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15 pages, 2411 KB  
Article
The Variation and Influencing Factors of Volatile Organic Compounds on Branch and Leaf of Phoebe hui W.C. Cheng ex Yen C. Yang
by Jiayi Wu, Jianghong Qian, Ruixian Zheng, Yunjie Gu, Jian Peng, Hongying Guo, Suyuan Zhang, Ruiqi Wang, Yulin Wei, Minhao Liu, Yi Wang, Jinwu Li, Lianghua Chen and Hanbo Yang
Life 2026, 16(7), 1072; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16071072 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026
Abstract
Plant volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are crucial for communication, defense, pollination, and environmental adaptation, playing a key role in the survival and interaction of plants within ecosystems. However, as an important tree species rich in VOCs, the variation characteristics and influencing factors of [...] Read more.
Plant volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are crucial for communication, defense, pollination, and environmental adaptation, playing a key role in the survival and interaction of plants within ecosystems. However, as an important tree species rich in VOCs, the variation characteristics and influencing factors of VOCs on Phoebe hui W.C. Cheng ex Yen C. Yang remain unclear. In this study, we identified 106 VOCs across branches and leaves, of which 91 and 56 were detected, respectively, with 41 in both tissues. Sesquiterpenoids, olefins, fatty acids and conjugates dominated the VOC profiles of branches and leaves. Branches showed higher accumulation of sesquiterpenoids, fatty acids and conjugates, whereas leaves were enriched in olefins. The VOCs distribution and accumulation were strongly structured by environmental variation, with mean annual precipitation (MAP) and soil organic carbon (SOC) emerging as the primary drivers. Together, these findings elucidate the variation patterns and environmental determinants of VOCs in P. hui, providing a foundation for resource conservation and utilization while informing studies of VOC diversity across Phoebe species. Full article
42 pages, 9359 KB  
Article
Synthesis and Anticancer Activity of New Quinazolin-4(3H)-one Derivatives: Identification of a Tumor-Selective Anticancer Agent with Potential Inhibition of TGF-βRI (ALK5)
by Nahed N. E. El-Sayed, Sami A. Al-Hussain, Marwa A. Ibrahim, Mohamed R. Elnagar, Zainab M. Almarhoon and Magdi E. A. Zaki
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(7), 996; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19070996 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Cancer is a multifactorial disease in which drug resistance and limited selectivity remain major therapeutic challenges, highlighting the need for novel anticancer agents. As a privileged scaffold for multitarget anticancer drug discovery, quinazolin-4(3H)-one was selected for the design, synthesis, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Cancer is a multifactorial disease in which drug resistance and limited selectivity remain major therapeutic challenges, highlighting the need for novel anticancer agents. As a privileged scaffold for multitarget anticancer drug discovery, quinazolin-4(3H)-one was selected for the design, synthesis, and evaluation of new derivatives as potential anticancer agents, together with investigation of their mechanisms of action and molecular targets. Methods: Fifteen new quinazolin-4(3H)-one derivatives were synthesized and screened using the NCI-60 human cancer cell line panel. The mechanism of action of the most active compound was investigated through cell cycle, apoptosis, and RT-qPCR analyses. A potential molecular target was identified from transcriptomic data in the Human Protein Atlas, focusing on highly expressed cancer-implicated genes in the most responsive cell lines, followed by molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and in vitro kinase studies. Safety and pharmacokinetic properties were evaluated using an MTT cytotoxicity assay in normal WI-38 fibroblasts and in silico ADME analyses. Results: Compound 3e emerged as the most active and tumor-selective derivative, exhibiting GI50 values ranging from 2.63 to 17.12 µM across 31 cancer cell lines. In A549 cells, selected as a representative responsive model, 3e (GI50 = 10.8 µM, 72 h) induced G2/M cell-cycle arrest (59.58% vs. 26.96% in control), increased early apoptosis (43.94% vs. 0.11% in control), reduced viable cells (49.71% vs. 98.66%), elevated the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio (7.91), and upregulated the expression of caspase-9 and caspase-3 by 2.5- and 4.6-fold, respectively. Integrated target identification studies and an in vitro kinase assay (IC50 = 21.34 nM) suggested TGF-βRI (ALK5) as a plausible molecular target. Compound 3e also showed low cytotoxicity toward WI-38 fibroblasts (IC50 = 88.3 µM) and favorable predicted pharmacokinetic properties; nevertheless, high plasma protein binding and potential CYP2C9 inhibition are anticipated. Conclusions: Compound 3e is a promising tumor-selective anticancer lead with potential TGF-βRI inhibitory activity. Its antiproliferative effects in A549 cells appear to be mediated through G2/M cell-cycle arrest and activation of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway, supporting further development and pharmacokinetic optimization of this scaffold for anticancer therapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medicinal Chemistry)
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21 pages, 2389 KB  
Article
Thermal-Process-Informed Input-Variable Selection for Multi-Site Short-Term River Water-Temperature Forecasting in the Upper and Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River
by Jun Ma, Hui Huang, Defu Liu, Ying Liu and Yaqian Xu
Water 2026, 18(13), 1574; https://doi.org/10.3390/w18131574 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026
Abstract
River water temperature connects hydrodynamic processes, air–water heat exchange, and aquatic ecological responses. Although data-driven models are increasingly used for short-term water-temperature forecasting, input-variable choice still influences both predictive skill and the interpretation of model errors. This study examined daily water-temperature forecasting at [...] Read more.
