Oxygen Radical Production Research Articles

Comprehensive Review of the Latest Investigations of the Health-Enhancing Effects of Selected Properties of Arthrospira and Spirulina Microalgae on Skin.

Arthospira platensis and Spirulina platensis microalgae are a rich source of pro-health metabolites (% d.m.): proteins (50.0-71.3/46.0-63.0), carbohydrates (16.0-20.0/12.0-17.0), fats (0.9-14.2/6.4-14.3), polyphenolic compounds and phenols (7.3-33.2/7.8-44.5 and 4.2/0.3 mg GAE/g), and flavonoids (1.9/0.2 QUE/g) used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations. This review summarises the research on the chemical profile, therapeutic effects in dermatological problems, application of Arthrospira and Spirulina microalgae, and contraindications to their use. The pro-health properties of these microalgae were analysed based on the relevant literature from 2019 to 2024. The antiviral mechanism of microalgal activity involves the inhibition of viral replication and enhancement of immunity. The anti-acne activity is attributed to alkaloids, alkanes, phenols, alkenes, phycocyanins, phthalates, tannins, carboxylic and phthalic acids, saponins, and steroids. The antibacterial activity generally depends on the components and structure of the bacterial cell wall. Their healing effect results from the inhibition of inflammatory and apoptotic processes, reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, stimulation of angiogenesis, and proliferation of fibroblasts and keratinocytes. The photoprotective action is regulated by amino acids, phlorotannins, carotenoids, mycosporins, and polyphenols inhibiting the production of tyrosinase, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and free oxygen radicals in fibroblasts and the stimulation of collagen production. Microalgae are promising molecular ingredients in innovative formulations of parapharmaceuticals and cosmetics used in the prophylaxis and therapy of dermatological problems. This review shows the application of spirulina-based commercial skin-care products as well as the safety and contraindications of spirulina use. Furthermore, the main directions for future studies of the pro-health suitability of microalgae exerting multidirectional effects on human skin are presented.

Evaluation of antioxidant prophylactic effects of parsley (Petroselinum crispum) on sepsis following cecal ligation and puncture

Objective: Sepsis causes the release of free oxygen radicals that disrupt membrane integrity, and damage to Mitochondria due to the production of free oxygen radicals and oxidation leads to exacerbation of sepsis, Cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) in rats mimics the characteristics and course of clinical sepsis (Hubbard et al., 2005). Methods: We evaluated the antioxidant effects of Petroselinum crispum (Pc) in a cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced rat sepsis model, in a rat model of sepsis caused by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Wistar albino rats were separated into four groups of eight groups: a sham group with incised and sutured abdomens; a Pc extract (PcE) group, which was given 2 g/kg parsley extract for 14 days by gastric gavage; a CLP group, which was subjected to sepsis caused by CLP; and a PcE + CLP group, which was given parsley extract for 14 days. PcE was given for 14 days, after which sepsis was induced via the CLP procedure. The groups were compared in terms of hemogram, biochemical and histological characteristics. Results: The administration of PcE before CLP-induced sepsis increases neutrophil counts, PLTs and TASs, which decrease with sepsis, and decreases biochemical changes (BUN, AST, ALT, LDH, TOS, and OSI), which increase with sepsis, to protect against sepsis. Compared with that in the CLP group, the severity of intestinal infiltration was significantly lower in the PcE + CLP group; however, the degree of epithelial damage in the PcE + CLP group was similar to that in the CLP group. In the PcE + CLP group, the crypt and villus lengths were greater, and the decrease in Paneth cell degranulation intensity was greater than that in the CLP group. Conclusion: Additionally, the morphology of the cells in the PcE + CLP group was similar to that in the sham group. PcE has potential as a prophylactic agent for sepsis.

