Search Results (765)

Based on the limited hepatic hydroxylation efficiency of dietary VD3 in teleosts and the superior bioavailability of its metabolite, 25(OH)D3, this study investigated the regulatory mechanisms of dietary 25(OH)D3 supplementation in yellow catfish—an economically significant species lacking prior nutritional data on this metabolite. A total of 360 fish were divided into three groups—control (basal diet), VD3 (2500 IU/kg VD3), and 25(OH)D3 (2500 IU/kg 25(OH)D3)—and fed for 8 weeks. Compared to the control, both supplemented groups showed elevated superoxide dismutase (SOD), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), catalase (CAT), and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) activities, alongside reduced malondialdehyde (MDA), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels. The 25(OH)D3 group exhibited higher T-AOC and CAT activities and lower TNF-α than the VD3 group. Metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses identified 65 differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) and 3515 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Enrichment analysis indicated that the DEMs (e.g., indole compounds, organic acids, aldosterone, L-kynurenine) and DEGs (pgd, mthfr, nsdhl, nox5, prdx2, mpx, itih2, itih3, eprs1) that were highly and significantly expressed in the 25(OH)D3 group were primarily associated with antioxidant defense and inflammatory responses. Dietary 25(OH)D3 was more effective than VD3 in promoting antioxidant capacity and modulating inflammation in yellow catfish. Full article

Alkaline electrolytic water hydrogen generation, a key driver in the growth of hydrogen energy, heavily relies on high-efficiency and high-purity ion exchange membranes. In this study, three-dimensional (3D) wrinkled reduced graphene oxide (WG) nanosheets obtained through a simple thermal reduction process and two-dimensional (2D) graphene oxide act as building blocks, with ethylenediamine as a crosslinking stabilizer, to construct a unique 3D/2D 2 nm-tunneling structure between the GO and WG sheets through via an amide connection at a WG/GO ratio of 1:1. Here, the wrinkled graphene (WG) undergoes a transition from two-dimensional (2D) graphene oxide (GO) into three-dimensional (3D) through the adjustment of surface energy. By increasing the interlayer spacing and the number of ion fluid channels within the membranes, the E-W/G membrane has achieved the rapid passage of hydroxide ions (OH⁻) and simultaneous isolation of produced gas molecules. Moreover, the dense 2 nm nano-tunneling structure in the electrolytic water process enables the E-W/G membrane to attain current densities >99.9% and an extremely low gas crossover rate of hydrogen and oxygen. This result suggests that the as-prepared membrane effectively restricts the unwanted crossover of gases between the anode and cathode compartments, leading to improved efficiency and reduced gas leakage during electrolysis. By enhancing the purity of the hydrogen production industry and facilitating the energy transition, our strategy holds great potential for realizing the widespread utilization of hydrogen energy. Full article

Experimental and theoretical studies were applied to investigate the adsorption properties of testagen (KEDG) peptide on copper surfaces in sodium chloride solution and, implicitly, its inhibition efficiency (IE) on metal corrosion. The tetrapeptide synthesized from the amino acids lysine (Lys), glutamic acid (Glu), aspartic acid (Asp), and glycine (Gly), named as H-Lys-Glu-Asp-Gly-OH, achieved an inhibition efficiency of around 86% calculated from electrochemical measurements, making KEDG a promising new copper corrosion inhibitor. The experimental data were best fitted to the Freundlich adsorption isotherm. The standard free energy of adsorption ($\mathsf{\Delta }{\mathrm{G}}_{\mathrm{a}\mathrm{d}\mathrm{s}}^{\mathrm{o}}$) reached the value of −30.86 kJ mol⁻¹, which revealed a mixed action mechanism of tetrapeptide, namely, chemical and physical spontaneous adsorption. The copper surface characterization was performed using optical microscopy and SEM/EDS analysis. In the KEDG presence, post-corrosion, SEM images showed a network surface morphology including microdeposits with an acicular appearance, and EDS analysis highlighted an upper surface layer consisting of KEDG, sodium chloride, and copper corrosion compounds. The computational study based on DFT and Monte Carlo simulation confirmed the experimental results and concluded that the spontaneous adsorption equilibrium establishment was the consequence of the contribution of noncovalent (electrostatic, van der Waals) interactions and covalent bonds. Full article

