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Lutein is a macular biopigment that can protect the retina from oxidative stress induced by chronic exposure to light and oxidants. The peel of gac fruit (Momordica cochinchinensis) contains high levels of lutein, but the extraction optimisation parameters are complex, requiring saponification, and the effects on ocular bioactivity are not well understood. This study is aimed at optimising parameters for lutein extraction validated using HPLC from gac peel to determine their protective effects on oxidatively stressed retinal cells. The factors investigated for optimisation were KOH concentration, time, and temperature using (1) single factor, (2) multiple factor response surface methodology, and (3) predictive modelling. The optimum conditions for lutein extraction using single factors were 9% KOH for 3 h at 60°C, multiple factors were 9% KOH for 3 h at 45°C, and predictive modelling was 18% KOH for 1.9 h at 39.9°C, with the maximum extraction of lutein at 12.37, 15.64, and 17.4 mg/g DW, respectively. The extracted lutein purity and chemical composition were compared using HPLC and FTIR and indicated high purity and similarities in all extracts including the commercially purified lutein. Lutein extracted exhibited benefits on oxidatively stressed retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells that reversed damage to baseline unstressed levels exceeding 80% viability, similar to purified lutein standards. The feasibility of gac lutein and extraction optimisation were discussed for commercial translational opportunities as a medicinal bioproduct with a focus on eye benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The capture of a rare, critically endangered adult angular rough shark, Oxynotus centrina (Linnaeus, 1758), with abnormal coloration is reported in this paper. The shark exhibited a partial reduction in pigmentation, resulting in an overall pale appearance with white‐greyish patches. Since the retinal pigmentation appeared normal, the shark was considered leucistic. This represents the first documented case of leucism in this species and the first colour disorder reported in the family Oxynotidae Gill, 1912. Despite the atypical appearance, the physical health of the shark seemed unaffected, supporting the notion that pigment disorders in deep‐sea sharks do not inherently impair survival and growth. Full morphometric characteristics are presented and compared with those of a normal individual of the same sex caught in the same area, showing no differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Color is the most prominent factor in any marketable product. Among microorganisms, Pseudomonas spp. produces four different types of pigments. The aim of this study is biosynthesis and optimization of pyoverdine from locally isolated Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize two growth parameters, i.e., temperature (30–40 ℃) and pH (5–8). RSM predicted maximum yield of pyoverdine at pH 7 and temperature 37℃. Optimal growth media and incubation time required for pigment production was analyzed by spectroscopy. For this, three culture media (nutrient broth, King's B, and synthetic citrate media) were inoculated with P. aeruginosa and incubated at 37℃ for 24–120 h. Maximum optical density 1.94 (in nutrient broth) at 420 nm indicated maximum production of pyoverdine, and time recorded for maximum production was 120 h. Growth of P. aeruginosa on nutrient broth, pH 7, incubation time 120 h at 37℃ yielded 2.5 g/L pyoverdine; that was extracted using chloroform. Spectroscopic analysis revealed presence of a chromophore that emits maximum light at 400 nm and thin-layer chromatography performed using n-butanol, acetic acid, and water 3:2:1 as solvent system indicated exhibition of florescent under UV lamp of 354 nm. Amine stretch (3232.46 cm−1), carboxyl group (1628 cm−1), and amide group (1402 cm−1) were indicated by FT-IR, and peaks obtained from NMR spectra at 7.888 ppm, 7.1 ppm, and 7.26 ppm represent 1.6 proton of aromatic chain H-4, H-5, and H-8 chromophore 3a that has been derived from 2,3-diamino-hydroxyquinoline. All of these findings demonstrate that Pseudomonas aeruginosa has the capacity to manufacture pyoverdine under the aforementioned ideal cultivation circumstances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porphyridium cruentum is a red marine phytoplankton rich in natural bioactive compounds such as phycoerythrin, polyunsaturated fatty acids, proteins, and floridean starch. In addition, it excretes during its growth large amounts of high-value sulfated polysaccharides. In this context, the purpose of this investigation was to systematically study the growth characteristics as well as the accumulation of macromolecules by Porphyridium cruentum growing in different culture media (Pm, F/2, and Hemerick media) under controlled temperature (18 °C), agitation (130 rpm), and irradiance (150 μmol/m2/s) for 52 days. A maximum biomass concentration of 4.65 × 106 cells/mL was achieved with F/2 medium, after 52 days of growth. The highest values of chlorophyll a (1.76 ± 0.007 pg/cell), total carotenoids (0.48 ± 0.0022 pg/cell), phycoerythrin (15.77 ± 0.6 pg/cell), starch (3.97 ± 0.22 g/100 g DW), and proteins (34.36 ± 1.035 pg/cell) concentrations were recorded also with F/2 medium. However, the Pm medium was proven to be the most suitable for lipid production (4.51 ± 0.45% dry weight). Porphyridium cruentum cultured in Hemerick medium showed the highest exopolysaccharides production of 14.19 ± 0.19 pg/cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic (As) in rice plants has toxic effects on their quality and human health. In the present study, 100 rice cultivars have been screened in hydroponics to analyze As toxicity and select As-tolerant and sensitive rice cultivars. The findings showed that rice cultivars responded differently to As stress at varying levels of effect. As treatments significantly changed morphological traits, the arsenic tolerance index (ATI %), pigments, and H2O2 concentrations. The rice cultivars Luit and Swarna demonstrated remarkable results (tolerant and sensitive) in terms of growth, as well as in terms of ATI, chlorophyll content, H2O2 content, and enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants. Arsenic-induced pigment degradation and antioxidant content reduction were greater in Swarna than in Luit. Moreover, the results of biochemical analysis correlated with the morphological parameters. The selected As-tolerant and sensitive cultivars may be used to explore the tolerance mechanism in greater depth, which will require further molecular investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium dioxide is the world's most widely used pigment; however, increased cost and potential environmental concerns have driven a need for a sustainable replacement. The study has developed a scalable method to produce more sustainable photonic whiteners with application in paint and other dispersion formulations. Bio‐resourced zein protein nanoparticles are synthesized and used as sacrificial templates within a silica matrix. These micron‐sized photonic whiteners exhibit morphologically dependent whitening capabilities when incorporated into paint films. When the silica content is insufficient, an open structure forms, while an excess of silica content results in fewer interfaces and reduced scattering efficiency, leading to suboptimal whitening performance. An ideal ratio of silica to zein nanoparticles ensures optimal whitening properties comparable to commercially available whitener alternatives to titanium dioxide. Further analysis reveals a non‐uniform internal morphology of the photonic whiteners, with a silica‐void network dispersed within a solid silica matrix. This morphology provides an innovative criterion for optimizing the whitening performance of photonic structures beyond composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we present the synthesis, characterization, and colorimetric analysis of Zn1-xCoxO nanopigments (x = 0.0: ZnO, x = 0.02: ZC2, x = 0.04: ZC4, x = 0.06: ZC6, and x = 0.08: ZC8), where cobalt (Co) is doped into the zinc oxide lattice. The nanopigments were synthesized using a gelatin-based sol-gel method, ensuring uniform incorporation of cobalt ions into the ZnO lattice. Structural characterization, including X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, showed minimal changes in the hexagonal structure of ZnO with the addition of cobalt impurities. Crystallite size analysis using the Size Strain Plot (SSP) method indicated an increase in crystal size with cobalt doping. UV–Vis spectroscopy confirmed the impact of cobalt on the absorption edge and reflectance spectra of the nanopigments. Colorimetric analysis revealed a shift towards green hues with increasing cobalt concentration, although the relationship between cobalt content and color intensity was nonlinear. These findings offer valuable insights into the synthesis, structural properties, optical behavior, and color characteristics of Co-doped ZnO nanopigments, highlighting their potential for various industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pigment is one of the most important metabolites in red yeast rice. However, citrinin may accumulate and cause quality security issues. In the present study, the effect of ascorbic acid (EAA) on the pigment and citrinin was studied, and the metabolic mechanism was discussed using comparative transcriptomics. The introduction of EAA increased the pigment by 58.2% and decreased citrinin by 65.4%. The acid protease activity, DPPH scavenging rate, and total reducing ability also increased by 18.7, 9.0, and 26.7%, respectively. Additionally, a total