RESUMEN
The development of stable fluorescent sensors for toxic pollutants and drugs is meaningful to the environment and public health. In this work, nitrogen-doped graphene quantum dots (N-GQDs) were facially synthesized by a one-step hydrothermal method using soluble starch and l-arginine as carbon and nitrogen sources in pure water at 190 °C for 4 h. The as-synthesized N-GQDs were well characterized and displayed blue fluorescence emission at 445 nm with excellent pH stability, salt tolerance, thermostability, photobleaching resistance and reproducibility. Moreover, N-GQDs could serve as an "on-off" sensor for selective detection of Cr(vi) and folic acid with low detection limit (0.80 and 2.1 µM), good linear correlation over wide linear range (0-50 µM and 0-200 µM) as well as short response time (<10 s). The practical applications of N-GQDs for Cr(vi) and folic acid detection in actual samples were further investigated and showed acceptable recoveries (92-105%) with relative standard deviations less than 5%. These results indicated that this N-GQDs-based sensor could be a potential alternative for Cr(vi) and folic acid detection in the fields of environmental monitoring and drug analysis.
RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: The relationship between human gut microbiota and high-altitude hypoxia acclimatization remains highly controversial. This stems primarily from uncertainties regarding both the potential temporal changes in the microbiota under such conditions and the existence of any dominant or core bacteria that may assist in host acclimatization. RESULTS: To address these issues, and to control for variables commonly present in previous studies which significantly impact the results obtained, namely genetic background, ethnicity, lifestyle, and diet, we conducted a 108-day longitudinal study on the same cohort comprising 45 healthy Han adults who traveled from lowland Chongqing, 243 masl, to high-altitude plateau Lhasa, Xizang, 3658 masl, and back. Using shotgun metagenomic profiling, we study temporal changes in gut microbiota composition at different timepoints. The results show a significant reduction in the species and functional diversity of the gut microbiota, along with a marked increase in functional redundancy. These changes are primarily driven by the overgrowth of Blautia A, a genus that is also abundant in six independent Han cohorts with long-term duration in lower hypoxia environment in Shigatse, Xizang, at 4700 masl. Further animal experiments indicate that Blautia A-fed mice exhibit enhanced intestinal health and a better acclimatization phenotype to sustained hypoxic stress. CONCLUSIONS: Our study underscores the importance of Blautia A species in the gut microbiota's rapid response to high-altitude hypoxia and its potential role in maintaining intestinal health and aiding host adaptation to extreme environments, likely via anti-inflammation and intestinal barrier protection.
Asunto(s)
Aclimatación , Altitud , Microbioma Gastrointestinal , Hipoxia , Humanos , Animales , Adulto , Masculino , Hipoxia/genética , Ratones , Femenino , Estudios Longitudinales , Mal de Altura/microbiología , Mal de Altura/genética , Persona de Mediana EdadRESUMEN
The first amidation of carbazoles at the N9 position via palladium-catalyzed hydroamination of isocyanates is demonstrated. This simple, general and efficient method could deliver a wide range of carbazole-N-carboxamides in up to 99% yield. The salient features of this transformation include simple conditions with no need for a strong base, high chemo- and regio-selectivities and good functional group tolerance. In particular, this work-up-free and chromatography-free protocol is time-saving, cost-effective and user-friendly.
RESUMEN
Although organic-inorganic hybrid Mn2+ halides have advanced significantly, achieving high stability and narrow-band emission remains enormously challenging owing to the weak ionic nature and soft crystal lattice of the halide structure. To address these issues, we proposed a cationic engineering strategy of long-range cation π···π stacking and C-H···π interactions to simultaneously improve the crystal structural stability and rigidity. Herein, two organic zero-dimensional (0D) manganese halide hybrids of (BACQ)2MnX4 [BACQ = 4-(butylamino)-7-chloroquinolin-1-ium; X = Cl and Br] were synthesized. (BACQ)2MnX4 display strong green-light emissions with the narrowest full width at half-maximum (fwhm) of 39 nm, which is significantly smaller than those of commercial green phosphor ß-SiAlON:Eu2+ and most of reported manganese halides. Detailed Hirshfeld surface analyses demonstrate the rigid environment around the [MnX4]2- units originating from the interactions between [BACQ]+. The rigid crystal structure weakens the electron-phonon coupling and renders narrow fwhm of these manganese halides, which is further confirmed by temperature-dependent emission spectra. Remarkably, (BACQ)2MnX4 realizes outstanding structural and luminescence stabilities in various extreme environments. Benefiting from the excellent performance, these Mn2+ halides are used to assemble light-emitting diodes with a wide color gamut of 105% of the National Television System Committee 1931 standard, showcasing the advanced applications in liquid-crystal-display backlighting.
