Search

With the aim to establish clean and sustainable sludge treatment, green conditioning using natural flocculants has recently gained a growing interest. In this study, a variety of plant materials, namely Moringa (Moringa oleifera) seeds, Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) seeds, Potato (Solanum tuberosum) peels, Aloe (Aloe vera) leaves, Cactus (Opuntia ficus indica) cladodes, and Phragmites (Phragmites australis) stems, were evaluated for their potential bioflocculant activity in conditioning sewage sludge. They were thoroughly characterized to determine their active flocculating compounds. Sludge dewaterability was evaluated by assessing various sludge parameters, including specific resistance to filtration (SRF), dryness of filtration cake (DC), and total suspended solid removal (TSS) from sludge filtrate. The collected results from various physicochemical characterizations of plant materials suggest that the main flocculating agents are carbohydrates in Cactus and Fenugreek and proteins in Moringa, Potato, and Phragmites. Additionally, all tested plant-based flocculants demonstrated effective dewatering performance. Interestingly, compared to the chemical flocculant polyaluminum chloride, Moringa and Cactus showed superior conditioning effects, yielding the lowest SRF values and the highest DC. As a result, the use of these natural flocculants improved sewage sludge filterability, leading to a significant removal of total suspended solids from the filtrate. The conditioning properties of Moringa and Cactus can be attributed to their high protein and sugar content, which facilitates the effective separation of bound water from solids through charge neutralization and bridging mechanisms. Thus, green conditioning using plant-based flocculants, particularly Moringa and Cactus materials, presents a promising and eco-friendly approach to enhance sewage sludge dewatering for safer disposal and valorization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To infer adaptation of plant material, restoration practitioners often consider only surrogate geographic or climatic information. However, empirical biomass data could assist in deciding what material to use where. To test this approach, we transplanted seven bluebunch wheatgrass (BBWG; Pseudoroegneria spicata) and five Snake River wheatgrass (SRWG; Elymus wawawaiensis) populations to three sites ranging from low to high precipitation (LPPT, MPPT, and HPPT). We measured establishment‐year (2011) biomass at all sites and 2012–16 biomass at MPPT and HPPT. When data were standardized by site, P‐7 and Anatone produced the most BBWG biomass across sites and Wahluke the least in both 2011 and 2012–16, while E‐58X produced the most SRWG biomass and Secar and E‐49X the least in 2011 and 2012–16, respectively. Among BBWG populations in 2011, relative performance of P‐7 (G6 generation) and Goldar increased and Whitmar decreased at wetter sites, while Columbia was stable (high) and Wahluke was stable (low) over sites. Among SRWG populations in 2011, Secar, Secar78, and E‐58X increased at drier sites and Discovery at wetter sites. However, once established, populations of both species were much more similar for trend. In 2012–16, trend somewhat increased for five BBWG populations from MPPT to HPPT, was stable for Wahluke, but declined for Columbia, while all five SRWG populations declined at HPPT. These results suggest that, once established, BBWG is mostly stable across sites, while SRWG is less adapted to wetter sites. In 2012–16, BBWG populations originating at drier (or wetter) sites mostly performed relatively better at MPPT (or HPPT), suggesting adaptation to site. However, in the establishment year (2011), this relationship did not hold, suggesting seedling vigor and immature growth rate play a stronger role than precipitation at the site of origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant-derived medicinal materials have significant potential and promising applications in wound healing and skin regeneration. This study aims to develop a plant-based extract hydrogel from Bletilla striata (Thunb.Reichb.f.), specifically a glucosyloxybenzyl 2-isobutylmalates extract (B), and characterize its potential effects on wound healing. We synthesized the hydrogel using carbomer (C), glycerol (G), and triethanolamine (T) as the matrix, incorporating B into the hydrogel base, and evaluated its physical and chemical properties. In vitro tests assessed the biocompatibility of the glucosyloxybenzyl 2-isobutylmalates-carbomer-glycerol-triethanolamine (B-CGT) hydrogel and its effects on cell proliferation, migration, and adhesion. Animal model experiments evaluated its potential to promote wound healing. The results showed that the prepared B-CGT hydrogel possessed a good three-dimensional network structure and stability, demonstrating significant free radical scavenging capacity in antioxidant tests. In cell experiments, the B-CGT hydrogel exhibited no potential cytotoxicity and showed good hemocompatibility and promotion of cell proliferation. Animal experiments indicated that wounds treated with the B-CGT hydrogel healed significantly faster, with improved formation of new epithelial tissue and collagen. This study suggests that the developed B-CGT hydrogel is a promising candidate for wound dressings, with excellent physicochemical properties and controlled drug release capabilities, effectively promoting the wound healing process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Juglanin (kaempferol 3-O-α-L-arabinofuranoside) is a flavonol glycoside occurring in many plants, including its commercial sources Juglans regia, Polygonum aviculare and Selliguea hastata. Recent extensive studies have explored the potential of using juglanin in various pathological conditions, including cardiovascular disorders, central nervous and skeletal system disorders, metabolic syndrome, hepatic injury, and cancers. The results indicated a wide range of effects, like anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-fibrotic, anti-thrombotic, anti-angiogenic, hepatoprotective, hypolipidemic, hypoglycemic, anti-apoptotic (normal cells), and pro-apoptotic (cancer cells). The health-promoting properties of juglanin can be attributed to its influence on many signaling pathways, associated with SIRT1, AMPK, Nrf2, STING, TLR4, MAPKs, NF-κB, AKT, JAK, and their downstream genes. This review primarily summarizes the current knowledge of molecular mechanisms, pharmacokinetics, biocompatibility, and human use safety of juglanin. In addition, the most promising new plant sources and other existing challenges and prospects have also been reviewed and discussed, aiming to provide direction and rationale for the further development and broader pharmaceutical application of juglanin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterosis is a crucial factor in enhancing crop yield, particularly in sorghum (Sorghum bicolor). This research utilised six sorghum restorer lines, six sorghum sterile lines, and 36 hybrid combinations created through the NCII incomplete double-row hybridisation method. We evaluated the performance of F1 generation hybrids for leaf photosynthesis-related parameters, carbon metabolism-related enzymes, and their correlation with yield traits during the flowering stage. Results showed that hybrid sorghum exhibited significant high-parent heterosis in net photosynthetic rate (P n), transpiration rate (T r), stomatal conductance (G s), apparent leaf meat conductance (AMC), ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate (RuBP) carboxylase, phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP) carboxylase, and sucrose phosphate synthase (SPS). Conversely, inter-cellular carbon dioxide concentration (C i), instantaneous water uses efficiency (WUE), and sucrose synthase (SuSy) displayed mostly negative heterosis. Traits such as 1000-grain weight (TGW), grain weight per spike (GWPS), and dry matter content (DMC) exhibited significant high-parent heterosis, with TGW reaching the highest value of 82.54%. P n demonstrated positive correlations with T r, C i, G s, RuBP carboxylase, PEP carboxylase, GWPS, TGW, and DMC, suggesting that T r, C i, and G s could aid in identifying high-photosynthesis sorghum varieties. Concurrently, P n could help select carbon-efficient sorghum varieties due to its close relationship with yield. Overall, the F1 generation of sorghum hybrids displayed notable heterosis during anthesis. Combined with field performance, P n at athesis can serve as a valuable indicator for early prediction of the yield potential of the F1 generation of sorghum hybrids and for screening carbon-efficient sorghum varieties. There is limited information on the hybridisation of enzymes linked to these characteristics. Understanding hybrid dominance of photosynthetic traits and their associated enzymes in sorghum is crucial for identifying sorghum hybrids with highly dominant combinations and selecting suitable parents. This study utilised 36 sorghum hybrid F1 generations and their respective parents to assess hybrid dominance in leaf photosynthetic parameters, key enzyme activities during photosynthesis, yield formation, and other relevant factors, while also examining their correlation with yield in field conditions. This article belongs to the Collection Machine Learning for Plant Stress Phenotyping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed crushing is one of the main technological operations [1] in the process of obtaining essential and fatty oils, on which their yield and quality depend [2]. Improving the process of preparation for the extraction of coriander seeds by selective cryodesintegration and creating technological lines of various productivity is of significant importance and relevance. However, modern methods and means of cryodesintegration of coriander seeds require research and improvement. The process of seed grinding is divided into three phases [3]: elastic deformation, which occurs from the beginning of the action of the applied force on the material being ground until the elastic limit is reached and is accompanied by compaction and compression of the structural aggregates of the seeds; plastic deformation, which occurs from the moment of the beginning of the shift of individual elements of the material relative to each other and is characterized by the relative displacement of the structural aggregates of the seed kernel, as a result of which the material is compacted and flattened; destruction of the material with the formation of a free surface of particles. The main parameter of the process of cryodesintegration of coriander seeds is subject to theoretical justification - normal pressure, leading to deformation, where the pressure on the seeds exceeds their tensile strength, but there is no appearance of oil on the surface of the opened seeds. This prevents oil loss and contamination of the working parts, especially with essential oils. Monitoring theoretical studies of the grinding process allows us to talk about the need to develop a mathematical description of this process.

