Psoriasis is a common and chronic immune-mediated disorder that severely impacts the life quality of patients.Phosphodiesterase-4(PDE4)inhibitors have attracted significant interests in the psoriasis treatment due to ...Psoriasis is a common and chronic immune-mediated disorder that severely impacts the life quality of patients.Phosphodiesterase-4(PDE4)inhibitors have attracted significant interests in the psoriasis treatment due to their ability to suppress the inflammatory cascades.In this study,extensive screening of an in-house library of 1200 Chinese medicinal plant extracts identified Platycladus orientalis(L.)Franco(P.orientalis)as a potent PDE4 inhibitor,exhibiting 42.7%inhibition at 0.2μg/m L.Subsequent bioassayguided isolation revealed flavonoids,particularly amentoflavone(AMF),as the principal component responsible for PDE4 inhibition.To enrich the effective ingredients,a purification protocol using microporous resin was developed,yielding a flavonoid-rich extract(FLDs)that efficiently increased AMF content from 6.2%to 72.3%and improved PDE4 inhibitory activity to 74.2%at 0.2μg/mL.Notably,P.orientalis with favorable safety profiles demonstrated superior in vitro and in vivo anti-psoriasis effects to both AMF and the approved PDE4 inhibitor apremilast.These findings highlight the potential of P.orientalis as a novel therapeutic agent for psoriasis and provide valuable insights for its development in psoriasis treatment.展开更多
Hemoptysis is defined as bleeding originating from the respiratory tract distal to the larynx and is associated with a wide spectrum of underlying conditions,including bronchiectasis,pulmonary malignancies,tuberculosi...Hemoptysis is defined as bleeding originating from the respiratory tract distal to the larynx and is associated with a wide spectrum of underlying conditions,including bronchiectasis,pulmonary malignancies,tuberculosis,aspergillosis,and vascular malformations.^([1-3]) A metaanalysis involving patients with massive hemoptysis reported a mortality rate of 3.5%.^([4])This underscores the critical importance of prompt and eff ective embolization of the responsible artery to improve outcomes,particularly in patients presenting with life-threatening hemoptysis.展开更多
The loss rate of cold atoms in a trap due to residual gas collisions differs from that in a free state after the cold atoms are released from the trap. In this paper, the loss rate in a cold rubidium-87 atom cloud was...The loss rate of cold atoms in a trap due to residual gas collisions differs from that in a free state after the cold atoms are released from the trap. In this paper, the loss rate in a cold rubidium-87 atom cloud was measured in a magneto-optical trap （MOT） and during its free flight. The residual gas pressure was analyzed by a residual gas analyzer, and the pressure distribution in a vacuum chamber was numerically calculated by the angular coefficient method. The decay factor, which describes the decay behavior of cold atoms due to residual gas collisions during a free flight, was calculated. It was found that the decay factor agrees well with theoretical predictions under various vacuum conditions.展开更多
The novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2),which triggered the ongoing pandemic,was first discovered in China in late 2019.SARSCoV-2 is a respiratory virus responsible for coronavirus diseas...The novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2),which triggered the ongoing pandemic,was first discovered in China in late 2019.SARSCoV-2 is a respiratory virus responsible for coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)that often manifests as a pneumonic syndrome.In the context of the pandemic,there are mixed views on the data provided by epidemiologists and the information collected by hospital clinicians about their patients.In addition,the literature reports a large proportion of patients free of pneumonia vs a small percentage of patients with severe pneumonia among confirmed COVID-19 cases.This raises the issue of the complexity of the work required to control or contain the pandemic.We believe that an integrative and pluralistic approach will help to put the analyses into perspective and reinforce collaboration and creativity in the fight against this major scourge.This paper proposes a comprehensive and integrative approach to COVID-19 research,prevention,control,and treatment to better address the pandemic.Thus,this literature review applies a pluralistic approach to fight the pandemic.展开更多
Amycolatopsis mediterranei is used for industry-scale production of rifamycin, which plays a vital role in antimyco- bacterial therapy. As the first sequenced genome of the genus Amycolatopsis, the chromosome of strai...Amycolatopsis mediterranei is used for industry-scale production of rifamycin, which plays a vital role in antimyco- bacterial therapy. As the first sequenced genome of the genus Amycolatopsis, the chromosome of strain U32 comprising 10 236 715 base pairs, is one of the largest prokaryotic genomes ever sequenced so far. Unlike the linear topology found in streptomycetes, this chromosome is circular, particularly similar to that of Saccharopolyspora erythraea and Nocardia farcinica, representing their close relationship in phylogeny and taxonomy. Although the predicted 9 228 protein-coding genes in the A. mediterranei genome shared the greatest number of orthologs with those of S. erythraea, it was unexpectedly followed by Streptomyces coelicolor rather than N. farcinica, indicating the distinct metabolic characteristics evolved via adaptation to diverse ecological niches. Besides a core region analogous to that common in streptomycetes, a novel ＇quasicore＇ with typical core characteristics is defined within the non-core region, where 21 out of the total 26 gene clusters for secondary metabolite production are located. The rifamycin biosynthesis gene cluster located in the core encodes a cytochrome P450 enzyme essential for the conversion of rifamycin SV to B, revealed by comparing to the highly homologous cluster of the rifamycin B-producing strain S699 and further confirmed by genetic complementation. The genomic information of A. mediterranei demonstrates a metabolic network orchestrated not only for extensive utilization of various carbon sources and inorganic nitrogen compounds but also for effective funneling of metabolic intermediates into the secondary antibiotic synthesis process under the control of a seemingly complex regulatory mechanism.展开更多
