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IntroductionThe process of forming selenium nanoparticles with various shapes and structures through laser ablation and fragmentation in various solvents has been explored.MethodsLaser ablation and laser fragmentation techniques were employed using nanosecond Nd:YAG second harmonic laser irradiation in 9 different working fluids, including water. The characteristics of the resulting nanoparticles were assessed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) methods.ResultsLaser ablation and subsequent laser fragmentation of some organic solvents, such as ethanol, propanol-2, isobutanol, polyethylene glycol, and diethanolamine, have been found to produce trigonal selenium in the form of elongated nanorods approximately 1 μm long and 200 nm thick, with a well-defined crystal structure. In contrast, the use of deionized water, acetone, glycerol, and benzene as solvents results in the formation of spherical amorphous nanoparticles approximately 100 nm in diameter.DiscussionThe polarity of the solvent molecules has been shown to influence the growth of crystalline selenium nanorods in solution during laser ablation and laser fragmentation. Generally, polar solvents hinder the growth of crystalline nanorods, due to interactions between selenium and solvent molecules. Nonpolar solvents, on the other hand, allow for laser fragmentation to reduce particle size and initiate the epitaxial growth of elongated, crystalline selenium nanorods.

Background: Over the past few decades, nanoparticles have been widely employed to limit the growth of cancer both in vivo and in vitro, as well as many dangerous bacteria, fungi, and viruses. In traditional medicine, a marine plant called Rhizophora mucronata is frequently used to treat skin conditions, inflammation, and diabetes. Objective: Evaluate the efficacy of selenium nanoparticles synthesized using mangrove plant extracts in combating oral pathogens and assess their potential for additional biological properties towards the development of novel therapeutic interventions for oral infections and related conditions. Methods: In the current study, R. mucronata was utilized to create selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) in an environmentally friendly manner. The elements of the material were identified using EDX spectroscopy, its shape was examined using SEM, and its surface Plasmon resonance was measured using UV–Vis spectroscopy. Moreover, FT-IR was used to identify the SeNPs' functional groups. Results: The produced nanoparticles ranged in size from 20 to 60 nm and had a spherical form. Later analyses concentrated on the ability of the synthesized nanoparticles to combat common oral pathogens that cause dental cavities and other oral diseases. The marine plant-derived SeNPs showed notable zones of inhibition in addition to lethal actions against these oral infections. These nanoparticles also demonstrated anti-inflammatory and potentially effective DPPH radical scavenging qualities. Conclusion: Based on the above reported results, it can be concluded that SeNPs generated by R. mucronata have significant potential for a variety of pharmacological and medical uses.

Abstract Toxic heavy metal lead enters in the environment due to industrial and anthropogenic activity threatens ecosystems and public health. Natural garlic extract (GE) exhibits antioxidant properties and various applications against several ailments. Therefore, this study scrutinized the protective effects of tocopherol polyethylene glycol succinate-coated garlic selenium (TPGS-GSNP) against lead acetate (LA) toxicity in rabbits. Sixty-four mature male rabbits were involved and divided into 8 equal groups. They received distilled water (negative control; T1), 30 mg/kg bw of LA (positive control; T2), 800 mg/kg bw of GE (T3), GE + LA (T4), 1 mg/kg bw of TPGS-Selenium (T5), TPGS-S + LA (T6), 1 mg/kg bw of TPGS-GSNP (T7), and TPGS-GSNP + LA (T8). Consequently, treatments were administered three times a week for 12 weeks. Following the treatment period, serum oxidant-antioxidant, protein, and lipid profiles, liver and kidney function, histopathological findings of the adrenal, liver, and kidneys, femur bone marrow chromosomal aberrations, and mitotic activity were collected and analysed. LA exposure showed significant reductions in antioxidant levels, organ weights, and mitotic activity while increasing oxidative stress, corticosteroid levels, and chromosomal aberrations. Importantly, TPGS-GSNP administration significantly improved these markers compared to the LA group. In addition, histological analysis revealed structural improvements of the studied organs in the TPGS-GSNP group compared to the LA group, which displayed high cellular necrotic and degenerative changes. In conclusion, synthetic TPGS-GSNP demonstrated higher protective efficacy against LA-induced toxicity compared to natural GE or selenium alone. However, more future studies could be conducted to explore the potential of TPGS-GSNP as an anticancer or immunomodulatory agent.

Background: Besides immunoglobulins which are essential for the calf to prevent Failure of Transfer of Passive Immunity (FTPI) colostrum contains multiple other constituents such microminerals, macrominerals and metals. The concentration of the minerals seems to be higher in colostrum than in normal milk. The aims of this study were to describe macromineral, micromineral and metal concentration of bovine colostrum samples from Salzburg, Austria and to see if there are differences in the concentrations between different cow feeding strategies and farm locations. Methods: Therefore, 1050 individual colostrum samples were collected from 72 dairy farms from different districts of Salzburg. All colostrum samples were analysed for macromineral (K, Mg, Na), micromineral (Co, Cu, Fe, I, Mg, Se, Zn) andmetal (As, Ba, Cd, Li, Mo, Ni, Pb, Sr, Tl, U) concentrations by inductive coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Results: The mean K, Mg and Na levels were 1218.71 mg l-1, 245.44 mg l-1 and 358.62 mg l-1, respectively. The micromineral concentrations of I, Se, Co and Zn were significantly higher in colostrum from dairy cows feeding a Total-Mixed-Ration during the lactation period in comparison to cows receiving microminerals by hand feeding, transponder feeding or via a licking bucket or licking stone. The metal analysis showed that in three farms, most of the colostrum samples showed Pb levels above the limit of 5 µg l-1. Implications: Herd-level factors need to be addressed to elevate micromineral concentrations and to reduce metal concentrations in colostrum from dairy cows from Salzburg, Austria. Conclusion: The results show that the macrominerals K, Mg and Na are within the range of published concentrations. For the microminerals, Co, Cu, Fe, I, Mg, Se and Zn the concentrations were significantly different depending on the mineral feeding strategies during the lactation and dry period. Metal concentrations of As, Ba, Cd, Li, Mo, Ni, Pb, Sr, Tl and U differed between the districts of Salzburg.

