Search Results (254)

Light availability is a key environmental factor influencing plant functional traits and ecological strategies. To investigate how natural populations of Iris pumila respond to contrasting irradiance, we conducted an in situ reciprocal transplant experiment using clonal genotypes from two natural populations, each originating from an open dune and a shaded forest habitat. Leaves collected from each of the replanted and transplanted genotypes were analyzed for structural (specific leaf area—SLA, leaf dry matter content—LDMC), physiological (specific leaf water content—SLWC, photosynthetic pigments) and biochemical (peroxidase—POD, glutathione reductase—GR, phenolics and anthocyanins) traits. Shade-grown individuals developed thinner leaves with higher SLA and chlorophyll content, enhancing light-harvesting efficiency, whereas sun-exposed plants exhibited greater LDMC, increased POD and GR activities and higher anthocyanin levels—traits consistent with enhanced photoprotection under high irradiance. All genotypes exhibited pronounced plasticity to light intensity, with habitat exerting a stronger influence on trait expression than population origin. To evaluate oxidative balance, we proposed the ODAC index (Oxidative Damage to Antioxidant Capacity), which integrates lipid peroxidation with antioxidant capacity. ODAC values revealed consistent population-level differences, with higher values in Dune genotypes across habitats, indicating a constitutively elevated oxidative load relative to antioxidant protection and suggesting differentiation in redox regulation between populations. Overall, leaf trait variation in I. pumila appears to be primarily driven by plastic responses to light conditions, while differentiation in oxidative physiology contributes to functional divergence between populations. Full article

Agro-industrial byproducts from Colombian Passiflora species represent an underexplored source of chemically diverse metabolites with promising cosmetic and pharmaceutical potential. This study investigated the chemical profiles and photoprotective potential of polar extracts obtained from byproducts (leaves, pericarps, and seeds) of six commercially relevant Passiflora species cultivated in Colombia (P. ligularis, P. edulis var. edulis, P. edulis var. flavicarpa, P. maliformis, P. quadrangularis and P. tarminiana × P. tripartita). Butanolic fractions from leaves and pericarps and hydroethanolic seed extracts were analyzed using ¹H NMR, GC-FID, GC-MS and UHPLC-qTOF. NMR profiling revealed aromatic signals mainly associated with flavonoids and stilbenoids in leaves and pericarps, while seeds exhibited abundant fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid. Molecular networking enabled the visualization of chemical diversity and supported the identification of 74 metabolites, including flavonoids, saponins, and stilbenoids, using Global Natural Products Social Molecular Networking (GNPS), SIRIUS (Version 6.0.5) software, and comparison with the literature. In vitro spectrophotometric photoprotective evaluation using the Mansur equation at 200 ppm showed that leaf extracts exhibited the highest sun protection factor (SPF) values, followed by seeds and pericarps, consistent with their phenolic composition. All active extracts demonstrated broad-spectrum protection, with high UVA ratios and critical wavelength values. These findings highlight the potential of Passiflora byproducts as sustainable sources of natural photoprotective agents for cosmetic applications. Full article

Sunscreens are essential for photoprotection, but conventional inorganic UV filters raise concerns regarding marine toxicity. This study investigated hydroxyapatite (HAp) derived from skipjack, tongol, and salmon bone waste as a potential synergistic booster for Tinosorb^® S (TS). HAp powders were prepared via alkaline treatment and calcination at 900 °C. XRD and XRF results confirmed highly crystalline HAp as the dominant phase. While 10% HAp alone provided negligible UV protection, a pronounced synergistic effect was observed in 1:1 hybrid formulations (5% HAp:5% TS), significantly enhancing Sun Protection Factor (SPF) and Ultraviolet A Protection Factor (UVAPF). Notably, particle-size refinement of salmon-derived HAp (SM–HAp) yielded an SPF of approximately 35, comparable to a commercial HAp counterpart. This improvement was suggested to be associated with enhanced dispersion, film uniformity, and particle–matrix interactions, which might contribute to achieving PA++++ protection. All formulations complied with microbiological and heavy metal safety standards. These results indicated that fish bone-derived HAp could potentially serve as a viable and sustainable functional additive derived from marine biowaste for the development of high-performance hybrid sunscreens, promoting biomaterial valorization in the cosmetic industry. Full article