Temperature changes affect apple development and production.Phenylpropanoid metabolism and hormone signaling play a crucial role in regulating apple growth and development in response to temperature changes.Here,we fo...Temperature changes affect apple development and production.Phenylpropanoid metabolism and hormone signaling play a crucial role in regulating apple growth and development in response to temperature changes.Here,we found that McMYB4 is induced by treatment at 28℃ and 18℃,and McMYB4 overexpression results in flavonol and lignin accumulation in apple leaves.Yeast one-hybrid(Y1H)assays and electrophoretic mobility shift assays(EMSAs)further revealed that McMYB4 targets the promoters of the flavonol biosynthesis genes CHS and FLS and the lignin biosynthesis genes CAD and F5H.McMYB4 expression resulted in higher levels of flavonol and lignin biosynthesis in apple during growth at 28℃ and 18℃ than during growth at 23℃.At 28℃ and 18℃,McMYB4 also binds to the AUX/ARF and BRI/BIN promoters to activate gene expression,resulting in acceleration of the auxin and brassinolide signaling pathways.Taken together,our results demonstrate that McMYB4 promotes flavonol biosynthesis and brassinolide signaling,which decreases ROS contents to improve plant resistance and promotes lignin biosynthesis and auxin signaling to regulate plant growth.This study suggests that McMYB4 participates in the abiotic resistance and growth of apple in response to temperature changes by regulating phenylpropanoid metabolism and hormone signaling.展开更多
Much attention has been paid on studies of astaxanthin accumulation process in H aematococcus pluvialis industry. However, growth of H. pluvialis in motile vegetative stage is still the most important and problematic ...Much attention has been paid on studies of astaxanthin accumulation process in H aematococcus pluvialis industry. However, growth of H. pluvialis in motile vegetative stage is still the most important and problematic part in the whole cultivation process, such as low growth rate and cell yields. Motile vegetative cells are extremely sensitive to various stresses which make it difficult to maintain the cells of this state to grow. Previous reports showed that motile vegetative cells may have higher biomass yields ifapplied monochromatic red light. However, metabolic responses of these cells are not completely understood, which constraints application of this illumination protocol in industry. The aim of this study was to examine how critical biochemical changes of H. pluvialis motile vegetative cells were af fected by red light when compared with white light. Variation of photosynthetic pigments composition and lipids were mainly studied. By comparing growth process of cultures in red light and white light, prominent variation of pigments composition and lipids changes were observed. The results showed that, even though cell proliferation was the same during exponential growth phase, variation of photosynthetic pigment composition and lipids occurred. The final biomass of cell number was higher in red light group than in white light group. The variations were significant different. Increase or decrease of major photosynthetic membrane lipids to some extent did not influence photosynthesis of the vegetative cells during this phase. However, vegetative cells under polychromatic white light other than monochromatic red light need further metabolic process to adjust its pigment composition and lipids, possibly this is energetically and biochemically unfavorable for motile vegetative cells to growth under white light, a light condition normally not considered as a stress.展开更多
Purpose: The PBP4* is a Penicillin Binding Protein belonging to the class C of AmpH type whose function remains poorly understood. This study aimed to evaluate the biophysical and enzymatic properties of the Bacillus ...Purpose: The PBP4* is a Penicillin Binding Protein belonging to the class C of AmpH type whose function remains poorly understood. This study aimed to evaluate the biophysical and enzymatic properties of the Bacillus subtilis PBP4* to gain insights into its role in the context of bacterial cell wall recycling. Methods: To characterize the PBP4*, the full-length PBP4* and its N-terminal penicillin-binding domain have been produced in Escherichia coli and purified. Results: A comparison of biophysical properties has shown that both recombinant proteins are monomeric in solution and retain the same thermal stability. On the other hand, the D-alanine methyl esterase activity detected with the full-length PBP4* is impeded by the cleavage of the 92 amino acid C-terminal domain. The esterase activity of the full-length PBP4* strates a clear D-stereospecificity. The PBP4* is also active on B. subtilis cell walls bearing teichoic acids, compounds commonly substituted with D-alanine residues. Conclusions: Our results are in agreement with the hypothesis that PBP4* could play a role in recycling cell wall components, as previously suggested.展开更多
Africa, ever on the lookout for development levers that will allow its economy to take off, is turning more and more towards technology. This is one of the possible modern avenues to success, especially the use of the...Africa, ever on the lookout for development levers that will allow its economy to take off, is turning more and more towards technology. This is one of the possible modern avenues to success, especially the use of the biotechnologies that are so touted by Western countries. However, the hope placed in these new technologies must not hide the long-proven fact that technology alone is not enough to solve development problems. Biotechnologies do not escape this rule. Biotechnologies can be the best and the worst things for the people of Africa. Beyond their technical contributions, we must be wary of their boomerang effects and collateral damage. A country’s development is actually more complex than simply implementing technology, and in the current global environmental context a holistic vision is necessary to ensure sustainable development. In the area of water, this integrated vision emerged on the international scene during the Dublin Conference in 1992, which consecrated the principles of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM). More recently, the Eco-Health concept strives to combine human health and ecosystem health while incorporating a socioeconomic dimension into the health and environmental spheres. The concern to mesh human activities better with environmental protection was materialized previously, in the 1970s already, through impact studies. After presenting this set of tools in the service of a holistic approach to the environment and development, we shall see that these approaches can inspire the players when it comes to the ways they implement biotechnologies. At the end of the day, a holistic approach to biotechnologies in Africa will be facilitated by enhanced information and communication and reliance on peasant farmers’ expertise. It will have to be rooted in broader participation of the players concerned. This integration will also concern environmental and land-owning aspects, without forgetting socio-cultural acceptance of the projects and the links with health. Ultimately, it will also mean putting the human at the heart of development by taking all the richness and particularities of African society into account.展开更多