River water temperature connects hydrodynamic processes, air–water heat exchange, and aquatic ecological responses. Although data-driven models are increasingly used for short-term water-temperature forecasting, input-variable choice still influences both predictive skill and the interpretation of model errors. This study examined daily water-temperature forecasting at nine hydrological stations in the upper and middle reaches of the Yangtze River. The stations were grouped according to natural hydro-meteorological background, reservoir regulation, and compound disturbance. Based on surface-water heat balance and order-of-magnitude analysis, antecedent water temperature, air temperature, and discharge were selected as process-related candidate inputs and tested using LSTM and xLSTM models. The experiments considered input-window length, learning rate, batch size, and the inclusion of discharge. Under the no-discharge scheme, learning rate had the clearest effect on the predicted water-temperature series. For LSTM, the median predicted-temperature differences caused by changes in window length, learning rate, and batch size were 0.055, 0.077, and 0.056 °C, respectively; the corresponding values for xLSTM were 0.089, 0.102, and 0.073 °C. One-day-ahead forecasts for the selected representative dates produced mean RMSE values of 0.160 °C for LSTM and 0.165 °C for xLSTM, compared with 0.183 °C for a persistence baseline. The reservoir regulation impact group showed the lowest errors, whereas the compound disturbance impact group had higher errors and clear within-group differences. The contribution of discharge varied among stations and models: for LSTM, RMSE decreased at Batang, Panzhihua, and Huanglingmiao, but increased or changed little at Gangtuo, Yichang, and Cuntan; for xLSTM, the average RMSE did not decrease after discharge was added at the seven stations with discharge data. xLSTM showed local advantages at Huanglingmiao and Cuntan. These findings show that process-informed input selection offers a consistent basis for comparing multi-site water-temperature forecasts and for interpreting error differences among stations and input schemes. Full article
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13 pages, 1218 KB  
Article
Synthesis, Antifungal Activity and Molecular Docking Studies of Novel 2-Acyloxybenzamides
by Zilong Tang, Qianyi He, Minyi Yao, Ying Ye, Jiangtao Cai, Yichao Wan and Lifen Peng
Molecules 2026, 31(13), 2261; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31132261 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026
Abstract
A series of 2-acyloxybenzamides were synthesized. The structures of the synthesized compounds were characterized by IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and HRMS. Their antifungal activity against plant pathogenic fungi was evaluated. Compound 3i exhibited a 100.0% inhibition rate against M. oryzae [...] Read more.
