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Search Results (623)

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Keywords = H2S scavengers

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13 pages, 6042 KiB  
Article
Whey Protein–Quercetin–Gellan Gum Complexes Prepared Using pH-Shift Treatment: Structural and Functional Properties
by Na Guo, Xin Zhou, Ganghua Zhou, Yimeng Zhang, Guoqing Yu, Yangliu Liu, Beibei Li, Fangyan Zhang and Guilan Zhu
Foods 2025, 14(15), 2720; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14152720 - 3 Aug 2025
Viewed by 179
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to prepare whey protein–quercetin–gellan gum conjugates using the pH-shift method and to evaluate the impacts of varying pH values and quercetin concentrations on the interaction mechanisms and functional characteristics of the complexes. Spectroscopic analyses (fluorescence, UV-vis, and [...] Read more.
The objectives of this study were to prepare whey protein–quercetin–gellan gum conjugates using the pH-shift method and to evaluate the impacts of varying pH values and quercetin concentrations on the interaction mechanisms and functional characteristics of the complexes. Spectroscopic analyses (fluorescence, UV-vis, and FT-IR) revealed that new complexes formed under alkaline conditions. Notably, an increasing quercetin concentration led to a reduction in complex particle size and an increase in the zeta potential value, with these effects being more pronounced under alkaline conditions. The particle size was 425.7 nm, and the zeta potential value was −30.00 mV at a quercetin addition concentration of 15 umol/g protein. Additionally, the complexes formed under alkaline conditions exhibited superior foaming capacity, emulsification properties, and significantly enhanced free radical scavenging activity. The complex’s DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging rates rose by 41.57% and 57.69%, respectively. This study provides theoretical foundations and practical insights for developing protein—polyphenol systems, offering significant implications for the application of quercetin functional foods and supplements in the food science and pharmaceutical industries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oil and Protein Engineering and Its Applications in Food Industry)
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15 pages, 1375 KiB  
Article
Photodegradation of Turmeric Oleoresin Under Fluorescent Light and White LED: Impacts on the Chemical Stability, Bioactivity, and Photosensitizing Property of Curcuminoids
by Heejeong Kim, Juyeon Oh and Jungil Hong
Molecules 2025, 30(15), 3187; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30153187 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 231
Abstract
Turmeric oleoresin (TO), a natural pigment derived from Curcuma longa rhizomes, is valued for its health benefits, which are primarily attributed to its rich curcuminoid content (curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin). Despite these benefits, curcuminoids are known to be light-sensitive and possess photosensitizing properties. [...] Read more.
Turmeric oleoresin (TO), a natural pigment derived from Curcuma longa rhizomes, is valued for its health benefits, which are primarily attributed to its rich curcuminoid content (curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin). Despite these benefits, curcuminoids are known to be light-sensitive and possess photosensitizing properties. This study investigated the impact of common light sources, fluorescent light and white LED (both at 10 W/m2), on the chemical stability, antioxidant activity, cytotoxicity, and photosensitizing properties of TO. Exposure to both light sources significantly reduced TO’s color and fluorescence intensity, with white LED causing greater instability. HPLC analysis confirmed a decrease in individual curcuminoid levels, with curcumin degrading most rapidly under both conditions. The DPPH radical scavenging activity of irradiated TO decreased compared to fresh or dark-stored turmeric, whereas its ABTS radical scavenging activity increased upon light exposure. Photosensitizing potency, measured by formazan decolorization and lipid peroxide formation, declined as TO decomposed under light. Conversely, the cytotoxicity of TO against B16F10 melanoma cells was significantly enhanced under light exposure, though this effect was diminished significantly after 24 h of pre-irradiation. These findings underscore the instability of turmeric pigment under common lighting conditions, which should be a crucial consideration when processing, storing, and distributing turmeric-containing products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Photochemistry in Asia)
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23 pages, 2164 KiB  
Article
Polyphenolic Profiling and Evaluation of Antioxidant, Antidiabetic, Anti-Alzheimer, and Antiglaucoma Activities of Allium kharputense and Anchusa azurea var. azurea
by Veysel Tahiroglu, Hasan Karagecili, Kubra Aslan and İlhami Gulcin
Life 2025, 15(8), 1209; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15081209 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 354
Abstract
The genera Allium (Liliaceae) and Anchusa (Boraginaceae) are flowering plant genera with a rich diversity, also including the Allium kharputense Freyn & Sint. and Anchusa azurea Mill. var. azurea species. The antioxidant, anti-Alzheimer’s disease (AD), antidiabetic, and antiglaucoma effects of [...] Read more.
