2025

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listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Sustainable Gels from Polysaccharides in Agriculture
(MDPI, 2025-05-05) Ungureanu, Elena; Mikhailidi, Aleksandra; Tofanică, Bogdan-Marian; Fortună, Maria E.; Rotaru, Răzvan; Ungureanu, Ovidiu C.; Samuil, Costel; Popa, Valentin I.
Polysaccharide-based materials are a highly promising bioresource in the realm of biomaterial technologies due to their unique properties and versatility. Cellulose gels leverage the renewability, biocompatibility, and biodegradability of cellulose, a glucose polymer, making them ideal for various applications. This review examines various types of cellulose gels, a well-known polysaccharide used in agriculture, including natural (such as non-wood and bacterial cellulose gels), regenerated cellulose gels, and gels derived from cellulose derivatives. The properties of these cellulose gels, advanced technologies used in their potential fabrication, and their utilization techniques are comprehensively summarized based on a comprehensive systematic literature review to provide an in-depth understanding of the research theme, identify research gaps, and highlight future research directions. The review also explores the various applications of cellulose gels in agriculture, from fundamental research to practical implementations. Cellulose gels are versatile materials that can be used for soil conditioning, controlled release of fertilizers, water retention, and other important purposes. This exploration aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current state of cellulose gels in agriculture, bridging the gap between fundamental advances and their real-world applications.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Impact of Fertilizer Types on the Physicochemical Parameters of Culture Substrate and the Growth of Pelargonium zonale
(Tech Science Press, 2025-09-30) Moldovan, Andreea; Moldovan, Ioana; Lehel, Lukács; Odagiu, Antonia; Draghia, Lucia; Cantor, Maria
Pelargonium zonale is an important ornamental and medicinal plant. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the effects of conventional and unconventional fertilization on variations in the physicochemical parameters of the culture substrate (temperature, pH, and electrical conductivity) in two cultivars of Pelargonium zonale (L.) L’Hér., grown in pots. This study was conducted under greenhouse conditions, using Pindstrup peat as the culture substrate. The analysis focused on how these physicochemical indicators of peat influenced plant height and development under fertilization conditions. Results revealed that in the ‘Tango Salmon’ cultivar, both fertilization regimes significantly modified substrate temperature and electrical conductivity (conventional fertilization leading to the highest electric conductivity values of 0.77 mS/cm) while in control, was observed the highest substrate temperature (21.24°C). In contrast, pH remained relatively stable across treatments. In the ‘Tango Dark Red’ cultivar, no significant differences were observed between substrate physicochemical parameters regardless of treatment. The multiple correlations coefficients values showed that substrate parameters influenced plant height with varying degrees of intensity depending on cultivar and fertilization scheme, reaching up the highest predictability of 60.6% in the ‘Tango Dark Red’ control variant. The study highlighted that physicochemical properties of the substrate (particularly electric conductivity and temperature) are for were the main contributors to optimal plant development and should be carefully managed within fertilization strategies.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Potential of Artemisia annua hydroalcoholic extracts in skin care and dermatocosmetic products
(AcademicPres, 2025-12-19) Maxim, Claudia; Bădeanu, Marinela; Turcov, Delia; Suteu, Daniela
The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential of plant extracts derived from the native flora of Iasi region, Romania as valuable natural sources of polyphenols and flavonoids for the development of dermatocosmetic formulations aimed at protecting the skin against oxidative stress. Dried Artemisia annua L. samples were used for extracted using three techniques: classical cold maceration (M), heat reflux extraction (R), and Soxhlet heat reflux extraction (Sx). Spectrophotometric analyses were performed to determine the total polyphenol and flavonoid content and to assess the antioxidant capacity using DPPH and ABTS assays. Among the tested methods, heat reflux and Soxhlet extraction proved to be the most efficient, yielding extracts rich in bioactive compounds when using 50% ethanol as solvent and a solid-to-liquid ratio of 1:5. Soxhlet extraction provided the highest total polyphenol content (11.26 mg GAE/mL), while heat reflux extraction resulted in the highest flavonoid concentration (7.97 mg QE/mL). Subsequently, an emulsion containing the most active extract in polyphenols was formulated and subjected to a preliminary evaluation of physicochemical stability. The results demonstrated encouraging stability profiles and antioxidant potential, supporting the use of A. annua extracts as promising ingredients in dermatocosmetic applications. Further investigations, including comprehensive cytotoxicity and dermatological testing, are warranted to confirm their efficacy and safety in topical formulations.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Volatile Compounds as Markers of Terroir and Winemaking Practices in Fetească Albă Wines of Romania
(MDPI, 2025-05-07) Bedreag (Rebigan), Ioana Cristina; Cioroiu, Ionel-Bogdan; Niculaua, Marius; Nechita, Constantin-Bogdan; Cotea, Valeriu V.
