Search Results (8,355)

In this study, a pH-responsive molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) drug carrier was developed utilizing boric acid-functionalized mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) as the substrate. The carrier was engineered for controlled drug release, with capecitabine (CAPE) being selected as the template molecule due to its structural characteristics and clinical relevance. In vitro drug release studies demonstrated the pH-responsive release behaviors of the fabricated carrier, highlighting its promising applicability in the controlled release of pharmaceutical compounds containing cis-diols, particularly for site-specific therapy where pH variations serve as physiological triggers. Full article

To our knowledge, no magnetic B2 phase in the Al–Mn system of near-equiatomic compositions has been reported so far. Here, we investigate the structural and magnetic characteristics of Al₄₅Mn_41.8X_13.2 (X = Fe, Co or Ni) alloys. We demonstrate that adding 13.2 atomic percent magnetic 3d metal to AlMn stabilizes a ferromagnetic B2 structure, where Al and X occupy different sublattices. We employ density functional theory calculations and experimental characterizations to underscore the role of the late 3d metals for the phase stability of the quasi-ordered ternary systems. We show that these alloys possess large local magnetic moments primarily due to Mn atoms partitioned to the Al-free sublattice. The revealed magneto-chemical effect opens alternative routes for tailoring the magnetic properties of B2 intermetallic compounds for various magnetic applications. Full article

The large number of underutilized tree residues in Japan is a matter of concern, and their appropriate application needs to be promoted. Trees are very diverse, and there are differences in the volatile essential oil compounds and biological activities among different tree species. However, the effects of these tree species’ characteristics on human sensitivity and mental and physical functionality remain underexplored. This study investigated the effects of essential oils from multiple tree species on subjective and physiological responses. The essential oils from nine tree species were tested, subjective scent assessments were conducted, and their effect on autonomic nervous activity was measured. The volatile profiles of the oils were analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Our findings revealed clear differences in the composition of volatile essential oils among species, which influenced the scent evaluation and individual preferences. We suggest that scent preferences have the potential to influence physiological responses. The findings indicate that volatile essential oils could play a potential role in making use of tree resources effectively, and they may also be beneficial for maintaining human health. Full article

In this study, the effects of water bath and ultrasonic bath systems on bioactive properties, phenolic components and fatty acid profiles of unroasted and roasted pumpkin seeds were investigated. It is thought that determining the bioactive components, phenolic constituents and fatty acid profiles of unroasted and roasted pumpkin seeds will lead to the establishment of usage norms according to their composition characteristics. Total phenolic quantities of the pumpkin seed extracts obtained by water bath extraction of the seeds were defined to be between 7.58 (control) and 11.55 (25 min) and 10.20 (control) and 17.18 mg GAE/100 g (50 min), respectively. Phenolic content increased by 50% after 50 min of ultrasonic extraction, indicating the efficiency of this method. Also, total flavonoid amounts increased about 55% after 25 min of ultrasonic extraction, indicating the efficiency of this method. It was observed that the catechin contents of unroasted pumpkin seeds obtained in water and ultrasonic baths decreased significantly at the 50th minute of extraction compared to the control. The antioxidant activity values (DPPH) of roasted pumpkin seeds treated in water- and ultrasonic bath systems increased by approximately 10% compared to the control at 50 min of sonication in both systems, respectively. Also, the 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid amounts of the extracts obtained by both extraction systems of roasted pumpkin seeds were determined between 9.85 (50 min) and 17.22 mg/100 g (control) and 11.17 (25 min) and 13.74 mg/100 g (50 min), respectively. The linoleic acid amounts of unroasted pumpkin seed oils extracted in water- and ultrasonic baths varied between 52.34 (50 min) and 53.33% (control) to 52.90 (50 min) and 53.04% (control), respectively. The linoleic acid values of the roasted pumpkin seed oils were established to be between 52.30 (50 min) and 52.84 (25 min) and 52.32 (50 min) and 53.46% (25 min), respectively. In general, the phenolic compound amounts of roasted pumpkin seeds were higher than those of unroasted ones. The fatty acid amounts of pumpkin seed oils extracted with an ultrasonic bath were generally slightly higher than those extracted with a water bath. In future studies, changes in the phytochemical and bioactive properties of pumpkin seed oils obtained by applying different roasting techniques and extraction methods will be investigated. Full article