A series of 2-acyloxybenzamides were synthesized. The structures of the synthesized compounds were characterized by IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and HRMS. Their antifungal activity against plant pathogenic fungi was evaluated. Compound 3i exhibited a 100.0% inhibition rate against M. oryzae, while compound 3b showed 90.0% inhibition against P. capsici. The corresponding EC50 values of compounds 3b (against P. capsici) and 3i (against M. oryzae) were determined to be 3.90 and 8.21 μg/mL, respectively. Molecular docking and MD simulations studies suggested that SCD enzyme may serve as a potential target for compound 3i and its related analogues. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chemical Biology in Asia—Second Edition)
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14 pages, 542 KB  
Article
Acute Hypotensive Effects of 2-Acetylfuran and 5-Methylfurfural and Their Impact on Liver Mitochondrial Bioenergetics
by Irma Martišienė, Jurgita Šapauskienė, Dominyka Adamonė, Ieva Lankutytė, Rasa Banienė, Vilma Zigmantaitė, Jonas Jurevičius and Regina Mačianskienė
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(7), 995; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19070995 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Furan derivatives are commonly encountered in food and environmental matrices and may exert biological effects, but their acute cardiovascular actions and potential mitochondrial targets remain insufficiently characterised. This study examined the effects of two simple furan compounds, 2-acetylfuran (2AF) and 5-methylfurfural (5MFF), [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Furan derivatives are commonly encountered in food and environmental matrices and may exert biological effects, but their acute cardiovascular actions and potential mitochondrial targets remain insufficiently characterised. This study examined the effects of two simple furan compounds, 2-acetylfuran (2AF) and 5-methylfurfural (5MFF), on arterial blood pressure in vivo and on oxidative phosphorylation in isolated rat liver mitochondria. Methods: Arterial blood pressure was recorded invasively in anaesthetised rats after intraperitoneal administration of 2AF or 5MFF (0.3 µL/g). Systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial pressures, as well as heart rate, were monitored over time. Mitochondrial respiration was assessed in isolated rat liver mitochondria using high-resolution respirometry. Results: Both 2AF and 5MFF induced a rapid hypotensive response, with significant reductions in systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial pressures within 10–15 min after administration. MAP was reduced to a similar extent by both compounds. However, their chronotropic and pulse pressure responses differed: 5MFF increased heart rate and pulse pressure, whereas 2AF induced a delayed bradycardic response without a significant change in pulse pressure. In isolated liver mitochondria, both compounds markedly reduced ADP-stimulated respiration and decreased the respiratory control index, indicating reduced coupling efficiency. Both compounds also increased the cytochrome c effect, suggesting partial impairment of outer mitochondrial membrane integrity. Conclusions: 2AF and 5MFF exert acute hypotensive effects in anaesthetised rats and impair oxidative phosphorylation in isolated rat liver mitochondria. This study provides the first in vivo evidence that 2AF and 5MFF exert hypotensive effects and identifies them as bioactive furan compounds with dual haemodynamic and bioenergetic actions. Full article
42 pages, 22741 KB  
Article
Cooling Degree Day Trends and Their Implications for Building Thermal Design and Thermal Fatigue Loading in Lagos, Nigeria
by Opeyemi Bamidele, Joseph Adisa, Benjamin Labar and Nurullah Bektas
Buildings 2026, 16(13), 2557; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16132557 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026
Abstract
Buildings in Lagos require mechanical cooling year-round, with air conditioning accounting for up to 80% of residential electricity consumption. Despite this, the Nigerian Building Code (NB 485:2017) still references 1990s thermal design data, creating a growing mismatch between design assumptions and actual thermal [...] Read more.
Buildings in Lagos require mechanical cooling year-round, with air conditioning accounting for up to 80% of residential electricity consumption. Despite this, the Nigerian Building Code (NB 485:2017) still references 1990s thermal design data, creating a growing mismatch between design assumptions and actual thermal conditions. Compounding background warming and an intensifying urban heat island have widened this gap considerably, yet no study has linked long-term cooling demand trends to quantified engineering design shortfalls for any Nigerian city. This study presents a 35-year cooling degree day (CDD) trend analysis for Lagos (1990–2024), derived from 12,784 daily temperature records at four engineering base temperatures (22 °C, 23.3 °C, 26 °C, and 28 °C) respectively. Trends are detected using the Mann–Kendall test with Trend-Free Pre-Whitening and Sen’s slope as the magnitude estimator. Significantly increasing CDD trends are confirmed at three base temperatures, with a Sen’s slope of +4.55 °C·days yr−1 at the primary design reference of 23.3 °C (p < 0.01). Structural break analysis identifies 2015 as the transition into a persistently above-baseline thermal regime, with mean CDD in the most recent sub-period exceeding the 1990–2001 design baseline by up to 50% at higher base temperatures. The detected trends are translated into three engineering gap analyses: required envelope U-value trajectories, an HVAC capacity undersizing index, and annual thermal cycling frequency as a structural fatigue proxy. Results show that the dominant uninsulated sandcrete typology fails ASHRAE 90.1-2019 Zone 1A prescriptive limits throughout the study horizon, installed HVAC systems are already operating in the engineering caution zone, and façade fatigue loading has intensified markedly since 2015. To the author’s knowledge, this study is the first to couple a statistically robust long-period CDD record for Lagos with code-referenced design gap figures, providing a replicable framework for climate-adaptive building code revision across similar hot–humid climates in sub-Saharan Africa. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
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24 pages, 4317 KB  
Article
Antihyperglycemic and Antioxidant Effects of Salacia reticulata and Caralluma tuberculata in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Female Rats
by Naglaa Gamil Shehab, Rania H. Shalaby, Shabana Anjum, Surendra Singh Rawat, Eslam Mahmoud Alrefaee, Fatimah Saad Altamimi, Hanaa Al-Shafea, Naiba Khusrau, Stefan S. Du Plessis and Temidayo S. Omolaoye
Pharmaceutics 2026, 18(7), 785; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics18070785 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026
Abstract
Objective: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a major metabolic disorder associated with hyper-glycemia and oxidative stress. Traditional medicinal plants remain important sources of bioactive compounds with potential antidiabetic activity. Salacia reticulata and Caralluma tuberculata are two important medicinal plants that have been reported [...] Read more.
