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1.
Sci Rep ; 14(1): 11627, 2024 May 21.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38773279

ABSTRACT

A new idea to alleviate environmental pollution is the development of low-cost adsorbents using natural minerals and fishery wastes to treat high concentrations of heavy metal pollutants in acid mine drainage (AMD). Adsorbent morphology, adsorptive and regenerative capacity, and application potential are limiting factors for their large-scale use. Oyster shells capable of releasing alkalinity were loaded on the surface of lignite to develop two composite adsorbents with different morphologies (powdery and globular) for the treatment of AMD containing Pb(II) and Cd(II). The results show that the ability of the adsorbent to treat AMD is closely related to its morphologies. The pseudo-second-order kinetic model and the Langmuir model are suitable to describe the adsorption process of OS-M(P), and the maximum adsorption saturation capacities of Pb(II) and Cd(II) are 332.6219 mg/g and 318.9854 mg/g, respectively. The pseudo-second-order kinetic model and the Freundlich model are suitable to describe the adsorption process of OS-M(G). A synergistic result of electrostatic adsorption, neutralization precipitation, ion exchange and complex reaction is achieved in the removal of Pb(II) and Cd(II) by two morphologies of adsorbents. The regeneration times (5 times) and recovery rate (75.75%) of OS-M(G) are higher than those of OS-M(P) (3 times) and recovery rate (20%). The ability of OS-M(G) to treat actual AMD wastewater is still better than that of OS-M(P). OS-M(G) can be used as a promising environmentally friendly adsorbent for the long-term remediation of AMD. This study provides a comprehensive picture of resource management and reuse opportunities for natural mineral and fishery wastes.


Subject(s)
Animal Shells , Cadmium , Lead , Mining , Ostreidae , Water Pollutants, Chemical , Lead/chemistry , Cadmium/chemistry , Adsorption , Animals , Ostreidae/chemistry , Animal Shells/chemistry , Water Pollutants, Chemical/chemistry , Kinetics
2.
Science ; 384(6695): 579-584, 2024 May 03.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38696580

ABSTRACT

Fractional quantum Hall (FQH) states are known for their robust topological order and possess properties that are appealing for applications in fault-tolerant quantum computing. An engineered quantum platform would provide opportunities to operate FQH states without an external magnetic field and enhance local and coherent manipulation of these exotic states. We demonstrate a lattice version of photon FQH states using a programmable on-chip platform based on photon blockade and engineering gauge fields on a two-dimensional circuit quantum electrodynamics system. We observe the effective photon Lorentz force and butterfly spectrum in the artificial gauge field, a prerequisite for FQH states. After adiabatic assembly of Laughlin FQH wave function of 1/2 filling factor from localized photons, we observe strong density correlation and chiral topological flow among the FQH photons. We then verify the unique features of FQH states in response to external fields, including the incompressibility of generating quasiparticles and the smoking-gun signature of fractional quantum Hall conductivity. Our work illustrates a route to the creation and manipulation of novel strongly correlated topological quantum matter composed of photons and opens up possibilities for fault-tolerant quantum information devices.

