Search Results (4,039)

With increasing interest in natural therapeutic strategies for skin aging, plant-derived compounds have gained attention for their potential to protect against oxidative stress and inflammation. In this study, we investigated the anti-aging and anti-inflammatory effects of flavonoids isolated from Cercidiphyllum japonicum using a tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)-stimulated normal human dermal fibroblast (NHDF) model. The aerial parts of C. japonicum were extracted and analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), leading to the identification of four major compounds: maltol, chlorogenic acid, ellagic acid, and quercitrin. Each compound was evaluated for its antioxidant and anti-aging activities in TNF-α-stimulated NHDFs. Among them, ellagic acid exhibited the most potent biological activity and was selected for further mechanistic analysis. Ellagic acid significantly suppressed intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) secretion (both p < 0.001), while markedly increasing type I procollagen production (p < 0.01). Mechanistic studies demonstrated that ellagic acid inhibited TNF-α-induced phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), downregulated cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and upregulated heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), a key antioxidant enzyme. Additionally, ellagic acid attenuated the mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-8 (IL-8), indicating its broad modulatory effects on oxidative and inflammatory pathways. Collectively, these findings suggest that ellagic acid is a promising plant-derived bioactive compound with strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, offering potential as a therapeutic agent for the prevention and treatment of skin aging. Full article

Background: The relationship between sports participation and food preferences in adults, as well as the influence of gender, is still unclear. Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the association between sports participation and individual food preferences and to explore potential gender differences among sports participants in a large group of Italian adults. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 2665 adults (aged ≥ 18 years) who lead normal lives and underwent a routine lifestyle and dietary assessment at a clinical centre specialising in nutrition, metabolic health, and lifestyle counselling in Rome. Participants completed an online questionnaire on food preferences (19 foods) and sports practice. Multivariate logistic regression models, adjusted for age, sex, and smoking, were used to assess associations. Results: Sports participation was defined as engaging in structured physical activity at least once per week and was reported by 53.5% of subjects (men: 60.1%; women: 49.0%; p < 0.0001). After adjustment, active individuals were significantly more likely to prefer plant-based drinks, low-fat yoghurt, fish, cooked and raw vegetables, fruit, whole grains, tofu, and dark chocolate (all p < 0.05) and less likely to prefer cow’s milk (p = 0.018). Among sport participants, males were more likely to prefer meat (general, white, red, processed) and eggs, while females preferred plant-based drinks. No significant gender differences were observed for dairy products, legumes, or fish. Differences in food preferences were also observed according to the type of sport, with bodybuilders showing higher preference for tofu and dark chocolate. The strongest associations were found in the 25–44 age group. Conclusions: Sports participation is independently associated with specific food preferences, characterised by greater preference for plant-based and fibre-rich foods, and gender differences in food choices persist even among active adults. These findings highlight the need to consider both sports participation and gender when designing nutritional interventions. Full article

This study evaluates the effectiveness of various rejuvenating oils, including soybean oil (N-oil), waste frying oil (F-oil), byproduct oil (W-oil), and aromatic hydrocarbon oil (A-oil), in restoring aged asphalt coatings by reducing asphaltene flocculation and improving colloidal stability. The rejuvenators were incorporated into aged asphalt binder via direct mixing at controlled dosages. Their effects were assessed using microscopy, droplet diffusion analysis, rheological testing (DSR and BBR), and molecular dynamics simulations. The aim is to compare the compatibility, solubility behavior, and rejuvenation potential of plant-based and mineral-based oils. The results indicate that N-oil and F-oil promote asphaltene aggregation, which supports structural rebuilding. In contrast, A-oil and W-oil act as solvents that disperse asphaltenes. Among the tested oils, N-oil exhibited the best overall performance in enhancing flowability, low-temperature flexibility, and chemical compatibility. This study presents a novel method to evaluate rejuvenator effectiveness by quantifying colloidal stability through grayscale analysis of droplet diffusion patterns. This integrated approach offers both mechanistic insights and practical guidance for selecting bio-based rejuvenators in asphalt recycling. Full article

