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Objectives: White spot lesions are more susceptible to staining agents due to their porous structure. This study examines the impact of white spot lesion treatments on discoloration caused by pediatric supplements. Method and materials: Three treatments (fluoride, casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate [CPP-ACP], resin infiltration), a control, and their respective syrup-based subgroups (iron and black elderberry syrups) were established, each with eight teeth. Artificial white spot lesions were induced, and weekly applications of fluoride varnish, daily applications of CPP-ACP paste, or a single resin infiltration procedure were performed on the white spot lesions within the treatment groups over 4 weeks. Simultaneously, samples were exposed daily to iron or black elderberry syrups. Spectrophotometer measurements were taken at baseline, after demineralization (T0), and after 1 (T1), 2 (T2), and 4 weeks (T4). ΔE00 values were calculated. Statistical analysis was conducted using a three-way mixed-design ANOVA, with the significance level set at P = .05. Results: At T4, ΔE00 values from all groups exceeded the clinical acceptability limit of 1.8. At T2 and T4, the ΔE00 values obtained from the black elderberry syrup subgroups were significantly higher (P < .001). At T4, the highest ΔE00 values were seen in the CPP-ACP groups (P < .001). The lowest ΔE00 values at T2 and T4 were observed in the resin infiltration groups (P < .05). Conclusions: Supplements containing ferrous sulfate and black elderberry extract caused color changes in white spot lesions that exceeded the clinical acceptability limit. Resin infiltration of white spot lesions provides advantages over remineralization treatments, particularly in minimizing discoloration induced by pediatric supplements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The effect of an immune-boosting beverage (SAM) containing Sambucus Nigra, an energy beverage (ENE), an in-office bleaching (BLE) agent with 25% hydrogen peroxide superior, glazing (GLA) or polishing (POL) methods, and professional dental prophylaxis (PDP) on the color of CAD-CAM restorative materials is unknown. Methods: In total 210 specimens were prepared, consisting of CAD-CAM feldspathic (FC), zirconia-reinforced lithium disilicate ceramic (ZLS) and hybrid ceramic (HC). The ceramic specimens were divided according to the polishing methods of glazing (GLA) and mechanical polishing (POL). All materials were divided into two groups: with and without BLE. A 25% hydrogen peroxide superior (HPS) gel was used for BLE. After the baseline (BAS) measurement, the specimens were immersed in 3 different beverages (distilled water (DIS), SAM, ENE). After 28 days, a fine-grained (RDA 7) prophylaxis paste was applied. Statistical analysis of ∆E00 color difference values was performed by 3-way ANOVA and Bonferroni test (α = 0.05). Results: The effect of all other actions except material-BLE-beverage on color for BAS-Day 28 was statistically different (p < 0.05). The effect of material, material-BLE, beverage on color for Day 28-PDP was statistically different (p < 0.05). After 28 days, the lowest color change was found in FC-GLA and HC immersed in DIS (p = 0.0001) and the highest in FC-POL immersed in ENE (p = 0.0002). PDP was efficient in color recovery in HC immersed to DIS, ENE and SAM (p = 0.0010). For FC, HC and ZLS, BLE caused a higher color change (p < 0.0001). Regardless of the material, the highest color change for BLE-beverage was found in BLE-treated specimens immersed in ENE (p = 0.0496) and the lowest color change was found in non-BLE-treated specimens immersed in SAM (p = 0.0074). Conclusions: In materials pre-exposed to 25% HPS, the effect of PDP on color recovery was lower than in unexposed materials. After 28 days, mechanical polishing produced higher color change in FC than glazing, however, in ZLS effects of glazing and mechanical polishing on color were similar. For material/polishing method, HC was the most effective. ENE caused higher color change than DIS and SAM. PDP was more effective than ENE in restoring color to DIS- and SAM-immersed specimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Viruses significantly affect global health. The few available viricidal and antiviral therapies are expensive and often associated with unwanted side effects. Functional foods as plant extracts (nutraceuticals) are epigenetically active, and multi-target antiviral compounds that affect several steps of the viral life cycle and host proteins. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) post-transcriptionally regulate host and viral gene expression and are responsible for the fine-tuning of gene expression by controlling the expression of their target messenger RNAs (mRNA) in host cells and viruses. Several plant ingredients have been proven to be active against RNA virus infections. Obviously, miRNAs play a central role in the regulation of gene transcription in viral replication and host immune defense. A healthy diet and nutraceuticals can support the fine-tuning of miRNAs. Objectives: The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of epigenetic active phytoceuticals and/or functional foods on immune relevant miRNAs and mRNAs in a healthy human study population. Methods: In a 2-month human intervention study (n=80), a mix of plant extracts (sage extract, green tea extract, berberine, apple extract, onion extract, elderberry extract, and grape skin extract) with proven activity against RNA viruses were examined for the change of miRNA and mRNA patterns involved in virus response systems. Lifestyle and nutritional behavior, including self-reported stress levels, as well as infection frequency as potential cofounders have been raised. Results: The intervention with secondary plant extracts could modulate the expression of miRNAs involved in the virus defense (miR-30e, miR-877, miR-150) and the expression of NF-κB. The intervention also increased miRNA expression patterns associated with a positive lifestyle. The intervention adapted miRNAs that correlate with an increased risk of infection, smoking, stress, and processed meat products. Conclusion: Plant extracts can enhance the beneficial effects of a healthy nutrition and lifestyle by modulating miRNAs. MiRNAs are promising drug targets for maintaining immune homeostasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a genome assembly from an individual Sambucus nigra (the European elder; Streptophyta; Magnoliopsida; Dipsacales; Adoxaceae). The genome sequence has a total length of 11,813.70 megabases. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 18 chromosomal pseudomolecules. The mitochondrial and plastid genome assemblies have lengths of 724.11 kilobases and 158.06 kilobases, respectively.

