Human Health Benefits Research Articles

Long-Term Greenness Effects of Urban Forests to Reduce PM10 Concentration: Does the Impact Benefit the Population Vulnerable to Asthma?

This study investigates the effect of urban forests in reducing particulate matter (PM) concentrations and its subsequent impact on the number of asthma care visits. Understanding the mechanisms behind the relationship between the greenness of blocking forests and the reduction in PM is crucial for assessing the associated human health benefits. This study analyzed the influencing factors for reducing long-term PM10 concentrations, utilizing the vegetation index and meteorological variables. Results showed that the reduction in PM10 began in 2011, five years after the establishment of the blocking forest. The annual mean PM10 concentrations decreased significantly, driven primarily by summer wind speed and summer Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI), explaining approximately 62% of the variation. A decrease in the number of asthma care visits was observed, similar to the trend of PM10 reduction in the residential area and the increase in the greenness of the blocking forest. The influx of PM into the city, primarily driven by prevailing northwesterly winds, may have been mitigated by the growing blocking forest, contributing to a reduction in asthma-related medical visits among urban residents. In particular, since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the increase in the PM2.5/PM10 ratio in residential areas has become more closely linked to the increase in asthma-related medical visits. It suggests another PM2.5 emission source in the residential area. The number of asthma care visits among children (under 11) and the elderly (over 65) exhibited a strong positive correlation with PM10 levels and a negative correlation with the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). This suggests a link between air quality improvement from the greenness of blocking forests with their capacity to capture PM and respiratory health outcomes, especially for the vulnerable groups to asthma. These findings highlight the need to manage pollutant sources such as transportation and the heating system in residential areas beyond industrial emissions as the point pollution source. The management policies have to focus on protecting vulnerable populations, such as children and the elderly, by implementing small-sized urban forests to adsorb the PM2.5 within the city and establishing blocking forests to prevent PM10 near the industrial complex.

Potential Transformation of Food Resveratrol: Mechanisms and Biological Impact

Resveratrol is a naturally occurring phenolic compound found in foods like grapes, berries, and peanuts. It has attracted substantial interest for its potential human health benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Research indicates that resveratrol may contribute to cardiovascular health, protect cognitive function, and exhibit anticancer properties. However, various factors such as pH levels, exposure to light, specific enzymes, and metal ions can alter its chemical structure, affecting its biological activities. These reactions can lead to the formation of different metabolites and polymers, which may affect the stability and bioactivity of resveratrol. This review examines the transformation of resveratrol from its natural sources to its consumption by humans. Additionally, we explore the biological activities of the resulting compounds of resveratrol transformations.

Mapping Hotspots and Emerging Trends in Global Wetlands Research: A Scientometric Analysis (2002–2022)

Recent studies have focused on wetlands due to their benefits for human spiritual satisfaction and mental health. This paper conducted a scientometric analysis of 2,388 studies published in the Web of Science database between 2002 and 2022. Using VOSviewer, Origin, and CiteSpace software, this study identified research hotspots and emerging trends in wetland research. The analysis revealed an upward trend in global wetland research publications, with notable contributions from researchers in the United States, China, Australia, Canada, and India. Network keyword co-occurrence analysis highlighted primary research themes, including constructed wetlands, climate change, wastewater treatment, phytoremediation, restoration, and hydrology. The United States emerged as the central hotspot for wetland research, with China, Canada, Australia, and other countries following. Given the growing recognition of wetlands' importance, wetland research is expected to gain even more global attention. Moreover, improvements in the quality of wetland tourism research are recommended, as most related publications have low citation rates. This paper provides a methodological overview of scientometric techniques applicable to global wetland research, offering scholars a framework for using scientometric analysis to enhance their future research. The increasing recognition of wetlands' crucial role in human well-being, encompassing both spiritual satisfaction and mental health, has led to a surge in research interest in this field. This study presents a comprehensive scientometric analysis of 2,388 wetland-related publications indexed in the Web of Science database between 2002 and 2022. Employing VOSviewer, Origin, and CiteSpace software, we mapped research hotspots and identified emerging trends within global wetland research. Our analysis reveals a significant upward trend in the volume of publications, highlighting the growing international attention to wetland ecosystems. The United States, China, Australia, Canada, and India have emerged as leading contributors to this research landscape. A network keyword co-occurrence analysis identified core research themes such as constructed wetlands, climate change, wastewater treatment, phytoremediation, ecological restoration, and hydrology. The United States is a central hub for wetland research, with China, Canada, and Australia also demonstrating substantial research activity. Given the escalating importance of wetlands in addressing global challenges, this research area is expected to attract further scholarly attention. We recommend a greater emphasis on enhancing the quality and impact of wetland tourism research, which currently exhibits low citation rates. Furthermore, this paper provides a methodological framework, demonstrating the application of scientometric techniques in global wetland research, thus empowering scholars to utilise such analytical approaches to refine their research. Our study offers a valuable and comprehensive overview of the key research areas, emerging topics, and influential contributors within the field of global wetland research.