The genera Allium (Liliaceae) and Anchusa (Boraginaceae) are flowering plant genera with a rich diversity, also including the Allium kharputense Freyn & Sint. and Anchusa azurea Mill. var. azurea species. The antioxidant, anti-Alzheimer’s disease (AD), antidiabetic, and antiglaucoma effects of the Allium kharputense Freyn & Sint. and Anchusa azurea Mill. var. azurea species, which are commonly eaten foods in the Southeast of Türkiye in the treatment of several diseases, were studied. To interpret the antioxidant capacities of ethanol extract of two plant species, aerial parts were analyzed by ABTS and DPPH assays. The IC50 values of A. kharputense and A. azurea ethanol and water extracts for ABTS•+ activities were recorded in the range of 30.93 to 33.94 µg/mL and 33.45 to 33.78 µg/mL, respectively. Also, DPPH activities were measured at 30.78 to 36.87 µg/mL and 31.67 to 32.45 µg/mL, respectively. The best of the IC50 values was measured in the ethanol extract of A. kharputense as 30.78 µg/mL for DPPH scavenging activity. The total phenolic and flavonoid quantities in A. kharputense and A. azurea plants were measured. The highest phenolic and flavonoid contents of A. kharputense and A. azurea species were recorded in amounts of 445.52 and 327.35 mg GAE/g in ethanol extracts, respectively, and 332.88 and 234.03 mg QE/g in ethanol extracts, respectively. The effects of A. kharputense and A. azurea on diabetes, AD, and glaucoma were studied on the target enzymes of diseases. The most efficient IC50 values were recorded at 10.72 μg/mL against α-glycosidase, 35.01 μg/mL against AChE, 38.05 μg/mL against BChE, 9.21 μg/mL towards hCA I, and 81.02 μg/mL towards hCA II isoenzymes. The kinds and amounts of phenolic compounds in A. kharputense and A. azurea were determined using LC-MS/MS against 53 standards. A. kharputense and A. azurea plants have prospective use in enhancing glaucoma, diabetes, AD, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and cancerous disorders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biochemistry, Biophysics and Computational Biology)
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24 pages, 9486 KiB  
Article
StMAPKK1 Enhances Thermotolerance in Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) by Enhancing Antioxidant Defense and Photosynthetic Efficiency Under Heat Stress
by Xi Zhu, Yasir Majeed, Kaitong Wang, Xiaoqin Duan, Nengkang Guan, Junfu Luo, Haifei Zheng, Huafen Zou, Hui Jin, Zhuo Chen and Yu Zhang
Plants 2025, 14(15), 2289; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14152289 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 297
Abstract
The functional role of MAPKK genes in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) under high-temperature stress remains unexplored, despite their critical importance in stress signaling and yield protection. We characterized StMAPKK1, a novel group D MAPKK localized to plasma membrane/cytoplasm. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain [...] Read more.
The functional role of MAPKK genes in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) under high-temperature stress remains unexplored, despite their critical importance in stress signaling and yield protection. We characterized StMAPKK1, a novel group D MAPKK localized to plasma membrane/cytoplasm. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) revealed cultivar-specific upregulation in potato (‘Atlantic’ and ‘Desiree’) leaves under heat stress (25 °C, 30 °C, and 35 °C). Transgenic lines overexpressing (OE) StMAPKK1 exhibited elevated antioxidant enzyme activity, including ascorbate peroxidase (APX), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and peroxidase (POD), mitigating oxidative damage. Increased proline and chlorophyll accumulation and reduced oxidative stress markers, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA), indicate improved cellular redox homeostasis. The upregulation of key antioxidant and heat stress-responsive genes (StAPX, StCAT1/2, StPOD12/47, StFeSOD2/3, StMnSOD, StCuZnSOD1/2, StHSFA3 and StHSP20/70/90) strengthened the enzymatic defense system, enhanced thermotolerance, and improved photosynthetic efficiency, with significant improvements in net photosynthetic rate (Pn), transpiration rate (E), and stomatal conductance (Gs) under heat stress (35 °C) in StMAPKK1-OE plants. Superior growth and biomass (plant height, plant and its root fresh and dry weights, and tuber yield) accumulation, confirming the positive role of StMAPKK1 in thermotolerance. Conversely, RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated suppression of StMAPKK1 led to a reduction in enzymatic activity, proline content, and chlorophyll levels, exacerbating oxidative stress. Downregulation of antioxidant-related genes impaired ROS scavenging capacity and declines in photosynthetic efficiency, growth, and biomass, accompanied by elevated H2O2 and MDA accumulation, highlighting the essential role of StMAPKK1 in heat stress adaptation. These findings highlight StMAPKK1’s potential as a key genetic target for breeding heat-tolerant potato varieties, offering a foundation for improving crop resilience in warming climates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cell Physiology and Stress Adaptation of Crops)
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18 pages, 11606 KiB  
Article
Emerging Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N1 Clade 2.3.4.4b Causes Neurological Disease and Mortality in Scavenging Ducks in Bangladesh
by Rokshana Parvin, Sumyea Binta Helal, Md Mohi Uddin, Shadia Tasnim, Md. Riabbel Hossain, Rupaida Akter Shila, Jahan Ara Begum, Mohammed Nooruzzaman, Ann Kathrin Ahrens, Timm Harder and Emdadul Haque Chowdhury
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(8), 689; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12080689 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 499
Abstract
Scavenging domestic ducks significantly contribute to the transmission and maintenance of highly pathogenic H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b avian influenza viruses in Bangladesh, a strain of growing global concern due to its broad host range, high pathogenicity, and spillover potential. This study investigates the molecular [...] Read more.