This study evaluates the influence of terroir on the physico-chemical characteristics and aromatic profiles of Fetească albă wines from five major Romanian wine regions. By analysing key factors such as soil types, climatic conditions, and winemaking techniques, the study aims to understand their impact on wine composition and quality. The study includes the analysis of superior alcohols, fatty acids, esters, carbonyl compounds, terpenes, and 4-mercapto-4-methylpentan-2-one, which are essential in defining the aromatic complexity of the wines. The results show how fermentation conditions, temperature control, microbial activity, and oxidative exposure contribute to the evolution of these compounds, influencing the sensory profiles. Significant differences in compound concentrations were observed across the regions, with wines from Dealu Mare and Murfatlar exhibiting high ester content and aromatic complexity, while those from Dealul Bujorului and Panciu showed elevated volatile acids and aromatic alcohols, suggesting distinct fermentation dynamics. Climatic factors, such as temperature and precipitation, played a crucial role in shaping the volatile composition, with elevated temperatures in 2021 enhancing ester formation and higher alcohol production. This study demonstrates the critical role of terroir and winemaking practices in shaping the aromatic and sensory characteristics of Romanian Fetească albă wines.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Functionalized Polyphenols: Understanding Polymorphism of 2-Chloro-3′,4′-Diacetoxy-Acetophenone
(MDPI, 2025-08-30) Tucaliuc, Roxana-Angela; Shova, Sergiu; Mangalagiu, Violeta; Mangalagiu, Ionel I.
We report here an in-depth study concerning the synthesis, NMR, and X-ray structure determination of two new polymorphs of 2-chloro-3′,4′-diacetoxy-acetophenone. A new, ecologically friendly method of synthesis in the solid phase, as well as a suitable method for protecting hydroxyl functionality, is presented. The 1H- and 13C-NMR spectra as well as the single crystal X-ray diffraction studies proved unambiguously the structure of the compounds: the two polymorphs of 2-chloro-3′,4′-diacetoxy-acetophenone and 2-chloro-3′-hydroxy-4′-acetoxy-acetophenone. The polymorph I crystalizes in the monoclinic P21/c space group, while polymorph II crystalizes in the Sohnke P212121 space group of the orthorhombic system, with no interstitial solvate molecules. Significant differences were observed in the supramolecular interactions in the crystal structure of the two polymorphs. Polymorph I is characterized as a parallel packing of weakly interacting supramolecular layers oriented in the 1 1 0 plane. The crystal structure of polymorph II is much more complex: each molecule is interconnected through 12 (twelve) hydrogen bonds with 9 (nine) adjacent symmetry-related molecules. The monoacetoxy derivative 2-chloro-3′-hydroxy-4′-acetoxy-acetophenone 3 crystallizes in the monoclinic P21/c space group, with one molecule in the asymmetric unit.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Effect of Biostimulant Formulation on Yield, Quality, and Nitrate Accumulation in Diplotaxis tenuifolia Cultivars Under Different Weather Conditions
(MDPI, 2025-08-04) Alessio Vincenzo Tallarita; Rachael Simister; Lorenzo Vecchietti; Eugenio Cozzolino; Vasile Stoleru; Otilia Cristina Murariu; Roberto Maiello; Giuseppe Cozzolino; Stefania De Pascale; Gianluca Caruso
Perennial wall rocket (Diplotaxis tenuifolia L.—DC.) exhibits genotype-dependent responses to biostimulant applications, which have not yet been deeply investigated. A two-year greenhouse factorial experiment was carried out to assess the interactions between five cultivars (Mars, Naples, Tricia, Venice, and Olivetta), three biostimulant formulations (Cystoseira tamariscifolia L. extract; a commercial legume-derived protein hydrolysate, “Dynamic”; and Spirulina platensis extract) plus an untreated control, and three crop cycles (autumn, autumn–winter, and winter) on leaf yield and dry matter, organic acids, colorimetric parameters, hydrophilic and lipophilic antioxidant activities, nitrate concentration, nitrogen use efficiency, and mineral composition, using a split plot design with three replicates. Protein hydrolysate significantly enhanced yield and nitrogen use efficiency in Mars (+26%), Naples (+25.6%), Tricia (+25%), and Olivetta (+26%) compared to the control, while Spirulina platensis increased the mentioned parameters only in Venice (+36.2%). Nitrate accumulation was reduced by biostimulant application just in Venice, indicating genotype-dependent nitrogen metabolism responses. The findings of the present research demonstrate that the biostimulant efficacy in perennial wall rocket is mainly ruled by genotypic factors, and the appropriate combinations between the two mentioned experimental factors allow for optimization of leaf yield and quality while maintaining nitrate concentration under the regulation thresholds.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