Regulation of Flavonoid Biosynthesis by the MYB-bHLH-WDR (MBW) Complex in Plants and Its Specific Features in Cereals.

Flavonoids are a large group of secondary metabolites, which are responsible for pigmentation, signaling, protection from unfavorable environmental conditions, and other important functions, as well as providing numerous benefits for human health. Various stages of flavonoid biosynthesis are subject to complex regulation by three groups of transcription regulators-MYC-like bHLH, R2R3-MYB and WDR which form the MBW regulatory complex. We attempt to cover the main aspects of this intriguing regulatory system in plants, as well as to summarize information on their distinctive features in cereals. Published data revealed the following perspectives for further research: (1) In cereals, a large number of paralogs of MYC and MYB transcription factors are present, and their diversification has led to spatial and biochemical specialization, providing an opportunity to fine-tune the distribution and composition of flavonoid compounds; (2) Regulatory systems formed by MBW proteins in cereals possess distinctive features that are not yet fully understood and require further investigation; (3) Non-classical MB-EMSY-like complexes, WDR-independent MB complexes, and solely acting R2R3-MYB transcription factors are of particular interest for studying unique regulatory mechanisms in plants. More comprehensive understanding of flavonoid biosynthesis regulation will allow us to develop cereal varieties with the required flavonoid content and spatial distribution.

Actinomycete-Derived Pigments: A Path Toward Sustainable Industrial Colorants.

Pigment production has a substantial negative impact on the environment, since mining for natural pigments causes ecosystem degradation, while synthetic pigments, derived from petrochemicals, generate toxic by-products that accumulate and persist in aquatic systems due to their resistance to biodegradation. Despite these challenges, pigments remain essential across numerous industries, including the cosmetic, textile, food, automotive, paints and coatings, plastics, and packaging industries. In response to growing consumer demand for sustainable options, there is increasing interest in eco-friendly alternatives, particularly bio-based pigments derived from algae, fungi, and actinomycetes. This shift is largely driven by consumer demand for sustainable options. For bio-pigments, actinomycetes, particularly from the Streptomyces genus, have emerged as a promising green source, aligning with global sustainability goals due to their renewability and biodegradability. Scale-up of production and yield optimization challenges have been circumvented with the aid of biotechnology advancements, including genetic engineering and innovative fermentation and extraction methods, which have enhanced these bio-pigments' viability and cost-competitiveness. Actinomycete-derived pigments have successfully transitioned from laboratory research to commercialization, showcasing their potential as sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic dyes. With the global pigment market valued at approximately USD 24.28 billion in 2023, which is projected to reach USD 36.58 billion by 2030, the economic potential for actinomycete pigments is extensive. This review explores the environmental advantages of actinomycete pigments, their role in modern industry, and the regulatory and commercialization challenges they face, highlighting the importance of these pigments as promising solutions to reduce our reliance on conventional toxic pigments. The successful commercialization of actinomycete pigments can drive an industry-wide transition to environmentally responsible alternatives, offering substantial benefits for human health, safety, and environmental sustainability.

Edible Mushrooms: a Nutrient-Rich Ingredient for Healthier Food Products - A Review.

