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In this paper, we advance the question: What are the semiotic (meaning-making) and learning opportunities offered by student-produced films? Our point of departure is a pedagogical project in which we invited management students to produce films on scalar issues related to global environmental change. Our analytical lens and our empirical findings (examined through a template analysis and a multimodal video transcription) help us make three contributions. First, we synthesize a new ontological and epistemological foundational "positioning" that portrays the nature of learning processes as revolving on meaning-making activities (a positioning that we have termed a performative, design-oriented multimodality). Second, we provide a framework that advances understanding of the "inner workings" of student film-making as resting on a triple engagement (cognitive-affective, behavioral, and relational), anchored on underpinning multimodal composing activities. These conceptual moves and empirical work allow us to distill several implications, or "provocations": film-making fosters radical openness in management learning curricula, gives new momentum to the instructor's role change ("from sage on the stage to guide on the side") and expands existing cultures of recognition around what gets valued and can be assessed as (signs of) learning. Third, we offer a pedagogical prototype containing practical teaching guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diviner's sage (Salvia divinorum; Lamiaceae) is the source of the powerful hallucinogen salvinorin A (SalA). This neoclerodane diterpenoid is an agonist of the human Κ-opioid receptor with potential medical applications in the treatment of chronic pain, addiction, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Only two steps of the approximately twelve step biosynthetic sequence leading to SalA have been resolved to date. Results: To facilitate pathway elucidation in this ethnomedicinal plant species, here we report a chromosome level genome assembly. A high-quality genome sequence was assembled with an N50 value of 41.4 Mb and a BUSCO completeness score of 98.4%. The diploid (2n = 22) genome of ~ 541 Mb is comparable in size and ploidy to most other members of this genus. Two diterpene biosynthetic gene clusters were identified and are highly enriched in previously unidentified cytochrome P450s as well as crotonolide G synthase, which forms the dihydrofuran ring early in the SalA pathway. Coding sequences for other enzyme classes with likely involvement in downstream steps of the SalA pathway (BAHD acyl transferases, alcohol dehydrogenases, and O-methyl transferases) were scattered throughout the genome with no clear indication of clustering. Differential gene expression analysis suggests that most of these genes are not inducible by methyl jasmonate treatment. Conclusions: This genome sequence and associated gene annotation are among the highest resolution in Salvia, a genus well known for the medicinal properties of its members. Here we have identified the cohort of genes responsible for the remaining steps in the SalA pathway. This genome sequence and associated candidate genes will facilitate the elucidation of SalA biosynthesis and enable an exploration of its full clinical potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Salvia multicaulis (wild) × Salvia officinalis (cultivated) produced F1 hybrid. • F1 hybrid has the highest content of rosmarinic acid and quercetin. • PAL and CYP expressions strongly correlate with rosmarinic acid content. • Cineole contents negatively correlate with the expression of the CS gene. • Salvia has antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial effects. The Salvia genus, particularly the wild genotypes, received significant attention due to its antibacterial, antioxidant, antiviral, and anticancer properties. Crossbreeding wild and cultivated plants can conserve the genetic resources of wild plants and develop new hybrids with high yields and high resistance to climatic changes. In this study, Salvia multicaulis (P1, wild) and Salvia officinalis (P2, cultivated) have been crossed to produce a novel hybrid (F1 hybrid) in the Saint Catherin protectorate - Egypt. In P1, P2, and F1 hybrid, heterosis, phytochemical composition, gene expression of PAL (Phenylalanine ammonia-lyase), RAS1 (Rosmarinic acid synthase I), CYP (Cytochrome P450), and CS (1,8-Cineole synthase), besides antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial effects were assessed. The F1 hybrid recorded the highest means of plant height in the two seasons. Heterosis over the mid-parents was positively associated with various traits, including stem thickness, number of branches, fresh yield, and percentage of oil in both seasons. Total phenolic and flavonoid content were found in the following order: P2 > P1 > F1. DPPH antioxidant effect was found in the following order: P2 > F1 > P1. The F1 hybrid had the highest content of rosmarinic acid (12.379 mg/g), quercetin (0.595 mg/g), and naringenin (0.152 mg/g), followed by P1 and P2. The 1,8-cineol and α-pinene were the main compounds in the essential oils of P1, P2, and F1. The 1,8-cineol was found in the following order: P2 > F1 > P1, while α-pinene was found in the following order: P1 > F1 > P2. The RAS1 expression showed a weak correlation with the concentration of rosmarinic acid, while the expressions of PAL and CYP were strongly correlated with the concentrations of main phenolics, including rosmarinic acid, quercetin, and naringenin. The 1,8-cineol content was negatively correlated with the expression of the CS gene. The P2 extract and the F1 hybrid essential oil showed potent anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. Crossbreeding S. multicaulis (P1, wild) and S. officinalis (P2, cultivated) in this study developed a new hybrid (F1) with good growth characteristics, high essential oil yields, high levels of bioactives, and good bioactivity. This makes it suitable for large-scale production for use in food and pharmaceutical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Liver diseases represent a significant global health challenge, with primary causes including excessive alcohol consumption, infections, chemotherapy, and autoimmune disorders. Medicinal plants, due to their natural bioactive compounds, hold promise for developing effective treatments and preventive measures against liver ailments. This study aimed to document the use of herbal remedies in northeastern Morocco for liver diseases and correlate these uses with scientific evidence through a bibliometric analysis. Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted in remote communities of northeastern Morocco from October 2020 to January 2022. A total of 189 informants were interviewed using semi-structured questionnaires to gather information on local medicinal plants used for liver ailments. The data were analyzed using four ethnobotanical quantitative indices: use value (UV), familial use value (FUV), informant consensus factor (ICF), and fidelity level (FL). Additionally, a bibliometric analysis was performed to evaluate the scientific support for the ethnopharmacological uses documented. Results: The survey identified 45 plant species from 26 different families used in the treatment of liver diseases. The most frequently utilized species were Cuminum cyminum L. (UV = 0.1065), Allium sativum L. (UV = 0.1015), Salvia officinalis L. (UV = 0.0761), Asparagus officinalis L. (UV = 0.0558), and Ziziphus lotus (L.) Lam. (UV = 0.0457). The Apiaceae family showed the highest familial use value (FUV = 0.1066), followed by Alliaceae (FUV = 0.1015). Liver congestion had the highest informant consensus factor (ICF = 0.83), followed by hepatic colic (ICF = 0.80). Bibliometric analysis revealed that 61% of the plants identified had documented pharmacological effects related to liver health. Discussion: The study demonstrates that traditional knowledge in northeastern Morocco encompasses a rich diversity of medicinal plants used to treat liver diseases. The high ICF values indicate a strong consensus among informants on the efficacy of these remedies. The correlation between ethnopharmacological use and scientific validation for a significant portion of these plants suggests their potential as reliable therapeutic agents for liver conditions. However, further scientific investigations are necessary to confirm their efficacy and safety in clinical settings. This research contributes valuable information for future studies on the therapeutic potential of these plants. Conclusion: This ethnobotanical survey provides a comprehensive database of medicinal plants used in northeastern Morocco for liver diseases. The findings highlight the potential of these plants in developing novel treatments for hepatic conditions, although further research is essential to substantiate their therapeutic claims. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research has investigated the effect of different concentrations of nanoparticles (zinc, iron, titanium) and smoke-water on some growth and physiological characteristics of the medicinal plant sage. A factorial experiment was conducted in the form of a randomised complete block design with three replications in the research greenhouse of the Campus of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Razi University, Iran, over two consecutive years, 2021 and 2022. The first factor included foliar spraying of nanoparticles of Fe, Zn, Ti with two levels: 0 and 50 mg l−1. The second factor was foliar spraying using smoke-water with two levels of 0.5 and 1 mg l−1. Treatments were applied in three stages after graft establishment. Results indicated that the highest stem dry weight (68.477 g) occurred with 0.5 mg l−1 smoke-water without nanoparticles. At 0 mg l−1 smoke-water, titanium (64.493 g) and iron (65.193 g) nanoparticles yielded the highest stem weights. Application of 0.5 mg l−1 of smoked water improved the dry weight of leaves and stems. Foliar spraying of 50 mg l−1 of zinc and titanium nanoparticles also increased growth characteristics and chlorophyll content of sage leaves. In both cuttings, different concentrations affected some growth characteristics and photosynthetic pigments of sage plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mediterranean‐climate shrublands are key biodiversity hotspots and carbon storage pools, but are increasingly threatened by climate change, non‐native species, and altered fire regimes. Fires are important to historic shrubland disturbance cycles but can also promote non‐native plants, which may limit post‐fire native shrub recovery. Increasing drought with climate change could also reduce post‐fire shrub regeneration. I developed a stochastic, individual‐based demographic model (IBM) for the native shrub Artemisia californica, parameterized from an experimental removal of non‐native annuals after a 2013 fire in southern California. The IBM simulated A. californica recovery for 7 years after fire under different rainfall conditions (drought or pre‐drought) and non‐native removal strategies (from no years to all 7 years). Drought lowered A. californica canopy volume 7 years after fire by 90% or more. Rainfall in the second year after fire, when most A. californica germination occurred, had particularly strong effects on final canopy cover. Non‐native removal in all 7 years increased canopy volume by three times under drought conditions and 3.5 times under pre‐drought conditions. Targeting non‐native removal in the first 2 years proved nearly as effective, achieving from 88% (drought) to 95% (pre‐drought) the benefits of removal in all 7 years. In sum, low rainfall may be the most important limitation on post‐fire shrub recovery, but removal of non‐natives in years of pulsed shrub recruitment can be an effective restoration strategy even under drought conditions. More generally, this study illustrates how demographic models can help optimize the targeting of scarce management and restoration resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The long history of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict has resulted in a public and mental health crisis. Despite the significant mental health burdens facing the Palestinian population in the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT) and refugee camps, this issue remains comprehensively unexplored. Aims: This scoping review identified mental health interventions and assessed their effectiveness among populations in the OPT and Palestinian refugee camps, while addressing delivery challenges. Method: A scoping review was conducted using 14 databases to include relevant studies published through March 2024 using PRISMA guidelines for scoping reviews. Results: Analyzing 31 intervention studies meeting the inclusion/exclusion criteria, revealed varied outcomes in interventions targeting post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and overall mental well-being. Conclusions: While some interventions showed potential, others had limited effectiveness, underscoring the complexity of mental health needs in conflict zones. Gender- and risk-specific effectiveness was observed, emphasizing the need for tailored approaches. Challenges like low attendance rates and systemic barriers hindered intervention success. The profound impact of war on children stresses the urgency for targeted interventions. Empowerment and community connectedness are vital for resilience, along with the importance of family and community involvement and research that balances the need for strong evaluation designs with the need for ongoing mental health services. Advocacy for systemic changes is crucial to implement the complex sustainable interventions necessary to assure mental health in any population. This review highlights the importance of holistic, contextually relevant approaches for mental health intervention in OPT and refugee camps, emphasizing rigorous evaluations and community-driven approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extracts of Salvia officinalis (S. officinalis) have been described to have many therapeutic properties. However, the effect of S. officinalis on copper sulfate toxicity has not been previously reported. The aim of this study was to investigate the toxicity of copper sulfate and the potential beneficial effects of S. officinalis aqueous infusion on proinflammatory response and antioxidant status. 56 male mice were used and equally divided into 6 groups: control group, copper sulfate treated group (40 mg/kg), S. officinalis aqueous infusion treated groups (200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg) separately or in combination with copper. IL-6 (interleukine-6) and TNF-α (Tumor necrosis factor alpha) were assessed by Elisa. Catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activities, malondialdehyde (MDA) and oxygen peroxide levels were determined. Serum biochemical parameters were analyzed. Copper enhanced aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) (p < 0.05). Copper enhances significantly IL-6, TNF-α and MDA levels in liver and kidney and reduced CAT, SOD and AChE activities (p < 0.05). Aqueous infusion of S. officinalis at 400 mg/kg abolished copper-induced changes in AST and ALT activity. S. officinalis aqueous infusion at 200 mg/kg reversed copper-induced IL-6 in kidney and TNF-α in liver at both doses. S. officinalis aqueous infusion at 400 mg/kg restored SOD in kidney and CAT and AChE activities in both liver and kidney. S. officinalis aqueous infusion may be useful in partially ameliorating tissue disorders induced by copper exposure such as inflammatory response, oxidative stress imbalance and organ dysfunction through its phenolic compounds and higher antioxidant capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salvia officinalis L., commonly known as sage and belonging to the Lamiaceae family, is a medicinal herb indigenous to the Mediterranean region. It is celebrated for its diverse pharmacological properties and traditional uses in folk medicine, particularly in addressing hepatotoxicity. Cisplatin (Cis), a potent chemotherapeutic agent widely employed in cancer treatment, is recognized for its efficacy but often accompanied by adverse effects, including hepatotoxicity. The aim of this study was to assess whether an ethanolic S. officinalis extract (ESOE) could provide protection against Cis -induced hepatotoxicity in an experimental rat model. The ESOE was prepared using standard extraction techniques, and its chemical constituents were elucidated through UPLC-ESI-MS/MS analysis, revealing the presence of bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, phenolic compounds, and flavonoids, which are associated with various therapeutic effects, including hepatoprotection. Adult male albino rats were allocated into four groups: control, ESOE (250 mg/kg), Cis (7.5 mg/kg), and ESOE (250 mg/kg) + Cis (7.5 mg/kg). The treatment duration lasted 21 days, with Cis administration on the 22nd day. Twenty-four hours post-Cis administration, blood and liver samples were collected for analysis. Cis -induced hepatotoxicity was evidenced by alterations in hematological parameters, including erythrocyte, thrombocyte, leukocyte, and lymphocyte counts, alongside elevated serum levels of liver enzymes (ALT, LDH, AST, ALP, and GGT), indicative of liver damage. Furthermore, Cis exposure resulted in increased hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) and Nitric oxide (NO) levels, oxidative stress markers, coupled with decreased levels of reduced glutathione (GSH), a non-enzymatic antioxidant, and histopathological changes in liver tissue, characterized by necrosis and inflammation. Additionally, Cis treatment led to elevated levels of 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OH-dG), TNF-α, and IL-6, indicating oxidative stress and inflammation. Remarkably, pretreatment with ESOE ameliorated these Cis -induced hepatotoxic effects, as evidenced by improved hematological parameters, reduced liver enzyme activities, alleviated oxidative stress, and ameliorated histopathological alterations. The observed hepatoprotective effects of ESOE against Cis -induced liver injury may be attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, highlighting its potential as a natural therapeutic agent in mitigating chemotherapy-associated hepatotoxicity. [Display omitted] • Ethanolic Salvia officinalis extract (ESOE) mitigates cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity. • ESOE restores hematological parameters and hepatic enzyme levels. • ESOE attenuates oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in rat liver. • Histological examination confirms ESOE's protective effect on hepatic architecture. • ESOE suppresses caspase-3 and iNOS expression, indicating anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory actions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Staphylococcus aureus , particularly multi-drug resistant strains, presents significant challenges in dairy farming due to its role in causing bovine mastitis, which leads to substantial economic losses and limited treatment options. Seeking alternative therapies, we investigated the potential of a topical formulation derived from the medicinal herb Salvia officinalis to combat S. aureus growth and biofilms associated