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International Journal of Molecular... Apr 2024A novel photocatalytic nanomaterial, HoYSbO, was successfully synthesized for the first time using the solvothermal synthesis technique. In addition, a HoYSbO/BiMoO...
The Fabrication and Property Characterization of a HoYSbO/BiMoO Heterojunction Photocatalyst and the Application of the Photodegradation of Diuron under Visible Light Irradiation.
A novel photocatalytic nanomaterial, HoYSbO, was successfully synthesized for the first time using the solvothermal synthesis technique. In addition, a HoYSbO/BiMoO heterojunction photocatalyst (HBHP) was prepared via the hydrothermal fabrication technique. Extensive characterizations of the synthesized samples were conducted using various instruments, such as an X-ray diffractometer, a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, a Raman spectrometer, a UV-visible spectrophotometer, an X-ray photoelectron spectrometer, and a transmission electron microscope, as well as X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectroscopy, a photocurrent test, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy, and electron paramagnetic resonance. The photocatalytic activity of the HBHP was evaluated for the degradation of diuron (DRN) and the mineralization of total organic carbon (TOC) under visible light exposure for 152 min. Remarkable removal efficiencies were achieved, with 99.78% for DRN and 97.19% for TOC. Comparative analysis demonstrated that the HBHP exhibited markedly higher removal efficiencies for DRN compared to HoYSbO, BiMoO, or N-doped TiO photocatalyst, with removal efficiencies 1.13 times, 1.21 times, or 2.95 times higher, respectively. Similarly, the HBHP demonstrated significantly higher removal efficiencies for TOC compared to HoYSbO, BiMoO, or N-doped TiO photocatalyst, with removal efficiencies 1.17 times, 1.25 times, or 3.39 times higher, respectively. Furthermore, the HBHP demonstrated excellent stability and reusability. The mechanisms which could enhance the photocatalytic activity remarkably and the involvement of the major active species were comprehensively discussed, with superoxide radicals identified as the primary active species, followed by hydroxyl radicals and holes. The results of this study contribute to the advancement of efficient heterostructural materials and offer valuable insights into the development of sustainable remediation strategies for addressing DRN contamination.
Topics: Bismuth; Light; Catalysis; Photolysis; Molybdenum; Diuron; Water Pollutants, Chemical
PubMed: 38674003
DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084418 -
International Journal of Molecular... Apr 2024This work is devoted to magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles (NPs) for their use as additives for bone implants. Extracts from four different widely used plants,...
This work is devoted to magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles (NPs) for their use as additives for bone implants. Extracts from four different widely used plants, including , , , and , were evaluated for their ability to facilitate the "green synthesis" of MgO nanoparticles. The thermal stability and decomposition behavior of the MgONPs were analyzed by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Structure characterization was performed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and Raman scattering spectroscopy (RS). Morphology was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The photocatalytic activity of MgO nanoparticles was investigated based on the degradation of methyl orange (MeO) using UV-Vis spectroscopy. Surface-enhanced Raman scattering spectroscopy (SERS) was used to monitor the adsorption of L-phenylalanine (L-Phe) on the surface of MgONPs. The calculated enhancement factor (EF) is up to 10 orders of magnitude for MgO. This is the first work showing the SERS spectra of a chemical compound immobilized on the surface of MgO nanoparticles.
Topics: Magnesium Oxide; Green Chemistry Technology; Spectrum Analysis, Raman; Bone Regeneration; Plant Extracts; Nanoparticles; Metal Nanoparticles; X-Ray Diffraction
PubMed: 38673825
DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084242 -
International Journal of Environmental... Apr 2024In this study, we investigated the impact of quarrying as an environmental ethical crisis. The need for the study arose when we realised the deteriorating effect of the...