Although ART leads to viral suppression, people living with HIV (PLWH) still face an increased risk of comorbidities, such as cancer. The HIV-1 Tat protein may contribute to the promotion of chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and genomic instability. While the presence of anti-Tat antibodies has been associated with slower disease progression, their potential role in modulating DNA damage remains unclear. Assess the effect of anti-Tat antibodies on cytotoxic and DNA damage in PLWH. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 178 PLWH. Serum anti-Tat IgG antibodies were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Cytotoxicity and DNA damage were assessed via serum 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and nuclear anomalies (Micronucleus cytome assay) in 2000 buccal cells. Statistical significance was considered at p < 0.05. Anti-Tat antibodies were found in 24.2% of participants. Positive individuals had lower CD4+ T cell counts (p = 0.045) and higher levels of pyknosis (p = 0.0001). No differences in 8-OHdG were found, but 8-OHdG correlated positively with CD4+ counts (rho = 0.334, p = 0.006). Pyknosis negatively correlated with CD4+ counts (rho = −0.272, p = 0.027). Anti-Tat antibodies may not prevent DNA damage but could be related to cytotoxic effects in PLWH. Full article

Ethanol upgrading via catalytic C–C coupling, commonly known as the Guerbet reaction, offers a sustainable route to produce 1-butanol, a high-performance biofuel. To address gaps in the mechanistic understanding of the catalytic reaction, we investigated the process involving a fixed-bed reactor, operated at 275–325 °C, 21 bar, and weight hourly space velocities of 0.25–2.5 g_EtOH/(g_cat·h), using helium as a carrier gas, with a 5:1 He/EtOH molar ratio. The catalyst was a MgO–Al₂O₃ mixed oxide (Mg/Al = 2:1), derived from a hydrotalcite precursor. A detailed kinetic model was developed, encompassing 15 species and 27 reversible steps (10 sorption and 17 reaction steps), within a 1+1D sorption–reaction–transport framework. Four C₄-forming pathways were included: aldol condensation to form crotonaldehyde, semi-direct coupling to form butyraldehyde and crotyl alcohol, and direct coupling to form 1-butanol. To avoid overfitting, Arrhenius parameters were grouped by reaction type, resulting in sixty rate parameters and one active site-specific density parameter. The optimized model achieved high accuracy, with an average prediction error of 1.44 times the experimental standard deviation. The mechanistic analysis revealed aldol condensation as the dominant pathway below 335 °C, with semi-direct coupling to crotyl alcohol prevailing above 340 °C. The resulting model provides a robust framework for understanding and predicting complex reaction networks in ethanol upgrading systems. Full article

Wilson’s disease (WD) is an autosomal recessive disorder of copper metabolism caused by mutations in the ATP7B gene. While hepatic manifestations are frequent, psychiatric symptoms occur in up to 30% of patients and may precede neurological signs. This study was the first to assess the relationship between oxidative stress, selected genetic polymorphisms, and psychiatric symptoms in WD. A total of 464 patients under the care of the Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology in Warsaw were studied. Genotyping for GPX1 (rs1050450), SOD2 (rs4880), and CAT (rs1001179) was performed, along with biochemical analyses of copper metabolism, oxidative DNA, lipid and protein damage, and systemic antioxidant capacity. Among the most important observations are the following: the homozygous GPX1 rs1050450 TT and SOD2 rs4880 CC genotypes were associated with the lowest prevalence of psychiatric symptoms. The CAT rs1001179 TT genotype was linked to a delayed onset of psychiatric symptoms by 6.0–8.5 years. Patients with or without psychiatric symptoms did not differ significantly in saliva 8-OHdG, total antioxidant capacity, serum glutathione (GSH), catalase, and MnSOD; however, patients reporting psychiatric symptoms had significantly higher prostaglandin F2α 8-epimer (8-iso-PGF2α) concentrations and tended to have lower serum glutathione peroxidase (Gpx) concentrations compared to those without such symptoms. Our data firstly provide consistent evidence that oxidative stress balance associated with copper overload in the CNS may be associated with CNS damage and the development of psychiatric symptoms of WD. In particular, our findings of increased oxidative lipid damage together with decreased Gpx activity indirectly suggest that damage to neuronal membrane lipids, which may be potentially related to abnormalities in GSH metabolism, may have an etiological role in CNS damage and related symptoms. Full article

