Superoxide Research Articles

Carotenoids from cyanobacteria modulate iNOS and inhibit the production of inflammatory mediators: Promising agents for the treatment of inflammatory conditions

Cyanobacteria are green multiproduct refineries of increasing interest for different industrial prospects. In this work, eleven cyanobacteria strains isolated from the Cape Verde archipelago were explored for their biotechnological applications in the field of inflammation. A biorefinery approach was employed to produce carotenoid-targeted extracts, further profiled by HPLC-PDA and explored for their ability to i) scavenge important physiological free radicals of oxygen (superoxide anion radical, O2•-) and nitrogen (nitric oxide, •NO) involved in the inflammatory process ii) slow-down post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and iii) modulate the activity of inflammatory cytokine-producing enzymes, in enzymatic and cell systems comprising RAW 264.7 cells. The studied strains turned out to be important carotenoid producers (70.47–186.71 μg mg−1dry extract), mainly represented by β-carotene and zeaxanthin. The targeted-extracts stood-out for their potential to slow-down the inflammatory process through a multitarget approach: scavenging •NO and O2•-, reducing inflammatory cytokines production through lipoxygenase inhibition, and modulating the inducible nitric oxide synthase in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells, with strains of the order Nodosilineales revealing to be worth of further biotechnological exploitation.

Phytochemical Analysis and Antioxidant Activities of Various Extracts from the Aerial Part of Anemone baicalensis Turcz.: In Vitro and In Vivo Studies.

Anemone baicalensis Turcz., a botanical species with a rich historical background in traditional medicine for detoxification and insecticidal applications, possesses a vast, yet largely unexplored, therapeutic potential. This study primarily focused on conducting a qualitative phytochemical analysis of the plant, determining the active ingredient content and antioxidant activity of various solvent extracts. The qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of 12 different types of phytochemicals within the plant. Utilizing ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry, we identified 11 active ingredients in 4 solvent extracts. Notably, the methanol extract was found to contain high concentrations of total carbohydrate, total monoterpenoid, total phenolic, total tannin, and total triterpenoid. In the antioxidant experiment, the methanol extract demonstrated superior scavenging abilities against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical, 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonicacid) diammonium salt, superoxide anion radical, and hydrogen peroxide, outperforming other extracts in chelation experiments aimed at reducing iron and metal ions. Consequently, the methanol extract was selected for further investigation. Subsequent ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-quadrupole-time of flight-mass spectrometry analysis revealed that the methanol extract contained 39 compounds, primarily phenolic compounds and triterpenoid saponins. Three stability assessments confirmed the extract's stability under high temperatures, varying pH levels, and simulated gastrointestinal processes. Additionally, oil stability testing demonstrated its antioxidant capacity in extra virgin olive oil and cold-pressed sunflower seed oil media. An oral acute toxicity experiment conducted on mice not only confirmed the absence of acute toxicity in the methanol extract but also provided a dose reference for subsequent gastric protection experiments. Notably, the methanol extract exhibited significant gastroprotective effects against ethanol-induced gastric lesions in rats, as evidenced by histopathological and biochemical analyses. Specifically, the extract reduced levels of malondialdehyde, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase while increasing glutathione, nitric oxide, and catalase, indicating its gastroprotective mechanism. These findings suggest that the methanol extract from the aerial part of Anemone baicalensis could be a promising therapeutic agent for conditions associated with oxidative imbalances. They underscore the plant's potential therapeutic benefits and offer valuable insights into its antioxidant properties, thereby broadening our understanding of its medicinal potential.

Ultrasonic-assisted extraction, structural analysis and antioxidative mechanism of polysaccharide from sunflower disc