Background: Dietary selenium (Se) has been shown to influence immunity in both humans and rats. It exerts its health effects via incorporation into selenoproteins involved in both innate and adaptive immunity. It is also involved in the synthesis and activity of the antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase. This study sought to investigate the effect of Se biofortified scent leaves (Ocimum gratissimum L.) on selected immunomodulatory and inflammatory markers in wistar rats. Methodology: Scent leaf plant was cultivated on Se fortified (0–0.1 %) soil. Upon maturity, the leaves were harvested and the Se and phenolic contents, as well as in vitro antioxidant properties were determined. Subsequently, dietary inclusions of the Se biofortified scent leaves were fed to rats. The experimental rats consist of control group fed basal diet, rats fed 2.5 % and 5.0 % dietary inclusions of unfortified scent leaves and rats fed 2.5 % and 5.0 % dietary inclusions of 0.05 % Se-fortified scent leaves. This was carried out for 30 days, after which selected immunomodulatory and inflammatory markers, as well as glutathione peroxidase activity (GPx) were quantified in the serum. Results: The vegetables bioaccumulated Se in the leaves up to 0.93 ± 0.05 mg/100 g d.w. The Se biofortified scent leaves exhibited significantly higher in vitro antioxidant properties, total phenol and flavonoid contents quantitatively and qualitatively. In experimental rats, it was observed that the 0.05 % Se biofortified scent leaves based-diets significantly increased the levels of the anti- inflammatory cytokines (IL-4 and IL-10). Furthermore, there were significant increase in serum Immunoglobulins G and M in rats fed dietary inclusions of the Se biofortified leaves. Conclusion: The study suggests that Se biofortification at optimum level of 0.05 % increased phenolic content in scent leaf and improved rat´s anti-inflammatory and antibodies, hence making the vegetables candidate functional food with potential anti-inflammatory and immune boosting properties.

Background: Keshan disease (KD) is a fatal dilated cardiomyopathy that is mainly endemic through northeast to southwest China's low-selenium belt. KD may result in adverse outcomes such as heart enlargement, heart failure, and cardiogenetic death. Results: The nutritional biogeochemical etiology theory has been acknowledged as one of the primary etiology hypotheses for KD, primarily suggesting that selenium deficiency and coxsackie virus infection are the main causes of KD. The element selenium, which has antioxidant and immune-enhancing effects, is a component of selenoprotein. The prevention and treatment of KD are impacted by selenium supplementation. The pathogenesis of KD is associated with related genetic polymorphisms and gene mutations, such as SEPHS2, SCN5A, GPX-1, and ALAD. Conclusion: The pathogenic mechanism has not yet been completely explored. ALAD gene may be a causative locus for KD, and selenium supplementation reversed the pathological process of KD.

Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element for humans. The Ankang tea plantation area in China is the best place for producing high-quality and Se-enriched organic tea. However, accumulation of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in soil and tea leaves has attracted a lot of attention. Therefore, in this research, the content status of Se and five PTEs (As, Cd, Cr, Hg, and Pb) in soil and tea leaf samples collected from 88 Ankang tea plantations was studied. Results showed that the average Se content was 0.17 mg kg−1 and the Se-enrichment rate was 25% for the 88 tea leaf samples, and As, Cd, Cr, Hg, and Pb contents in all tea leaf samples met the Chinese standard for pollution-free tea except for 11.2% excess Cr in only one sample. Cd concentrations in 56.82% soil samples exceeded the Chinese risk screening value for soil contamination of the agricultural land, and therefore the pollution degree of Cd is high in these soil samples. Moreover, the Hakanson potential ecological risk assessment of soil As, Cd, Cr, Hg, and Pb indicated that the Ankang tea plantation area was at a medium potential ecological risk level. These results will provide theoretical support for ecological risk management and safe production of Se-enriched tea in Ankang Se-enriched tea plantations.

Combining phytoextraction and biochar amendment was suggested as an alternative for selenium (Se) bioremediation in contaminated soils. The current study aimed to test the performance of activated biochar as an amendment for the phytoextraction of selenium-contaminated soil by Phleum sp. Results showed that Se immobilization in soil was enhanced by the addition of activated biochar owing to its improved physicochemical structure compared to pristine biochar. In parallel, activated biochar contributed to improving soil fertility by increasing pH and organic matter. The bioaccumulation factor (BAF) of Se in the absence of activated biochar and biochar amendment was 8.7, which suggests the suitability of the Phleum plant species as a Se secondary accumulator species to be further used in a Nordic context. Se plant uptake was positively correlated to Se level in soil, pH, redox potential, organic matter, cations (Ca, Mg, Na, K), metals (Al, Cr, Fe, Mn, Co, Pb) and anions (Cl, SO4). However, Se bioavailability for plant uptake was reduced due to Se immobilization in soil by activated biochar. Thus, activated biochar addition played an important role to support Se levels reduction in contaminated soil and consequently hinder phytoextraction performance by Phleum species. This combination of activated biochar and Phleum Se-accumulator plant was validated as an efficient solution for Se remediation in contaminated soil which could be applied at large scale under cold climates.

