Natural Sources Research Articles

Molecular insights into the antioxidant and anticancer properties: A comprehensive analysis through molecular modeling, docking, and dynamics studies.

Plants are rich sources of therapeutic compounds that often lack the side effects commonly found in synthetic chemicals. Researchers have effectively synthesized pharmaceuticals from natural sources, taking inspiration from traditional medicine, in their pursuit of modern drugs. This study aims to evaluate the phenolic and flavonoid content of Solanum virginianum seeds using different solvent extracts, enzymatic assays including 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazylactivity, reducing power, and superoxide activity. Our phytochemical screening identified active compounds, such as phenols, flavonoids, tannins, and alkaloids. The methanol extract notably possesses higher levels of total phenolic and flavonoid content in comparison to the other extracts. The results highlight the superior antioxidant activity of methanol-extracted leaves, demonstrated by their exceptional IC50 values, which surpass the established standard. In this study, molecular docking techniques were used to assess the binding affinity and to predict the binding conformation of the compounds. Quercetin 3-O beta- d-galactopyranoside displayed a binding energy of -8.35 kcal/mol with several important amino acid residues, PHE222, TRP440, ILE184, LEU192, VAL221, LEU218, SER185, and ALA188. Kaempferol 3-O-beta- l-glucopyranoside exhibited a binding energy of -8.33 kcal/mol, interacting with specific amino acid residues including ALA 441, VAL318, VAL322, MET307, ILI409, GLY442, and PHE439. The results indicate that the methanol extract has a distinct composition of biologically active constituents compared to the other extracts. Overall, seeds exhibit promise as natural antioxidants and potential agents for combating cancer. This study highlights the significance of utilizing the therapeutic capabilities of natural compounds and enhancing our comprehension of their pharmacological characteristics.

Assessment of ethanol leaf extract from urtica dioica for in vitro Anti-Helminthic properties

Helminthic infections continue to be a significant public health concern worldwide, particularly in regions with poor sanitation and limited access to healthcare. With the increasing prevalence of drug resistance among helminths, there is a pressing need for alternative treatments derived from natural sources. Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, has been traditionally used for various medicinal purposes, including its purported anthelmintic properties. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro anti-helminthic activity of ethanol leaf extract of Urtica dioica against helminth parasites. Fresh leaves of Urtica dioica were collected, dried, and powdered. The ethanol leaf extract was prepared using standard extraction methods. Various concentrations of the extract were tested against helminth parasites using established in vitro assays. The efficacy of the extract was determined by assessing parameters such as paralysis and mortality of the parasites. Preliminary findings indicate that the ethanol leaf extract of urtica dioica possesses significant anti-helminthic activity against the tested parasites. The extract exhibited dose-dependent paralysis and mortality of the helminths, with higher concentrations demonstrating greater efficacy. These results suggest the potential of Urtica dioica as a natural source of anthelmintic agents. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the specific bioactive compounds responsible for the observed anti-helminthic activity and to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Urtica dioica extract in vivo. Additionally, investigations into the underlying mechanisms of action and potential synergistic effects with conventional anthelmintic drugs may provide valuable insights for the development of novel therapeutic interventions against helminthic infections. The study results when compared to standard drug of fenbendazole, ethanolic extract of Urtica dioica possess a good significant anti-helmentic activity compared to standard drug of fenbendazole.

Morphological and biochemical variation of Ajuga chamaecistus Ging. ex Benth. in different habitats of Markazi province in the center of Iran

BackgroundMedicinal plants, such as Ajuga chamaecistus Ging. ex Benth. are a natural and available source of treatment for a wide range of diseases. The objective of the present study was to assess the morphological and biochemical variation of 70 accessions of this species collected from seven geographical areas of Markazi province in the center of Iran.ResultsThe measured traits exhibited considerable variability across the populations. Positive correlations were observed between antioxidant activity and total phenolic content, as well as total flavonoid content. Principal component analysis showed six components explaining 72.15% of the total variance, and the PC1 explained 20.68% of the total variance. The Ward dendrogram based on morphological variables identified two main clusters. Morphological analysis of A. chamaecistus showed a high variation between qualitative and quantitative traits that help the breeders for selecting the desired genotypes. The accessions collected from the Robat-Mil area showed the highest values for the recorded morphological characteristics. Also, the populations of Robat-Mil, Hassanabad, and Khaneh-Miran were characterized by high values of total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity, which can be used in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food.ConclusionsOverall, the present results showed that the best place for the growth of A. chamaecistus with the production of significant contents of phenol and flavonoid is in Robat-Mil area.