New Electromagnetic Shielding Materials Based on Viscose/Maghemite/Goethite/Polysiloxane
(MDPI, 2025-11-26) Rotaru, Răzvan; Ungureanu, Elena; Tofănică, Bogdan M.; Ungureanu, Ovidiu C.; Fortună, Maria E.
n this study, we present a convenient approach for the preparation of viscose, maghemite, goethite, and poly(methylhydro-dimethyl)siloxane hybrid materials possessing electromagnetic shielding properties, thermal stability, strong magnetization, and very good hydrophobicity. The chemical compositions, morphologies, thermal properties, magnetic measurements, wettability, and dielectric properties of the prepared composites and pristine precursors were thoroughly investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM), thermal degradation (TG, DTG, and DTA), magnetic measurements (magnetization, thermomagnetic curves, relative magnetic permeability), and dielectric spectrometry. Moreover, the electromagnetic shielding properties of pristine viscose and the final composite were assessed.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Eco-Friendly Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles with Significant Antimicrobial Activity for Sustainable Applications
(MDPI, 2025-06-09) Pleșnicuțe, Ramona; Rîmbu, Cristina-Mihaela; Oprica, Lăcrămioara; Herea, Daniel; Motrescu, Iuliana; Luca, Delia; Creangă, Dorina; Grigore, Marius-Nicușor
Silver nanoparticles, with various uses in pharmacy, cosmetics, sanitation, textiles, optoelectronics, photovoltaics, etc., that are provided by worldwide industrial production, estimated to hundreds of tons annually, are finally released in the environment impacting randomly the biosphere. An alternative synthesis approach could be implemented by replacing chemical reductants of silver with natural antioxidants ensuring production and utilization sustainability with focus on environmental pollution diminishing. We synthesized silver nanoparticles by using plant extracts, aiming to offer antimicrobial products with reduced impact on the environment through sustainable green-chemistry. Fresh extracts of lemon pulp, blueberry and blackberry fruits as well as of green tea dry leaves were the sources of the natural antioxidants able to ensure ionic silver reduction and silver nanoparticle formation in the form of colloidal suspensions. The four samples were characterized by UV–Vis spectrophotometry, scanning electron microscopy, dark field optical microscopy, X-ray diffractometry, dynamic light scattering, which evidenced specific fine granularity, plasmonic features, standard crystallinity, and good stability in water suspension. Antimicrobial activity was assayed using the agar diffusion method and the bacteria kill-time technique against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. In both cases, all silver nanoparticles revealed their adequacy for the aimed purposes, the sample synthesized with green tea showing the best efficiency, which is in concordance with its highest contents of polyphenols, flavones and best total antioxidant activity. Various applications could be safely designed based on such silver nanoparticles for sustainable chemistry development.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Comparative analysis of growth traits and metabolic profiles in Camassia cultivars ‘Alba’ and ‘Caerulea’ under varying cultivation conditions
(MDPI, 2025-11-23) Ozarchevici, Alina-Ștefana; Badjakov, Ilian; Mladenov, Petko; Dincheva, Ivayla; Cioroiu, Bogdan-Ionel; Draghia, Lucia
This study examines the morphological growth and metabolic responses of two Camassia leichtlinii cultivars, ‘Alba’ and ‘Caerulea’, cultivated under three contrasting systems: open field, outdoor pots, and greenhouse (indoor pots). Morphological parameters, including leaf number, scape development, and bulb biometric traits, were assessed over two consecutive growth seasons. Parallel GC–MS metabolite profiling identified 38 major compounds encompassing sugars, fatty acids, amino acids, and organic acids. Principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical clustering (HCA) effectively discriminated samples by cultivation condition, cultivar, and plant maturity. Environmental factors accounted for the largest share of metabolic variation (61%), followed by genotype (28%) and plant age (6%). The cultivar ‘Caerulea’ exhibited greater biomass accumulation and broader metabolic variability under greenhouse conditions, while ‘Alba’ maintained consistently high sucrose and glutamine levels across environments. Notably, the greenhouse environment, although strongly promoting primary metabolite accumulation, suppressed scape initiation and flowering in both cultivars, indicating a trade-off between metabolic enhancement and reproductive development under controlled conditions. These findings highlight differential adaptive strategies among Camassia cultivars and provide molecular insights into their carbohydrate metabolism, environmental responsiveness, and potential nutritional and phytochemical applications under diverse horticultural conditions.