with bovine mastitis. Through systematic extraction in different solvents and fractionation by column chromatography, we isolated and identified three key multicyclic terpenoids—ferruginol, sugiol, and sclareol—exhibiting significant antimicrobial activity. The formulation effectively inhibited biofilm formation, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 0.09 to 0.74 mg ml−1 against clinical S. aureus strains, comparable to or lower than those of the pure compounds. Moreover, it displayed robust anti-adhesive properties, reducing biofilm formation by 20%–79% at subinhibitory concentrations. Furthermore, the formulation successfully disrupted pre-existing biofilms, achieving reductions ranging from 30% to 82%. Cytotoxicity assays confirmed the safety of the formulation on mammary epithelial cells, with cell viability maintained at 100% at MIC. Our findings underscore the therapeutic potential of Sa. officinalis -derived compounds in managing bovine mastitis caused by S. aureus , emphasizing their antimicrobial efficacy and safety profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving the productivity of medicinal and aromatic species via eco-friendly approaches is imperative worldwide because of their therapeutic impacts. Biostimulants have been recognized among the best cultural practices in the last few decades. Among them, bee honey (BH) and ginger extract (GE) are new sources of multifunctional biostimulants that positively influence plant growth and development. However, there are currently no detailed reports on the impacts of BH or GE as promising growth and yield enhancers for medicinal and aromatic species. Also, the mechanism involved in stimulating growth and essential oil content with BH or GE is still unidentified. This work was, therefore, undertaken to analyze the impact of BH and GE on the growth, productivity, and essential oil content of sage plants (Salvia officinalis L.). Sage plants were sprayed monthly for three months with the same volume of BH (0, 5, 10, and 15 g L−1), GE (0, 5, 10, and 15 mg L−1), or tap water, which was used as a control. BH or GE application improved the plant height, branch number, herb yield, total chlorophyll content, total phenolics, and antioxidant capacity relative to the controls, more so with GE. Intriguingly, the essential oil percentage, oil yield, and oil constituents were enhanced by BH and GE. In this respect, the highest levels of biostimulants, particularly GE, were more effective. On a percentage basis, the essential oil yield per hectare was largely increased by 127.91 and 138.89% with GE (10 g L−1) in both seasons relative to the controls. The contents of IAA, GA3, and CK in THE sage leaves were substantially increased by BH and GE, and higher levels of both biostimulants and GE were more effective. The nutrient levels of N, P, K, Fe, Zn, and Mg were also elevated by BH and GE compared with the untreated plants. These results suggest that BH or GE application could be a promising biostimulant for improving the productivity of sage and provide a new understanding of their mechanisms in this aspect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of Kongzi 孔子, in the Zhuangzi, has been a compelling story. Can we read the stories about Kongzi as constituting a type of commentary on his teachings and the early development of Confucian philosophy in general? First, let us consider the way Zhuangzi has put his own teachings into the mouth of Kongzi because he was accepted to be a sage who understood how to live well. Then, I turn to the more problematic references to Kongzi as being punished in Chapter 5 and his being a "condemned person" in chapter 6 to illustrate how these stories are taken to be forms of commentary or criticism of Kongzi's project because he did not understand complete virtue. The role of Kongzi in the Zhuangzi can be read as a criticism-like commentary using Kongzi to criticize Kongzi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Objectives: This study was performed to evaluate the effects of peppermint and sage intercropping with application of different fertilizer resources on the dry matter yield, essential oil content, and ecological indices under drought stress. Material and Methods: A field experiment was carried out as a split split plot based on a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 36 treatments and three replications at the faculty of Agriculture, University of Maragheh, Iran in 2019 and 2020. The main factor was three irrigation regimes included 25 (MAD25), 50 (MAD50), and 75% (MAD75) maximum allowable depletion (MAD) percentage of the soil available water (SAW) as normal irrigation, mild and severe water stress, respectively. The sub-factor was different planting patterns included peppermint monoculture, sage monoculture, and intercropping of one row peppermint + one row sage and also sub-sub factor were application of different fertilizer sources including no‐fertilizer as control, TiO2 nanoparticles (100 mg L-1), arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) inoculation, and integrative application of AMF and TiO2 (AMF + TiO2). Results: The results showed that the dry matter yield of peppermint and sage decreased significantly by 28.7, 27% in mild stress, 55.1%, and 64.1% in severe stress, respectively. The highest dry matter yield of peppermint (144.2 g m-2) and sage (172.7 g m-2) was obtained in the monoculture with integrative application of AMF + TiO2. The maximum essential oil content of peppermint (1.51%) was observed in intercropping with integrative application of AMF + TiO2. In addition, the highest land equivalent ratio (LER), actual yield loss (AYL), and monetary indices were achieved in normal irrigation with integrative application of AMF + TiO2. Moreover, the maximum net income of two plants was recorded in intercropping with application of AMF + TiO2 under normal irrigation, which was no significant difference with integrated application of AMF + TiO2 in intercropping under mild water stress. Conclusion: Generally, it can be concluded that the integrative application of AMF + TiO2 in intercropping of peppermint/sage could be suggested as a sustainable strategy to increasing the quantity and quality of essential oil of both plants under drought stress conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salvia officinalis L. (Lamiaceae) leaves and its essential oil is used for mouth and throat disorders, skin disorders, minor wounds, and gastrointestinal disorders, and is widely used worldwide. The research aimed to conduct a comparative study of the composition of S. officinalis essential oils from commercial samples, and their main chemotypes. The volatile constituents from S. officinalis leaves were investigated using gas chromatography (GC). The commercial samples of sage leaves were obtained from retail pharmacies in nine mainly European countries. The yield of essential oil in S. officinalis commercial leaves was between 10.0 and 24.8 mL/kg. The principal components (>5%) among the main identified 25 compounds were 1,8-cineole (8.3%–45.3%), α-thujone (3.0%–34.0%), сamphor (11.3%–29.3%), β-thujone (1.5%–12.9%), viridiflorol (1.1%–10.4%), camphene (2.6%–7.1%), and α-pinene (1.3%–5.8%). In seven (Estonia, England, France, Hungary, Belgium, Ukraine, Georgia) samples α-thujone dominated. Four samples (Estonia, Georgia, England, Hungary) belong to the most common chemotype α-thujone > camphor > 1,8-cineole. Eight chemotypes of S. officinalis essential oils have been found. Toxic thujones are widespread compounds among them. Graphic Abstract Salvia officinalis L. Leaves Samples from Different Countries" class="showdlg" rel-p="photosdshow" style="max-width:100%; margin: 0px auto; cursor: pointer" /> [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biotreatment of wastewater has attracted considerable attention due to its low cost and eco-friendliness. This study developed a novel bionanocomposite comprised of Nanochitosan (NCS), Bentonite (Bt), and SnO2–ZnO nanocomposite prepared using Salvia officinalis extract as a reducing/stabilizing agent. The NCS/Bt/SnO2–ZnO bionanocomposite exhibited a rough surface with porous nature. EDX, XRD, and FTIR results confirmed the formation of the bionanocomposite. TGA indicated high thermal stability of the NCS/Bt/SnO2–ZnO. DRS results revealed that the bionanocomposite had a band gap of 2.60 eV. The surface area of NCS/Bt/SnO2–ZnO was found to be 32.54 m2 g−1 with a 17.98 nm pore size. Adsorption of Fe(III) and Pb(II) ions and photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye using this bionanocomposite were studied. Under optimal conditions, the highest removal of Fe(III) (99.5%) and Pb(II) (91.5%) was achieved after 5 min and 40 min, respectively. The adsorption data fitted the Langmuir isotherm and indicated the removal capacity of 555.55 and 243.90 mgg−1 for Fe(III) and Pb(II), respectively. Also, the NCS/Bt/SnO2–ZnO showed the MB dye degradation efficiency of 99% within 30 min. Therefore, the NCS/Bt/SnO2–ZnO can be used as an environmentally friendly, cost-effective, thermally stable, and high-performance adsorbent/photocatalyst to remove heavy metal ions and dye molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Removing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from the environment is an important process for the protection of biota. This work examines three different approaches to the degradation of such contaminants. The first involves the use of iron bionanoparticles (Fe-BNPs) prepared through green synthesis from selected plant matrices. The second approach entails the use of the bacteria Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (SM) and Ochrobactrum anthropi (OA) isolated from a PCB-contaminated area, Strážsky canal, located in the Slovak republic, which receives efflux of canal from Chemko Strážske plant, a former producer of PCB mixtures. The third approach combines these two methods, employing a sequential hybrid two-step application of Fe-BNPs from the plant matrix followed by the application of bacterial strains. Fe-BNPs are intended to be an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI), which is commonly used in many environmental applications. This work also addresses the optimization parameters for using nZVI in PCB degradation, including the pH of the reaction, oxygen requirements, and dosage of nZVI. Pure standards of polyphenols (gallic acid, GA) and flavonoids (quercetin, Q) were tested to produce Fe-BNPs using green synthesis at different concentrations (0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.8, and 1 g.L−1) and were subsequently applied to the PCB degradation experiments. This step monitored the minimum content of bioactive substances needed for the synthesis of Fe-BNPs and their degradation effects. Experimental analysis indicated that among the selected approaches, sequential nanobiodegradation appears to be the most effective for PCB degradation, specifically the combination of Fe-BNPs from sage and bacteria SM (75% degradation of PCBs) and Fe-BNPs from GA (0.3 g.L−1) with bacteria OA (92% degradation of PCBs). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salvia officinalis (SO) is one of the most widely used plants in traditional medicine worldwide. In the present study, the effect of an ethanolic extract of S. officinalis leaves on hallmarks of cancer of HPV-16-positive cancer tumorigenic cells, TC-1, was analyzed in vitro. Phytochemical and spectroscopic analysis were performed. Additionally, the extract's flavonoid content, reducing iron, and antioxidant capacity were determined. In regard to the in vitro tests, the cytotoxic activity and its effect on the replicative capacity and on the cell migration of TC-1 cells were analyzed by viability and clonogenic, survival, and wound healing assays. The effect of a pre-treatment or treatment on 3D culture formation, growth, and reversion capacity was also examined. The results of the phytochemical analysis allowed the detection of tannins, saponins, steroids, and flavonoids. The flavonoids content was found to be 153.40 ± 10.68 µg/mg of extract. Additionally, the extract exhibited an antioxidant capacity and a ferric-reducing capacity of around 40% compared to the ascorbic acid. Thin layer chromatographic (TLC) analysis and spectroscopic tests showed the presence of compounds similar to quercetin and catechin flavonoids in the extract. In the in vitro assays, the SO extract induced in a concentration-dependent way changes in cell morphology, the decrease of cell viability, survival, and migration. At a concentration of 125 µg/mL, the extract inhibited spheroid formation, reduced their growth, and affected their reversion to 2D. Ethanolic extract of S. officinalis leaves had inhibitory effects on hallmarks of the cancer line HPV-16+. This suggests that the phytochemicals present in it may be a source of chemotherapeutics against cervical cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Expanding on work by Conway, Orson, and Powell, we study the isotopy classes rel. boundary of nonorientable, compact, locally flatly embedded surfaces in D 4 with knot group Z 2. In particular we show that if two such surfaces have the same normal Euler number, the same fixed knot boundary K such that | det ⁡ (K) | = 1 , and the same nonorientable genus 4 or 5, then they are ambiently isotopic rel. boundary. This implies that closed, nonorientable, locally flatly embedded surfaces in the 4-sphere with knot group Z 2 of nonorientable genus 4 and 5 are topologically unknotted. The proof relies on calculations, implemented in Sage, which imply that an obstruction to modified surgery is elementary. Furthermore we show that this method fails for nonorientable genus 6 and 7. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigated the properties and antimicrobial activity of silver nanoparticles synthesised through a green method using Salvia officinalis. Extracts were obtained from sage at two different temperatures, and these extracts were then used to synthesise silver nanoparticles through a reaction with AgNO₃. The characteristics of resulting silver nanoparticles and their antimicrobial effects on foodborne pathogenic bacteria were examined. During the synthesis, the colour of the silver nanoparticle solution changed from yellow to dark brown, and a significant absorbance peak was observed at 360 nm. The sizes of the synthesised silver nanoparticles were found to be 53.77 and 57.08 nm for the two different extraction temperatures, respectively. The nanoparticles exhibited spherical-rod shapes with silver contents of 83.91% and 84.38% and crystal sizes of 37.15 nm and 34.81 nm, corresponding to the two temperatures. The reduction of silver ions involved functional groups like C=C or C=O. The antimicrobial activity of the synthesised silver nanoparticles was evaluated at concentrations of 10 and 25 mg.mL-1 using the paper disc method against several foodborne pathogenic bacteria. Notably, the sage extract displayed antimicrobial efficacy against Salmonella Typhi, Listeria monocytogenes, and Staphylococcus aureus. However, no significant antimicrobial effect was observed against Escherichia coli O157:H7.

In recent years, the exploration of the therapeutic potential of Salvia has gained considerable attention, leading to a growing number of scientific studies emphasizing its pharmacological properties. Despite this, therapeutic applications of Salvia remain underexploited, requiring further investigation. Iran is a major center for sage diversity in Asia, boasting 60 Salvia species, 17 of which are unique to the area. This study aimed to comprehensively explore and compare the extracts of 102 Salvia samples belonging to 20 distinct Salvia species from Iran, providing a deeper understanding of their specific polyphenol content and, consequently, their antioxidant capabilities and potential therapeutic uses. All samples were analyzed to determine the contents of total phenolics, total flavonoids, total tannin, photosynthetic pigments, and ascorbic acid, along with their antioxidant activity. These data were then combined with the forty distinct chemical fingerprints identified by ultrafast high-pressure liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry. Multivariate data analysis was employed to find correlations and differences among the huge number of data obtained and to identify Salvia species with similar phytochemical and/or antioxidant properties. The results show that each Salvia species is characterized by a distinct class of polyphenols recognized for their antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective and neuroprotective properties. Overall, our findings reveal the potential of some Salvia species for targeted therapeutic applications and provide a rational basis for the development of Salvia-derived nutraceuticals, ultimately improving the prospects for the use of Salvia in medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sage is a perennial medicinal and aromatic plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family. Macro-micro elements have an important place in the development of this plant. One of these elements is selenium. This study aims to examine the effect of foliar selenium (Se) application on the agronomic, biochemical, and bioactive properties of sage. The plant height (PH), fresh herb yield (FHY), dry herb yield (DHY), and dry leaf yield (DLY) as agronomic properties, and Se content in the plant (SCP), ascorbic acid content (AAC), total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant activity (AA) and mineral composition (MC) as biochemical and bioactive properties were investigated in this context. The experiment was carried out in four replications over three years in 2018, 2019, and 2020. In the study, 0 (control), 100, 200, 400, and 800 g ha−1 Se were applied to sage leaves. At the end of the study, it was determined that Se application was effective on the agronomic characteristics of the sage, except for the first year. The application of 100 g ha−1 Se in FHY, DHY, DLY, AA, and TPC properties emerged as the recommended dose since it reached the highest values. In addition, it was evaluated that the Se application did not have a statistically significant effect on the SCP. For years with statistical significance, 400 g ha−1 Se application was recommended in terms of AAC and 100 g ha−1 Se application in terms of AA and TPC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sage (Salvia officinalis L.) is a medicinal and aromatic plant (MAP) belonging to the Lamiaceae family. Its morphological, productive and chemical characteristics are affected by abiotic and biotic factors. The use of biostimulants seems to be one of the most interesting innovative practices due to fact they can represent a promising approach for achieving sustainable and organic agriculture. Despite a large application in horticulture, the use of biostimulants on MAPs has been poorly investigated. On this basis, a field experiment in a 2-year study was done to assess the effect of foliar treatments with different types of biostimulants (containing seaweeds, fulvic acids and protein hydrolysates) and two frequencies of application on morphological, productive, and chemical characteristics of S. officinalis grown organically in Mediterranean environment. Morphological, productive, and chemical parameters were affected by the