Search Results (478)

Sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.) are known for their anti-inflammatory effects, which are attributed to their phytochemical content. Our previous study revealed that ethanol extracts of sweet potato storage roots (SP-EtOH-Ex) inhibit interleukin-6 (IL-6) production in RAW264.7 cells stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). However, the causative compounds responsible for the anti-inflammatory effect have not yet been identified. This study aims to identify the compounds responsible for the anti-inflammatory effect of SP-EtOH-Ex using liquid chromatography–quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-Q-TOF-MS). The unknown compounds were measured using the auto MS/MS mode (data-dependent acquisition; DDA) of LC-Q-TOF-MS, and the resulting data were analyzed using MS-DIAL and MS-FINDER and also compared with those of the corresponding reference standards in terms of retention time and fragment ions. As a result, β-sitosterol (2.527–4.850 µg/mL), campesterol (75.74–93.63 ng/mL), and lauroyl diethanolamide (4.568–9.260 ng/mL) were identified and quantified in SP-EtOH-Ex. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory effect of these three compounds against RAW264.7 cells was investigated at varying concentrations of β-sitosterol (1 µg/mL, 5 µg/mL, 10 µg/mL), campesterol (10 ng/mL, 100 ng/mL, 1000 ng/mL), and lauroyl diethanolamide (1 ng/mL, 10 ng/mL, 100 ng/mL). The phytosterols β-sitosterol and campesterol suppressed LPS-induced IL-6 production at concentrations comparable to those present in SP-EtOH-Ex. In contrast, lauroyl diethanolamide did not similarly suppress LPS-induced IL-6 production. These results suggest that β-sitosterol and campesterol in sweet potato storage roots contribute to their anti-inflammatory effects. The lack of activity in lauroyl diethanolamide further supports that phytosterols are the primary anti-inflammatory constituents. The edible portion of sweet potatoes holds promise as a promising raw material with anti-inflammatory properties. Full article

Electronic waste (e-waste) is a growing solid waste stream with largely undisclosed and poorly characterized fluorinated constituents. We evaluated per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) leachability from four e-waste components (phone screens, phone plastics, capacitors, and Lithium-ion batteries) using a 30-day deionized water leaching test. PFAS were extracted by solid-phase extraction using weak anion exchange (WAX) cartridges and analyzed with a liquid chromatography triple-quadrupole mass spectrometer. In addition, the PFAS chemical profiles of e-waste components were characterized by non-targeted analysis. Leachable sums of detected PFAS (∑PFAS) were highest in phone screens (1739–1932 ng·kg⁻¹) and phone plastics (1575–2197 ng·kg⁻¹) and an order of magnitude lower in Lithium-ion batteries (148–158 ng·kg⁻¹) and capacitors (147–243 ng·kg⁻¹). Short-chain perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) (e.g., PFBA, PFHxA) and legacy acids (e.g., PFOA, PFNA) were more prevalent in phone screens/plastics, whereas capacitors and batteries showed mixed sulfonate/carboxylate patterns (PFOS, PFHxS, and 6:2 FTS). Although capacitors and Lithium-ion batteries contained essential PFAS with high hazard potential at trace levels, phone screens and phone plastics pose a greater risk per mass due to higher ∑PFAS levels and larger volumes. Non-targeted analysis using Orbitrap Astral revealed CF₂/CF₂O homologous trends (confidence levels 2–3) with corroborating targeted findings. These findings highlight the need for PFAS-free alternatives, the disclosure of fluorinated additives, and stronger end-of-life management strategies to prevent PFAS releases from e-waste. Full article

This study evaluates the chemical profile and antifungal efficacy of essential oils from Piper glabratum, Piper friedrichsthalii, and Piper cumanense against the cocoa pathogens Moniliophthora roreri and Phytophthora palmivora. Microwave-assisted hydrodistillation followed by GC-MS analysis identified 80 constituents, predominantly monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, which exhibited significant mycelial inhibition comparable to commercial fungicides. Beyond basic characterization, a comprehensive chemoinformatic analysis was conducted to elucidate the molecular mechanisms driving this bioactivity. The computed physicochemical landscape reveals a dominant lipophilic profile (average LogP 3.4) and low polarity (TPSA 11.5 Ų), characteristics essential for effective fungal membrane penetration. Structural mining identified conserved benzene and cyclohexene scaffolds alongside specific 1,3-benzodioxole moieties, while Maximum Common Substructure (MCS) analysis uncovered high similarity clusters among phenylpropanoids and sesquiterpenes. These findings suggest a synergistic mode of action where conserved structural backbones and interchangeable diastereomers facilitate membrane destabilization and ion leakage. Consequently, the integrative chemoinformatic profiling elucidates the molecular basis of this efficacy, positioning these Piper essential oils not merely as empirical alternatives, but as sources of rationally defined synergistic scaffolds for next-generation sustainable fungicides. Full article