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Enhancing the flavour of tomato soup with an alcoholic appetiser
(Elsevier, 2025-08-18) Juravle, Georgiana; Colibaba, Lucia-Cintia; Zota, Mihai-Cătălin; Cotea, Valeriu V.; Spence, Charles
The perceived temperature of a dish can affect the appreciation of its flavour as well as other hedonic and sensory qualities of the food. Here, we assessed the potential of an alcoholic appetiser as a taste potentiator and investigated interactions between consumed alcohol and the temperature of a tomato soup. Using a between-participants experimental design, we investigated the appreciation of a tomato soup sample (cool vs. hot) for different presentations (with vs. without an alcoholic appetiser shot tasted beforehand). 257 participants (171 female, mean age of 34 years, SD = 12 years, age range 18–69 years) tasted the tomato soup and evaluated it with respect to several sensorial qualities (i.e., temperature, texture, freshness, intensity, flavour, and liking) and indicated the perceived dominant taste from amongst the five basic tastes. The results highlight that when tasted hot, participants like the soup more, evaluate it as being significantly more flavourful, denser, fresher, and as having a more intense taste. Further, when tasted with an alcoholic appetiser beforehand, the tomato soup is reported as having a significantly lower temperature, as well as being fresher, and more flavourful. The intake of an alcoholic appetiser significantly interacts with the soup temperature and potentiates both the sweet and umami taste of the tomato soup. These results highlight the importance of a soup's serving temperature and the potential of alcohol to enhance the flavour of the dish. The findings are discussed in the context of healthy eating and individual differences in food selection, with consideration of the importance of temperature perception in gastronomic settings.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Identification of Vibration Source Influence Intensity in Combine Harvesters Using Multivariate Regression Analysis
(MDPI, 2025-09-17) Cârdei, Petru; Vlăduț, Nicolae-Valentin; Biriș, Sorin-Ștefan; Oncescu, Teofil-Alin; Ungureanu, Nicoleta; Zdravkov Atanasov, Atanas; Nenciu, Florin; Matei, Gheorghe; Boruz, Sorin; Popa, Lorena-Diana; Teliban, Gabriel-Ciprian; Milea, Oana-Elena; Dumitru, Ștefan; Tăbărașu, Ana-Maria; Vanghele, Nicoleta; Cismaru, Melania; Radu, Cristian; Isticioaia, Simona
This study presents a multivariate regression-based analysis aimed at quantifying the influence of key vibration-generating components in two types of grain combines—C110H (with straw walker) and CASE IH (axial flow)—on the operator’s seat (OS). Using triaxial accelerometers, vibrational measurements were performed under both stationary and operational working mode. RMS acceleration values were recorded for major subsystems (engine, threshing unit, chassis, chopper/header) and processed via multiple linear regression. The models generated for each combine and axis (Ox, Oy, Oz) revealed high coefficients of determination (R2 > 0.85), confirming the linear model’s validity. Influence maps and standardized coefficients were used to rank the sources of vibration. Results indicate that the straw walker dominates vibration transmission in the C110H, while the header and threshing system are more significant in the CASE IH. The findings support the development of predictive algorithms for real-time vibration monitoring and ergonomic improvements in combine design. Moreover, the proposed methodology provides a cost-effective diagnostic tool for early fault detection, targeted maintenance, and the long-term reduction of operator fatigue and injury risks.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Valorization of Agro-Industrial Lignin as a Functional Polymer for Sustainable Wastewater Treatment
(MDPI, 2025-08-21) Ungureanu, Elena; Tofănică, Bogdan-Marian; Ulea, Eugen; Ungureanu, Ovidiu C.; Fortună, Maria E.; Rotaru, Răzvan; Volf, Irina; Popa, Valentin I.
