Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Article Types

Countries / Regions

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Search Results (10,204)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = L12 phase

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
20 pages, 10282 KB  
Article
Wound-Healing Effects of Birch Bark and Propolis Extracts on Epidermolysis Bullosa Keratinocytes
by Thomas Kissas, Dimitra Kiritsi, Ioannis Athanasiou, Alexander Nyström, Alexandros Onoufriadis and Ioannis Mourtzinos
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(13), 5746; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27135746 (registering DOI) - 25 Jun 2026
Abstract
Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a group of genetic diseases characterized by skin fragility. Although therapeutic options aim to accelerate wound-healing, improvement is needed; therefore, birch bark and propolis were investigated due to their beneficial biological properties. A representative ethanolic extract was analyzed by [...] Read more.
Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a group of genetic diseases characterized by skin fragility. Although therapeutic options aim to accelerate wound-healing, improvement is needed; therefore, birch bark and propolis were investigated due to their beneficial biological properties. A representative ethanolic extract was analyzed by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (RP-HPLC-DAD) for chemical profiling of the raw materials. A hydrophobic natural deep eutectic solvent (HNaDES) for birch bark extraction, as well as a hydrogel and a bigel enriched with propolis and birch bark extract, were prepared and characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. Cytotoxicity and wound-healing potential were evaluated using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and scratch assays in six human keratinocyte cell lines: two from healthy individuals, two from recessive dystrophic ΕΒ patients (RDEB), and two from laminin-332-deficient junctional EB patients (JEB). RP-HPLC-DAD revealed the presence of phenolic compounds (e.g., chrysin, pinocembrin, pinobanksin) and pentacyclic triterpenes (e.g., betulin and betulinic acid), characteristic of propolis and birch bark, respectively. FT-IR confirmed HNaDES formation and indicated physical interactions within the gels. All systems exhibited no cytotoxicity at 1 μg/mL and increased cell vitality. Moreover, in keratinocytes derived from JEB patients, hydrogel improved wound- healing significantly at 24 h, whereas bigel showed significant improvement at 8 h. The developed systems could be promising topical treatments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Insight into Skin Infection and Inflammation)
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 1928 KB  
Article
A Combined Injectable and Fractional 1470 nm Laser Approach for the Management of Facial Atrophic Acne Scars: Prospective Ultrasound-Based Evaluation
by Paweł Kubik, Wojciech Gruszczyński, Aleksandra Pawłowska, Maciej Malinowski, Brygida Baran, Agnieszka Pawłowska-Kubik, Łukasz Kodłubański and Bartłomiej Łukasik
Biomedicines 2026, 14(7), 1441; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14071441 (registering DOI) - 25 Jun 2026
Abstract
Background: Acne vulgaris affects up to 80% of individuals aged 11–30 years and frequently results in permanent scarring with significant psychosocial impact. This prospective single-arm case series evaluated the safety and high-frequency ultrasound-assessed morphological changes in a combined protocol integrating subcision, PEGDE-crosslinked hyaluronic [...] Read more.
Background: Acne vulgaris affects up to 80% of individuals aged 11–30 years and frequently results in permanent scarring with significant psychosocial impact. This prospective single-arm case series evaluated the safety and high-frequency ultrasound-assessed morphological changes in a combined protocol integrating subcision, PEGDE-crosslinked hyaluronic acid supplemented with calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA), and fractional 1470 nm diode laser therapy in patients with facial atrophic acne scars. Methods: Twenty patients (aged 18–42 years, Fitzpatrick phototypes I–II) with moderate-to-severe atrophic acne scars underwent subcision of fibrotic adhesions using a 22G cannula combined with a single subcutaneous injection of 2 mL PEGDE-crosslinked hyaluronic acid with CaHA microparticles on day 0, followed by two sessions of fractional 1470 nm diode laser therapy on days 7 and 28. Scar depth and diameter were assessed using high-frequency ultrasound (48 MHz) at baseline and on days 28, 49, 77, and 139. Results: All participants completed the protocol without serious adverse events. High-frequency ultrasound demonstrated progressive reductions in mean scar depth (from 0.35 to 0.05 mm; −86%) and scar diameter (from 4.27 to 1.06 mm; −75%) by day 139, with reductions continuing beyond the active treatment phase. In linear mixed-effects models accounting for within-patient clustering of the two lesions assessed per participant, the reductions in both depth and diameter were statistically significant at every follow-up timepoint relative to baseline (all p < 0.001). These ultrasound findings were not corroborated by a control group, blinded assessment, validated clinical grading, or patient-reported outcomes. Conclusions: In this single-arm case series, the combined subcision, PEGDE-crosslinked HA–CaHA filler, and fractional 1470 nm diode laser protocol was well tolerated and associated with progressive, sustained reductions in high-frequency ultrasound-measured scar depth and diameter. As an uncontrolled, unblinded study without validated clinical grading or patient-reported outcomes, these findings are preliminary and require confirmation in larger, controlled trials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomedical Engineering and Materials)
Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 1939 KB  
Article
The Wheat Nitro-Proteome: Protein Nitration Profiles During Drought and Rehydration
by Marta Gietler, Justyna Fidler-Jarkowska and Małgorzata Nykiel
Plants 2026, 15(13), 1951; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15131951 (registering DOI) - 24 Jun 2026
Abstract
Protein nitration within the nitro-proteome is a dynamic component of drought and recovery responses in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), yet its role in stress adaptation remains unclear. Young wheat seedlings demonstrate a degree of drought resistance, characterized by physiological and morphological adaptations, [...] Read more.