Diabetes is the world’s leading cause of renal and premature cardiovascular disease. There are marked differences between groups of patients with different ethnicities in their susceptibility to diabetes and its renal and cardiovascular complications. Novel markers of developing diabetes complications are related to disturbances in oxidative metabolism. In this cross-sectional study, we measured the arterial stiffness in patients of differing ethnicities with type 2 diabetes mellitus and assessed the relationship of their ethnicity with systemic markers of oxidative stress. Patients from black, African and Caribbean, and Asian minor ethnic groups were studied, with white patients with T2DM (n = 170) without evidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The vascular stiffness was measured by infrared finger-photoplethysmography. The oxidative stress burden was assessed by measuring the urinary 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), activities of plasma glutathione peroxidase (GPx-3), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities, and concentration of selenium. The vascular stiffness and 8-OHdG were higher in the white than in the Black patients (9.68 m/s vs. 9.26 m/s, p = 0.021 and 292.8 ng/mL vs. 200.9 ng/mL, p = 0.0027, respectively). Meanwhile, the GPx-3 and SOD activities and selenium were lower in the white than in the Black patients (283.3 U/L vs. 440.4 U/L, p < 0.0001; 37.5 U/L vs. 75.6 U/L, p = 0.0007; and 1.14 vs. 1.28 µmol/L, p = 0.0001, respectively). In regression modelling, the 8-OHdG/creatinine ratio was an independent predictor of vascular stiffness in the white patient group (β = 0.23 m/s per unit increase in ln(8-OHdG/creatinine) [95% CI, 0.03 to 0.42]; p = 0.021) but not in the Black patient group (p = 0.29). Increased vascular stiffness, lower endogenous antioxidant defense, and greater levels of oxidative damage were found in patients of white ethnicity, which could contribute to the higher incidence of CVD compared with patients from Black minor ethnic groups with diabetic renal disease. Full article

Background. The venom of Loxoscelesrufescens (L.r.), also known as the violin and/or brown spider, contains a wide variety of proteins and can induce a complex, intense, and uncontrolled inflammatory response, hemolysis, thrombocytopenia, dermo-necrosis, and renal failure. Studies have postulated the efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) for Loxosceles bites. However, data describing the use and beneficial effects of HBO are, to date, relatively scarce. Only a few cases of Loxosceles bites in Northern Italy have been documented, and there is no laboratory test available for the diagnosis. Objectives. We present seven cases (aged 54.5 ± 4.2 years) of patients who presented to the emergency room (E.R.) of Niguarda Hospital in Milan from March to October 2022. Methods. Blood and urine samples were collected and biomarkers of oxidative stress (OxS) (reactive oxygen species (ROS), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), lipid peroxidation (8iso-PFG2α), DNA damage (8-OH-dG)), inflammation (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, sICAM1), and renal function (creatinine, neopterin, uric acid) before (T0), during (T1, T2), and after (1–2 wk T3–T4; 1 month T5) the HBOT treatment (US Navy Treatment Table 15 protocol) were studied. Results. At T0, patients showed a significant unbalance of OxS; high levels of ROS, 8-isoPGF2α, and inflammatory status (IL-6, TNF-α; sICAM); and a low level of antioxidant capacity. At the end of HBOT (T2), a significant reduction in Oxy-inflammation levels over time—8-iso −26%, 8-OH-dG −9%, IL-6 −71%, IL-1bβ −12%, TNF-α −13%, and sICAM1 −17%—associated with clinical improvement was shown. Conclusions. These reductions, along with those in renal function markers, mirrored the observed improvement in the evolution of the skin lesion and the patients’ self-reported general wellness and pain. In conclusion, HBOT should be considered a valuable therapeutic tool after L.r. bites. Full article