The crude sunflower disc polysaccharide (SDP) was obtained by using ultrasonic assist hot water extraction. Homogeneous SDP was separated by DEAE-cellulose column and Sephacryl S-400 HR column. Its physical properties and antioxidant mechanism was studied. Results showed that extraction yield of SDP was 15.3 %, total sugar was 91.3 %, weight molecular weight (Mw) was7.46 × 103 Da, number-average molecular weight (Mn) was 6.16 × 103 Da and polydispersion coefficient (Mw/Mn) was 1.21. SDP was composed of galactose (Gal), fucose (Fuc), xylose (Xyl), glucose (Glc), arabinose (Ara), rhamnose (Rha), glucuronic acid (Gle-UA) and galacturonic acid (Ga-UA), and the ratio of substance were 1.77∶2.00∶4.55∶8.44∶9.57∶14.26∶2.13∶57.28. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) results showed that smooth surface and structure of SDP was relatively dense, and some crystallization existed, but the crystallization was weak. Two-dimensional structure of SDP showed that the main chain →4)-α-d-GalpA-(1→, →3)-α-l-Araf-(1→, →2)-α-l-Rhap-(1→, →2, 4)-α-l-Rhap-(1→, →2, 4)-α-d-GlcpA-(1→ and →3, 6)-β-d-Galp-(1→ interconnection form. Results of in vitro and in vivo of SDP and its derivatives showed that a good antioxidant activity. In vitro antioxidant activity, the scavenging rates of ABTS+, ·OH, DPPH and superoxide anions were 95.8 %, 93.9 %, 93.6 % and 92.1 %, respectively, when treated with 3.2 mg/mL of SDP solution. The preliminary antioxidative mechanism results showed that SDP had a regulatory effects on the down-regulation of Nrf2, HO-1 and NQO1 proteins in RAW264.7 cells. Preliminary pharmacokinetic analysis showed that the SDP could be absorbed orally and reached its peak concentration in the blood at about 2 h. The content of polysaccharide in blood reached the peak value at 30 min and reached the lowest value at 8 h after intravenous injection.

Construction of a novel Z-scheme FeTiO3/MOF-derived In2S3 catalyst for visible-light-driven photo-Fenton degradation of pollutants

The rapid recombination rate of photoexcited carriers for iron titanate (FeTiO3) is still limited the process performance of photo-Fenton. This article reports the successful synthesis of the highly efficient Z-scheme FeTiO3/MOF-derived In2S3 photocatalyst using the hydrothermal method, compensating for the susceptibility of FeTiO3 photo-generated carriers to complexation to a certain extent. A series of characterization have been carried out to explore the structure, morphology and composition of FeTiO3/MOF-derived In2S3 heterostructure. The 0.5 FeTiO3/MOF-derived In2S3 exhibits the excellent photo-Fenton performance for TCH, Cr6+ and OTC, the degradation rate constants (k2) are up to 0.6297 L·mg−1·min−1, 1.332 L·mg−1·min−1, and 0.427 L·mg−1·min−1, respectively. Active species capture experiments and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectra show that photo-generated holes (h+) and superoxide radicals (·O2-) are present in the photo-Fenton system. The superior photo-Fenton performance is mainly manifested in the following: the MOF-derived In2S3 micro-floral carrier extends the reaction interface of 0.5 FM-I; FeTiO3 effectively enhances the photo-absorption ability of 0.5 FM-I in visible range; the construction of Z-scheme FeTiO3/MOF-derived In2S3, forming the new carriers transport channels and enhancing the generation of ·O2- and ·OH. This experimental exploration provided a reasonable experimental basis for the preparation of efficient photocatalysts.

Discovery of Novel Inhibitors against ALS-Related SOD1(A4V) Aggregation through the Screening of a Chemical Library Using Differential Scanning Fluorimetry (DSF)

Background: Cu/Zn Superoxide Dismutase 1 (SOD1) is a 32 kDa cytosolic dimeric metalloenzyme that neutralizes superoxide anions into oxygen and hydrogen peroxide. Mutations in SOD1 are associated with ALS, a disease causing motor neuron atrophy and subsequent mortality. These mutations exert their harmful effects through a gain of function mechanism, rather than a loss of function. Despite extensive research, the mechanism causing selective motor neuron death still remains unclear. A defining feature of ALS pathogenesis is protein misfolding and aggregation, evidenced by ubiquitinated protein inclusions containing SOD1 in affected motor neurons. This work aims to identify compounds countering SOD1(A4V) misfolding and aggregation, which could potentially aid in ALS treatment. Methods: The approach employed was in vitro screening of a library comprising 1280 pharmacologically active compounds (LOPAC®) in the context of drug repurposing. Using differential scanning fluorimetry (DSF), these compounds were tested for their impact on SOD1(A4V) thermal stability. Results and Conclusions: Dimer stability was the parameter chosen as the criterion for screening, since the dissociation of the native SOD1 dimer is the step prior to its in vitro aggregation. The screening revealed one compound raising protein-ligand Tm by 6 °C, eleven inducing a higher second Tm, suggesting a stabilization effect, and fourteen reducing Tm from 10 up to 26 °C, suggesting possible interactions or non-specific binding.