of 791 differentially expressed genes were identified, and 79 metabolic pathways were annotated, among which carbon metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and fatty acid metabolism were closely related to the biosynthesis of pigment and citrinin. Ethanol dehydrogenase (M pigC), oxidoreductase (M pigE), reductase (M pigH), and monooxygenase (M pigN) may be related to the increase of pigment. ctnC and pksCT contributed to the decline of citrinin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Animal coloration serves a variety of visually related functions in nature (e.g. mate choice, aposematism and camouflage) but the pigments in integumentary tissues such as skin, scales and feathers may also serve functions unrelated to the visual environment (e.g. temperature regulation, detoxification and pollutant protection). Our understanding of the significance of the non‐visual functions of animal integumentary pigments, as well as how they interact with the visually related functions to shape animal visual systems, remains limited. Furthermore, due to their important roles in shaping species interactions and mediating interactions in the environment, animal colour traits are likely to be impacted by global change (e.g. increased temperatures, altered habitat quality and quantity, increased environmental stochasticity, pollutants and novel species assemblages). Considering the effects of global change on both visual and non‐visual functions is important for understanding whether the selection is acting directly on the pigment or on coloration. Since changing the trait distributions can then lead to changes in visual systems, we advocate for studies to consider all potential functions of integumentary pigments, both visual and non‐visual functions and their interaction. Towards this goal, we first highlight common functions of pigments with a focus on non‐visual functions across animal systems. Then we synthesize our current understanding of how global change can impact pigmentation and discuss factors that can modify the interactions between climate change and pigment function. Lastly, we discuss how changes in colour traits can impact visual systems and provide an example using amphibians and their responses to climate change as a model. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the adaptability of Dunaliella salina to different salinity levels, with an emphasis on growth, pigment concentration, and desalination potential. It was found that among the 21 salinity levels, Salinity 75 produced consistently favorable results in cell count (13.08 × 103 ± 1.41 × 103 cells/mL), dry biomass (2.46 ± 0.06 g/L), pigment content (chlorophyll a = 97,500,000 ± 100,000 pg/L, chlorophyll b = 123,600,000 ± 300,000 pg/L), and desalination (9.32 ± 0.47 reduction). Therefore, Salinity 75 was selected for the final trial (scale-up), which revealed unanticipatedly high cell counts (58.96 × 103 ± 535.22 cells/mL), with the dry biomass weight being statistically different (higher) than expected (4.21 ± 0.02 g/L) (p < 0.0001), most likely due to the high cell count and energy reserve storage for high-salinity adaption in the form of bio-compounds. Pigment growth continued (chlorophyll a = 95,400,000 ± 2,200,000 pg/L, chlorophyll b = 128,100,000 ± 5,100,000 pg/L), indicating pigment production under salt stress. Notably, desalination did not occur in this stage, possibly due to the necessity for a bigger initial inoculate, prolonged exposure or bioaccumulation becoming the prevailing mechanism over desalination. Nevertheless, the trial highlights D. salina's strong adaptation to various salinity levels. This suggests a promising future in halophyte research, particularly in understanding the mechanisms that prevent salt accumulation in cells and how to overcome this barrier. Additionally, these results suggest that microalgae could be a viable resource in saline-rich environments unsuitable for conventional agriculture, promoting industrial adaptation to adverse conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presented in the form of a fairy tale, this article employs engaging imagery and accessible language to guide readers through the scientific principles underlying the colorful appearance and common color-changing phenomena in plant-based foods. By exploring the structure and properties (such as solubility and stability) of major plant-based food pigments like chlorophyll, carotenoids, and anthocyanins, readers gain a deeper understanding of the reasons behind these phenomena. Additionally, the article enhances comprehension of enzymatic browning principles and prevention methods, while fostering a nuanced understanding of food additives such as coloring agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: We performed a genome-wide selection sweep analysis on 50 domesticated yaks to investigate the genetic basis of coat color phenotypes. We identified numerous candidate genes (e.g., PLCB1, LEF1, and DTNBP1) that play key roles in melanin synthesis. Unique candidate genes for different coat color groups may explain the variations in coat color. Additionally, a range of selected genes associated with melanin and pigment deposition were identified within the ROH islands. This study provides a solid theoretical basis for understanding yak coat color. Although coat color is an important economic phenotype in domesticated yaks (Bos grunniens), its genetic basis is not yet fully understood. In this study, a genome-wide selective sweep and high-frequency runs of homozygosity (ROH) identification were performed on 50 yaks with different coat colors to investigate candidate genes (CDGs) related to coat color. The results suggested that 2263 CDGs were identified from the 5% interaction windows of the FST and θπ ratio, along with 2801 and 2834 CDGs from black and brown yaks with iHS, respectively. Furthermore, 648 and 691 CDGs from black and brown yaks, which were widely enriched in pathways related to melanogenesis, melanocyte differentiation, and melanosome organization via GO and KEGG functional enrichment, respectively, were confirmed on the basis of the intersection of three parameters. Additionally, the genome of brown yaks presented more ROH, longer ROH fragments, and higher inbreeding levels than those of black yaks. Specifically, a large number of genes related to melanin synthesis and regulation (e.g., UST, TCF25, and AHRR) from the ROH islands were confirmed to be under strong selection. In summary, the results of this study enhance the understanding of the genetic basis for determining yak coat color. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Research on emerald green pigment degradation is on systematic samples. • 5 different emerald green degradation products were obtained in 15 systematic samples. • Evidence for emerald green pigment degradation process was found. • The possible degradation process of emerald green pigment was pointed out. • The change from green to blue was determined to be caused by Lavendulan. Emerald green pigment was widely used in painted cultural artifacts during the 19th and 20th centuries. However, this pigment is inherently unstable, leading to a certain degree of degradation, thereby capturing the widespread attention of research scholars due to its degradation mechanisms. Previous studies primarily relied on the compositional analysis of individual samples, thus only observing the results of the degradation at a certain stage without reflecting the dynamic process of change. The Sichuan region in China hosts a large number of grottoes and cliff statues, many of which have undergone modern repainting. Focusing on the green pigment from these cultural relics, this research aims to capture the degradation products of emerald green at different stages. This approach promises a more systematic and comprehensive understanding of the degradation process, consequently advancing the exploration of its degradation mechanisms. In this study, 15 green pigment samples from five different painted grottoes in the Sichuan region were collected for analysis. Employing technological analytical methods, the presence of emerald green pigment (Cu(C 2 H 3 O 2) 2 ·3Cu(AsO 2) 2) was identified, along with several other substances containing Cu and As elements, such as Lavendulan (NaCaCu 5 (AsO 4) 4 Cl·5H 2 O), copper arsenate (Cu 3 (AsO 4) 2), alkaline arsenate copper compounds Cu 3 (AsO 4)(OH) 3 , Cu 2 (AsO 4)(OH)·3H 2 O and Cu(AsO 3 OH)·2H 2 O. The elemental compositions, chemical structures, and Raman spectra of these substances exhibit obvious connections and progressive relationships. This study, for the first time, elucidates the diverse degradation products of emerald green pigment from cultural artifacts within similar coexistence environments. It outlines a tentative degradation route, namely: (1) Oxidation and decomposition of Cu(C 2 H 3 O 2) 2 ·3Cu(AsO 2) 2 → Formation of Cu 3 (AsO 4) 2 , alkaline arsenate copper compounds and Ca(C 2 O 4)·H 2 O; (2) Transformation of Cu 3 (AsO 4) 2 , alkaline arsenate copper compounds→ Formation of NaCaCu 5 (AsO 4) 4 Cl·5H 2 O. Throughout this process, the macroscopic color changes from green to blue. Emerald green pigment has been widely used in painted cultural relics from the late Qing Dynasty to modern times in China. This pigment has obvious degradation phenomenon and will gradually show a blue tint. At present, research on the pigment degradation process is still insufficient. This study is the first to analyze the different intermediate products of emerald pigment from a large number of systematic cultural relic samples, and roughly lists its degradation process. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pigment is the most attractive attribute and integral part of human life. The source of the pigment used for different applications is chemically synthesised. However, pigment produced from natural sources (such as plants and microorganisms) can also be applied as a coloring agent. In addition to being colorants, many natural pigments are also fascinating bioactive substances with possible health benefits. Agrochemicals, food, medicine, pharmacology, cosmetics, and numerous other industries use these compounds. In this study, a total of 7 pigmented colonies were isolated from the soil samples of different areas of Assam. Out of 7 pigmented colonies, 3 colonies showed orange color and 4 colonies showed yellow color. Based on the similarity of growth pattern and high intensity of pigmentation one colony from each pigment was picked for further studies. The isolated orange and yellow pigments were denoted as S1 and S2, respectively. With the help of Bergey's Manual of Determinative Bacteriology the isolated pigmented strains were preliminary identified based on their morphological, microscopic, and biochemical characteristics and after that 16S rRNA gene sequencing helped to identify the bacteria at the species level and the strains were identified as (S1) Micrococcus aloeverae ON377368 and (S2) Exiguobacterium aestuarii ON377409. The identified strains Micrococcus aloeverae and Exiguobacterium aestuarii showed a high pigment production rate at specific optimized conditions such as at temperature 37°C, pH 6, and NaCl concentrations at 1.5-2% and strains also showed a good characteristic growth pattern at a specific time interval. Therefore, the present study may be a helpful step towards the large-scale manufacture of pigments and the extraction, purification, and characterization of the pigment extracted from these strains will lead to provide a potent eco-friendly natural dye in the industrial sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ulva is an unutilized green seaweed that grows in the intertidal zone around the coast of Java Island, Indonesia. In this study, U. lactuca samples collected from three regions in south of Java Island (Cihara, Surade, and Tepus) were studied in terms of their chemical composition, physical properties and its bioactivity, to determine the best regions for establishing seaweed industries. The chemical characteristics differed significantly among different regions, where the seaweed from Tepus, Surade and Cihara had the highest content of protein (22.93%), carbohydrate (61.58%), and mineral (28.72%), respectively. The amino acids were dominated with L-aspartic acid and L-glutamic acid. All U. lactuca samples contained abundant pigments, such as chlorophylls and carotenoids, especially samples from Tepus. The highest content of crude ulvan was found in Surade seaweed (26.9%). Chemical and physical analyses showed the presence of S = O and C–O–S functional groups in ulvan, a sulfated polysaccharide unique to Ulva sp., with thermal degradation up to 220 °C. Crude ulvan from Surade and Tepus seaweed exhibited bioactivity to support proliferation of fibroblast cells at 100 and 1000 ppm, respectively. Based on the properties of U. lactuca, Tepus and Surade were identified as potential sites to establish aquaculture and/or processing industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a patient with isolated stromal lipofuscinosis of the seminal vesicle, a rare entity characterized by intracytoplasmic pigmented granules within stromal cells intimately surrounding seminal vesicle epithelium. Only 4 patients with this unusual phenomenon have been previously reported in the literature. Recognizing this incidental and presumably non-pathologic finding is important to prevent misclassification as a more concerning lesion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the conservation of easel paintings, black draperies or dark backgrounds often prove problematic to treat and understand in terms of condition. Despite most black pigments in Old Master paintings not intrinsically containing high atomic number elements, the investigation of black paints is one of the National Gallery's major uses and most helpful applications of x‐ray fluorescence (XRF) scanning. As a visual tool, XRF element distribution maps of black paints are useful for assessing the extent of overpainting or condition of any surviving original paint beneath, and for revealing the original modelling. However, interpreting the XRF element maps can be challenging. It is important to consider not only the primary compositions of black or dark pigments, but to have an understanding of other possible associated materials and more broadly of historical painting techniques, artists' practices and the paint stratigraphy. Through a series of case studies, this paper demonstrates how a detailed knowledge of historic painting materials and techniques, based on study of documentary sources and archives of materials‐based evidence from the analysis of paint cross‐sections—both from the paintings being studied and related works—aids and enriches interpretation of XRF element maps of black paints. While samples are invaluable in understanding exactly how—and with what materials—such regions were painted, they are not always representative and scanning XRF may be of complementary benefit in providing a more holistic view of pigment distribution. The examples presented range from the fifteenth to the seventeenth century from both Northern Europe and Italy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Victoria and Albert Museum holds an important portrait of the Jamaican scholar and writer Francis Williams (c.1692/97–1762), portrayed as a scholar in his study. It is believed to have been painted around 1745 by an unknown artist, but the circumstances of its production are unknown. A technical examination of the painting was performed using x‐radiography and infrared reflectography (IRR), macro x‐ray fluorescence scanning (XRF), digital microscopy, scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDX) and reflectance imaging spectroscopy in the short‐wave infrared (SWIR). XRF, IRR and reflectance imaging spectroscopy in the SWIR revealed the distribution of inorganic pigments including lead white, earth pigments, Prussian blue, vermilion, orpiment (or pararealgar) and bone or ivory black. Pentimenti and a different sketched landscape were observed in the IRR images, highlighting changes in the final composition. Three‐dimensional (3D) digital microphotography provided additional historical and contextual information through the observation of book titles and details. High‐resolution digital imaging complemented analytical data. Results of the technical examination revealed the material composition and the development of the painting, contributing to shed new light on the production of the portrait, the history and significance of the portrait. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decorative tattoos are known to contain ingredients that may elicit allergic contact dermatitis; it is less well-known if permanent makeup pigments carry the same risk. Identify pigments used in permanent makeup inks sold in the United States and review cases of allergic contact dermatitis to these pigments. Using internet searches, permanent makeup inks sold in the United States were identified. Safety data sheets were used to catalog pigments used in permanent makeup. A subsequent literature search was performed to identify cases of allergic contact dermatitis to these pigments. A total of 974 permanent makeup inks were reviewed, and 79 unique pigments were identified. The average product contained 4 pigments. Twenty of the pigments were inorganic metals, including carbon, iron, chromium, manganese, and molybdenum. Fifty-nine pigments were organic, of which most were azo, quinacridone, or anthraquinone dyes. A literature search revealed that 10 of the 79 pigments were associated with allergic contact dermatitis. Permanent makeup primarily uses organic pigments, although some metallic pigments are still used. Physicians should also be aware that some of these pigments—both organic and inorganic—are known causes of allergic contact dermatitis. Of note, patch testing to these ingredients can be negative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Our country has been importing various kinds of wallpaper from different countries for many years. With the increase of foreign exchange problems, the local production of wallpaper and its self-sufficiency has been proposed as a suitable solution. On the other hand, currently, domestic companies are producing paper from white waste paper, which is not justified for use as printing and writing grades due to many problems. However, many companies in the country are producing white grades from white waste paper, the use of which as a base paper in the production of decorative paper or wall paper has not been scientifically investigated. The purpose of this research is to study and investigate the possibility of producing wall paper from recycled white paper produced in the country. Methodology: The stages of this project were carried out in 6 separate and consecutive phases, which include: 1) determining the quality characteristics of the papers; 2) preparation of coating material formulation with starch as binder; 3) preparation of coating material formulation with latex and starch as binder; 4) coating of papers with the prepared coating formulations ; 5) Coating papers and non-woven fabric (Non-Woven) with polyvinyl chloride (PVC); 6) Application of four-color printing on the selected samples of coated papers. For this purpose, first, samples of papers produced by several Iranian companies were acquired and they were transferred to the