The rational design of functional and sustainable polymers is central to addressing global environmental challenges. In this context, unmodified lignin derived from Sarkanda grass (Tripidium bengalense), an abundant agro-industrial lignocellulosic byproduct, was systematically investigated as a natural polymeric adsorbent for the remediation of aqueous media contaminated with heavy metals. The study evaluates lignin’s behavior toward nine metal(loid) ions: arsenic, cadmium, chromium, cobalt, copper, iron, nickel, lead, and zinc. Adsorption performance was systematically investigated under static batch conditions, optimizing key parameters, with equilibrium and kinetic data modeled using established isotherms and rate equations. Surface characterization and seed germination bioassays provided supporting evidence. Unmodified Sarkanda grass lignin demonstrated effective adsorption, exhibiting a clear preference for Cu(II) followed by other divalent cations, with lower capacities for As(III) and Cr(VI). Adsorption kinetics consistently followed a pseudo-second-order model, indicating chemisorption as the dominant mechanism. Thermodynamic studies revealed spontaneous and endothermic processes. Bioassays confirmed significant reduction in aqueous toxicity and strong metal sequestration. This work positions unmodified Sarkanda grass lignin as a bio-based, low-cost polymer platform for emerging water treatment technologies, contributing to circular bioeconomy goals and highlighting the potential of natural polymers in sustainable materials design.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Surface Chemistry and Molecular Dynamics of Epoxy Resin: Insights from Analysis During Curing and Post-Curing Processes
(MDPI, 2025-04-18) Tofănică, Bogdan-Marian; Ungureanu, Elena; Awaja, Firas
The surface chemistry of epoxy resin and its composites is critical for their long-term performance across various applications. In this study, we investigate the main reactions occurring on the surface of DEGBA/DEGBF epoxy resin following curing, post-curing, and thermal post-curing processes using Time-of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (ToF-SIMS). ToF-SIMS analysis elucidated molecular details, including curing and cross-linking progression, cross-link characteristics, cured resin structure, residual unreacted hardener, cross-linking density, and reaction pathways. Principal Components Regression analysis (PCR) was applied to distinguish between cured and post-cured samples, focusing on specific ions indicative of the curing process. The completion of curing was associated with ions such as C14H7O+, CHO+, CH3O+, and C21H24O4+, while unreacted hardener was indicated by C21H24O4+ ions. Cross-linking density and the intensities of aliphatic hydrocarbons were crucial in differentiating curing stages. Calibration ensured that all ion intensities totaled to one, and specific ions were tracked to monitor the states from uncured to post-cured. Negative spectra provided insights into the consumption of hardener molecules during curing and post-curing. The results demonstrated that post-curing enhances the properties of epoxy resin by promoting further cross-linking, reducing residual unreacted groups, and forming a more extensive covalent network. This results in improved mechanical and thermal stability. The molecular changes observed through ToF-SIMS data effectively distinguish between curing and post-curing reactions, contributing to a better understanding and optimization of epoxy resin properties for various applications.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Structure of Cellulose Isolated from Rapeseed Stalks
(MDPI, 2025-04-11) Tofănică, Bogdan-Marian; Callone, Emanuela; Ungureanu, Elena; Ungureanu, Ovidiu C; Popa, Valentin I.
