Search Results (1,399)

The ultrasensitive detection of microRNA-17 (miRNA-107) is required for clinical diagnosis. In this work, an aggregation-induced electrochemiluminescence (AIECL) sensor was developed for the quantification of miRNA-107, in which AIECL-active polymer dots (Pdots) were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetry and used as ECL emitters. Black hole quencher-labeled hairpin DNA (HP-BHQ) was modified on the Pdot surfaces, resulting in the ECL signal of the Pdots being in the “off” state due to the resonant energy transfer (RET) between the BHQ and Pdots. In the presence of miRNA-107, HP-BHQ opened through RNA-DNA hybridization. Subsequently, the introduced duplex-specific nuclease (DSN) facilitated the cleavage of DNA in the RNA–DNA hybrid chain and led to the detachment of HP-BHQ from the electrode surface. The ECL signal of the Pdots recovered, i.e., to the “on” state. The variation in the ECL signal was related to the concentration of the target miRNA-107. As a result, the AIECL biosensor exhibited a wide linear response to miRNA-107 concentrations ranging from 1.0 fM to 10.0 pM, and a low detection limit of 0.82 fM. This work provides a novel platform for the sensitive analysis of miRNA. Full article

Edible films are increasingly recognized as promising sustainable packaging alternatives, but often face challenges such as poor mechanical strength, limited barrier properties, and low oxidative stability. This study aimed to enhance the physicochemical performance of collagen fiber–starch composite films by incorporating polyphenols (including tannic acid (TA), caffeic acid (CA), and their oxidized forms, OTA and OCA) as natural cross-linkers and antioxidants. Results showed that the addition of 0.1% TA increased the tensile strength by approximately 45% compared to the control, while simultaneously reducing the water vapor permeability from 1.32 to 1.26 g·mm/kPa·h·m², with TA outperforming CA due to its higher molecular weight and stronger intermolecular interactions. Oxidized polyphenols further improved the mechanical and water vapor barrier properties via quinone-induced covalent cross-linking, thereby forming a denser film network. The films also exhibited enhanced UV–visible light shielding, with nearly complete ultraviolet blockage (transmittance is close to zero in the 200–280 nm range). Non-oxidized polyphenols showed higher antioxidant activity in the ABTS and reducing power assays, while release kinetics analysis revealed the highest release rate in 50% ethanol, indicating a pronounced solvent-dependent behavior. Specifically, films with 0.1% TA exhibited an ABTS radical scavenging activity of over 80%, significantly higher than the control. Overall, polyphenols effectively improve film performance through cross-linking and structural modification, offering a theoretical foundation for designing active packaging for targeted food systems. Full article

Cellular senescence is a stress-induced cell-cycle arrest that constrains expansion of ultraviolet-damaged keratinocytes yet can remodel the microenvironment. This systematic review evaluated histological and genetic or epigenetic senescence markers in actinic keratosis (AK), cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC), and basal cell carcinoma (BCC). PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched (January 2005–May 2025); 34 human studies were included. AK showed an early senescent signature with frequent cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21 (p21CIP1) expression (82.1%) and DNA damage signaling, including phosphorylated histone H2AX (gamma-H2AX) positivity (77%). In invasive cSCC, p21^CIP1 fell to 43.9% and tumor suppressor p53 immunoreactivity often declined, whereas cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p16 (p16INK4a) commonly accumulated without arrest, including cytoplasmic staining at invasion fronts. Reported escape pathways involved c-Jun N-terminal kinase 2 activity and long noncoding RNA PVT1–dependent repression of p21. Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) promoter mutations were prevalent in cSCC (about 50%) and BCC (up to 78%) but uncommon in AK, consistent with late telomerase activation. Study heterogeneity, variable antibody scoring, and limited assessment of senescence-associated beta-galactosidase and secretory mediators restricted cross-study comparability. Standardized, spatially resolved profiling may refine risk stratification and support senescence-targeted prevention and therapy in keratinocyte cancers. Full article

