Publications

Abstract Metabolic syndrome (MetS) has been associated with disruptions in tissue mechanical homeostasis and inflammatory and metabolic derangements. However, the direct correlation between metabolic alterations and changes in tissue stiffness, and whether they could play a role as upstream initiators of disease pathology remains to be investigated. This emerging concept has yet to be put into clinical practice as many questions concerning the interplay between extracellular matrix mechanical properties and regulation of metabolic pathways remain unsolved. This review will highlight key foundational studies examining mutual regulation of cell metabolism and mechanotransduction, and opening questions lying ahead for better understanding MetS pathophysiology.

Abstract Mitochondrial dysfunction and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation play an import role in different human pathologies. In this context, mitochondrial targeting of potentially protective antioxidants by their coupling to the lipophilic triphenylphosphonium cation (TPP) is widely applied. Employing a six-carbon (C6) linker, we recently demonstrated that mitochondria-targeted phenolic antioxidants derived from gallic acid (AntiOxBEN2) and caffeic acid (AntiOxCIN4) counterbalance oxidative stress in primary human skin fibroblasts by activating ROS-protective mechanisms. Here we demonstrate that C6-TPP (but not AntiOxBEN2 and AntiOxCIN4) induce cell death in human skin fibroblasts. This indicates that C6-TPP cytoxocity is counterbalanced by the antioxidant moieties of AntiOxBEN2 and AntiOxCIN4. Remarkably, C6-TPP and AntiOxBEN2 (but not AntiOxCIN4) induced a glycolytic switch, as exemplified by a reduced cellular oxygen consumption rate (OCR), increased extracellular acidification rate (ECAR), elevated extracellular lactate levels, and higher protein levels of glucose transporter 1 (GLUT-1). This switch involved activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and fully compensated for the loss in mitochondrial ATP production by sustaining cellular ATP content. When glycolytic switch induction was prevented ( i.e. by using a glucose-free, galactose-containing medium), AntiOxBEN2 induced cell death whereas AntiOxCIN4 did not. We conclude that, despite their similar chemical structure and antioxidant capacity, AntiOxBEN2 and AntiOxCIN4 display both common (redox-adaptive) and specific (bioenergetic-adaptive) effects.

Abstract In the last decades, major changes in ecosystems related to industrial development and environmental modifications have had a direct impact on mammalian fertility, as well as on biodiversity. It is widely demonstrated that all these changes impair reproductive function. Several studies have connected the increase of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated in mitochondria to the recently identified decline of fertility due to various factors, including heat stress. The study of antioxidants, and especially of mitochondria targeted antioxidants, has been focused on identifying more efficient and less toxic therapies that could circumvent fertility problems. These antioxidants can be derived from natural compounds in the diet and delivered to the mitochondria in more effective forms, providing a much more natural therapy. The use of mitochondriotropic diet-based antioxidants in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) may be an important way to overcome low fertility, allowing the conservation of animal biodiversity and productivity. This paper provides a concise review of the current state of the art on this topic, with a particular focus on the antioxidants mitoquinone, AntiOxBEN2, AntiOxCIN4, urolithin A and piperine, and their effects on bovine and other animal species.

Abstract BackgroundExtracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness is increasingly recognized as a critical regulator of cellular behaviour, governing processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and metabolism. Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, impaired autophagy, and progressive softening of the brain tissue, yet research into how mechanical cues influence cellular metabolism in this context remains scarce.Materials and MethodsIn this study, we evaluated the long-term effects of brain-compliant, soft ECM on mitochondrial bioenergetics, redox balance, and autophagic capacity in human neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) and mouse hippocampal (HT22) cell lines, as well as primary mouse neurons.ResultsWe observed that prolonged exposure to soft ECM does not impact cell proliferative capacity of neuronal cells but results in mitochondrial bioenergetic dysfunction, redox imbalance, and disrupted autophagic flux. These findings were consistently validated across both human and mouse neuronal cells. Our data indicate a decreased maximal autophagic capacity in cells exposed to long-term soft ECM, potentially due to an imbalance in autophagosome formation and degradation, as demonstrated by decreased LC3 II levels following chloroquine-induced autophagic flux inhibition. This impairment in autophagy was coupled with increased cellular oxidative stress, further indicating metabolic alterations.ConclusionsThese findings emphasize the critical role of ECM stiffness in regulating neuronal cell metabolism and suggest that prolonged exposure to soft ECM may mimic key aspects of neurodegenerative disease pathology, thereby enhancing the physiological relevance of in vitro models. This study underscores the necessity for further research into ECM mechanics as a contributing factor in neurodegenerative disease progression and as a potential target for therapeutic strategies.

