Journal Description
Stresses
Stresses
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on abiotic and biotic stresses research published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 17.1 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
- Stresses is a companion journal of IJMS.
Latest Articles
Gene and Protein Expression of Placental Nutrient-Stress Sensor Proteins in Fetal Growth Restriction
Stresses 2024, 4(2), 308-319; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses4020019 - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) and low birth weight increase the risk of non-communicable diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart failure in adulthood. Placental insufficiency is widely considered a major contributor to FGR. Two crucial placental proteins involved in nutrient and stress
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Fetal growth restriction (FGR) and low birth weight increase the risk of non-communicable diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart failure in adulthood. Placental insufficiency is widely considered a major contributor to FGR. Two crucial placental proteins involved in nutrient and stress sensing—O-linked N-acetylglucosamine transferase (OGT) and mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) kinase—play roles in post-translational protein modification and protein translation, influencing cellular growth and metabolism in response to maternal stress, hypoxia, and nutritional status in the placenta. In our study, we examined the gene and protein profiles of OGT and mTOR in FGR and control placentae, comparing those appropriate for gestational age (AGA), while also considering potential confounding effects of fetal sex and delivery mode. Our findings revealed no significant differences in gene expression, protein levels, or activity of OGT, OGA, mTOR, or their associated markers between female AGA and FGR cesarean placentae, nor between female AGA and male AGA cesarean placentae. Additionally, the mode of delivery in female AGA placentae did not affect the levels or activity of these proteins. Overall, our study did not observe significant differences in nutrient sensor protein expression after stratifying by FGR, sex, and delivery mode. Nevertheless, these unbiased results provide a more comprehensive understanding of the complexities of placental gene expression involving OGT and mTOR.
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(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Human and Animal Stresses)
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Effects of a Phytogenic Feed Additive on Redox Status, Blood Haematology, and Piglet Mortality in Primiparous Sows
by
Vasileios G. Papatsiros, Georgios I. Papakonstantinou, Eleni Katsogiannou, Dimitrios A. Gougoulis, Nikolaos Voulgarakis, Konstantinos Petrotos, Sofia Braimaki, Dimitrios A. Galamatis, Amr El-Sayed and Labrini V. Athanasiou
Stresses 2024, 4(2), 293-307; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses4020018 - 12 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effects of a polyphenolic phytogenic feed additive (PFA) based on plant extracts, such as Embelia officinalis, Ocimum sanctum and nut fibre, on the redox status, haematological parameters, and piglet mortality in sows. A total of 64
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This study aimed to investigate the effects of a polyphenolic phytogenic feed additive (PFA) based on plant extracts, such as Embelia officinalis, Ocimum sanctum and nut fibre, on the redox status, haematological parameters, and piglet mortality in sows. A total of 64 primiparous sows were divided into two groups: T1-control group: regular gestation (GF) and lactation feed (LF), T2 group: regular GF and LF supplemented with a PFA (10 g daily) for 14 days before and 7 days after the farrowing. Blood samples were collected 0–3 h after farrowing. Haematological parameters (Packed Cell Volume/PCV, White Blood Cells/WBC, Platelets/PLTs) were counted in blood smears. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and protein carbonyls (CARBS) levels were determined in sow plasma. The performance and reproductive parameters of sows at farrowing and weaning days were recorded. The mean numbers of PCV and PLT counts in the T2 group were higher in comparison to the T1 group (p = 0.041, p = 0.033, respectively). In contrast, the mean numbers of WBC and neutrophils were almost significantly higher in the T2 group (p = 0.051). The mean number of stillborn piglets was significantly higher in the T1 group (2.12) compared to the T2 group (1.03). The mean number of alive piglets 24 h after farrowing and the mean number of the weaned piglets were significantly higher in group T2 (13.9 vs. 15.4 and 12.6 vs. 14.3). Sows in group T2 had significantly more backfat at weaning than the sows in group T1 (13.3 vs. 12.7). The mean levels of CARBS (nmol/mL) and TBARS (μmol/L) in group T1 (24.8 and 18.7) were significantly higher in comparison to group T2 (18.3 and 14.9). In conclusion, the use of a polyphenolic PFA in sows has beneficial effects on their welfare and performance due to its antioxidative effects. Furthermore, PFAs appear to exert antithrombotic, anti-inflammatory, and protective effects on PLTs, WBCs, and RBCs, respectively.