The growing demand for natural and sustainable skincare products has driven interest in plant-based active ingredients, especially from in vitro cultures. This placebo-controlled study investigated the impact of a facial cream containing 2% Kickxia elatine (L.) Dumort cell suspension culture extract on various skin biophysical parameters. The cream was applied to the cheek once daily for six weeks on 40 healthy female volunteers between the ages of 40 to 49. The evaluated skin parameters including skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), erythema intensity (EI), melanin intensity (MI), skin surface pH, and skin structure, wrinkle depth, vascular lesions, and vascular discolouration. The results indicated that significant improvements were observed in skin hydration (from 40.36 to 63.00 AU, p < 0.001) and there was a decrease in TEWL score (14.82 to 11.76 g/h/m², p < 0.001), while the skin surface pH was maintained (14.82 to 11.76 g/h/m², p < 0.001). Moreover, the K. elatine cell extract significantly improved skin structure values (9.23 to 8.50, p = 0.028), reduced vascular lesions (2.72 to 1.54 mm², p = 0.011), and lowered skin discolouration (20.98% to 14.84%, p < 0.001), indicating its moisturising, protective, brightening, and soothing properties. These findings support the potential use of K. elatine cell extract in dermocosmetic formulations targeting dry, sensitive, or ageing skin. Full article

Among the new strategies for managing diseases in agricultural crops is the application of metallic nanoparticles due to their ability to inhibit the development of phytopathogenic microorganisms and to induce plant defense responses. Therefore, this research evaluated the effects of silver (AgNPs), zinc oxide (ZnONPs), and silicon dioxide (SiO₂NPs) nanoparticles on symptom progression and physiological parameters in two pathosystems: Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (Psto) in tomato (pathosystem one, culturable pathogen) and Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum (CaLso) in pepper plants (pathosystem two, non-culturable pathogen). For in vitro pathosystem one assays, SiO₂NPs did not inhibit Psto growth. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was 31.67 ppm for AgNPs and 194.3 ppm for ZnONPs. Furthermore, the minimum lethal concentration (MLC) for AgNPs was 100 ppm, while for ZnONPs, it was 1000 ppm. For in planta assays, ZnONPs, AgNPs, and SiO₂NPs reduced the number of lesions per leaf, but only ZnONPs significantly decreased the severity. Regarding pathosystem two, AgNPs, ZnONPs, and SiO₂NPs application delayed symptom progression. However, only AgNPs significantly reduced severity percentage. Moreover, treatments with AgNPs and SiO₂NPs increased the plant height and dry weight compared to the results for the control. Full article

Numerous studies have demonstrated that in residential areas of Western cities, both luxury and legacy effects significantly shape tree species diversity dynamics. However, the specific mechanisms driving these diversity patterns in China, where urbanization has progressed at an unprecedented pace, remain poorly understood. In this study we selected 20 residential settlements and 7 key socio-economic properties to investigate the change trend of tree diversity (2006–2021) and its socio-economic driving factors in Beijing. Our results demonstrate significant increases in total, native, and exotic tree species richness between 2006 and 2021 (p < 0.05), with average increases of 36%, 26%, and 55%, respectively. Total and exotic tree Shannon-Wiener indices, as well as exotic tree Simpson’s index, were also significantly higher in 2021 (p < 0.05). Housing prices was the dominant driver shaping total and exotic tree diversity, showing significant positive correlations with both metrics. In contrast, native tree diversity exhibited a strong positive association with neighborhood age. Our findings highlight two dominant mechanisms: legacy effect, where older neighborhoods preserve native diversity through historical planting practices, and luxury effect, where affluent communities drive exotic species proliferation through ornamental landscaping initiatives. These findings elucidate the dual dynamics of legacy conservation and luxury-driven cultivation in urban forest development, revealing how historical contingencies and contemporary socioeconomic forces jointly shape tree diversity patterns in urban ecosystems. Full article