Co-Assembled Binary Polyphenol Natural Products for the Prevention and Treatment of Radiation-Induced Skin Injury.

Radiation therapy, a fundamental treatment for tumors, is often accompanied by radiation-induced skin injury (RISI). Excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and subsequent inflammation are two key factors in RISI development that will cause skin injury and affect radiotherapy. Herein, the co-assembled binary polyphenol natural products inspired the development of a dual-functional cascade microneedle system for prevention and treatment of RISI. Specifically, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and curcumin (CUR) were co-assembled into nanoparticles (CEPG) by intermolecular interactions and then incorporated with catalase (CAT) to achieve a cascade system in the microneedles (this microneedle system was conducive to penetrate into the epidermal keratinocytes where RISI had the greatest impact). When using microneedles, the tip dissolved rapidly and delivered CEPG and CAT into the dermis, where CEPG NPs were able to respond to ROS and decompose into EGCG and CUR. More importantly, EGCG and CAT formed a cascade that converts superoxide anions into water step-by-step, which can reduce cell damage caused by free radicals in the early stages of radiation for prevention; meanwhile, CUR inhibited inflammatory pathways, achieving the treatment of skin inflammation in the post-radiotherapy period. These explorations broaden the strategy for the application of natural products in RISI.

From aromatic rings to aliphatic compounds - degradation of duloxetine with the use of visible light driven Z-scheme photocatalyst

The growing consumption of antidepressants, associated with their high chemical stability and low biodegradability, become a serious problem for aquatic environment. Many of their components are resistant to conventional water treatment technologies. The photocatalytic processes with the use of semiconductors becoming attractive methods of drugs degradation because the highly reactive species: electrons, holes, hydroxyl radicals (⦁OH) and superoxide anion radicals (O2⦁−) generated under illumination may be involved directly or indirectly in decomposition of complicated organic molecules.In this work we have shown for the first time that Z-scheme photocatalyst, consisted of bismuth vanadate (BiVO4), graphitic-like carbon nitride (g-C3N4) and Au nanoparticles (Au NPs) as a charge transfer mediator, is very efficient in degradation of duloxetine (DLX). We performed the comprehensive evaluation focused not only on degradation rate, mechanism of photocatalytic process, but also identification of decomposition products and the pathways of DLX degradation. Due to application of the elaborated Z-scheme photocatalyst, the degradation rate constant was more than 2-3 times higher than that obtained for photolysis, but more important, the final compounds were mainly aliphatic products, formed by opening of aromatic rings. The chemical structure of the degradation products were determined with the use of HPLC and LC-MS. The toxicity of photoproducts with respect to water organisms was tested by means of Spirotox and Microtox assays. The Microtox test indicated that toxicity of the products after 6h of the solution irradiation in the presence of Z-scheme photocatalyst is about 4 times lower than that after photolysis.

Differential Biochemical Content and Free Radical Scavenging Potency of Three Solvent Extracts of Porodaedalea pini

Porodaedalea pini, a non-edible mushroom, is a notable source of bioactive compounds with traditional medicinal uses. Solvent selection is crucial in research and development of natural products. This study examined how solvent polarity affects the biochemical composition and antioxidant properties of P. pini. Crude extracts were prepared from whole mushrooms using chloroform, methanol, and ethyl acetate through cold extraction. Total carbohydrate, flavonoid, and phenolic contents were measured, and free-radical scavenging activities against DPPH and superoxide anion were assessed by employing standard protocols. Methanolic extracts yielded significantly more than ethyl acetate (p<0.05) and chloroform (p<0.001) extracts, showing higher levels of carbohydrates, proteins, flavonoids, and phenolics (p<0.001). All extracts displayed notable free-radical scavenging activity, with methanol being the most potent, followed by ethyl acetate and chloroform. Thus, solvent polarity greatly affects the biochemical constituents and antioxidant activity of P. pini extracts, highlighting the importance of solvent choice in optimising their bioactive potential.