Source identification and driving factor apportionment for soil potentially toxic elements via combining APCS-MLR, UNMIX, PMF and GDM

The contamination and quantification of soil potentially toxic elements (PTEs) contamination sources and the determination of driving factors are the premise of soil contamination control. In our study, 788 soil samples from the National Agricultural Park in Chengdu, Sichuan Province were used to evaluate the contamination degree of soil PTEs by pollution factors and pollution load index. The source identification of soil PTEs was performed using positive matrix decomposition (PMF), edge analysis (UNMIX) and absolute principal component score-multiple line regression (APCS-MLR). The geo-detector method (GDM) was used to analysis drivers of soil PTEs pollution sources to help interpret pollution sources derived from receptor models. Result shows that soil Cu, Pb, Zn, Cr, Ni, Cd, As and Hg average content were 35.2, 32.3, 108.9, 91.9, 37.1, 0.22, 9.76 and 0.15 mg/kg in this study area. Except for As, all are higher than the corresponding soil background values in Sichuan Province. The best performance of APCS-MLR was determined by comparison, and APCS-MLR was considered as the preferred receptor model for soil PTEs source distribution in the study area. ACPS-MLR results showed that 82.70% of Cu, 61.6% of Pb, 75.3% of Zn, 91.9% of Cr and 89.4% of Ni came from traffic-industrial emission sources, 60.9% of Hg came from domestic-transportation emission sources, 57.7% of Cd came from agricultural sources, and 89.5% of As came from natural sources. The GDM results showed that distance from first grade highway, population, land utilization and total potassium (TK) content were the main driving factors affecting these four sources, with q values of 0.064, 0.048, 0.069 and 0.058, respectively. The results can provide reference for reducing PTEs contamination in farmland soil.

Conversion of Phorbol into Des-D-Ring Tricycle and Crotonianoid B via Peroxidation Reaction.

Phorbol (1) has a tetracyclic ABCD-ring and is readily isolable from a natural source. We previously synthesized 1 and 16 structurally related natural products using common ABC-ring intermediate 2. Here we report a new synthetic route to 2 using 1 as a starting material. Key features of the synthesis are chemoselective removal of the D-ring via cyclopropane opening, peroxidation, and retro-aldol reactions. The high utility of the peroxidation was further demonstrated in the first synthesis of crotonianoid B (9).

Honey induces changes in the molecular structure and microstructure of gluten in wheat-rye sourdoughs.

Chemical oxidizers and redox enzymes have traditionally been used to enhance the quality of baked goods. However, consumers now seek natural and clean-label ingredients, avoiding those with chemical-sounding names. Honey, a natural source of glucose oxidase (GOX), represents a promising alternative to purified enzymes for baking purposes. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of honey on the molecular structure and microstructure of gluten proteins in sourdough fermented by different lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains. Four wheat-rye (1:1) sourdoughs were prepared, each supplemented with honey and inoculated with a different LAB strain. Additionally, two uninoculated doughs, one with honey (honey dough) and the other without (control dough), were prepared under identical conditions. Electronic paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy revealed the presence of hydrogen peroxide in honey solutions, indicating its role as an active source of GOX. Raman spectroscopy showed that honey addition altered the molecular structure of gluten by increasing the proportion of random coils at the expense of α-helix structures. This change is likely attributed to the competition between honey sugars and gluten proteins for water molecules in this system. Moreover, honey led to a decrease in the free sulfhydryl content of gluten compared to the control dough, suggesting an increase in disulfide crosslinking points. These enhanced protein-protein interactions were observed in scanning electron microscopy micrographs as a coarse gluten network composed of interconnected strands and fibrils. All LAB strains exhibited optimal acidification (pH < 4.3) in honey-supplemented sourdoughs, promoting the hydrolysis of gluten proteins into smaller fragments. Overall, honey-supplemented sourdoughs showed a gradual increase in the β-sheet content while decreasing the proportion of random coils over time. This trend suggests that the polypeptide fragments interacted through interchain hydrogen bonds, leading to a more ordered structure, which likely contributes to providing dough with good baking aptitude.