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(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Human and Animal Stresses)
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Mapping Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Markers Associated with the Pre-Flowering Morphological Performance of Fenugreek under Different Levels of Salt Stress
by
Amani Mahmoud Dobeie, Rahma A. Nemr, Mustafa M. H. Abd El-Wahab, Mohamed Shahba and Mohamed El-Soda
Stresses 2024, 4(2), 282-292; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses4020017 - 11 Apr 2024
Abstract
Salinity is a significant factor restricting plant growth and production. The effect of salinity stress on different growth parameters of 111 fenugreek genotypes was examined in an experiment with three salinity levels (0, 3000, 6000 mgL−1). A completely randomized block design
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Salinity is a significant factor restricting plant growth and production. The effect of salinity stress on different growth parameters of 111 fenugreek genotypes was examined in an experiment with three salinity levels (0, 3000, 6000 mgL−1). A completely randomized block design with two replicated pots per treatment was used. Non-significant treatment effects were observed on fresh weight (FW); however, all traits showed significant genotype-by-treatment (GxT) interactions. This GxT was reflected in substantial SNP x environment interactions. Of 492 significant SNPs associated with the measured traits, 212 SNPs were linked to the correlated traits using an arbitrary threshold of three. Several SNPs were associated with FW and dry weight, measured under the same salinity treatment. The correlation between both traits was 0.98 under the three salinity treatments. In addition, 280 SNPs with conditional neutrality effects were mapped. The identified SNPs can be used in future marker-assisted breeding programs to select salt-tolerant genotypes. The results of this research shed light on the salt-tolerant properties of fenugreek.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress Markers in Plants: Importance of Selection and Investigation 2.0)
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Role of microRNA in Oxidative Stress
by
Sarmistha Saha
Stresses 2024, 4(2), 269-281; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses4020016 - 09 Apr 2024
Abstract
An imbalance between the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the reaction of antioxidant proteins is referred to as oxidative stress. NFE2L2/Nrf2, also known as nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-related factor 2, is a critical enabler of cytoprotective responses to oxidative and electrophilic
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An imbalance between the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the reaction of antioxidant proteins is referred to as oxidative stress. NFE2L2/Nrf2, also known as nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-related factor 2, is a critical enabler of cytoprotective responses to oxidative and electrophilic insults. When Nrf2 is activated, it triggers the transcription of numerous cytoprotective genes, whose promoter regions contain antioxidant response elements (AREs). In recent times, the regulation of Nrf2 by miRNAs has garnered significant attention, among the various mechanisms that govern Nrf2 signaling. It has been reported that a number of miRNAs directly suppress the expression of Nrf2s, which in turn negatively regulates the Nrf2-dependent cellular cytoprotective response. Furthermore, it has been shown that Nrf2 itself regulates miRs, which carry out some of Nrf2’s unique metabolic regulation functions. Here, we provide an overview of the functions and mechanisms of action of miRs as downstream effectors of Nrf2, as well as in their regulation of its activity.
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(This article belongs to the Section Animal and Human Stresses)
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Phosphorus Dynamics in Stressed Soil Systems: Is There a Chemical and Biological Compensating Effect?
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Bruna Arruda, Fábio Prataviera, Wilfrand Ferney Bejarano Herrera, Denise de Lourdes Colombo Mescolotti, Antonio Marcos Miranda Silva, Hudson Wallace Pereira de Carvalho, Paulo Sergio Pavinato and Fernando Dini Andreote
Stresses 2024, 4(2), 251-268; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses4020015 - 02 Apr 2024
Abstract
Here, we hypothesized the occurrence of a compensatory relationship between the application of P and different microbial communities in the soil, specifically in relation to the chemical and biological effects in the soil–plant–microorganisms’ interaction. We aimed to evaluate the plant–microbiota responses in plants
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Here, we hypothesized the occurrence of a compensatory relationship between the application of P and different microbial communities in the soil, specifically in relation to the chemical and biological effects in the soil–plant–microorganisms’ interaction. We aimed to evaluate the plant–microbiota responses in plants grown in soils hosting distinct microbial communities and rates of P availability. Two experiments were carried out in a greenhouse. The first experiment evaluated four manipulated soil microbiome compositions, four P rates, and two plant species. Manipulated soil systems were obtained by the following: (i) autoclaving soil for 1 h at 121 °C (AS); (ii) inoculating AS with soil suspension dilution (AS + 10−3); (iii) heating natural soil at 80 °C for 1 h (NH80); or (iv) using natural soil (NS) without manipulation. The P rates added were 0, 20, 40, and 60 mg kg−1, and the two plant species tested were grass (brachiaria) and leguminous (crotalaria). Inorganic labile P (PAER), microbial P (PMIC), acid phosphatase activity (APASE), and shoot P uptake (PUPT) were assessed for each