Background: The commercialization of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) provides income for rural indigenous households. The integration of NTFPs into formal markets tends to intensify management practices to ensure production and monetary benefits. However, more research is needed to understand the motivations for managing of commercialized species. We examine the influence of social, ecological, and economic factors on traditional management and how they drive the adoption of more or less intensive practices for subsistence and commercially traded NTFPs. Methods: The study was conducted in the Nahua community of Ixtacxochitla, in the Sierra Negra of central Mexico, where we conducted free lists and semi-structured interviews in 32% of the 88 households to assess socio-ecological variables related to management practices. In addition, we interviewed local traders to assess commercial variables used in a cost–benefit model to calculate the net annual income of commercialized species. Non-metric multidimensional scaling was used to analyze relationships between socio-ecological variables and management practices. We also explored the relationship between management and commercial factors using principal component analysis. Results: We recorded 64 plant and mushroom species of NTFPs used for medicinal, ornamental, ceremonial, and edible purposes, 36 of which are commercialized in the municipal market of Coyomeapan. The commercialized species generated an average annual net income of MXN 67,526 (USD 3924) per family, with five species contributing the most. Species both used for both subsistence and commercialization were managed through incipient in situ gathering, tolerance in ex situ anthropogenic areas, and intensive protection and propagation efforts in ex situ environments. Even the five species with the highest commercial returns were managed across this gradient of practices. Key factors influencing the adoption of more intensive species management practices were feasibility of management, type of species use, ecological abundance, frequency of consumption, and cultural importance. Conclusions: The intensification of NTFPs management is not solely driven by the commercial value of the products or the level of income generated. Instead, the interaction between socio-ecological and economic factors determines the extent of management practices. The main constraint to the implementation of intensive practices has been the inability to manage species outside their natural habitats, despite their cultural significance and frequent consumption. Understanding the factors involved in the harvesting of NTFPs can serve as the basis for future research aimed at analyzing the conditions for successful and sustainable NTFPs commercialization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The names of plants convey information on their appearance (shape, structure, colour), taste or smell, their uses (practical, ceremonial, magical and medicinal) as well as the beliefs and convictions associated with them. Assuming that the particular features of plants, entrenched in their names, must have been important to language users for some reason, the analysis of plant names can help reconstruct traditional knowledge about plants. The author analyses the standard and dialectal names for the black elder (Sambucus nigra) in Polish, juxtaposing the plant's features revealed in its names (linguistic data) with the cultural accounts associated with the plant ("with-linguistic" data). This allows for the reconstruction of the following features of the plant: (a) the appearance of the shrub, (b) the properties of its fruit, (c) the smell of the plant, (d) the place where it grows, (e) the time of harvesting, (f) its use in folk medicine and (g) the association of the plant with impure powers and diseases. The conducted analyses show that reaching for hard "linguistic evidence" (standard and folk names) makes it possible to compile hierarchies of the characteristics of the plants described. Situating these names against the background of "with-linguistic" data leads to the conclusion that folk nomenclature and folk knowledge enrich and complement each other. The vast number of names for the black elder with different onomasiological bases, presenting different points of view, also demonstrate the relationship between the degree of lexical differentiation and the cultural meaning of the plant. The ethnolinguistic analysis of the names for the black elder (Sambucus nigra), similarly to ethnobotanical studies of folk plant names, provides insights into past and contemporary uses of the plant. Thus, it can provide a starting point for further ethnobotanical research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sambucus