Production Wells Research Articles

Impacts of Five Different Drying Methods on Volatile Organic Compounds in Mulberry Fruits

The mulberry fruit is edible and medicinal, and it is commonly referred to as the “best health product of the 21st century”. The purpose of this study was to find out whether different drying methods affect the quality of mulberry fruits and the main nature of the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) they contain. This study used vacuum freeze-drying (VFD), vacuum drying (VD), sun drying (SD), hot-air drying (HAD), and microwave drying (MD) to treat fresh mulberry fruits. Gas-phase ion mobility spectrometry (GC-IMS) was used to detect and analyze the VOCs in mulberry fruit samples treated with the different drying methods. There were 47 VOCs detected, with aldehydes and alcohols dominating. The obtained data were subjected to principal component analysis (PCA), cluster analysis (CA), nearest neighbor fingerprint analysis, and partial least-squares regression analysis (PLS-DA). The conclusion was drawn that fresh mulberry fruits contain abundant VOCs, and mulberry fruits after VD contain many aldehydes; thus, VD promoted the synthesis of phellandrene and other compounds widely used in the preparation of cosmetics such as perfume and soap. HAD promoted the synthesis of esters commonly used in the preparation of fruit flavor and wine essence. The higher (E)-2-heptenal content with SD was conducive to the Maillard reaction. MD promoted the synthesis of heptanal and valeraldehyde with aroma characteristics such as fatty, green, fruity, grassy, and floral. According to the VIP results, VOCs (E)-2-heptenal, pentanal D, cyclohexanone, and 2-hexanone D influenced the VOCs in most of the mulberry fruit samples. The findings of this study provide an important reference for drying mulberry fruits, which, in turn, will help to ensure the safety and effectiveness of processed mulberry fruit products.

Single Method for Determination of Biocides Benzalkonium Chloride, Chloroxylenol and Chlorhexidine Gluconate in Cosmetics, Hygiene and Health Care Products by Using High Performance Liquid Chromatography.

Benzalkonium chloride (BKC), chloroxylenol (PCMX) and chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) are widely recognized biocidal compounds that require precise control and monitoring in various applications, including cosmetics, hygiene, health and ophthalmic products. In this study, we present a straightforward and highly sensitive high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) method for the detection of these substances. The HPLC method we developed allows for the detection of BKC at concentrations as low as 1.0ppm, PCMX at 1.0ppm and CHG at 2.0ppm, all with a signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio exceeding 3.0. Additionally, the method enables quantification up to 2.0ppm for BKC, 2.0ppm for PCMX and 5ppm for CHG, with an S/N ratio surpassing 10.0. This validated method serves as a versatile tool for the accurate quantification of BKC, PCMX and CHG in cosmetics, hygiene products, health products and ophthalmic products. Its applicability extends across a wide range of industries, ensuring the reliable assessment of these critical biocides.

The Beneficial Application of Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) on Health and Egg Production, in Layers: A Review

ABSTRACTBackgroundTurmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is a widely recognized spice and medicinal plant that has gained significant attention for its potential health benefits. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the beneficial applications of turmeric in improving health and egg production in layers.ObjectiveThe objective of this review is to assess the current scientific literature on the effects of turmeric supplementation in layer diets and evaluate its impact on layer health and egg production.MethodsA systematic search was conducted in Google Scholar database to identify relevant studies published in peer‐reviewed journals. Studies investigating the effects of turmeric or its bioactive compound curcumin on layer health and egg production were included. Data on various parameters, including immune function, reproductive performance, egg quality and production parameters, were extracted and analysed.ResultsTurmeric contains a bioactive compound called curcumin, which possesses antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, antimicrobial and immunomodulatory effects. These properties have been extensively studied and have shown promising results in enhancing layer health and performance. Turmeric supplementation has been reported to improve the overall immune response in layers, reducing the incidence and severity of infectious diseases. It has also been shown to have positive effects on gut health by modulating the gut microbiota composition, improving nutrient absorption and reducing digestive disorders. Furthermore, studies have demonstrated that turmeric supplementation in layer diets can improve egg weight, shell quality, yolk colour and egg production rates. The mechanisms underlying these effects involve the antioxidant properties of turmeric, which protect the reproductive organs, enhance ovarian function and improve reproductive performance.ConclusionThe findings underscore the potential of turmeric as a natural, cost‐effective and sustainable intervention for improving layer well‐being, egg quality and productivity. However, further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms of action, optimize dosage regimens and evaluate the long‐term effects of turmeric supplementation in layer diets.