system. Brachiaria presented a compensatory effect for PUPT, whereby the addition of P under conditions of low microbial community enhanced P absorption capacity from the soil. However, in a system characterized by low P input, the increase in the soil biodiversity was insufficient to enhance brachiaria PUPT. Likewise, crotalaria showed a higher PUPT under high P application and low microbial community. The second experiment used three manipulated microbiome compositions: AS + 10−3; NH80; and NS and three P rates added: 0, 20, and 40 mg kg−1. In addition, two treatments were set: without and with mycorrhiza inoculation. Brachiaria showed an increase in the PUPT under low microbial communities (AS + 10−3; NH80) with P addition (20 and 40 mg kg−1 of P), but no mycorrhization was observed. In the undisturbed microbial community (NS), under no P input (0 mg kg−1 of P), brachiaria showed low mycorrhization and low PUPT. Finally, NS and the recommended P input (40 mg kg−1 of P) represented a balance between chemical and biological fertility, promoting the equilibrium between mycorrhization and PUPT.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Plant Responses to Environmental Stress)
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Effects in Sleep and Recovery Processes of NESA Neuromodulation Technique Application in Young Professional Basketball Players: A Preliminary Study
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Raquel Medina-Ramírez, Milos Mallol Soler, Franc García, Francesc Pla, Aníbal Báez-Suárez, Esther Teruel Hernández, D. David Álamo-Arce and María del Pino Quintana-Montesdeoca
Stresses 2024, 4(2), 238-250; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses4020014 - 02 Apr 2024
Abstract
The competitive calendars in sports often lead to fluctuations in the effort-recovery cycle and sleep quality. NESA noninvasive neuromodulation, achieved through microcurrent modulation of the autonomic nervous system, holds promise for enhancing sleep quality and autonomic activation during stressful situations. The objective of
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The competitive calendars in sports often lead to fluctuations in the effort-recovery cycle and sleep quality. NESA noninvasive neuromodulation, achieved through microcurrent modulation of the autonomic nervous system, holds promise for enhancing sleep quality and autonomic activation during stressful situations. The objective of this study was to analyze the sleep and recovery responses of basketball players over six weeks of training and competition, with the integration of NESA noninvasive neuromodulation. A preliminary experimental study involving 12 participants was conducted, with a placebo group (n = 6) and an intervention group (n = 6) treated with NESA noninvasive neuromodulation. Sleep variables and biomarkers such as testosterone, cortisol, and the cortisol:testosterone ratio were analyzed to assess player recovery and adaptations. Significant differences were observed in total, duration, and REM sleep variables (p-value= < 0.001; 0.007; <0.001, respectively) between the intervention and placebo groups. The intervention group demonstrated increased duration of sleep variables. Cortisol levels showed normalization in the experimental group, particularly in the last two weeks coinciding with the start of playoffs. This study highlights the potential of NESA noninvasive neuromodulation to enhance sleep quality despite challenging circumstances, providing valuable insights into the management of athlete recovery in competitive sports settings.
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(This article belongs to the Section Animal and Human Stresses)
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Comparison of the Effects of Gradual and Acute Treatment with Mn on Physiological Responses of Rumex hydrolapathum Plants
by
Ineta Samsone and Gederts Ievinsh
Stresses 2024, 4(2), 225-237; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses4020013 - 30 Mar 2024
Abstract
An understudied problem in plant heavy metal biology is the effects of acute versus gradual or chronic metal exposure. The aim of the present study was to compare the growth and physiological responses of Rumex hydrolapathum Huds. plants subjected to gradual or acute
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An understudied problem in plant heavy metal biology is the effects of acute versus gradual or chronic metal exposure. The aim of the present study was to compare the growth and physiological responses of Rumex hydrolapathum Huds. plants subjected to gradual or acute Mn stress treatment in controlled conditions. Heavy metal was applied to substrate either as one 1.00 g L−1 Mn dose (acute treatment) or the same dose in four steps of increasing amounts within 12 days (gradual treatment). Peroxidase activity in actively photosynthesizing leaves was used for monitoring induced biochemical changes resulting from Mn treatment. The number of leaves per plant significantly increased in the case of gradual treatment with Mn, but this effect was not statistically significant for acute treatment. Leaf fresh mass significantly decreased in both cases due to the decrease in leaf water content, but dry biomass of leaves was not affected, with no significant differences between the two types of treatments. A significantly lower chlorophyll fluorescence parameter Performance Index in large leaves of plants under the acute Mn treatment than in plants under the gradual treatment was evident. An increase in leaf peroxidase activity by Mn treatment was proportional to the metal dose received, but plants in the acute treatment with 1.00 g L−1 Mn had a significantly lower peroxidase response in comparison to the gradual treatment with 1.00 g L−1 Mn. In conclusion, under gradual treatment, biochemical changes related to the induction of tolerance to the heavy metal are expressed, as indicated by the continuous increase in leaf peroxidase activity after each treatment step.