laboratory of Biosystems and Bioproducts of Shahid Beheshti University for coating and performing the necessary treatments. In order to perform the mentioned treatment on the paper samples, various chemical substances were used, including calcium carbonate powder, kaolin, titanium oxide, corn starch, latex and PVC powder. With this aim, coating solutions with different percentage of solids were prepared steadily and with trial and error using various combinations of these materials (with a total of 110 and 124 parts). Then, these coated solutions were added on various domestic base papers (mostly recycled). Finally, the image of a flower was printed in four colors on the most desirable coated papers. Results: In determining the quality characteristics of base papers, including measurements of water absorption, ash content, thickness, permeability to air, tensile strength, tear resistance index and burst resistance index, two paper samples produced by two companies of Pardis Paper and Tabriz paper were selected as the best and considering the amount of ash, Tabriz paper was introduced as the base paper more suitable than other local papers. Further, after applying the coating material, coated papers with a relatively favorable appearance and whiteness percentages of about 60 to 85 were obtained, and finally, based on the results, a significant relationship was found between the increase in the solids percentage of the coated solutions and the whiteness percentage of the coated paper. Also, after the printing operation on the selected samples, Rasha Superkraft and Tabriz Kraft papers were introduced as the best samples. Also, the highest quality of printing was reached with PVC on Pars white paper with 16% PVC, on whitetop Rasha with 28% PVC and on non-woven fabric (non-woven fabric) with 28% PVC compared to the weight of the paper. Conclusion: The conclusion of the results of this research are listed below: A) The best solid percentage of coating solution (concentration of the mixture) was 41-46%. b) The best combination of binder and pigment, equal to 100 + 12 + 12 = 124 parts and the ratio of the dry weight of the coating mixture added to the dry weight of the base paper is equal to 12%. c) The highest whiteness obtained by adding calcium carbonate + titanium oxide + starch. t) The most suitable concentration of starch that can be used in the coating solution is 15%. c) The best coating and uniform and good coating appearance was obtained on Rasha Superkraft paper with the formula: kaolin + titanium oxide + latex with a whiteness of 77.7% and on Tabriz kraft paper with the formula: kaolin + titanium oxide + latex, with a whiteness of 71.8%. If higher whiteness is desired, using calcium carbonate instead of kaolin would give a better result. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jujube is a plant of the genus Ziziphus in the family Rhamnaceae; its fruit has high nutritional value, and it is rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, and other secondary metabolites. The color of its peel is an important indicator for evaluating the appearance of the fruit. However, the mechanism of the difference in color presentation between the seedling offspring of the 'Red Fruit' (TLHH) and the 'Green Fruit' (TLHL) of the fresh jujube cultivar 'Tailihong' is not clear. Therefore, this study used targeted metabolomics techniques to accurately and quantitatively analyze the metabolic pathways of carotenoid and anthocyanin metabolites during the ripening process of two color-presenting types of jujube fruits. Through the analysis of the dynamic changes in the pigment content of the jujube peel, it was found that 30 DAP (days after pollination), 80 DAP, and 110 DAP were the key periods for the development of the color of the peel of 'TLHL' and 'TLHH' jujube and that the substances responsible for the main differences were chlorophyll, carotenoids, and anthocyanins. Furthermore, we used an LC-MS/MS metabolic analysis to compare the differences in the carotenoids and anthocyanin metabolites between the two color-presenting types of jujube peels at the key periods of 30 DAP, 80 DAP, and 110 DAP. We detected 32 carotene metabolites and 75 anthocyanin metabolites, respectively, among which lutein had the highest content of carotenoids; it reached the maximum value (93.05 µg/g) and was higher than that of 'TLHH' (74.14 µg/g) at 30 DAP of 'TLHL'. Both showed a decreasing trend with fruit ripening. The anthocyanin with the highest content was cyanidin-3-O-(tartaryl)rhamnoside-5-O-glucoside, which reached the maximum value (258.32 µg/g) at 30 DAP of 'TLHH' and was 51.6 times that of 'TLHL'; similarly, both showed a decreasing trend with fruit ripening. These results elucidate the main metabolites of carotenoids and anthocyanins in the two types of jujube peel and their accumulation characteristics, suggesting that the key metabolites of the difference in color between 'TLHL' and 'TLHH' jujube fruits were lutein and cyanidin-3-O-(tartaryl)rhamnoside-5-O-glucoside, increasing the understanding of the color mechanism of jujube peel and providing a reference for targeted genetic breeding of jujube peel color. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The origin of Ko-Kutani porcelain and its decoration style have been debated for over a century. Despite the well-established theory that identified the wares as the result of porcelain production in Kaga (present-day Ishikawa Prefecture) in the 17th century, there still is no general agreement as to where they were first incepted and fired. In recent years, curatorial traditional criteria have formed the basis upon which a new theory has been gaining popularity in Japan, identifying Arita (present-day Saga Prefecture) as their actual place of birth. Such a new theory, however, has proven insufficient to cast new light on many of the unexplained facts that characterize the history of the wares. Furthermore, scientific evidence has been lacking, as no systematic analyses of the porcelains were carried out until the present work. In order to define univocally the dynamics behind this period of Japanese history, the most important and complete Ko-Kutani collection extant in Japan today (Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Art) was analyzed by portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF). The scientific investigation was also extended to the very scarce shards excavated at the Kaga kiln site and Nonomura Ninsei's masterpieces. For the first time ever, the results herein presented clarify the missing points crucial to reaching a definitive conclusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is devoted to estimating the effect of coloring (RAL 7037) polycarbonate and polysulfone with different yellowness indices on a complex of optical, physicomechanical, and rheological properties. It is shown that the introduction of color additives into heat-resistant polymers does not radically change their principal rheological and physicomechanical properties and does not require any modification for the methods and conditions of their processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Animal Studied Procedures Results Conclusions To describe a combined treatment approach for heterochromic iridocyclitis and secondary keratitis (HIK) in horses.A total of 15 horses (16 eyes).Sixteen eyes from 15 horses (mean age 14.1 years, range 6–26 years) received low‐dose (4 mg) intravitreal preservative‐free gentamicin injection (IVGI) and modified Gundersen grafts with standing sedation and local anesthesia following a clinical diagnosis of HIK. Additional therapies of suprachoroidal triamcinolone (8 mg) injection, episcleral bromfenac implants, and suprachoroidal cyclosporine implants were performed in individual cases. Leptospira titers were also reported when available.The most frequent ophthalmic findings were pigmented keratic precipitates (n = 15/16 eyes, 94%), corneal edema (n = 14/16 eyes, 88%), and pigmented cells suspended in the anterior chamber (n = 7/16 eyes, 44%). Postoperative treatment generally consisted of topical and systemic NSAIDs, topical antibiotics, and a topical mydriatic agent. Complications included persistent corneal edema (7/16, 44%), corneal ulceration (6/16, 38%), graft failure requiring revision (2/16, 13%), stromal abscess (1/16, 6%), surgery site infection (1/16, 6%), and suspected retinal degeneration following IVGI (1/16, 6%). One case was enucleated 6 months after treatment (1/16, 6%). Of the 12 eyes with at least 3 months of post‐treatment follow‐up, 10 were comfortable and visual with static or improved symptoms of HIK.This multimodal treatment approach aims to address both the anterior uveitis and endothelial decompensation frequently seen in horses with HIK. The surgery can be performed under standing sedation. Continued evaluation and long‐term follow‐up is necessary in all horses with HIK. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The principal goal of this research revolves around imparting antimicrobial activities on printed cotton fabric utilizing silver nanoparticles. Two colorants, dyes, and pigments are used for printing of 100% scoured and bleached cotton, fabric, and both fabrics are assessed to get antimicrobial activity of printed cloth. Screen-printing techniques are used here to apply the pigment and reactive dye onto the fabric. The outcomes of the study reflect that the addition of silver nanoparticles to the reactive dye-printed and pigment-printed fabric significantly decreases bacterial growth up to 99.99%. In addition, Silver nanoparticles increase color intensity by around 25% in pigment printing, however, reduce it in reactive printing. Both methods enhance color fastness by increasing resistance to fading, staining, and rubbing. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis reveals that the print paste and sodium alginate have an impact on the distribution of nanoparticles. Through X-ray diffraction (XRD), it has been determined that the sample maintains a crystalline form and an average size of 29.185 nm of silver nanoparticles. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis indicates no notable molecular-level alterations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anal cancer is uncommon, comprising 2.2% of gastrointestinal cancers. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most common; while perianal basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is rare, representing only 0.2% of anorectal malignancies. BCC, associated with sun exposure and immunosuppression, often resembles benign conditions and manifests as perianal ulcers or masses. Histologically, BCC exhibits basaloid tumor cells with distinct patterns. Despite its rarity, accurate diagnosis is crucial. We expose a case study of a 59-year-old male, previously healthy, that presented with hematochezia and perianal pain, leading to a diagnosis of lower gastrointestinal bleeding. Colonoscopy was needed, and a biopsy revealed an ulcerated, indurated lesion involving the left lateral hemorrhoidal bundle, diagnosed as pigmented basaloid carcinoma. Microscopic examination showed malignant nests of cells with peripheral nuclear palisading, melanocytes, and melanin pigment. Immunohistochemistry confirmed positivity for p63, CK5/6, and BCL2. Respect the treatment, due to the involvement of the anal sphincteric muscle, radiotherapy was chosen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Painting manuals with technical and iconographical prescriptions served the needs of Greek icon painters during the post-Byzantine period. The circa 1730 CE Hermeneia of the art of painting was compiled by the hieromonk and icon painter Dionysius and is regarded as the most comprehensive pertinent Greek text. Dionysius' Hermeneia was widely circulating among icon painters in the form of hand-written copies, many of which survive today. Most of these Hermeneia manuscripts are near-facsimiles of the Dionysius prototype text. Yet, two copies made by Father Ioannis Balpis, a Cretan icon painter, in 1782–83 CE offer an important expansion of the technical part. Here, the authors present the first ever translation of the hitherto unpublished Balpis' Hermeneia technical additions that offer unique new insights into the materials and techniques of post-Byzantine painting. Moreover, through the critical evaluation of the Balpis additions, it is shown that the Dionysius technical part is by no means an exhaustive account of its contemporary technical knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adulteration of cold‐pressed avocado oil (AVO), a high‐value commodity, poses significant economic and health concerns. This study aimed to develop a method for identifying adulteration of cold‐pressed AVO with refined oil and its utilization to evaluate commercial AVO (cAVO) samples. Avocados from the United States and New Zealand at different stages of maturity were subjected to oven‐drying and microwave‐drying to produce authentic in‐house AVOs. Various parameters, including glycidyl ester (GE) and 3‐monochloropropanediol ester (3‐MCPDE) contents, fatty acid composition, phytosterol content, acid value, and pigment contents, were measured. In‐house AVOs exhibited trace amounts of 3‐MCPDE formation, and a threshold of 0.25 mg kg–1 for GEs and 3‐MCPDEs was established to differentiate samples adulterated with refined oil. However, no clear correlation between 3‐MCPDE concentrations and adulteration ratios was observed. Determination of chlorophyll and carotenoid contents enabled the identification of partial or complete adulteration. The acid value and phytosterol content did not provide sufficient distinctions for detecting adulteration. GE and 3‐MCPDE contents could effectively be used to discriminate cold‐pressed AVO blended with refined oil, providing a reliable method for detecting misrepresentation of cAVO products. Practical Applications: Measuring GEs and 3‐MCPDEs is crucial for identifying refined oil adulteration of cold‐pressed oils. The systematic discrimination methods and criteria developed in this study can be applied to different types of high‐value pressed oils in the future. Addressing this issue is essential for maintaining the authenticity and quality of cold‐pressed oils in the industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Acne is one of the most common dermatological conditions, peaking during adolescence and early adulthood, affecting about 85% of individuals aged 12–24. Although often associated with teenage years, acne can occur at any age, impacting over 25% of women and 12% of men in their forties. Treatment strategies vary depending on the severity, including the use of topical gels or creams containing benzoyl peroxide and retinoids, antibiotics, and systemic or topical isotretinoin. However, these treatments can cause irritation, allergies, and other toxic side effects. Currently, there is no natural-based alternative for antibacterial photodynamic therapy targeting acne using marine drugs or extracts. Through a bioguided screening approach, we identified the ethanol extract of Skeletonema marinoi as highly phototoxic against three bacterial species associated with acne—Cutibacterium acnes, Staphylococcus aureus, and Staphylococcus epidermidis. This extract exhibited phototoxicity in planktonic bacteria under white and red light, disrupted bacterial biofilms, reduced sebum production but also showed phototoxicity in keratinocytes, highlighting the importance of the specific targeting of treatment areas. Further investigations, including fractionation and high-resolution structural analysis, linked the observed phototoxicity to a high concentration of pheophorbide a in the extract. Given its notable in vitro efficacy, this extract holds promising potential for clinical evaluation to manage mild acne. This discovery paves the way for further exploration of Skeletonema pigment extracts, extending their potential applications beyond acne phototherapy to include dermocosmetics, veterinary medicine, and other phototherapy uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionIndigo (Indigofera tinctoria L.) is a flowering plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. This plant has a high ability to grow again after harvesting, and the low sensitivity of this plant to the attack of pests and diseases in hot weather conditions is one of the reasons for increasing the yield of this plant. Global climate changes have led to changes in rainfall patterns and it is predicted that periods of insufficient rainfall will lead to drought with a gradual decrease in water available to the soil of plants, causing an impact on the growth and development or early death of the plant. The unreasonable long-term use of chemical inputs, including fertilizers and pesticides, has increased environmental pollution and in some cases has had a negative impact on the yield and quality of agricultural products. One solution is to use the principles of sustainable agriculture, especially the use of organic inputs in agricultural ecosystems. Humic acid (HA) is an organic biostimulant that significantly affects plant growth and increases crop yield. The purpose of the experiment is to investigate the effect of irrigation intervals and foliar spraying of humic acid on the physiological characteristics and indigo content of Indigofera tinctoria.Materials and MethodsThis research was carried out as split plot layout based on randomized complete block design with three replications during 2019 in the agricultural research institute of Zabol Research Institute in Zahak city of Sistan and Baluchistan province in Iran. The experimental treatments were irrigation intervals of 7, 9 and 11 days as the main factor and five levels of humic acid foliar application as the sub-plot (no foliar application, foliar application with a concentration of 20, 30, 40 and 50 liters per hectare). Irrigation treatments were carried out two months after the planting date. Humic acid foliar application was started after three months from the date of planting in the flowering stage, every 15 days. The foliar spraying was done at the end of the day and at sunset with a back pump sprayer and with the same pressure on the bushes. In order to calculate the leaf yield by removing the marginal effect, the crop was harvested in the last week of November 2019 and kept in the warehouse at room temperature for 23 days. Then the dry leaves were separated and the weight of the leaves was obtained in each plot and its yield was calculated in terms of tons per hectare. Wilson's method was used to prepare ash and extract to measure the concentration of iron, zinc, phosphorus and potassium elements. The amount of photosynthetic pigments was calculated by Arnon's method. To measure guaiacol peroxidase enzyme by Fielding and Hall method, calculate ascorbate peroxidase by Yoshimura method, catalase enzyme by Beers and Caesar method, proline amount in leaves was measured by Bates method. Also, the indigo content was measured based on the method provided by Stoker et al. (1998) and Sales et al. (2006).Results and DiscussionThe results of analysis of variance showed that the effect of different levels of irrigation on chlorophyll a, catalase, iron and zinc was significant. The effect of different levels of humic acid foliar application on chlorophyll a and b, carotenoid, ascorbate peroxidase, catalase, guaiacol peroxidase, iron, zinc, potassium, phosphorus and indigo content was