factors. The biostimulant application generated higher plant height, chlorophyll content, relative water content, biomass yield and essential oil yield compared to control plants. In addition, more frequent application of biostimulants produced higher biomass and essential oil yield. The application of fulvic acid and protein hydrolysates every week produced the highest total fresh yields (between 3.9 and 8.7 t ha-1) and total dry yields (between 1.3 and 2.5 t ha-1). The essential oil yield almost doubled (33.9 kg ha-1) with a higher frequency of protein hydrolysates application. In this study, 44 essential oil compounds were identified, and the frequency factor significantly influenced the percentage of 38 compounds. The highest percentage of some of the most representative monoterpenes, such as 1,8-cineole, a-thujone and camphor, were observed in biostimulated plants, with average increases between 6% and 35% compared to control plants. The highest values for total phenolics, rosmarinic acid, antioxidant activity were obtained in control plants and with a lower frequency of biostimulant applications. This study emphasizes how biostimulant applications may be used to improve sage production performance and essential oil parameters when produced in agricultural organic system. At the same time, biostimulants application caused a decrease in total phenolic, antioxidant activity and rosmarinic acid values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Notwithstanding the fact that melatonin (MT) and titanium nanoparticles (Ti NPs) alone have been widely used recently to modulate cadmium (Cd) stress in plants, there is a gap in the comparative impacts of these materials on lowering Cd toxicity in sage plants. The objective of this study was to determine how foliar application of MT and Ti NPs affected the growth, Cd accumulation, photosynthesis, water content, lipid peroxidation, and essential oil (EO) quality and quantity of sage plants in Cd-contaminated soils. A factorial experiment was conducted using MT at 100 and 200 μM and Ti NPs at 50 and 100 mg L−1 topically, together with Cd toxicity at 10 and 20 mg Cd kg−1 soil. The results showed that Cd toxicity decreased plant growth and enhanced lipid peroxidation. The Cd stress at 20 mg kg−1 soil resulted in increases in Cd root (693%), Cd shoot (429%), electrolyte leakage (EL, 29%), malondialdehyde (MDA, 72%), shoot weight (31%), root weight (27%), chlorophyll (Chl) a + b (26%), relative water content (RWC, 23%), and EO yield (30%). The application of MT and Ti NPs controlled drought stress by reducing MDA and EL, enhancing plant weight, Chl, RWC, and EO production, and minimizing Cd accumulation in plant tissues. The predominant compounds in the EO were α-thujone, 1,8-cineole, β-thujone, camphor, and α-humulene. MT and Ti NPs caused α-thujone to rise, whereas Cd stress caused it to fall. Based on heat map analysis, MDA was the trait that was most sensitive to treatments. In summary, the research emphasizes the possibility of MT and Ti NPs, particularly MT at 200 μM, to mitigate Cd toxicity in sage plants and enhance their biochemical reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThis research was carried out to determine the effects of different harvest time (HT) and salicylic acid application (SAA) on agronomic and quality characteristics of sage. The experiment was carried out in a randomized complete block design in split plots with HTs (pre-flowering and 50% flowering periods) in the main plots and SAAs in the subplots (Control, 1, 2, and 4 mM). Plant height, fresh herb yield, dry herb yield, fresh leaf yield, dry leaf yield, leaf ratio, essential oil (EO) content, EO yield, and EO composition were examined. In total or mean results, the HT was statistically significant on plant height, fresh and dry herb yield, leaf ratio in both years. The SAA was statistically significant on fresh and dry herb yield and leaf ratio only in the second year. Among the 24 components identified, alpha thujone was the main component. This component was followed by camphor, 13-epimanool, veridiflorol, 1.8-cineol. According to the principal component analysis (PCA), in 2021, 1 mM SAAs applied at the 50% flowering period in the first cutting and at the pre-flowering period in the second cutting showed different properties regarding EO composition. In 2022, 4 mM SAAs applied at the 50% flowering period in the first and second cuttings showed different properties regarding EO composition. The study found that delaying the HT led to significant increases in plant height, fresh and dry herb yields. Additionally, the SAA increased the herb yield and decreased the leaf ratio, particularly in the second year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Mutiles campus, in San Mateo, Esmeraldas, Brachiaria Hybrid Sabia AIG-330 J was evaluated at three cutting ages (30, 60 and 90 days), using a completely randomized experimental design and statistical analysis with Fisher's test at 5%. Variables of forage potential were studied, such as cutting height, cover, green forage production and dry matter, as well as nutritional composition (dry matter, ash, protein, fiber, nitrogen free extract and ethereal extract). The results showed significant differences, highlighting greater height at 90 days (1.32 m) and greater production of green forage (77.13 ton/ha/year) and dry matter (13.13 ton/ha/year). Nutritional analysis revealed a decrease in protein content with increasing cutting age, being higher at 30 and 60 days (14.16%) and lower at 90 days (10.86%). Fiber reached its maximum at 90 days (31.50%). These findings suggest that cutting at 60 days offers an optimal balance between biomass production and nutritional value, recommending the Brachiaria Sabia AIG-330 J hybrid as an efficient forage source for this age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species belonging to the genus Salvia, Lamiaceae, have been deeply involved in the folk medicine of different nations since ancient times. Lilac sage, or Salvia verticillata L. (S. verticillata) is a less studied species from the genus. However, it seems to have a prominent potential for the future drug discovery strategies of novel phytopharmaceuticals. This review aims to summarise the data on the biological activity and the phytochemical profile of extracts and essential oils derived from S. verticillata. This review is based on data from 57 in vitro and in vivo studies. The chemical profile of S. verticillata includes different synergic compounds like phenolic acids, flavonoids, terpenes, and salvianolic acids. Although some small amounts of salvianolic acid B were found in S. verticillata extracts, the major compound among the salvianolic acids is salvianolic acid C, a compound associated with the potential for improving liver fibrosis, cardio- and hepatoprotection, and the inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 infection. The cannabinoid type 2 receptor agonist β-caryophyllene is one of the major compounds in S. verticillata essential oils. It is a compound with a prominent potential in regenerative medicine, neurology, immunology, and other medical fields. The in vivo and the in vitro studies, regarding S. verticillata highlighted good antioxidant potential, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal activity. S.verticillata was also reported as a potential source of drug candidates for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, because of the inhibitory activity on the acetylcholinesterase. However, the number of studies in this direction is limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article explores the topic of offering sacrifices for the dead in the ancient world and its potential presence in the Bible. It suggests that the Bible discourages the practice of offering food to the dead, citing Deuteronomy 26:12-14 as a possible reference. The article also mentions other biblical passages that may refer to offerings made to idols or deceased ancestors. It concludes that the evidence indicates that the Israelites were instructed to prioritize their commitment to the less fortunate and were prohibited from using their tithes for offerings to the dead. The text further discusses the practice of offering sacrifices to the dead in ancient Israelite culture, including sleeping at grave sites in hopes of encountering the spirits of the deceased in dreams. It also mentions the consumption of forbidden animals as part of a ritual to establish a connection with underworld powers. However, the Bible is portrayed as being opposed to providing food and drink to the dead, and the practice was not widely accepted in Israelite culture. [Extracted from the article]

BACKGROUND: Salvia officinalis (Common Sage) plant, is used as herbal medicine. The study was aimed at investigating the antimalarial potential and liver function profiles of the Methanol Extract of Salvia officinalis. METHODS: Mice infected with Plasmodium berghei were treated (p.o) with the extract in the curative, suppressive, and prophylactic antimalarial models at doses of 250mg/kg, 500mg/kg, and 1000mg/kg. The positive control drug used was artemether/ lumefantrine (7mg/kg A/L) while the negative control was 10mk/kg of Tween 80. RESULTS: The curative stage showed a significant (p < 0.001) dose-dependent antiplasmodial effect (of the methanol extract of S. officinalis leaf) compared with the negative control (Group 1). At doses of 250, 500, and 1000mg/kg, the Salvia officinalis extract produced parasite suppression of 37.13%, 57.18% and 66.80% respectively. While the positive control group produced parasite percentage suppression of 74.38%. There was a significant chemosuppressive effect (p < 0.001) at all doses of the methanol extract of Salvia officinalis leaf.The leaf extracts demonstrated a prophylactic significant (p < 0.001) activity. There was no significant effect (p > 0.05) on packed cell volume at doses of 250 and 500mg/kg while 1000mg/kg body weight showed a significant (p < 0.05) effect. There was a reduction in the level of activity of the enzymes and other parameters in the liver function tests with an increase in the dosage of the leaf extract. CONCLUSION: The methanol extract of Salvia officinalis possesses in vivo antiplasmodial activities and could be a lead plant in the development of antiplasmodial agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