Protein nitration within the nitro-proteome is a dynamic component of drought and recovery responses in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), yet its role in stress adaptation remains unclear. Young wheat seedlings demonstrate a degree of drought resistance, characterized by physiological and morphological adaptations, during the initial growth phases. However, this tolerance begins to diminish significantly in 5-day-old seedlings. The mechanisms behind this phenomenon are unclear. Our results indicate that it may be related to protein nitration. This study compared the physiological and nitrosative responses of 4-day-old drought-tolerant and 6-day-old sensitive wheat seedlings subjected to drought followed by rehydration. In tolerant seedlings, in contrast to sensitive ones, the water saturation deficit after rehydration returned to the control levels, confirming their drought tolerance. Moreover, NO2 accumulation in the recovery group was significantly higher in sensitive seedlings than in the control group. Results indicate that drought resistance correlates with protein nitration during the recovery phase. Nitro-proteomic analysis revealed that in tolerant seedlings, protein nitration is limited. The most significant differences are observed in the recovery group, with predominant downregulation of protein nitration in tolerant seedlings and significant upregulation of numerous proteins in sensitive seedlings. Upregulated nitration of vital proteins involved in energy production, photosynthesis (such as the Rubisco large subunit), ATP synthases, and cytosolic malate dehydrogenase may lead to disturbances in energy metabolism and thus prevent an effective response to changing environmental conditions. These findings suggest that regulation of protein nitration during recovery may contribute to drought resilience in wheat and could represent a potential target for improving stress tolerance. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 1680 KB  
Review
Heat-Induced Gelation of Legume Protein–Starch Systems: Mechanisms, Structure–Function Relationships and Food Application
by Niorie Moniharapon, Nova Geovano Setyawan Hunitetu, Lavaraj Devkota and Sushil Dhital
Gels 2026, 12(7), 562; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels12070562 (registering DOI) - 24 Jun 2026
Abstract
Plant-based food systems increasingly rely on heat-induced gelation of protein–starch mixtures, yet no focused synthesis has linked legume protein composition to mixed gel structure and function. This review critically analyses heat-induced gelation mechanisms in legume protein–starch systems, using the legumin-to-vicilin (L:V) ratio and [...] Read more.
Plant-based food systems increasingly rely on heat-induced gelation of protein–starch mixtures, yet no focused synthesis has linked legume protein composition to mixed gel structure and function. This review critically analyses heat-induced gelation mechanisms in legume protein–starch systems, using the legumin-to-vicilin (L:V) ratio and starch origin as integrating design parameters. Legume storage proteins range from legumin-rich faba bean and Lupinus angustifolius, which form dense, disulfide-stabilised networks with high storage moduli, to vicilin-dominated mung bean, which produces weaker gels reliant on starch reinforcement. Pulse starches, characterised by high amylose content (24–45%), C-type crystallinity, and rapid amylose retrogradation upon cooling, act as a parallel gel-forming phase whose contribution scales inversely with protein network strength. Four protein–starch interaction modes, namely segregative phase separation, water competition, granule filler effects, and molecular complexation, jointly determine microstructure and rheological behaviour. A three-axis compositional framework defined by the L:V ratio, starch amylose content, and protein-to-starch ratio maps the gel design space. Variables favouring plant-based meat analogue performance, including high elastic modulus, yield stress, and hardness, are systematically opposed by dysphagia food requirements, including low yield stress, adequate lubrication, and soft fracture. This demonstrates that both application domains traverse the same compositional space in opposite directions. Critical research gaps include chickpea and lentil performance in meat analogue systems, mechanistic modelling of protein-matrix-mediated starch digestibility, and retrogradation kinetics during food storage. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gels: Diversity of Structures and Applications in Food Science)
15 pages, 7969 KB  
Article
Development and Validation of a Liquid Chromatography/Tandem Mass Spectrometry Method for the Quantification of the GLP-1 Analog Semaglutide in Rat Plasma, and Its Application in a Pharmacokinetic Study
by Jong-Min Kim, Kyoung-Ah Kim, Na-Young Yu, Dae-Duk Kim, Jeong Yeon Kang, Seung-Ki Baek, Jin-Woo Park and Ji-Young Park