significant. Also, the results of the analysis of variance showed that the interaction effect of irrigation in foliar application of carotenoid humic acid, ascorbate peroxidase, catalase, guaiacol peroxidase, iron, phosphorus and indigo content was significant. The highest (39.32 mg.g-1 fresh weight) and the lowest (24.49 mg.g-1 fresh weight) content of indigo were obtained at the 7-day irrigation interval under the conditions of foliar spraying of 50 liters per hectare and the 11-day irrigation interval under the conditions of no humic acid applicationConclusionThe results of investigating the effect of reducing different levels of irrigation and increasing humic acid foliar spraying on indigo showed that the amount of chlorophyll a and b and zinc increased. Also, the increase in humic acid caused an increase in potassium and blood. At each level of irrigation, it was found that the amount of carotenoid and indigo content increased with the increase of humic acid foliar application. Some other physiological characteristics of indigo such as proline, ascorbate peroxidase, catalase and guaiacol peroxidase showed a decrease in each irrigation level with increasing humic acid foliar application. In future researches, it is possible to consider the comparison of soil application and foliar application of humic acid. In general, for the production of vesme leaves, 9-day irrigation interval in foliar application of 40 L ha-1 of humic acid is suitable; and In order to obtain more indigo content, an 11-day irrigation interval in foliar application of 40 L ha-1 of humic acid seems appropriate.

Pigment is the most attractive attribute and integral part of human life. The source of the pigment used for different applications is chemically synthesised. However, pigment produced from natural sources (such as plants and microorganisms) can also be applied as a coloring agent. In addition to being colorants, many natural pigments are also fascinating bioactive substances with possible health benefits. Agrochemicals, food, medicine, pharmacology, cosmetics, and numerous other industries use these compounds. In this study, a total of 7 pigmented colonies were isolated from the soil samples of different areas of Assam. Out of 7 pigmented colonies, 3 colonies showed orange color and 4 colonies showed yellow color. Based on the similarity of growth pattern and high intensity of pigmentation one colony from each pigment was picked for further studies. The isolated orange and yellow pigments were denoted as S1 and S2, respectively. With the help of Bergey’s Manual of Determinative Bacteriology the isolated pigmented strains were preliminary identified based on their morphological, microscopic, and biochemical characteristics and after that 16S rRNA gene sequencing helped to identify the bacteria at the species level and the strains were identified as (S1) Micrococcus aloeverae ON377368 and (S2) Exiguobacterium aestuarii ON377409. The identified strains Micrococcus aloeverae and Exiguobacterium aestuarii showed a high pigment production rate at specific optimized conditions such as at temperature 37°C, pH 6, and NaCl concentrations at 1.5-2% and strains also showed a good characteristic growth pattern at a specific time interval. Therefore, the present study may be a helpful step towards the large-scale manufacture of pigments and the extraction, purification, and characterization of the pigment extracted from these strains will lead to provide a potent eco-friendly natural dye in the industrial sector.

Abstract In this paper, we present the potential of Terahertz Time-Domain Imaging (THz-TDI) as a tool to perform non-invasive 3D analysis of an ancient enamel plate manufactured by Longwy Company in France. The THz data collected in the reflection mode were processed using noise filtering procedures and an advanced imaging approach. The results validate the capability to identify glaze layers and the thickness of ceramic materials. To characterize the nature of the pigments, we also use with X-ray images, visible near-infrared hyperspectral imaging spectroscopy, and p-XRF (portable X-ray fluorescence) to qualitatively and quantitively identify the materials used. The obtained information enables a better understanding of the decoration chromogens nature and, thus, to determine the color palette of the artists who produced such decorative object. We also establish the efficiency of a focus, Z-tracker, which enables to perform THz imaging on non-flat samples and to attenuate artifacts obtained with a short focus lens. Then, 3D images are extracted and generated, providing a real vision. We also report the evaluation of the internal damage state through the detection of fractures.

Atopic Dermatitis (AD) is associated with a number of published disparities, including those related to self-identified racial/ethnic populations. Black/African American populations in the United States experience greater AD prevalence, severity, and persistence compared to other demographic groups, such as those who self-identify as White. There is consistent evidence that healthcare, environmental, and socioeconomic factors affect the prevalence, severity, and/or persistence of AD. Additionally, because of institutional and systemic racism, these same risk factors are more prevalent in racial and ethnic minority populations. Herein, we review the underlying causes of racial/ethnic disparities in AD and potential strategies to improve AD diagnosis and disease control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis formed by most extant land plants with symbiotic fungi evolved 450 Ma. AM promotes plant growth by improving mineral nutrient and water uptake, while the symbiotic fungi obtain carbon in return. A number of plant genes regulating the steps leading to an efficient symbiosis have been identified; however, our understanding of the metabolic processes involved in the symbiosis and how they were wired to symbiosis regulation during plant evolution remains limited. Among them, the exchange of chemical signals, the activation of dedicated biosynthesis pathways and the production of secondary metabolites regulating late stages of the AM symbiosis begin to be well described across several land plant clades. Here, we review our current understanding of these processes and propose future directions to fully grasp the phylogenetic distribution and role played by small molecules during this ancient plant symbiosis. This article is part of the theme issue 'The evolution of plant metabolism'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study focuses on the development and fabrication of ceramic nano inks with improved properties. Firstly, two types of pigments were prepared through a solid state process using fine gibbsite (Al(OH) 3) or aluminum chloride (AlCl 3) with cobalt chloride hexahydrate (CoCl 2.6H 2 O). The stoichiometric precursors were well-mixed and fired at 1000oC; then milled by a high energy ball mill to obtain nano pigments. The prepared pigments were investigated for their phase composition and crystallite size by X-ray diffraction, and further confirmed by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR). The morphology and particle size were examined using a scanning electron microscope. The optical properties in terms of UV–Vis, photoluminence emission spectra and CIE chromaticity diagram were also tested. The chemical-state of cobalt and surface elemental composition of prepared Co-aluminate pigments were tested by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Four groups of ceramic-inks (twelve formulations) were prepared using different percentages of cobalt aluminate pigments and additives. The fabricated inks were investigated for their morphology, rheology, contact-angle and sedimentation behavior. The results revealed that two cobalt aluminate pigments with spinel structure, nano sized particles and blue color, were successfully prepared by the proposed method. The results of optical properties indicated that the cobalt ions are located mainly in tetrahedral sites with a small amount in octahedral sites. The prepared pigments were successfully used in the fabrication of ceramic nano inks with improved properties. The viscosity of most fabricated inks was in the range needed for the industry (4–40 mPa s). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chlorophyll (Chl), the most widely distributed natural pigment in nature, is limited in use due to its poor stability. This study refers to the aggregation structure of Chl and carotene (Car) in natural photosynthetic systems, hoping to improve the photostability of Chl by constructing Chl/Car aggregates. The stability protection effect of Car on Chl was explored by designing different ratios of Chl and Car aggregation systems. The configuration of Chl/Car aggregates was optimized through ab initio molecular dynamics, and the aggregation mechanism of the aggregates and the photoprotection mechanism of Chl by Car were elucidated through quantum chemical calculations and wave function analysis. Chl/Car had a 27.22% higher Chl retention rate than free Chl after 7 d of illumination, with a Chl to Car ratio of 1.66:1. A configuration of the Chl/Car aggregates which Car's conjugated olefin chain interacts extensively with the porphyrin ring and bent phytyl chain of Chl made them more stable. The photoprotective mechanism of Car on Chl in the Chl/Car aggregates is elucidated. Car's conjugated polyene chain provides HOMO orbitals to the Chl/Car aggregates. It demonstrated that Car supplies electrons in the low-lying excited states S2 and S4, indicating it is more susceptible to damage, protecting Chl. This research will promote the development of natural color formulas and ensure the health of consumers.