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(This article belongs to the Section Plant and Photoautotrophic Stresses)
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Alleviating Salt Stress in Tomatoes through Seed Priming with Polyethylene Glycol and Sodium Chloride Combination
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Nasratullah Habibi, Naoki Terada, Atsushi Sanada and Kaihei Koshio
Stresses 2024, 4(2), 210-224; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses4020012 - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Tomato cultivation grapples with salt stress, disrupting growth parameters and physiological processes. High salinity levels induce osmotic stress, impacting cellular integrity and hindering metabolic activities. Salt accumulation at the root zone alters key physiological attributes, compromising overall harvestable output. Seed priming emerges as
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Tomato cultivation grapples with salt stress, disrupting growth parameters and physiological processes. High salinity levels induce osmotic stress, impacting cellular integrity and hindering metabolic activities. Salt accumulation at the root zone alters key physiological attributes, compromising overall harvestable output. Seed priming emerges as a potential solution to enhance plant resilience. A research gap exists in understanding the combined influence of polyethylene glycol and sodium chloride as seed priming agents under salt stress conditions. The study occurred in the Greenhouse of Laboratory Horticultural Science at Tokyo University of Agriculture. Micro Tom seeds underwent a factorial randomized design, involving five salinity and four priming treatments. Replicated ten times, totaling 200 plants, seed priming used polyethylene glycol, inducing salinity stress with sodium chloride. Meticulous measurements of growth parameters, photosynthetic traits, yield attributes, and electrolyte leakage were conducted. Statistical analyses discerned treatment effects at a 5% significance level. Seed priming, especially with ‘PEG plus NaCl’, effectively mitigated salt stress effects on tomato plants. Under severe salt stress, primed plants exhibited increased plant height, trusses, leaves, and leaf area. Photosynthetic efficiency and yield attributes demonstrated significant improvements with seed priming. Electrolyte leakage, indicative of leaf damage, was notably reduced by seed priming treatments, with ‘PEG plus NaCl’ exhibiting the highest efficacy. These results offer valuable guidance for optimizing agricultural practices in saline environments, contributing to sustainable strategies for food security amidst escalating environmental challenges.
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(This article belongs to the Section Plant and Photoautotrophic Stresses)
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Organic Amendments: Enhancing Plant Tolerance to Salinity and Metal Stress for Improved Agricultural Productivity
by
Israt Jahan Irin and Mirza Hasanuzzaman
Stresses 2024, 4(1), 185-209; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses4010011 - 26 Feb 2024
Abstract
Salinity and metal stress are significant abiotic factors that negatively influence plant growth and development. These factors lead to diminished agricultural yields on a global scale. Organic amendments have emerged as a potential solution for mitigating the adverse effects of salinity and metal
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Salinity and metal stress are significant abiotic factors that negatively influence plant growth and development. These factors lead to diminished agricultural yields on a global scale. Organic amendments have emerged as a potential solution for mitigating the adverse effects of salinity and metal stress on plants. When plants experience these stresses, they produce reactive oxygen species, which can impair protein synthesis and damage cellular membranes. Organic amendments, including biochar, vermicompost, green manure, and farmyard manure, have been shown to facilitate soil nitrogen uptake, an essential component for protein synthesis, and enhance various plant processes such as metabolism, protein accumulation, and antioxidant activities. Researchers have observed that the application of organic amendments improves plant stress tolerance, plant growth, and yield. They achieve this by altering the plant’s ionic balance, enhancing the photosynthetic machinery, boosting antioxidant systems, and reducing oxidative damage. The potential of organic amendments to deal effectively with high salinity and metal concentrations in the soil is gaining increased attention and is becoming an increasingly popular practice in the field of agriculture. This review aims to provide insights into methods for treating soils contaminated with salinity and heavy metals by manipulating their bioavailability through the use of various soil amendments.
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(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Plant and Photoautotrophic Stresses)
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Morpho-Physiological Assessment of Tomato and Bell Pepper in Response to Nutrient Restriction
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Lucas Aparecido Manzani Lisboa, Fernando Shintate Galindo, Paulo Humberto Pagliari, João Igor Ussifati Pessoa Goncalves, Matheus Haruichi Okazuka, Matheus Luís Oliveira Cunha and Paulo Alexandre Monteiro de Figueiredo
Stresses 2024, 4(1), 172-184; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses4010010 - 20 Feb 2024
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the morpho-physiological responses of tomato and bell pepper plants when specific nutrients were restricted. The study was conducted in a greenhouse under controlled environmental conditions and used hydroponic solution as the growth medium, with the
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The aim of this study was to investigate the morpho-physiological responses of tomato and bell pepper plants when specific nutrients were restricted. The study was conducted in a greenhouse under controlled environmental conditions and used hydroponic solution as the growth medium, with the nutrient solution being replaced as needed. Treatments consisted of a control treatment that included all nutrients at optimal concentrations and the suppression of magnesium (Mg), boron (B), zinc (Zn), and iron (Fe) for both tomato and bell pepper. The experimental design followed a completely randomized design, with a 2 (crops) × 5 (treatments) factorial scheme replicated four times. The results of this study showed that suppression of Fe had the most pronounced negative effect on the morphology and physiology of tomatoes and bell peppers and caused a reduction in parameters associated with gas exchange, leading to the development of interveinal chlorosis in the leaves. The suppression of Mg had the second most notable negative effects, with similar deficiency symptoms observed in the plant leaves as observed for the absence of Fe. While the suppression of B and Zn were less prominent compared to Fe and Mg, they still resulted in tissue malformation in the shoot apices and reductions in gas exchange and negatively impacted the morphological parameters evaluated. Therefore, our study provided important insights on how Mg, B, Zn, and Fe depletion affects tomato and bell pepper physiology and its impacts on tomato and bell pepper morphology.