Pharmaceutics 2026, 18(7), 770; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics18070770 (registering DOI) - 24 Jun 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Semaglutide, a long-acting glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analog for type 2 diabetes and obesity, requires sensitive and high-throughput bioanalytical methods to support pharmacokinetic studies. However, previously reported liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) assays have been limited by lengthy run times (~18 min) and [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Semaglutide, a long-acting glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analog for type 2 diabetes and obesity, requires sensitive and high-throughput bioanalytical methods to support pharmacokinetic studies. However, previously reported liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) assays have been limited by lengthy run times (~18 min) and suboptimal sensitivity. This study aimed to develop and validate a rapid, sensitive LC–MS/MS method for quantifying semaglutide in plasma. Methods: Plasma samples (50 μL) were prepared by acetone-mediated protein precipitation followed by solid-phase extraction. Chromatographic separation was performed on a Cadenza CD-C18 MF column within 9 min, using positive electrospray ionization in multiple reaction monitoring mode with the transitions m/z 1029.4 → 110.1 for semaglutide and m/z 938.9 → 109.9 for liraglutide (internal standard). Validation followed the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) bioanalytical guidelines. Results: The assay showed a lower limit of quantification of 1 ng/mL with linearity across 1–500 ng/mL (R2 = 0.9999), with sharp peak shape and no carryover. Intra- and inter-day accuracies were 95.69–103.76% and 94.93–100.08%, with precision ≤4.50% and ≤5.88%. Recovery (93.05–107.95%) and matrix effects (96.34–104.12%) were consistent across quality control levels, and the analyte was stable under all tested conditions. The method was successfully applied to a pharmacokinetic study in Sprague–Dawley rats following subcutaneous administration of 50 μg semaglutide. Conclusions: The validated method offers shorter analysis time, improved sensitivity, and reduced sample volume compared with previously reported assays, supporting its application in preclinical pharmacokinetic studies of semaglutide and related GLP-1 analogs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

21 pages, 4692 KB  
Article
Solar-Driven Rhodamine B Degradation Using Biogenically Recovered Mixed Metal(Loid) Sulfides Derived from Metallurgical Waste
by María Rosario Sánchez-Macías, Adrián Ramírez Parada, Diego Hernández Martinez, Santos J. Castillo, Francisco J. Almendariz Tapia, Francisco J. Cervantes and Aurora M. Pat-Espadas
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(13), 5689; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27135689 (registering DOI) - 24 Jun 2026
Abstract
Biogenically recovered mixed metal(loid) sulfides (BPS) obtained from metallurgical effluents were evaluated as sustainable photocatalysts for the solar-driven degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB). The material, recovered using biogenic sulfide produced by sulfate-reducing bacteria in an upflow anaerobic sludge bed reactor, was mainly composed [...] Read more.
Biogenically recovered mixed metal(loid) sulfides (BPS) obtained from metallurgical effluents were evaluated as sustainable photocatalysts for the solar-driven degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB). The material, recovered using biogenic sulfide produced by sulfate-reducing bacteria in an upflow anaerobic sludge bed reactor, was mainly composed of Sb2S3 and Bi-containing sulfide phases and exhibited a fibrous morphology and a narrow direct band gap of 1.306 eV. Under solar irradiation, BPS achieved RhB degradation efficiencies above 98% under the evaluated conditions (0.8 g L−1 catalyst and 5 mg L−1 dye), consistently outperforming reagent-grade Sb2S3. Photocatalytic degradation followed pseudo-first-order kinetics (R2 > 0.90), and the apparent reaction rate constant was more than five times higher than that of the reference material under the best-performing conditions. A preliminary reusability assessment and post-reaction characterization after three photocatalytic cycles revealed no significant morphological or compositional changes in BPS. These results demonstrate that waste-derived metal(loid) sulfides recovered through a biogenic process can serve as effective solar photocatalysts, highlighting a promising circular-economy strategy for transforming metallurgical residues into value-added materials for water remediation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Materials for Water Treatment and Metal/Nutrient Recovery)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

18 pages, 14411 KB  
Article
Synthesis of SiO2/g-C3N4/Bi2SiO5@Bi2O3 Nanohybrid: A Bifunctional Catalyst for Hydrogen Generation and Antitumor Applications
by Mohamed N. Goda, Mohamed Khairy and Babiker Y. Abdulkhair
Inorganics 2026, 14(7), 171; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14070171 (registering DOI) - 24 Jun 2026
Abstract
The fascinating features of nanomaterials have attracted immense interest across various fields, including nanoelectronics, magnetite-aided nanocatalysis, and nanomedicine. Herein, a 10% SiO2/g-C3N4/Bi2SiO5@Bi2O3 triple nanohybrid was formulated via a simple protocol [...] Read more.