This study investigated the adaptability of Dunaliella salina to different salinity levels, with an emphasis on growth, pigment concentration, and desalination potential. It was found that among the 21 salinity levels, Salinity 75 produced consistently favorable results in cell count (13.08 × 103 ± 1.41 × 103 cells/mL), dry biomass (2.46 ± 0.06 g/L), pigment content (chlorophyll a = 97,500,000 ± 100,000 pg/L, chlorophyll b = 123,600,000 ± 300,000 pg/L), and desalination (9.32 ± 0.47 reduction). Therefore, Salinity 75 was selected for the final trial (scale-up), which revealed unanticipatedly high cell counts (58.96 × 103 ± 535.22 cells/mL), with the dry biomass weight being statistically different (higher) than expected (4.21 ± 0.02 g/L) (p < 0.0001), most likely due to the high cell count and energy reserve storage for high-salinity adaption in the form of bio-compounds. Pigment growth continued (chlorophyll a = 95,400,000 ± 2,200,000 pg/L, chlorophyll b = 128,100,000 ± 5,100,000 pg/L), indicating pigment production under salt stress. Notably, desalination did not occur in this stage, possibly due to the necessity for a bigger initial inoculate, prolonged exposure or bioaccumulation becoming the prevailing mechanism over desalination. Nevertheless, the trial highlights D. salina’s strong adaptation to various salinity levels. This suggests a promising future in halophyte research, particularly in understanding the mechanisms that prevent salt accumulation in cells and how to overcome this barrier. Additionally, these results suggest that microalgae could be a viable resource in saline-rich environments unsuitable for conventional agriculture, promoting industrial adaptation to adverse conditions.

Obtaining natural pigments from microorganisms is an alternative with high potential for biotechnological application. The use of agro-industrial wastes as substrate for cultivations enables a reduction of the production cost and may add value to potentially polluting byproducts. In this work, the extraction of pigments produced by the bacterium Chryseobacterium sp. strain kr6 was evaluated, employing feather meal as the sole carbon source for bacterial growth. The maximum production of the yellow pigments was observed for cultivation at 30 °C, during 48 h, with 5 g/L feather meal. The pigment extraction from the bacterial biomass was performed with the aid of physical methods and the testing of different organic solvents. The conditions that provided better extraction were using ultrasound with acetone as the solvent, reaching a yield of 180 μg/g biomass after optimization. The pigment was partially characterized via UV-visible, FTIR and mass spectroscopy and CIELAB color parameters, suggesting the presence of molecules belonging to the flexirubin group (aryl polyenes). The antioxidant capacity of the pigment was confirmed via the scavenging of DPPH radical and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) methodologies. Moreover, the pigment extract showed antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis.

旨在为低温压榨鲜青花椒油的工业生产、贮藏和质量控制提供借鉴，利用超高效液相色谱-二极管阵列检测器-高分辨质谱（UPLC-DAD-HRMS）技术对低温压榨鲜青花椒油中色素进行测定，并研究贮藏过程中光、氧、温度对低温压榨鲜青花椒油的色素含量和色泽L*、a*、b*的影响。结果表明：从低温压榨鲜青花椒油中鉴定出32种叶绿素和10种类胡萝卜素；叶绿素中主要含有叶绿素a、C132-羟基-叶绿素a、叶绿素b和脱镁叶绿素a；类胡萝卜素中主要含有叶黄素和β-胡萝卜素；叶绿素总量为9.44 mg/kg，类胡萝卜素总量为4.95 mg/kg。贮藏过程中影响低温压榨鲜青花椒油中色素降解最主要的因素是光，其次是温度，氧气几乎没有影响。另外，a*可以作为衡量低温压榨鲜青花椒油色素含量及色泽控制的指标。Aiming to contribute to the industrial production, storage and quality control of cold-pressed fresh green Huajiao oil, the change of pigment in cold-pressed fresh green Huajiao oil was analyzed by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-diode array detector-high resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC-DAD-HRMS), and the effects of light, oxygen, temperature on the pigment content and color(L*, a*, b*) of fresh green Huajiao oil in storage were determined. The results showed that 32 chlorophylls and 10 carotenoids were identified from the cold-pressed fresh green Huajiao oil. The main chlorophylls were chlorophyll a, C132-hydroxy chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and pheophytin a; the main carotenoids were lutein and β-carotene. The total chlorophyll content was 9.44 mg/kg, and the total carotenoid content was 4.95 mg/kg. During storage, the main factor affecting the degradation of pigment in fresh green Huajiao oil was light, followed by temperature, and oxygen had little effect. In addition, the color index a* can be used as an index for pigment content and color control.

Abstract A diagnostic investigation was carried out on twelfth century Byzantine wall paintings preserved in the Museum of Byzantine and Norman Culture and Figurative Arts of San Marco d’Alunzio (Messina, Italy) on the occasion of recent restoration works. First, the wall paintings were analyzed using portable X-Ray Fluorescence (p-XRF) and Fiber Optics Reflectance Spectroscopy (FORS) to obtain a non-invasive preliminary identification of the original palette. Then, five fragments were sampled for a micro-stratigraphy study using Digital Optical Microscope (DOM), Polarizing Optical Microscope (POM), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) combined with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometry (EDS) to characterize the mortars and the blue and black pigments non unequivocally identified through non-invasive techniques. The palette included mainly earthen pigments like red and yellow ochres, green earth, and more valuable lapis lazuli blue applied on a bone black layer; while the analysis of mortars found on the different apses showed the same manufacturing technique and constitutive materials: lime-based binder with the addition of quartz, and rare calcareous lithic fragments as aggregate. The obtained results shed light on the pictorial technique used for the wall paintings and allowed us to compare the Sicilian pictorial cycle with the coeval Byzantine wall paintings preserved in Sardinia and Southern Italy.

