Search

Kelp forests are facing a global decline due to climate change and human-induced stressors, underlining the urgency for proactive interventions. Among the most used restoration methods, "green gravel" has emerged as a promising solution for the recovery of degraded kelp forests. While initial findings suggest its potential effectiveness, green gravel remains a novel approach that requires fine-tuned protocols and optimisation across all stages of the process. In this study, we assessed the performance of two different seeding densities for kelp growth on green gravel to optimise the use of seeding material. Our results show that, while the juveniles in the high-density treatment grew faster, they also had a higher mortality rate during green gravel production. This was a hypothesised outcome, as growing sporophytes reared under laboratory conditions allows for faster production of a large number of individuals, increasing competition for space, which may drive higher mortality rates. Comprehensive experimentation is essential to unlock the full potential of green gravel and ensure its efficiency in all process steps, to achieve successful kelp forest restoration. Well-defined and optimised protocols are indispensable for minimising production costs, simplifying logistics, and allowing future efforts to scale up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sargassum fusiforme and Sargassum fulvellum are types of brown algae used for their nutritional value and medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer effects. Despite their importance in various industries, many seaweed byproducts containing dietary fiber and polysaccharides are discarded in landfills. These byproducts can be recycled and repurposed for different applications. In this study, we investigated the impact of S. fusiforme food processing byproducts (MbP-SFF) and S. fulvellum food processing byproducts (MbP-SFV) on improving intestinal motility and reducing inflammation in mice with constipation induced by loperamide. To evaluate this, mice were orally administered 500 mg/kg/day of the byproducts once daily for 8 days. Constipation was induced by 5 mg/kg/day of loperamide for two days after oral administration for 6 days. Each sample contained approximately 70% carbohydrates. MbP-SFF had 52.0% mannuronic acid and 18.8% guluronic acid, while MbP-SFV had 36.9% mannuronic acid and 32.9% guluronic acid. These byproducts enhanced fecal excretion and intestinal motility by modulating inflammatory responses. Furthermore, they restored the balance of the gut microbiota disrupted by loperamide, increasing beneficial Bifidobacterium and reducing harmful Staphylococcus aureus. Overall, MbP-SFF and MbP-SFV improved intestinal motility and inflammation by influencing the gut microbiota and inflammatory responses in a loperamide-induced mouse model. These byproducts show potential as ingredients in functional foods aimed at enhancing gut health, potentially reducing waste disposal costs and addressing environmental concerns associated with their utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is important to eliminate the fishy odor and improve the aroma quality of seafood. In this study, the Saccharina japonica (S. japonica) seedling, which is a new food material, was investigated for the effects of fermentation with Saccharomyces cerevisiae (S. cerevisiae) through sensory evaluation, GC–MS, and odor activity value (OAV) analysis. GC–MS analysis revealed the presence of 43 volatile compounds in the unfermented S. japonica seedling, with 1-octen-3-ol, hexanal, and trans-2,4-decadienal identified as the main contributors to its fishy odor. After fermentation with S. cerevisiae, 26 volatile compounds were identified in the S. japonica seedling. Notably, the major malodorous fish compounds, including 1-octen-3-ol, hexanal and trans-2,4-decadienal, were no longer present. The results indicate that fermentation with S. cerevisiae is an effective method for removing fishy malodor compounds and enhancing the volatile components with fruity, sweet, green, and floral notes in the Saccharina japonica seedling. This process facilitates the elimination of fishy malodor and enhance the fruity, sweet, green, and floral notes of S. japonica seeding and other seaweeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Humanity faced the hottest year in observational history in 2023. If the trend of rising temperatures on Earth continues, irreversible changes in the environment will occur with negative consequences for the lives of us all. In order to limit the further increase in temperatures on Earth, it is necessary to reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in various sectors. Since ruminant farming is a significant contributor to anthropogenic GHG emissions due to methane emissions, we attempted to reduce methane emissions in dairy cows by using brown seaweed (Ascophyllum nodosum) in cow rations. Indeed, we achieved a reduction in methane emissions, without disturbing the productivity of cows. We also found a more favorable metabolic status and milk composition in supplemented cows. Additional studies are needed to define precisely how brown seaweeds can be included into strategies to reduce methane emissions from the dairy industry. The dairy industry contributes significantly to anthropogenic methane emissions, which have an impact on global warming. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a dietary inclusion of brown seaweed Ascophyllum nodosum on enteric methane emissions (EMEs), hematological and blood biochemical profiles, and milk composition in dairy cows. Eighteen Holstein cows were divided into three groups: CON (non-supplemented cows), BS50 (50 mL of 10% A. nodosum), and BS100 (100 mL of 10% A. nodosum). In each cow, measurements of EME, dry matter intake (DMI), and milk yield (MY), as well as blood and milk sampling with respective analyzes, were performed before supplementation (P1), after 15 (P2) days, and after 30 (P3) days of supplementation. A. nodosum reduced (p < 0.05) methane production, methane yield, and methane intensity in both BS50 and BS100, and raised DMI (p < 0.05) only in BS50. Total bilirubin (p < 0.05) was higher in BS50 compared to CON cows in P2, and triacylglycerols were lower (p < 0.05) in BS50 than in CON cows in P3. Higher milk fat content was found in BS50 than in CON cows in P3. C16:0 proportions were higher (p < 0.05) in BS50 and BS100 than in CON cows, while C18:3n-3 was higher (p < 0.05) in BS100 than in BS50 and CON cows in P3. Dietary treatment with A. nodosum reduced EMEs and showed the potential to increase DMI and to improve energy status as well as milk composition in peak-lactating dairy cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brown algae are multicellular organisms that have evolved independently from plants and animals. Knowledge of the mechanisms involved in their embryogenesis is available only for the Fucus, Dictyota, and Ectocarpus, which are brown algae belonging to three different orders. Here, we address the control of cell growth and cell division orientation in the embryo of Saccharina latissima, a brown alga belonging to the order Laminariales, which grows as a stack of cells through transverse cell divisions until growth is initiated along the perpendicular axis. Using laser ablation, we show that apical and basal cells have different functions in the embryogenesis of this alga, with the apical cell being involved mainly in growth and basal cells controlling the orientation of cell division by inhibiting longitudinal cell division and thereby the widening of the embryo. These functions were observed in the very early development before the embryo reached the 8-cell stage. In addition, the growth of the apical and basal regions appears to be cell-autonomous, because there was no compensation for the loss of a significant part of the embryo upon laser ablation, resulting in smaller and less elongated embryos compared with intact embryos. In contrast, the orientation of cell division in the apical region of the embryo appears to be controlled by the basal cell only, which suggests a polarised, non-cell-autonomous mechanism. Altogether, our results shed light on the early mechanisms of growth rate and growth orientation at the onset of the embryogenesis of Saccharina, in which non-cell-specific cell-autonomous and cell-specific non-cell-autonomous processes are involved. This complex control differs from the mechanisms described in the other brown algal embryos, in which the establishment of embryo polarity depends on environmental cues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The edible brown seaweed, Ecklonia cava, is highly valued for its bioactive compounds, and is widely used in food supplements and functional foods. The increasing demand for this seaweed in the food industry emphasizes the necessity for sustainable cultivation practices. This study focused on inducing callus in the meristem and stipe of E. cava using different culture media: Provasoli's enriched seawater medium (PESI), enriched artificial seawater medium (ESAW), artificial enriched seawater medium (ASP2), or Von Stosch's enriched seawater medium (VS). Various abiotic stress factors (photoperiod, agar concentration, and temperature), growth regulators, carbon sources, polyamines, and plasma treatments were explored for their impact on callus induction. Both stipe and meristem explants developed callus within three to six weeks across all media except ASP2. Callus development was favored at temperatures between 8 to 13 °C and in the absence of light. Stipe explants showed a higher callus induction rate (up to 65.59 ± 6.24%) compared to meristem (up to 57.53 ± 8.32%). Meristem explants showed optimal callus induction in PESI medium with a low concentration of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA; 40.93 ± 8.65%). However, higher concentrations of IAA and 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) reduced meristem callus induction. Stipe showed high induced-callus (up to 50.37 ± 5.17%) in PESI medium with low concentrations of IAA, NAA, and 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP). Both