Growing interest in natural therapies has increased the demand for essential oils; however, the complex interactions within their mixtures that dictate their final efficacy remain poorly understood. This study aimed to optimize a blend of ginger, cinnamon, tea tree, and geranium essential oils to develop an active ingredient, with synergistic multifunctional bioactivities, that was relevant to cutaneous healing. Initially, the composition and cytotoxicity for individual oils were determined; subsequently, a D-optimal mixture design was employed to evaluate three biological responses related to skin recovery: ultraviolet B radiation absorption, red blood cell lysis inhibition, and catalase enzyme activity. GC-FID analysis revealed the following major components (% w/w): cinnamon (cinnamaldehyde, 77.56%), ginger (α-zingiberene, 33.77%), geranium (citronellol, 33.6%), and tea tree (terpinen-4-ol, 38.38%). Dose–response data from essential oils tested against Detroit ATCC 551 skin fibroblasts revealed a clear cytotoxic hierarchy (IC₅₀ µg/mL): cinnamon (21.03) > ginger (25.3) > tea tree (41.67) > geranium (92.51). Cinnamaldehyde content was the primary contributor to photoprotective capacity, with a maximum sun protection factor (SPF) of 4.5. Inhibition against erythrocyte membrane lysis was not attributable to a single component; maximum protection (98.4%) was achieved through synergy between oxygenated monoterpenoids (geranium and tea tree), sesquiterpenes (ginger), and aromatic aldehydes (cinnamon). Highest catalase activity (160.86 kU/g Hb) was reached in mixtures with high cinnamaldehyde and eugenol contents, whereas an antagonistic effect was observed between tea tree and geranium oils. Finally, an optimal formulation (desirability = 0.927) was identified (% w/w): 31.7% ginger, 39.1% cinnamon, 14.5% tea tree, and 14.7% geranium. Experimental validation confirmed no significant difference compared with developed predictive models. This optimized mixture constitutes a bioactive natural component with potential for use in products aimed at promoting skin health, warranting further investigation into direct models of skin healing. Full article

Background/Objectives: Insect oils have gained attention as sustainable cosmetic ingredients due to their bioactive lipid content. This study aimed to characterize oils from cricket and to evaluate their safety, biological activities, and performance in sunscreen formulations. Methods: Oils were extracted from Gryllus bimaculatus, Teleogryllus mitratus, and Acheta domesticus by cold pressing following hot-air drying. Fatty acid composition was determined using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Safety was assessed by cytotoxicity testing in normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF) and the hen’s egg chorioallantoic membrane (HET-CAM) assay. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities were evaluated by intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO^•) assays. Based on biological performance, T. mitratus oil (TMO) was incorporated into sunscreen creams containing physical and chemical ultraviolet (UV) filters. Physical stability, viscosity, pH, sun protection factor (SPF), persistent pigment darkening/ultraviolet A protection factor (PPD/UVA-PF), and blue light protection were evaluated. Results: All cricket oils were non-cytotoxic to NHDF cells and were classified as non-irritating in the HET-CAM assay. TMO exhibited the strongest antioxidant activity, reducing intracellular ROS and significantly inhibiting NO^• production in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated cells. Only TMO showed measurable UVA protection (PPD/UVA-PF = 12.1, PA+++). Sunscreen creams formulated with TMO achieved higher photoprotective efficacy than olive oil-based creams, with SPF values up to 40.51 and PPD/UVA-PF up to 39.17. The inclusion of foundation pigments further increased SPF to 43.09 and enhanced blue light protection to 35.1%. Conclusions: TMO is a safe and effective multifunctional ingredient that enhances sunscreen performance and supports sustainable cosmetic formulation. Full article

