Levels Of Radicals Research Articles

Dakwah Dan Radikalisme (Pendekatan Pemahaman Mitra Dakwah)

Da'wah, as an effort to convey religious messages to society, is also a factor that can affect the level of radicalism in a society. Therefore, it is important to understand how the understanding approach of da'wah partners can contribute to reducing the potential for radicalism. This study aims to analyze the understanding approach of da'wah partners in the context of reducing radicalism. The method used is literature study and secondary data analysis. The results of this study indicate that the understanding approach of proselytizing partners can make a significant contribution in reducing radicalism. The understanding approach of proselytizing partners involves several important elements. First, it is important to understand the social, cultural, and political context in which da'wah is conducted. This helps da'wah partners to communicate religious messages in a way that is relevant and acceptable to the target community. Second, this approach also emphasizes the importance of a deep understanding of true and moderate religious teachings. The da'wah partner must have a strong knowledge of religious principles as well as the ability to explain them clearly and persuasively to the community.

Sex differences in the mediation role of political mobilization between the search for status and risk-taking behaviors in adolescents

One of the primary drivers behind adolescents engaging in risk-taking behaviors is the pursuit of status. This study examines how activism and radicalism mediate the relation between the search for status and risk-taking behaviors, moderated by sex. A total of 482 participants, with an average age of 17.97 (SD = 1.83), reported their levels of status-seeking, activism, radicalism, and engagement in risk-taking behaviors. The study revealed an indirect effect of seeking status on risk-taking behaviors through the mechanisms of activism and radicalism. Furthermore, sex moderated the relation between status, activism and radicalism, and risk-taking behaviors. In both girls and boys, activism correlated with reduced engagement in risk-taking, while radicalism correlated with increased engagement. In terms of sex differences, both activism and radicalism showed a more pronounced effect in boys than in girls. These findings highlight the role of political mobilization on the relation between the pursuit of status and engagement in risk-taking.

Quantum Sensing of Free Radical Generation in Mitochondria of Single Heart Muscle Cells during Hypoxia and Reoxygenation.

Cells are damaged during hypoxia (blood supply deprivation) and reoxygenation (oxygen return). This damage occurs in conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and organ transplantation, potentially harming the tissue and organs. The role of free radicals in cellular metabolic reprogramming under hypoxia is under debate, but their measurement is challenging due to their short lifespan and limited diffusion range. In this study, we employed a quantum sensing technique to measure the real-time production of free radicals at the subcellular level. We utilize fluorescent nanodiamonds (FNDs) that exhibit changes in their optical properties based on the surrounding magnetic noise. This way, we were able to detect the presence of free radicals. To specifically monitor radical generation near mitochondria, we coated the FNDs with an antibody targeting voltage-dependent anion channel 2 (anti-VDAC2), which is located in the outer membrane of mitochondria. We observed a significant increase in the radical load on the mitochondrial membrane when cells were exposed to hypoxia. Subsequently, during reoxygenation, the levels of radicals gradually decreased back to the normoxia state. Overall, by applying a quantum sensing technique, the connections among hypoxia, free radicals, and the cellular redox status has been revealed.

Morc2a variants cause hydroxyl radical-mediated neuropathy and are rescued by restoring GHKL ATPase.

Mutations in the Microrchidia CW-type zinc finger 2 (MORC2) GHKL ATPase module cause a broad range of neuropathies, such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2Z; however, the aetiology and therapeutic strategy are not fully understood. Previously, we reported that the Morc2a p.S87L mouse model exhibited neuropathy and muscular dysfunction through DNA damage accumulation. In the present study, we analysed the gene expression of Morc2a p.S87L mice and designated the primary causing factor. We investigated the pathological pathway using Morc2a p.S87L mouse embryonic fibroblasts and human fibroblasts harbouring MORC2 p.R252W. We subsequently assessed the therapeutic effect of gene therapy administered to Morc2a p.S87L mice. This study revealed that Morc2a p.S87L causes a protein synthesis defect, resulting in the loss of function of Morc2a and high cellular apoptosis induced by high hydroxyl radical levels. We considered the Morc2a GHKL ATPase domain as a therapeutic target because it simultaneously complements hydroxyl radical scavenging and ATPase activity. We used the adeno-associated virus (AAV)-PHP.eB serotype, which has a high CNS transduction efficiency, to express Morc2a or Morc2a GHKL ATPase domain protein in vivo. Notably, AAV gene therapy ameliorated neuropathy and muscular dysfunction with a single treatment. Loss-of-function characteristics due to protein synthesis defects in Morc2a p.S87L were also noted in human MORC2 p.S87L or p.R252W variants, indicating the correlation between mouse and human pathogenesis. In summary, CMT2Z is known as an incurable genetic disorder, but the present study demonstrated its mechanisms and treatments based on established animal models. This study demonstrates that the Morc2a p.S87L variant causes hydroxyl radical-mediated neuropathy, which can be rescued through AAV-based gene therapy.