Scavenging domestic ducks significantly contribute to the transmission and maintenance of highly pathogenic H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b avian influenza viruses in Bangladesh, a strain of growing global concern due to its broad host range, high pathogenicity, and spillover potential. This study investigates the molecular epidemiology and pathology of HPAI H5N1 viruses in unvaccinated scavenging ducks in Bangladesh, with the goal of assessing viral evolution and associated disease outcomes. Between June 2022 and March 2024, 40 scavenging duck flocks were investigated for HPAI outbreaks. Active HPAIV H5N1 infection was detected in 35% (14/40) of the flocks using RT-qPCR. Affected ducks exhibited clinical signs of incoordination, torticollis, and paralysis. Pathological examination revealed prominent meningoencephalitis, encephalopathy and encephalomalacia, along with widespread lesions in the trachea, lungs, liver, and spleen, indicative of systemic HPAIV infection. A phylogenetic analysis of full-genome sequences confirmed the continued circulation of clade 2.3.2.1a genotype G2 in these ducks. Notably, two samples of 2022 and 2023 harbored HPAIV H5N1 of clade 2.3.4.4b, showing genetic similarity to H5N1 strains circulating in Korea and Vietnam. A mutation analysis of the HA protein in clade 2.3.4.4b viruses revealed key substitutions, including T156A (loss of an N-linked glycosylation site), S141P (antigenic site A), and E193R/K (receptor-binding pocket), indicating potential antigenic drift and receptor-binding adaptation compared to clade 2.3.2.1a. The emergence of clade 2.3.4.4b with the first report of neurological and systemic lesions suggests ongoing viral evolution with increased pathogenic potential for ducks. These findings highlight the urgent need for enhanced surveillance and biosecurity to control HPAI spread in Bangladesh. Full article
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17 pages, 2071 KiB  
Article
Melatonin Enhances Drought Tolerance by Regulating the Genes Underlying Photosynthesis and Antioxidant Defense in Rubber Tree (Hevea brasiliensis) Seedlings
by Dejun Li, Zhihui Xia, Xuncheng Wang, Hong Yang and Yao Li
Plants 2025, 14(14), 2243; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14142243 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 381
Abstract
Melatonin (MT) can enhance plant stress tolerance by activating the internal defense system, but its application in rubber trees has been barely reported up to now. In this study, we found that the relative electrical conductivity (REC), H2O2, and [...] Read more.