Effects of Cover Crop on Selected Abiotic and Biotic Soil Health Indicators

Current cropping systems, like cover cropping, aim to improve soil health and crop productivity, with the former a more sustainable route to the latter. This can be done by evaluating the influence of cover crops (CCs) on soil health indicators, both abiotic and biotic, as is the objective of this study. Several CCs (crimson clover [Trifolium incarnatum L.], oats [Avena sativa], hairy vetch [Vicia villosa Roth.], winter wheat [Triticum aestivum L.], winter peas [Lathyrus hirsutus L.], flax [Linum usitassimum L.], triticale [Triticale hexaploide Lart.], cereal rye [Secale cereale], and barley [Hordeum vulgare L.]) were used across two research sites, set up using a completely randomized design with two levels of CCs (CC vs no cover crop [NC]) and three replicates during 2023. Soil samples were collected at 0-10, 10-20, and 20-30 cm depths and analyzed for soil physico-chemical properties and microbial biomass and composition. Results showed significantly lower bulk density values, greater water content (at 0 kPa soil water matric potential), greater volume-specific heat capacity (at 0 and -33 kPa soil water matric potential), greater total nitrogen, and numerically greater soil organic carbon under CC compared with NC management. This led to numerically greater microbial biomass and community composition (e.g., arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, eukaryotes, and fungi), and slightly lower microbial stress indicators (genotypic and chemical structure categorizations) under CC compared with NC management. However, the lack of significant differences between treatments suggests that three years is insufficient to detect improvements in measured soil health indicators. Further, the significant differences in measured soil health indicators between study sites suggests an influence of soil texture and order, and this warrants further investigations.

Multi-criteria-based evaluation of digital carbon footprint tools from a household user perspective

Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions significantly impact the environment and human health, but many people are unaware of how their daily choices affect climate change. Carbon calculators estimate emissions in sectors like construction, digital health, transportation, and food production. However, they are still developing and face challenges that require attention from both industry and academia. Researchers highlight the absence of a unified framework for assessing these tools, leading to simplistic binary evaluations, which result in inaccuracies in household tool evaluations. In the current study, an assessment framework has been created by integrating existing binary frameworks and incorporating the MCDA method for weighted multi-criteria evaluation, offering a quantitative scoring system for qualitative criteria. This dual-criteria framework addresses both practical and academic aspects of the evaluated tools. The framework was used to evaluate 15 tools chosen for their prominence in search engine results and their impact on scientific publications. Findings revealed that tools such as Svalna, WWF calculator, and Carbon Savvy produce comparable results, while others, like the UN CF calculator, show deviations up to 136 tons. The study highlights challenges related to feasibility, availability of resources, and user engagement, noting that the criterion for accessibility for special groups received a score of zero across all CF tools. The work is expected to yield enhanced understanding that will aid in the selection of appropriate CF tools, foster sustainable practices, and offer developers direction to ensure their designs conform to established standards.

Inventory of the best-selling medicinal plants on the Lubumbashi markets (DR Congo) and authentication of samples from the 3 most popular species

