Search Results (138)

Pectinases are a group of enzymes widely applied in agri-food processes. This study aimed to isolate and characterize pectinase-producing yeasts and yeast-like fungi from soil and humus samples collected in a Moroccan argan forest, a region characterized by arid to semi-arid climatic conditions, with emphasis on screening and evaluating their pectinolytic activity. Among nine isolated strains, four exhibited detectable pectinolytic activity on pectin agar medium. Two promising isolates were molecularly identified by ITS region sequencing as Coniochaeta pulveracea PX765016 and Coniochaeta ligniaria PX765017. Notably, C. pulveracea PX765016 showed the highest pectinolytic potential, with a pectinolytic degradation index of 4.2 on pectin agar. This strain also exhibited maximal pectinase production after 96 h of submerged fermentation in YEPD medium under optimized conditions of pH 4, 30–35 °C, and 0.5% (w/v) pectin. The crude enzyme obtained under these conditions exhibited a specific activity of 559.90 ± 11.62 U/mg. The enzyme was subsequently subjected to sequential purification comprising ammonium sulfate precipitation, dialysis, and gel filtration chromatography on a Sephadex G-100 column, yielding a 2.99-fold purification with a final recovery of 14%. The purified enzyme exhibited optimal activity at pH 6.0 and 40–55 °C, with a reaction time of 20 min. Kinetic analysis of pectin hydrolysis revealed a Michaelis–Menten constant (Km) of 7.33 mg pectin per mL and a maximum reaction velocity (Vmax) of 1666.7 U/mg. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of pectinase production by a member of the genus Coniochaeta, and the first characterization of pectinase activity from C. pulveracea. Full article

The incorporation of plant-derived oils into cosmetic formulations has attracted increasing interest due to their natural origin, skin compatibility, and multifunctional formulation roles. Argan and castor oils are widely used in cosmetic products as emollient lipid components with intrinsic antioxidant properties. However, limited studies have systematically evaluated the physicochemical stability and antioxidant performance of emulsions combining these two oils. The aim of this study was to develop and comprehensively characterize a stable oil-in-water (O/W) cosmetic emulsion based on argan and castor oils using a natural non-ionic emulsifier (C14–22 Alcohol (and) C12–20 Alkyl Glucoside). Particular emphasis was placed on formulation stability, as it represents a critical prerequisite for further product evaluation. Stability was investigated through thermal stress testing (4–37 °C), centrifugation assays, droplet size analysis, and zeta potential measurements. Complementary physicochemical and structural characterization was performed using rheological analysis and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The formulated emulsion exhibited good physical stability with no phase separation under the tested conditions, a skin-compatible pH, a uniform droplet size distribution (4.15 ± 0.68 µm), and pseudoplastic, moderately thixotropic rheological behavior. Antioxidant capacity was assessed using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay, yielding an IC₅₀ value of 19.21 ± 1.02 mg/mL. Overall, this study provides a formulation-oriented framework for the development and evaluation of stable natural oil-based O/W emulsions intended for cosmetic applications, supporting future optimization and biological validation. Full article

The development of shelf-stable functional foods remains a key challenge in probiotic product formulation, particularly for non-dairy alternatives adapted to traditional diets. Amlou, a Moroccan spread made from argan oil, almonds, and honey or sugar, may serve as a promising plant-based probiotic carrier. This study evaluated the viability of three LAB strains, Lactobacillus gasseri (commercial), Latilactobacillus sakei AE126, and Enterococcus durans Y17, in seven Amlou formulations containing varying argan oil (5–10%) and sugar (0–10%) concentrations. Samples were stored at ambient temperature (25 °C) for 45 days. Viability, pH, and water activity were monitored periodically. Probiotic survival significantly depended on formulation (ANOVA, p < 0.05). Viability losses remained below 1 log CFU/g across all samples. The best results were observed in formulations containing 10% argan oil and either 0% or 5% sugar, depending on the probiotic strain, suggesting a synergistic protective effect of lipids and moderate carbohydrate levels. These findings indicate that Amlou could serve as a shelf-stable, culturally relevant carrier for probiotic delivery. Full article

