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• RB stunted the adverse effects of isoproterenol. • RB reduced cell size, improved antioxidant enzyme activity, and improved mitochondrial function. • RB increased the expression of total Akt and reduced NFAT expression. • The protective effects of RB are ascribed to its potent antioxidant action and rescuing effect on mitochondrial dysfunction. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a global health threat associated with several risk factors, including systemic hypertension. Persistent elevation in blood pressure exerts significant stress on the left ventricle, which can lead to left ventricular hypertrophy and over time, progress to left ventricular failure. Most pharmacological treatments have long-term side effects and are costly, especially for patients who reside in low-resource settings. Therefore, there is a quest to identify adjuvant therapies that are more natural and affordable, to assist in managing CVD. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of Aspalathus linearis (Rooibos, RB) against isoproterenol-induced hypertrophy in H9c2 cardiomyoblasts. Cardiomyoblasts were exposed to either isoproterenol (50 μM, 24 h), RB (100 μg/mL, 24 h), co-treatment with isoproterenol (50 μM, 24 h) and control (2 % FBS media, 24 h). We conducted the following experiments: cell viability assay (MTT), cell size (light microscopy), antioxidant assays (SOD and CAT), lipid peroxidation assay (TBARS), Western blots, high-resolution respirometry and an ATP assay. Isoproterenol increased cell size, reduced cell viability, reduced the activities of SOD and CAT, increased oxidative stress via an increase in lipid peroxidation, reduced mitochondrial routine respiration, complex-I linked OXPHOS and the contribution of complex-II to the ETS via the S-pathway, and elevated complex-IV activity without negatively impacting ATP levels. Co-treatment with RB and isoproterenol reduced cell size, improved antioxidant enzyme activity, increased routine respiration, increased complex-I linked OXPHOS, and reduced the cytochrome-c response, while increasing the expression of total Akt and reducing total NFAT expression. Our data suggests that RB may be a potential adjuvant therapy in treating left ventricular hypertrophy. The protective effect of RB in this context is ascribed to its potent antioxidant action and rescuing effect on mitochondrial dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental gradients can affect organic matter decay within and across wetlands and contribute to spatial heterogeneity in soil carbon stocks. We tested the sensitivity of decay rates to tidal flooding and soil depth in a minerogenic salt marsh using the Tea Bag Index (TBI). Tea bags were buried at 10 and 50 cm depths across an elevation gradient in a subtropical Spartina alterniflora marsh in Georgia (USA). Plant and animal communities and soil properties were characterized once, while replicate tea bags and porewaters were collected several times over 1 year. TBI decay rates were faster than prior litterbag studies in the same marsh, largely due to rapid green tea loss. Rooibos tea decay rates were more comparable to natural marsh litter, potentially suggesting that is more useful as a standardized organic matter proxy than green tea. Decay was slowest at higher marsh elevations and not consistently related to other biotic (e.g., plants, crab burrows) or abiotic factors (e.g., porewater chemistry), indicating that local hydrology strongly affected organic matter loss rates. TBI rates were 32 %–118 % faster in the 10 cm horizon than at 50 cm. Rates were fastest in the first 3 months and slowed 54 %–60 % at both depths between 3 and 6 months. Rates slowed further between 6 and 12 months, but this was more muted at 10 cm (17 %) compared to 50 cm (50 %). Slower rates at depth and with time were unlikely due to the TBI stabilization factor, which was similar across depths and decreased from 6 to 12 months. Slower decay at 50 cm demonstrates that rates were constrained by environmental conditions in the deeper horizon rather than the composition of this highly standardized litter. Overall, these patterns suggest that hydrological setting, which affects oxidant introduction and reactant removal and is often overlooked in marsh decomposition studies, may be a particularly important control on organic matter loss in the short term (3–12 months). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective］ Tb investigate the effects and applicability of different intercropping patterns of medicinal herbs on water, soil, and nutrient losses in young oil tea gardens on red soil slopes. Methods］ Runoff plot experiments were carried out in Jiangxi Province, a major province for cultivating traditional Chinese medicinal herbs, with interplanting above-ground harvested medicinal herb of Ai pattern (YA), interplanting below-ground harvested medicinal herb of Yujin + vegetative hedges pattern (YY), traditional conservation measure of straw mulching + moisture furrow pattern (YC"), and clean tillage pattern for control (CK). Observation of runoff, sediment, nitrogen and phosphorus losses under natural rainfall events, and comprehensive benefit evaluation of each pattern were carried out. Results] (1) All conservation measures significantly reduced water, soil, and nutrient losses in young oil tea plantations, except for the clean-till age mode. Compared with CK, the runoff reduction effects of YA, YC and YY amounted to 15.22%： 67.30% and 64.12%, respectively; the sediment reduction effects amounted to 72.63%, 97.19% and 98.19%, respectively; the decrease in total nitrogen (TN) loss was 57.86%, 96.53% and 95.87%, respectively; and the decrease in total phosphorus (TP) loss was 32.18%, 98.62% and 98.86%, respectively. (2) Under moderate rain, heavy rain and rainstorm, YY pattern all showed good soil and water conservation and nutrient interception effects, with runoff reduction effects and sediment reduction effects ranged from 45.11% to 83.25% and 96.08% to 99.02%, respectively. The nitrogen and phosphorus reduction effects ranged from 83.02% to 99.14% and 88.38% to 99.65%, respectively; whereas YA pattern only had a better nutrient interception effect under moderate and heavy rain, the soil and water conservation effect under heavy rain was not obvious. (3) Based on the TOPSTS model, the comprehensive benefits of the four patterns were evaluated and ranked as YY (0.48) A YC (().29) > YA (0.23) > CK (().()2). Conclusion] Below-ground harvesting of medicinal herb Yujin + plant hedge mode is the most economical and effective management measure to control soil erosion and nutrient losses of young oil tea plantation on red soil slope in this experiment. Selecting medicinal herbs with staggered harvesting period and erosion risk period will better utilize the ecological benefits of interplanting medicinal herbs, and can avoid additional nutrient losses of young oil tea plantations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Continuous cropping can affect soil carbon and nitrogen stocks and litter decomposition, but research on smallholder farms in Africa is limited. This study, conducted from 2020 to 2023 in Ghana's forest‐savanna transition zone, examined four cropping systems: continuous maize monocrop (M), maize rotated with legumes (ML), young cashew intercropped with maize or legumes (YCM/L), and mature cashew (MC). The objective was to assess the long‐term impact of the cropping systems on soil organic carbon (SOC), nitrogen (N) stocks, and soil organic matter (SOM) decomposition rates using the tea bag protocol. Results showed significant variability in SOC and N stocks across the systems. At a 0–15 cm depth, SOC in the MC and M systems was 160% and 149% higher than in the YCM/L system. At 15–30 cm, SOC in the M and MC systems was 86% and 132% higher than in YCM/L. Soil nitrogen stocks followed a similar trend, with MC and M systems showing 94%–199% higher values than YCM/L at both depths. SOM decomposition rates for green and rooibos tea in the MC and ML systems were statistically similar after 90 days of incubation (p > 0.05). This study, the first to use the tea bag protocol in Ghanaian soils, revealed that mature cashew and sustainable practices, such as adding maize stover, can enhance SOC and N stocks in highly weathered tropical soils. These findings underscore the potential for specific cropping systems to improve soil health on smallholder farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dissolved organic matter (DOM) is widely present in soil environments and plays a crucial role in controlling the morphology, environmental behavior, and hazards of arsenic (As) in soil. In the Fe-rich red soil of tea plantations, the decomposition of tea tree litter complicates DOM properties, leading to more uncertain interactions between DOM, Fe, and As. This study focused on three tea plantations in Huangshan City to investigate the contents of DOM, Fe, and As in surface red soils (Ferralsols) and establish their correlations. Three-dimensional fluorescence spectroscopy and PARAFAC analysis methods were used to analyze the DOM components and fluorescence signatures. Additionally, the process and mechanism of the binding of DOM-Fe with As were explored through laboratory experiments on the morphological transformation of As by DOM-Fe. The results showed that the pH values of the soils in the three tea plantations ranged from 3.9 to 5.2, and the entire sample was strongly acidic. The DOM exhibited strong intrinsic properties and low humification, containing three types of humic acid components and one intermediate protein component. The DOC content in the Fe-rich red soil did not have a direct correlation with Fe and As, but the interaction of DOM fractions with Fe significantly influenced the As content. Specifically, the interaction of protein-like fractions with Fe had a more pronounced effect on the As content. The maximum sorption rate of As by DOM was 15.45%, and this rate increased by 49 to 75% with the participation of Fe. In the configuration of the metal electron bridge, Fe acts as a cation, forming a connecting channel between the negatively charged DOM and As, thus enhancing the DOM's binding capacity to As. DOM-Fe compounds bind As through surface pores and functional groups. These findings provide deeper insights into the influence of DOM on As behavior