Analysis of changes in TVOC and VOCs chemical composition or odor characteristics of particleboard before and after decoration treatment with resin-impregnated paper (RIP), polypropylene (PP) film and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) film were studied. The effects of these three decoration treatments on masking or suppressing the release of VOCs and odorants from particleboard were explored. The substances that were covered or suppressed and newly introduced before and after processing were identified to provide a basis for reducing the odor emissions of PVC-, PP- and RIP-decorated particleboard. Taking undecorated particleboard and particleboard treated by three types of decorative materials as research subjects, the air permeability of the three decorative materials was tested using the Gurley Permeability Tester. TVOC emissions from the boards were evaluated using the 1 m³ environmental chamber method. Qualitative and quantitative analyses of the samples were conducted via thermal desorption–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (TD-GCMS). The contribution of odor substances was determined using odor activity value (OAV). The results indicated that the permeability from high to low was PVC film, PP film and RIP. Compared with undecorated particleboard, the TVOC emissions of PVC-decorated boards decreased by 93%, PP-decorated particleboard by 83% but the TVOC emissions of RIP-decorated particleboard increased by 67%. PP decoration treatment masked or suppressed the release of 20 odor substances but introduced xylene, which can increase potentially the health risks for PP-decorated particleboard. PVC decoration treatment masked or suppressed 19 odor substances, but it introduced 12 new compounds, resulting in an overall increase in TVOC emissions. RIP treatment did not introduce new odor substances. After PP film and RIP treatments, both the variety of VOCs released and the number of key odor-contributing compounds and modifying odorants decreased. In contrast, the number of modifying odorants and potential odorants increased after PVC treatment. VOC emissions were effectively masked or suppressed by three decoration treatments, same as the release of substances contributing to overall odor of particleboard was reduced. Among them, PP and RIP decorative materials demonstrate better effects. Full article

Goji berries (Lycium barbarum L.) are considered a functional food due to their high content of bioactive compounds with demonstrated health benefits. This study evaluated four cultivars (G3, G4, G5, and G7) grown under Mediterranean climate conditions, focusing on their physicochemical properties (total soluble solids, titratable acidity, and pH), bioactive compound (sugars and organic acids, total and individual phenolic and carotenoid compounds, and antioxidant activities (DPPH and CUPRAC assay)), and aromatic profiles (by GC-MS) to assess their suitability for fresh consumption or incorporation into food products. G4 exhibited the most favorable physicochemical characteristics, with the highest total soluble solids (20.2 °Brix) and sugar content (92.8 g 100 g⁻¹ dw). G5 stood out for its lower titratable acidity (0.34%) and highest ripening index (54.8), indicating desirable flavor attributes. Concerning bioactive compounds, G3 and G4 showed the highest total phenolic content (17.9 and 19.1 mg GAE g⁻¹ dw, respectively), with neochlorogenic acid being predominant. G4 was notable for its high carotenoid content, particularly zeaxanthin (1722.6 μg g⁻¹ dw). These compounds significantly contributed to antioxidant activity. Volatile organic compound (VOC) profiles revealed alcohols and aldehydes as the dominant chemical families, with hexanal being the most abundant. G5 and G7 exhibited the highest total VOC concentrations. Principal component analysis grouped G3 and G4 based on their high sugar and phenolic content, while G5 and G7 were characterized by their complex aromatic profiles. Therefore, G3 and G4 are promising candidates for fresh consumption and potential functional applications, while G5 and G7 are particularly suitable for new product development due to their nutraceutical and aromatic value. Full article