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation stimulates melanogenesis, leading to various esthetic problems. UV increases oxidative stress and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), which increase the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD) or leucine-rich repeat and pyrin do-main containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome. Given that polydeoxyribonucleotides reduce melanogenesis and polynucleotide (PN) has molecular similarity to polydeoxyribonucleotides, we hypothesized that PN can decrease melanogenesis. We compared the anti-melanogenic effect of PN with that of a PN mixture (PNM) that contained other antioxidants, such as glutathione and hyaluronic acid, in UVB-irradiated keratinocytes and animal skin. PN and PNM both decreased oxidative stress, which was evaluated according to the expression of NADPH oxidase (NOX) 1/2/4, the glutathione (GSH):oxidized glutathione (GSSG) ratio, and 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) in UVB-irradiated keratinocytes. The expression of NLRP3 inflammasome components (NLRP3, ASC, and pro-caspase-1) and IL-18 was increased by UVB radiation and reduced by PN and PNM. When conditioned media from PN or PNM were administered to UVB-radiated keratinocytes, melanogenesis-related signals (MITF, tyrosinase, and tyrosinase-related protein1/2) were decreased. These effects were similar in the UVB-irradiated animal skin. Both PN and PNM decreased melanin accumulation and increased skin lightness in UVB-irradiated skin. The anti-melanogenic effect of PNM was greater than that of PN. In conclusion, PN and PNM decreased melanogenesis by decreasing oxidative stress, NF-κB, and NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Full article

Several studies have revealed that patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) infected with COVID-19 who were medicated with metformin showed higher recovery rates than those administered other antidiabetic drugs. To determine the mechanism of action of antidiabetic drugs against COVID-19, we developed a mathematical model that was based on the number of infected and recovered T2D patients. Moreover, the “diagnostic frequencies” of the infected T2D patients, determined using Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, were very helpful. In particular, the band at 1775 cm⁻¹, attributed to IgG antibodies, could be used as a “diagnostic frequency” for COVID-19 infection. The increased intensity of the band of vC-O-C sugar moieties suggests an increased number of OH chemical groups that enhance the binding sites of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein for entering host cells. The changes were more pronounced in patients medicated with thiazolidinediones than those using insulin and metformin. Both FTIR spectra and the developed mathematical model confirmed that patients using thiazolidinediones showed a higher risk of COVID-19 infection and mortality. The data support the hypothesis that the NH chemical groups of metformin molecules interact directly through the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, preventing the entry of COVID-19 into the host membrane cells. Indirectly, metformin inhibits the host binding sites for COVID-19 entry by lowering AGE production. Full article

This study developed sustainable biocomposites composed of polylactic acid (PLA) and surface-treated pineapple core powder (PACP), fabricated via extrusion and fused deposition modelling (FDM). PACP loadings of 1–3 vol% were combined after chemical modification with NaOH and silane to improve interfacial bonding. Particle morphology showed increased porosity and surface roughness following treatment. The melt flow index (MFI) increased from 31.56 to 35.59 g/10 min at 2 vol% PACP, showing improved flowability. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) showed the emergence of cold crystallization (T_cc ~121 °C) and an increase in crystallinity from 35.7% (neat PLA) to 47.3% (2 vol% PACP). Thermogravimetric analysis showed only slight decreases in T₅ and T_max, showing the thermal stability. The mechanical testing of extruded filaments showed increased modulus (1463 to 1518 MPa) but a decrease in tensile strength and elongation. For the 3D-printed samples, elongation at break increased slightly at 1–2 vol% PACP, likely because of the improvement in interlayer fusion. Though, at 3 vol% PACP, the mechanical properties declined, consistent with filler agglomeration observed in SEM. Overall, 2 vol% PACP offered the optimal balance between printability, crystallinity, and mechanical performance. These results reveal the possibility of PACP as a value-added biowaste filler for eco-friendly PLA composites suitable for extrusion and 3D printing applications. Full article