Solid state Cross-Polarization/Magic-Angle-Spinning 13C CP/MAS Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectra were obtained for cellulose and α-cellulose isolated from rapeseed stalks. This study provides the first characterization of the rapeseed stalk cellulose, revealing that native cellulose occurs as cellulose I allomorph, while α-cellulose exhibits distinct crystalline structures similar to those found in cellulose II. Additionally, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Energy-Dispersive X-ray Microanalysis (EDX) were employed to further investigate and unveil the structural properties of cellulose extracted from rapeseed stalks. These complementary techniques offered a more comprehensive understanding of the cellulose morphology, crystallinity, and chemical composition, providing valuable insights into the potential utilization of rapeseed stalks as a renewable biomass resource for various industrial applications.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Interactive Effects of Genotype, Irrigation, and Fertilization on Physiological, Biometric, and Biochemical Traits of Runner Bean (Phaseolus coccineus L.)
(MDPI, 2025-09-18) Rădeanu, Georgiana; Precupeanu, Cristina; Teliban, Gabriel-Ciprian; Roșca, Mihaela; Ordóñez-Díaz, José Luis; Moreno-Rojas, Jose Manuel; Stoleru, Vasile
Climate change, marked by increasing temperatures and unpredictable rainfall, presents a significant challenge to the sustainable cultivation of runner beans (Phaseolus coccineus L.). These conditions underscore the urgent need for efficient resource management. Therefore, it is crucial to establish suitable irrigation regimes and nutritional conditions for runner bean cultivars. Furthermore, since genotype performance is strongly influenced by water availability and nutrient supply, understanding their interactive effects is essential for developing technologies that are adapted to climate change and sustain high yields of garden beans. In this context, the individual and combined effects of three runner bean cultivars (Cozia1, Cozia2, and Cozia3), two irrigation regimes (2000 and 2500 m3·ha−1), and three fertilisation strategies (chemical, organic, and unfertilised) on some physiological, morphological, and biochemical parameters were assessed in this study. The field experiment was carried out in the north-eastern part of Romania over two consecutive growing seasons, following a randomized split–split plot design with three replications. The results showed that genotype had the most significant influence on the majority of traits, highlighting its dominant role over fertilization and irrigation. Under chemical fertilization and 2500 m3·ha−1 irrigation, Cozia2 achieved the highest grain yield (3427.60 kg·ha−1) and pod number (48.13), while Cozia1 combined with chemical fertilization under 2000 m3·ha−1 irrigation recorded the highest total phenolic content (0.47 mg GAE·100 g−1 d.w.). Among cultivars, Cozia2 was highly responsive to fertilisation and irrigation variation, showing both the highest and lowest values for pod number, seed weight, and seeds per pod depending on treatment. Notably, the highest photosynthetic assimilation rates were observed in Cozia2 × IR2 × UF and Cozia3 × IR1 × OR combinations. Based on the results of this study, Cozia3 under chemical fertilization is best suited for high yields under limited water (2000 m3·ha−1), while Cozia2 is best suited when chemical fertilization is combined with higher irrigation (2500 m3·ha−1). However, in the context of organic cultivation, Cozia3 is identified as the most suitable cultivar.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Fuzzy Aspects Associated with Biological Inheritance
(MDPI, 2025-12-01) Pătrașcu Sonea, Andromeda
Genetics explores the mechanisms of heredity and trait variation across organisms, with foundational principles established by Gregor Mendel through experiments on monohybrid and dihybrid crosses. The mathematical framework of hypergroups can effectively describe these classical genetic models. This study examines the interaction between genetic hybridization models and fuzzy set theory. It focuses on the fuzzy function that relates to phenotype classes made from simple dominance in dihybrid, trihybrid, and polyhybrid crosses. The methods use fuzzy logic to model phenotype distributions. The results show a clear link between the structure of the fuzzy function and the number of distinct phenotype classes in each hybridization case. This article presents a general form for the fuzzy function, and it always follows the same order relation. The number of phenotypes in each class determines this relation. Therefore, each class is associated with a string that serves as a row in the matrix describing the respective hybridization. Studies have shown that the eigenvalues of this matrix coincide with its elements.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Comprehensive Assessment of Soil Heavy Metal Contamination in Agricultural and Protected Areas: A Case Study from Iași County, Romania
