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1.
J Hypertens ; 2024 Jul 04.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39248113

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the associations between PM2.5 and its chemical constituents with blood pressure (BP), assess effects across BP quantiles, and identify the key constituent elevating BP. METHODS: A total of 36 792 adults were included in the cross-sectional study, representing 25 districts/counties of southeast China. Quantile regression models were applied to estimate the associations of PM2.5 and its chemical constituents (ammonium [NH4+], nitrate [NO3-], sulfate [SO42-], black carbon [BC], organic matter [OM]) with systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and mean artery pressure (MAP). A weighted quantile sum (WQS) index was used to estimate the relative importance of each PM2.5 chemical constituent to the joint effect on BP. RESULTS: The adverse effects of each interquartile range (IQR) increase in PM2.5, NH4+, NO3-, SO42-, and BC on BP were found to be greater with elevated BP, especially when SBP exceeded 133 mmHg and DBP exceeded 82 mmHg. Each IQR increase in all five PM2.5 chemical constituents was associated with elevated SBP (ß [95% CI]: 0.90 [0.75, 1.05]), DBP (ß: 0.44 [0.34, 0.53]), and MAP (ß: 0.57 [0.45, 0.69]), NH4+ (for SBP: weight = 99.43%; for DBP: 12.78%; for MAP: 60.73%) and BC (for DBP: 87.06%; for MAP: 39.07%) predominantly influencing these effects. The joint effect of PM2.5 chemical constituents on risks for elevated SBP and DBP exhibited an upward trend from the 70th quantile (SBP exceeded 133 mmHg, DBP exceeded 82 mmHg). CONCLUSION: Long-term exposure to PM2.5 and its chemical constituents was associated with increased risk for elevated BP, with NH4+ and BC being the main contributors, and such associations were significantly stronger at 70th to 90th quantiles (SBP exceeded 133 mmHg, DBP exceeded 82 mmHg).

2.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39240430

ABSTRACT

To realize the resource utilization of solid waste (coal slime) and further the dual carbon goals, utilizing coal slime and coal ash as adsorbates for CO2 capture is crucial. This study employed low-temperature N2 adsorption, low-pressure CO2 adsorption, X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence, and isothermal adsorption tests to assess coal slime and coal ash's pore/mineral composition characteristics. Subsequently, the influence on CO2 adsorption was analyzed to reveal the CO2 adsorption mechanisms of pores and clay minerals, and CO2 molecule adsorption behavior. The results showed that: (1) ashing led to reductions in total pore volume, specific surface area, micropore volume, and micropore specific surface area, accompanied by substantial decreases in micropores and mesopores; (2) ashing generated high-temperature stable mineral species, including quartz, andalusite, hematite, and gypsum, while all calcite decomposed into CaO; (3) coal slime exhibited greater CO2 adsorption capacity than coal ash, influenced by pore structure and clay minerals; (4) the adsorption behavior of coal slime and coal ash likely aligns with micropore filling theory, suggesting CO2 is adsorbed within the 0.30-1.47 nm pore structure. This research contributes to optimizing coal by-product utilization in mining areas and exploring adsorbate materials for CO2 sequestration in abandoned goaf.

3.
Inorg Chem ; 63(37): 17157-17165, 2024 Sep 16.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39236295

ABSTRACT

Conventional fluorescent materials frequently exhibit narrow-band emissions with a small full width at half-maximum (fwhm) due to localized-state characteristics, but electroluminescence is less efficient owing to the utilization of only singlet excitons. In this work, taking advantage of naphthalimide (NAI)-acetylide derivatives with a rigid planar structure and localized transition characteristics, we elaborately designed two mononuclear Pt(II) complexes with weak double emissions of fluorescence and phosphorescence. Taking them as synthetic precursors, we prepared three PtAu2 heteronuclear clusters and successfully attained highly efficient narrow-band red phosphorescence with the fwhm below 30 nm. Both theoretical and experimental results suggest that the phosphorescence of PtAu2 clusters mainly originates from the naphthalimide-localized 3IL (intraligand) triplet state. Solution-processed organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) achieved highly efficient narrow-band red electroluminescence with an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 16.7%. The CIE coordinates of the electroluminescence (0.69, 0.31) closely match the standard red emission for ultrahigh-definition display.