3.
Neurosci Lett ; 832: 137805, 2024 May 29.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38705453

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: The medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) has been implicated in modulating anxiety and depression. Manipulation of Drd1 neurons in the mPFC resulted in variable neuronal activity and, consequently, strikingly different behaviors. The acute regulation of anxiety- and depression-like behaviors by Drd1 neurons, a major neuronal subtype in the mPFC, has not yet been investigated. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate whether acute manipulation of Drd1 neurons in the mPFC affects anxiety- and depression-like behaviors. STUDY DESIGN: Male Drd1-Cre mice were injected with an adeno-associated virus (AAV) expressing hM3DGq or hM4DGi. Clozapine-n-oxide (CNO, 1 mg/kg, i.p.) was injected 30 min before the behavioral tests. METHODS: Male Drd1-Cre mice were injected with AAV-Ef1α-DIO-hM4DGi-mCherry-WPRE-pA, AAV-Ef1α-DIO-hM3DGq-mCherry-WPRE-pA or AAV-Ef1α-DIO-mCherry-WPRE-pA. Three weeks later, whole-cell recordings after CNO (5 µM) were applied to the bath were used to validate the functional expression of hM4DGi and hM3DGq. Four groups of mice underwent all the behavioral tests, and after each of the tests, the mice were allowed to rest for 3-4 days. CNO (1 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally 30 min before the behavior test. Anxiety-like behaviors were evaluated by the open field test (OFT), the elevated plus maze test (EPMT), and the novelty-suppressed feeding test (NSFT). Depression-like behaviors were evaluated by the sucrose preference test (SPT) and force swimming test (FST). For all experiments, coronal sections of the targeted brain area were used to confirm virus expression. RESULTS: Whole-cell recordings from brain slices demonstrated that infusions of CNO (5 µM) into mPFC slices dramatically increased the firing activity of hM3DGq-mCherry+ neurons and abolished the firing activity of hM4DGi-mCherry+ neurons. Acute chemogenetic activation of Drd1 neurons in the mPFC increased the time spent in the central area in the OFT, increased the time spent in the open arms in the EMPT, decreased the latency to bite the food in the NSFT, increased the sucrose preference in the SPT, and decreased the immobility time in the FST. Acute chemogenetic inhibition of Drd1 neurons in the mPFC decreased the time spent in the central area in the OFT, decreased the time spent in the open arms in the EMPT, increased the latency to bite the food in the NSFT, decreased the sucrose preference in the SPT, and increased the immobility time in the FST. CONCLUSIONS: The present study showed that acute activation of Drd1 neurons in the mPFC produced rapid anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effects, and acute inhibition had the opposite effect, revealing that Drd1 neurons in the mPFC bidirectionally regulate anxiety- and depression-like behaviors. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The findings of the present study regarding the acute effects of stimulating Drd1 neurons in the mPFC on anxiety and depression suggest that Drd1 neurons in the mPFC are a focus for the treatment of anxiety disorders and depression.


Subject(s)
Anxiety , Depression , Prefrontal Cortex , Receptors, Dopamine D1 , Animals , Prefrontal Cortex/metabolism , Receptors, Dopamine D1/metabolism , Male , Mice , Neurons/metabolism , Behavior, Animal/physiology , Clozapine/analogs & derivatives , Clozapine/pharmacology
4.
J Health Serv Res Policy ; : 13558196241252394, 2024 May 07.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38713011

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Since 2016, the Chinese government has been piloting a public long-term care insurance (LTCI) scheme. This study examined whether the LTCI scheme reduced the use of informal care and how this has varied across income groups. METHOD: We used data from the 2011, 2014, and 2018 waves of Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey, focusing on community-dwelling older adults aged 65 years and older. We used staggered difference-in-differences analyses with propensity score matching to examine the effects of the policy. RESULTS: The LTCI scheme reduced the probability and intensity of informal care use by 5.7% (p < .05) and 17.4% (p < .05), respectively. The policy impact was limited to older people in the middle-income group, reducing the probability and intensity of informal care use by 15.6% (p < .001) and 43.1% (p < .05), respectively. We did not find a statistically significant policy effect for older adults with high or low incomes. CONCLUSIONS: The LTCI scheme had different effects on reducing the informal care burden for family caregivers by income level. We suggest that the scheme should entitle people with low incomes to a preferential co-payment rate, thereby enhancing their access to formal care.

5.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38635021

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a degenerative joint disease which can result in chronic pain and disability. The current interventions available for KOA often fail to provide long-lasting effects, highlighting the need for new treatment options that can offer durable benefits. Previous studies have suggested the efficacy of acupuncture for knee osteoarthritis (KOA) with its durability remaining uncertain. In this review, we aimed to investigate the durability of the efficacy after completion of treatment. RECENT FINDINGS: We performed thorough searches of PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from inception to November 4, 2023. The outcomes were assessed at all available time points after completion of treatment. Primary outcomes were changes from baseline in pain and function measured using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) pain and function subscales. Secondary outcomes included response rate, overall pain, the WOMAC stiffness subscale, total WOMAC index, and physical and mental health components of 12/36-item Short-Form Health Survey. A total of 10 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 3221 participants were included. Pooled estimates suggested that acupuncture may offer potential improvements in function and overall pain for 4.5 months post-treatment versus sham acupuncture (SA). Acupuncture may provide durable clinically important pain relief and functional improvement up to 5 months post-treatment versus usual care, and up to 6 months post-treatment versus diclofenac. For acupuncture versus no treatment, one trial with large sample size indicated that improvements in pain and function persisted for 3 months post-treatment, while the other trial reported that significant pain reduction and functional improvement were only observed at the end of the treatment, not at 9 months post-treatment. However, acupuncture as adjunct to exercise-based physical therapy (EPT) showed no superiority to SA as an adjunct to EPT or EPT alone up to 11.25 months after completion of treatment. Acupuncture may provide pain alleviation and functional improvements in KOA patients for 3 to 6 months after completion of treatment with a good safety profile.