Background. The study of the influence of "social" stress on biogenic elements involved in mineral metabolism and playing an important role in the life of the human body, the search for agents that have a leveling effect on their content, is an urgent problem of modern pharmacological science. Purpose. To study changes in the content of biogenic elements in the course of mineral metabolism in the blood serum of rats under conditions of "social" stress and under the influence of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi extract. Materials and methods. Experimental studies were carried out on 96 mature male non-linear rats weighing 295±12.17 g at the age of 7-9 months. The first stage of the experiment involved the study of mineral metabolism in the norm. Individuals of the first group of animals were injected with water; the second was an extract of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (100 mg/kg/day); the third – medicinal product (MP) "Mebicar®" (25 mg/kg/day) and the fourth - MP "Phezam®" (45 mg/kg/day). At the second stage of the experiment, “social” stress was reproduced on animals, in groups of which aggressors and victims were identified after the formation of inter-male confrontations for 21 days. These individuals received the solutions used earlier (stage I) for two weeks. The content of sodium and potassium ions in plasma was determined by flame photometry; the level of total calcium - by the photometric method; the concentration of phosphorus and magnesium - by biochemical analysis; the amount of chloride ions - by mercurimetric titration. Statistical data processing was performed using the Statistica 10 package. Results. It was found that the introduction of the extract of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, MP "Mebikar®" and "Phezam®" normally does not affect the content of minerals in plasma. It has been shown that modeling of "social" stress in control animals with both dominant and submissive types of character contributes to a significant decrease in the concentration of calcium, phosphorus and magnesium ions compared with individuals of the intact group. A statistically significant difference in the content of chloride ions was proved only in the case of a group of victims. Comparable values of mineral metabolism parameters of the group that received the extract under stress conditions were obtained with the first stage of the experiment in the norm of both intact and experimental animals, as a result of which the leveling effect of the extract of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi was substantiated. Statistically significant differences in the concentration of magnesium ions in the group of victims exposed to "social" stress under the influence of the type of behavior were determined. Conclusion. The analysis of the data obtained forms an idea of the mineral composition of blood plasma in normal conditions and under conditions of "social" stress. The results of the study characterize the extract of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi as a remedy that has a leveling effect in conditions of anxiety-depressive state caused by inter-male confrontations.

The active ingredients extracted from plant materials play an important role in human life and health, and the extraction is a critical step in the preparation of them. It is necessary to develop a sustainable and green extraction. Steam explosion pretreatment enhanced extraction is a higher efficiency, lower equipment investment, less hazardous chemicals and environment-friendly technique, which has been widely used to extract active ingredients from various plant materials. In this paper, current progress and future prospects of steam explosion pretreatment enhanced extraction are overviewed. The equipment, operating steps, strengthening mechanism, critical process factors are comprehensively introduced. Furthermore, recent applications and comparisons with other techniques are discussed in depth. Finally, the future development trends are prospected. The current results show that steam explosion pretreatment enhanced extraction has the advantage of high efficiency. Moreover, steam explosion is simple in equipment, and easy to operate. In conclusion, steam explosion pretreatment can be effectively used to enhance the extraction of active ingredients from plant materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) have emerged as a promising technology for sustainable energy production. However, the power density of MFCs is limited by the anode performance. In this study, Rhus typhina was used as a raw material for the synthesis of 3D freestanding electrodes by freeze-drying and one-step carbonization. Based on the unique micron-scale tubular structure, Rhus typhina carbon (RtC) increases the active bacterial colonization surface area several times and improves the extracellular electron transfer (EET) by augmenting the interaction between the bacteria and the anode. In addition, 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis indicates that the obtained RtC-900 anode promotes enrichment of the major exoelectrogens (Geobacter), and the relative abundance reaches 70.3%. The maximum power density of the dual-chamber MFC with the 3D free-standing anode is 6.01 W m−2, and the stable power output over 300 days is superior to that of conventional MFC in performance. [Display omitted] • Rhus typhina carbon (RtC) as the novel anode material was firstly applied to MFC. • Enrichment of Geobacter (70.3%) was facilitated by micron-scale tubules of RtC. • 3D Free-standing anode by RtC-900 can maintain stable MFC operation for 300 days. • Power density of MFC with 3D free-standing anode (RtC-900) reaches to 6.01 W m−2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT To infer adaptation of plant material, restoration practitioners often consider only surrogate geographic or climatic information. However, empirical biomass data could assist in deciding what material to use where. To test this approach, we transplanted seven bluebunch wheatgrass (BBWG; Pseudoroegneria spicata) and five Snake River wheatgrass (SRWG; Elymus wawawaiensis) populations to three sites ranging from low to high precipitation (LPPT, MPPT, and HPPT). We measured establishment‐year (2011) biomass at all sites and 2012–16 biomass at MPPT and HPPT. When data were standardized by site, P‐7 and Anatone produced the most BBWG biomass across sites and Wahluke the least in both 2011 and 2012–16, while E‐58X produced the most SRWG biomass and Secar and E‐49X the least in 2011 and 2012–16, respectively. Among BBWG populations in 2011, relative performance of P‐7 (G6 generation) and Goldar increased and Whitmar decreased at wetter sites, while Columbia was stable (high) and Wahluke was stable (low) over sites. Among SRWG populations in 2011, Secar, Secar78, and E‐58X increased at drier sites and Discovery at wetter sites. However, once established, populations of both species were much more similar for trend. In 2012–16, trend somewhat increased for five BBWG populations from MPPT to HPPT, was stable for Wahluke, but declined for Columbia, while all five SRWG populations declined at HPPT. These results suggest that, once established, BBWG is mostly stable across sites, while SRWG is less adapted to wetter sites. In 2012–16, BBWG populations originating at drier (or wetter) sites mostly performed relatively better at MPPT (or HPPT), suggesting adaptation to site. However, in the establishment year (2011), this relationship did not hold, suggesting seedling vigor and immature growth rate play a stronger role than precipitation at the site of origin.