α-Pinene is the bicyclic, unsaturated terpene hydrocarbon present in many plants. Due to its beneficial chemical properties, this compound is of great interest and has found numerous applications as a raw material in many chemical industries as well as in medicine and cosmetics. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant activities of ethanolic extracts obtained from plants containing α-pinene and to test the properties of cosmetic emulsions prepared with these extracts. The raw plant materials consisted of fresh parts of Pinus sylvestris L., such as cones, needles, and branches, as well as dried unground and ground pinecones; dried and fresh Rosmarinus officinalis leaves; dried Levisticum officinale leaves; and dried Salvia officinalis L. leaves. The plant materials were individually extracted with 40% (v/v), 70% (v/v), and 96% (v/v) ethanol using ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) for 15, 30, or 60 min. This method is a green extraction technique, frequently applied to isolate active substances from plants. For the selected plant materials, Soxhlet extraction with 96% (v/v) ethanol was also performed. The qualitative and quantitative analyses of the components in the selected extracts were performed with gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The antioxidant activities of the extracts were evaluated with the DPPH and ABTS methods. The extracts of three plant materials with the highest antioxidant activities—dried Rosmarinus officinalis leaves, dried Salvia officinalis L. leaves, and dried and ground Pinus sylvestris L. cones—were selected to be incorporated in cosmetic emulsions containing glyceryl monostearate and Olivem 1000 as emulsifiers. The stabilities and antioxidant activities of the emulsions were evaluated. Moreover, the antimicrobial properties of the emulsions using microbiological tests were also determined. The findings suggest that the prepared emulsions are stable cosmetic products with a high antioxidant potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of different bedding materials on both production performance and foot quality, assessed through the incidence, severity, and microbiological quality of foot pad dermatitis (FPD). A total of 2400 Ross 308 chickens were raised over 42 days, distributed across eight bedding material types (eight groups × four treatments × 75 chickens each). These pellets either lacked medicinal plant components or included 30% of plant parts, such as oregano (Origanum vulgare), summer savory (Satureja hortensis), lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), salvia (Salvia officinalis), and thyme (Thymus vulgaris). Production performance controls included body weight (BW) at 42 days of age, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and mortality. The severity of FPD was evaluated at 28, 35, and 42 days using a scale ranging from S0 to S3. A microbiological analysis of the feet was based on the FPD score. Broilers raised on straw chaff (bedding: 24% oregano and 6% summer savory, 18% oregano and 12% summer savory, and 24% oregano and 6% thyme) exhibited the highest BW. Straw chaff-reared broilers demonstrated the lowest FCR. The highest mortality occurred on 18% oregano and 12% summer savory bedding, which may have been caused by the high share of summer savory, which could be toxic. At 35 and 42 days, broilers in the 24% oregano and 6% summer savory group exhibited the best foot quality, while those on straw chaff and 18% oregano and 12% summer savory had the worst one. The influence of medicinal plants in the pellets was particularly notable in reducing Listeria sp. This reduction was likely due to the presence of carvacrol from summer savory, quercetin from lemon balm, and thymol from thyme. Based on our research, the best bedding materials for foot quality are 24% oregano with 6% summer savory and 18% summer savory with 12% salvia, while 18% summer savory with 12% lemon balm and 18% summer savory with 12% thymus were the most effective in limiting Listeria sp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of Lantana camara L. (Big sage) on growth and survival in goldfish, Carassius auratus. Five treatments were prepared with a formulation of 30% protein, supplemented with Lantana camara flower powder, at doses of 0 mg/kg (T0, control), 100 mg/kg (T1), 150 mg/kg (T2), 200 mg/kg (T3) and 250 mg/kg (T4). The experiment lasted 60 days. A total of 200 fish were distributed across 20 plastic aquarium tanks, with each treatment replicated four. Fish were fed twice daily. The results showed that there was no significant effect on the survival rate of the fish (p>0.05). However, those fed with 250 mg/kg L. camara showed increased weight gain (2.73 ± 0.01 g), a lower feed conversion ratio (1.99 ± 0.04) a higher specific growth rate (1.20 ± 0.01%) and protein efficiency ratio (1.66 ± 0.04%) compared to other groups. The study found that incorporating L. camara, a natural source of ascorbic acid and crude protein, into fish feed resulted in the highest weight gain and survival rate, suggesting that L. camara additives can effectively enhance growth and survival rates in goldfish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

THE PRESENT experiment was undertaken to study the behavior of titanium in soil and the effect of application methods (foliar spraying or soil injection) and TiO2 concentrations (0, 5, 7.5, and 10 ppm as nanoparticles or 25, 50, and 75 ppm as bulk particles) as well as their interaction treatments on Salvia fruticosa (three-lobed sage) plant. In most cases, the tallest plants, the maximum yield of dry herb/feddan, yield of volatile oil/feddan, values of chlorophyll, and nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium (NPK) values of Salvia fruticosa were achieved from the interaction treatment between foliar spraying and 10 ppm TiO2 nanoparticles while the main components of three-lobed sage essential oil were 1,8-cineole, camphor, α-pinene, and camphene, respectively. Also, from the sequential extraction method of Ti in soil, the highest fraction of Ti was found in residual forms at each of the treatments. This confirmed that using TiO2 (bulk or nanoparticles) in either soil or foliar application is harmless and improved chlorophyll production and consequently improved photosynthesis which leads to increased productivity of the plants under this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is a paper on social media postings by a publishing company focusing on issues of humane qualities of a diverse society, Sage Publishing (Sage). Part of a global academic community, Sage developed uniquely positive messaging for social media and is a model for other organizations. Starting with a background of Sage, this study includes a brief history of publishing in the United States and world, and continuing with the history of social media, with a focus on LinkedIn. Sage's communication approach is not to sell products and services via social media, but to educate its followers and stakeholders on the important issues of the day. The research methods used are Historical and Descriptive Research, Content Analysis, and Elite and Specialized Interviewing. The result is a model for communication via social media for organizations wanting to communicate effectively to its publics. A Content Analysis looks at four broad categories, 14 specific categories, and 90 topics. The study covers the people behind the Sage LinkedIn postings; purpose of the postings; Sage corporate morals, ethics, social responsibilities, values, and philosophy; Sage today and prospects for the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Lamiaceae family, which includes several well-known aromatic plants, is scientifically relevant due to its essential oils (EOs). In this work, four EOs from Mediterranean species, namely Origanum vulgare L., Rosmarinus officinalis L., Salvia officinalis L., and Thymus vulgaris L., were evaluated for their volatile profiles and the biological activity in vitro to assess their potential use in the food and cosmetic sector. GC/MS analysis revealed dominant compounds, such as carvacrol, thymol, and eucalyptol. Regarding biological action, the samples exhibited antioxidant, cytotoxic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antifungal activities, with O. vulgare and T. officinalis standing out. T. vulgaris showed the lowest EC50 in the reducing power assay, and O. vulgare had the lowest EC50 in the DPPH assay. Most EOs also displayed excellent anti-inflammatory responses and antifungal properties, with O. vulgare and T. vulgaris also demonstrating antibacterial activity. All EOs from Mediterranean species showed cytotoxicity against tumoral cell lines. Overall, the selected EOs stood out for their interesting bioactivities, with the obtained results underscoring their potential as natural preservatives and bioactive agents in various industrial applications, including food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent focus has been given to nanoparticles as