Abstract Integrated science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education is essential for preparing students to address real-world challenges through interdisciplinary thinking and problem-solving. However, preservice teachers (PSTs) often face challenges in integrating STEM disciplines, particularly engineering, technology, and mathematics. This study explores how Arduino-based problem-solving activities enhance interdisciplinary STEM integration in PST training, focusing on the epistemological, psychological, and didactic dimensions of STEM education. Conducted within a chemistry teacher training course, the study involved eight PSTs in theoretical and practical activities, including designing experiments on ocean acidification. The findings reveal that Arduino-based activities effectively foster interdisciplinary connections by integrating chemistry with technology and engineering while bridging theoretical knowledge and practical applications. Persistent challenges, such as limited mathematics integration and familiarity with engineering concepts, highlight the need for targeted interventions in teacher training. This study underscores the potential of problem-solving and technology-enhanced approaches to equip teachers with the skills to design and implement interdisciplinary STEM lessons, preparing them for the demands of 21st-century education.

Abstract Groundwater is a critical resource in semi-arid regions like Morocco's Guire Basin, yet pollution and overexploitation threaten its sustainability. This study evaluates the groundwater quality of the Guire aquifer (Eastern High Atlas) using an integrated approach combining hydrochemical, isotopic (delta O-18, delta H-2, delta C-13), multivariate statistical, and Geographic Information System (GIS) analyses alongside the Water Quality Index (WQI). Sixteen wells were monitored for physicochemical parameters (pH: 7-7.9; EC: 480-3004 mu S/cm; BOD5: 1.03-30.5 mg/L; COD: 10.2-45.75 mg/L) and major ions, revealing widespread exceedances of Moroccan standards for Cl-, HCO3-, Mg2+, Ca2+, and NH4+. WQI classified 81% of samples as Poor to Unsuitable for drinking (WQI: 51-537), driven by elevated Cl-, Na+, and SO42- from Triassic evaporite dissolution and NO3- (up to 45 mg/L) from agricultural runoff. Stable isotopes (delta O-18: -7.73 parts per thousand to -5.08 parts per thousand; delta H-2: -66.14 parts per thousand to -44.20 parts per thousand) indicate Atlantic-influenced recharge at 900-2200 m altitudes, with a delta O-18-delta H-2 slope of 5.93 reflecting evaporation during infiltration. Strontium (Sr2+/Ca2+: 0.0024-0.0236) and bromide (Br/Cl: 8.47 x 10(-5)-9.88 x 10(-4)) ratios further confirm evaporitic dominance over anthropogenic contamination. This work provides actionable insights for policymakers, advocating for targeted restrictions on fertilizers, enhanced monitoring near evaporite zones, and artificial recharge initiatives. By linking geogenic/anthropogenic contamination to governance strategies, this study advances sustainable groundwater management in semi-arid regions.

Abstract <jats:p>Mozambique soils are known for having an unbalanced agronomic and environmental composition that results in poor agricultural production yields. However, agriculture is the main economic activity of Mozambique, and soils must be characterised for their elemental deficiencies and/or excesses. This paper sampled nine farms from the Manica and Sussundenga districts (Manica province) in three campaigns in 2021/2022, 2022/2023, and 2023/2024 (before and after the rainy seasons). They were subjected to a physical–chemical analysis to assess their quality from the fertility and environmental contamination point of view. Attending to the physical–chemical properties analysed, and for all the soils and sampling campaigns, a low concentration below the limit of detection for B of &lt;0.2 mg/Kg for the majority of soils and a low concentration of Al &lt; 0.025 mg/Kg for all the soils were obtained. Also, higher concentrations for the majority of soils for the Ca between 270 and 1634 mg/Kg, for the Mg between 41 and 601 mg/Kg, for the K between 17 and 406 mg/Kg, for the Mn between 13.6 and 522 mg/Kg, for the Fe between 66.3 and 243 mg/Kg, and for the P between &lt;20 and 132 mg/Kg were estimated. In terms of texture and for the sand, a high percentage between 6.1 and 79% was found. In terms of metal concentrations and for all the soils of the Sussundenga district and sampling campaigns, a concentration above the reference value concentration for the Cr (76–1400 mg/Kg) and a concentration below the reference value concentration for the Pb (5–19 mg/Kg), Ba (13–120 mg/Kg) and for the Zn (10–61 mg/Kg) were evaluated. A multivariate data analysis methodology was used based on cluster and discriminant analysis. The analysis of twenty-three physical–chemical variables of the soils suggested four clusters of soils characterised by deficiencies and excess elements that must be corrected to improve the yield and quality of agricultural production. Moreover, the multivariate analysis of the metal composition of soil samples from the second and third campaigns, before and after the rainy season, suggested five clusters with a pristine composition and different metal pollutant compositions and concentrations. The information obtained in this study allows for the scientific comprehension of agricultural soil quality, which is crucial for designing agronomic and environmental corrective measures to improve food quality and quantity in the Manica and Sussundenga districts and ensure environmental, social, and economic sustainability.</jats:p>

