Modern lifestyle and diet have increased the incidence rate of uric acid(UA)metabolism-related diseases like hyperuricemia(HUA)and gout,posing heavy economic burden to individual patients and their families and the so...Modern lifestyle and diet have increased the incidence rate of uric acid(UA)metabolism-related diseases like hyperuricemia(HUA)and gout,posing heavy economic burden to individual patients and their families and the society.UA metabolism is a complex physiological process involving the kidney,intestine,and other organs.A number of factors together regulate UA metabolism,including genetics,diet,hormones,and the gut microbiota.This review summaries the gut microbiota features in subjects with HUA and gout,and the therapeutic effects of implementing microecological therapies(probiotics,prebiotics,or fecal microbiota transplant)that target modulate the gut microbiota and its downstream metabolism on the disease.Current evidence shows that these strategies are safe and promising in alleviate inflammation,reduce UA,and restoring a healthy gut microbiota in subjects with UA metabolism-related diseases.However,most clinical data are generated by animal studies.Therefore,we propose that vigorous human intervention trials should be conducted in the future to evaluate the therapeutic effects of microecological therapies in managing HUA and gout.展开更多
Neutrophil extracellular traps(NET)have emerged as critical players in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases(CVD).These web-like structures,composed of DNA,histones,and granule proteins...Neutrophil extracellular traps(NET)have emerged as critical players in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases(CVD).These web-like structures,composed of DNA,histones,and granule proteins released by neutrophils,contribute significantly to both inflammation and thrombosis.This manuscript offers a comprehensive review of the recent literature on the involvement of NET in atherosclerosis,highlighting their interactions with various pathophysiological processes and their potential as biomarkers for CVD.Notably,the impact of radiation on NET formation is explored,emphasising how oxidative stress and inflammatory responses drive NET release,contributing to plaque instability.The role of histones,particularly citrullinated histones,in endothelial dysfunction and plaque progression is discussed,highlighting their significance in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis.Furthermore,the complex relationship between lipoproteins and NET formation is examined,with a focus on how elevated low-density lipoprotein(LDL)and decreased high-density lipoprotein(HDL)levels facilitate NET release,thus promoting vascular inflammation and plaque instability.The influence of cholesterol on NET formation is also explored,underscoring its contribution to plaque development and stability.The role of Peptidylarginine deiminase 4(PAD4)in the regulation of NETosis is reviewed,with attention given to how PAD4-driven citrullination of histones affects atherosclerosis progression.Moreover,the manuscript examines the potential of NET components—such as double-stranded DNA,myeloperoxidase–DNA complexes,and citrullinated histone H3—as biomarkers for assessing disease severity and predicting adverse cardiovascular events,including ST-elevation myocardial infarction(STEMI)and stroke.Elevated levels of these biomarkers correlate with worse clinical outcomes,suggesting their utility in guiding therapeutic interventions.In contrast to the existing body of work,this review highlights the novelty of integrating recent findings on NET interactions with lipid metabolism,histone modifications,and PAD4 activity in the context of atherosclerosis.Overall,NET plays an integral role in the inflammatory and thrombotic processes underpinning atherosclerosis,and their components hold promise as both diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets in cardiovascular disease management.展开更多
This review aims to identify the assets and limitations of Dabema(Piptadeniastrum africanum)as a sustainable alternative to traditional timber species for furniture and construction applications.Dabema is characterize...This review aims to identify the assets and limitations of Dabema(Piptadeniastrum africanum)as a sustainable alternative to traditional timber species for furniture and construction applications.Dabema is characterized by its high density and dimensional stability,meeting ASTM(American Society for Testing and Materials)standards for mechanical strength,which is essential for promoting its use.However,its limited availability in trade and ingrained habits of use are obstacles to its widespread commercialization.In addition,thermal and oleothermal treatments have shown great potential for improving the characteristics of this wood,although they require ongoing optimization and rigorous environmental assessment.Consequently,increased awareness of the benefits of Dabema is decisive to encourage its sustainable adoption in modern economies.This could help to diversify forest resources and encourage more sustainable building practices,taking advantage of Dabema’s unique properties while mitigating environmental sustainability concerns.展开更多
While variable regions of immunoglobulins are extensively diversified by V(D)J recombination and somatic hypermutation in vertebrates,the constant regions of immunoglobulin heavy chains also utilize certain mechanisms...While variable regions of immunoglobulins are extensively diversified by V(D)J recombination and somatic hypermutation in vertebrates,the constant regions of immunoglobulin heavy chains also utilize certain mechanisms to produce diversity,including class switch recombination(CSR),subclass differentiation,and alternative expression of the same gene.Many species of birds,reptiles,and amphibians express a truncated isoform of immunoglobulin Y(IgY),termed IgY(ΔFc),which lacks theυCH3 andυCH4 domains.In Anseriformes,IgY(ΔFc)arises from alternative transcriptional termination sites within the sameυgene,whereas in some turtles,intact IgY and IgY(ΔFc)are encoded by distinct genes.Different from the previously reported IgY(ΔFc)variants,this study identified a truncated IgY in the snake Elaphe taeniura,characterized by the loss of only a portion of the CH4 domain.Western blotting and liquid chromatographytandem mass spectrometry confirmed that this truncated IgY is generated by post-translational cleavage at N338 within the IgY heavy chain constant(CH)region.Furthermore,both human and snake asparaginyl endopeptidase were shown to cleave snake IgY in vitro.These findings reveal a novel mechanism for the production of shortened IgY forms,demonstrating that the immunoglobulin CH region undergoes diversification through distinct strategies across vertebrates.展开更多
