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Background: Pigment Red 53 is a dangerous synthetic dye that is often added to cosmetics, even though its use in cosmetic products has been prohibited because of possible impacts on health. Faster and more sensitive detection of Pigment Red 53 is needed for onsite analysis to protect the community from illegal cosmetics that contain the dye. Indicator color charts are a kind of analytical method that can be used to detect Pigment Red 53 in cosmetic products, including lipstick, rouge, and eyeshadow. Such charts are practical, fast, and can be used for onsite analysis. Methods: In this study, an indicator for Pigment Red 53 detection was obtained through a reagent reaction that caused a specific color change. An indicator color chart was then produced by setting out in paper form the series of colors which resulted from the reaction of specific chemical reagents and Pigment Red 53 solutions at concentrations of 10, 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 ppm. Results: The testing results showed that the indicator color chart may be used as an initial screening method for the detection of Pigment Red 53 in cosmetic products with a detectable minimum concentration of 10 ppm. Out of nine samples, only one (Eyeshadow 3) tested positive for Pigment Red 53. Further analysis was carried out on the indicator color chart and the results showed good agreement with TLC and UV–Vis spectrophotometry methods. Conclusion: The results reported in this paper demonstrate that the indicator color chart is a good prospective method for onsite analysis to detect Pigment Red 53 in cosmetic samples, with a lower detection limit compared to polymer‐based indicators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While edible algae might seem low in fat, the lipids they contain are crucial for good health and preventing chronic diseases. This study introduces a binary matrix to analyze all the polar lipids in both macroalgae (Wakame—Undaria pinnatifida, Dulse—Palmaria palmata, and Nori—Porphyra spp.) and microalgae (Spirulina—Arthrospira platensis, and Chlorella—Chlorella vulgaris) using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS). The key lies in a new dual matrix made by combining equimolar amounts of 1,5-diaminonaphthalene (DAN) and 9-aminoacridine (9AA). This combination solves the limitations of single matrices: 9AA is suitable for sulfur-containing lipids and acidic phospholipids, while DAN excels as an electron-transfer secondary reaction matrix for intact chlorophylls and their derivatives. By employing the equimolar binary matrix, a wider range of algal lipids, including free fatty acids, phospholipids, glycolipids, pigments, and even rare arsenosugarphospholipids were successfully detected, overcoming drawbacks related to ion suppression from readily ionizable lipids. The resulting mass spectra exhibited a good signal-to-noise ratio at a lower laser fluence and minimized background noise. This improvement stems from the binary matrix's ability to mitigate in-source decay effects, a phenomenon often encountered for certain matrices. Consequently, the data obtained are more reliable, facilitating a faster and more comprehensive exploration of algal lipidomes using high-throughput MALDI-MS/MS analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungal species in the Nectriaceae, such as Fusarium spp. (Hypocreales: Nectriaceae), are etiologic agents of hyalohyphomycosis capable of producing violaceous or yellowish pigments under certain conditions, while Curvularia spp. (Pleosporales: Pleosporaceae) are agents of phaeohyphomycosis and typically produce melanin in their cell walls. In nectriaceous and pleosporaceous fungi, these pigments are mainly constituted by polyketides (e.g., azaphilones, naphthoquinones, and hydroxyanthraquinones). Considering the importance of pigments synthesized by these genera, this work focused on the selective extraction of pigments produced by eight Fusarium solani species complex and one Curvularia verruculosa isolate recovered from dermatomycosis specimens, their separation, purification, and posterior chemical analysis. The pigments were characterized through spectral and acid–base analysis, and their maximum production time was determined. Moreover, spectral identification of isolates was carried out to approach the taxonomic specificity of pigment production. Herein we describe the isolation and characterization of three acidic pigments, yellowish and pinkish azaphilones (i.e., coaherin A and sclerotiorin), and a purplish xanthone, reported for the first time in the Nectriaceae and Pleosporaceae, which appear to be synthesized in a species-independent manner, in the case of fusaria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anoectochilus roxburghii (Wall.) Lindl is a perennial herb of the Orchidaceae family; a yellow–green mutant and a yellow mutant were obtained from the wild type, thereby providing good material for the study of leaf color variation. Pigment content analysis revealed that chlorophyll, carotenoids, and anthocyanin were lower in the yellow–green and yellow mutants than in the wild type. Transcriptome analysis of the yellow mutant and wild type revealed that 78,712 unigenes were obtained, and 599 differentially expressed genes (120 upregulated and 479 downregulated) were identified. Using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis, candidate genes involved in the anthocyanin biosynthetic pathway (five unigenes) and the chlorophyll metabolic pathway (two unigenes) were identified. Meanwhile, the low expression of the chlorophyll and anthocyanin biosynthetic genes resulted in the absence of chlorophylls and anthocyanins in the yellow mutant. This study provides a basis for similar research in other closely related species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the use of X-ray computed tomography and X-ray fluorescence in the analysis and expert research of the seventeenth century printed book "Eukhologīon albo Molitoslov, ili Trebnik" from Kiev. The main purpose of the survey was to confirm whether the book binding is original or whether it is a rebinding, and whether there are any fragments of the hidden older texts. Commonly used radiography is usually not able to provide sufficient information for these purposes. On the other hand, computed tomography allows a detailed and three-dimensional documentation of the bookbinding technology and the structure of the materials used, including the wooden boards. It will be presented that all elements of the weave are clearly visible, making it possible to show that there are no internal defects in the stitching and materials. It has also been convincingly shown that there are no fragments or layers of older texts in the binding, so no further invasive intervention will be necessary regarding this aspect. The paper also demonstrates the possibility of reading the text in a closed book utilising X-ray computed tomography data; this option may be advantageous for massively damaged manuscripts. It will also be shown, that thanks to detailed tomographic imaging of the wood structure of the boards, a dendrochronological survey can be successfully carried out without invasive intervention into their outer layers. From the CT data it was also found that the pigments of the letters have significantly different densities. Therefore, as part of the survey, elemental analysis of the writing was also carried out using a portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometer to confirm and clarify this finding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tidal freshwater zones (TFZs) can significantly affect nutrient transport from watersheds to estuaries through biogeochemical cycling. Phytoplankton, pivotal in nutrient cycling, have been relatively understudied within TFZs. Employing accessory pigment analysis, this study assessed the contribution of diverse phytoplankton groups to chlorophyll a (chl a) biomass over an annual cycle under baseflow conditions. Spatial and temporal patterns in chl a concentrations and community structure as inferred from accessory pigment analysis were evaluated in relation to temperature, dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN), soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP), and DIN/SRP ratios. Downstream phytoplankton transport and seasonal succession within the TFZ, driven by nutrient levels and temperature, lead to variations in chl a concentration and community composition. Overall chl a levels were higher in the TFZ than in the upstream river and downstream estuary, with cyanobacteria prominently contributing to chl a biomass, especially in the lower TFZ sections. This study underscores the role of prolonged residence times and nutrient enrichment in TFZs, resulting in elevated chl a concentrations and shaping phytoplankton community composition, with implications for downstream estuaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Yungang Grottoes, excavated during the 5th to 6th centuries AD, stand as a pinnacle of Buddhist sculpture, representing a precious world cultural heritage. Since their excavation, the grottoes have undergone multiple phases of painting, with a significant amount of pigment still present on the surfaces of the stone carvings. Since the 1990s, two large-scale archaeological excavations have been conducted on both the front ground and the summit of Yungang Grottoes. During these excavations, various artifacts with accompanying pigments were unearthed, encompassing stone carvings, grinding tools, architectural components, fragments of murals, and remnants of clay sculptures, spanning the historical periods of the Northern Wei, Liao-Jin, and Ming-Qing dynasties. Using portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, portable microscopy, polarizing microscopy, scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and confocal Raman microscopy, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of these painted elements. The investigation revealed the presence of hematite, vermilion, goethite, malachite, calcium carbonate, lead white, and ivory black pigments in the Northern