an alternative fungicidal compound instead of chemical ones. More environmentally friendly ways of synthesis are the highest priority regarding the antifungal agents in the agriculture sector. Therefore, in this research, hyssop (H. officinalis) and sage (S. officinalis) aqueous extracts were prepared and used as a reducing source in the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Aqueous extracts and green synthesized AgNPs were examined for phytochemical composition and antioxidant capacity. Hyssop and sage extracts based AgNPs were analyzed using UV-vis spectrometry, SEM-EDS, and TEM-EDS. Antifungal activity against Fusarium spp. isolates collected from different infected crops was determined. Fusarium spp. isolates from strawberry, asparagus, pea, carrot, wheat, and rapeseed samples identified at the molecular level by translation elongation factor 1-alpha (TEF1α) gene amplification and sequencing. Green synthesized AgNPs had lower phytochemical content, however higher antioxidant activity compared to pure extracts. Both hyssop and sage extracts are suitable reducing agents for AgNPs formation, and sage extract results in larger particle size. Aqueous hyssop extract had higher antifungal activity than aqueous sage extract. However, a 10% concentration of whole sage extract based AgNPs solution, added to the PDA medium, and a 5% concentration of hyssop extract based AgNPs inhibited Fusarium spp. the most. F. proliferatum was the most sensitive to all treatments among the other fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study offers a green synthesis of zinc oxide nanocrystals (ZnO NCs) using natural salvia officinalis (SOL) leaves extracted without the need for chemical surfactants from a bottom-up approach. The ZnO NCs have been fabricated through a thermal chemical solution deposition (CSD) route at 85 °C on a glass substrate. FESEM images show the repeatability of a three-dimensional (3D) ZnO NCs nanoyarn-like structure versus reaction time variation that is assembled by many uniform ZnO of crescent-shaped nanoslices and nanoplates. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) profile exhibits a positive correlation between crystallinity and reaction time. The optical properties of the SOL/ZnO NCs represent the UV–vis absorption in the blue region with a bandgap (Eg) of 2.16 eV and a high photoluminescence (PL) emission intensity with a peak at 572.7 nm and yellow–red shift emission after a 16-h reaction time. The ability to fabricate SOL/ZnO NC nanoyarn-like structures repeatedly using an eco-friendly green synthesis of natural SOL phytochemicals with excellent optical properties is encouraging for future photovoltaic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study set out to determine the effects of Salvia officinalis L., commonly known as sage, on the chemical composition of the essential oil, its free radical scavenging activity (IC50), ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) value, and antimicrobial properties. According to the results of the GC-MS analysis, 3-thujen-2-one, (26,21%), (+)-2-bornanone (16.47%), and 1,8-cineole (15.09%) were the compounds with the highest percentage in the sage essential oil. In addition, the essential oil showed high antioxidant activity, providing an IC50 value of 5.507 ± 0.723 mg/ml and a FRAP value of 2.129 ± 0.136 mM/g. The findings of the agar disc diffusion test demonstrated that the highest inhibition zones were against Bacillus cereus NRRL B3711 and Bacillus subtilis PY79 bacteria, whereas the lowest antimicrobial effect was shown against Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 19115 and Escherichia coli ATCC 25922. Similarly, sage essential oil showed the highest antimicrobial effect in the broth dilution test with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of 2.94 mg/ml against Bacillus cereus NRRL B3711, while its effectiveness against Staphylococcus spp., Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212, and Salmonella typhimurium ATCC 14028 bacteria was the lowest with a MIC value of 23.5 mg/ml. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to the study carried out at the University of Bristol, 60% of oregano spices present on the European Union (EU) market are adulterated with olive, myrtle, cistus, and hazelnut leaves. According to the same authors, the sage products are adulterated by similar bulking agents. The aim of this study was to assess possibilities for detection of sage adulteration by olive leaves using high‐performance thin‐layer chromatography (HPTLC) coupled with digital image analysis and multivariate linear regression/classification (partial least squares and partial least squares discriminant analysis). Twenty‐four samples (4 pure sage leaves, 4 pure olive leaves, and 16 mixtures of olive and sage leaves with content of added olive leaves varying in 5%, 10%, 20%, and 50%) have been prepared, extracted, and analyzed under normal‐phase conditions. Several derivatization methods were tested, and derivatized HPTLC plates were inspected under visible or ultraviolet light. Digital images of chromatograms were recorded. In order to minimize effects of intraplate and interplate peak shifts, background changes, and baseline drifts, correlation‐optimized warping, standard normal variate, and mean centering were applied to acquired signals. Partial least squares and partial least squares discriminant analysis models with moderate complexity (two to four latent variables) based on chromatographic signals obtained after derivatization by FeCl3, anisaldehyde–sulfuric acid, and 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl demonstrated good statistical performances with R2 ranging 0.894–0.998 and relative prediction error of 4–12%. Misclassification error <4% was obtained in the case of 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl and anisaldehyde–sulfuric acid derivatization. Therefore, HPTLC combined with multivariate image analysis, signal processing, and linear modeling proved to be promising, cost‐effective chromatographic tool for assessment of sage adulteration by olive leaves. A possibility for detection of sage adulteration by olive leaves using high‐performance thin‐layer chromatography (HPTLC) coupled with digital image analysis and multivariate linear regression/classification (PLS and PLS‐DA) was assessed. HPTLC derivatization by anisaldehyde–sulfuric acid (detection of terpenoids), DPPH reagent (antioxidants), and 3% FeCl3 solution (phenolic compounds) lead to models of good statistical performances with R2 ranging 0.894–0.998 and relative prediction error of 4–12%. Misclassification error <4% was obtained in the case of DPPH and anisaldehyde–sulfuric acid derivatization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Lamiaceae family: valued in medicine, the food industry and cosmetics. • Salvia officinalis (SO): aromatic oils and various bioactive components. • Phenolic diterpenes in SO prevent obesity, diabetes and cancer. • Antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal properties of flavonoids and phenolic acids of SO. • SO as a potential natural food additive that extends the shelf life of food. The botanical family Lamiaceae, which comprises around 230 genera and 7100 species worldwide, is of great importance for medicine, cooking, cosmetics, and the cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants. Notable members include Sage, Mint, and Sideritis. This review focuses on S. officinalis L. (S. officinalis), commonly known as sage, and in particular its bioactive constituents and their potential medicinal applications. Extensive searches of databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were conducted. The research emphasizes the antioxidant properties of S. officinalis due to its flavonoids and phenolic acids. Both in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrate its effectiveness against bacterial infections. Recent research also suggests that S. officinalis has the potential to extend the shelf life of various foods by reducing lipid oxidation, making it an important ingredient in the food industry as a natural food additive. The findings underscore the potential medicinal applications of S. officinalis , including its pharmacological, antioxidant and antibacterial properties, as well as its role in food preservation. Despite existing controversies, S. officinalis proves to be a natural and healthier alternative for various applications, in line with today's consumer preferences for natural and sustainable products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the extracted plants basil (Ocimum basilicum L.), sage (Salvia officinalis L.), lavender (Lavandula officinalis L.), immortelle (Helichrysum italicum (Roth) G. Don), savory (Satureja montana L.), and rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus Spenn.) against foodborne and clinical pathogens. Dried plants were used in the production of Dalmatian cow's milk hard cheese at concentrations of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2% to evaluate the microbiological safety and sensory properties of novel cheeses. The broadest antimicrobial activity was found in rosemary and sage, inhibiting ten indicator pathogens, and the strongest antimicrobial activity was found in immortelle and sage, which showed the widest zones of inhibition. The most sensitive indicators were Staphylococcus species and Yersinia enterocolitica. The supplemented cheeses met the official microbiological criteria and were mycotoxin negative. The surface mycobiota of control and experimental cheeses consisted mainly of Penicillium sollitum, based on the sequence analysis of the beta-tubulin and calmodulin genes. The