Melatonin (MT) can enhance plant stress tolerance by activating the internal defense system, but its application in rubber trees has been barely reported up to now. In this study, we found that the relative electrical conductivity (REC), H2O2, and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents were significantly higher in the leaves of rubber tree seedlings under drought stress compared to the control (water treatment), whereas chlorophyll contents were obviously lower in the leaves under drought stress compared to the control. MT partly relieves the aforementioned drought-induced adverse effects by dramatically reducing chlorophyll degradation, H2O2 accumulation, MDA content, and REC. Comparative transcriptomes among the PEG (P), MT (M), and PEG + MT (PM) treatments against the control showed that 213, 896, and 944 genes were differently expressed in rubber tree seedlings treated with M, P, and PM in contrast to the control. Among the 64 differently expressed genes (DEGs) being common among the three comparisons, the expression profiles of 25 were opposite in MH compared with PH. Intriguingly, all the KEGG pathways of the DEGs mentioned above belonged to metabolism including energy metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and the metabolism of cofactors and vitamins. Exogenous application of MT mainly regulated the genes associated with photosynthesis and the anti-oxidative defense system, thereby enhancing the antioxidant protection of rubber tree seedlings under drought stress. These results suggest that exogenous melatonin application can effectively enhance drought tolerance by heightening ROS scavenging to decrease H2O2 accumulation in rubber tree seedlings. Our results elucidate the molecular mechanisms of MT’s roles in drought stress, which help to employ exogenous MT to boost drought tolerance in the rubber tree. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metabolic Analysis of Plant Development and Defense Responses)
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21 pages, 2632 KiB  
Article
Natural Deep Eutectic Solvent-Based Extraction of Malva sylvestris L.: Phytochemical Content, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Potential
by Neli Memdueva, Milena Tzanova, Zvezdelina Yaneva, Nikolina Rusenova, Neli Grozeva and Toncho Dinev
Separations 2025, 12(7), 187; https://doi.org/10.3390/separations12070187 - 20 Jul 2025
Viewed by 331
Abstract
Malva sylvestris L. is a herbaceous plant, distributed worldwide, rich in biological active compounds, and known for its health benefits. In this study, extracts from different parts (leaves, flowers, and roots) of this plant were prepared using green classic (70% ethanol) and natural [...] Read more.
Malva sylvestris L. is a herbaceous plant, distributed worldwide, rich in biological active compounds, and known for its health benefits. In this study, extracts from different parts (leaves, flowers, and roots) of this plant were prepared using green classic (70% ethanol) and natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs) based on choline chloride and acetic acid (NADES1) or glycerol (NADES2). Their antioxidant, antibacterial (against B. cereus, S, aureus, E. coli, and P. aeruginosa), and antifungal activity (against P. chrysogenum, F. oxysporum, A. parasiticus, A. flavus, A. niger A. carbonarius, and A. ochraceus) were compared. Ethanolic extracts were characterized with the highest total contents of phenols, flavonoids, and condensed tannins. Ethanolic and NADES flower extracts were the richest in the antioxidants tested. Alkaloids were extracted in low quantities. The experimentally determined antioxidant potential of the extracts proved the highest DPPH scavenging activity of ethanolic extracts and the lowest of NADES1 extracts. The ABTS scavenging capacity of NADES1 and ethanolic extracts displayed comparable results, while NADES2 extracts were characterized as having the highest FRAP activity. NADES1 extracts manifested pronounced antibacterial activity, partially due to the low pH of the pure solvent, as well as inconsistent antifungal activity—from moderate to a complete lack of activity. A strong positive correlation was reported between the DPPH radical scavenging capacity and phenolic compound content. Future detailed investigations on the mechanism of the antimicrobial activity of NADES1 extracts are necessary to clarify the observed phenomenon of the decreased antifungal potential of NADES1 extracts compared to the pure solvent NADES1. Full article
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22 pages, 1835 KiB  
Article
Homogeneous and Heterogeneous Photo-Fenton-Based Photocatalytic Techniques for the Degradation of Nile Blue Dye
by Georgia Papadopoulou, Eleni Evgenidou and Dimitra Lambropoulou
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(14), 7917; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15147917 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 309
Abstract
In this study, the degradation of Nile Blue dye was investigated using homogeneous and heterogeneous photocatalytic methods based on the photo-Fenton reaction. More specifically, for homogeneous photocatalysis, the classical photo-Fenton (UV/Fe2+/H2O2) and modified photo-Fenton-like (UV/Fe2+/S [...] Read more.
In this study, the degradation of Nile Blue dye was investigated using homogeneous and heterogeneous photocatalytic methods based on the photo-Fenton reaction. More specifically, for homogeneous photocatalysis, the classical photo-Fenton (UV/Fe2+/H2O2) and modified photo-Fenton-like (UV/Fe2+/S2O82−) systems were studied, while for heterogeneous photocatalysis, a commercial MOF catalyst, Basolite F300, and a natural ferrous mineral, geothite, were employed. Various parameters—including the concentrations of the oxidant and catalyst, UV radiation, and pH—were investigated to determine their influence on the reaction rate. In homogeneous systems, an increase in iron concentration led to an enhanced degradation rate of the target compound. Similarly, increasing the oxidant concentration accelerated the reaction rate up to an optimal level, beyond which radical scavenging effects were observed, reducing the overall efficiency. In contrast, heterogeneous systems exhibited negligible degradation in the absence of an oxidant; however, the addition of oxidants significantly improved the process efficiency. Among the tested processes, homogeneous techniques demonstrated a superior efficiency, with the conventional photo-Fenton process achieving complete mineralization within three hours. Kinetic analysis revealed pseudo-first-order behavior, with rate constants ranging from 0.012 to 0.688 min−1 and correlation coefficients (R2) consistently above 0.90, confirming the reliability of the applied model under various experimental conditions. Nevertheless, heterogeneous techniques, despite their lower degradation rates, also achieved high removal efficiencies while offering the advantage of operating at a neutral pH without the need for acidification. Full article
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19 pages, 3463 KiB  
Article
A Reliability Assessment of a Vessel’s Main Propulsion Engine
by Rabiul Islam and Samuel Martin
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(7), 1278; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13071278 - 30 Jun 2025
Viewed by 253
Abstract
Ocean-going vessels rely on marine diesel engines, referred to as the main engine, to carry the vessel’s load and ensure safe travel. These engines play a critical role, as their operation impacts on all aspects of the vessel’s functionality. To meet increasing demands [...] Read more.