The secondary metabolites of the fungus Penicillium thymicola, fumiquinazolines F and G, have antibacterial and antifungal characteristics; however, their potential anti-tumor action against human cancer cells remains unknown. The goal of our study was to determine the biological efficacy of fumiquinazolines F and G on breast and prostate cancer cells. Cancer cell proliferation and migration were monitored in real time using xCELLigence technology and flow cytometry. Alterations in mRNA and protein expression were assessed by RT-qPCR, ELISA, and Western blotting. Our data indicate that fumiquinazolines F and G are more effective in inhibiting breast cancer cell proliferation than prostate cancer cells. Fumiquinazoline F is active against both hormone-dependent epithelial MCF-7 (IC₅₀ 48 μM) and hormone-resistant triple-negative mesenchymal MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells (IC₅₀ 54.1 μM). The metabolite has low cytotoxicity but slows cell cycle progression. In fumiquinazoline F-treated MDA-MB-231 cells, the levels of proteins implicated in epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) (such as E-cadherin, vimentin, and CD44) fluctuate, resulting in a decrease in cell migratory rate and adhesion to a hyaluronic acid-coated substrate. Thus, fumiquinazolines F and G exhibit anticancer activity by inhibiting EMT, cell proliferation, and migration, hence reverting malignant cells to a less pathogenic phenotype. The compound’s multi-target anticancer profile underscores its potential for further exploration of novel EMT-regulating pathways. Full article

The geochemistry of the fatty acids in the modern sediments in the Northern South Yellow Sea is still poorly studied, and studies on the geochemistry of the fatty acids in relatively long-core sediment samples are lacking. Thus, the fatty acids in the core sediments in the Northern South Yellow Sea were separated and identified to study their components and distribution characteristics, and the sources of organic matter and the early diagenetic evolution of the fatty acids in the sediments were discussed. The results show that saturated straight-chain fatty acids (methyl ester) have the highest content in the core sediments in the Northern South Yellow Sea, which account for 83.89% of the total fatty acids (methyl ester). nC_16:0 is dominant, accounting for 30.48% of the n-saturated fatty acids (methyl ester). Unsaturated fatty acids (methyl ester) account for 7.59% of the total fatty acids (methyl ester). Binary unsaturated fatty acids (methyl ester) can only be detected in some samples, which are low in content and dominated by C_18:2. Based on the components and distribution of the fatty acids (methyl ester) in the core sediments in the Northern South Yellow Sea, combined with the characteristics of other lipid biomarker compounds, the actual geological background, and previous research results, it is considered that the sources of organic matter in the core sediments are marine–terrestrial mixed materials, with terrestrial materials dominating. The fatty acids’ (methyl ester) CPI, the relative content of short-chain saturated fatty acids (methyl ester), and the unsaturated fatty acids (methyl ester) in the core sediments show non-obvious variation as the burial depth increases, reflecting that the fatty acids in the core sediments are strongly degraded at the early diagenetic stage, and this degradation is controlled by various complicated factors. Full article

Direct copper-plated ceramic (DPC) substrates have emerged as a favored solution for power device packaging due to their unique technical advantages. AuSn, characterized by its high hermeticity and environmental adaptability, represents the optimal sealing technology for DPC substrates. Through the application of vacuum sintering techniques and adjustment of peak temperatures (325 °C, 340 °C, and 355 °C), the morphology and composition of interfacial compounds were systematically investigated, along with an analysis of their formation mechanisms. A gradient aging experiment was designed (125 °C/150 °C/175 °C × oxygen/argon dual atmosphere × 600 h) to elucidate the synergistic effects of environmental temperature and atmosphere on the growth of intermetallic compounds (IMCs). The results indicate that the primary reaction in the sealing weld seam involves Ni interacting with Au-Sn to form (Ni, Au)₃Sn₂ and Au₅Sn. However, upon completion of the sealing process, this reaction remains incomplete, leading to a coexistence state of (Ni, Au)₃Sn₂, Au₅Sn, and AuSn. Additionally, Ni diffuses into the weld seam center via dendritic fracture and locally forms secondary phases such as δ(Ni) and ζ’(Ni). These findings suggest that the weld seam interface exhibits a complex, irregular, and asymmetric microstructure comprising multiple coexisting compounds. It was determined that Tpeak = 325 °C to 340 °C represents the ideal welding temperature range, where the weld seam morphology, width, and Ni diffusion degree achieve optimal states, ensuring excellent device hermeticity. Aging studies further demonstrate that IMC growth remains within controllable limits. These findings address critical gaps in the understanding of the microstructural evolution and interface characteristics of asymmetric welded joints formed by multi-material systems. Full article