Abstract The use of Generative Artificial Intelligence systems has been reported in different fields of investigation. In the educational area, some studies have focused on the possibilities of this use. Considering the importance of understanding the potential and limitations, this study aimed to investigate the content generated by ChatGPT 4.0 in interpreting handwritten notes, simulating the potential use of this tool as a chatbox for queries. Accordingly, our research questions are: What is the level of correctness of the content generated by ChatGPT, in its paid version, for higher-level organic chemistry questions? Can this content generated by ChatGPT be used as feedback in teaching situations? Based on images produced for higher-level organic chemistry content were analyzed through 24 prompts, the answers to which had their content analyzed. The analysis was carried out using the content analysis technique, which considered exclusive and pre-established categories. The results indicate that ChatGPT 4.0 can properly recognize and interpret different symbolic aspects of chemical language. Some errors are related to common symbols, such as arrows and flat balls, which have a specific meaning in chemistry. ChatGPT presents more errors than image interpretation for additional and more complex questions, showing the need for training to improve the chatbox. However, due to the number of correct answers, we see potential for use as an additional tool for teaching Chemistry. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.

Abstract The chemical composition and the antioxidant and antifungal activities of extracts and essential oils (EOs) of Lavandula dentata (Ld) harvested in north of Morocco has been analyzed by team of researchers. The extraction of EOs from the dried leaves with stems was carried out by hydrodistillation and analyzed by GC-MS. The essential components identified among 27 compounds in EOs were Lavandulyl isobutyrate (22.35%), 1,3-Cyclohexadiene (15.03%), 5-butyl-, Pinocarveol (8.21%), L-Fenchone (7.65%), Myrtenal (6.57%), Camphor (6.00%) and α-Pinene (4.73%). The extraction of biomolecule was carried out using different solvent and analyzed by Spectrophotometry and LC-MS. The maximum total phenolic and flavonoid content were obtained in flowers when extraction with aqueous acetone or methanol was used. The analysis and quantification of phenolic compounds of L. dentata leaves with stems in methanolic extracts has shown 21 elements; mainly, Rutin (2133.00 µg/g of dry weight), Apigenin 7-glucoside (837.40 µg/g of dw) and Luteolin 7-glucoside (823.30 40 µg/g of dw). The antioxidant activity showed that the IC50 of different solvent and plant parts are overall less than 1 mg/mL, with the exception of acetonic extract and EOs of flowers. The smaller IC50 was observed in the aqueous methanolic extract for flowers, leaves with stems and EOs, respectively 0.14 mg/mL, 0.2 mg/mL and 0.23 μL/mL). The antifungal test results against Cladosporium demonstrated that the MIC of essential oils extracted from Ld leaves with stems was 1 mg/mL, which is lower than that of extracts from Ld leaves with stems and flowers, which ranged from 5 to 6 mg/mL. Meanwhile, the MFC of the essential oils was 9 mg/mL, lower than that of the extracts, which was above 12 mg/mL. Two pharmaceutical fungicides have also been tested and have shown their effectiveness at very significant values of MIC, but for MFC, terbinafine has proven to be more efficient than fluconazole. The results highlight the superior antifongic efficacy of essential oils compared to organic extracts. This suggests that these oils could be considered for in vivo therapeutic use, either topically or systemically, alone or combined with terbinafine, which outperforms fluconazole. © 2025 Malque Publishing. All rights reserved.

Abstract TiO2 nanoparticles are promising photocatalysts due to their oxidizing strength and inertness. However, their inability to efficiently absorb visible light limits industrial applications that could use sunlight. The addition of carbon dots to TiO2 has been recently shown to have the potential to address this issue by enhancing the visible light-driven photocatalytic efficiency of the resulting nanocomposites. However, concrete data on their sustainable development and fabrication is lacking. Herein, we performed a life cycle assessment (LCA) study to understand the environmental impacts of different TiO2-carbon dots nanocomposites with enhanced visible light-driven photocatalytic activity. It was found that the nanocomposites with the highest photocatalytic activity were the ones whose synthesis was associated with lower environmental impacts. Furthermore, the carbon dots generally have little to moderate contributions to most impact categories, except for marine eutrophication. Finally, the most critical parameter was found to be the source of TiO2 for the nanocomposites.