Therapeutic Potential of Chlorogenic Acid in Chemoresistance and Chemoprotection in Cancer Treatment

Chemotherapeutic drugs are indispensable in cancer treatment, but their effectiveness is often lessened because of non-selective toxicity to healthy tissues, which triggers inflammatory pathways that are harmful to vital organs. In addition, tumors’ resistance to drugs causes failures in treatment. Chlorogenic acid (5-caffeoylquinic acid, CGA), found in plants and vegetables, is promising in anticancer mechanisms. In vitro and animal studies have indicated that CGA can overcome resistance to conventional chemotherapeutics and alleviate chemotherapy-induced toxicity by scavenging free radicals effectively. This review is a summary of current information about CGA, including its natural sources, biosynthesis, metabolism, toxicology, role in combatting chemoresistance, and protective effects against chemotherapy-induced toxicity. It also emphasizes the potential of CGA as a pharmacological adjuvant in cancer treatment with drugs such as 5-fluorouracil, cisplatin, oxaliplatin, doxorubicin, regorafenib, and radiotherapy. By analyzing more than 140 papers from PubMed, Google Scholar, and SciFinder, we hope to find the therapeutic potential of CGA in improving cancer therapy.

Mass spectrometry and Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy profiles of red and pink Rhododendron flower petals establish them as rich sources of bioactive secondary metabolites

AbstractRhododendron petals are considered high‐value owing to their commercial utility, national/state flower status in certain countries, and bioactive potential from recent studies. Profiling and quantitative analysis of the bioactive metabolites would evaluate if they can be natural sources. This study is focused on the comprehensive profiling of secondary metabolites in the hot aqueous petal extracts of Red and Pink Rhododendron flowers (Rhododendron arboreum and Rhododendron campanulatum) using separation and fragmentation patterns from mass spectrometry (MS) (gas chromatography‐MS and liquid chromatography‐tandem MS) and chemical shifts from proton‐nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The complementary analytical platforms highlighted the petals to be rich in promising bioactive molecules such as quinic acid, chlorogenic acid (caffeoyl quinic acid), protocatechuic acid, coumaroyl quinic acids, catechin, epigallocatechin, and shikimic acid. The analysis also reflected the activity of shikimic acid, phenolic acid, and flavonoid biosynthetic pathways in Rhododendron flowers. These metabolites are well reported for their bioactive potential as anti‐oxidative, anti‐viral, anti‐cancerous, anti‐diabetic, anti‐inflammatory, etc. While the quantitative and multivariate analysis showed variations in the levels of phenolic acids and flavonoids, it is established that red and pink Rhododendron flower petals are a rich source of bioactive phytochemicals of interest to the phytochemical Industry.

Preparation and Formulation of Herbal Hard Lozenges

The herbal based lozenges were formulated properly to provide proper relief from the cough symptoms by using natural herbal ingredients with potential and therapeutic properties. Our research involved with the proper and appropriate preparation of the lozenges we followed by evaluation, identification and analysis of their physical characteristics, organoleptic properties and antimicrobial testing. ● Keyword: Lozenges, Troches, Guduchi, Liquorice

Improving the Properties of Gelatin-Based Films by Incorporation of “Pitanga” Leaf Extract and Crystalline Nanocellulose

Biopolymer-based films can be activated by the incorporation of active compounds into their matrix. Plant extracts are rich in phenolic compounds, which have antimicrobial and/or antioxidant properties. The aim of this study was to produce gelatin-based active films and nanocomposite films incorporated with “pitanga” (Eugenia uniflora L.) leaf extract (PLE) and/or crystalline nanocellulose extracted from soybean straw (CN), and to study the physicochemical, functional, microstructural, thermal, UV/Vis light barrier, and antioxidant properties of these materials. PLE enhanced some film properties, such as tensile strength (from 30.2 MPa to 40.6 MPa), elastic modulus (from 9.3 MPa to 11.3 MPa), the UV/Vis light barrier, and antioxidant activity, in addition to affecting the microstructural, surface, and color properties. These improvements were even more significant in nanocomposites simultaneously containing PLE and CN (59.5 MPa for tensile strength and 15.1 MPa for elastic modulus), and these composites also had lower moisture content (12.2% compared to 13.5–14.4% for other treatments) and solubility in water (from 48.9% to 44.1%). These improvements may be the result of interactions that occur between PLE’s polyphenols and gelatin, mainly in the presence of CN, probably due to the formation of a stable PLE–CN–gelatin complex. These results are relevant for the food packaging sector, as the activated nanocomposite films exhibited enhanced active, barrier, and mechanical properties due to the presence of PLE and CN, in addition to being entirely produced with sustainable components from natural and renewable sources.