stipe and meristem explants induced largest callus at 2% sucrose, but higher carbon source concentrations reduced callus induction. Spermine (Spm) at 1 µM resulted in high induced calluses; however, increasing Spm concentrations decreased callus induction. This tissue culture technique not only supports mass cultivation of E. cava, but also holds potential for extending to other seaweed species, contributing to the sustainability of seaweed stocks for the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Baobab fruit is valued for its nutritional and medicinal benefits. Although it is acknowledged that baobab pulp is beneficial for health, studies that link its nutraceutical properties to the ability to eliminate reactive species (ROS and RNS) are scarce. Methods: The nutritional profile and the antioxidant properties of baobab pulp extracts from Angola were evaluated. Thus, for the first time, the evaluation of in vitro scavenging capacity against the most physiologically relevant reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) were the focus of investigation. Results: Angolan fruit pulp presented high contents of ash (8.0%) and total dietary fiber (52%). Vitamin E content was reported for the first time in fruit pulp. Green solvents were used to quantify bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity. Hydroalcoholic extracts exhibited the highest contents of phenolics (1573.0 mg/100 g) and flavonoids (768.7 mg/100 g). Thus, hydroalcoholic extracts showed higher antioxidant activity, and higher scavenging capacity for ROS (O2•−, H2O2, HOCl, ROO•) and RNS (•NO, ONOO−), being most active for •NO and ONOO−. Conclusion: For the first time, Angolan baobab fruit was described in respect to its nutritional contribution as well as its positive antioxidant effects, both as a functional food and as a nutraceutical ingredient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Azores Archipelago, Cryptomeria japonica is, currently, the most cultivated forestry tree for timber production, landscaping, and gardening, generating large amounts of foliage waste that is used for local essential oils (EOs) production. However, the existing literature on the biological potential of EOs from different C. japonica foliage parts, such as female cones (FC), remains limited. Thus, in the present study, EOs extracted by hydrodistillation from Azorean C. japonica immature and mature FC (IFC and MFC), as well as some major EO components, were screened for their: (i) antioxidant capacity, evaluated by DPPH free-radical-scavenging activity (FRSA) and β-carotene-linoleic acid bleaching activity (BCBA), (ii) antimicrobial activities, assessed by the disc diffusion method against eight bacteria and one fungus, and (iii) toxicity against Artemia salina. Among both FC EO samples, the IFC EO exhibited the best DPPH–FRSA, BCBA, and growth inhibitory activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Bacillus subtilis, and Penicillium italicum, as well as a slightly increased toxic potential, due to their differential compositions, as assessed by GC–MS analysis. Thus, the FC's maturation process decreased their EOs' bioactivities. In conclusion, this finding could help in determining the optimal developmental stage for enhancing the antioxidant and antimicrobial compounds content in FC EOs. In turn, this contributes to increasing the commercial potential of C. japonica's EO industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Snakebite envenomation (SBE) causes diverse toxic effects in humans, including disability and death. Current antivenom therapies effectively prevent death but fail to block local tissue damage, leading to an increase in the severity of envenomation; thus, seeking alternative treatments is crucial. Methods: This study analyzed the potential of two fucoidan sulfated polysaccharides extracted from brown seaweeds Fucus vesiculosus (FVF) and Undaria pinnatifida (UPF) against the fibrinogen or plasma coagulation, proteolytic, and phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activities of Bothrops jararaca, B. jararacussu, and B. neuwiedi venom. The toxicity of FVF and UPF was assessed by the hemocompatibility test. Results: FVF and UPF did not lyse human red blood cells. FVF and UPF inhibited the proteolytic activity of Bothrops jararaca, B. jararacussu, and B. neuwiedi venom by approximately 25%, 50%, and 75%, respectively, while all venoms led to a 20% inhibition of PLA2 activity. UPF and FVF delayed plasma coagulation caused by the venoms of B. jararaca and B. neuwiedi but did not affect the activity of B. jararacussu venom. FVF and UPF blocked the coagulation of fibrinogen induced by all these Bothropic venoms. Conclusion: FVF and UPF may be of importance as adjuvants for SBE caused by species of Bothrops, which are the most medically relevant snakebite incidents in South America, especially Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity is an environmental stress that severely impacts rice grain yield and quality. However, limited information is available on the molecular mechanism by which salinity reduces grain quality. In this study, we investigated the milling, appearance, eating and cooking, and nutritional quality among three japonica rice cultivars grown either under moderate salinity with an electrical conductivity of 4 dS/m or under non-saline conditions in a paddy field in Dongying, Shandong, China. Moderate salinity affected rice appearance quality predominantly by increasing chalkiness rate and chalkiness degree and affected rice eating and cooking and nutritional quality predominantly by decreasing amylose content and increasing protein content. We compared the expression levels of genes determining grain chalkiness, amylose content, and protein content in developing seeds (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 days after flowering) of plants grown under saline or non-saline conditions. The chalkiness-related gene Chalk5 was up-regulated and WHITE-CORE RATE 1 was repressed. The genes Nuclear factor Y and Wx, which determine amylose content, were downregulated, while protein-content-associated genes OsAAP6 and OsGluA2 were upregulated by salinity in the developing seeds. These findings suggest some target genes that may be utilized to improve the grain quality under salinity stress conditions via gene-pyramiding breeding approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The intestinal epithelium is the layer of cells that line the digestive tract, and it acts both as a selective filter to facilitate the absorption of nutrients and a protective barrier to toxins and infection. The functional integrity of this constantly renewing cell layer depends on so-called tight junction proteins, a class that includes two regulatory proteins called occludin and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1). We studied the effect of two different prebiotic seaweed supplements for 41 weeks on occludin and ZO-1 expression in two genetic lines of laying hen. Differences between genetic lines in the level of occludin in a highly absorptive section of the small intestine called the jejunum were found. There also were differences due to seaweed supplementation in the ZO-1 protein, and red seaweed supplementation appeared to have more impact in the brown laying hen strain than in the white strain. Overall, our results are consistent with previous studies showing genetic differences in diet response. It is proposed that prebiotic diet supplements improve intestinal function, in part by improving the barrier function of the intestinal epithelium with an associated increase in the expression of tight junction proteins, including occludin and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1). We examined the expression of these proteins in two strains of laying hens (Lohman LSL-lite (White) and Lohman Brown-lite (Brown)) who were supplemented or not with 3% Chondrus crispus or 0.5% Ascophyllum nodosum seaweeds from 31 to 72 weeks of age. Occludin was localized to the lateral surfaces and across the intestinal epithelium in all animals. Reactivity for ZO-1 was concentrated at the apicolateral epithelial cell membrane border. Mood's median test indicated that White hens may express more occludin in villus epithelium (median intensity 3.5 vs. 2.5 in Brown hens, p = 0.06) but less ZO-1 in the deep cryptal epithelium (median intensity 1.5 vs. 2.5 in Brown hens, p = 0.06). Western blotting also showed higher levels of occludin in White than Brown hens (p < 0.05). A decrease in ZO-1 Western blot expression was associated with Chondrus crispus supplementation in comparison to controls (p < 0.05), but not with Ascophyllum nodosum supplementation (p > 0.05). In conclusion, genetic strain and dietary seaweed supplements affect tight junction regulatory protein expression levels but do not impact the anatomical distribution, as seen in cryosections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rugulopteryx okamurae (RO) is an invasive brown seaweed that causes severe environmental problems in the Mediterranean Sea. This work proposed an extraction method that enables their use as a raw material for producing sodium alginate. Alginate was successfully extracted from this invasive seaweed, with its gelling performance in the presence of Ca2+ ions comparable to existing commercial alginates. The mannuronic acid (M)-to-guluronic (G) acid ratio in the 1H-NMR profile indicated a higher percentage of G in the RO-extracted alginate, which implies a greater formation of so-called egg box structures. These differences resulted in their different rheological behaviour, as sodium alginate aqueous solutions exhibited a greater viscosity ( η at 1 s−1 = 3.8 ± 0.052 Pa·s) than commercial alginate (2.8 ± 0.024 Pa·s), which is related to the egg box structure developed. When gelled in the presence of calcium, an increase in the value of the elastic modulus was observed. However, the value of the tan δ for the extracted alginate was lower than that of commercial alginate gels, confirming a structure more densely packed, which implies a different restructuring of the alginate chain when gelling. These results confirm the suitability