Role of opioid receptors in phagocytosis regulation and production of Th1/Th2 cytokines under acute cold stress in non-immune mice

Endogenous opioid system plays an important role in the regulation of body functions under stress, providing stress-protective, analgesic and immunoregulatory effects. The aim of this work was to assess the effect of acute cold stress on the in vivo production of adaptive immunity cytokines IL-2, IL-4, IFNγ, phagocytosis, and production of reactive oxygen species in non-immunized mice with induced blockage of opioid receptors. The object of the study were male white mice subjected to acute cold stress at -20 °C for 10 or 60 minutes. To block opioid receptors, naloxone hydrochloride was used, which was administered subcutaneously at a dose of 0.2 mg/kg 20 min before inducing the stress. After the cold exposure, spleen and peritoneal lavage were obtained from the animals. The cytokine concentrations were determined using ELISA technique. The absorption activity of CD11+ cells of the peritoneal cavity was assessed using FITC-stained St.cohnii with a flow cytometer; the production of reactive oxygen species was assessed using the reaction of luminol-dependent chemiluminescence. It was found that the both cold stress regimens caused naloxone-independent inhibition of spontaneous IFNγ production. In stimulated cultures, an inhibitory effect on IFNγ secretion was registered in animals subjected to stress for only 60 min, being also independent on the opioid receptor blockade. IL-2 production decreased in stimulated cultures against the background of 60 min stress naloxone independently. Both variants of cold stress had no effect on IL-4 production. Stress for 60 min inhibited absorption activity of CD11+ cells from the peritoneal lavage and activated production of oxygen radicals, being, however, canceled by naloxone administration. Hence, acute cold stress led to naloxone-independent inhibition of Th1 cytokine production by splenocytes, naloxone-dependent inhibition of phagocytosis and activation of the microbicidal potential of peritoneal cavity cells.

Serum Calprotectin Levels in Vitiligo Patients and Disease Relation.

Vitiligo is characterized as melanocyte loss in skin and mucous membranes, the pathogenesis of which has not yet been clarified. Calprotectin is a protein secreted from neutrophils, monocytes, and dendritic cells which has an effect on cytokine receptor regulation and the production of reactive oxygen radicals. It has been the subject of research in various inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, yet not investigated in vitiligo. The aim of our study was to investigate the role of calprotectin in the etiopathogenesis of vitiligo and its relationship with clinical subtypes and disease scores. Forty-four vitiligo patients with lack of autoimmune disease and 36 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were involved in the study. Serum calprotectin levels were measured by ELISA. The results were compared with the control group, and the relationship between patients' demographic characteristics, skin phototypes, disease type, disease scores (Vitiligo Area Scoring Index and Vitiligo Disease Activity Score), disease duration, and age at onset were evaluated. The median serum calprotectin level was 454.08 pg/ml (41.19-873.41) in the patient group, and the median serum calprotectin level was 223.17 pg/ml (44.88-1044.43) in the control group. Serum calprotectin level was significantly higher in the patient group than in the control group (P = 0.016). No correlation was found between serum calprotectin level and disease scores, disease duration, age, or age of onset of disease (P > 0.05). In our study, serum calprotectin levels in the patient group were found to be significantly higher than in the control group. Our findings and the existing literature on calprotectin suggest its potential involvement in the pathogenesis of vitiligo, independent of disease progression and patient characteristics.

Association between iron intake with diet and diabetes and impaired fasting glucose among PURE Poland study participants