Investigation of fullerene and non-fullerene materials in organic photocatalysts on the efficiency of photocatalytic degradation of polychlorinated biphenyls

The photocatalytic degradation of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) is advancing, yet the efficiency of degradation within the visible spectral range continues to encounter significant challenges. In this study, two biochar-based organic semiconductor photocatalysts, Active Carbon@PTQ10 (5,8-Dibromo-6,7-difluoro-2-(2-hexyldecoxy)quinoxaline; trimethyl-(5-trimethylstannylthiophen-2-yl)stannane): ITIC-Th (Propanedinitrile,2,2′-[[6,6,12,12-tetrakis(5-hexyl-2-thienyl)-6,12-dihydrodithieno[2,3-d: 2′,3′-d’] −s-indaceno[1,2-b:5,6-b’] dithiophene-2,8-diyl] bis[methylidyne(3-oxo-1H-indene-2,1(3H)-diylidene)]] bis-) (AC@PI) and Active Carbon@PTQ10: PC71BM (6,6)-phenyl C71 butyric acid methyl ester), were synthesized using a wide bandgap material, PTQ10, as the electron donor, along with a non-fullerene material, ITIC-Th, and a fullerene material, PC71BM, as the acceptors, respectively. Under optimized conditions, AC@PI degraded 93.4 % of 2,2 ’,4,4 ’-tetrachlorobiphenyl (PCB 47) within 60 min. By incorporating a non-fullerene acceptor (ITIC-Th), AC@PI exhibits a larger surface photopressure, a lower hole-electron transfer ratio, a broader absorption spectrum (400 – 1000 nm), and enhanced structural stability. AC@PI can generate photogenerated electrons and holes, as well as superoxide anions (O2−) and hydroxyl radicals (OH), through type II heterojunctions, which contributes to its exceptional properties. This study synthesized novel organic semiconductor catalysts that offer a green, efficient, and non-toxic method for the degradation of aromatic pollutants, such as polychlorinated biphenyls.

Mn3O4-FeS2/Fe2O3 composite as peroxidase-mimics for the degradation of Bisphenol A

Due to the benefits of artificial peroxidase-like enzymes, Flower-like Mn3O4-FeS2/Fe2O3 composites with multiple active sites prepared by a one-step solvothermal method.The synergistic cyclic reaction between Mn and Fe on the catalyst surface enhances the generation of active radicals, which together promote the efficient degradation of BPA. In the presence of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), Mn3O4-FeS2/Fe2O3 could generate hydroxyl radicals (·OH) and superoxide radicals (·O2-) in buffer solution of pH=4.5 and catalyze the oxidation of 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) to blue oxidation products (ox TMB). The steady-state kinetic constants (Km) of TMB and H2O2 were obtained by Michaelis-Menten and Lineweaver-Burk models, which are 1.34 mM and 1.00 mM, respectively. This reveals the nice catalytic efficiency of Mn3O4-FeS2/Fe2O3 as enzyme mimics. Under the condition of 10 mg Mn3O4-FeS2/Fe2O3 catalyst, 100 μL H2O2 and pH = 4.5, the degradation efficiency of Bisphenol A (BPA) reaches 100 % when treating 40 mL of 50 mg L−1 BPA for 30 min at room temperature. Moreover, after 5 cycles of degradation, the BPA degradation efficiency of 85.8 % was still maintained. Therefore, the as-prepared Mn3O4-FeS2/Fe2O3 sample could potentially be applied in wastewater treatment.

Microplastics and copper impacts on feeding, oxidative stress, antioxidant enzyme activity, and dimethylated sulfur compounds production in Manila clam Ruditapes philippinarum

Microplastics (MPs) are widespread ocean pollutants and many studies have explored their effects. However, research on MPs combined impact with copper (Cu) on dimethylated sulfur compound production is limited. Dimethyl sulfide (DMS) is an important biogenic sulfur compound related to global temperatures. This study examined the ecotoxicological effects of polyamide 6 MPs and Cu on dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP), DMS, and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) production in Manila clams (Ruditapes philippinarum). Our findings showed that MPs and Cu increased oxidative stress, indicated by higher superoxide anion radical production and malondialdehyde levels while decreasing glutathione contents and increasing superoxide dismutase activities. Additionally, MPs and Cu exposure reduced DMS and dissolved DMSO (DMSOd) concentrations due to decreased grazing. These results contribute to a better understanding of the ecotoxicological effects of MPs/Cu on bivalves and their roles in the organic sulfur cycle, suggesting a need for further research on long-term impacts on them.