Ocean-going vessels rely on marine diesel engines, referred to as the main engine, to carry the vessel’s load and ensure safe travel. These engines play a critical role, as their operation impacts on all aspects of the vessel’s functionality. To meet increasing demands for extended run times while maintaining reliability, it is essential to address the risks of main engine failure. Previous studies have highlighted numerous accidents resulting from such failures. Consequently, the reliability of the main propulsion engine is a crucial component of safe vessel operation. This study addresses the lack of methodologies for predicting engine reliability using failure running hours (FRHs). A data-driven model was developed using FRH data collected from marine engineers during on-board maintenance operations. Additionally, fault tree analysis (FTA) was employed to calculate the reliability of individual subsystems and the overall main propulsion engine. The findings indicate that the lube oil system, freshwater cooling system, scavenge system, and fuel system reach 0% reliability at approximately 2000 h, 14,000 h, 2500 h, and 1400 h of operation, respectively. Additionally, the reliability of the main propulsion engine drops to 0% after around 900 h of operation. By incorporating this prediction model, ship operators can better schedule maintenance, significantly enhancing engine reliability and reducing maritime accidents. This approach contributes to safer and more efficient operations for commercial marine systems. This study represents a vital step toward improving the reliability of ocean-going vessels. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)
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26 pages, 2898 KiB  
Article
Phytochemical Characterization, Bioactivities, and Nanoparticle-Based Topical Gel Formulation Development from Four Mitragyna speciosa Varieties
by Pimporn Anantaworasakul, Weeraya Preedalikit, Phunsuk Anantaworasakul, Sudarshan Singh, Aekkhaluck Intharuksa, Warunya Arunotayanun, Mingkwan Na Takuathung, Songwut Yotsawimonwat and Chuda Chittasupho
Gels 2025, 11(7), 494; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11070494 - 26 Jun 2025
Viewed by 487
Abstract
Mitragyna speciosa (kratom) is a traditional medicinal plant rich in bioactive alkaloids and phenolics, known for their antioxidant and anti-aging properties. This study aimed to develop nanoparticle-based topical gels from ethanolic extracts of four kratom varieties, including Kan Daeng (KD), Hang Kang (HK), [...] Read more.
Mitragyna speciosa (kratom) is a traditional medicinal plant rich in bioactive alkaloids and phenolics, known for their antioxidant and anti-aging properties. This study aimed to develop nanoparticle-based topical gels from ethanolic extracts of four kratom varieties, including Kan Daeng (KD), Hang Kang (HK), Tai Bai-yao (KY), and Kan Keaw (KG). Kratom NPs were prepared using a solvent displacement method. The resulting nanoparticles (NPs) exhibited sizes of 201.9–256.2 nm, polydispersity indices (PDI) below 0.3, and a zeta potential between −22.6 and −29.6 mV. The phytochemical analysis revealed that KG and KY extracts contained the highest total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC), which were mostly retained after NP formulation. The HPLC analysis confirmed HK as the richest source of mitragynine (9.97 ± 0.10% w/w), while NP formulations displayed slightly reduced levels. Antioxidant activities assessed by DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays revealed enhanced radical scavenging in nanoparticle formulations, with IC50 values ranging from 151.23 to 199.87 µg/mL (DPPH) and 207.37 to 272.83 µg/mL (ABTS). All formulations exhibited a significant inhibition of collagenase (80.56 ± 1.60 to 97.23 ± 0.29%), elastase (45.46 ± 6.53 to 52.19 ± 1.20%), and hyaluronidase (83.23 ± 2.34 to 91.67 ± 3.56%), with nanoparticle forms showing superior enzyme inhibition. Notably, nanoparticle formulations exhibited superior inhibitory effects compared to crude extracts. HaCaT cytotoxicity tests confirmed high biocompatibility (IC50 > 700 µg/mL), especially for KD and KG NPs. The NP-loaded gels demonstrated acceptable physicochemical stability after heating/cooling cycle testing, with pH (7.27 to 7.88), viscosity (10.719 to 12.602 Pa·s), and favorable visual and textural properties. In summary, KG and KY cultivars emerged as the most promising cosmeceutical candidates due to their superior phytochemical content, antioxidant capacity, enzyme-inhibitory activities, and formulation performance. These findings support the potential use of KG NP and KY NP-loaded gels as multifunctional cosmeceutical agents for antioxidant protection, anti-aging, and skin rejuvenation. Full article
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37 pages, 18599 KiB  
Article
Diclofenac Immune-Mediated Hepatitis: Identification of Innate and Adaptive Immune Responses at Clinically Relevant Doses
by Jürgen Borlak and Reinhard Spanel
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(12), 5899; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26125899 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 645
Abstract
Diclofenac is an effective medication for pain and inflammation. However, its use has been linked to hepatitis. To gain insight into diclofenac’s ability to cause hepatitis, we investigated the regulation of major effectors of the immune system following daily treatment of minipigs at [...] Read more.