Background: Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound derived from Cannabis sativa, exhibits therapeutic potential for various conditions, including inflammation, pain, and skin disorders, making it a promising candidate for the topical treatment of psoriasis. However, its poor water solubility and instability limit its therapeutic efficacy. This study focuses on the development and characterization of CBD-loaded nanoemulsions using argan oil as the lipid phase, with and without a chitosan coating, which serves as a stabilizing and functional biopolymer. Methods: Nanoemulsions (NE) and chitosan-stabilized nanoemulsions (CS-NE), both without CBD (serving as controls), and CBD-loaded variants (CBD-NE and CBD-CS-NE) were prepared and characterized for their physicochemical properties, including pH, droplet size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential (ζ-potential), and viscosity at various shear rates and temperatures. Stability was assessed over time, and drug release behavior was investigated through in vitro diffusion and ex vivo skin permeation studies, followed by kinetic modeling. Safety was evaluated through in vitro cytotoxicity assays using HaCaT keratinocyte cells, as well as in vivo toxicity studies using Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). Results: The chitosan-coated formulations exhibited enhanced physical stability, nanoscale droplet size, a positive surface charge, and increased viscosity. Release studies demonstrated that CBD-CS-NE enabled controlled and sustained drug release, with a strong correlation to the Higuchi model, indicating diffusion-controlled permeation. Cytotoxicity assays indicated that CBD-CS-NE was non-toxic to cultured cells, while in vivo testing with C. elegans revealed sensitivity to chitosan-coated systems. Conclusions: These findings highlight the potential of CBD-loaded argan oil nanoemulsions, particularly those stabilized with chitosan, as potential topical delivery systems for managing psoriasis. Full article

Argania spinosa L. Skeels is an ecological pillar of the arid zones of South-West Morocco, currently threatened by the drastic climate change. This study investigates the effect of the combined application of compost (C) and subsurface water retention technology (SWRT) on field performances of one-(1Y) and two-year-old (2Y) argan seedlings. A randomized field trial was performed with four treatments: Control, C, SWRT, and C + SWRT. We evaluated soil properties, growth, and physiology, alongside biochemical parameters including stress markers, compatible solutes, antioxidant enzyme activities, and secondary metabolites. The results reveal the significant effect of C and/or SWRT on argan seedlings performances, particularly in 1Y subjects. The C + SWRT strongly stimulated stem elongation (246% vs. 163%), stomatal conductance (75% vs. 99%), photosynthetic efficiency (18% vs. 11%), and chlorophyll a content (80% vs. 65%) in 1Y and 2Y seedlings, respectively, compared to their corresponding controls. Under the same treatment, malondialdehyde levels were significantly reduced by 37% in 1Y seedlings and 23% in 2Y seedlings. In addition, catalase activity and soluble sugar, protein, and polyphenol content increased by 38, 43, 26, and 21%, respectively, in the younger seedlings and by 53, 51, 18, and 19%, respectively, in the elder seedlings. In terms of soil health, C + SWRT significantly enhanced total organic carbon and matter, available phosphorus, and reduced electrical conductivity. In summary, the C + SWRT application significantly improved argan plant performances, with a particularly marked effect on 1Y seedlings, which makes this combination an alternative solution to enhance the resilience of the argan tree in the era of climate change and promote the success of the reforestation program. Full article

The global demand for argan oil has grown considerably in recent years, creating economic opportunities while raising concerns about ecosystem degradation and the sustainability of production systems. To support long-term viability, several initiatives have promoted environmentally friendly practices and fair value-chain models. However, the effective market integration of these initiatives depends on understanding consumer behavior and preferences toward sustainable products. This study aims to identify the determinants influencing consumers’ purchase intention for sustainable argan oil using an extended framework of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). A structural equation modeling approach was applied to analyze responses from adult consumers with a minimum education level of secondary education. The results show that consumer attitude, perceived behavioral control, and willingness to pay have significant positive effects on purchase intention, while ecological literacy exerts an indirect influence through attitude, social norms, perceived behavioral control, and willingness to pay. In contrast, ecological literacy has no significant direct impact. These findings improve the understanding of behavioral mechanisms underlying green product consumption and offer insights into designing marketing strategies that align with sustainability values and promote responsible consumer choices. Full article