4.
Heliyon ; 10(15): e34463, 2024 Aug 15.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39165978

ABSTRACT

The convergence of green growth is not only very important for the sustainable development of mankind, but also plays a key role in the coordinated development of eastern, Midwest regions of China. The effect of innovative human capital (IHC) on the convergence of regional green growth in China needs to be explored. This paper empirically explores the impact of IHC on the convergence of regional green growth in China from spatial perspective for the first time. Through the regression analysis of the convergence models, three main conclusions are obtained: (1) there are obvious conditional ß space convergence characteristics of green growth among inter-provincial units in China. Under the spatial correlation expressed by distance weights and adjacent weights, the conditional ß space convergence characteristics of green growth are quite different. (2) Compared with the adjacency weight, under the distance weight, the spatial diffusion effect of innovative knowledge and technologies created by IHC is stronger. (3) There is club convergence of green growth in the East and the Midwest regions, and the quantity and quality of IHC in the Midwest region play a stronger role in the convergence of green growth than in the East region. Based on the above conclusions, this paper proposes some policies for the East and Midwest regions.

5.
World J Gastrointest Surg ; 16(7): 2106-2118, 2024 Jul 27.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39087126

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) is a common consequence of radical partial hepatectomy in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). AIMS: To investigate the relationship between preoperative antiviral therapy and PHLF, as well as assess the potential efficacy of hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA level in predicting PHLF. METHODS: A retrospective study was performed involving 1301 HCC patients with HBV who underwent radical hepatectomy. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to assess the capacity of HBV DNA to predict PHLF and establish the optimal cutoff value for subsequent analyses. Logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the independent risk factors of PHLF. The increase in the area under the ROC curve, categorical net reclassification improvement (NRI), and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) were used to quantify the efficacy of HBV DNA level for predicting PHLF. The P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Logistic regression analyses showed that preoperative antiviral therapy was independently associated with a reduced risk of PHLF (P < 0.05). HBV DNA level with an optimal cutoff value of 269 IU/mL (P < 0.001) was an independent risk factor of PHLF. All the reference models by adding the variable of HBV DNA level had an improvement in area under the curve, categorical NRI, and IDI, particularly for the fibrosis-4 model, with values of 0.729 (95%CI: 0.705-0.754), 1.382 (95%CI: 1.341-1.423), and 0.112 (95%CI: 0.110-0.114), respectively. All the above findings were statistically significant. CONCLUSION: In summary, preoperative antiviral treatment can reduce the incidence of PHLF, whereas an increased preoperative HBV DNA level has a correlative relationship with an increased susceptibility to PHLF.

6.
Carbohydr Polym ; 343: 122478, 2024 Nov 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39174101

ABSTRACT

Lentinula edodes (Shiitake) is an important edible mushroom and polysaccharides are its major constituents with proven health benefits. The study was to investigate the gut bacterial fermentation and subsequent effects on gut barrier function of a glucan-rich polysaccharide, LePS40 precipitated from the mushroom water extract with 40 % (v/v) ethanol. LePS40 consisted of a ß-(1→3)-glucan main chain with substitution in the C-6 position with side chains mainly composed of (1 → 6)-linked ß-Glcp residues, (1 → 6)-linked α-Galp residues and terminal residues of ß-Glcp. LePS40 was found highly resistant to digestive enzymes and gastric acid in simulated human gastrointestinal tract, but highly fermentable during in vitro human fecal fermentation. The fecal fermentation degradation of LePS40 appeared to selectively break the glucoside linkage in view of the dramatic decrease in the glucose molar ratio (12.68 to 1.07). Compared with the prebiotic reference FOS, LePS40 led to much higher levels of butyric, and propionic acid and a lower level of acetic acid. Moreover, LePS40 enhanced the abundance of some beneficial bacterial populations, but decreased the bacteria possibly linked with fatty-liver disease and colorectal cancer. Furthermore, the fecal fermentation products of LePS40 showed a potential protective effect on intestinal barrier function against inflammatory damage in Caco-2/Raw264.7 co-culture model. These findings suggest the potential of LePS40 for improvement of gut health through modulation of gut microbiota.