Ethnopharmacological relevanceKnowledge of the high-sale medicinal plants and their authentication are essential parameters to ensure the safety of people using herbal medicine and to plan the safeguarding of medicinal species threatened with extinction. AimsThe present study, carried out in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo, aimed to geolocate medicinal plant sales points, list the best-selling species, and authenticate samples of the most popular species on the market. MethodsA survey was conducted among the medicinal plant sellers in Lubumbashi’s markets and other public spaces, to identify the best-selling species. Samples of the species reported as the most sold were purchased for sales unit weight measurement, and authentication. For the 3 most popular plant species, the identity of 92 samples, purchased from some 25 herbalists, was assessed by combining the microscopic characteristics of powdered drugs with the HPTLC fingerprints of methanolic extracts; for each species, these samples were compared with 1 or 2 botanically authenticated reference samples. As abundant starch granules were detected by microscopy, some samples were suspected of heavy flour contamination, which was confirmed by an enzymatic determination of their starch content. ResultsA total of 108 herbalists (48.1 % women) with a median age of 37 years (range, 20 to 67 years), and a median seniority of 5 years (0.7 to 30) were interviewed. From a total of 514 purchased samples, 396 (77.0 %) corresponded to 56 species that could be identified, including 92 samples representing the 3 most frequently sold plant species. The identities of 118 samples (having 82 different vernacular names), could not be determined, due to the lack of voucher specimen Roots were the most sold organ (56.0 %; n = 514), mainly in powder form (78.7 %), and the median price was 21 USD/kg, at the time of the survey (01/2022). The identified specimens were, predominantly, the roots of Terminalia mollis M.A.Lawson (33.3 %), Securidaca longepedunculata Fresen (28.7 %), and stem barks of Nauclea pobeguinii Hua ex Pobég. (23.1 %); from the recorded sales figures, the amounts of material annually sold for these 3 species are estimated at about 5.7, 6.0, and 3.1 tons, respectively. Some sellers reported problems in identifying and/or preserving S. longepedonculata and T. mollis.Among the 92 samples analyzed for the three species, 18.5 % raised problems, including species substitutions (14/17), dilution with flour (1/17), dilution with flour and species substitution (1/17), and detection of a phytochemical variant (1/17), that could arise either from contamination by another species, a particular plant growth environment, or poor storage conditions. ConclusionThe confusion/adulteration rate measured here for highly popular species is quite alarming (18.5 %); but, indeed, roots, especially as powders, are often difficult to differentiate based on the coarse organoleptic examination practiced by herbal traders. Microscopic and phytochemical characteristics reported in this study, quite easy to obtain with basic laboratory equipment, should be systematically applied by the health products regulatory authorities to control the quality of herbals and ensure that patients get the drug desired for their treatment.

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) in herbal and health products registered by Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA): a descriptive study

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) in herbal and health products registered by Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA): a descriptive study

Consumer Perception of Health and Wellness Products

This study aims to understand consumer perceptions of health and wellness products amidst growing public awareness of the importance of a healthy lifestyle. Using a qualitative approach, this research explores factors that influence consumer perceptions, such as trust, personal experience, preferences, and social influence. Data collection methods include in-depth interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs) with 20 respondents from diverse backgrounds in age, gender, and physical activity levels. A purposive sampling technique was used to ensure a relevant variety of views on health and wellness products. The collected data was analyzed using thematic analysis, producing key themes such as trust in product safety and effectiveness, preferences for natural over chemically-based products, and the influence of community and social media in shaping perceptions. The study's findings indicate that consumer perceptions of health products are significantly influenced by personal experiences and information obtained from social environments and media. Trust in the brand and the transparency of manufacturers in providing information also play an important role in shaping consumer decisions. Additionally, it was found that consumers tend to prefer products considered natural and that offer clear health claims. This research provides insights for producers in designing marketing strategies that can enhance consumer trust through transparent education and strengthen brand reputation.

Economic Burden of Late-Stage Age-Related Macular Degeneration in Bulgaria, Germany, and the US