Karst regions are characterized by unique geological formations that pose challenges to soil fertility and plant nutrition. In this study, we investigated the distribution and interactions of selenium (Se) in soils of Zheng’an County, a representative karst region in subtropical China. The results showed that the Se enrichment in the soils of Zheng’an County was high, with total contents ranging from 0.49 to 3.87 mg/kg and an average of 1.22 mg/kg, making the area Se-rich. Despite the abundance of Se, the effective percentage of Se uptake by plants was relatively low due to the generally moderately acidic nature of the soils in the region (pH: 5.98–6.60), which encourages the conversion of the available Se into forms that are not readily accessible. In addition, the high organic matter (OM) content (21.92–127.66 g/kg) promoted Se retention by interacting with Ca2+ in carbonate rocks. In addition, the clay content (50.73% to 76.19%) enhanced Se adsorption and limited Se availability. In conclusion, this study provides a basis for soil management and ecological restoration strategies in karst landscapes, highlights new insights into the dynamics of Se, and calls for further research to elucidate the Se availability mechanism and improve the efficiency of Se uptake by plants. Meanwhile, this study provides the first systematic study of Se transport and transformation, as well as Se-enriched Gastrodia elata in karst regions, and provides a preliminary understanding of the geochemical behavior of Se in karst regions.

Due to its endogenously high oxygen consumption, the central nervous system (CNS) is vulnerable to oxidative stress conditions. Notably, the activity of several CNS-targeting compounds, such as antidepressant and hypnotic drugs, or endogenous mediators, such as melatonin, is indeed linked to their ability of mitigating oxidative stress. In this work, we report the synthesis of two organoselenium compounds of which the structure was inspired by CNS-targeting psychotropic drugs (zolpidem and fluoxetine) and an endogenous mediator (melatonin). The molecules were designed with the aim of combining the ROS-scavenging properties, which were already assessed for the parent compounds, with a secondary antioxidant action, a glutathione peroxidase (GPx) mimic role empowered by the presence of selenium. The compounds were obtained through a facile three-step synthesis and were predicted by computational tools to passively permeate through the blood–brain barrier and to efficiently bind to the GABA A receptor, the macromolecular target of zolpidem. Of note, the designed synthetic pathway enables the production of several other derivatives through minor modifications of the scheme, paving the way for structure–activity relationship studies.

Among the foods frequently consumed by consumers is meat. Among other things, it contains selenium, and the content depends on the amount of consumption of this element by animals, which requires monitoring as a metalloid. The purpose of this study was to: examine the impact of various types of heat processing used by consumers (water bath cooking WBC, oven convection roasting OCR, grilling G, pan frying PF) on the selenium content and its retention in goose breast meat (with and without skin) and estimate the coverage of this element’s daily requirement in adults after consuming 100 g of goose breast meat with skin or without skin. The material used in the study comprised 36 breast muscles cut from carcasses of 17-week-old White Koluda geese. The moisture, ash, and selenium were determined in both raw and thermally processed muscles. It has been concluded that various methods of heat processing significantly impact the cooking loss, moisture, ash and selenium content of meat, but not the selenium retention. The heat processing increased the selenium content of the muscle regardless of the presence of skin, which affects the possibility of covering adults’ Nutrient Reference Values-Requirements (NRV-R) for this element in the range of 33.3–44.8%. Goose breast meat can be a valuable component of a diversified diet. It is also a safe source of selenium. It is unlikely that adult consumers, even those who eat goose regularly, will exceed this element’s upper tolerable intake level. For selenium retention and NRV-R coverage, consumers would benefit most from goose breast meat with or without skin undergoing OCR or G treatment.

The application of deep eutectic solvents (DESs) as green solvents in analytical chemistry has attracted increasing attention. The present study presents a simple, eco-friendly, and cost-effective approach for the extraction of selenium (Se) in food samples. The extraction method utilised alcohol-based DES and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) to determine total Se. Factors affecting the extraction procedure were optimised using the design of experiments. Using the optimal conditions, the limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) and linearity of the developed method were 0.0011 µg Se/g, 0.0037 µg Se/g and 0.004–0.20 µg Se/g, respectively. The precision expressed as relative standard deviations (RSDs) was less than 10 %. The accuracy of the method was investigated using certified reference materials (IRMM 804 Rice Flour and NIST SRM 1567b wheat flour), and the results were in close agreement with the certified values (0.038 µg/g and 1.14 µg/g) with percentage recoveries ranging from 89.5 to 106 %. The interday ( %RSD) and Intraday ( %RSD) were 2.8–5.4 % and 4.3–5.9 %, respectively. The greenness of the method was assessed using NEMI, AES, and AGREE metrics tools. When comparing all these tools, they all qualified the proposed method as green.

An octahedral complex of Zn(II) with a ligand from a class of pyridine- based 1,3-selenazolyl-hydrazones was synthesized and characterized by IR and NMR spectroscopy and single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. The purity of the complex was confirmed by elemental analysis. Two ligands are coordinated in the neutral NNN-tridentate form forming a complex cation, while the positive charge is neutralized by [ZnCl4]2-. Complex crystallizes in monoclinic C2/c space group with the Zn atoms situated in a special position. The packing features of the novel complex were analyzed using Hirshfeld surfaces, construction of 2D pseudosymmetric plot and DFT quantum mechanical calculations and compared with the previously published sulfur-based isostere. The key difference in the structures, imposed by replacement of sulfur with selenium, were identified.