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(This article belongs to the Section Plant and Photoautotrophic Stresses)
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Assessing Ionizing Radiation and Chlorine Dioxide (ClO2) as Potential Aseptization Treatments for Yeast Recycling on Mixed Wort of Corn and Sugarcane in Brazil
by
Rafael Douradinho, Pietro Sica, Matheus Oliveira, Alana Uchoa Pinto, Layna Mota, Eduardo Mattos, Danilo Perecin, Vanessa Garcilasso, João Monnerat Araujo Ribeiro de Almeida, Sonia Piedade, Lucílio Alves, Valter Arthur, Suani Coelho and Antonio Baptista
Stresses 2024, 4(1), 155-171; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses4010009 - 01 Feb 2024
Cited by 1
Abstract
Yeast recycling, which is a common practice in sugarcane ethanol plants, could be expanded if it could be successfully implemented in corn-based ethanol production. However, the process of recycling the yeast remaining after fermentation is hampered by contaminating microorganisms that reduce the fermentation
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Yeast recycling, which is a common practice in sugarcane ethanol plants, could be expanded if it could be successfully implemented in corn-based ethanol production. However, the process of recycling the yeast remaining after fermentation is hampered by contaminating microorganisms that reduce the fermentation efficiency and compete with the yeast for the fermentable sugars. Currently, antibiotics are used to control microbial contamination. This study proposes chlorine dioxide and electron beam irradiation as alternative control methods for completely inactivating contaminants and minimizing their effect on recycled yeast. For that, wort sterilization using electron radiation (20 kGy) and treatment with a chemical biocide, namely chlorine dioxide (125 mg kg−1), were compared with non-treated wort. Five fermentation cycles were performed using fed-batch systems with 300 g L−1 of fermentable sugars. The results obtained in this study showed the inactivation of contaminants under the effect of electron beam irradiation, which led to an increase in the productivity, yield, and efficiency of fermentation by 0.21 g L−1h−1, 2.6%, and 4.7%, respectively. However, ClO2 did not show promising results in reducing contamination or improving fermentative parameters. Thus, electron beam irradiation of contaminated wort may be a suitable alternative to chemical biocides and would allow the use of recycled yeast in corn-based ethanol plants.
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(This article belongs to the Section Plant and Photoautotrophic Stresses)
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Sydnone Imines as a New Class of Promising Plant Growth and Stress Tolerance Modulators—A First Experimental Structure–Activity Overview
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Maria Cherevatskaya, Ilia Cherepanov, Natalia Kalganova, Natalia Erofeeva, Ekaterina Romanovskaya, Andrej Frolov, Tatiana Bilova, Sergey Moiseev and Ludger A. Wessjohann
Stresses 2024, 4(1), 133-154; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses4010008 - 16 Jan 2024
Abstract
Due to the oncoming climate changes, various environmental stresses (drought, salinity, heavy-metals, low or high temperatures, etc.) might dramatically affect crop yields and the quality of produced foods. Therefore, to meet the growing food demand of the human population, improvement of stress tolerance
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Due to the oncoming climate changes, various environmental stresses (drought, salinity, heavy-metals, low or high temperatures, etc.) might dramatically affect crop yields and the quality of produced foods. Therefore, to meet the growing food demand of the human population, improvement of stress tolerance of the currently cultured crops is required. The knowledge of the molecular underlying mechanisms provides a versatile instrument to correct plant metabolism via chemical tools and to thereby increase their adaptive potential. This will preserve crop productivity and quality under abiotic stress conditions. Endogenously produced nitric oxide (NO) is one of the key signaling factors activating stress tolerance mechanisms in plants. Thus, the application of synthetic NO donors as stress-protective phytoeffectors might support maintaining plant growth and productivity under stressful conditions. Sydnone imines (sydnonimines) are a class of clinically established mesoionic heterocyclic NO donors which represent a promising candidate group for such phytoeffectors. Therefore, here, we provide an overview of the current progress in the application of sydnone imines as exogenous NO donors in plants, with a special emphasis on their potential as herbicides as well as herbicide antidotes, growth stimulants and stress protectors triggering plant tolerance mechanisms. We specifically address the structure–activity relationships in the context of the growth modulating activity of sydnone imines. Growth stimulating or antidote effects are typical for 4-α-hydroxybenzyl derivatives of sydnone imines containing an alkyl substituent in position N-3. The nature of the substituent of the N-6 atom has a significant influence on the activity profile and the intensity of the effect. Nevertheless, further investigations are necessary to establish reliable structure–activity relationships (SAR). Consequently, sydnone imines might be considered promising phytoeffector candidates, which are expected to exert either protective effects on plants growing under unfavorable conditions, or herbicidal ones, depending on the exact structure.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress Markers in Plants: Importance of Selection and Investigation 2.0)