Objective: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a major metabolic disorder associated with hyper-glycemia and oxidative stress. Traditional medicinal plants remain important sources of bioactive compounds with potential antidiabetic activity. Salacia reticulata and Caralluma tuberculata are two important medicinal plants that have been reported to have antidiabetic effects. The growing burden of type 2 diabetes and the need for therapies that address both hyperglycemia and oxidative stress underscore the necessity to investigate these two medicinal plants. Therefore, the current study evaluated the antihyperglycemic, antioxidant, and protective effects of Salacia reticulata and Caralluma tuberculata in an alloxan-induced diabetic female rat model. Methods: Ethanolic extracts of S. reticulata and C. tuberculata were characterized by total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), DPPH radical-scavenging assay, and UPLC–MS/MS metabolite profiling. Female Wistar rats (n = 42) were randomly assigned to seven groups (n = 6/group), including normal control, diabetic control, extract-treated non-diabetic groups, diabetic extract-treated groups, and a metformin-treated diabetic group. Diabetes was induced by alloxan (130 mg/kg), followed by oral treatment for 8 days with extracts or metformin (500 mg/kg/day). Fasting blood glucose, oral glucose tolerance, serum malondialdehyde (MDA), antioxidant markers (SOD1, GSH, and CAT), and liver and kidney histopathology were assessed. Results: Both plant extracts significantly reduced fasting blood glucose compared with baseline, with S. reticulata showing a greater reduction (22.8%) than C. tuberculata (12.3%), and a response comparable to metformin (27.4%). Diabetic rats exhibited increased MDA and reduced antioxidant enzyme activities. C. tuberculata significantly lowered MDA levels and increased SOD1 activity, suggesting moderate antioxidant effects, whereas S. reticulata showed higher phenolic and flavonoid contents and the highest DPPH scavenging activity. UPLC–MS/MS identified 33 compounds in S. reticulata and 24 in C. tuberculata. Histopathological findings supported improvement of diabetes-associated renal and hepatic damage. Conclusions: Within the eight-day experimental period, both extracts demonstrated significant acute antidiabetic and antioxidant effects with distinct redox–metabolic profiles. However, further long-term studies are recommended to evaluate their sustained efficacy, safety, and potential as complementary therapeutic agents for diabetes management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Drug Targeting and Design)
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28 pages, 11365 KB  
Article
Decoupling Host Preference and Performance in Callosobruchus maculatus (Fabricius, 1775): Roles of Seed Biochemistry and Botanical Insecticides in Stored Legumes
by Rasheed Akbar, Gul Makai, Rehan Kausar, Ambreen Ijaz, Brekhna Faheem, Naseem Rafiq, Shehreyar Javed, Imtiaz Ali Khan, Jibiao Fan and Jianfan Sun
Insects 2026, 17(7), 671; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects17070671 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026
Abstract
Callosobruchus maculatus (Fabricius, 1775) is a major postharvest pest of stored legumes, causing significant quantitative and qualitative losses. This study evaluated host preference, biochemical determinants of susceptibility, and the insecticidal efficacy of plant powders and aqueous and ethanolic extracts against C. maculatus among [...] Read more.