nigra L. (elder) is one of the most common plant species in Europe, widely used for its health and healing properties and with a long botanical history. In the present study, elderberry flowers were subjected to different extraction methods (infusion, decoction, microwave- and ultrasound- assisted extraction) and their phytochemical content and antioxidant potential were evaluated. As a result, the total phenolic content in the extracts varied between 34.21 ± 0.42 and 47.46 ± 1.87 mg GAE/g dw and the total flavonoid content was found to be in the range of 11.69 ± 0.16 and 16.18 ± 0.23 mg QE/g dw. The highest values were reported for decoction. Organic acid, phenolic acid and sugar profiles of content were evaluated and compared. Extraction method had a profound effect on the content of sugars, phenolic and organic acids extractability from the plant matter, decoction being the most efficient extraction method. In addition, the correlation between the analyses was studied, outlining the contribution of the contained phytochemicals. In conclusion, aqueous extracts of elderflowers can be considered a promising source of natural antioxidants and should be further investigated for the specific profile of phytochemicals present and promoted for consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, conventional solid-liquid extraction and ultrasound-assisted extraction were utilized for (poly)phenols extraction from black elderberry flowers. The extraction lasted 30 to 120 min, with a solid-to-solvent ratio of 1:15 w/v and 1:30 w/v and solvents of 30% and 60% ethanol. Total (poly)phenols, flavonoids and anthocyanins contents were measured using the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent, aluminium chloride and the pH differential methods, respectively. The results show that the extraction process has the highest velocity in the first 30 min, when the most (poly)phenols are extracted, but it becomes slower as time passes. Higher yields are obtained by utilizing a solid-to-solvent ratio of 1:30 w/v, which indicates that when the amount of drug increases over a certain optimal value, the resistance to mass transfer from a solid material to liquid increases. Also, higher yields are obtained by using a solvent that contains a higher content of ethanol. Finally, it was discovered that ultrasonic extraction provides to higher (poly)phenolic compound yields and can substitute conventional extraction methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the importance of centering Blackness in English Language Arts (ELA) education, employing the Black Gaze Framework (BGF) as a guiding framework. Topics discussed include such as recognizing and honoring the significant contributions of Black scholars and elders, elevating the multifaceted narratives of the Black experience, and implementing actionable strategies to redirect the focus towards Blackness in ELA classrooms.

Sambucus is a cosmopolitan plant genus that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties and nutritional value. Sambucus nigra, the most studied species, contains a wide range of bioactive compounds that have been linked to various health benefits. Moreover, the fruit of the elderberry is a rich source of phytochemicals and is used to make a variety of food products. In this review, after an introduction of the species, we outline the main points for its cultivation and production. We then illustrate the major phytochemical components and related beneficial properties, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, and pharmaceutical activities. We also provide insights into genetic variability, functional diversity, and some evolutionary relationships that were evaluated with DNA-based techniques. We discuss that despite its long history of use and potential benefits, Sambucus nigra has received relatively little attention in terms of horticulture, breeding, and molecular genetics, while studies on its biochemical composition and health benefits are well developed. Further research is also needed to better understand the pre-harvest and post-harvest factors that influence plant growth and production, as well as to explore new applications and industrial uses of this underutilized species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a genome assembly from an individual Sambucus nigra (the European elder; Streptophyta; Magnoliopsida; Dipsacales; Adoxaceae). The genome sequence has a total length of 11,813.70 megabases. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 18 chromosomal pseudomolecules. The mitochondrial and plastid genome assemblies have lengths of 724.11 kilobases and 158.06 kilobases, respectively., Competing Interests: No competing interests were disclosed., (Copyright: © 2024 Christenhusz MJM et al.)