Edible mushrooms are found to be foods with high nutritional content, which have been shown to be more widely used ingredients in cooking in traditional dishes. This article explores the rising trend in the use of edible mushrooms in new formulations of functional foods, taking advantage of their properties and benefits in human health. The use of mushrooms as an ingredient in new or modified food formulations is driven by solid evidence of their nutritional content and bioactivity. Mushrooms stand out for their high biological value and high bioavailability protein content, as well as dietary fiber that promotes improved digestive health. Other micronutrients present are B vitamins and minerals such as selenium, phosphorus and potassium. Mushroom flour has been the prevalent mode of addition to food formulations. This type of format aims to preserve and concentrate the nutritional content of mushrooms and has achieved nutritional enrichment of products. The use of this food has also been explored to improve technological qualities in food development, so it is intended to position itself as a natural additive. This review synthesizes data on the nutritional composition, bioactive properties, and physicochemical attributes of mushrooms, emphasizing their multifaceted contributions to modern food formulations. It advocates for further research to optimize mushroom application in diverse food products and to address practical challenges for seamless integration.

Cyclodipeptides (CDPs), the enzymatic synthesis, and the potential functional properties to exhibit broad varieties of pharmacological properties—A comprehensive review

Cyclodipeptides (CDPs) are distinct chemical scaffolds that show a wide range of bioactivities pertinent to medicine, agriculture, chemical catalysis, and material sciences. CDPs, also known as diketopiperazines (DKPs), are tiny naturally occurring peptides that have sparked interest due to their various bioactive features and possible applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and medical sectors. CDPs are produced by the intramolecular cyclization of two amino acids and can be found in a variety of environments, such as fungi, plants, animals, bacteria, and processed foods. CDPs are highly stable because of their solid structure and durability against enzymatic degradation, making them appropriate choices for medicinal and functional food applications. CDPs are frequently seen as undesirable byproducts in processed meals, especially those that include dairy, meat, and fermented drinks; new research indicates that they may improve flavor and benefit human health. Bioactive sub-stances having anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, and neuroprotective qualities have been recognized as CDPs. Certain CDPs, such as cyclo(Phe-Pro), along with cyclo(Pro-Pro), have shown promise in controlling metabolic and cognitive functions in the body, while others, such as cyclo(His-Pro), have demonstrated anticancer activity by causing cancer cells to undergo apoptosis. In spite of widespread research, little is known about the precise health consequences and ideal levels of CDP intake from dietary sources. Considering this, the present review attempts to compile the most recent information on the occurrence, generation, and biological activity of CDPs. To completely comprehend CDPs’ bioactivity and their significance to human health, more research is required. Additionally, creative approaches for using these peptides for creating functional foods and preventing diseases should be investigated.

DNA-amphiphilic nanostructures: synthesis, characterization and applications.

DNA's extraordinary potential reaches far beyond its role as a carrier of genetic information. It serves as a remarkably adaptable structural foundation for constructing intricate nanostructures with a diverse range of functionalities. This inherent programmability sets DNA apart from other biomolecules like peptides, proteins, and small molecules. By covalently attaching DNA to synthetic hydrophobic moieties, researchers create DNA amphiphiles capable of interacting with artificial lipid bilayers and cell membranes. These hybrid structures have rapidly gained prominence due to their promising potential in the medical field. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in the synthesis of DNA amphiphiles and their assembly into well-defined nanostructures. It explores the diverse applications of these nanostructures across various medical domains, including targeted drug delivery, innovative immunotherapies, and gene-silencing techniques. Moreover, the review delves into the current challenges and prospects of this rapidly evolving field, highlighting the potential of DNA hybrid materials to revolutionize medical treatments and diagnostics. By addressing the limitations and exploring new avenues of research, scientists aim to unlock the full potential of DNA nanotechnology for the benefit of human health.

Advancements of astaxanthin production in Haematococcus pluvialis: Update insight and way forward.