Accurate assessment of feed's Carbohydrate( CHO) and protein nutritional values and rumen metabolism are significant for dairy production. Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System( CNCPS) as an important method...Accurate assessment of feed's Carbohydrate( CHO) and protein nutritional values and rumen metabolism are significant for dairy production. Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System( CNCPS) as an important method to evaluate feedstuff nutritional values,hasn't been widely used in China. In order to illustrate updates of CNCPS systems deeply,the following sections were reviewed:( i) CHO and protein fractions were updated,CA was subdivided into CA1,CA2,CA3 and CA4 in CNCPS v6. 1,protein was reclassified into PA1,PA2,PB1,PB2 and PC after CNCPS v6. 1. Content of CHO and protein fractions vary in different feedstuff and affected by feed processing;( ii) Degradation rates( Kd) values for the new CA expanded scheme were updated to 0,7,5,40- 60 % h^(-1)respectively,Kd for PA and PB1 decreased to 200 % h^(-1)and 10- 40 % h^(-1);( iii) Equations for passage rate( Kp) initially includes Kpf( Kp of forages) and Kpc( Kp of concentrates),and adjusted by effective NDF( e NDF),while in CNCPS v5. 0,Kpl( Kp of liquids) equation was added and e NDF was replaced by physically effective NDF( pe NDF). In CNCPS v6. 1,Fp BW and Cp BW were integrated into Kp equations and pe NDF was abandoned.( iv)The relationship and difference among Weende system of proximate analysis,Van Soest fiber analysis~[35],NRC( 2001)~[28]and CNCPS were analyzed. The first two systems laid the foundation for NRC( 2001) and CNCPS system. The latter two systems are different in CHO and protein division,also NRC( 2001) developed separate Kp equations for wet and dry forages but no equation for Kpl. CNCPS developed a Kp equation that work for wet and dry forages,and Kpl equation was established. In conclusion,the division and development of CHO and protein fractions,the update of Kd and Kp equation were reviewed systematically.展开更多
Retinopathy of prematurity(ROP)was first described as a disease of prematurity(1).There was then a worldwide epidemic of ROP,which contributed to 50%blindness in 1950.Later vigorous research showed a correlation betwe...Retinopathy of prematurity(ROP)was first described as a disease of prematurity(1).There was then a worldwide epidemic of ROP,which contributed to 50%blindness in 1950.Later vigorous research showed a correlation between the use of supplemental oxygen and the incidence and progression of ROP.This led to a close monitoring of supplemental oxygen given to premature infants,which helped to decrease the percentage of ROP-related blindness to 4%in 1965.Yet,the incidence of ROP increased in recent years,presumably due to great improvement in neonatal care,which in turn resulted in increased survival of very-low-birth-weight premature infants.展开更多
BACKGROUND：Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease（NAFLD）refers to any fatty liver disease that is not due to excessive use of alcohol.NAFLD probably results from abnormal hepatic lipid metabolism and insulin resistance....BACKGROUND：Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease（NAFLD）refers to any fatty liver disease that is not due to excessive use of alcohol.NAFLD probably results from abnormal hepatic lipid metabolism and insulin resistance.Aerobic exercise is shown to improve NAFLD.This review aimed to evaluate the molecular mechanisms involved in the beneficial effects of aerobic exercise on NAFLD.DATA SOURCE：We searched articles in English on the role of aerobic exercise in NAFLD therapy in Pub Med.RESULTS： The mechanisms of chronic aerobic exercise in regulating the outcome of NAFLD include： （i） reducing in- trahepatic fat content by down-regulating sterol regulatory element-binding protein-lc and up-regulating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor y expression levels; （ii） decreas- ing hepatic oxidative stress through modulating the reactive oxygen species, and enhancing antioxidant enzymes such as catalase and glutathione peroxidase; （iii） ameliorating hepatic inflammation via the inhibition of pro-inflammatory media- tors such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-1 beta; （iv） attenuating mitochondrial dependent apoptosis by reducing cytochrome C released from the mitochondria to the cytosol; and （v） inducing hepato-protective autophagy. CONCLUSION： Aerobic exercise, via different mechanisms, significantly decreases the fat content of the liver and improves the outcomes of patients with NAFLD.展开更多
AIM:To improve the outcome of orthotopic transplantation in a mouse model,we used an absorbable gelatin sponge(AGS) in nude mice to establish an orthotopic implantation tumor model.METHODS:MHCC-97L hepatocellular carc...AIM:To improve the outcome of orthotopic transplantation in a mouse model,we used an absorbable gelatin sponge(AGS) in nude mice to establish an orthotopic implantation tumor model.METHODS:MHCC-97L hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)cells stably expressing the luciferase gene were injected into the subcutaneous region of nude mice.One week later,the ectopic tumors were harvested and transplanted into the left liver lobe of nude mice.The AGS was used to establish the nude mouse orthotopic implantation tumor model.The tumor suppressor gene,paired box gene 5(PAX5),which is a tumor suppressor in HCC,was transfected into HCC cells to validate the model.Tumor growth was measured by bioluminescence imaging technology.Semi-quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction(RT-PCR) and histopathology were used to confirm the tumorigenicity of the implanted tumor from the MHCC-97L cell line.RESULTS:We successfully developed an orthotopic transplantation tumor model in nude mice with the use of an AGS.The success rate of tumor transplantation was improved from 60% in the control group to 100% in the experimental group using AGS.The detection of fluorescent signals showed that tumors grew in all live nude mice.The mice were divided into 3 groups:AGS-,AGS+/PAX5-and AGS+/PAX5 +.Tumor size was significantly smaller in PAX5 transfected nude mice compared to control mice(P < 0.0001).These fluorescent signal results were consistent with observations made during surgery.Pathologic examination further confirmed that the tissues from the ectopic tumor were HCC.Results from RT-PCR proved that the HCC originated from MHCC-97L cells.CONCLUSION:Using an AGS is a convenient and efficient way of establishing an indirect orthotopic liver transplantation tumor model with a high success rate.展开更多
AIM:To study the molecular mechanism of laterally spreading tumor (LST), a cell line [Laterally Spreading Tumor-Rectum 1 (LST-R1)] was derived and the characteristics of this cell line were investigated. METHODS:A new...AIM:To study the molecular mechanism of laterally spreading tumor (LST), a cell line [Laterally Spreading Tumor-Rectum 1 (LST-R1)] was derived and the characteristics of this cell line were investigated. METHODS:A new cell line (LST-R1) originated from laterally spreading tumor was established. Properties of the cell line were characterized using scanning and transmission electron microscopy, immunohistochemistry method, cytogenetic analysis and nude mice xenograft experiments. In vitro invasion assay, cDNA microarray and Western blotting were used to compare the difference between the LST-R1 and other colorectal cancer cell lines derived from prudent colon cancer. RESULTS:Our study demonstrated that both epithelial special antigen (ESA) and cytokeratin-20 (CK20) were expressed in LST-R1. The cells presented microvilli and tight junction with large nuclei. The karyotypic analysis showed hyperdiploid features with structural chromosome aberrations. The in vivo tumorigenicity was also demonstrated in nude mice xenograft experiments. The invasion assay suggested this cell line has a higher invasive ability. cDNA microarray and Western blotting show the loss of the expression of E-cadherin in LST-R1 cells.CONCLUSION:We established and characterized a colorectal cancer cell line, LST-R1 and LST-R1 has an obvious malignant tendency, which maybe partially attributed to the changes of the expression of some adhesion molecules, such as E-cadherin. It is also a versatile tool for exploring the original and progressive mechanisms of laterally spreading tumor and the early colon cancer genesis.展开更多