antifungal effect of the added plants was clearly demonstrated in cheeses with added basil and sage (p < 0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antidepressant drug trazodone (TRZ) is commonly used for treating depression, anxiety, and insomnia, however, it causes cardiotoxicity, which is one of its limitations. The objective of this work was to investigate the impact of sage (Salvia officinalis) in rats against cardiotoxicity induced by TRZ and to investigate the mechanisms involved in its cardio-protective properties through autophagy and oxidative stress. Fifty male albino rats were split randomly into five experimental groups: control group, sage oil group (100 mg/kg), TRZ group (20 mg/kg), protective group, and curative group. Cardiac function biomarkers (aspartate aminotransferase [AST], creatine kinase-MB [CK-MB], and cardiac troponin T [cTnI]) were assessed in serum. Oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers in cardiac tissue (total antioxidant capacity, malondialdehyde, and tumor necrosis factor-α) were evaluated. Heart tissues were subjected to histological, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural evaluations. DNA damage also evaluated. Significant rise in the levels of AST, CK-MB, and cTnI were observed with enhanced autophagy along with marked histopathological changes in the form of interrupted muscle fibers with wide interstitial spaces with areas of hemorrhage and extravasated blood and interstitial mononuclear cellular infiltration in TRZ group. DNA damage was also significantly increased in TRZ group. However, administration of sage in both protective and curative groups show marked improvement of the cardiac alterations. In conclusion, sage ameliorated the alterations in the heart induced by trazadone through modulation of autophagy and oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this article is to explore the notion of freedom as an ontologically untransferable part of human natural right. We are not speaking of the full freedom of the sage, which few possess prevalently, but of a freedom to think imaginatively, according to one's own temperament, one's own disposition, and not merely according to the ruler's temperament, even though the ruler has the power to define what is just and pious. We will examine the ontological foundations of this kind of freedom, as well as its political consequences depicted in the final chapter of Spinoza's Theologico-Political Treatise. This freedom to opine, a necessary consequence of human nature, is accompanied by the requirement to share opinions with others, a requirement that grows as the individual's virtue grows. Thus, as embryonic active affects operate in the mind, the untransferable part of this freedom expands in a virtuous movement that limits the ruler's power to suppress the public expression of opinions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines how the worship of ancient wisdom affects economic progress in historical China, where the learned class embraced classical wisdom for millennia but encountered the shock of Western industrial influence in the mid-nineteenth century. Using the number of sage temples to measure the strength of classical worship in 269 prefectures, I find that classical worship discouraged intellectuals from appreciating modern learning and thus inhibited industrialization between 1858 and 1927. By contrast, industrialization grew faster in regions less constrained by classicism. This finding implies the importance of cultural entrepreneurship, or the lack thereof, in shaping modern economic growth. "The humor of blaming the present, and admiring the past, is strongly rooted in human nature, and has an influence even on persons endued with the profoundest judgment and most extensive learning." —David Hume (1754, p. 464). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Daily consumption of various teas is a popular tradition in many countries especially in Turkey and although it shouldn’t be in tea, carbonate can be added to obtain more brew from teas especially in local coffeehouses. In this study, the effect of carbonate addition on the essential element concentrations of some black teas (black, earl grey and green tea), herbal teas (fennel, mint and sage tea) and fruit teas (apple, lemon and rosehip) is analysed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer (ICP-OES), after the infusion process of tea brewing with carbonate. Afterwards, the total element contents of the tea grains in are determined by again ICP-OES prior to microwave digestion process. Considering the data obtained from the experiments, carbonate addition increased or decreased some elements with respect to the tea types. According to the results obtained after the microwave digestion method, although the major elements in all types of teas are found as Ca, K, P, Mg and Mn, which do not reach 2% brewing from the tea grains, carbonated infusion is not recommended due to its increasing effect on the concentration of the major elements contained in teas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work was to enhanced functionality of beer with natural materials such as selected herbs from Lamiaceae family (salvia, oregano, wild thyme, lemon balm) and consequently to determine the impact of the addition of herbs on the technological parameters and sensory profile of beer. For purposes of this study a top-fermented beer was produced and herbs: salvia (Salvia officinalis L), oregano (Origanum vulgare L.), wild thyme (Thymus serpyllum L.) and lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) were used for beer fortification. The basic qualitative parameters of beer as real extract, alcohol content, pH, colour, total polyphenol content and antioxidant activity were determined. Results showed that in the analysed samples, the values of the actual extract ranged from 3.64 wt.% to 4.02 wt.%. Alcohol content ranged from 3.99 vol.% to 4.46 vol.%. Total polyphenol content was significantly increased by the herbs addition to beer. The content of phenolic substances increased the most in beer with oregano 801.63 mg GAE.g-1. Moreover, the antioxidant activity in beer samples enriched with herbs was significantly increased; it ranged from 50.30 mg TEAC.g-1 (control beer) to 78.17 mg TEAC.g-1 (beer with oregano). Values of antioxidant activity were positively correlated with the content of total polyphenols. Sensory evaluation of beer was conducted using a nine-level hedonic scale. Sensory analyses revealed that the most intense, pleasurable herbal aroma and taste was evaluated in beer with salvia. From the overall impression point of view beer enriched with wild thyme manifested the best performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study investigated the effect of dried and ground Salvia officinalis (SO) shrub leaves on ruminal fermentation characteristics, primarily focusing on nutrient degradability, in vitro gas, and ruminal CH4 production. Previous studies on SO mostly focused on plant extracts or sage essential oil with different inclusions. This study used dried and ground leaves of SO in an in vitro experiment to evaluate the dose response when the ruminants' diets were supplemented with incremental amounts of SO. We found that a 1% inclusion of SO significantly improved gas production kinetics, nutrient degradability, and the ruminal fermentation profile while reducing CH4 production significantly. This study contributes to developing our understanding of phytogenic feed additives and their potential use in ruminants' diet as sustainable method to reduce the environmental impact of livestock farming. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of the inclusion of dried Salvia officinalis (SO) shrub leaves on nutrient degradability, ruminal in vitro fermentation, gas production (GP), methane (CH4), and carbon dioxide (CO2) productions. Dried and ground SO shrub leaves were included at 0% (control), 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, and 2% DM of a diet consisting of (per kg DM) 500 g concentrate feed mixture, 400 g berseem hay, and 100 g rice straw. The diet was incubated for 48 h. The asymptotic GP and the rate of GP changed linearly and quadratically (p < 0.01), with the highest GP observed at 1% inclusion of SO and then decreasing thereafter with greater inclusion (i.e., 1.5% and 2%), while CH4 production and its rate decreased linearly (p < 0.01) with all levels of SO inclusion. A linear increase in CO2 production and its rate was also found with an increasing level of SO inclusion in the diet (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the degradability of DM, NDF, and the concentration of total short-chain fatty acids and acetate changed linearly and quadratically, with the greatest being found at 1% SO inclusion and then steadily declining after (p < 0.01) with the 1.5% and 2% inclusion levels. Meanwhile, the propionate, NH3-N, and microbial crude protein levels showed similar trends, with the plateau found at 1% inclusion of SO, where there was no change in butyrate concentration. Moreover, the pH, metabolizable energy, and partitioning factor (PF24) also changed linearly and quadratically (p < 0.05), where the pH and PF24 were considerably reduced and ME increased with a 1% inclusion of SO (p < 0.05). In summary, SO at 1% inclusion in the diet showed the potential to improve gas production kinetics, nutrient degradability, and the ruminal fermentation profile, with a more significant reduction in ruminal CH4 production suggesting that SO at 1% could be included in the ruminant diet to reduce their carbon footprint and increase the production performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]