In this study, we investigated the impact of quarrying as an environmental ethical crisis. The need for the study arose when we realised the deteriorating effect of the quality of life in our community, which is located next to a limestone quarry. To obtain a deeper understanding of the adverse impact on the environment and the quality of life of the people living in the community around the quarry, we explored the workers from the community, and the members of the community-based organisation's (CBO) experiences. We employed a qualitative method research approach, using a single case study design. We adopted a utilitarian perspective and Pinchot's conservation as ethical systems that determine morality based on the greatest good for the greatest number. Both provide a framework for analysing environmental problems and ethical crises associated with limestone quarrying. We generated data using face-to-face interviews and focus group discussions. We present and discuss data through the following themes: analysis of the social and cultural impacts on local communities and indigenous people, assessment of the ecological consequences on biodiversity and habitat destruction, and examination of the effects on water resources, air quality, and soil erosion. The results show that the negative effects of the quarry on the environment have always worried the local people. The company's disrespect for the community and ignorance of the laws governing quarry activities is the root of the ethical dilemma. The detrimental effects that the operations have on human health and safety as well as the environment is the other ethical dilemma, which includes, land degradation, vibrations, air, and water pollution.
Topics: Humans; Mining; Calcium Carbonate; Rural Population; Quality of Life; Male; Female; Environment
PubMed: 38673369
DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21040458 -
Life Sciences in Space Research May 2024Astronauts are exposed to severely stressful physiological conditions due to microgravity and increased space radiation. Space environment affects every organ and cell...
Amorphous calcium carbonate enhances osteogenic differentiation and myotube formation of human bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells and primary skeletal muscle cells under microgravity conditions.
Astronauts are exposed to severely stressful physiological conditions due to microgravity and increased space radiation. Space environment affects every organ and cell in the body and the significant adverse effects of long-term weightlessness include muscle atrophy and deterioration of the skeleton (spaceflight osteopenia). Amorphous Calcium Carbonate (ACC) emerges as a promising candidate for prevention of these effects, owing to its unique physicochemical properties and its potential to address the intricately linked nature of bone-muscle crosstalk. Reported here are two studies carried out on the International Space Station (ISS). The first, performed in 2018 as a part of the Ramon-Spacelab project, was a preliminary experiment, in which stromal murine cells were differentiated into osteoblasts when ACC was added to the culture medium. A parallel experiment was done on Earth as a control. The second study was part of Axiom-1's Rakia project mission launched to the ISS on 2022 utilizing organ-on-a-chip methodology with a specially designed autonomous module. In this experiment, human bone-marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBM-MSCs) and human primary muscle cells were cultured in the presence or absence of ACC, in duplicates. The results showed that ACC enhanced differentiation of human primary skeletal muscle cells into myotubes. Similarly, hBM-MSCs were differentiated significantly better into osteocytes in the presence of ACC leading to increased calcium deposits. The results, combined with previous data, support the use of ACC as an advantageous supplement for preventing muscle and bone deterioration in outer space conditions, facilitating extended extraterrestrial voyages and colonization.
Topics: Humans; Mesenchymal Stem Cells; Cell Differentiation; Weightlessness; Osteogenesis; Muscle Fibers, Skeletal; Calcium Carbonate; Cells, Cultured; Space Flight; Mice
PubMed: 38670641
DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2024.02.007 -
Scientific Reports Apr 2024An essential research area for scientists is the development of high-performing, inexpensive, non-toxic antibacterial materials that prevent the transfer of bacteria. In...
An essential research area for scientists is the development of high-performing, inexpensive, non-toxic antibacterial materials that prevent the transfer of bacteria. In this study, pure BiWO and BiWO/MWCNTs nanocomposite were prepared by hydrothermal method. A series of characterization results by using XRD FTIR, Raman, FESEM, TEM, and EDS analyses, reveal the formation of orthorhombic nanoflakes BiWO by the addition of NaOH and pH adjustment to 7. Compared to pure BiWO, the BiWO/MWCNTs nanocomposite exhibited that CNTs are efficiently embedded into the structure of BiWO which results in charge transfer between metal ion electrons and the conduction or valence band of BiWO and MWCNTs and result in shifting to longer wavelength as shown in UV-visible and PL. The results confirmed that MWCNTs are stuck to the surface of the microflowers, and some of them embedded inside the BiWO nanoflakes without affecting the structure of BiWO nanoflakes as demonstrated by TEM. In addition, Pure BiWO and the BiWO/MWCNTs nanocomposite were tested against P. mirabilis and S. mutans., confirming the effect of addition MWCNTs materials had better antibacterial activity in opposition to both bacterial strains than pure BiWO. Besides, pure BiWO and the BiWO/MWCNTs nanocomposite tested for cytotoxicity against lung MTT test on Hep-G2 liver cancer cells, and flow-cytometry. Results indicated that pure BiWO and the BiWO/MWCNTs nanocomposite have significant anti-cancer efficacy against Hep-G2 cells in vitro. In addition, the findings demonstrated that BiWO and BiWO/MWCNTs triggered cell death via increasing ROS. Based on these findings, it appears that pure BiWO and the BiWO/MWCNTs nanocomposite have the potential to be developed as nanotherapeutics for the treatment of bacterial infections, and liver cancer.