Abstract Introduction Different studies results show that higher iron intake and increased iron stores in the body are significantly associated with a higher risk of diabetes mellitus (DM), a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Iron metabolism in the body is associated with the production of free oxygen radicals, which, combined with the stressful effect of glycation end products in pre-diabetes, increases the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular events. The purpose of the study was to assess the relationship between iron intake with diet and diabetes and impaired fasting glucose among PURE Poland study participants. Methods Study group consisted of 1889 individuals (1185 women and 704 men, aged 35-70 years, from urban and rural area), who were participants of the Polish arm of the Prospective Urban Rural Epidemiology (PURE) study. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee. The data were collected between 2007-2009, in the first stage of the PURE Poland study. Diabetes was diagnosed when fasting glucose level was ≥ 126 mg/dl or there was a declaration about DM occurrence in the medical interview. Diagnosis of impaired fasting glucose (IFG) was made when fasting glucose level was between 100-125 mg/dl with no statement about DM in the interview. Analysis were conducted for DM+IFG in three models: 1. crude data, 2. adjusted for energy intake, 3. adjusted for energy intake, age, body mass index and smoking. Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) was used to assess food intake. FFQ was developed and validated for this population within the PURE study. Iron intake with diet was calculated based on the data from FFQ. For further analysis the study group was divided into tertiles based on the daily iron intake with diet, separately for men and women. Results The prevalence of DM+IFG in each tertile (T) of iron intake with diet was: 27.6% (T1), 37.0% (T2) and 38.7% (T3) among women, and 30.3% (T1), 40.9% (T2) and 37.9% (T3) among men. Taking into account crude data the OR (95% CI) for DM+IFG among women was 1.54 (1.14-2.08) in T2 and 1.66 (1.23-2.24) in T3 when comparing with T1. In model 2 the OR (95% CI) for DM+IFG among women was 1.63 (1.16-2.28) in T2 and 1.88 (1.21-2.94) in T3 when comparing with T1. In model 3 in the group of women the OR (95% CI) for DM+IFG was 1.52 (1.07-2.16) and 1.62 (1.02-2.56) when comparing T2 vs T1 and T3 vs T1, respectively. In the group of men in model 1 the OR (95% CI) for DM+IFG prevalence was 1.59 (1.08-2.32) in T2 vs T1 and 1.40 (0.95-2.05, p>0.05) in T3 vs T1. In the group of men in model 2 and 3 the results were not statistically significant, both in T2 vs T1 and T3 vs T1. Taking into account the whole study group the risk of DM+IFG was significantly higher in T2 vs T1 (model 1, 2 and 3) and in T3 vs T1 (model 1 and 2). Conclusions Higher iron intake with diet was associated with a higher risk of diabetes and impaired fasting glucose in the study group, especially among women.

Environmental and Genetic Determinants of Ankylosing Spondylitis.

Exposure to heavy metals and lifestyle factors like smoking contribute to the production of free oxygen radicals. This fact, combined with a lowered total antioxidant status, can induce even more damage in the development of ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Despite the fact that some researchers are looking for more genetic factors underlying AS, most studies focus on polymorphisms within the genes encoding the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system. The biggest challenge is finding the effective treatment of the disease. Genetic factors and the influence of oxidative stress, mineral metabolism disorders, microbiota, and tobacco smoking seem to be of great importance for the development of AS. The data contained in this review constitute valuable information and encourage the initiation and development of research in this area, showing connections between inflammatory disorders leading to the pathogenesis of AS and selected environmental and genetic factors.

Unlocking partial nitrification by acidophilic microorganisms in ultra-low strength wastewater: Long-term investigation and genomic insights

Achieving partial nitrification (PN) in low-strength wastewater is still a worldwide issue. In this study, conversion from nitrification to PN was successfully achieved with a self-sustained pH as low as 5.3 and a nitrite accumulation ratio (NAR) of 93.4 % by enriching novel acidic-tolerant functional flora. A strong positive correlation was observed between decreasing pH and NAR (R2 = 0.97). Even with 73.1 % reduction in influent ammonia (from 86.7 to 23.3 mg/L), high dissolved oxygen loading (4.5–5.3 mg/L), and extreme over-aeration, PN efficacy remained robust with the NAR consistently maintained at 90.6 ± 5.3 %. Over 180 days of continuous monitoring, novel ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) Candidatus Nitrosoglobus became the dominant nitrifying guild (1.65 %) with a specific growth rate of 0.091/day; however, traditional nitrifying bacteria exhibited impaired functionality and bacterial diversity was dramatically reduced. Amo abundance increased by 147 %, while Nxr in nitrifying bacteria dropped below detection limit, preventing complete nitrification. Upregulated electron transport chain genes enhanced electron flow, managing excess oxygen and effectively limiting harmful oxygen radical production, resulting in a desirable nitritation rate of 0.3 kg/m3·d with influent NH4+-N as low as 23.3 mg/L. These regulatory mechanisms boosted NH4+ oxidation efficiency, successfully unlocking scientific barriers associated with PN in ultralow-strength wastewater and laying the groundwork for future PN/A implementation.