Fruit and fruit juices are a valuable source of bioactive compounds, which can protect our organisms from oxidative stress. The phenolic compounds and other phytochemicals may affect the antimicrobial properties of juices. The aim of this study has been to evaluate antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of selected berry juices and vitamin C-rich fruit juices. The research material was composed of seven juices, including three from berries (elderberry chokeberry, cranberry), three from vitamin C-rich fruit (sea buckthorn, wild rose, Japanese quince) and one exotic juice from noni fruit. Antioxidant capacity, total polyphenol, total flavonoid and total anthocyanin content were determined. Furthermore, the antimicrobial activity and the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) as well as the minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) were evaluated. The research showed that fruit juices from wild rose, chokeberry and Japanese quince had the highest antioxidant capacity. These juices were characterised by the rich content of polyphenols. Elderberry and chokeberry juices had the highest total anthocyanins. The juices differed in the content of bioactive compounds and specific bactericidal properties against Gram-positive or Gram-negative bacteria. Fruit juices from cranberry, Japanese quince and sea buckthorn had the highest antimicrobial activity. Wild rose, chokeberry and elderberry juices, despite their high antioxidant properties, showed antimicrobial activity only against Gram-positive strains, except Enterococcus faecalis and Clostridium perfringens. Significant differences in the content of bioactive compounds in fruit juices affect the antimicrobial properties juices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sambucus nigra L. or black elder is a woody perennial plant native to Europe [3]. This has been used as a medicinal plant for many years. Even if all parts have their role in treating various ailments, the ones that have been studied the longest by scientists and used by consumers have been the fruits and flowers [1]. The protein content in elderberry fruits is 2.7-2.9%, in flowers approximately 2.5%, and in leaves we have a value of 3.3%, making elderberry a good source of protein [9]. Both flowers and fruits of Sambucus nigra are used as a traditional remedy for various types of ailments and diseases. They have a wide range of uses, but in particular they can treat the common symptoms of colds, fevers, coughs, nasal congestion, mucous secretions and flu, as well as for improving the immune system [8]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sambucus williamsii Hance var. miquelii (SWH) is a precious wild Chinese herb whose fruit, rhizome, leaves and root bark can be used as medicine. Sambucus Linn has pharmacological effects such as anti-osteoporosis, promoting fracture healing, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory. In this study, the main chemical components of the alcoholic extracts from SWH were rapidly identified by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole orbit trap high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC- HRMS MS), and a total of 42 compounds were characterized from the alcoholic extracts of SWH. The results of network pharmacological validation showed that kaempferol, quercetin, luteolin, isorhamnetin and morroniside were the main active components, and KEGG enrichment demonstrated that SWH mainly affected the signaling pathways such as PI3K-Akt, TNF and FoxO by modulating the related targets such as AKT1, PIK3R1, EGFR, RELA SRC and PTGS2. The molecular docking results showed binding solid activity between the main active components of SWH and the targets. The network pharmacology was validated by establishing an animal model of osteoporosis (OP) in rats by gavage administration of vitamin A acid. The results of the pharmacological experiments showed that SWH could improve the degree of bone loss in the femur of osteoporotic rats, increase the number of trabeculae and decrease trabeculae porosity, up-regulate the Ca and P content in the serum of OP rats, down-regulate the scope of ALP and BGP in the serum, and promote the calcification of the bone matrix, and then exert the anti-OP efficacy. In this study, network pharmacology and pharmacological experiments verified the pharmacological mechanism of SWH in anti-OP rats. This provides a theoretical basis for the research and development of anti-OP drugs and a reference for the application of other traditional Chinese medicines in treating OP diseases. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sambucus is a cosmopolitan plant genus that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties and nutritional value. Sambucus nigra, the most studied species, contains a wide range of bioactive compounds that have been linked to various health benefits. Moreover, the fruit of the elderberry is a rich source of phytochemicals and is used to make a variety of food products. In this review, after an introduction of the species, we outline the main points for its cultivation and production. We then illustrate the major phytochemical components and related beneficial properties, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, and pharmaceutical activities. We also provide insights into genetic variability, functional diversity, and some evolutionary relationships that were evaluated with DNA-based techniques. We discuss that despite its long history of use and potential benefits, Sambucus nigra has received relatively little attention in terms of horticulture, breeding, and molecular genetics, while studies on its biochemical composition and health benefits are well developed. Further research is also needed to better understand the pre-harvest and post-harvest factors that influence plant growth and production, as well as to explore new applications and industrial uses of this underutilized species.