Metro carriages, as enclosed transport microenvironments, have been understudied regarding pollution characteristics and health risks from ACs, especially during high-temperature summers that amplify exposure. This study applied NTS techniques for the first time across three major Chengdu metro lines, systematically identifying sixteen ACs, including hazardous species such as acetophenone, benzonitrile, and benzoic acid that are often overlooked in conventional BTEX-focused monitoring. The TAC concentration reached 41.40 ± 5.20 µg/m³, with half of the compounds exhibiting significant increases during peak commuting periods. Source apportionment using diagnostic ratios and PMF identified five major contributors: carriage material emissions (36.62%), human sources (22.50%), traffic exhaust infiltration (16.67%), organic solvents (16.55%), and industrial emissions (7.66%). Although both non-cancer (HI) and cancer (TCR) risks for all population groups were below international thresholds, summer tourists experienced higher exposure than daily commuters. Notably, child tourists showed the greatest vulnerability, with a TCR of 5.83 × 10⁻⁷, far exceeding that of commuting children (1.88 × 10⁻⁷). Benzene was the dominant contributor, accounting for over 50% of HI and 70% of TCR. This study presents the first integrated NTS and quantitative risk assessment to characterise ACs in summer metro environments, revealing a broader range of hazardous compounds beyond BTEX. It quantifies population-specific risks, highlights children’s heightened vulnerability. The findings fill critical gaps in ACs exposure and provide a scientific basis for improved air quality management and pollution mitigation strategies in urban rail transit systems. Full article

Aging in wooden barrels is a proven technique that enhances the sensory complexity of alcoholic beverages by promoting the extraction of volatile and phenolic compounds. While oak has been traditionally used, there is a growing interest in exploring alternative wood species that can impart distinct sensory characteristics and promote innovative maturation processes. This review examines the impact of alternative woods on the aging of beverages, such as wine, cachaça, tequila, and beer, focusing on their influence on aroma, flavor, color, and chemical composition. A bibliometric analysis highlights the increasing scientific attention toward wood diversification and emerging aging technologies, including ultrasound and micro-oxygenation, which accelerate maturation while preserving sensory complexity. The role of toasting techniques in modulating the release of phenolic and volatile compounds is also discussed, emphasizing their contribution to unique sensory profiles. Additionally, regulatory aspects and sustainability considerations are explored, suggesting that alternative woods can expand flavor possibilities while supporting environmentally sustainable practices. This review underscores the potential of non-traditional wood species to drive innovation in the aging of alcoholic beverages and provide new sensory experiences that align with evolving consumer preferences and market trends. Full article

Wild edible mushrooms are increasingly recognised for their nutritional and therapeutic potential, owing to their richness in bioactive compounds and antioxidant properties. This study assessed the chemical composition, antioxidant capacity, and bioaccumulation of heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Ni) in Boletus edulis, Imleria badia, and Leccinum scabrum collected from two forested regions of north-western Poland differing in anthropogenic influence and soil characteristics. The analysis encompassed structural polysaccharides (β- and α-glucans, chitin), carotenoids, L-ascorbic acid, phenolic and organic acids. B. edulis exhibited the highest β-glucan and lycopene contents, but also the greatest cadmium accumulation. I. badia was distinguished by elevated ascorbic and citric acid levels and the strongest DPPH radical scavenging activity, while L. scabrum showed the highest ABTS and FRAP antioxidant capacities and accumulated quinic acid and catechin. Principal component analysis indicated strong correlations between antioxidant activity and phenolic acids, while cadmium levels were inversely associated with antioxidant potential and positively correlated with chitin. Although all metal concentrations remained within EU food safety limits, B. edulis showed consistent cadmium bioaccumulation. From a practical perspective, the results highlight the importance of species selection and sourcing location when considering wild mushrooms for consumption or processing, particularly in the context of nutritional value and contaminant load. Importantly, regular or excessive consumption of B. edulis may result in exceeding the tolerable weekly intake (TWI) levels for cadmium and nickel, which warrants particular attention from a food safety perspective. These findings underscore the influence of species-specific traits and environmental conditions on mushroom biochemical profiles and support their potential as functional foods, provided that metal contents are adequately monitored. Full article

