Diverse Activities Research Articles

Evaluating the impact of Xanthoparmelia conspersa extracts on signaling in HeLa cells and exploring their diverse biological activities

Evaluating the impact of Xanthoparmelia conspersa extracts on signaling in HeLa cells and exploring their diverse biological activities

Nanoengineering of Phosphate/Phosphonate Drugs via Competitive Replacement with Metal‐Phenolic Networks to Overcome Breast Tumor with Lung and Bone Metastasis

AbstractPhosphate and phosphonate drugs are vital in building organisms, regulating physiological processes, and exhibiting diverse biological activities, including antiviral, antibacterial, antineoplastic, and enzyme‐inhibitory effects. However, their therapeutic potential is limited by the lack of advanced nanoengineering technologies. Herein, a competitive coordination strategy for nanoengineering phosphate/phosphonate drugs is introduced. By leveraging the difference in coordination capabilities between polyphenols and phosphates/phosphonates with metal ions, various phosphate/phosphonate‐based nanodrugs using metal‐phenolic networks (MPNs) as templates and phosphate/phosphonate drugs as competitive agents are constructed. The dynamic nature of these coordination bonds imparts stimuli‐responsiveness to the nanodrugs, allowing for targeted release and therapy. As a proof of concept, Fe3+ and galangin are used to form the MPN template, zoledronic acid and cGAMP as competitive agents, and DOX as the loaded drug to construct DOX@Fe‐galangin@Fe‐zoledronic acid‐cGAMP nanodrugs. The results demonstrate that, by triggering pyroptosis and activating the cGAS‐STING pathway, the nanodrugs exhibit potent cytotoxicity and accurate selectivity in eradicating orthotopic breast tumors, and activate an antitumor immune response against lung and bone metastases. Because the competitive coordination strategy is applicable to a variety of phosphate/phosphonate agents, it holds significant potential for enhancing the clinical efficacy of phosphate/phosphonate drugs and advancing nanodrug development for complex therapeutic applications.

Quantitative Trait Locus Mapping and Candidate Gene Analysis of the Contents of Three Tanshinone Components in Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge.

Tanshinones are abietane diterpenoid quinone compounds with diverse biological activities and pharmacological effects found in Salvia miltiorrhiza. Leveraging the high-density genetic map established through our prior research endeavors, we conducted a quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis pertaining to the concentrations of three major tanshinone components, cryptotanshinone, tanshinone I, and tanshinone IIA, in S. miltiorrhiza. This extensive investigation was conducted across three distinct planting environments, ultimately identifying a comprehensive repertoire of 27 discernible QTLs. These QTLs were mapped onto four distinct linkage groups (LG), namely LG1, LG5, LG6, and LG7, which explained 3.11%-37.85% phenotypic variation. Candidate genes were projected based on consistent QTLs detected for each active ingredient in three environments. Nineteen putative candidate genes involved in the regulation of tanshinone biosynthesis were identified. These genes participate in primary metabolic and multiple branching terpenoid biosynthesis pathways, forming a complex regulatory network. Our findings have the potential to offer novel insights into advancing the understanding of the regulatory mechanisms governing tanshinone biosynthesis. Furthermore, these results establish crucial groundwork for gene discovery, marker-assisted selection breeding, and map-based cloning of functional genes associated with tanshinone content in S. miltiorrhiza.

Spatial and Temporal Patterns of Trace Element Deposition in Urban Thessaloniki: A Syntrichia Moss Biomonitoring Study

Urban air pollution, especially from heavy metal (HM) contamination, poses significant risks to human health and environmental sustainability. This study investigates the spatial and temporal distribution of HM contamination in Thessaloniki, Greece, using Syntrichia moss as a bioindicator to inform urban environmental management strategies. Moss samples were collected from 16 locations representing diverse urban activity zones (motorway, industrial, city center, airport) in March, May, and July 2024. The concentrations of 12 HMs (Al, Sb, As, Ba, Cd, Cr, Co, Cu, Pb, Ni, V, and Zn) were analyzed using ICP-MS, and the contamination factors were calculated relative to controlled moss samples. The results revealed significant spatial variation, with elevated levels of As, Cd, Cr, Pb, and Zn, particularly in high-traffic and industrial zones, exceeding the background levels by up to severe and extreme contamination categories. Temporal trends showed decreases in Al, Ba, and Ni from March to July 2024, while Cr and Cu increased, suggesting seasonally varying sources. Multivariate analyses further distinguished the contamination patterns, implicating traffic and industrial activities as key contributors. Syntrichia effectively captures HM contamination variability, demonstrating its value as a cost-effective bioindicator. These findings provide critical data that can guide urban planners in developing targeted pollution mitigation strategies, ensuring compliance with the European Green Deal’s Zero Pollution Action Plan.