Conventional filling therapy fails to fundamentally reduce oral cariogenic bacteria.Thus,oral microbiota follow-up intervention after filling would be necessary for improving dental caries prognosis.We recruited 9 car...Conventional filling therapy fails to fundamentally reduce oral cariogenic bacteria.Thus,oral microbiota follow-up intervention after filling would be necessary for improving dental caries prognosis.We recruited 9 caries-free individuals,and 89 dental caries subjects(5 dropouts).Eighty-nine patients were randomized into three groups:caries(n=8;no treatment),control(n=40;filling),and postbiotics(n=41;filling and 14-day Probio-Eco®intervention).Salivary samples were collected at 0 day(after filling)and 14 days.Our results showed that the diversity of dental caries oral microbiota was significantly increased compared with healthy subjects,and filling could restore a healthier oral microbiota partially and temporarily.Thepostbiotics intervention keeps a low alpha-diversity.Co-occurrence network analysis showed that a more stable oral microbiota structure after postbiotics intervention.Taxonomic and functional annotation of the microbiota revealed that postbiotics co-treatment significantly:increased the relative abundance of Pseudomonas and P.reactans,decreased the relative abundance of Prevotella shahii,and enriched the energy metabolism-related pathways.BugBase-predicted phenotypes inferred to an oral microbiota with decreased potential pathogenic bacteria and increased oxidative stress-tolerant bacteria after postbiotics intervention.Collectively,it suggested that postbiotics co-treatment could be a promising strategy that restores the oral microecological balance for dental caries.展开更多
Probiotics exert beneficial effects on the host.This study aimed to investigate whether maternally ingested Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus Probio-M9 during pregnancy could access and colonize the infant gut.This study r...Probiotics exert beneficial effects on the host.This study aimed to investigate whether maternally ingested Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus Probio-M9 during pregnancy could access and colonize the infant gut.This study recruited one pregnant woman,who ingested Probio-M9 daily from 35 weeks of gestation to delivery.Feces of the mother-infant pair were regularly collected from one month before delivery to 6 months of infant's age for metagenomic sequencing.Probio-M9 genomes were mappable to all infant fecal samples,suggesting the ingested probiotics could be vertically transmitted from mother to infant.Infant-or mother-specific differential metabolic pathways were found between the maternal and infant's gut microbiome,implicating apparent differences in the intestinal metagenomic potential/function between the mother and the infant.In conclusion,maternal ingestion of Probio-M9 during the final weeks of gestation could deliver to the infant gut.The findings provided novel insights into shaping infant's gut microbiota.展开更多
Recent research on the genome of Bifidobacterium bifidum has mainly focused on the isolation sources(intestinal tract niche)recently,but reports on the isolation region are limited.This study analyzed the differences ...Recent research on the genome of Bifidobacterium bifidum has mainly focused on the isolation sources(intestinal tract niche)recently,but reports on the isolation region are limited.This study analyzed the differences in the genome of B.bifidum isolated from different geographical populations by comparative genomic analysis.Results at the genome level indicated that the GC content of American isolates was significantly higher than that of Chinese and Russian isolates.The phylogenetic tree,based on 919 core genes showed that B.bifidum might be related to the geographical characteristics of isolation region.Furthermore,functional annotation analysis demonstrated that copy numbers of carbohydrate-active enzymes(CAZys)involved in the degradation of polysaccharide from plant and host sources in B.bifidum were high,and 18 CAZys showed significant differences across different geographical populations,indicating that B.bifidum had adapted to the human intestinal environment,especially in the groups with diets rich in fiber.Dietary habits were one of the main reasons for the differences of B.bifidum across different geographical populations.Additionally,B.bifidum exhibited high diversity,evident in glycoside hydrolases,the CRISPR-Cas system,and prophages.This study provides a genetic basis for further research and development of B.bifidum.展开更多
This study aims to investigate the abundance of AMF according to soil properties and altitudes in different cacao plantations of Cameroon. Physico-chemical analyses were made on soil samples collected from three agro-...This study aims to investigate the abundance of AMF according to soil properties and altitudes in different cacao plantations of Cameroon. Physico-chemical analyses were made on soil samples collected from three agro-ecological zones. Soil samples were also used to evaluate directly the AMF abundance following the various altitudes and after trapping by sorghum plant. The results showed that soil properties, AMF spore abundances and colonization fluctuated significantly at different altitudes. The most represented texture was sandy loam. The bimodal zone presented a homogeneous texture (sandy loam) in all its localities. Cacao soil chemical characteristics showed that, the highest nitrogen rate (0.47%;p 0.05, Scott-Knott test) was recorded at Melong in a monomodal zone while Tonga in the Western highlands displayed the lowest rate (0.13%). Soil P concentration was significantly high in monomodal zones (Mbanga and Melong). Soil pH level indicated that the soil from Tonga in the Western highlands was neutral (pH = 6.67), and soils of other localities under study were acidic with the lowest (4.75) pH level recorded at Melong in a monomodal zone. In soil samples, the highest spore density (1.03 spores/g soil) was observed at Ntui in Bimodal zone, while the lowest spore density (0.26 spores/g soil) was observed at Bafang in the Western highlands. Root colonization showed that the sample from Bokito in a bimodal zone displayed the best frequency of mycorrhization (86.11%) while the sample from Bafang in the Western highlands recorded the lowest (27.11%). The PCA analysis highlighted that available phosphorus, pH and altitude all strongly correlated with AMF root colonization ability and can be used as a predictor of AMF colonization ability in cacao rhizosphere.展开更多
The capability of carbon nanotubes （CNTs） to adsorb lead （Pb） in aqueous solution was investigated. Batch mode adsorption experiment was conducted to determine the effects of pH, agitation speed, CNTs dosage and c...The capability of carbon nanotubes （CNTs） to adsorb lead （Pb） in aqueous solution was investigated. Batch mode adsorption experiment was conducted to determine the effects of pH, agitation speed, CNTs dosage and contact time. The removal of Pb（II） reached maximum value 85% or 83% at pH 5 or 40 mg/L of CNTs, respectively. Higher correlation coefficients from Langmuir isotherm model indicates the strong adsorptions of Pb（II） on the surface of CNTs （adsorption capacity Xm = 102.04 mg/g）. The results indicates that the highest percentage removal of Pb （96.03%） can be achieved at pH 5, 40 mg/L of CNTs, contact time 80 min, and agitation speed 50 r/min.展开更多