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a highly prevalent and debilitating retinal condition that affects more than 200 million people globally, with the severe late-stage forms-neovascular AMD (nAMD) and geographic atrophy (GA)-affecting more than 11 million people globally. However, much is unknown about the economic burden of the disease. To estimate the economic burden associated with late-stage AMD in Bulgaria, Germany, and the US at the societal level. This study used the prevalence approach cost-of-illness economic modeling to estimate costs attributable to late-stage AMD. Data on health care resource utilization, well-being, and productivity were obtained via primary data collection. Additional data required for the model were sourced from available published literature. Data were collected from January 2021 to March 2022, and analyzed from April to July 2022. Participants older than 50 years residing in Bulgaria, Germany, and the US who were diagnosed with late-stage AMD (nAMD or any form of GA) in 1 or both eyes and caregivers who care for people diagnosed with late-stage AMD were recruited through ophthalmological clinics in Bulgaria and Germany and via online newsletters and social media in the US. The main outcomes were direct medical costs (disease-related health care expenditures), indirect medical costs (care support and assistive technology), well-being cost (loss of well-being), and productivity cost (loss in productivity due to the diseases for both patient and caregivers). Of the 128 individuals with late-stage AMD in this study, 80 (62%) were female, and 120 (94%) were aged 60 years or older. Of the 61 caregivers, 43 (70%) were female and 55 (91%) were aged 45 years or older. Estimated per-annum total costs attributable to late-stage AMD were €449.5 million ($512.5 million) in Bulgaria, €7.6 billion ($8.6 billion) in Germany, and €43.2 billion ($49.4 billion) in the US. Across all countries, 10% to 13% of the total cost incurred was attributed to direct medical costs. In Germany and Bulgaria, the biggest contributor to the total economic burden was reduced well-being (67% and 76%, respectively), whereas in the US, loss of productivity (42%) was the biggest contributor. The findings of this study indicate a substantial burden of late-stage AMD on patients and caregivers in the US, Germany, and Bulgaria. Across the 3 countries, reduced well-being and loss of productivity were relatively large contributors to the total economic burden. Implementing measures to reduce AMD incidence, delay disease progression, and alleviate humanistic burden may help reduce the economic burden of late-stage AMD.

AMP-activated protein kinase mediates (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) to promote lipid synthesis in mastitis cows

Mastitis, a serious threat to the health and milk production function of dairy cows decreases milk quality. Blood from three healthy cows and three mastitis cows were collected in this study and their transcriptome was sequenced using the Illumina HiSeq platform. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened according to the |log2FoldChange| > 1 and P-value < 0.05 criteria. Pathway enrichment and functional annotation were performed through KEGG and GO analyses. Finally, the mechanism of the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) mediation of (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) to promote lipid metabolism in mastitis cows was analyzed in bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMECs). Transcriptome analysis revealed a total of 825 DEGs, with 474 genes showing increased expression and 351 genes showing decreased expression. The KEGG analysis of DEGs revealed that they were mainly linked to tumour necrosis factor, nuclear factor-κB signalling pathway, and lipid metabolism-related signalling pathway, whereas GO functional annotation found that DEGs were enriched in threonine and methionine kinase activity, cellular metabolic processes, and cytoplasm. AMPK expression, which is involved in several lipid metabolism pathways, was downregulated in mastitis cows. The results of in vitro experiments showed that the inhibition of AMPK promoted the expression of lipid synthesis genes in lipopolysaccharide-induced BMECs and that EGCG could promote lipid synthesis by decreasing the expression of AMPK and downregulating the expression of inflammatory factors in inflammatory BMECs. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that AMPK mediated EGCG to inhabit of inflammatory responses and promote of lipid synthesis in inflammatory BMECs.

Honey Enriched with Additives Alleviates Behavioral, Oxidative Stress, and Brain Alterations Induced by Heavy Metals and Imidacloprid in Zebrafish