To address gaps in the characterization of Roman chamomile (Anthemis nobilis L., Asteraceae)—an ethnobotanically and commercially important species—we profiled its essential oil (EO), focusing on esters that are incompletely characterized or unreported. Comprehensive GC-MS of two commercial EOs and their chromatographic fractions, combined with synthesis and co-injection of reference compounds, enabled the identification of 190 constituents. We uncovered a homologous series of angelates, tiglates, and senecioates by partial-ion-current (PIC) screening (m/z 55, 83, 100, 101), augmented by co-injection and NMR confirmation. Among these EO constituents, four esters, methallyl 3-methylbutanoate (6h), methallyl senecioate (3h), 3-methylpentyl 2-methylbutanoate (5c), and 5-methylhexyl angelate (2g) are reported here as new natural products and previously unreported compounds in the literature. Selected methacrylates and related α,β-unsaturated esters underwent model Michael additions to methanethiol (generated in situ from dimethyl disulfide and NaBH₄), confirming their thiol-acceptor reactivity. In an Artemia salina assay, the EO and most esters were non-toxic; methacrylates showed only low toxicity at the highest concentrations. These results refine the chemical map of A. nobilis EO and highlight specific ester families for future mechanistic and biological evaluation. Full article

Objectives: Despite the increasing scientific evidence regarding the application of Cranberries in dentistry, a comprehensive understanding of their potential benefits, active constituents, and mechanisms of action remains lacking. Consequently, this narrative review aims to meticulously analyze and consolidate the existing scientific literature on the utilization of Cranberries for the prevention and treatment of oral diseases. Materials and Methods: Electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched up to October 2025. This review included in vitro, in vivo, and clinical research studies. A two-phase selection process was carried out. In phase 1, two reviewers independently screened titles and abstracts to identify potentially eligible studies. In phase 2, the same reviewers performed the full-text assessments of the eligible articles. Results: Among the 93 eligible articles, most assessed Cranberry use in Cariology (n = 28) and Periodontics (n = 26). Biofilm and microbial virulence factors (n = 46) were the most frequently studied topics. Cranberry extract (n = 32) and high-molecular-weight non-dialyzable material (NDM) (n = 23) were the most evaluated Cranberry fractions. Overall, Cranberry-derived compounds were identified as non-toxic and demonstrated promising antimicrobial activity against dental caries-related microorganisms in preclinical studies (n = 20). Regarding periodontal and peri-implant diseases, Cranberry demonstrated host immune modulator effects, counteracting the inflammatory and destructive mechanisms (n = 8). Additionally, Cranberries presented benefits in reducing the inflammation associated with periodontal disease and temporal mandibular joint lesions (n = 1). Regarding dental erosion, Cranberry inhibited dentin erosion (n = 4); however, no effect was observed on enamel lesions (n = 2). As an antioxidant agent, Cranberry showed effectiveness in preventing dental erosion (n = 18). Beyond that, Cranberry neutralized reactive oxygen species generated immediately after dental bleaching, enhancing bond strength (n = 2) and counteracting the oxygen ions formed on the tooth surface following bleaching procedures (n = 3). In osteoclastogenesis assays, A-type proanthocyanidins inhibited bone resorption (n = 1). In osteogenic analysis, preservation of hydroxycarbonate apatite deposition and an increase in early and late osteogenic markers were observed (n = 2). Conclusions: Cranberry bioactive compounds, both individually and synergistically, exhibit substantial potential for diverse applications within dentistry, particularly in the prevention and management of oral and maxillofacial diseases. This review provides insights into the plausible incorporation of Cranberries in contemporary dentistry, offering readers an informed perspective on their potential role. Full article

In a seminal paper V.M. Goldschmidt pointed out that, in terms of volume of the constituent ions, Earth’s crust and mantle are basically a packing of negatively charged oxygen ions bound together by the volumetrically barely significant cations. Here, this statement is revisited using modern assessments of mantle composition and pressure-dependent ionic radii. It is found that the transition to the lower mantle marks a reduction in the O²⁻ crystal ionic volume percentage from 86 to less than 80%, significant enough to suggest an overall reduced compatibility of less abundant elements within the first few hundred km of depth below that transition from lower-mantle to upper-mantle rock. An equivalent drop across both, the 410- and 670 km mantle discontinuities occurs for large polyhedral sites, which are the potential hosts for incompatible elements. Accordingly, most large ionic lithophiles and rare earth elements in the lower mantle are highly enriched in one minor phase, davemaoite. It is proposed that those minor and trace elements that are less compatible with this mineral, such as some of the high-field strength elements, are concentrated in yet unknown accessory minerals that potentially affect geochemical signatures of deep mantle-derived igneous rocks. Full article