Copyright of Kocatepe Veterinary Journal / Kocatepe Veteriner Dergisi is the property of Afyon Kocatepe University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Pasta is a popular food item among consumers all over the world. They have high energy value, low cost and long shelf life. However, the biological value of these products is quite low. Adding components rich in dietary fiber, vitamins and minerals to their composition will significantly improve their nutritional value. The purpose of the article is to analyze the possibility of producing pasta with the addition of derivatives from the processing of wild berries Sambucus nigra, Viburnum opulus, Hippophae rhamnoides L., which have a rich nutrient composition and are available raw materials. The technology, developed in the work for processing berries by osmotic dehydration, allows the use of gentle drying modes, which contributes to the maximum preservation of their biological value. Sensory evaluation of pasta was carried out according to the Croatian Official Methods, moisture content of pasta was determined by drying to constant weight. Sensory analysis of pasta showed that the addition of powders does not lead to a deterioration in their quality. Their appearance, taste, smell, shape and elasticity are improved. The quality of the pasta samples, containing 5 % of the powder, was determined as "good" according to the results of the evaluation of the tasting group. And the samples with a powder content of 10 % have a "high" quality. The addition of powders has practically no effect on the drying conditions and moisture content of the finished products. With the addition of Viburnum opulus powders, the moisture content is reduced compared to controls. Humidity of all samples is within the permissible limits, which indicates their resistance to storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The study aimed to assess the effect of anti-tumor and antiproliferative properties of Sambucus nigra (SNA) on MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast tumor cell lines. Methods: The cytotoxicity of SNA was assessed based on dose/time by the MTT assay. Also, the influence of SNA on apoptotic pathways, cellular and metabolic resistance in these cell lines was examined by real-time PCR, lipid peroxidase was measured by malondialdehyde (MDA) and the effect of apoptosis and necrosis was determined by flow cytometry. Results: Our data showed that DOX, SNA, and DOX + SNA treatment induced the expression of p53, Bax, Bcl-2, Caspase-3, and 8 levels involved in the apoptotic pathways. ATP binding cassette subfamily B member 4 (ABCB4) gene expression was decreased in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells compared to MCF-7. Also, we observed that DOX, SNA, and DOX + SNA treatment induced expression of Monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) metabolic pathways such as MCT1 and MCT4. Conclusion: Overall, the outcomes of this investigation show that the combination of SNA-Doxorubicin (DOX) in different groups of these cancer cells, especially in the MDA-MB-231 cell lines synergistically intensified the induction of apoptosis in them. SNA enhances the anti-cancer effects of DOX to induce cellular apoptosis, alter metabolic pathways, and reduce cellular resistance. The research highlights the promising use of SNA as a chemosensitizer in the chemotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses that Herbal Supplement Sales in US Increase by Record-Breaking 17.3% in 2020. Topics discussed include Herbal dietary supplement sales in the U.S. surpassed $10 billion for the first time in 2020, totaling an estimated $11.261 billion, according to the Nutrition Business Journal (NBJ); and NBJ, a natural products industry publication of Informa's New Hope Network based in Boulder, Colorado, provided the US retail sales figures for this report.

Copyright of Annals of Warsaw University of Life Sciences - SGGW, Forestry & Wood Technology is the property of Wydawnictwo SGGW and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Fruit extracts of Sambucus nigra L. (elderberry) and Punica granatum L. (pomegranate) have several applications in nutraceutical, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries thanks to their richness in antioxidant polyphenols, whose composition changes with the extraction method applied. We aimed to compare the efficiency of the fermentation extraction, recently applied by industries, with the ultrasound-assisted extraction–UAE, a well-known and efficient technique, on the yield of antioxidant polyphenols from elderberry fruits and pomegranate fruit-peels. Extracts were obtained by both methods, analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and the antioxidant capacities were evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and Hydroxyl Radical Scavenging (HRS) assays. The main compounds detected in elderberry were caffeoyl and quercetin derivatives, present in higher amounts in UAE extracts. In pomegranate, punicalagin were the main constituents, also detected in higher contents in the UAE extracts compared to fermented ones. The UAE was more suitable for extracting anthocyanins from pomegranate. In addition, higher antioxidant capacities were observed in UAE extracts, possibly due to their richness in polyphenols. Therefore, despite the recent wide applicability and the good performance of the fermentation process, the UAE may be considered more efficient for the extraction of polyphenols from S. nigra and P. granatum fruits and may be used to obtain polyphenolic antioxidant extracts to be applied by several industries.t [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lack elderberry (Sambucus nigra L.) is a perennial plant in the form of a shrub or semishrub in the Adoxaceae family. It spreads naturally in the Black Sea, Central Anatolia, Southern and Eastern Anatolia regions of Turkey. Black elderberry fruits are traditionally used as food and medicine in Europe. Hippocrates considered it the greatest medicinal plant of nature. In traditional treatment, its flowers are used as a diaphoretic analgesic. Its fruits are used to treat prostate and hemorrhoids; pharmaceutical products are used to treatment cold and flu symptoms. Propagation from seed is complex due to the plant's high seed dormancy. Therefore, the plant is propagated by cuttings. This study aimed to root the elderberry annual and