Psychometric Properties of the Smartphone Addiction Scale (SAS) Among Students at Jeddah University, KSA

Objectives: The current study examines the psychometric properties (validity and reliability) of the Smartphone Addiction Scale (SAS) to verify its adequacy for the Saudi environment. The study identifies gender differences in smartphone addiction at Jeddah University and highlights a variety of smartphone-based activities. Methods: The sample consists of (272) male and female students at Jeddah University, and it is divided into )152( female students and )120( male students, respectively representing 55.9% and 44.1%. Their ages range from 19 to 23 years old with an average age of 21.66 and a standard deviation of 1.732. The tools include a basic data collection form and the Smartphone Addiction Scale (SAS) by Kwon et al., 2013a. Results: The study shows that the Smartphone Addiction Scale (SAS) has good psychometric properties, reflecting its validity and reliability in the Saudi environment. Moreover, the study reveals that there are significant differences between male and female university students in smartphone addiction at 0.001, favoring male students. That is, male students suffer more from smartphone addiction than female students. In addition, the study shows that there are diverse smartphone-based activities among students. Conclusion: Based on the results, the study recommends offering counseling programs, lectures, and seminars to raise awareness of the negative effects of using smartphones and to help university students (especially males) to get rid of this behavioral addiction.

Cobalt‐Catalyzed Hydroarylation of 2,3‐Dihydrofuran to Access α‐Arylated Tetrahydrofurans

AbstractThe α‐arylated tetrahydrofurans, commonly found in biologically active molecules, exhibit diverse biological activities and pharmacological effects. The functionalization of 2,3‐dihydrofuran offers a potential route for the synthesis of substituted tetrahydrofurans. Nevertheless, the development of earth‐abundant metal‐catalyzed regioselective hydrofunctionalization of 2,3‐dihydrofuran for the synthesis of substituted tetrahydrofurans remains to be pursued. Herein, we report a cobalt‐catalyzed hydroarylation of 2,3‐dihydrofuran, which serves as the first example of cobalt hydride‐catalyzed alkene hydroarylation. This reaction provides an efficient method for the synthesis of α‐arylated tetrahydrofurans with high reaction efficiency, exclusive α‐arylation selectivity, and remarkable functional group compatibility.

Effect of tea polyphenols on the quality of frozen cooked noodles

AbstractBackground and ObjectivesThe growing consumer demand for natural, healthy, and convenient food options has led to the rising popularity of frozen cooked noodles (FCN). Tea polyphenols (TPs), known for their diverse biological activities, are increasingly being utilized as a natural food additive in research and development. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effects of TPs on the thermal and pasting properties of wheat flour as well as their influence on the quality of FCN.FindingsThe results from differential scanning calorimeter and RVA analyses showed that TPs did not significantly affect the thermal and pasting properties of wheat flour. However, the addition of low‐dose TPs (<1.5%) improved the quality of FCN during storage. Texture and tensile analyses demonstrated an enhancement in hardness, chewiness, resistance, and an increase in resistant starch content in the noodles. Low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance findings revealed an increase in the proportion of strongly bound water, accompanied by a decrease in free water content. Scanning electron microscopy observations illustrated a well‐developed gluten network structure. In contrast, the incorporation of 1.5% TPs adversely affected the quality of FCN.ConclusionsThe appropriate integration of TPs plays a significant role in alleviating the quality degradation of FCN during storage.Significance and NoveltyThis study provides a theoretical basis for the development of polyphenol‐enriched flour products and functional foods.