With the development of globalization and the increasing commodity circulation among countries, advertisement as one of the most effective promoting methods, has also transcended the boundaries of countries and attrac...With the development of globalization and the increasing commodity circulation among countries, advertisement as one of the most effective promoting methods, has also transcended the boundaries of countries and attracted more attentions. In order to make their advertisements vivid, impressing, attracting and increase the customers' desire to purchase, advertisers would make advantage of rhetorical devices to achieve this effect. Among them, pun is one of the widely used devices. This thesis aims to discuss the language features of English advertising and puns. The author hopes this article can be beneficial to the polishing of pun in advertising translation and offer the reference for advertising translation.展开更多
Background:Routinely collected health data are increasingly used in clinical research.No study has systematically reviewed the temporal trends in the number of publications and analyzed different aspects of local rese...Background:Routinely collected health data are increasingly used in clinical research.No study has systematically reviewed the temporal trends in the number of publications and analyzed different aspects of local research practices and their variations in Hong Kong,China,with a specific focus on research ethics governance and approval.Methods:PubMed was systematically searched from its inception to March 28,2023,for studies using routinely col-lected healthcare data from Hong Kong.Results:A total of 454 studies were included.Between 2000 and 2009,32 studies were identified.The number of pub-lications increased from 5 to 120 between 2010 and 2022.Of the investigator-led studies using the Hospital Authority(HA)’s cross-cluster data(n=393),327(83.2%)reported receiving ethics approval from a single cluster/university-based REC,whereas 50 studies(12.7%)did not report approval from a REC.For use of the HA Data Collaboration Lab,approval by a single hospital-based or University-based REC is accepted.Repeated submission of identical ethics applications to different RECs is estimated to cost HK$4.2 million yearly.Conclusions:Most studies reported gaining approval from a single cluster REC before retrieval of cross-cluster HA data.Substantial cost savings would result if repeated review of identical ethics applications were not required.展开更多
Geohazard research requires extensive spatiotemporal understanding based on an adequate multi-scale representation of modelling results.The most commonly applied representation basis for collected data is still the on...Geohazard research requires extensive spatiotemporal understanding based on an adequate multi-scale representation of modelling results.The most commonly applied representation basis for collected data is still the one of a 2D plane,typically a map.Digital maps of spatial data can be visualised and processed by using Geographic Information Systems.It is far less common to use 3D geomodels for the analysis and visualisation of spatial data.For the visualisation of both spatial and temporal hazard components,there are no standardised tools.We claim that a full geohazard assessment is only possible inside a new type of geoscientific and technological environment that is at the same time multi-dimensional,spatiotemporal,integrated,fully interactive(tele-)immersive,and collaborative.Surface and subsurface processes are interacting at various scales that are difficult to be overviewed at once.Virtual Reality(VR)technology could provide an attractive solution to overcome the multi-dimensional and spatiotemporal obstacles.The review of geoscientific applications using VR technology developed by multiple teams around the world shows that some solutions have already been developed many years ago,but widespread use was not possible.This is clearly changing now and soon we will see if VR can contribute to a better understanding of geo-processes.展开更多
Background Data of classical inborn errors of metabolism （IEM） of amino acids, organic acids and fatty acid oxidation are largely lacking in Hong Kong, where mass spectrometry-based expanded newborn screening for IE...Background Data of classical inborn errors of metabolism （IEM） of amino acids, organic acids and fatty acid oxidation are largely lacking in Hong Kong, where mass spectrometry-based expanded newborn screening for IEM has not been initiated. The current study aimed to evaluate the approximate incidence, spectrum and other characteristics of classical IEM in Hong Kong, which would be important in developing an expanded newborn screening program for the local area.展开更多
Altered energy metabolism of cancer cells shapes the immune cell response in the tumor microenvironment that faclitates tumorprogression.Herein,we reported the novel of tumor cell-expressed Piwi Like RNA-Mediated Gene...Altered energy metabolism of cancer cells shapes the immune cell response in the tumor microenvironment that faclitates tumorprogression.Herein,we reported the novel of tumor cell-expressed Piwi Like RNA-Mediated Gene Silencing 1(PWL1)in mediatingthe crosstlk of fatty acid metabolism and immune response of human hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).PlWIL1 expression in HCCwas increased compared to normal hepatic tissues and was positively correlated with the proliferation rate of HCC cell ines.PIWL1overexpression accelerated in vitro proliferation and in vivo growth of HCC tumors,while PIWL1 knockdown showed opositeeffects.PIWL1 increased oxygen consumption and energy production via fatty acid metabolism without altering aerobic glycolysis.lnhibition of fatty acid metablism abolished PWIL1-induced HCC prolferation and growth.RNA-seq analysis revealed that immunesystem regulation might be involved,which was echoed by the experimental observation that PIWL1-overexpressing HCC cellsattracted myeloid-derived suppressor cells(MDSCs)into the tumor microenvironment.MDSCs depletion reduced the prolferationand growth of PlWIL1-overexpressing HCC tumors.Complement C3,whose secretion was induced by PIWL1 in HCC cells,mediatesthe interaction of HCC cells with MDSCs by activated p38 MAPK signaling in MDSCs,which in turn initiated expression of immunosuppressive cytokine L10.Neutralizing lL10 secretion reduced the immunosuppressive activity of MDSCs in the microenvironment of PIWL1-overexpressing HCC.Taken together,our study unraveled the critical role of PIWL1 in initiating theinteraction of cancer cell metabolism and immune cell response in HCC.Tumor cell-expressed PlIWL1 may be a potential target forthe devellopment of novel HCC treatment.展开更多