Green Synthesis of Highly Fluorescent NCQDs: A Comprehensive Study on Synthesis, Characterization, Photophysical Properties, pH Sensing, Heavy Metal Detection, and Solvatochromic Behavior through Hydrothermal Method.

Solvatochromic studies in conjunction with NCQDs and analysis of material at different pH levels provide valuable insights about the process of metal ion sensing. Metal ion sensing holds significant importance in various fields like environment monitoring, biomedical diagnostics and various industrial purpose. The detection of metal ions by mixing the nitrogen-doped quantum dots (NCQDs) in the solvent at different pH levels for the analysis of the photoluminescence spectra is the unique property to achieve selective metal ion detection.In present study, the synthesis of NCQDs was performed by the use of flowers of Tecoma stans. The synthesis of NCQDs to best of our knowledge using flowers of Tecoma stans as natural carbon source via hydrothermal process has been done for the first time. The NCQDs exhibit absorption bands ranging from 190 to 450nm, with the energy band gap varying from 3.55 to 5.42eV when mixed with different solvent such as, 1-4 dioxane, acetone, acetonitrile, ethyl- acetate, ethanol, methanol and toluene. The fluorescence spectra exhibited highly intense range from approximately 390 to 680nm across various solvents. XRD analysis further confirmed the crystalline nature of the particles with an average size of 6.96nm. Different peak positions of the FTIR spectra support functional groups having C-H stretching, C = O (carbonyl) stretching, and C = C stretching vibrations.In the study a notable solvatochromic shift was observed, indicating sensitivity to change in solvent polarity. Additionally, the investigation of the ratio of ground to excited state dipole moment based on solvatochromic shift yielded a value of 3.30. This provide valuable information about optical and electronic properties of NCQDs. Overall, our study sheds light on the unique properties of NCQDs synthesized from Tecoma stans flowers and their potential applications in metal ion sensing, pH probing, and solvent polarity studies.

Spatial variability and source analysis of soil heavy metals: A case study of the key planting area of special agricultural products in Cangxi County, China.

Heavy metal pollution in farmland soil represents a considerable risk to ecosystems and human health, constituting a global concern. Focusing on a key area for the cultivation of special agricultural products in Cangxi County, we collected 228 surface soil samples. We analyzed the concentration, spatial distribution, and pollution levels of six heavy metals (Cr, Cu, Pb, Ni, Zn, and Hg) in the soil. Moreover, we investigated the sources and contribution rates of these heavy metals using Principal Component Analysis/Absolute Principal Component Scores (PCA/APCS) and Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) models. Our findings indicate that none of the six metals exceeded the pollution thresholds for farmland soils. However, the mean concentrations of Cr and Ni surpassed the background levels of Sichuan Province. A moderate spatial correlation existed between Pb and Ni, attributable to both natural and anthropogenic factors, whereas Zn, Cu, Hg, and Cr displayed a strong spatial correlation, mainly due to natural factors. The spatial patterns of Cr, Cu, Zn, Pb, and Ni were similar, with higher concentrations in the northern and eastern regions and lower concentrations centrally. Hg's spatial distribution differed, exhibiting a broader range of lower values. The single pollution index evaluation showed that Cr and Ni were low pollution, and the other elements were no pollution. The average value of comprehensive pollution index is 0.994, and the degree of pollution is close to light pollution. Predominantly, higher pollution levels in the northern and eastern regions, lower around reservoirs. The PCA/APCS model identified two main pollution sources: agricultural traffic mixed source (65.2%) and natural parent source (17.2%). The PMF model delineated three sources: agricultural activities (32.59%), transportation (30.64%), and natural parent sources (36.77%). Comparatively, the PMF model proved more accurate and reliable, yielding findings more aligned with the study area's actual conditions.

Influence of molecular descriptors of plant volatilomics on fumigant action against the three major stored product beetle pests.