Human-centric lighting asset management for LED bulbs: a context-driven approach on prognostics and maintenance strategy development in public libraries

ABSTRACT Traditional asset management of lighting systems typically focuses on functionality, cost, and lifespan. In contrast, a human-centric approach prioritizes social sustainability and user well-being by ensuring lighting assets “provide the right light at the right time” for diverse activities. Light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs, known for energy efficiency and longevity, have become a preferred choice, yet public libraries often struggle to manage these assets sustainably, remaining in a reactive “fix/replace when it breaks” stage. Current predictive methods, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, rely on laboratory data that often overlook real-world contexts, leading to performance gaps. This paper presents a context-driven, human-centric methodology for LED prognosis and maintenance strategies in public libraries, employing limited degradation data from LED testing. Advanced analytical techniques, including Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) and Deviance Information Criterion (DIC), support a shift from function-based to performance-based reliability assessment. By incorporating Mean Time of Exposure (MTOE) and Critical Integrated Levels (CILs), the approach defines optimal maintenance inspection intervals. This research enhances sustainable LED lighting management in public libraries, offering a framework adaptable to broader applications and aligned with human-centric goals..

AcsS inhibits the hemolytic activity and thermostable direct hemolysin (TDH) gene expression in Vibrio parahaemolyticus.

Vibrio parahaemolyticus produces a key virulent factor known as thermostable direct hemolysin (TDH). TDH exhibits diverse biological activities, including hemolytic activity. The β-type hemolysis observed on Wagatsuma agar due to TDH is recognized as the Kanagawa phenomenon (KP). The tdh2 gene is primarily responsible for TDH production and the associated KP. AcsS was originally identified as an activator of swimming and swarming motility in V. parahaemolyticus. However, the extent of its potential to regulate other cellular pathways remains unclear. In this study, we explored the regulatory effects of AcsS on the hemolytic activity and tdh2 expression in V. parahaemolyticus. The data showed that V. parahaemolyticus hemolytic activity and tdh2 transcription were under the negative control of AcsS. Additionally, in vitro binding assays revealed that His-AcsS could not bind to the regulatory DNA region of tdh2. However, overexpression of AcsS in an Escherichia coli strain suppressed the expression of tdh2. Collectively, these results suggested that AcsS suppresses the hemolytic activity of V. parahaemolyticus through the downregulation of tdh2 transcription. The data enhanced our understanding of the regulatory networks governing tdh2 expression and the roles of AcsS in this bacterium.

DNA barcoding, micromorphology and metabolic traits of selected Ficus L. (Moraceae) species from Egypt.

The genus Ficus of the family Moraceae, is one of the largest genera of angiosperms, with diverse pharmaceutical applications and biological activities. The traditional approaches based on the morphological traits have been frequently implemented for taxonomical identification of the different taxa of Ficus, however, encompassing these features are quite laborious, due to the dependence of these phenotypic traits on the environmental conditions. So, authenticating the taxonomical identity of the Ficus taxa with molecular barcoding and metabolic profiling, as relatively stable traits, could be a relevant approach for confirming the traditional phenotypic traits of this genus. Nine species of the genus Ficus namely F. amplissima Sm., F. benjamina L. F. binnendijkii, F. drupacea var. pubescens, F. elastica Roxb., F. microcarpa L., F. religiosa L., F. tinctoria subsp. gibbosa and F. virens var. sublancelata in Egypt, were selected for this study. From the anatomical features, three species of subsection Urostigma, F. religiosa, F. virens var. sublanceolata have cystoliths on the abaxial layer, whereas in F. amplissima it was on the adaxial layer. The UPGMA dendrogram of the studied Ficus taxa has been generated from the 21 anatomical characters, categorized the studied taxa into two clusters (I and II) of average distance ~ 3.5, each cluster has been further divided into subclusters I and II. The sub-cluster I includes F. religiosa, F. virens var. sublanceolata and F. tinctoria subsp. gibbosa were grouped together to subsection Urostigma, while the sub-cluster II of the cluster I includes F. benjamina and F. amplissima. From the DNA barcoding analysis, three clusters I, II and III were emerged, the cluster I includes F. benjamina, F. binnendjikee, and F. amplissima. The cluster II, F. virens var. sublanceolata and F. religiosa that belong to subsection Urostigma, while, the cluster III includes F. elastica and F. drupacea var. pubescens, F. microcarpa that belongs to subsection Conosycea. From the metabolic profiling of Ficus species, the major compounds; H-cycloprop-azulen-7-ol, 3,7,11,15-Tetramethyl-2-hexadecen-1-ol, 2-(9-octadecenyloxy), pentadecanoic acid, phytol, sitosterol and 9,12-octadecadienoic acid were the common among the taxa, with an obvious fluctuation, that could be a chemotaxonomic markers for these species of Ficus. Based on the metabolic profiling, two distinct clusters I and II were evolved, the cluster I involve F. elastica, F. benjamina, F. drupacea var. pubescens, F. amplissima, while, the cluster II had F. tinctoria subsp. gibbosa and F. religiosa. The fluctuation on the metabolites of the tested Ficus species could be a metabolic fingerprint for each species. So, the delamination of the tested plants based on their anatomical traits was typically matched to the separation based on the ITS sequence analysis.