The fascinating features of nanomaterials have attracted immense interest across various fields, including nanoelectronics, magnetite-aided nanocatalysis, and nanomedicine. Herein, a 10% SiO2/g-C3N4/Bi2SiO5@Bi2O3 triple nanohybrid was formulated via a simple protocol employing acacia powder as a capping/fuel agent. The XRD confirmed the presence of g-C3N4, Bi2SiO5, Bi2O3, and SiO5 phases, and the TEM image shows densely packed, almost spherical nanoparticles of an average size of 9.2 nm. There was activity of the SiO2/g-C3N4/Bi2SiO5@Bi2O3 in the field of hydrogen generation via NaBH4 hydrolysis, and antitumor antiproliferation activity against HepG-2 and MCF-7 cells. The graphitized Bi2O3/SiO2 exhibited HGRs of 303, 615, 785, and 1740 mL min−1 g−1 at 20, 30, 40, and 50 °C, respectively. Hydrolyzing NaBH4 doses of 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, and 1.0 at 40 °C resulted in a dramatic evolution at HGRs of 526, 785, 1786, and 4000 mL min−1 g−1, respectively. Furthermore, the g-C3N4/Bi2O3/SiO2 antiproliferative effect against HepG-2 and MCF-7 cells showed a positive impact at 3.9 and 7.9 µg/mL, with IC50 values of 82.4 and 59.6 µg/mL, respectively. Moreover, the maximum dose of 500 μg/mL of SiO2/g-C3N4/Bi2SiO5@Bi2O3 resulted in 93.8% inhibition of MCF-7 cells, whereas the same dose yielded 91.7% inhibition of HepG-2 cells. It is significant to note that, given the lower cost of SiO2/g-C3N4/Bi2SiO5@Bi2O3 relative to currently prescribed antitumor medications, these outcomes can be considered ideal for practical use as antitumor agents. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 4541 KB  
Article
Investigation of the Colorimetric Transition in Polydiacetylene Nanovesicles Induced by α-Cyclodextrin and the Inhibitory Role of Triblock Copolymer Addition
by Maria C. O. Rodrigues, Maria E. F. R. Antunes, Alex R. M. Alves, Diego C. de Morais, Frederico B. De Sousa, Garbas A. S. Junior, João P. C. Trigueiro and Paulo F. R. Ortega
Nanomanufacturing 2026, 6(3), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/nanomanufacturing6030015 (registering DOI) - 24 Jun 2026
Abstract
Polydiacetylene (PDA) nanovesicles are widely recognized as versatile chromatic sensing platforms, exhibiting a visible blue-to-red colorimetric transition in response to external stimuli such as temperature, pH, and molecular recognition events. In contrast to the conventional goal of amplifying this chromatic response, this work [...] Read more.
Polydiacetylene (PDA) nanovesicles are widely recognized as versatile chromatic sensing platforms, exhibiting a visible blue-to-red colorimetric transition in response to external stimuli such as temperature, pH, and molecular recognition events. In contrast to the conventional goal of amplifying this chromatic response, this work presents a supramolecular approach to inhibit the α-cyclodextrin (α-CD)-induced colorimetric transition in PDA systems. α-CD is known to interact with PDA vesicles through host–guest inclusion at the vesicle interface, triggering the characteristic chromatic change. Here, we show that the incorporation of an EO–PO–EO triblock copolymer (L64) into PDA suspensions enables controlled modulation of the α-CD-induced chromatic response, leading to a progressive attenuation of the blue-to-red transition as the L64 concentration increases. Isothermal titration calorimetry reveals a stronger affinity of α-CD for L64 (K = 11,300) than for PDA vesicles (K = 4000), with both interactions being spontaneous (ΔG° ≈ −21 kJ mol−1) and predominantly entropy-driven. Copolymer aggregation and phase separation occur without compromising the PDA vesicles, indicating that the observed chromatic modulation arises from supramolecular competition. This study introduces a strategy to regulate PDA affinity chromism using biocompatible triblock copolymers, offering a tunable and robust pathway for the design of responsive and safe chromatic sensing platforms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomanufacturing: Feature Papers 2025)
Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 2603 KB  
Article
Fucoidan-Mediated Biogenic Gold Nanoparticles from Padina tetrastromatica: In Vitro and In Silico Evaluation of Multifunctional Biological Activities
by Ahmed S. El Newehy, Mostafa E. Elshobary, Mona M. Ismail, Abdulelah S. Alrebaish, Adam A. Sulaiman, Dara Aldisi, Mahmoud M. A. Abulmeaty and Saly F. Gheda
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(7), 976; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19070976 (registering DOI) - 23 Jun 2026
Abstract
Purpose: This study sought to extract and characterize fucoidan from brown seaweed Padina tetrastromatica for the synthesis of fucoidan–gold nanoparticles (F-AuNPs) and to assess their physicochemical properties, as well as their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities, alongside potential molecular interactions with specific cancer-related [...] Read more.