Background/Objectives. Ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation is a key etiological factor for skin cancer, inducing oxidative stress, DNA damage and apoptosis. Nicotinamide (NAM), a NAD⁺ precursor, has shown photoprotective properties, although the mechanisms underlying this effect have not been fully elucidated. This study sought to elucidate the role of NAM in counteracting UVB-induced oxidative damage in HaCaT cells and to assess the contribution of NAD⁺ metabolism to these effects. Methods. HaCaT were exposed to low-dose UVB irradiation (40 mJ/cm²) and treated with NAM (25 μM), alone or in combination with the NAMPT inhibitor FK866 (1 nM) for 4 and 24 h. Oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation and DNA damage were evaluated by DCFDA assay, TBARS assay and comet assay, respectively. Cell proliferation, cell cycle progression and apoptosis were assessed using Ki67 immunofluorescence, flow cytometry analysis and Annexin V/PI staining. Transcriptional activity for oxidative stress- and apoptosis-related markers was analyzed by RT-qPCR. Results. NAM significantly reduced UVB-induced ROS production at both 4 and 24 h post-irradiation in an NAD⁺-dependent manner, as demonstrated by the reversal of its effects following NAMPT inhibition. NAM also decreased oxidative DNA damage accompanied by reduced OGG1 expression, a marker of oxidative stress. Moreover, NAM restored HaCaT proliferation and reduced early apoptosis, particularly at 24 h post-UVB exposure. These protective effects were mediated by NAD⁺. Conclusions. Our results show that NAM confers robust protection to HaCaT cells from UVB-induced oxidative stress and cellular damage, largely mediated by NAD⁺-dependent pathways, supporting its potential role as a systemic photoprotective agent in skin cancer prevention. Full article

Multiband imaging (MBI) is a non-invasive, portable digital technique that has become increasingly widespread in the technical study and condition assessment of paintings, owing to its affordability and ease of use. This paper presents an experimental study aimed at optimising MBI at the microscopic scale—referred to as micro-multiband imaging (µMBI)—with the particular aim of expanding its diagnostic capabilities. A range of µMBI techniques was used on custom-made mock-ups made up of pigments selected for their spectral responses, and representative of traditional artistic materials. The techniques used included microphotography of polarised and unpolarised visible light (µVIS), raking light microphotography (µRL), transmitted light microphotography (µTL), ultraviolet-induced visible luminescence microphotography (µUVL), near-infrared microphotography (µIR), near-infrared micro-trans-irradiation (µIRT), and near-infrared false-colour microphotography (µIRFC). The results obtained through µMBI were compared with those from standard MBI methods, allowing for a critical discussion of the strengths and limitations of this emerging approach. Results evidence that µMBI provides high-resolution, spatially specific insights into materials and painting techniques, offering a more detailed understanding at the microscale of how a painting was executed. It also enables the assessment of deterioration processes (e.g., cracking, delamination, and metal soap formation), contributing to a deeper comprehension of the origin and progression of failure phenomena and supporting the development of more informed, preventive conservation strategies. Full article

Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation in sunlight is a major extrinsic factor that impairs skin function and accelerates photoaging. In this study, a murine model of ultraviolet B (UVB)-induced photoaging exhibited characteristic symptoms, including skin roughness, erythema, hyperpigmentation, and increased wrinkle formation. Epicatechin gallate (ECG), a natural flavonoid, has demonstrated potential skin-protective properties. However, its specific effects and mechanisms against UVB-induced photoaging are not fully understood. Here, we investigated the protective role and underlying mechanism of ECG against UVB-induced damage in human epidermal keratinocytes (HaCaT cells). Using network pharmacology, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK), specifically the p38α isoform, was identified as a key potential target of ECG. Our experimental results confirmed that ECG significantly attenuated UVB-induced photoaging. Mechanistically, ECG treatment effectively suppressed UVB-triggered phosphorylation of p38α, promoted autophagic flux (as evidenced by increased LC3B conversion and decreased p62 levels), and substantially reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation. Consequently, ECG mitigated mitochondrial dysfunction, restored normal cell cycle progression, and decreased the expression of senescence-associated markers (p53, p16, p21) and inflammatory cytokines (IL6, TNF-α). In summary, our findings demonstrate that ECG protects against UVB-induced photoaging primarily by inhibiting p38α activation, thereby enhancing autophagy and alleviating oxidative stress. This study positions ECG as a promising therapeutic candidate for preventing and treating skin photoaging. Full article

