Search Results (331)

Mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs), a class of secondary metabolites characterized by a cyclohexenone or cyclohexenimine ring structure bound to amino acid residues, are widely distributed in algae. These compounds exhibit strong ultraviolet-absorbing and antioxidant activities, making them attractive candidates for natural sunscreen formulations. However, the low productivity of MAAs in microalgae severely hampers commercial viability. Asterarcys sp., a fast-growing, heat- and light-tolerant microalga, has recently been demonstrated to produce high levels of MAAs under UV irradiation. In this study, phosphorus limitation was found to stimulate rapid MAAs accumulation in Asterarcys sp. SCSIO-46548. After eight days of cultivation, microalgal cells grown in phosphorus-free medium (0 mg L⁻¹) showed a sixfold higher MAAs content (1.08% DW) compared to the group supplied with 5.60 mg L⁻¹ phosphorus (0.18% DW). However, the accumulation of MAAs began to plateau under phosphorus deprivation. Based on integrated homology alignment with cyanobacteria and functional domain validation, a putative biosynthetic pathway for mycosporine-serine in Asterarcys sp. SCSIO-46548 was proposed. Importantly, the gene expression of desmethyl-4-deoxygadusol synthase (DDGS) exhibited a 2.75-fold upregulation under phosphorus limitation. Complementary bioinformatic analyses further characterized the subcellular localization and major physicochemical properties of the candidate enzymes involved. In conclusion, phosphorus limitation is an effective strategy to enhance MAAs production in Asterarcys sp. SCSIO-46548 by upregulating the expression of key biosynthetic genes, such as DDGS. This finding provides an effective solution to the low MAAs productivity in microalgae cultivation. Full article

The development of protective coatings that integrate self-healing and environmental tolerance is vital for extending substrate lifespan. In this study, a multifunctional hydrogel composite coating is developed based on a waterborne polyacrylate dynamic covalent network containing oxime–carbamate bonds. The functional monomer MEOC, which contains an oxime–carbamate dynamic bond, was synthesized and incorporated into the waterborne polyacrylate matrix to form a hydrogel network (OC-PA) with intrinsic self-healing capability. Prussian blue (PB) and nano-SiO₂ were incorporated to form a photothermal functional layer, imparting hydrophobicity and converting light into heat for de-icing, while also activating dynamic bond rearrangement within the substrate. When the MEOC content was 7 wt% and the PB content was 2 wt%, the coating temperature rose to 110 °C within 2 min under 0.6 W/cm² irradiation, and the scratch healed within 5 min. After 1 h of fracture repair, the tensile strength reached 6.68 MPa, with a repair rate as high as 92.91%, and de-icing time was reduced from 343 s to 183 s. The coating achieved a water contact angle >100°. At −20 °C, the icing delay time increased by 215%. The hydrogel coating also exhibited excellent abrasion resistance, chemical stability, UV aging resistance, and anti-fouling properties, offering a durable solution for demanding environments. Full article

Hippophae tibetana Schltdl. is a cold-tolerant deciduous shrub endemic to the Tibetan Plateau, playing a vital ecological role in high-altitude environments. This study utilized the Biomod2 platform to model its current and future potential distribution under climate change, integrating 34 environmental variables across bioclimatic, topographic, edaphic, anthropogenic, and ultraviolet (UV) dimensions. Among ten candidate species distribution models (SDMs), the random forest (RF) algorithm exhibited the highest predictive accuracy and stability. An ensemble model (EM) combining RF, GBM, MARS, and FDA further improved predictive performance (ROC = 0.992, TSS = 0.923, and Kappa = 0.886). Key determinants of habitat suitability included altitude, temperature, UV radiation, and biodiversity, with RF response curves revealing distinct nonlinear thresholds. Optimal suitability occurred at around a 4000 m elevation, decreasing beyond this range, while temperature and UV exhibited similar unimodal responses. Under the SSP2-4.5 climate scenario, the suitable habitat is projected to expand from the 2050s to the 2090s, particularly in eastern Qinghai, southwestern Gansu, northwestern Sichuan, and central–southern Tibet. The species’ distribution centroid is anticipated to shift southwestward toward Qinghai Province, with more rapid migration projected after the 2050s. These findings underscore the complex interplay of environmental factors shaping H. tibetana distribution and offer valuable insights for conservation planning in the ecologically fragile Tibetan Plateau. Full article

