Search Results (162)

The cosmetics industry has been seeking to develop products with renewable natural ingredients to reduce the use of or even replace synthetic substances. Biosurfactants can help meet this demand. These natural compounds are renewable, biodegradable, and non-toxic or have low toxicity, offering minimal risk to humans and the environment, which has attracted the interest of an emerging consumer market and, consequently, the cosmetics industry. The aim of the present study was to produce a biosurfactant from the yeast Starmerella bombicola ATCC 22214 cultivated in a mineral medium containing 10% soybean oil and 5% glucose. The biosurfactant reduced the surface tension of water from 72.0 ± 0.1 mN/m to 33.0 ± 0.3 mN/m after eight days of fermentation. The yield was 53.35 ± 0.39 g/L and the critical micelle concentration was 1000 mg/L. The biosurfactant proved to be a good emulsifier of oils used in cosmetic formulations, with emulsification indices ranging from 45.90 ± 1.69% to 68.50 ± 1.10%. The hydrophilic–lipophilic balance index demonstrated the wetting capacity of the biosurfactant and its tendency to form oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions, with 50.0 ± 0.20% foaming capacity. The biosurfactant did not exhibit cytotoxicity in the MTT assay or irritant potential. Additionally, an antioxidant activity of 58.25 ± 0.32% was observed at a concentration of 40 mg/mL. The compound also exhibited antimicrobial activity against various pathogenic microorganisms. The characterisation of the biosurfactant using magnetic nuclear resonance and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed that the biomolecule is a glycolipid with an anionic nature. The results demonstrate that biosurfactant produced in this work has potential as an active biotechnological ingredient for innovative, eco-friendly cosmetic formulations. Full article

This study reports the development of a sustainable biocatalyst system for free fatty acid (FFA) production from cocoa bean shell (CBS) oil using Burkholderia cepacia lipase (BCL). CBS was explored as both a support material and a reaction substrate. Six immobilized systems were prepared using organic (CBS), inorganic (silica), and hybrid (CBS–silica) supports via physical adsorption or covalent binding. Among them, the covalently immobilized enzyme on CBS (ORG-CB) showed the most balanced performance, achieving a catalytic efficiency (Ke) of 0.063 mM⁻¹·min⁻¹ (18.6% of the free enzyme), broad pH–temperature tolerance, and over 50% activity retention after eight reuse cycles. Thermodynamic analysis confirmed enhanced thermal resistance for ORG-CB (Ed = 32.3 kJ mol⁻¹; ΔH‡ = 29.7 kJ mol⁻¹), while kinetic evaluation revealed that its thermal deactivation occurred faster than for the free enzyme under prolonged heating. In application trials, ORG-CB reached 60.1% FFA conversion from CBS oil, outperforming the free enzyme (49.9%). These findings validate CBS as a dual-function material for enzyme immobilization and valorization of agro-industrial waste. The results also reinforce the impact of immobilization chemistry and support composition on the operational and thermal performance of biocatalysts, contributing to the advancement of green chemistry strategies in enzyme-based processing. Full article

The scientific literature currently lacks studies that evaluate the nutritional composition of the tissues of cattle raised in different systems, so that the nutritional effects can be known and used to enhance consumption and use in the diet. The aim was therefore to assess whether the mineral content of muscle tissue (longissimus lumborum) in cattle finished during the rainy season in the Eastern Amazon is influenced by different farming systems. The treatments consisted of four systems (three pasture production systems and one feedlot system). 1. native wetland pasture in Santa Cruz do Arari (Mesoregion of Marajó); 2. native wetland pasture in Monte Alegre (Mesoregion of Baixo Amazonas); 3. cultivated dryland pasture in São Miguel do Guamá (Mesoregion of Nordeste Paraense); and 4. Confinement in Santa Izabel do Pará (Metropolitan Region of Belém). The analyses were carried out on samples of the longissimus lumborum muscle tissue of 48 male, castrated, crossbred Nelore cattle, twelve per breeding system, from commercial farms, destined for meat production, finished during the rainiest period of the year (between January and June). In systems 1 and 2, the animals were slaughtered in licensed slaughterhouses; the animals in systems 3 and 4 were slaughtered in commercial slaughterhouses. Food sampling and chemical analysis, soil sample collection and analysis, longissimus lumborum muscle tissue collection, sample preparation and digestion, and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry were evaluated. The experimental design was completely randomized in a linear model with four rearing systems and one period (rainy). The data was compared using the Statistical Analysis Systems (SAS) program. All analyses were carried out considering a significance level of 0.05. Samples of the diets offered (pasture and concentrate) were also collected. The Amazon systems influenced the macro- and micromineral content in the muscles of cattle (p < 0.05). The interaction between pasture systems vs. confinement showed differences in the minerals calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), phosphorus (P), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), and manganese (Mn) (p < 0.05). However, there was no difference in the values of sodium (Na), potassium (K), and sulfur (S) between the rearing systems (p > 0.05). By contrast, the cultivated pasture system vs. extensive pasture showed differences in all the elements evaluated (p < 0.05). The rearing systems of the Eastern Amazon influenced the mineral content of beef, which continues to be an excellent source of macro- and microminerals and can compose the human diet. Full article