The global market demand for natural astaxanthin (AXT) is growing rapidly owing to its potential human health benefits and diverse industry applications, driven by its safety, unique structure, and special function. Currently, the alga Haematococcus pluvialis (alternative name H. lacustris) has been considered as one of the best large-scale producers of natural AXT. However, the industry's further development faces two main challenges: the limited cultivation areas due to light-dependent AXT accumulation and the low AXT yield coupled with high production costs resulting from complex, time-consuming upstream biomass culture and downstream AXT extraction processes. Therefore, it is urgently to develop novel strategies to improve the AXT production in H. pluvialis to meet industrial demands, which makes its commercialization cost-effective. Although several strategies related to screening excellent target strains, optimizing culture condition for high biomass yield, elucidating the AXT biosynthetic pathway, and exploiting effective inducers for high AXT content have been applied to enhance the AXT production in H. pluvialis, there are still some unsolved and easily ignored perspectives. In this review, firstly, we summarize the structure and function of natural AXT focus on those from the algal H. pluvialis. Secondly, the latest findings regarding the AXT biosynthetic pathway including spatiotemporal specificity, transport, esterification, and storage are updated. Thirdly, we systematically assess enhancement strategies on AXT yield. Fourthly, the regulation mechanisms of AXT accumulation under various stresses are discussed. Finally, the integrated and systematic solutions for improving AXT production are proposed. This review not only fills the existing gap about the AXT accumulation, but also points the way forward for AXT production in H. pluvialis.

Probiotic Potential and Enhanced Adhesion of Fermented Foods-Isolated Lactic Acid Bacteria to Intestinal Epithelial Caco-2 and HT-29 Cells.

This study evaluated the probiotic potential of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated from fermented milk and soymilk products purchased from local markets. The LAB strains were assessed for acid and bile resistance, antibiotic resistance, and adhesion to human intestinal epithelial models. Streptococcus thermophilus (JAMI_LB_02) and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (JAMI_LB_05) showed the highest survival rates in artificial gastric and bile juices, at 87.17 ± 0.02% and 96.71 ± 4.10%, respectively, with all strains (except JAMI_LB_03) demonstrating antibiotic resistance. Adhesion ability indicated the superior performance of JAMI_LB_02 and JAMI_LB_05 compared to standard strains. JAMI_LB_02 adhered to Caco-2 cells at 2.10 ± 0.94% and to HT-29 cells at 3.32 ± 0.38%, exceeding standard strains (1.06 ± 0.13% and 1.89 ± 0.58%). JAMI_LB_05 achieved the highest rates at 5.62 ± 1.33% on Caco-2 and 5.76 ± 0.46% on HT-29 cells. Their combination (JAMI_LB_02 + JAMI_LB_05) significantly enhanced adhesion to 18.57 ± 5.49% on Caco-2 and 21.67 ± 8.19% on HT-29 cells, demonstrating strong synergy. These findings highlight the probiotic potential of the isolated LAB strains, particularly in mixed formulations, which may improve intestinal survival, adaptability, and efficacy. Further in vivo studies are warranted to validate their clinical applications and optimize strain combinations for human health benefits.

Therapeutic Properties and Use for Medicinal Purposes of Agastache Species

Nowadays, it is proven there is an increasing interest in the study of growth and development of different medicinal and aromatic species, due to their therapeutic properties that correlate with the presence of different active compounds. Agastache sp. are known as aromatic plants that belong to the Lamiaceae family, originating from North America and East Asia. The Agastache genus is part of the Lamiaceae family and is native to North America, but one species like Agastache rugosa, is native to East Asia, such as Korea, Taiwan, Japan, and China. Also, the aim of recent studies is to present a summary of the few findings on the phytochemistry and biological effects of several Agastache sp., including both extracts and essential oil properties and characterization. The presented paper has been focused of introduction, description and use of aromatic and medicinal plants, which represent inexhaustible sources of fresh or dry materials for the pharmaceutical industry, cosmetic products and food industries. In the whole process of developing new medicines from herbal raw materials, it is important to study the spectrum of major bioactive compounds and their benefits for human health. Science have proven a significant influence of genetic traits which depends on the subspecies chosen in study, variety, the maturity of the plants, climatic conditions and cultivation features on the accumulation of bioactive compounds in harvested plants material.