Background: Nedaplatin is a platinum-based anticancer drug that combines the benefits of Cisplatin and Carboplatin, retaining Cisplatin’s anticancer activity while reducing toxicity similar to Carboplatin. After hydrolysis, Nedaplatin targets purines in DNA and forms cross-links that induce cell death via apoptosis. However, it is important to consider how the presence of other chemical compounds with structural similarities to Adenine or Guanine, such as aromatic, purine, or pyrimidine compounds containing a nitrogen atom with a free electron pair, might influence its activity at the cellular level. Alkaloids with structures similar to DNA nucleobases are common, and their influence on Nedaplatin’s activity requires investigation. Methods: In this study, the interactions between Nedaplatin (including its hydrolyzed forms, such as [Pt(NH₃)₂(H₂O)₂]²⁺ and [Pt(NH₃)₂(H₂O)(OH)]⁺) and nucleobases (Adenine and Guanine) and purine alkaloids (Caffeine, Theobromine and Theophylline) were thoroughly investigated using theoretical (density functional theory, DFT) and experimental (UV-Vis spectroscopy) methods. DFT calculations were performed at the B3LYP/6-31G(d,p)/LANL2DZ and MN15/def2-TZVP levels, with structure optimization and harmonic analysis in the gas phase and aqueous solution (modeled using IEF-PCM). UV-Vis spectroscopy was used to verify theoretical findings by examining changes in absorption spectra. Results: Both theoretical and experimental studies confirmed that Nedaplatin forms complexes with both nucleobases and purine alkaloids. Nedaplatin was found to exhibit a higher affinity for nucleobases than for purine alkaloids. Furthermore, this affinity was dependent on the computational method used and on the hydrolyzed form of Nedaplatin. Theoretical calculations showed the formation of stable complexes through bonding with nitrogen atoms in the ligand molecules, which was confirmed by changes in UV-Vis spectra, indicating adduct formation. Conclusions: The results indicate that Nedaplatin readily forms complexes with both nucleobases and purine alkaloids, showing a stronger affinity for nucleobases. This finding highlights the potential importance of Nedaplatin’s interactions with other compounds present in the body, which may influence its effectiveness and mechanism of action in cancer therapy. These studies provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms of Nedaplatin’s action and may contribute to a better understanding of its pharmacological interactions. However, research requires confirmation not only in in vivo studies but also in clinical trials. Full article

