Search Results (27,327)

Hypoxis hemerocallidea (Hypoxidaece) is thoroughly researched and well documented for its plethora of anecdotal and scientifically backed pharmacological potentials. Its anecdotal uses and pharmacological activities are attributed to its extract’s inherent bioactive compounds like hypoxoside, rooperol, and β-sitosterol. This study aimed at conducting a targeted and holistic phytochemical profiling of variations in Hypoxis hemerocallidea (H. hemerocallidea) and related species. The chemotaxonomic classifications of H. hemerocallidea and seven other related species were also carried out to avert the possibility of over harvesting H. hemerocallidea and the encouragement of species inter-change. The plant extracts were analysed with reverse phase ultra-pure liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry and gas chromatography, as well as high-performance thin-layer chromatography. The generated chromatographic data were made compatible for chemometric computation using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Orthogonal Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (OPLS-DA) models. The results obtained unveil orcinol glycoside, curculigoside C, hypoxoside, dehydroxyhypoxoside, bisdehydroxy hypoxoside, hemerocalloside, galpinoside, cholchicoside, geraniol glycoside, β-sitosterol, oleic acid, and 2-hydroxyethyl linoleate as target phytochemicals that define the profiles of the Hypoxis species. In addition, three distinct chemotypes defined by hemerocalloside, galpinoside, and colchicoside, respectively, were observed, as well as holistic variations in all secondary metabolites. Due to similarities in the phytochemical constituents of selected species, species inter-change seems imminent if further research confirms the findings of this study. Full article

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.), valued for its health benefits and distinctive flavor, derives its characteristic aroma from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that vary significantly with geographical origin. In this study, VOCs in pomegranates from six Chinese geographical regions were characterized using an electronic nose (E-nose), an electronic tongue (E-tongue), headspace gas chromatography–ion mobility spectrometry (HS-GC-IMS), and headspace solid-phase microextraction–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS). To elucidate geographical variations in odor, taste, and volatile profiles, a comprehensive multivariate statistical analysis integrating principal component analysis (PCA), hierarchical cluster analysis, orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA), and variable importance in projection (VIP) was employed. The results demonstrated that the E-nose and E-tongue effectively distinguished pomegranate by geographical origin, with aroma contributing more significantly than taste to regional differentiation. A total of 46 and 58 VOCs were identified using HS-GC-IMS and HS-SPME-GC-MS, respectively, with different characteristic volatile compounds in pomegranate from various origins, and alkenes, esters, and alcohols were the primary contributors to regional variations. Notably, OPLS-DA revealed that HS-GC-IMS exhibited superior discriminatory power in separating pomegranates of different geographical origins, with HY and HL displaying closely related odor profiles while the other samples showed the most pronounced odor differences, but these findings contrasted with HS-SPME-GC-MS results. Additionally, the VIP method and the relative odor activity value (ROAV) further identified six and eight key aroma compounds based on HS-GC-IMS and HS-SPME-GC-MS data; in particular, hexanal, nonanal, β-pinene, 3-hydroxybutan-2-one, and β-ocimene were identified as key aroma compounds in pomegranate as potential regional markers. These findings highlight VOC profiles as potential geographical origin markers, supporting origin traceability and quality control in the pomegranate industry. Full article

Thoracic tumors, including lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and malignant pleural mesothelioma (MM), remain a leading cause of cancer-related deaths, primarily due to the challenges in treating advanced thoracic tumors. New drugs with optimal efficacy and minimal side effects are required. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) compounds offer a promising alternative. Our study explores the effectiveness of the TCM compound Narciclasine against LUAD and MM. Spheroids derived from LUAD (A549, LuCa1) and MM (MSTO-211H, H2052/484) cell lines were treated with Narciclasine, and efficacy was evaluated through cell morphology analysis, intracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATPi) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays, RT-qPCR, and western blot analysis. Narciclasine reduced cell viability, with an 80% reduction in viability in MM. It induced cell apoptosis and inhibited proliferation. The IC₅₀ values for Narciclasine ranged from 50 to 150 nM. In silico analysis identified shared gene targets between Narciclasine, LUAD, and MM. Narciclasine modulated the expression of genes associated with ferroptosis and cuproptosis, and the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Narciclasine shows promising efficacy against LUAD and MM spheroid models. These findings warrant further investigation into the mechanisms of action and potential clinical application of Narciclasine for treating thoracic malignancies, offering hope for improved therapeutic options and patient outcomes. Full article