Crop rotation and fungicides impact microbial biomass, diversity and enzyme activities in the wheat rhizosphere

Sustainable crop production systems should promote large and diverse soil microbial communities to enhance biological soil processes rather than depend solely on chemical interventions that include pesticide applications. Crop rotation increases above-ground temporal diversity which, relative to monoculture, usually increases soil microbial diversity. But comparisons between short and long crop rotations that also include pesticide effects are rare. A 5-yr (2013-2017) field study was conducted to investigate crop rotation and fungicide effects on the soil microbiome and activity. There were nine rotations, with or without fungicide applications, that included four 2-yr rotations (wheat preceded by canola, barley, pea, or flax), four 3-yr rotations where barley or canola were added to the 2-yr rotations, and one rotation where canola and wheat were stacked (canola-canola-wheat-wheat). In 2017, soil microbial biomass, composition, diversity and enzyme activities were measured in the rhizosphere of the final wheat crop in each rotation. Fungicides reduced fungal richness (the number of different fungal taxa) in the wheat rhizosphere (e.g., Chao1 indices of 64.0 vs. 79.9) especially in 2-yr rotations, but rotation length/type and the crops that preceded wheat had different effects on different taxa. Two of the three most predominant prokaryotic phyla, Proteobacteriota and Actinobacteriota, responded differently to rotation length: 3-yr rotations enriched the former (27.4% vs. 20.1% relative abundances), but 2-yr rotations enriched the latter (19.9% vs. 28.3% relative abundances). Relative to oilseed crops preceding the sampled wheat, a field pea preceding crop enriched Actinobacteriota (31.7% vs. 24.8% relative abundances) and the most abundant fungal class, Sordariomycetes (39.1% vs. 22.1% relative abundances), in addition to increasing microbial biomass carbon (MBC) and arylsulphatase activity by 33% and 57%, respectively. Correlations of the relative abundances of fungal or prokaryotic genera with β-glucosidase and arylsulphatase activities were similar (both positive or negative), but they were the opposite of correlations with acid phosphomonoesterase, suggesting a close link between C and S cycling. Besides the nutrient cycling implications of these soil microbial characteristics, there is need to study their biological disease control significance.

Progressing a river health assessment framework to tropical waters

Diverse anthropogenic activities have threatened the valuable tropical biodiversity and freshwater reserves. Despite that, there is little concern in the Brazilian legislation about the ecological integrity of aquatic ecosystems. We proposed a framework based on two joint indices, allowing the creation of a management tool. The first is the Tropical Water Healthy Index (TWHI), a river index that integrates pressures on aquatic ecosystems, their conditions, and societal/governmental response. The second is the Suitability of the Class of Use (SCU), which measures whether rivers’ conditions are in accordance with their classes of use proposed for the legal Brazilian water framework. Our results showed that most sites had good river health conditions, with the worst conditions occurring in areas with high urban occupations followed by agricultural areas. The second index indicated that few streams were poorly or incompatible with their classes of use, suggesting their classifications were based on current conditions but not future intentions. The force of these joint analyses was shown in the Melchior River stretch, which was classified as compatible with SCU, but the TWHI was critical. This is good to show that we simultaneously have a problem with the legislation and to indicate something that needs to be done quickly for managers. Therefore, we built a management model that can assess the real situation of aquatic ecosystems and define efficient management strategies, producing alerts for the decision-maker.

Water-Mediated Synthesis of (E)-3-(1-Methyl-1H-benzo[d]imidazol-5-yl)-N-phenethylacrylamide, a Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Amide Analogue

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) is a phenolic natural product with diverse biological activities, notably anticancer properties. However, its ester group is metabolically unstable. The amide derivative, CAPA, offers improved metabolic stability to esterases but still possesses a metabolically liable catechol group. In this work, we describe the synthesis of a novel CAPA analogue in which the catechol is replaced with a benzimidazole bioisostere via a water-mediated Wittig reaction.

Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Theobroma cacao L.: Insights from In Vitro, In Vivo, and Nanoparticle Studies on Anti-Inflammatory and Anticancer Effects

Theobroma cacao L., commonly known as cocoa, has been an integral part of human culture and diet for thousands of years. However, recent scientific research has highlighted its potential therapeutic properties, particularly in the treatment of cancer and inflammatory diseases. This comprehensive review analyzes the anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects of Theobroma cacao extracts combined with nanoparticles using in vitro and in vivo studies. Its diverse biological activity can be attributed to its rich phytochemical profile, including polyphenols, flavonoids, and alkaloids. In vitro studies have found that cocoa extracts, alone or in combination with nanoparticles, inhibit cancer cell proliferation, induce apoptosis and modulate key signaling pathways in various cancer cell lines. The extracts have also been found to reduce tumor growth and enhance the efficacy of conventional chemotherapeutic agents, potentially reducing their side effects, in vivo. Its anti-inflammatory properties are based on its ability to modulate inflammatory mediators, inhibit NF-κB signaling, and regulate macrophage polarization. These effects have been observed in both cellular and animal models of inflammation. This review opens up new possibilities for future research and therapeutic applications, highlighting the potential of Theobroma cacao as a valuable complementary approach in the treatment and prevention of cancer and inflammatory diseases.

When creativity wakes up emotions: an illustration of a creative course for pre-service teacher training

In the current dynamic society, creativity stands as a crucial asset, empowering individuals to devise new and inventive solutions to navigate the shifts accompanying societal evolution. This trend significantly influences both the preparation of future educators and the ongoing professional growth of practicing teachers. It's essential to consider the connection between students' emotional experiences during the learning process to foster their creativity. The correlation between a person's emotional state and their creativity shows that both negative and positive emotions can influence creative expression. Furthermore, emotional intelligence (EI) is assumed to help prioritize thinking and manage emotions in different life situations, with the initial EI process being assessing and expressing of emotions. This study evaluates the emergence of emotions experienced by students in an academic context, focusing on action-research with Master’s students (n = 10), who are future teachers for Secondary schools in Switzerland. Throughout the creative course, participants utilized a Creative Process Report Diary (CRD) to document the emotions they experienced while engaging in the diverse creative activities. The findings of this study indicate that participants predominantly encountered positive emotions during creative activities, such as enthusiasm and pleasure. Initial emotions sometimes leaned towards the negative spectrum, characterized by frustration or fear. However, as the creative activity unfolded, these emotions evolved into more positive ones, such as pleasure or interest. This study contributes to our understanding of the interplay between emotions and creativity and provides insights into how managing these emotions can foster a productive and creative learning environment for future teachers, even though emotional intelligence was not directly tested in this research.

Comprehensive Insight into Green Synthesis Approaches, Structural Activity Relationship, and Therapeutic Potential of Pyrazolic Chalcone Derivative.

Pyrazolic chalcone exhibits diverse therapeutic activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antitumor, and anti-diabetic properties. Structural activity relationship (SAR) studies play a crucial role in understanding the molecular aspects governing their biological effects, guiding the rational design of derivatives with enhanced efficacy and reduced side effects. This review provides an overview of pyrazolic chalcone derivatives, emphasizing their synthesis through both conventional and green methods. In comparison, conventional synthesis methods have been widely employed in the past for the production of pyrazolic chalcones, often relying on traditional chemical processes that may involve the use of hazardous reagents and generate significant waste. On the other hand, green synthesis methods, in harmony with the growing emphasis on sustainable practices in drug discovery, offer a more environmentally friendly alternative. Green synthesis typically involves the use of eco-friendly reagents, solvents, and energy-efficient processes, resulting in reduced environmental impact and improved resource efficiency. Overall, pyrazolic chalcone derivatives represent a promising class of compounds with significant potential for therapeutic applications.