Flying‐Saucer‐Shaped Nanoheterojunctions with Enhanced Colorectal Tumor Accumulation for Increased Oxidative Stress and Immunometabolic Regulation

AbstractThe treatment outcomes of nanomedicines against colorectal cancer are severely restricted by their insufficient accumulation in the tumor tissues, unsatisfactory antitumor effect, and weak immunometabolic modulation. To address these issues, flying‐saucer‐shaped nanoheterojunctions by coating copper oxide (CuxO) onto the surface of PEGylated zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles are constructed. When exposed to ultrasound, the resultant CuxO@ZnO nanoheterojunctions exhibit increased locomotor activities, facilitating colorectal mucus infiltration, deep tumor penetration, and tumor cell internalization. The decoration of CuxO suppresses the rapid recombination of electrons and holes in CuxO@ZnO exposed to ultrasound, promoting the production of singlet oxygen and hydroxyl radical, which are generated by CuxO through a Fenton‐like chemodynamic reaction and CuxO@ZnO through sonodynamic reaction. After rectal administration, the sono‐chemodynamic CuxO@ZnO plus PD‐L1 antibodies effectively inhibit the growth of orthotopic and distant tumors. It elicits immunometabolic responses by inducing immunogenic cell death, activating the interferon genes signaling pathway stimulator, and inhibiting glucose transport and the glycolytic signaling pathways. This combined modality also increases the proportion of beneficial microbes (e.g., Bifidobacterium) and decreases the abundance of harmful microorganisms (e.g., Romboutsia) in the intestine. This treatment modality (CuxO@ZnO plus ultrasound and PD‐L1 antibodies) is a promising strategy for the synergistic treatment of colorectal cancer.

S-Scheme heterojunction of Cs2SnBr6/C3N4 with interfacial electron exchange toward efficient photocatalytic NO abatement

Photocatalytic technology is of great significance in environmental purification due to its eco-friendly and cost-effective operations. However, low charge-transfer efficiency restricts the photocatalytic activity of the catalyst. Herein, we report Cs2SnBr6/C3N4 composite catalysts that exhibit a robust interfacial electron exchange thereby enhancing photocatalytic nitric oxide (NO) oxidation. A comprehensive study has demonstrated the S-scheme electron transfer mechanism. Benefiting from the interfacial internal electric field, the C-Br bond serves as a direct electron transfer channel, resulting in enhanced charge separation. Furthermore, the S-scheme heterojunction effectively traps high redox potential electrons and holes, leading to the production of abundant reactive oxygen radicals that enhance photocatalytic NO abatement. The NO removal rate of the Cs2SnBr6/C3N4 heterogeneous system can reach 86.8 %, which is approximately 3-fold and 18-fold that of pristine C3N4 and Cs2SnBr6, respectively. The comprehensive understanding of the electron transfer between heterojunction atomic interfaces will provide a novel perspective on efficient environmental photocatalysis.

Ca2+ Overload Decreased Cellular Viability in Magnetic Hyperthermia without a Macroscopic Temperature Rise.

Magnetic hyperthermia is a crucial medical engineering technique for treating diseases, which usually uses alternating magnetic fields (AMF) to interplay with magnetic substances to generate heat. Recently, it has been found that in some cases, there is no detectable temperature increment after applying an AMF, which caused corresponding effects surprisingly. The mechanisms involved in this phenomenon are not yet fully understood. In this study, we aimed to explore the role of Ca2+ overload in the magnetic hyperthermia effect without a perceptible temperature rise. A cellular system expressing the fusion proteins TRPV1 and ferritin was prepared. The application of an AMF (518 kHz, 16 kA/m) could induce the fusion protein to release a large amount of iron ions, which then participates in the production of massive reactive oxygen radicals (ROS). Both ROS and its induced lipid oxidation enticed the opening of ion channels, causing intracellular Ca2+ overload, which further led to decreased cellular viability. Taken together, Ca2+ overload triggered by elevated ROS and the induced oxidation of lipids contributes to the magnetic hyperthermia effect without a perceptible temperature rise. These findings would be beneficial for expanding the application of temperature-free magnetic hyperthermia, such as in cellular and neural regulation, design of new cancer treatment methods.

Application of Photodynamic Therapy in Cardiology.