Herbs and agro-food wastes are rich sources of bioactive compounds vital for organisms and valuable for many fields of industry. Therefore, in this study, green deep eutectic solvents (DESs) such as choline chloride/citric acid (ChCl:CitA), glucose/citric acid (Gu:CitA), glucose/urea (Gu:U), betaine/citric acid (B:CitA), and betaine/urea (B:U) at a molar ratio of 1:1 for ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of antioxidants from four herbs (chamomile—Cha, lemon balm—LB, mint—M, and nettle—N) and two agro-food wastes (buckwheat husk—BH and chokeberry pomace—ChoP) were proposed. The antioxidant capacity (AC) of the obtained extracts was evaluated utilizing three antioxidant assays: cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC = 0.0–429.9 μmol of Trolox (TE)/g); 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS = 0.0–146.5 μmol TE/g); and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH = 11.9–170.3 μmol TE/g). The LB extracts revealed the highest CUPRAC (59.3–429.9 μmol TE/g), ABTS (30.7–144.3 μmol TE/g), and DPPH (32.6–170.3 μmol TE/g) values. Due to the lowest antioxidant potential of LB extracts prepared using ChCl:CitA (AC = 30.7–59.3 μmol TE/g) and the highest AC demonstrated by extracts based on B:U (AC = 144.3–429.9 μmol TE/g), the UAE conditions using a new DES consisting of ChCl and U were optimized by the Box–Behnken design (BBD). Effects of three independent variables, molar ratios of the ChCl and U (mol/mol), water content (%), and sonication time (t) on the AC of LB extracts were studied by response surface methodology (RSM). The results of principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) demonstrated that different DESs had great differences in the extraction of antioxidant compounds from herbs and agro-food residues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analysis of plant materials is necessary for environmental monitoring and analytical control of food and medicinal raw materials. A study of world experience has shown that there are still no unified schemes for chemical sample preparation that are simultaneously suitable for all types of plants without limiting the range of elements to be determined. The creation of a unified scheme for plants is possible, because the macrocomposition of any plant is represented by at least 90 wt % organic compounds (fiber, protein, lipids, etc.), the mineralization of which leads to the formation of water and a gas phase. In this work, certified plant samples are mineralized in a MultiVIEW tunnel-type microwave digestion system (SPC SCIENCE, Canada) with variations in analyzed portions, composition, and volume of reagents, variants for dosing the reaction mixture, and vessel heating modes for the simultaneous determination of a wide range of elements by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry. Assessment of the completeness of dissolution (the degree of correspondence between the found and certified contents) is used as a criterion for the optimal conditions of sample preparation. It is shown that with a three-stage mode of heating vessels (heating rate at the first stage 2.76 K/min) at a sample of 0.5 g and the separate and sequential addition of the reaction mixture (HNO3 4, H2O2 1.5, HCl 1 and HF 0.05 mL), reliable determination of typical plant contents of Si, Al, Mg, Ca, Fe, Na, K, Ba, Sr, Rb, P, B, Mn, Ti, Ni, V, Cu, and Zn is possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determining the chemical quality of soil organic matter and decomposing organisms is critical for predicting carbon fluxes in ecosystems. However, the classical C/N and lignin/N ratios have been criticized for their capability in predicting ecosystem function including litter decay rate, nitrogen mineralization and soil aggregation. Therefore, with our work we aim to complement information on the chemical properties of primary producers and decomposers based on 13C NMR. Overall, 108 unique 13C NMR spectra were collected from higher plant tissues including leaf litter, fine roots, woody debris, as well as a range of microbes i.e. bacteria, fungi, and marine algae. Results showed clear discrimination between organisms belonging to different kingdoms, but with limited variability within bacteria, fungi, and microalgae. In detail, bacteria were found to be distinct not only from plant tissues but also from fungi, characterized by a high proportion of alkyl and carbonyl C types and a rather low relative abundance of O Alkyl C and di-O Alkyl C types. Among the fungi, we found clear separation between yeasts, which are more similar to bacteria, and filamentous species, which are rich in O Alkyl and di-O Alkyl C types. Microalgae are characterized by a high content of aliphatic, carboxylic and methoxyl C fractions. In the spectra of terrestrial plants, the O Alkyl C region, associated with sugars and cellulose, is more abundant compared to algae and bacteria. In addition, the aromatic carbon signal, which is mainly associated with lignin, is much higher for higher plants than in microorganisms. As for plant tissues, woody tissues are clearly different from leaves and fine roots, with grasses, sedges, and ferns being well distinguished from forbs, coniferous and deciduous trees. In summary, our study contains the largest freely available 13C NMR spectral library of bacteria, fungi, algae, and higher plant tissues. However, the data from higher plants are sufficient to cover different functional types, which is not yet possible for bacteria and fungi.

Ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) is an innovative process for recovering valuable substances and compounds from plants and various biomaterials. This technology holds promise for resource recovery while maintaining the quality of the extracted products. The review comprehensively discusses UAE’s mechanism, applications, advantages, and limitations, focusing on extracting essential oils (EOs) from diverse terrestrial plant materials. These oils exhibit preservation, flavor enhancement, antimicrobial action, antioxidant effects, and anti-inflammatory benefits due to the diverse range of specific compounds in their composition. Conventional extraction techniques have been traditionally employed, and their limitations have prompted the introduction of novel extraction methods. Therefore, the review emphasizes that the use of UAE, alone or in combination with other cutting-edge technologies, can enhance the extraction of EOs. By promoting resource recovery, reduced energy consumption, and minimal solvent use, UAE paves the way for a more sustainable approach to harnessing the valuable properties of EOs. With its diverse applications in food, pharmaceuticals, and other industries, further research into UAE and its synergies with other cutting-edge technologies is required to unlock its full potential in sustainable resource recovery and product quality preservation.

With the aim to establish clean and sustainable sludge treatment, green conditioning using natural flocculants has recently gained a growing interest. In this study, a variety of plant materials, namely Moringa (Moringa oleifera) seeds, Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) seeds, Potato (Solanum tuberosum) peels, Aloe (Aloe vera) leaves, Cactus (Opuntia ficus indica) cladodes, and Phragmites (Phragmites australis) stems, were evaluated for their potential bioflocculant activity in conditioning sewage sludge. They were thoroughly characterized to determine their active flocculating compounds. Sludge dewaterability was evaluated by assessing various sludge parameters, including specific resistance to filtration (SRF), dryness of filtration cake (DC), and total suspended solid removal (TSS) from sludge filtrate. The collected results from various physicochemical characterizations of plant materials suggest that the main flocculating agents are carbohydrates in Cactus and Fenugreek and proteins in Moringa, Potato, and Phragmites. Additionally, all tested plant-based flocculants demonstrated effective dewatering performance. Interestingly, compared to the chemical flocculant polyaluminum chloride, Moringa and Cactus showed superior conditioning effects, yielding the lowest SRF values and the highest DC. As a result, the use of these natural flocculants improved sewage sludge filterability, leading to a significant removal of total suspended solids from the filtrate. The conditioning properties of Moringa and Cactus can be attributed to their high protein and sugar content, which facilitates the effective separation of bound water from solids through charge neutralization and bridging mechanisms. Thus, green conditioning using plant-based flocculants, particularly Moringa and Cactus materials, presents a promising and eco-friendly approach to enhance sewage sludge dewatering for safer disposal and valorization.

Juglanin (kaempferol 3-O-α-L-arabinofuranoside) is a flavonol glycoside occurring in many plants, including its commercial sources Juglans regia, Polygonum aviculare and Selliguea hastata. Recent extensive studies have explored the potential of using juglanin in various pathological conditions, including cardiovascular disorders, central nervous and skeletal system disorders, metabolic syndrome, hepatic injury, and cancers. The results indicated a wide range of effects, like anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-fibrotic, anti-thrombotic, anti-angiogenic, hepatoprotective, hypolipidemic, hypoglycemic, anti-apoptotic (normal cells), and pro-apoptotic (cancer cells). The health-promoting properties of juglanin can be attributed to its influence on many signaling pathways, associated with SIRT1, AMPK, Nrf2, STING, TLR4, MAPKs, NF-κB, AKT, JAK, and their downstream genes. This review primarily summarizes the current knowledge of molecular mechanisms, pharmacokinetics, biocompatibility, and human use safety of juglanin. In addition, the most promising new plant sources and other existing challenges and prospects have also been reviewed and discussed, aiming to provide direction and rationale for the further development and broader pharmaceutical application of juglanin.

Plant-derived medicinal materials have significant potential and promising applications in wound healing and skin regeneration. This study aims to develop a plant-based extract hydrogel from Bletilla striata (Thunb.Reichb.f.), specifically a glucosyloxybenzyl 2-isobutylmalates extract (B), and characterize its potential effects on wound healing. We synthesized the hydrogel using carbomer (C), glycerol (G), and triethanolamine (T) as the matrix, incorporating B into the hydrogel base, and evaluated its physical and chemical properties. In vitro tests assessed the biocompatibility of the glucosyloxybenzyl 2-isobutylmalates-carbomer-glycerol-triethanolamine (B-CGT) hydrogel and its effects on cell proliferation, migration, and adhesion. Animal model experiments evaluated its potential to promote wound healing. The results showed that the prepared B-CGT hydrogel possessed a good three-dimensional network structure and stability, demonstrating significant free radical scavenging capacity in antioxidant tests. In cell experiments, the B-CGT hydrogel exhibited no potential cytotoxicity and showed good hemocompatibility and promotion of cell proliferation. Animal experiments indicated that wounds treated with the B-CGT hydrogel healed significantly faster, with improved formation of new epithelial tissue and collagen. This study suggests that the developed B-CGT hydrogel is a promising candidate for wound dressings, with excellent physicochemical properties and controlled drug release capabilities, effectively promoting the wound healing process.

Background. The search for natural adaptogens is promising due to the possibility of expanding the range of drugs that contribute to the adaptation of the body to adverse environmental factors. Purpose. To study the stress-protective and anxiolytic action of the extract of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi under conditions of "social" stress. Materials and methods. We used an extract of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi. The study of the stress-protective and anxiolytic effects of the extract was carried out on 84 male non-linear rats aged 7-9 months. The first stage of the experiment involved the study of pharmacological actions in the absence of stress, and at the second stage, under conditions of “social” stress, the expected effects were determined on animals, in the groups of which individuals of dominant and submissive types of behavior were identified. Determination of the content of corticosterone, adrenaline and noradrenaline (nmol/l) was carried out by enzyme immunoassay. Results. It was established that in the norm, the experimental groups that received the extract of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, medicinal products "Mebikar®" and "Phezam®" showed a significant decrease in the level of corticosterone compared with the control group. At the second stage of the study in groups when modeling "social" stress, it was found that there were significant differences between the concentration of stress hormones in animals of dominant and submissive types. Administration of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi extract reduced hormone levels for both aggressors and victims relative to the stressed control group. We observed a decrease in the concentration of corticosterone by 1.5 and 1.5 (p

Cancer remains a significant global health challenge, with millions of deaths attributed to it annually. Radiotherapy, a cornerstone in cancer treatment, aims to destroy cancer cells while minimizing harm to healthy tissues. However, the harmful effects of irradiation on normal cells present a formidable obstacle. To mitigate these effects, researchers have explored using radioprotectors and mitigators, including natural compounds derived from secondary plant metabolites. This review outlines the diverse classes of natural compounds, elucidating their roles as protectants of healthy cells. Furthermore, the review highlights the potential of these compounds as radioprotective agents capable of enhancing the body’s resilience to radiation therapy. By integrating natural radioprotectors into cancer treatment regimens, clinicians may improve therapeutic outcomes while minimizing the adverse effects on healthy tissues. Ongoing research in this area holds promise for developing complementary strategies to optimize radiotherapy efficacy and enhance patient quality of life.