Association of Free Radical Product and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder that primarily affects women of reproductive age. It is recognized as the leading cause of infertility due to anovulation. This research aims to evaluate the diagnostic potential of oxidative stress biomarkers, including advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), malondialdehyde (MDA), uric acid (UA), and nitric oxide (NO), in identifying PCOS. A literature search was conducted in the EMBASE, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Scopus databases. The standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were employed to assess the correlation between free radical product and PCOS. Moreover, the presence of heterogeneity among the studies was assessed utilizing the I2 statistic and Cochran Q test. The methodological rigor of the incorporated studies was assessed through the application of the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Furthermore, the presence of publication bias was determined via Begg and Egger tests. This meta-analysis reviewed 38 observational studies, including 17,845 women. The results revealed a significant association between PCOS in women and alterations in free radical levels. The study revealed that the PCOS group had significantly higher levels of AOPP (SMD = 3.193; 95% CI, 2.86 to 3.25), UA (SMD = 0.68; 95% CI, 0.24 to 1.13), and MDA (SMD = 1.16; 95% CI, 0.77 to 1.56) compared to the healthy control group. Furthermore, the analysis found a significantly lower level of NO (SMD = (- 0.59); 95% CI, - 1.15 to - 0.03) in the PCOS patient. Screening of specific biomarkers associated with free radical products could provide valuable benefits in the prognosis and diagnosis of PCOS.

Bioactive constituents of n-butanol subfractions of Adansonia digitata and Corchorus olitorius against gamma-irradiation-induced hepatic damage, lipid profile and antioxidant alterations in rats

Rats’ exposure to radiation led to an increased free radical from sub-toxic (24 µg/mol) to toxic concentration (120 µg/mol) in the system of rats. Free radical level exacerbate oxidative stress, thus, leading to hepatic damage, lipid profile and antioxidant alterations.This study investigated the effects of the bioactive constituent of n-butanol subfractions (subf) 1, 2, 3 and 4 of Adansonia digitata (A. digitata) and 1, 2 and 3 of Corchorus olitorius (C. olitorius) leaves on irradiation-induced hepatic damage, lipid profile and antioxidant alterations in system of Rats.A total of 54 rats (198 ± 5.00 g) were distributed into 9 groups of 6 each. Group I were fed with rat chow and distilled water only, all other groups were exposed to a single dose of 6 grey gamma irradiation, such that groups II, III, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII and IX were administered distilled water only, 1000 mg/kg body weight subfractions 1, 2, 3 and 4 of A. digitata, subfraction 1, 2 and 3 of C. olitorius respectively for 7 days.HPLC fingerprinting of the bioactive constituents of the subf of A. digitata and C. olitorius revealed the presence of catechin, eleagnin, quercetin, epicatechin, epigallocatechin, luteolin, astragalin, tocopherol, quercetin and catechin respectively. Irradiation significantly (p<0.05) increased the activities of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate amino transferase (AST) in the control group (negative) when compared with other groups, but the administration of the subfr of both plants significantly(p<0.05) reduced the activities of the trio. The concentrations of the antioxidant enzymes were significantly (p<0.05) reduced in the control group, when compared with other groups, but administration of the subf of both plants significantly (p<0.05) increased their concentrations, similar trend were observed in the lipid profile as observed in the antioxidant system. It can be concluded that n-butanol subf 1, 2, 3 and 4 of A. digitata and 1, 2 and 3 of C. olitorius contained the most effective bioactive constituents responsible for the attenuations of all the alteration.