Topics: Nanocomposites; Anti-Bacterial Agents; Humans; Antineoplastic Agents; Bismuth; Tungsten Compounds; Nanotubes, Carbon; Microbial Sensitivity Tests; Cell Survival; Hep G2 Cells
PubMed: 38664493
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-58751-y -
Marine Biotechnology (New York, N.Y.) Jun 2024Many organisms incorporate inorganic solids into their tissues to improve functional and mechanical properties. The resulting mineralized tissues are called biominerals....
Many organisms incorporate inorganic solids into their tissues to improve functional and mechanical properties. The resulting mineralized tissues are called biominerals. Several studies have shown that nacreous biominerals induce osteoblastic extracellular mineralization. Among them, Pinctada margaritifera is well known for the ability of its organic matrix to stimulate bone cells. In this context, we aimed to study the effects of shell extracts from three other Pinctada species (Pinctada radiata, Pinctada maxima, and Pinctada fucata) on osteoblastic extracellular matrix mineralization, by using an in vitro model of mouse osteoblastic precursor cells (MC3T3-E1). For a better understanding of the Pinctada-bone mineralization relationship, we evaluated the effects of 4 other nacreous mollusks that are phylogenetically distant and distinct from the Pinctada genus. In addition, we tested 12 non-nacreous mollusks and one extra-group. Biomineral shell powders were prepared, and their organic matrix was partially extracted using ethanol. Firstly, the effect of these powders and extracts was assessed on the viability of MC3T3-E1. Our results indicated that neither the powder nor the ethanol-soluble matrix (ESM) affected cell viability at low concentrations. Then, we evaluated osteoblastic mineralization using Alizarin Red staining and we found a prominent MC3T3-E1 mineralization mainly induced by nacreous biominerals, especially those belonging to the Pinctada genus. However, few non-nacreous biominerals were also able to stimulate the extracellular mineralization. Overall, our findings validate the remarkable ability of CaCO biomineral extracts to promote bone mineralization. Nevertheless, further in vitro and in vivo studies are needed to uncover the mechanisms of action of biominerals in bone.
Topics: Animals; Mice; Osteoblasts; Pinctada; Calcium Carbonate; Calcification, Physiologic; Animal Shells; Cell Survival; Cell Line; Extracellular Matrix; Nacre; Biomineralization
PubMed: 38652191
DOI: 10.1007/s10126-024-10316-w -
Frontiers in Immunology 2024Malaria remains a global health challenge, necessitating the development of effective vaccines. The RTS,S vaccination prevents (Pf) malaria but is ineffective against...
Malaria remains a global health challenge, necessitating the development of effective vaccines. The RTS,S vaccination prevents (Pf) malaria but is ineffective against (Pv) disease. Herein, we evaluated the murine immunogenicity of a recombinant PvCSP incorporating prevalent polymorphisms, adjuvanted with Alhydrogel or Poly I:C. Both formulations induced prolonged IgG responses, with IgG1 dominance by the Alhydrogel group and high titers of all IgG isotypes by the Poly I:C counterpart. Poly I:C-adjuvanted vaccination increased splenic plasma cells, terminally-differentiated memory cells (MBCs), and precursors relative to the Alhydrogel-combined immunization. Splenic B-cells from Poly I:C-vaccinated mice revealed an antibody-secreting cell- and MBC-differentiating gene expression profile. Biological processes such as antibody folding and secretion were highlighted by the Poly I:C-adjuvanted vaccination. These findings underscore the potential of Poly I:C to strengthen immune responses against Pv malaria.
