality of the product. That is particularly important in increasing the shell’s mechanical resistance and the carcass’s nutritional value. Full article

Objective: Hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid (HFPO-DA), also known as GenX, is widely used globally, raising concerns about its safety and public health implications. However, its toxicity mechanism remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to develop a reliable method for detecting HFPO-DA in mice and to investigate its absorption, distribution, and impact on hepatic lipid metabolism. Method: HFPO-DA levels were measured in the serum and eight tissues of C57BL/6J mice after oral administration using ultra-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). Lipid metabolites in the liver were also detected and analyzed. Results: HFPO-DA was rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream and widely distributed throughout all tested tissues. It penetrated the blood–brain barrier, with the highest concentration in the liver; however, long-term effects on the lungs also warrant attention. HFPO-DA disrupted liver lipid metabolism, leading to acylcarnitine accumulation while lowering triglycerides and cholesterol. Conclusion: This study on the pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution of HFPO-DA in mice following oral exposure revealed that HFPO-DA exacerbates liver injury by altering hepatic lipid metabolism. These findings provide theoretical support for toxicological studies on the emerging environmental pollutant HFPO-DA. Full article

Biocomposites incorporating bio-based polymers and natural fibers hold great promise due to their environmental and economic benefits, though their commercial use is still limited by production challenges. This study reports the development of polylactic acid (PLA) composite filament reinforced with 5 wt% date palm fibers for fused deposition modeling (FDM)-based 3D Printing. The biocomposite is fabricated through extrusion and 3D Printing, and its mechanical, thermal, and water absorption properties are characterized in this work. Fiber dispersion is examined using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), while tensile testing evaluates yield strength, tensile strength, and elongation at break. Fracture behavior and failure mechanisms are further analyzed through optical microscopy and SEM. The biocomposite shows higher yield strength (36.75 MPa) and tensile strength (53.69 MPa), representing improvements of 10.12% and 6.53%, respectively, compared to in-house extruded pure PLA. However, it exhibits lower ductility, as indicated by reduced elongation at break. Water absorption is also higher in the biocomposite (0.58%) than in pure PLA (0.10%). Both materials display similar thermal behavior and brittle fracture characteristics. These results highlight the reinforcing effect of date palm fibers and the role of processing on the behavior/performance of the biocomposite. Reinforcing PLA with a small fraction of date palm fibers, an abundant natural resource, offers a cost-effective and eco-friendly material, particularly suited for single-use plastic products where biodegradability and sustainability are essential. This study also confirms the suitability of PLA/date palm fiber filament for FDM-based 3D Printing. Full article

Background/Objectives: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a fatal lung disease characterized by progressive loss of lung function and poor prognosis. Cryptotanshinone (CTS), a small-molecule compound extracted from Salvia miltiorrhiza, possesses diverse pharmacological activities but suffers from poor oral bioavailability, which restricts its clinical development, particularly in pulmonary fibrosis. DST-3, a newly synthesized derivative of CTS, was designed to overcome these limitations. Methods: The antifibrotic effects of DST-3 were investigated in a bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis model in C57BL/6 mice through lung function assessment, histopathological evaluation, hydroxyproline quantification, and cytokine profiling. In vitro, TGF-β1-stimulated MRC5 fibroblasts were employed to explore the mechanism of action, focusing on STAT3/Smad signaling via Western blotting and molecular binding assays. Furthermore, a validated HPLC–MS/MS method was developed for DST-3, and its pharmacokinetic profile was characterized in Sprague–Dawley rats and compared with that of CTS. Results: DST-3 markedly attenuated pulmonary fibrosis in vivo, as evidenced by improved lung function, reduced collagen deposition, and decreased proinflammatory cytokine levels. In vitro, DST-3 inhibited TGF-β1-induced fibroblast activation by directly binding to STAT3 and suppressing STAT3/Smad signaling. Pharmacokinetic analysis demonstrated that, compared with CTS, DST-3 exhibited more rapid absorption, a higher peak plasma concentration, a greater area under the curve (AUC), improved hepatic metabolic stability, and enhanced lung tissue exposure. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that DST-3 exerts potent antifibrotic effects in vivo and in vitro, primarily through STAT3 pathway inhibition. Its improved pharmacokinetic characteristics further support its potential as a promising candidate for the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis. Full article