biennial wood cuttings by IAA (Indol-3-Acetic Acid) application. Cuttings were taken on 09.11.2020 from annual and biennial wood branches, 10-15 cm long, with two nodes. On the same day, the cuttings were treated with 0-5-15-30 ppm doses of IAA for 15 seconds, then planted in 25x30 cm pots filled with a mixture of worm manure+peat+soil+perlite at a ratio of 1:1:1:1.5. According to the experimental design of split plots randomized blocks, the experiment was established in the greenhouse condition with 3 replications and 5 plants in each replicate (pot). In this research, it was observed that the first rooting was 17 days after planting. The root lengths were measured by removing them from the pots 120 days after planting, waiting for the strengthening of root development. As a result of the research, the best root length and development were determined by control (20.47 cm) and 30 ppm (22.53 cm) treatments. Annual cuttings (96%) are rooted better than biennial cuttings (76%). While the highest rooting rate in stem cuttings was obtained with 30 ppm (100%) IAA application, weak shoot development was observed in the identical wood cuttings. Control (93%) cuttings followed the rooting rate, but shoot development was better than other applications. As a result, considering the root length and shoot development, it was concluded that two-node annual wood cuttings taken in November could be used for rooting and reproduction without the need for IAA growth hormone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Elderberry has traditionally been used to prevent and treat respiratory problems. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been interest in elderberry supplements to treat or prevent illness, but also concern that elderberry might overstimulate the immune system and increase the risk of 'cytokine storm'. We aimed to determine benefits and harms of elderberry for the prevention and treatment of viral respiratory infections, and to assess the relationship between elderberry supplements and negative health impacts associated with overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and searched six databases, four research registers, and two preprint sites for studies. Two reviewers independently assessed studies for inclusion, extracted data from studies, assessed risk of bias using Cochrane tools, and evaluated certainty of estimates using GRADE. Outcomes included new illnesses and the severity and duration of illness. Results: We screened 1187 records and included five randomized trials on elderberry for the treatment or prevention of viral respiratory illness. We did not find any studies linking elderberry to clinical inflammatory outcomes. However, we found three studies measuring production of cytokines ex vivo after ingestion of elderberry. Elderberry may not reduce the risk of developing the common cold; it may reduce the duration and severity of colds, but the evidence is uncertain. Elderberry may reduce the duration of influenza but the evidence is uncertain. Compared to oseltamivir, an elderberry-containing product may be associated with a lower risk of influenza complications and adverse events. We did not find evidence on elderberry and clinical outcomes related to inflammation. However, we found evidence that elderberry has some effect on inflammatory markers, although this effect may decline with ongoing supplementation. One small study compared elderberry to diclofenac (a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug) and provided some evidence that elderberry is as effective or less effective than diclofenac in cytokine reduction over time. Conclusions: Elderberry may be a safe option for treating viral respiratory illness, and there is no evidence that it overstimulates the immune system. However, the evidence on both benefits and harms is uncertain and information from recent and ongoing studies is necessary to make firm conclusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Visceral hemangiosarcoma (HSA) is one of the more frequent cancers in dogs and has a high metastatic rate and poor prognosis, as clinical signs only become apparent in advanced stages of tumor development. In order to improve early and differential diagnostic capabilities and hence, prognosis for dogs with HSA, two types of biomarker are needed: a point-of-care diagnostic biomarker and a prognostic biomarker--preferentially based on samples obtained with minimally invasive methods. In this study, we applied a lectin magnetic bead array-coupled tandem mass spectrometry (LeMBA-MS/MS) workflow through discovery and validation phases to discover serum glycoprotein biomarker candidates for canine HSA. By this approach, we found that Datura stramonium (DSA), wheat germ agglutinin (WGA), Sambucus nigra (SNA), and Pisum sativum (PSA) lectins captured the highest number of validated candidate glycoproteins. Secondly, we independently validated serum LeMBA-MS/MS results by demonstrating the in situ relationship of lectin-binding with tumor cells. Using lectin-histochemistry and immunohistochemistry (IHC) for key proteins on tissues with HSA and semi-quantitation of the signals, we demonstrate that a combination of DSA histochemistry and IHC for complement C7 greatly increases the prospect of a more specific diagnosis of canine HSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Black elderberry, used medicinally for centuries, decreased influenza duration by 4 days in three previous peer-reviewed trials. US elderberry sales, possibly related to a "high severity" and "high activity" influenza season from January to March 2018, more than doubled from 2017 to 2018 to > $100 million.Objective: To determine whether elderberry extract decreases influenza's duration and severity.Design: FDA-approved, investigator-initiated, Investigational New Drug, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Conducted January 2018-April 2019 in three emergency rooms, two suburban and one urban, in the Midwestern Health System.Patients: Eighty-seven consecutive, consenting patients, over age four, with < 48 h of at least 2 moderate-severity influenza symptoms and positive polymerase chain reaction influenza test.Intervention: Patients from age 5 to 12 years received placebo or 15 ml (5.7 g) elderberry extract orally twice a day for 5 days; those > 12 years received 15 ml 4 times a day for 5 days. Patients were permitted to choose to also receive the standard dosage of oseltamivir.Measurements: Primary: days until all symptoms were none or mild for 21.5 h. Secondary: days to complete symptom resolution for 24 h.Results: The 87 participants were randomized to receive placebo (n = 44) or elderberry (n = 43). The average age was 25 ± 20 years, and 56% were male. The average number of days to reach all symptoms none or mild for 21.5 h in the placebo group was 4.9 ± 2.8 days compared to 5.3 ± 3.6 in the elderberry group (p = 0.57). The average number of days to complete resolution was 8.7 ± 3.8 and 8.6 ± 3.9 in the placebo and elderberry group, respectively (p = 0.87).Limitations: Small sample size, but powered > 0.90 to detect 2-day benefit of elderberry versus placebo.Conclusions: We found no evidence that elderberry benefits the duration or severity of influenza. Post hoc analysis suggested primary outcomes with elderberry taken alone (without oseltamivir) were 2 days worse than with placebo taken alone. Our results contradict previous studies and demonstrate the need for further studies.Trial Registration: NCT03410862. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Traditionally part of the human diet, plants with edible fleshy fruits (PEFF) contain bioactive components that may exert physiological effects beyond nutrition, promoting human health and well-being. Focusing on their food-medicine functionality, different ways of using PEFF were studied in a cross-sectional way using two approaches: a bibliographical survey and an ethnobotanical case study in a rural community of Patagonia, Argentina. Methods: A total of 42 studies were selected for the bibliographical review. The case study was carried out with 80% of the families inhabiting the rural community of Cuyín Manzano, using free listing, interviews, and participant observation. In both cases we analyzed species richness and use patterns through the edible consensus and functional consensus indices. Local foods, ailments, medicines and drug plants were also registered. Results: The review identified 73 PEFF, the majority of which (78%) were native species, some with the highest use consensus. PEFF were used in 162 different local foods, but mainly as fresh fruit. Of the total, 42% were used in a functional way, in 54 different medicines. The principal functional native species identified in the review were Aristotelia chilensis and Berberis microphylla. In the case study 20 PEFF were in current use (50% were native), and consensus values were similar for native and exotic species. These were used in 44 different local foods, mainly as fresh fruit. Only 30% were recognized for their functional value by inhabitants (mainly as gastrointestinal and respiratory treatments). The species with the highest functional consensus were the exotic Sambucus nigra and Rosa rubiginosa, followed by the native A. chilensis, Ribes magellanicum and B. microphylla. Infusions also constituted important local functional foods. Conclusions: This survey highlights the importance of studying the different local functional foods to depict the biocultural diversity of a human society. The preparation of different beverages and herbal medicines was relevant, and would be a promising subject to investigate in the future. The living heritage of PEFF appears to have undergone hybridization processes, such that exotic species play an increasingly significant role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The metal accumulation and antioxidant contents in flowers of wild specimens of European elder (Sambucus nigra L.), a famous medicinal plant and valuable component in the urban landscape, were determined. The total reflection X-ray fluorescence revealed the presence of K, Rb, Ca, Sr, Cr, Mn, Fe, Cu, and Zn associated with flowers. A typical, large, non-industrial city with considerable traffic and atmospheric pollution resulting from smog was chosen as a place of sampling. Obtained results were correlated with selected parameters of soil and the intensity of surrounding traffic. The flowers were relatively rich in elements K, Ca, Cu, Rb, and antioxidants, while it did not accumulate heavy metals potentially bioavailable in the soil. The correlation between street traffic and the content of Fe, Cr, and Zn in elderflowers was revealed; the metal quantities were below levels harmful to humans. Flowers from the city center exhibited higher antioxidant and radical scavenging capacities comparing to plants from the areas of little traffic. The antioxidant parameters were negatively correlated with the silty fraction content and positively with the potentially bioavailable levels of Ti and Mn in soils and increased with the amount of Rb in the flowers. It was proven for the first time that the urban specimens of wild S. nigra can perform as a local source of beneficial flowers providing cost-effective support in disease prevention and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to investigate the potential of using β-glucan as wall material to microencapsulate the elderberry extract. Firstly, the extract was obtained by the water-acetone extraction method to extract mainly anthocyanins from ground dried fruits. The extract was mixed with wall materials: maltodextrin-β-glucan mixture and the control sample as a widely used combination of maltodextrin and arabic gum (92.5:7.5). In the examined samples the content of β-glucan was 0.5, 1, 2 and 3%. Properties of encapsulated extracts of final powders were measured using particle size and morphology, encapsulation efficiency, color measurement, total anthocyanin and ascorbic acid content (TAC and TAAC) methods. Our results indicated that the β-glucan wall material samples had higher process quality compared to control samples. Addition of β-glucan insignificantly decreases encapsulation efficiency. Among powders with β-glucan content, the powder with 1% β-glucan content was characterized by the smallest (24 μm) particle size. The sample with 2% β-glucan