Microbial coal gasification is a highly promising bioenergy technology, yet its efficiency is often constrained by the highly polymeric structure of coal. This study explores a novel approach to enhance methane production from low-rank coal through anaerobic co-degradation with sawdust. Using Xilinguole lignite as the substrate, we systematically assessed how wood chip supplementation influences microbial degradation efficiency and community dynamics. Results demonstrated that co-degradation significantly increased methane yield—most notably at a coal-to-wood chip ratio of 4:1—far surpassing methane production from coal alone. The addition of sawdust enriched the substrate with bioavailable hydrocarbons and organic acids, and enhanced the degradation of complex compounds including aromatics and lipids. Microbial analysis revealed a marked shift in community structure, with increased abundance of key genera such as Bacillus, Clostridium, and Bathyarchaeia, indicative of enhanced functional specialization and metabolic cooperation. Network analysis further confirmed more tightly interconnected microbial communities in co-degradation systems. These findings underscore the potential of sawdust as a co-substrate to facilitate microbial coal conversion by improving utilization efficiency and promoting synergistic microbial interactions. This strategy offers a practical and efficient means to advance the bioenergy recovery from low-rank coal resources. Full article

Traditional diets based on diverse edible plants are increasingly threatened by climate change, which exposes crops to abiotic and biotic stressors such as drought, soil salinity, UV radiation, microorganisms, and insect herbivory. Understanding how these conditions influence both the nutritional and nutraceutical profiles, as well as the availability of key compounds, is essential to preserve their functional value. Piper auritum Kunth, used in Mexican gastronomy, was selected to assess two abiotic stress scenarios: drought stress (DS) and salicylic acid (SA) to simulate plant defense against pathogens and/or predators. We evaluated proximate composition, dietary fiber, total phenolics, total flavonoids, antioxidant capacity, low molecular weight carbohydrates (LMWCs), monomeric composition, and essential oil volatiles. Additionally, the simulated gastrointestinal digestion (INFOGEST) with an additional rat small-intestine extract (RSIE) revealed that both SA and DS shifted sugar distribution, especially for soluble and structural pools. SA treatment correlated with synthesis of secondary metabolites, particularly oxygenated and hydrocarbon terpenes. Both abiotic stressors modulated LMWC release during digestion, altering the distribution of sugars such as raffinose and galacturonic acid, with potential prebiotic implications. Essential oil analysis revealed stress-specific shifts in volatile composition, particularly in safrole, β-caryophyllene, and related terpenes. Beyond individual compound changes, the combined evaluation of composition, antioxidant properties, and volatile profile provides a comprehensive view of how abiotic stress can reshape the functional potential of P. auritum. To our knowledge, this is the first report on LMWC relative abundance across INFOGEST stages for a quelite species and on the integrated effect of DS and SA on its chemical profile. These findings highlight the importance of including compound release and functional traits, alongside chemical characterization, in future assessments of traditional plants under climate-related stress to safeguard their contribution to sustainable diets. Full article

Background: Leishmania amazonensis, one of the causative agents of cutaneous leishmaniasis, is responsible for a neglected tropical disease affecting nearly one million individuals worldwide. Although clinical treatments are available, their effectiveness is often compromised by high toxicity and limited selectivity. Methods: From a database, 64 chalcone derivatives were studied using Comparative Molecular Similarity Indices Analysis (CoMSIA) and Hansch analysis (2D-QSAR) to construct predictive computational models. Internal and external validation criteria were applied to identify structural determinants associated with antileishmanial activity. Based on these insights, twelve novel quinoline–chalcone hybrids were designed, synthesized, and biologically evaluated against L. amazonensis. Results: The most robust CoMSIA model combined steric and hydrogen-bond acceptor fields (CoMSIA-SA), while Hansch analysis highlighted electronic descriptors—specifically LUMO energy and the global electrophilicity index—as critical for parasite growth inhibition. Guided by these computational findings, a new series of 12 hybrid quinoline–chalcone derivatives (E001–E012) was synthesized through a two-step procedure, achieving overall yields of 43–71%. Biological assays demonstrated that four compounds displayed inhibitory activity comparable to amphotericin B. Furthermore, physicochemical profiling and in silico pharmacokinetic predictions for the most active compounds (E003, E005, E006, and E011) indicated favorable biocompatibility and drug-like properties. Conclusions: These results underscore the value of an integrative computational–experimental approach in the rational design of next-generation L. amazonensis inhibitors, reinforcing chalcone-based scaffolds as promising pharmacophoric frameworks for antileishmanial drug discovery. Full article