A Review on Current Aspects of Curcumin-Based Effects in Relation to Neurodegenerative, Neuroinflammatory and Cerebrovascular Diseases

Curcumin is among the most well-studied natural substances, known for its biological actions within the central nervous system, its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and human health benefits. However, challenges persist in effectively utilising curcumin, addressing its metabolism and passage through the blood–brain barrier (BBB) in therapies targeting cerebrovascular diseases. Current challenges in curcumin’s applications revolve around its effects within neoplastic tissues alongside the development of intelligent formulations to enhance its bioavailability. Formulations have been discovered including curcumin’s complexes with brain-derived phospholipids and proteins, or its liposomal encapsulation. These novel strategies aim to improve curcumin’s bioavailability and stability, and its capability to cross the BBB, thereby potentially enhancing its efficacy in treating cerebrovascular diseases. In summary, this review provides a comprehensive overview of molecular pathways involved in interactions of curcumin and its metabolites, and brain vascular homeostasis. This review explores cellular and molecular current aspects, of curcumin-based effects with an emphasis on curcumin’s metabolism and its impact on pathological conditions, such as neurodegenerative diseases, schizophrenia, and cerebral angiopathy. It also highlights the limitations posed by curcumin’s poor bioavailability and discusses ongoing efforts to surpass these impediments to harness the full therapeutic potential of curcumin in neurological disorders.

Cumin (Cuminum cyminum): Traditional Uses and Modern Scientific Aspects - A Review

Cumin (Cuminum cyminum) is an herbaceous plant that belongs to the Umbelliferae family, widely known for its use as a spice in Indian, Middle Eastern, and other global cuisines. This aromatic spice contains powerful active compounds such as thymoquinone and cuminaldehyde, which have been linked to numerous health benefits. Recent scientific research has highlighted cumin's positive effects on digestion, inflammation reduction, blood sugar regulation, and even its potential anticancer properties. These attributes make cumin an important natural remedy for various health concerns. Furthermore, cumin possesses antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it effective in combating skin infections and other microbial ailments. Laboratory studies have revealed additional promising findings regarding cumin extract. These studies have demonstrated its ability to inhibit tumor growth, reduce intestinal inflammation, and enhance gut health in animal models. Such results indicate cumin's potential as a therapeutic agent for addressing chronic and complex health conditions. Despite these encouraging findings, it is essential to note that most studies so far have been conducted in laboratory settings or on animals. To fully understand cumin’s medicinal potential and confirm its benefits for human health, further clinical trials on humans are necessary. Such trials will provide more comprehensive insights into the safety, efficacy, and dosage of cumin-based therapies. In addition to its culinary appeal, cumin stands out as a functional spice with significant health-promoting properties. Its multifaceted nature highlights the importance of integrating natural remedies into modern healthcare practices, though further research will solidify its role in clinical applications.

Utilizing Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Techniques in the Selection of Electric Vehicles: An Analysis for the Turkish Electric Vehicle Market

Global warming and climate change are among the biggest problems of our time. The rapid depletion of fossil fuels and the harmful effects of internal combustion engines on the environment are increasing the interest in electric vehicles. These vehicles emit less carbon emissions than gasoline and diesel vehicles, reducing the emission of harmful gases such as greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. The use of electric vehicles provides significant benefits for human health and environmental health. The sale of electric vehicles in Turkey is very important in terms of sustainability and economy. This study aims to help rank the alternatives by using multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) methods in the selection of the 11 most preferred electric vehicles in Turkey. Various criteria such as DC fast charging time, power (kW), range, price, battery capacity, electricity consumption (kWh) and number of services were considered in the study. Following the criteria provided by the MEREC weighting method, four different decision-making methods such as TOPSIS, PROMETHEE, MOORA and WASPAS were applied and the outcomes were combined with the COPELAND approach to obtain a final ranking. The findings show that the X5 vehicle received the highest score according to the COPELAND method and that this vehicle ranked high in other methods as well, and its overall performance was remarkable. The X11 and X4 vehicles stand out as the second and third best alternatives, respectively. As a result of the study, it was concluded that the most important criterion among the 7 criteria is “charging time” and the least important criterion is “electricity consumption”.The results obtained from the COPELAND method are presented in a clear and understandable way. With this feature, decision makers can easily understand the comparisons between alternatives. These results help consumers considering purchasing an electric vehicle to determine which vehicles are more suitable, while also providing useful information for professionals in the industry to make strategic decisions.

An Integrative Review of Brainwave Entrainment Benefits for Human Health.