We utilized silver nanoparticles synthesized from bitter melon (Momordica charantia) extracts for testing against the common agricultural pathogen Escherichia coli. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized and confirmed as silver nanoparticles by using ultraviolet spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy analysis. The results show that AgNPs were effective against E. coli ATCC25922 strain. The AgNPs had an increased potency against the E. coli strain in optimum culture media compared to silver ions alone. AgNP-treated cultures achieved a kill percentage of 100% in less incubation time and at a lower dosage than those treated with silver ions alone. The powder form of the AgNPs also showed remarkable potency against E. coli in solution. Based on these findings, the current method is suitable for the industrial-scale production of AgNPs from a commonly available edible plant with known medicinal benefits in the fight against foodborne pathogens, including antibiotic-resistant strains. Full article

Sarcopenia, characterized by progressive skeletal muscle loss and functional decline, represents a major public heath challenge in aging populations. Despite increasing awareness, current management strategies—primarily resistance exercise and nutritional support—remain limited by accessibility, adherence, and inconsistent outcomes. This underscores the urgent need for novel, effective, and scalable therapeutics. Flavonoids, a diverse class of plant-derived polyphenolic compounds, have attracted attention for their muti-targeted biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, metabolic, and myogenic effects. This review aims to evaluate the anti-sarcopenic potential of selected flavonoids—quercetin, rutin, kaempferol glycosides, baicalin, genkwanin, isoschaftoside, naringin, eriocitrin, and puerarin—based on recent preclinical findings and mechanistic insights. These compounds modulate key pathways involved in muscle homeostasis, such as NF-κB and Nrf2 signaling, AMPK and PI3K/Akt activation, mitochondrial biogenesis, proteosomal degradation, and satellite cell function. Importantly, since muscle wasting also features prominently in cancer cachexia—a distinct but overlapping syndrome—understanding flavonoid action may offer broader therapeutic relevance. By targeting shared molecular axes, flavonoids may provide a promising, biologically grounded approach to mitigating sarcopenia and the related muscle-wasting conditions. Further translational studies and clinical trials are warranted to assess their efficacy and safety in human populations. Full article

Urochloa brizantha (Brizantha) is cultivated under varying altitudinal and management conditions. Twelve full-sun (monoculture) plots and twelve shaded (silvopastoral) plots were established, proportionally distributed at 170, 503, 661, and 1110 masl. Evaluations were conducted 15, 30, 45, 60, and 75 days after establishment. The conservation and integration of trees in silvopastoral systems reflected a clear anthropogenic influence, evidenced by the preference for species of the Fabaceae family, likely due to their multipurpose nature. Although the altitudinal gradient did not show direct effects on soil properties, intermediate altitudes revealed a significant role of CaCO₃ in enhancing soil fertility. These edaphic conditions at mid-altitudes favored the leaf area development of Brizantha, particularly during the early growth stages, as indicated by significantly larger values (p < 0.05). However, at the harvest stage, no significant differences were observed in physiological or productive traits, nor in foliar chemical components, underscoring the species’ high hardiness and broad adaptation to both soil and altitude conditions. In Brizantha, a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in stomatal size and density was observed under shade in silvopastoral areas, where solar radiation and air temperature decreased, while relative humidity increased. Nonetheless, these microclimatic variations did not lead to significant changes in foliar chemistry, growth variables, or biomass production, suggesting a high degree of adaptive plasticity to microclimatic fluctuations. Foliar ash content exhibited an increasing trend with altitude, indicating greater efficiency of Brizantha in absorbing calcium, phosphorus, and potassium at higher altitudes, possibly linked to more favorable edaphoclimatic conditions for nutrient uptake. Finally, forage quality declined with plant age, as evidenced by reductions in protein, ash, and In Vitro Dry Matter Digestibility (IVDMD), alongside increases in fiber, Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF), and Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF). These findings support the recommendation of cutting intervals between 30 and 45 days, during which Brizantha displays a more favorable nutritional profile, higher digestibility, and consequently, greater value for animal feeding. Full article