Phenol derivatives display a prominent role in many biologically active molecules. Boron-containing molecules are considered valuable precursors for their synthesis. Therefore, the rise of photochemistry has led many researchers to develop novel, sustainable protocols that exploit the advantages offered by different irradiation sources. For this reason, the application of novel photocatalysts that promote challenging organic transformations is highly valued. Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄) is a semiconductor photocatalyst widely used in organic chemistry for promoting complex organic transformations. Herein, we report a green and efficient methodology for the hydroxylation of boronic acids to the corresponding hydroxyl derivatives, using g-C₃N₄ as the photocatalyst. The heterogeneous photocatalyst (g-C₃N₄) was prepared by thermal polycondensation of melamine and characterized by XRD, FESEM/EDS, and UV–Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. Green LED irradiation was employed as the energy source and air as the active oxidant. A variety of substrates were tested, showcasing excellent functional group tolerance in the aerobic photochemical protocol. Mechanistic studies were conducted to investigate the reaction pathway and to identify the oxygen species generated. Full article

Stone heritage deteriorates through physical, chemical, and biological processes driven by water, climate, and microbial colonization. Multifunctional polymeric coatings combining hydrophobic and antimicrobial moieties have emerged as a promising conservation strategy, yet a substantial gap remains between laboratory innovation and real-world performance. This review critically examines advances from 2021 to 2026, covering wetting theory, antimicrobial mechanisms, and material architectures, including molecularly integrated systems, Sol–Gel hybrids, nanocomposites, and layered systems. Long-term studies on the Aurelian Walls in Rome and stone in Reims show that biocidal efficacy typically declines within one to two years despite the chemical persistence of the coatings. In parallel, hydrophobic performance often deteriorates over time due to UV exposure, particulate deposition, and surface chemical changes, leading to increased wettability and reduced protective efficiency. Substrate porosity governs durability and visual compatibility (ΔE* < 5 threshold), while treatments can reshape microbial communities, favoring stress-tolerant meristematic fungi. Regulatory pressure on fluorinated compounds drives the development of more sustainable alternatives. Emerging directions include stimuli-responsive systems, self-healing materials, slippery interfaces, and precision polymer architectures. However, future progress will depend on tailoring formulations to major lithotypes, improving compatibility with porous substrates, and validating performance through standardized accelerated aging and multi-year field trials. Bridging laboratory design with environmental exposure data and conservation practice will be essential for achieving durable and culturally acceptable protection strategies. Full article