The adsorption capacity of activated carbon produced from oil palm empty fruit bunches through removal of 2,4-dichlorophenol from aqueous solution was carried out in the laboratory. The activated carbon was produced b...The adsorption capacity of activated carbon produced from oil palm empty fruit bunches through removal of 2,4-dichlorophenol from aqueous solution was carried out in the laboratory. The activated carbon was produced by thermal activation of activation time with 30 min at 800℃. The adsorption process conditions were determined with the statistical optimization followed by central composite design. A developed polynomial model for operating conditions of adsorption process indicated that the optimum conditions for maximum adsorption of phenolic compound were： agitation rate of 100 r/min, contact time of 8 h, initial adsorbate concentration of 250 mg/L and pH 4. Adsorption isotherms were conducted to evaluate biosorption process. Langmuir isotherm was more favorable （R^2=0.93） for removal of 2,4-dichlorophenol by the activated carbon rather than Freundlich isotherm （R^2=0.88）.展开更多
Alginate is an edible heteropolysaccharide that abundantly available in the brown seaweed and the capsule of bacteria such as Azotobacter sp.and Pseudomonas sp.Owing to alginate gel forming capability,it is widely use...Alginate is an edible heteropolysaccharide that abundantly available in the brown seaweed and the capsule of bacteria such as Azotobacter sp.and Pseudomonas sp.Owing to alginate gel forming capability,it is widely used in food,textile and paper industries;and to a lesser extent in biomedical applications as biomaterial to promote wound healing and tissue regeneration.This is evident from the rising use of alginate-based dressing for heavily exuding wound and their mass availability in the market nowadays.However,alginate also has limitation.When in contact with physiological environment,alginate could gelate into softer structure,consequently limits its potential in the soft tissue regeneration and becomes inappropriate for the usage related to load bearing body parts.To cater this problem,wide range of materials have been added to alginate structure,producing sturdy composite materials.For instance,the incorporation of adhesive peptide and natural polymer or synthetic polymer to alginate moieties creates an improved composite material,which not only possesses better mechanical properties compared to native alginate,but also grants additional healing capability and promote better tissue regeneration.In addition,drug release kinetic and cell viability can be further improved when alginate composite is used as encapsulating agent.In this review,preparation of alginate and alginate composite in various forms(fibre,bead,hydrogel,and 3D-printed matrices)used for biomedical application is described first,followed by the discussion of latest trend related to alginate composite utilization in wound dressing,drug delivery,and tissue engineering applications.展开更多
The effects of active modified atmosphere packaging （MAP） on the postharvest quality of shiitake mushrooms stored at cold temperature （4°C） were investigated.The gas components were 2% O2 ＋7% CO2 （MAP1）,2%...The effects of active modified atmosphere packaging （MAP） on the postharvest quality of shiitake mushrooms stored at cold temperature （4°C） were investigated.The gas components were 2% O2 ＋7% CO2 （MAP1）,2% O2 ＋10% CO2 （MAP2） and 2% O2 ＋13% CO2 （MAP3）,respectively.The results showed that active MAP could extend the shelf-life of shiitake mushrooms to 17 d and the concentration of carbon dioxide could influence the postharvest quality of shiitake mushrooms.MAP2 treatment inhibited the increase in respiration rate and malondinaldehyde （MDA） contents,delayed the decrease in firmness,soluble sugar and vitamin C,and obviously reduced the activity of polyphenol oxidase （PPO） and the degree of browning,therefore maintaining better quality.展开更多
A versatile peroxidase (VP-Peco60-7 ) was generated and purified from the liquid culture of Pleurotus eryngii. The purification procedure included ammonium sulfate precipitation, ion exchange chromatography, and gel c...A versatile peroxidase (VP-Peco60-7 ) was generated and purified from the liquid culture of Pleurotus eryngii. The purification procedure included ammonium sulfate precipitation, ion exchange chromatography, and gel chromatography. The molecular weight and isoelectric point (pI) of VP-Peco60-7 were determined to be approxi-mately 40 kDa and 4.1, respectively. By N-terminal sequence determination and peptide mapping analysis, VP-Peco60-7 was found to be similar to the versatile peroxidase isoenzyme VPL1, which was previously isolated from liquid cultures of the same species. However, the molecular weight and pI of VP-Peco60-7 were different from those of versatile peroxidases of liquid cultures, implying that the VP-Peco60-7 in this study is of a novel type. With 2,2′-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) as a substrate, the maximal enzyme activity was obtained at 50 °C and pH 3.0. The catalysis of ABTS by VP-Peco60-7 was expressed by the Michaelis-Menten equa-tion. At 50 °C and pH 3.0, the maximum velocity (V max ) was 188.68 U·mg-1 and the michaelis constant (K m ) was 203.09 μmol·L-1 .展开更多
The optimization of process parameters for the bioconversion of activated sludge by Penicillium corylophilum was investigated using response surface methodology （RSM）. The three parameters namely temperature of 33℃...The optimization of process parameters for the bioconversion of activated sludge by Penicillium corylophilum was investigated using response surface methodology （RSM）. The three parameters namely temperature of 33℃, agitation of 150 r/min, and pH of 5 were chosen as center point from the previous study of fungal treatment. The experimental data on chemical oxygen demand （COD） removal （%） were fitted into a quadratic polynomial model using multiple regression analysis. The optimum process conditions were determined by analyzing response surface three-dimensional surface plot and contour plot and by solving the regression model equation with Design Expert software. Box-Behnken design technique under RSM was used to optimize their interactions, which showed that an incubation temperature of 32.5℃, agitation of 105 r/min, and pH of 5.5 were the best conditions. Under these conditions, the maximum predicted yield of COD removal was 98.43%. These optimum conditions were used to evaluate the trail experiment, and the maximum yield of COD removal was recorded as 98.5%.展开更多
The kinetics of asymmetric production of R-（-）-mandelic acid （R-MA） from phenylglyoxylic acid （PGA） catalyzed by Saccharomyces cerevisiae sp. strain FD11b was studied by fed-batch cultures. The concentrations of...The kinetics of asymmetric production of R-（-）-mandelic acid （R-MA） from phenylglyoxylic acid （PGA） catalyzed by Saccharomyces cerevisiae sp. strain FD11b was studied by fed-batch cultures. The concentrations of glucose and PGA were controlled respectively with a dual feeding system. When the electron donor glucose was supplied at the rate of 0.0833mmol·gdw^-1·h^-1, the specific production rate （qp） and the enantiomeric excess of R-MA reached the maximum 0.353mmol·gdw^-1·h^-1 and 97.1%, respectively. The apparent reduction activity of yeast FD 11 b was obviously affected by both substrate PGA and product MA. The qp value reached the maximum 0.36-0.38mmol·gdw^-1·h^-1 when the PGA concentration was controlled between 25 and 35mmol·L^-1. The obvious substrate inhibition of bioconversion was observed at the PGA concentrations higher than 40mmol·L^-1. The accumulation of product MA also caused a severe feed-back inhibition for its production when the product concentration was above 60mmol·L^-1. The kinetic model with the inhibition effect of both substrate and product was simulated by a computer-based least-square arithrnatic. The established kinetic model was in good agreement with the experimental data.展开更多