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Regulation, Biosynthesis, and Extraction of Bacillus-Derived Lipopeptides and Its Implications in Biological Control of Phytopathogens
by
Valeria Valenzuela Ruiz, Azucena Gándara-Ledezma, María Fernanda Villarreal-Delgado, Eber Daniel Villa-Rodríguez, Fannie Isela Parra-Cota, Gustavo Santoyo, Lorena Jacqueline Gómez-Godínez, Luis A. Cira Chávez and Sergio de los Santos-Villalobos
Stresses 2024, 4(1), 107-132; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses4010007 - 16 Jan 2024
Abstract
In recent years, the adoption of sustainable pest management strategies has increased interest in the utilization of biopesticides, with a focus on harnessing beneficial microorganisms. Among these, lipopeptides, such as surfactins, iturins, and fengycins produced by the genus Bacillus, have gained significant
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In recent years, the adoption of sustainable pest management strategies has increased interest in the utilization of biopesticides, with a focus on harnessing beneficial microorganisms. Among these, lipopeptides, such as surfactins, iturins, and fengycins produced by the genus Bacillus, have gained significant attention due to their multifaceted biocontrol mechanisms and wide-ranging inhibitory effects. This review aims to address the regulation, biosynthesis, and production of three main lipopeptide families secreted by the genus Bacillus, as well as the identification and quantification analysis used to date, through the omic tools approach. The three families have been identified as key contributors to the biocontrol abilities of these bacteria, with their broad-spectrum activity making them valuable tools in integrated pest management approaches that aim to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides use while maintaining crop health and productivity.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microbiome: A Tool for Plant Stress Management in Future Production Systems)
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Supplementary Light on the Development of Lettuce and Cauliflower Seedlings
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Adilson Antonio Rizzon, Wendel Paulo Silvestre, Camila Bonatto Vicenço, Luciana Duarte Rota and Gabriel Fernandes Pauletti
Stresses 2024, 4(1), 94-106; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses4010006 - 10 Jan 2024
Abstract
The production of seedlings is one of the main activities for implementing agricultural crops. Many factors are involved in producing quality seedlings, including nutrition, health, genetics, and climatic factors such as temperature, humidity, and light. To evaluate the effect of light supplementation, a
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The production of seedlings is one of the main activities for implementing agricultural crops. Many factors are involved in producing quality seedlings, including nutrition, health, genetics, and climatic factors such as temperature, humidity, and light. To evaluate the effect of light supplementation, a study was conducted using supplementary artificial light to produce lettuce and cauliflower seedlings. Sowing was carried out in styrofoam trays under a floating irrigation system. Part of the experiment containing the two species, received treatment with LED light for an additional 4 h per day, in addition to solar radiation (10 h∙day−1). The remaining seedlings received only solar radiation (without supplementation). After 37 days, the seedlings’ biometric (leaf area, root length, aerial dry mass, and root dry mass) and biochemical parameters (phenolic compounds, flavonoids, chlorophyll a/b, and total chlorophyll) were analyzed. The data showed that the complementary light enhanced the performance in all the biometric parameters evaluated in the experiment for lettuce and cauliflower. The biochemical parameters in lettuce were also higher in seedlings with light supplementation. For cauliflower, supplementary light did not differ from the natural photoperiod for biochemical parameters except for a reduction in the levels of total phenolic compounds. Considering the enhanced biometric and biochemical parameters and greater dry weight and leaf area of the seedlings grown with supplemental light, using such a tool can optimize seedling development, possibly reducing production time in the nursery and providing greater productivity.