High-quality BaTiO₃ nanopowders were synthesized via a sol–gel method using butyl titanate and barium serving as precursors. This study systematically investigates the influence of calcination temperature (600–1000 °C) and gel aging time (2–10 h) on the phase evolution and microstructure of the nanoparticles. A pure tetragonal phase with a high tetragonality (c/a ratio of 1.0100) and an average particle size of 140 nm was achieved at 1000 °C. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Ultraviolet–Visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy analyses revealed that high-temperature calcination induced the formation of oxygen vacancies and Ti³⁺ defects, leading to a narrowing of the optical bandgap from 3.01 eV to 2.98 eV. An optimal aging time of 4 h yielded uniform nanoparticles with a high specific surface area, whereas prolonged aging (>6 h) resulted in the re-emergence of BaCO₃ impurities and severe agglomeration due to the formation of a rigid gel network. This work provides a precise processing window for fabricating high-purity, highly tetragonal BaTiO₃ nanopowders suitable for the next generation of miniaturized electronic devices. Full article

Sunlight exposure contributes to human health; however, excessive light exposure to skin, especially ultraviolet B (UV-B), can produce high amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and induce inflammation. Some antioxidants, such as squalene, can prevent UV-B-induced inflammation. C₃₄H₅₈ botryococcene is the most common triterpene hydrocarbon produced by green alga Botryococcus braunii; it is biosynthesized via a pathway similar to squalene and appears to have a similar chemical structure to squalene. However, there are no reports on the bioactivity of botryococcene. In this study, we evaluated that botryococcene can prevent the skin photoaging. Using ESR assay, botryococcene could not scavenge any ROS. However, treatment of epidermis cells with the botryococcene significantly suppressed intracellular ROS production by hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and attenuated H₂O₂ cytotoxicity. Botryococcene enhanced the antioxidant enzymes in gastric cells, thus botryococcene may scavenge ROS indirectly, not directly. Moreover, botryococcene inhibited production of intracellular interleukin-1 and exhibited suppression of melanogenesis activity by UV-B irradiation. Addition of botryococcene-treated epidermal cells culture medium mitigated the increase in matrix metalloproteinase-1 production and the decrease in type I collagen production induced by UV-B irradiation in dermis cells. These results showed that botryococcene has anti-photoaging effects, including preventing wrinkles and blemishes on the skin. Full article

Solar-blind ultraviolet (UV) photodetectors based on wide-bandgap oxide semiconductors are highly desirable for environmental monitoring, flame sensing, and secure optical communication. Among them, Ga₂O₃ has attracted extensive attention due to its ultra-wide bandgap and intrinsic solar-blind response; however, its high dark current, weak built-in electric field, and defect-induced instability remain critical challenges, particularly for amorphous films prepared by scalable sputtering processes. Herein, a self-powered solar-blind UV photodetector based on a NiO/Ga₂O₃ heterojunction is demonstrated, in which the oxygen-vacancy concentration and band structure of sputtered Ga₂O₃ are systematically regulated by tailoring the Ar/O₂ sputtering atmosphere. Combined X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, UV photoelectron spectroscopy, and optical measurements reveal that the variation in oxygen-vacancy concentration simultaneously modulates the Fermi-level position, band-edge alignment, and built-in potential at the NiO/Ga₂O₃ interface. As a result, the optimized heterojunction device exhibits a low dark current, pronounced rectifying behavior, and efficient carrier separation under zero bias, enabling self-powered operation. The photodetector delivers a responsivity of 47 mA W⁻¹, a detectivity of 7.52 × 10¹¹ Jones, and a high rejection ratio exceeding 10⁴ between 254 and 365 nm. Furthermore, stable and high-contrast UV imaging is successfully demonstrated, highlighting the practical applicability of the device. This work provides an effective methodology for modulating defects and band structure in high-performance solar-blind UV photodetectors based on sputtered wide-bandgap oxide heterojunctions. Full article