Topics: Animals; Malaria Vaccines; Protozoan Proteins; Mice; Plasmodium vivax; Antibodies, Protozoan; Poly I-C; Malaria, Vivax; Aluminum Hydroxide; Immunoglobulin G; Female; Adjuvants, Immunologic; Immunity, Humoral; Immunity, Cellular; Mice, Inbred BALB C
PubMed: 38650939
DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1331474 -
BMC Medicine Apr 2024The stalling global progress in malaria control highlights the need for novel tools for malaria elimination, including transmission-blocking vaccines.... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
BACKGROUND
The stalling global progress in malaria control highlights the need for novel tools for malaria elimination, including transmission-blocking vaccines. Transmission-blocking vaccines aim to induce human antibodies that block parasite development in the mosquito and mosquitoes becoming infectious. The Pfs48/45 protein is a leading Plasmodium falciparum transmission-blocking vaccine candidate. The R0.6C fusion protein, consisting of Pfs48/45 domain 3 (6C) and the N-terminal region of P. falciparum glutamate-rich protein (R0), has previously been produced in Lactococcus lactis and elicited functional antibodies in rodents. Here, we assess the safety and transmission-reducing efficacy of R0.6C adsorbed to aluminium hydroxide with and without Matrix-M™ adjuvant in humans.
METHODS
In this first-in-human, open-label clinical trial, malaria-naïve adults, aged 18-55 years, were recruited at the Radboudumc in Nijmegen, the Netherlands. Participants received four intramuscular vaccinations on days 0, 28, 56 and 168 with either 30 µg or 100 µg of R0.6C and were randomised for the allocation of one of the two different adjuvant combinations: aluminium hydroxide alone, or aluminium hydroxide combined with Matrix-M1™ adjuvant. Adverse events were recorded from inclusion until 84 days after the fourth vaccination. Anti-R0.6C and anti-6C IgG titres were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Transmission-reducing activity of participants' serum and purified vaccine-specific immunoglobulin G was assessed by standard membrane feeding assays using laboratory-reared Anopheles stephensi mosquitoes and cultured P. falciparum gametocytes.
RESULTS
Thirty-one participants completed four vaccinations and were included in the analysis. Administration of all doses was safe and well-tolerated, with one related grade 3 adverse event (transient fever) and no serious adverse events occurring. Anti-R0.6C and anti-6C IgG titres were similar between the 30 and 100 µg R0.6C arms, but higher in Matrix-M1™ arms. Neat participant sera did not induce significant transmission-reducing activity in mosquito feeding experiments, but concentrated vaccine-specific IgGs purified from sera collected two weeks after the fourth vaccination achieved up to 99% transmission-reducing activity.
CONCLUSIONS
R0.6C/aluminium hydroxide with or without Matrix-M1™ is safe, immunogenic and induces functional Pfs48/45-specific transmission-blocking antibodies, albeit at insufficient serum concentrations to result in transmission reduction by neat serum. Future work should focus on identifying alternative vaccine formulations or regimens that enhance functional antibody responses.
TRIAL REGISTRATION
The trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov under identifier NCT04862416.
Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Animals; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Young Adult; Adjuvants, Immunologic; Aluminum Hydroxide; Antibodies, Protozoan; Malaria Vaccines; Malaria, Falciparum; Membrane Glycoproteins; Netherlands; Plasmodium falciparum; Protozoan Proteins
PubMed: 38649867
DOI: 10.1186/s12916-024-03379-y -
Scientific Reports Apr 2024Potassium-competitive acid blockers (P-CABs) provide potent acid inhibition, yet studies on P-CAB-based quadruple therapy for H. pylori eradication are limited. We... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
Fourteen-day vonoprazan-based bismuth quadruple therapy for H. pylori eradication in an area with high clarithromycin and levofloxacin resistance: a prospective randomized study (VQ-HP trial).