Dynamic impact of different human activities on the distribution of organic ultraviolet absorbers in coastal aquatic environments: A case study in Beibu Gulf, South China Sea

The increasing environmental concern surrounding organic ultraviolet absorbers (OUVAs) has prompted heightened attention, particularly their presence in personal care products (organic ultraviolet filters, OUVFs) and industrial products (organic ultraviolet stabilizers, OUVSs). This study investigates the impact of human activities and environmental factors on the occurrence, spatiotemporal distribution, and ecological risk of eight commonly utilized OUVFs and OUVSs in the coastal region of Beibu Gulf, South China Sea. The study area is characterized by multiple functional zones with distinct human activities. Results reveal elevated concentrations of OUVAs during summer compared to winter, attributed to increased residential usage, tourist activities, industrial releases, and intensified ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Interestingly, the proportion of OUVFs increases during summer, while OUVSs decrease. Correlation analysis between OUVAs and sampling sites reveals that tourism and domestic wastewater are the main contributors to OUVF contamination in summer, whereas mariculture and port trade significantly impact OUVS contamination in winter. The ecological risk assessment indicates predominantly low or medium risk levels for most OUVAs in both local seawater and freshwater ecosystems. Nevertheless, OUVFs, with a particular focus on 4-methylbenzylidene camphor (4-MBC), and OUVSs, specifically 2-(2-hydroxy-5-methylphenyl) benzotriazole (UV-P), exhibit a heightened risk compared to alternative substances. These findings provide crucial insights into the development of targeted mitigation strategies for OUVAs, taking into account the varying contamination levels of OUVFs and OUVSs resulting from diverse human activities, aiming to protect the health of aquatic ecosystems in diverse functional zones.

Contact Risk Assessment in Dynamic Indoor Settings through Agent‐Based Modeling: A Spatially Explicit and Reproducible Approach

This study introduces an agent‐based model (ABM) pedestrian simulation tool to assess the risk of close contact (6 feet) in dynamic indoor environments, specifically in urban settings with diverse social activities and spatial structures. Our approach uses machine learning‐based sensitivity analysis (SA) to identify factors impacting the number of individual contacts, such as individual stay time and area. In addition, we conducted an in‐depth quantitative analysis to evaluate how specific factors, such as the strategic placement of obstacles, dwell time, and stay time near the entrances, mitigate the number of contacts. This analysis provides valuable insights for developing practical guidelines to curb contact risks in indoor environments. Lastly, we share the model, validation methods, and associated data as an open‐source Python library, complete with comprehensive documentation. This aims at fostering collaborative research and enables the application of our model across various scenarios, contributing to the development of spatially explicit models. Such efforts enhance the understanding of contact risks in urban indoor settings and promote joint research efforts, thus advancing the field through shared knowledge and tools.

Valorization of Fish Processing by-Products: Biological and Functional Properties of Bioactive Peptides

Abstract Purpose of Review This review explores the potential of fish by-products as a source of bioactive peptides for the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Focusing on their diverse bioactive and functional properties, it offers insights into their industrial utilization, contributing to a better understanding of their applications. Recent Findings Fish processing by-products, including wastewater and solid residues, serve as valuable sources of bioactive peptides exhibiting a remarkable range of biological activities, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antihypertensive properties. These peptides exhibit a wide range of functional properties, such as solubility, water holding, fat binding, foaming, and emulsifying capacities. Moreover, they show significant potential for various industrial applications. Summary Bioactive peptides derived from fish by-products are attracting interest in multiple industries due to their diverse biological activities and functional properties. These peptides have emerged as a valuable and largely untapped resource, as they can be extracted from underutilized, or waste materials generated during fish processing operations. Graphical Abstract

Participation in diverse social activities predicts fewer depressive symptoms

Objectives: Engagement in a greater number and more diverse activities is associated with higher levels of well‑being. One reason may be that these activities provide opportunities for a variety of social interactions. To examine the importance of the social nature of daily activity, the current study examines the unique association between social activity variety and later depressive symptoms, after adjusting for non‑social activity variety. Method: Using data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), we included 5,160 adults in a cross‑sectional analysis from 2008 and 3,081 adults in a longitudinal analysis spanning 2008 to 2012, all of whom completed questionnaires on social activity participation and depressive symptoms. Results: Cross‑sectional findings indicated that social activity variety was related to lower severity of depressive symptoms, but not likelihood of having any depressive symptoms, after adjusting for health, sociodemographic covariates, and non‑social activity. Longitudinal results showed that participants with consistently high levels of social activity variety over four years experienced fewer depressive symptoms at follow‑up compared to those with low levels, even after adjusting for baseline depressive symptoms. Conclusion: Findings suggest that participation in a greater variety of social activities can be a protective factor against the severity of depressive symptoms.