This study reports the sustainable synthesis and thermal, morphological, and structural characterization of multifunctional silver/hydroxyapatite nanocomposite prepared from recycled caprine bone. The organic extract from caprine bone was characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) and Ultraviolet–Visible Spectroscopy (UV-Vis). The biogenic hydroxyapatite (CHAP) and its silver composite (Ag@CHAP) were characterized using thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), Raman spectra, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX), and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The photocatalytic activity of Ag@CHAP was quantitatively confirmed through the degradation of Crystal Violet (5 ppm) under sunlight, achieving a high removal efficiency of 99.8% under optimum conditions, demonstrating significant potential for wastewater remediation. Ag@CHAP also demonstrated enhanced antimicrobial activity compared with CHAP and showed broad-spectrum efficacy against clinical human isolates P. aeruginosa ATCC 10145, E. coli ATCC 35218, S. aureus ATCC 25923, and C. albicans (human isolate). The in vitro hemolytic-activity assays revealed that both CHAP and Ag@CHAP had no hemolytic activity after 24 h of red blood cells incubation and effectively reduced lead-induced hemolysis from 86.73% to 39.35% and 49.13%, respectively. These findings confirm CHAP and Ag@CHAP as stable, biocompatible, and high-performance materials with promising applications in the sustainable water-treatment and biomedical fields. Full article

Research on the reproductive tract microbiology of broodmares has primarily focused on the uterus, with a limited set of tools for the rapid detection of pathogenic bacteria in the perineal region. Accurate, real-time identification of bacterial contamination could improve the diagnosis and management of post-breeding infectious endometritis. In this proof-of-concept study, we evaluated the ability of a portable MolecuLight i:X fluorescence imaging device for the rapid, non-invasive detection of potentially pathogenic perineal bacteria in healthy broodmares, comparing results with microbiological culture as the gold standard. Using ultraviolet-induced fluorescence imaging guided for swabbing and microbiological culture, the device demonstrated 80% sensitivity, 96% specificity, and 91% accuracy in differentiating potential pathogenic from commensal bacteria in clinically healthy broodmares. These preliminary findings may represent the basis for further assessment of the real-time, fluorescence-based technology in diseased or symptomatic broodmares, potentially aiding timely clinical decision-making. Further multicentred studies with larger inclusion of mares with confirmed endometritis are needed to strengthen the relevance of this technology and to expand the device’s application in equine reproductive health. Full article

Deregulated Nlrp3 (NOD-like receptor pyrin 3) inflammasome activation is strongly associated with age-related blinding diseases, including cataract. Previously, we demonstrated that loss of peroxiredoxin6 (Prdx6) promotes reactive oxygen species (ROS) amplification and aberrant activation of Klf9 and Nlrp3 inflammasome activity–driven pyroptosis. In this study, using aging mouse(m)/human(h) lenses and lens epithelial cells (LECs), we reveal a critical link between Nlrp3 and thioredoxin (TRX)-interacting protein (TXNIP), which increases during aging and oxidative stress conditions. We found that aging lenses exhibiting opacity showed elevated ROS levels, increased TXNIP expression, along with upregulation of Nlrp3 inflammasome components, including caspase-1, ASC, IL-1β, IL-18, and gasderminD (GSDMD), with significantly reduced TRX1. mLECs overexpressing TXNIP were more susceptible to hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), ultraviolet B (UVB)-induced oxidative stress, displaying increased ROS accumulation, reduced cell viability, and enhanced activation of Nlrp3 inflammasome and its downstream inflammatory mediators, hallmarks of pyroptotic cell death. Conversely, TXNIP knockdown suppressed Nlrp3 inflammasome activation, decreased ROS production, and significantly improved cell survival, indicating a protective effect against oxidative injury. Ex vivo, TAT-HA-Prdx6 delivery inhibited H₂O₂-induced Nlrp3 activation and preserved lens transparency, demonstrating its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Collectively, these findings identify TXNIP as a key regulator of Nlrp3 inflammasome signaling and thereby highlight the therapeutic potential of TXNIP silencing (ShTXNIP) or TAT-HA-Prdx6 delivery to halt Nlrp3-mediated pyroptosis during aging or oxidative stress conditions. Full article