Background/Objectives: Onion (Allium cepa) peems are an underutilized by-product rich in polyphenols. This study evaluated the physicochemical profile, and bioactive potential (antidiabetic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticoagulant) of Moroccan red onion peels using integrated in vivo, in vitro, and in silico approaches. Methods: Moisture, pH, ash content, and mineral elements were determined, followed by phytochemical screening and three extractions: decoction E0, aqueous Soxhlet E1, and hydroethanolic Soxhlet E2 (70/30; ethanol/water, v/v). The measurement of polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins was carried out using colorimetric methods, while the molecular profile was studied by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to ultraviolet detection and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HPLC/UV-ESI-MS). Biological activities were determined using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, ferric reducing antioxidant power, and total antioxidant capacity assays (in vitro antioxidant); microdilution (antimicrobial); prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time (anticoagulant); and α-amylase/α-glucosidase enzymatic inhibition and oral glucose tolerance tests on normoglycemic rats. Also, acute toxicity was evaluated, and molecular interactions between these proteins and ligands (docking, molecular dynamics, and MM-PBSA) were analyzed. Results: Physicochemical analyses showed an acidic pH (3.06) and high ash content (15.21%), with the concentration of regulated elements remaining within FAO/WHO limits. The extractive content was between 6.90% E0 and 19.18% E2. The E1 extract had the maximum amount of total polyphenols (178.95 mg GAE/g); on the other hand, E2 was the richest in flavonoids by 121.43 mg QE/g. The HPLC/ESI-MS analysis of E0 revealed 20 compounds, among which flavonoids (84.93%) were predominant, with isorhamnetin (30.26%), followed by quercetin and its glycosylated forms. E1 showed the most potent antioxidant effects (IC₅₀ DPPH, 22.38 µg/mL, as that of ascorbic acid). The antibacterial activity of E0 was especially potent towards Enterobacter cloacae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MIC 75 µg/mL). A mild dose-dependent anticoagulant effect was seen. Antidiabetic activity was found to be outstanding: α-amylase (IC₅₀ 62.75 µg/mL) and α-glucosidase (IC₅₀ 8.49 µg/mL, stronger than acarbose) inhibitions were corroborated in vivo by a considerable decrease in the glycemic area under the curve. The molecular docking study in silico demonstrated strong molecular interactions, especially for quercetin 4′-O-glucoside with good binding energies. Conclusions: A. cepa peels from Morocco can be considered a safe plant matrix containing bioactive flavonoids with strong antioxidant and selective antimicrobial activities and promising antidiabetic effects, supported by molecular modeling. Full article

Traditional chemical hair dyes are associated with potential health risks, while botanical alternatives are often hampered by poor stability and limited color longevity. In this study, discarded squid ink was used to prepare bionic hair colorants of high performance. By synergizing ultrasound disruption with enzymatic hydrolysis, the crude ink aggregates were transformed into highly uniform squid ink melanin nanoparticles (SIMNPs) with size and zeta potential of ~174 nm and −37.5 mV, respectively. This effectively improved the solubility but reduced the steric limitation of natural melanin. To overcome the weak affinity between melanin and human hair, a biomimetic interface where Fe(III) ions act as supramolecular bridges was further engineered to stably bind the SIMNPs to hair keratin. Under optimized conditions (pH 8.0, 45 °C, and 80 min), the dyed hair achieved a natural deep black with a total color difference (ΔE*) of 68.79 ± 0.29, which was maintained at 63.19 ± 0.27 even after 13 consecutive water washing cycles. Unlike destructive oxidative dyes, this SIMNP dyeing system assisted by coordination-driven assembly preserved the native α-helical architecture and disulfide bond networks of hair keratin. Furthermore, the deposited SIMNP layer effectively protected hair fibers from ultraviolet (UV) damage due to its powerful UV-shielding capacity. Crucially, in vitro and in vivo evaluations confirmed the exceptional biosafety of this formulation, demonstrating robust cellular tolerance and absence of murine skin irritation. The work demonstrates a green, low-damage paradigm for the development of bio-based hair colorants of high performance and presents a promising pathway for the high-value utilization of marine by-products. Full article