in Fe-rich soil environments and offer theoretical support for controlling As pollution in red soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rooibos tea, traditionally consumed by Indigenous populations, is naturally caffeine-free and contains unique polyphenols with strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-hyperglycaemic properties. As such, a systematic review was conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines (PROSPERO ID: CRD42023467829) to evaluate the potential association between rooibos tea consumption and health outcomes. Relevant articles were searched from journal inception until October 2024 using five electronic databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection and Google Scholar) and one register (Cochrane Clinical Register of Controlled Trials). Included studies involved consumption of any rooibos tea beverage or supplement in humans 18 years or older and reported any health outcomes measured pre- and post-intervention. Following article screening and full text review, eight studies (175 participants) fulfilled the inclusion criteria and investigated the effects of rooibos consumption on biological [blood (n = 6); urine (n = 1)] and physiological [heart metrics (n = 2); muscle strength (n = 1)] health markers. Based on the included studies, the findings suggest benefits of rooibos consumption, particularly related to cardiometabolic health, with five studies supporting significant (p < 0.05) results. However, there is insufficient evidence to support the health benefits of rooibos consumption given the limited studies meeting inclusion criteria, the narrow scope of markers assessed and interstudy heterogeneity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various teas like Rooibos, black, and green tea offer unique benefits through antioxidants that protect cells from free radicals. Tannin, an antioxidant in tea, has health advantages but may hinder iron absorption, reducing the nutritional value of tea. Thus, this study aims to determine the total tannin content(TTC),totalphenolic content(TPC), and antioxidant activity of Rooibos tea, green tea, and black tea. This study also aims to determine the correlation between TPC and TTC with antioxidant activity. The total tannin content and total phenolic content were measured using the Folin-Ciocalteu method. The antioxidant activity was evaluated usingtheDPPH radical scavenging assay. Green tea exhibited the strongest antioxidant activity with an IC50value of 15.01 μg/mL and possesses high phenolic content (56.57 mg GAE/g), and high tannin content(101.75 mg TAE/g). Black tea also showed strong antioxidant activity with an IC50value of 18.93 μg/mL witha total phenolic content of 46.18 mg GAE/g anda totaltannin content of 41.37 mg TAE/g. Similarly, Rooibos tea also showed strong antioxidant activity with an IC50value of 25.11 μg/mL but Rooibos tea had a lower tannin content (38.75 mg TAE/g), and lower phenolic content (36.95 mg GAE/g) compared to green tea and black tea. Hence, the teas ranked by antioxidant strength are Rooibos < black < green tea.By using Pearson’s correlation coefficient, total phenolic content was found closely associated with antioxidant activity with r = 0.984. Total tannin content,on the other hand, was weakly associated with antioxidant activity with r = 0.178. Consequently, the study's findings suggest that a higher total phenolic content corresponds to stronger antioxidant activity, whereas elevated total tannin content does not necessarily indicate higher antioxidant activity. Therefore, according to all values, Rooibos tea is a better option than greenand black tea.

Phloretin (PT) belongs to the dihydrochalcones (DHCs) family and is found in apple and rooibos tea. Its glycosides, including phlorizin (PT 2′-O-glucoside), trilobatin (PT 4′-O-glucoside), and nothofagin (NF, PT 3′-C-glucoside), are present in various plants. Phloretin and its related glycosides possess health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial activities. To biosynthesize PT and its glycosides, the relevant pathways in plants were studied and introduced into Escherichia coli. We reconstructed the biosynthetic pathways pertaining to PT and three PT C-glycosides (NF, PT 3′, 5′-di-C-glucoside [PDG], and PT 3′-C-arabinoside [PARA]) in E. coli. To prevent the undesirable synthesis of flavonoids instead of PT, we strategically divided the entire pathway into two parts: the first involved the synthesis of tyrosine to phloretic acid (PA), while the second involved the synthesis of PA to PT and its glycosides. The gene set pertaining to each part was incorporated into a different engineered microbe. We optimized phloretin microbial biosynthesis by improving enzyme affinity, identifying the gene that increased the output, refining the production design to a stepwise culture approach, and analyzing the culture conditions (substrate and yeast extract concentrations and pH) conducive to maximum output and the prevention of product degradation. Using the stepwise culture approach, 12.8 mg/L of PT, 26.1 mg/L of NF, 30.0 mg/L of PDG, and 18.1 mg/L of PARA were synthesized. This study provides valuable information for future approaches in the microbe-based synthesis of PT derivatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study harnesses the potential of green and rooibos tea (GT and RT) aqueous extracts for obtaining colored bioactive cotton and cotton/flax fabrics with intended applications in medical textiles. The chemical characterization of the tea aqueous extracts was conducted using LC–HRMS/MS analysis, resulting in the detection of 129 bioactive compounds. GT demonstrates 2.2 times higher total phenolic content, a 14.7% lower total flavonoid content, and 3 times higher reducing power than RT. Both extracts exhibit excellent antioxidant activity (> 99.8%) and antibacterial activity (99.99%) against both tested bacteria, E. coli and S. aureus. Cotton and cotton/flax fabrics functionalized with GT or RT display outstanding antioxidant (99.63–100%) and antibacterial activity against S. aureus (90.95–99.33%), and high color strength values (5.48–11.08). The cytotoxicity assay confirmed the non-cytotoxic nature of 100% cotton fabric functionalized with GT. This sample additionally demonstrated an antibacterial reduction against E. coli and S. aureus higher than 99% and the highest release of bioactive compounds rendering it highly suitable for disposable medical textiles-wound dressings. To address the shortcomings of functionalized fabrics observed after washing, including decreased antioxidant activity (55.8–81.0%), diminished bacterial reduction, and reduced color strength values (0.80–1.36), copper-based nanoparticles (CuNPs) were biosynthesized in situ on their surfaces utilizing GT and RT aqueous extracts as reducing agents. The successful fabric decoration with CuNPs was proven by quantifying Cu2+ uptake, and characterization of the surface chemical composition and morphology of CuNPs. Colored CuNPs-decorated cotton and cotton/flax fabrics exhibited excellent antioxidant (> 98.28%) and antibacterial (99.99%) activity that remained almost unchanged after washing (94.44–98.90% and 99.99%, respectively). These fabrics are non-cytotoxic and characterized by small quantities of released bioactive compounds and Cu2+ ions into the physiological saline solution and hold promise as protective, reusable medical textiles suitable for producing gowns and drapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Betacyclodextrin (β-CD)-assisted extracts of green rooibos displayed elevated polyphenolic content and antioxidant activity compared with aqueous extracts. This study aimed to analyse the physicochemical properties of aqueous green rooibos and 15 Mm β-CD at 40 °C for 60 min. Sorption isotherms and colour (L*a*b*C*) were evaluated. Thermogravimetric analysis and Fourier transform infrared were conducted to verify encapsulation. Sorption isotherm studies revealed that β-CD reduced water uptake, resulting in a reduction in the monolayer value of GRE (7.90) to 6.40 for β-GRE. Betacyclodextrin contributed to increased lightness (L*) and decreased redness (a*) of green rooibos. However, storing extracts at varied water activity resulted in a reduction in L* and chroma (C*), with a higher reduction observed for GRE than β-GRE. Thermogravimetric analysis revealed that GRE degraded at 180 °C, followed by β-GRE at 260 °C and β-CD at 340–375 °C. Betacyclodextrin increased the thermal stability of green rooibos; as a result, β-GRE displayed a superposition of GRE and β-CD in its thermogram, confirming the formation of inclusion complexes. Fourier transform infrared spectra indicated the disappearance or shifting of characteristic peaks, with the formation of hydrogen bonds between GRE and β-CD at the 1255 cm−1 band depicting C–O stretching of carboxylic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Green rooibos (Aspalathus linearis (Burm.f.) R.Dahlgren) herbal tea is popular due to its health‐promoting properties. Information on its characteristic sensory profile is scarce and sensory tools to define product variation are needed. The storage conditions and time during its shelf‐life are hypothesized to affect the product quality. RESULTS: Production batches from two producers spanning 5 years (n = 57) were analyzed using descriptive sensory analysis. Primary attributes (>30 median intensity; 100% occurrence frequency) included 'hay/dried grass', 'cooked oats', 'tobacco', 'honey' and 'caramel' aromas, and astringent mouthfeel. 