Calcium (Ca²⁺) is a signal messenger for ion flow in and out of microbial, parasitic, and host defense cells. Manipulation of calcium ion signaling with ion blockers and calcineurin inhibitors may improve host defense while decreasing microbial/parasitic resistance to therapy. Ca²⁺ release from intracellular storage sites controls many host defense functions (cell integrity, movement, and growth). The transformation of phospholipids in the erythrocyte membrane is associated with changes in deformability. This type of lipid bilayer defense mechanism helps to prevent attack by Plasmodium. Patients with sickle cell disease (SS hemoglobin) do not have this protection and are extremely vulnerable to massive hemolysis from parasitic infestation. Patients with thalassemia major also lack parasite protection. Alteration of Ca²⁺ ion channels responsive to environmental stimuli (transient receptor potential) results in erythrocyte protection from Plasmodium. Similarly, calcineurin inhibitors (cyclosporine) reduce heart and brain inflammation injury with Trypanosoma and Taenia. Ca²⁺ channel blockers interfere with malarial life cycles. Several species of parasites are known to invade hepatocytes: Plasmodium, Echinococcus, Schistosoma, Taenia, and Toxoplasma. Ligand-specific membrane channel constituents (inositol triphosphate and sphingosine phospholipid) constitute membrane surface signal messengers. Plasmodium requires Ca²⁺ for energy to grow and to occupy red blood cells. A cascade of signals proceeds from Ca²⁺ to two proteins: calmodulin and calcineurin. Inhibitors of calmodulin were found to blunt the population growth of Plasmodium. An inhibitor of calcineurin (cyclosporine) was found to retard population growth of both Plasmodium and Schistosoma. Calcineurin also controls sensitivity and resistance to antibiotics. After exposure to cyclosporine, the liver directs Ca²⁺ ions into storage sites in the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria. Storage of large amounts of Ca²⁺ would be useful if pathogens began to occupy both red blood cells and liver cells. We present scientific evidence supporting the benefits of calcium channel blockers and calcineurin inhibitors to potentiate current antiparasitic therapies. Full article

Tordylium trachycarpum Boiss. (Apiaceae) has long been used by traditional healers in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq to alleviate gastrointestinal disorders and oral inflammation; however, its phytochemical composition and pharmacological properties remain scientifically unverified. In this study, we report the first phytochemical profiling and plant-assisted synthesis of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) using the methanolic extract of T. trachycarpum as a natural reducing and stabilizing agent. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized using UV–Vis spectroscopy, FTIR spectroscopy, X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) analyses, confirming their nanoscale formation, crystallinity, and elemental composition. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) identified 22 bioactive metabolites, with methoxsalen (30.91%), triphenylphosphine oxide (12.54%), desulphosinigrin (10.79%), isopimpinellin (6.72%), and α-glyceryl linolenate (6.39%) as the predominant constituents. Both the crude extract and the biosynthesized CuNPs were evaluated for their antimicrobial, antioxidant, and enzyme inhibitory activities. The CuNPs displayed enhanced antimicrobial potency, with MIC values of 250 µg/mL against Klebsiella pneumoniae and Candida albicans, and 500 µg/mL against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus epidermidis. They also exhibited superior antioxidant activity in the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), cupric ion reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC), and metal chelating activity (MCA) assays, along with moderate inhibition of key metabolic and neurological enzymes, including acetylcholinesterase and tyrosinase. These findings highlight T. trachycarpum as a promising phytochemical source for sustainable nanoparticle synthesis and reveal the multifunctional potential of biosynthesized CuNPs as antioxidant and antimicrobial agents with prospective applications in drug discovery and nanomedicine. Full article

This study compared needle-plate electrohydrodynamic drying (EHD) at 20, 25, and 30 kV to natural drying (ND) of Astragalus membranaceus slices, analyzing drying characteristics, quality, and mechanisms. Discharge diagnostics revealed filamentous discharge, with reactive nitrogen/oxygen species concentration and ion wind speed increasing with voltage. Within the 20–30 kV range, drying rate and effective moisture diffusivity significantly increased with electric field strength. At 30 kV, drying rate was 1.73 times ND’s, and diffusivity was 5.1 times higher. Quality was optimal at 25 kV: rehydration rate was 1.18 times ND’s; calycosin and astragaloside IV contents were 1.38 and 1.14 times ND’s, respectively; shrinkage was reduced to 0.68 times ND’s; and browning was significantly inhibited (BI = 0.46 times ND’s), yielding the color closest to fresh samples. Polysaccharide content was slightly lower (0.97 times ND’s). In summary, EHD, particularly at 25 kV, markedly enhances drying efficiency and improves key quality attributes (rehydration, bioactive compound retention, color, reduced shrinkage), despite a minor negative effect on polysaccharides. This work clarifies the EHD mechanism and supports its application in drying traditional Chinese medicines. Full article