Peptide deformylase (PDF) belongs to a conserved enzyme family critical for N-terminal methionine excision (NME), an essential protein maturation process in prokaryotes and eukaryotic organelles (chloroplasts, mitochondria). To explore the potential functions of OsPDFs in Oryza sativa, this study employed bioinformatics approaches and experimental validation to systematically identify and analyze the OsPDF gene family. Three OsPDF genes (OsPDF1A, OsPDF1B, OsPDF1B2) were identified in rice. These genes are exclusively distributed on chromosome 1. The biophysical properties of these proteins showed that OsPDF1A and OsPDF1B are alkaline proteins, while OsPDF1B2 is acidic, and all are hydrophilic with moderate thermostability potential. Synteny analysis revealed closer evolutionary relationships between Oryza sativa and the monocot Triticum aestivum than with dicots, reflecting conserved PDF function in gramineous plants. Analysis of cis-acting elements in the 2000 bp upstream region of OsPDF gene promoters revealed numerous elements associated with abiotic stress response and hormone regulation. Furthermore, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) data supported these findings, indicating that OsPDF1A and OsPDF1B were upregulated under low-temperature stress, and all three OsPDF genes were transcriptionally activated by heat, salt and UV-B stresses, indicating their active involvement in rice growth, development, and abiotic stress tolerance. In summary, OsPDFs exhibit significant functions in rice’s stress adaptation, growth, and development. This study not only enhances our understanding of the OsPDF gene family’s genomic, evolutionary, and functional characteristics, but also provides new perspectives and foundational data for further exploring their regulatory mechanisms in protein maturation and abiotic stress responses, as well as their potential applications in rice stress tolerance breeding. Full article

The impacts of climate change on Mediterranean weed flora were investigated to inform future weed management strategies. Projections indicate that rising temperatures and increased atmospheric CO₂ concentrations are likely to favor ruderal species characterized by rapid phenological development and high dispersal capacity. Enhanced abiotic stressors—such as elevated temperatures, water scarcity, and increased UV-B radiation—are expected to affect crops more severely than weeds, given the latter’s greater evolutionary potential to develop stress-tolerant biotypes. Moreover, the increased frequency and intensity of extreme events (e.g., drought, flooding, and soil salinization) may reduce weed community diversity, potentially leading to dominance by a limited number of highly competitive species and consequently intensifying reliance on chemical weed control. Simplification of weed communities may also increase vulnerability to the introduction and establishment of alien species, particularly those originating from hot and arid regions, some of which may be parasitic, toxic, or allergenic. Climate change-induced phenological mismatches between flowering plants and pollinators are likely to favor wind-pollinated weed species, further compromising the aesthetic and ecological quality of agricultural landscapes. Additionally, increased production of wind-dispersed allergenic pollen, together with the anticipated rise in herbicide applications, may pose significant risks to human health. An effective agronomic strategy to address future weed scenarios should include the genetic improvement in crops to enhance adaptive plasticity, exploiting germplasm from ancestral lines and related wild species. Full article

Graphene oxide (GO)–lipid hybrid nanostructures represent a promising class of multifunctional platforms for drug delivery and fluorescence-guided cellular imaging. In this study, we developed a graphene oxide-supported lipid bilayer system composed of rhodamine-labeled phosphatidylcholine (POPC-Rhod) for the delivery of the repurposed antispasmodic drug alverine citrate (ALV) to neuroblastoma cells. The hybrid nanostructures were assembled using two drug-loading strategies and characterized by UV–Vis spectroscopy, fluorescence analysis, dynamic light scattering, and atomic force microscopy to evaluate molecular interactions, vesicle size distribution, and nanomechanical properties. In vitro studies were performed using human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells and their retinoic acid-differentiated neuronal-like counterparts. Confocal microscopy confirmed efficient cellular uptake of the fluorescent lipid–graphene hybrids, while viability and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species assays revealed differentiation-dependent cellular responses. ALV-loaded hybrids induced cytotoxic effects in proliferating neuroblastoma cells, whereas differentiated neuron-like cells exhibited greater tolerance and, at moderate concentrations, preserved viability despite increased oxidative stress. These findings demonstrate that graphene oxide–lipid hybrids can act as fluorescence-traceable drug delivery platforms and highlight the potential of alverine as a candidate for repurposing in neural cancer models. The system presented here provides a proof-of-concept framework for the development of multifunctional nanocarriers integrating therapeutic delivery with imaging capabilities. Full article