Black rice is a functional food due to its higher protein, fiber, iron, antioxidant compounds, and other health benefits than traditional rice. The ultrasonic (US) pretreatments (10, 20, and 50 min) followed by hot-air drying (50, 60, and 70 °C) were applied to study the drying kinetics, mathematical modeling, thermodynamics, microstructure, bioactive profile, volatile compounds and to lock the nutritional composition of selenium-enriched germinated black rice (SeGBR). Ultrasonic-treated samples exhibited a 20.5% reduced drying time than control ones. The Hii model accurately describes the drying kinetics of SeGBR with the highest R2 (>0.997 to 1.00) among the fifteen studied models. The activation energy values in US-SeGBR varied from 3.97 to 13.90 kJ/mol, while the specific energy consumption ranged from 6.45 to 12.32 kWh/kg, which was lower than untreated. The obtained thermodynamic attributes of dried black rice revealed that the process was endothermic and non-spontaneous. Gallic acid, kaempferol, and cyanidin 3-glucoside were present in high concentrations in phenolics, flavonoids, and anthocyanins, respectively. The HS-SPME-GC–MS investigation detected and quantified 55 volatile compounds. The US-treated SeGBR had more volatile compounds, which may stimulate the release of more flavorful substances. The scanning electronic micrograph shows that the US-treated samples absorbed high water through several micro-cavities. Selenium concentration was significantly higher in US-treated samples at 50 °C than in control samples. In conclusion, ultrasound-assisted hot-air drying accelerated drying and improved SeGBR quality, which is crucial for the food industry and global promotion of this healthiest rice variety.

A novel nanocomposite containing selenium-gold-chitosan (Se-Au-CS) was prepared and characterized using powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV–Vis spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The powder X-ray diffraction has shown successful synthesis of Se nanoparticles. To further study the presence of gold nanoparticles, EDX and UV–Vis were used. The morphological studies and grain sizes have revealed polyhedral shapes with a mean particle size of ≈211 nm. The TEM images also indicated the presence of nanoparticles in the CS coating. The Anti-oxidant effects of Se-Au-CS were evaluated using the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) assay. Moreover, in the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay, notable anti-angiogenesis effects were observed for Se-Au-CS. The results of this study demonstrated effective anti-angiogenesis effects of Se-Au-CS were evaluated using CAM assay for the first time. It also indicated the application of Se-Au-CS could be extended to the treatment of various cancer diseases.

Strokes rank as the second most common cause of mortality and disability in the human population across the world. Currently, available methods of treating or preventing strokes have significant limitations, primarily the need to use high doses of drugs due to the presence of the blood–brain barrier. In the last decade, increasing attention has been paid to the capabilities of nanotechnology. However, the vast majority of research in this area is focused on the mechanisms of anticancer and antiviral effects of nanoparticles. In our opinion, not enough attention is paid to the neuroprotective mechanisms of nanomaterials. In this review, we attempted to summarize the key molecular mechanisms of brain cell damage during ischemia. We discussed the current literature regarding the use of various nanomaterials for the treatment of strokes. In this review, we examined the features of all known nanomaterials, the possibility of which are currently being studied for the treatment of strokes. In this regard, the positive and negative properties of nanomaterials for the treatment of strokes have been identified. Particular attention in the review was paid to nanoselenium since selenium is a vital microelement and is part of very important and little-studied proteins, e.g., selenoproteins and selenium-containing proteins. An analysis of modern studies of the cytoprotective effects of nanoselenium made it possible to establish the mechanisms of acute and chronic protective effects of selenium nanoparticles. In this review, we aimed to combine all the available information regarding the neuroprotective properties and mechanisms of action of nanoparticles in neurodegenerative processes, especially in cerebral ischemia.

Determination of cadmium and selenium in food samples mostly consumed in Turkey has been performed by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry using Ni + Pt modifier mixture. Food samples and standard reference materials (Whey Powder-IAEA-155 and Skim Milk Powder-BCR 105) were decomposed in a microwave digestion system by using HNO.sub.3 + H.sub.2O.sub.2 mixture. The heating temperature program for Cd and Se in sample solutions was optimized in the absence or presence of Ni, Pt and Ni + Pt chemical modifier mixture. Pyrolysis and atomization temperatures, pyrolysis times, atomization and background absorbance signals for Cd and Se in real samples were studied. Limits of detection and quantification of elements were 0.14 and 0.5 [micro]g/L for Cd and 0.4 and 1.3 [micro]g/L for Se, respectively. Accuracy and precision for elements in standard reference materials were evaluated by the proposed method. Percent relative errors and relative standard deviations obtained were below 4%. Concentrations of Cd and Se found in food samples were compared with other studies., Author(s): Tugba Nur Akbaba [sup.1], Orhan Aacar [sup.1] Author Affiliations: (1) grid.25769.3f, 0000 0001 2169 7132, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Gazi University, , 06500, Ankara, Turkey Milk powder, [...]

In this work, the crystallization process of selenium was accelerated by ultrasonic wave. The effects of ultrasonic waves and conventional conditions of selenium crystallization were compared to understand the effects of different conditions on crystallization, including ultrasonic time, ultrasonic power, reduction temperature, and H2SeO3 concentration. The mechanism of ultrasound affecting selenium crystallization was also investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The experimental results showed that ultrasonic time, ultrasonic power, and reduction temperature significantly influenced the crystallization process and morphology of selenium. Ultrasonic time had a large effect on the completeness (all products have been crystallized) and integrity of the crystallization of the products. Meanwhile, ultrasonic power and reduction temperature had no effect on the completeness of crystallization. However, it had a significant effect on the morphology and integrity of the crystallized products, and different morphologies of the nano-selenium materials could be obtained by changing the ultrasonic parameters. Both primary and secondary nucleation are important in the process of ultrasound-accelerated selenium crystallization. The cavitation effect and mechanical fluctuant effects generated by ultrasound could reduce the crystallization induction time and accelerate the primary nucleation rate. The high-speed micro-jet formed in the rupture of the cavitation bubble generated is the most important reason to influence the secondary nucleation of the system.