A network pharmacology approach to decipher the mechanism of total flavonoids from Dracocephalum Moldavica L. in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases

Aim of the studyCardiovascular disease (CVD) seriously endangers human health and is characterized by high mortality and disability. The effectiveness of Dracocephalum moldavica L. in the treatment of CVD has been proven by clinical practice. However, the mechanism by which DML can treat CVD has not been systematically determined.Materials and methodsThe active compounds in DML were screened by literature mining and pharmacokinetic analysis. Cytoscape software was used to construct the target-disease interaction network of DML in the treatment of CVD. Gene ontology and signalling pathway enrichment analyses were performed. The key target pathway network of DML compounds was constructed and verified by pharmacological experiments in vitro. A hydrogen glucose deprivation/reoxygenation model was established in H9c2 cells using hypoxia and glucose deprivation for 9 h combined with reoxygenation for 2 h. The model simulated myocardial ischaemic reperfusion injury to investigate the effects of total flavonoids of Cymbidium on cell viability, myocardial injury markers, oxidative stress levels, and reactive oxygen radical levels. Western blot analysis was used to examine NOX-4, Bcl-2/Bax, and PGC-1α protein expression.ResultsTwenty-seven active components were screened, and 59 potential drug targets for the treatment of CVD were obtained. Through the compound-target interaction network and the target-disease interaction network, the key targets and key signalling pathways, such as NOX-4, Bcl-2/Bax and PGC-1α, were obtained. TFDM significantly decreased LDH and MDA levels and the production of ROS and increased SOD activity levels in the context of OGD/R injury. Further studies indicated that NOX-4 and Bax protein levels and the p-P38 MAPK/P38 MAPK andp-Erk1/2/Erk1/2 ratios were suppressed by TFDM. The protein expression of Bcl-2 and PGC-1α was increased by TFDM.ConclusionsOur results showed that DML had multicomponent, multitarget and multichannel characteristics in the treatment of CVD. The mechanism may be associated with the following signalling pathways: 1) the NOX-4/ROS/p38 MAPK signalling pathway, which inhibits inflammation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and 2) the Bcl-2/Bax and AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-1α signalling pathways, which inhibit apoptosis.

Semen oxidative stress in male infertility: A case–control study

Background: Though a certain level of free radicals is required for the proper maturation of a sperm, excessive level of free radicals is believed to be a major factor contributing to male infertility. Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to identify the level of oxidative stress (OS) among infertile males. Materials and Methods: In the present study, semen Malondialdehyde (MDA) level, as an OS marker was studied in 96 normozoospermics who were taken as controls, and the values were compared separately to semen MDA levels of 75 oligozoospermics, 36 azoospermics and 19 necrozoospermics using unpaired t-test. P &lt; 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The study showed significantly higher semen MDA levels in oligozoospermics and necrozoospermics compared to normozoospermics, but azoospermics did not show a statistically significant difference. Conclusion: We concluded that excessive OS can be one of the major contributing factors for male infertility.

Lipogenic stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 (SCD1) targeted virtual screening for chemical inhibitors: molecular docking / dynamics simulation and in vitro assessment of anti-NAFLD efficacy.

Amidst rising global prevalence of metabolic syndrome, the associated risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is also rapidly increasing. The pathogenesis of NAFLD starts with fat accumulation and progresses through inflammation and fibrotic sequel, often involving complex molecular mechanisms involving de novo lipogenesis. Stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1) enzyme, expressed in liver and adipose tissue, converts saturated fatty acids to monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), contributing to triglyceride and cholesterol ester formation. In this study, potential SCD1 inhibitors were screened using the ZINC database of curated medically-approved drugs by virtual screening, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations. The top-scoring five ligands with strong binding affinity against SCD1 were ZINC000003831151 > ZINC000001540998 > ZINC000003830713 > ZINC000000897251 > ZINC000002005305, which showed stable protein-ligand complexation and favorable pharmacokinetic attributes. The top ligand, Montelukast, was experimentally validated for its pharmacological efficacy in an in vitro cell culture model of steatosis (NAFLD). Montelukast showed a dose-dependent decrease in hepatic fat accumulation, reduced levels of free radicals, and lowered oxidative stress (P < 0.05). These outcomes suggest Montelukast to be a potential SCD1 inhibitor, with anti-NAFLD efficacy. These findings open new avenues for therapeutic development of the top 5 ligands in metabolic disorders involving SCD1.