Understanding groundwater quality and its controlling mechanisms is vital for the sustainable use of water resources in agriculturally intensive regions. This study evaluates the hydrochemical characteristics, controlling geochemical processes, and overall water quality of 226 groundwater samples collected from a typical agricultural reclamation area in the Sanjiang Plain, northeastern China. Major ion compositions indicate that groundwater is predominantly of the Ca–HCO₃ type, with bicarbonate, calcium, and magnesium as the dominant constituents. Spatial and statistical analyses reveal that rock weathering—particularly the dissolution of carbonates and silicates—is the primary natural process influencing groundwater chemistry, while cation exchange contributes moderately. Anthropogenic inputs, especially from fertilizers, livestock waste, and wastewater discharge, were found to elevate concentrations of NO₃⁻, Cl⁻, and SO₄²⁻ in localized zones. The entropy-weighted water quality index (EWQI) was applied to assess overall groundwater suitability. Results show that 89.8% of samples fall into “excellent” or “good” categories, though 6.6% of samples indicate poor to very poor water quality. This study identified the hydrochemical characteristics, sources of substances, and water quality of groundwater in the reclamation area, providing a basis for scientific prevention and control, rational utilization, and protection of groundwater resources. Full article

4LiF-MM’₂O₄ composites were synthesized via the mechanical milling of LiF and MM’₂O₄ (M = Mn, Mg, Zn; M’ = Mn Fe) for 72 h. In the obtained composites, the XRD peak broadened because of the milling, and the composites possessed a rock-salt-type structure. During charge–discharge measurements at 0.1 C, composites with spinel materials containing Mg showed particularly high discharge capacities; the discharge capacity of 4LiF-MMn₂O₄ and 4LiF-MFe₂O₄ was 310 mAh/g and 309 mAh/g, respectively. The discharge voltage was approximately 3.2 V for 4LiF-MgMn₂O₄ and approximately 2.8 V for 4LiF-MgFe₂O₄, and 4LiF-MgMn₂O₄ composites had the highest energy densities, exceeding 1000 Wh/kg. During cycle characteristic measurements with a cutoff voltage of 4.8 V and 4.4 V, the initial capacity retentions at the 100th cycle were 11% and 79%, respectively. The Coulombic efficiency was also better at a cutoff voltage of 4.4 V than that of 4.8 V, indicating that electrolyte decomposition has a significant influence on the cycle characteristics. Additionally, composites were synthesized via mechanical milling using various molar ratios of LiF and MgMn₂O₄. In xLiF-MgMn₂O₄ (x ≥ 3), the discharge potential was approximately 3.2 V, and the discharge capacity was higher than 250 mAh/g. The highest discharge capacity was observed for 4LiF-MgMn₂O₄ among xLiF-MgMn₂O₄ (x ≥ 3) composites. Full article

The volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are the main flavor constituents of different pig breeds, which have positive effects on the quality evaluation of pork. This study aimed to clarify the effects of lipid oxidation on characteristic VOCs in different breeds of pigs. The fatty acid composition and antioxidant characteristics of the Ningxiang (NX) pig, Rongchang (RC) pig, Duroc × Wujin (DW) pig, and Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire (DLY) pig were determined. The VOCs from these four pig breeds were analyzed by gas chromatography–ion migration spectrometry (GC-IMS) and solid-phase micro-extraction–gas chromatography–olfactory mass spectrometry (SPME-GC-O-MS). A total of 49 volatile compounds were identified by GC-IMS, whereas GC-O-MS detected 97 volatile components, including aldehydes, alcohols, ketones, acids, and esters. Among these, aldehydes and alcohols were the predominant categories. The results showed that RC breed pork had the highest fatty acid content, whereas NX breed pork exhibited the highest antioxidant activity. Among the VOCs from these four pig breeds, tridecanal showed a strong positive correlation with antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and vitamin E, which was mainly reflected in NX. Furthermore, the key VOCs across the different pig breeds were mainly related to unsaturated fatty acids, such as C20:3n6, C18:1n9c, and C18:2n6c. In conclusion, the antioxidant characteristics of NX pigs are closely associated with their unique volatile flavor profile, while the characteristic flavor compounds across different pig breeds are primarily influenced by the composition and oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids. Full article