RESUMEN
Proteomics profiling plays an important role in biomedical studies. Proteomics studies are much more complicated than genome research, mainly because of the complexity and diversity of proteomic samples. High performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) is a fundamental tool in proteomics research owing to its high speed, resolution, and sensitivity. Proteomics research targets from the peptides and individual proteins to larger protein complexes, the molecular weight of which gradually increases, leading to sustained increases in structural and compositional complexity and alterations in molecular properties. Therefore, the selection of various separation strategies and stationary-phase parameters is crucial when dealing with the different targets in proteomics research for in-depth proteomics analysis. This article provides an overview of commonly used chromatographic-separation strategies in the laboratory, including reversed-phase liquid chromatography (RPLC), hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC), hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC), ion-exchange chromatography (IEC), and size-exclusion chromatography (SEC), as well as their applications and selectivity in the context of various biomacromolecules. At present, no single chromatographic or electrophoretic technology features the peak capacity required to resolve such complex mixtures into individual components. Multidimensional liquid chromatography (MDLC), which combines different orthogonal separation modes with MS, plays an important role in proteomics research. In the MDLC strategy, IEC, together with RPLC, remains the most widely used separation mode in proteomics analysis; other chromatographic methods are also frequently used for peptide/protein fractionation. MDLC technologies and their applications in a variety of proteomics analyses have undergone great development. Two strategies in MDLC separation systems are mainly used in proteomics profiling: the "bottom-up" approach and the "top-down" approach. The "shotgun" method is a typical "bottom-up" strategy that is based on the RPLC or MDLC separation of whole-protein-sample digests coupled with MS; it is an excellent technique for identifying a large number of proteins. "Top-down" analysis is based on the separation of intact proteins and provides their detailed molecular information; thus, this technique may be advantageous for analyzing the post-translational modifications (PTMs) of proteins. In this paper, the "bottom-up" "top-down" and protein-protein interaction (PPI) analyses of proteome samples are briefly reviewed. The diverse combinations of different chromatographic modes used to set up MDLC systems are described, and compatibility issues between mobile phases and analytes, between mobile phases and MS, and between mobile phases in different separation modes in multidimensional chromatography are analyzed. Novel developments in MDLC techniques, such as high-abundance protein depletion and chromatography arrays, are further discussed. In this review, the solutions proposed by researchers when encountering compatibility issues are emphasized. Moreover, the applications of HPLC-MS combined with various sample pretreatment methods in the study of exosomal and single-cell proteomics are examined. During exosome isolation, the combined use of ultracentrifugation and SEC can yield exosomes of higher purity. The use of SEC with ultra-large-pore-size packing materials (200 nm) enables the isolation of exosomal subgroups, and proteomics studies have revealed significant differences in protein composition and function between these subgroups. In the field of single-cell proteomics, researchers have addressed challenges related to reducing sample processing volumes, preventing sample loss, and avoiding contamination during sample preparation. Innovative methods and improvements, such as the utilization of capillaries for sample processing and microchips as platforms to minimize the contact area of the droplets, have been proposed. The integration of these techniques with HPLC-MS shows some progress. In summary, this article focuses on the recent advances in HPLC-MS technology for proteomics analysis and provides a comprehensive reference for future research in the field of proteomics.
Asunto(s)
Espectrometría de Masas , Proteómica , Proteómica/métodos , Espectrometría de Masas/métodos , Cromatografía Líquida de Alta Presión/métodos , Cromatografía de Fase Inversa/métodos , Cromatografía Líquida con Espectrometría de MasasRESUMEN
Designing electrocatalysts for seawater splitting remains challenging. A Ru-Co alloy supported by an N-doped carbon substrate catalyst has been designed using etching and a low-temperature treatment method. Studies show that the superior performance of this catalyst is related to the hollow-structured N-doped carbon frame and surface reconstruction of the Ru-Co alloy.
RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: The FreeStyle Libre flash glucose monitoring (FGM) system entered the Chinese market in 2017 to complement the self-monitoring of blood glucose. Due to its increased usage in clinics, the number of studies investigating its accuracy has increased. However, its accuracy has not been investigated in highland popu-lations in China. AIM: To evaluate measurements recorded using the FreeStyle Libre FGM system compared with capillary blood glucose measured using the enzyme electrode method in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) who had migrated within 3 mo from highlands to plains. METHODS: Overall, 68 patients with T2D, selected from those who had recently migrated from highlands to plains (within 3 mo), were hospitalized at the Department of Endocrinology from August to October 2017 and underwent continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) with the FreeStyle Libre FGM system for 14 d. Throughout the study period, fingertip capillary blood glucose was measured daily using the enzyme electrode method (Super GL, China), and blood glucose levels were read from the scanning probe during fasting and 2 h after all three meals. Moreover, the time interval between reading the data from the scanning probe and collecting fingertip capillary blood was controlled to < 5 min. The accuracy of the FGM system was evaluated according to the CGM guidelines. Subsequently, the factors influencing the mean absolute relative difference (MARD) of this system were analyzed by a multiple linear regression method. RESULTS: Pearson's correlation analysis showed that the fingertip and scanned glucose levels were positively correlated (R = 0.86, P = 0.00). The aggregated MARD of scanned glucose was 14.28 ± 13.40%. Parker's error analysis showed that 99.30% of the data pairs were located in areas A and B. According to the probe wear time of the FreeStyle Libre FGM system, MARD1 d and MARD2-14 d were 16.55% and 14.35%, respectively (t = 1.23, P = 0.22). Multiple stepwise regression analysis showed that MARD did not correlate with blood glucose when the largest amplitude of glycemic excursion (LAGE) was < 5.80 mmol/L but negatively correlated with blood glucose when the LAGE was ≥ 5.80 mmol/L. CONCLUSION: The FreeStyle Libre FGM system has good accuracy in patients with T2D who had recently migrated from highlands to plains. This system might be ideal for avoiding the effects of high hematocrit on blood glucose monitoring in populations that recently migrated to plains. MARD is mainly influenced by glucose levels and fluctuations, and the accuracy of the system is higher when the blood glucose fluctuation is small. In case of higher blood glucose level fluctuations, deviation in the scanned glucose levels is the highest at extremely low blood glucose levels.
RESUMEN
We constructed a rapid infection risk assessment model for contacts of COVID-19. The improved Wells-Riley model was used to estimate the probability of infection for contacts of COVID-19 in the same place and evaluate their risk grades. We used COVID-19 outbreaks that were documented to validate the accuracy of the model. We analyzed the relationship between controllable factors and infection probability and constructed common scenarios to analyze the infection risk of contacts in different scenarios. The model showed the robustness of the fitting (mean relative error = 5.89%, mean absolute error = 2.03%, root mean squared error = 2.03%, R2 = 0.991). We found that improving ventilation from poorly ventilated to naturally ventilated and wearing masks can reduce the probability of infection by about two times. Contacts in places of light activity, loud talking or singing, and heavy exercise, oral breathing (e.g., gyms, KTV, choirs) were at higher risk of infection. The model constructed in this study can quickly and accurately assess the infection risk grades of COVID-19 contacts. Simply opening doors and windows for ventilation can significantly reduce the risk of infection in certain places. The places of light activity, loud talking or singing, and heavy exercise, oral breathing, should pay more attention to prevent and control transmission of the epidemic.
RESUMEN
The intestines of mice are colonized by diverse, as-yet-uncultivated bacteria. In this report, we describe the isolation, culture, genotypic and phenotypic characterization, as well as taxonomic classification of three novel anaerobic bacterial strains derived from the caecal contents of C57BL/6J male mice. According to the phenotypic and genotype-based polyphasic taxonomy, we propose three novel species within the family Oscillospiraceae. They are Acutalibacter caecimuris sp. nov. (type strain M00118T=CGMCC 1.18042T=KCTC 25739T), Acutalibacter intestini sp. nov. (type strain M00204T=CGMCC 1.18044T=KCTC 25741T) and Neglectibacter caecimuris sp. nov. (type strain M00184T=CGMCC 1.18043T=KCTC 25740T).