Purpose: This study sought to extract and characterize fucoidan from brown seaweed Padina tetrastromatica for the synthesis of fucoidan–gold nanoparticles (F-AuNPs) and to assess their physicochemical properties, as well as their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities, alongside potential molecular interactions with specific cancer-related targets. Methods: The extracted fucoidan-rich fraction was characterized for its sulfate content. Citrate-stabilized plain gold nanoparticles (plain AuNPs) were prepared and characterized as non-fucoidan nanoparticle controls. Comprehensive physicochemical characterization, including UV–Vis spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta-potential analysis, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), was performed on the resultant fucoidan-functionalized AuNPs (F-AuNPs). Biological activities were assessed using different techniques: antioxidant potential (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays), anti-inflammatory effects (NO inhibition in macrophages), and anticancer efficacy against HepG2 cells (MTT and flow cytometry). Potential molecular targets relevant to these activities were further explored in silico using molecular docking against key cancer-related proteins, providing hypotheses for future experimental validation. Results: The fucoidan-rich fraction showed a sulfate content of 10.08%. Strong antioxidant activity was observed, especially in FRAP (11.20 ± 0.29 mg TE g−1 DW). F-AuNPs exhibited enhanced cytotoxicity against HepG2 cells (IC50 138.1 µg mL−1) compared to plain AuNPs (IC50 271.2 µg mL−1) and the fucoidan-rich fraction (IC50 390.2 µg mL−1), inducing G1 phase arrest. In addition, F-AuNPs reduced nitric oxide production in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages, reaching 21.42 ± 1.29% inhibition at 100 µg mL−1. As an exploratory, hypothesis-generating step, an in silico target-prioritization screen identified HPSE and MMP-2 as the highest-scoring candidate proteins, proposed solely as targets for future experimental validation. Conclusions: F-AuNPs represent a promising multifunctional nanoplatform with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative activities. The integration of in vitro biological evaluation with in silico target prediction supports the potential biomedical relevance of F-AuNPs and generates testable hypotheses regarding their molecular targets, which require experimental validation. Full article
31 pages, 3887 KB  
Article
Extraction Route Controls the Microstructure and Rheological Performance of Sodium Alginate from Beach-Cast Sargassum spp.
by Luis F. Jiménez-Contreras, Armando Ariza-Castolo, Mónica Díaz-Fernández, Erick Sarmiento-Gómez, Jesús A. Barrón-Zambrano and María A. Fernández-Herrera
Polysaccharides 2026, 7(3), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/polysaccharides7030074 (registering DOI) - 23 Jun 2026
Abstract
Sodium alginate was extracted from beach-cast Sargassum spp. collected along the coast of Puerto Progreso, Yucatán, Mexico, using two established pretreatment routes based on formaldehyde and ethanol. This study evaluates how extraction methodology controls alginate recovery, molecular structure, hydrogel rheology, macroscopic integrity, swelling [...] Read more.