Wild edible fruit plants are integral to the cultural, nutritional, medicinal, and economic practices of Indigenous Isan communities in Roi Et Province, northeastern Thailand, a region characterized by plateau and lowland topography and a tropical monsoon climate. This study aimed to document the diversity, traditional uses, phenology, and conservation status of these species to inform sustainable management and conservation efforts. Field surveys and ethnobotanical interviews with 200 informants (100 men, 100 women; random ages) were conducted across 20 local communities to identify species diversity and usage patterns, while phenological observations and conservation assessments were performed to understand reproductive cycles and species vulnerability between January and December 2023. A total of 68 species from 32 families were recorded, with peak flowering in March–April and fruiting in May–June. Analyses of Species Use Value (0.19–0.48) and Relative Frequency of Citation (0.15–0.44) identified key species with significant roles in food security and traditional medicine. Uvaria rufa had the highest SUV (0.48) and RFC (0.44). Informant consensus on medicinal applications was strong for ailments such as gastrointestinal and lymphatic disorders. Economically important species were also identified, with some contributing notable income through local trade. Conservation proposed one species as Critically Endangered and several others as Vulnerable. The results highlight the need for integrated conservation strategies, including community-based initiatives and recognition of Other Effective area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs), to ensure the preservation of biodiversity, traditional knowledge, and local livelihoods. Full article

Objectives: This study assessed the effectiveness of a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)-based fine dust education program, grounded in the Health Belief Model (HBM), on elementary students’ fine dust knowledge, related behaviors, and mental health (depression, anxiety, stress, sleep quality). Methods: From September to November 2024, 95 students (grades 4–6) living near a coal-fired power plant in midwestern South Korea were assigned to either an intervention group (n = 44) or a control group (n = 51). The intervention group completed a three-session CBT-based education program; the control group received stress management education. Assessments were conducted at weeks 1, 2, 4, and 8 using standardized mental health and behavior scales (PHQ: Patient Health Questionnaire, GAD: Generalized Anxiety Disorder Assessment, PSS: Perceived Stress Scale, ISI: Insomnia Severity Index). Results: A chi-square test was conducted to compare pre- and post-test changes in knowledge and behavior related to PM2.5. The intervention group showed significant improvements in seven fine dust-related knowledge and behavior items (e.g., PM2.5 awareness rose from 33.3% to 75.0%; p < 0.05). The control group showed limited gains. Regarding mental health, based on a mixed-design ANCOVA, anxiety scores significantly declined over time in the intervention group, with group and interaction effects also significant (p < 0.05). Depression scores showed time effects, but group and interaction effects were not significant. No significant changes were observed for stress, sleep, or group × PM2.5 interactions. Conclusions: The CBT-based education program effectively enhanced fine dust knowledge, health behaviors, and reduced anxiety among students. It presents a promising, evidence-based strategy to promote environmental and mental health in school-aged children. Full article

A simple and rapid precipitation process was successfully employed to prepare silver phosphate (SP, Ag₃PO₄). Two different phosphate sources: diammonium hydrogen phosphate ((NH₄)₂HPO₄) and dipotassium hydrogen phosphate (K₂HPO₄) were applied separately as the precursor, obtaining ((NH₄)₂HPO₄)⁻ and K₂HPO₄⁻ derived SP powders, named SP-A or SP-P, respectively. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra pointed out the vibrational characteristics of P–O and O–P–O interactions, confirming the presence of the PO43– functional group for SP. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns revealed that the SP crystallized in a cubic crystal structure. Whereas the field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) exposed spherical SP particles. The potentially antibacterial activity of SP-A and SP-P against bacterial Bacillus stratosphericus, yeast Meyerozyma guilliermondii, and fungal Phanerodontia chrysosporium was subsequently investigated. All studied microorganisms were recovered and isolated from the aquatic plant during the tissue culture process. The preliminary result of the antimicrobial test revealed that SP-A has higher antimicrobial activity than SP-P. The superior antimicrobial efficiency of SP-A compared to SP-P may be attributed to its purity and crystallite size, which provide a higher surface area and more active sites. In addition, the presence of potassium-related impurities in SP-P could have negatively affected its antimicrobial performance. These findings suggest that SP holds potential as an antimicrobial agent for maintaining sterility in tissue cultures, particularly in aquatic plant systems. The growth of both B. stratosphericus and M. guilliermondii was suppressed effectively at 30 ppm SP-A, whereas 10 ppm of SP-A can suppress P. chrysosporium development. This present work also highlights the potential of SP at very low concentrations (10–30 ppm) for utilization as an effective antimicrobial agent in tissue culture, compared to a commercial antimicrobial agent, viz., acetic acid, at the same concentration. Full article