Plant volatilomics such as essential oils (EOs) and volatile phytochemicals (PCs) are known as potential natural sources for the development of biofumigants as an alternative to conventional fumigant pesticides. This present work was aimed to evaluate the fumigant toxic effect of five selected EOs (cinnamon, garlic, lemon, orange, andpeppermint) and PCs (citronellol, limonene, linalool, piperitone, andterpineol) against the Callosobruchus maculatus, Sitophilus oryzae, and Tribolium castaneum adults. Furthermore, for the estimation of the relationship between molecular descriptors and fumigant toxicity of plant volatiles, quantitative structural activity relationship (QSAR) models were developed using principal component analysis and multiple linear regression. Amongst the tested EOs, garlic EO was found to be the most toxic fumigant. The PCs toxicity analysis revealed that terpineol, limonene, linalool, and piperitone as potential fumigants to C. maculatus (< 20 µL/L air of LC50), limonene and piperitone as potential fumigants to T. castaneum (14.35 and 154.11 µL/L air of LC50, respectively), and linalool and piperitone as potential fumigants to S. oryzae (192.27 and 69.10 µL/L air of LC50, respectively). QSAR analysis demonstrated the role of various molecular descriptors of EOs and PCs on the fumigant toxicity in insect pest species. In specific, dipole and Randic index influence the toxicity in C. maculatus, molecular weight and maximal projection area influence the toxicity in S. oryzae, and boiling point and Dreiding energy influence the toxicity in T. castaneum. The present findings may provide insight of a new strategy to select effective EOs and/or PCs against stored product insect pests.

Reversing the directionality of reactions between non-oxidative pentose phosphate pathway and glycolytic pathway boosts mycosporine-like amino acid production in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

BackgroundMycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs) are a class of strongly UV-absorbing compounds produced by cyanobacteria, algae and corals and are promising candidates for natural sunscreen components. Low MAA yields from natural sources, coupled with difficulties in culturing its native producers, have catalyzed synthetic biology-guided approaches to produce MAAs in tractable microbial hosts like Escherichia coli, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Corynebacterium glutamicum. However, the MAA titres obtained in these hosts are still low, necessitating a thorough understanding of cellular factors regulating MAA production.ResultsTo delineate factors that regulate MAA production, we constructed a shinorine (mycosporine-glycine-serine) producing yeast strain by expressing the four MAA biosynthetic enzymes from Nostoc punctiforme in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We show that shinorine is produced from the pentose phosphate pathway intermediate sedoheptulose 7-phosphate (S7P), and not from the shikimate pathway intermediate 3-dehydroquinate (3DHQ) as previously suggested. Deletions of transaldolase (TAL1) and phosphofructokinase (PFK1/PFK2) genes boosted S7P/shinorine production via independent mechanisms. Unexpectedly, the enhanced S7P/shinorine production in the PFK mutants was not entirely due to increased flux towards the pentose phosphate pathway. We provide multiple lines of evidence in support of a reversed pathway between glycolysis and the non-oxidative pentose phosphate pathway (NOPPP) that boosts S7P/shinorine production in the phosphofructokinase mutant cells.ConclusionReversing the direction of flux between glycolysis and the NOPPP offers a novel metabolic engineering strategy in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

Bifunctional titanium boron-phosphate glass containing Ag nanoparticles for the detection and photocatalysis of organic compounds

This study delves into the structural characterization of a composition comprising Ag-NPs/phosphate plasmonic glass. Additionally, it explores two applications aimed at addressing one of the numerous challenges facing the modern world. The continuous technological progress of society has led to the proliferation of chemicals in natural water sources, posing a significant threat to ecosystems due to their low concentrations, making them difficult to detect and remove. The findings presented herein showcase the potential of Ag-NPs/sodium/titanium-phosphate glasses as a promising solution for detecting and degrading organic pollutants in freshwater. To achieve this, Ag nanoparticles were integrated into the glass surface via the ion exchange method, followed by thermal treatment. Subsequently, the detection of crystal violet solutions, applied dropwise onto the sample surface, was successfully carried out using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, reaching a detection limit as low as 10−6 M. Furthermore, the glass composition demonstrated heterogeneous photocatalytic properties for UV degradation of methylene blue, with enhanced photoactivity attributed to the presence of silver nanoparticles, resulting in a 111 % increase in the kinetic constant compared to unmodified glass. Thus, these newly developed Ag-NPs sodium titanium-phosphate glasses exhibit remarkable bifunctional capabilities, offering improved optical detection and efficient photodegradation of organic molecules.

The Alteration in Physiological Status, Growth and Essential Oil Profile of French Marigold (Tagetes patula L.) Owing to Seaweed Extract and Salicylic Acid Application

Abstract Purpose Medicinal plants show a relevant importance in human life and health. The use of natural substances in crop management is not only significant for the plant healthy growth and yield, but also for obtaining safe products. The study aimed to examine the effect of seaweed extract (SW) as a natural source of nutrition and salicylic acid (SA) on plant health, physiology and essential oil profile of French marigold (Tagetes patula L.). Methods Three levels of salicylic acid, SA50, SA100 and SA200, (50, 100, and 200 mg L− 1) and three levels of seaweed extract, SW2, SW4 and SW6 (2.0, 4.0, and 6.0 ml L− 1), in comparison with control treatment (tap water) were applied as foliar sprayings. The seven treatments were arranged in randomized complete block design and were replicated thrice in two growing seasons (2020 and 2021). Results Findings pointed out that SA200 increased plant height, branches number plant− 1, stem diameter, leaf area, leaves number plant− 1, plant fresh weight, and plant dry weight by 32.9, 112.2, 59.2, 34.4, 44.3, 33.0 and 56.9% (averages of the two seasons), respectively, compared to the control treatment (tap water). SW6 increased carotenoids content by 34.8 and 46.4% in 2020 and 2021 seasons, respectively. Salicylic acid at the rate of 200 mg L− 1 along seaweed extract at 6 ml L− 1 gave the highest values of total sugars and free amino acids. SA200 alone recorded the maximal value of peroxidase activity surpassing the other treatments. SW6 possessed the greatest essential oil content in both seasons, statistically equaling SA200 in the first season. Huge variations in essential oil profile were recorded under the tested trial treatments. Conclusion It could be concluded that salicylic acid and seaweed extract foliar application unveiled their involvement in diverse physiological and developmental responses; pigment formation, enzyme activities, flower induction, nutrient uptake, essential oil metabolism, and overall plant growth and development. It is recommended to use the highest concentrations of the tested substances (SA at 200 mg L− 1 or SW at 6.0 ml L− 1) for achieving distinctive improvements in physiological responses of French marigold plant.

Advancements of eco‐friendly natural antimicrobial agents and their transformative role in sustainable textiles

AbstractIn the face of mounting environmental concerns, the textile industry is undergoing a pivotal transformation, with sustainability at the forefront of innovation. This review focuses on the exploration of natural compounds, renowned for their antimicrobial properties, as viable alternatives to conventional chemical agents that pose significant environmental challenges. It delves into a diverse array of natural sources, including plant extracts, essential oils, and microbial‐derived compounds, which have been identified for their potent antimicrobial efficacy. These natural agents not only demonstrate a broad spectrum of activity against pathogenic microorganisms but also represent a stride towards eco‐friendly textile processing by offering a sustainable substitute for synthetic antimicrobials. The integration of these green antimicrobial agents into textiles is scrutinized, with a particular emphasis on their impact on enhancing fabric functionalities. This includes improvements in durability, wash resistance, and the sustained antimicrobial effectiveness of treated fabrics, without sacrificing environmental integrity. Moreover, the study underscores the potential health benefits of these natural agents, such as a decrease in allergic reactions and skin irritations commonly associated with traditional antimicrobial treatments. The review culminates by highlighting the significant role these eco‐conscious solutions play in revolutionizing antimicrobial textiles, promoting industry‐wide sustainable practices, and catering to the escalating consumer demand for environmentally responsible products.Highlights Provides eco‐friendly and sustainable alternatives in textile processing, offering a greener choice over synthetic options. Enhances fabric functionality while preserving environmental integrity, addressing sustainability concerns throughout production. Improves fabric durability, wash resistance, and long‐lasting efficacy, thereby contributing to superior product performance. Reduces allergic reactions and skin irritations, underscoring the health benefits of eco‐friendly antimicrobial treatments. Promotes sustainable practices, shaping the future of antimicrobial textiles and catering to the growing demand for environmentally conscious consumer choices in the industry.