Skin pigmentation results from the melanin production by melanocytes, an essential process for protection against ultraviolet radiation and for maintaining cutaneous homeostasis. Disruptions in this balance lead to pigmentary disorders, such as hyperpigmentation, which is characterized by localized or diffuse darkening of the skin. Its most prevalent forms include melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and solar lentigines, often driven by hormonal, inflammatory, and environmental factors, particularly sun exposure. Despite being clinically benign, these conditions have a significant impact on self-esteem and quality of life. Conventional treatments rely on depigmenting agents such as hydroquinone, retinoids, and corticosteroids, as well as chemical peels, and laser or light-based therapies, frequently used in combination. However, limited efficacy, prolonged treatment durations, and potential adverse effects underscore the need for safer and more effective alternatives. In recent years, research has focused on developing novel approaches, with nanotechnology-based delivery systems and minimally invasive techniques, such as microneedling, standing out as particularly promising fields. In parallel, the growing number of interventional clinical trials reflects an increasing interest in optimizing topical depigmenting strategies. This review summarizes the main types of hyperpigmentation, the depigmenting substances currently used, and emerging therapeutic approaches with potential clinical impact. Full article

The transition to more sustainable models of production and consumption has encouraged the scientific community to seek innovative solutions that promote environmental responsibility and reduce waste. The cosmetic industry, in particular, has increasingly invested in natural and eco-friendly ingredients as alternatives to synthetic and environmentally harmful components. In this context, plant-derived bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential have gained attention for their ability to enhance photoprotection and reduce the concentration of conventional ultraviolet (UV) filters in sunscreens. Humulus lupulus L. (hop), a plant traditionally used in the brewing industry, generates large amounts of organic waste after the beer production process, especially through the dry-hopping technique. Despite often being discarded, this residual biomass retains important secondary metabolites with high biological value. Our investigation researched the sustainable valorization of hop brewing residues as a source of bioactive compounds for the development of more natural photoprotective products. We performed HLPC-MS/MS analysis and confirmed the presence of α-acids in both pure and reused hop material extracts, while a xanthohumol-like prenylated flavonoid was tentatively detected exclusively in the extract obtained from reused hop extract. In vitro tests demonstrated that sunscreens containing extract obtained from reused material significantly increased the sun protection factor (SPF) without negatively altering the critical wavelength when water was used as the solvent. None of the samples developed higher UVAPF values compared to the control. Our investigation, to the best of our knowledge, constitutes the first successful proof of concept demonstrating the use of both pure (non-reused) and reused hop material extracts as functional photoprotective adjuvants in sunscreen formulations evaluated by a robust, standardized in vitro methodology. This work highlights the dual benefit of reducing industrial waste and developing more sustainable, consumer-friendly cosmetic products. Full article

Hazelnut (Corylus avellana L.) is a major crop in the Caucasus region, but its safety is often threatened by Aspergillus flavus colonization and aflatoxin contamination. Although aflatoxins (AFs) are strictly regulated in the EU, the influence of post-harvest practices on fungal persistence and AF accumulation remains poorly defined. A three-year study was conducted to evaluate the effects of drying protocols, storage temperature, and conservation practices on fungal growth and AF occurrence in hazelnuts from three producing regions of Azerbaijan. Freshly harvested nuts were subjected to two drying regimes: good drying (sun-exposed, mixed, protected from rewetting) and bad drying (shaded, piled, rewetted). After drying, samples were stored at cold (8–10 °C) or room temperature (18–22 °C). Fungal prevalence was determined by CFU counts with morphological and qPCR identification of Aspergillus section Flavi. AFs were quantified by HPLC, and water activity (a_w) was monitored during storage. Drying emerged as the decisive factor: bad drying consistently resulted in markedly higher fungal loads for A. section Flavi, with mean counts up to 1.3 log10 (CFU/g), compared with 0.8 log10 (CFU/g) under good drying, representing a 7-fold increase. In contrast, storage temperature and shell condition had negligible effects when nuts were properly dried. Aflatoxins were consistently below the 5 µg/kg EU limit for AFB₁ in traced and well-dried samples, whereas market samples occasionally exhibited AFB₁ concentrations >450 µg/kg. These findings highlight drying efficiency as the key determinant of fungal persistence and AF risk in hazelnut post-harvest management. Full article