Asunto(s)
Técnicas de Tipificación Bacteriana , Ciego , ADN Bacteriano , Ratones Endogámicos C57BL , Filogenia , ARN Ribosómico 16S , Análisis de Secuencia de ADN , Animales , Masculino , Ciego/microbiología , Ratones , ARN Ribosómico 16S/genética , ADN Bacteriano/genética , Ácidos Grasos/química , Composición de BaseRESUMEN
The membrane-associated RING-CH 8 protein (MARCH8), a member of the E3 ubiquitin ligase family, has broad-spectrum antiviral activity. However, some viruses hijack MARCH8 to promote virus replication, highlighting its dual role in the viral lifecycle. Most studies on MARCH8 have focused on RNA viruses, leaving its role in DNA viruses largely unexplored. Pseudorabies virus (PRV) is a large DNA virus that poses a potential threat to humans. In this study, we found that MARCH8 inhibited PRV replication at the cell-to-cell fusion stage. Interestingly, our findings proved that MARCH8 blocks gB cleavage by recruiting furin but this activity does not inhibit viral infection in vitro. Furthermore, we confirmed that MARCH8 inhibits cell-to-cell fusion independent of its E3 ubiquitin ligase activity but dependent on the interaction with the cell-to-cell fusion complex (gB, gD, gH, and gL). Finally, we discovered that the distribution of the cell-to-cell fusion complex is significantly altered and trapped within the trans-Golgi network. Overall, our results indicate that human MARCH8 acts as a potent antiviral host factor against PRV via trapping the cell-to-cell fusion complex in the trans-Golgi network.
Asunto(s)
Fusión Celular , Herpesvirus Suido 1 , Ubiquitina-Proteína Ligasas , Replicación Viral , Red trans-Golgi , Animales , Humanos , Línea Celular , Herpesvirus Suido 1/fisiología , Red trans-Golgi/metabolismo , Red trans-Golgi/virología , Ubiquitina-Proteína Ligasas/metabolismoRESUMEN
OBJECTIVE: To analyze the clinical characteristics and prognosis of patients with CD5+ diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). METHODS: The clinical data of 161 newly treated DLBCL patients in Gansu Provincial Hospital from January 2013 to January 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. According to CD5 expression, the patients were divided into CD5+ group and CD5- group. The clinical characteristics and prognosis of the two groups were statistically analyzed. RESULTS: The median age of patients in CD5+ group was 62 years, which was higher than 56 years in CD5- group (P =0.048). The proportion of women in CD5+ group was 62.96%, which was significantly higher than 41.79% in CD5- group (P =0.043). The proportion of patients with IPI score > 2 in CD5+ group was 62.96%, which was higher than 40.30% in CD5- group (P =0.031). Survival analysis showed that the median overall survival and progression-free survival time of patients in CD5+ group were 27(3-77) and 31(3-76) months, respectively, which were both shorter than 30(5-84) and 32.5(4-83) months in CD5- group (P =0.047, P =0.026). Univariate analysis showed that advanced age, positive CD5 expression, triple or double hit at initial diagnosis, high IPI score and no use of rituximab during chemotherapy were risk factors for the prognosis of DLBCL patients. Further Cox multivariate regression analysis showed that these factors were also independent risk factors except for advanced age. CONCLUSION: CD5+ DLBCL patients have a worse prognosis than CD5- DLBCL patients. Such patients are more common in females, with advanced age and high IPI score, which is a special subtype of DLBCL.