(MDPI, 2025-05-15) Luchian, Camelia-Elena; Motrescu, Iuliana; Dumitrașcu, Anamaria-Ioana; Scutarașu, Elena-Cristina; Cara, Irina-Gabriela; Colibaba, Lucia-Cintia; Cotea, Valeriu V.; Jităreanu, Gerard
Soil contamination with heavy metals poses a significant risk to human health and ecological systems through multiple exposure pathways: direct ingestion of crops, dermal contact with polluted soil, and bioaccumulation within the food chain. This study analyses eleven composite soils, each collected in triplicate from different sites in Iași County, four of which are designated Natura 2000 protected areas (Mârzești Forest, Plopi Lake—Belcești, Moldova Delta, and Valea lui David). The assessment includes measurements of soil humidity by the gravimetric method, pH, and organic matter content, examined in relation to heavy metal concentrations due to their well-established interdependencies. For heavy metal determination, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) using an EDAX system (AMETEK Inc., Berwyn, PA, USA) and X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRFS) with a Vanta 4 analyser (Olympus, Waltham, MA, USA) were employed. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with a Quanta 450 microscope (FEI, Thermo Scientific, Hillsboro, OR, USA) was used primarily for informational purposes and to provide a broader perspective. In the case of chromium, 45.45% of the samples exceeded the permissible levels, with concentrations ranging from 106 mg/kg to 186 mg/kg, the highest value being nearly twice the alert threshold. Notably, not all protected areas maintain contaminant levels within safe limits. The sample from the Mârzești Forest protected site revealed considerably raised concentrations of mercury, arsenic, and lead, exceeding the alert thresholds (1 mg/kg—mercury, 15 mg/kg—arsenic, and 50 mg/kg—lead) established through Order no. 756/1997 issued by the Minister of Water, Forests, and Environmental Protection from Romania. On the other hand, the sample from Podu Iloaiei, an area with intensive agricultural activity, shows contamination with mercury and cadmium, highlighting significant anthropogenic pollution. The findings of this study are expected to raise public awareness regarding soil pollution levels, particularly in densely populated regions and protected ecological zones. Moreover, the results provide a scientific basis for policymakers and relevant authorities to implement targeted measures to manage soil contamination and ensure long-term environmental sustainability.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Cornus mas: from plant taxonomy and distribution area to highly valorization of phytochemicals by microencapsulation in biopolymeric matrices containing probiotics
(MDPI, 2025-10-29) Enache, Iuliana-Maria; Stănciuc, Nicoleta; Vasile, Aida Mihaela; Dinică, Rodica Mihaela; Țupu, Eliza; Vizireanu, Camelia
In this study, a comprehensive approach to the taxonomy and the distribution areas of Cornus mas (commonly known as cornelian cherry) is presented, considering the superior valorization of bioactive compounds through co-microencapsulation in a unique matrix combination, together with probiotic bacteria. According to the phytochemical profile, the whole plant of cornelian cherry includes 101 chemical compounds, classified as follows: polyphenols, terpenoids, carotenoids, vitamins, carbohydrates, acids, and hydrocarbons. In general, the bioactive compounds are highly sensitive to digestion and external factors, such as oxygen, pH, temperature, etc. In order to improve the bioaccesibility and the storage stability of the polyphenols, a solid–liquid ultrasound assisted method was applied to deliver an anthocyanin-enriched extract, which was microencapsulated together with Lacticaseibacillus casei (L. casei) by freeze-drying in a unique combination of whey protein isolate (WPI) and maltodextrin (MD) as wall materials. Two powders were obtained, with and without the probiotic bacteria. The data obtained in this study showed a high encapsulation efficiency (82.16–88.95%) of anthocyanins, whereas for L. casei, the microencapsulation efficiency reached 80%. The co-microencapsulated powder showed a viable cell count of 3.80·109 CFU/g dry matter (D.M.). The microencapsulated powders showed a significant amount of total polyphenols (8.30–13.00 mg of gallic acid equivalent per gram D.M.). Furthermore, the in vitro digestibility of the anthocyanins highlighted the protective effect of the microencapsulation matrix in the stomach, whereas a slow release was observed in the simulated intestinal conditions. Furthermore, after 21 days of storage, the lactic acid bacteria viability was high (2.53 × 109 CFU/g dry matter), which confirmed the functionality and the nutraceutical value of the co-microencapsulated powder.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Initial Characterization of Morpho-Anatomical Traits and Antioxidant Profile of Iris brandzae Prodan from Romania’s Wild Flora Under Culture Conditions