Sodium alginate was extracted from beach-cast Sargassum spp. collected along the coast of Puerto Progreso, Yucatán, Mexico, using two established pretreatment routes based on formaldehyde and ethanol. This study evaluates how extraction methodology controls alginate recovery, molecular structure, hydrogel rheology, macroscopic integrity, swelling behavior, and preliminary inorganic contaminant profiles. The ethanol-based route provided the highest extraction yield, reaching 19.87 ± 0.79% w/w for AE-5, whereas the formaldehyde route reached a maximum of 15.60 ± 0.62% w/w for AF-12; statistical analysis confirmed significant differences among extraction conditions (ANOVA, p < 0.05). Despite its lower yield, the formaldehyde route produced alginate with higher intrinsic viscosity (2.13 dL/g) and viscosity-average molecular weight (1.00 × 105 g/mol) than the ethanol-derived sample (1.33 dL/g and 0.62 × 105 g/mol), indicating better preservation of polymer chain length. 1H NMR analysis showed that AE-5 had higher guluronic acid content (FG = 0.60), lower M/G ratio (0.67), and higher G-block fraction (FGG = 0.54), favoring Ca2+-mediated junction zone formation. Consequently, AE-5-derived hydrogels exhibited the highest storage modulus at 1 Hz (G′ = 23,650 Pa), compared with AF-12-derived hydrogels (13,160 Pa) and the commercial reference (14,480 Pa). However, visual inspection and swelling analysis showed that the higher small-amplitude stiffness of AE-5 did not translate into superior macroscopic integrity; these hydrogels showed greater fragmentation during handling and higher long-term swelling. In contrast, AF-12-derived hydrogels showed lower stiffness but better apparent cohesion and a more restricted swelling profile, consistent with enhanced long-range network connectivity derived from higher molecular weight. FTIR confirmed preservation of the characteristic functional groups of sodium alginate, whereas XRD provided qualitative evidence of residual crystalline inorganic phases. Selected-metal analysis by MP-AES detected Cu in both extracted alginates, while As was detected but not quantified only in AF-12; Cd and Pb were not detected under the analytical conditions employed. Overall, the results establish a route-dependent structure-property relationship in which extraction conditions govern yield, chain preservation, block architecture, viscoelastic response, swelling behavior, and preliminary contaminant profile. These findings support beach-cast Sargassum as a promising source of research-grade sodium alginate, while emphasizing that further purification, expanded contaminant profiling, arsenic speciation, biological evaluation, and direct mechanical testing are required before any food, biomedical, pharmaceutical, or environmental application can be proposed. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1087 KB  
Article
Suppression of Early TNF-Alpha Increase by a Single Evolocumab Dose in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
by Giuseppe Patti, Manuel Bosco, Alessandra Marengo, Luca Cumitini, Leonardo Grisafi, Domenico D’Amario, Martina Solli and Marco Mennuni
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(13), 4873; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15134873 (registering DOI) - 23 Jun 2026
Abstract
Background: Early initiation of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9-i) in patients with acute myocardial infarction (MI) may anticipate and maximize lipid-lowering benefit. Whether PCSK9 inhibition also exerts early anti-inflammatory effects in this setting remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the [...] Read more.
Background: Early initiation of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9-i) in patients with acute myocardial infarction (MI) may anticipate and maximize lipid-lowering benefit. Whether PCSK9 inhibition also exerts early anti-inflammatory effects in this setting remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of early PCSK9-i administration on inflammatory markers and lipid parameters in patients with acute MI undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods: In this randomized, prospective, single-center, open-label trial, patients with acute MI undergoing PCI were randomly assigned to receive a single upstream 140 mg subcutaneous dose of evolocumab immediately before PCI, on top of oral lipid-lowering therapy (LLT) (n = 30), or oral LLT alone (control group; n = 30). Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), apolipoprotein B (apoB), and lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] levels were measured at baseline and during the early post-intervention phase. Results: Baseline TNF-α values and lipid parameters were similar between the two groups. At 72 h after PCI, TNF-α levels were significantly lower in the evolocumab arm compared with controls (0.01 vs. 0.25 pg/mL; p = 0.025). Evolocumab was also associated with a greater relative reduction in LDL-C levels from baseline (−48% vs. −18%; p < 0.001) and apoB levels (−34% vs. −11%; p < 0.001). The proportion of patients achieving the LDL-C goal of <55 mg/dL at 72 h was higher in the evolocumab group than in controls (50% vs. 10%; p < 0.001). Lp(a) levels at 72 h were also lower with evolocumab (12 [10–33] vs. 28 [13.1–70] mg/dL; p = 0.032). Conclusions: In patients with acute MI undergoing PCI, upstream administration of a single evolocumab dose was associated with suppression of the early post-intervention increase in TNF-α levels, together with rapid reductions in LDL-C, apoB, and Lp(a). These findings suggest a potential modulation of the early inflammatory response by PCSK9 inhibition in addition to its lipid-lowering effects. Larger studies are needed to confirm these observations and to determine their clinical relevance. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

31 pages, 41126 KB  
Article
An Experimental Study on Blade Surface De-Icing by Combined Methods of PCMS-PUR Coating and Electric Heating Under Saline Water Conditions
by Yuqi Zhang, Zheng Sun, Zhiyuan Liu, Yan Li and Jiaqi Liu
Coatings 2026, 16(7), 744; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings16070744 (registering DOI) - 23 Jun 2026
Abstract
Offshore wind turbine blades in cold marine environments are exposed to low-temperature, high-humidity, and saline-droplet conditions, under which the melting behavior, interfacial sliding, and de-icing energy demand of saline ice differ from those of freshwater ice. Existing studies on combined phase-change coating–electrothermal de-icing [...] Read more.