The origins of photodynamic therapy (PDT) date back to 1904. Since then, the amount of research proving PDT and, consequently, its applicability to various disease states has steadily increased. Currently, PDT is mainly used in oncology to destroy cancer cells. It is being worked on for possible use in other medical fields as well, including cardiology. It can be used in the prevention of restenosis, often occurring after vascular surgical interventions, for destroying atherosclerotic plaques and as a new ablative method of ectopic centers in the treatment of atrial fibrillation. The purpose of this review is to summarize the knowledge to date regarding the therapeutic potential of using PDT for various pathological conditions in cardiology. The review also focuses on the current limitations associated with the use of PDT and identifies areas where more research is needed to develop better drug regimens. Materials and methods: The study analyzed 189 medical articles. The articles came from PubMed, Frontiers, Google Scholar, Science Direct and Web of Science databases. Through the excitation of light, a photosensitizer (PS) introduced into the body, the destruction of pathological cells occurs. PTD is widely used in oncology of the central nervous system (CNS). This process is made possible by the production of free oxygen radicals (ROS) and singlet oxygen, which generate oxidative stress that destroys sensitive cancer cells. In recent years, photosensitizers have also been discovered to have a strong affinity for macrophages that fill atherosclerotic plaques, making these compounds suitable for treating atherosclerosis. By inducing apoptosis of smooth muscle cells, inactivating basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-β) and inhibiting endothelial cell hyperplasia, PDT can be used to prevent restenosis after surgical proceduresPDT appears to be a minimally invasive and highly effective therapeutic method, especially when combined with other therapeutic methods. Unfortunately, the small number of animal model studies and human clinical trials greatly limit the applicability of PDT on a wider scale. Current limitations, such as the depth of penetration, delivery of photosensitizer particles to the direct site of the lesion or the appropriate choice of photosensitizer in relation to the nature of the pathology, unfortunately make it impossible to replace current therapeutic approaches.

Septic Cardiomyopathy.

Sepsis is defined as a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection. Sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction represents reversible myocardial dysfunction which ultimately results in left ventricular dilatation or both, with consequent loss of contractility. Studies on septic cardiomyopathy report a wide range of prevalence ranging from 10% to 70%. Myocardial damage occurs as a result of weakened myocardial circulation, direct myocardial depression, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Mitochondrial dysfunction is the leading problem in the development of septic cardiomyopathy and includes oxidative phosphorylation, production of reactive oxygen radicals, reprogramming of energy metabolism, and mitophagy. Echocardiography provides several possibilities for the diagnosis of septic cardiomyopathy. Systolic and diastolic dysfunction of left ventricular is present in 50-60% of patients with sepsis. Right ventricular dysfunction is present in 50-55% of cases, while isolated right ventricular dysfunction is present in 47% of cases. Left ventricle (LV) diastolic dysfunction is very common in septic shock, and it represents an early biomarker, it has prognostic significance. Right ventricular dysfunction associated with sepsis patients with worse early prognosis. Global longitudinal stress and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the heart are sufficiently sensitive methods, but at the same time MRI of the heart is difficult to access in intensive care units, especially when dealing with critically ill patients. Previous research has identified two biomarkers as a result of the integrated mitochondrial response to stress, and these are fibroblast growth factor-21 (FGF-21) and growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15). Both of the mentioned biomarkers can be easily quantified in serum or plasma, but they are difficult to be specific in patients with multiple comorbidities. Mitochondrial dysfunction is also associated with reduced levels of miRNA (microRNA), some research showed significance of miRNA in sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction, but further research is needed to determine the clinical significance of these molecules in septic cardiomyopathy. Therapeutic options in the treatment of septic cardiomyopathy are not specific, and include the optimization of hemodynamic parameters and the use of antibiotic thera-pies with targeted action. Future research aims to find mechanisms of targeted action on the initial mechanisms of the development of septic cardiomyopathy.

Vivaria housing conditions expose sex differences in brain oxidation, microglial activation, and immune system states in aged hAPOE4 mice