Yeasts play a vital role in food fermentation processes, where their viability, stress tolerance, and metabolic performance directly influence product quality and process efficiency. Controlling and modulating yeast behavior represents a challenge in the food industry, particularly in non-thermal processing contexts. Ultraviolet (UV) technology has traditionally been applied as a microbial control tool; however, yeast response mechanisms to UV irradiation extend beyond simple inactivation. Depending on wavelength, dose, and treatment conditions, UV exposure can lead to complete inactivation, partial reduction in viability, or induce stable phenotypic changes associated with cellular stress responses and Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) damage processing. This review examines current knowledge on yeast–UV interactions across different food matrices, highlighting how UV treatments influence yeast physiology and functionality. In addition, recent studies suggest that UV-induced genetic alterations, when properly controlled, may contribute to yeast diversification and functional modulation without the use of genetically modified organisms. The review discusses technological opportunities, practical limitations, and future research needs, emphasizing the dual role of UV technology as a tool for yeast control and as a potential driver of functional modulation. Full article

To overcome the limitations imposed by the intermittent nature of sunlight in photocatalytic applications, this research constructs a round-the-clock purification system. We integrated an optimized S-scheme CoFe₂O₄/BiVO₄ (CFO/BV) heterojunction (synthesized via ultrasonic self-assembly at a 0.5:0.5 ratio) with a thermal energy storage (TES) unit consisting of SiO₂-encapsulated Na₂SO₄·10H₂O phase change materials (PCMs). Comprehensive characterization techniques, including XRD, HRTEM, UV-Vis DRS, EPR, and DSC, confirmed the successful formation of the interface, a broadened visible-light response (λ > 650 nm), efficient radical production, and a high latent heat storage capacity (>200 J/g). Under simulated solar irradiation, the composite exhibited superior performance, degrading 98% of the Rhodamine B within 6 h (k = 0.00994 min⁻¹), significantly surpassing single-component counterparts. More importantly, during the subsequent 12 h dark period, the heat released from the PCM maintained the reaction temperature above 35 °C, driving a 64% degradation efficiency via a thermocatalytic pathway. The system demonstrated robust stability (>90% efficiency after five cycles), excellent magnetic recoverability (98%), and high tolerance to saline textile wastewater (<10% activity loss). Furthermore, Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) indicated a 40% reduction in energy consumption compared to conventional UV/TiO₂ processes, highlighting a sustainable strategy for continuous wastewater remediation through synergistic photocatalysis and thermocatalysis. Full article

Background/Objectives: The use of over-the-counter vitamin D₃ supplements has increased substantially in recent years. Compared with pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements are subject to less stringent regulatory oversight, raising concerns regarding labeling accuracy, consumer knowledge, and patient safety. This study aimed to assess public knowledge and preferences related to vitamin D₃ supplementation and to evaluate the content accuracy and short-term stability of commonly used products. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey containing 39 questions was conducted in Hungary between 1 May and 30 June 2024. Based on survey responses, the most frequently used vitamin D₃ supplements (five soft gel capsules and four tablets) were selected for laboratory analysis. Vitamin D₃ content was quantified using a validated high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method with UV detection. Soft gel capsules were additionally exposed to natural daylight for one month to assess short-term photostability. Results: In total, 367 participants (mean age 31.0 ± 12.5 years) completed the survey, and only 3.5% answered correctly all knowledge-based questions. Six commonly reported supplement brands accounted for approximately 90% of responses. Measured vitamin D₃ content remained within the tolerance limit (−20% to +50%). Following sunlight exposure, three of four capsule products showed no substantial vitamin D₃ loss, while one exhibited a 14.7% decrease. Conclusions: Most analyzed vitamin D₃ supplements complied with labeled content claims, but substantial knowledge gaps were identified that may affect patient safety. The validated HPLC method supports pharmacovigilance-oriented quality monitoring of vitamin D₃ supplements and underscores the need for improved professional counseling. Full article