Environmental concerns have consistently been a focal point for the scientific community. Pollution is a critical ecological issue that poses significant threats to human health and agricultural production. Contamination with heavy metals and pesticides is a considerable concern, a threat to the environment, and warrants special attention. In this study, we investigated the significant issues arising from sub-chronic exposure to imidacloprid (IMI), mercury (Hg), and cadmium (Cd), either alone or in combination, using zebrafish (Danio rerio) as an animal model. Additionally, we assessed the potential protective effects of polyfloral honey enriched with natural ingredients, also called honey formulation (HF), against the combined sub-chronic toxic effects of the three contaminants. The effects of IMI (0.5 mg·L−1), Hg (15 μg·L−1), and Cd (5 μg·L−1), both individually and in combination with HF (500 mg·L−1), on zebrafish were evaluated by quantifying acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, lipid peroxidation (MDA), various antioxidant enzyme activities like superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase (SOD and GPx), 2D locomotor activity, social behavior, histological and immunohistochemical factors, and changes in body element concentrations. Our findings revealed that all concentrations of pollutants may disrupt social behavior, diminish swimming performances (measured by total distance traveled, inactivity, and swimming speed), and elevate oxidative stress (OS) biomarkers of SOD, GPx, and MDA in zebrafish over the 21-day administration period. Fish exposed to IMI and Hg + Cd + IMI displayed severe lesions and increased GFAP (Glial fibrillary acidic protein) and S100B (S100 calcium-binding protein B) protein expression in the optic tectum and cerebellum, conclusively indicating astrocyte activation and neurotoxic effects. Furthermore, PCNA (Proliferating cell nuclear antigen) staining revealed reduced cell proliferation in the IMI-exposed group, contrasting with intensified proliferation in the Hg + Cd group. The nervous system exhibited significant damage across all studied concentrations, confirming the observed behavioral changes. Moreover, HF supplementation significantly mitigated the toxicity induced by contaminants and reduced OS. Therefore, the exposure to chemical mixtures offers a more complete picture of adverse impacts on aquatic ecosystems and the supplementation with bioactive compounds can help to reduce the toxicity induced by exposure to environmental pollutants.

Understanding the consumer's intention to purchase reproductive health products from e-commerce sites

The emergence of the Internet, together with the expansion of associated technologies, has had a profound influence on every possible field. Of great importance to marketers has been the rise of virtual stores that facilitate the online sale of goods and services. Although the majority of marketers have recognized the significance of including the Internet in their marketing strategies, there is a lack of scientific study on the key elements that impact an individual's decision-making process in the purchase of female reproductive healthcare products. The women's health market in India is projected to grow to $1.325 Billion by 2030, from $0.726 Billion in 2022. The study employed a survey instrument with 448 participants who frequently make online purchases of reproductive healthcare products. The results indicated that purchasing through e-commerce sites has gained extensive popularity among female customers due to social influence, customer experience, cost-effectiveness, performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and facilitating conditions in its ability to save time and space. The study also indicated that advertising through social media has a profound impact on female customers in their purchase decisions to buy reproductive healthcare products.

Dissemination of Synbiotic Tempe Extract Krenova Soygurt Products as Functional Drinks for Stunting Prevention through Community Partnership Programs

This activity aimed to educate the public about Synbiotic Tempe Extract Krenova Soygurt Products as Functional Drinks for Stunting Prevention. The implementation of activities as community service in the form of health education and counseling on stunting prevention involved 10 lecturers, 12 students along with 9 cadres and 30 people from the Cempaka Integrated Health Post, Wonorejo Village, Gondangrejo, Karanganyar Regency. The social community activity was carried out on August 26, 2024, and the community received a response and enthusiasm through active participation and involvement in the discussion and question and answer sessions. The essence of the implementation and dissemination of the benefits of synbiotic soygurt tempeh can function as a functional drink based on science and technology, halal and economical through a community partnership program carried out sustainably, completely, and meaningfully at the Cempaka Integrated Health Post, Wonorejo Village, Gondangrejo District, Karanganyar Regency to achieve the target of down streaming Kreova health products that are beneficial to the community and support the success of the Government's program in overcoming and reducing the incidence of stunting in Indonesia.

Microbial dysbiosis in the gut–mammary axis as a mechanism for mastitis in dairy cows

Mastitis is a significant and costly disease in dairy cows, reducing milk production and affecting herd health. Recent research highlights the role of gastrointestinal microbial dysbiosis in the development of mastitis. This review focuses on how microbial imbalances in the rumen and intestines can compromise the integrity of the gastrointestinal barriers, allowing harmful bacteria and endotoxins, such as lipopolysaccharide, to enter the bloodstream and reach the mammary gland, triggering inflammation. This process links gastrointestinal health to mammary gland inflammation through the gut–mammary axis. Furthermore, disruptions in glucose metabolism and immune responses are implicated in the progression of mastitis. This review underscores the potential for non‐antibiotic interventions aimed at restoring microbial balance to reduce mastitis incidence, providing new insights into improving dairy cow health and farm productivity. Our findings emphasise the critical need to explore preventive measures targeting the rumen and intestinal microbiota for effective mastitis control.