The production of assorted metal nanoparticles based on greener synthesis approaches has garnered immense attention, which influences most humans and the environment. Metal nanoparticles are becoming increasingly useful in many areas of our everyday lives including the medical sciences. In this context, the deployment of advantageous greener methodology opens up new avenues for researchers to generate metal nanoparticles adhering to the green chemistry principles and exploiting the locally available and abundant resources rather than toxic chemicals. Various plant materials can be utilized to synthesize metal nanoparticles as they are easy to access, inexpensive, safe, good for the environment, and can be readily deployed for the biosynthesis of metal nanoparticles of diverse sizes and shapes, as they incorporate unique properties of plant constituents in their assembly. This review article provides a comprehensive discussion on the different approaches to metal nanoparticles using renewable and sustainable plant materials as eco-friendly entities. Finally, the future outlook for the fabrication of metal nanoparticles by means of plant materials as a sustainable method has been discussed.

In order to alleviate the pressure of aquaculture and aquafeed production, many researchers have focused on plant-based raw materials which are widely available, cost-effective, and also contain higher protein. However, the application of plant materials in aquaculture is limited by high antinutritional factors content and thus resulting in poor digestion and absorption. Fortunately, fermentation of plant materials is recognized able to reduce the anti-nutritional factors and make them more easily digested by aquatic animals, which greatly improves the utilization of plant materials and provides new ideas for the sustainable development of aquaculture. The present article reviews the literatures regarding the effect of replacing fish meal with fermented plant materials in aquafeeds. There are domestic and international research results of fermented plant materials and application effect of replacing fishmeal in aquatic feeds, so that provide reference for the wide application of fermented plant materials in aquatic feeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To maintain the integrity of a garden design, a careful examination of the constituent plant materials is imperative. Unlike solid construction materials, gardeners rely on adaptable plant materials as the foundational components of their designs. These materials exhibit seasonal variations, which renders them complex to define. The essence of a garden's character is experienced through its aesthetic manifestations. However, without comprehensive documentation of the form, structure or colour scheme, it is difficult to comprehend the garden as a whole. The core of a design resides within the gardener's careful curation and arrangement of plant materials to convey a particular aesthetic. In my research, I formulated a method for a craftsman (or craftswoman), enabling them to quantify intangible plant materials, subtle or distinctive impacts of colour and form and their aesthetic values and functionalities utilising a systematic plant catalogue. Thus, the following question arises: How can we grasp the attributes of a good and sustainable design if we do not establish methods to systematically record and evaluate the aesthetics and the craftsmanship behind it? [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbs and agro-food wastes are rich sources of bioactive compounds vital for organisms and valuable for many fields of industry. Therefore, in this study, green deep eutectic solvents (DESs) such as choline chloride/citric acid (ChCl:CitA), glucose/citric acid (Gu:CitA), glucose/urea (Gu:U), betaine/citric acid (B:CitA), and betaine/urea (B:U) at a molar ratio of 1:1 for ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of antioxidants from four herbs (chamomile—Cha, lemon balm—LB, mint—M, and nettle—N) and two agro-food wastes (buckwheat husk—BH and chokeberry pomace—ChoP) were proposed. The antioxidant capacity (AC) of the obtained extracts was evaluated utilizing three antioxidant assays: cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC = 0.0–429.9 μmol of Trolox (TE)/g); 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS = 0.0–146.5 μmol TE/g); and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH = 11.9–170.3 μmol TE/g). The LB extracts revealed the highest CUPRAC (59.3–429.9 μmol TE/g), ABTS (30.7–144.3 μmol TE/g), and DPPH (32.6–170.3 μmol TE/g) values. Due to the lowest antioxidant potential of LB extracts prepared using ChCl:CitA (AC = 30.7–59.3 μmol TE/g) and the highest AC demonstrated by extracts based on B:U (AC = 144.3–429.9 μmol TE/g), the UAE conditions using a new DES consisting of ChCl and U were optimized by the Box–Behnken design (BBD). Effects of three independent variables, molar ratios of the ChCl and U (mol/mol), water content (%), and sonication time (t) on the AC of LB extracts were studied by response surface methodology (RSM). The results of principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) demonstrated that different DESs had great differences in the extraction of antioxidant compounds from herbs and agro-food residues.

Grasslands are ubiquitous globally, and their conservation and restoration are critical to combat both the biodiversity and climate crises. There is increasing interest in implementing effective multifunctional grassland restoration to restore biodiversity concomitant with above- and belowground carbon sequestration, delivery of carbon credits and/or integration with land dedicated to solar panels. Other common multifunctional restoration considerations include improved forage value, erosion control, water management, pollinator services, and wildlife habitat provisioning. In addition, many grasslands are global biodiversity hotspots. Nonetheless, relative to their impact, and as compared to forests, the importance of preservation, conservation, and restoration of grasslands has been widely overlooked due to their subtle physiognomy and underappreciated contributions to human and planetary well-being. Ultimately, the global success of carbon sequestration will depend on more complete and effective grassland ecosystem restoration. In this review, supported by examples from across the Western world, we call for more strenuous and unified development of best practices for grassland restoration in three areas of concern: initial site conditions and site preparation; implementation of restoration measures and management; and social context and sustainability. For each area, we identify the primary challenges to grassland restoration and highlight case studies with proven results to derive successful and generalizable solutions.

ABSTRACT To sustain the idea of the design of a garden it is essential to look at the plant materials that they are constructed with. We as gardeners, do not use solid materials as our building blocks, we rely on malleable plant materials to build our design. The materials vary over the season, which makes them complex to define. The impressions of a garden is experienced through the expressions of its aesthetics, and without solid documentation of the form, structure, colour schemes and more, it is difficult to form an understanding of the garden as a whole. The essence of a design lies in the plant materials that the gardener crafts and arranges in a specific way to create an aesthetic expression. In my work I have developed a method for the craftsman (or –woman) where the intangible plant materials and the subtle/distinct effects of colour and form and their aesthetic values can be measured utilising the system of a plant catalogue. How will we understand what makes a good and sustainable design if we don’t find methods to document and assess the aesthetics and the craftsmanship behind it?