of using invasive Rugulopteryx okamurae as a source of calcium alginate gels. In this way, sustainable bio-based materials may be produced from undesired biomass that currently poses a threat to the ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on optimizing the thermal pyrolysis process to maximize pyrolysis oil yield using marine biomass or seaweed. The process, conducted in a batch reactor, was optimized using response surface methodology and Box–Behnken design. Variables like temperature, residence time, and stirring speed were adjusted to maximize bio-oil yield. The optimal conditions yielded 42.94% bio-oil at 463.13 °C, with a residence time of 65.75 min and stirring speed of 9.74 rpm. The analysis showed that temperature is the most critical factor for maximizing yield. The bio-oil produced contains 11 functional groups, primarily phenol, aromatics, and alcohol. Its high viscosity and water content make it unsuitable for engines but suitable for other applications like boilers and chemical additives. It is recommended to explore the potential of refining the bio-oil to reduce its viscosity and water content, making it more suitable for broader applications, including in engine fuels. Further research could also investigate the environmental impact and economic feasibility of scaling up this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since 2010, huge quantities of Sargassum spp. algae have been proliferating in the Atlantic Ocean and stranding on Caribbean beaches, causing major economic, environmental, and health problems. In this study, an innovative high-density binderless particleboard was developed using uniaxial thermo-compression coupled with a cooling system. The raw material consisted of ground Sargassum seaweeds pre-treated by twin-screw extrusion with water to remove sea salt. The raw material and the particleboards were produced by using various analytical techniques such as Dynamic Vapor Sorption (DVS), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA), or Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). The experimental conditions for thermo-compression (temperature, pressure, time) were evaluated. The best thermo-compression conditions tested were 200 °C, 40 MPa pressure for 7.5 min. This resulted in a particleboard with high density (up to 1.63 ± 0.02 g/cm3) and high flexural strength/modulus (up to 32.3 ± 1.8 MPa/6.8 ± 0.2 GPa, respectively), but a low water contact angle of 38.9° ± 3.5°. Thermal analyses revealed the effect of alginates on the mechanical properties of particleboards. This work opens the door to a new way of adding value to Sargassum seaweed, using the whole algae with minimal pre-treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, new agri-tech has been developed and adapted for the cultivation of crops using smart farming technologies, e.g., plant factories and hydroponics. Kelp (Laminaria japonica), which has a high industrial value, was considered as an alternative to chemicals for its eco-friendly and sustainably wide use in crop cultivation. In this study, a fermented kelp (FK) was developed for use in hydroponics. The FK contained various free and protein-bound amino acid compositions produced by fermenting the kelp with Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Supplementing FK as an aeroponic medium when cultivating ginseng sprouts (GSs) elevated the total phenolic and flavonoid contents. Additionally, seven ginsenosides (Rg1, Re, Rb1, Rc, Rg2, Rb2, and Rd) in GSs cultivated with FK in a smart-farm system were identified and quantified by a high-performance liquid chromatography-evaporative light scattering detector/mass spectrometry analysis. Administering FK significantly increased the ginsenosides in the GSs compared to the control group, which was cultivated with tap water. These results indicate the FK administration contributed to the increased accumulation of ginsenosides in the GSs. Overall, this study suggests that FK, which contains abundant nutrients for plant growth, can be used as a novel nutrient solution to enhance the ginsenoside content in GSs during hydroponic cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Weaning is a critical stage in a piglet's life, and the transition from milk to solid feed after weaning is a challenge to the digestive and metabolic capacity of piglets, resulting in lower feed intake and growth rate as well as a higher incidence of post-weaning diarrhoea. Thus, many functional additives have been used as alternatives to antibiotics to improve the health and welfare of piglets since the ban on the use of antibiotic growth promoters in livestock. Plant-derived natural polysaccharides have great potential to replace antibiotic additives. In the field of natural substances, polysaccharides from seaweed species such as kelp are some of the bioactive molecules that have been investigated as feed supplements with positive effects on animal health parameters, which are important for animal nutrition. Bioactive compounds are recognized as attractive dietary interventions for pigs to improve their intestinal health and reduce the incidence of intestinal diseases. Laminaria japonica polysaccharides, as one of them, have prebiotic, anti-microbial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that the addition of appropriate levels of LJP to the diets of weaned piglets would positively modulate their growth performance, faecal digestive enzyme activity, and serum amino acid content. In this study, we observed that Laminaria japonica polysaccharides could improve growth performance and faecal digestive enzyme activities in weaned piglets. The aim of this experiment was to investigate the effect of Laminaria japonica polysaccharide (LJP) supplementation at levels of 100, 200, or 400 mg/kg on the growth performance, faecal digestive enzyme activity, and serum biochemistry and amino acids of weaned piglets. One hundred and twenty weaned piglets (Barkshire × Licha Black, 21 days old, 6.13 ± 0.16 kg) were randomly divided into four groups with five replicates of six piglets in each group based on body weight. Piglets were fed with different levels (0, 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) of LJP for a 21-day trial. On day 21, faecal and blood samples were collected from one piglet per pen. The results showed that the supplementation of the 200 and 400 mg/kg LJP significantly increased average daily gain (ADG) and average daily feed intake (ADFI) compared to the control group (p = 0.007; p = 0.002), and dietary LJP linearly increased ADG and ADFI (p = 0.002; p < 0.001). In addition, the supplementation of the 200 and 400 mg/kg LJP significantly increased faecal amylase activity (p < 0.001) compared to the control group, and dietary LJP linearly increased faecal amylase and lipase activities (p = 0.001; p = 0.037). Moreover, dietary LJP at 400 mg/kg increased serum histidine content compared to the other groups (p = 0.002), and dietary LJP linearly increased the contents of serum histidine and asparagine in piglets (p < 0.001; p = 0.046). In conclusion, supplementation of 200 and 400 mg/kg LJP could enhance growth performance and faecal digestive enzyme activity and modulate the serum amino acid content of weaned piglets, potentially contributing to the health of weaned piglets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The healthy "superfood" sector is currently quickly developing in Europe, and grocery stores are increasingly stocking macroalgae food supplements. Due to its high amount of protein, fiber, and minerals, numerous studies have demonstrated that seaweed has a significant potential for usage as a functional ingredient in the food sector. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the rheological (ICC 173 standard method) and chemical potentials of using Saccharina latissima flour in the bread sector. The calcium level of S. latissima flour was found to be 8236 mg/kg, the magnesium level was 6041 mg/kg, the K concentration was 62,088 mg/kg, the iron content was 35.23 mg/kg, the P content was 2263 mg/kg, and the I content was 12,530 mg/kg, significantly higher values than those of wheat flour. The antioxidant properties of the algae powder used were highlighted by the analysis of the total polyphenol content and its antioxidant activity (DPPH method). Four bread samples, which were compared with the control sample entirely made of wheat flour in order to evaluate their potential, were made, using a replacement degree from 1.5% to 6% of S. latissima. Rheological analyses were completed using the ICC 173 standard method, as well as sensorial analysis, where a panel of assessors' evaluations compared the sensory properties of samples with 1.5–6% of S. latissima flour to a control sample manufactured with flour type 650. It was concluded that sample A1 (1.5% algae flour) has sensorial properties similar to those of the control sample, and, for the other samples, the properties began to degrade with the increase in the amount of algae flour. Textural analyses performed during 96 h of storage show that the firmness and gumminess increase with the addition of algae flour and over time. The conclusions indicated that samples comprising 4.5% and 6% of S. latissima are unsatisfactory from a rheological and sensory perspective, while samples having 1.5% and 3% of S. latissima can be viewed as sources of fiber and minerals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phaeoviruses (Phycodnaviridae) are large icosahedral viruses in the phylum Nucleocytoviricota with dsDNA genomes ranging from 160 to 560 kb, infecting multicellular brown algae (Phaeophyceae). The phaeoviral host range is broader than expected, not only infecting algae from the Ectocarpales but also from the Laminariales order. However, despite phaeoviral infections being reported globally, Norwegian kelp species have not been screened. A molecular analysis of cultured and wild samples of two economically important kelp species in Norway (Saccharina latissima and Laminaria hyperborea) revealed that phaeoviruses are recurrently present along the Norwegian coast. We found the viral prevalence in S. latissima to be significantly higher at the present time compared to four years ago. We also observed regional differences within older samples, in which infections were significantly lower in northern areas than in the south or the fjords. Moreover, up to three different viral sequences were found in the same algal individual, one of which does not belong to the Phaeovirus genus and has never been reported before. This master variant therefore represents a putative new member of an unclassified phycodnavirus genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phenology of the alga-dwelling amphipod Ceinina japonica Stephensen, 1933 (Amphipoda: Eophliantidae) was studied at Rishiri Island, Hokkaido, Japan, from May 2016 to March 2017. Seasonal shifting between the host algal species was confirmed through observations at a coastal field site and a nearby aquaculture facility for kelp. Amphipods mainly occurred in the farmed biennial kelp Saccharina japonica var. ochotensis and wild algae Undaria pinnatifida, with Agarum clathratum, Costaria costata, Saccharina cichorioides, and Sargassum boreale as new host algal records. Amphipods occurred in sporophytes of U. pinnatifida at the field site from February to March and from May to July, but they were found in the kelp of S. j. var. ochotensis during the rest of the year, from August to the following January. Individuals of C. japonica infected sporophytes of the large brown alga Undaria pinnatifida from February to July, and C. japonica reproduced from July to September, a period during which the amphipods switch to a different host in July, the sporophytes of the saccharinan kelp S. j. var. ochotensis, where they stay until January. The amphipods then switched back to U. pinnatifida in January or February. Experimental evidence from a kelp-culturing facility also confirmed the timing of this host shift. The removal of U. pinnatifida from algal culture ropes in such facilities is suggested as a method to prevent amphipod damage, which is important for commercially farmed S. j. var. ochotensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we evaluated the impact of brown seaweed extract (Ecklonia maxima) on the morphology and physiology of three different plant species. We conducted experiments using two types of fertilizers: an artificial fertilizer (0.1 g/L) and a biological extract of brown seaweed (Ecklonia maxima) at two concentrations (C1 at 1 mL/L and C2 at 2.5 mL/L). For melon, the application of C1 resulted in significant improvements in photosynthesis parameters, total chlorophyll content, and overall plant growth. When C2 was applied, it further enhanced these parameters, leading to a notable increase in shoot phytomass. In the case of cucumber, C1 led to increased resource allocation towards stems and leaves. Conversely, C2 increased the number of green leaves and contributed to higher shoot phytomass. For tomato plants, the application of C1 resulted in a slight increase in photosynthesis, but it did not significantly impact leaf growth. On the other hand, C2 induced a modest increase in photosynthesis, chlorophyll content, and root growth. In summary, our findings indicate that brown seaweed extract has a discernible influence on the physiology of the studied plants. However, the specific effects on resource allocation largely depend on the plant species and the concentration of the extract applied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lipidic extract of Undaria pinnatifida, one of the worst invasive species, was investigated for its potential exploitation in biotechnological applications. The antimicrobial activity of the lipidic extract in three different portions (blade, sporophyll, and holdfast) was assessed by using the Kirby–Bauer method, while the antioxidant activity was evaluated by the TEAC, ORAC, and Folin–Ciocalteu assays. NMR spectroscopy and thin-layer chromatography were employed for the chemical characterization. The extracts showed antibacterial activity against several of the tested Vibrio species: V. aestuarinus, V. fischeri, V. furnisii, V. inusitatus, V. litoralis, and V. mediterranei, including some pathogens for farmed fish. Intriguing antioxidant activity was recorded, with the highest value in the blade (126.907 ± 28.993 mmol Trolox equivalent/g TEAC). Free, saturated, unsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids were highlighted by 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy. The presence of ω-3 and ω-6 PUFAs indicates the importance of this algal species in the food industry. We suggest the employment of U. pinnatifida as source of new and safer therapeutic agents to control fish and shellfish diseases due to vibriosis, as well as a source of natural antioxidants that are useful for human health, considering the growing interest in the development of strategies for invasive seaweed control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the hypoglycemic efficacy of low molecular weight polysaccharides fractions obtained from Laminaria japonica (LJOO) in a model of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) constructed using mice. Biochemical parameters were measured after 4 weeks of continuous gavage, and fasting blood glucose (FBG) concentrations were analyzed. Pathological changes in tissues were assessed. The intestinal contents were obtained for 16S rDNA high-throughput sequencing analysis and detection of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). LJOO lowered FBG and insulin concentrations. It altered the gut microbiota composition, as evidenced by enriched probiotic bacteria, along with an increase in the Bacteroidetes/Firmicutes ratio and a decrease in the population of harmful bacteria. LJOO stimulated the growth of SCFA—producing bacteria, thereby increasing cecal SCFAs levels. LJOO can potentially aid in alleviating T2DM and related gut microbiota dysbiosis. LJOO may be used as a food supplement for patients with T2DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laminarans are of interest because they have been shown to induce various immune responses in animals and plants. These β-D-glucans differ from each other by their branching rate, which is possibly responsible for their biological activities. In the present study, we characterized a laminaran fraction extracted from Laminaria hyperborea and named LAM2 using sugar composition and structural analyses (NMR). Then, we evaluated its activity as a potential plant elicitor in vitro on tomato seedlings using gene expression analysis and cell wall immunofluorescence labeling. Our study showed that LAM2 isolated from L. hyperborea is a succinylated laminaran which significantly enhanced the plant defense of tomato seedlings and induced cell wall modifications, suggesting a higher elicitor activity than the laminaran standard extracted from Laminaria digitata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iodide is accumulated by the brown alga Saccharina japonica at a high concentration and has been proven to be an inorganic antioxidant that plays an important role in oxidative metabolism. Vanadium-dependent bromoperoxidases (vBPOs) and iodoperoxidases (vIPOs), which catalyze the oxidation of iodide, are essential for iodine accumulation and metabolism. Heavy metal pollutant cadmium (Cd) from anthropogenic activities can cause damage to algae mainly by producing oxidative stress. Here, the effects of iodine pretreatment on the stress of S. japonica caused by cadmium were analyzed. The growth experiment showed that iodine pretreatment could reduce the damage of low concentration cadmium on S. japonica young thalli. At the transcriptomic level, gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis confirmed that cadmium stress could cause a peroxidation reaction in S. japonica. However, the most significant GO term was "photosystem I" in the series with iodine pretreatment. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) indicated that iodine pretreatment alleviated cadmium stress responses of S. japonica by affecting the photosynthesis process. Analysis of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) showed that five enzymes from the vBPO family and 13 enzymes from the vIPO family might play crucial roles in this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brown algae and fish waste contain high-value compounds with potentially beneficial effects on plant growth. Several commercial fertilizer products are currently available, but the characteristics of the materials are usually not well-described. Fish and seaweed residues originating from the Norwegian coast are available, after industrial processing, which may be combined into complete fertilizers exerting additional effects on crop plants (biostimulants). In this study, raw samples of fish and seaweed residues were investigated using ecofriendly technologies (drying, leaching), targeting search and isolation of potential biostimulants, followed by physicochemical characterization (elemental analysis, UV–visible, FT-IR, ICP-MS, ICP-OES, electrical conductivity, pH, etc.). Organic solvent extractions were employed to determine the available mineral content, micro- and macro-nutrients, antioxidant compounds, and amino acid content by chemical hydrolysis. The in vitro biotoxicity profile (cell viability, morphology, migration) of the generated extracts was also perused, employing Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli) along with sensitive neuronal eukaryotic cell lines N2a58 and SH-SY5Y, to assess their time- and concentration-dependent efficacy as antimicrobials and agents counteracting oxidative stress. The analytical composition of all raw materials showed that they contain important nutrients (K, P, Ca, N) as well as organic compounds and amino acids (Gly, Asp, Glu, Leu, Phe) capable of acting as plant biostimulants. Concurrently, the inherently high conductivity values and salt content necessitated leaching processes, which result in Na+ and K+ decreasing by more than ~60% and justifying further their use in soil treatment formulations. The aforementioned results and assertions, combined with physical measurements (pH, electrical conductivity, etc.) on naturally occurring and dried samples as well