The most frequent pregnancy issue is a miscarriage, which is defined as the spontaneous end of pregnancy before the fetus reaches viability. The current research aims to identify the potential significance of selenium (Se) and vitamin E (VE) as predictive diagnostic biomarkers in recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). Methods: A case control study that included three study groups; 35 women with RPL, 30 non-aborted pregnant (NAP) women, and 25 healthy women. After rigorously applying the eligibility requirements, patients were chosen from those visiting Bint Al-Huda Teaching Hospital and Suq Al-Shuyukh General Hospital in Thi-Qar Province (Iraq). Serum VE and serum Se levels were determined using the ELISA and atomic absorption spectrophotometer techniques, respectively. Results: The outcomes showed that the RPL group's serum VE and Se below normal levels were (88.6% and 62.9% respectively) lower than in the healthy control group (28% and 24% respectively). The level of VE was depleted in NAP group (93.3%) compared to HC group (28%) with significant differences, whereas the level of Se was significantly lower in RPL group (62.9%) compared NAP group (13.3%). Conclusions: A significant positive association of VE and Se in RPL and a significant negative association of VE and Se in NAP and HC.

Selenium 0 (Se0) is a powerful anti-proliferative agent in cancer research. We investigated the impact of sub-toxic concentrations of Se0 functionalized nanoparticles (SeNPs) on prostate cancer PC-3 cells and determined their intracellular localization and fate. An in-depth characterization of functionalized selenium nanoparticles composition is proposed to certify that no chemical bias relative to synthesis issues might have impacted the study. Selenium is an extremely diluted element in the biological environment and therefore requires high-performance techniques with a very low detection limit and high spatial resolution for intracellular imaging. This was explored with state-of-the-art techniques, but also with cryopreparation to preserve the chemical and structural integrity of the cells for spatially resolved and speciation techniques. Monodisperse solutions of SeNPs capped with bovine serum albumin (BSA) were shown to slow down the migration capacity of aggressive prostate cancer cells compared to polydisperse solutions of SeNPs capped with chitosan. BSA coating could prevent interactions between the reactive surface of the nanoparticles and the plasma membrane, mitigating the generation of reactive oxygen species. The intracellular localization showed interaction with mitochondria and also a localization in the lysosome-related organelle. The SeNPs-BSA localization in mitochondria constitute a possible explanation for our result showing a very significant dampening of the PC-3 cell proliferation capabilities. The purpose of the use of sublethal compound concentrations was to limit adverse effects resulting from high cell death to best evaluate some cellular changes and the fate of these SeNPs on PC-3. Our findings provide new insight to further study the various mechanisms of cytotoxicity of SeNPs.

Using seleno-compounds and telluric compounds is a practical approach for developing solutions against drug-resistant bacterial infections and malignancies. It will accelerate the search for novel treatments or adjuvants for existing therapies. Selenium and tellurium nanospheres can be produced by lactic acid bacteria. The bacteria can differentiate the selenium and tellurium when the medium contains both selenite and tellurite. Therefore, our question in this study was the following: are they making alloys from the selenium and tellurium and what will be the composition, color, and shape of the nanoparticles? We used a simple microbial synthesis to produce nanoselenium, nanotellurium, and their alloys from sodium selenite and sodium tellurite using Lactobacillus casei. This bacterium produced red spherical amorphous elemental selenium nanospheres with a diameter of 206 ± 33 nm from selenite and amorphous black nanorods with a length of 176 ± 32 nm and a cross-section of 62 ± 13 nm from tellurite. If the initial medium contains a mixture of selenite and tellurite, the resulting nanoparticles will contain selenium and tellurium in the same ratios in the alloy as in the medium. This proves that Lactobacillus casei cannot distinguish between selenite and tellurite. The shape of the nanoparticles varies from spherical to rod-shaped, depending on the ratio of selenium and tellurium. The color of nanomaterials ranges from red to black, depending on the percentage of selenium and tellurium. These nanomaterials could be good candidates in the pharmaceutical industry due to their antipathogenic and anticarcinogenic properties.

Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) are worthy of attention and development for nutritional supplementation due to their health benefits in both animals and humans with low toxicity, improved bioavailability, and controlled release, being greater than the Se inorganic and organic forms. Our previous study reported that Anoectochilus burmannicus extract (ABE)-synthesized SeNPs (ABE-SeNPs) exerted antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Furthermore, ABE could stabilize and preserve the biological activities of SeNPs. To promote the ABE-SeNPs as supplementary and functional foods, it was necessary to carry out a safety assessment. Cytotoxicity testing showed that SeNPs and ABE-SeNPs were harmless with no killing effect on Caco2 (intestinal epithelial cells), MRC-5 (lung fibroblasts), HEK293 (kidney cells), LX-2 (hepatic stellate cells), and 3T3-L1 (adipocytes), and were not toxic to isolated human PBMCs and RBCs. Genotoxicity assessments found that SeNPs and ABE-SeNPs did not induce mutations in Salmonella typhimurium TA98 and TA100 (Ames test) as well as in Drosophila melanogaster (somatic mutation and recombination test). Noticeably, ABE-SeNPs inhibited mutation in TA98 and TA100 induced by AF-2, and in Drosophila induced by urethane, ethyl methanesulfonate, and mitomycin c, suggesting their anti-mutagenicity ability. This study provides data that support the safety and anti-genotoxicity properties of ABE-SeNPs for the further development of SeNPs-based food supplements.

This mini-review summarizes the seminal exploration of aqueous supramolecular chemistry of crown ether macrocycles. In history, most research of crown ethers were focusing on their supramolecular chemistry in organic phase or in gas phase. In sharp contrast, the recent research evidently reveal that crown ethers are very suitable for studying abroad range of the properties and applications of water interactions, from: high water-solubility, control of Hofmeister series, “structural water”, and supramolecular adhesives. Key studies revealing more details about the properties of water and aqueous solutions are highlighted.

