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The ice plant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum L.) is a halophyte that could become an alternative crop because of its interest as a functional food and its adaptation to high‐saline soils. In this work, leaves from wild ice plants were compared with their cultivated counterparts in a soilless system at different salinities and light exposures for assessing growth parameters, moisture, fatty acid profiles, total carotenoids, phenolic compounds, vitamin C, antioxidant activity, and antiproliferative activity against the HT‐29 colorectal cancer cell line. Moisture ranged between 876 and 955 g kg−1, and wild plants contained higher proportions of α‐linolenic acid (58.7%–60.7% of total fatty acids) than cultivated ones (20.4%–36.6%). Vitamin C ranged between 819 and 1143 mg kg−1 fresh leaves. Higher salinity led to a larger production of carotenoids, whereas plant mass, total phenolic content, and antioxidant activity increased in plants grown using L8 NS1 and L8 AP67 lamps in comparison with white‐light ones. Phenolic profiles were assessed by LC coupled to a hybrid mass spectrometer Q‐Orbitrap. Total phenolic acid content was 3–4‐fold higher than that of flavonoids, and sinapic, p‐coumaric, gallic, 4‐hydroxybenzoic, and 2‐hydroxy‐4‐methoxybenzoic acids, as well as gallocatechin, occurred in all samples. Hydroalcoholic extracts of ice plant leaves showed dose‐ and time‐dependent antiproliferative activity against the HT‐29 human colorectal cancer cell line, and GI50 was between 920 and 977 μg mL−1 of plant extract. This work contributes to improving knowledge about the growth parameters, phytochemical profiles, and biological activities of wild and cultivated ice plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND RESULTS CONCLUSION Mango fruits undergo numerous postharvest quality losses during storage. Hence, the present study aimed to increase the shelf life of mango fruits by applying hexanal‐based enhanced freshness formulations (EFF) in combination with hot water treatment (HWT).The findings revealed that, among all the tested applications, the combination of EFF 1.0% + HWT reduced the weight loss, decay incidence, and activity of cell wall degrading enzymes of mango fruits. Also, the combined treatment was effective in maintaining the fruit quality parameters such as soluble solid contents, titratable acidity, ascorbic acid and activity of antioxidant compounds.The present study concludes that the postharvest application of EEF 1.0% in combination with HWT can be used in extending the shelf life of mango cv. ‘Langra,’ fruits stored at 12° C and 85–90% relative humidity for 35 days. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Chronic Unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) increased serum Corticosterone level. • UCMS increased oxidative stress status and neuro-inflammation and decreasing BDNF and Ki67 in the brain. • Oxidative stress and neuro-inflammation followed by learning and memory impairment in adolescent male rats. • Ascorbic acid (AA) improved learning and memory impairment. • Vit C decreased serum corticosterone level, brain oxidative stress damage and increased BDNF and neurogenesis. The present research study aimed to investigate the role of Ascorbic acid (AA) on synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory impairment induced by unpredicted chronic mild stress (CUMS) in adolescent male rats. Adolescent male rats were divided into: 1) vehicle, 2) CUMS, 3–5) CUMS plus various doses of AA by oral gavage (CUMS-10/100/400 mg/kg), and 6) AA400 mg/kg by oral gavage. In Morris Water Maze, the time latency decreased, while the time spent in the target quadrant increased in CUMS group treated with AA at the dose of 400 mg/kg. In passive avoidance, the latency of entering into the dark chamber decreased in CUMS group treated with AA (400 mg/kg). In biochemical test results, nitrite and MDA significantly decreased, while thiol content, SOD, and catalase activity in CUMS group that received AA400mg/kg was increased. IL-10, BDNF and Ki67 increased, while TNF-a and AChE activity were decreased in CUMS group treated with AA simultaneously. The results of our study showed that chronic stress during adolescence could cause learning and memory disorders as well as synaptic plasticity. In addition, we showed that AA can prevent this problem by reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, increasing the amount of BDNF, and neurogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development and application of functional feed ingredients represents a great opportunity to advance fish growth and health, boost the immune system, and induce physiological benefits beyond those provided by traditional feeds. In the present study, we looked at the feasibility of in vitro methods for screening the qualities of functional feed ingredients using the fish cell line RTgill-W1, which has never been used in fish nutrition, and the culture of Paramoeba perurans. Five functional feed ingredients (arginine, β-glucan, vitamin C, and two phytogenic feed additives) were selected to investigate their effects on cell viability and reactive oxygen species production. Three of the selected ingredients (arginine and two phytogenic feed additives) were additionally tested to assess their potential amoebicidal activity. As these functional ingredients are the core of a commercially available feed (Protec Gill, Skretting AS), their beneficial effects were further assessed in a field trial in fish affected by complex gill disease. Here, the analyzed parameters included the evaluation of macroscopic and histopathological gill conditions, pathogen detections, and analyses of plasma parameters. RTgill-W1 cell line assays were a good tool for screening functional ingredients and provided information about the optimal ingredient concentration ranges, which can be helpful for adjusting the concentrations in future feed diets. Through the culture of P. perurans, the tested ingredients showed a clear amoebicidal activity, suggesting that their inclusions in dietary supplements could be a viable way to prevent microbial infections. A three-week period of feeding Protec Gill slowed the disease progression, by reducing the pathogen load and significantly improving gill tissue conditions, as revealed by histological evaluation. The use of diets containing selected functional ingredients may be a feasible strategy for preventing or mitigating the increasingly common gill diseases, particularly in cases of complex gill disease, as documented in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fruit cracking impacts the quality of sweet cherry, significantly affecting its marketability due to increased susceptibility to injury, aesthetic flaws, and susceptibility to pathogens. The effect of 1% biofilm (Parka™) application regimes on fruit cracking and other quality parameters in the '0900 Ziraat' cherry cultivar was investigated in this study. Fruit sprayed with water were served as control (U1). Fruit treated only once with biofilm three, two and one week before the commercial harvest were considered as U2, U3 and U4, respectively. Fruit treated with biofilm three, two, and one week before harvest were considered as U5; three and two week before harvest as U6; two and one week before harvest as U7; and fruit treated three and one week before harvest as U8. Results: In both measurement periods, the lower cracking index was obtained in biofilm-treated sweet cherry fruit. However, the firmness of biofilm-treated fruit was higher than that of the control fruit. The lowest respiration rate was observed in U7, while the highest weight was recorded in U4 and U5 than the control. The biofilm application decreased fruit coloration. The biofilm application also increased the soluble solids content of the fruit. The U2, U3 and U4 applications at harvest showed higher titratable acidity than the control. In both measurement periods, the vitamin C content of the U2, U5, U6, U7 and U8 applications was found to be higher than that of the control. The total monomeric anthocyanin of the U3 and U8 applications was higher than that of the control. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity of the U2, U3 and U5 in the DPPH, and the U7 and U8 in FRAP were measured higher thanthat of the control. Conclusions: The application of biofilms has the potential to mitigate fruit cracking, prolong postharvest life of sweet cherries, and enhance fruit firmness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was carried out to assess the fruit traits and phytochemical properties of 39 mulberry genotypes [Morus alba L. (16 white mulberry), Morus rubra L. (11 red mulberry), and Morus nigra L. (12 black mulberry)] selected in Bitlis province (Hizan) of Türkiye. Approximately, 1 kg fruit were hand‐harvested from each genotype. The fruit size, fruit color, pH, titratable acidity, soluble solids content (SSC), vitamin C, total phenolics, total flavonoids, antioxidant activity, and individual phenolic compounds were determined. The fruit weight varied between 1.80 and 5.84 g in black mulberry, 1.22 and 4.18 g in red mulberry, and 1.29 and 3.10 g in white mulberry. In white mulberry, SSC was determined to be between 19.00% and 38.86%, and in black and red mulberry it was between 11.86% and 21.90% and 12.60% and 18.90%, respectively. The titratable acidity rate, which varied depending on the species, was lower in white mulberry, but the highest acidity rate was recorded in red mulberry. Vitamin C was determined as 33.13 mg 100 g−1 in red mulberry, 24.10 mg 100 g−1 in black mulberry, and 14.03 mg 100 g−1 in white mulberry. Total phenolics in mulberries varied depending on the species, and the red mulberry fruit contained higher phenolic substances, followed by black and white mulberries. The total flavonoids varied between 0.27 and 7.83 g QE kg−1, whereas the flavonoids varied depending on the species and genotype. The highest values in terms of bioactive compounds were recorded in fruits of the 13HZN23 and 37 genotypes. Black and red mulberry fruit were found to have higher levels of individual phenolic content than the white mulberrry fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Functional constituents are the main concern in food production and consumption. Because foods rich in functional constituents have antioxidant capacity and are important in keeping consumers healthy. Pleurotus ostreatus is among foods rich in functional constituents. However, its functional constituents are affected by various factors. This study compared the antioxidant capacity of P. ostreatus grown on different substrates: straws of tef (Trt1), barley (Trt2), and wheat (Trt3), husks of faba bean (Trt4), and field pea (Trt5), sawdust (Trt6), and the mixture of the above with 1:1 w/w (Trt7). Trt7 had significantly higher radical scavenging activity (RSA) (73.27%), vitamin C (10.61 mg/100 g), and vitamin D (4.92 mg/100 g) compared to other treatments. Whereas the lowest values of RSA (44.24%), vitamin C (5.39 mg/100 g), and vitamin D (1.21 mg/100 g) were found in Trt2. The results indicated that mixed substrate may be a good growth substrate for functionally beneficial P. ostreatus and could be a promising source of natural antioxidants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: N‐Nitroso dimethylamine (NDMA) is a mutagenic impurity detected in several ranitidine products. The amino functional group of ranitidine is a risk factor for classical nitrosation‐induced NDMA formation in ranitidine drug products during storage conditions. The United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) recommended the use of antioxidants to control NDMA in drug products. Considering the need for sensitive analytics, a liquid chromatography/high‐resolution mass spectrometry (LC–HRMS) method was developed and validated to detect NDMA in this pilot study to demonstrate the antioxidants as inhibitors of nitrosation reactions. Methods: The method, utilizing an EC‐C18 column and tuned to atmospheric pressure chemical ionization/selected ion monitoring (APCI/SIM) mode, separated NDMA (m/z: 75.0553; tR: 3.71 min) and ranitidine (m/z: 315.1485; tR: 8.61 min). APCI mode exhibited four times higher sensitivity to NDMA than electrospray ionization (ESI) mode. Classical nitrosation of the dimethyl amino group of ranitidine was studied with sodium nitrite in solid pellets. Antioxidants (alpha‐tocopherol, ascorbic acid, and trolox) were evaluated as NDMA attenuators in ranitidine pellets under vulnerable storage conditions. The developed method quantified NDMA levels in samples, extracted with methanol through vortex shaking for 45 min. Results: The method achieved a limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) of 0.01 and 0.05 ng/mL, respectively, with linearity within 1–5000 ng/mL (R1: 0.9995). It demonstrated good intra‐day and inter‐day precision (% RSD [relative standard deviation]: <2) and accuracy (96.83%–101.72%). Nitrosation of ranitidine induced by nitrite was significant (p < 0.001; R2 = 0.9579) at various sodium nitrite levels. All antioxidants efficiently attenuated NDMA formation during ranitidine nitrosation. Ascorbic acid exhibited the highest NDMA attenuation (96.98%), followed by trolox (90.58%). This study recommends 1% ascorbic acid and trolox as potent NDMA attenuators in ranitidine drug products. Conclusions: This study compared the effectiveness of antioxidants as NDMA attenuators in ranitidine under storage conditions susceptible to NDMA generation. The study concluded that ascorbic acid and trolox are potent inhibitors of NDMA formation and nitrosation attenuators in ranitidine drug products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This systematic review aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of hydrocortisone, ascorbic acid, and thiamine (HAT) combination therapy in patients with sepsis and septic shock. Methods: We conducted a database search in MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, Web of Science, and CNKI for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing HAT against placebo/standard of care or against hydrocortisone in sepsis/septic shock patients. Outcomes included mortality, ICU/hospital length of stay (LOS), vasopressor durations, mechanical ventilation durations, change in SOFA at 72 h, and adverse events. RCT results were pooled in random-effects meta-analyses. Quality of evidence was assessed using GRADE. Results: Fifteen RCTs (N = 2,594) were included. At 72 h, HAT reduced SOFA scores from baseline (mean difference [MD] −1.16, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −1.58 to −0.74, I2 = 0%) compared to placebo/SoC, based on moderate quality of evidence. HAT also reduced the duration of vasopressor use (MD −18.80 h, 95% CI: −23.67 to −13.93, I2 = 64%) compared to placebo/SoC, based on moderate quality of evidence. HAT increased hospital LOS (MD 2.05 days, 95% CI: 0.15–3.95, I2 = 57%) compared to placebo/SoC, based on very low quality of evidence. HAT did not increase incidence of adverse events compared to placebo/SoC. Conclusions: HAT appears beneficial in reducing vasopressor use and improving organ function in sepsis/septic shock patients. However, its advantages over hydrocortisone alone remain unclear. Future research should use hydrocortisone comparators and distinguish between sepsis-specific and comorbidity- or care-withdrawal-related mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Topical consumer interest in natural, healthier, safer and nutritional juice, has inspired the search for innovative technologies that can minimize product degradation. In this regard, thermosonication has been proposed as a potential processing technology that can preserve and produce "fresh" products. Watermelon (Citrulluslanatus) juice is a nutrient-rich fruit juice that is desired by consumers due to its appealing color, pleasant odor, sweet taste and low-calorie content. This fruit juice is, however, highly perishable and prone to microorganisms, because of its neutral pH value and high amount of water activity. In addition, it is thermo-sensitive and therefore degrades quickly under thermal processing. This study aimed to identify the optimal thermosonication processing conditions for retaining the critical quality parameters (lycopene, β-carotene, ascorbic acid and total polyphenolic content) of watermelon juice. Response surface methodology, employing a central composite design, was used to determine the effects of temperature (18–52 °C), processing time (2–13 min) and amplitude level (24–73 μm) at a constant frequency of 25 kHz. The highest quality parameters were obtained at 25 °C, 2 min, and 24 µm at a constant frequency of 25 kHz, which resulted in lycopene of 8.10 mg/100 g, β-carotene of 0.19 mg/100 g, ascorbic acid of 3.11 mg/100 g and total polyphenolic content of 23.96 mg/GAE/g with a desirability of 0.81. The proposed model was adequate (p < 0.0001), with a satisfactory determination coefficient (R2) of less than 0.8 for all phytochemicals. Thermosonicated watermelon juice samples showed minimal changes in their phytochemical properties, when compared to fresh juices; the lycopene content showed a significant increase after thermosonication, and a significant retention of β-carotene, ascorbic acid and total polyphenolic acid was observed. According to the findings, thermosonication could be a viable method for preserving watermelon juice, with minimal quality loss and improved functional attributes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is a consistent association between exposure to air pollution and elevated rates of cardiopulmonary illnesses. As public health activities emphasize the paramount need to reduce exposure, it is crucial to examine strategies like the antioxidant diet that could potentially protect individuals who are unavoidably exposed. Methods: A systematic search was performed in PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and ClinicalTrials.gov up to March 31, 2023, for clinical trials assessing dietary supplements against cardiovascular (blood pressure, heart rate, heart rate variability, brachial artery diameter, flow-mediated dilation, and lipid profile) or pulmonary outcomes (pulmonary function and airway inflammation) attributed to air pollution exposure. Results: After reviewing 4681 records, 18 studies were included. There were contradictory findings on the effects of fish oil and olive oil supplementations on cardiovascular outcomes. Although with limited evidence, fish oil offered protection against pulmonary dysfunction induced by pollutants. Most studies on vitamin C did not find protective cardiovascular effects; however, the combination of vitamin C and E offered protective effects against pulmonary dysfunction but showed conflicting results for cardiovascular