as green solvent extracts, formulated a physicochemical profile reflecting well-defined inorganic–organic species that might function as biostimulants. The collective physicochemical and biological properties support the notion that appropriate mixtures of marine organism residues may be efficient fertilizers for crop plants and concurrently possess biostimulant characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of objects by cetaceans is well known, and their ability to interact with their environment in complex behaviours has been demonstrated previously. However, baleen whales, including humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae), are less often observed to perform object use, but this behaviour might be more common than previously thought. Only a few isolated observations of interactions with seaweed have been reported in the scientific literature to date. The recovery of humpback whale populations, as well as the rise of technology such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and the use of social media, allow for a new assessment of this object interaction. Here, we describe in detail three instances of "kelping" on the east coast of Australia derived from aerial observations. A summary of over 100 separate and unrelated events drawn from social media, documented by photographs and videos, suggests that this form of interaction with seaweed is observed across different populations. The form of interaction with seaweed is similar between regions, predominantly displayed between the rostrum and dorsal fin. This behaviour may be playful but could also serve additional benefits in the context of learning and socializing, as well as ectoparasite removal and skin treatment by utilizing brown algae's antibacterial properties. Establishing this type of behaviour as distributed across different populations is important to better understand the species' habitat preferences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, the exponential expansion in human population has resulted in the massification of intensive agricultural practices, with crop yield and sustainability being one of the most pressing challenges. Therefore, there was a need for new and natural fertilizers and pesticides, which has become a popular agricultural trend nowadays. Therefore, there was an increased interest to apply seaweed and bacterial extracts in agriculture to promote new means of sustainability and soil usage. This work aims to test seaweed inclusion in the agricultural field, as a simple or complex foliar biofertilizer solution applied together with a nitrifying bacteria, to verify if there is a potential synergistic effect of these two different types of biofertilizers on economically important vegetables. As a result, experiments were conducted in a greenhouse using an aqueous extract of the brown seaweed Saccharina latissima (1.2% v/v) and a biofertilizer based on BlueN bacteria (0.03% m/v), both simple or in combination, on lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. var. crispa) plants. The seaweed extract (simple or in combination), presented favorable effect on lettuce growth and nutritional properties. The aqueous algal extract, and it in combination with BlueN, produced heavier lettuce leaves (74.25 ± 6.86 and 74.13 ± 3.07 g, respectively) than the controls and enriched leaf micronutrient contents (zinc and manganese). Also, this study demonstrated that a combined seaweed-bacteria fertilizer did not show synergistic behavior, being a non-profitable solution when compared to a simple seaweed extract. In summary, this study demonstrated that simple (crude) seaweed extracts can be considered as an important key for natural plant biofertilizers and growth stimulators concerned with the blue circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfated polysaccharides isolated from seaweeds are thought of as ideal ingredients in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmetics industries. Our previous study isolated and characterized sulfated polysaccharides from Padina boryana. The sulfated polysaccharides of Padina boryana (PBP) were extracted, and the antioxidant activity of PBP was evaluated. The results indicate that PBP possesses antioxidant effects and potential in the cosmetic industry. To further investigate the potential of PBP in cosmetics, the photoprotective and anti-melanogenesis effects of PBP were evaluated. The anti-melanogenesis test results display that PBP reduced the melanin content in the murine melanoma cells stimulated by alpha melanocyte-stimulating hormone from 203.7% to 183.64%, 144.63%, and 127.57% at concentrations of 25 μg/mL, 50 μg/mL, and 100 μg/mL, respectively. The anti-photodamage test results showed that PBP significantly protected skin cells against UVB-stimulated photodamage. PBP suppressed human epidermal keratinocyte (HaCaT cell) death by inhibiting apoptosis and reducing the level of intracellular reactive oxygen species. The intracellular reactive oxygen species level of HaCaT cells irradiated by UVB was reduced from 192.67% to 181.22%, 170.25%, and 160.48% by 25 μg/mL, 50 μg/mL, and 100 μg/mL PBP, respectively. In addition, PBP remarkably reduced UVB-induced human dermal fibroblast damage by suppressing oxidative damage, inhibiting collagen degradation, and attenuating inflammatory responses. These results indicate that PBP possesses photoprotective and anti-melanogenesis activities and suggest that PBP is a potential ingredient in the cosmetic industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To develop a high-efficient extraction method, we investigated the use of high-pressure homogenization (HPH) as a novel pretreatment technology for the extraction of sodium alginate (SA) from Laminaria japonica. After the single-factor experiment, the results demonstrated that under the conditions of 100 MPa HPH pressure, 4 cycles, pH 6.0, and 0.5% EDTA for 3.0 h, the optimized extraction yield of HPH reached 34%. To further clarify the effect on the structural properties of HPH-extracted SA, we conducted comprehensive analysis using SEM, FTIR, MRS, NMR, XRD, TGA, and a T-AOC assay. Our findings revealed that HPH pretreatment significantly disrupted the structure of L. japonica cells and reduced their crystallinity to 76.27%. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity of HPH-extracted SA reached 0.02942 mgVceq∙mg−1. Therefore, the HPH pretreatment method is a potential strategy for the extraction of alginate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seaweed assemblages include a variety of structuring species providing habitats, food and shelter for organisms from different trophic levels. Monitoring intertidal seaweed traditionally involves targeting small areas to collect data on species' biological traits, which is often labour intensive and covers only a small area of the rocky reef under study. Given the various applications for seaweeds and their compounds, there has been an increase in demand for biomass triggered by the development of new markets. Such biomass demand generates new challenges for biomass quantification and the definition of future in-take harvesting commercial quotas by regulating agencies. The use of Unoccupied Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) as a low-cost yet efficient monitoring solution, combined with new sensors such as multispectral cameras, has been proposed for mapping intertidal reefs and seaweed in particular. In this study, a new methodology was developed and validated to quantify intertidal seaweed biomass based on multispectral UAV imagery, which was made available through an easy-to-use QGIS plugin (named SWUAV_BIO) that automates such biomass estimation. This tool was applied to a case study where the standing stock of Fucus spp. beds located at Viana do Castelo rocky shore (northern Portugal) was assessed using UAV multispectral imagery, providing a reference for future UAV-based ecological studies. Although comparison with the in situ assessments showed that biomass was underestimated by 36%, the SWUAV_BIO plugin is a valuable tool, as it provides an expedited (albeit conservative) seaweed standing stock assessment that can be used to monitor seaweed populations, their changes, and assess the effect of harvesting. These data can be used for an informed and sustainable management of seaweed resources by the competent authorities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Edible seaweeds are an excellent source of macronutrients, micronutrients, and bioactive compounds, and they can be consumed raw or used as ingredients in food products. However, seaweeds may also bioaccumulate potentially hazardous compounds for human health and animals, namely, heavy metals. Hence, the purpose of this review is to analyze the recent trends of edible seaweeds research: (i) nutritional composition and bioactive compounds, (ii) the use and acceptability of seaweeds in foodstuffs, (iii) the bioaccumulation of heavy metals and microbial pathogens, and (iv) current trends in Chile for using seaweeds in food. In summary, while it is evident that seaweeds are consumed widely worldwide, more research is needed to characterize new types of edible seaweeds as well as their use as ingredients in the development of new food products. Additionally, more research is needed to maintain control of the presence of heavy metals to assure a safe product for consumers. Finally, the need to keep promoting the benefits of seaweed consumption is emphasized, adding value in the algae-based production chain, and promoting a social algal culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 disease is a major problem affecting human health all over the world. Consequently, researchers have been trying to find solutions to treat this pandemic-scale disease. Even if there are vaccines and approved drugs that could decrease the spread of this pandemic, multidisciplinary approaches are still needed to identify new small molecules as alternatives to combat COVID-19, especially those from nature. In this study, we employed computational approaches by screening 17 natural compounds from the tropical brown seaweed Sargassum polycystum known