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) pods are an underexploited by-product of legume production with significant antioxidant potential. Their recovery and characterization support sustainable waste valorization in agri-food systems. This study aimed to optimize the extraction of phenolic compounds (PCs) with antioxidant capacity (AOC) from cowpea pods and identify key bioactives through experimental and theoretical approaches. First, high-intensity ultrasound extraction was optimized using response surface methodology with ethanol–water mixtures. Under optimal conditions (20% amplitude, 15 min, 50% ethanol), the ethanolic extract (Eo) showed higher total phenolic content (TPC) and AOC than the aqueous extract (Wo). Subsequently, fractionation by Sephadex LH-20 chromatography yielded fractions E2 and W2 with enhanced TPC and AOC. Phytochemical profiling showed that E2 was enriched in caftaric acid, p-coumaric acid, and morin, while W2 had higher levels of caftaric, p-coumaric, and caffeic acids. Finally, density functional theory was used to assess thermodynamic parameters linked to antioxidant mechanisms (HAT, SET-PT, SPLET), revealing morin as the most effective radical scavenger, followed by caffeic and caftaric acids. These findings show that AOC depends not only on phenolic concentration but also on molecular structure and solvent interactions. Thus, cowpea pod extracts and fractions hold promise for antioxidant-rich formulations in food, nutraceutical, or cosmetic applications. Full article

Background: Ophidism is a globally neglected health problem. In Argentina, Crotalus durissus terrificus (C.d.t., South American rattlesnake) is one of the species of greatest medical importance since its venom contains mainly crotoxin (CTX), a potent enzyme–toxin with PLA₂ activity, which is responsible for its high lethality. Objective: In this work, we aimed to generate nanovenoms (NVs), complexes formed by CTX adsorbed onto 150 nm silica nanoparticles (SiNPs), and to study their physicochemical, biological, and immunomodulatory activities for potential use as adjuvants (ADJs) in antivenom (AV) production. Methods: CTX was isolated and corroborated by SDS-PAGE. Then, CTX was adsorbed on the synthetized Stöber SiNPs’ surfaces, forming a monolayer and retaining its biological activity (as observed by the MTT cell proliferation assay using the THP-1 cell line). Results: Immunomodulatory activity revealed a high pro-inflammatory (IL-1β) response induced by SiNPs followed by NVs. In the case of the anti-inflammatory response, NVs presented significant differences for TGF-β only after cell activation with LPS. No significant differences were observed in IL-10 levels. Conclusions: Thus, these results suggest that NVs together with SiNPs could increase immunogenicity and enhance immune response, turning them into potential tools for the generation of new antivenoms. Full article

Human development has led to increased production of oil and gas, mainly as energy sources, which, however, are responsible for contamination and metal corrosion in industrial, marine, and terrestrial environments. Lubricating oil, in particular, is widely used in generators and industrial machines in the electric sector and is responsible for contamination not only in industrial environments but also in many terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. In this context, this study aimed to apply the Starmerella bombicola ATCC 222214 biosurfactant to inhibit metal corrosion in seawater and in an Accelerated Corrosion Chamber (ACC). For this purpose, its toxicity against the microcrustacean Artemia salina, its dispersion capacity, and its ability to promote oil biodegradation in a saline environment were investigated. The biosurfactant, when applied at twice its Critical Micellar Concentration (CMC), caused low mortality (30.0%) of microcrustaceans in a saline environment, and, in its crude form, the biosurfactant ensured the dispersion of no less than 77.56% of residual engine oil in seawater. Oil biodegradation by autochthonous microorganisms reached 94.39% in the presence of the biosurfactant in seawater. Furthermore, the biosurfactant, when used at twice its CMC, acted satisfactorily as a corrosion inhibitor by reducing the mass loss of galvanized iron specimens (plates) in seawater in a static system to only 0.36%. On the other hand, when the biosurfactant was added at the CMC as an atmospheric corrosion inhibitor, the reduction in mass loss of carbon steel plates treated in the ACC was 17.38% compared to the control containing only a biodegradable matrix based on vegetable resin. When the biosurfactant was incorporated into different paints applied to galvanized iron plates placed in contact with the salt spray produced in the ACC, the best result was obtained using the biomolecule at a concentration of 3% in the satin paint, ensuring a plate mass loss (29.236 g/m²) that was almost half that obtained without surfactant (52.967 g/m²). The study indicated the use of yeast biosurfactant as a sustainable alternative in combating the contamination of marine environments and metal corrosion, with the aim of preserving the environment and improving the quality of life in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Full article