This study aimed to develop a sustainable approach for isolating bioactive lipophilic components from Taraxacum officinale flowers using supercritical carbon dioxide extraction (SFE-CO₂) and to assess the effect of adding 5% ethanol (EtOH) as a co-solvent on extraction yield, in vitro antioxidant capacity in CUPRAC and ABTS assays (TEAC_CUPRAC and TEAC_ABTS), total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid (TFC) content, β-carotene concentration, and photoprotective potential, expressed as the sun protection factor (SPF). SFE-CO₂ at 35 MPa and 40 °C resulted in 50% of the total yield within 15 min, with equilibrium reached after 120 min (final yield of 4.6 g/100 g flowers). Co-solvent addition increased yield by ~50% and shortened extraction time. The EtOH-modified extract exhibited markedly higher antioxidant activity, with a 2-fold increase in TEAC_CUPRAC (167 mg TE/g E), an 11-fold increase in TEAC_ABTS (194 mg TE/g E), and a 3-fold increase in TPC (91 mg GAE/g E), along with improved recovery of flavonoids and β-carotene. Volatile profiling revealed monoterpenoids, aldehydes, and esters as dominant groups, with carvone (14.0–16.5%) and dill ether (4.2–5.8%) as major contributors to aroma. The SFE-CO₂ + 5% EtOH extract achieved the highest SPF value (49.5 at 1 mg/mL; SPF > 6 at >0.1 mg/mL), indicating strong photoprotective potential and potential suitability for natural antioxidant and cosmetic applications. Full article

Background: Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are crucial to treating endocrine-related malignancies, including advanced thyroid cancers and neuroendocrine tumors, but their benefit is tempered by cutaneous adverse events (CAEs) that impair adherence and quality of life. Objective: To summarize the dermatologic toxicities of TKIs used in endocrine oncology and provide practical, multidisciplinary guidance for prevention and management. Methods: Narrative synthesis of clinical trial reports, post-marketing studies, and specialty guidelines pertinent to lenvatinib, vandetanib, cabozantinib, and other commonly used TKIs, integrating dermatologic and endocrine perspectives on mechanisms and care pathways. Results: VEGFR-targeted TKIs frequently cause hand–foot skin reaction, xerosis, fissuring, paronychia, and impaired wound healing; multikinase inhibition also produces alopecia, pigmentary changes, and mucositis. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and rearranged during transfection (RET) inhibition with vandetanib is associated with acneiform eruption, photosensitivity, and nail fragility. Pathogenesis reflects on-target inhibition of VEGF/EGFR signaling leading to keratinocyte dysfunction, vascular fragility, and altered eccrine mechanics. Early risk stratification, patient education, and bundle-based prophylaxis (emollients, keratolytics, urea-based creams, sun protection) reduce incidence and severity. Grade-based algorithms combining topical corticosteroids/antibiotics, dose interruptions or reductions, and short systemic courses (e.g., doxycycline, antihistamines) enable symptom control while maintaining anticancer intensity. Close coordination around procedures minimizes wound-healing complications. Conclusions: Dermatologic toxicities are predictable, mechanism-linked, and manageable with proactive, multidisciplinary care. Standardized prevention and treatment pathways tailored to specific TKIs—particularly lenvatinib, vandetanib, and cabozantinib—can preserve dose intensity, optimize quality of life, and sustain antineoplastic efficacy. Full article