Pyruvate decarboxylase (PDC) is an intracellular non-oxidizing enzyme that relies on thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP), which is important for plant survival under anaerobic conditions and increasingly recognized for its role in broader stress reaction. However, the PDC gene family of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), an important waterlogging-sensitive agricultural product, has not yet been discovered. In this study, eight SlPDC genes were discovered within the tomato genome. Gene structure analysis revealed that SlPDC members exhibited varying intron–exon configurations, with SlPDC8 possessing the most complex structure containing seven introns. Promoter analysis revealed a multitude of cis-acting elements responsive to light, hormones, and various stresses. Particularly, the promoter of SlPDC8 contains both ABRE and TGACG/CGTCA-motif. Tissue-specific expression profiles showed that SlPDC8 was mainly highly expressed in the roots. Expression profiling demonstrated that SlPDC genes respond divergently to different abiotic stresses, including salt, hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), drought, waterlogging, cold, heat, darkness, and UV radiation stresses. Notably, SlPDC1, SlPDC7, and SlPDC8 were significantly upregulated by waterlogging, with SlPDC8 showing the most robust induction. Functional validation through VIGS proved that SlPDC8-silenced plants exhibited significantly impaired growth, decreased photosynthetic pigment content, severe leaf wilting, and poor root development under waterlogging conditions compared to control plants. Furthermore, silencing SlPDC8 led to increased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and decreased antioxidant enzyme activities, indicating heightened oxidative damage under waterlogging stress. We conclusively demonstrate that SlPDC8 plays a critical positive regulatory role in waterlogging tolerance by maintaining cellular homeostasis and enhancing antioxidant capacity. Full article

The brewing process generates substantial by-products rich in potentially bioactive compounds (e.g., polyphenols and fermentation metabolites), providing a sustainable and appealing source of cosmetic ingredients. Oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions containing 20% (w/w) aqueous extracts from Bionda Triplo Malto beer, wort, and key brewing by-products (hops, yeast, and spent grain) were developed and evaluated using a combined in vitro–in vivo approach. Aqueous extracts were first screened on human immortalized dermal fibroblasts (BJ-5ta) at 0.25–1 mg/mL for cytocompatibility and antioxidant activity. Within this concentration range, no significant changes in cell viability or intracellular antioxidant capacity under UV stress were detected, suggesting cytocompatibility but limited inherent activity. When incorporated into O/W emulsions and tested at an active-equivalent concentration of 10 mg/mL, the formulations increased fibroblast metabolic activity and antioxidant response. In contrast, free extracts at 10 mg/mL showed concentration-dependent cytotoxicity for some matrices, with beer- and yeast-based emulsions demonstrating the strongest effects. The emulsions exhibited good physicochemical stability (pH ~5.7–6.2; viscosity 4750–5150 mPa·s), passed the ISO 11930:2012 challenge test, and were well tolerated in patch testing. In a double-blind, randomized split-forearm study on 50 healthy volunteers over 30 days, beer, yeast, and spent grain-based formulations improved skin parameters versus baseline. TEWL decreased (e.g., beer: 16.22 ± 5.12 to 10.77 ± 2.22 mg·m⁻²·h⁻¹; yeast: 16.29 ± 5.66 to 10.18 ± 1.08; spent grain: 14.45 ± 4.34 to 11.66 ± 2.28), hydration increased (beer: 35.15 ± 5.93 to 42.26 ± 3.78; yeast: 33.27 ± 4.87 to 42.92 ± 2.48; spent grain: 34.22 ± 5.19 to 41.16 ± 3.17, and elasticity improved for beer and yeast formulations (62.33 ± 3.27 to 70.24 ± 2.12 N/m) and yeast (61.21 ± 4.72 to 72.13 ± 5.55 N/m). Based on these findings, brewing-derived ingredients demonstrate potential as cosmetic actives, with formulation critically determining their clinical efficacy. Full article