Preparation and functional characteristics of polysaccharides from endogenous Pseudomonas flavus Y11 and Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim

In this study, the comparative structural characterization of extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) produced by an endogenous Pseudomonas flavus Y11 and polysaccharides from homologous parts of Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim (ZBMP) was investigated. EPSY11 and ZBMP0.1 both were acidic homogeneous polysaccharides with a pyran ring structure and an amorphous structure, and had a loose and porous strip cross-linked mesh structure in the chain backbone. EPSY11 had a triple helix structure, with two thermic absorption peaks, an initial stable temperature of 55.22 °C, and a molecular weight of about 26.70 kDa, which was mainly composed of Man, GlcA, GalA, Glc, Xyl, Ara, and Fuc. ZBMP0.1 did not have a triple helix structure, but had four characteristic thermic absorption peaks with an initial thermal stable temperature of 163.82 °C and a molecular weight of about 70.11 kDa. It was mainly composed of Man, Rha, GlcA, GalA, Glc, Gal, Xyl, and Fuc. Strong antioxidant activity was observed against DPPH, ABTS+, hydroxyl, and superoxide anion radicals. In addition, EPSY11 and ZBMP0.1 showed protective effects against low temperature and lyophilized stresses of Pseudomonas flavus. This study verified that an endophyte possessed the ability to produce the same or similar metabolites as its hosts, which lays the foundation for obtaining EPS with antioxidant and antimicrobial activities by submerged fermentation, as well as the development of such polysaccharides as microbial protectants for the freezing and lyophilized process in the food or pharmaceutical industries.

Visible LED-light driven photocatalytic activity by a novel magnetically separable CoFe2O4/Mn3O4 nanocomposite

A novel magnetic separable CoFe2O4/Mn3O4 semiconductor catalyst was synthesized by sol-gel-cum-hydrothermal method, successfully. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Raman, and Fourier transformed infra-red spectrometers were used to characterize the prepared samples. Mn3O4 and CoFe2O4 exhibit in tetragonal and cubic phases, respectively. The obtained direct optical band gap of the samples belongs to the visible region. These catalysts were employed in photo-degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye under an LED visible light. Coupling of CoFe2O4 with Mn3O4, which formed type-II heterojunction, enhances the photocatalytic efficiency, provides magnetic separable features, and prevents the charge carriers’ recombination. Synthesized CoFe2O4/Mn3O4 nanocomposites show excellent photocatalytic activity with a high value of rate constant ∼ 0.03889 minute−1. The scavenging test reveals that the holes and superoxide radicals were dominant reactive species in the degradation of dye. Magnetic separable feature of nanocomposite helps to recover the catalysts from degraded MB dye solution for the next photo-degradation cycles.

Rapid room temperature synthesis of CuBi2O4 via ball-milling strategy boost light-driven persistent activation of hydrogen peroxide

Photo-Fenton technology with the superiorities of photocatalysis and traditional Fenton catalysis can improve the catalytic efficiency of photocatalytic materials and thus achieve efficient degradation for organic pollutants. However, exploring a low-cost catalyst with excellent catalytic performance using a simple method remains a challenge. In this work, CuBi2O4 photocatalyst synthesized by a mechanical ball-milling strategy (M-CuBi2O4) was exploited and used for tetracycline (TC) degradation. The impact of solution pH and H2O2 dosage on the photo-Fenton degradation efficiency of M-CuBi2O4 towards TC was investigated. M-CuBi2O4 exhibited significant 85.1% of photo-Fenton catalytic activity for TC removal, which was 9.35 times higher than that of CuBi2O4 synthesized by hydrothermal method (H-CuBi2O4). The enhanced catalytic performance of M-CuBi2O4 was due to the superior charge carrier separation efficiency, wider photo-response range and increased generation of active species. The primary active substances involved in the photo-Fenton reaction for TC degradation were determined to be hydroxyl radicals (•OH), superoxide radicals (•O2-), and singlet oxygen (1O2). This study provides a streamlined and rapid approach for macro preparation of high-performance photocatalysts for dealing with antibiotic-contaminated wastewater.