6.
Commun Biol ; 7(1): 456, 2024 Apr 12.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38609453

ABSTRACT

Among the least studied portion of the pterosaur skeleton is the palate, which tends to be poorly preserved and commonly only visible from one side (the ventral portion). Even in well-preserved specimens, the bones tend to be fused, with the limits of individual palatal elements obscured. To shed new light on this region, we employed advanced X-ray imaging techniques on the non-pterodactyloid Kunpengopterus (Wukongopteridae), and the pterodactyloids Dsungaripterus (Dsungaripteridae), Hongshanopterus (Istiodactylidae), and Hamipterus (Hamipteridae). Our analyses revealed the presence of sutures between palatal bones in Dsungaripterus and Kunpengopterus, which resulted in different interpretations of the relation between palatine, ectopterygoid, and pterygoid, leading to a new identification of the palatal openings. Furthermore, our study shows six main observations such as the variation of the angle between the palatine rami and the variation in the relative sizes of the palatal openings. We also point out that the presence of a maxillopalatine fenestra (previously identified as postpalatine fenestra), is unique within Diapsida. Although much more work needs to be done, we showed that advanced X-ray imaging techniques open a window for understanding pterosaur cranial anatomy and provide a new perspective for investigating the evolutionary history of these flying reptiles.


Subject(s)
Biological Evolution , Skull , X-Rays , Radiography , Skull/diagnostic imaging , Polymers
7.
Neurol Res Int ; 2024: 5200222, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38595695

ABSTRACT

Background: Alzheimer's disease (AD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are two widespread chronic disorders characterized by shared risk factors and molecular pathways. Glucose metabolism, pivotal for cellular homeostasis and energy supply, plays a critical role in these diseases. Its disturbance has been linked to the pathogenesis of both AD and T2DM. However, a comprehensive investigation into the specific roles of glucometabolic genes in the onset and progression of AD and T2DM has yet to be conducted. Methods: By analyzing microarray datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) repository, we identified differentially expressed glucometabolic genes (DEGs) in AD and T2DM cohorts. A range of bioinformatics tools were employed for functional annotation, pathway enrichment, protein interaction network construction, module analysis, ROC curve assessment, correlation matrix construction, gene set enrichment analysis, and gene-drug interaction mapping of these DEGs. Key genes were further validated using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) in AD and T2DM murine models. Results: Our investigation identified 41 glucometabolic-related DEGs, with six prominent genes (G6PD, PKM, ENO3, PFKL, PGD, and TALDO1) being common in both AD and T2DM cohorts. These genes play crucial roles in metabolic pathways including glycolysis, pentose phosphate pathway, and amino sugar metabolism. Their diagnostic potential was highlighted by area under curve (AUC) values exceeding 0.6 for AD and 0.8 for T2DM. Further analysis explored the interactions, pathway enrichments, regulatory mechanisms, and potential drug interactions of these key genes. In the AD murine model, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis revealed significant upregulation of G6pd, Eno3, and Taldo1. Similarly, in the T2DM murine model, elevated expression levels of G6pd, Pfkl, Eno3, and Pgd were observed. Conclusion: Our rigorous research sheds light on the molecular interconnections between AD and T2DM from a glucometabolic perspective, revealing new opportunities for pharmacological innovation and therapeutic approaches. This study appears to be the first to extensively investigate glucometabolic-associated DEGs and key genes in both AD and T2DM, utilizing multiple datasets. These insights are set to enhance our understanding of the complex pathophysiology underlying these widespread chronic diseases.