This study involved the fabrication of poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanocomposite films using the solution-casting process, which incorporated strontium-coated silver oxide (Sr-Ag₂O) nanoparticles generated by a plant-extract assisted method. Various characterization techniques, such as XRD, SEM, TEM, UV, and FTIR, showed the formation and uniform distribution of Sr-Ag₂O nanoparticles in the PVA film, which are biocompatible nanocomposite films. The presence of hydroxyl groups leads to appreciable mixing and interaction between the Sr-Ag₂O nanoparticles and the PVA polymer. Mechanical and thermal results suggest enhanced tensile strength and increased thermal stability. In addition, the sample of PVA/Sr-Ag₂O (1.94/0.06 wt. ratio) nanocomposite film showed decreased hydrophilicity, lower hemolysis, non-toxicity, and appreciable cell migration activity, with nearly 19.95% cell migration compared to the standard drug, and the presence of Sr-Ag₂O nanoparticles favored the adhesion and spreading of cells, which triggered the reduction in the gaps. These research findings suggest that PVA/Sr-Ag₂O nanocomposite films with good mechanical, antimicrobial, non-toxic, and biocompatible properties could be applied in biological wound-healing applications. Full article

Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) is renowned for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antihyperglycemic properties, largely attributed to its rich phytochemical profile. This study evaluates the potential of metabolites from Pseudomonas shirazensis NFV3, formulated in silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), to enhance the bioactivity of rosemary extracts in postharvest applications. Rosemary stems were treated with AgNPs coated with bacterial metabolites (NP), bacterial cells, or metabolites (LM), and the extracts’ phytochemical composition and bioactivities were assessed. HPLC and HPLC–MS analyses revealed that the NP treatment induced significant metabolic remodeling, particularly upregulating rosmarinic acid and selected triterpenes (ursolic and betulinic acids), while reducing carnosic acid levels. NP-treated extracts exhibited significantly enhanced inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2), indicating improved anti-inflammatory potential. The α-glucosidase inhibition and antioxidant activity (DPPH assay) of the extracts were not substantially altered, suggesting the selective enhancement of pharmacological functions. These findings demonstrate that nanoparticle-based elicitation selectively remodels secondary metabolism in rosemary, improving extract quality and bioactivity. This strategy offers a novel, sustainable tool for optimizing plant-based therapeutics in the phytopharmaceutical industry. Full article

Skin aging is a natural biological process that can be accelerated by free radical induction, leading to a reduction in skin elasticity and the formation of wrinkles due to the depletion of elastin. Eugenia uniflora (dewandaru) is a promising plant believed to possess anti-aging properties, primarily attributed to its major constituents, myricitrin and quercetin. This study aimed to investigate the anti-elastase and antioxidant properties of Eugenia uniflora stem bark, ripe fruit, and seed extracts. Extracts were obtained using an ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) method with 70% ethanol. Quantitative phytochemical analysis involved measuring the total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant activity. Bioactive constituents were identified using LC-MS analysis, and their interactions with target enzymes were further evaluated through in silico molecular docking. The results demonstrated that the E. uniflora seed extract exhibited the highest antioxidant activity, with an IC₅₀ of 5.23 µg/mL (DPPH assay) and a FRAP value of 3233.32 µmol FeSO₄/g. Furthermore, the ethanolic seed extract showed significant anti-elastase activity with an IC₅₀ of 114.14 µg/mL. Molecular docking predicted strong potential for several compounds as pancreatic elastase inhibitors, including 5-phenylvaleric acid, 2-(3-phenylpropyl)phenol, n-amylbenzene, 2-aminoadipic acid, and traumatin, each showing a prediction activity (PA) value exceeding 0.6. Notably, these compounds also exhibited inhibitory activity against tyrosinase. These findings collectively underscore the significant promise of E. uniflora seed extract as a novel and natural candidate for pharmacocosmeceutical product development, particularly for anti-aging applications. Full article