Background/Objectives: We aimed to construct a nomogram model for predicting arteriovenous fistula dysfunction risk and to conduct internal validation. Methods: The clinical data of 335 patients from the 8th Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, collected from January 2019 to January 2024, were retrospectively analyzed. Among these patients, 103 were assigned to the arteriovenous fistula (AVF) dysfunction group, while 232 were in the non-dysfunction group. In this study, we first identified risk factors for AVF dysfunction using univariate and logistic regression analyses, and then constructed a prediction model by resampling the data. The model’s performance was evaluated using the C-index, ROC curve, calibration plot, and decision curve analysis, confirming its strong predictive ability and clinical value. Results: The results indicated that post-dialysis hypotension, abnormal fibrinogen levels, platelet abnormalities, total cholesterol levels, and diabetes mellitus emerged as independent risk factors for AVF dysfunction in MHD patients; however, total protein levels were a protective factor for AVF dysfunction. The model’s performance was assessed using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, the Hosmer–Lemeshow test, and the calibration curve. The ROC curve results demonstrated that the area under the curve (AUC) for the training set was 0.852 (0.799–0.904), while that for the validation set was 0.810 (0.715–0.906), indicating good calibration. The decision curve analysis revealed that the predictive nomogram was clinically useful when the threshold for intervention was set between a 15% and 78% probability of dysfunction. Conclusions: The nomogram prediction model constructed in this study can be used to predict the risk of autogenous arteriovenous fistula dysfunction in hemodialysis patients. Full article

Background: Excessive sun exposure is a major modifiable risk factor for skin cancer, with ultraviolet (UV) radiation identified as a key contributor. Saudi Arabia’s high UV index and hot climate increase the risk of photo-induced skin damage among residents. Although awareness of sun protection is growing, inconsistent use of preventive measures persists, often due to misconceptions and limited knowledge. This study aimed to assess patterns of current and prior sun exposure across demographic groups in Saudi Arabia using the validated Arabic version of the Sun Exposure and Behaviour Inventory (Ar-SEBI). Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted between August 2024 and January 2025 across all five Saudi regions using non-probability quota sampling to ensure geographic representation. Sun-exposure practices and protective behaviours were measured using the Ar-SEBI. Data were collected via an online questionnaire and analysed using IBM SPSS Statistics 26. Normality was assessed via Shapiro–Wilk and Levene’s tests. Depending on the distribution, data were analysed using the Mann–Whitney U test, the Kruskal–Wallis H test, unpaired t-tests, or ANOVA. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 11,491 adults participated. Significant demographic and regional differences in sun-related behaviours were observed. Overall, 72.7% of participants were unaware of the SPF level of their sunscreen. Males and individuals under 30 years of age had significantly higher sun exposure scores than females and older adults, respectively (p < 0.001). Residents of the Southern region had the highest exposure and behaviour scores (p < 0.001), despite also reporting higher engagement in some protective measures. Additionally, sun exposure scores increased progressively with darker Fitzpatrick skin types (IV–VI) (p < 0.001), suggesting a common belief that darker skin confers adequate protection. Conclusions: This study reveals notable disparities in sun-protection practices across Saudi Arabia. Younger adults, males, and individuals with darker skin types reported greater sun exposure and indicators of lower protective awareness. These findings support the need for targeted, culturally tailored public health campaigns and policy measures to enhance sun safety and reduce long-term dermatological risks. Full article

Skin aging, including photoaging, is primarily triggered by chronic exposure to solar radiation, which induces free radical formation, cellular deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage, and structural skin alterations. Achillea millefolium L. (Asteraceae) is rich in phenolic compounds and alkamides, substances known for their antioxidant activity. This study aimed to develop and characterize a photoprotective phytocosmetic nanoemulsion containing crude root extract of A. millefolium. The extract exhibited a total phenolic content of 3.067 ± 1.911 µg GAE/mL, potent antioxidant activity (EC₅₀ = 69.11 ± 8.899 µg/mL), moderate tyrosinase inhibition (19 ± 1.8%), and no cytotoxicity in keratinocytes. The extract was incorporated into nanoemulsions at concentrations of 0.1%, 0.5%, and 1%. The resulting droplets showed mean diameters of 217 to 230 nm, with a significant increase in the polydispersity index (PDI) after extract addition (p < 0.05). Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed the spherical morphology of the droplets. The in vitro sun protection factor (SPF) was 14 ± 0.9 in the control formulation and increased to 15 ± 2.0 (0.1%), 22 ± 5.2 (0.5%), and 17 ± 1.0 (1%), suggesting a synergistic effect between the extract and chemical filters. All formulations demonstrated UVA/UVB ratio > 0.6, a pH near to 5, occlusive properties, and good spreadability. The results indicate that A. millefolium extract holds potential for safe photoprotective formulations, offering a valuable antioxidant and depigmenting activity in addition to enhancing the SPF. This position is an innovative alternative to phytocosmetic development. Full article