GC-MS and in silico analyses revealed the potential inhibitory activity of compounds isolated from Ciplukan herb (Physalis angulata L.) targeting GLUT-4 receptors

The escalating prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM), a major global health threat and one of the top 10 causes of mortality, is a worrying trend. Prolonged hyperglycemia in people with diabetes triggers oxidative stress, leading to accelerated tissue damage, increased levels of free radicals, and the onset of complications. Our initial exploration of Physalis angulata L, using bioassay-guided isolation and C2C12 insulin resistance monitoring, revealed the compound’s ability to increase cellular glucose uptake. Consequently, there is an urgent need for further drug discovery efforts aimed at deciphering the mechanism of action of compounds targeting GLUT4 receptors in silico. The focus of this study was to predict the mechanism of action of compounds against the AS160 protein to facilitate GLUT4 translocation to the cell surface. Using GC-MS analysis and molecular docking via Autodock Vina, a mixture of blind and targeted docking approaches, isolated compounds were identified. Notably, this study marks the first identification, to the best of our knowledge, of campesterol and stigmasterol in P. angulata L herbs by GC-MS analysis. Through in silico simulations, campesterol and stigmasterol show promising potential in the treatment of type 2 diabetes by targeting the glucose transporter GLUT4 via facilitating GLUT4 translocation. Given their favorable pharmacokinetic properties, these phytoconstituents are potential hypoglycemic agents.

Size Matters: Influence of Particle Size on Antioxidant, β-Glucan, and Anti-Inflammatory Potential in Pleurotus floridanus (Agaricomycetes).

Cellular damage resulting from elevated levels of free radicals can lead to persistent health issues. Pleurotus floridanus, an edible white oyster mushroom, is rich in β-glucans with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In this research, we examined the β-glucan content, total phenolic content, as well as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential of hot water extracts with varying particle sizes (< 75, 75-154, 154-300, and 300-600 μm) of both whole and sliced fruiting bodies of P. floridanus. The findings revealed that the в-glucan content increased as the particle size increased, although no significant differences were observed. Conversely, smaller particle sizes (< 75 μm) of whole and sliced fruiting bodies of P. floridanus exhibited higher phenolic content, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hy-drazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) scavenging activity, and reducing ability compared with larger particle size (> 75 μm). Of the four samples (AW2, AW3, AS1, and AS2) with the highest antioxidant activity selected for anti-inflammatory assays, all demonstrated the ability to reduce nitric oxide and tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels, but did not enhance interleukin-10 expression in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Interestingly, particle size < 75 to 300 μm did not appear to influence the anti-inflammatory activity, because no significant differences were observed among the particle sizes. Therefore, a particle size < 300 μm in a P. floridanus hot water extract could serve as a valuable source of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds to counteract the harmful effects of free radicals.

Rational design of a lysosome-targeted fluorescent probe for monitoring the generation of hydroxyl radicals in ferroptosis pathways.

Ferroptosis is a newly discovered iron-dependent form of regulated cell death associated with high levels of hydroxyl radical (˙OH) production. Meanwhile, lysosome dysfunction has been shown to be one of the causes of ferroptosis. Although a variety of ˙OH-responsive fluorescent probes have been developed for detecting intracellular ˙OH in living cells, there are still only few lysosome-targeted probes to monitor the variation in lysosomal ˙OH levels during ferroptosis. Herein, we report a novel ˙OH-specific fluorescent probe HCy-Lyso, which is composed of the hydrocyanine and morpholine moiety. Upon treatment with ˙OH, its hydrocyanine unit was converted to the corresponding cyanine group, thus leading to a large π-conjugation extension of HCy-Lyso, accompanied by a significant fluorescence off-on response. Moreover, after reacting with ˙OH in an acidic environment, the protonation product of HCy-Lyso exhibits a higher fluorescence enhancement, which is suitable for detecting lysosomal ˙OH variation. HCy-Lyso has been utilized for imaging endogenous ˙OH in living cells under phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) stimuli and monitoring the changes in lysosomal ˙OH levels during ferroptosis. Thus, our study proposes a new strategy to design lysosome-targeted and ˙OH-responsive fluorescent probes to investigate the relationship between lysosomes and ferroptosis.

MINORITY PROBLEMS AND ETHNIC POLITICS IN NIGERIA: A NEXUS FOR NATIONAL INTEGRATION 1960 - 2015.