outcomes. Other supplements like sulforaphane, L-arginine, n-acetylcysteine, and B vitamins showed potential beneficial effects but need further research due to the limited number of existing trials. Conclusions: Although more research is needed to determine the efficacy and optimal dose of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant dietary supplements against air pollution toxicity, this low-cost preventative strategy has the potential to offer protection against outcomes of air pollution exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MIL-88B, a promising Fe-based 3D porous metal–organic framework (MOF) catalyst for the Fenton reaction, requires modifications to enhance its pro-oxidant activity and enable magnetic control of the sample. This study reports the successful modification of MIL-88B with iron oxide (Fe3O4) and ascorbic acid (AA). The characterization of the crystal structure and morphology of the Fe3O4–AA MOF sample using X-ray diffraction, Raman and Mössbauer spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy revealed that AA facilitated the formation of magnetite with a composition approaching a stoichiometry of Fe2.96O4 while preserving the MOF structure. Specifically, in the presence of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), Fe3O4–AA–MOF exhibited a 3-fold increase in the Fenton reaction rate for methylene blue degradation compared to the conventional homogeneous system at pH 4.5. Furthermore, Fe3O4–AA–MOF retained the antibacterial properties of AA, as evidenced by its ability to increase reactive oxygen species in luminescent marine bacterium Photobacterium phosphoreum at low concentrations while exhibiting moderate cytotoxicity. The enhanced pro-oxidant activity of the Fe3O4–AA–MOF/H2O2 system is attributed to an AA-promoted surface Fe2+/Fe3+ cycle. A possible mechanism for this system is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A highly reversible Zn metal anode is the prerequisite for realizing the practical applications of aqueous Zn ion batteries (ZIBs), which are limited by severe zinc dendrites and corrosion. Herein, bio-inspired hydroxyl-rich L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C, L-Aa) was employed to regulate coordination chemistry via the strong interaction between –OH and H2O with dual remodeling functions and further improve the reversibility of Zn anodes. Specifically, L-Aa not only reconstructs the Zn2+ solvation shell, thus reducing Zn2+ desolvation energy, but also forms a molecular adsorption interface via excellent zincophilicity to improve zinc redox kinetics and suppress Zn anode corrosion. Meanwhile, the molecular adsorption interface facilitates the homogenization of the interfacial electric field, thereby promoting the predominant deposition of Zn(002). Consequently, the Zn//Cu asymmetric cell presents a low overpotential for zinc nucleation and exceptional average coulombic efficiency (CE) of 99.6% over 1200 cycles at a high current density of 20 mA cm−2. The Zn//Zn cell also delivers excellent cycling stability for over 1400 h at 5 mA cm−2. In addition, the Zn//MnO2 full cell exhibits a robust long-term cycling performance of 1000 cycles at 1 A g−1. This strategy of simultaneously regulating coordination chemistry and further constructing molecular interfaces may boost the applications of highly reversible ZIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioelectrode is critical to many biomedical researches. However, traditional materials (typically noble metals) and manufacturing techniques limit the large‐scale production of bioelectrodes. Herein, a fast electrochemical approach is proposed to deposit versatile MXene/polydopamine (PDA) composites on a metalized substrate. PDA coating can improve the adhesion between MXene and the substrate, while MXene provides rough surfaces with unique micro/nanostructure and outstanding electrical/optical/thermal performance. The impedance of the as‐prepared bioelectrode at 1 kHz is down to 8.48 Ω cm2. The corresponding cathodic charge storage capacity (CSCc) and charge injection capacity (CIC) are up to ≈250 and 6.59 mC cm−2 respectively, much superior to that of bare Pt and other conventional material‐based electrodes. The MXene/PDA composites also demonstrate robust stability under continuous electrostimulation for 1 × 108 pulse cycles and 1000 CV cycles. Moreover, MXene/PDA composites show a high and rapid photothermal response. Photoelectrochemical activity is also observed with high photocurrent, ≈40 folds larger than that of bare Pt. The utility of this new electrode in ascorbic acid sensing is demonstrated. Excellent biocompatibility is verified via neuron adhesion test and viability assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hydroxyl radical is the most aggressive and dangerous product of incomplete oxygen reduction in a body, making its determination and the effect of various antioxidants on the inhibition of OH radicals a pertinent task. We propose an impedance sensor for the determination of hydroxyl radicals, based on a graphite electrode modified with electrochemically deposited gold and a self-assembled monolayer of N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC). The use of NAC ensures the high selectivity of the sensor, and employing non-Faradaic impedance as a method of recording the analytical signal ensures the limit of detection for OH radicals at the level 0.01 nM with a linearity range of detectable concentrations from 0.08 to 8 nM. The developed sensor has been successfully used to assess the activity of certain antioxidants (ascorbic acid, glutathione, coenzyme Q10) towards OH radicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An ultra-sensitive photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensor based on perovskite composite was developed for the determination of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in human serum. In contrast to CsPbBr3 or Y6 that generated anodic current, the heterojunction of CsPbBr3/Y6 promoted photocarriers to separate and generated cathodic photocurrent. Ascorbic acid (AA) was produced by ALP hydrolyzing L-ascorbic acid 2-phosphate trisodium salt (AAP), which can combine with the holes on the photoelectrode surface, accelerating the transmission of photogenerated carriers, leading to enhanced photocurrent intensity. Thus, the enhancement of PEC current was linked to ALP activity. The PEC sensor exhibits good sensitivity for detection of ALP owing to the unique photoelectric properties of the CsPbBr3/Y6 heterojunction. The detection limit of the sensor was 0.012 U·L−1 with a linear dynamic range of 0.02–2000 U·L−1. Therefore, this PEC sensing platform shows great potential for the development of different PEC sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) report relief of symptoms after consuming certain foods. Diet plays a vital role in rheumatoid arthritis-related inflammation regulation. This study investigates the relationship between dietary inflammation index (DII) scores and RA disease activity. Forty-one RA patients were enrolled in the study. The general inflammatory index of the diet was analyzed by recording the 24-h food consumption of the patients, and the nutrients were analyzed using the Nutrition Information Systems Package Program. Dietary inflammatory indices were calculated for each patient using the patients' macro and micronutrient intake levels. RA disease activity was assessed using the Disease Activity Score-28 (DAS-28). The DAS-28 score was lower in the anti-inflammatory diet group compared to the pro-inflammatory diet group (p = 0.163). A weak but significant relationship was found between diet inflammation index score and DAS-28 (r = 0.3468, p = 0.0263). The effect of the dietary inflammatory index on the DAS-28 was 12.02%. Dietary iron, vitamin C, niacin, and magnesium intakes were statistically significantly higher in the quartile group that received an anti-inflammatory diet than in the quartile group that received a pro-inflammatory diet. The intake of some micronutrients, such as iron, zinc, magnesium, and folic acid, was significantly lower than the recommended values in all RA quartile groups. Our results suggest that reducing inflammation through the diet may have a weak but significant effect in controlling disease activity in RA patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Sepsis is a severe disease with a complex pathogenesis and is an important factor in the mortality of patients in intensive care units (ICUs). The administration of vitamin C and its combination treatment in sepsis was not supported by the results of multiple randomized controlled clinical trials. However, the efficacy of a higher vitamin C dose in treating patients with sepsis remains unclear. Therefore, the effectiveness of administering a larger dosage of vitamin C to patients with sepsis remains unclear. Methods and Analysis: The Clinical Efficacy of Megadose Vitamin C in Sepsis (CEMVIS) trial is a multicenter, single-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial with 234 individuals with sepsis. The following adult patients will be enrolled: those with procalcitonin (PCT) ≥ 2 ng/mL and sepsis 3.0 diagnostic criteria. Patients will be randomly assigned to receive 12 g vitamin C or the same volume of 5% glucose injection intravenously pumped every 12 h for 4 days or up to the moment they are discharged from ICU. The primary outcome will be