Artemisia albida, Artemisia leucodes, and Artemisia scopaeformis were selected for this study based on their traditional medicinal uses and phytochemical profiles. A. albida exhibited the highest level of extractive substances (20.76%) and showed the greatest concentration of water-soluble polysaccharides (2.14%). Tannins, well known for their astringency and antioxidant activity, were most abundant in A. scopaeformis (2.81%) and A. albida (1.52%). The phenolics coumarins were concentrated in A. scopaeformis (6.49%) and A. leucodes (4.46%). Among the extracts, A. leucodes exhibited the strongest antioxidant activity (DPPH IC₅₀ = 13.53 μM, FRAP = 52.02 μmol TE/g), the highest SPF (23.24), and the most effective DNA protection (91.4%). It indicated a high level of biological effectiveness, with an SPF comparable to natural UV-protection agents and DNA protection exceeding 90%, suggesting potential. Molecular docking confirmed binding of catechin and epicatechin to glutathione peroxidase. Colloidal analysis revealed that hydrolates obtained from A. albida and A. leucodes have significant surface activity, reducing water surface tension to 40–50 mJ/m², whereas the hydrolate from A. scopaeformis had only a minor effect. Thus, A. leucodes is a strong candidate for multifunctional antioxidant, UV-protective, and skin-regenerating applications. Full article

This study investigates the development and evaluation of anti-photoaging creams enriched with natural extracts from avocado, apple, and kiwi by-products, with and without nanobubbles (NBs), focusing on their antioxidant, photoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antiplatelet properties. Extract-containing creams showed significantly higher antioxidant capacity, particularly in the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay (S: 710.4 ± 344.3, NB: 566.3 ± 185.0, X: 202.8 ± 145.6 μmol TE/g DW at production; S: 631.7 ± 277.8, NB: 1019.3 ± 574.0, X: 449.8 ± 43.9 μmol TE/g DW after 1 month; p < 0.05), indicating up to a 250% improvement compared to the base cream and stable antioxidant activity during storage. The sun protection factor (SPF) increased in extract-containing creams after storage (8.7 ± 0.8 → 9.5 ± 0.6; p < 0.05). Attenuated total reflectance Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) with Strat-M^® membranes revealed enhanced penetration of active compounds in enriched creams, while NBs did not significantly change absorption profiles. Platelet aggregation assays showed markedly lower half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values in extract-enriched creams compared to the base cream for both the platelet-activating factor (PAF) pathway (S: 300.0 ± 42.0, NB: 258.0 ± 31.0 vs. X: 685.0 ± 35.0; after 1 month S: 325.0 ± 50.0, NB: 275.0 ± 42.0 vs. X: 885.0 ± 112.0; p < 0.05) and the adenosine diphosphate (ADP) pathway (S: 450.0 ± 65.0, NB: 400.0 ± 31.0 vs. X: 880.0 ± 58.0; after 1 month S: 470.0 ± 52.0, NB: 412.0 ± 42.0 vs. X: 1102.0 ± 125.0; p < 0.05). In silico analysis was also performed to demonstrate the ligand/protein complex with the strongest affinity to the PAF receptor. Overall, these findings highlight the potential of fruit by-products as sustainable, multifunctional cosmetic ingredients supporting circular economy principles. Full article