content had the highest water solubility and polydispersity index. Due to the encapsulation efficiency, moisture content, and water solubility index, the optimum condition of microencapsulation process for elderberry extract was for samples with 0.5% β-glucan as wall material content. To conclude, due to high molecular weight of β-glucan the higher than 0.5% ratio of β-glucan is not recommended for spray-drying method. However, small quantity of health-beneficial β-glucan could act as potential encapsulation agent in clean label products to replace Arabic gum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elderberry rust (Puccinia sambuci Schwein.) Arthur (=P. bolleyana) (Arthur, 1921) disease is frequently found in commercial American elderberry (Sambucus nigra L. subsp. canadensis L.) plantings when an alternate host, Carex sp., is present. To evaluate potential infection periods of P. sambuci on elderberry plants, micrometeorological conditions were monitored. Rust symptoms were observed on elderberry on 5 Apr. 2016, and conditions favorable for possible infection were 9 to 18 °C, ≥3 hours of continuous leaf wetness, and ≥85% relative humidity. Studies were also conducted to ascertain whether P. sambuci with varying pustule numbers affects fruiting, berry puree quality, or vegetative growth. Fruit yield was reduced by 31% when potted 'Bob Gordon' elderberry averaged six rust pustules per plant compared with noninfected plants. In another experiment, field-grown 'Wyldewood' plants averaging 137 rust pustules/cane at harvest had 47% less fruit weight on canes than uninfected canes. Titratable acidity of fruit puree from plants was lower when plants had either 690 rust pustules/plant or 137/ pustules/cane, but soluble solids and pH of puree were unaffected by P. sambuci infection. The effect of rust infection on vegetative growth of elderberry plants also varied with pustule numbers. With a low infection level (six pustules per plant), P. sambuci did not induce premature leaf loss on 'Bob Gordon' plants or adversely affect shoot dry weight at the end of the growing season. When P. sambuci infection on 'Wyldewood' plants was more severe (137 pustules/cane), greater leaf loss occurred on infected canes than on uninfected canes. At very high infection levels (690 pustules/plant), 'Bob Gordon' plant dry weight was reduced. Because of the potential for fruit yield loss on elderberry plants, control of P. sambuci at relatively low infection levels on this plant may be warranted. Strategies that eliminate or suppress the alternate host would likely reduce the P. sambuci inoculum and limit the potential for elderberry plant infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Abstract The effect of elevated CO 2 concentration on leaves of black elder (Sambucus nigra) was investigated based on leaf gas exchange, chlorophyll content as well as on the analysis of the underlying metabolite profile of the fruits. The measurements were carried out once a month over a period of time of 4 months. The CO 2 uptake rate, the transpiration rate and stomatal conductance were significantly higher in plants under ambient CO 2 , in comparison to plants grown under elevated CO 2 concentrations. On the other hand, at the initial phase of the experiments, the photosynthesis rate was higher in CO 2 loaded plants compared to plants grown under normal conditions. Remarkably, after about one month a habituation effect could be observed leading to a decrease of the photosynthetic efficiency approaching again the normal level. To understand the observed effects on a molecular level, non-targeted fingerprinting analysis was performed on the ripe elder berries using LC-qToF-ESI-MS(/MS). Differences in the composition of various phenols, triglycerides and PC (36:5) as well as a stigmasterole-derivate could be detected. In contrast, central metabolic pathways such as photosynthesis, the tricarboxylic acid cycle as well as the biosynthesis of essential amino acids obviously are not considerably affected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared the mineral content and bioactive properties of flowers and fruit coming from wild elderberry plants with those of flowers and fruit harvested from elderberry cultivars grown in an orchard. Elderberry fruit and flowers were analyzed for the content of selected minerals, phenolic compounds, and anthocyanins, as well as for antioxidant activity. Mineral content was determined by the atomic absorption spectrometry method, while antioxidant activity and the content of polyphenols and anthocyanins were determined by spectrophotometric methods. Flowers were found to contain more total ash and much higher content of most of minerals, except magnesium which was present in high concentrations in fruit. Fruit showed significantly higher antioxidant activity than flowers, whereas the total phenolic content varied depending on the growing location or cultivar. The material obtained from selected cultivars growing in an orchard had higher antioxidant activity and polyphenol and anthocyanin content than the material obtained from wild plants. Fruit of the ”Haschberg” cultivar and flowers of the ”Sampo” cultivar had the best bioactive properties of the studied samples.

For the first time the chemical profile, physico-chemical parameters, inhibition of carbohydrate hydrolysing enzymes associated with type 2 diabetes, and radical scavenging properties of Sambucus nigra L. (elderberry) juice treated by nanofiltration (NF) were investigated. Three commercial NF membranes with different molecular weight cut-off (MWCO) (400 and 1000 Da) and polymeric material (composite fluoro-polymer and polyethersulphone) were tested. According to HPLC analyses, most part of bioactive compounds were retained by the NF membranes producing a retentate fraction of interest for the production of functional foods. The NP030 membrane, a polyethersulphone membrane with a MWCO of 400 Da, exhibited the highest rejection towards phenolic compounds when compared with the other selected membranes. Accordingly, the produced retentate fractions exhibited the highest radical scavenging activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]