Callosobruchus maculatus (Fabricius, 1775) is a major postharvest pest of stored legumes, causing significant quantitative and qualitative losses. This study evaluated host preference, biochemical determinants of susceptibility, and the insecticidal efficacy of plant powders and aqueous and ethanolic extracts against C. maculatus among selected pulse species. In free-choice assays, oviposition preference did not correspond with developmental success, as Phaseolus vulgaris Linnaeus, 1753, received the highest number of eggs but supported minimal adult emergence, whereas Vigna radiata (Linnaeus) A. Jussieu, 1954, exhibited the highest level of infestation and seed damage. Biochemical analysis revealed correlational patterns: higher carbohydrate and lipid contents were positively associated with infestation and seed weight loss, whereas fiber content showed a negative association with pest performance. Protein content was correlated with oviposition, while moisture and fiber were associated with reduced developmental success. Plant-derived treatments significantly affected all biological parameters of C. maculatus in a concentration- and time-dependent manner, with the exception of sex ratio. Among the tested botanicals, Azadirachta indica A. Jussieu (1830) consistently showed the highest toxicity, with the lowest LC50 values across exposure periods. Ethanolic extracts showed greater insecticidal activity than aqueous extracts, indicating solvent-dependent extraction of bioactive compounds. Mortality increased progressively with exposure duration, accompanied by decreasing LC50 values, suggesting cumulative toxic and developmental effects. Overall, the results demonstrate that host suitability is governed by the interaction between nutritional composition and structural seed traits, while botanical extracts, particularly those from A. indica, offer effective, eco-friendly alternatives for managing C. maculatus in stored legumes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue An Eco-Friendly Approach for Pest Management)
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17 pages, 6445 KB  
Article
The Chemical Constituents and Anti-Complement Activity of Seven Rhododendron Species in Tibetan Medicine
by Sujuan Wang, Yan Lu, Ke Zhang, Shiyan Wang, Shengnan Zhang, Hao Su and Ji De
Molecules 2026, 31(13), 2257; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31132257 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026
Abstract
Objective: This study aims to explore the differences in chemical composition among Tibetan medicinal Rhododendron species and their potential correlation with anti-complement activity, with the goal of identifying promising medicinal resources. In Tibetan medicinal practice, the two groups of large-leaved Rhododendron (Tibetan: Dama) [...] Read more.
Objective: This study aims to explore the differences in chemical composition among Tibetan medicinal Rhododendron species and their potential correlation with anti-complement activity, with the goal of identifying promising medicinal resources. In Tibetan medicinal practice, the two groups of large-leaved Rhododendron (Tibetan: Dama) and small-leaved Rhododendron (Tibetan: Tali) are often used interchangeably despite unclear chemical and taxonomic bases. By comparing chemical profiles and evaluating anti-complement effects, this investigation seeks to provide preliminary scientific evidence for clarifying medicinal origins and facilitating the targeted development of high-quality resources. Methods: Ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS) was employed to analyze seven Rhododendron samples. Separation was achieved on a Waters CORTECS UPLC C18 column (2.1 × 100 mm, 1.6 μm) using a gradient mobile phase system consisting of acetonitrile and 0.1% formic acid in water, at a flow rate of 0.3 mL/min and a column temperature of 30 °C. Data were acquired in both positive and negative electrospray ionization (ESI) modes. Compound identification was performed using Peakview 1.2 software by comparison with databases and literature. Grey relational analysis and partial least squares (PLS) regression, combined with 5000 bootstrap resampling iterations, were applied to establish spectrum–effect relationships and to screen for characteristic peaks potentially associated with anti-complement activity. Results: A total of 52 compounds were tentatively identified, including flavonoids (e.g., hyperin, isoquercitrin, taxifolin-3-O-arabinoside), terpenoids (e.g., grayanotoxin I/III), and chromanes (e.g., anthopogochromane series). The CH50 values of the ethanol extracts ranged from 179.29 to 579.47 μg/mL, with Rhododendron principis showing the strongest activity (179.29 ± 11.86 μg/mL), followed by Rhododendron vellereum (198.61 ± 7.93 μg/mL). Spectrum–effect analysis revealed that four unidentified peaks (F5315, F5822, F5368, F5991) exhibited negative regression coefficients and VIP means close to or above 0.8, suggesting a possible positive correlation with anti-complement activity. Among these, F5315 (VIP = 0.909), F5822 (VIP = 0.877), and F5368 (VIP = 0.834) showed relatively higher values and were considered preliminary candidate peaks warranting further investigation. Conclusions: This study tentatively identifies 52 compounds from the ethanol extracts of seven Tibetan medicinal Rhododendron species and reports their anti-complement activities. The findings reveal chemical distinctions between the large-leaved (Dama) and small-leaved (Tali) groups, offering a potential chemical basis for species differentiation and quality evaluation. Furthermore, four unknown peaks were preliminarily screened through spectrum–effect analysis as potential anti-complement candidates, which may serve as a foundation for future activity-guided isolation and quality marker studies. Full article
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18 pages, 3272 KB  
Article
Suppression of Post-Ischemic Cardiac Remodelling and Inflammatory Response by a Novel Sphingolipid Modifier, CIN038
by Bing H. Wang, Feby Savira, Xin Xiong, Daniel D. Donner, Helen Kiriazis, Aascha Brown, Li Huang, Natalie Mellet, Kevin Huynh, Peter J. Meikle, Darren Creek, Christopher Reid, Bernard L. Flynn, David M. Kaye, Danny Liew and Ruth R. Magaye
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(13), 5776; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27135776 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026
Abstract
In patients with myocardial infarction (MI), the level of sphingolipids, such as ceramide (Cer), is elevated and is associated with an increased risk of progression towards heart failure (HF). Dihydroceramide desaturase 1 (DES1) catalyses the conversion of dihydroceramide (dhCer) into Cer in the [...] Read more.