Asunto(s)
Antígenos CD5 , Linfoma de Células B Grandes Difuso , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Antígenos CD5/metabolismo , Linfoma de Células B Grandes Difuso/diagnóstico , Pronóstico , Estudios Retrospectivos , Análisis de SupervivenciaRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Diabetic ulcers (DUs) are characterized by chronic inflammation and delayed re-epithelialization, with a high incidence and weighty economic burden. The primary therapeutic strategies for refractory wounds include surgery, non-invasive wound therapy, and drugs, while the optimum regimen remains controversial. Sirtuin-6 (SIRT6) is a histone deacetylase and a key epigenetic factor that exerts anti-inflammatory and pro-proliferatory effects in wound healing. However, the exact function of SIRT6 in DUs remains unclear. METHODS: We generated tamoxifen-inducible SIRT6 knockout mice by crossing SIRT6flox/flox homozygous mice with UBC-creERT2+ transgenic mice. Systemic SIRT6 null mice, under either normal or diabetic conditions, were utilized to assess the effects of SIRT6 in DUs treatment. Gene and protein expressions of SIRT6 and inflammatory cytokines were measured by Western blotting and RT-qPCR. Histopathological examination confirmed the altered re-epithelialization (PCNA), inflammation (NF-κB p50 and F4/80), and angiogenesis (CD31) markers during DUs restoration. RESULTS: Knockout of SIRT6 inhibited the healing ability of DUs, presenting attenuated re-epithelialization (PCNA), exacerbated inflammation responses (NF-κB p50, F4/80, Il-1ß, Tnf-α, Il-6, Il-10, and Il-4), and hyperplasia vascular (CD31) compared with control mice. CONCLUSIONS: SIRT6 could boost impaired wound healing through improving epidermal proliferation, inflammation, and angiogenesis. Our study highlighted the therapeutic potential of the SIRT6 agonist for DUs treatment.
Asunto(s)
Ratones Noqueados , Sirtuinas , Cicatrización de Heridas , Animales , Cicatrización de Heridas/genética , Sirtuinas/genética , Sirtuinas/metabolismo , Sirtuinas/deficiencia , Ratones , Diabetes Mellitus Experimental/genética , Diabetes Mellitus Experimental/complicaciones , Diabetes Mellitus Experimental/metabolismo , Diabetes Mellitus Experimental/patología , Citocinas/metabolismo , Ratones Endogámicos C57BL , Inflamación/genética , Inflamación/patología , Inflamación/metabolismo , MasculinoRESUMEN
The supramolecular solvent (SUPRAS) has garnered significant attention as an innovative, efficient, and environmentally friendly solvent for the effective extraction and separation of bioactive compounds from natural resources. However, research on the use of a SUPRAS for the extraction of phenolic compounds from plants, which are highly valued in food products due to their exceptional antioxidant properties, remains scarce. The present study developed a green, ultra-sound-assisted SUPRAS method for the simultaneous determination of three phenolic acids in Prunella vulgaris using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The experimental parameters were meticulously optimized. The efficiency and antioxidant properties of the phenolic compounds obtained using different extraction methods were also compared. Under optimal conditions, the extraction efficiency of the SUPRAS, prepared with octanoic acid reverse micelles dispersed in ethanol-water, significantly exceeded that of conventional organic solvents. Moreover, the SUPRAS method demonstrated greater antioxidant capacity. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) images revealed the spherical droplet structure of the SUPRAS, characterized by a well-defined circular fluorescence position, which coincided with the position of the phenolic acids. The phenolic acids were encapsulated within the SUPRAS droplets, indicating their efficient extraction capacity. Furthermore, molecular dynamics simulations combined with CLSM supported the proposed method's mechanism and theoretically demonstrated the superior extraction performance of the SUPRAS. In contrast to conventional methods, the higher extraction efficiency of the SUPRAS can be attributed to the larger solvent contact surface area, the formation of more types of hydrogen bonds between the extractants and the supramolecular solvents, and stronger, more stable interaction forces. The results of the theoretical studies corroborate the experimental outcomes.
Asunto(s)
Antioxidantes , Fenoles , Extractos Vegetales , Solventes , Solventes/química , Fenoles/química , Fenoles/aislamiento & purificación , Antioxidantes/química , Antioxidantes/aislamiento & purificación , Extractos Vegetales/química , Cromatografía Líquida de Alta Presión/métodos , Tecnología Química Verde , Simulación de Dinámica Molecular , Hidroxibenzoatos/química , Hidroxibenzoatos/aislamiento & purificaciónRESUMEN
Carexqingyuanensis, a new species of Cyperaceae from Guangdong Province, China, is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to Carexpeliosanthifolia F. T. Wang & Tang ex P. C. Li, but it can be distinguished by the racemose inflorescence branches appearing single (rarely binate or ternate) (vs. binate or ternate), one (rarely two or three) (vs. 1-3) spiked, male part of linear-cylindrical spikes much longer than the female part (vs. just male part short-cylindrical and slightly longer than female part), style base thickened (vs. not thickened) and perigynium horizontally patent with a short (vs. long and excurved) beak. Phylogenetic analysis, based on the two nuclear DNA regions (ETS 1f and ITS) and three chloroplast DNA regions (matK, ndhF and rps16), suggests that the new species belongs to sect. Siderostictaes.s. of subg. Siderosticta and shows a closer phylogenetic relationship to Carexscaposa C. B. Clarke.