This exploratory study assessed the influence of botanical origin and acquisition source on the phenolic profile and antioxidant properties of selected Romanian monofloral honeys. Eight samples were analyzed, representing five floral types: acacia, linden, rapeseed, lavender, and thyme. For acacia, linden, and rapeseed, both commercial and locally sourced honeys were included. Analytical techniques included total phenolic content (TPC, Folin–Ciocalteu), antioxidant assays (DPPH, ABTS, FRAP), color intensity (ABS₄₅₀), and phenolic compound profiling via HPLC-DAD-ESI⁺. TPC ranged from 179.26 ± 23.57 to 586.67 ± 18.33 mg GAE/100 g, with thyme and linden honeys presenting the highest values. Seventeen phenolic compounds were tentatively identified; gallic acid was predominant in thyme honey (127 mg/100 g), and linden honey contained high levels of rutin (70 mg/100 g) and galangin-glucoside. Antioxidant capacity varied notably by floral origin, with thyme and linden outperforming acacia samples. Significant correlations were found between total phenolics and ABTS (r = 0.86), and between ABS₄₅₀ and FRAP (r = 0.86). DPPH kinetics followed zero-order behavior (R² > 0.98). Principal component analysis (PC1 + PC2 = 88%) enabled preliminary separation by botanical origin. While based on a limited sample set, findings support the relevance of combining chromatographic, kinetic, and multivariate tools for exploratory honey characterization. Full article

The genus Fusarium comprises multiple species recognized as plant pathogens in both annual and perennial crops. Some phytopathogenic species of this genus can be transmitted by insect vectors, which introduce them into woody plant species of ecological and agroeconomic importance. Among these species, Fusarium kuroshium stands out, but studies are limited because it is a quarantine pathogen that requires special biosafety measures for its culture. This fungus produces fusaric acid (FA), a virulence factor that is widespread in Fusarium spp. To gain insight into the role of this phytotoxin in virulence, we exposed leaves of four woody host species (Liquidambar styraciflua, Persea americana, Citrus sinensis, and Populus nigra) of F. kuroshium to FA in vitro. The plant tissue exhibited varying degrees of cell death and physiological alterations, including a reduction in biomass, generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), elevated electrolyte leakage, and loss of photosynthetic pigments. A chemical analysis demonstrated that the flavonoid and isoflavonoid pathways, in addition to linoleic and linolenic acid metabolism, were markedly affected by FA. Following the quantification of phenolic compounds in leaves, 11 metabolites were identified whose concentrations increased in response to FA stress. The findings of this study indicate that phenolic compounds play a significant role in the response to FA stress. Particularly, scopoletin has a protective effect on leaves of Liquidambar styraciflua. Full article

The compounding effects of hydrometeorological hazards are being driven by climate change. As urban areas expand, this leads to degradation of the surrounding environment and exposes more people to hazards. Growing losses show that conventional approaches to addressing these issues can compound these problems. Over the last few decades, nature-based solutions (NBSs) have become an increasingly popular alternative. These measures, inspired by natural processes, have shown potential for reducing hazards by complementing traditional approaches and providing co-benefits in the form of eco-system services. With the adoption of NBSs becoming a more mainstream approach, there is a need for tools that support the planning and implementation of interventions. Geospatial suitability assessment is a part of this planning process. Existing tools are limited in their application for large-scale measures. This paper intends to improve this by building upon a multi-criteria analysis (MCA)-based approach that incorporates biophysical and land use criteria and conditions for mapping the suitability of large-scale NBSs. The methodology was developed and tested on six sites to assess the suitability of floodplain restoration, retention or detention, afforestation, and forest buffer strips. The resulting suitability maps also show potential for combining two or more measures for greater risk reduction. Full article