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(This article belongs to the Section Plant and Photoautotrophic Stresses)
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The Toxicological and Pharmacological Evaluation of the Anacyclus pyrethrum Aqueous Extract: Implications for Medicinal and Therapeutic Applications
by
Abdelmounaim Baslam, Rachida Aboufatima, Hamid Kabdy, Samia Boussaa, Abderrahman Chait and Marouane Baslam
Stresses 2024, 4(1), 79-93; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses4010005 - 09 Jan 2024
Abstract
Plants have long been valued for their medicinal and nutritional contributions to human life. Anacyclus pyrethrum, a member of the Asteraceae family, has attracted increasing attention as a source of natural products with diverse applications. In this study, we explored the toxicity
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Plants have long been valued for their medicinal and nutritional contributions to human life. Anacyclus pyrethrum, a member of the Asteraceae family, has attracted increasing attention as a source of natural products with diverse applications. In this study, we explored the toxicity and pharmacological properties of the aqueous extract of A. pyrethrum (AEAP). The acute toxicity study involved groups of mice subjected to oral administration of varying doses of AEAP, with immediate post-administration observations to detect any signs of toxicity or mortality. Comprehensive biochemical and hematological analyses encompassed assessments of renal function. The pharmacological profile was assessed by evaluating antinociceptive, anxiolytic, and antidepressant effects, which were measured using the hot plate test, elevated plus maze, open field test, and forced swim test, respectively. Different doses (100, 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg) were administered to rats via gavage for this assessment. The results revealed that the acute toxicity demonstrated the safety of AEAP at the tested doses, with no observed mortality or significant alterations. Moreover, it revealed that AEAP possesses an LD50 value greater than 5000 mg/kg. The pharmacological properties of AEAP demonstrated anxiolytic and antidepressant activities at a dose of 200 mg/kg, while no antinociceptive effect was observed. These findings underscore the potential of A. pyrethrum as a natural source of bioactive compounds with therapeutic applications. Further research is needed to explore long-term and chronic effects for a comprehensive assessment.
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(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Human and Animal Stresses)
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Orbital Inflammation in Thyroid Eye Disease: Stress Responses and Their Implications
by
Tracy Aoun, Diana Danielova Gueorguieva and Kevin Y. Wu
Stresses 2024, 4(1), 54-78; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses4010004 - 08 Jan 2024
Abstract
Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) is a debilitating autoimmune condition characterized by significant inflammation of orbital tissues, including the extraocular muscles and adipose tissues. The pathological mechanisms underlying this inflammation involve a complex interplay of stress responses at the cellular and molecular level. This
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Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) is a debilitating autoimmune condition characterized by significant inflammation of orbital tissues, including the extraocular muscles and adipose tissues. The pathological mechanisms underlying this inflammation involve a complex interplay of stress responses at the cellular and molecular level. This review aims to critically evaluate and synthesize existing literature on the mechanisms of orbital inflammation in TED. We discuss the role of autoantibodies, cytokines, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the initiation and propagation of the inflammatory process. Additionally, we explore how stress responses triggered by these elements affect the integrity of orbital tissues and contribute to its remodeling. Our review underscores the need for continued research in this field, which may pave the way for novel therapeutic strategies for TED.
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(This article belongs to the Section Animal and Human Stresses)
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Role of Ethylene in the Regulation of Plant Developmental Processes
by
Sheen Khan, Ameena Fatima Alvi and Nafees A. Khan
Stresses 2024, 4(1), 28-53; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses4010003 - 08 Jan 2024
Abstract
Ethylene, a gaseous phytohormone, is emerging as a central player in the intricate web of plant developmental processes from germination to senescence under optimal and stressed conditions. The presence of ethylene has been noted in different plant parts, including the stems, leaves, flowers,
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Ethylene, a gaseous phytohormone, is emerging as a central player in the intricate web of plant developmental processes from germination to senescence under optimal and stressed conditions. The presence of ethylene has been noted in different plant parts, including the stems, leaves, flowers, roots, seeds, and fruits. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the regulatory impact of ethylene on pivotal plant developmental processes, such as cell division and elongation, senescence, abscission, fruit and flower development, root hair formation, chloroplast maturation, and photosynthesis. The review also encompasses ethylene biosynthesis and signaling: a snapshot of the regulatory mechanisms governing ethylene production. Understanding of the impact of ethylene’s regulatory functions on plant developmental processes has significant implications for agriculture, biotechnology, and our fundamental comprehension of plant biology. This review underscores the potential of ethylene to revolutionize plant development and crop management.
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(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Plant and Photoautotrophic Stresses)
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Functional and Qualitative Metabolic Compounds in the Twigs of the Deciduous Mistletoe Loranthus europaeus Jacq.
by
Anthi Bampali, Olga Karoutzou, Alexandra Katsarou, Kosmas Haralampidis, Leandros A. Skaltsounis and Sophia Rhizopoulou
Stresses 2024, 4(1), 14-27; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses4010002 - 29 Dec 2023
Abstract
In this study, a detailed phytochemical investigation of compounds in the twigs of the mistletoe Loranthus europaeus Jacq., which belongs to the Loranthaceae family, is presented. Specimens were collected from the mistletoe L. europaeus growing on oak trees in the mainland of Greece.