Offshore wind turbine blades in cold marine environments are exposed to low-temperature, high-humidity, and saline-droplet conditions, under which the melting behavior, interfacial sliding, and de-icing energy demand of saline ice differ from those of freshwater ice. Existing studies on combined phase-change coating–electrothermal de-icing have mainly focused on freshwater icing. Here, a glass-fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) NACA0018 airfoil was tested in a recirculating low-temperature icing wind tunnel to evaluate an n-tetradecane phase-change microcapsule/polyurethane (PCMS-PUR) coating combined with electrothermal heating at a salinity of 3%. Operating parameters, including heat flux density (8, 10, and 12 kW/m2), ambient temperature (−5, −10, and −15 °C), and incoming wind speed (3, 6, and 9 m/s), were systematically varied under a constant water flow rate (60 mL/min) and spray pressure (0.3 MPa) to characterize the evolution of ice morphology, temperature response, and de-icing energy consumption. During electrothermal de-icing, saline ice was more prone to interfacial softening and lubricating meltwater-layer formation, resulting in a dominant whole-block sliding detachment mode rather than gradual local melting. The PCMS-PUR coating further promoted interfacial melting and advanced ice destabilization through latent-heat release and thermal buffering. When the heat flux density increased from 8 to 12 kW/m2, the de-icing energy consumption of the uncoated and coated blades decreased by 45.08% and 42.53%, respectively. The maximum energy-saving efficiency of the combined system reached 16.27% at 9 m/s. These findings clarify the de-icing behavior and energy-saving potential of combined phase-change coating–electrothermal systems under saline icing and provide guidance for the design of low-energy de-icing systems for offshore wind turbine blades. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 10514 KB  
Article
High-Resolution Environmental Monitoring of a Prehistoric Rock Painting Cave for Preventive Conservation (Santián Cave, Northern Spain)
by Ángel Fernández-Cortés, Sergio Sánchez-Moral, Tamara Martín-Pozas, Javier Lario, Eduardo Palacio-Pérez, Roberto Ontañón and Soledad Cuezva
Geosciences 2026, 16(7), 245; https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences16070245 (registering DOI) - 23 Jun 2026
Abstract
Sustainable public access to rock art caves requires an evaluation of how visitor presence alters cave microclimates. This study analyzed the response of Santián Cave (Cantabria, northern Spain) to controlled experimental visits conducted during the seasonal phase of reduced cave ventilation and elevated [...] Read more.
Sustainable public access to rock art caves requires an evaluation of how visitor presence alters cave microclimates. This study analyzed the response of Santián Cave (Cantabria, northern Spain) to controlled experimental visits conducted during the seasonal phase of reduced cave ventilation and elevated background CO2. Visitor impact showed a strong spatial contrast: Sector I exhibited only minor thermal anomalies (0.01–0.02 °C), whereas the inner decorated sector recorded mean increases of 0.11 °C in Conjunto I and 0.28 °C in Conjunto II, with a maximum of 0.37 °C. CO2 showed the clearest cumulative behavior, with daily increases of 268–368 ppm in Conjunto I and 327–376 ppm in Conjunto II, incomplete overnight recovery, and delayed propagation into connected sectors. Suspended particles also increased with visit intensity, from values below 300 particles L−1 for spaced groups of five visitors to a maximum of 686 particles L−1 and recovery times of 13.6 h for consecutive groups of 6–8 visitors. The results show that the most stable cave areas are highly sensitive to visits, cumulative effects become significant without adequate recovery time, and CO2 serves as the best short-term indicator for access management. The proposed thresholds should be considered preliminary and seasonally dependent. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Geoheritage, Geoparks and Geotourism)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 22336 KB  
Article
Bacterial Nanocellulose-Based Active Packaging for Vapor-Phase Delivery of Cinnamaldehyde to Control Fungal Spoilage in Bread
by Érika Leão Ajala Caetano, Joana Garrossino Magalhães, Nicolli Carriel de Souza, Jair Vaz Nogueira Junior, Angela Faustino Jozala and Denise Grotto
Molecules 2026, 31(13), 2199; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31132199 (registering DOI) - 23 Jun 2026
Abstract
Active packaging systems have emerged as a promising strategy to control microbial spoilage without direct incorporation of preservatives into food matrices. In this context, this study evaluated bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) as a nanostructured carrier for vapor-phase delivery of natural antifungal compounds in bread [...] Read more.