Sosnovsky’s hogweed (Heracleum sosnowskyi Manden.) is an invasive plant species widely distributed across Eastern Europe and Russia that poses a serious threat to human health due to its pronounced phototoxic properties. Contact with the plant sap followed by exposure to solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation frequently results in phytophotodermatitis, which is characterized by erythema, blistering, ulceration, and persistent hyperpigmentation. The development of these photochemical injuries—most notably furanocoumarins—act as potent photosensitizers and induce cellular and DNA damage upon UV activation. This review provides an integrated overview of the geographical spread and invasiveness of H. sosnowskyi, the chemical composition of its biologically active metabolites, and the molecular mechanisms underlying hogweed-induced skin injury. Particular emphasis is placed on the photochemical transformations of furanocoumarins, including psoralens and their photooxidation products, such as 1,2-dioxetanes, which generate reactive oxygen species and DNA crosslinks. In addition, the review examines other compounds derived from hogweed biomass—including furan derivatives, aromatic compounds, fatty acids, sterols, and their oxidative products—that may contribute to phototoxic and cytotoxic effects. Clinical manifestations of hogweed-induced burns, their classification, symptomatology, and current therapeutic approaches are critically discussed, highlighting the absence of standardized treatment guidelines. Rather than serving as a purely clinical or botanical survey, this review frames Sosnovsky’s hogweed injury as a solar-light-activated photochemical hazard, tracing the sequence from environmental sunlight exposure through molecular photochemistry to biological tissue damage. By integrating chemical, biological, and dermatological perspectives, the review aims to clarify injury mechanisms and support the development of more effective preventive and mitigation strategies under real-world exposure conditions. Full article

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a significant environmental stressor that exerts profound impacts on insect physiology, behaviour and survival. Although some insects can use UV light for spatial orientation and navigation, it can induce DNA damage, oxidative stress, and impair critical biological functions, ultimately reducing ecological fitness. Sclerodermus alternatusi Yang (Hymenoptera: Bethylidae) is a dominant ectoparasitoid of the early instar larvae of Monochamus alternatus and plays a key role in the biological control of this pest in forestry systems; however, it faces intense UV exposure in the field environment. Despite its ecological importance, the molecular mechanisms underlying its responses to UV-induced stress remain poorly understood. In this study, newly emerged adult wasps (within 24 h post-eclosion) were exposed to UVA (365 nm) and UVC (253.7 nm) radiation for 9 h under controlled laboratory conditions. Total RNA was extracted from treated and control individuals for transcriptomic analysis using RNA-Seq. A total of 505 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified; gene ontology enrichment analysis revealed that UVA exposure significantly upregulated genes involved in cellular respiration and oxidative phosphorylation, suggesting an enhanced metabolic response. Furthermore, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis revealed that UV stress modulates energy metabolism through the activation of oxidative phosphorylation and thermogenesis-related pathways, highlighting the reallocation of energy resources in response to UV-induced stress. To validate the RNA-Seq data, four representative DEGs were selected for quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) analysis. The qPCR results were consistent with the transcriptomic trends, confirming the reliability of the sequencing data. Collectively, this study provides a comprehensive overview of the molecular response mechanisms of S. alternatusi to UV stress, offering novel insights into its environmental adaptability and laying a theoretical foundation for its application in biological pest control under field conditions. Full article

Skin photoaging, marked by structural and functional changes, is mainly caused by long-term ultraviolet (UV) exposure. This study sought to create hydroxytyrosol (HT)-loaded soluble microneedles (HT MNs) and thoroughly assess their anti-photoaging effects and underlying mechanisms in vitro and in vivo. The optimized HT MNs, featuring tips with 10% HT + 5% hyaluronic acid (HA) and a backing layer of 10% polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP), demonstrated robust mechanical strength (withstanding an axial force of 10 N without fracture), adequate penetration depth (>200 μm), and efficient skin self-recovery post-removal. In vitro, HT MNs notably boosted cell viability, reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and suppressed senescence-associated β-galactosidase (A-β-Gal) expression in UVA-exposed human skin fibroblasts (HSF). In vivo, in a UVA + UVB-irradiated mouse model, HT MNs significantly enhanced skin hydration and elasticity, increased collagen density (confirmed by Masson staining), decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and elevated the activities of glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px). Western blot analysis further revealed that HT MNs upregulated the expression of collagen type I alpha 1 (COL1A1), elastin (ELN), hyaluronan synthase 2 (HAS2), and filaggrin (FLG), while downregulating matrix metalloproteinase 1. Overall, these findings suggest that HT MNs effectively mitigate UV-induced photoaging through antioxidant, anti-senescence, and extracellular matrix (ECM)-regulating mechanisms, underscoring their potential as a novel transdermal anti-photoaging therapy. Full article