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In this study, a detailed phytochemical investigation of compounds in the twigs of the mistletoe Loranthus europaeus Jacq., which belongs to the Loranthaceae family, is presented. Specimens were collected from the mistletoe L. europaeus growing on oak trees in the mainland of Greece. The alliance of oaks and mistletoes became a symbol of knowledge and strength for many centuries. Although numerous compounds of aerial tissues of other mistletoes, e.g., Viscum album, have been published, few studies have been conducted to investigate the metabolic and physiological traits of the hemiparasitic, deciduous Loranthus europaeus. LC-HRMS-based analysis led to a detailed characterization of ethyl acetate and dichloromethane extracts of the twigs of L. europaeus, which, to the best of our knowledge, exhibit enhanced antioxidant potential. Hence, twenty-four and twenty-six compounds were tentatively identified from the ethyl acetate and dichloromethane twigs’ extracts, respectively; these compounds belong to fatty acids, flavonoids, and flavonoid glycosides. Also, chlorophyll, soluble sugar, starch, and lipid contents in the twigs of L. europaeus, which have not hitherto been published, were investigated.
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(This article belongs to the Section Plant and Photoautotrophic Stresses)
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Binge-like Alcohol Administration Alters Decision Making in an Adolescent Rat Model: Role of N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Signaling
by
Camila Arce, Rodrigo G. Mira, Matías Lira and Waldo Cerpa
Stresses 2024, 4(1), 1-13; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses4010001 - 22 Dec 2023
Abstract
Alcohol is one of the most used legal drugs abused worldwide, and its consumption is associated with high mortality and morbidity rates. There is an increasing concern about the starting age of consumption of this drug since it has become evident that it
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Alcohol is one of the most used legal drugs abused worldwide, and its consumption is associated with high mortality and morbidity rates. There is an increasing concern about the starting age of consumption of this drug since it has become evident that it is at younger ages. The so-called “pattern of consumption by binge” corresponds to ingesting large amounts of alcohol in a short period and is the most popular among young people. Previous studies show that alcohol causes damage in different areas, such as the hippocampus, hypothalamus, and prefrontal cortex, and adolescents are more susceptible to alcohol toxicity. Alcohol inhibits the membrane glutamate receptor, NMDA-type glutamate receptors (NMDAR). Using a binge-like alcohol administration protocol in adolescent rats (PND25), we investigate decision making through the attentional set-shifting test (ASST) and alterations in the NMDAR signaling in related areas. We observe an impairment in executive function without alterations in NMDAR abundance. However, binge alcohol changes NMDAR signaling and decreases quantity in the synapse, mainly in the hippocampus and hypothalamus. We suggest that prefrontal cortex impairment could arise from damaged connections with the hippocampus and hypothalamus, affecting the survival pathway and memory and learning process.
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(This article belongs to the Section Animal and Human Stresses)
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Analysis of Stress Predictors in Vaquejada Horses Running with Different Interval Rest Periods
by
Clarisse S. Coelho, Ticiane R. P. Sodré, Lara N. Sousa, Thadeu M. Silva, Joana Simões, Vinicius R. C. Souza, Renata F. Siqueira and Helio C. Manso Filho
Stresses 2023, 3(4), 858-867; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses3040058 - 13 Dec 2023
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to assess the stress responses associated with vaquejada simulating tests (VSTs). Ten clinically healthy 8.9 ± 4.3-year-old Quarter horses, weighing 441.3 ± 25.0 kg, performed two VSTs five days apart. In the first VST (M1), animals ran
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The purpose of this study was to assess the stress responses associated with vaquejada simulating tests (VSTs). Ten clinically healthy 8.9 ± 4.3-year-old Quarter horses, weighing 441.3 ± 25.0 kg, performed two VSTs five days apart. In the first VST (M1), animals ran three times with a 5-min rest between races; and in the second (M2), they ran with a 15-min rest between races. Horses were examined before (T0) and immediately after the third run (T1) and at 4 h (T2) of recovery. Stress biomarkers included heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (HRV), cortisol, and white blood cell count. All variables were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey tests, considering p < 0.05. A significant reduction in cortisol was observed for pull (p = 0.0463) and helper (p = 0.0349) horses when they had a 15-min rest between races. The rMSSD and mean R-R values for helper horses were also significantly lower in M2. In conclusion, the 15-min rest interval proved to be better than the 5-min period for both categories of equine athletes used in vaquejada mainly for helper horses. A longer rest time between races allowed the organic recovery necessary for these animals to impose a greater applied physical effort load, which is a fact that guarantees good performance and well-being.
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(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Human and Animal Stresses)
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