In a recent study in Nature,Wu et al.discovered a fundamental host–microbe interaction that is crucially involved in responding to dietary change thereby maintaining healthy intestinal dynamics.1 They demonstrated th...In a recent study in Nature,Wu et al.discovered a fundamental host–microbe interaction that is crucially involved in responding to dietary change thereby maintaining healthy intestinal dynamics.1 They demonstrated that HDAC3 activity can be promoted by microbiota-mediated phytate metabolism to contribute intestinal homeostasis and repair.展开更多
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(No.2023YFF1205102)National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.22277019,22307031,22377023 and 22077143)+2 种基金the Fundamental Research Funds for Hainan University(Nos.RZ2200001094,KYQD(ZR)-21031,and KYQD(ZR)-21108)Collaborative Innovation Center Funds for Hainan University(No.XTCX2022JKA01)the Science Foundation of Hainan Province(Nos.KJRC2023B10 and 824YXQN420)。
文摘Psoriasis is a common and chronic immune-mediated disorder that severely impacts the life quality of patients.Phosphodiesterase-4(PDE4)inhibitors have attracted significant interests in the psoriasis treatment due to their ability to suppress the inflammatory cascades.In this study,extensive screening of an in-house library of 1200 Chinese medicinal plant extracts identified Platycladus orientalis(L.)Franco(P.orientalis)as a potent PDE4 inhibitor,exhibiting 42.7%inhibition at 0.2μg/m L.Subsequent bioassayguided isolation revealed flavonoids,particularly amentoflavone(AMF),as the principal component responsible for PDE4 inhibition.To enrich the effective ingredients,a purification protocol using microporous resin was developed,yielding a flavonoid-rich extract(FLDs)that efficiently increased AMF content from 6.2%to 72.3%and improved PDE4 inhibitory activity to 74.2%at 0.2μg/mL.Notably,P.orientalis with favorable safety profiles demonstrated superior in vitro and in vivo anti-psoriasis effects to both AMF and the approved PDE4 inhibitor apremilast.These findings highlight the potential of P.orientalis as a novel therapeutic agent for psoriasis and provide valuable insights for its development in psoriasis treatment.
文摘Hemoptysis is defined as bleeding originating from the respiratory tract distal to the larynx and is associated with a wide spectrum of underlying conditions,including bronchiectasis,pulmonary malignancies,tuberculosis,aspergillosis,and vascular malformations.^([1-3]) A metaanalysis involving patients with massive hemoptysis reported a mortality rate of 3.5%.^([4])This underscores the critical importance of prompt and eff ective embolization of the responsible artery to improve outcomes,particularly in patients presenting with life-threatening hemoptysis.
基金Project supported by the Ministry of Science and Technology of China(Grant No.2013YQ09094304)
文摘The loss rate of cold atoms in a trap due to residual gas collisions differs from that in a free state after the cold atoms are released from the trap. In this paper, the loss rate in a cold rubidium-87 atom cloud was measured in a magneto-optical trap （MOT） and during its free flight. The residual gas pressure was analyzed by a residual gas analyzer, and the pressure distribution in a vacuum chamber was numerically calculated by the angular coefficient method. The decay factor, which describes the decay behavior of cold atoms due to residual gas collisions during a free flight, was calculated. It was found that the decay factor agrees well with theoretical predictions under various vacuum conditions.
文摘The novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2),which triggered the ongoing pandemic,was first discovered in China in late 2019.SARSCoV-2 is a respiratory virus responsible for coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)that often manifests as a pneumonic syndrome.In the context of the pandemic,there are mixed views on the data provided by epidemiologists and the information collected by hospital clinicians about their patients.In addition,the literature reports a large proportion of patients free of pneumonia vs a small percentage of patients with severe pneumonia among confirmed COVID-19 cases.This raises the issue of the complexity of the work required to control or contain the pandemic.We believe that an integrative and pluralistic approach will help to put the analyses into perspective and reinforce collaboration and creativity in the fight against this major scourge.This paper proposes a comprehensive and integrative approach to COVID-19 research,prevention,control,and treatment to better address the pandemic.Thus,this literature review applies a pluralistic approach to fight the pandemic.
基金This paper is dedicated to the late Professor JS Chiao, who initiated the research in China for rifamycin production employing A. mediterranei more than 30 years ago and who continued the endeavor to resolve the mechanism of the ＇nitrate stimulating effect＇ up to the last breath of his life. This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China （30830002）, the National High Technology Research and Development Program of China （2007AA021301, 2007AA021503）, and the Research Unit Fund of Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences （7103506）.
文摘Amycolatopsis mediterranei is used for industry-scale production of rifamycin, which plays a vital role in antimyco- bacterial therapy. As the first sequenced genome of the genus Amycolatopsis, the chromosome of strain U32 comprising 10 236 715 base pairs, is one of the largest prokaryotic genomes ever sequenced so far. Unlike the linear topology found in streptomycetes, this chromosome is circular, particularly similar to that of Saccharopolyspora erythraea and Nocardia farcinica, representing their close relationship in phylogeny and taxonomy. Although the predicted 9 228 protein-coding genes in the A. mediterranei genome shared the greatest number of orthologs with those of S. erythraea, it was unexpectedly followed by Streptomyces coelicolor rather than N. farcinica, indicating the distinct metabolic characteristics evolved via adaptation to diverse ecological niches. Besides a core region analogous to that common in streptomycetes, a novel ＇quasicore＇ with typical core characteristics is defined within the non-core region, where 21 out of the total 26 gene clusters for secondary metabolite production are located. The rifamycin biosynthesis gene cluster located in the core encodes a cytochrome P450 enzyme essential for the conversion of rifamycin SV to B, revealed by comparing to the highly homologous cluster of the rifamycin B-producing strain S699 and further confirmed by genetic complementation. The genomic information of A. mediterranei demonstrates a metabolic network orchestrated not only for extensive utilization of various carbon sources and inorganic nitrogen compounds but also for effective funneling of metabolic intermediates into the secondary antibiotic synthesis process under the control of a seemingly complex regulatory mechanism.
基金This research was funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31772263,31872081)the Construction of Beijing Science and Technology Innovation and Service Capacity in Top Subjects(CEFF-PXM2019_014207_000032)+1 种基金the Scientific Research Improvement Project of Beijing University of Agriculture(GZL2014003)the Agricultural Science and Technology Project of Beijing Municipal Commission of Rural Affairs(No.20180202).
文摘Temperature changes affect apple development and production.Phenylpropanoid metabolism and hormone signaling play a crucial role in regulating apple growth and development in response to temperature changes.Here,we found that McMYB4 is induced by treatment at 28℃ and 18℃,and McMYB4 overexpression results in flavonol and lignin accumulation in apple leaves.Yeast one-hybrid(Y1H)assays and electrophoretic mobility shift assays(EMSAs)further revealed that McMYB4 targets the promoters of the flavonol biosynthesis genes CHS and FLS and the lignin biosynthesis genes CAD and F5H.McMYB4 expression resulted in higher levels of flavonol and lignin biosynthesis in apple during growth at 28℃ and 18℃ than during growth at 23℃.At 28℃ and 18℃,McMYB4 also binds to the AUX/ARF and BRI/BIN promoters to activate gene expression,resulting in acceleration of the auxin and brassinolide signaling pathways.Taken together,our results demonstrate that McMYB4 promotes flavonol biosynthesis and brassinolide signaling,which decreases ROS contents to improve plant resistance and promotes lignin biosynthesis and auxin signaling to regulate plant growth.This study suggests that McMYB4 participates in the abiotic resistance and growth of apple in response to temperature changes by regulating phenylpropanoid metabolism and hormone signaling.
基金Supported by the National Sparking Plan Project of China(No.2015GA701001)the Earmarked Fund for Modern Agro-industry Technology Research System,China(No.CARS-48)+1 种基金the Ningbo Science and Technology Research Projects,China(No.2017C110003)the K.C.Wong Magna Fund in Ningbo University
文摘Much attention has been paid on studies of astaxanthin accumulation process in H aematococcus pluvialis industry. However, growth of H. pluvialis in motile vegetative stage is still the most important and problematic part in the whole cultivation process, such as low growth rate and cell yields. Motile vegetative cells are extremely sensitive to various stresses which make it difficult to maintain the cells of this state to grow. Previous reports showed that motile vegetative cells may have higher biomass yields ifapplied monochromatic red light. However, metabolic responses of these cells are not completely understood, which constraints application of this illumination protocol in industry. The aim of this study was to examine how critical biochemical changes of H. pluvialis motile vegetative cells were af fected by red light when compared with white light. Variation of photosynthetic pigments composition and lipids were mainly studied. By comparing growth process of cultures in red light and white light, prominent variation of pigments composition and lipids changes were observed. The results showed that, even though cell proliferation was the same during exponential growth phase, variation of photosynthetic pigment composition and lipids occurred. The final biomass of cell number was higher in red light group than in white light group. The variations were significant different. Increase or decrease of major photosynthetic membrane lipids to some extent did not influence photosynthesis of the vegetative cells during this phase. However, vegetative cells under polychromatic white light other than monochromatic red light need further metabolic process to adjust its pigment composition and lipids, possibly this is energetically and biochemically unfavorable for motile vegetative cells to growth under white light, a light condition normally not considered as a stress.
文摘Purpose: The PBP4* is a Penicillin Binding Protein belonging to the class C of AmpH type whose function remains poorly understood. This study aimed to evaluate the biophysical and enzymatic properties of the Bacillus subtilis PBP4* to gain insights into its role in the context of bacterial cell wall recycling. Methods: To characterize the PBP4*, the full-length PBP4* and its N-terminal penicillin-binding domain have been produced in Escherichia coli and purified. Results: A comparison of biophysical properties has shown that both recombinant proteins are monomeric in solution and retain the same thermal stability. On the other hand, the D-alanine methyl esterase activity detected with the full-length PBP4* is impeded by the cleavage of the 92 amino acid C-terminal domain. The esterase activity of the full-length PBP4* strates a clear D-stereospecificity. The PBP4* is also active on B. subtilis cell walls bearing teichoic acids, compounds commonly substituted with D-alanine residues. Conclusions: Our results are in agreement with the hypothesis that PBP4* could play a role in recycling cell wall components, as previously suggested.
文摘Africa, ever on the lookout for development levers that will allow its economy to take off, is turning more and more towards technology. This is one of the possible modern avenues to success, especially the use of the biotechnologies that are so touted by Western countries. However, the hope placed in these new technologies must not hide the long-proven fact that technology alone is not enough to solve development problems. Biotechnologies do not escape this rule. Biotechnologies can be the best and the worst things for the people of Africa. Beyond their technical contributions, we must be wary of their boomerang effects and collateral damage. A country’s development is actually more complex than simply implementing technology, and in the current global environmental context a holistic vision is necessary to ensure sustainable development. In the area of water, this integrated vision emerged on the international scene during the Dublin Conference in 1992, which consecrated the principles of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM). More recently, the Eco-Health concept strives to combine human health and ecosystem health while incorporating a socioeconomic dimension into the health and environmental spheres. The concern to mesh human activities better with environmental protection was materialized previously, in the 1970s already, through impact studies. After presenting this set of tools in the service of a holistic approach to the environment and development, we shall see that these approaches can inspire the players when it comes to the ways they implement biotechnologies. At the end of the day, a holistic approach to biotechnologies in Africa will be facilitated by enhanced information and communication and reliance on peasant farmers’ expertise. It will have to be rooted in broader participation of the players concerned. This integration will also concern environmental and land-owning aspects, without forgetting socio-cultural acceptance of the projects and the links with health. Ultimately, it will also mean putting the human at the heart of development by taking all the richness and particularities of African society into account.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(31572435)Creative Workgroup on Dairy Industry of Beijing City 2012
文摘Accurate assessment of feed's Carbohydrate( CHO) and protein nutritional values and rumen metabolism are significant for dairy production. Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System( CNCPS) as an important method to evaluate feedstuff nutritional values,hasn't been widely used in China. In order to illustrate updates of CNCPS systems deeply,the following sections were reviewed:( i) CHO and protein fractions were updated,CA was subdivided into CA1,CA2,CA3 and CA4 in CNCPS v6. 1,protein was reclassified into PA1,PA2,PB1,PB2 and PC after CNCPS v6. 1. Content of CHO and protein fractions vary in different feedstuff and affected by feed processing;( ii) Degradation rates( Kd) values for the new CA expanded scheme were updated to 0,7,5,40- 60 % h^(-1)respectively,Kd for PA and PB1 decreased to 200 % h^(-1)and 10- 40 % h^(-1);( iii) Equations for passage rate( Kp) initially includes Kpf( Kp of forages) and Kpc( Kp of concentrates),and adjusted by effective NDF( e NDF),while in CNCPS v5. 0,Kpl( Kp of liquids) equation was added and e NDF was replaced by physically effective NDF( pe NDF). In CNCPS v6. 1,Fp BW and Cp BW were integrated into Kp equations and pe NDF was abandoned.( iv)The relationship and difference among Weende system of proximate analysis,Van Soest fiber analysis~[35],NRC( 2001)~[28]and CNCPS were analyzed. The first two systems laid the foundation for NRC( 2001) and CNCPS system. The latter two systems are different in CHO and protein division,also NRC( 2001) developed separate Kp equations for wet and dry forages but no equation for Kpl. CNCPS developed a Kp equation that work for wet and dry forages,and Kpl equation was established. In conclusion,the division and development of CHO and protein fractions,the update of Kd and Kp equation were reviewed systematically.
基金This is supported by the Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research from The University of Hong Kong(201411159087,201611159155)the Germany/Hong Kong Joint Research Scheme 2009/2010(G_HK029/09).
文摘Retinopathy of prematurity(ROP)was first described as a disease of prematurity(1).There was then a worldwide epidemic of ROP,which contributed to 50%blindness in 1950.Later vigorous research showed a correlation between the use of supplemental oxygen and the incidence and progression of ROP.This led to a close monitoring of supplemental oxygen given to premature infants,which helped to decrease the percentage of ROP-related blindness to 4%in 1965.Yet,the incidence of ROP increased in recent years,presumably due to great improvement in neonatal care,which in turn resulted in increased survival of very-low-birth-weight premature infants.
文摘BACKGROUND：Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease（NAFLD）refers to any fatty liver disease that is not due to excessive use of alcohol.NAFLD probably results from abnormal hepatic lipid metabolism and insulin resistance.Aerobic exercise is shown to improve NAFLD.This review aimed to evaluate the molecular mechanisms involved in the beneficial effects of aerobic exercise on NAFLD.DATA SOURCE：We searched articles in English on the role of aerobic exercise in NAFLD therapy in Pub Med.RESULTS： The mechanisms of chronic aerobic exercise in regulating the outcome of NAFLD include： （i） reducing in- trahepatic fat content by down-regulating sterol regulatory element-binding protein-lc and up-regulating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor y expression levels; （ii） decreas- ing hepatic oxidative stress through modulating the reactive oxygen species, and enhancing antioxidant enzymes such as catalase and glutathione peroxidase; （iii） ameliorating hepatic inflammation via the inhibition of pro-inflammatory media- tors such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-1 beta; （iv） attenuating mitochondrial dependent apoptosis by reducing cytochrome C released from the mitochondria to the cytosol; and （v） inducing hepato-protective autophagy. CONCLUSION： Aerobic exercise, via different mechanisms, significantly decreases the fat content of the liver and improves the outcomes of patients with NAFLD.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China, No.81201963Inner Mongolia Natural Science Foundation of China,No.2010MS1123
文摘AIM:To improve the outcome of orthotopic transplantation in a mouse model,we used an absorbable gelatin sponge(AGS) in nude mice to establish an orthotopic implantation tumor model.METHODS:MHCC-97L hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)cells stably expressing the luciferase gene were injected into the subcutaneous region of nude mice.One week later,the ectopic tumors were harvested and transplanted into the left liver lobe of nude mice.The AGS was used to establish the nude mouse orthotopic implantation tumor model.The tumor suppressor gene,paired box gene 5(PAX5),which is a tumor suppressor in HCC,was transfected into HCC cells to validate the model.Tumor growth was measured by bioluminescence imaging technology.Semi-quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction(RT-PCR) and histopathology were used to confirm the tumorigenicity of the implanted tumor from the MHCC-97L cell line.RESULTS:We successfully developed an orthotopic transplantation tumor model in nude mice with the use of an AGS.The success rate of tumor transplantation was improved from 60% in the control group to 100% in the experimental group using AGS.The detection of fluorescent signals showed that tumors grew in all live nude mice.The mice were divided into 3 groups:AGS-,AGS+/PAX5-and AGS+/PAX5 +.Tumor size was significantly smaller in PAX5 transfected nude mice compared to control mice(P < 0.0001).These fluorescent signal results were consistent with observations made during surgery.Pathologic examination further confirmed that the tissues from the ectopic tumor were HCC.Results from RT-PCR proved that the HCC originated from MHCC-97L cells.CONCLUSION:Using an AGS is a convenient and efficient way of establishing an indirect orthotopic liver transplantation tumor model with a high success rate.
基金The Research Fund for the Doctoral Program of Higher Education, No. 20069981008
文摘AIM:To study the molecular mechanism of laterally spreading tumor (LST), a cell line [Laterally Spreading Tumor-Rectum 1 (LST-R1)] was derived and the characteristics of this cell line were investigated. METHODS:A new cell line (LST-R1) originated from laterally spreading tumor was established. Properties of the cell line were characterized using scanning and transmission electron microscopy, immunohistochemistry method, cytogenetic analysis and nude mice xenograft experiments. In vitro invasion assay, cDNA microarray and Western blotting were used to compare the difference between the LST-R1 and other colorectal cancer cell lines derived from prudent colon cancer. RESULTS:Our study demonstrated that both epithelial special antigen (ESA) and cytokeratin-20 (CK20) were expressed in LST-R1. The cells presented microvilli and tight junction with large nuclei. The karyotypic analysis showed hyperdiploid features with structural chromosome aberrations. The in vivo tumorigenicity was also demonstrated in nude mice xenograft experiments. The invasion assay suggested this cell line has a higher invasive ability. cDNA microarray and Western blotting show the loss of the expression of E-cadherin in LST-R1 cells.CONCLUSION:We established and characterized a colorectal cancer cell line, LST-R1 and LST-R1 has an obvious malignant tendency, which maybe partially attributed to the changes of the expression of some adhesion molecules, such as E-cadherin. It is also a versatile tool for exploring the original and progressive mechanisms of laterally spreading tumor and the early colon cancer genesis.
文摘With the development of globalization and the increasing commodity circulation among countries, advertisement as one of the most effective promoting methods, has also transcended the boundaries of countries and attracted more attentions. In order to make their advertisements vivid, impressing, attracting and increase the customers' desire to purchase, advertisers would make advantage of rhetorical devices to achieve this effect. Among them, pun is one of the widely used devices. This thesis aims to discuss the language features of English advertising and puns. The author hopes this article can be beneficial to the polishing of pun in advertising translation and offer the reference for advertising translation.
文摘Background:Routinely collected health data are increasingly used in clinical research.No study has systematically reviewed the temporal trends in the number of publications and analyzed different aspects of local research practices and their variations in Hong Kong,China,with a specific focus on research ethics governance and approval.Methods:PubMed was systematically searched from its inception to March 28,2023,for studies using routinely col-lected healthcare data from Hong Kong.Results:A total of 454 studies were included.Between 2000 and 2009,32 studies were identified.The number of pub-lications increased from 5 to 120 between 2010 and 2022.Of the investigator-led studies using the Hospital Authority(HA)’s cross-cluster data(n=393),327(83.2%)reported receiving ethics approval from a single cluster/university-based REC,whereas 50 studies(12.7%)did not report approval from a REC.For use of the HA Data Collaboration Lab,approval by a single hospital-based or University-based REC is accepted.Repeated submission of identical ethics applications to different RECs is estimated to cost HK$4.2 million yearly.Conclusions:Most studies reported gaining approval from a single cluster REC before retrieval of cross-cluster HA data.Substantial cost savings would result if repeated review of identical ethics applications were not required.
文摘Geohazard research requires extensive spatiotemporal understanding based on an adequate multi-scale representation of modelling results.The most commonly applied representation basis for collected data is still the one of a 2D plane,typically a map.Digital maps of spatial data can be visualised and processed by using Geographic Information Systems.It is far less common to use 3D geomodels for the analysis and visualisation of spatial data.For the visualisation of both spatial and temporal hazard components,there are no standardised tools.We claim that a full geohazard assessment is only possible inside a new type of geoscientific and technological environment that is at the same time multi-dimensional,spatiotemporal,integrated,fully interactive(tele-)immersive,and collaborative.Surface and subsurface processes are interacting at various scales that are difficult to be overviewed at once.Virtual Reality(VR)technology could provide an attractive solution to overcome the multi-dimensional and spatiotemporal obstacles.The review of geoscientific applications using VR technology developed by multiple teams around the world shows that some solutions have already been developed many years ago,but widespread use was not possible.This is clearly changing now and soon we will see if VR can contribute to a better understanding of geo-processes.
文摘Background Data of classical inborn errors of metabolism （IEM） of amino acids, organic acids and fatty acid oxidation are largely lacking in Hong Kong, where mass spectrometry-based expanded newborn screening for IEM has not been initiated. The current study aimed to evaluate the approximate incidence, spectrum and other characteristics of classical IEM in Hong Kong, which would be important in developing an expanded newborn screening program for the local area.
基金supported by the Research Council of the University of Hong Kong(project codes:104004092 and 104004460)the Wong’s donation(project code:200006276)+4 种基金a donation from the Gaia Family Trust of New Zealand(project code:200007008)the Research Grants Committee(RGC)of Hong Kong,HKSAR(Project Codes:740608,766211,17152116,and 17121419)Enhanced new staff startup fund(Project code:204610519)868Preemptive retention fund(Project code:202007002)Health and Medical Research Fund(Project code:15162961,16172751).
文摘Altered energy metabolism of cancer cells shapes the immune cell response in the tumor microenvironment that faclitates tumorprogression.Herein,we reported the novel of tumor cell-expressed Piwi Like RNA-Mediated Gene Silencing 1(PWL1)in mediatingthe crosstlk of fatty acid metabolism and immune response of human hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).PlWIL1 expression in HCCwas increased compared to normal hepatic tissues and was positively correlated with the proliferation rate of HCC cell ines.PIWL1overexpression accelerated in vitro proliferation and in vivo growth of HCC tumors,while PIWL1 knockdown showed opositeeffects.PIWL1 increased oxygen consumption and energy production via fatty acid metabolism without altering aerobic glycolysis.lnhibition of fatty acid metablism abolished PWIL1-induced HCC prolferation and growth.RNA-seq analysis revealed that immunesystem regulation might be involved,which was echoed by the experimental observation that PIWL1-overexpressing HCC cellsattracted myeloid-derived suppressor cells(MDSCs)into the tumor microenvironment.MDSCs depletion reduced the prolferationand growth of PlWIL1-overexpressing HCC tumors.Complement C3,whose secretion was induced by PIWL1 in HCC cells,mediatesthe interaction of HCC cells with MDSCs by activated p38 MAPK signaling in MDSCs,which in turn initiated expression of immunosuppressive cytokine L10.Neutralizing lL10 secretion reduced the immunosuppressive activity of MDSCs in the microenvironment of PIWL1-overexpressing HCC.Taken together,our study unraveled the critical role of PIWL1 in initiating theinteraction of cancer cell metabolism and immune cell response in HCC.Tumor cell-expressed PlIWL1 may be a potential target forthe devellopment of novel HCC treatment.
基金supported was supported by National Key R&D Program of China(No.2018YFC1315000/2018YFC1315004)RGC-CRF Hong Kong(C4039-19G)RGC-GRF Hong Kong(14163817).
文摘In a recent study in Nature,Wu et al.discovered a fundamental host–microbe interaction that is crucially involved in responding to dietary change thereby maintaining healthy intestinal dynamics.1 They demonstrated that HDAC3 activity can be promoted by microbiota-mediated phytate metabolism to contribute intestinal homeostasis and repair.