RESUMEN
OBJECTIVES: To compare the repair effects of different doses of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) on white matter injury (WMI) in neonatal rats. METHODS: Two-day-old Sprague-Dawley neonatal rats were randomly divided into five groups: sham operation group, WMI group, and hUC-MSCs groups (low dose, medium dose, and high dose), with 24 rats in each group. Twenty-four hours after successful establishment of the neonatal rat white matter injury model, the WMI group was injected with sterile PBS via the lateral ventricle, while the hUC-MSCs groups received injections of hUC-MSCs at different doses. At 14 and 21 days post-modeling, hematoxylin and eosin staining was used to observe pathological changes in the tissues around the lateral ventricles. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to detect the quantitative expression of myelin basic protein (MBP) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) mRNA in the brain tissue. Immunohistochemistry was employed to observe the expression levels of GFAP and neuron-specific nuclear protein (NeuN) in the tissues around the lateral ventricles. TUNEL staining was used to observe cell apoptosis in the tissues around the lateral ventricles. At 21 days post-modeling, the Morris water maze test was used to observe the spatial learning and memory capabilities of the neonatal rats. RESULTS: At 14 and 21 days post-modeling, numerous cells with nuclear shrinkage and rupture, as well as disordered arrangement of nerve fibers, were observed in the tissues around the lateral ventricles of the WMI group and the low dose group. Compared with the WMI group, the medium and high dose groups showed alleviated pathological changes; the arrangement of nerve fibers in the medium dose group was relatively more orderly compared with the high dose group. Compared with the WMI group, there was no significant difference in the expression levels of MBP and GFAP mRNA in the low dose group (P>0.05), while the expression levels of MBP mRNA increased and GFAP mRNA decreased in the medium and high dose groups. The expression level of MBP mRNA in the medium dose group was higher than that in the high dose group, and the expression level of GFAP mRNA in the medium dose group was lower than that in the high dose group (P<0.05). Compared with the WMI group, there was no significant difference in the protein expression of GFAP and NeuN in the low dose group (P>0.05), while the expression of NeuN protein increased and GFAP protein decreased in the medium and high dose groups. The expression of NeuN protein in the medium dose group was higher than that in the high dose group, and the expression of GFAP protein in the medium dose group was lower than that in the high dose group (P<0.05). Compared with the WMI group, there was no significant difference in the number of apoptotic cells in the low dose group (P>0.05), while the number of apoptotic cells in the medium and high dose groups was less than that in the WMI group, and the number of apoptotic cells in the medium dose group was less than that in the high dose group (P<0.05). Compared with the WMI group, there was no significant difference in the escape latency time in the low dose group (P>0.05); starting from the third day of the latency period, the escape latency time in the medium dose group was less than that in the WMI group (P<0.05). The medium and high dose groups crossed the platform more times than the WMI group (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Low dose hUC-MSCs may yield unsatisfactory repair effects on WMI in neonatal rats, while medium and high doses of hUC-MSCs have significant repair effects, with the medium dose demonstrating superior efficacy.