The genus Anisosciadium, belonging to the Apiaceae family, has been traditionally recognized for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. However, scientific research on this genus is still limited, highlighting the need for a comprehensive review of its chemical composition and pharmacological characteristics. A comprehensive compilation of data was conducted using major databases such as Google Scholar, Research Gate, Web of Science, Scopus, and ScienceDirect. In this review, we collected and organized the available information of identified compounds from different species of the genus Anisosciadium, covering the literature from 2003 to 2024. In total, 64 phytoconstituents were detected. The findings suggest that the traditional therapeutic properties of Anisosciadium are well supported by the reported pharmacological activities from previous studies. Notably, these studies highlight its antioxidant, antibacterial, and cytotoxic effects, emphasizing the potential of this genus in the development of new therapeutic agents. Nonetheless, the lack of comparative studies among Anisosciadium species and the scarcity of in vivo studies and clinical trials limit the full realization of its therapeutic potential. Specifically, comparative studies could be crucial in identifying species with unique chemical profiles and understanding how variations in secondary metabolite compositions may influence their pharmacological activities. Full article

The cosmetic industry is growing at an impressive rate worldwide. In the cosmetic field, natural-origin ingredients represent the new frontier in this industry. Among the main components of cosmetics, lipids, emulsifiers, rheological modifiers, preservatives, colorants, and antioxidants can be found. These compounds form emulsions, which are among the main cosmetic formulations. An important aspect in this regard is the evaluation of emulsions’ stability over time and emulsions’ production methodology. In this paper, a comparison is made between two emulsion production technologies, the Standard and the “One-Pot” methods, through the characterization of the raw material ABWAX^® Revomul, a multifunctional wax for cosmetic use which consists of a low-melting structuring wax of vegetal origin (Rhus wax) and a natural emulsifier (Polyglyceril-3 Stearate). First, we evaluated the affinity between the wax raw materials and emollients of different chemical nature; then, we analyzed the impact of the production method on the emulsions to identify similarities and differences. ABWAX^® Revomul demonstrated a high level of effectiveness in regard to stabilizing water-in-oil emulsions. This study suggests that from an industrial point of view, the application of the two procedures allows products with different characteristics to be obtained, consequently allowing a specific method to be chosen to obtain the desired product. Full article

Various biomaterials are currently employed for dermal biostimulation and filling purposes, with hyaluronic acid (HA)-based fillers among those with the most favorable safety profile, albeit exhibiting a limited biostimulatory effect. This study suggests that hyaluronic acid and succinic acid (SA) can significantly induce beneficial effects on skin cells by targeting key aging hallmarks. Human dermal senescent fibroblasts and aged adipocytes were treated with HA + SA, and various aging characteristics were examined through gene expression analysis and microscopy staining. HA was found to stimulate autophagy gene expression, while SA modulated senescence-gene expression, and the combination of these compounds induced mitophagy in senescent fibroblasts. Additionally, the HA + SA promoted adipogenesis, increased IGF1, and decreased TNFA gene expression in aged adipocytes. Furthermore, the conditioned medium from adipocytes treated with HA + SA upregulated key dermal genes such as COL3A1 and EGF. The findings of this study suggest that HA and SA compounds can be used for the biostimulation of aged skin through the regulation of senescence-associated gene expression and cell communication between dermal fibroblasts and subcutaneous adipocytes. Full article