Background: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is highly prevalent in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D), and advanced fibrosis is the strongest predictor of liver-related morbidity and mortality. Therefore, early noninvasive risk stratification is critical. While the Fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index and vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE) are widely used, the newer FibroScan-AST (FAST) score has shown promise in detecting at-risk metabolic-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) with significant fibrosis. Evidence comparing the FAST and FIB-4 indices in Middle Eastern T2D populations remains limited. We compared the diagnostic performances of these models for advanced fibrosis in Saudi patients with T2D and MASLD. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 273 patients diagnosed with T2D and MASLD. All patients underwent VCTE. To identify advanced fibrosis, we used liver stiffness measurement (LSM) as a surrogate marker for liver biopsy. We calculated the FAST and FIB-4 indices for each patient. To assess the diagnostic performance of these scores, we evaluated their sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC). Results: In this cohort study, 26.4% of participants had a high-risk FAST score (>0.35; median: 0.13). Patients with high-risk FAST scores (>0.35) were younger, had higher BMIs, elevated liver enzyme levels, and poorer glycemic control than those in the lower-risk groups. High-risk FAST scores were strongly correlated with elevated LSM, FIB-4, and controlled attenuation parameter values (p < 0.001). The FAST score demonstrated better performance than the FIB-4 index in detecting advanced fibrosis. It showed higher accuracy (85.4% vs. 77.3%), sensitivity (82.0% vs. 48.0%), and negative predictive value (95.5% vs. 87.8%) while maintaining a similar specificity. The AUROC values were 0.936 (95% CI: 0.901–0.971) for the FAST score compared to 0.711 (95% CI: 0.625–0.797) for the FIB-4 index. Conclusions: The FAST score demonstrated better diagnostic accuracy than the FIB-4 index and identified patients with poor metabolic control and obesity as being at the highest risk among Saudi patients with T2D and MASLD. These findings support the integration of other elastography-based tests into stepwise fibrosis screening pathways for diabetic populations, potentially improving the early detection of advanced fibrosis and patient outcomes. Full article

Next-generation space observatories for high-energy gamma-ray astrophysics will increase scientific return using onboard machine learning (ML). This is now possible thanks to today’s low-power, radiation-tolerant processors and artificial intelligence accelerators. This paper provides an overview of current and future ML applications in gamma-ray space missions focused on high-energy transient phenomena. We discuss onboard ML use cases that will be implemented in the future, including real-time event detection and classification (e.g., gamma-ray bursts), and autonomous decision-making, such as rapid repointing to transient events or optimising instrument configuration based on the scientific target or environmental conditions. Full article

The physicochemical, thermal and textural properties of oleogels formed from olive pomace oil and argan oil using carnauba (KW), candelilla (CW) and sunflower (AW) waxes and their combinations (KCW: 50% carnauba + 50% candelilla wax, KAW: 50% carnauba + 50% sunflower wax, CAW: 50% candelilla + 50% sunflower wax) were investigated. The highest mean L* value, peroxide value and time of crystallization formation were found in AW oleogelator. Argan oil + AW had the lowest mean L* value. Sunflower wax differed from the other waxes in terms of major fatty acids, and oleogels containing argan oil and olive pomace oil exhibited a different major fatty acid profile from each other; in particular, there were higher values of oleic acid content in the groups where olive pomace oil was used. It was determined that KW and the oleogels containing KW had higher melting and crystallization temperatures and enthalpy values compared to other waxes. The hardness, adhesiveness, gumminess, cohesiveness and springiness values of the oleogels were affected by the oils and waxes used. The oleogels using sunflower wax were different in terms of texture profile from oleogels formed with carnauba and candelilla waxes. Full article