Asunto(s)
Animales Recién Nacidos , Trasplante de Células Madre Mesenquimatosas , Ratas Sprague-Dawley , Cordón Umbilical , Sustancia Blanca , Animales , Ratas , Humanos , Cordón Umbilical/citología , Sustancia Blanca/patología , Sustancia Blanca/metabolismo , Proteína Ácida Fibrilar de la Glía/metabolismo , Proteína Ácida Fibrilar de la Glía/genética , Proteína Ácida Fibrilar de la Glía/análisis , Células Madre Mesenquimatosas , Proteína Básica de Mielina/genética , Proteína Básica de Mielina/análisis , Proteína Básica de Mielina/metabolismo , Masculino , Apoptosis , Femenino , ARN Mensajero/análisis , ARN Mensajero/metabolismoRESUMEN
In managing unique complexities associated with Chinese medicinal quality assessment, metabolomics serves as an innovative tool. This study proposes an analytical approach to assess differing qualities of Scrophularia ningpoensis ï¼S. ningpoensisï¼Hemsl by identifying potential biomarker metabolites and their activity with the corresponding secondary metabolites. The methodology includes four steps; first, a GC-MS based metabolomics exploration of the Scrophularia ningpoensis Hemsl. Second, a multivariate statistical analysis (PCA, PLS-DA, OPLS-DA) for quality assessment and biomarker identification. Third, the application of ROC analysis and pathway analysis based on identified biomarkers. Finally, validation of the associated active ingredients by HPLC. The analysis showed distinct metabolite profiles across varying grades of S. ningpoensis Hemsl, establishing a grading dependency relationship. Select biomarkers (gluconic Acid, d-xylulose, sucrose, etc.) demonstrated robust grading performances. Further, the Pentose Phosphate Pathway, deemed as most influential in grading, was tied to the synthesis of key constituents (iridoids, phenylpropanoids). HPLC validation tests affirm a decreasing trend in harpagoside and cinnamic acid levels between first and third-grade samples. In conclusion, this GC-MS based metabolomics combined HPLC method offers a sound approach to assess and distinguish quality variations in S. ningpoensis Hemsl samples.
RESUMEN
Soil microbes are key drivers in regulating the phosphorus cycle. Elucidating the microbial mineralization process of soil phosphorus-solubilizing bacteria is of great significance for improving nutrient uptake and yield of crops. This study investigated the mechanism by which citrus cultivation affects the soil microbial acquisition strategy for phosphorus by measuring the abundance of the phoD gene, microbial community diversity and structure, and soil phosphorus fractions in the soils of citrus orchards and adjacent natural forests. The results showed that citrus cultivation could lead to a decrease in soil pH and an accumulation of available phosphorus in the soil, with a content as high as 112 mg·kg-1, which was significantly higher than that of natural forests (3.7 mg·kg-1). Citrus cultivation also affected the soil phosphorus fractions, with citrus soil having higher levels of soluble phosphorus (CaCl2-P), citrate-extractable phosphorus (Citrate-P), and mineral-bound phosphorus (HCl-P). The phosphorus fractions of natural forest soils were significantly lower than those of citrus soils, whereas the phoD gene abundance and alkaline phosphatase activity were significantly higher in natural forest soils than in citrus soils. High-throughput sequencing results showed that the Shannon diversity index of phosphate-solubilizing bacteria in citrus soils was 4.61, which was significantly lower than that of natural forests (5.35). The microbial community structure in natural forests was also different from that of citrus soils. In addition, the microbial community composition of phosphate-solubilizing bacteria in citrus soils was also different from that of natural forests, with the relative abundance of Proteobacteria being lower in natural forest soils than in citrus soils. Therefore, citrus cultivation led to a shift of soil microbial acquisition strategy for phosphorus, with external phosphorus addition being the main strategy in citrus soils, whereas microbial mineralization of organic phosphorus was the main strategy in natural forest soils to meet their growth requirements.