8.
Braz J Cardiovasc Surg ; 39(3): e20230108, 2024 Apr 03.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38569069

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to compare the early postoperative outcomes of right anterior thoracotomy minimally invasive aortic valve replacement (RAT-MIAVR) surgery with those of median full sternotomy aortic valve replacement (MFS-AVR) approach with the goal of identifying potential benefits or drawbacks of each technique. METHODS: This retrospective, observational, cohort study included 476 patients who underwent RAT-MIAVR or MFS-AVR in our hospital from January 2015 to January 2023. Of these, 107 patients (22.5%) underwent RAT-MIAVR, and 369 patients (77.5%) underwent MFS-AVR. Propensity score matching was used to minimize selection bias, resulting in 95 patients per group for analysis. RESULTS: After propensity matching, two groups were comparable in preoperative characteristics. RAT-MIAVR group showed longer cardiopulmonary bypass time (130.24 ± 31.15 vs. 117.75 ± 36.29 minutes, P=0.012), aortic cross-clamping time (76.44 ± 18.00 vs. 68.49 ± 19.64 minutes, P=0.004), and longer operative time than MFS-AVR group (358.47 ± 67.11 minutes vs. 322.42 ± 63.84 minutes, P=0.000). RAT-MIAVR was associated with decreased hospitalization time after surgery, lower postoperative blood loss and drainage fluid, a reduced incidence of mediastinitis, increased left ventricular ejection fraction, and lower pacemaker use compared to MFS-AVR. However, there was no significant difference in the incidence of major complications and in-hospital mortality between the two groups. CONCLUSION: RAT-MIAVR is a feasible and safe alternative procedure to MFS-AVR, with comparable in-hospital mortality and early follow-up. This minimally invasive approach may be a suitable option for patients requiring isolated aortic valve replacement.


Subject(s)
Aortic Valve , Heart Valve Prosthesis Implantation , Humans , Aortic Valve/surgery , Sternotomy/methods , Thoracotomy/methods , Retrospective Studies , Cohort Studies , Propensity Score , Stroke Volume , Heart Valve Prosthesis Implantation/methods , Treatment Outcome , Length of Stay , Ventricular Function, Left
9.
RSC Adv ; 14(17): 11862-11871, 2024 Apr 10.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38623293

ABSTRACT

Since Na3V2(PO4)3 (NVP) possesses modest volume deformation and three-dimensional ion diffusion channels, it is a potential sodium-ion battery cathode material that has been extensively researched. Nonetheless, NVP still endures the consequences of poor electronic conductivity and low voltage platforms, which need to be further improved. On this basis, a high voltage platform Na3V2(PO4)2F3 was introduced to form a composite with NVP to increase the energy density. In this study, the sol-gel technique was successfully used to synthesize a Na3V2(PO4)2.75F0.75/C (NVPF·3NVP/C) composite cathode material. The citric acid-derived carbon layer was utilized to construct three-dimensional conducting networks to effectively promote ion and electron diffusion. Furthermore, the composites' synergistic effect accelerates the quick ionic migration and improves the kinetic reaction. In particular, NVP as the dominant phase enhanced the structural stability and significantly increased the capacitive contribution. Therefore, at 0.1C, the discharge capacity of the modified NVPF·3NVP/C composite is 120.7 mA h g-1, which is greater than the theoretical discharge capacity of pure NVP (118 mA h g-1). It discharged 110.9 mA h g-1 of reversible capacity even at an elevated multiplicity of 10C, and after 200 cycles, it retained 64.1% of its capacity. Thus, the effort produced an optimized NVPF·3NVP/C composite cathode material that may be used in the sodium ion cathode.