Phytochemical Profile and Antioxidant Activity of Medicinal Plant Extracts: Insights into Potential Therapeutic Applications .

This study evaluates the phytochemical composition and in-vitro antioxidant activities of various extracts such as Boswellia serrate (Bs), Zingiber officinale (Zs), Tribulus terrestris (Tt), Camellia sinensis (Cs), Withania somnifera (Ws), and Piper longum (Pl). Using soxhlet extraction, the plants were processed with various solvents, including n-hexane, dichloromethane, methanol, ethanol, and water. Phytochemical screening revealed a diverse range of compounds, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, and saponins, varying by extract. The antioxidant activities were assessed using superoxide, hydroxyl radical scavenging assays, and lipid peroxidation assays. The hydroalcoholic extract of C. sinensis exhibited the highest antioxidant activity, with significant superoxide and hydroxyl radical scavenging capabilities. T. terrestris and W. somnifera also demonstrated strong antioxidant properties, aligning with their traditional medicinal uses. Moderate activity was observed in P. longum, attributed to its bioactive compound, piperine. Meanwhile, B. serrata and Z. officinale showed lower antioxidant activities but are noted for their anti-inflammatory benefits. This research corroborates previous findings on the antioxidant potential of these plants, highlighting the importance of further investigations into their pharmacological applications. The study underscores the therapeutic potential of these extracts in oxidative stress-related conditions and supports their continued exploration in modern medicine.

Efficient cleavage of Cα[sbnd]Cβ bonds in lignin using tetrabutylammonium tetrafluoroborate as both the catalyst and auxiliary electrolyte

Lignin is a promising alternative to fossil resources due to its abundance of benzene ring monomers. However, the stability of the CαCβ bond in lignin has hindered its efficient depolymerization. Electrochemical methods for breaking this bond are not well-studied. This paper presents a novel approach for catalytic depolymerization of lignin to produce acetals under mild conditions, without the need for additional catalysts. Under room temperature and in an air atmosphere, the combination of tetrabutylammonium tetrafluoroborate (TBABF4) as an auxiliary electrolyte and methanol (MeOH) as a solvent has shown high selectivity in catalyzing the cleavage of CαCβ bonds in lignin. Over 90.0 % of the resulting products are acetals, with the optimal conditions being a substrate concentration of 0.02 M, TBABF4 concentration of 0.008 M, a constant current of 30 mA, and a reaction time of 3 h. This led to a substrate conversion rate of 95.8 % and a product yield of 98.0 % for benzaldehyde dimethyl acetal (Bda). The mechanism study reveals that the tributyl ammonium radical cation decomposed by TBABF4 is adsorbed on the electrode surface. Subsequently, the adsorbed O2 is activated to form superoxide anion radical active species through single electron transfer, which plays a crucial catalytic role. TBABF4 acts as both an auxiliary electrolyte and a catalyst in this process. This research introduces a novel approach for electrocatalytic depolymerization of inert CαCβ bonds in lignin, leading to the selective conversion into acetal chemicals.

Experimental Antioxidant Activities of Synthetic 3,4-Dihydropyrimidine Derivatives.

The synthesized of five new pyrimidine derivatives was prepared from the condensation in one pot reaction of ethyl acetoacetate, substituted aromatic aldehydes, urea, and FeCL3.6H2O, with 5 to 10 drops of hydrochloride acid as catalyst in reflexing ethanol. The yield of the product was found to be in the range of 55 to 90%. The antioxidant efficiency of synthesized compounds was estimated by using the 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method, hydroxyl method, nitric oxide method, and superoxide radical scavenging assay method. The compounds 6a, 6e, and 6c demonstrated considerable radical scavenging activity, resulting in the presence of electron-donating substituent on replaced aldehydes. The confirmation compounds by spectral data by proton and 13C-nuclear magnetic resonance, infrared spectra, and MS spectra.