to have anti-viral properties that benefit human health. This study assessed some seaweed natural products that are bound to the PLpro of SARS-CoV-2. By employing pharmacophore and molecular docking, these natural compounds from S. polycystum showed remarkable scores for protein targets with competitive scores compared to X-ray crystallography ligands and well-known antiviral compounds. This study provides insightful information for advanced study and further in vitro examination and clinical investigation for drug development prospects of abundant yet underexploited tropical seaweeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kelp forests are disappearing worldwide due to climate change and human stressors, highlighting the need for active interventions. A new restoration approach, "green gravel", has been shown to be a potentially effective tool to restore endangered kelp forests. However, green gravel is still a novel technique that needs better experimentation and optimisation at all process stages. Contamination by other algal species is one of the critical factors in early-stage green gravel production because their overgrowth can lead to the loss of the seeded material. In this study, we assessed the effect of light intensity on kelp growth and on the coverage of contaminating algae on green gravel. Our results show that under high lights, kelps displayed faster growth (recruits on average more than three times the size and covering a six-times-larger area in high light intensity than in low light), but there was also a higher percentage of contaminating algae. In contrast, the green gravel cultivated under low lights showed almost no signs of algal contamination, but the area occupied by kelps and the length of the lamina were dramatically lower. Due to the cultivation conditions, opportunistic species can grow fast. This advantage is expected to disappear once the green gravel is deployed. To obtain cleaner cultures and to avoid the risk of losing the cultivated material, we would advise starting rearing under lower light intensity to reduce the risk of contamination but ensure kelp growth and then increasing the light intensity to boost it. Clear and appropriate protocols are absolutely necessary to minimise production costs and times and for the scaling-up of future attempts at marine forest restoration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal exposure from wastewater is an important environmental issue worldwide. In the search for more efficient treatment technologies, biosorption has been presented as an alternative for contaminant removal from wastewaters. The aim of this work is to determine the operation parameters of copper adsorption followed by biosorbent regeneration. The algae Durvillaea antarctica and Lessonia trabeculata were used as biosorbents in batch experiments. These biosorbents were exposed to different conditions, such as pH, copper concentration, exposure time, mass-to-volume ratios and regeneration reagents. Batch sorption tests revealed an adequate pH of 4.5–5.0. The selected biosorbent was D. antarctica due to a considerably higher copper retention capacity. As a regenerating reagent, sulfuric acid was more efficient. For diluted copper solutions (10 to 100 mg L−1), a biosorbent particle size of between 1.70 and 3.36 mm showed better retention capacity than larger particles and a biosorbent mass-to-volume ratio of 10 g L−1 was desirable for these metal concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supplementing ruminants' diet with seaweed has shown positive effect on meat quality and micronutrients important for human health. The objective of the present study was to investigate the use of Saccharina latissima in a lamb diet to improve the eating quality and nutritional value of meat. Six-month-old female Norwegian White lambs (n = 24) were fed, 35 days pre-slaughter, three different diets: a control (CON) and two seaweed diets (SW); supplemented with either 2.5% (SW1) or 5% (SW2). The quality properties of longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) and semimembranosus with adductor (SM+ADD) muscles were examined. The dietary inclusion of seaweed reduced cooking loss and shear force of lamb meat, although the effect was not significant at both supplementation levels. SW1 fed lambs showed a significantly (p < 0.05) improved meat color stability and antioxidant potential. Seaweed also reduced lipid oxidation (TBARS) and the warm-over flavor in SM+ADD compared to the CON lamb. Seaweed fed lambs showed an increased content of selenium and iodine in LTL, thereby fulfilling the requirements for the label "source of nutrient" and "significant source of nutrient", respectively. An increased arsenic content in LTL was, however, also observed with seaweed inclusion (to 1.54 and 3.09 μg/100 g in SW1 and SW2 group, respectively). While relevant positive effects were found in meat using seaweed in lamb feed, some optimization of this feed approach will be desirable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The inclusion of seaweeds in daily-consumption food is a worthy-of-attention challenge due to their high nutritional value and potential health benefits. In this way, their composition, organoleptic profile, and toxicity must be assessed. This work focuses on studying the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by three edible seaweeds, Grateloupia turuturu, Codium tomentosum, and Bifurcaria bifurcata, with the aim of deepening the knowledge regarding their organoleptic profiles. Nine samples of each seaweed were prepared in glass vials, and the emitted headspace was analyzed, for the first time, with a gas chromatography—ion mobility spectrometry device, a highly sensitive technology. By statistically processing the collected data through PCA, it was possible to accurately differentiate the characteristic patterns of the three seaweeds with a total explained variance of 98%. If the data were pre-processed through PLS Regression, the total explained variance increased to 99.36%. The identification of 13 VOCs was accomplished through a developed database of compounds. These outstanding values in addition to the identification of the main emissions of VOCs and the utilization of a never-before-used technology prove the capacity of GC-IMS to differentiate edible seaweeds based solely on their volatile emissions, increase the knowledge regarding their organoleptic profiles, and provide an important step forward in the inclusion of these highly nutritional ingredients in the human diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: It has been widely reported that seaweed has numerous bioactive molecules that have been examined for health and growth-promoting effects. The current study was conducted to analyze the effects of various levels (starting from 0.25% to 1.25%) of brown seaweed and green seaweed on blood plasma antioxidant enzyme activities, hepatic antioxidant genes expression, blood plasma lipid profile, breast meat quality, and chemical composition in broiler chickens. The result showed that different levels of brown seaweed and green seaweed had no significant effects on broiler blood plasma catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase enzyme activities. In contrast, the hepatic superoxide dismutase 1 gene mRNA expression was significantly higher for birds fed 0.50% and 0.75% brown seaweed. Meanwhile, the total cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein levels were higher in blood plasma for birds fed 0.75 and 1% brown seaweed compared to the negative and positive control groups. The findings showed that different levels of brown seaweed and green seaweed had significantly higher breast meat crude protein content. The current research findings are useful for further studies to investigate the mechanisms and components responsible for affecting the hepatic antioxidant gene expression and blood plasma profile. The study was designed to analyze the effects of brown seaweed (BS) and green seaweed (GS) on blood plasma antioxidant enzyme activities, hepatic antioxidant genes expression, blood plasma lipid profile, breast meat quality, and chemical composition in broiler chickens. The dietary treatment groups contained basal diet [negative control (NC)], basal diet + vitamin E (100 mg/kg feed) [positive control (PC)], basal diet + 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, 1, and 1.25% BS and GS supplements separately. The findings showed that both BS and GS exhibited remarkable antioxidant activity. In contrast, the maximum antioxidant activity was recorded by BS (55.19%), which was significantly higher than the GS (25.74%). Results showed that various levels of BS and GS had no significant effects on broiler blood plasma catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) enzyme activities. The hepatic superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) gene mRNA expression was significantly higher for birds fed 0.50% and 0.75% BS. Regarding the plasma lipid profile, the total cholesterol (TC) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels were higher (p < 0.05) for birds fed 0.75 and 1% BS compared to the negative and positive control groups. The findings showed that different levels of BS and GS had significantly higher breast meat crude protein (CP) content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enzymatic alginate oligosaccharides were proved with various biological activities. Developing robust alginate lyase with high production is essential for its industrial application. In this study, a novel alginate lyase gene, AL07, was successfully screened and expressed in Pichia pastoris, and its characteristics were characterized. The secreted alginate lyase has a molecular weight of approximately 40.0 kDa and an activity of 45.4 U/mL. AL07 exhibits superior biological activity at pH 7.0 and 40 °C, with a preference for polyG substrates. Notably, the enzyme exhibits more than 60% relative activity over a pH range of 5.0 to 10.0. AL07 is also independent of ions and exhibits salt tolerance properties. The main degradation product of AL07 is DP2 oligosaccharide. Using AL07-based enzyme cocktail, Laminaria