10.
Adv Sci (Weinh) ; : e2309657, 2024 Apr 23.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38654462

ABSTRACT

Alleviating the decomposition of the electrolyte is of great significance to improving the cycle stability of cathodes, especially for LiCoO2 (LCO), its volumetric energy density can be effectively promoted by increasing the charge cutoff voltage to 4.6 V, thereby supporting the large-scale application of clean energy. However, the rapid decomposition of the electrolyte under 4.6 V conditions not only loses the transport carrier for lithium ion, but also produces HF and insulators that destroy the interface of LCO and increase impedance. In this work, the decomposition of electrolyte is effectively suppressed by changing the adsorption force between LCO interface and EC. Density functional theory illustrates the LCO coated with lower electronegativity elements has a weaker adsorption force with the electrolyte, the adsorption energy between LCO@Mg and EC (0.49 eV) is weaker than that of LCO@Ti (0.73 eV). Meanwhile, based on the results of time of flight secondary ion mass spectrometry, conductivity-atomic force microscopy, in situ differential electrochemical mass spectrometry, soft X-ray absorption spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance, as the adsorption force increases, the electrolyte decomposes more seriously. This work provides a new perspective on the interaction between electrolyte and the interface of cathode and further improves the understanding of electrolyte decomposition.

11.
ACS Appl Mater Interfaces ; 16(17): 22547-22557, 2024 May 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38628112

ABSTRACT

Soft actuators with stimuli-responsive and reversible deformations have shown great promise in soft robotics. However, some challenges remain in existing actuators, such as the materials involved derived from nonrenewable resources, complex and nonscalable preparation methods, and incapability of complex and programmable deformation. Here, a biobased ink based on cuttlefish ink nanoparticles (CINPs) and cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) was developed, allowing for the preparation of biodegradable patterned actuators by direct ink writing technology. The hybrid CNF/CINP ink displays good rheological properties, allowing it to be accurately printed on a variety of flexible substrates. A bilayer actuator was developed by printing an ink layer on a biodegradable poly(lactic acid) film using extrusion-based 3D printing technology, which exhibits reversible and large bending behavior under the stimuli of humidity and light. Furthermore, programmable and reversible folding and coiling deformations in response to stimuli have been achieved by adjusting the ink patterns. This work offers a fast, scalable, and cost-effective strategy for the development of biodegradable patterned actuators with programmable shape-morphing.

12.
Front Neurol ; 15: 1361035, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38515444

ABSTRACT

Background: Hemorrhagic transformation (HT) after intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) might worsen the clinical outcomes, and a reliable predictive system is needed to identify the risk of hemorrhagic transformation after IVT. Methods: Retrospective collection of patients with acute cerebral infarction treated with intravenous thrombolysis in our hospital from 2018 to 2022. 197 patients were included in the research study. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to screen the factors in the predictive nomogram. The performance of nomogram was assessed on the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC), calibration plots and decision curve analysis (DCA). Results: A total of 197 patients were recruited, of whom 24 (12.1%) developed HT. In multivariate logistic regression model National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) (OR, 1.362; 95% CI, 1.161-1.652; p = 0.001), N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-pro BNP) (OR, 1.012; 95% CI, 1.004-1.020; p = 0.003), neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (OR, 3.430; 95% CI, 2.082-6.262; p < 0.001), systolic blood pressure (SBP) (OR, 1.039; 95% CI, 1.009-1.075; p = 0.016) were the independent predictors of HT which were used to generate nomogram. The nomogram showed good discrimination due to AUC-ROC values. Calibration plot showed good calibration. DCA showed that nomogram is clinically useful. Conclusion: Nomogram consisting of NIHSS, NT-pro BNP, NLR, SBP scores predict the risk of HT in AIS patients treated with IVT.