Wei samples. The Liao-Jin samples exhibited hematite, while the Ming-Qing samples contained vermilion, minium, atacamite, lead white, and Prussian blue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fe and/or Mn‐containing yellow ochre, red ochre, and umber earth pigments are omnipresent in 17th century paintings. Less common in the materials used in historical paintings of this period is the Fe and Mn‐rich earth pigment sienna. Different uses of historical pigments in one painting by Georg Flegel (1566–1638) and another version of the same painting but of disputed attribution were recently uncovered by means of macro‐x‐ray fluorescence (MA‐XRF) scanning and other non‐invasive analytical techniques. In this paper, an approach solely based upon the correlation of Fe and Mn MA‐XRF maps with the optical image of the painting is compared to the use of Mn/Fe correlation plots. The identification of clusters within a plot of the Fe counts vs. the Mn counts can aid to infer whether an area with a certain color matches with the use of the earth pigments found in the two paintings and to ultimately shed light on the different usage of these pigments. The analytical thresholds found in the Mn/Fe correlation plots allowed to identify clusters differing in composition, which matched an area of a certain color with the earth pigments used therein. This highlighted the differences and similarities between the two paintings, ultimately ascertaining the lower value of the painting of disputed attribution. The analysis of single‐pixel spectra allowed refining the interpretation of specific Mn/Fe correlation plots. The purpose of these data evaluation steps is presented and the limitations of the proposed methodology are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: We conducted a cross-sectional study to compare macular pigment optical density (MPOD) in eyes with idiopathic macular holes with bumpy (bbMH) and smooth borders (sbMH) and to assess the relation between MPOD and optical coherence tomography findings. Thirty eyes from thirty patients affected by idiopathic macular hole were studied. Methods: All patients underwent SD-OCT and macular pigment optical density (MPOD) analysis. Comparison between the two border phenotypes were estimated at baseline, as well as the differences in MPOD, minimum and basal hole diameter, tractional hole index (THI), macular hole index (MHI), diameter hole index (DHI), and ELM integrity metrics between the two groups. Results: The mean MPOD was 0.09 ± 0.08 in bbMHs and 0.16 ± 0.11 in sbMHs (p = 0.010). Correlation analysis between MPOD and minimum hole diameter revealed a negative association (rho = − 0.707, p = 0.008) in bbMH and a positive association (rho = 0.702, p = 0.019) in sbMH. MPOD and basal diameter were negatively correlated in bbMH (rho = − 0.77, p = 0.001) and positively correlated in sbMH (rho = 0.675, p = 0.019). Indeed, MPOD is negatively correlated with THI and MHI in sbMH (rho = − 0.684 p = 0.019; rho = − 0.665 p = 0.019, respectively) and positively correlated in bbMH (rho = 0.593 p = 0.037; rho = 0.658 p = 0.018, respectively). Conclusions: MPOD is significantly reduced in bbMHs compared to sbMHs. The two border phenotypes also differ for tractional and tangential indexes, possibly reflecting a different pathogenesis. Further studies are needed to understand the prognostic role of MPOD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zygnematophyceae, a class of freshwater green algae, exhibit distinctive seasonal dynamics. The increasing frequency of cold snaps during the growing season might challenge the persistence of some populations. The present study explored the frost hardiness of two Mougeotia species isolated from different elevations and habitats. Additionally, a phylogenetic (rbcL sequence), ultrastructural and physiological characterization was performed. Both species, grown under standard culture conditions and cold acclimated cultures (+4°C), were exposed to freezing temperatures down to −9°C. Furthermore, ultrastructural‐, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)‐ and photosynthetic pigment analysis were performed on cells exposed to −2°C, with and without induced ice nucleation. The alpine M. disjuncta showed a higher frost hardiness (LT50 = −5.8°C), whereas the lowland M. scalaris was susceptible to ice. However, frost hardiness did not improve after cold acclimation in either species but rather decreased significantly in M. disjuncta (LT50 = −4.7°C). Despite darkness, prolonged sub‐zero temperatures or freezing induced the activation of the xanthophyll (VAZ) cycle in M. scalaris. Our results demonstrate that frost hardiness varies within the genus Mougeotia and that the VAZ cycle can be activated in the dark under subzero temperature‐ and freezing stress but does not necessarily increase frost hardiness. As highly frost hardy cell types are usually formed at the end of the growing season, the ability of young cells to survive ice formation in the upper subzero temperature range represents a crucial survival strategy in populations exposed to late spring frosts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This contribution presents the results of a technical investigation on the pigments of William Burges' Great Bookcase (1859–62), preserved at the Ashmolean Museum. It is the first thorough material investigation of a remarkable piece of Gothic Revival painted furniture, notably an artwork by Burges, whose work has so far received little attention from a technical point of view. This study was developed during the Covid-19 pandemic, which significantly affected the planned research activities since the investigation relied extensively on collaborations with institutions within and beyond the University of Oxford. The disruption caused by the lockdown and other restrictions went far beyond any prediction and led us to redefine the project's outcome and methodology 'on the fly' while maintaining its overall vision. However, thanks to the timeliness of a substantial research grant received from the Capability for Collection Fund (CapCo, Art and Humanities Research Council), we could ultimately turn this research into a unique opportunity to test the potential of recently acquired instruments, namely the Opus Apollo infrared camera and the Bruker CRONO XRF mapping spectrometer. Therefore, besides reporting on the findings, this contribution outlines the strategy adopted and assesses the new equipment's capability for the non-invasive analysis of complex polychromies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Violacein, a bis-indole produced by various bacteria is known to display extensive pharmaceutical properties. Unfortunately, low productivities in natural violacein producers have led to inconsistent violacein supply, limiting its application as future therapeutics. Heterologous expression systems such as Escherichia coli and Pichia pastoris offers an alternative means of producing these high-valued secondary metabolites. This work describes the development of a genetic system for violacein heterologous production in E. coli. Methods: A violacein producer, C. violaceum, MTH01, was isolated from the limnological grounds of Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang. Using gene specific primers, the entire 7.3 kb violacein gene cluster was successfully amplified from C. violaceum MTH01 DNA, cloned into pUC19 vector (pVio19) and then subcloned into pET-3a and pET-11b, yielding recombinant vectors, pVio3a and pVio11b, respectively. For heterologous expression, parameters such as carbon sources, temperature, inducer (IPTG) and L-tryptophan were optimised. Violacein extracted from purple-pigmented E. coli transformants were analysed using TLC and FTIR. Results: After a few days, E. coli transformants containing either pVio3a or pVio11b developed purple colonies, indicating that violacein was successfully expressed in E. coli. TLC analysis of the pigment extract revealed Rf values comparable to deoxyviolacein, an intermediary metabolite in violacein biosynthesis, while FTIR spectra revealed the presence of amine and carbonyl groups, both of which are characteristics of an indole. Conclusion: The E. coli heterologous system described here could utilize either glucose or glycerol as carbon source. Addition of L-tryptophan to growth medium was necessary for successful expression of the violacein pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although most cyanobacteria use visible light (VL; λ = 400–700 nm) for photosynthesis, some have evolved strategies to use far‐red light (FRL; λ = 700–800 nm). These cyanobacteria are defined as far‐red light‐utilizing cyanobacteria (FRLCyano), including two groups: (1) chlorophyll d‐producing Acaryochloris spp. and (2) polyphyletic cyanobacteria that produce chlorophylls d and f in response to FRL. Numerous ecological studies examine pigments, such as chlorophylls d and f, to investigate the presence of FRLCyano in the environment. This method is not ideal because it can only detect FRLCyano that have made chlorophylls d or f. Here we develop a new method, far‐red cyanobacteria identification (FRCI), to identify FRLCyano based on 16S rRNA gene sequences. From public databases and published articles, 62 16S rRNA gene sequences of FRLCyano were extracted. Comparing with related lineages, we determined that 97% sequence identity is the optimal cut‐off for distinguishing FRLCyano from other cyanobacteria. To test the method experimentally, we collected samples from 17 sites in Taipei, Taiwan, and conducted VL and FRL enrichments. Our results demonstrate that FRCI can detect FRLCyano during FRL enrichments more sensitively than pigment analysis. FRCI can also resolve the composition of FRLCyano at the genus level, which pigment analysis cannot do. In addition, we applied FRCI to published datasets and discovered putative FRLCyano in diverse environments, including soils, hot springs and deserts. Overall, our results indicate that FRCI is a sensitive and high‐resolution method using 16S rRNA gene sequences to identify FRLCyano. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the influence of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) availability on the periphytic algal biomass and assemblage composition (by pigment analysis) in the eutrophic lake, natural littoral intact sediment cores in a subtropical eutrophic lake (Lake Taihu) were collected, and subjected to three levels of water N and P loading (N-P [mg. L−1]: 1.5, 0.075; 2.5, 0.125; 3.5, 0.175) in the tanks, eighteen artificial substances (glass slides) were fixed at three water depths (1, 17, and 33 cm above the surface sediment) for development of periphytic algae in each tank, respectively. The results showed that the biomass of periphytic algae on artificial substance was significantly enhanced with increasing N and P levels in water column and water depth (p < 0.05), while sediment-associated periphytic algae did not significantly increase with increasing N and P levels in water column. The development of sediment-associated periphytic algae changed the phosphorus form, calcium-bound phosphorus and inorganic phosphorus in the sediments decreased slightly, and the total phosphorus and organic phosphorus in the sediments increased. Our results suggest that N and P availability is conducive to the development of periphytic algae in subtropical eutrophic shallow lakes in spring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