In patients with myocardial infarction (MI), the level of sphingolipids, such as ceramide (Cer), is elevated and is associated with an increased risk of progression towards heart failure (HF). Dihydroceramide desaturase 1 (DES1) catalyses the conversion of dihydroceramide (dhCer) into Cer in the de novo sphingolipid pathway. While pharmacological inhibition of DES1 has shown therapeutic benefits in metabolic disease and cancer models, its role in cardiac remodelling remains unclear. This study aimed to determine whether pharmacological inhibition of DES1 using the novel compound, CIN038, attenuates cardiac remodelling following ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury. Three-month-old male C57Bl/6 mice underwent I/R or sham surgery (n = 8) and were treated with vehicle or CIN038 (50 mg/kg/day, i.p.) for 28 days. Cardiac function, molecular changes, and lipid profiles in circulation and liver were assessed at the endpoint. CIN038 reduced infarct size and cardiac myocyte hypertrophy compared to the I/R + vehicle group. Profibrotic signalling was reduced in the infarcted hearts, as evidenced by reduced expression of Col1a1, Col3a1, and Tgfb mRNA and decreased levels of α-SMA and TGFβ1 protein expression. Inflammatory signalling was attenuated with reduced ERK and NFkB phosphorylation and suppression of Il-6-STAT axis. Despite these structural and molecular improvements, no changes were observed in cardiac function. Lipidomic analysis revealed selective alterations in circulating and hepatic lipid species, including plasmalogen phosphatidylethanolamines and ether-linked triglycerides, suggesting modulation of lipid metabolism. Collectively, these findings indicate that CIN038 attenuates post-ischemic cardiac remodelling by suppressing inflammatory and profibrotic signalling, highlighting DES1 as a potential therapeutic target following MI. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Mechanisms and Therapy of Heart Failure)
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20 pages, 1003 KB  
Article
Ethnopharmacological Validation of Selected Coleus and Plectranthus spp. For Skin-Related Applications Through In Vitro Biological Assays
by Márcia Santos Filipe, Vera M. S. Isca, Rebeca André, Tânia C. S. P. Pires, Ana Rita Silva, Gabrielle Bangay, Ana María Díaz-Lanza, Ricardo C. Calhelha, Ahmed A. Hussein, Lillian Barros and Patrícia Rijo
Plants 2026, 15(13), 1975; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15131975 (registering DOI) - 26 Jun 2026
Abstract
Coleus Lour. and Plectranthus L’Hér. (Lamiaceae) species are recognized as promising sources of bioactive compounds for skin health, supported by their traditional use in skin-related conditions; however, scientific validation of these traditional uses remains limited for several species. In this work, the biological [...] Read more.
Coleus Lour. and Plectranthus L’Hér. (Lamiaceae) species are recognized as promising sources of bioactive compounds for skin health, supported by their traditional use in skin-related conditions; however, scientific validation of these traditional uses remains limited for several species. In this work, the biological activities of eight Coleus and Plectranthus species (C. barbatus, C. cylindraceus, C. grandidentatus, C. hadiensis, C. madagascariensis, P. ambiguus, P. ecklonii, and P. fruticosus) were evaluated to support their ethnomedicinal relevance. Extracts were assessed for general toxicity (Artemia salina model), antimicrobial activity (well diffusion and microdilution methods) and antioxidant capacity (DPPH, TBARS and cellular assays). In addition, anti-inflammatory activity (ability to suppress nitric oxide), cytotoxicity in skin cell lines (HaCaT and HFF-1) and inhibition of skin-related enzymes (elastase, tyrosinase and collagenase) were evaluated. Antibacterial activity was predominantly observed against Gram-positive bacteria, with no general toxicity observed. P. ambiguous and P. ecklonii showed moderate-to-high antioxidant activity, while anti-inflammatory effects were observed for C. hadiensis and C. madagascariensis and P. ambiguous. None of the extracts showed cytotoxicity. Enzyme inhibition assays highlighted C. cylindraceus and P. ecklonii. HPLC-DAD analysis confirmed the presence of rosmarinic acid. Overall, the findings support the traditional use of Coleus and Plectranthus species for skin-related conditions and highlight their potential as sources of bioactive compounds for dermatological and cosmeceutical applications. Full article
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23 pages, 1626 KB  
Article
L-Lactic Acid-Enriched Wheat Bran Qu Containing Bacillus cereus Regulates L-Lactic Acid and Ester Formation in Light-Flavor Baijiu Fermentation
by Zhiguo Huang, Lvchang Liu, Jin Hua, Yi Wang and Yabin Zhou
Foods 2026, 15(13), 2290; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15132290 - 26 Jun 2026
Abstract
Lactic acid is a key metabolite in Baijiu fermentation and plays an important role in ester formation and overall flavor development. However, D-lactic acid commonly accumulates in Baijiu and often exceeds L-lactic acid, resulting in low L/D ratios that may negatively affect fermentation [...] Read more.