13.
J Am Chem Soc ; 146(11): 7584-7593, 2024 Mar 20.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38469801

ABSTRACT

Given the prevalent advancements in DNA- and RNA-based PROTACs, there remains a significant need for the exploration and expansion of more specific DNA-based tools, thus broadening the scope and repertoire of DNA-based PROTACs. Unlike conventional A- or B-form DNA, Z-form DNA is a configuration that exclusively manifests itself under specific stress conditions and with specific target sequences, which can be recognized by specific reader proteins, such as ADAR1 or ZBP1, to exert downstream biological functions. The core of our innovation lies in the strategic engagement of Z-form DNA with ADAR1 and its degradation is achieved by leveraging a VHL ligand conjugated to Z-form DNA to recruit the E3 ligase. This ingenious construct engendered a series of Z-PROTACs, which we utilized to selectively degrade the Z-DNA-binding protein ADAR1, a molecule that is frequently overexpressed in cancer cells. This meticulously orchestrated approach triggers a cascade of PANoptotic events, notably encompassing apoptosis and necroptosis, by mitigating the blocking effect of ADAR1 on ZBP1, particularly in cancer cells compared with normal cells. Moreover, the Z-PROTAC design exhibits a pronounced predilection for ADAR1, as opposed to other Z-DNA readers, such as ZBP1. As such, Z-PROTAC likely elicits a positive immunological response, subsequently leading to a synergistic augmentation of cancer cell death. In summary, the Z-DNA-based PROTAC (Z-PROTAC) approach introduces a modality generated by the conformational change from B- to Z-form DNA, which harnesses the structural specificity intrinsic to potentiate a selective degradation strategy. This methodology is an inspiring conduit for the advancement of PROTAC-based therapeutic modalities, underscoring its potential for selectivity within the therapeutic landscape of PROTACs to target undruggable proteins.


Subject(s)
DNA, Z-Form , Proteolysis Targeting Chimera , Proteolysis , Adenosine Deaminase/metabolism , RNA/metabolism , Ubiquitin-Protein Ligases/metabolism , DNA-Binding Proteins/metabolism
14.
Molecules ; 29(6)2024 Mar 12.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38542888

ABSTRACT

Selective phosphorus removal from aquatic media has become an ideal strategy to mitigate eutrophication and meet increasingly stringent discharge requirements. To achieve phosphorus control and resource utilization of low-calorific-value lignite, iron and magnesium salts were used to functionalize lignite, and iron-magnesium functionalized lignite (called IM@BC) was prepared for phosphate recovery from water media. The adsorption properties of IM@BC were systematically evaluated, especially the influence of ambient pH and co-existing ions. The kinetic, isothermal, and thermodynamic adsorption behaviors of IM@BC were analyzed. The adsorption mechanism was revealed by microscopic characterization. The potential application of phosphate-containing IM@BC (P-IM@BC) was explored. The results show that IM@BC has a strong phosphate adsorption capacity, and the maximum adsorption capacity is 226.22 mgP/g at pH = 3. Co-existing CO32- inhibits phosphate adsorption, while coexisting Ca2+ and Mg2+ enhance the effect. At the initial adsorption stage, the amount of phosphate adsorbed by IM@BC continues to increase, and the adsorption equilibrium state is gradually reached after 24 h. The adsorption process conforms to the pseudo-second-order kinetic model (PSO) and Langmuir isothermal adsorption model, and the adsorption process is mainly chemical adsorption. The phosphate absorption capacity is positively correlated with temperature (283.15 K~313.15 K), and the adsorption process is spontaneous, endothermic, and entropy-increasing. Its adsorption mechanism includes electrostatic attraction, ion exchange, surface precipitation, and coordination exchange. IM@BC can efficiently recover phosphate from actual phosphorus-containing wastewater with a recovery efficiency of up to 90%. P-IM@BC slowly releases phosphate from pH 3 to 11. Plant growth experiments showed that P-IM@BC could be used as a slow-release fertilizer to promote the root growth of cowpeas. The novelty of this work lies in the development of a highly efficient phosphate recovery adsorbent, which provides a feasible method of phosphorus control in water media and resource utilization of lignite.

15.
Front Microbiol ; 15: 1367116, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38533337

ABSTRACT

The quality of raw camel milk is affected by its bacterial composition and diversity. However, few studies have investigated the bacterial composition and diversity of raw camel milk. In this study, we obtained 20 samples of camel milk during spring and summer in Urumqi and Hami, Xinjiang, China. Single-molecule real-time sequencing technology was used to analyze the bacterial community composition. The results revealed that there were significant seasonal differences in the bacterial composition and diversity of camel milk. Overall, Epilithonimonas was the most abundant bacterial genus in our samples. Through the annotated genes inferred by PICRUSt2 were mapped against KEGG database. Non-parametric analysis of the bacterial community prediction function revealed a strong bacterial interdependence with metabolic pathways (81.83%). There were clear regional and seasonal differences in level 3 metabolic pathways such as fat, vitamins, and amino acids in camel milk. In addition, we identified lactic acid bacteria in camel milk with antibacterial and anti-tumor activities. Our findings revealed that camel milk from Xinjiang had serious risk of contamination by psychrophilic and pathogenic bacteria. Our research established a crucial theoretical foundation for ensuring the quality and safety of camel milk, thereby contributing significantly to the robust growth of China's camel milk industry.