the mortality within 28 days. Secondary outcomes will mainly include protection and support of organ functions, improvement in inflammatory status, and length of ICU stay. Moreover, adverse events and serious adverse events will be meticulously recorded. Ethics: This study was approved by the Clinical Ethics Committee of Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University (2020-KY-069-05). The trial results will be published in peer-reviewed journals or at national or international conferences. Trial registration: clinicaltrials.gov, NCT05194189, Registered 3 January 2022, URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhanterium epapposum Oliv. (Family: Asteraceae) is a common plant in Saudi Arabia, possessing a variety of traditional uses. The current targets were studying the comparative chemical profile and antioxidant of the essential oil (EO) of R. epapposum collected from a sandy habitat at Qareenah, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The EO profiling was constructed via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and GC-flame ionization detection (GC-FID). Forty-eight compounds were found, including monoterpenes (hydrocarbons 3.25% and oxygenated 48.64%), sesquiterpenes (hydrocarbons 12.64 % and oxygenated 32.38%), which are the backbone of the oil along with a minor of other non-terpenoid compounds (1.31%). Linalool (18.02%), α-eudesmol (11.98%), trans-sesquisabinene hydrate (11.63%), aromadendrene oxide-(1) (7.68%), nerol (6.88%), and α-terpineol (5.01%) were identified as the dominant components. The EO was evaluated for its antioxidant activity using in vitro DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP methods. The results demonstrated that R. epapposum EO possesses a dosage-dependent ability for antioxidant scavenging activity as per all three techniques. This EO exhibited IC50 values of 517.59, 350.24, and 713.72 μg/mL for the DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP, respectively, through the comparison with the ascorbic acid with respective values of 36.10, 26.12, and 44.58 μg/mL. The main compounds were subjected to docking analysis on cytochrome P450 1A1 and xanthine oxidase. All evaluated compounds exhibited good binding affinities especially α-eudesmol and linalool for both enzymes, respectively. The current research confirmed the potent free radical scavenging properties of R. epapposum EO. More research on the antioxidant content of this oil and/or its primary constituents in pure form on the two enzymes, cytochrome P450 1A1 and xanthine oxidase, is proposed to develop a better understanding of the oxidative action routes in vivo and in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a major public health issue, posing harmful consequences for individuals and society. Recent advances in addiction research have highlighted the therapeutic potential of ketamine-assisted therapy for AUD. However, the exact mechanisms underlying its effectiveness remain unknown. Aims: This double-blind, pilot study aimed to investigate esketamine combined with mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) to examine whether esketamine enhances engagement in MBI for individuals with alcohol misuse problems and whether enhanced engagement has any impact on alcohol-related outcomes. Methods: In all, 28 individuals with alcohol problems were randomly assigned to receive sublingual esketamine hydrochloride (AWKN002: 115.1 mg) or vitamin C (placebo) in an oral thin film and took part in 2 weeks of daily MBI. Participants were assessed on various self-report measures, including mindfulness, engagement in MBI (physical and psychological), alcohol cravings and consumption. Results: Esketamine enhanced psychological engagement with a daily MBI, compared to placebo, and led to transient decreases in alcohol cravings. Esketamine also resulted in significantly greater mystical experiences and dissociative states compared to placebo. Conclusions: The findings suggest that esketamine may improve treatment outcomes when combined with mindfulness-based therapies through its ability to increase engagement with meditative practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cynometra iripa Kostel. is a Fabaceae species of mangrove used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for treating inflammatory conditions. The present study aims to establish monographic botanical and chemical quality criteria for C. iripa leaf and bark as herbal substances and to evaluate their in vitro antioxidant potential. Macroscopic and microscopic qualitative and quantitative analyses, chemical LC-UV/DAD-ESI/MS profiling, and the quantification of key chemical classes were performed. Antioxidant activity was evaluated by DPPH and FRAP assays. Macroscopically, the leaf is asymmetrical with an emarginated apex and cuneate base. Microscopically, it shows features such as two-layered adaxial palisade parenchyma, vascular bundles surrounded by 3–6 layers of sclerenchyma, prismatic calcium oxalate crystals (5.89 ± 1.32 μm) along the fibers, paracytic stomata only on the abaxial epidermis (stomatal index–20.15), and non-glandular trichomes only on petiolules. The microscopic features of the bark include a broad cortex with large lignified sclereids, prismatic calcium oxalate crystals (8.24 ± 1.57 μm), and secondary phloem with distinct 2–5 seriated medullary rays without crystals. Chemical profile analysis revealed that phenolic derivatives, mainly condensed tannins and flavonoids, are the main classes identified. A total of 22 marker compounds were tentatively identified in both plant parts. The major compounds identified in the leaf were quercetin-3-O-glucoside and taxifolin pentoside and in the bark were B-type dimeric proanthocyanidins and taxifolin 3-O-rhamnoside. The total phenolics content was higher in the leaf (1521 ± 4.71 mg GAE/g dry weight), while the total flavonoids and condensed tannins content were higher in the bark (82 ± 0.58 mg CE/g and 1021 ± 5.51 mg CCE/g dry weight, respectively). A total of 70% of the hydroethanolic extracts of leaf and bark showed higher antioxidant activity than the ascorbic acid and concentration-dependent scavenging activity in the DPPH assay (IC50 23.95 ± 0.93 and 23.63 ± 1.37 µg/mL, respectively). A positive and statistically significant (p < 0.05) correlation between the phenol content and antioxidant activity was found. The results obtained will provide important clues for the quality control criteria of C. iripa leaf and bark, as well as for the knowledge of their pharmacological potential as possible anti-inflammatory agents with antioxidant activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the utilization of natural components has become crucial across various industries, including medicine. Particularly in biomedical contexts, hydrogel materials are of significant importance. Therefore, the objective of this research was to develop and analyze hydrogel materials infused with vitamin C. A key focus of this study was to conduct multiple syntheses with varying levels of vitamin C to explore the feasibility of creating materials with adjustable properties. The produced hydrogels underwent comprehensive physicochemical evaluation. The findings of this examination verified the correlation between the vitamin C content and the specific characteristics of the hydrogels. It was determined from these results that the samples displayed both sorptive and antioxidative capabilities, enabling their potential application in wound dressings or other biomedical uses. A notable benefit of these hydrogels is their adaptability, allowing for modifications to achieve desired attributes tailored to particular applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was aimed at investigating the phytochemical profile and bioactivity of Diplotaxis harra subsp. crassifolia (Brassicaceae), a species from central–southern Sicily (Italy), where it is consumed as a salad. For this purpose, LC–ESI/HRMSn analysis of the ethanolic extract was performed, highlighting the occurrence, along with flavonoids, hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives, and oxylipins, of sulfated secondary metabolites, including glucosinolates and various sulfooxy derivatives (e.g., C13 nor-isoprenoids, hydroxyphenyl, and hydroxybenzoic acid derivatives), most of which were never reported before in the Brassicaeae family or in the Diplotaxis genus. Following ethnomedicinal information regarding this species used for the treatment of various pathologies such as diabetes and hypercholesterolemia, D. harra ethanolic extract was evaluated for its antioxidant potential using different in vitro tests such as 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid), Ferric Reducing Ability Power, and β-carotene bleaching tests. The inhibitory activity of carbohydrate-hydrolyzing enzymes (α-amylase and α-glucosidase) and pancreatic lipase was also assessed. In the 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid assay, an IC50 value comparable to the positive control ascorbic acid (2.87 vs. 1.70 μg/mL, respectively) was obtained. The wild-wall rocket salad extract showed a significant α-amylase inhibitory effect. Obtained results indicate that Sicilian wild-wall rocket contains phytochemicals that can prevent hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rosehip fruits, characterized by their high concentrations of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity (AA), have been traditionally used to make jams, infusions, and juices. Thus, the objective of this research was to evaluate the stability of rosehip juice by determining the concentrations of bioactive compounds and total phenols and the AA using chromatographic and spectroscopic methods. The stability of the juice was evaluated with three treatments and different storage conditions, namely, unpasteurized–refrigerated, pasteurized–room temperature, and pasteurized–refrigerated, and measurements were taken for eight months. Individual and total phenolic compounds, evaluated by chromatographic methods, reported differences until the end of this study. The total phenolic compounds by Folin–Ciocalteu method presented an average decrease of 57% in the three treatments in relation to the initial conditions. On the other hand, the ascorbic acid content decreased considerably, disappearing at week six. Furthermore, for the unpasteurized–refrigerated and pasteurized–refrigerated samples, a correlation was found between flavonols, total phenols, ascorbic acid, and antioxidant activity determined by the TEAC method. For the pasteurized–room temperature samples, correlations were found between the levels of several flavonols, hydroxycinnamic acid, total phenols, and ascorbic acid and the antioxidant activity determined by the CUPRAC method. The stability of the compounds was mainly correlated with the storage conditions of the juice and not with pasteurization. The highest stability was observed for the unpasteurized–refrigerated and pasteurized–refrigerated samples. Although the concentrations of the compounds evaluated decreased during this study, significant levels of AA persisted, providing beneficial characteristics for consumer health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we designed a novel electrochemical sensor by modifying a glass carbon electrode (GCE) with Pd confined mesoporous carbon hollow nanospheres (Pd/MCHS) for the simultaneous detection of ascorbic acid (AA), dopamine (DA), and uric acid (UA). The structure and morphological characteristics of the Pd/MCHS nanocomposite and the Pd/MCHS/GCE sensor are comprehensively examined using SEM, TEM, XRD and EDX. The electrochemical properties of the prepared sensor are investigated through CV and DPV, which reveal three resolved oxidation peaks for AA, DA, and UA, thereby verifying the simultaneous detection of the three analytes. Benefiting from its tailorable properties, the Pd/MCHS nanocomposite provides a large surface area, rapid electron transfer ability, good catalytic activity, and high conductivity with good electrochemical behavior for the determination of AA, DA, and UA. Under optimized conditions, the Pd/MCHS/GCE sensor exhibited a linear response in the concentration ranges of 300–9000, 2–50, and 20–500 µM for AA, DA, and UA, respectively. The corresponding limit of detection (LOD) values were determined to be 51.03, 0.14, and 4.96 µM, respectively. Moreover, the Pd/MCHS/GCE sensor demonstrated outstanding selectivity, reproducibility, and stability. The recovery percentages of AA, DA, and UA in real samples, including a vitamin C tablet, DA injection, and human urine, range from 99.8–110.9%, 99.04–100.45%, and 98.80–100.49%, respectively. Overall, the proposed sensor can serve as a useful reference for the construction of a high-performance electrochemical sensing platform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The realization of efficient and accurate detection of biomolecules has become a key scientific issue in the field of life sciences. With the rapid development of nanotechnology, electrochemical sensors constructed from the superior physical and chemical properties of nanomaterials show faster and more accurate detection. Among nanomaterials, two-dimensional conductive MOF (2D cMOF) is considered to be a star material in electrochemical sensors due to its remarkable conductivity, high porosity, and stability. In this paper, a Cu3(HHTP)2/SPE electrochemical sensor for the detection of ascorbic acid (AA) was constructed by modifying 2D cMOF (Cu3(HHTP)2) on the surface of the screen-printed electrode (SPE). The sensor exhibited excellent catalytic activity in the detection of AA, with a lower detection limit of 2.4 μmol/L (S/N = 3) and a wide linear range of 25–1645 μmol/L. This high catalytic activity can be attributed to the abundant catalytic sites in Cu3(HHTP)2 and the rapid electron transfer between Cu+ and Cu2+, which accelerates the oxidation of AA. This work lays a foundation for the subsequent development of MOFs with special electrochemical catalytic properties and the integration of 2D cMOF into intelligent electrical analysis devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The abilities of Chinese quince free proanthocyanidins (FP) and bound proanthocyanidins (BP) at different levels (0.1%, 0.15%, and 0.3%) to mitigate heterocyclic aromatic amine (HAA) formation in fried chicken patties were investigated for the first time and compared with vitamin C (Vc). FP and BP reduced HAAs in a dose‐dependent manner. Significantly, high concentrations of FP (0.3%) resulted in a reduction of PhIP, harman, and norharman levels by 59.84%, 22.91%, and 38.21%, respectively, in chicken patties. The addition of proanthocyanidins significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the weight loss of fried chicken patties. Furthermore, a positive correlation was observed among pH, weight loss, and total HAA formation in all three groups (FP, BP, and Vc). Multivariate analysis showed that FP had a more pronounced effect than BP from the perspective of enhancing the quality of fried chicken patties and reducing the formation of HAAs. These results indicate that proanthocyanidins, both BP and FP, but especially FP, from Chinese quince can inhibit the formation of carcinogenic HAAs when added to protein‐rich foods that are subsequently fried. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Isochoric (constant volume) freezing is a novel food preservation technology that has demonstrated the ability to preserve food products at subfreezing temperatures in an unfrozen state, thereby avoiding the detrimental effects of ice formation. It minimizes the quality loss of fresh fruits and juices, increases their nutrient content, and reduces microbial counts. Orange juice (OJ) samples were subjected to conventional freezing (CF) and isochoric freezing (IF) for 7 days and then stored at 4°C for an additional 7 days. We evaluated the microbiological and physicochemical quality of CF and IF OJ before and after storage. The IF was performed at three different conditions: −5°C/73 MPa, −10°C/93 MPa, and −15°C/143 MPa. The results indicate that the total aerobic count of OJ remained below the detection limit after heat treatment, 7 days of CF and 7 days of IF. Yeast and mold counts increased in fresh and CF OJ after 7 days of storage at 4°C, whereas IF OJ remained below the detection limit. Less color difference was observed in IF (−15°C/143 MPa) OJ compared to heat‐treated and CF OJ. Heat treatment inactivated 42% of pectin methylesterase (PME), whereas 7‐day long IF increased PME activity up to 150%. Additionally, IF (−15°C/143 MPa) OJ showed reduced pulp sedimentation, which can be advantageous, as sedimentation in juices has been a recognized technological issue in the juice industry. Ascorbic acid level was significantly higher in IF (−15°C/143 MPa) OJ compared to fresh and CF OJ after storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We assessed the effect of non-protein thiols (NPSH), reduced glutathione (GSH) and n-acetylcysteine (NAC), on resin shear bond strength (SBS) to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-treated dentin, and their effects on the characteristics of dentin in comparison to ascorbic acid (AA) and sodium thiosulfate (STS). H2O2-treated dentin was conditioned with 5% AA, GSH, NAC, or STS applied for 1 or 5 min. The positive control group received H2O2 without antioxidant application, and the first negative control group received distilled water (DW). The specimens received resin bonding immediately after treatment except for the second negative control group (delayed bonding). Microhardness, roughness, and topography were studied. The SBS values of all antioxidants were statistically greater than the positive control group (p < 0.05); however, NAC and AA applied for 1 min demonstrated the highest values, which were comparable to delayed bonding. All treatments removed the smear layer except DW, H2O2, and STS. The negative effect of H2O2 on resin–dentin bonding was mitigated by the application of the antioxidants; however, their efficiencies were dependent on the antioxidant type and time of application. NAC was more effective in optimizing resin bonding to bleached dentin compared to GSH at 1 min application and STS at both application times but was comparable to AA. Negligible negative effects on the substrate's roughness and microhardness were detected. The antioxidant properties of the agent and its capacity to remove the smear layer are the processes underpinning the ability of a certain antioxidant to reverse the effect of H2O2 on bonding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving the drought resistance of rice is of great significance for expanding the planting area and improving the stable yield of rice. In our previous work, we found that ROLLED AND ERECT LEAF1 (REL1) protein promoted enhanced tolerance to drought stress by eliminating reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and triggering the abscisic acid (ABA) response. However, the mechanism through which REL1 regulates drought tolerance by removing ROS is unclear. In this study, we identified REL1 interacting protein 5 (RIP5) and found that it directly combines with REL1 in the chloroplast. We found that RIP5 was strongly expressed in ZH11 under drought-stress conditions, and that the rip5-ko mutants significantly improved the tolerance of rice plants to drought, whereas overexpression of RIP5 resulted in greater susceptibility to drought. Further investigation suggested that RIP5 negatively regulated drought tolerance in rice by decreasing the content of ascorbic acid (AsA), thereby reducing ROS clearance. RNA sequencing showed that the knockout of RIP5 caused differential gene expression that is chiefly associated with ascorbate and aldarate metabolism. Furthermore, multiple experimental results suggest that REL1 is involved in regulating drought tolerance by inhibiting RIP5. Collectively, our findings reveal the importance of the inhibition of RIP5 by REL1 in affecting the rice's response to drought stress. This work not only explains the drought tolerance mechanism of rice, but will also help to improve the drought tolerance of rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ascorbic acid functions as an antioxidant and facilitates other biochemical processes such as collagen triple helix formation, and iron uptake by cells. Animals which endogenously produce ascorbic acid have a functional gulonolactone oxidase gene (GULO); however, humans have a GULO pseudogene (GULOP) and depend on dietary ascorbic acid. In this study, the conservation of GULOP sequences in the primate haplorhini suborder were investigated and compared to the GULO sequences belonging to the primates strepsirrhini suborder. Phylogenetic analysis suggested that the conserved GULOP exons in the haplorhini primates experienced a high rate of mutations following the haplorhini/strepsirrhini divergence. This high mutation rate has decreased during the evolution of the haplorhini primates. Additionally, indels of the haplorhini GULOP sequences were conserved across the suborder. A separate analysis for GULO sequences and well-conserved GULOP sequences focusing on placental mammals identified an in-frame GULO sequence in the Brazilian guinea pig, and a potential GULOP sequence in the pika. Similar to haplorhini primates, the guinea pig and lagomorph species have experienced a high substitution rate when compared to the mammals used in this study. A shared synteny to examine the conservation of local genes near GULO/GULOP identified a conserved inversion around the GULO/GULOP locus between the haplorhini and strepsirrhini primates. Fischer's exact test did not support an association between GULOP and the chromosomal inversion. Mauve alignment showed that the inversion of the length of the syntenic block that the GULO/GULOP genes belonged to was variable. However, there were frequent rearrangements around ~ 2 million base pairs adjacent to GULOP involving the KIF13B and MSRA genes. These data may suggest that genes acquiring deleterious mutations in the coding sequence may respond to these deleterious mutations with rapid substitution rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bell pepper fruits (Capsicum annuum L.) are prone to both physiological and pathological deterioration following harvest, primarily due to their high metabolic activity and water content. The storage of bell peppers presents several challenges, including weight loss, softening, alterations in fruit metabolites and color, increased decay, and a decline in marketability. The application of edible coatings (ECs) is one of the environmentally friendly technologies that improves many post‐harvest quantitative and qualitative characteristics of products. This research investigated the impact of different levels of gum tragacanth (GT) coating (0, 0.25, 0.5, 1, and 2%) on the physiological and biochemical traits of stored bell pepper fruits (BPFs) (8 ± 1°C, 90–95% RH) for 28 days. The results showed the positive effect of coating treatments with higher concentrations of GT, up to 1%. Increasing the concentration of GT to 2% decreased the marketability and quality characteristics of fruits compared to 1% GT. After storage, the physiological weight loss of the fruits treated with 1% GT (10.46%) was lower than that of the uncoated fruits (18.92%). Furthermore, the coated fruits (1% GT) had more firmness, total phenol content, ascorbic acid, and titratable acidity content than uncoated fruits during storage. At the end of storage, the coated BPFs with 1% GT showed higher SOD (97.02 U g−1), CAT (24.38 U g−1) and POD (0.11 U g−1) activities and antioxidant capacity (81.74%) as compared to other treatments. Total soluble solids, total carbohydrates, total carotenoids, pH, malondialdehyde, and electrolyte leakage content increased in coated fruit during storage but were significantly lower than in uncoated fruits. Moreover, the samples coated with GT (1%) maintained good marketability (about 75%), while the marketability of the control (about 40%) was unacceptable. The study shows that GT (1%) coating can be a promising novel treatment option for increasing the storage quality of BPFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine whether ascorbic acid (AA) supplementation can lower plasma levels of Cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone‐sulphate (DHEA‐S) in patients diagnosed with functional hypercortisolemia due to unspecified chronic stress. Study includes data from 69 female with elevations in the cortisol and DHEA‐S levels. Duration of follow‐up was 2 months. Patients were divided into 3 groups. Group I included patients 23 with elevated cortisol, Group II—patients 24 with elevated levels of both hormones, Group III‐ patients 22 with normal cortisol and increased DHEA‐S. Each group was randomly divided into two subgroups. The first subgroup was prescribed 1000 mg daily oral dose of AA. The diet of the second subgroup were left unaltered. All patients have their hormones levels re‐examined 2 months later. After 2 months of AA supplementation the mean levels of elevated plasma cortisol and DHEA‐S decreased. In Group I the level of cortisol fell from 780 ± 57–446 ± 26 nmol/L, p = 0.000065 in Group II from 657 ± 47–515 ± 29 nmol/L, p = 0.005. The elevated levels of DHEA‐S have also declined in patients from AA‐treated subgroups (from 13.9 ± 1.6–9.9 ± 1.2, p = 0.0007 in Group II, and from 12.8 ± 1.0–7.8 ± 1.4, p = 0.003 in Group III). In untreated subgroups changes in hormone levels were insignificant. The study shows that female patients with functional hypercortisolemia or elevated levels of DHEA‐S can be treated with AA to bring level of these hormones closer to a normal range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Throughout the globe morphological, biochemical and genetic variability exists in chilli and is harnessed to achieve specific breeding objectives. In this study, chilli germplasm was characterized based on horticultural traits, biochemical quantification and simple sequence repeat (SSR) polymorphism for diversity estimation. A total of 36 SSR primers were utilised to study the genetic divergence among 48 genotypes of chilli collected from nine states of India. Among the 36 primers, sixteen amplified null alleles. A total of 41 alleles were detected with average 2.05 alleles per locus. The largest number of alleles (5) were obtained with marker CAMS-234. The polymorphic information content ranged from 0.06 to 0.72 with an average of 0.50. On the basis of SSR analysis, the UPGMA cluster classified 48 genotypes into three groups. There was significant variability in germplasm for all morpho-biochemical traits. Kashi Anmol (100.50 q/ha) expressed the highest yield. Highest vitamin C content at green stage was recorded in IC-561635 (187 mg/100 g) and the greatest capsaicin content (9547.90 µg/g) equivalent to pungency of 171,862.2 Scoville heat units (SHU) was recorded in Bhut Jolokia. Principal component analysis indicates that the first five principal components explain 74.63% per cent of the total variation. Additionally, analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) showed that 1% of the total genetic variation occurred among the population and 99% genetic variation within the populations, whereas the pairwise Fst specified the moderate genetic variation ranging from 0.002 to 0.020. The present investigation has strengthened the knowledge of genetic worth of this germplasm for application in various genetic improvement programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methomyl (Met) is a carbamate pesticide, extensively used as an insecticide and an acaricide. Environmental and occupational exposures to this chemical may pose serious health risks. This study aimed to investigate the possible protective effects of vitamin E (Vit E) against methomyl-induced toxicity. Thirty-two pregnant rats were divided into four groups and treated orally on gestational days 0–18: control, Met (10 mg/kg/day), Vit E (100 mg/kg/day) and (Met + Vit E), respectively. Biochemical parameters, progesterone levels and reproductive indices were evaluated. After post-partum, ovaries were excised, weighed and used for histopathological examinations. Results