'Cooked vegetables', 'green grass', 'stewed fruit', 'rooibos‐woody', 'marmalade' and 'cardboard' aromas, sweet taste and bitter taste were secondary attributes (10–20 median intensity; 100% occurrence frequency). The same flavor attributes were present, except for sweet‐associated and fruity notes. A sensory lexicon and sensory wheels for aroma and palate attributes were constructed from the data. The shelf‐life stability of green rooibos was evaluated in moisture‐impermeable (pouches) and moisture‐permeable (sachets) packaging at 25 and 40 °C at 60% relative humidity over 24 weeks. Green rooibos samples stored in pouches at 4 °C were also evaluated. Storage in sachets led to moisture uptake (~10 g (100 g)−1 dry basis) and an increase in water activity (>0.6), causing degradation of chlorophyll and dihydrochalcones. Changes in color and sensory profile (decreased vegetal, cereal and cardboard aromas and increased sweet‐associated and fruity aromas) were evident and more pronounced at the higher storage temperature. CONCLUSIONS: Storage at ≤25 °C in moisture‐impermeable packaging material is recommended for green rooibos herbal tea. © 2024 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kombucha is traditionally a non-alcoholic beverage whose production is dependent on culture and the various ingredients used as substrates for fermentation. The goal of our study was to apply hemp leaf and milky mushroom (Calocybe indica) flour as functional ingredients to enhance phytonutrient quality, along with using a microbial consortium highly symbiotic with these ingredients. The study determined the content of phytonutrients (phenolic and flavonoids content), antioxidant activity through percentage inhibition of DPPH radical scavenging activity (%), and microbial communities changes during fermentation. The microbial changes were evaluated by cell viable count (total bacteria, Lactic Acid Bacteria, and Yeast & Mold) and ITS in prepared kombucha (using red tea leaves, pandan leaves, and sucrose) supplemented with functional ingredients: T1 (hemp leaves (control)) and T2 (hemp leaves with milky mushroom flour). The results indicated that microbial consortium changed during fermentation. In the first 7 days, the levels of yeast and mold increased to 6.17 and 6.18 log CFU/mL, respectively. By day 21, the levels of both T1 and T2 continued to rise, reaching 7.78 and 7.82 log CFU/mL, respectively. The viable count of lactic acid bacteria in T1 and T2 gradually increased to 6.79 and 6.70 log CFU/mL, respectively, by day 14. These changes resulted in a marked decrease in pH value, reaching 3.63 and 3.23 in T1 and T2, respectively, by the end of the process (21 days). The total bacterial viable count decreased with an increase in the fermentation time. During fermentation, unique genera of tea fungus observed in T1 and T2 were 64% and 19%, respectively. At the beginning (0 days), the top five genera found in T1 were: g__Setophoma (25.91%), g__Macrocybe (14.88%), g__Cladosporium (7.81%), g__Phaeosphaeria (7.12%), g__Malassezia (6.63%), while the top five genera in T2 were g__Macrocybe (94.55%), g__Setophoma (1.87%), g__Cladosporium (0.77%), g__Phaeosphaeria (0.40%), g__Cordyceps (0.38%). However, on day 21 (end of the process), it was found that g__Dekkera had the highest relative abundance in both T1 and T2. In addition, the supplementation of the two ingredients affected the total phenolic and total flavonoid content of the treatments. At the end of the process, T2 showed values of 155.91 mg GAE/mL for total phenolics and 1.01 mg CE/mL for total flavonoids, compared to T1, which had 129.52 mg GAE/mL and 0.69 mg CE/mL, respectively. Additionally, the DPPH inhibition was higher in T1 (91.95%) compared to T2 (91.03%). The findings suggest that kombucha fermented with these innovative ingredients exhibited enhanced phytonutrients, and served as substrate for LAB and tea fungus fermentation, while limiting the growth of fungal genera and diversity of microbial consortium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Food & Fermentation Industries is the property of Food & Fermentation Industries and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective To investigate the associations of tea, coffee, and red wine intakes with health risks among individuals with hypertension. Methods This prospective cohort study included participants with hypertension from the UK Biobank cohort. Study exposures included self-reported intakes of coffee, tea, and red wine. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality, and the secondary outcomes were cardiovascular mortality and cardiovascular disease. The associations of beverage intake with outcomes were analyzed using Cox regression models. The hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals were estimated. Results A total of 187 708 participants with hypertension were included. The median follow-up period was 13.8 years. In individuals with hypertension, drinking one to two cups/day of coffee or three to four cups/day of tea was significantly associated with the lowest risk of all-cause mortality compared with less than one cup/day [hazard ratio for coffee, 0.943 (95% confidence interval, 0.908–0.979); hazard ratio for tea, 0.882 (95% confidence interval, 0.841–0.924)]. Red wine intake was inversely associated with all-cause mortality risk. Dose–response analysis revealed that high coffee intake (approximately greater than or equal to six cups/day) was significantly associated with increased risks of cardiovascular mortality and cardiovascular disease, but high tea and red wine intakes were not. Furthermore, replacing plain water with tea, but not coffee, significantly reduced the risks of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease. Replacing other alcoholic beverages with red wine also significantly reduced the risks of all three outcomes. Conclusions These findings suggest that tea and red wine, but not coffee, can be part of a healthy diet for the hypertensive population. What is already known on this topic Previous studies showed that intakes of tea, coffee, and red wine were associated with health benefits in the general population. What this study adds Tea and red wine intakes were inversely associated with mortality and cardiovascular risk in individuals with hypertension, and these effects were not attributable to the respective water and alcohol ingredients. Modest and high coffee intakes were associated with slightly reduced mortality and elevated cardiovascular risk, respectively, and coffee intake was not more beneficial than water intake. How this study might affect research, practice, or policy Tea and red wine, but not coffee, can be part of a healthy diet in individuals with hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymer modification has been established as a cost-effective, simple, in situ method for overcoming some of the inherent disadvantages of boron-doped diamond (BDD) electrodes, and its application has been extended to reliable, low-cost environmental monitoring solutions. The present review focuses on modifying BDD electrodes with semi-conductive polymers acting as redox mediators. This article reports on the development of a 3-methyl thiophene-modified boron-doped diamond (BDD/P3MT) sensor for the electrochemical determination of total phenolic compounds (TPCs) in tea samples, using gallic acid (GA) as a marker. GA is a significant polyphenol with various biological activities, making its quantification crucial. Thus, a simple, fast, and sensitive GA sensor was fabricated using the electroanalytical square wave voltammetry (SWV) technique. The sensor utilizes a semi-conductive polymer, 3-methyl thiophene, as a redox mediator to enhance BDD's sensitivity and selectivity. Electrochemical synthesis was used for polymer deposition, allowing for greater purity and avoiding solubility problems. The BDD/P3MT sensor exhibits good electrochemical properties, including rapid charge transfer and a large electrochemical area, enabling GA detection with a limit of detection of 11 mg/L. The sensor's response was correlated with TPCs measured by the Folin–Ciocalteu method. Square wave voltammetry (SWV) showed a good linear relationship between peak currents and GA concentrations in a wide linear range of 3–71 mg/L under optimal conditions. The BDD/P3MT sensor accurately measured TPCs in green tea, rooibos tea, and black tea samples, with green tea exhibiting the highest TPC levels. The results demonstrate the potential of the modified BDD electrode for the rapid and accurate detection of phenolic compounds in tea, with implications for quality control and antioxidant activity assessments. The prolific publications of the past decade have established BDD electrodes as robust BDD sensors for quantifying polyphenols. Fruits, vegetables, nuts, plant-derived beverages such as tea and wine, traditional Eastern remedies and various herbal nutritional supplements contain phenolic chemicals. The safety concerns of contaminated food intake are significant health concerns worldwide, as there exists a critical nexus between food safety, nutrition, and food security. It has been well established that green tea polyphenol consumption promotes positive health effects. Despite their potential benefits, consuming high amounts of these polyphenols has sparked debate due to concerns over potential negative consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polysaccharides from natural sources can regulate the composition of intestinal flora through the "gut‐liver axis" pathway, potentially ameliorating alcoholic liver injury. Aspalathus linearis, also known as rooibos, is one such natural product that has shown promise in this regard. This study looked at the structural properties of A. linearis polysaccharide (ALP) and how well it would work to treat acute alcoholic liver impairment. This study looks at the composition of monosaccharides, functional groups, and molecular weight (Mw) of a newly discovered water‐soluble polysaccharide, named ALP. The polysaccharide is composed of pyranose rings, amide groups, and sulfate groups linked by β‐glycosidic linkage. It has a relative Mw of 4.30 × 103 kDa and is composed of glucose, rhamnose, and some other monosaccharides. The study found that treating mice with the model of acute alcoholic liver disease with ALP could alleviate pathological symptoms, inhibit the release of inflammatory cytokines, and suppress indicators of oxidative stress. Experiments have shown that different doses of ALP can activate the P4502E1/Keap1‐Nrf2‐HO‐1 signaling pathway. The regulation of inflammatory factors and downstream antioxidant enzymes occurs as a result. Based on these data, it is likely that ALP protects the liver via the "gut‐liver axis" pathway by reducing oxidative stress‐related damage, inflammation, and alcohol‐related alterations to the gut microbiome. The results indicate that ALP mitigates injury caused by oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, and changes in the gut microbiota induced by alcohol through the "gut‐liver axis" pathway, which provides protection to the liver. This provides preliminary evidence for the development of related drugs. Practical Application: Researchers extracted a polysaccharide from