16.
Pathol Res Pract ; 256: 155251, 2024 Apr.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38490097

ABSTRACT

Aberrant adrenal function has been frequently reported in COVID-19 patients, but histopathological evidence remains limited. This retrospective autopsy study aims to scrutinize the impact of COVID-19 duration on adrenocortical zonational architecture and peripheral corticosteroid reactivity. The adrenal glands procured from 15 long intensive care unit (ICU)-stay COVID-19 patients, 9 short ICU-stay COVID-19 patients, and 20 matched controls. Subjects who had received glucocorticoid treatment prior to sampling were excluded. Applying hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining, we disclosed that the adrenocortical zonational structure was substantially disorganized in COVID-19 patients, which long ICU-stay patients manifested a higher prevalence of severe disorganization (67%) than short ICU-stay patients (11%; P = 0.0058). The adrenal cortex of COVID-19 patients exhibited a 40% decrease in the zona glomerulosa (ZG) area and a 74% increase in the zona fasciculata (ZF) area (both P < 0.0001) relative to controls. Furthermore, among long ICU-stay COVID-19 patients, the ZG area diminished by 31% (P = 0.0004), and the ZF area expanded by 27% (P = 0.0004) in comparison to short ICU-stay patients. The zona reticularis (ZR) area remained unaltered. Nuclear translocation of corticosteroid receptors in the liver and kidney of long ICU-stay COVID-19 patients was at least 43% lower than in short ICU-stay patients (both P < 0.05). These findings underscore the necessity for clinicians to monitor adrenal function in long-stay COVID-19 patients.


Subject(s)
Adrenal Cortex , COVID-19 , Humans , Critical Illness , Retrospective Studies , Adrenal Glands , Adrenal Cortex Hormones
17.
Food Chem X ; 21: 101159, 2024 Mar 30.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38328697

ABSTRACT

Dioscorea opposita Thumb. cv. Tiegun is commonly consumed as both food and traditional Chinese medicine, which has a history of more than two thousand years. Harvest time directly affects its quality, but few studies have focused on metabolic changes during the harvesting process. Here, a comprehensive metabolomics approach was performed to determine the metabolic profiles during six harvest stages. Thirty eight metabolites with significant differences were determined as crucial participants. Related metabolic pathways including phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, stilbenoid, diarylheptanoid and gingerol biosynthesis, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, flavonoid biosynthesis and tryptophan metabolism were the most active pathways during harvest. The results revealed that temperature has a significant impact on quality formation, which suggested that Dioscorea opposita thumb. cv. Tiegun harvested after frost had higher potential value of traditional Chinese medicine. This finding not only offered valuable guidance for yam production, but also provided essential information for assessing its quality.

18.
World J Gastroenterol ; 30(3): 252-267, 2024 Jan 21.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38314135

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory condition with frequent relapse and recurrence. Evidence suggests the involvement of SLC6A14 in UC pathogenesis, but the central regulator remains unknown. AIM: To explore the role of SLC6A14 in UC-associated pyroptosis. METHODS: Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), immunoblotting, and immunohistochemical were used to assess SLC6A14 in human UC tissues. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to induce inflammation in FHC and NCM460 cells and model enteritis, and SLC6A14 levels were assessed. Pyroptosis markers were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, Western blotting, and qRT-PCR, and EdU incubation, CCK-8 assays and flow cytometry were used to examine proliferation and apoptosis. Mouse models of UC were used for verification. RESULTS: SLC6A14 was increased and correlated with NLRP3 in UC tissues. LPS-induced FHC and NCM460 cells showed increased SLC6A14 levels. Reducing SLC6A14 increased cell proliferation and suppressed apoptosis. Reducing SLC6A14 decreased pyroptosis-associated proteins (ASC, IL-1ß, IL-18, NLRP3). NLRP3 overexpression counteracted the effects of sh-SLC6A14 on LPS-induced FHC and NCM460 cell pyroptosis. SLC6A14 improved the mucosa in mice with dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis. CONCLUSION: SLC6A14 promotes UC pyroptosis by regulating NLRP3, suggesting the therapeutic potential of modulating the SLC6A14/NLRP3 axis.