In plants, the transition from the juvenile to adult stage involves physiological and anatomical changes initiated and partially controlled by evolutionarily conserved microRNAs. This process is of particular significance for the successful propagation of woody plant species that have transitioned to vegetative maturity and are recalcitrant to propagation. Conserved miRNAs differentially expressed between rejuvenated and mature Ilex paraguariensis plants were identified using high-throughput sequencing of small RNA libraries. The expression of miR156/miR157/miR528 was high in the leaves of juvenile plants and gradually decreased as the plant transitioned from juvenile to adult stages. In contrast, miR172 was predominantly expressed in adult plants. This variation confirmed that adults transitioned back to a juvenile phase after serial-rooted cuttings, allowing the plants to regain juvenile characteristics. Rejuvenation promotes the formation of adventitious roots and improves root structure, which supports the overall growth of the plant and results in greater vigour. The results will offer insights for further investigation into the molecular mechanisms regulating vegetative phase change in I. paraguariensis and other recalcitrant woody plant species. This knowledge could facilitate the earlier identification of rejuvenated material by analysing a wider range of genotypes and maturation stages, enhancing the efficiency of Ilex paraguariensis mass propagation. Full article

Background: The optimal diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for prostate cancer (PCa) in patients aged ≥75 years (mild-old and oldest-old) are still contentious. Resource allocation and ideal treatment for older patients are challenges, mainly due to their comorbidities and reduced life expectancy. This survey aims to assess current clinical practices and the experiences of healthcare providers in the diagnosis and management of elderly patients with PCa. Materials and Methods: In Northeast Italy, members of the Gruppo Uro-Oncologico del Nord-Est (GUONE) conducted a survey involving 104 physicians of different specialties (Nuclear Medicine, Medical Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Radiology, Urology) between 1 November 2024 and 30 November 2024. The survey encompassed 51 questions, evaluating various diagnostic and therapeutic scenarios. Results: Digital rectal exam (DRE) was recommended by 35.9% of physicians for patients aged 75 or older at risk of PCa. PSA testing was continued in 76.3% of these patients. For 36.5% of the physicians, there should be no age limit for prostate biopsy. Moreover, 42.6% of physicians recommended a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-guided prostate biopsy regardless of age. A prostate biopsy was deemed mandatory before initiating any form of hormonal therapy by 57.7% of the participants. For 22.3% and 34.7% of physicians, there should be no age limit for prostate MRI and PET/CT for staging purposes. Interestingly, PET/CT was not recommended in 52% of cases as a staging tool for patients older than 85 years. For patients without comorbidities, the age limit to consider radical prostatectomy (RP) was 75, with 58.6% of physicians in favor. There were no definitive limits for radiotherapy (RT). Chemotherapy had an age limit for 81.6% of the respondents; for 18.4%, 22.5%, and 26.5% of physicians, age limits were 75, 80, and 85 years, respectively. The use of androgen receptor pathway inhibitors (ARPIs) had no definitive age limits for 46.5% of respondents. For patients with no comorbidities and low-volume metastatic PCa, the preferred option was androgen deprivation therapy + ARPIs + RT. The follow-up schedule after RP or RT exhibited heterogeneity with no consensus regarding the frequency of PSA testing or the age at which it should be discontinued. Conclusions: This survey highlights the need for consensus guidelines in diagnosing and managing mild-old and oldest-old elderly PCa patients. With the aging population, standardized protocols are essential to ensure optimal care. Full article

This study examines the desiccation tolerance of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus eggs, two major arbovirus vectors, in a subtropical region of Argentina to understand their survival under varying relative humidity (RH) conditions (35%, 68%, and 82%). Laboratory experiments revealed that Ae. aegypti eggs exhibited significantly higher survival rates across all RH levels and exposure times compared to Ae. albopictus. After 1 month, Ae. aegypti eggs maintained 88% survival at 35% RH, while Ae. albopictus survival dropped to 38%. This disparity was more pronounced at low RH, where Ae. albopictus eggs experienced a rapid decline in survival over time. The results highlight the importance of RH as a key factor influencing the persistence of both species in the environment. The coexistence of Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus in Puerto Iguazú suggests that microhabitats with distinct humidity conditions may favor one species over the other. These findings provide crucial insights for predicting mosquito population dynamics under changing climate conditions and developing more effective vector control strategies to reduce arbovirus transmission in subtropical regions. Full article