Structural hydroxide groups in layered magnesium–aluminum double hydroxides were partially replaced by fluoride ions. Fluorinated and fluorine-free materials were used as hosts for two dyes, carminic acid and hydroxyl naphthol blue, resulting in a hybrid pigment color palette. The pigments were produced by two ways, either incorporating chromophore during the synthesis of the layered double hydroxide or in a post-synthesis step through the memory effect of the LDHs. Additionally, the pigments were protected with a magnesium hydroxide phase to prevent the color from fading over time. The pigments were stable for periods as long as 10 years. The color properties of the pigments were significantly influenced by the host of dye since the presence of fluorine directly influences the acid–base properties of the layered double hydroxides. The pigments conferred their color to white cream in the preparation of colored creams. The colored creams acquired the color of the layered pigment.

In this paper we describe the archaeological and archaeometric analysis of a Third Pompeian Style assemblage from the Blanes dump in Mérida (Spain). Based on the pottery context, the material would have been part of the decoration of a public or private space remodelled towards the end of the 1st century AD. Several samples from to the middle area of the assemblage, including panels, inter-panels and a frieze, were selected and studied using X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), Raman, gas chromatography and petrographic analysis. The results revealed the use of hematite, cinnabar, minium and goethite in different panels, as well as goethite, Egyptian blue, calcite, glauconite and carbon for the decorative motifs. They allowed us to define the painting techniques used and how they have affected the degradation of the pigments.

Abstract Evaluate the impact of extracts from the Lens culinaris plant on a number of physiological and biochemical parameters in squash leaves infected with ZYMV in this work. Compared to the untreated leaves, ZYMV infected leaves showed a range of symptoms, such as severe mosaic, size reduction, stunting, and deformation. Analysis of physiological data revealed that L. culinaris extract lectin therapies and viral infections had an impact on metabolism. Protein, carbohydrate, and pigment levels were all lowered by viral infection. However, phenolic compounds, total protein, total carbohydrates, total amino acids, proline, total chlorophyll and peroxidases levels are considerably elevated with all extract therapies. The other biochemical parameters also displayed a variety of changes. Moreover shoot length, number of leaves and number of flowers was significantly increased compared to viral control in all treatments. The L. culinaris extract treatment increases the plant’s ZYMV resistance. This is detectable through reduction of the plants treated with lentil lectin pre and post virus inoculation, reduction in disease severity and viral concentration, and percentage of the infected plants has a virus. All findings demonstrate significant metabolic alterations brought by viral infections or L. culinaris extract treatments, and they also suggest that exogenous extract treatments is essential for activating the body’s defences against ZYMV infection.

Abstract Plant cells are uniquely characterized by exhibiting cell walls, pigments, and phenolic compounds, which can impede microscopic observations by absorbing and scattering light. The concept of clearing was first proposed in the late nineteenth century to address this issue, aiming to render plant specimens transparent using chloral hydrate. Clearing techniques involve chemical procedures that render biological specimens transparent, enabling deep imaging without physical sectioning. Drawing inspiration from clearing techniques for animal specimens, various protocols have been adapted for plant research. These procedures include (i) hydrophobic methods (e.g., Visikol™), (ii) hydrophilic methods (ScaleP and ClearSee), and (iii) hydrogel-based methods (PEA-CLARITY). Initially, clearing techniques for plants were mainly utilized for deep imaging of seeds and leaves of herbaceous plants such as Arabidopsis thaliana and rice. Utilizing cell wall-specific fluorescent dyes for plants and fungi, researchers have documented the post-penetration behavior of plant pathogenic fungi within hosts. State-of-the-art plant clearing techniques, coupled with microbe-specific labeling and high-throughput imaging methods, offer the potential to advance the in planta characterization of plant microbiomes.

BACKGROUND RESULTS CONCLUSION Late‐ripening citrus plays an important role in the stability of the global citrus industry. However, the regreening phenomenon in Valencia oranges impacts the peel color and commercial value. Ethylene degreening is an effective technique to improve the color of citrus fruits, but this effect may be delayed in regreened oranges. To better clarify this phenomenon, plastid morphology, pigment and phytohormone content in ethephon‐degreened Midknight Valencia oranges harvested in different stages were evaluated.Results showed that in fruits harvested at the turning stage, ethephon degreening treatment induced a chloroplast‐to‐chromoplast transition, and chlorophyll degradation and carotenoid accumulation were accelerated. Conversely, in fruits harvested at the regreening stage, the changes in plastid morphology were minimal, with delayed changes in chlorophyll and carotenoids. Genes related to ethylene biosynthesis and signaling pathways supported these responses. Variations in endogenous auxin, jasmonic acid, abscisic acid and gibberellins could partially explain this phenomenon.The response of Midknight Valencia oranges to ethephon degreening was delayed in the regreening stage, possibly due to the dynamic variations in endogenous phytohormones. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ixora coccinea is a highly branched shrub having dense floral biomass that blooms throughout the year. The present study emphasizes the extraction, optimization, application, biomass yield, and cost of pigment from Ixora coccinea flowers. Pigment extraction from Ixora coccinea flowers was done by using isopropanol. Response surface methodology (RSM), a statistical tool, revealed that the optimized conditions were the solvent-to-sample ratio of 10:1 (mL/g), stirring speed of 200 rpm, and time of 40 min for high-yield production of pigments from Ixora coccinea using Design Expert software. The pigment was purified by using thin layer chromatography (TLC) followed by column chromatography. Furthermore, the purified pigment was analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and gas chromatography-mass spectrophotometer (GC–MS) which confirmed bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, octacosane, and (+ -)-4-amino-4,5-dihydro-2 (3H)-furanone as the abundant compounds. At a high concentration (400 mg/mL), the pigment possessed significant antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis. The retaining of pigment on the cotton cloth with 40% absorption of the color indicates its prospective application in textile industries as a natural colorant. The total biomass of fresh flowers from fifty Ixora coccinea plants was 35,671.2 g in the summer season from which a pigment yield of 1783.56 g can be obtained and the estimated cost for pigment production was around $0.2 per gram. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A violet pigment (violacein) bacterial isolate AMA‐5 was isolated from soil samples collected from Achanakmar Biosphere Reserve, Mungeli district, Chhattisgarh, India. The yield of biocolor from this isolate was screened in minimal medium after 48 h of incubation at 37°C ± 2°C temperature. The violet pigment was extracted in ethanol. It was also observed that ammonium chloride (2.5 g/1000 mL) as a nitrogen source is the best to enhance AMA‐5 pigment production among other nitrogen sources (ammonium sulfate, tryptophan, ammonium iron sulfate, and peptone). The Sanger sequencing of 16S rDNA of strain AMA‐5 showed similarity with Chromobacterium piscinae. From the available literature and research articles, it was assumed that this violet color pigment is violacein. It was further verified by conducting high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H‐NMR) analysis. The violet biocolor that extracted was used in cotton and polyester fabric dyeing. After the fabrics treated with sodium chloride as a mordant were completely dried, it was identified that the color was solidifying. Overall study showed that C. piscinae AMA‐5 has good potential for production of violacein, which is the most important industrial natural dye used to add color to textile products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melanin synthesis involves the successful coordination of metabolic pathways across multiple intracellular compartments including the melanosome, mitochondria, ER/Golgi, and cytoplasm. While pigment production offers a communal protection from UV damage, the process also requires anabolic and redox demands that must be carefully managed by melanocytes. In this report we provide an updated review on melanin metabolism, including recent data leveraging new techniques, and technologies in the field of metabolism. We also discuss the many aspects of melanin synthesis that intersect with metabolic pathways known to impact melanoma phenotypes and behavior. By reviewing the metabolism of melanin synthesis, we hope to highlight outstanding questions and opportunities for future research that could improve patient outcomes in pigmentary and oncologic disease settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]