Calcium (Ca²⁺ ions) is one of the dominant elements that contribute to water hardness, scaling in pipes, bathroom faucets, and kitchen utensils. Herein, we report on the development of poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) cellulose acetate (PVDF-HFP/CA) films for the treatment of Ca²⁺ ions as one of the constituents that causes water hardness. CA and PVDF-HFP polymers, and their blend consisting of 3 wt.% PVDF-HFP/CA, were effectively synthesised through the phase inversion technique. Analysis using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed the effective incorporation of 3 wt.% PVDF-HFP into the cellulose acetate film. Parameters such as temperature, initial concentration, pH, adsorbent dosage and contact time were investigated in batch studies during the removal of Ca²⁺ ions in synthetic water samples. Under optimal conditions (pH 7, adsorbent dosage of 0.5 mg/L, and concentration of 120 mg/L), the 3 wt.% PVDF-HFP/CA film achieved a 99% adsorption efficiency for Ca²⁺ ions in 90 min. The adsorption process adhered to pseudo-second-order and Freundlich isotherm models, which suggest that the adsorption of Ca²⁺ ions is heterogeneous. The maximum adsorption efficiency achieved was 56 mg/g, indicating an endothermic physisorption process. The 3 wt.% PVDF-HFP/CA film maintained higher adsorption in the presence of counter ions and in a binary system, and it could be recycled at least three times. Thus, the findings demonstrated that the 3 wt.% PVDF-HFP/CA film could be a valuable material for Ca²⁺ ions removal to acceptable drinking water levels. Full article

Diabetic nephropathy (DNR) remains a major complication of type 2 diabetes with limited options to halt progression. We evaluated whether DNR (a sulfur-rich extract from Hongsan garlic) confers renoprotection in a db/db mouse model. Seventy male C57BLKS/J mice were randomized into seven groups (db/m control, db/db control, metformin 250 mg/kg, DNR 100/300/900 mg/kg, and metformin 250 mg/kg + DNR 300 mg/kg) and treated orally for eight weeks. Physiological, biochemical, urinary, histological, and immunohistochemical(IHC) endpoints were assessed, including serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen(BUN), lipids, glucose, urinary microalbumin/albumin-to-creatinine ratio(ACR), glomerular area, mesangial expansion, and renal KIM-1 and TGF-β1 expression. Chemical profiling of the DNR extract by HPLC and LC–MS/MS identified allicin as a principal sulfur-containing constituent, exhibiting a distinct retention peak at 2.90 min and a protonated molecular ion at m/z 162.1 [M]⁺ with diagnostic fragment ions at m/z 145.1, 120.1, and 99.0. Allicin was qualitatively confirmed as a characteristic component of DNR, serving as a representative chemical marker for compositional characterization. DNR produced dose-dependent improvements: reductions in serum creatinine and BUN, improved lipid and glycemic profiles, decreased urinary microalbumin and ACR, and amelioration of glomerular hypertrophy and mesangial matrix expansion. IHC showed lower KIM-1 and TGF-β1 staining in treated groups. Effects at higher DNR doses were comparable to or additive with metformin for several endpoints. These findings indicate that DNR has promising renoprotective effects in this preclinical model. Full article

Cementation using Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) remains the standard method for conditioning low- and intermediate-level radioactive waste, including Spent Ion Exchange Resins (SIERs). This work presents an integrated strategy involving thermal pretreatment to minimize waste volume and eliminate organic constituents, followed by encapsulation within three distinct binders: CEM I, CEM III, and a novel one-part geopolymer. The one-part geopolymer system represents a significant operational innovation, enabling safe and simple “just-add-water” processing and avoiding the need to handle alkaline solutions. The proposed geopolymer, synthesized from metakaolin, blast furnace slag, and solid sodium silicate, was systematically benchmarked against conventional OPC matrices (CEM I, CEM III) by assessing their capacity to immobilize thermally treated SIER ashes under accelerated leaching conditions. For benchmarking, leaching indices for Cs and Sr were determined following the ANSI/ANS 16.9 standard protocol in three representative environments simulating operational and long-term repository scenarios, providing a quantitative evaluation of radionuclide retention and matrix durability. Results indicate that the one-part geopolymer improved leaching indices for Cs and Sr compared to both cementitious binders and complied with regulatory waste acceptance criteria. The comparative results highlight the potential of geopolymer technology to increase waste loading efficiencies and improve long-term safety, establishing a robust framework for future radioactive waste management approaches. Full article