Diclofenac is an effective medication for pain and inflammation. However, its use has been linked to hepatitis. To gain insight into diclofenac’s ability to cause hepatitis, we investigated the regulation of major effectors of the immune system following daily treatment of minipigs at 3 and 15 mg/kg for 28 days. Histopathology evidenced lobular inflammation, and through a combination of immunogenomics and immunopathology, we detected marked innate and adaptive immune responses. We identified 109 significantly regulated genes linked to neutrophil, monocyte, Kupffer cell, and lymphocyte responses and 32 code for cytokine- and interferon-γ-signaling. In support of wound repair, immunopathology evidenced manifest upregulation of macrophage migration inhibitory factor and CD74. Furthermore, the strong expression of IgG and IgM underscored humoral immune responses. Diclofenac caused an activation of the complement system, especially the C1 inhibitor of the classical pathway and C3 with critical functions in liver regeneration. The marked expression of complement factor B and H of the alternate pathway modulated B-cell responses. Likely, the upregulation of factor H protected hepatocytes from injury by limiting complement-mediated damage of inflamed cells. Additionally, diclofenac treatment elicited marked hepatic expression of lysozyme and KLF6. The latter earmarks M1-polarized Kupffer cells. We observed an extraordinary induction of calprotectin/S100A9 and of the monocyte/macrophage CD163 scavenger receptor, and therefore, we detected innate immune sensing of damaged cells. Lastly, we noted an unprecedented induction of the acute phase reactant SAA1 and DEC-205, which recognize apoptotic and necrotic cells. Together, our results offer mechanistic insights into immune-mediated liver injury patterns following diclofenac treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Toxicology)
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22 pages, 27621 KiB  
Article
Exploration of the Effects of Different Beauveria bassiana Strains on Dioryctria sylvestrella Larvae from the Perspective of Oxidative Stress
by Ruting Chen, Meiling Wang, Hanwen Zhang, Jianjiao Xu, Xiaomei Wang, Defu Chi and Jia Yu
Insects 2025, 16(6), 640; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16060640 - 18 Jun 2025
Viewed by 622
Abstract
(1) Background: The larvae of Dioryctria sylvestrella typically bore into the shoots and cones of Pinus koraiensis, increasing tree breakage risk and reducing cone yield. (2) Methods: Five Beauveria bassiana strains were evaluated for virulence against fourth-instar larvae. And the levels of [...] Read more.