β-Carotene is one of the economically important carotenoids, having functions as the antioxidant to remove harmful free radicals and as the precursor for vitamin A and other high-valued xanthophyll such as zeaxanthin and astaxanthin. Lycopene cyclase plays an important role in the branching of β-carotene and α-carotene. Aiming to develop the microalgae with enhanced β-carotene productivity, the CrtY gene from bacterium Pantoea agglomerans was integrated into Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. The lycopene-producing E. coli harboring CrtY gene produced 1.59 times of β-carotene than that harboring DsLcyb1 from Dunaliella salina (a microalga with abundant β-carotene), confirming the superior activity of CrtY on β-carotene biosynthesis. According to the pigment analysis by HPLC, in microalgal transformants that were confirmed by molecular analysis, the expression of CrtY significantly increased β-carotene content from 12.48 mg/g to 30.65 mg/g (dry weight), which is about 2.45-fold changes. It is noted that three out of five transformants have statistically significant higher amount of lutein, even though the increment was 20% in maximum. Besides, no growth defect was observed in the transformants. This is the first report of functional expression of prokaryotic gene in eukaryotic microalgae, which will widen the gene pool targeting carotenoids biosynthesis using microalgae as the factory and thereby provide more opportunity for high-valued products engineering in microalgae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Genetic engineering of flower color provides biotechnological products such as blue carnations or roses by accumulating delphinidin‐based anthocyanins not naturally existing in these plant species. Betalains are another class of pigments that in plants are only synthesized in the order Caryophyllales. Although they have been engineered in several plant species, especially red‐violet betacyanins, the yellow betaxanthins have yet to be engineered in ornamental plants.We attempted to produce yellow‐flowered gentians by genetic engineering of betaxanthin pigments. First, white‐flowered gentian lines were produced by knocking out the dihydroflavonol 4‐reductase (DFR) gene using CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated genome editing.Beta vulgaris BvCYP76AD6 and Mirabilis jalapa MjDOD, driven by gentian petal‐specific promoters, flavonoid 3′,5′‐hydroxylase (F3′5′H) and anthocyanin 5,3′‐aromatic acyltransferase (AT), respectively, were transformed into the above DFR‐knockout white‐flowered line; the resultant gentian plants had vivid yellow flowers. Expression analysis and pigment analysis revealed petal‐specific expression and accumulation of seven known betaxanthins in their petals to c. 0.06–0.08 μmol g FW−1.Genetic engineering of vivid yellow‐flowered plants can be achieved by combining genome editing and a suitable expression of betaxanthin‐biosynthetic genes in ornamental plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deserts represent an extreme challenge for photosynthetic life. Despite their aridity, they are often inhabited by diverse microscopic communities of cyanobacteria. These organisms are commonly found in lithic habitats, where they are partially sheltered from extremes of temperature and UV radiation. However, living under the rock surface imposes additional constraints, such as limited light availability, and enrichment of longer wavelengths than are typically usable for oxygenic photosynthesis. Some cyanobacteria from the genus Chroococcidiopsis can use this light to photosynthesize, in a process known as far-red light photoacclimation, or FaRLiP. This genus has commonly been reported from both hot and cold deserts. However, not all Chroococcidiopsis strains carry FaRLiP genes, thus motivating our study into the interplay between FaRLiP and extreme lithic environments. The abundance of sequence data and strains provided the necessary material for an in-depth phylogenetic study, involving spectroscopy, microscopy, and determination of pigment composition, as well as gene and genome analyses. Pigment analyses revealed the presence of red-shifted chlorophylls d and f in all FaRLiP strains tested. In addition, eight genus-level taxa were defined within the encompassing Chroococcidiopsidales, clarifying the phylogeny of this long-standing polyphyletic order. FaRLiP is near universally present in a generalist genus identified in a wide variety of environments, Chroococcidiopsis sensu stricto, while it is rare or absent in closely related, extremophile taxa, including those preferentially inhabiting deserts. This likely reflects the evolutionary process of gene loss in specialist lineages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of color vision deficiencies (CVDs) and determine whether carriers could be detected by analyzing the visual pigment genes. Materials and Methods: The data of students who underwent routine CVD screening using the Ishihara color test in Kaohsiung, Southern Taiwan were analyzed. Furthermore, the DNA samples of 80 randomly selected females and four obligate carriers were analyzed. The most upstream genes, downstream genes, and the most downstream genes in the red/green pigment gene arrays were amplified separately using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and exon 5 of each gene was analyzed. The prevalence of congenital red–green CVD in this study was 3.46% in males and 0.14% in females. The PCR analysis of the first gene, downstream gene, and last gene revealed normal patterns in 73 normal cases. Seven unusual patterns were detected in two proton carriers and five deutan carriers. Among the randomly selected females, 8.8% (7/80) were CVD carriers. The prevalence of CVD among male Taiwanese students in this study was 3.46%. Female carriers of congenital CVD can be identified by molecular analysis of the visual pigment genes. The proportion of CVD carriers among the randomly selected females was 8.8%, which was slightly higher than expected and further studies are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Skin tone and pigmented regions, associated with melanin and hemoglobin, are critical indicators of skin condition. While most prior research focuses on pigment analysis, the capability to simulate diverse pigmentation conditions could greatly broaden the range of applications. However, current methodologies have limitations in terms of numerical control and versatility. Methods: We introduce a hybrid technique that integrates optical methods with deep learning to produce skin tone and pigmented region‐modified images with numerical control. The pigment discrimination model produces melanin, hemoglobin, and shading maps from skin images. The outputs are reconstructed into skin images using a forward problem‐solving approach, with model training aimed at minimizing the discrepancy between the reconstructed and input images. By adjusting the melanin and hemoglobin maps, we create pigment‐modified images, allowing precise control over changes in melanin and hemoglobin levels. Changes in pigmentation are quantified using the individual typology angle (ITA) for skin tone and melanin and erythema indices for pigmented regions, validating the intended modifications. Results: The pigment discrimination model achieved correlation coefficients with clinical equipment of 0.915 for melanin and 0.931 for hemoglobin. The alterations in the melanin and hemoglobin maps exhibit a proportional correlation with the ITA and pigment indices in both quantitative and qualitative assessments. Additionally, regions overlaying melanin and hemoglobin are demonstrated to verify independent adjustments. Conclusion: The proposed method offers an approach to generate modified images of skin tone and pigmented regions. Potential applications include visualizing alterations for clinical assessments, simulating the effects of skincare products, and generating datasets for deep learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pigments on four easel paintings signed by Mohammad Ghaffari (latter Kamal al-Molk), the renowned Persian painter lived from the mid-nineteenth to the mid-twentieth century, kept at the Astan-e Qods-e Razavi Museum (AQRM) in Mashhad, Iran, were identified by micro-X-ray fluorescence (µ-XRF), scanning electron microscopy—energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (SEM–EDS) and micro-Raman spectroscopy (µ-Raman). Apart from chrome yellow, green chromium oxide and red ochre, four blue pigments including Prussian blue, artificial ultramarine blue, azurite, blue phthalocyanine PB:16 and seven white pigments including rutile, huntite, lead white, baryte, chalk, gypsum and zinc white were identified on the paintings. Based on the occurrence of rutile and blue phthalocyanine PB:16 and the fact that the signature of the paintings suggests 1875 as the date of executing the paintings, several hypotheses were argued to discuss the latter interventions and the authenticity of the works. Discussions on the birth date and other important milestones of Kamal al-Molk's life accordingly posed serious questions on the authenticity of these paintings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