Nigeria’s journey towards national integration has been intricately entwined with its handling of minority issues and ethnic politics. This paper delves into the historical trajectory of Nigeria from its independence in 1960-2015, focusing on the complex interplay between minority grievances, ethnic politics, and the quest for national cohesion. The analysis encompasses key events, policies, and socio-political dynamics that have shaped Nigeria’s landscape during this period. The challenges faced by minority groups in various regions, such as the issues of marginalization, discrimination, and socio-economic disparities were captured in the paper. The paper also highlights instances of resilience, dialogue, and policy initiatives aimed at addressing minority grievances and fostering inclusivity. The paper observed that the politics of winner takes all syndrome simulated an attitude of hate and plunder that got to a radical level during and after the first republic in that the seed of ethnicity and minority problem germinated against a meaningful cohesion of the various ethnic groups and territorial sub-division of the country. Although the adoption of Federalism was meant to accommodate the minority groups, several unsuccessful attempts were made to harness political integration for the country. The paper came up with recommendations on steps to be taken at ensuring national integration.

Assessment of IL-6, MDA, GSH and Serum Electrolytes in Diabetic Patients

Background: The public health community has been paying a lot of attention to metabolic syndrome, sometimes known as diabetes mellitus (DM). In many cases for the patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus characterized by an uncontrolled rise in blood sugar (hyperglycemia) brought on by an inability of the body's cells (such as muscles) to detect and utilize the circulating insulin, a condition known as insulin sensitivity or insulin resistance, or by an insulin deficiency. (caused by pancreatic beta cell damage or decreased insulin release). These cases are accompanied by systematic inflammation in the long term, and as a result of the immune effect, there will be an increase in the levels of lipids peroxidation and thus a decrease in the levels of antioxidants. Objective: The study includes an evaluation of inflammatory levels and oxidative stress through an assay of IL-6, malondialdehyde, glutathione, and serum electrolyte levels in the patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus compared with the control. Methods: The case-control study, where ablood sample collections from patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus and control apparently healthy. The samples were analyzed by ELISA, spectrophotometers, and electro-analyzer apparatus. Results: It was found that patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes have lower-grade inflammation, which is the reason for the significant increase in interleukin-6 (215±13 Pg/mL) compared with healthy (50±10 Pg/mL). Also, the high levels of free radicals and peroxides can be expressed by the increase in malondialdehyde, as well as a significant reduction in the levels of glutathione value. Patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes suffer from electrolyte disturbances due to excessive urine caused by high osmolality and metabolic acidosis due to high ketone bodies and consequently high potassium levels (hyperkalemia) (6.7±0.59 mmol/L). Conclusion: Uncontrolled high diabetes in type 2 patients leads to high inflammatory levels in the body, and this is the reason for increase interleukin 6 levels. Inflammations caused by the immune effect resulting from diabetes lead to the synthesis of higher levels of free radicals, leading to the oxidation of lipids and a decrease of glutathione concentration.

Proximate composition, mineral, vitamins and antioxidant activities of Cymbopogon citratus /dc/ stapt (lemon grass) and Oregamun vulgare (linn) leaves extracts harvested in Jos, North-Central Nigeria

There many factors that affects the physico-chemical features of plants, including, weather and climatic factors (lightintensity temperature, rainfall), pH, organic matter content, available nutrients etc. thus, the source of a plant plays a big role in its chemical and nutritive content. This study aimed to investigate the proximate composition, mineral, vitamins and antioxidant activities of Cymbopogoh citratus and Oregamun vulgare crude leave extracts (CCCLE and OVCLE), harvested in Zaramaganda, Jos, North-Central Nigeria. Fresh leaves of C. citratus and O. vulgare were harvested in Zaramaganda, Jos, North-Central Nigeria, prepared and extracted via cold water Soxhlet extraction. Chemical and nutritive composition of the two plant extracts were carried out by way of proximate analysis and atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) while antioxidant activity was determined by radical scavenging assay using DPPH (1,1-Diphenyl-2-pierylhydrazyl) as an artificial free radical activity. Proximate analysis revealed varied proportions of the content in the investigated plants. The highest % by mass was; moisture content 7.33%, crude protein 16.25% and crude fibre 1.78% respectively in OVCLE while ash (12.54%) and fat (23.54%) content were highest in CCCLE. Mineral analysis revealed higher concentration of calcium, sodium, potassium, zinc, manganese, and iron in CCCLE than OVCLE in mg/100 g. Similarly, the vitamin A, C and E content were highest in CCCLE than OVCLE in mg/g. The inhibitory concentration at fifty percent (IC50) values on the effect of aqueous extracts of OVCLE and CCCLE on DPPH scavenging activity showed that CCCLE (IC50=131.8 µg/mL) had the higher activity than OV (IC50=154.1 µg/mL) as compared to the standard, Ascorbic Acid (IC50=49.13 µg/mL). The crude aqueous extract of C. citratus and O. vulgare harvested from Zaramaganda, Jos, North-Central Nigeria are good source of Vitamins (A, C and E), Potassium, Sodium, Calcium, Zinc and little of Manganese and Iron, also with good moisture content, ash content, crude fibre, lipid content and crude fat values. Furthermore, both plants were moderate in reducing DPPH radical levels and thus suggested for cancer patients.