japonica can be degraded within 120 min. Therefore, AL07 has been demonstrated to be an efficient tool for the preparation of alginate oligosaccharides and the degradation of L. japonica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several bioactive compounds that hold a potential interest in the food industry as phenolic compounds, polysaccharides, proteins and vitamins, among others, are present in seaweeds. Green extraction technologies are the preferred way to obtain these compounds. Pressurized hot water extraction, from 160 to 220 °C, was tested to achieve high yields of these components from the edible brown seaweed, Undaria pinnatifida. The maximum fucoidan content was recovered at 160 °C, while the phloroglucinol content and antioxidant activity were maximum at 220 °C. The possibility of encapsulating these bioactive fractions using mannitol was assessed. The highest production yield of the polymeric particles was found using the 220 °C fraction (close to 75%). In order to formulate microparticles with bioactive potential, several ratios of liquid phases were assessed, 3:1, 1:1 and 1:3 (w:w), using the liquid fractions obtained at 160 °C and 220 °C. The yield production was always above 67%, being in the 1:3 ratio (160 °C:220 °C) and close to 75%. The rheological results indicated that the presence of microparticles enhanced the apparent viscosity of the aqueous dispersions with non-Newtonian profiles, achieving the highest viscosity for those formulated with microparticles from 160 °C:200 °C (3:1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of four domestic cooking methods, including blanching, steaming, boiling, and baking treatments, on processing properties, bioactive compound, pigments, flavor components, and tissue structure of Laminaria japonica were investigated. The results showed that the color and structure of kelp changed most obviously after baking; steaming was most beneficial in reducing the color change of the kelp (ΔE < 1), while boiling was most effective in maintaining the texture of the kelp (its hardness and chewiness were close to that of raw kelp); eight volatile compounds were detected in raw kelp, four and six compounds were detected in blanched and boiled kelp, while eleven and thirty kinds of compounds were detected in steamed and baked kelp, respectively. In addition, the contents of phloroglucinol and fucoxanthin in kelp after the four processing methods were significantly reduced (p < 0.05). However, of all the methods, steaming and boiling were the best at preserving these two bioactive substances (phloroglucinol and fucoxanthin) in kelp. Therefore, steaming and boiling seemed more appropriate to maintain the original quality of the kelp. Generally, to improve the sensory characteristics of each meal of Laminaria japonica and to maximize the retention of active nutrients, several different processing methods are provided according to the respective effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ulva ohnoi is a cosmopolitan green seaweed with commercial potential given the biomass that may be generated. We evaluated the effects of substrate changes induced by U. ohnoi application on the vegetative response of tomato plants under greenhouse conditions. First, the decomposition dynamics and N release of the dry seaweed biomass were studied using the litterbag method. Subsequently, we evaluated the effect of seaweed powder (SP) or seaweed extract (SE) applications on substrate and plant growth. Additionally, the growth parameters responses evaluated were related to the changes in substrate properties associated with each treatment. The results showed that the dry seaweed biomass has a rapid rate of degradation (k = 0.07 day−1) and N release (k = 0.024 day−1). The SP application improved the physicochemical and biological characteristics of the substrate by increasing the availability of minerals, the fungi:bacteria ratio, and the growth morphophysiological parameters (length, area, dry and fresh weight), chlorophyll and mineral content. In contrast, SE treatment showed a positive effect on the root, mineral content, and soil microbes. This study highlights the agricultural potential of U. ohnoi powder as an alternative supplement that supports nutrition and promotes the vegetative growth of plants cultivated in soilless horticultural systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Once the tide recedes and leaves a significant amount of stranded seaweed on the coast, marine macroalgae pose a serious threat to the surrounding area. Through this work, we considered a large-scale application of stranded macroalgae in building construction. For the first time we studied the impact of incorporating Sargassum mitucum seaweed fiber in replacement of flax fiber used for a standard structural cob. Thus, cob specimens were elaborated and analyzed to evaluate their compressive and hygrothermal performances. It was found that the compressive strength and water vapor resistance factors of cob decreased with the algae content. Additionally, the obtained results showed that a cob made with Sargassum muticum algae presented better thermal (insulation and inertia) and hygroscopic properties than those of a cob made with a flax fiber. Indeed, the replacement of flax straw by algae lead to a reduction in the thermal conductivity by 38% when compared to the standard cob with 2.5% of flax straw fiber. Consequently, numerical simulation showed a reduction in the energy needs in buildings made with an algae-based cob when compared to those made with a flax-based cob. This study can contribute to a global environmental and economic issue, i.e., the valorization of brown algae on a large scale. Indeed, the worldwide knows the largest sea of sargassum algae extent measures over 8850 km2. This huge mass of brownish algae is expanding every year, which now covers an area from Africa to the Caribbean. It weighs more than 20 million tons and extends from the Gulf of Mexico to the west coast of Africa. We show that stranded algae, which are considered as wastes, have the ability to improve the mechanical and hygrothermal performance of cob-based material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The transition from milk to solid feed in commercial pig-production systems negatively affects gut health, particularly the composition of the residing microbial community. This can subsequently impair pig growth and long-term health. Natural dietary supplements including seaweed extracts have the capacity to reduce pathogen load (antibacterial activity) and/or increase beneficial microbes (prebiotic activity). This study evaluated the antibacterial and prebiotic potential of two seaweed species, Laminaria hyperborea and Laminaria digitata, and their extracts using laboratory-based simulations of the gut microbial community of weaned pigs. Our investigation identified seaweed extracts that could decrease the numbers of pig- and food-related pathogens or increase the number of beneficial microbes, albeit to a different extent. These findings indicate that seaweeds are a promising source of antibacterial and prebiotic dietary supplements for use in pigs during the weaning period. Laminaria spp. and their extracts have preventative potential as dietary supplements during weaning in pigs. The first objective of this study was to evaluate increasing concentrations of four whole seaweed biomass samples from two different Laminaria species harvested in two different months in a weaned pig faecal batch fermentation assay. Particularly, February and November whole seaweed biomass samples of L. hyperborea (LHWB-F and LHWB-N) and L. digitata (LDWB-F and LDWB-N) were used. In the next part of the study, the increasing concentrations of four extracts produced from L. hyperborea (LHE1–4) and L. digitata (LDE1–4) were evaluated in individual pure-culture growth assays using a panel of beneficial and pathogenic bacterial strains (second objective). The LHE1–4 and LDE1–4 were obtained using different combinations of temperature, incubation time and volume of solvent within a hydrothermal-assisted extraction methodology (E1–4). In the batch fermentation assay, the L. hyperborea biomass samples, LHWB-F and LHWB-N, lowered Bifidobacterium spp. counts compared to the L. digitata biomass samples, LDWB-F and LDWB-N (p < 0.05). LHWB-F and LDWB-N reduced Enterobacteriaceae counts (p < 0.05). LHWB-F and LDWB-F were selected as the most and least promising sources of antibacterial extracts from which to produce LHE1–4 and LDE1–4. In the pure-culture growth assays, E1- and E4-produced extracts were predominantly associated with antibacterial and bifidogenic activities, respectively. LHE1 reduced both Salmonella Typhimurium and Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli with LDE1 having a similar effect on both of these pathogenic strains, albeit to a lesser extent (p < 0.05). Both LHE1 and LDE1 reduced B. thermophilum counts (p < 0.05). LDE4 exhibited strong bifidogenic activity (p < 0.05), whereas LHE4 increased Bifidobacterium thermophilum and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum counts (p < 0.05). In conclusion, antibacterial and bifidogenic extracts of Laminaria spp. were identified in vitro with the potential to alleviate gastrointestinal dysbiosis in newly weaned pigs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saccharina japonica (known as Laminaria japonica or Phaeophyta japonica), one of the largest macroalgae, has been recognized as food and medicine for a long time in some Asian countries, such as China, South Korea, Japan, etc. In recent years, S. japonica has also been considered the most promising third-generation biofuel feedstock to replace fossil fuels, contributing to solving the challenges people face regarding energy and the environment. In particular, S. japonica-derived biohydrogen (H2) is expected to be a major fuel source in the future because of its clean, high-yield, and sustainable properties. Therefore, this review focuses on recent advances in bio-H2 production from S. japonica. The cutting-edge biological technologies with suitable operating parameters to enhance S. japonica's bio-H2 production