This study was undertaken to screen the filamentous fungi isolated from its relevant habitats(wastewater, sewage sludge and sludge cake) for the bioconversion of domestic wastewater sludge. A total of 35 fungal strain...This study was undertaken to screen the filamentous fungi isolated from its relevant habitats(wastewater, sewage sludge and sludge cake) for the bioconversion of domestic wastewater sludge. A total of 35 fungal strains were tested against wastewater sludge (total suspended solids, TSS 1%—5% w/w) to evaluate its potentiality for enhancing the biodegradability and dewaterability using liquid state bioconversion(LSB) process. The strains were divided into five groups i.e. Penicillium, Aspergillus, Trichoderma, Basidiomycete and Miscellaneous, respectively. The strains WWZP1003, SCahmA103, SCahmT105 and PC-9 among their respective groups of Penicillium, Aspergillus, Trichoderma and Basidiomycete played potential roles in terms of separation(formation of pellets/flocs/filaments), biodegradation(removal of COD) and filtration(filterability) of treated domestic wastewater sludge. The Miscellaneous group was not considered due to its unsatisfactory results as compared to the other groups. The pH value was also influenced by the microbial treatment during fermentation process. The filterability of treated sludge was improved by fungal treatment, and lowest filtration time was recorded for the strain WWZP1003 and SCahmA103 of Penicillium and Aspergillus groups respectively compared with other strains.展开更多
The isotopic composition of dissolved inorganic carbon(DIC) in estuarine environments has been studied for its significant role in determining the isotopic composition of inorganic/organic matter and its applications ...The isotopic composition of dissolved inorganic carbon(DIC) in estuarine environments has been studied for its significant role in determining the isotopic composition of inorganic/organic matter and its applications to the study of various natural processes. In this paper, based on the stable isotope geochemical characteristics of dissolved inorganic carbon in the Jiulong River Estuary, the following conclusions are drawn:(1) δ13CDIC values are mainly controlled by the mixing ratio of fresh water and sea water;(2) δ13Cphytoplankton values are linearly related to the δ13CDIC values;(3) δ13CPOM values for the Jiulong River Estuary are affected by anthropogenic pollution significantly; and(4) the comprehensive analysis of δ13Cphytoplankton, δ13CPOM and δ13CDIC shows that along with increasing salinity, the proportion of POM derived from the degradation of phytoplanktons gradually increases.展开更多
The isotopic composition of dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) in marine and estuarine environments has been studied in some detail because of its role in determining the isotopic composition of inorganic/organic matter...The isotopic composition of dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) in marine and estuarine environments has been studied in some detail because of its role in determining the isotopic composition of inorganic/organic matter and its applications to the study of various natural processes. The δ13CDIC values of sea water are controlled by the sources and sinks of carbon and the results from isotope fractionation among solid, dissolved and gaseous phases. In this paper, based on the description of the stable isotope geochemical characteristics of dissolved inorganic carbon in northern South China Sea, the following conclusions were drawn: 1) the δ13CDIC values of natural waters are controlled by the sources and sinks of carbon and the results from isotope fractionation among solid, dissolved and gaseous phases. And the low seawater δ13CDIC values of northern South China Sea are accompanied by a low level of sea primary productivity in this region; 2) according to the parameter relationship (δ13CDIC-1.1 PO4) between δ13CDIC and PO4, it is indicated that northern South China Sea is the source of atmospheric CO2; and 3) nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) are the elements which are the basis for phytoplankton growth. Based on the analysis of seawater δ13CDIC values and PO4 and NO3+NO2 concentrations, our data show that N is a limiting nutrient in northern South China Sea.展开更多
Objective: To verify possible associations between adenosine aminohydrolase(ADA) and AMP-aminohydrolase(AMPDA) to E3 SUMO-protein ligase NSE2(NSMCE2) in patients with renal stones. And to isolate, purify and character...Objective: To verify possible associations between adenosine aminohydrolase(ADA) and AMP-aminohydrolase(AMPDA) to E3 SUMO-protein ligase NSE2(NSMCE2) in patients with renal stones. And to isolate, purify and characterize ADA in patients with renal stones and healthy group.Methods: A total of 60 renal stones patients and 50 control were enrolled in a case-control study. The blood urea, creatinine, uric acid, protein, albumin, ADA and AMPDA were measured by colorimetric tests. The serum NSMCE2 was measured by ELISA.Results: Serum ADA, AMPDA and specii c activity of enzymes showed signii cant decrease(P < 0.05) in patients with renal stones compared to control group, mean levels of sera NSMCE2 and uric acid had a signii cant increase(P < 0.01 and P < 0.05, respectively) in patients compared to control group.Conclusions: The present study suggests that ADA, AMP deaminase and NSMCE2 can be used as a indicator to monitor the DNA damage and inl ammation disorders in the patients with kidney stones.展开更多
AIM: To examine the effect of pseudolaric acid B on the growth of human gastric cancer cell line, AGS, and its possible mechanism of action.METHODS: Growth inhibition by pseudolaric acid B was analyzed using MTT assay...AIM: To examine the effect of pseudolaric acid B on the growth of human gastric cancer cell line, AGS, and its possible mechanism of action.METHODS: Growth inhibition by pseudolaric acid B was analyzed using MTT assay. Apoptotic cells were detected using Hoechst 33258 staining, and confirmed by DNA fragmentation analysis. Western blot was used to detect the expression of apoptosis-regulated gene Bcl-2, caspase 3, and cleavage of poly (ADP-ribose)polymerase-1 (PARP-1).RESULTS: Pseudolaric acid B inhibited the growth of AGS cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner by arresting the cells at G2/M phase, which was accompanied with a decrease in the levels of cdc2.AGS cells treated with pseudolaric acid B showed typical characteristics of apoptosis including chromatin condensation and DNA fragmentation. Moreover,treatment of AGS cells with pseudolaric acid B was also associated with decreased levels of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2, activation of caspase-3, and proteolytic cleavage of PARP-1.CONCLUSION: Pseudolaric acid B can dramatically suppress the AGS cell growth by inducing apoptosis after G2/M phase arrest. These findings are consistent with the possibility that G2/M phase arrest is mediated by the down-regulation of cdc2 levels. The data also suggest that pseudolaric acid B can trigger apoptosis by decreasing Bcl-2 levels and activating caspase-3 protease.展开更多
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32325040)the Research Fund for the National Key R&D Program of China(2022YFD2100700).