Cold pressing is a sustainable oil extraction method that operates without chemical solvents, requires relatively low energy input, and preserves bioactive compounds, making it a recognized green technology in line with circular economy principles. By enabling full utilization of raw materials and valorization of by-products, it supports resource efficiency, waste reduction, and the development of bio-based products. This study provides the first comprehensive mapping of Serbia’s small-scale cold-pressed oil producers, based on data from the Central Register of Food Business Operators, local inspectorates, agricultural fairs, and social media, classified according to NUTS 2024 statistical regions. A total of 55 producers were identified, with over 60% operating as artisanal units (≤15 t/year), typically using screw presses of 20–50 kg/h capacity. Pumpkin seed was the most common raw material (30 producers), followed by sesame (21), hazelnut (20), sunflower (19), and flaxseed (19), while niche oils such as jojoba, argan, and rosehip were produced on a smaller scale. Medium and large facilities (>15 t/year) were concentrated in Vojvodina and central Serbia, focusing on high-volume seeds like sunflower and soybean. Integration of green screw press technologies, zero-kilometer supply chains, and press cake valorization positions this sector as a driver of rural development, biodiversity preservation, and environmental sustainability, providing a strong basis for targeted policy support and process optimization. Full article

Inclusion complexes of argan oil with β-CD were prepared by two different methods—evaporation and coprecipitation—to improve the stability and usability of hydrophobic oils in aqueous hair-treatment formulations. The complexes were characterized using SEM, XRD, DSC, TGA, and DTG to confirm structural changes accompanying encapsulation. The encapsulation efficiencies (EE%) were 68.4% for the evaporation method and 51.2% for the coprecipitation method. A hair treatment formulation containing the β-CD complexes was then prepared and evaluated. The formulation exhibited antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and provided uniform coating behavior on hair fibers. Texture profile analysis showed hardness (456.424 g), fracturability (428.26 g), adhesiveness (−4021.403 g·s), springiness (0.974), and cohesiveness (0.868), indicating that the complexes contributed positively to mechanical performance. OM and SEM confirmed smoother surface morphology after treatment, and tensile measurements demonstrated improved structural durability of bleached hair. These results suggest that β-CD-based inclusion complexes of argan oil can serve as effective and stable functional ingredients for cosmetic applications. Full article

Oxidative stress plays a key role in tissue damage during inflammation, highlighting the need for effective antioxidant interventions. This study investigates the antioxidant potential of argan oil (AO)—obtained from Argania spinosa (L.) Skeels almonds—in comparison with olive oil (OO), cactus seed oil (CSO), and colza oil (CO). Quantitative analyses of total polyphenols and pigments—including chlorophylls, carotenoids, and xanthophylls—were conducted alongside antioxidant capacity assessments via DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays. The methanolic fraction consistently demonstrated the highest phenolic concentration and antioxidant efficacy across all oils. To establish in vivo relevance, a male C57BL/6J mouse model of acute oxidative stress was induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) administration. Pretreatment with oils significantly modulated key oxidative stress biomarkers—SOD, CAT, GPx activities, GSH levels, and lipid peroxidation (MDA)—in both heart and kidney. LPS challenge induced marked oxidative imbalance, notably increasing enzymatic activity and MDA levels, while depleting GSH in the heart and elevating it in the kidney. However, pretreatment with oils effectively restored redox homeostasis, with AO showing particularly potent effects and a stronger regulatory effect observed in the kidney. Hierarchical clustering of z-score-normalized heatmaps revealed distinct oxidative stress signatures, clearly separating LPS-treated heart and kidney tissues from other groups due to heightened oxidative markers. In contrast, oil-treated and oil-combined-with-LPS groups clustered closer to the control, underscoring the protective effect of oils against LPS-induced oxidative stress, with efficiency varying by oil type. Pearson correlation analysis, complemented by multivariate principal component analysis (PCA), further emphasized strong positive associations between antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPx) and MDA levels, while GSH exhibited tissue-specific behavior—negatively correlated in the heart but positively in the kidney—highlighting divergent redox regulation between organs. Collectively, AO demonstrated robust cardioprotective and nephroprotective properties, supporting its potential as a natural dietary strategy against inflammation-induced oxidative stress. Full article