Comparative analysis of airborne fungal spore distribution in urban and rural environments of Slovakia.

Monitoring airborne fungal spores is crucial for public health and plant production since they belong to important aeroallergens and phytopathogens. Due to different land use, their concentration can differ significantly between urban and rural areas. We monitored their spectrum and quantity on two geographically close sites with a different degree of urbanisation: Bratislava City and Kaplna Village in Slovakia, located 38km apart. We recorded the spectrum of airborne fungal spores over a year and confirmed the microscopic results by amplicon-based metagenomic analysis. The main spore season of the most frequent genera lasted over a week longer in Kaplna, but its intensity was approximately two-fold higher in Bratislava. This can be possibly connected to the microclimatic conditions of the urban area (especially wind speed and heat island effect) and the lesser use of fungicides. Cladosporium was the dominant genus on both sites, influencing the intensity most significantly. Through statistical analysis of the influence of meteorological parameters on airborne fungal spore levels, we identified a significant relationship with temperature, while the impact of other parameters varied depending on the spore type and release mechanism. Our results show the differences in airborne fungal spore levels between urban and rural areas and highlight the necessity for more monitoring stations in various environments.

Assessing Dietary Supplements, Nutritional Deficiencies, and the Potential of Personalized Nutrition

The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened public awareness of health, leading to a surge in the consumption of dietary supplements, particularly vitamins and minerals. These micronutrients are vital for numerous physiological processes and overall health maintenance. However, the rapid expansion of the health product market has also resulted in the proliferation of substandard items and the risk of misuse or overconsumption. This study analyzes the ingredients in various health products and assesses the nutritional deficiencies prevalent in local populations. It emphasizes the importance of balanced nutrition while cautioning against the excessive intake of certain supplements. The research also explores the potential of personalized nutrition, driven by advances in genomics and biotechnology, to provide tailored supplement recommendations. Additionally, the study highlights the need for stricter regulations and improved quality control in the health product industry to ensure consumer safety and confidence. By offering insights into the nutritional needs of individuals, this study aims to guide informed and responsible supplement use.

Cow comfort, behavior and welfare with specific reference to dairy cattle: A review

Cow comfort is a significant consideration in dairy farming worldwide. Providing an ideal microclimate could offer a comfortable environment for the dairy cows and is essential to ensure a positive relationship with the health condition and productivity so that the animals can adapt and produce optimally. In such an environment, cows should be able to express natural behavior patterns, which are important for their well-being and overall comfort. Various measures have been developed to evaluate and monitor cow welfare and comfort, including examining aspects such as behavior, management and their correlation with thermal stress and economic implications. This article provides details on the different measures used to assess cow comfort, behavioral adjustments, and strategies to manage thermal stress. It also highlights various features that help cows adapt to these conditions, offering valuable insights for enhancing dairy cow management practices. Cow comfort indices are used to assess the comfort and welfare aspects of dairy cows based on four behavioral patterns such as lying down, standing, feeding, and drinking. Indicators of good cow comfort in the dairy farming system include improved milk production, improved reproduction, improved feed intake, most resting time, reduction of injuries, absence of lameness, better adaptation, better health, and better economic efficiency. Thus, there is a need to have a thorough understanding and implementation of physiological and behavioral adaptive features that would help to formulate better management strategies for dairy cows to be comfortable and produce at ease. This will ensure an optimum economic return for dairy farms.