fresh leaves of Auricularia auricula. The polysaccharide was purified and determined to have a predominantly homogeneous molecular weight. An acute alcoholic liver damage mouse model was established, and it was concluded that the polysaccharide could ameliorate liver injury in mice through the "gut‐liver axis" pathway. This novel polysaccharide can be used as an additive to develop functional foods with beneficial effects, which can positively impact the daily maintenance of consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The relationship between tea intake (TI) and sleep disorders (SDs) has been a topic of interest for some time, but there remains a lack of data showing a causal relationship. We aimed to use a two-sample Mendelian randomization study to determine whether there is a causal link between TI and SDs. Methods: We collected data regarding TI, with a focus on green tea intake (GTI), herbal tea intake (HTI), and rooibos tea intake (RTI); and data regarding SDs and insomnia from genome-wide association studies. We analyzed these data using an inverse variance-weighted two-sample Mendelian randomization study, by means of the TwoSampleMR package in R4.2.3 software. Results: We found no genetic causal relationships of TI, GTI, HTI, or RTI with insomnia. The odds ratios (ORs) for these relationships were as follows: TI: OR = 0.61, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.29–1.28; GTI: OR = 1.04, 95% CI: 0.95–1.14; HTI: OR = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.82–1.17; and RTI: OR = 1.04, 95% CI: 0.99–1.09. In addition, there were no genetic causal relationships of TI, GTI, HTI, or RTI with SDs. The OR values for these relationships were as follows: TI: OR = 0.6, 95% CI: 0.34–1.06; GTI: OR = 1, 95% CI: 0.93–1.07; HTI: OR = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.66–1.2; and RTI: OR = 1.02, 95% CI: 0.98–1.06. Conclusion: We found no causal relationships of TI with SDs or insomnia, irrespective of the type of tea consumed. However, additional Mendelian randomization studies are required to further explore the relationships of the timing and quantity of tea consumption with SDs and insomnia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a monomer widely used in our living environment to manufacture many chemical products. Mammalian cells are exposed to it at high levels, which has toxic and estrogenic consequences. Moreover, BPA exposure during prenatal and neonatal development results in defects in the male and female reproductive systems, abnormal meiotic development in fetal oocytes, and pregnancy complications. The aim of the current study was to study the adverse effects of the oral administration of BPA on the liver and testis of adult male rats with the protective roles of herbal teas. A comparative study was conducted on 40 adult male Wistar rats (six weeks old, weighing 100-120 g). Groups were coded as RT/BPA, GT/BPA, and BT/BPA, for red, green, and blue herbal teas, respectively. Several evaluations such as weights, hepatic enzyme markers, lipid profile, and oxidative nitrosative stress for the liver and testis were conducted. Results indicated that exposure to BPA significantly increased oxidative nitrosative stress and damaged the hepatic tissue on the liver and testis. The ALT GT/BPA group detected the highest values for AST (61.87 mU/mL), ALP (2.48 mU/mL), LDH (1153.11 U/L), and GGT (49.72 U/L); RT/BPA group detected the lowest values for AST (58.71 mU/mL), ALP (1.51 mU/mL), and GGT (21.12 U/L). Similarly, the RT/BPA and BT/BPA groups were detected (4.11 and 4.12 mg/100 mL) for creatinine levels as compared to the vehicle control group. While rats in the BT/BPA and GT/BPA groups showed similar values to the vehicle group (45.02 and 118.28 mg/dI) for HDL and TC quantities, respectively. The present research established the protective role of herbal teas due to the antioxidant properties, especially of green tea, which preserved GPx value (88.22 nmol/mg), testosterone (1.80 ng/mL); and red tea, which preserved CAT value (101.18 U/mg); while blue tea preserved MDA and SOD values (0.81 nmol/mg and 7.18 U/mg), respectively. BPA oral administration with herbal teas reduced toxicity on the liver and testis due to free radical scavenging effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Introduction: Aspalathus linearis (commonly known as rooibos) is endemic to the Cape Floristic Region of South Africa and is a popular herbal drink and skin phytotherapeutic ingredient, with health benefits derived primarily from its unique phenolic content. Several, seemingly habitat-specific ecotypes from the Cederberg (Western Cape) and Northern Cape have morphological, ecological, genetic and biochemical differences. Objectives and methods: Despite the commercial popularity of the cultivated variety, the uncultivated ecotypes are largely understudied. To address gaps in knowledge about the biochemical constituency, ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of fifteen populations was performed, enabling high-throughput metabolomic fingerprinting of 50% (v/v) methanolic extracts. Antioxidant screening of selected populations was performed via three assays and antimicrobial activity on two microbial species was assessed. The metabolomic results were corroborated with total phenolic and flavonoid screening of the extracts. Results and discussion: Site-specific chemical lineages of rooibos ecotypes were confirmed via multivariate data analyses. Important features identified via PLS-DA disclosed higher relative abundances of certain tentative metabolites (e.g., rutin, aspalathin and apiin) present in the Dobbelaarskop, Blomfontein, Welbedacht and Eselbank sites, in comparison to other locations. Several unknown novel metabolites (e.g., m/z 155.0369, 231.0513, 443.1197, 695.2883) are responsible for metabolomic separation of the populations, four of which showed higher amounts of key metabolites and were thus selected for bioactivity analysis. The Welbedacht and Eselbank site 2 populations consistently displayed higher antioxidant activities, with 2,2-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging activities of 679.894 ± 3.427 µmol Trolox/g dry matter and 635.066 ± 5.140 µmol Trolox/g dry matter, respectively, in correlation with a high number of phenolic and flavonoid compounds. The contribution of the individual metabolites to the pharmacological effectiveness of rooibos remains unknown and as such, further structural elucidation and phytopharmacological testing is thus urgently needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forests worldwide are experiencing fragmentation, with especially important consequences for ecosystems bordering urbanized areas. Urban forests are exposed to local warming due to the urban heat island which affects their biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. A key ecosystem function affecting carbon and nutrient cycling in forests is litter decomposition, a process driven by the local microclimate. Thus, our aim was to clarify the impact of the urban heat island on litter decomposition in urban forests. We studied soil microclimate and litter decomposition in six urban forests across Europe and along local gradients from the urban forest edge to the interior. To quantify decomposition independent from local forest composition and litter quality, we used standardized green tea and rooibos tea litterbags. We determined the role of the soil microclimate and other environmental drivers for litter decomposition. Secondly, we assessed effects of edge proximity and landscape context on the soil microclimate. Soil characteristics were only driving green tea and not rooibos tea decomposition. On the contrary, higher soil temperatures resulted in faster rates of litter decomposition for both green and rooibos tea and were related to the proximity to the forest edge and the proportion of built-up area in the landscape. Via structural equation modelling we detected cascading effects of the urban heat island on litter decomposition. Such changes in litter decomposition have the potential to alter the soil food web, nutrient cycling and carbon drawdown in urban forests, and could result in significant interactions between urbanisation and ongoing climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The tea plant, Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze, is an evergreen leafy plant whose tender leaves are used in the manufacturing of the world's second most consumed beverage—tea. The production and consumption of tea worldwide have continually increased over the decades. All parts of the plant—leaf, stem, root, flower and seed, are fed upon by insect pests. This study elucidates the metabolomic changes occurring in tea leaves in response to infestation by two major pests in tea gardens: red spider mites and tea mosquito bugs. These pests significantly impact both the quantity and quality of tea production. The secondary metabolites produced by the tea due to pest attack has been analysed using GC–MS analysis in the laboratory. Results: Mostly fatty acid derivatives were biosynthesized as secondary metabolites due to pest attack as revealed from the result. In both infestations, methyl stearate was found to be produced along with increased chromatographic peaks of compounds such as caffeine, methyl palmitate, methyl linoleate, and stigmasta-7,25-dien-3-ol. In comparison with respective control samples (leaf with no pest attack), the one attacked by red spider mite showed eighteen exclusive metabolites, whereas tea mosquito bug infested leaf showed six such exclusive metabolites. Conclusions: Some metabolites were found to be either increased or decreased in their amount in both the samples. The increased compounds were reported with insecticidal and pesticidal properties with respect to respective controls. Some metabolites were markers of pest attacks i.e. plant defense mechanism induced phytochemicals according to the literature as discussed in this research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shading treatments impact the tea (Camellia sinensis L.) quality. The sunlight sensitive varieties can be grown under shading nets for better growth and secondary metabolite content. Here, we studied the responses of a sunlight sensitive green tea variety "Huangjinya" by growing under colored shading nets (red, yellow, blue, and black (75% and 95%) shading