(MDPI, 2025-12-13) Draghia, Lucia; Apostol, Maria; Sîrbu, Culiță; Dincheva, Ivayla; Mihăilă Ionică, Maria Daniela; Dinică, Rodica Mihaela; Lupoae, Mariana; Hlihor, Raluca-Maria; Simion, Isabela Maria; Chiruță, Ciprian; Bolohan, Diana-Elena; Arminana, Jose Reig; Garcia Breijo, Francisco José
In Romania’s wild flora, several Iris species exhibit important ornamental characteristics, such as early spring flowering and resilience to abiotic stress. This study assessed the behavior to new ecological conditions, the ornamental potential, and the antioxidant capacity of the wild species of Iris brandzae using morpho-anatomical, physiological, and biochemical biomarkers. The study of phenotypic characteristics (number and size of leaves on sterile and fertile shoots, size of flowering stems, bracts protecting the flowers, and perianth-segments) aimed to confirm and supplement existing information in the literature, as well as to evaluate the ornamental potential of this species. Morphological analyses revealed clear differences between fertile and sterile shoots, while photosynthetic activity across phenophases showed values within normal parameters, with the maximum recorded during flowering and with the chlorophyll a/chlorophyll b ratio maintained at values close to 3:1, indicating favorable cultivation conditions. Biochemical investigations (total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant activity) demonstrated that dried plant material, particularly roots, contained higher levels of phenolic and flavonoid compounds and exhibited stronger antioxidant activity compared to fresh material. By integrating morpho-anatomical, physiological, and biochemical data, this research provides the first comprehensive characterization of I. brandzae beyond taxonomic and ecological descriptions. Our findings emphasize the species behavior under cultivation conditions, its ornamental value, and its potential as a source of bioactive compounds relevant to pharmaceutical applications.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Beyond sight: the influence of opaque glasses on wine sensory perception
(MDPI, 2025-09-17) Coman, George-Ștefan; Luchian, Camelia-Elena; Scutaraș, Elena-Cristina; Cotea, Valeriu V.
International standards for wines with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) require characterisation through both analytical and sensory criteria, although sensory evaluation remains inherently subjective, especially regarding organoleptic properties. This study examined paired Blanc de noir and red wines made from identical grape varieties to determine whether varietal traits remain perceptible regardless of the vinification method while also assessing the role of visual stimuli in influencing olfactory and gustatory perception. Controlled tastings were conducted using both transparent and opaque glassware, with experienced panellists recording sensory descriptors. Physicochemical parameters were measured using a Lyza 5000 analyser to confirm compliance with quality standards, while statistical analyses of sensory data were conducted using the XLSTAT–Basic, student-type user software. Results showed that the absence of visual cues did not mislead tasters in recognising core attributes; however, the winemaking method significantly affected descriptors linked to maceration, including flavour intensity, astringency, and red/dark fruit notes. Panellists distinguished between white and red wines at statistically significant levels, even without visual input, suggesting that vinification-related chemical composition primarily guided their perception. Direct correlations were observed between red winemaking descriptors and parameters such as pH, lactic acid, glycerol, and volatile acidity, while indirect correlations were found with malic acid and titratable acidity. The results highlight how winemaking methods, chemical composition, and sensory perception interact in defining varietal characteristics.

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