β-Carotene is one of the economically important carotenoids, having functions as the antioxidant to remove harmful free radicals and as the precursor for vitamin A and other high-valued xanthophyll such as zeaxanthin and astaxanthin. Lycopene cyclase plays an important role in the branching of β-carotene and α-carotene. Aiming to develop the microalgae with enhanced β-carotene productivity, the CrtY gene from bacterium Pantoea agglomerans was integrated into Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. The lycopene-producing E. coli harboring CrtY gene produced 1.59 times of β-carotene than that harboring DsLcyb1 from Dunaliella salina (a microalga with abundant β-carotene), confirming the superior activity of CrtY on β-carotene biosynthesis. According to the pigment analysis by HPLC, in microalgal transformants that were confirmed by molecular analysis, the expression of CrtY significantly increased β-carotene content from 12.48 mg/g to 30.65 mg/g (dry weight), which is about 2.45-fold changes. It is noted that three out of five transformants have statistically significant higher amount of lutein, even though the increment was 20% in maximum. Besides, no growth defect was observed in the transformants. This is the first report of functional expression of prokaryotic gene in eukaryotic microalgae, which will widen the gene pool targeting carotenoids biosynthesis using microalgae as the factory and thereby provide more opportunity for high-valued products engineering in microalgae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus has important nutritional and medicinal value. Unfortunately, we know little of the source of active chemicals in this animal, but the plentiful pigments of these animals are thought to function in intriguing ways for translation into clinical and food chemistry usage. Here, we found key cell groups with the gene activity predicted for the color morphology of sea cucumber body using single-cell RNA-seq. We refer to these cell populations as melanocytes and quinocytes, which are responsible for the synthesis of melanin and quinone pigments, respectively. We integrated analysis of pigment biochemistry with the transcript profiles to illuminate the molecular mechanisms regulating distinct pigment formation in echinoderms. In concert with the correlated pigment analysis from each color morph, this study expands our understanding of medically important pigment production, as well as the genetic mechanisms for color morphs, and provides deep datasets for exploring advancements in the fields of bioactives and nutraceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• First report on application of meta -Topolin for augmented in vitro mass propagation of stevia. • meta -Topolin outperformed the other cytokinins during large-scale shoot proliferation. • Growth pattern assessed via micromorphological and leaf gas exchange measurement. • 100% genetic fidelity during flow cytometry and CDDP, DAMD, ISSR and SCoT markers analyses. • 2.4-folds higher rebaudioside-A production from acclimatized plantlets compared to mother plant. Present report ascertains the efficacy of meta -Topolin (m T) for improved in vitro mass propagation of stevia (Stevia rebaudiana Bert.) with high-frequency shoot initiation, multiplication, and proliferation over other cytokinins. Shoot tips were inoculated on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium fortified with 6-benzyladenine, kinetin, m T, thidiazuron, and zeatin individually, at different concentrations ranged from 0.5—1.5 mg L−1. Among various combinations, MS medium + 1.5 mg L−1 m T developed the maximum number (15.33) and length (57.33 mm) of shoots with a greater number of leaves (38.67) after 4 weeks of culture. Elongated shoots were then transferred for root induction on MS medium fortified with a indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), indole-3-acetic acid, and α-naphthalene acetic acid individually, at concentrations ranged from 0.5—1.5 mg L−1. MS medium + 1 mg L−1 IBA was found as the superior rooting medium with the maximum number (10.67) and length (19.00 mm) of roots after next 4 weeks of culture. Rooted plantlets were acclimatized with 95% survival rate in sand followed by sand-soil (1:1; w w −1) mixture in next 8 weeks. Proper growth and development of acclimatized plantlets without any abnormalities was confirmed by micromorphological assessment (at cellular level), plant pigment analyses as well as leaf gas exchange measurement. Stability of ploidy level of the acclimatized plantlets was confirmed by flow cytometry. Furthermore, genetic fidelity of the acclimatized plantlets with their mother plant was confirmed by various molecular markers such as primers from directed amplification of minisatellite-region DNA, conserved DNA-derived polymorphism, inter simple sequence repeats, and start codon targeted polymorphism markers. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis indicated that acclimatized plantlets produced significantly higher (2.4-folds) rebaudioside-A (96.50 mg g−1 dry weight) in comparison to mother plant (40.20 mg g−1 dry weight). The current report, for first time, accounts the m T-mediated large-scale in vitro propagation of stevia ensuring genetic fidelity and simultaneously ameliorating the rebaudioside-A production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a methodological contribution to rock art archaeology by demonstrating the benefits of hyperspectral imaging, a relatively new method, for the understanding of rock art sites. It illustrates the complementarity of VNIR hyperspectral imaging, applied in rare cases to rock archaeology, and SWIR hyperspectral imaging, implemented here in a unprecedented way to a rock art panel. Applied to a schematic rock art site in southern France, the Otello rock shelter (Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, France), this method allowed the discovery of numerous new figures invisible to the naked eye or unsuspected after image enhancement with the DStretch plug-in of the ImageJ software, the individualisation of figures within complex superpositions, and the discovery of figures covered by weathering products. Moreover, by conferring a spatial dimension to the analysis of pictorial matter, thus allowing a classification of pigments at the scale of the wall, hyperspectral imaging makes it possible to automatically isolate different paintings and to carry out objective groupings of figures on the basis of their composition. Finally, hyperspectral imaging allows us to precisely document, distinguish and characterise weathering products interacting with painted figures. For all of these reasons, this method appears essential to highlight the relative chronology and syntax of iconography, and consequently to understand its cognitive nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Imaging spectroscopy discloses the secrets of Picasso's painting "La Copa Blava". • Reflectance hyperspectral imaging enabled visualisation of earlier versions of the painting. • New-insights on the Picasso Blue period are gained with imaging spectroscopy. • Reflectance hyperspectral imaging has a potential for museums educational tasks. Reflectance hyperspectral imaging (HSI) in the Visible and Near-IR (VNIR) to the Short Wave IR (SWIR) ranges is acknowledged as one of the most effective techniques for non-invasive examination of paintings. Recently, in some important museums worldwide a new trend has emerged towards a more systematic use of reflectance HSI, which is applied as advanced imaging technique to attain at once analysis and documentation of the painted surfaces and inner layers. As an example of this trend, in the framework of the interdisciplinary program "Picasso: Blue Project" recently carried out at the Museu Picasso in Barcelona, a selection of paintings of the Blue Period (1901–1904) collection were revisited through the eye of cutting-edge analytical techniques, including reflectance HSI. The present paper focuses on the painting "The Blue Glass" (La Copa Blava, 1903), which was examined by using a high-performance reflectance HSI instrumentation. Under its visible surface, this iconic oil on canvas featured a stratification of different compositions that perfectly witnessed the Picasso's creative process. The HSI data enabled an unprecedented visualisation of the artistic metamorphosis of this painting. The well-known Picasso's creative practice of repainting on his own canvas was brought to the light by means of HSI images, which offered unique materials for visualising the hidden layers of the painting, by disclosing subsequent and unknown earlier versions and the artistic evolution of the painting. The outcomes of the project were disseminated in an exhibition, that addressed the ambitious objective of sharing with the wide public scholarly advanced knowledge hitherto gained on the Picasso Blue Period. Within this context, reflectance HSI proved to be exceptionally effective, not only for addressing analytical tasks, but also for educational purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The newly developed three temporary immersion bioreactors showed superior response in multiple shoot induction and the plantlets showed better survival under ex vitro conditions than the semisolid culture system. • The bioreactor grown plants showed superior photosynthetic functions. • The flow cytometry and simple-sequence repeat markers analysis showed genetic integrity of the plantlets grown in TIBs. Temporary immersion bioreactor (TIB) technology offers a cost-effective means of in vitro micropropagation for large-scale plantlet production, and is increasingly being recognized as a valuable tool in the plant tissue culture industry. However, the limited accessibility of the bioreactor in certain markets is hindering its potential benefits. Here, we