This study develops a model to predict and explain short-term fluctuations in the Brazilian local currency interest rate term structure. The model relies on the potential relationship between these movements and key macroeconomic factors. The methodology consists of two stages. First, the Svensson model is applied to fit the daily yield curve data. This involves maximizing the R² statistic in an OLS regression, following the Nelson–Siegel approach. The median decay parameters are then fixed for subsequent estimations. In the second stage, with the daily yield curve estimates in hand, another OLS regression is conducted. This regression incorporates the idea that Svensson’s betas are influenced by macroeconomic variables. Full article

Spills involving fuels and lubricating oils in industrial environments caused by the fueling of machines, inadequate storage and the washing of equipment are significant sources of environmental pollution, impacting soil and water bodies. Such incidents alter the microbiological, chemical and physical properties of affected environments. The use of biosurfactants is an effective option for the cleaning of storage tanks and the remediation of contaminated soils and effluents. The scope of this work was to assess the production and application of a Starmerella bombicola ATCC 22214 biosurfactant to remediate marine and terrestrial environment polluted by oil. The production of the biosurfactant was optimized in terms of carbon/nitrogen sources and culture conditions using flasks. The performance of the biosurfactant was tested in clayey soil, silty soil, and standard sand, as well as smooth surfaces and industrial effluents contaminated with oils (fuel oils B1 for thermal power generation, diesel, and motor oil). The ideal culture medium for the production of the biosurfactant contained 2% glucose and 5% glycerol, with agitation at 200 rpm, fermentation for 180 h and a 5% inoculum, resulting in a yield of 1.5 g/L. The biosurfactant had high emulsification indices (86.6% for motor oil and 51.7% for diesel) and exhibited good stability under different pH values, temperatures and concentrations of NaCl. The critical micelle concentration was 0.4 g/L, with a surface tension of 26.85 mN/m. In remediation tests, the biosurfactant enabled the removal of no less than 99% of motor oil from different types of soil. The results showed that the biosurfactant produced by Starmerella bombicola is a promising agent for the remediation of environments contaminated by oil derivatives, especially in industrial environments and for the treatment of oily effluents. Full article

Over the past few decades, peanut smut, caused by Thecaphora frezzii, has evolved from an emerging disease to a major global threat to peanut production. However, critical knowledge gaps persist regarding the anatomical pathways and host responses involved in infection, colonization, and sporulation. This study examines the pathosystem and histopathology of the biotrophic phase of T. frezzii in the susceptible cv. Granoleico. Anatomical analyses were conducted using light microscopy, confocal laser scanning, and scanning electron microscopy. Our findings reveal that T. frezzii enters the host through the peg rather than the ovary tip, invading during the R2-subterranean phase. Fruit colonization occurs at the R3-stage when the mechanical layer between the mesocarp and endocarp has not yet formed. Hyphal entry into the seed takes place between the R3-medium and R3-late pod stages via the funiculus, leading to extensive seed coat colonization without penetrating the embryo. Once inside, hyperplasia and hypertrophy are triggered, coinciding with teliospore formation. Teliosporogenesis disrupts nutrient translocation, arresting embryo development. The hyphae colonize tissues intracellularly, utilizing living cells of the vascular bundles and following the peanut’s photoassimilate transport pathway. Investigating these structural responses in phenotypically contrasting peanut genotypes may provide key insights into the anatomical barriers and defense mechanisms that determine disease susceptibility and resistance, ultimately contributing to the development of resistant cultivars. Full article

In this article, we give a brief review of a well-known integral inequality that gives information about the integral of the product of two functions using synchronous functions, the Chebyshev inequality. We have compiled the most relevant information about fractional and generalized integrals, which are one of the most dynamic topics in today’s mathematical sciences. After presenting the classical formulation of the inequality using Lebesgue integrable functions, the most general results known from the literature are collected in an attempt to present the reader with a current overview of this research topic. Full article

This work describes the development of a method for the extraction of methylxanthines from cocoa bean shell (CBS) by employing the novel Energized Dispersive Guided Extraction (EDGE) system. The mixtures were composed of ethanol–methanol–water and the ratio was optimized using a simplex-centroid design. Doehlert design (DD) was used to optimize the variables of temperature and time while using methylxanthine content obtained by HPLC-DAD as an analytical response. The optimized mixture consisted of water–ethanol in a 3:2 ratio. The optimum operating conditions for extraction were achieved at a temperature of 148.5 °C and 382 s. Under optimal conditions, 20.14 mg g⁻¹ DM of theobromine and 3.53 mg g⁻¹ DM of caffeine were found in the CBS extract. Methylxanthines were quantified with good linearity, LOQs, LODs, precision, and accuracy. The EDGE system, a newly automated extraction instrument, has proven to be very efficient for the recovery of theobromine and caffeine, and is considered a green extraction procedure, as demonstrated by the analytical greenness metric for sample preparation. Full article