rates) to find out the most suitable color of the shading net. Red shading was the most promising treatment as it positively affected the weight and length of 100 one-bud-three leaves and reduced the degree and rate of new shoots burn compared to control (natural sunlight). We then explored the comparative metabolomic changes in response to red shading by using UPLC-ESI-MS/MS system. The amino acids and derivatives, flavonoids, and alkaloids were downaccumulated whereas lipids, organic acids, and lignans were upaccumulated in Red shade grown tea samples. The red shading nets caused a decreased catechin, epicatechin, dopamine, and L-tyramine contents but increased caffeine content. We then employed transcriptome sequencing to find key changes in expressions of related genes and pathways. Notably, key genes associated with the phenylpropanoid and flavonoid biosynthesis pathways exhibited complex regulation. These expression changes suggested a potential trend of polymerization or condensation of simple molecules like catechin or pelargonidin into larger molecules like glucoside or proanthocyanidins. Here, Red shading net triggered higher expression of genes enriched in lipid biosynthesis and jasmonic acid biosynthesis, suggesting an interplay of fatty acids and JA in improving tea performance. These findings contribute to the metabolic responses of Huangjinya tea to red shading nets which might have implications for flavor and health benefits. Our data provide a foundation for further exploration and optimization of cultivation practices for this unique tea variety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to compare the color change of computer‐aided design (CAD)/computer‐aided manufacturing (CAM) polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) denture teeth and conventional acrylic teeth after immersion in three staining beverages (coffee, red tea, and cola) for a day, 7 days, and 30 days. Materials and Methods: Group 1: Conventional acrylic teeth (n = 32). Group 2: Milled CAD/CAM teeth out of PMMA disc (n = 32). The specimens of each material were further divided into four subgroups: (1) Control group, distilled water (n = 16). (2) Red tea solution (n = 16). (3) Coffee solution (n = 16). (4) Cola (n = 16). The color change (∆E $\unicode{x02206}E$) was assessed using a spectrophotometer at four time points: at the baseline (t0), on the 1st day (t1), on the 7th day (t2), and the 30th day (t3) of immersion. Kolmogorov–Smirnov test was applied, followed by performing independent samples t test, one‐way analysis of variance and post‐hoc Tukey tests to compare the color change values at different time points. Results: The mean score of NBS values of the coffee solution indicates perceivable color change at the end of the 30th day in the conventional acrylic teeth group. It was 0.843 ± 0.395 at t1, then increased to 1.017 ± 0.477 at t2 and to 2.259 ± 1.059 at t3. There is a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) in color change values between both tooth types at the end of the 30th day of immersion in red tea solution and a statistically significant difference at the end of the 7th day (p < 0.05) and the 30th day (p < 0.05) of immersion in coffee solution. Conclusions: CAD/CAM PMMA teeth are more color stable than conventional acrylic teeth after 30 days of immersion in coffee and red tea solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Litter decomposition represents a major path for atmospheric carbon influx into Arctic soils, thereby controlling below‐ground carbon accumulation. Yet, little is known about how tundra litter decomposition varies with microenvironmental conditions, hindering accurate projections of tundra soil carbon dynamics with future climate change. Over 14 months, we measured landscape‐scale decomposition of two contrasting standard litter types (Green tea and Rooibos tea) in 90 plots covering gradients of micro‐climate and ‐topography, vegetation cover and traits, and soil characteristics in Western Greenland. We used the tea bag index (TBI) protocol to estimate relative variation in litter mass loss, decomposition rate (k) and stabilisation factor (S) across space, and structural equation modelling (SEM) to identify relationships among environmental factors and decomposition. Contrasting our expectations, microenvironmental factors explained little of the observed variation in both litter mass loss, as well as k and S, suggesting that the variables included in our study were not the major controls of decomposer activity in the soil across the studied tundra landscape. We use these unexpected findings of our study combined with findings from the current literature to discuss future avenues for improving our understanding of the drivers of tundra decomposition and, ultimately, carbon cycling across the warming Arctic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abundant in phenolic compounds, "fermented" rooibos herbal tea (FRHT) improves the cognitive performance and exploration of rats, as well as alters the content of monoamines and amino acids in some brain structures. Here, we aim to extend knowledge about the neurochemical and behavioral outcomes of long-term oral FRHT consumption by examining its impact on hypothalamus functions. FRHTs of different leaf-to-water ratios were given to adult male SD rats for 3 months. Their behavior was evaluated in social interaction test. The concentration of hypothalamic monoamines and amino acids was analyzed by HPLC-ECD whereas BDNF/TrkB by Elisa method. It was shown that sustained FRHT consumption did not affect aggression of the rats but was able to increase social deficits, expressed as diminished total time of contact and shorter active social interaction. Upon biochemical investigation, the changes were primarily linked to serotonergic, glutaminergic, and BDNF/TrkB pathway. Decreased 5-HT and TrkB content in the hypothalamus could be linked with social deficits and suggested positive effect on central energy balance, yet the main body mass of animals in the experiment remained unaffected. On the other hand, the reduced hypothalamic serotonin signaling anticipated the influence on hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis and possible diminution of plasma corticosterone level with subsequent behavioral aftermath and lower obesity risk. Our research contributes toward better understanding of the mechanism of action of rooibos tea and its effects within the central nervous system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many studies have found that tea has an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-obesogenic and anti-diabetic effect, mostly associated with the content of anti-oxidant compounds. Polyphenols, being the main secondary metabolites in tea, are often considered the physiological markers determining a tea's quality. Apart from the tea production process and tea components, brewing conditions can also influence the levels of antioxidants in tea. This study aimed to verify whether the brewing time of various tea types (5, 10 and 15 min) affects the level of extraction of antioxidant compounds into infusions and their antioxidant activity. We examined 11 types of tea: green leaf tea, green tea bags, white tea bags, black tea bags, red tea bags, black leaf tea, yerba mate, raspberry tea bags, butterfly pea flower (Clitoria ternatea) tea, white lychee plum tea and hibiscus flower tea. Total polyphenol (TPC), flavonoids and anthocyanins content, as well as determination of antiradical and antioxidant capacity with DPPH radical and ABTS radical cation, were determined using spectrophotometric assays. Due to the antioxidant activity of tea infusions, the optimum brewing time for green tea (leaf and bags), black tea (leaf and bags), butterfly pea flower tea, white tea, white lychee plum tea, raspberry tea and yerba mate is 15 min. Red tea brewing time should be ten minutes, and for hibiscus flower tea it should be five minutes. The results refer to the brewing temperature recommended by tea manufacturers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High dose of fluoride intake is associated with toxic effects on kidney and cardiac tissues. This study evaluated the potential protective effect of fermented rooibos tea (RTE) on sodium fluoride (NaF)-induced cardiorenal toxicity in rats. Male Wistar rats (n = 56) were randomly allocated into one of seven equal groups: control, NaF (100 mg/kg orally), NaF + RTE (2%, w/v), NaF + RTE (4%, w/v), NaF + lisinopril (10 mg/kg orally), 2% RTE, and 4% RTE. The experiment lasted for 14 days and RTE was administered to the rats as their sole source of drinking fluid. NaF induced cardiorenal toxicity indicated by elevated level of urea, creatinine, LDH, creatinine kinase-MB, and cardiac troponin I in the serum, accompanied by altered histopathology of the kidney and heart. Furthermore, levels of H2O2, malondialdehyde, and NO were elevated, while GSH level was depleted in the kidney and heart due to NaF intoxication. Protein levels of c-reactive protein, TNFα, IL-1B, and NF-κB were increased by NaF in the serum, kidney, and heart. RTE at 2% and 4% (w/v) reversed cardiorenal toxicity, resolved histopathological impairment, attenuated oxidative stress and inhibited formation of pro-inflammatory markers. RTE at both concentrations down-regulates the mRNA expression of NF-κB, and upregulates the mRNA expression of both IκB and IκKB, thus blocking the activation of NF-κB signaling pathway. Taken together, these results clearly suggest that the protective potential of rooibos tea against NaF-induced cardiorenal toxicity, oxidative stress, and inflammation may be associated with the modulation of the NF-κB signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the effects of adding herbs, spices, and fruits into fermented Olympus Mountain tea (Sideritis scardica) kombucha using thyme honey as a sweetener. This study evaluated how these additions affected the tea's physical, chemical, and functional characteristics. Two different enrichments were proposed: a "Golden Mountain tea and honey Kombucha" (KG) with fresh ginger, turmeric powder, and lemon zest and juice and a "Red Mountain tea and honey Kombucha" (KR) with dried hibiscus calyces, rose petals, and lavender blossoms. In KR, the levels of vitamin C increased from 33.2 ± 2.7 to 48.4 ± 4.5. Additionally, the levels of calcium increased from 31.0 ± 1.2 to 55.7 ± 1.2, while the levels of potassium practically doubled from 64.7 ± 0.6 to 115.7 ± 2.5. An increased potassium concentration was observed in KG, and ionic iron was found for the first time after both enrichments. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents, along with antioxidant capacity, as assessed by the ABTS and DPPH methods, were found to be substantially enhanced in KR. In KG, the total phenolic content increased, together with antioxidant activity, as assessed by ABTS. Enrichment with hibiscus calyces, rose petals, and lavender blossoms significantly increased inhibitory effects against α-amylase, α-glucosidase, acetylcholinesterase, and butyrylcholinesterase. On the other hand, enrichment with ginger, turmeric, and lemon zest and juice decreased inhibitory effects against α-glucosidase and increased those against α-amylase, acetylcholinesterase, and butyrylcholinesterase. KR had the strongest enzyme-inhibiting activity, with its α-glucosidase-inhibiting activity increased by approximately 18 times. Therefore, enrichment with selected herbs, spices, and fruits can transform fermented Olympus Mountain tea kombucha sweetened with honey into a novel beverage with enhanced functional properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the reported antidiabetic potential of Rooibos tea, there is still paucity of information on its mechanisms of action to date. This study investigated the antidiabetic potential of Rooibos tea using computational approaches focusing on dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP-IV) implicated in insulin production. Profiling of the 37 secondary metabolites in the tea against DPP-IV and subsequent thermodynamic energy refinement of the lead compounds over a 120-ns simulation, revealed two of the metabolites [esculin (-33.97 kcal/mol) and nothofagin (-44.03 kcal/mol)] as putative leads relative to the reference standard, sitagliptin (-30.7704 kcal/mol). Further structural analysis of the resulting complexes suggests that the two compounds not only formed stable complexes with DPP-IV but also interacted with the binding domain residues imperative to modulation of the enzyme. Taken together, the data from this study are implicative of the structural mechanism of inhibitory action of the putative leads against DPP-IV resulting in hormonal actions that enhances insulin production. While the study has lent credence to the role of the profiled metabolites as drug candidates against DPP-IV in the management of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), complementary in vitro as well as preclinical and clinical studies are suggested to fully harness and establish the therapeutic significance of the metabolites in diabetes care.

This article examines how psychological trauma and colonial exploitation interact in Paul Harris Daniel's Red Tea, a book that describes the hardships faced by Indian workers on British-owned tea plantations in South India. The study uses psychoanalytic and Marxist frameworks to investigate how the coolies' identities and mental health are shaped by the severe material realities of colonialism. The paper examines the workers' coping strategies and resilience while highlighting issues of internalized oppression, class inequality, and labor injustice. Red Tea is positioned as an important literary work that challenges colonial power structures and their enduring effects on underprivileged groups as a result of this research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The following study analyzed the potential of Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) to predict the metal composition (Al, Pb, As, Hg and Cu) of tea and for establishing discriminant models for pure teas (green, red, and black) and their different blends. A total of 322 samples of pure black, red, and green teas and binary blends were analyzed. The results showed that pure red teas had the highest content of As and Pb, green teas were the only ones containing Hg, and black teas showed higher levels of Cu. NIRS allowed to predict the content of Al, Pb, As, Hg, and Cu with ratio performance deviation values > 3 for all of them. Additionally, it was possible to discriminate pure samples from their respective blends with an accuracy of 98.3% in calibration and 92.3% in validation. However, when the samples were discriminated according to the percentage of blending (>95%, 95–85%, 85–75%, or 75–50% of pure tea) 100% of the samples of 10 out of 12 groups were correctly classified in calibration, but only the groups with a level of pure tea of >95% showed 100% of the samples as being correctly classified as to validation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All disease, but especially non-communicable diseases, are related to dysfunction of one or more regulatory systems. In developing countries, long-term management of patients with chronic diseases has many challenges and is generally not financially viable, but Africa in particular, which is rich in diverse ethnomedicines presents a more feasible long-term therapeutic approach in this niche. However, despite comprehensive preclinical investigations on numerous plant-derived candidate medicines, only a small portion of these reach the patient as recognised medicines. In this review, we use the example of rooibos (Aspalathus linearis (Burm.f.) R. Dahlgren)-which is globally consumed as aromatic, caffeine-free tea-to illustrate the hurdles that need to be overcome in the low-to middle-income countries, before progression of ethnomedicines to official treatment regimens can be achieved. In terms of methodology, regulatory system focused rooibos papers indexed on PubMed for the past three decades (n = 112) were accessed. Papers reporting duplication of previous results were excluded, as well as review papers. Topics covered includes the high standard of ethnomedicine drug discovery and efficacy testing research performed in Africa (and South Africa in particular in the case of rooibos), the potential bias in terms of preclinical research focus, ethnomedicine ownership and the requirement for independent clinical trial coordination and/or management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Litter decomposition is an important factor affecting local and global C cycles. It is known that decomposition through soil microbial activity in ecosystems is mainly influenced by soil type and climatic conditions. However, for agroecosystems, there remains a need for a better understanding of how management practices influence litter decomposition. This study examined the effect of different management practices on decomposition at 29 sites with long-term (mean duration of 38 years) field experiments (LTEs) using the Tea Bag Index (TBI) protocol with standard litter (rooibos and green tea) developed by Keuskamp et al. (2013). The objective was to determine if the TBI decomposition rate (k) and stabilization factor (S) are sensitive enough to detect differences in litter decomposition between management practices as well as how they interact with edaphic factors, crop type and local climatic conditions. Tea bags were buried and collected after ∼90 d at 16 Austrian and 13 Swedish sites. The treatments in the Austrian LTEs focused on mineral and organic fertilizer application, tillage systems and crop residue management, whereas those in Sweden addressed cropping systems, mineral fertilizer application and tillage systems. The results for Austria showed that the incorporation of crop residue and high-N fertilizer application increased k , compared with crop residue removal and low or no N application, respectively. Minimum tillage had significantly higher k compared with reduced and conventional tillage. In Sweden, fertilized plots showed higher S than non-fertilized plots and high-N fertilizer had the highest k. Growing spring cereal led to higher k than forage crops. Random forest regressions for Austria and Sweden jointly showed that k and S were mainly governed by climatic conditions, which explained more than 70 % of their variation. However, under similar climatic conditions, management practices strongly influenced decomposition dynamics. It would be appropriate to apply the TBI approach to a more large-scale network using LTEs for agroecosystems, in order to improve the index's usefulness as an indicator of the effect of management practices on litter decomposition dynamics, particularly linking it with the potential for C storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The obesity epidemic continues to grow at an alarming rate because the lifestyle we live plays a big role in the continuation and exacerbation of this problem. The use of medicines and herbs has become widespread, especially among young people. This study's objective was to identify the medicines and herbs used to treat obesity specifically among pharmacy female students in Hail city. Materials and Methods: An online, semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data, and the resulting information was then statistically analyzed. Results: Obesity problems can be observed among pharmacy female students but at a moderate rate (41%) and most of the participants started showing symptoms of obesity at an early age. About 10% of study participants have an incorrect belief that natural products are better than synthetic ones. Horsetail, green tea extract, and red tea extract were the most extensively utilized herbal extracts for weight loss, according to this study. Liraglutide, Semaglutide, and Orlistat were the most commonly used weight-loss medicines among female students, even though their use was less common than that of herbal combinations. Although a number of the research, respondents used unknown herbal mixtures mostly on the commercial market. Conclusion: This study found that female pharmacy students in the Hail region frequently utilize herbal remedies to lose weight. Therefore, it has become one of the priorities of our upcoming research to try to find out the truth of what is contained in the herbal mixtures used by the students and to reveal their side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) is endemic to certain regions of the Western- and Northern Cape of South Africa, where it is also commercially grown. Being low-rainfall regions, information on the soil water balance of rooibos is essential, but such data is limited. Consequently, the effect of