report three different TIB systems for large-scale plantlet production in banana. Shoot tip explants of commercially important banana cultivars such as Grand Naine (AAA), Red Banana (AAA), Nendran (AAB), and Ney Poovan (AB) were initiated aseptically in semisolid medium and cultured in the TIB systems using liquid medium supplemented with 4.0 mg/l 6- benzylaminopurine (BAP), 0.2 mg/l indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), and 30 g/l sucrose for shoot multiplication and liquid medium supplemented with 1.0 mg/l indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) and 2.0 mg/l 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) for rooting of shoots. The liquid media were supplied periodically (2 min for every 6-hr frequency) to the growth vessels and recorded the data on number of shoots per explant, shoot length and number of roots per shoot. The data were compared with explants cultured in semisolid medium. The three TIBs showed superior response over semisolid culture system in shoots per explant, shoot length and number of roots per shoot. There was no significant difference within TIBs in photosynthetic efficiency as measured by chlorophyll pigment analysis. Plantlets cultured in TIBs showed better survival under ex vitro conditions. The genetic integrity of the plantlets grown in TIBs were confirmed by flow cytometry and simple-sequence repeat (SSR) markers analysis. The developed TIBs and protocol can be utilized for commercial purpose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-destructive investigations were conducted by applying various analysis methods to investigate the production period of six wall paintings of the Sungseonjeon Hall in the royal tomb of King Suro, Historic Site No. 73 in Gimhae, South Korea. Portable microscopy and portable X-ray fluorescence analysis were performed in situ, and Raman spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction were applied to small fragments of painting layers. From microscopic observations, the size and arrangement of the mineral pigment particles used in the wall paintings were confirmed to be suitable for non-destructive analysis. Among the major elements and mineral phases detected in the wall paintings that are regarded to be earlier works (late 17th century), talc, minium with cinnabar, atacamite with botallackite, and lazurite have been detected in white, red, green, and blue specimens, respectively, confirming the use of traditional mineral pigments employed since ancient times. In contrast, in wall paintings added later (after the 19th century), anatase, minium, lavendulan with cornwallite, and lazurite were detected, along with crocoite in yellow specimens. These results indicate the existence of modern traces through synthetic pigments such as titanium white, emerald green, and chrome yellow, which were introduced by the West with the passage of time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The general awareness of the threats on biodiversity and water quality raised the number of studies that use phytoplankton in assessment procedures. Since most metrics require obtaining mean values, this paper presents data that may help speed up field work and find indicators for a rapid water quality assessment based on single samplings, allowing simultaneous work on many sites. The phytoplankton from 43 Bulgarian waterbodies collected during three summer campaigns (2018, 2019, 2021) at sites selected after drone observations was studied by conventional light microscopy (LM) and an HPLC analysis of marker pigments. Our results allowed us to recommend drones and the HPLC application as reliable methods in rapid water quality assessments. In total, 787 algae from seven phyla (53 alien, new for Bulgaria) were identified. Chlorophyta was the taxonomically richest group, but Cyanoprokaryota dominated the biomass in most sites. New PCR data obtained on anatoxin and microcystin producers confirmed the genetic diversity of Cuspidothrix and Microcystis and provided three new species for the country's toxic species, first identified by LM. A statistical analysis revealed significant correlations of certain algal phyla and classes with different environmental variables, and their species are considered promising for future search of bioindicators. This is especially valid for the class Eustigmatophyceae, which, as of yet, has been almost neglected in water assessment procedures and indices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The search for new synthetic melanin-related pigments that maintain the antioxidant and photoprotective properties of naturally occurring dark eumelanins, while overcoming their unfavorable solubility, and molecular heterogeneity is presently a very active issue for dermo-cosmetic purposes. In this work, we explored the potential of a melanin obtained from the carboxybutanamide of a major eumelanin biosynthetic precursor, 5,6-dihydroxyindole-2-carboxylic acid (DHICA), by aerobic oxidation under slightly alkaline conditions. Analysis of the pigment by EPR, ATR-FTIR and MALDI MS indicated a substantial structural similarity to DHICA melanin, while investigation of the early intermediates confirmed unchanged regiochemistry of the oxidative coupling. The pigment exhibited a UVA–visible absorption even more intense than that of DHICA melanin, and a noticeable solubility in polar solvents of dermo-cosmetic relevance. The hydrogen- and/or electron-donor ability, and the iron (III) reducing power as determined by conventional assays provided evidence for marked antioxidant properties not merely ascribable to the more favorable solubility profile, while the inhibitory action of the radical- or photosensitized solar light-induced lipid peroxidation was more marked compared to that of DHICA melanin. Overall, these results hint at this melanin, which remarkable properties are, in part, due to the electronic effects of the carboxyamide functionality as a promising functional ingredient for dermo-cosmetic formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient in vitro protocol for high-frequency polyploidization for the first time in gerbera hybrid (BGC-2019-01) was developed in the present study. Two-week-old in vitro-developed shoots (tips) were treated individually with 0.1%, 0.25% and 0.5% (w/v) colchicine solutions for 4, 6, 8, and 12 h. The colchicine-treated shoot tips were then inoculated on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium fortified with 1.5 mg/l meta-Topolin for multiple shoot proliferation and later transferred into 1.5 mg/l indole-3-acetic acid-fortified MS medium for rooting of shoots. The ploidy levels of the colchicine-treated and regenerated plantlets along with the non-treated ones were confirmed via flow cytometry analysis and metaphasic chromosome count. The highest frequency of tetraploid plantlets (50%) were obtained when shoot tips were treated with 0.1% colchicine for 4 h. Morphological observations revealed that induced tetraploid plantlets exhibited delayed fresh shoot initiation, fewer but longer shoots, as well as fewer but broader leaves. Likewise, the study of stomata revealed that in comparison to their diploid counterparts, the tetraploid plantlets exhibited less frequent yet significantly larger stomata, and higher number of chloroplasts. The tetraploids were recorded with significantly higher chlorophyll, carotenoid, and anthocyanin content during the photosynthetic pigment analyses. During ex vitro acclimatization and field growth, the tetraploid plants exhibited delayed proliferation but with higher vigor and thickened broad leaves. The genetic uniformity among the diploid and the tetraploid plants was confirmed using conserved DNA-derived polymorphism (CDDP), directed amplification of minisatellite-region DNA (DAMD), inter simple sequence repeats (ISSR), and start codon targeted (SCoT) polymorphism marker systems. The tetraploids developed in the present study would be of immense importance for the genetic improvement of gerbera as far as its ornamental values are concerned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-invasive techniques are being increasingly used for the study of heritage objects. This article describes the results of pigment analysis on a fragmentary Egyptian sculpture using two non-invasive infrared methods: external reflectance Fourier-transform infrared (ER-FTIR) spectroscopy and visible-induced infrared luminescence (VIL) photography. ER-FTIR spectroscopy was used to identify certain of the pigments used on the sculpture, including Egyptian blue, in variously coloured areas. An optimized VIL photographic technique, using a high-resolution camera combined with focus-stacking, permitted detailed mapping of the location of Egyptian blue on the sculpture, including sub-millimeter grains of the pigment scattered across the object's surface, which were not visible to the naked eye. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantifying phytoplankton composition is critical to predicting marine ecosystem structure and function. DNA meta‐barcoding and high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) pigment analysis are two widely used methods for assessing phytoplankton composition; however, comparing their performance has been done only rarely. Here, we integrate DNA meta‐barcoding and HPLC pigment observations to determine eukaryotic phytoplankton composition in the Santa Barbara Channel, California. We find that both methods identify the same four dominant eukaryotic phytoplankton taxa (diatoms, dinoflagellates, chlorophytes, and prymnesiophytes), but inter‐ and intra‐lineage variability in biomarker pigmentation (associated with both a lack of taxonomic specificity of biomarker pigments and intrinsic differences in accessory pigmentation) drives substantial disagreement between the methods. Covariation network analysis circumvents this disagreement and reveals that diverse assemblages of phytoplankton and other protists covary with distinct suites of biomarker pigments. Our results highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each method in characterizing phytoplankton composition and reveal novel insights into phytoplankton physiology that could only be gained by integrating the two methods. Finally, we suggest a path to monitor eukaryotic plankton communities on unprecedented spatiotemporal scales based on the covariation of unique phytoplankton and protistan assemblages with remotely sensible phytoplankton pigment concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Francisco de Zurbarán was one of the greatest painters of the Spanish Golden Age, with artworks scattered all over the world. Unfortunately, there are hardly any exhaustive studies on the pigments that he used. In this work, four canvas paintings attributed to the Zurbarán Workshop were studied. Each of them presents the figure of a different saint in a particular isolation scene: Saint Bruno, Saint Francis of Assisi, Saint Dominic of Guzman, and Saint Peter Martyr. Nevertheless, the painting of Saint Peter Martyr shows superior quality in both technique and colours, so it is not clear whether this canvas was also made by the Workshop or by Zurbarán himself, as some art historians claim. Coinciding with conservation and restoration works, the paintings were initially analysed with non-invasive techniques such as ultraviolet photography (UV), infrared reflectography (IRR) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) to determine the characterization of the pigments. Those studies were complemented by stratigraphic analysis of some extracted samples with optical microscopy (OM) and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDX). Among a number of results obtained, we found significant differences between the pigment palette used in Saint Peter Martyr and the other paintings, supporting the hypothesis that this painting was done by Zurbarán himself instead of his workshop. These results could also help to distinguish other authentic paintings by the master's hand from very similar paintings by his workshop or by other artists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Common bean is one of the most traditional foods, with social and economic importance, and is suitable for food security due to its short growing cycle and adaptability to different cropping systems. However, various constraints like biotic and abiotic factors reported for the low productivity of the crop. Therefore, the study was designed to identify the common bean varieties' response on physiological properties and yield performance under different irrigation intervals in Lath House condition at Hawassa University, Ethiopia, from June, 2020, to September, 2020. The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design with a factorial combination of seven common bean varieties (Awash-1, Awash-2, Dursitu, Fedis, Gofta, Nasir, and Tinike) and three moisture levels, eight day irrigation interval, four day irrigation interval, and daily watering with three replication. There was a significant main and interaction effects among the measured parameters. From those significantly affected parameters, the highest stomata numbers (25) were recorded from the Dursitu variety with a daily irrigation interval. The longest stomata aperture was observed with Gofta (133.76 nm) and Fedis varieties (131.13 nm) to daily irrigation and four day irrigation intervals, respectively. A wider stomata aperture was found in the Awash-1(12.6 nm) variety on a daily irrigation interval, and maximum stomata conductance (193.67) was obtained in the Tinike variety treated with a four day irrigation interval. The maximum relative leaf moisture content (96%) was found on the Awash-1 variety at a four day irrigation interval. Maximum water use efficiency was obtained from the Awash-1 (3.95) variety, which is an insignificant variation with the Awash-2 (3.85) and Gofta varieties (3.85) at a four day irrigation interval. Among the varieties, the highest photosynthesis rate (10.43 μmol·m−2·s−1) and transpiration rate (5.42 mmol·m−2·s−1) were obtained in the Gofta variety treated by a four day irrigation interval. In the photosynthetic pigment analysis, the highest leaf chl-a, chl-b, and chl-a + b concentration was recorded at 2.4 μg/ml, 1.53 g/ml, and 3.93 μg/ml, respectively, in the Gofta variety irrigated at a four days interval. The highest (0.586) chlorophyll fluorescence was obtained in the eight day irrigation interval. The highest proline content was found from the Awash-1 (0.78) variety regarding to drought stress condition. The highest pods plant−1 (9) and seed pod−1 (5) was found in the Awash-2 and Awash-1 varieties, respectively, at a four days irrigation interval and the highest main effect of 100 SW (39.48 g), (28.6 g) was found in the Fedis variety and at a four day irrigating interval, respectively. The maximum yield was obtained from the varieties Awash-1 (7.8 g plant−1) and Gofta (7.36 g plant−1) with a four day irrigated interval and they are also superior at drought condition and Awash-2 varieties are enhanced at waterlogging condition as compared to the other varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyperspectral imaging technology is a research hotspot in the field of cultural heritage protection. It can be used to quickly and noninvasively obtain detailed spectral information from the surfaces of cultural relics of different categories. We can intuitively analyse pigment compositions, line characteristics, painting skills and patterns using spectral information. Hyperspectral imaging has high scientific significance and application value for the protection, restoration and research of ancient murals and other cultural relics. In this study, a mural from Daheitian hall in the Qutan temple, Qinghai Province, China, was used as a sample. The hyperspectral data were acquired and analysed for several purposes. Pigment spectral matching and abundance inversion were carried out to obtain the pigment distribution. These data were enhanced by continuum removal and histogram stretching to obtain hidden information. The dark channel prior, Criminisi and Retinex methods were used to virtually restore the image of the mural. The results indicated that by using hyperspectral imaging data, the constructed pure pigment spectrum library and suitable approaches, the types and distributions of mural pigments can be quantitatively analysed, and the lines in murals can be extracted. Hyperspectral images are helpful for identifying information hidden by pigments or surface materials. Mural images can be enhanced, and hidden information can be highlighted using enhancement methods, such as continuum removal and histogram linear stretching. In addition, hyperspectral imaging data have unique advantages in the restoration of mural images, and the combination of defogging methods and image inpainting algorithms can realize the virtual restoration of mural images. In brief, hyperspectral imaging technology was found to have a highly favourable effect on pigment analysis, line extraction, information enhancement, hidden information extraction and the virtual restoration of ancient murals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The photobiological activity of ten colorful species belonging to subgenus Dermocybe of the basidiomycete genus Cortinarius was investigated. Extracts of all species produced singlet oxygen and are thus photoactive. Pigment analysis was performed and showed similarities of the anthraquinone pigments across the species in dependency to their respective pigmentation types. Detailed content analysis of the pigments in the whole agaricoid fruiting body compared to the three different tissue types (pileus, stipe, and lamellae) revealed that the pigments emodin, dermocybin, and dermorubin, as well as their respective glycosides, are enhanced in the gills. In an independent experiment, the gills were shown to be the most photoactive tissues of the fruiting body. Photobiological experiments with invertebrates (i.e., glassworm Chaoborus crystallinus) proved a phototoxic effect of the methanolic extract of the red blood webcap (Cortinarius sanguineus var. aurantiovaginatus). This work adds further evidence to a common photobiological trait in Cortinarius subgenus Dermocybe and underpins the possibility of a photochemical defense mechanism in fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We provide an automated analysis of the pigment epithelial detachments (PEDs) in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) and estimate areas of serous, neovascular, and fibrous tissues within PEDs. A retrospective analysis of high-definition spectral-domain OCT B-scans from 43 eyes of 37 patients with nAMD with presence of fibrovascular PED was done. PEDs were manually segmented and then filtered using 2D kernels to classify pixels within the PED as serous, neovascular, or fibrous. A set of PED composition indices were calculated on a per-image basis using relative PED area of serous (PEDCI-S), neovascular (PEDCI-N), and fibrous (PEDCI-F) tissue. Accuracy of segmentation and classification within the PED were graded in masked fashion. Mean overall intra-observer repeatability and inter-observer reproducibility were 0.86 ± 0.07 and 0.86 ± 0.03 respectively using intraclass correlations. The mean graded scores were 96.99 ± 8.18, 92.12 ± 7.97, 91.48 ± 8.93, and 92.29 ± 8.97 for segmentation, serous, neovascular, and fibrous respectively. Mean (range) PEDCI-S, PEDCI-N, and PEDCI-F were 0.253 (0–0.952), 0.554 (0–1), and 0.193 (0–0.693). A kernel-based image processing approach demonstrates potential for approximating PED composition. Evaluating follow up changes during nAMD treatment with respect to PEDCI would be useful for further clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although synthetic colorants are widely used in many industries due to their high stability at different conditions in industrial processes, evidence of its negative impact on health and the environment is undeniable. Filamentous fungi are well known for their use as alternative sources to produce natural pigments. However, an adequate comparison of the productivity parameters between the fermentation systems could be limited to their heterogeneous conditions. Even though Solid-State Fermentations (SSF) on natural substrates are widely used for pigments