This study aimed to investigate the anti-atherosclerotic properties of quercetin isolated from the extract of Hedysarum neglectum Ledeb hairy roots. During the study, the hormonal composition of the nutrient medium for cultivation of H. neglectum hairy root biomass was selected: Gamborg's medium enriched with the cytokine 6-benzylaminopurine (1.5 mg/1 dm3). It was found that the extraction of hairy root biomass with a 50% water–ethanol solution (40:1 1 h at 60 ± 2 °C) yielded an extract that contained the highest amount of quercetin (an average of 2.1 times higher than in extracts obtained at other parameters). It was determined that 100 µM quercetin solution showed the greatest bioactivity on Caenorhabditis elegans: on day 61, the percentage of surviving nematodes was 2.06 times higher compared to other samples and 6 times higher compared to control, resulting in a 12.5-fold increase in SOD-3 expression compared to control (without biologically active substance (BAS) addition). Meanwhile, the 10 µM quercetin solution exhibited the best ability to inhibit the accumulation of lipid fractions; the accumulation was 1.06 times less compared to the control. The results of this study show that quercetin, which was isolated from the biomass of H. neglectum hairy roots, can be used as a component of anti-atherosclerotic dietary supplements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultraviolet treatment increases the shelf life of plant products. It inhibits the changes in the quality indicators of raw materials that are responsible for storage capacity. The research objective was to establish qualitative indicators for champignons (Agaricus bisporus) after ultraviolet treatment. Fresh champignons were placed in plastic trays and sealed in plastic bags. The samples were treated with ultraviolet radiation in ranges A, B, and C. After that, they were stored in a refrigerator at 4 ± 2°C for 16 days, i.e., until the end of storage period. The quality indicators underwent a paired two-sample test, which defined the equality/inequality of variances in replicates and equality/inequality of means at a given error probability (α). The obtained indicators characterized the degradation of mushroom plant tissue after ultraviolet treatment during storage: texture, moisture content, weight loss, soluble solids, pH, lightness, and color. The authors developed a new approach to determine significant changes in the quality indicators and estimated probability values. For each range, they established the most effective dose at α = 0.05 and 0.1. All the indicators proved significant for range A samples at 327.8–800.0 J/m2 and α = 0.05; all indicators were significant except weight loss in the range from 219.5 to 800.0 J/m2 at α = 0.1. For range B samples, pH, color, and lightness were significant at 104.6–200.0 J/m2 and α = 0.05; all but mass loss and texture were significant at 172.2–200.0 J/m2 and α = 0.1. For range C samples, pH, color, and lightness were significant at 412.4–439.5 J/m2 and 755.9–800.0 J/m2 at α = 0.05; all indicators were significant at 363.3–486.2 J/m2 and 728.2–800.0 J/m2 at α = 0.1. The new analytical method made it possible to determine the ranges of external effect intensity, in which the changes in the indicator were significant or insignificant.

The principles of sustainable development and green chemistry are priorities in the development of new technologies for the extraction of useful biologically active substances, for example, in the manufacture of medicines. The processes of extracting substances from plant raw materials have many applications. Intensification of such processes, reducing their duration, energy consumption and consumption of the extractant is urgent. The object of the reseach is the green approach to intensify the extraction processes of polysaccha-ride substances from plant materials. The research methodology was experimental with statistical data processing. In the field of experimental research was the process of the influence of pulsed, alternating and di-rect current on the intensity of aqueous extraction of polysaccharides from plant materials. The high efficiency of intensification of extraction by a pulsed electric field was studied. The process can re-duce the time for obtaining water-soluble polysaccharides by 3 times in comparison with traditional pharmacopoeial convection methods and reduce energy consumption by 20 times. The significance of the pulse current parameters for effective extraction was determined: the referred pulse shape, the frequency of the pulse current for extracting the maximum amount of water-soluble polysaccharides, the pulse duration, and the optimal processing time. The green approach to the use of a moderate electric field of pulsed current to accelerate the extrac-tion of biologically active substances is the basis of the method of intensification of other traditional mass transfer processes for the sustainable development of technology.

Pesticides in food cause great harm to human health. Unfortunately, agricultural pests make their use unavoidable. However, special processing can lower the content of pesticides in plant products. The present article summarizes and systematizes the previously obtained data on the possible reduction of contaminant residues in plant products during various processing stages. The review featured 30 years of domestic and foreign publications on pesticides in Elsevier, Taylor and Francis, Springer, PubMed, Google, and Google Scholar. Proper technological processing can reduce the concentration of pesticides by 99%. However, particular physicochemical properties can lead to the accumulation of the xenobiotics, which may later transform into more dangerous compounds. Such cases require special operations to remove pesticides. Most contaminants usually remain on the surface. As a result, peeling and chemical washing seem to be the most effective method of anti-pesticide technological processing. These procedures can lower the amount of pesticides by 85% and more, if repeated. Eventually, the remaining pesticides fall below 7.5% of the initial content. The review structured information on the anti-pesticide procedures in food industry. By combining various methods, farmers can increase the biosafety of their products. Further research is prospective because the number of compounds used as pesticides continue to grow.