Subject(s)
Amino Acid Transport Systems , Colitis, Ulcerative , Colitis , NLR Family, Pyrin Domain-Containing 3 Protein , Animals , Humans , Mice , Amino Acid Transport Systems/genetics , Amino Acid Transport Systems/metabolism , Colitis, Ulcerative/chemically induced , Inflammasomes/metabolism , Lipopolysaccharides , NLR Family, Pyrin Domain-Containing 3 Protein/genetics , NLR Family, Pyrin Domain-Containing 3 Protein/metabolism , Pyroptosis
19.
Heliyon ; 10(3): e24852, 2024 Feb 15.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38317903

ABSTRACT

Glaucoma is a complex multifactorial disease. Oxidative stress has been implicated in its pathogenesis. However, establishing a causal relationship between oxidative stress and glaucoma is challenging due to confounding and reverse causality. In this study, we performed bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses based on genetic instrumental variables as proxies for 11 biomarkers of oxidative stress injury to investigate the causal relationship between oxidative stress and glaucoma. Eight significant associations were identified. Increased circulating levels of catalase (OR = 0.915, 95 % CI: 0.848-0.987, P = 0.022), retinol (OR = 0.481, 95 % CI: 0.248-0.932, P = 0.044) and superoxide dismutase (OR = 0.779, 95 % CI: 0. 616-0.986, P = 0.038) are associated with a decreased risk of glaucoma, whereas an increased myeloperoxidase level (OR = 2.145, 95 % CI: 1.119-4.111, P = 0.029) is associated with an increased risk of glaucoma. Glaucoma was causally associated with lower levels of total bilirubin (OR = 0.961, 95 % CI: 0.927-0.997, P = 0.039), glutathione peroxidase (OR = 0. 934, 95 % CI: 0.890-0.981, P = 0.006), paraoxonase (OR = 0.883, 95 % CI: 0.810-0.963, P = 0.005) and albumin (OR = 0.988, 95 % CI: 0.978-0.998, P = 0.014). The bidirectional MR analysis revealed a causal relationship between oxidative stress and glaucoma. These findings provide a greater understanding of the underlying mechanisms of glaucomatous neurodegeneration and imply a potential therapeutic approach for glaucoma through targeting oxidative stress pathways.

20.
Food Chem ; 445: 138756, 2024 Jul 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38394906

ABSTRACT

Biomimetic methods are invariably employed to synthesize hybrid organic-inorganic multilevel structure nanoflowers with self-assembly processes in aqueous solutions, which is an ideal way to meet the challenges of immobilizing antibodies or enzymes in nanomaterial based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (nano-ELISA). In this study, we developed protein-inorganic hybrid 3D nanoflowers composed of bovine serum albumin (BSA), horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-conjugated goat anti-mouse IgG (IgG-HRP) and copper(Ⅱ) phosphate (BSA-(IgG-HRP)-Cu3(PO4)2) using a self-assembly biomimetic method. The preparation process avoided the use of any organic solvent and protein immobilization did not require covalent modifications. Additionally, the unique hierarchical structure enhances the thermal and storage stability of HRP. The BSA-(IgG-HRP)-Cu3(PO4)2 hybrid 3D nanoflower was then applied to a nano-ELISA platform for pyridaben detection, achieving a 50% inhibition concentration of 3.90 ng mL-1. The nano-ELISA achieved excellent accuracy for pyridaben detection. Such a novel BSA-(IgG-HRP)-Cu3(PO4)2 hybrid 3D nanoflower provide an excellent reagent for small molecule immunoassay.


Subject(s)
Copper , Nanostructures , Pyridazines , Copper/chemistry , Nanostructures/chemistry , Horseradish Peroxidase/chemistry , Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay , Serum Albumin, Bovine
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