inorganic fertilisation and soil depth on soil water dynamics in a young rooibos plantation at Nardouwsberg, Western Cape were studied. Soil water content of plots planted to unfertilised and fertilised plants as well as that of bare soil were determined over the duration of the 2016/17 season. All treatments were replicated on shallow and deep soils sites and plant growth was determined at the end of the season. At the end of the study, the profile soil water content and evapotranspiration of the bare and planted plots were similar which prove that fallowing (water harvesting) is not an option in the sandy soils of this region. With the exception of the 20−30 cm root zone of the planted plots at the deep site, the water content decreased to levels below the permanent wilting point in the soil profile during summer. It was concluded that rooibos plants could survive through an adapted root system. A further survival method was proposed, involving moisture moved through evaporation from the deeper soil layers into the drying-front in the ~ 10−30 cm soil layer where a condensation-evaporation cycle enables rooibos to harvest small amounts of water. The highest shoot biomass with the longest taproot resulted from the unfertilised treatment on the deep soil thanks to higher soil water content, whereas the shoot and root biomass of the fertilised treatment at both sites were low due to high P soil concentration. This study revealed that unfertilised plants on deeper soils result in higher rooibos production under drought conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural remedies in the treatment of health conditions are an appealing option for many individuals. Previous studies reported that fermented and unfermented rooibos tea have considerable anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties. Most of this knowledge, however, originates from animal and cell culture studies. The aims of this review are to evaluate the existing, but limited, body of knowledge regarding rooibos tea interventions in humans and to identify the gaps in the literature. The PRISMA extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines were followed in the collation of this scoping review. Among the databases searched were Google Scholar, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science. This review comprised 18 publications, with half (50%) of the studies being conducted in South Africa. There were 488 participants in all, ranging in age from six to 83 years, in the investigations. Rooibos tea was either fermented, unfermented, or black in 62% of the studies. Doses ranging from 200 to 1,200 ml were employed. In both healthy and at-risk individuals, rooibos has been shown to enhance lipid profiles, boost antioxidant status, and lower blood glucose levels. The existing findings suggests that rooibos consumption demonstrated to improve lipid profiles, boost antioxidant status, and lower blood glucose levels in both apparently healthy, and individual at-risk individuals or diagnosed of chronic conditions. Thus, it can be presumed that rooibos tea provides some health benefits, yet these findings are based on a limited number of human intervention studies and a small total sample size. Additionally, a variety of rooibos dosages and types of tea in the experiments had inconsistent results that were probably impacted by the amount consumed. Future studies should include a dose-response study in humans, as well as large scaled clinical trials to evaluate the health effects of Rooibos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bimetallic FeMn nanoparticles based on a ferromanganese wad were successfully synthesized employing an entirely green approach. South African rooibos tea (RTea) extract was used as an environmentally friendly reducing and capping agent for preparing the Fe and Mn nanoparticles (nFeMn). The obtained nFeMn suspension and freeze-dried RTea capped nFeMn powder were characterized using several techniques. Elemental analysis conducted using XRF combined with ICP analysis revealed a metallic loading of 1.08 wt% of Fe and 0.25 wt% of Mn. The ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–vis) showed a broad shoulder in the UV region where the peaks of RTea and FeMn are located, implying bond formation during the reaction between RTea polyphenols and nFeMn. TEM analysis depicted a core–shell architecture for the nFeMn with an average size of 20 nm while the FTIR revealed that specific peaks observed in the spectrum of RTea extract were visible on that of the nFeMn powder, indicating the capping of nFeMn particles by the RTea extract. Finally, the reactivity of nFeMn powder as a Fenton-like reagent was probed for the decoloration of methylene blue (MB) from an aqueous solution. Fenton-like oxidation of MB followed a pseudo-first-order reaction kinetics with a rate constant of 0.23 A−1 min−1. The results showed that nFeMn removed MB dye with an efficiency of over 95% in the MB concentration range of 50–250 mg/L. Overall, the finding herein is unique because we directly used readily available raw material as a source of metals and a safe, practical reagent to prepare bimetallic FeMn nanoparticles that can be used to remove the color from dye wastewater, thus, creating a circular green process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Empoasca onukii is a major pest that attacks tea plants. To seek effective and sustainable methods to control the pest, it is necessary to assess its host preference among different species of tea and understand the critical factors behind this behavior. In this study, the behavioral preference of E. onukii for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) of three potted tea species was evaluated. The VOCs released by the three tea species were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and the major components were used to test the pest's preference. Transcriptome analysis was used to infer the key genes that affect the biosyntheses of the VOCs. The results showed that the tendency of E. onukii toward the VOCs of the three tea species was the strongest in green tea, followed by white tea, and the weakest in red tea. This behavioral preference was significantly and positively correlated with the relative levels of hexanol, linalool, and geraniol in tea volatiles. Relative hexanol was significantly and positively correlated with the expression of genes TEA009423 (LOX2.1), TEA009596 (LOX1.5), TEA008699 (HPL), TEA018669 (CYPADH), and TEA015686 (ADHIII). Relative linalool was significantly and positively correlated with the expression of genes TEA001435 (CAD) and Camellia_sinensis_newGene_22126 (TPS). Relative geraniol was significantly and positively correlated with the expression of genes TEA001435 (CAD), TEA002658 (CYP76B6), TEA025455 (CYP76T24), and Camellia_sinensis_newGene_22126 (TPS). The above findings suggested that three volatiles (hexanol, linalool, and geraniol) determined the behavioral preference of E. onukii toward tea plants, and their biosynthesis was mainly affected by nine genes (TEA009423, TEA009596, TEA008699, TEA018669, TEA015686, TEA001435, TEA002658, TEA025455, and Camellia_sinensis_newGene_22126). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since its first publication in 2013, the Tea Bag Index (TBI) has attained widespread ecological application, generating scientific data on stabilization and turnover of organic matter in soils. As a result of manufacturing changes (net structure, net material, tea varieties) in the past years, a critical examination of alternative tea bag products is necessary. The present study for the first time generated decomposition data on a wide range of potential alternative tea brands (four brands tested) and varieties (rooibos [RB], green [GT], black [BT], and peppermint tea [PM]). They were tested in both a laboratory and a field experiment lasting 90 days. Under controlled laboratory conditions GT, BT, and PM corresponded well to the kinetic assumptions of an asymptote model of the TBI, but RB did not. In the field experiment, the tea mass remaining after 90 days was determined for all tea bags across different land uses (arable land, grassland, and forest). BT imitated the decomposition behavior of Lipton's original GT even better than any of the GT tested. The finer structure of Lipton's new tea bag nets did not negatively affect the precision of resultant remaining masses and thus can be recommended for future studies. In conclusion, alternative tea bags should be explored across brands as well as varieties. Based on our findings, we proposed an update of the TBI, which is based on the readily feasible modeling of the decomposition curve. Crucial is the combined consideration of both multiple tea varieties and incubation intervals of different durations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Humus forms and organic matter decomposition are influenced by climate, plants and soil decomposers. Yet, whether different humus forms could be experimentally linked to litter decomposition has still to be fully assessed. To assess the link between humus systems and organic matter decomposition, we worked in two regions of the Swiss Alps (Valais and Ticino) along elevational gradients by following a north/south exposure design. We quantified humus forms macrorests proportion types by the Ponge small-volume method and measured the decomposition of green tea and rooibos tea within the Parasystems and Terrosystems. We found that Parasystems and Terrosystems differed in tea decomposition rates, with a slower decomposition in Parasystems than in Terrosystems. We also observed that elevation, and hence, vegetation type (i.e., forest in the subalpine versus grassland in the alpine), drove humus form distribution, with Parasystems found in the alpine and subalpine in Ticino, while in Valais Parasystems were only found in the alpine and Terrosystems in the subalpine levels. Further analyses are however needed to identify other variables that best correlate with variation in decomposition processes within humus systems, such as soil decomposer community composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The aim of the study was to investigate the application of photocatalytic advanced oxidation (PAO) for the treatment of water contaminated with dark humic material from fynbos biome plants, which cannot be treated by conventional methods. The study