Brainwave Entrainment (BWE) is a noninvasive method of neuromodulation based on the principle that auditory or visual stimulation at a specific frequency can lead the brain's electrocortical activity to oscillate at the frequency of the external signal or its multiples. This phenomenon could be used to alter physiological and psychological states. Therefore, we conducted an integrative review to answer the question: "What are the observed benefits of BWE on human health and well-being?" We searched for studies published in the last ten years in the Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ), EMBASE, Virtual Health Library (BVS), PubMed, SciELO, and Cochrane Library databases in April 2024. Searches were conducted in English, Portuguese, and Spanish. A total of 84 studies were included in our review. Studies showed improvements in various conditions, such as pain, sleep disturbances, mood disorders, cognition, and neurodegenerative disorders. In conclusion, our findings align with previous reviews and underscore the need for further research on BWE, particularly with larger sample sizes, robust control groups, and randomized clinical trial designs. Nevertheless, BWE demonstrates promising therapeutic potential and may support the management of various health conditions, enhancing individuals' quality of life.

Nutraceutical Properties of Thai Mulberry (Morus alba L.) and Their Effects on Metabolic and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Individuals with Obesity: A Randomized, Single-Blind Crossover Trial.

Background/Objectives: Mulberries exhibit antioxidant properties that may attenuate metabolic abnormalities. Kamphaeng Saen mulberry (KPS-MB-42-1) contains anthocyanins, polyphenols, and nutrients, but few studies have explored its benefits for human health. This study investigated the effects of a concentrated mulberry drink (CMD) from the KPS-MB-42-1 cultivar on metabolic and cardiovascular risk factors in obese individuals. Methods: A single-blind, randomized crossover clinical pilot trial was performed on individuals with obesity. Participants consumed 100 g of CMD daily, alternating with placebo for 6 weeks. Body composition, blood pressure, and blood samples were assessed at baseline and post-intervention. Results: This study was completed with 12 participants (7 men, 5 women, aged 30-55 years, BMI 32.1 ± 5.98 kg/m2) consuming CMD with 1041.90 mg total phenolic compounds and 35.34 mg total anthocyanins. No significant changes in body composition were observed. CMD consumption significantly reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and mean arterial pressure, compared to baseline and placebo periods (p < 0.05). While total cholesterol, LDL-C, and HDL-C remained unchanged, triglycerides were significantly lower during CMD consumption compared to placebo periods (p < 0.05). Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels were stable during CMD consumption but increased significantly with the placebo period (p < 0.05). C-reactive protein levels were also significantly lower during CMD consumption compared to placebo periods (p < 0.05). No changes in blood coagulation indicators (prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, and the international normalized ratio) were found. Conclusions: CMD improved metabolic markers, particularly regarding its antihypertensive effects. These findings highlight CMD's potential as a health drink for managing metabolic syndrome and preventing chronic diseases.

N-Acetylcysteine in Agriculture: New Insights into Its Effects for Sustainable Crop Management

N-Acetylcysteine (NAC), an amino acid naturally found in Allium plants, is well-known for its health benefits in humans. However, its potential applications in plant health remain underexplored, especially considering that while thousands of studies are published annually in clinical research, fewer than 10 focus on its use in plants each year. This review consolidates recent findings on the role of NAC as a potent antioxidant molecule in mitigating both biotic and abiotic stresses in plants, highlighting its valuable contributions to sustainable agriculture. NAC reduces oxidative stress by directly scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) and indirectly increasing cysteine and glutathione levels, both critical for cellular defense responses. Moreover, NAC breaks intramolecular and intermolecular disulfide bonds in thiolated proteins, potentially further enhancing its antioxidant effects by releasing free thiols. It also functions as a chelating agent, binding to heavy metals and reducing their toxicity. Furthermore, NAC’s efficacy in controlling bacterial infections in humans and animals—through mechanisms such as disrupting disulfide bonds in extracellular proteins and breaking down biofilm matrices—has been shown to extend to plant pathosystems, where it aids in suppressing bacterial pathogens. In addition to stress alleviation, NAC has been demonstrated to enhance crop productivity, improve food quality, and offer ecological benefits by promoting the health of pollinators and free-living soil organisms. These multifaceted attributes highlight NAC’s potential as a key tool in agriculture, helping to improve plant resilience, support ecosystem balance, and advance sustainable crop management practices.