The purpose of this study was to optimize the effect of particle size, time and ultrasonic intensity on the extraction of phenolic compounds and energy efficiency. Sonication was performed with a VC750 Sonics processor at the following amplitudes: 30, 50 and 70%, which corresponds to the ultrasonic intensity, respectively: 1.6; 5.1 and 8.6 W∙cm−2. The frequency of ultrasound was 20 kHz. Extraction was carried out in a 5 s on–10 s off pulse system. The content of polyphenols and their antioxidant activity were assayed by the spectrophotometric method. Response surface methodology (RMS) was used to optimize the investigated variables. On the basis of the developed model, the highest polyphenols yield was obtained under the following extraction conditions (particle size 0.65 mm, extraction time 13.14 min, ultrasound intensity 6.92 W∙cm−2, which resulted in a maximum value of 15.24 mg GAE∙g−1 dry matter of hemp. Taking into account the lowest unit energy consumption, the best conditions were obtained for particle size of approx. 0.5 mm, extraction time 7.7 min, and ultrasound intensity 1.8 W∙cm−2, which resulted in a phenolic yield of 10.14 mg GAE∙g−1 dry matter of hemp. The best agreement between values of optimization variables within investigated criteria was obtained for the variable particle size. The developed models of pulsed ultrasound-assisted extraction can be used for obtaining polyphenols from Cannabis sativa L. at low unit energy consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge on the factors associated with the development of Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus) can provide a better understanding of vector surveillance and encourage prevention practices for Aedes control strategy. The purpose of this research was to study the effect of different plant materials contained in the water in artificial container towards the development of Ae. aegypti. This is an experimental research that involve triplication of artificial containers each filled with a total of 30 eggs exposed to different plant materials (twig, dry grasses and dry leaves) at different concentration (i.e., 1.7 g/l, 2.5 g/l and 3.3 g/l) respectively. Observation on the development day, number or larvae at each fourth instar, and pupation period were monitored daily until adult emergence under controlled environment in insectarium. The experiment indicated that the time period required for the development of larvae was positively influenced by the presence of plant materials found in water for a conducive larval growth environment. This study revealed that the presence of plant materials contained in the water of breeding habitat support the development of Ae. aegypti larvae until its adult emergence. In conclusion, organic matters present in plant materials were identified as responsible factors in response to the development time of Ae. aegypti larvae during their aquatic stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Introduction Modern sports equipment is nowadays manufactured industrially according to globally accepted and standardized models, but traditionally tools for play and games were prepared from materials found in the local environment. The objective of this article is to investigate various aspects of Sámi local knowledge about organisms used for their material culture of traditional sports and games in northern Fennoscandia (Sápmi). What functions did the surrounding biota have in the production of equipment used in sports and games? Methods A qualitative method was used; the ethnographic literature and travel narratives have been analyzed particularly for descriptions and notes on traditional games, toys, and sports. Results Before the turn of the twentieth century, bats, balls, and skis were seldom produced in factories, but by children and adults who utilized available materials from the surrounding environment. The manufacture of tools for play and games was characterized by a rich creativity in the use of various biological and natural resources. A wide range of such resources is presented in this article, among them the bracket fungus Fomitopsis betulina, used for making balls, reindeer antlers utilized for lassoing contests, and pine bark painted with reindeer blood, prepared for playing cards. We also highlight how tools usually associated with means of transport could switch functions and serve playful and competitive purposes, such as skis made of compression pine or walking sticks of birch: The former were used in skiing races, and the latter appeared in fencing competitions. Conclusion The industrialization of the material culture of sports has been contributed to a loss of local knowledge and familiarity with locally available organic stuffs for producing equipment for play and games. By reconnecting with previous knowledge of traditional games, we discover a potentially new direction for modern sports and games, shifting from globalization to environmentalization. Such an environmentalization could permit the local environmental context define the content, meaning and structure of sports, and simultaneously enrich both sports and outdoor life.

Skin disorders of different etiology, such as dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, wounds, burns, and others, are widely spread in the population. In severe cases, they require the topical application of drugs, such as antibiotics, steroids, and calcineurin inhibitors. With milder symptoms, which do not require acute pharmacological interventions, medications, dietary supplements, and cosmetic products of plant material origin are gaining greater popularity among professionals and patients. They are applied in various pharmaceutical forms, such as raw infusions, tinctures, creams, and ointments. Although plant-based formulations have been used by humankind since ancient times, it is often unclear what the mechanisms of the observed beneficial effects are. Recent advances in the contribution of the skin microbiota in maintaining skin homeostasis can shed new light on understanding the activity of topically applied plant-based products. Although the influence of various plants on skin-related ailments are well documented in vivo and in vitro, little is known about the interaction with the network of the skin microbial ecosystem. The review aims to summarize the hitherto scientific data on plant-based topical preparations used in Poland and Ukraine and indicate future directions of the studies respecting recent developments in understanding the etiology of skin diseases. The current knowledge on investigations of interactions of plant materials/extracts with skin microbiome was reviewed for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the anti-atherosclerotic properties of quercetin isolated from the extract of Hedysarum neglectum Ledeb hairy roots. During the study, the hormonal composition of the nutrient medium for cultivation of H. neglectum hairy root biomass was selected: Gamborg’s medium enriched with the cytokine 6-benzylaminopurine (1.5 mg/1 dm3). It was found that the extraction of hairy root biomass with a 50% water–ethanol solution (40:1 1 h at 60 ± 2 °C) yielded an extract that contained the highest amount of quercetin (an average of 2.1 times higher than in extracts obtained at other parameters). It was determined that 100 µM quercetin solution showed the greatest bioactivity on Caenorhabditis elegans: on day 61, the percentage of surviving nematodes was 2.06 times higher compared to other samples and 6 times higher compared to control, resulting in a 12.5-fold increase in SOD-3 expression compared to control (without biologically active substance (BAS) addition). Meanwhile, the 10 µM quercetin solution exhibited the best ability to inhibit the accumulation of lipid fractions; the accumulation was 1.06 times less compared to the control. The results of this study show that quercetin, which was isolated from the biomass of H. neglectum hairy roots, can be used as a component of anti-atherosclerotic dietary supplements.

Copyright of China Surfactant Detergent & Cosmetics (1001-1803) is the property of China Surfactant Detergent & Cosmetics Editorial Office 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.)

The principles of sustainable development and green chemistry are priorities in the development of new technologies for the extraction of useful biologically active substances, for example, in the manufacture of medicines. The processes of extracting substances from plant raw materials have many applications. Intensification of such processes, reducing their duration, energy consumption and consumption of the extractant is urgent. The object of the reseach is the green approach to intensify the extraction processes of polysaccharide substances from plant materials. The research methodology was experimental with statistical data processing. In the field of experimental research was the process of the influence of pulsed, alternating and direct current on the intensity of aqueous extraction of polysaccharides from plant materials. The high efficiency of intensification of extraction by a pulsed electric field was studied. The process can reduce the time for obtaining water-soluble polysaccharides by 3 times in comparison with traditional pharmacopoeial convection methods and reduce energy consumption by 20 times. The significance of the pulse current parameters for effective extraction was determined: the referred pulse shape, the frequency of the pulse current for extracting the maximum amount of water-soluble polysaccharides, the pulse duration, and the optimal processing time. The green approach to the use of a moderate electric field of pulsed current to accelerate the extraction of biologically active substances is the basis of the method of intensification of other traditional mass transfer processes for the sustainable development of technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Caatinga is the property of Revista Caatinga 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.)