Water and salt stresses are among the most important global problems that limit the growth and production of several crops. The current study aims at the possibility of mitigating the effect of deficit irrigation of common bean plants growing in saline lands by foliar spraying with selenium via the assessment of growth, productivity, physiological, and biochemical measurements. In our study, two field-based trials were conducted in 2017 and 2018 to examine the influence of three selenium (Se) concentrations (0 (Se0), 25 (Se25), and 50 mg L−1 (Se50)) on common bean plants grown under full irrigation (I100 = 100% of the crop evapotranspiration; ETc) and deficit irrigation (I80 = 80% of ETc, and I60 = 60% of ETc). Bean plants exposed to water stress led to a notable reduction in growth, yield, water productivity (WP), water status, SPAD value, and chlorophyll a fluorescence features (Fv/Fm and PI). However, foliar spraying of selenium at 25 or 50 mg L−1 on stressed bean plants attenuated the harmful effects of water stress. The findings suggest that foliage application of 25 or 50 mg L−1 selenium to common bean plants grown under I80 resulted in a higher membrane stability index, relative water content, SPAD chlorophyll index, and better efficiency of photosystem II (Fv/Fm, and PI). Water deficit at 20% increased the WP by 17%; however, supplementation of 25 or 50 mg L−1 selenium mediated further increases in WP up to 26%. Exogenous application of selenium (25 mg L−1 or 50 mg L−1) to water-stressed bean plants elevated the plant defense system component, given that it increased the free proline, ascorbic acid, and glutathione levels, as well as antioxidant enzymes (SOD, APX, GPX, and CAT). It was concluded that the application of higher levels (25 or/and 50 mg L−1) of Se improves plant water status as well as the growth and yield of common beans cultivated in saline soil.

Crystallization of [(Ph3Sn)2SeO4] ⋅ 1.5H2O in methanol leads to the formation of [{(Ph3Sn)2SeO4} ⋅ CH3OH]n (1) which constitutes a new specimen of organotin(IV) selenate derivatives. In the solid state, complex 1 is arranged in polymeric zig-zag chains, composed of alternating Ph3Sn and SeO4 groups. In addition, pendant Ph3Sn ⋅ CH3OH moieties are branched along chains according to a syndiotactic organization and via Sn-O-Se connections. From a supramolecular point of view, intermolecular hydrogen bonds established between the selenate groups (uncoordinated oxygen) and the hydroxyl functions (CH3OH) of the pendant groups link the chains together.

Abstract Detailed geochemical studies of both major and minor elements in Bangladesh surface waters are sparse, particularly in shrimp aquaculture pond environments. Therefore, water samples from shrimp aquaculture ponds and tidal channels were collected in high precipitation (July) and low precipitation (May) months from 2018–2019 in Southwest Bangladesh and analyzed for complete water chemistry. Selenium (Se) and arsenic (As) were elevated above WHO guidelines in 50% and ~ 87% of samples, respectively, but do not show any recognizable spatial patterns. Shrimp pond and tidal channel water compositions in the dry season (May) are similar, illustrating their connectivity and minimal endogenous effects within shrimp ponds. Tidal channels are less saline in July than shrimp ponds still irrigated by tidal channels, suggesting that either farmers limit irrigation to continue farming saltwater shrimp, or the irrigation flux is low and leads to a lag in aquaculture-tidal channel compositional homogenization. δ18O and δ2H isotopic compositions from samples in May of 2019 reveal tidal channel samples are closer to the local meteoric water line (LMWL) than shrimp pond samples, because of less evaporation. However, evaporation in May shrimp ponds has a minimal effect on water composition, likely because of regular drainage/exchange of pond waters. Dissolved organic carbon (DOC) is positively correlated with both δ18O and δ2H in shrimp ponds, suggesting that as evaporation increases, DOC becomes enriched. Multiple linear regression reveals that As and Se can be moderately predicted (adjusted R2 values between 0.4 and 0.7, p

The agricultural soils of West Limerick, Ireland, contain very localised, extremely high natural Se concentrations that reach levels that are very toxic to grazing livestock. The Carboniferous shales that formed in anoxic deep-water marine environments are the source of the selenium, which, along with the other redox-sensitive elements of molybdenum, uranium, arsenic and vanadium, were mobilised and reprecipitated in post-glacial anoxic marshes. The result has been a history of selenosis and molybdenosis in livestock in this important dairy province. Soils collected at 10–20 cm from five different agricultural sites were analysed, and all yielded concentrations greatly in excess of the safe Se limits of 3–10 mg kg−1; the highest value recorded was 1265.8 mg kg−1 Se. The highest recorded value for Mo in these soils was 1627.5 mg kg−1, and for U, 658.8 mg kg−1. There was a positive correlation between Se, Mo U and organic matter in the soils. Analysis of non-accumulator pasture grasses (Lolium perenne (perennial ryegrass), Festuca arundinacea (tall fescue), Dactylis glomerata (cocksfoot) and Phleum pretense (timothy grass)) revealed the shoot/leaf to contain up to 78.05 mg kg−1 Se while Trifolium repens (white clover) leaves contained 296.15 mg kg−1 Se. An in situ growing experiment using the Se accumulator species Brassica oleracea revealed 971.2 mg kg−1 Se in the leaves of premier kale, which also contained 1000.4 mg kg−1 Mo. Translocation factors (TFs) were generally higher for Mo than Se across all plant species. Combined X-ray absorption near edge spectroscopy (XANES) with micro-X-ray fluorescence (μ-XRF) showed the Se was present in the soil predominantly as the reduced immobile phase, elemental Se (Se0), but also as bioavailable organoselenium species, mainly selenomethionine (SeMet). SeMet was also the main species identified within both the Se non-accumulator and Se accumulator plants. The Se soil–plant system in West Limerick is dominated by SeMet, and uptake into the cattle pasture results in selenosis in the grazing dairy herds. The hyperaccumulating Brassica oleracea species could be used to extract both the Se and Mo to reduce the toxicity of the blighted fields.