efficiency are reviewed based on the Scopus database. In addition, guidelines for future developments in this field are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seaweeds are popular foods due to claimed beneficial health effects, but for many there is a lack of scientific evidence. In this study, extracts of the edible seaweeds Aramé, Nori, and Fucus are compared. Our approach intends to clarify similarities and differences in the health properties of these seaweeds, thus contributing to target potential applications for each. Additionally, although Aramé and Fucus seaweeds are highly explored, information on Nori composition and bioactivities is scarce. The aqueous extracts of the seaweeds were obtained by decoction, then fractionated and characterized according to their composition and biological activity. It was recognized that fractioning the extracts led to bioactivity reduction, suggesting a loss of bioactive compounds synergies. The Aramé extract showed the highest antioxidant activity and Nori exhibited the highest potential for acetylcholinesterase inhibition. The identification of the bioactive compounds in the extracts allowed to see that these contained a mixture of phloroglucinol polymers, and it was suggested that Nori's effect on acetylcholinesterase inhibition may be associated with a smaller sized phlorotannins capable of entering the enzyme active site. Overall, these results suggest a promising potential for the use of these seaweed extracts, mainly Aramé and Nori, in health improvement and management of diseases, namely those associated to oxidative stress and neurodegeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fraser's photinia 'Red Robin' (Photinia x fraseri Dress, Rosaceae family) is an important primary ornamental landscaping species with optimal hedge or screen effects and low maintenance, but it is difficult to root when propagated by cuttings, although high concentrations of phytohormones are used to optimize rhizogenesis. To our knowledge, there is currently no feasible enhanced method for photinia vegetative propagation through stem cuttings, using seaweed extract-based biostimulants as root promoters. Given the economic importance of the species, this research aims to assess the effects of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) and seaweed extract-based stimulators on the quality of photinia 'Red Robin' cuttings, in terms of rooting indicators and ground and aboveground agronomic features. The treatments applied were different concentrations of commercial rooting stimulators compared to an untreated control: C0: distilled water; Rhizopon AA: 1% IBA (R1); Kelpak®: 2 mL L−1 (K2); Kelpak®: 3 mL L−1 (K3); Goteo®: 2 mL L−1 (G2); Goteo®: 3 mL L−1 (G3). The first results showed different responses to adventitious rhizogenesis under IBA and both seaweed extract treatments. At 70 DAC (days after cutting), the seaweed extract stimulated the production of over 80% of cuttings with callus; at 240 DAC, the percentage of rooted cuttings treated under R1 was the highest = 34.3%; the worst results were obtained by both biostimulant treatments at the highest doses: K3 = 21.3% and G3 = 20.7%. Furthermore, R1 produced 3.07 roots per cutting, which was 50% higher than the average of all other treatments. The applications of Kelpak® and Goteo® biostimulants, at both concentrations, resulted in an inhibition of root length with values below the untreated control. Rooted cuttings under R1 showed the highest ground (0.35 g) and aboveground (0.47) dry value. Neither seaweed extract, Kelpak® or Goteo®, at different concentrations, improved both the ground and above-ground weights of rooted cutting, compared to the untreated control, indicating that these natural products are not suitable for Fraser's photinia 'Red Robin' propagation using this methodology. The overall quality of cuttings in IBA treatment was the strongest, with 1%, being the optimum concentration. Further research must be conducted to propose effective agronomic protocols by investigating application methods, doses and number of applications, and to clarify the biochemical and molecular mechanisms of action of these seaweed extracts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fucoidans are polysaccharides and constituents of cell walls of brown algae such as Laminaria hyperborea (LH). They exhibit promising effects regarding age-related macular degeneration (AMD). However, the safety of this compound needs to be assured. The focus of this study lies on influences of an LH fucoidan on the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). The high-molecular weight LH fucoidan Fuc1 was applied to primary porcine RPE cells, and a tetrazolium (MTT) cell viability assay was conducted. Further tests included a scratch assay to measure wound healing, Western blotting to measure expression of retinal pigment epithelium-specific 65 kDa protein (RPE65), as well as immunofluorescence to measure uptake of opsonized fluorescence beads into RPE cells. Lipopolysaccharide was used to proinflammatorily activate the RPE, and interleukin 6 (IL-6) and interleukin 8 (IL-8) secretion was measured. RPE/choroid cultures were used to assess vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) secretion. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR) was performed to detect the gene expression of 91 different genes in a specific porcine RPE gene array. Fuc1 slightly reduced wound healing, but did not influence cell viability, phagocytosis or RPE65 expression. Fuc1 lowered IL-6, IL-8 and VEGF secretion. Furthermore, Fuc1 did not change tested RPE genes. In conclusion, Fuc1 does not impair RPE cellular functions and shows antiangiogenic and anti-inflammatory activities, which indicates its safety and strengthens its suitability concerning ocular diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seaweeds have a variety of biological activities, and their aromatic characteristics could play an important role in consumer acceptance. Here, changes in aroma compounds were monitored during microbial fermentation, and those most likely to affect sensory perception were identified. Ulva sp. and Laminaria sp. were fermented and generally recognized as safe microorganisms, and the profile of volatile compounds in the fermented seaweeds was investigated using headspace solid-phase microextraction with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Volatile compounds, including ketones, aldehydes, alcohols, and acids, were identified during seaweed fermentation. Compared with lactic acid bacteria fermentation, Bacillus subtilis fermentation could enhance the total ketone amount in seaweeds. Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation could also enhance the alcohol content in seaweeds. Principal component analysis of volatile compounds revealed that fermenting seaweeds with B. subtilis or S. cerevisiae could reduce aldehyde contents and boost ketone and alcohol contents, respectively, as expected. The odor of the fermented seaweeds was described by using GC–olfactometry, and B. subtilis and S. cerevisiae fermentations could enhance pleasant odors and reduce unpleasant odors. These results can support the capability of fermentation to improve the aromatic profile of seaweeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were biosynthesized with the use of an extract derived from seaweed (Sargassum sp.) and used as a sorbent for the removal of Cr(III) ions from wastewater. The biosorption properties of the seaweed itself as well as of the post-extraction residue were investigated for comparison. ZnO NPs were characterized with UV–vis, ICP-OES, FTIR, XRD, and SEM techniques. The sorption capacity of the (bio)sorbents was investigated as a function of contact time at different pH values and initial concentrations of metal ions. Sorption kinetics and isotherms were studied in order to comprehend the sorption nature and mechanism. The sorption kinetic data were well-fitted with the pseudo-second-order model, and the highest sorption capacity was calculated for ZnO NPs (137 mg/g), whereas those calculated for Sargassum sp. (82.0 mg/g) and the post-extraction residue (81.3 mg/g) were comparable (at pH 5 and 300 mg of Cr(III) ions/L). The adsorption isotherms for all sorbents were well described using the Langmuir model. According to these findings, ZnO NPs were superior to the sorption properties of the tested biosorbents and can be used as a potential sorbent for the removal of metal ions from wastewater. Renewable seaweed biomass can be used for the sustainable biosynthesis of nanoparticles used for environmental protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last decades, marine macroalgae have drawn attention mainly because of their bioactive constituents. Most brown algae are distributed over coastal areas of the Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, Aegean Sea and Black Sea, and their composition varies with endogenous and exogenous factors. Phlorotannins, fatty acids, sterols and carbohydrates are some of the compounds responsible for biological activities related to cytotoxic, antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial, antidiabetic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. In this review we seek to highlight some of the compounds responsible for these last two biological activities, which have enormous importance for the management of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer and Parkinson's, with neuroinflammation and oxidative stress as hallmarks. However, one of the major problems associated with treating these diseases is the highly selective blood-brain-barrier, which can be overcome with nanocarriers used as delivery systems. Weighing the risks, benefits and toxicity of the used nanoparticles is nevertheless important. We also discuss zebrafish as an upcoming adequate biological model for in vivo screening of risks and benefits of such treatment strategies. This review aims to enable researchers working in the exploitation of these macroalgae and in the use of nanocarriers to potentiate the controlled delivery of bioactive compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]