(1) Background: The larvae of Dioryctria sylvestrella typically bore into the shoots and cones of Pinus koraiensis, increasing tree breakage risk and reducing cone yield. (2) Methods: Five Beauveria bassiana strains were evaluated for virulence against fourth-instar larvae. And the levels of T-AOC and MDA in the larvae infected by each strain were measured. To assess larval responses to different strains, we measured the activities of six enzymes (SOD, CAT, POD, PPO, CarE, GST) and the levels of GSH and H2O2 in larvae treated with each strain. Additionally, the infection process of highly pathogenic B. bassiana in larvae was explored using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). (3) Results: Strain CGMCC3.2055 demonstrated the highest toxicity to larvae, achieving a cumulative corrected mortality of 80.56% on the 4th day and an LT50 of 3.248 days. The T-AOC of larvae treated with strain CGMCC3.2055 was inhibited within 48 h. The relative MDA content in this group was significantly higher than that in other strain-treated groups at 6, 12, and 24 h. In Bb01-treated larvae, H2O2 accumulation at 6 and 24 h post-infection was influenced by POD activity rather than GSH levels; in BbZ1-treated larvae, the activities of CAT and POD were upregulated at 6 and 36 h, while the activity of SOD was downregulated, but the content of H2O2 increased significantly, resulting in accumulation; in CFCC81428-treated larvae, a decline in T-AOC coincided with substantial H2O2 accumulation over 48 h, while a concomitant increase in GSH content bolstered tolerance to lethal oxidative damage; in CGMCC3.2055-treated larvae, H2O2 only accumulated significantly at 24 and 48 h, yet upregulated CAT and POD were insufficient to effectively scavenge the excess H2O2; and in bio-21738-treated larvae, SOD-driven dismutation generated substantial H2O2 from 12 to 48 h, leading to pronounced accumulation from 6 to 48 h, yet limited upregulation of POD (only at 6 and 12 h) and CAT (only at 12 and 48 h) were insufficient to mitigate H2O2 buildup. PPO activity was upregulated within 48 h in all treatment groups except for BbZ1, where no upregulation was observed at 12 and 48 h. GST activity was upregulated in all treatment groups except for CGMCC3.2055, where a downregulation was observed at 12 h post-infection. CarE activity was significantly upregulated within 48 h in both CFCC81428 and CGMCC3.2055 groups; in the Bb01 group, CarE was upregulated only at 6 and 48 h; in the BbZ1 group, CarE was downregulated only at 48 h; and in the bio-21738 group, CarE showed no upregulation at 24 and 48 h. Through SEM, the infection process of the strain CGMCC3.2055 on the surface of the larvae was further determined, which mainly included adhesion, the appearance of bud-like protrusions, the growth of germ tubes along the epidermis and penetration of the epidermis, as well as the colonization of the strain and its emergence from the surface of the larvae. (4) Conclusions: This study first screened the highly pathogenic B. bassiana strain CGMCC3.2055 by evaluating its virulence to larvae and post-infection T-AOC and MDA levels. It also clarified the strain’s infection process and the larvae’s immune responses to various strains. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Behavior and Pathology)
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17 pages, 3979 KiB  
Article
Sugar Alcohols as Crosslinking Delay Additives for Fracturing Fluids
by Tariq Almubarak, Mohammed I. Alabdrabalnabi, Abdualilah Albaiz and Mohammed Yami
Gels 2025, 11(6), 457; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11060457 - 15 Jun 2025
Viewed by 503
Abstract
The development of thermally stable fracturing fluids is essential for the effective stimulation of deep and low-permeability reservoirs. The stabilizing additives used in these fluids typically fall into three categories: crosslinking delay molecules, oxygen scavengers, and pH buffers. However, many conventional additives raise [...] Read more.
The development of thermally stable fracturing fluids is essential for the effective stimulation of deep and low-permeability reservoirs. The stabilizing additives used in these fluids typically fall into three categories: crosslinking delay molecules, oxygen scavengers, and pH buffers. However, many conventional additives raise toxicity and environmental concerns, prompting the search for safer alternatives. This study investigates the use of sugar alcohols, commonly used as low-calorie sweeteners, as environmentally responsible additives for high-temperature fracturing fluids. A guar-based fluid system was formulated at a pH of 10 and evaluated using a high-pressure high-temperature (HPHT) rheometer under simulated field pumping conditions at 300 °F for a 90 min period. The viscosity was measured at a shear rate of 100 s−1, with intermittent low-shear rates introduced to assess the structural recovery and fluid integrity. The effect of sugar alcohol concentration on crosslinking delay was examined across systems containing varying amounts of a zirconium-based crosslinker ranging from 1 to 4 gpt. The results demonstrated that sugar alcohols effectively delayed crosslinking, allowing for controlled viscosity development and improved stability at elevated temperatures. When optimized at concentrations of 2 ppt of the sugar alcohol with 4 gpt of the crosslinker, the fluid generated a peak viscosity of 600 cP after 2.5 min and maintained a viscosity above 300 cP throughout the 90 min test. Breaker results showed a controlled viscosity reduction, with final viscosity values reaching 10 cP. The proppant settling experiments confirmed the suspension of more than 95% of the proppant during the treatment window. These findings highlight the potential of sugar alcohols as effective and environmentally safer crosslinking delay additives for hydraulic fracturing applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Gels for the Oil and Gas Industry)
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16 pages, 756 KiB  
Article
New Insight into the Microstructure Changes and Molecular Mobility of Polyamides Exposed to H2S Scavengers
by Marina Perassoli de Lazari, Antonio Henrique Monteiro da Fonseca Thomé da Silva, Rodrigo Henrique dos Santos Garcia, Sylvia Correa dos Santos Teixeira, João Eduardo de Oliveira, Érica Gervasoni Chaves, Luiz Antônio de Oliveira Nunes, Hercílio de Angeli Honorato, Sonia Maria Cabral de Menezes, Aline Pinde Lima, Luiz Silvino Chinelatto Junior and Eduardo Ribeiro de Azevedo
Polymers 2025, 17(12), 1634; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17121634 - 12 Jun 2025
Viewed by 360
Abstract
Polyamides (PAs) are widely used as barrier materials in offshore oil and gas (O&G) equipment due to their mechanical strength and chemical resistance. However, long-term exposure to hydrogen sulfide scavengers (H2S-SCVs) may significantly affect their physicochemical properties. Previous studies using thermal [...] Read more.