Hydrochemical characteristics and sources of groundwater pollution in Soubré and Gagnoa counties, Côte d’Ivoire

For many years, groundwater has been widely used to meet a variety of human needs. As a result of increased urbanization, industrial use, and agriculture, groundwater is inextricably affected by various threats, resulting in groundwater pollution. This current study was carried out to determine the hydrochemical characteristics of groundwater in Gagnoa and Soubré counties as well as the main sources of pollution and their impact on groundwater chemistry and quality. A total of thirty (30) groundwater samples were collected from boreholes in September 2020. The following physicochemical and chemical parameters were analyzed: Na, Ca, K, Mg, SO4, NO3–N, HCO3, Cl, pH, EC and TDS. The results showed that groundwater was acidic with a pH range from 5.22 to 6.84, fresh and moderately mineralized with a TDS range from 55.96 to 744.46 mg/l. Hydrogeochemical characterization based on the Piper diagram and Gibbs plot was used to identify the groundwater types and the main mechanism controlling the groundwater mineralization. Five (5) water types were identified with the dominance of hydrogen carbonate facies and showed the presence of silicate weathering and carbonate dissolution in the area. This is consistent with the results inferred from Gibbs plot showing that groundwater chemistry is governed by rock-water interaction. The spatial distribution map of major ions showed the different locations where each ion is dominant.According to WHO standards, the parameters show values within the threshold limit except for some of them of which their values exceed the limit. Principal component analysis and ionic ratio plots showed that the high values of nitrate as nitrogen and sulfate observed are due to the influence of natural sources such as carbonate dissolution and anthropogenic activities such as sewage-manure and chemical fertilizers.Therefore, mitigation measures should be adopted to reduce the impact of human activities contributing to groundwater pollution to protect the groundwater quality and human health.

Preharvest Sprouting in Quinoa: A New Screening Method Adapted to Panicles and GWAS Components

The introduction of quinoa into new growing regions and environments is of interest to farmers, consumers, and stakeholders around the world. Many plant breeding programs have already started to adapt quinoa to the environmental and agronomic conditions of their local fields. Formal quinoa breeding efforts in Washington State started in 2010, led by Professor Kevin Murphy out of Washington State University. Preharvest sprouting appeared as the primary obstacle to increased production in the coastal regions of the Pacific Northwest. Preharvest sprouting (PHS) is the undesirable sprouting of seeds that occurs before harvest, is triggered by rain or humid conditions, and is responsible for yield losses and lower nutrition in cereal grains. PHS has been extensively studied in wheat, barley, and rice, but there are limited reports for quinoa, partly because it has only recently emerged as a problem. This study aimed to better understand PHS in quinoa by adapting a PHS screening method commonly used in cereals. This involved carrying out panicle-wetting tests and developing a scoring scale specific for panicles to quantify sprouting. Assessment of the trait was performed in a diversity panel (N = 336), and the resulting phenotypes were used to create PHS tolerance rankings and undertake a GWAS analysis (n = 279). Our findings indicate that PHS occurred at varying degrees across a subset of the quinoa germplasm tested and that it is possible to access PHS tolerance from natural sources. Ultimately, these genotypes can be used as parental lines in future breeding programs aiming to incorporate tolerance to PHS.

Quantitative assessment of ecological risk from pollution source based on geostatistical analysis and APCS-MLR model.

The safety of human health and agricultural production depends on the quality of farmland soil. Risk assessment of heavy metal pollution sources could effectively reduce the hazard of soil pollution from various sources. This study has identified and quantitatively analyzed pollution sources with geostatistical analysis and the APCS-MLR model. The potential ecological risk index was combined with the APCS-MLR model which has quantitatively calculated the source contribution. The results revealed that As, Cr, Cd, Pb, Zn, and Cu were enriched in soil. Geostatistical analysis and the APCS-MLR model have apportioned four pollution sources. The Mn and Ni were attributed to natural sources; As and Cr were from agricultural activities; Cu and Zn were originated from natural sources; Cd and Pb were derived from atmospheric deposition. Atmospheric deposition and agricultural activities were the largest contributors to ecological risk of heavy metals in soil, which accounted for 56.21% and 36.01% respectively. Atmospheric deposition and agricultural activities are classified as priority sources of pollution. The combination of source analysis receptor model and risk assessment is an effective method to quantify source contribution. This study has quantified the ecological risks of soil heavy metals from different sources, which will provide a reliable method for the identification of primary harmfulness sources of pollution for future studies.