Microorganisms in Fermented Foods and Their Effects on the Human Body

In recent years, microorganisms in fermented foods have shown an important role in regulating human health. Studies have shown that probiotics have significant health benefits in fermented foods, such as improving gut health, stimulating immune function, and promoting metabolism, and mental health. Specifically, lactic acid bacteria in yogurt can increase the number of beneficial bacteria in the intestines and reduce the growth of pathogenic bacteria, and yeasts such as Saccharomyces cerevae have multiple health effects on intestinal microbiota protection and anti-inflammation. In addition, various enzymes and metabolites produced by Aspergillus during fermentation process can improve the nutritional value of food. However, although lots of research has been done, the understanding of the microbial mechanism under different fermentation conditions is still insufficient. In this article, the types and influencing factors of microorganisms in yogurt, wine and seasoner were reviewed. The effects of temperature, pH value, fermentation time and other conditions on microbial activity and product quality were analyzed. The results showed that suitable fermentation conditions could significantly increase microbial activity, improve product flavor and health function, and provide a theoretical basis for optimizing the production process of fermented food. The article provides a theoretical basis for improving the fermented food production process, thus helping to improve product quality and market competitiveness. However, this article has some limitations like the lack of understanding of interactions between different microorganisms. Future research should focus on examining the collaborative relationship between these microbes to improve the health benefits and production efficiency of fermented foods.

Floral Elegance Meets Medicinal Marvels: Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacology of the Genus Lagerstroemia L.

The genus Lagerstroemia L. (Lythraceae), known for its exquisite flowers and prolonged flowering period, is commonly employed in traditional medicinal systems across Asian countries, where it has always been consumed as tea or employed to address ailments such as diabetes, urinary disorders, coughs, fevers, inflammation, pain, and anesthesia. Its diverse uses may be attributed to its rich active ingredients. Currently, at least 364 biological compounds have been identified from Lagerstroemia extracts, encompassing various types such as terpenes, flavonoids, phenolic acids, alkaloids, and phenylpropanoids. Extensive in vitro and in vivo experiments have examined the pharmacological activities of different extracts, revealing their potential in various domains, including but not limited to antidiabetic, anti-obesity, antitumor, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and hepatoprotective effects. Additionally, 20 core components have been proven to be associated with antidiabetic and hypoglycemic effects of Lagerstroemia. Overall, Lagerstroemia exhibit substantial medicinal potential, and the alignment between its traditional applications and contemporary pharmacological findings present promising opportunities for further investigation, particularly in food and health products, drug development, herbal teas, and cosmetics. However, evidence-based pharmacological research has largely been confined to in vitro screening and animal model, lacking clinical trials and bioactive compound isolations. Consequently, future endeavors should adopt a more holistic approach.

Influencers as a new source of health information: Insights from an Austrian youth survey

Abstract Background Social media influencers (SMIs) have become the dominant source of health information for youth. While some SMIs may share valuable content, critics raise concerns that they lack expertise, have commercial motives, or hold personal biases. Yet, little is known about the epidemiology of the health influencer phenomenon. This study offers first insights into the reach of SMIs among Austrian youth, informing public health strategies to promote positive health behaviors in young populations. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with a representative sample of 1003 Austrian adolescents and young adults aged 15-25. Key research questions focus on the epidemiology of health influencers, engagement with SMIs, prevalent health topics, advertising, and perceived impact of SMIs on health. Preliminary results Participants estimate that over 51% of social media posts they see are from SMIs, and 75.37% follow at least one SMI. Additionally, 37.19% follow SMIs who specifically share health content, and 30.91% have purchased health products recommended by them (e.g., foods, supplements, beauty products). Moreover, 40.27% trust their followed SMIs for health information, similar to trust in traditional media (43.47%). Finally, over a third find SMI content beneficial for health (32.34%), while 29.20% find it harmful, and 33.83% neither. Conclusions The study provides first insights into the epidemiology of health influencers, revealing their extensive reach and positive reception among young people. Despite concerns about conflicts of interest or expertise, SMIs are perceived as trusted sources for health information and product purchases. This research enhances our understanding of influencers’ impact and informs public health strategies aimed at promoting positive health behaviors among youth. The insights from Austrian youth can inform future studies across Europe, deepening our understanding of the health influencer phenomenon and its implications for public health. Key messages • This cross-sectional study shows the high reach of social media influencers among youth and their important role as emerging sources of health information. • The study breaks new ground by investigating adolescents’ engagement with health influencers, offering insights for public health to promote positive health outcomes among young populations.