The role of vitamin D in reducing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk remains debated despite growing evidence. Prospective observational studies consistently show that low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations (below 40–50 nmol/L [16–20 ng/mL]) are associated with the highest risk of CVD incidence. In addition, a large prospective observational study found that serum 25(OH)D concentration was inversely correlated with CVD mortality rate to over 100 nmol/L. Randomized controlled trials have not generally demonstrated benefit due to faulty study designs, such as enrolling participants with baseline 25(OH)D levels > 50 nmol/L. However, a major trial found that 60,000 IU/month of vitamin D₃ supplementation reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events for participants with predicted 25(OH)D concentrations ≥ 50 nmol/L or taking statins or CV drugs by ~13 to ~17%. In addition, vitamin D supplementation studies have found modest reductions in several CVD risk factors. Other observational studies of vitamin D supplementation have reported reduced CVD risks (e.g., ischemic heart disease, hypertension, and myocardial infarction). Temporal ecological studies further support this relationship, revealing that CVD incidence rates are lowest in summer and CVD mortality rates are significantly higher in late winter—when 25(OH)D concentrations are lowest—compared to late summer. A previously reported analysis using eight of Hill’s criteria for causality in a biological system further strengthens the biological plausibility of vitamin D’s role in CVD risk reduction. Its role in modulating inflammation and oxidative stress, improving endothelial function, and reducing several cardiometabolic risk factors supports its inclusion as part of a comprehensive, multi-modal approach to cardiovascular health. Therefore, vitamin D should be considered an integral component in the prevention and management of CVD. Preferably, it should be used in combination with other nutritional supplements, a heart-healthy diet, and prescription medications to reduce the risk of CVD incidence. People should consider vitamin D₃ supplementation with at least 2000 IU/day (50 mcg/day) (more for those who are obese) when sun exposure is insufficient to maintain serum 25(OH)D concentrations above 75 nmol/L. To reduce CVD mortality rates, higher doses to achieve higher 25(OH)D concentrations might be warranted. Full article

Background/Objectives: Infertility in both men and women can be significantly influenced by oxidative stress (OS), which occurs due to an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body’s antioxidant defenses. In women, OS disrupts oocyte maturation, implantation, and the viability of the embryo; in men, it impairs sperm quality, reduces motility, and damages DNA integrity. This review explores existing research on how dietary and lifestyle interventions can reduce OS and enhance reproductive health outcomes. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive review of clinical, translational, and molecular studies exploring the mechanisms by which OS affects fertility, as well as the efficacy of nutritional and behavioral strategies. The interventions evaluated include weight management, regular exercise, micronutrient supplementation, antioxidant-rich diets, smoking and alcohol cessation, and stress-reduction techniques. Results: Specific dietary components such as zinc, selenium, vitamins C and E, and polyphenols have been found to neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) and enhance gamete function. OS is additionally reduced through lifestyle modifications, including minimizing harmful exposures, managing stress, and participating in moderate physical activity. Biomarkers such as ROS levels, total antioxidant capacity, 8-OHdG, and DNA fragmentation index are essential for assessing the effectiveness of interventions. Conclusions: Fertility in both sexes can be improved, and oxidative stress significantly reduced, through a multimodal approach incorporating dietary and lifestyle changes. There are encouraging opportunities to improve reproductive health through customized approaches that are informed by biomarker profiles. To incorporate these treatments into regular fertility care, future studies should concentrate on standardized procedures and long-term results. Full article

Backgrounds: Approximately 18 million individuals were diagnosed with cancer in 2018. The rate is predicted to exceed 22 million by 2030. Radiotherapy is an essential part of cancer therapy, with well documented local and systemic side effects, including oxidative stress and apoptosis. Kidney tissues are also exposed to the deleterious effects of radiotherapy, resulting in acute or chronic kidney function impairment. This study compared the effects of the potent selective α2-adrenoreceptor agonist dexmedetomidine and amifostine on oxidative stress and apoptosis in kidney damage induced by x-irradiation in rats. Methods: Forty Sprague Dawley rats were assigned into five groups: control, x-irradiation, x-irradiation + amifostine, x-irradiation + dexmedetomidine 100 µg/kg, and X-ray irradiation + dexmedetomidine 200 µg/kg. Results: Necrotic tubules and degenerative Bowman’s capsules were present in the x-irradiation group. An increase was determined in malondialdehyde (MDA), Cleaved Caspase-3, and 8-OHdG levels compared to the control group (p ≤ 0.05). In contrast, there was a decrease in necrotic tubules, degenerative Bowman’s capsules, and the levels of MDA, Cleaved Caspase-3, and 8-OHdG in the amifostine and dexmedetomidine 100 µg/kg and 200 µg/kg treatment groups (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusions: Alpha 2 adrenergic receptor agonists exhibit protective effects against kidney injury induced in association with x-irradiation by reducing oxidative stress and apoptosis. Full article