production, complex media, and non-controlled variables (T, pH, medium composition), these systems could not only hamper the finding of accurate productivity parameters, but also mathematical modeling and genomics-based optimization. In this context, the present study screened five pigment-producing fungi by comparing Submerged (SmF) and Surface Adhesion Fermentation [biofilm (BF) and Solid-State (SSF)] with defined media and controlled variables. For this purpose, we used the same defined media with sucrose as the carbon source for pigment production on SmF, BF, and SSF, and BF and SSF were carried out on inert supports. Five molecularly identified Penicillium and Talaromyces strains isolated from the Peruvian rainforest were selected for their ability to produce yellowish-orange colorants. Highest productivities were obtained from T. brunneus LMB-HP43 in SmF (0.18 AU/L/h) and SSF (0.17 AU/L/h), and P. mallochii LMB-HP37 in SSF (0.18 AU/L/h). Both strains also exhibited the highest yields (AU/g biomass) in the three fermentation systems, reaching values greater than 18-folds in SSF compared to the other strains. Conversely, T. wortmannii LMB-HP14 and P. maximae LMB-HP33 showed no ability to produce pigments in the SSF system. The performed experiments accurately compared the effect of the fermentation system on yield and productivity. From this, further genomics approaches can be considered for an extensive analysis of pigment synthesis pathways and a genomics-driven optimization in the best fermentation system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the first time, a study on photosynthetic pigments found in native (Chamaenerion angustifolium (L.) Scop., Taraxacum officinale F. H. Wigg) and introduced herbaceous plants (Primula elatior (L.) Hill, Trollius asiaticus L.) growing in subarctic regions is presented. Plant species were collected close to railway stations in five cities of the Kola Subarctic (Murmansk, Olenegorsk, Apatity, Polyarnye Zori, Kandalaksha). The leaves for pigment analysis were collected at comparable times during the growing season of plants. In the leaves of Ch. angustifolium, the content of pigments (chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and carotenoids) was higher than in T. officinale (except Murmansk). In T. asiaticus the content of photosynthetic pigments was comparable to native species. P. elatior was inferior to other species in terms of the content of chlorophyll b and carotenoids. In the leaves of T. asiaticus on the territory of the railway stations Polyarnye Zori and Kandalaksha, shifts in the ratio of the main groups of pigments were noted. Application of maximum permissible concentrations Ni, Cu, Cd, Pb for comparison with the actual content of the pollutants in soils of railway stations showed that the soils contaminated only by Ni and Cu (3-6 times), with a maximum in Olenegorsk. Low soil contamination with Pb was found only in Kandalaksha. The impact of soil pollution with heavy metals on native species was not revealed. For introduced species, a weak non-significant positive relationship was found (r = 0.56). A high correlation coefficient was obtained for the total content of chlorophylls in the leaves of T. asiaticus (r = 0.83) and P. elatior (r = 0.89) in Kandalaksha, caused by the content of nitrogenous compounds in the soil associated with the use of fertilizers in the flower garden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micro-greens or sprouts are commonly used in the diet of many cultures owing to their health benefits. In this work we use a non-chemical solution method to stimulate the germination and growth of seeds used for sprouting, based on non-thermal plasma discharge (NTP). Such a technology could represent an alternative not only for reducing the production costs for growing micro-greens but also as a pre-sowing method for slow germinating species or those under draught stress. To evaluate the efficiency of the treatments, Brassica oleracea and Lepidium sativum seeds were exposed to a non-thermal plasma discharge produced in atmospheric air in different conditions. The strongest modifications were recorded when the discharge was produced in a closed environment when the reactive species produced in air remained in high concentrations near the seeds. The garden cress exhibited stronger modifications, with a decreasing of the water contact angle of the seeds by up to about 14%, which means an increase of the hydrophilicity of the surface of the seeds. The stimulation of the growth was evaluated as an increase of the average stem length of (9 ± 0.4)% and of the root length of (38 ± 0.5)% as compared to sprouts grown from untreated seeds. This indicated that the reactive species were not only interacting with the surface of the seeds as proved by electron microscopy imaging but also penetrated inside the seeds, activating biological pathways that lead to the stimulation of growth in this case. A noticeable influence produced by the reactive species was also reflected in the biochemical results, where the analysis of the chlorophyll pigments indicated strong modifications, especially under the intensified action of the reactive species. The results prove an important contribution from the reactive species and show the possibility of using this technology to improve the growth of these micro-greens, reducing production time and even presenting the possibility of treating packaged seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purple phototrophic bacteria use a 'photosystem' consisting of light harvesting complex 1 (LH1) surrounding the reaction centre (RC) that absorbs far-red-near-infrared light and converts it to chemical energy. Blastochloris species, which harvest light >1000 nm, use bacteriochlorophyll b rather than the more common bacteriochlorophyll a as their major photopigment, and assemble LH1 with an additional polypeptide subunit, LH1γ, encoded by multiple genes. To assign a role to γ, we deleted the four encoding genes in the model Blastochloris viridis. Interestingly, growth under halogen bulbs routinely used for cultivation yielded cells displaying an absorption maximum of 825 nm, similar to that of the RC only, but growth under white light yielded cells with an absorption maximum at 972 nm. HPLC analysis of pigment composition and sucrose gradient fractionation demonstrate that the white light-grown mutant assembles RC-LH1, albeit with an absorption maximum blue-shifted by 46 nm. Wavelengths between 900-1000 nm transmit poorly through the atmosphere due to absorption by water, so our results provide an evolutionary rationale for incorporation of γ; this polypeptide red-shifts absorption of RC-LH1 to a spectral range in which photons are of lower energy but are more abundant. Finally, we transformed the mutant with plasmids encoding natural LH1γ variants and demonstrate that the polypeptide found in the wild type complex red-shifts absorption back to 1018 nm, but incorporation of a distantly related variant results in only a moderate shift. This result suggests that tuning the absorption of RC-LH1 is possible and may permit photosynthesis past its current low-energy limit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The algal groups present in periphyton communities form an important base of autochthonous food webs in freshwater streams. Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) are key macronutrients in aquatic systems. Excess nutrients benefit some algal groups over others.We paired a nutrient‐diffusing substrata limitation experiment with high performance liquid chromatography to (a) identify which nutrient(s) limit periphyton production, and (b) how the periphyton biomass and community structure changes between isolated pools of differing hydrological characteristics along an intermittent dryland stream.Unique peaks for 21 pigments were identified and matched with published values. We then produced a PERMANOVA model using pigment ratios and CHEMTAX analysis to explore changes in community structure resulting from nutrient addition.Periphyton communities in these pools were co‐limited by N and P. Nitrogen additions caused the periphyton to shift from diatom‐ to chlorophyte‐dominated community structure and benefited cyanophyta growth. Phosphorus additions reduced the relative proportion of diatoms and also resulted in an increase in pheophoribide‐a, a pigment indicative of cell lysis, demonstrating a detrimental impact of P additions.Outcomes of this study show that when adding nutrient to a system there may be subtle shifts in community composition which can be telescoped up the food web regardless of the system's nutrient status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At Lowry Pueblo, small fragments of painted plaster are all that remain of a bold white step pattern mural that once decorated Kivas A and B. We used the following analytical techniques to study these fragments: visual microscopic analysis, portable X-ray fluorescence, scanning electron microscopy with an energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer, powder X-ray diffraction, and radiocarbon dating. We identified zinc oxide and lead sulfate pigment minerals in the glossy white paint, whereas calcium carbonate was identified as the pigment for the matte white paint. Radiocarbon dating of a lead layer places mural production at 1030–1210 cal A.D., consistent with occupation at Lowry Pueblo Great House. Stratigraphic analyses of the painted plaster layers reveals that underlying glossy white paint was applied before the ultimate matte white layer. The change in pigment source and paint recipes demonstrate a design-modifying choice made by the kiva painters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF) plays an important role for elemental analysis in a wide range of scientific fields, especially in cultural heritage. XRF imaging, which uses a raster scan to acquire spectra pixel-wise across artworks, provides the opportunity for spatial analysis of pigment distributions based on their elemental composition. However, conventional XRF-based pigment identification relies on time-consuming elemental mapping facilitated by the interpretation