Impact of antioxidants on PM2.5 oxidative potential, radical level, and cytotoxicity

Antioxidants are typically seen as agents that mitigate environmental health risks due to their ability to scavenge free radicals. However, our research presents a paradox where these molecules, particularly those within lung fluid, act as prooxidants in the presence of airborne particulate matter (PM2.5), thus enhancing PM2.5 oxidative potential (OP). In our study, we examined a range of antioxidants found in the respiratory system (e.g., vitamin C, glutathione (GSH), and N-acetylcysteine (NAC)), in plasma (vitamin A, vitamin E, and β-carotene), and in food (tert-butylhydroquinone (TBHQ)). We aimed to explore antioxidants' prooxidant and antioxidant interactions with PM2.5 and the resulting OP and cytotoxicity. We employed OH generation assays and electron paramagnetic resonance assays to assess the pro-oxidative and anti-oxidative effects of antioxidants. Additionally, we assessed cytotoxicity interaction using a Chinese hamster ovary cell cytotoxicity assay. Our findings revealed that, in the presence of PM2.5, all antioxidants except vitamin E significantly increased the PM2.5 OP by generating more OH radicals (OH generation rate: 0.16–24.67 pmol·min−1·m−3). However, it's noteworthy that these generated OH radicals were at least partially neutralized by the antioxidants themselves. Among the pro-oxidative antioxidants, vitamin A, β-carotene, and TBHQ showed the least ability to quench these radicals, consistent with their observed impact in enhancing PM2.5 cytotoxicity (PM2.5 LC50 reduced to 91.2 %, 88.8 %, and 75.1 % of PM2.5's original level, respectively). Notably, vitamin A and TBHQ-enhanced PM2.5 OP were strongly associated with the presence of metals and organic compounds, particularly with copper (Cu) contributing significantly (35 %) to TBHQ's pro-oxidative effect. Our study underscores the potential health risks associated with the interaction between antioxidants and ambient pollutants.

Role of medicinal plants as antioxidants in the treatment of oxidative stress-related human health disorders

Oxidative stress refers to an imbalance between the production of free radicals, also known as reactive oxygen species, and the body's ability to neutralize or detoxify them within a biological system. Although free radicals are essential for several physiological functions and cell signalling, excessive production triggered by factors such as stress, xenobiotic drugs, unhealthy lifestyle habits, and poor diet can lead to oxidative stress. While the human body possesses natural defence mechanisms to counter oxidative stress to a certain extent, uncontrolled levels of free radicals can disrupt normal bodily functions, causing damage to cells and tissues. This disruption can have negative implications on the body's overall function, potentially resulting in the development of various chronic disorders. These disorders encompass inflammatory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, atherosclerosis, arthritis, cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and diabetes, among others. Antioxidants play a pivotal role in mitigating the effects of oxidative damage. They are substances that counteract the toxic impact of free radicals within cells, thereby promoting overall health. Natural antioxidants derived from plants are particularly instrumental in reducing oxidative stress within the human body. Compounds like flavonoids and phenolics found in medicinal plants act as essential defenders against stress-induced cellular damage. Consequently, these antioxidants contribute to the treatment of stress-related ailments, including neurodegenerative problems, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, hyperlipidaemia, atherosclerosis, and cancer – conditions that hold significant prevalence in modern-day society. Keyword: Chronic diseases, Medicinal plants, Natural antioxidants, Oxidative stress