Groundwater quality in arid and semi-arid regions of Morocco is under increasing pressure due to both anthropogenic influences and climatic variability. This study investigates the physicochemical and heavy metal characteristics of groundwater across four Moroccan regions (Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima, Oriental, Souss-Massa, and Marrakech-Safi) known for being argan tree habitats. Thirteen groundwater samples were analyzed for twenty-five parameters, including major ions, nutrients, and trace metals. Elevated levels of ammonium, turbidity, electrical conductivity, and dissolved oxygen were observed in multiple samples, surpassing Moroccan water quality standards and indicating significant quality deterioration. Inductively Coupled Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES) detected arsenic concentrations exceeding permissible limits in sample AW11 alongside widespread lead contamination in most samples except AW5 and AW9. Spatial patterns of contamination were characterized using Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA), K-means clustering, and GIS-based Inverse Distance Weighted (IDW) interpolation. These multivariate approaches revealed marked spatial heterogeneity and highlighted the dual influence of geogenic processes and anthropogenic activities on groundwater quality. To assess consumption suitability, a Water Quality Index (WQI) and Human Health Risk Assessment were applied. As a result, 31% of samples were rated “Fair” and 69% as “Good”, but with notable non-carcinogenic risks, particularly to children, attributable to nitrate, lead, and arsenic. The findings underscore the urgent need for systematic groundwater monitoring and management strategies to safeguard water resources in Morocco’s vulnerable dryland ecosystems, particularly in regions where groundwater sustains vital socio-ecological species such as argan forests. Full article

Obesity is a chronic, relapsing disease with multifactorial origins and significant global health implications. Historically, bariatric surgery has been the most effective intervention for achieving sustained weight loss and metabolic improvement, especially in individuals with moderate to severe obesity. However, the therapeutic landscape is rapidly evolving. Recent advances in pharmacotherapy—including GLP-1 receptor agonists, dual and triple incretin agonists, and amylin-based combination therapies—have demonstrated unprecedented efficacy, with some agents inducing 15–25% weight loss, approaching outcomes once exclusive to surgical intervention. These developments challenge the continued applicability of existing bariatric surgery criteria, which were established in an era of limited medical alternatives. In this narrative review, we examine the evolution of surgical eligibility thresholds and critically assess the potential role of novel pharmacotherapies in redefining treatment algorithms. By comparing the efficacy, safety, metabolic benefits, and cost-effectiveness of surgery versus next-generation drugs, we explore whether a more stepwise, pharmacotherapy-first approach may now be justified, particularly in patients with BMI 30–40 kg/m². We also discuss future directions in obesity management, including personalized treatment strategies, perioperative drug use, and the integration of pharmacologic agents into long-term care pathways. As the field advances, a paradigm shift toward individualized, minimally invasive interventions appears inevitable—necessitating a timely re-evaluation of current bariatric surgery guidelines to reflect the expanding potential of medical therapy. Full article

Skin aging is driven by cellular senescence, oxidative stress, and diminished regenerative capacity. In this study, we investigated the effects of PhytoCellTec™ Argan, an argan callus extract (PC), on primary human fibroblasts and adult stem cells. PC treatment (0.1% and 0.5%) significantly enhanced fibroblast proliferation, reduced senescence-associated β-galactosidase activity, and decreased the expression of p16, p21, and phosphorylated NFκB. PC treatment lowered intracellular ROS levels, increased ATP production, and promoted autophagy via LC3B-II accumulation and p62 reduction. In skin-derived precursor cells (SKPs), as well as mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), PC treatment improved spheroid formation and growth while preserving the expression of key stemness markers, including Sox2, Oct4, and Nestin. Furthermore, PC exhibited antioxidant capacity (TEAC assay) and inhibited elastase, supporting its anti-aging potential. These findings suggest that PC is safe at concentrations below 1% and may serve as an effective natural compound to restore cellular homeostasis, reduce senescence and inflammation, and support stem cell health during aging. Full article