Lactic acid is a key metabolite in Baijiu fermentation and plays an important role in ester formation and overall flavor development. However, D-lactic acid commonly accumulates in Baijiu and often exceeds L-lactic acid, resulting in low L/D ratios that may negatively affect fermentation performance and sensory quality. Therefore, regulating the optical composition of lactic acid is of significant importance. In this study, an L-lactic acid-enriched wheat bran Qu was developed by inoculating Bacillus cereus B12 and applied in light-flavor Baijiu fermentation. The preparation conditions were optimized using single-factor experiments and orthogonal experimental design. The optimal conditions were an inoculation level of 3%, moisture content of 55%, cultivation temperature of 37 °C, and cultivation time of 60 h, under which the microbial biomass reached 2.02 × 1010 CFU/g. The L-lactic acid-enriched wheat bran Qu influenced fermentation characteristics, including substrate utilization and physicochemical parameters. Notably, it significantly increased lactic acid production, particularly L-lactic acid, thereby improving the optical composition of lactic acid. Meanwhile, the concentrations of key ester compounds, including ethyl lactate and ethyl acetate, were significantly enhanced (p < 0.05). Microbial community analysis revealed shifts in bacterial composition with enrichment of lactic acid-related genera. These findings demonstrate that L-lactic acid-enriched wheat bran Qu can regulate lactic acid production and promote ester formation, providing a potential strategy for improving flavor quality in light-flavor Baijiu fermentation. Full article
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19 pages, 2415 KB  
Article
Response Surface Methodology-Optimized Synthesis of ZIF-8 Nanoparticles and Its Application in the Extraction of Anthraquinones from Cassia Seed
by Chunhua Qu, Yafei Yang, Yan Liu, Guang Xu, Jing Zeng and Mengqin Li
Micromachines 2026, 17(7), 774; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi17070774 - 26 Jun 2026
Abstract
In this study, response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to evaluate and optimize the key parameters for the solvothermal synthesis of Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-8 (ZIF-8) nanoparticles, including solvent type, reaction temperature, reaction time, and material ratio. A multivariate regression model identified the optimal [...] Read more.
In this study, response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to evaluate and optimize the key parameters for the solvothermal synthesis of Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-8 (ZIF-8) nanoparticles, including solvent type, reaction temperature, reaction time, and material ratio. A multivariate regression model identified the optimal preparation conditions as ethanol as the solvent, a reaction temperature of 120 °C, a reaction time of 4 h, and a 5:1 molar ratio of 2-methylimidazole to zinc acetate. The resulting ZIF-8 nanoparticles exhibited highly selective adsorption capacity toward anthraquinones and were successfully applied to the rapid extraction and detection of five anthraquinones from Cassiae semen. By investigating the adsorbent dosage, adsorption efficiency, elution solvent, and elution efficiency, we established the optimal experimental conditions. Briefly, 20 mg of ZIF-8 nanoparticles were added to 10 mL of Cassia semen extract, and the mixture was shaken for 10 min before centrifugation. The residual anthraquinones in the supernatant were quantified by Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC). The adsorption efficiencies of aloe-emodin, rhein, emodin, chrysophanol, and physcion were 80.2%, 93.8%, 100%, 100%, and 100%, respectively. When eluted with methanol/100 mM NaHCO3 solution (1:1, v/v), the corresponding elution efficiencies of these compounds were 82.8%, 97.8%, 85.1%, 93.2%, and 65.3%, respectively. The relative standard deviations (RSDs) for method precision, stability, and repeatability were all below 4.0%. The prepared ZIF-8 nanoparticles showed favorable adsorption performance toward the five anthraquinone components. The method is simple to operate, requires minimal sample and solvent consumption, and can be used for rapid extraction and detection of anthraquinones in traditional Chinese medicinal materials such as Cassiae semen. This work provides a scientific reference for the application of MOFs nanomaterials in food safety inspection and quality control of traditional Chinese medicinal materials. Full article
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16 pages, 1231 KB  
Article
Physicochemical and Bioactive Stability of a Beetroot–Tarragon Microgreen Beverage During Refrigerated Storage
by Tamara Tultabayeva, Kadyrzhan Makangali, Assem Sagandyk, Aruzhan Shoman, Damilya Konysbayeva, Zeinegul Sabitova and Kalamkas Dairova
Molecules 2026, 31(13), 2247; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31132247 - 25 Jun 2026
Abstract
Consumers are looking for plant-based drinks that provide natural colour and bioactive compounds. Microgreens can be used as a source of pigments and phenolics for such beverages. This study developed a beetroot–tarragon microgreen beverage using hydroalcoholic extracts obtained with a green extraction approach [...] Read more.