Apolipoprotein E ε4 allele (APOE4) is the predominant genetic risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD). APOE4 mouse models have provided advances in the understanding of disease pathogenesis, but unaccounted variables like rodent housing status may hinder translational outcomes. Non-sterile aspects like food and bedding can be major sources of changes in rodent microflora. Alterations in intestinal microbial ecology can cause mucosal barrier impairment and increase pro-inflammatory signals. The present study examined the role of sterile and non-sterile food and housing on redox indicators and the immune status of humanized-APOE4 knock-in mice (hAPOe4). hAPOE4 mice were housed under sterile conditions until 22 months of age, followed by the transfer of a cohort of mice to non-sterile housing for 2 months. At 24 months of age, the redox/immunologic status was evaluated by flow cytometry/ELISA. hAPOE4 females housed under non-sterile conditions exhibited: (1) higher neuronal and microglial oxygen radical production and (2) lower CD68+ microglia (brain) and CD8+ T cells (periphery) compared to sterile-housed mice. In contrast, hAPOE4 males in non-sterile housing exhibited: (1) higher MHCII+ microglia and CD11b+CD4+ T cells (brain) and (2) higher CD11b+CD4+ T cells and levels of lipopolysaccharide-binding protein and inflammatory cytokines in the periphery relative to sterile-housed mice. This study demonstrated that sterile vs. non-sterile housing conditions are associated with the activation of redox and immune responses in the brain and periphery in a sex-dependent manner. Therefore, housing status may contribute to variable outcomes in both the brain and periphery.

Antimalarial and Immunomodulatory Activities of Tithonia diversifolia (Asteraceae) Leave Flafonoids-Rich Extract Used in Cameroonian Traditional Medecine.

Phytochemicals are considered the reliable source for the treatment of infection including malaria. Especially, phenols are known as potentially toxic to the growth and development of pathogens, among which flavonoids are the most extensively studied and play more intensive roles in ethnopharmacology. The immunological effect and role of T. diversifolia flavonoids-rich extract in treatment of malaria have therefore been examined in this study. In vitro test against Plasmodium falciparum and 4-day suppressive and Rane's tests against Plasmodium berghei in mice were used to evaluate the antimalarial activities. TNF-α and INF-γ levels, phagocytic tests, and production of oxygen and nitrogen radical were assessed to appreciate the immunomodulatory activity. One-way analysis of variance followed by post hoc Student's t tests was used for data analysis. T. diversifolia flavonoids-rich extract at the concentrations ranging from 0.0004 mg/ml significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner the growth of trophozoite up to 100% inhibition with 0.025 mg/ml at 24 and 48 hrs. Moreover, T. diversifolia flavonoids-rich extract reduced the level of parasitemia and improved in a dose-dependent manner the survival time of infected mice significantly (p < 0.05) compared to their control in 4-day suppressive test as well as in Rane's test. Additionally, T. diversifolia flavonoids-rich extract increased the TNF-α and INF-γ levels in rats infected by P. berghei. Furthermore, the flavonoid-rich extract enhanced weight of spleen in the rats, the metabolic and phagocytic activities of the peritoneal cells, and the concentration of nitric oxide and oxygen radicals in methylprednisolone-immunocompromised rats compared to the control (p < 0.05). The study has revealed that T. diversifolia flavonoids-rich extract through its antiplasmodial and phagocytic activities is a promising treatment of malaria.

Graves hastalığında serum neopterin düzeylerinin değerlendirilmesi

Aim: Graves' disease is a disease with an autoimmune basis in which the synthesis and release of thyroid hormone from the thyroid gland increases. Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) released from activated T lymphocytes causes macrophages to produce neopterin (NPT), increasing its concentration in serum and other body fluids. There is a relationship between NPT and the production of free oxygen radicals by these cells. In this study, it was aimed to measure serum NPT levels in individuals with Graves' disease.&#x0D; Material and Method: The study included 13 newly diagnosed Graves' patients (neopterin levels were measured at the time of first diagnosis and at the 3rd month of treatment) and 16 Graves' patients who were followed up in endocrinology outpatient clinics for at least one year. NPT levels of 23 healthy individuals without any disease were taken as the control group. Free triiodothyronine (T3), free thyroxine (T4), thyroglobulin, and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels were measured in the blood samples of the participants.&#x0D; Results: Serum NPT levels were found to be higher in Graves' patients compared to the control group (6.66 nmol/L in newly diagnosed patients, 9.24 nmol/L in patients at the 3rd month of treatment, 10.68 nmol/L in patients followed for one year or more, 1.44 nmol/L in the control group, respectively, p

Flexible, cuttable, origami-enabling ceramic nanofiber mat for visible light-driven catalysts