文摘Modern lifestyle and diet have increased the incidence rate of uric acid(UA)metabolism-related diseases like hyperuricemia(HUA)and gout,posing heavy economic burden to individual patients and their families and the society.UA metabolism is a complex physiological process involving the kidney,intestine,and other organs.A number of factors together regulate UA metabolism,including genetics,diet,hormones,and the gut microbiota.This review summaries the gut microbiota features in subjects with HUA and gout,and the therapeutic effects of implementing microecological therapies(probiotics,prebiotics,or fecal microbiota transplant)that target modulate the gut microbiota and its downstream metabolism on the disease.Current evidence shows that these strategies are safe and promising in alleviate inflammation,reduce UA,and restoring a healthy gut microbiota in subjects with UA metabolism-related diseases.However,most clinical data are generated by animal studies.Therefore,we propose that vigorous human intervention trials should be conducted in the future to evaluate the therapeutic effects of microecological therapies in managing HUA and gout.
基金supported by NIH grants to MI Bukrinsky(R01NS124477 and P30AI117970)by the“Creation of Experimental Laboratories in the Natural Sciences Program”and Basic Research Programat Higher School of Economics University.
文摘Neutrophil extracellular traps(NET)have emerged as critical players in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases(CVD).These web-like structures,composed of DNA,histones,and granule proteins released by neutrophils,contribute significantly to both inflammation and thrombosis.This manuscript offers a comprehensive review of the recent literature on the involvement of NET in atherosclerosis,highlighting their interactions with various pathophysiological processes and their potential as biomarkers for CVD.Notably,the impact of radiation on NET formation is explored,emphasising how oxidative stress and inflammatory responses drive NET release,contributing to plaque instability.The role of histones,particularly citrullinated histones,in endothelial dysfunction and plaque progression is discussed,highlighting their significance in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis.Furthermore,the complex relationship between lipoproteins and NET formation is examined,with a focus on how elevated low-density lipoprotein(LDL)and decreased high-density lipoprotein(HDL)levels facilitate NET release,thus promoting vascular inflammation and plaque instability.The influence of cholesterol on NET formation is also explored,underscoring its contribution to plaque development and stability.The role of Peptidylarginine deiminase 4(PAD4)in the regulation of NETosis is reviewed,with attention given to how PAD4-driven citrullination of histones affects atherosclerosis progression.Moreover,the manuscript examines the potential of NET components—such as double-stranded DNA,myeloperoxidase–DNA complexes,and citrullinated histone H3—as biomarkers for assessing disease severity and predicting adverse cardiovascular events,including ST-elevation myocardial infarction(STEMI)and stroke.Elevated levels of these biomarkers correlate with worse clinical outcomes,suggesting their utility in guiding therapeutic interventions.In contrast to the existing body of work,this review highlights the novelty of integrating recent findings on NET interactions with lipid metabolism,histone modifications,and PAD4 activity in the context of atherosclerosis.Overall,NET plays an integral role in the inflammatory and thrombotic processes underpinning atherosclerosis,and their components hold promise as both diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets in cardiovascular disease management.
文摘This review aims to identify the assets and limitations of Dabema(Piptadeniastrum africanum)as a sustainable alternative to traditional timber species for furniture and construction applications.Dabema is characterized by its high density and dimensional stability,meeting ASTM(American Society for Testing and Materials)standards for mechanical strength,which is essential for promoting its use.However,its limited availability in trade and ingrained habits of use are obstacles to its widespread commercialization.In addition,thermal and oleothermal treatments have shown great potential for improving the characteristics of this wood,although they require ongoing optimization and rigorous environmental assessment.Consequently,increased awareness of the benefits of Dabema is decisive to encourage its sustainable adoption in modern economies.This could help to diversify forest resources and encourage more sustainable building practices,taking advantage of Dabema’s unique properties while mitigating environmental sustainability concerns.