DEVELOPMENT OF ECOLOGICALLY BASED PRODUCTION OF AGRICULTURAL ENTERPRISES

Priority is given to the expansion of environmentally friendly agricultural production methods that minimize the harmful impact on the environment. The methods are based on rational nature management and compliance with environmental standards. The article is devoted to the analysis of the features of modern development of agricultural production aimed at ecologization, in order to create competitive advantages for enterprises of the agrarian sector in the conditions of modern challenges. Methods used in the article: theoretical analysis and synthesis of the test material, social and qualitative research methods. The ecologization of agricultural production is investigated, and measures that contribute to the transition to the use of organic production methods are identified. The advantages of organic production, formed in some environmental, economic, social areas, are highlighted. It is substantiated that the production of organic products is important in the context of the transition to ecologically oriented management. It contributes to reducing the negative impact on the environment and supports the sustainable development of the agricultural sector. Their consumption has significant benefits for human health due to the absence of harmful impurities and higher nutritional value. The main indicators of the dynamics of organic movement and the structure of the domestic market of organic products in Ukraine are revealed. The factors restraining the development of organic production and the market of organic products have been identified. The importance of the implementation of environmental programs by enterprises of the agricultural sector is described. These programs are directly engaged in organic farming and focus their activities on minimizing the negative impact on ecosystems and ensuring sustainable productivity. Foreign cooperation in the field of organic agriculture due to the provision of financial assistance to organic producers is described. It is proposed to introduce a comprehensive mechanism of state support for organic producers through economic, environmental and social levers.

Flavonoids and Other Polyphenols: Bioactive Molecules from Traditional Medicine Recipes/Medicinal Plants and Their Potential for Phytopharmaceutical and Medical Application.

Currently, natural bioactive ingredients and/or raw materials are of significant interest to scientists around the world. Flavonoids and other polyphenols are a major group of phytochemicals that have been researched and noted as bioactive molecules. They offer several pharmacological and medical benefits. This current review aims to (1) illustrate their benefits for human health, such as antioxidant, anti-aging, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, and UV-protective effects, and also (2) to perform a quality evaluation of traditional medicines for future application. Consequently, keywords were searched on Scopus, Google Scholar, and PubMed so as to search for related publications. Then, those publications were carefully checked in order to find current and non-redundant studies that matched the objective of this review. According to this review, researchers worldwide are very interested in discovering the potential of flavonoids and other polyphenols, used in traditional medicines and taken from medicinal plants, in relation to medical and pharmaceutical applications. Many studies focus on the health benefits of flavonoids and other polyphenols have been tested using in silico, in vitro, and in vivo models. However, few studies have been carried out using clinical trials that have trustworthy subject sizes and are in accordance with clinical practice guidelines. Additionally, interesting research directions and perspectives for future studies are highlighted in this work.

Green preparation and isolation of carrageenan oligosaccharides and assessment of their ability to inhibit melanogenesis

An efficient method was developed for generating carrageenan oligosaccharides, a high-value material with health benefits for humans. The study used microwave-assisted mild acid hydrolysis of κ-carrageenan to achieve complete liquefaction. Under optimal reaction conditions, the yield of κ-carrageenan disaccharide (KCO2) was 22.90% ± 0.80%, with a total sugar product recovery rate of approximately 90%, while retaining the sulfate groups. Different degrees of polymerization (DP) carrageenan oligosaccharides with 4-sulfate-D-galactose (D-G4S) as the non-reducing end were obtained, with purities of over 90% for both KCO2 and κ-carrageenan tetrasaccharide (KCO4). KCO2 was identified as the oligosaccharide with the highest tyrosinase inhibitory activity. Enzyme kinetics studies revealed that KCO2 exhibited typical reversible competitive inhibition, with an IC50 of 1.09 ± 0.04 mg/mL and a Ki value of 0.16 ± 0.01 mg/mL. Molecular docking showed that KCO2 primarily interacted with key His residues at the tyrosinase active site through its sulfate groups. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations indicated that the KCO2-tyrosinase complex structure was stable. These findings show that the carrageenan oligosaccharides generated by this strategy could be used as tyrosinase inhibitors in the food, cosmetic, and nutraceutical fields.