Polyamides (PAs) are widely used as barrier materials in offshore oil and gas (O&G) equipment due to their mechanical strength and chemical resistance. However, long-term exposure to hydrogen sulfide scavengers (H2S-SCVs) may significantly affect their physicochemical properties. Previous studies using thermal analysis and 1H time-domain NMR (1H TD-NMR) suggest that ethoxylated H2S-SCVs impose molecular constraints, increasing the glass transition temperature (Tg) and reducing chain mobility above Tg. The present study builds upon these findings using a multi-technique analytical approach, including FTIR, Raman, 1H DQ-TD-NMR, and 13C solid-state NMR (ssNMR), to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the molecular alterations in PA materials. The results clearly demonstrate that H2S-SCV exposure leads to the progressive exudation of plasticizers from the PA matrix. This plasticizer loss is a key factor contributing to the observed shift in Tg and the reduction in molecular mobility. 1H DQ-TD-NMR data confirmed an increase in the density of dynamically constrained chains over time and allowed for the characterization of heterogeneity in these constraints throughout the PA matrix. Moreover, 13C ssNMR spectra revealed the presence of immobilized H2S-SCV chemical groups within the polymer matrix, strongly supporting the early statement that the mobility constraints observed in 1H DQ-TD-NMR are associated with the formation of crosslinks induced by the H2S-SCV: H2S-SCV acts as a crosslinking agent. Taken together, our findings indicate that both plasticizer loss and H2S-SCV-induced crosslinking contribute significantly to the microstructural evolution of PAs when exposed to ethoxylated H2S-SCVs, offering important insights into their degradation mechanisms and long-term behavior in aggressive operational environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Spectroscopy for Polymers: Design and Characterization)
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13 pages, 1372 KiB  
Article
Phylogenetic Proximity vs. Environmental Adaptation: Exploring Photosynthetic Performances in Mediterranean and Andean Isolated Microalgae Under Different Light Intensities
by Giulio Panicucci, Carolina Chiellini, Cristiana Sbrana, Cristina Echeverría, Lorenzo Guglielminetti and Thais Huarancca Reyes
Phycology 2025, 5(2), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/phycology5020024 - 11 Jun 2025
Viewed by 709
Abstract
The microalgal defense strategies for different white light intensities (70–700 μmol m−2 s−1) were investigated in isolates from unexplored habitats, focusing on photosynthetic performance. Chlorella sorokiniana strain F4 from a Mediterranean inland swamp and two strains related to Pectinodesmus pectinatus [...] Read more.
The microalgal defense strategies for different white light intensities (70–700 μmol m−2 s−1) were investigated in isolates from unexplored habitats, focusing on photosynthetic performance. Chlorella sorokiniana strain F4 from a Mediterranean inland swamp and two strains related to Pectinodesmus pectinatus (PEC) and Ettlia pseudoalveolaris (ETI) from an Ecuadorian highland lake were exposed to light over 18 h. The results showed that PSII photochemical efficiency was affected with increasing light due to photoinhibition or photodamage. F4 showed a low threshold of saturation light intensity, after which NPQ was compromised and total antioxidant levels were increased, leading to a reduction in its PSII photochemistry performance. F4 exhibited limited capacity for antennae reorganization in response to light stress. ETI and PEC differed in their photophysiological responses, although they came from the same habitat. ETI maintained high Chlb to Chla (i.e., large antennae), exhibited sustained energy dissipation, and preserved a high antioxidant pool (i.e., mycosporine-like amino acids) in all lights. Differently, in PEC, NPQ, antennae rearrangement, and reactive oxygen species scavenger pool were induced in a light-dependent manner. This study revealed the complex relationship between light parameters and microalgal physiology affected by environmental constraint adaptation and phylogenetic diversity. Full article
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