Potassium-competitive acid blockers (P-CABs) provide potent acid inhibition, yet studies on P-CAB-based quadruple therapy for H. pylori eradication are limited. We theorized that integrating bismuth subsalicylate into a quadruple therapy regimen could enhance eradication rates. However, data on the efficacy of vonoprazan bismuth quadruple therapy are notably scarce. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of vonoprazan-based bismuth quadruple therapy in areas with high clarithromycin and levofloxacin resistance. This was a prospective, single-center, randomized trial conducted to compare the efficacy of 7-day and 14-day vonoprazan-based bismuth quadruple therapy for H. pylori eradication between June 1, 2021, and March 31, 2022. Qualified patients were randomly assigned to the 7-day or 14-day regimen (1:1 ratio by computer-generated randomized list as follows: 51 patients for the 7-day regimen and 50 patients for the 14-day regimen). The regimens consisted of vonoprazan (20 mg) twice daily, bismuth subsalicylate (1024 mg) twice daily, metronidazole (400 mg) three times daily, and tetracycline (500 mg) four times daily. CYP3A4/5 genotyping and antibiotic susceptibility tests were also performed. Successful eradication was defined as negative C-UBTs 4 weeks after treatment. The primary endpoint was to compare the efficacy of 7-day and 14-day regimens as first-line treatments, which were assessed by intention-to-treat (ITT) and per-protocol (PP) analyses. The secondary endpoints included adverse effects. A total of 337 dyspeptic patients who underwent gastroscopy were included; 105 patients (31.1%) were diagnosed with H. pylori infection, and 101 patients were randomly assigned to each regimen. No dropouts were detected. The antibiotic resistance rate was 33.3% for clarithromycin, 29.4% for metronidazole, and 27.7% for levofloxacin. The CYP3A4 genotype was associated with 100% rapid metabolism. The H. pylori eradication rates for the 7-day and 14-day regimens were 84.4%, 95% CI 74.3-94.2 and 94%, 95% CI 87.4-100, respectively (RR difference 0.25, 95% CI 0.03-0.53, p value = 0.11). Interestingly, the 14-day regimen led to 100% eradication in the clarithromycin-resistant group. Among the patients in the 7-day regimen group, only two exhibited resistance to clarithromycin; unfortunately, neither of them achieved a cure from H. pylori infection. The incidence of adverse events was similar in both treatment groups, occurring in 29.4% (15/51) and 28% (14/50) of patients in the 7-day and 14-day regimens, respectively. No serious adverse reactions were reported. In conclusion, 14 days of vonoprazan-based bismuth quadruple therapy is highly effective for H. pylori eradication in areas with high levels of dual clarithromycin and levofloxacin resistance.
Topics: Humans; Anti-Bacterial Agents; Bismuth; Clarithromycin; Cytochrome P-450 CYP3A; Drug Therapy, Combination; Helicobacter Infections; Helicobacter pylori; Levofloxacin; Metronidazole; Organometallic Compounds; Prospective Studies; Pyrroles; Salicylates; Sulfonamides; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 38637591
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-59621-3 -
Open Veterinary Journal Jan 2024Nanoparticles are regarded as magical bullets because of their exclusive features. Recently, the usage of nanoparticles has progressed in almost all aspects of science...
BACKGROUND
Nanoparticles are regarded as magical bullets because of their exclusive features. Recently, the usage of nanoparticles has progressed in almost all aspects of science and technology due to its ability to revolutionize certain fields. In the field of food science and technology, the application of nanoparticles is being researched in many various areas thus provides the dairy industry with a variety of new attitudes for developing the quality, prolong shelf life, ensure the safety and healthiness of foods.
AIM
This study aimed to focus on the application of some inorganic metal oxide nanoparticles (zinc oxide (ZnO), magnesium oxide (MgO), and calcium oxide (CaO)) to control in raw milk and ensure its safety.
METHODS
The antibacterial action of certain nanoparticles (ZnO, MgO, and CaO) with multiple concentrations (0.1, 0.05, 0.025, 0.0125, 0.006, and 0.003 mg/ml) was evaluated against strains in ultra heat treated (UHT) milk samples. Also, storage temperature and storage period effects were studied.
RESULTS
The findings of the current research revealed that inorganic metal oxide nanoparticles had a significant antibacterial role against , in the following order; ZnO, MgO, and CaO, respectively. The antibacterial effect of inorganic metal oxide nanoparticles is more noticeable at lower temperatures.
CONCLUSION
Inorganic metal nanoparticles can be used in the food industry for the purpose of the control of and extension of the shelf life of dairy products
Topics: Animals; Escherichia coli; Zinc Oxide; Magnesium Oxide; Milk; Oxides; Metal Nanoparticles; Anti-Bacterial Agents; Calcium Compounds
PubMed: 38633155
DOI: 10.5455/OVJ.2024.v14.i1.49