showed that Met induces significant alterations in biochemical parameters, progesterone levels and reproductive outcomes. Moreover, Met-ovary sections revealed vessel congestion and an increase in atretic follicles. The co-administration of Vit E along with Met can achieve obvious ameliorative effects in biochemical and reproductive parameters, and in ovarian-histopathology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This scoping review aimed to investigate whether sodium ascorbate can recover the bond strength of resin composite restorations to sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl)-treated dentin. The protocol of this study, available online (), followed the Joana Briggs Institute guidelines. The PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews was used to reporting. In vitro studies evaluating the effect of sodium ascorbate on NaOCl-treated dentin and resin composite restorations, regardless of the adhesive material used, were included without time restriction. The search and study screening were conducted in Embase, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science by two independent researchers. A descriptive analysis was performed and the PRILE 2021 guidelines were used to assess the risk bias of the included studies. The initial search yielded 941 studies, of which only 7 studies were included. The findings revealed that extracted third molars were the most used samples, and there was a significant variation in the NaOCl concentration employed. In general, sodium ascorbate effectively restored the compromised bond strength in dentin treated with different NaOCl concentrations. Furthermore, regarding the failure mode, the most prevalent observed was mixed failure. This scoping review showed that sodium ascorbate appears to effectively recover the bond strength of resin composite restorations to dentin treated with NaOCl. However, it is important to note the limited number of studies and the heterogeneity observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastric cryptosporidiosis (GC) is an insidious infection in squamates caused by the protozoan Cryptosporidium serpentis, and it has impacted the captive breeding colony for the eastern indigo snake (Drymarchon couperi) reintroduction program. This study investigates a novel treatment of GC in the eastern indigo snake. Seventeen eastern indigo snakes with GC were randomly divided into three groups: A, B, and C. Group A (n = 6) snakes received parenteral administration of 25 mg/kg of vitamin C, 0.5 mg/kg of vitamin E, and 50 μg/kg of selenium and 5 ml/kg of 3% hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) gavage; group B (n = 6) snakes received the same injections, but 5 ml/kg of water gavage; and group C (n = 5) snakes received no treatments and served as the control. All eastern indigo snakes from groups A and B tested negative for C. serpentis for 3 months following treatment, whereas only 60% (3/5) of snakes in group C tested negative. Eastern indigo snakes testing negative received one 4-mg/kg dexamethasone sodium phosphate injection. For 3 months following dexamethasone, 66.7% (4/6) of snakes in group A continued to test negative, compared with 83.3% (5/6) of snakes in group B and 20% (1/5) in group C. Eastern indigo snakes testing negative underwent gastric biopsies, but only one snake from group C was confirmed to be negative for C. serpentis. Although parenteral vitamin C, vitamin E, and selenium with H2O2 gavage decreased shedding of C. serpentis, it did not outperform the vitamins and selenium without H2O2. The parenteral use of 25 mg/kg of vitamin C, 0.5 mg/kg of vitamin E, and 50 μg/kg of selenium once weekly cannot be recommended for treatment of C. serpentis in eastern indigo snakes if complete resolution of the parasite is desired. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coumarins represent a diverse class of natural compounds whose importance in pharmaceutical and agri-food sectors has motivated multiple novel synthetic derivatives with broad applicability. The phenolic moiety in 4-hydroxycoumarins underscores their potential to modulate the equilibrium between free radicals and antioxidant species within biological systems. The aim of this work was to assess the antioxidant activity of 18 4-hydroxycoumarin coumarin derivatives, six of which are commercially available and the other 12 were synthesized and chemically characterized and described herein. The 4-hydroxycoumarins were prepared by a two steps synthetic strategy with satisfactory yields. Their antioxidant potential was evaluated through three in vitro methods, two free radical-scavenging assays (DPPH• and ABTS•+) and a metal chelating activity assay. Six synthetic coumarins (4a, 4g, 4h, 4i, 4k, 4l) had a scavenging capacity of DPPH• higher than butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) (IC50 = 0.58 mmol/L) and compound 4a (4-hydroxy-6-methoxy-2 H-chromen-2-one) with an IC50 = 0.05 mmol/L outperformed both BHT and ascorbic acid (IC50 = 0.06 mmol/L). Nine hydroxycoumarins had a scavenging capacity against ABTS•+ greater (C3, 4a, 4c) or comparable (C1, C2, C4, C6, 4g, 4l) to Trolox (IC50 = 34.34 µmol/L). Meanwhile, the set had a modest ferrous chelation capacity, but most of them (C2, C5, C6, 4a, 4b, 4h, 4i, 4j, 4k, 4l) reached up to more than 20% chelating ability percentage. Collectively, this research work provides valuable structural insights that may determine the scavenging and metal chelating activity of 4-hydroxycoumarins. Notably, substitutions at the C6 position appeared to enhance scavenging potential, while the introduction of electron-withdrawing groups showed promise in augmenting chelation efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bell pepper is a major vegetable crop of global commercial interest, but the postharvest quality is constrained by faster deterioration and senescence. Brassinosteroids (BRs), are an emerging and novel biomolecule that delay ripening and senescence in various vegetables. Freshly harvested bell pepper fruit were immersed in an aqueous solution of BRs concentrations (0, 2, 5, 7 and 10 μM) for 20 min and subsequently stored for 20 d at 10 ± 1°C, 85–90% RH. The bell pepper treated with 10 μM BRs significantly reduced respiration rate (∼2.3 fold), delayed weight loss (∼2.2 fold), and retained higher firmness (∼2.5 fold), total phenolic (∼1.7 fold), flavonoid (∼1.7 fold), proline (∼2 fold) and ascorbic acid content (∼2 fold) over the control fruit at the end of cold storage. Also, it retained higher DPPH radical scavenging (∼1.8 fold) and antioxidant enzyme activity (∼1.5 fold) over the control at the end of cold storage. Moreover, BRs treated bell pepper exhibited reduced malondialdehyde accumulation and delayed capsaicin, and chlorophyll degradation. Remarkably, 10 μM BRs treatment prolonged the shelf-life of bell pepper up to 20 d (10 d extra over control) without compromising quality and sensory acceptability. [Display omitted] • Brassinosteroid (10 µM L–1) was found most effective treatment in maintaining the quality and shelf life of bell pepper. • BRs suppressed respiration, color alteration, chlorophyll degradation and weight loss. • BRs retained higher firmness, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant enzymes and reduced MDA accumulation. • BRs enhanced the shelf life of bell pepper by 20 d with superior sensory quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the mineral content, and content of bioactive compounds in fruits of Cornelian cherry (Cornus mas L.). Neochlorogenic acid, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, and rutin were determined in the samples. Vitamin C content ranged from 610.36 to 1344 mg kg−1 FW. Content of K, Ca, P, Mg, and Na in samples ranged from 1750.8 to 2645.7 mg kg−1 FW, from 281.14 to 561.62 mg kg−1 FW, from 180.38 to 294.95 mg kg−1 FW, from 68.19 to 115.43 mg kg−1 FW, and from 2.48 to 71.33 mg kg−1 FW respectively. Content of Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn, Ni, Cr, and Co in samples ranged from 2.77 to 4.88 mg kg−1 FW, from 0.49 to 0.99 mg kg−1 FW, from 0.25 to 0.53 mg kg−1 FW, from 0.07 to 0.17 mg kg−1 FW, from 0.02 to 0.13 mg kg−1 FW, from 0.01 to 0.02 mg kg−1 FW, and from 0.01 to 0.08 mg kg−1 FW respectively. Variations across cultivars were found to be statistically significant, indicating that genetics is a key factor influencing the concentration of bioactive compounds and minerals in Cornelian cherry fruits. Understanding the genetic factors influencing mineral and bioactive compound content in cornelian cherry cultivars is essential for targeted breeding programs, crop improvement, and the development of cultivars with enhanced nutritional and health-promoting attributes. This knowledge contributes to sustainable agriculture and supports the production of crops that align with consumer preferences and health trends. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The possible effects of hot water treatments (HWT) on the main quality parameters and bioactive compounds of two sweet cherry cultivars were examined over two years. Cherries were dipped in hot water (48 °C, 2 min), stored 3 weeks at 1 °C (CS) and for 2 additional days at 20 °C for simulated shelf-life (SL). Except for a slight decrease in firmness generally observed in treated samples (5–6%), no difference was observed between HWT and control fruits, neither for the main quality parameters nor the bioactive compounds during CS and/or SL. On average, the percentage of rotten fruit was more than 50% lower in HWT samples compared to the controls. These results show that the HWT conditions examined in this study effectively reduce the incidence of sweet cherry decay without impairing, after CS and/or SL, most of the main quality parameters or the content of the main bioactive nutrients. Because HWT are residue-free, easy to apply and effective in reducing post-harvest losses while preserving the organoleptic and nutritional quality of cherries, HWT are a good strategy for both cherry professionals and consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a novel papaya seed-based activated carbon/Fe3O4/AgNPs nanocomposite (MAC/Ag) was prepared via a one-pot in situ approach and used as a versatile peroxidase mimic for colorimetric detection of ascorbic acid (AA). The MAC/Ag nanocomposite exhibited enhanced peroxidase-like activity, catalyzing the oxidation of 3,3,5,5-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) in the presence of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and yielding colorimetric products. By optimizing the experimental conditions, the MAC/Ag-TMB-H2O2 detection platform displayed outstanding sensitivity towards AA, with an impressively low detection limit of 0.056 µM in the linear range of 25–500 µM. Notably, the platform demonstrated remarkable reusability and stability, maintaining a high level of activity even after numerous reuse cycles. The comprehensive investigation of the underlying mechanism revealed the crucial role of hydroxyl radicals. The successful quantitative analysis of AA in papaya juice verified the applicability of the MAC/Ag-TMB-H2O2 assay. These findings highlight the potential of the MAC/Ag nanocomposite as a reliable and reusable detection nanozyme for AA, offering promising prospects in environmental monitoring, biomedical diagnostics, and pharmaceutical analysis. Highlights: • MAC/Ag nanocomposite achieves highly sensitive AA detection. • Wide linear range (25–500 µM) and low limit (0.056 µM) enhance AA analysis. • Exceptional reusability with 93.11% activity retention after five cycles. • Quantitative AA analysis in papaya juice demonstrates practicality. • Mechanistic insights into AA detection highlight hydroxyl radicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Doxorubicin (DOX) is widely used in clinic as a broad-spectrum chemotherapy drug, which can enhance the efficacy of chemodynamic therapy (CDT) by interfering tumor-related metabolize to increase H 2 O 2 content. However, DOX can induce serious cardiomyopathy (DIC) due to its oxidative stress in cardiomyocytes. Eliminating oxidative stress would create a significant opportunity for the clinical application of DOX combined with CDT. To address this issue, we introduced sodium ascorbate (AscNa), the main reason is that AscNa can be catalyzed to produce H 2 O 2 by the abundant Fe3+ in the tumor site, thereby enhancing CDT. While the content of Fe3+ in heart tissue is relatively low, so the oxidation of AscNa had tumor specificity. Meanwhile, due to its inherent reducing properties, AscNa could also eliminate the oxidative stress generated by DOX, preventing cardiotoxicity. Due to the differences between myocardial tissue and tumor microenvironment, a novel nanomedicine was designed. MoS 2 was employed as a carrier and CDT catalyst, loaded with DOX and AscNa, coating with homologous tumor cell membrane to construct an acid-responsive nanomedicine MoS 2 -DOX/AscNa@M (MDA@M). In tumor cells, AscNa enhances the synergistic therapy of DOX and MoS 2. In cardiomyocytes, AscNa could effectively reduce the cardiomyopathy induced by DOX. Overall, this study enhanced the clinical potential of chemotherapy synergistic CDT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthesis of nitrogen-doped carbon dots (N-CDs) using urea and ascorbic acid as carbon sources is addressed in this study using a microwave-assisted hydrothermal technique. The samples were characterized by ultraviolet, photoluminescence (PL) and transmission electron microscopy analyses, which confirmed the formation of CDs. Besides PL properties, the peroxidase-like catalytic activity of the CDs and N-CDs was also compared. Interestingly, the N-CDs exhibit higher peroxidase-like catalytic activity than pure CDs and can be used to detect H2O2. Additionally, we synthesized several N-CD ratios and evaluated their peroxidase-like catalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study evaluated the protective effect of ascorbic acid (ASCB) against gasoline fumes (PET) induced testicular oxidative stress, sperm toxicity, and testosterone imbalance in Wistar rats. Twenty-four (24) male albino rats (75 ± 16 g) were randomized into three experimental groups (N = 8). The control group: received normal saline, PET group: exposed to PET 6 h daily by inhalation in an exposure chamber and PET + 200 mg ASCB/kg body weight group: exposed to PET 6 h daily by inhalation and administered ASCB per os. Treatment of ASCB and PET exposure was done thrice and five times weekly for a period of 10 weeks respectively. ASCB co-treatment prevented PET-induced increases in the oxidative stress markers (glutathione, glutathione S -transferase, superoxide dismutase, catalase, hydrogen peroxide generation, nitric oxide, and lipid peroxidation) and serum testosterone concentration (p <.05). Sperm quality was low and those with damaged heads and tails increased alongside histological injuries in the PET-exposed rats, which were also minimized with ASCB administration. ASCB protected against PET-induced oxidative stress, sperm, and testis damage in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The precise regulation of nanoenzyme activity is of great significance for application to biosensing analysis. Herein, the peroxidase-like activity of carbon dots was effectively modulated by doping phosphorus, which was successfully employed for sensitive, selective detection of acid phosphatase (ACP). Phosphorus-doped carbon dots (P-CDs) with excellent peroxidase-like activity were synthesized by a one-pot hydrothermal method, and the catalytic activity could be easily modulated by controlling the additional amount of precursor phytic acid. P-CDs could effectively catalyze the oxidation of colorless 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) to blue TMB oxidation products in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. While ACP was able to catalyze the hydrolysis of L-ascorbyl-2-phosphate trisodium salt (AAP) to produce ascorbic acid (AA), which inhibited the peroxidase-like activity of P-CDs, by combining P-CDs nanoenzymes and ACP-catalyzed hydrolysis the colorimetric method was established for ACP detection. The absorbance variation showed a good linear relationship with ACP concentration in the range of 0.4–4.0 mU/mL with a limit of detection at 0.12 mU/mL. In addition, the method was successfully applied to detect ACP in human serum samples with recoveries in the range of 98.7–101.6%. The work provides an effective strategy for regulating nanoenzymes activity and a low-cost detection technique for ACP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored the efficacy of red mud, an aluminum production by-product, as an adsorbent for Pb(II) ion removal from contaminated water and assessed the adsorption isothermal model and kinetics. Red mud, characterized by its richness in oxide minerals with reactive surfaces, has potential for heavy metal adsorption, but its capacity for larger ions like Pb(II) is limited. This research aimed to enhance red mud's adsorption properties through modification with ascorbic acid. The modification process involved heating a mixture of red mud and ascorbic acid to its boiling point, followed by the formation of adsorbent beads using red mud and Na-alginate mixture dropped into a 2 % CaCl2 solution at -2 °C. The beads were tested over varying durations ranging from 30 to 210 min. The results indicated that ascorbic acid modification led to the transformation of minerals in red mud, improving its pore diameter, pore volume, and specific surface area of the adsorbent. The modified and unmodified red mud adhered to both Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms, with R² values converging to one, and displayed pseudo-second-order kinetics. Notably, the introduction of ascorbic acid augments the adsorption efficacy of red mud for Pb(II) ions from 84.8 % to a compelling 99.3 %. This underscores the augmented capability of ascorbic acid-modified red mud, highlighting its prospective applicability as a potent adsorbent in the remediation of heavy metalcontaminated water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two neolignan glycosides including a new one (1), along with seven iridoid glycosides (3 − 9) and nine flavonoid glycosides (10 − 18), were isolated from the leaves of Vaccinium bracteatum. Their structures were established mainly on the basis of 1D/2D NMR and ESIMS analyses, as well as comparison to known compounds in the literature. The structure of 1 with absolute stereochemistry was also confirmed by chemical degradation and ECD calculation. Selective compounds showed antiradical activity against ABTS and/or DPPH. Moreover, several isolates also suppressed the production of ROS in RAW264.7 cells and exerted neuroprotective effect toward PC12 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]