Abstract Temperature‐induced change in reactivity of the frequently used ionic liquid 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([C4C1im]BF4) is presented as a prerequisite for the rational screening of reaction courses in material synthesis. [C4C1im]BF4 becomes active with oxidic precursor compounds in reduction reaction at ϑ≥200 °C, even without the addition of an external reducing agent. The reaction mechanism of forming red amorphous selenium from SeO2 is investigated as a model system and can be described similarly to the Riley oxidation. The reactive species but‐1‐ene, which is formed during the decomposition of [C4C1im]BF4, reacts with SeO2 and form but‐3‐en‐2‐one, water, and selenium. Elucidation of the mechanism was achieved by thermoanalytical investigations. The monotropic phase transition of selenium was analyzed by the differential scanning calorimetry. Beyond, the suitability of the single source oxide precursor Bi2Se3O9 for the synthesis of Bi2Se3 particles was confirmed. Identification, characterization of formed solids succeeded by using light microscopy, XRD, SEM, and EDX.

Given the strong associations between diet and cancer risk, there is considerable scientific interest in determining whether dietary factors associated with prostate cancer cell implantation may influence epigenetic alternations. The aim of the research was to assess impact of selected trace elements (selenium, zinc and copper) on the kinetics of changes (10-13-14-21 week of life cycle of rats) in the level of 7-methylguanine, 3-methyladenine, 1-methylguanine and 8-oxo-guanine in the urine of rats with implanted prostate cancer cells (LNCaP). Modified nucleobases were determined by validated high performance liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method using multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. In the presented model the implantation of rats with cancer cells did not affect the level of the examined biomarkers in the rats’ urine. The level of methyl derivatives was statistically significantly reduced with the age of the examined rats. The implantation of rats with cancer cells results in the appearance of tumors in 71% of the rats obtaining the standard diet and respectively in 25% of those supplemented with selenium. Supplementation with selenium affects both the effectiveness of tumor induction and the concentration of 7-MeG, 3-MeA, 1-MeG and 8-oxoG in urine of the examined rats. These findings show that modified nucleosides can play an important role in cancer prevention.

We report an electrochemical oxidative intramolecular cyclization reaction between 2-alkynylphenol derivatives and different diselenides species to generate a wide variety of substituted-benzo[b]furans. Driven by the galvanostatic electrolysis assembled in an undivided cell, it provided efficient transformation into oxidant-, base-, and metal-free conditions in an open system at room temperature. With satisfactory functional group compatibility, the products were obtained in good to excellent yields.

The purpose of this study was to develop an efficient method of biochar modification for effective removal of Se(VI) ions from water. Commercially available biochar produced from wheat straw was impregnated by Fe(NO3)3 (0.8, 4 and 10% w/v) and pyrolyzed at 200 °C. Optimum pH, adsorption kinetics, and Se(VI) adsorption isotherms were determined for the studied biochars. The modification significantly increased biochar’s ability for Se(VI) adsorption. The biochar modified with 10% Fe(NO3)3 has the highest adsorption effectiveness. The experimentally determined maximum adsorption capacity for the biochar modified with 10% Fe(NO3)3 was 14.3 mg g−1 for pH 5, which was the optimum pH value. X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and Photoacoustic Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR-PAS) investigation confirmed the presence of iron oxides/hydroxides on the surface of the modified biochar. The modification also resulted in the formation of oxygen containing functional groups. The study proved that the proposed modification can be efficient in increasing the biochar effectiveness in removing Se(VI) from water.

Abstract The chemical properties including toxicity of selenium depend on the concentration and chemical structure present in the natural environment. Inorganic selenium is more toxic than organic selenium; thus, the accurate determination of inorganic selenium in various sample has been needed. HG-AAS, HPLC-ICP-MS, and GC-MS are the current methods for the determination of inorganic selenium. However, these methods have the disadvantage of expensive equipment, complicated sample preparation, and long analysis time. LIBS coupled with ion exchange membrane was used for the determination of inorganic selenium. The detection limit of inorganic selenium by the analytical method was 11.21 mg/kg, and the recoveries of 50 and 100 mg/kg Se(VI) were 98.5 % and 101.80 %, respectively. The speciation method is cost-effective, simple, and not labor intensive for the quantitation of inorganic selenium.

Rice selenium-containing peptide TSeMMM (T) with immunomodulatory functions was isolated from selenium-enriched rice protein hydrolysates. However, its biological activity is difficult to be protected in complex digestive environments. In this study, T was encapsulated within zein and gum arabian (GA) through ultrasound treatment to improve its bioactivity and bioavailability. The zein@T/GA nanoparticles were formed using ultrasonic treatment at 360 W for 5 min with a 59.9% T-encapsulation efficiency. In vitro digestion showed that the cumulative release rate of zein@T/GA nanoparticles reached a maximum of 80.69% after 6 h. In addition, short-term animal studies revealed that the nanoparticles had an effect on the levels of tissue glutathione and improved peptides’ oral bioavailability. Conclusively, these findings suggest that the ultrasonicated polysaccharide/protein system is suitable for encapsulating active small molecular peptides. Furthermore, it provides a novel foundation for studying the bioavailability of active substances in functional foods.