Despite possessing abundant potential, the brittleness of oxide ceramic nanofibers limits their use in self-standing flexible photocatalysts with easy separation/recycling and customized shaping. Here, we have reported a novel flexible ceramic constructed using electrospinning of metal oxide nanofiber mats of two different phases (CeO2–TiO2 [CTO]) with controllable composition. Although pure TiO2 and CeO2 nanofibers are too brittle to endure bending, CTO nanofibers show enhanced mechanical properties that make them flexible, bendable, cuttable, and origami-enabled. To study mechanical resilience and nanofiber structures, we have made a series of CTO nanofiber mats with different ratios of TiO2 and CeO2. The results reveal that the heterogeneous TiO2 and CeO2 interface creates stress transfer pathways, while the amorphous TiO2 phase absorbs stress. The CTO nanofiber mats can act as an efficient photocatalyst for the degradation of organic pollutants under visible light. The photocatalytic activity of the oxide ceramic mats is closely related to energy band positions and Ce3+ content. The decrease in the band gap of the CTO nanofiber mats enables the absorption of visible light, and the conduction band is positioned adequately to produce oxygen radicals via electron transfer. Consequently, the efficient degradation of organic pollutants can be achieved in the presence of the CTO nanofiber mat under visible light. Furthermore, the CTO nanofiber mats are coated with other metal oxides to form p–n junction band structures, which facilitate the separation of holes and electrons, resulting in even higher catalytic activity.

Preparation of Co dual atomic site catalysts loaded on defect-engineered MOFs material with superb chemiluminescent enhancement effect for sensitive detection of bacteria

BackgroundDual atomic site catalysts (DASCs) have aroused extensive interest in analytical chemistry on account of the superb catalytic activity caused by the highly-exposed active centers and synergistic effect of adjacent active centers. The reported protocols for preparing DASCs usually involve harsh conditions such as acid/base etching and high-temperature calcination, leading to unfavorable water dispersity and restricted application. It is crucial to develop DASCs with satisfactory water dispersity, improved stability, and mild preparation procedures to facilitate their application as signal probes in analytical chemistry. Results: Formic acid was adopted as a modulator for preparing MOF-808 with abundant defective sites, which was used as the carrier for implanting Co atoms. Co DASCs with a special coordination structure of Co2–O10 and a high loading efficiency of 11.1 wt% were prepared with a mild solvothermal protocol. The resultant Co DASCs can significantly accelerate decay of H2O2 for forming numerous reactive oxygen radicals and boost chemiluminescent (CL) signal. Co DASCs at 1.0 μg mL−1 can enhance the CL signal of luminol-H2O2 system by about 5800 times. Thanks to their satisfactory water dispersity and excellent CL enhancement performance, they were used as ultra-sensitive CL signal probes for monitoring methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. The method shows a detection range of 102–107 CFU mL−1 and a detection limit of 47 CFU mL−1. Antibiotic susceptibility test was performed with the established CL method to prove its practicality. Significance: The water dispersible Co DASCs prepared with facile and mild solvothermal protocol exhibit prominent peroxidase-like activity and can promote the production of reactive oxygen radicals for boosting CL signal. Therefore, this study paves an avenue for implanting DASCs in defect-engineered carrier to prepare signal probes suitable for development of ultra-sensitive CL analytical methods.

A new multimodal magnetic nanozyme and a reusable peroxymonosulfate oxidation catalyst: Manganese oxide coated-monodisperse-porous and magnetic core-shell microspheres