Active packaging systems have emerged as a promising strategy to control microbial spoilage without direct incorporation of preservatives into food matrices. In this context, this study evaluated bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) as a nanostructured carrier for vapor-phase delivery of natural antifungal compounds in bread preservation. Cinnamaldehyde (CIN), cinnamon extract and clove extract were screened against Aspergillus niger, Penicillium chrysogenum, and Rhizopus microsporus using minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and inverted halo assays. CIN demonstrated complete fungal inhibition at 0.19% (v/v), corresponding to approximately 2.0 mg/mL, outperforming plant extracts, which exhibited limited and concentration-dependent activity. When incorporated into BNC at a 1:1 ratio (50% reduced loading), CIN maintained inhibition halos comparable to the free compound, indicating effective release and preserved bioavailability. The performance of the system was further evaluated in a bread model using a non-contact active packaging approach. Fungal growth in control samples was detected by day 6 (>105 CFU/g), while incorporation of plant extracts into BNC delayed spoilage to day 9 (≈50% shelf-life extension). In contrast, breads treated with CIN, either free or BNC-incorporated, showed no detectable fungal growth throughout 21 days of storage, corresponding to a shelf-life extension of at least 15 days. These results demonstrate that antifungal efficacy in vapor-phase systems depends primarily on the intrinsic potency of the active compound, while BNC acts as an effective carrier matrix that promotes sustained retention and functional availability of CIN. The use of BNC-based active packaging for cinnamaldehyde delivery represents a promising clean-label strategy to control fungal spoilage and extend the shelf life of bread without direct incorporation into the food matrix. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodegradable Polymers in Biological Application)
Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 52826 KB  
Article
Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Reveals Dynamic Intercellular Communication Networks During Chicken Skeletal Muscle Development
by Tao Zhang, Yu Chen, Weilin Chen, Huayun Chen, Yan Zhang, Jiahao Yan, Haipeng Ji, Yueli Zhou, Rui Zhao and Genxi Zhang
Agriculture 2026, 16(13), 1365; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture16131365 (registering DOI) - 23 Jun 2026
Viewed by 61
Abstract
Intercellular communication is crucial for the coordination of skeletal muscle development. However, the intricate signaling networks that regulate chicken myogenesis are not yet fully elucidated. In this study, we utilized CellChat analysis on single-cell and single-nucleus RNA sequencing data to systematically delineate cell–cell [...] Read more.
Intercellular communication is crucial for the coordination of skeletal muscle development. However, the intricate signaling networks that regulate chicken myogenesis are not yet fully elucidated. In this study, we utilized CellChat analysis on single-cell and single-nucleus RNA sequencing data to systematically delineate cell–cell communication patterns across five critical developmental stages of chicken skeletal muscle: embryonic day 4 (E4), day 6 (E6), day 12 (E12), day 18 (E18), and post-hatch day 30 (P30). Our findings indicate that communication architectures are highly stage-specific, with mesenchymal cells acting as the predominant signaling hub during the early embryonic stages (E4–E6), whereas fibro-adipogenic progenitors become the principal communicators during mid-to-late embryogenesis (E12–E18). At E4, the communication network was relatively simple, comprising 51 ligand–receptor pairs primarily involving the neural cell adhesion molecule, slit guidance ligand, and midkine (MK) signaling pathways between myogenic progenitors and mesenchymal cells. By E6, the network had expanded significantly, encompassing 6237 ligand–receptor pairs across 51 signaling pathways, which coincided with the emergence of multiple myogenic lineages. Peak communication complexity was observed at E12, characterized by 11,675 ligand–receptor pairs and 61 signaling pathways, reflecting the secondary wave of myogenesis. Comparative analysis across developmental stages revealed key signaling transitions: the pleiotrophin and MK pathways were predominantly active during the early phase of myogenic commitment (E4–E6), whereas the collagen, laminin, and adhesion G protein-coupled receptor L pathways were more prominent during the secondary myogenesis phase (E6–E12). Notably, a significant shift in communication patterns was observed from E12 to E18, marked by a reduction in developmental pathway signaling and an increase in immune-related communications. By P30, the communication network had stabilized into a homeostatic state, centered on interactions among myofibers, stromal cells, and the vascular system. This comprehensive atlas of intercellular communication offers novel insights into the signaling dynamics underpinning chicken skeletal muscle development. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop