Ultrasound-responsive microfibers promoted infected wound healing with neuro-vascularization by segmented sonodynamic therapy and electrical stimulation.

Bacteria-infected wounds pose challenges to healing due to persistent infection and associated damage to nerves and vessels. Although sonodynamic therapy can help kill bacteria, it is limited by the residual oxidative stress, resulting in prolonged inflammation. To tackle these barriers, novel 4 octyl itaconate-coated Li-doped ZnO/PLLA piezoelectric composite microfibers are developed, offering a whole-course "targeted" treatment under ultrasound therapy. The inclusion of Li atoms causes the ZnO lattice distortion and increases the band gap, enhancing the piezoelectric and sonocatalytic properties of the composite microfibers, collaborated by an aligned PLLA conformation design. During the infection and inflammation stages, the piezoelectric microfibers exhibit spatiotemporal-dependent therapeutic effects, swiftly eliminating over 94.2 % of S. aureus within 15 min under sonodynamic therapy. Following this phase, the microfibers capture reactive oxygen species and aid macrophage reprogramming, restoring mitochondrial function, achieving homeostasis, and shortening inflammation cycles. As the wound progresses through the healing stages, bioactive Zn2+ and Li + ions are continuously released, improving cell recruitment, and the piezoelectrical stimulation enhances wound recovery with neuro-vascularization. Compared to commercially available dressings, our microfibers accelerate the closure of rat wounds (Φ = 15 mm) without scarring in 12 days. Overall, this "one stone, four birds" wound management strategy presents a promising avenue for infected wound therapy.

Synergistic Modulation of Sn2+ Oxidation and Perovskite Crystallization Induced by 4-Hydroxypyridine for Stable Lead-Free Solar Cells.

Tin perovskites present promising alternatives to lead perovskites, offering comparable optoelectronic properties alongside environmentally friendly characteristics. However, the rapid crystallization and easy oxidation of Sn2+ lead to poor film quality, further constraining the device performance. Here, 4-hydroxypyridine (4-HP) is introduced into the tin perovskite precursor for fabrication of high-quality tin perovskite films. 4-HP could modulate the colloidal size of prenucleation perovskite clusters in the precursor, thus inducing fast nucleation and retarding the crystal growth rate of tin perovskite through the formation of chemical interaction between nitrogen of pyridine and Sn2+ ions. Furthermore, the hydroxyl group on the pyridine ring contributes to suppressing the oxidation of Sn2+. As a result, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the devices based on 4-HP increases up to 11.3%. The stability of the unencapsulated devices shows significant improvement, retaining 100% of their initial PCEs after 2000 h of storage in N2 with 50-100 ppm of O2. This research presents a novel approach to the synchronized regulation of tin perovskite crystallization and the suppression of Sn2+ oxidation.

Protective effects and mechanisms of HuDiChangRong capsule on TNBS-induced ulcerative colitis in mice.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: UC, characterized by chronic inflammation primarily affecting the colon and rectum, follows a protracted relapsing course marked by inflammation and an abundance of free radicals at the onset. Hudichangrong Capsule (HDCRC), a traditional Chinese medicinal formula, has long been employed in the treatment of UC and chronic bacillary dysentery, exhibiting positive therapeutic outcomes and a high rate of cure in clinical practice. AIM OF THE STUDY: The precise mechanism underlying its efficacy for UC remains elusive. Our objective was to investigate the anti-inflammatory effect and underlying mechanisms of HDCRC on TNBS-induced UC. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Here, we introduced HDCRC and induced UC using TNBS. SPF BALB/c mice were divided into 6 groups as follows: control group, colitis model group, colitis treated with sulfasalazine (400 mg/kg) group, and colitis treated with HDCRC (156, 312, and 624 mg/kg) groups. To assess the effects of HDCRC on colitis, we measured body weight loss, disease activity index (DAI), colon length, tissue damage, degree of inflammation, immune capacity, and oxidative stress. Additionally, we evaluated the TLR-4/MyD88 pathway and its downstream signaling using immunohistochemistry, real-time qPCR, and Western blot. Network pharmacology was used for main target prediction. 16s rRNA was employed for gut microbiota detechtion and UPLC-QTOF-MS was used for its and its metabonomics. RESULTS: HDCRC significantly slowed weight loss, ameliorated DAI, restored colon length, alleviated TNBS-induced tissue damage. It exerted the therapeutic effects via reducing oxidative stress, restoring immune balance, normalizing the inflammatory mediator levels and restoring intestinal barrier integrity. Furthermore, HDCRC mainly alleviate UC via suppressing the TLR-4/MyD88 pathway and its downstream signaling. The key components of the downstream pathway, including TLR-4, MyD88, NF-κB p65, ERK, p-JNK, p38, p-JAK1, JAK1, p-STAT3, and STAT3, were improved, thereby ameliorating the TNBS-induced injury. In addition, HDCRC could regulate gut microbiota (eg. Erysipelaloclostridium,etc.) and its metabonomics (eg. Vitamin B6 metabolism) in UC mice. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, HDCRC exerts a protective effect against TNBS-induced UC in mice by inhibiting the TLR-4/MyD88 pathway and its downstream signaling, and partially JAK1/STAT3, suppressing oxidative stress, regulating immunity, restoring intestinal barrier integrity, and regulating gut microbiota and its metabonomics.

The role of aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonists in the treatment of vitiligo.

Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by progressive skin depigmentation. Vitiligo significantly impacts patients' quality of life, contributing to psychological and social burdens. Despite readily available therapeutic options, many cases remain refractory to treatment, highlighting the critical need for safer and more effective therapies. Currently, ruxolitinib is the only FDA-approved medication for vitiligo; however, it carries a black box warning for serious adverse effects, including infections, malignancy, and major cardiovascular events, limiting its use. Recent studies have identified the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) as a promising therapeutic target, suggesting that AhR agonists could address the multifaceted pathogenesis of vitiligo. Adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we conducted a comprehensive search to analyze the role of AhR agonists in the treatment of vitiligo on PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, MEDLINE, and Web of Science databases on April 15, 2024. Fourteen studies met the inclusion criteria, comprising two clinical trials, two case reports, and nine basic science studies. Our search revealed that culturing AhR agonists with melanocytes upregulates melanin-synthesizing enzymes, reduces reactive oxygen species, and modulates pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-17A and IL-22. Tapinarof, a topical AhR agonist used commonly for the treatment of psoriasis, demonstrated clinical efficacy in repigmentation with a favorable safety profile compared to long-term steroid use. Although limited by the number of clinical studies, this review underscores the potential of using AhR agonists, such as tapinarof, as a transformative approach to vitiligo management. Future clinical trials are necessary to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and long-term outcomes of AhR agonists.

Vulnerability of Antioxidant Drug Therapies on Targeting the Nrf2-Trp53-Jdp2 Axis in Controlling Tumorigenesis.

Control of oxidation/antioxidation homeostasis is important for cellular protective functions, and disruption of the antioxidation balance by exogenous and endogenous ligands can lead to profound pathological consequences of cancerous commitment within cells. Although cancers are sensitive to antioxidation drugs, these drugs are sometimes associated with problems including tumor resistance or dose-limiting toxicity in host animals and patients. These problems are often caused by the imbalance between the levels of oxidative stress-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the redox efficacy of antioxidants. Increased ROS levels, because of abnormal function, including metabolic abnormality and signaling aberrations, can promote tumorigenesis and the progression of malignancy, which are generated by genome mutations and activation of proto-oncogene signaling. This hypothesis is supported by various experiments showing that the balance of oxidative stress and redox control is important for cancer therapy. Although many antioxidant drugs exhibit therapeutic potential, there is a heterogeneity of antioxidation functions, including cell growth, cell survival, invasion abilities, and tumor formation, as well as the expression of marker genes including tumor suppressor proteins, cell cycle regulators, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, and Jun dimerization protein 2; their effectiveness in cancer remains unproven. Here, we summarize the rationale for the use of antioxidative drugs in preclinical and clinical antioxidant therapy of cancer, and recent advances in this area using cancer cells and their organoids, including the targeting of ROS homeostasis.

Reactive oxygen species-responsive coating based on Ebselen: Antioxidation, pro-endothelialization and anti-hyperplasia for surface modification of cardiovascular stent.

Atherosclerosis is often accompanied by inflammation and oxidative stress. Excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) can damage the vascular endothelium, leading to endothelial dysfunction and reduced nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability. Further accumulation of ROS contributes to vascular cell damage, lipid peroxidation, and extracellular matrix deposition. Thus, clearing excess ROS and reshaping the oxidative microenvironment is essential for treating atherosclerosis (AS). In this study, Ebselen, which mimics glutathione peroxidase and possesses redox capabilities, was successfully synthesized. Subsequently, a multifunctional coating was designed using a combination of Ebselen and poly (trimethylene carbonate) (PTMC), capable of protecting cells from ROS-induced damage, promoting vascular endothelialization, and exhibiting anti-proliferative properties. The Ebselen-loaded coating effectively scavenges free radicals (with an elimination rate of 89 %), catalytically releases NO (0.96 × 10⁻¹° to 1.26 × 10⁻¹°â€¯mol/cm²/min), and sustainably delivers Ebselen to the lesion site through a redox cycle. Notably, this coating shows excellent hemocompatibility and cytocompatibility. Subcutaneous implantation results indicated that the fibrous capsule thickness of PTMC10 was the lowest, at just 47.7 % of that of PTMC. Therefore, the Ebselen-loaded coating presents promising applications in cardiovascular stents.

4-Hydroxybenzoic acid restrains Nlrp3 inflammasome priming and activation via disrupting PU.1 DNA binding activity and direct antioxidation.

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production is considered central to triggering the nucleotide-binding domain-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (Nlrp3) inflammasome activation and the subsequent inflammatory responses. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) plays a critical role in maintaining intracellular ROS homeostasis and inhibiting excessive Nlrp3 inflammasome activation. However, direct supplementation of CoQ10 showed unsatisfactory clinical improvement due to its limited absorption and bioavailability. Therefore, stimulating endogenous CoQ10 biosynthesis by supplementing CoQ10 precursors may provide a more promising therapeutic approach. In this study, we described the role of 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (4-HBA), a precursor of CoQ10, in attenuating excessive inflammatory responses. We found that while supplementation of 4-HBA inhibited the priming and activation of Nlrp3 inflammasome, this effect was independent of its metabolic transformation into CoQ10. 4-HBA itself exhibits antioxidative activities. Furthermore, 4-HBA can disrupt the binding activity of PU.1 on the promoters of Tlr4 and Md2, thereby directly suppressing Nlrp3 inflammasome priming during LPS-induced inflammatory responses. Therefore, strategically utilizing 4-HBA or increasing 4-HBA intake may represent a potential strategy for reducing excessive inflammation.

Biomimetic Nanomodulator Regulates Oxidative and Inflammatory Stresses to Treat Sepsis-Associated Encephalopathy.

Sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE) is a devastating complication of sepsis, affecting approximately 70% of patients with sepsis in intensive care units (ICU). Although the pathophysiological mechanisms remain elusive, sepsis is typically accompanied by systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and hyper-oxidative conditions. Here, we introduce a biomimetic nanomodulator (mAOI NP) that specifically targets inflammation site and simultaneously regulates oxidative and inflammatory stresses. mAOI NPs are constructed using metal-coordinated polyphenolic antioxidants (tannic acid) and flavonoid quercetin, which are then coated with macrophage membrane to enhance pharmacokinetics and enable SAE targeting. In a cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced severe sepsis model, mAOI NPs effectively mitigate oxidative stress by purging reactive oxygen species, repairing mitochondrial damage and activating the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway; while polarizing M1 macrophages or microglia toward anti-inflammatory M2 subtype. mAOI NPs potently inhibit sepsis progress, prolong overall survival from 25 to 66% and enhance learning and memory capabilities in SAE mice. Further proteomics analysis reveals that mAOI NPs modulate neurodevelopment processes related to learning and memory formation while also exerting anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects on brain tissue responses associated with SAE pathology. This study offers significant potential for improving patient outcomes and revolutionizing the treatment landscape for this devastating complication of sepsis.

Composition and Antioxidant Status of Human Milk of Women Living in Bydgoszcz (Poland).

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to compare cortisol concentrations, nutritional composition, and the antioxidant status of human milk of women living in Bydgoszcz (Poland), taking into account maternal factors (fertility, area of residence, economic activity, and breastfeeding period). METHODS: The basic composition of human milk was evaluated using the MIRIS HMATM analyzer. The level of cortisol was determined by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent method. In order to determine the antioxidant activity, the DPPH radical method was used. RESULTS: It was observed that the concentration of cortisol in human milk in the group of women living in the city center was higher compared to the milk of women living on the outskirts of the city. In the group of women breastfeeding from 3 to 5 weeks after childbirth, the concentration of cortisol in milk was higher compared to the group of women breastfeeding less than 12 months of age and compared to the group of women lactating over 12 months of age. The antioxidant status of human milk was highest in the group of professionally active women and in the group of breastfeeding women from 3 to 5 weeks after childbirth. The basic composition and the caloric value of human milk differed statistically significantly in the study groups. CONCLUSIONS: Based on this study, it can be concluded that the composition and antioxidant status of human milk depends on maternal factors (fertility, professional activity, area of residence, and breastfeeding period). Higher cortisol concentrations in breast milk are probably determined by the area of residence (city center and associated higher noise/sound and stress levels) and lactation period (hormonal imbalance, fatigue, and postpartum period). Milk from economically active women shows greater protection against reactive oxygen species compared to milk from inactive women, protecting against the occurrence of diseases of civilization. Milk from breastfeeding women over 12 months of age also shows protection against reactive oxygen species, despite the fact that the highest level of antioxidant status of human milk occurs in the initial period of lactation.

Consumption of edible oil blended with flax, coconut, sunflower, and olive oil can significantly improve the negative health consequences of high-fat/high-cholesterol diet in Sprague Dawley rats.

Background: Increasing cardiac, hepatic, and metabolic diseases have raised the need to modify our contemporary lifestyles toward balancing and diversifying the nutrients in our daily diet. Objective: Dietary fats should be modified to healthier versions by blending different vegetable oils. Therefore, in this study, an oil blend with health-protective and promoting fatty acid combinations was investigated to bring down the progression of cardiac and other metabolic diseases. Methodology: A bio-efficacy trial was performed to investigate the therapeutic potential of an oil blend in 30 hyperlipidemic rats. Five rats were allocated to each group (coconut, flaxseed, olive, sunflower, and blended oil) for 42 days and were compared with the initial values of hyperlipidemic rats. Methodological investigations were performed for the body weight, naso-anal length, various obesity indices, visceral fat accumulation, blood and serum, cardiovascular risk indices, and echocardiograph. Results: Blended oil consumption indicated significant reductions of 53.12% in body fat content (3.98 ± 0.96), 6.82% in Lee index (289.60 ± 8.27), 16.84% in BMI (0.15 ± 0.003), 57.37% in total cholesterol (52.00 ± 9.03), 68.57% in triacylglycerides (99.00 ± 9.19), 61.16% in atherogenic index (0.88 ± 0.12), and 58.72% in coronary risk index (2.88 ± 0.12), when compared with the initial values. Conclusion: Blended oil consumption has significantly reduced various obesity indices, improved lipid profile, and provided significant protection against cardiovascular risk indices. Moreover, the results of blended oil indicated significant health protective ameliorations in electrocardiographs. Its regular consumption could help to reduce the onset of obesity and metabolic diseases.

Baicalin enhances antioxidant, inflammatory defense, and microbial diversity of yellow catfish (Pelteobagrus fulvidraco) infected with Aeromonas hydrophila.

Introduction: The aim of this research was to clarify the mechanism through which baicalin exerts its inhibitory effects on Aeromonas hydrophila infection. Methods: The antibacterial efficacy of baicalin was assessed by determining its minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against A. hydrophila. Various parameters, including the growth curve, cell wall integrity, biofilm formation, AKP content, and morphological alterations of A. hydrophila, were analyzed. In vivo experiments involved the administration of A. hydrophila 4 h postintraperitoneal injection of varying doses of baicalin to induce infection, with subsequent monitoring of mortality rates. After a 3 d period, liver, spleen, and intestinal tissues were harvested to evaluate organ indices, antioxidant and immune parameters, as well as intestinal microbial composition. Results: The findings indicated that baicalin treatment resulted in the disruption of the cell wall of A. hydrophila, leading to the loss of its normal structural integrity. Furthermore, baicalin significantly inhibited biofilm formation and facilitated the release of intracellular proteins (P < 0.05). In vivo, baicalin enhanced the survival rates of yellow catfish infected with A. hydrophila. Compared to the control group, the liver index of yellow catfish was elevated, while the spleen and intestinal indices were reduced in the baicalin-treated group (P < 0.05). Additionally, baicalin at an appropriate dosage was found to increase levels of SOD, GSH, CAT, ACP, and AKP in yellow catfish (P < 0.05), while simultaneously decreasing MDA accumulation and the mRNA expression of inflammatory markers such as Keap1, IL1, IFN-γ, and TNF-α, (P < 0.05). Moreover, baicalin significantly enhanced the operational taxonomic unit (OTU) count in A. hydrophila-infected yellow catfish (P < 0.05), restoring the abundance of Barnesiellaceae, Enterobacteriaceae, Plesiomonas, and UBA1819 (P < 0.05). Discussion: In summary, baicalin demonstrates the potential to improve the survival rate of yellow catfish subjected to A. hydrophila infection, augment antioxidant and immune responses, mitigate inflammation, and enhance intestinal microbial diversity.

Flavonoids as therapeutic agents for epilepsy: unveiling anti-inflammatory and antioxidant pathways for novel treatments.

Epilepsy, a chronic neurological disorder affecting millions globally, is often exacerbated by neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. Existing antiepileptic drugs primarily manage symptoms, leaving the disease's progression largely unaddressed. Flavonoids, ubiquitous plant metabolites with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, show promise in epilepsy treatment. Unlike conventional therapies, they target multiple pathophysiological processes simultaneously, offering a comprehensive approach to this complex neurological disorder. This review explores the dual role of flavonoids in mitigating neuroinflammation and reducing oxidative stress through various molecular pathways. By inhibiting key inflammatory mediators and pathways such as NF-κB, MAPK, JNK, and JAK, flavonoids offer neuronal protection. They enhance the body's natural antioxidant defenses by modulating enzyme activities, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase. Moreover, flavonoids influence crucial antioxidant response pathways like PI3K/AKT, Nrf2, JNK, and PKA. Despite their therapeutic promise, the low bioavailability of flavonoids poses a considerable challenge. However, cutting-edge strategies, including nanotechnology and chemical modifications, are underway to improve their bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. These advancements support the potential of flavonoids as a valuable addition to epilepsy treatment strategies.

Tannic Acid-Enabled Antioxidant and Stretchable MXene/Silk Strain Sensors for Diving Training Healthcare.

MXene-based conductive hydrogels hold significant promise as epidermal sensors, yet their susceptibility to oxidation represents a formidable limitation. This study addresses this challenge by incorporating MXene into a tannic acid (TA) cross-linked silk fibroin matrix. The resulting conductive hydrogel (denoted as e-dive) exhibits favorable characteristics such as adjustable mechanical properties, self-healing capabilities (both mechanically and electrically), and strong underwater adhesion. The existence of a percolation network of MXene within the nanocomposites guarantees good electrical conductivity. Importantly, the surface interaction of MXene nanosheets with the hydrophobic moiety from TA substantially reduced moisture and oxygen interactions with MXene, thereby effectively mitigating MXene oxidation within hydrogel matrices. This preservation of the electrical characteristics ensures prolonged functional stability. Furthermore, the e-dive demonstrates inherent antibacterial properties, making it suitable for use in underwater environments where bacterial contamination is a concern. The utilization of this advanced e-dive system extends to the correction of diving postures and the facilitation of underwater healthcare and security alerts. Our study presents a robust methodology for enhancing the stability of MXene-based conductive hydrogel electronics, thereby expanding their scope of potential applications.

Untargeted metabolomics analysis using UPLC-QTOF/MS and GC-MS to unravel changes in antioxidant activity and compounds of almonds before and after roasting.

Almonds are a commonly consumed nut. They possess significantof nutritional and health benefitsand are commonly processed by roasting. This study aimed to investigatthe effects of roasting on the compound composition and antioxidant activity of almonds. Metabolomics analysis, performed via UPLC-QTOF/MS, and fatty acid analysis, conducted via GC-MS, employed, and the results demonstrated a significant increase in antioxidant activity of post-roasting and in vitro digestion, ranging from 1.16 to 3.44 times. Untargeted metabolomics identified a total of 172 compounds, with notable differences observed in organic oxides, fatty acids, and their derivatives. Correlation analysis identified fatty acids as the primary influencers of changes in antioxidant activity following roasting. Taken together, these findings suggest that roasting enhances the antioxidant activity of almonds, primarily due to alterations in fatty acid analogs, thereby providing valuable insights into optimizing almond consumption for health benefits.

Impact of heavy metals, oxidative stress, expression of VHL, and antioxidant genes in the pathogenesis of renal cell carcinoma.

INTRODUCTION: Heavy metals exposure is a known carcinogen in humans. The impact of heavy metals in the pathogenesis of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is unclear with scant available literature. Though previous studies have evaluated the role of heavy metals in RCC, majority of those studies have evaluated either single or few heavy metals in urine. None of the prior studies have evaluated an extensive panel of heavy metals in blood, urine, and tissue in the same patient along with the serum oxidation status and gene expression to establish a cause-and-effect relationship. This study aims to evaluate the role of extensive panel of heavy metals, oxidative status, and gene expression in RCC. METHODOLOGY: This observational study recruited RCC patients who visited our tertiary care centre from 2019 to 2023. Age matched healthy volunteers were included as controls. Blood, urine, and tissue samples (tumor and adjacent normal tissue) were collected from RCC patients. Levels of arsenic, copper, manganese, selenium, cadmium, lead, and mercury were measured in each of the samples. Serum oxidative stress markers like glutathione peroxidase (GPX), lipid peroxidase (LPO), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were measured. Genetic expression of Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD1), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX1) genes were measured in the tumor tissue and adjacent normal parenchyma. RESULTS: 150 cases and 150 age matched controls were enrolled. RCC cases had elevated blood levels of arsenic (P = 0.02), copper (P = 0.01), manganese (P < 0.001), cadmium (P < 0.001), lead (P < 0.001), and mercury (P = 0.02) compared to controls. Urine levels of selenium (P = 0.02), mercury (P = 0.03), and lead (P = 0.04) were higher in cases. Reduced levels of serum GPx (P = 0.02) and higher levels of LPO (P = 0.04) were detected in cases. Elevated levels of copper (P = 0.03), manganese (P = 0.002), selenium (P < 0.001), and cadmium (P < 0.001) were found in the adjacent normal parenchyma compared to the tumor tissue. VHL (P = 0.03) and oxidative stress gene expressions were lower in the tumour tissue compared to the normal parenchyma. CONCLUSION: Elevated levels of heavy metals in the blood, urine, tissue, and imbalance in the serum oxidative status along with downregulated tumor suppressor VHL and oxidative stress genes in the tumor tissues likely explain the carcinogenic role of heavy metals in RCC. Environmental exposure is the main cause of heavy metal toxicity. Mitigating the environmental exposure of heavy metals and thereby their toxicity might play a role in cancer prevention.

Response surface methodology-based optimization of Inonotus hispidus' liquid fermentation medium and evaluation of its exopolysaccharide activities.

Introduction: Inonotus hispidus, commonly referred to as the Sanghuang mushroom, is a species that is consumed as a tea. To date, this is the only species of the same fungus that has been successfully cultivated. Methods: A single-factor test was conducted using Inonotus hispidus MS-5 and MS-9 as test materials. The response surface methodology was adopted to design and optimise the liquid fermentation medium for them. Results: As indicated in the results, the optimum fermentation conditions for MS-5 include 24.09 g/L glucose, 7.88 g/L yeast extract, 0.99 g/L dandelion powder, 1.5 g MgSO4, 2 g KH2PO4, 0.01 g vitamin B1, and 1 L deionized water; the optimum fermentation conditions for MS-9 include 24.64 g/L glucose, 7.77 g/L yeast extract, 0.98 g/L dandelion powder, 1.5 g MgSO4, 2 g KH2PO4, 0.01 g vitamin B1, and 1 L deionized water. Under such conditions, the mycelial biomass (dry weight) values were able to reach 16.02 g/L and 14.91 g/L for MS-5 and MS-9, respectively, which were 1.6 and 1.54 times those measured before optimization. Discussion: As revealed in the antioxidant and anticancer experiment, Inonotus hispidus exopolysaccharides has corresponding functional effects at the cellular level. This research optimised the liquid culture formulation of Inonotus hispidus and demonstrated that the function of it as a traditional Sanghuang herbal tea is well-documented.

Protocatechuic Acid from Euonymus alatus Mitigates Scopolamine-Induced Memory Impairment in Mice.

The increasing prevalence of age-related neurodegenerative disorders owing to the aging population worldwide poses substantial challenges. This study investigated the neuroprotective effects of protocatechuic acid (PCA), a compound found in various fruits, vegetables, and grains, using a scopolamine-induced hypomnesia mouse model. Six-week-old male C57BL/6J mice were orally administered PCA at doses of 10 and 100 mg/kg body weight per day for two weeks, along with intraperitoneal injections of scopolamine. Learning and memory abilities were assessed using the passive avoidance, Morris water maze, and Y-maze behavioral assays. Biochemical analyses evaluated the levels of oxidative stress markers, including 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) in the blood and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the brain, as well as phase II antioxidant proteins in the hippocampus. Histological examination was conducted to determine hippocampal integrity. Our results demonstrated that PCA administration at 10 mg/kg body weight per day or higher for two weeks (i) significantly ameliorated scopolamine-induced learning and memory impairments, as evidenced by improved performance in behavioral tasks, (ii) reduced plasma 8-OHdG levels and cerebral MDA levels in a dose-dependent manner, (iii) increased antioxidant protein expressions in the hippocampal tissue, and (iv) mitigated histological damage in the hippocampal region of the brain. These findings suggest that oral administration of PCA provides neuroprotective effects against oxidative stress-induced learning and memory impairments, possibly through upregulating antioxidant machinery. Therefore, PCA may serve as a promising dietary supplement for mitigating cognitive deficits associated with neurodegenerative diseases.

Understanding the Roles and Regulation Methods of Key Adsorption Species on Ni-Based Catalysts for Efficient Hydrogen Oxidation Reactions in Alkaline Media.

This review focuses on recent advancements in the development and understanding of nickel-based catalysts for the hydrogen oxidation reaction  in alkaline media. Given the economic and environmental limitations associated with platinum group metals , nickel-based catalysts have emerged as promising alternatives due to their abundance, lower cost, and comparable catalytic properties. The review begins with an exploration of the fundamental HOR mechanisms, emphasizing the key roles of the reactive species  in optimizing the catalytic activity of Ni-based catalysts. Thermodynamic and stability optimizations of nickel-based catalysts are thoroughly examined, focusing on alloying strategies, heteroatom incorporation, and the use of various support materials to enhance their catalytic performance and durability. The review also addresses the challenge of catalyst poisoning, particularly by carbon monoxide, and evaluates the effectiveness of different approaches to improve poison resistance. Finally, the review concludes by summarizing the key findings and proposing future research directions to further enhance the efficiency and stability of nickel-based catalysts for practical applications in anion exchange membrane fuel cells. The insights gained from this comprehensive analysis aim to contribute to the development of cost-effective and sustainable catalysts and facilitate the broader adoption of AEMFCs in the quest for clean energy solutions.

A ROS-Responsive Lipid Nanoparticles Release Multifunctional Hydrogel Based on Microenvironment Regulation Promotes Infected Diabetic Wound Healing.

The continuous imbalance of the diabetic wound microenvironment is an important cause of chronic nonhealing, which manifests as a vicious cycle between excessive accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and abnormal healing. Regulating the microenvironment by suppressing wound inflammation, oxidative stress, and bacterial infection is a key challenge in treating diabetic wounds. In this study, ROS-responsive hydrogels are developed composed of silk fibroin methacrylated (SFMA), modified collagen type III (rCol3MA), and lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). The newly designed hydrogel system demonstrated stable physicochemical properties and excellent biocompatibility. Moreover, the release of antimicrobial peptide (AMP) and puerarin (PUE) demonstrated remarkable efficacy in eradicating bacteria, regulating inflammatory responses, and modulating vascular functions. This multifunctional hydrogel is a simple and efficient approach for the treatment of chronic diabetic infected wounds and holds tremendous potential for future clinical applications.

Melatonin in animal husbandry: functions and applications.

Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) is an essential small molecule with diverse biological functions. It plays several key roles, including regulating the secretion of reproductive hormones and the reproductive cycle, enhancing the functionality of reproductive organs, improving the quality of sperm and eggs, and mitigating oxidative stress in the reproductive system. Melatonin effectively inhibits and scavenges excess free radicals while activating the antioxidant enzyme system and reduces the production of inflammatory factors and alleviates tissue damage caused by inflammation by regulating inflammatory pathways. Additionally, melatonin contributes to repairing the intestinal barrier and regulating the gut microbiota, thereby reducing bacterial and toxin permeation. The use of melatonin as an endogenous hormone in animal husbandry has garnered considerable attention because of its positive effects on animal production performance, reproductive outcomes, stress adaptation, disease treatment, and environmental sustainability. This review explores the characteristics and biological functions of melatonin, along with its current applications in animal production. Our findings may serve as a reference for the use of melatonin in animal farming and future developmental directions.