used a fynbos species (Aspalathus linearis) to create a model wastewater that was compared with a brew made from black tea (Camellia sinensis). Two photocatalysts (TiO2 and ZnO) and three light sources (natural, halogen light, and UV light) were tested, with and without hydrogen peroxide. The treatment of the two teas by only photolysis was observed to be minimal. The study found that natural sunlight was not effective, but a combination of ZnO and halogen lamp exhibited the best performance, with a 60% degradation in 20 min under solar irradiation. The optimum catalyst concentration was identified as 10 g/L for both photocatalysts. The influence of some process parameters showed that a combination of an optimum dose of 5 mM H2O2 and solar radiation improved the performance of TiO2 from 16 to 47%. The photocatalytic reaction data were fitted to the pseudo first and second-order kinetic models in order to exploit the kinetic process of the photo-destruction reaction. The kinetic fits showed that the degradation reaction better adhered to the second-order kinetic model when only ZnO and solar radiation were applied, regardless of the tea type employed. The application of PAO in this novel and cost-effective way has potential for the abatement of contaminated water to potable water. The use of heterojunction photocatalysts could be explored in future research to further improve the process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The color of tea leaves and infusions is an important attribute to tea flavor and quality. Colored substances contain chromophore and auxochrome groups, which contribute to producing different shades of green, yellow, and red hue in tea infusion. As the concentrations of colored substances increase, the tea infusions' color will increase accordingly, presenting different colors such as yellowish-green, reddish-yellow and reddish-brown. Furthermore, fermentation (enzymatic oxidation) and drying stages during processing, as well as temperature, pH, and concentration in sensory evaluation, affect the color and brightness of tea infusions. This review revealed the color formation mechanisms by summarizing the chemical structures, color characteristics, coloration mechanisms and other factors of color substances in tea. It also provided a theoretical evidence for the quality improvement of tea flavor and the innovation of processing technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leydig cells are essential for steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis. An imbalance in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the cellular antioxidant level brings about oxidative stress. Oxidative stress (OS) results in the dysfunction of Leydig cells, thereby impairing steroidogenesis, spermatogenesis, and ultimately, male infertility. To prevent Leydig cells from oxidative insults, there needs to be a balance between the ROS production and the cellular protective capacity of antioxidants. Evidence indicates that medicinal plants could improve Leydig cell function at specific concentrations under basal or OS conditions. The increased usage of medicinal plants has been considered a possible alternative treatment for male infertility. This review aims to provide an overview of the impact of oxidative stress on Leydig cells as well as the effects of various medicinal plant extracts on TM3 Leydig cells. The medicinal plants of interest include Aspalathus linearis, Camellia sinensis, Moringa oleifera, Morinda officinale, Taraxacum officinale, Trichilia emetica, Terminalia sambesiaca, Peltophorum africanum, Ximenia caffra, Serenoa repens, Zingiber officinale, Eugenia jambolana, and a combination of dandelion and fermented rooibos (CRS-10). According to the findings obtained from studies conducted on the evaluated medicinal plants, it can, therefore, be concluded that the medicinal plants maintain the antioxidant profile of Leydig cells under basal conditions and have protective or restorative effects following exposure to oxidative stress. The available data suggest that the protective role exhibited by the evaluated plants may be attributed to their antioxidant content. Additionally, the use of the optimal dosage or concentration of the extracts in the management of oxidative stress is of the utmost importance, and the measurement of their oxidation reduction potential is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Prior research has established a strong link between cerebral aneurysm (CA) occurrence and inflammation. Tea intake (TI) has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties through multiple mechanisms, potentially lowering CA incidence. This study aims to employ Mendelian Randomization (MR) methodology to explore the genetic causality between TI and CA. Methods: We collected Genome-wide association study (GWAS) data for CA, TI, Green tea intake (GTI), Herbal tea intake (HTI), and Rooibos tea intake (RTI). The MR analysis employed the TwoSampleMR package and utilized the inverse variance-weighted (IVW) method. Results: The findings suggest no genetic causal relationship between TI and CA (IVW: OR = 1.10, 95% CI: 0.59--2.05, P = 0.772). Similarly, there is no genetic causal association between GTI and CA (IVW: OR = 1.07, 95% CI: 0.91--1.26, P = 0.388), HTI and CA (IVW: OR = 1.00, 95% CI: 0.89--1.13, P = 0.943), or RTI and CA (IVW: OR = 1.02, 95% CI: 0.96--1.09, P = 0.472). Conclusion: There is no genetic causal relationship between TI and CA, and the different types of tea do not change this result. Further MR analysis is needed to investigate whether there is a potential genetic causal association between the quantity of TI and CA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Litter decomposition is an important factor affecting local and global C cycles. It is known that decomposition through soil microbial activity in ecosystems is mainly influenced by soil type and climatic conditions. However, for agroecosystems, there remains a need for a better understanding how management practices influence litter decomposition. This study examined the effect of different management practices on decomposition at 29 sites with long-term (mean duration of 38 years) field experiments (LTEs) using the Tea Bag Index (TBI) protocol with standard litter (Rooibos and Green tea) developed by Keuskamp et al. (2013). The objective was to determine if the TBI decomposition rate (k) and stabilization factor (S) are sensitive enough to detect differences in litter decomposition between management practices, and how they interact with edaphic factors, crop type and local climatic conditions. Tea bags were buried and collected after ~60 and 90 days in 16 Austrian and 13 Swedish sites. The treatments at Austrian LTEs focused on mineral and organic fertilization, tillage systems and crop residues management, whereas the Swedish LTEs addressed cropping systems, mineral fertilization and tillage systems. The results showed that in Austria, decomposition differed more between sites than between treatments for the same experiment category. Incorporation of crop residues and high N fertilization increased k. Minimum tillage had significantly higher k compared to reduced and conventional tillage. In Sweden, litter decomposition differed more between treatments than between sites. Fertilized plots showed higher S than non-fertilized and high N fertilization had the highest k. Growing spring cereal lead to higher k than forage. Random Forest regressions showed that k and S were mainly governed by climatic conditions, which explained more than 70 % of their variation. However, under similar climatic conditions, management practices strongly influenced decomposition dynamics. Thus, the TBI approach may be suitable to apply in a more large-scale network on LTEs for evaluating decomposition dynamics more precisely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) are of global concern in herbal teas. • First study to show direct transfer of PAs from weed residues via soil to rooibos plants. • Rooibos plants mainly accumulated the PA senecivirnine-N-oxide in field and pot trial. • Weeds with highest PAs in Niewoudtville rooibos fields were Spergula arvensis and Senecio species. • Rooibos plants in fields contained on average 20 ug kg−1 total PAs. Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) contamination of rooibos tea products has prompted global concern amongst distributors. Lateral transfer of PAs from weeds as a result of co-harvesting has been previously demonstrated. However, it is not currently clear whether there can be a direct transfer of PAs from decomposing weed material to rooibos tea via the soil. Furthermore, a large number of weed species occur in rooibos tea plantations in the Nieuwoudtville region, Northern Cape Province, South Africa and it is not fully known which species produce PAs. Therefore, the objectives of this study were, firstly, to quantify and identify PAs in rooibos tea and dominant weed species occurring in rooibos plantations in the Nieuwoudtville region using ultra performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry, and secondly, to determine whether PAs from weed materials can be transferred to rooibos plants via the soil in a pot trial. amongst the 19 weed species identified in the plantations in spring, Spergula arvensis, Senecio abruptus, Senecio arenarius and Senecio burchellii were found to contain substantial contents of PAs (> 1000 µg kg−1). Rooibos tea at the sites was found to contain average total PA concentrations of 20 µg kg−1, dominated by senecivirnine-N-oxide (76%). In the pot trial, only rooibos plants where S. burchellii material was applied contained measurable PA levels in the form of senecivirnine-N-oxide (4.25 μg kg−1, SE 2.53 μg kg−1). However, the dominant PAs occurring in S. burchellii material applied in the pot trial were senecivirnine (30.1%), senecionine-N-oxide (25.4%), and retrorsine-N-oxide (23.5%). This indicates that senecivirnine-N-oxide was the most absorbable PA taken up the rooibos plants or was the one of the primary metabolic products from adsorbed PAs in rooibos. These findings also help to explain why rooibos plants at the field sites contained predominantly senecivirnine-N-oxide. This is the first study to demonstrate the direct transfer of PAs from PA-containing weed residues to rooibos tea by the soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]