基金supported by the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities,Southwest Minzu University(ZYN2023097)Scientific and Technological Innovation Team for Qinghai-Xizang Plateau Research in Southwest Minzu University(2024CXTD13)。
文摘While variable regions of immunoglobulins are extensively diversified by V(D)J recombination and somatic hypermutation in vertebrates,the constant regions of immunoglobulin heavy chains also utilize certain mechanisms to produce diversity,including class switch recombination(CSR),subclass differentiation,and alternative expression of the same gene.Many species of birds,reptiles,and amphibians express a truncated isoform of immunoglobulin Y(IgY),termed IgY(ΔFc),which lacks theυCH3 andυCH4 domains.In Anseriformes,IgY(ΔFc)arises from alternative transcriptional termination sites within the sameυgene,whereas in some turtles,intact IgY and IgY(ΔFc)are encoded by distinct genes.Different from the previously reported IgY(ΔFc)variants,this study identified a truncated IgY in the snake Elaphe taeniura,characterized by the loss of only a portion of the CH4 domain.Western blotting and liquid chromatographytandem mass spectrometry confirmed that this truncated IgY is generated by post-translational cleavage at N338 within the IgY heavy chain constant(CH)region.Furthermore,both human and snake asparaginyl endopeptidase were shown to cleave snake IgY in vitro.These findings reveal a novel mechanism for the production of shortened IgY forms,demonstrating that the immunoglobulin CH region undergoes diversification through distinct strategies across vertebrates.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (31720103911)the China Agriculture Research System of MOF and MARAthe Science and Technology Major Projects of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region (2021ZD0014)
文摘Conventional filling therapy fails to fundamentally reduce oral cariogenic bacteria.Thus,oral microbiota follow-up intervention after filling would be necessary for improving dental caries prognosis.We recruited 9 caries-free individuals,and 89 dental caries subjects(5 dropouts).Eighty-nine patients were randomized into three groups:caries(n=8;no treatment),control(n=40;filling),and postbiotics(n=41;filling and 14-day Probio-Eco®intervention).Salivary samples were collected at 0 day(after filling)and 14 days.Our results showed that the diversity of dental caries oral microbiota was significantly increased compared with healthy subjects,and filling could restore a healthier oral microbiota partially and temporarily.Thepostbiotics intervention keeps a low alpha-diversity.Co-occurrence network analysis showed that a more stable oral microbiota structure after postbiotics intervention.Taxonomic and functional annotation of the microbiota revealed that postbiotics co-treatment significantly:increased the relative abundance of Pseudomonas and P.reactans,decreased the relative abundance of Prevotella shahii,and enriched the energy metabolism-related pathways.BugBase-predicted phenotypes inferred to an oral microbiota with decreased potential pathogenic bacteria and increased oxidative stress-tolerant bacteria after postbiotics intervention.Collectively,it suggested that postbiotics co-treatment could be a promising strategy that restores the oral microecological balance for dental caries.
基金supported by Science and Technology Major Projects of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region(2021ZD0014)。
文摘Probiotics exert beneficial effects on the host.This study aimed to investigate whether maternally ingested Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus Probio-M9 during pregnancy could access and colonize the infant gut.This study recruited one pregnant woman,who ingested Probio-M9 daily from 35 weeks of gestation to delivery.Feces of the mother-infant pair were regularly collected from one month before delivery to 6 months of infant's age for metagenomic sequencing.Probio-M9 genomes were mappable to all infant fecal samples,suggesting the ingested probiotics could be vertically transmitted from mother to infant.Infant-or mother-specific differential metabolic pathways were found between the maternal and infant's gut microbiome,implicating apparent differences in the intestinal metagenomic potential/function between the mother and the infant.In conclusion,maternal ingestion of Probio-M9 during the final weeks of gestation could deliver to the infant gut.The findings provided novel insights into shaping infant's gut microbiota.
基金the National Key R&D Program of China(2022YFD21007002)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32325040)+1 种基金Inner Mongolia Science&Technology planning project(2022YFSJ0017)the earmarked fund for CARS36.
文摘Recent research on the genome of Bifidobacterium bifidum has mainly focused on the isolation sources(intestinal tract niche)recently,but reports on the isolation region are limited.This study analyzed the differences in the genome of B.bifidum isolated from different geographical populations by comparative genomic analysis.Results at the genome level indicated that the GC content of American isolates was significantly higher than that of Chinese and Russian isolates.The phylogenetic tree,based on 919 core genes showed that B.bifidum might be related to the geographical characteristics of isolation region.Furthermore,functional annotation analysis demonstrated that copy numbers of carbohydrate-active enzymes(CAZys)involved in the degradation of polysaccharide from plant and host sources in B.bifidum were high,and 18 CAZys showed significant differences across different geographical populations,indicating that B.bifidum had adapted to the human intestinal environment,especially in the groups with diets rich in fiber.Dietary habits were one of the main reasons for the differences of B.bifidum across different geographical populations.Additionally,B.bifidum exhibited high diversity,evident in glycoside hydrolases,the CRISPR-Cas system,and prophages.This study provides a genetic basis for further research and development of B.bifidum.
文摘This study aims to investigate the abundance of AMF according to soil properties and altitudes in different cacao plantations of Cameroon. Physico-chemical analyses were made on soil samples collected from three agro-ecological zones. Soil samples were also used to evaluate directly the AMF abundance following the various altitudes and after trapping by sorghum plant. The results showed that soil properties, AMF spore abundances and colonization fluctuated significantly at different altitudes. The most represented texture was sandy loam. The bimodal zone presented a homogeneous texture (sandy loam) in all its localities. Cacao soil chemical characteristics showed that, the highest nitrogen rate (0.47%;p 0.05, Scott-Knott test) was recorded at Melong in a monomodal zone while Tonga in the Western highlands displayed the lowest rate (0.13%). Soil P concentration was significantly high in monomodal zones (Mbanga and Melong). Soil pH level indicated that the soil from Tonga in the Western highlands was neutral (pH = 6.67), and soils of other localities under study were acidic with the lowest (4.75) pH level recorded at Melong in a monomodal zone. In soil samples, the highest spore density (1.03 spores/g soil) was observed at Ntui in Bimodal zone, while the lowest spore density (0.26 spores/g soil) was observed at Bafang in the Western highlands. Root colonization showed that the sample from Bokito in a bimodal zone displayed the best frequency of mycorrhization (86.11%) while the sample from Bafang in the Western highlands recorded the lowest (27.11%). The PCA analysis highlighted that available phosphorus, pH and altitude all strongly correlated with AMF root colonization ability and can be used as a predictor of AMF colonization ability in cacao rhizosphere.
基金the Kulliyyah of Engineering(KOE) and Department of Biotechnology Engineering,IIUM for supporting and providing the laboratory facilities
文摘The capability of carbon nanotubes （CNTs） to adsorb lead （Pb） in aqueous solution was investigated. Batch mode adsorption experiment was conducted to determine the effects of pH, agitation speed, CNTs dosage and contact time. The removal of Pb（II） reached maximum value 85% or 83% at pH 5 or 40 mg/L of CNTs, respectively. Higher correlation coefficients from Langmuir isotherm model indicates the strong adsorptions of Pb（II） on the surface of CNTs （adsorption capacity Xm = 102.04 mg/g）. The results indicates that the highest percentage removal of Pb （96.03%） can be achieved at pH 5, 40 mg/L of CNTs, contact time 80 min, and agitation speed 50 r/min.