Low fermentation temperatures are a crucial aspect of winemaking, influencing yeast metabolism, process efficiency, and aroma retention. However, it is a significant source of energy consumption. Here, we investigated the effect of high (20 °C ± 1 °C) and low (16 °C ± 1 °C) temperatures combined with multi-starter fermentations with Metschnikowia pulcherrima (Level² Flavia and Level² Initia) and Saccharomyces cerevisiae (EC 1118 and Zymaflore X5) strains on the aromatic profile of Lugana wine. Sequential inoculation at 20 °C shortened fermentation by five days compared to 16 °C, lowering energy consumption for cooling. Significant differences in key aromatic compound classes were observed between the two temperature trials. Wines fermented at 20 °C exhibited more intense tropical and fruity aromas, with 3-MH and 3-MHA concentrations up to ten times higher than those at 16 °C. Such an increase was particularly evident in the sequential fermentation, especially Level² Flavia/Zymaflore X5, compared to S. cerevisiae alone. In contrast, lower temperatures favored the production of ethyl esters and ethyl acetate, with increases of 14% for ethyl octanoate and 24% for ethyl butanoate. Sensory analysis confirmed these aromatic differences, with all trials at 20 °C enhancing white wine aroma complexity, particularly those involving multi-starter fermentations. These findings provide practical insights for the wine industry, validating sequential fermentation at moderately elevated temperatures as a strategy to improve wine quality while supporting energy-efficient and sustainable practices. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study evaluated the antifungal, enzyme inhibitory, and anticancer properties of the ethyl acetate (EtOAc) leaves extract of Rubus ulmifolius Schott using in vitro assays and in silico analysis. Methods: Antifungal activity was assessed against five fungal strains by measuring inhibition zones. Enzyme inhibition assays were conducted for acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), and urease. Antiproliferative effects were tested against HT-29 colorectal, SK-OV-3 ovarian, and A549 lung cancer cells using the MTT assay. Network pharmacology and molecular docking analyses were performed on major compounds previously identified by GC–MS (gallic acid, caffeic acid, catechin, and fructofuranose) to uncover the potential mechanisms of the plant in colorectal and ovarian cancers. Results: The extract displayed notable antifungal activity, particularly against Penicillium sp., Aspergillus fumigatus, and Candida albicans, with inhibition zones of 22.5 ± 0.7 to 26.8 ± 1.3 mm. Enzyme assays revealed moderate inhibition of AChE (IC₅₀ = 92.94 ± 1.97 µg/mL), weaker activity against BChE (IC₅₀ = 274.93 ± 2.32 µg/mL), and modest inhibition of urease (IC₅₀ = 262.60 ± 1.41 µg/mL). The extract exhibited strong antiproliferative effects against HT-29 and SK-OV-3 cells (IC₅₀ = 2.41 ± 0.13 and 4.63 ± 0.26 µg/mL, respectively), whereas activity against A549 lung cancer cells was limited. Network pharmacology predicted 52 and 44 overlapping target genes between the major compounds and colorectal and ovarian cancers, respectively. Protein–protein interaction networks identified hub genes for each cancer type, with key shared targets including EGFR, ESR1, PTGS2, and STAT3. Molecular docking confirmed favorable binding between these targets and the compounds, particularly catechin, which showed interactions comparable to those of reference inhibitors. Conclusions: These findings suggest that R. ulmifolius may possess multi-target antifungal, neuroprotective, and anticancer potential, warranting further in vitro pharmacological and preclinical validation. Full article

Drying is a key step in the primary processing of agricultural products. It alters the type and content of volatile flavor compounds (VOCs), imparting distinctive flavors to the products. This article reviews the common physical and chemical reactions occurring during the drying of agricultural products, the types of VOCs, the detection and analysis methods, and the research progress on the effects of different drying methods on the VOCs of agricultural products. The article serves as a reference point for further research into the VOCs of agricultural products after drying, and provides a theoretical foundation for subsequent research into the development and utilization of agricultural resources. Full article

The increase in the volume of construction work carried out with chemical anchors has led to a corresponding growth in the supply of these products on the market. Anchors possess numerous characteristics, including strength, anchorage displacement, temperature, curing time, and cost. Designers face the challenge of choosing the optimal solution for specific construction conditions. In practice, this often results in choosing anchors with maximum strength and minimum cost, which is not always the best option for long-term use. The authors of this study propose addressing this challenge through a multi-criteria optimization method based on the Harrington function. For implementation, 18 criteria were used. They were derived from reference sources and experimental results. Tests were conducted under short-term and long-term static loading. Based on these tests, strength characteristics were determined, and statistical analysis was carried out to calculate coefficients of variation and confidence intervals for the mean values. Nine types of chemical anchors with different bases were tested: epoxy-based, acrylate-based, methacrylate-based, polyester-based, and epoxy-acrylate-based (five samples in each series). In this study, the assumption that all criteria have equal weight coefficients is made as a limitation. The results of the study are valid only for static loading of anchors in uncracked concrete. The optimal adhesive compound was determined for the basic winter and summer sets of criteria. The practical significance lies in the implementation of a multi-criteria optimization method for selecting the adhesive compound. This approach allows users to choose the optimal adhesive compound for their needs. Full article