Powder bed fusion of copper has been extensively investigated using both laser-based (PBF-LB/M) and electron beam-based (PBF-EB/M) additive manufacturing technologies. Each technique offers unique benefits as well as specific limitations. Near-infrared (NIR) laser-based LPBF is widely accessible; however, the high reflectivity of copper limits energy absorption, thereby resulting in a narrow processing window. Although optimized parameters can yield relative densities above 97%, issues such as keyhole porosity, incomplete melting, and anisotropy remain concerns. Green lasers, with higher absorptivity in copper, offer broader process windows and enable more consistent fabrication of high-density parts with superior electrical conductivity, often reaching or exceeding 99% relative density and 100% International Annealed Copper Standard (IACS). Mechanical properties, including tensile and yield strength, are also improved, though challenges remain in surface finish and geometrical resolution. In contrast, Electron Beam Powder Bed Fusion (EB-PBF) uses high-energy electron beams in a vacuum, eliminating oxidation and leveraging copper’s high conductivity to achieve high energy absorption at lower volumetric energy densities (~80 J/mm³). This results in consistently high relative densities (>99.5%) and excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, with additional benefits including faster scanning speeds and in situ monitoring capabilities. However, EB-PBF faces its own limitations, such as surface roughness and powder smoking. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the current state of laser-based (PBF-LB/M) and electron beam-based (PBF-EB/M) powder bed fusion processes for the additive manufacturing of copper, summarizing key trends, material properties, and process innovations. Both approaches continue to evolve, with ongoing research aimed at refining these technologies to enable the reliable and efficient additive manufacturing of high-performance copper components. Full article

The coupling of partial root-zone drying (PRD) with nitrogen forms exerts an interactive “water-promoted fertilization” effect, which enhances rice (Oryza sativa L.) growth and development, improves water use efficiency (WUE), mediates the expression of aquaporins (AQPs), and alters root water conductivity. In this study, gene cloning and CRISPR-Cas9 technologies were employed to construct overexpression and knockout vectors of the OsPIP2;1 gene, which were then transformed into rice (cv. Meixiangzhan 2). Three water treatments were set: normal irrigation (CK); partial root-zone drying (PRD); and 10% PEG-simulated water stress (PEG), combined with a nitrogen form ratio of ammonium nitrogen (NH₄⁺) to nitrate nitrogen (NO₃⁻) at 50:50 (A50/N50) for the coupled treatment of rice seedlings. The results showed that under the coupled treatment of PRD and the aforementioned nitrogen form, the expression level of the OsPIP2;1 gene in roots was upregulated by 0.62-fold on the seventh day, while its expression level in leaves was downregulated by 1.84-fold. Overexpression of OsPIP2;1 enabled Meixiangzhan 2 to maintain a higher abscisic acid (ABA) level under different water conditions, which helped rice reduce water potential and enhance water absorption. Compared with the CK treatment, overexpression of OsPIP2;1 increased the superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity of rice under PRD by 26.98%, effectively alleviating tissue damage caused by excessive accumulation of O₂⁻. The physiological and biochemical characteristics of OsPIP2;1-overexpressing rice showed correlations under PRD and A50/N50 nitrogen form conditions, with WUE exhibiting a significant positive correlation with transpiration rate, chlorophyll content, nitrogen content, and Rubisco enzyme activity. Overexpression of OsPIP2;1 could promote root growth and increase the total biomass of rice plants. The application of the OsPIP2;1 gene in rice genetic engineering modification holds great potential for improving important agricultural traits of crops. This study provides new insights into the mechanism by which the AQP family regulates water use in rice and has certain significance for exploring the role of AQP genes in rice growth and development as well as in response to water stress. Full article

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of fractionation by sieving on cold-pressed camelina cake by separating it into particle-sized fractions and evaluating their nutritional and functional properties. Two Camelina sativa varieties, NS Zlatka and NS Slatka, were mechanically cold-pressed using a screw press then ground into flour. The resulting material was fractionated into three particle-sized fractions, >250 µm, 250–180 µm, and <180 µm, using a laboratory dry sieving system. Both the whole cake and the separated fractions were analyzed for proximate composition, amino acid and fatty acid profiles, tocopherol content, antioxidant potential, color characteristics, and water and oil absorption capacities. The results indicated that the finest cake fraction (<180 µm) from both camelina varieties contained the highest content of protein (~40%), fat (17–19%), essential amino acids (~17 g/100 g), γ-tocopherols (254–266 mg/kg), and the lowest content of condensed tannins (0.5–0.9 g/kg). It also displayed a lighter color and increased yellowness. However, it contained the highest concentrations of glucosinolates (24–27 μmol/g) and phytic acid (38–41 g/kg). In contrast, the coarsest fraction (>250 µm) had increased crude fiber content (13–15%), higher antioxidant potential, the greatest water absorption capacity, and a darker color with a more pronounced reddish color. It also contained the lowest levels of glucosinolates (19–21 μmol/g) and phytic acid (17–20 g/kg). In conclusion, whole camelina cake and its fractions demonstrate considerable potential for use in animal feed and a variety of human nutritional products, due to their favorable nutritional composition and functional properties. Fine fractions with high levels of antinutritional compounds could be used as a substrate for the extraction of bioactive compounds and may find further application in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Full article