Asunto(s)
Fósforo , Suelo , Suelo/química , Microbiología del Suelo , Bacterias/genética , Bosques , Fosfatos , CitratosRESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: The 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has been recognized as the most severe human infectious disease pandemic in the past century. To enhance our ability to control potential infectious diseases in the future, this study simulated the influence of nucleic acid testing on the transmission of COVID-19 across varied scenarios. Additionally, it assessed the demand for nucleic acid testing under different circumstances, aiming to furnish a decision-making foundation for the implementation of nucleic acid screening measures, the provision of emergency materials, and the allocation of human resources. METHODS: Considering the transmission dynamics of COVID-19 and the preventive measures implemented by countries, we explored three distinct levels of epidemic intensity: community transmission, outbreak, and sporadic cases. Integrating the theory of scenario analysis, we formulated six hypothetical epidemic scenarios, each corresponding to possible occurrences during different phases of the pandemic. We developed an improved SEIR model, validated its accuracy using real-world data, and conducted a comprehensive analysis and prediction of COVID-19 infections under these six scenarios. Simultaneously, we assessed the testing resource requirements associated with each scenario. RESULTS: We compared the predicted number of infections simulated by the modified SEIR model with the actual reported cases in Israel to validate the model. The root mean square error (RMSE) was 350.09, and the R-squared (R2) was 0.99, indicating a well-fitted model. Scenario 4 demonstrated the most effective prevention and control outcomes. Strengthening non-pharmaceutical interventions and increasing nucleic acid testing frequency, even under low testing capacity, resulted in a delayed epidemic peak by 78 days. The proportion of undetected cases decreased from 77.83% to 31.21%, and the overall testing demand significantly decreased, meeting maximum demand even with low testing capacity. The initiation of testing influenced case detection probability. Under high testing capacity, increasing testing frequency elevated the detection rate from 36.40% to 77.83%. Nucleic acid screening proved effective in reducing the demand for testing resources under diverse epidemic prevention and control strategies. While effective interventions and nucleic acid screening measures substantially diminished the demand for testing-related resources, varying degrees of insufficient testing capacity may still persist. CONCLUSIONS: The nucleic acid detection strategy proves effective in promptly identifying and isolating infected individuals, thereby mitigating the infection peak and extending the time to peak. In situations with constrained testing capacity, implementing more stringent measures can notably decrease the number of infections and alleviate resource demands. The improved SEIR model demonstrates proficiency in predicting both reported and unreported cases, offering valuable insights for future infection risk assessments. Rapid evaluations of testing requirements across diverse scenarios can aptly address resource limitations in specific regions, offering substantial evidence for the formulation of future infectious disease testing strategies.
RESUMEN
As ethnic medicine, the whole grass of plants in Cirsium was used as antimicrobial. This review focuses on the antimicrobial activity of plants in Cirsium, including antimicrobial components, against different types of microbes and bacteriostatic mechanism. The results showed that the main antimicrobial activity components in Cirsium plants were flavonoids, triterpenoids and phenolic acids, and the antimicrobial ability varied according to the species and the content of chemicals. Among them, phenolic acids showed a strong antibacterial ability against Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterococcus faecium. The antibacterial mechanisms include: (1) damaging the cell membrane, cell walls, mitochondria and nucleus of bacteria; (2) inhibiting the synthesis of proteins and nucleic acids; (3) suppressing the synthesis of enzymes for tricarboxylic acid cycle pathways and glycolysis, and then killing the bacteria via inhibition of energy production. Totally, most research results on antimicrobial activity of Cirsium plants are reported based on in vitro assays. The evidence from clinical data and comprehensive evaluation are needed.
Asunto(s)
Antibacterianos , Cirsium , Cirsium/química , Antibacterianos/farmacología , HumanosRESUMEN
Vascular calcification (VC) is an accurate risk factor and predictor of adverse cardiovascular events; however, there is currently no effective therapy to specifically prevent VC progression. Capsaicin (Cap) is a bioactive alkaloid isolated from Capsicum annuum L., a traditional medicinal and edible plant that is beneficial for preventing cardiovascular diseases. However, the effect of Cap on VC remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the effects and related mechanisms of Cap on aortic calcification in a mouse and on Pi-induced calcification in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). First, we established a calcification mouse model with vitamin D3 and evaluated the effects of Cap on calcification mice using von Kossa staining, calcium content, and alkaline phosphatase activity tests. The results showed that Cap significantly improved calcification in mice. VSMCs were then cultured in 2.6 mM Na2HPO4 and 50 µg/mL ascorbic acid for 7 days to obtain a calcification model, and we investigated the effects and mechanisms of Cap on VSMCs calcification by assessing the changes of calcium deposition, calcium content, and subsequent VC biomarkers. These results showed that Cap alleviated VSMCs calcification by upregulating the expressions of TRPV1. Moreover, Cap reduced the expression of Wnt3a and ß-catenin, whereas DKK1 antagonised the inhibitory effect of Cap on VSMC calcification. This study is the first to offer direct evidence that Cap inhibits the Wnt/ß-catenin signaling pathway by upregulating the expression of the TRPV1 receptor, resulting in the decreased expression of Runx2 and BMP-2, thereby reducing VSMC calcification. Our study may provide novel strategies for preventing the progression of VC. This could serve as a theoretical basis for clinically treating VC with spicy foods.