Monodisperse-porous, polydopamine and manganese oxide coated, core-shell type, magnetic SiO2 (MagSiO2@PDA@MnO2) microspheres 6.4 μm in size were synthesized for the first time, using magnetic, monodisperse-porous SiO2 (MagSiO2) microspheres 6.2 μm in size as the starting material. MagSiO2 microspheres were obtained by a recently developed method namely “staged shape templated hydrolysis and condensation protocol”. In the synthesis, MagSiO2 microspheres were consecutively coated by polydopamine (PDA) and then by a MnO2 layer in the aqueous medium. The pore volume and the specific surface area of monodisperse-porous MagSiO2@PDA@MnO2 microspheres were measured as 0.59 cm3 g−1 and 154 m2 g−1, respectively. Their Mn and Fe contents were determined as 66 ± 1 mg g−1 and 165 ± 5 mg g−1 respectively. MagSiO2@PDA@MnO2 microspheres exhibited multimodal enzyme mimetic behavior with highly superior catalase-like, oxidase-like and peroxidase-like activities. The effective production of singlet oxygen (1O2) and superoxide anion (O2−*) radicals in MagSiO2@PDA@MnO2-peroxymonosulfate (PMS) system was demonstrated by ESR spectroscopy. By evaluating this property, MagSiO2@PDA@MnO2 microspheres were tried as a reusable catalyst for dye removal via peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation in batch experiments for the first time. The degradation runs were made with, rhodamine B (Rh B), methyl orange (MO) and methylene blue (MB) as the pollutant. The core-shell type design allowing the deposition of porous MnO2 layer onto a large surface area provided very fast, instant removals with all dyes, via both physical adsorption and degradation via PMS activation. In the reusability experiments, the removal yields of MO and Rh B decreased 1.8% and 8.9% over five consecutive runs in batch fashion. MagSiO2@PDA@MnO2 microspheres exhibited very good functional and structural stability in consecutive dye degradations. No significant change was observed in Fe content of microspheres while Mn content exhibited a decrease of 7.4% w/w over 5 consecutive degradation runs.

Synthesis of germanium/germanium phosphide in-plane heterostructure with efficient photothermal and enhanced photodynamic effects in the second near-infrared biowindow

Inspired by the bifunctional phototherapy agents (PTAs), constructing compact PTAs with efficient photothermal therapy (PTT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) effects in the near-infrared (NIR-II) biowindow is crucial for high therapeutic efficacy. Herein, none-layered germanium (Ge) is transformed to layered Ge/germanium phosphide (Ge/GeP) structure, and a novel two-dimensional sheet-like compact S-scheme Ge/GeP in-plane heterostructure with a large extinction coefficient of 15.66 L/g cm−1 at 1,064 nm is designed and demonstrated. In addition to the outstanding photothermal effects, biocompatibility and degradability, type I and type II PDT effects are activated by a single laser. Furthermore, enhanced reactive oxygen species generation under longer wavelength NIR laser irradiation is achieved, and production of singlet oxygen and superoxide radical upon 1,064 nm laser irradiation is more than double that under 660 nm laser irradiation. The S-scheme charge transfer mechanism between Ge and GeP, is demonstrated by photo-irradiated Kelvin probe force microscopy and electron spin resonance analysis. Thus, the obtained S-scheme Ge/GeP in-plane heterostructure shows synergistic therapeutic effects of PTT/PDT both in vitro and in vivo in the NIR-II biowindow and the novel nanoplatform with excellent properties has large clinical potential.

The Importance of Metabolic and Environmental Factors in the Occurrence of Oxidative Stress during Pregnancy.

Metabolic changes in pregnant women begin in the first weeks after conception under the influence of placental hormones that affect the metabolism of all nutrients. An increased concentration of total lipids accompanies pregnancy and an increased accumulation of triglycerides in low-density lipoproteins (LDL) particles. Lipids in small dense LDL particles are more susceptible to oxidative modification than normal-density LDL particles. Unlike LDL high-density lipoproteins (HDL), lipoprotein particles have an atheroprotective role in lipid metabolism. The very growth of the fetus depends on the nutrition of both parents, so obesity is not only in the mother but also in the father. Nutritional programming of the offspring occurs through changes in lipid metabolism and leads to an increased risk for cardiometabolic diseases. Pregnancy is accompanied by an increased need for oxygen in the mitochondria of the placenta and a tendency to develop oxidative stress. Oxidative stress represents a disturbance in the balance of oxidation-reduction processes in the body that occurs due to the excessive production of free oxygen radicals that cellular homeostatic mechanisms are unable to neutralize. When the balance with the antioxidant system is disturbed, which happens when free oxygen radicals are in high concentrations, serious damage to biological molecules occurs, resulting in a series of pathophysiological and pathological changes, including cell death. Therefore, oxidative stress plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of many complications that can occur during pregnancy. The oxidative status of pregnant women is also influenced by socioeconomic living conditions, lifestyle habits, diet, smoking, and exposure to environmental air pollution. During a healthy pregnancy, the altered lipid profile and oxidative stress create an increased risk for premature birth and pregnancy-related diseases, and a predisposition to adult diseases.