We report a simple and cheaper method for the electrochemical detection of Se(IV) using carbon nanodots (CNDTs) prepared from oat. The carbon nanodots were synthesised by a green and facile approach and characterised using scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy. The CNDT was used to fabricate an electrochemical sensor for the quantification of Se(IV) in water. The modification of the glassy carbon electrode (GCE) with carbon nanodots led to an increase in the electroactive surface area of the electrode, which enhances the redox current peak of [Fe(CN)6]3–/4– in comparison to the bare GCE. Using the square wave voltammetry, the detection limit and quantification limit of 0.05 and 0.167 ppb were obtained under the optimised parameters using deposition potential of −200 mV, 0.1 M HNO3 electrolyte, electrodeposition time of 60 s, and pH 1. The results further revealed that the GCE-CNDT was not susceptible to many interfering cations except Cu(II) and Pb(II) and Fe(II). The sensor fabrication involves a one-step electrode modification and was used to detect Se(IV) in a real water sample and the result obtained is in agreement with the inductively coupled plasma technique. Overall, the electrode offers a cheap, fast and sensitive way of detecting selenium in environmental matrices.

Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) are the object of great interest due to their potential to be used in many areas of industry and medicine. Work is still underway on their synthesis methods; however, green methodologies are becoming more and more popular. In this study, aqueous extracts of black and green tea as well as infusions of popular herbs such as chamomile and mint were used in the synthesis of SeNPs serving as the Se(IV) reducers to its nano form. The influence of the reagents concentration ratios on the properties of the obtained nanoparticles were examined. SeNPs showed a greater ability to neutralize hydroxyl radicals compared to tea extracts. It has been proven that in the infusion of selenium-containing tea, the formation of SeNPs occurs.

In this study, Fe-Mn-CO3 layered double hydroxide (LDHs) and Fe-Mn Double oxide (DOs) were synthesized by the co-recipitation methods for Se(IV) removal from aqueous solutions. The Se(IV) adsorption capacities and removal mechanism of Fe-Mn LDH and Fe-Mn DOs determined by batch and column experiments. The calculated Se(IV) adsorption capacities on Fe-Mn LDH and Fe-Mn DOs were 52.5 and 55.3 mg/g, respectively. Kinetic models applied to the adsorption of Se(IV) on the Fe-Mn LDH and Fe-Mn DOs calculated using pseudo-first, second-order, Elovich, and Intraparticle diffusion kinetic models and all kinetic parameters were calculated and discussed. Isotherm studies were also performed using Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, and Dubinin-Radushkevich equations in the temperature range of 283 - 323 K. Adsorption kinetics and isotherm experiments are well fitted pseudo-second order model and Freundlich isotherm, respectively. The production of this adsorbent is cost-effective for industrial applications.

A highly sensitive scheme of the determination of selenium in drinking water by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry with the on-line preconcentration of gaseous analyte compounds obtained by the UV treatment of an analyzed solution in a graphite furnace (GF) is implemented. A photochemical generator of original design of the type 'UV lamp in a hollow cylindrical reactor' is used. The conditions of the photochemical generation and sorption of gaseous selenium compounds are optimized. The efficiency of a number of permanent sorbent modifiers, such as, metallic iridium, tungsten and zirconium carbides, and mixtures of tungsten and zirconium carbides with activated carbon, at the sorption stage in the GF is estimated. The maximum analytical signals of selenium are recorded using graphite tubes modified by iridium. The analytical scheme is verified by a spike recovery test, the recovery of element additives was 90%. The attained limit of detection for Se(IV) is 4.1 ng/L; the relative standard deviation of the results of replicate determinations is no more than 4.0% at the concentration of Se(IV) in water samples 0.1 [micro]g/L., Author(s): M. Yu. Burylin [sup.1], K. A. Romanovskii [sup.1], E. A. Kaigorodova [sup.2] Author Affiliations: (1) grid.26083.3f, 0000 0000 9000 3133, Faculty of Chemistry and High Technologies, Kuban State University, [...]

Among the different green oxidative protocols, I2-catalyzed/DMSO systems have recently received considerable attention due to being greener, efficient, atom-economical, low-cost, and offering the possibility to perform reactions under safe and mild conditions. Of particular interest is their application in the chalcogen–chalcogen bond activation that allows for the in situ formation of electrophilic species, promoting the formation of a number of Se-C bonds. Iodine acts as a catalytic oxidant in these reactions and is continuously regenerated by the DMSO, which can be used in stoichiometric amounts under solvent-free conditions. Methoxyselenylation reactions can be performed at room temperature; however, the reaction takes over 24 h to reach appreciable conversion yields. In this paper, activation by the use of a SynLED Parallel Photoreactor® is investigated as an alternative energy source, and the results are critically compared with those previously reported in literature.

Photothermally assisted superhydrophobic materials play an important role in a variety of applications, such as oil purification, waste oil collection, and solar desalination, due to their facile fabrication, low-cost, flexibility, and tunable thermal conversion. However, the current widely used superhydrophobic sponges with photothermal properties are usually impaired by a high loading content of photothermal agents (e.g., gold or silver nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes), low photothermal efficiency, and require harmful processes for modification. Here, a one-pot, simple composite consisting of two-dimensional (2D) selenium (Se) nanosheets (NSs) and commercially used melamine sponge (MS) is rationally designed and successfully fabricated by a facile dip-coating method via physical adsorption between 2D Se NSs and MS. The loading content of 2D Se NSs on the skeleton of the MS can be well controlled by dipping cycle. The results demonstrate that after the modification of 2D Se NSs on the MS, the wettability transition from hydrophilicity to hydrophobicity can be easily achieved, even at a very low loading of 2D Se NSs, and the highly stable photothermal conversion of the as-fabricated composites can be realized with a maximum temperature of 111 ± 3.2 °C due to the excellent photothermal effect of 2D Se NSs. It is anticipated that this composite will afford new design strategies for multifunctional porous structures for versatile applications, such as high-performance solar desalination and photothermal sterilization.