Unveiling the Photodegradation Mechanism of Monochlorinated Naphthalenes under UV‒C Irradiation: Affecting Factors Analysis, the Roles of Hydroxyl Radicals, and DFT Calculation

Polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs) are a new type of persistent organic pollutant (POP) characterized by persistence, bioaccumulation, dioxin-like toxicity, and long-range atmospheric transport. Focusing on one type of PCN, monochlorinated naphthalenes (CN‒1, CN‒2), this study aimed to examine their photodegradation in the environment. In this work, CN‒1 and CN‒2 were employed as the model pollutants to investigate their photodegradation process under UV-C irradiation. Factors like the pH, initial concentrations of CN‒1, and inorganic anions were investigated. Next, the roles of hydroxyl radicals (·OH), superoxide anion radicals (O2•‒), and singlet oxygen (1O2) in the photodegradation process were discussed and proposed via theory computation. The results show that the photodegradation of CN‒1 and CN‒2 follows pseudo-first-order kinetics. Acidic conditions promote the photodegradation of CN‒1, while the effects of pH on the photodegradation of CN‒2 are not remarkable. Cl−, NO3−, and SO32− accelerate the photodegradation of CN‒1, whereas the effect of SO42‒ and CO32‒ is not significant. Additionally, the contributions of ·OH and O2•‒ to the photodegradation of CN‒1 are 20.47% and 38.80%, while, for CN‒2, the contribution is 16.40% and 16.80%, respectively. Moreover, the contribution of 1O2 is 15.7%. Based on DFT calculations, C4 and C6 of the CN‒1 benzene ring are prioritized attack sites for ·OH, while C2 and C9 of CN‒2 are prioritized attack sites.

Visible-light-response Fe-doped BiOCl microspheres with efficient photocatalysis-Fenton degradation of antibiotics

The combination of photocatalysis and Fenton reaction has been considered as a promising technology for the removal of antibiotics from wastewater. In this study, the Fe-doped BiOCl was synthesized by solvothermal method for photocatalysis-Fenton degradation of levofloxacin (LEV). Fe/BiOCl exhibited a flower-like microsphere structure with the lattice doping of Fe3+ in BiOCl. Under the synergistic of visible light irradiation and H2O2, the excellent degradation performance of Fe/BiOCl towards LEV was achieved (97.8 %) after 100-min reaction at Fe-doping content of 5 % and H2O2 addition of 3 mM. The Fe deposition extended the light absorption range and reduced the recombination of photogenerated carriers. The photogenerated electrons could accelerate the cycling of Fe2+/Fe3+, and improve the utilization efficiency of H2O2. The hydroxyl radical (OH), superoxide radical (O2−) and holes (h+) played crucial roles during the photocatalysis-Fenton degradation of LEV. The present study provided valuable insights into the development of photocatalysis-Fenton synergy system for the effective decontamination of antibiotic wastewater.

Valorization of Strawberry Tree Berries and Beeswax from Montesinho Natural Park for Cosmetic Industry-A Case Study Formulation.

Consumers are increasingly concerned about cosmetic ingredients' origin, looking more than ever to sustainable and greener formulations. The Natural Park of Montesinho, located in Portugal, is characterized by an enormous fauna and flora diversity. Among them, beeswax and strawberry trees (Arbutus unedo) have attracted the cosmetic researchers' interest due to their bioactive compounds' richness, particularly fatty acids and phenolic compounds. The main goal of this study was to develop an innovative cosmetic product with antioxidant properties composed by both matrices. Briefly, samples were obtained in the Natural Park of Montesinho in October 2022. Beeswax was analysed for lipid profile and contaminants, while extracts were obtained from fruits by ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) using water as a solvent. The effect of extraction time (15-90 min) was studied on the total phenolic content (TPC), in vitro antioxidant/antiradical activity, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging capacity. The beeswax lipid profile presented a high incidence of palmitic, oleic, and linoleic acids. The extract obtained at 60 min presented the highest TPC (30.27 mg GAE/g dw) and antioxidant/antiradical activities (ABTS = 30.36 mg AAE/g dw; DPPH = 43.83 mg TE/g dw; FRAP = 415.61 µmol FSE/g dw). An IC50 of 19.78 µg/mL was achieved for the hypochlorous acid, while for superoxide radical and peroxyl radical the IC50 were, respectively, 90.51 µg/mL and 0.19 µmol TE/mg dw. The phytochemical profile revealed a high content of gallic acid, and catechin and its derivatives. The hydrophilic cream developed revealed ideal technological parameters, particularly its stability.