Naturally active compounds are usually contained inside plants and materials thereof. Thus, the extraction of the active compounds from plants needs appropriate extraction methods. The commonly employed extraction methods are mostly based on solid–liquid extraction. Frequently used conventional extraction methods such as maceration, heat-assisted extraction, Soxhlet extraction, and hydrodistillation are often criticized for large solvent consumption and long extraction times. Therefore, many advanced extraction methods incorporating various technologies such as ultrasound, microwaves, high pressure, high voltage, enzyme hydrolysis, innovative solvent systems, adsorption, and mechanical forces have been studied. These advanced extraction methods are often better than conventional methods in terms of higher yields, higher selectivity, lower solvent consumption, shorter processing time, better energy efficiency, and potential to avoid organic solvents. They are usually designed to be greener, more sustainable, and environment friendly. In this review, we have critically described recently developed extraction methods pertaining to obtaining active compounds from plants and materials thereof. Main factors that affect the extraction performances are tuned, and extraction methods are chosen in line with the properties of targeted active compounds or the objectives of extraction. The review also highlights the advancements in extraction procedures by using combinations of extraction methods to obtain high overall yields or high purity extracts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air pollution and climate change are two important threats facing in our planet and are tightly linked to carbonaceous components in the atmosphere. A better understanding of the emission sources and environmental fate/sink of carbonaceous components is critical for improving our knowledge of the global carbon cycle and mitigating the negative environmental impacts of air pollution and climate change on human well-being. Radiocarbon (14C), which is decayed completely in fossil fuel (e.g. coal and petroleum), is an ideal tool for quantifying the carbon flow in various carbon reservoirs. This study reviews the current knowledge of 14C in organic carbon (OC), elemental carbon (EC), individual organic compounds, methane (CH4), carbon dioxide (CO2), annual plants, and tree rings. The impacts of fossil and non-fossil sources on the atmosphere can be quantified by measuring 14C. We also report on the influence of nuclear power plants and sea-air gas exchange on the abundance of 14C in the atmosphere. The increasing fossil fuel emissions indicated by the depletion of 14CO2 under IPCC RCP scenarios, support the urgent need to devise ambitious strategies of reducing carbonaceous components to achieve sustainable development on Earth. This review summarizes the challenges and perspectives of 14C studies of the atmosphere.

[Display omitted] • We present the largest available 13C NMR spectra library of microbiota and plants. • Results showed clear chemical discrimination between organisms of different kingdoms. • Plants showed a higher variability compared to microbes in spectral composition. • Plants leaves, roots and wood are dominated by O Alkyl C fraction. • Bacteria and algae cells are dominated by Alkyl C and Carbonyl C fractions. Determining the chemical quality of soil organic matter and decomposing organisms is critical for predicting carbon fluxes in ecosystems. However, the classical C/N and lignin/N ratios have been criticized for their capability in predicting ecosystem function including litter decay rate, nitrogen mineralization and soil aggregation. Therefore, with our work we aim to complement information on the chemical properties of primary producers and decomposers based on 13C NMR. Overall, 108 unique 13C NMR spectra were collected from higher plant tissues including leaf litter, fine roots, woody debris, as well as a range of microbes i.e. bacteria, fungi, and marine algae. Results showed clear discrimination between organisms belonging to different kingdoms, but with limited variability within bacteria, fungi, and microalgae. In detail, bacteria were found to be distinct not only from plant tissues but also from fungi, characterized by a high proportion of alkyl and carbonyl C types and a rather low relative abundance of O Alkyl C and di-O Alkyl C types. Among the fungi, we found clear separation between yeasts, which are more similar to bacteria, and filamentous species, which are rich in O Alkyl and di-O Alkyl C types. Microalgae are characterized by a high content of aliphatic, carboxylic and methoxyl C fractions. In the spectra of terrestrial plants, the O Alkyl C region, associated with sugars and cellulose, is more abundant compared to algae and bacteria. In addition, the aromatic carbon signal, which is mainly associated with lignin, is much higher for higher plants than in microorganisms. As for plant tissues, woody tissues are clearly different from leaves and fine roots, with grasses, sedges, and ferns being well distinguished from forbs, coniferous and deciduous trees. In summary, our study contains the largest freely available 13C NMR spectral library of bacteria, fungi, algae, and higher plant tissues. However, the data from higher plants are sufficient to cover different functional types, which is not yet possible for bacteria and fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Essential oils: aromatic fluids for diverse food, pharma, and cosmetics use. • EOs are obtained from various plant materials. • Ultrasound-assisted extraction alone or in combination with other techniques is effective. • Ultrasound has several limitations, which have been addressed as well. Ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) is an innovative process for recovering valuable substances and compounds from plants and various biomaterials. This technology holds promise for resource recovery while maintaining the quality of the extracted products. The review comprehensively discusses UAE's mechanism, applications, advantages, and limitations, focusing on extracting essential oils (EOs) from diverse terrestrial plant materials. These oils exhibit preservation, flavor enhancement, antimicrobial action, antioxidant effects, and anti-inflammatory benefits due to the diverse range of specific compounds in their composition. Conventional extraction techniques have been traditionally employed, and their limitations have prompted the introduction of novel extraction methods. Therefore, the review emphasizes that the use of UAE, alone or in combination with other cutting-edge technologies, can enhance the extraction of EOs. By promoting resource recovery, reduced energy consumption, and minimal solvent use, UAE paves the way for a more sustainable approach to harnessing the valuable properties of EOs. With its diverse applications in food, pharmaceuticals, and other industries, further research into UAE and its synergies with other cutting-edge technologies is required to unlock its full potential in sustainable resource recovery and product quality preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forests play a key role in global ecosystem conservation and environmental maintenance. Forestry, which includes plant active components, germplasm resources and vegetation dynamics, has received significant attention. Compared with conventional techniques, near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) provides rapid, noninvasive, economically efficient and real time results. In this review, we assess the historical and contemporary applications of qualitative and quantitative analysis using NIRS in forestry, including the discrimination of tree species, seeds, woods, and insect species, and the determination of properties of woods, plant tissues, soils, litters and others. In addition, we consider the disadvantages and future application trend of NIRS in forestry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Modern sports equipment is nowadays manufactured industrially according to globally accepted and standardized models, but traditionally tools for play and games were prepared from materials found in the local environment. The objective of this article is to investigate various aspects of Sámi local knowledge about organisms used for their material culture of traditional sports and games in northern Fennoscandia (Sápmi). What functions did the surrounding biota have in the production of equipment used in sports and games? Methods: A qualitative method was used; the ethnographic literature and travel narratives have been analyzed particularly for descriptions and notes on traditional games, toys, and sports. Results: Before the turn of the twentieth century, bats, balls, and skis were seldom produced in factories, but by children and adults who utilized available materials from the surrounding environment. The manufacture of tools for play and games was characterized by a rich creativity in the use of various biological and natural resources. A wide range of such resources is presented in this article, among them the bracket fungus Fomitopsis betulina, used for making balls, reindeer antlers utilized for lassoing contests, and pine bark painted with reindeer blood, prepared for playing cards. We also highlight how tools usually associated with means of transport could switch functions and serve playful and competitive purposes, such as skis made of compression pine or walking sticks of birch: The former were used in skiing races, and the latter appeared in fencing competitions. Conclusion: The industrialization of the material culture of sports has been contributed to a loss of local knowledge and familiarity with locally available organic stuffs for producing equipment for play and games. By reconnecting with previous knowledge of traditional games, we discover a potentially new direction for modern sports and games, shifting from globalization to environmentalization. Such an environmentalization could permit the local environmental context define the content, meaning and structure of sports, and simultaneously enrich both sports and outdoor life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]