This study investigates the development and evaluation of anti-photoaging creams enriched with natural extracts from avocado, apple, and kiwi by-products, with and without nanobubbles (NBs), focusing on their antioxidant, photoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antiplatelet properties. Extract-containing creams showed significantly higher antioxidant capacity, particularly in the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay (S: 710.4 ± 344.3, NB: 566.3 ± 185.0, X: 202.8 ± 145.6 μmol TE/g DW at production; S: 631.7 ± 277.8, NB: 1019.3 ± 574.0, X: 449.8 ± 43.9 μmol TE/g DW after 1 month; p < 0.05), indicating up to a 250% improvement compared to the base cream and stable antioxidant activity during storage. The sun protection factor (SPF) increased in extract-containing creams after storage (8.7 ± 0.8 → 9.5 ± 0.6; p < 0.05). Attenuated total reflectance Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) with Strat-M^® membranes revealed enhanced penetration of active compounds in enriched creams, while NBs did not significantly change absorption profiles. Platelet aggregation assays showed markedly lower half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values in extract-enriched creams compared to the base cream for both the platelet-activating factor (PAF) pathway (S: 300.0 ± 42.0, NB: 258.0 ± 31.0 vs. X: 685.0 ± 35.0; after 1 month S: 325.0 ± 50.0, NB: 275.0 ± 42.0 vs. X: 885.0 ± 112.0; p < 0.05) and the adenosine diphosphate (ADP) pathway (S: 450.0 ± 65.0, NB: 400.0 ± 31.0 vs. X: 880.0 ± 58.0; after 1 month S: 470.0 ± 52.0, NB: 412.0 ± 42.0 vs. X: 1102.0 ± 125.0; p < 0.05). In silico analysis was also performed to demonstrate the ligand/protein complex with the strongest affinity to the PAF receptor. Overall, these findings highlight the potential of fruit by-products as sustainable, multifunctional cosmetic ingredients supporting circular economy principles. Full article

Introduction: Ambiguous loss is a profound yet underexplored phenomenon in the lives of aging migrants. Older adults who have experienced migration often face disruptions to their sense of belonging, identity, and continuity across borders. These losses are compounded by aging, health challenges, and social isolation. Despite its significance, ambiguous loss among aging migrants has not been conceptually analyzed in depth, limiting the development of culturally responsive care practices. Aim: This concept analysis aimed to identify the defining attributes of ambiguous loss among aging migrants and to develop a conceptual definition that enhances our understanding of the phenomenon and informs future research and practice. Method: Walker and Avant’s eight-step concept analysis framework was applied to examine the concept of ambiguous loss in the context of aging migrants. A systematic keyword search was conducted across four databases (CINAHL, Medline, SCOPUS, PsycINFO), Google Scholar, and relevant gray literature, covering the years of 2010–2024. Covidence software supported the screening process. From 367 records identified, 146 underwent full-text review, and 74 met inclusion criteria. The analysis drew on literature synthesis, case exemplars, antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents. This review followed PRISMA (2020) reporting guidelines. Results: Four defining attributes of ambiguous loss among aging migrants were identified: (a) physical, social, and emotional loss; (b) displacement and loss of homeland; (c) erosion of social identity and agency; and (d) cultural and transnational bereavement. A conceptual definition emerged, describing ambiguous loss as a multifaceted experience of disconnection, intensified by aging, illness, economic hardship, and social isolation. The analysis also highlighted antecedents such as forced migration and health decline, as well as consequences including diminished well-being, resilience challenges, and barriers to integration. Conclusions: Ambiguous loss among aging migrants is a complex construct encompassing intertwined physical, social, and cultural dimensions of loss. This conceptual clarity provides a foundation for developing culturally responsive care models that promote adaptation, resilience, and social inclusion among older migrants. Full article