Self-driven microplasma decontaminates chemical warfare agent simulant in different gas environments

To develop and refine a self-driven plasma decontamination system, this study investigated the effect of different gas environments (air, Ar, Ar/O2, and Ar/O2/H2O) on the degradation efficiency of 2-chloroethyl ethyl sulfide (2-CEES). A dielectric-dielectric rotating triboelectric nanogenerator (dd-rTENG) was constructed to mechanically induce atmospheric plasma. The dominant active species of different plasmas were identified through spectroscopic and chemical probe diagnostic methods. The results revealed that Ar/O2 and Ar/O2/H2O plasmas generated higher levels of reactive Ox species (O3, O2-, and 1O2) and OH radicals, respectively. Notably, the Ar/O2 and Ar/O2/H2O plasmas exhibited significantly higher decontamination efficiencies than the other plasmas. Moreover, the Ar/O2/H2O plasma featured an energy utilization efficiency of 0.962 μg/J, which is nearly twice that of the previously reported study. However, the Ar plasma exhibited minimal decontamination effect owing to its low electron energy and absence of active species. Further studies have indicated the vital role of reactive oxygen species in the 2-CEES decontamination process. Active Ox can promote the oxidation of 2-CEES, while OH can effectively mitigate the peroxidation process. Furthermore, the system exhibited low electron energy, which might play small role for 2-CEES decontamination. This study is vital for developing self-driven plasma decontamination devices and provides significant clues for understanding the 2-CEES decontamination mechanism.

Treatment Options for Erectile Dysfunction in Diabetics

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is defined as the persistent inability to achieve or maintain a penile erection suitable for sexual intercourse. This condition is common with diabetic males. This article comprehensively reviews various treatment options for Erectile Dysfunction (ED) in diabetic men, with a specific focus on the potential of Low-Intensity Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (LI-ESWT). Persistent hyperglycemia may decrease nitric oxide (NO) generation, the cycloguanosine monophosphate (cGMP) pathway, reactive free radical levels, the RhoA/Rho kinase pathway, and nerve function, all of which may be contributing factors to ED in diabetic patients. Elevated AGE expression in diabetes individuals' corpus cavernosum may result in structural alterations to the tissue, including thicker arterial walls, decreased flexibility, endothelial dysfunction, and atherosclerosis. Chronic hyperglycemia can produce nerve injury that affects both autonomic and other sensory patterns. The following are existing treatment options for ED; oral phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, intracavernosal injection therapy, Intraurethral PGE1 suppository (IUS), Vacuum Erection Device (VED) and penile prosthesis or penile implant. Low-Intensity Extracorporeal Shockwave therapy (LI-ESWT), the treatment options for ED is a non-invasive procedure that focuses on address the root causes of ED. The mechanism underlying the efficacy of shock wave treatment is vasodilation and angiogenesis leading to improved blood flow to the penis by upregulating vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen. The review unveiled the success potential of (LI-ESWT) in treating diabetic impotence.

Characteristics and Stability of Ozone Nanobubbles in Freshwater Conditions.

The characteristics and stability of ozone nanobubbles (NBs) were investigated for the first time under different preparation conditions and freshwater conditions (i.e., pH, natural organic matter [NOM], carbonate, calcium, and temperature) for an extended period. Two oxygen gas flow rates (4 and 1 L/min) used in ozone NB generation affected the characteristics and stability of ozone NBs. The ozone NBs generated at a high initial dissolved ozone (12.5 mg/L) concentration showed a much higher brightness during measurements than the ozone NBs generated at a low initial dissolved ozone concentration (1 mg/L). The former also exhibited a higher negative surface charge and higher stability in comparison to the latter. The stability and half-lives of ozone NBs followed the order of 3 mM Ca2+ < pH 3 < NOM with high specific ultraviolet absorbance at 254 nm (SUVA254 = 4.1 L/mg·m) < pH 7 < pH 9, while the effects of carbonate and temperature were insignificant. Ozone NBs were relatively stable in waters for a long period (e.g., ≥ 60 days) except for high hardness or low pH conditions. Higher levels of hydroxyl radicals were produced from ozone NB solutions as compared to conventional ozonation.