of measured spectra by experts. To reduce the reliance on manual work, recent studies have applied machine learning techniques to cluster similar XRF spectra in data analysis and to identify the most likely pigments. Nevertheless, it is still challenging to implement automatic pigment identification strategies to directly tackle the complex structure of real paintings, e.g. pigment mixtures and layered pigments. In addition, pigment identification based on XRF on a pixel-by-pixel basis remains an obstacle due to the high noise level. Therefore, we developed a deep-learning based pigment identification framework to fully automate the process. In particular, this method offers high sensitivity to the underlying pigments and to the pigments present in low concentrations, therefore enabling robust mapping of pigments based on single-pixel XRF spectra. As case studies, we applied our framework to lab-prepared mock-up paintings and two 19th-century paintings: Paul Gauguin's Poεave;mes Barbares (1896) that contains layered pigments with an underlying painting, and Paul Cezanne's The Bathers (1899–1904). The pigment identification results demonstrated that our model achieved comparable results to the analysis by elemental mapping, suggesting the generalizability and stability of our model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Northern Wei Dynasty (386–534 CE) murals of Cave 254 in the Mogao Grottoes, China, have been extensively affected by pigment color changes and fading. These issues severely hinder efforts to correctly understand the value and painting process of murals from this historic period. The virtual reconstruction of the faded murals reflects the analysis results of the pigments applied during the painting process and provides a new direction for conservation and art research. However, simple virtual reconstructions may not be accurate owing to deficiencies in our understanding of the color-changed pigments and fading of image lines. In this study, multi-band imaging (MSI) was performed to obtain infrared-reflected false color, ultraviolet-reflected false color, and ultraviolet luminescence images of the mural. A portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometer, portable digital microscope, scanning electron microscope, energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer, liquid chromatography–mass spectrometer, and confocal Raman microscope were used. Non-invasive and minimally invasive analyses of local portions of different color areas were performed to identify their pigments and map the strata, and a hue–saturation–brightness palette was constructed for these pigments. Finally, the pigment analysis results were combined with the multi-band image features to determine the pigment distribution of the mural, which was then used to virtually reconstruct the original color and appearance of the faded mural under ideal conditions. This study is the first to use a virtual reconstruction based on objective analyses to simulate the original color, painting processes, and pigment stratigraphy of a mural from the Northern Wei Dynasty. A preliminary discussion of the relationship between the painting processes of the mural and color changes in its pigments was also performed. The findings of this study will provide new perspectives on the study of Northern Wei Dynasty murals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Antonine Wall was commissioned by the Roman Emperor Antoninus Pius around 142 CE and stretches for c. 60 km across the central belt of Scotland, marking the Empire's most north-western frontier. This vanguard research reports on the materials referred to by Antiquarian sources as having been applied during the sixteenth century for the redecoration of an iconic Distance Sculpture that was once embedded into the mural barrier. Portable non-invasive technologies, including pXRF and in-situ microphotography were deployed. These techniques were further supplemented by micro-sampling for SEM/EDS, FTIR–ATR and microscopy of embedded cross-sections. The validity of applying these complementary techniques has been confirmed. They provide a comprehensive account of the polychromy present, including pigments that could have been applied during the Roman period and others that were only available from the fifteenth or sixteenth Centuries. The work has confirmed stratigraphic sequencing of the pigments which will, in due course, permit the digital reconstruction of how this Classical relief sculpture would have been adorned during the Renaissance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Living cells maintain and adjust structural and functional integrity by continual synthesis and degradation of metabolites and macromolecules. The maintenance and adjustment of thylakoid membrane involve turnover of photosynthetic pigments along with subunits of protein complexes. Quantifying their turnover is essential to understand the mechanisms of homeostasis and long-term acclimation of photosynthetic apparatus. Here we report methods combining whole-plant long-term 13CO2 labeling and liquid chromatography - mass spectrometry (LC–MS) analysis to determine the size of non-labeled population (NLP) of carotenoids and chlorophylls (Chl) in leaf pigment extracts of partially 13C-labeled plants. Results: The labeling chamber enabled parallel 13CO2 labeling of up to 15 plants of Arabidopsis thaliana with real-time environmental monitoring ([CO2], light intensity, temperature, relative air humidity and pressure) and recording. No significant difference in growth or photosynthetic pigment composition was found in leaves after 7-d exposure to normal CO2 (~ 400 ppm) or 13CO2 in the labeling chamber, or in ambient air outside the labeling chamber (control). Following chromatographic separation of the pigments and mass peak assignment by high-resolution Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance MS, mass spectra of photosynthetic pigments were analyzed by triple quadrupole MS to calculate NLP. The size of NLP remaining after the 7-d 13CO2 labeling was ~ 10.3% and ~ 11.5% for all-trans- and 9-cis-β-carotene, ~ 21.9% for lutein, ~ 18.8% for Chl a and 33.6% for Chl b, highlighting non-uniform turnover of these pigments in thylakoids. Comparable results were obtained in all replicate plants of the 13CO2 labeling experiment except for three that were showing anthocyanin accumulation and growth impairment due to insufficient water supply (leading to stomatal closure and less 13C incorporation). Conclusions: Our methods allow 13CO2 labeling and estimation of NLP for photosynthetic pigments with high reproducibility despite potential variations in [13CO2] between the experiments. The results indicate distinct turnover rates of carotenoids and Chls in thylakoid membrane, which can be investigated in the future by time course experiments. Since 13C enrichment can be measured in a range of compounds, long-term 13CO2 labeling chamber, in combination with appropriate MS methods, facilitates turnover analysis of various metabolites and macromolecules in plants on a time scale of hours to days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In preparation for my first review, I have had the pleasure to read books that showcase the current breadth of contemporary study of ancient visual and material cultures, from subjects as diverse as canine skeletons in Athens, Egyptian papyri, and medieval mosques, and approaches ranging from the close analysis of pigment on Roman marble sculpture to the exploration of 'viewsheds' on the acropolis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the response of the photosynthetic apparatus of the Venus flytrap (Dionaea muscipula J. Ellis) to UV-A radiation stress as well as the role of selected secondary metabolites in this process. Plants were subjected to 24 h UV-A treatment. Subsequently, chl a fluorescence and gas exchange were measured in living plants. On the collected material, analyses of the photosynthetic pigments and photosynthetic apparatus proteins content, as well as the contents and activity of selected antioxidants, were performed. Measurements and analyses were carried out immediately after the stress treatment (UV plants) and another 24 h after the termination of UV-A exposure (recovery plants). UV plants showed no changes in the structure and function of their photosynthetic apparatus and increased contents and activities of some antioxidants, which led to efficient CO2 carboxylation, while, in recovery plants, a disruption of electron flow was observed, resulting in lower photosynthesis efficiency. Our results revealed that D. muscipula plants underwent two phases of adjustment to UV-A radiation. The first was a regulatory phase related to the exploitation of available mechanisms to prevent the over-reduction of PSII RC. In addition, UV plants increased the accumulation of plumbagin as a potential component of a protective mechanism against the disruption of redox homeostasis. The second was an acclimatization phase initiated after the running down of the regulatory process and decrease in photosynthesis efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colchicum autumnale L. is a perennial herb from the Colchicaceae family with an unusual life cycle, and it is characterized by an underground corm and hypogynous flowers that appear in autumn. Its medicinal importance is represented by its primary alkaloid, colchicine, which has been studied for its antiinflammatory and antimitotic properties and used in the treatment of some diseases and artificial polyploidy induction in plants. This study aims to determine and evaluate the biological effects induced by treatment with C. autumnale extracts on tissue development in test plants, represented by two Ocimum basilicum L. varieties: 'Italiano Classico' and 'Aromat de Buzău'. Morphoanatomical observations and measurements and photosynthetic pigments analyses were employed. Results show unusual shapes of leaves, differences in stomata size and density, and heteromorphic cells in leaves and epicotyl's structure in both studied varieties of basil treated with C. autumnale extracts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]