Consumers are looking for plant-based drinks that provide natural colour and bioactive compounds. Microgreens can be used as a source of pigments and phenolics for such beverages. This study developed a beetroot–tarragon microgreen beverage using hydroalcoholic extracts obtained with a green extraction approach and examined its stability during refrigerated storage. The drink was evaluated for proximate composition, water activity, colour parameters (CIE L*a*b*), microbiological quality and antioxidant activity by the ABTS radical cation decolorization assay (ABTS) over 15 days at 4 ± 2 °C. The beverage showed low fat and energy content and water activity values close to 1.00, so microbiological safety relied on pasteurization and cold storage. Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were not detected, while total aerobic mesophilic counts reached 104–105 colony-forming units per gram (CFU/g), with slightly lower values in samples containing tarragon. Colour measurements indicated betalain loss and colour fading in the beetroot drink, whereas the reduction in E* was more than 80 percentage points lower in the beetroot–tarragon beverage than in the beetroot-only drink, indicating a strong protective effect of tarragon microgreens on colour stability. For the mixed beetroot–tarragon beverage, mean TEAC increased by about 37% between day 1 and day 10 of refrigerated storage. These results indicate that beetroot and tarragon microgreen extracts can be used to formulate refrigerated plant-based beverages with acceptable colour, microbiological safety and antioxidant capacity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Research Advances in Green Extraction of Natural Products)
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27 pages, 6152 KB  
Article
Phytochemical Profiling and Multitargeted Biological Activities of Crinum asiaticum L. var. anomalum Baker Leaf: In Vitro and In Silico Insights
by Tue Minh Duong, Son Hoang Nguyen, Kiep Minh Do, Tran Thanh Men, Kenji Kanaori and Kaeko Kamei
Plants 2026, 15(13), 1957; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15131957 - 25 Jun 2026
Abstract
This study investigates the phytochemical and pharmacological profiles of Crinum asiaticum L. var. anomalum Baker from Vietnam. Phytochemical screening identified diverse secondary metabolites, including polyphenols, flavonoids, and alkaloids. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis of the n-hexane fractions revealed 19 major compounds. While all [...] Read more.
This study investigates the phytochemical and pharmacological profiles of Crinum asiaticum L. var. anomalum Baker from Vietnam. Phytochemical screening identified diverse secondary metabolites, including polyphenols, flavonoids, and alkaloids. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis of the n-hexane fractions revealed 19 major compounds. While all extracts showed moderate antioxidant activity, the chloroform fraction exhibited superior antidiabetic potential via α-amylase inhibition (IC50 = 83.13 ± 6.67 µg/mL). Furthermore, at non-cytotoxic concentrations (3.13 to 50 µg/mL), this fraction effectively rescued mouse β-TC6 insulinoma cells from thapsigargin. In anti-inflammatory assays, the n-hexane fraction significantly suppressed nitric oxide production in RAW 264.7 macrophages (IC50 = 53.12 ± 1.63 µg/mL). Notably, the extracts displayed remarkable selective anticancer activity, particularly the chloroform fraction against HeLa cervical and HepG2/Huh-7 hepatoma cell lines. In silico ADMET and Lipinski’s Rule of Five analyses confirmed that the key bioactive constituents possess favorable pharmacokinetic profiles and drug-likeness. These findings demonstrate C. asiaticum L. var. anomalum Baker as a promising natural source for developing multitarget therapeutic agents against inflammation, diabetes, and cancer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Phytochemistry)
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