文摘The adsorption capacity of activated carbon produced from oil palm empty fruit bunches through removal of 2,4-dichlorophenol from aqueous solution was carried out in the laboratory. The activated carbon was produced by thermal activation of activation time with 30 min at 800℃. The adsorption process conditions were determined with the statistical optimization followed by central composite design. A developed polynomial model for operating conditions of adsorption process indicated that the optimum conditions for maximum adsorption of phenolic compound were： agitation rate of 100 r/min, contact time of 8 h, initial adsorbate concentration of 250 mg/L and pH 4. Adsorption isotherms were conducted to evaluate biosorption process. Langmuir isotherm was more favorable （R^2=0.93） for removal of 2,4-dichlorophenol by the activated carbon rather than Freundlich isotherm （R^2=0.88）.
基金The authors acknowledge the financial support received from Ministry of Education Malaysia(FRGS/1/2018/TK05/UIAM/03/3).Writing on fibre preparation,chitin,and chitosan are directly related to the said grant.
文摘Alginate is an edible heteropolysaccharide that abundantly available in the brown seaweed and the capsule of bacteria such as Azotobacter sp.and Pseudomonas sp.Owing to alginate gel forming capability,it is widely used in food,textile and paper industries;and to a lesser extent in biomedical applications as biomaterial to promote wound healing and tissue regeneration.This is evident from the rising use of alginate-based dressing for heavily exuding wound and their mass availability in the market nowadays.However,alginate also has limitation.When in contact with physiological environment,alginate could gelate into softer structure,consequently limits its potential in the soft tissue regeneration and becomes inappropriate for the usage related to load bearing body parts.To cater this problem,wide range of materials have been added to alginate structure,producing sturdy composite materials.For instance,the incorporation of adhesive peptide and natural polymer or synthetic polymer to alginate moieties creates an improved composite material,which not only possesses better mechanical properties compared to native alginate,but also grants additional healing capability and promote better tissue regeneration.In addition,drug release kinetic and cell viability can be further improved when alginate composite is used as encapsulating agent.In this review,preparation of alginate and alginate composite in various forms(fibre,bead,hydrogel,and 3D-printed matrices)used for biomedical application is described first,followed by the discussion of latest trend related to alginate composite utilization in wound dressing,drug delivery,and tissue engineering applications.
基金supported by the Key Project of Science and Technology Research,Ministry of Education of China(208054)the Outstanding Youth Group Project of Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province,China(R3090330)
文摘The effects of active modified atmosphere packaging （MAP） on the postharvest quality of shiitake mushrooms stored at cold temperature （4°C） were investigated.The gas components were 2% O2 ＋7% CO2 （MAP1）,2% O2 ＋10% CO2 （MAP2） and 2% O2 ＋13% CO2 （MAP3）,respectively.The results showed that active MAP could extend the shelf-life of shiitake mushrooms to 17 d and the concentration of carbon dioxide could influence the postharvest quality of shiitake mushrooms.MAP2 treatment inhibited the increase in respiration rate and malondinaldehyde （MDA） contents,delayed the decrease in firmness,soluble sugar and vitamin C,and obviously reduced the activity of polyphenol oxidase （PPO） and the degree of browning,therefore maintaining better quality.
基金Supported by the Special Funds for Major State Basic Research Program of China （2007CB707805） the Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province （Y505334）
文摘A versatile peroxidase (VP-Peco60-7 ) was generated and purified from the liquid culture of Pleurotus eryngii. The purification procedure included ammonium sulfate precipitation, ion exchange chromatography, and gel chromatography. The molecular weight and isoelectric point (pI) of VP-Peco60-7 were determined to be approxi-mately 40 kDa and 4.1, respectively. By N-terminal sequence determination and peptide mapping analysis, VP-Peco60-7 was found to be similar to the versatile peroxidase isoenzyme VPL1, which was previously isolated from liquid cultures of the same species. However, the molecular weight and pI of VP-Peco60-7 were different from those of versatile peroxidases of liquid cultures, implying that the VP-Peco60-7 in this study is of a novel type. With 2,2′-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) as a substrate, the maximal enzyme activity was obtained at 50 °C and pH 3.0. The catalysis of ABTS by VP-Peco60-7 was expressed by the Michaelis-Menten equa-tion. At 50 °C and pH 3.0, the maximum velocity (V max ) was 188.68 U·mg-1 and the michaelis constant (K m ) was 203.09 μmol·L-1 .
文摘The optimization of process parameters for the bioconversion of activated sludge by Penicillium corylophilum was investigated using response surface methodology （RSM）. The three parameters namely temperature of 33℃, agitation of 150 r/min, and pH of 5 were chosen as center point from the previous study of fungal treatment. The experimental data on chemical oxygen demand （COD） removal （%） were fitted into a quadratic polynomial model using multiple regression analysis. The optimum process conditions were determined by analyzing response surface three-dimensional surface plot and contour plot and by solving the regression model equation with Design Expert software. Box-Behnken design technique under RSM was used to optimize their interactions, which showed that an incubation temperature of 32.5℃, agitation of 105 r/min, and pH of 5.5 were the best conditions. Under these conditions, the maximum predicted yield of COD removal was 98.43%. These optimum conditions were used to evaluate the trail experiment, and the maximum yield of COD removal was recorded as 98.5%.
基金Supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Fujian Province (No.E0310019) and Key Project of Science and Technology of Fujian Province (No.2003H023).
文摘The kinetics of asymmetric production of R-（-）-mandelic acid （R-MA） from phenylglyoxylic acid （PGA） catalyzed by Saccharomyces cerevisiae sp. strain FD11b was studied by fed-batch cultures. The concentrations of glucose and PGA were controlled respectively with a dual feeding system. When the electron donor glucose was supplied at the rate of 0.0833mmol·gdw^-1·h^-1, the specific production rate （qp） and the enantiomeric excess of R-MA reached the maximum 0.353mmol·gdw^-1·h^-1 and 97.1%, respectively. The apparent reduction activity of yeast FD 11 b was obviously affected by both substrate PGA and product MA. The qp value reached the maximum 0.36-0.38mmol·gdw^-1·h^-1 when the PGA concentration was controlled between 25 and 35mmol·L^-1. The obvious substrate inhibition of bioconversion was observed at the PGA concentrations higher than 40mmol·L^-1. The accumulation of product MA also caused a severe feed-back inhibition for its production when the product concentration was above 60mmol·L^-1. The kinetic model with the inhibition effect of both substrate and product was simulated by a computer-based least-square arithrnatic. The established kinetic model was in good agreement with the experimental data.
文摘This study was undertaken to screen the filamentous fungi isolated from its relevant habitats(wastewater, sewage sludge and sludge cake) for the bioconversion of domestic wastewater sludge. A total of 35 fungal strains were tested against wastewater sludge (total suspended solids, TSS 1%—5% w/w) to evaluate its potentiality for enhancing the biodegradability and dewaterability using liquid state bioconversion(LSB) process. The strains were divided into five groups i.e. Penicillium, Aspergillus, Trichoderma, Basidiomycete and Miscellaneous, respectively. The strains WWZP1003, SCahmA103, SCahmT105 and PC-9 among their respective groups of Penicillium, Aspergillus, Trichoderma and Basidiomycete played potential roles in terms of separation(formation of pellets/flocs/filaments), biodegradation(removal of COD) and filtration(filterability) of treated domestic wastewater sludge. The Miscellaneous group was not considered due to its unsatisfactory results as compared to the other groups. The pH value was also influenced by the microbial treatment during fermentation process. The filterability of treated sludge was improved by fungal treatment, and lowest filtration time was recorded for the strain WWZP1003 and SCahmA103 of Penicillium and Aspergillus groups respectively compared with other strains.
基金financially supported jointly by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.40771185 and 51004053)the Fujian Province Natural Science Foundation(D0710021)the Li Shangda Scientific Research Foundation of Jimei University,China(No.ZC2011015)
文摘The isotopic composition of dissolved inorganic carbon(DIC) in estuarine environments has been studied for its significant role in determining the isotopic composition of inorganic/organic matter and its applications to the study of various natural processes. In this paper, based on the stable isotope geochemical characteristics of dissolved inorganic carbon in the Jiulong River Estuary, the following conclusions are drawn:(1) δ13CDIC values are mainly controlled by the mixing ratio of fresh water and sea water;(2) δ13Cphytoplankton values are linearly related to the δ13CDIC values;(3) δ13CPOM values for the Jiulong River Estuary are affected by anthropogenic pollution significantly; and(4) the comprehensive analysis of δ13Cphytoplankton, δ13CPOM and δ13CDIC shows that along with increasing salinity, the proportion of POM derived from the degradation of phytoplanktons gradually increases.
基金supported jointly by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos. 902011020, 40576036, 40771185)the Fujian Provincial Natural Science Foundation (D0710021)
文摘The isotopic composition of dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) in marine and estuarine environments has been studied in some detail because of its role in determining the isotopic composition of inorganic/organic matter and its applications to the study of various natural processes. The δ13CDIC values of sea water are controlled by the sources and sinks of carbon and the results from isotope fractionation among solid, dissolved and gaseous phases. In this paper, based on the description of the stable isotope geochemical characteristics of dissolved inorganic carbon in northern South China Sea, the following conclusions were drawn: 1) the δ13CDIC values of natural waters are controlled by the sources and sinks of carbon and the results from isotope fractionation among solid, dissolved and gaseous phases. And the low seawater δ13CDIC values of northern South China Sea are accompanied by a low level of sea primary productivity in this region; 2) according to the parameter relationship (δ13CDIC-1.1 PO4) between δ13CDIC and PO4, it is indicated that northern South China Sea is the source of atmospheric CO2; and 3) nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) are the elements which are the basis for phytoplankton growth. Based on the analysis of seawater δ13CDIC values and PO4 and NO3+NO2 concentrations, our data show that N is a limiting nutrient in northern South China Sea.
基金Supported by the Research Management Center,International Islamic University Malaysia,Grant Scheme Project No.IIUM/504/5/29/1
文摘Objective: To verify possible associations between adenosine aminohydrolase(ADA) and AMP-aminohydrolase(AMPDA) to E3 SUMO-protein ligase NSE2(NSMCE2) in patients with renal stones. And to isolate, purify and characterize ADA in patients with renal stones and healthy group.Methods: A total of 60 renal stones patients and 50 control were enrolled in a case-control study. The blood urea, creatinine, uric acid, protein, albumin, ADA and AMPDA were measured by colorimetric tests. The serum NSMCE2 was measured by ELISA.Results: Serum ADA, AMPDA and specii c activity of enzymes showed signii cant decrease(P < 0.05) in patients with renal stones compared to control group, mean levels of sera NSMCE2 and uric acid had a signii cant increase(P < 0.01 and P < 0.05, respectively) in patients compared to control group.Conclusions: The present study suggests that ADA, AMP deaminase and NSMCE2 can be used as a indicator to monitor the DNA damage and inl ammation disorders in the patients with kidney stones.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, No. 30371243
文摘AIM: To examine the effect of pseudolaric acid B on the growth of human gastric cancer cell line, AGS, and its possible mechanism of action.METHODS: Growth inhibition by pseudolaric acid B was analyzed using MTT assay. Apoptotic cells were detected using Hoechst 33258 staining, and confirmed by DNA fragmentation analysis. Western blot was used to detect the expression of apoptosis-regulated gene Bcl-2, caspase 3, and cleavage of poly (ADP-ribose)polymerase-1 (PARP-1).RESULTS: Pseudolaric acid B inhibited the growth of AGS cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner by arresting the cells at G2/M phase, which was accompanied with a decrease in the levels of cdc2.AGS cells treated with pseudolaric acid B showed typical characteristics of apoptosis including chromatin condensation and DNA fragmentation. Moreover,treatment of AGS cells with pseudolaric acid B was also associated with decreased levels of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2, activation of caspase-3, and proteolytic cleavage of PARP-1.CONCLUSION: Pseudolaric acid B can dramatically suppress the AGS cell growth by inducing apoptosis after G2/M phase arrest. These findings are consistent with the possibility that G2/M phase arrest is mediated by the down-regulation of cdc2 levels. The data also suggest that pseudolaric acid B can trigger apoptosis by decreasing Bcl-2 levels and activating caspase-3 protease.