Subject(s)
Fermentation , Gastrointestinal Microbiome , Shiitake Mushrooms , Shiitake Mushrooms/chemistry , Shiitake Mushrooms/metabolism , Humans , Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects , Caco-2 Cells , Animals , Feces/microbiology , Polysaccharides/pharmacology , Polysaccharides/chemistry , Polysaccharides/metabolism , Digestion/drug effects , Molecular Weight , Mice , Intestinal Mucosa/metabolism , Prebiotics
7.
Braz J Otorhinolaryngol ; 90(6): 101464, 2024 Jul 08.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39089219

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: To introduce our method managing nasal septal spurs during endoscopic septoplasty. METHODS: We conducted a prospective study of cases treated with endoscopic septoplasty between March 2022 and June 2023. We innovated a surgical method to reduce the local mucosal tension at the spur by cutting the spur above and below the bony connection, and reducing the chance of mucosal tear and loss during dissection. The authors performed these cases at the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, where 40 surgeries were performed with regular postoperative follow-ups for 6-12 months. RESULTS: All patients' clinical symptoms improved significantly after surgery. After 2-4 weeks of follow-up, the mucosa could recover to the preoperative state on both sides of the nasal septum. CONCLUSION: This surgical method is suitable for most patients with nasal septal deviation, especially those with a spur, which can effectively reduce the chance of nasal septal mucosa tear and accelerate postoperative recovery. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Ⅳ.

8.
Physiol Rep ; 12(15): e16171, 2024 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39095332

ABSTRACT

Total amount of creatine (Cr) and phosphocreatine, or total creatine (tCr), may have a significant impact on the performance of skeletal muscles. In sports such as bodybuilding, it is popular to take Cr supplements to maintain tCr level. However, no study has explored the quantitative relationship between exercise intensity and the induced change in muscle's tCr. In this well-controlled study, straight-leg plantar flexion with specific load and duration was performed by 10 healthy subjects inside an MRI scanner, immediately followed by 1H MR spectroscopy (MRS) for measuring tCr concentration in gastrocnemius. For repeatability assessment, the experiment was repeated for each subject on two different days. Across all the subjects, baseline tCr was 46.6 ± 2.4 mM, ranging from 40.6 to 50.1 mM; with exercise, tCr significantly decreased by 10.9% ± 1.0% with 6-lb load and 21.0% ± 1.3% with 12-lb load (p < 0.0001). Between two different days, baseline tCr, percentage decrease induced by exercise with a 6-lb and 12-lb load differed by 2.2% ± 2.3%, 11.7% ± 6.0% and 4.9% ± 3.2%, respectively. In conclusion, the proposed protocol of controlled exercise stimulation and MRS acquisition can reproducibly monitor tCr level and its exercise-induced change in skeletal muscles. The measured tCr level is sensitive to exercise intensity, so can be used to quantitatively assess muscle performance or fatigue.


Subject(s)
Creatine , Exercise , Muscle, Skeletal , Humans , Creatine/metabolism , Male , Adult , Exercise/physiology , Muscle, Skeletal/metabolism , Muscle, Skeletal/physiology , Pilot Projects , Female , Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy/methods , Young Adult , Phosphocreatine/metabolism , Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy/methods
9.
J Anim Sci Biotechnol ; 15(1): 115, 2024 Sep 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39217350

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to determine whether and how Zn proteinate with moderate chelation strength (Zn-Prot M) can alleviate heat stress (HS)-induced intestinal barrier function damage of broilers. A completely randomized design was used for comparatively testing the effects of Zn proteinate on HS and non-HS broilers. Under high temperature (HT), a 1 (Control, HT-CON) + 2 (Zn source) × 2 (added Zn level) factorial arrangement of treatments was used. The 2 added Zn sources were Zn-Prot M and Zn sulfate (ZnS), and the 2 added Zn levels were 30 and 60 mg/kg. Under normal temperature (NT), a CON group (NT-CON) and pair-fed group (NT-PF) were included. RESULTS: The results showed that HS significantly reduced mRNA and protein expression levels of claudin-1, occludin, junctional adhesion molecule-A (JAMA), zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) and zinc finger protein A20 (A20) in the jejunum, and HS also remarkably increased serum fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran (FITC-D), endotoxin and interleukin (IL)-1ß contents, serum diamine oxidase (DAO) and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 activities, nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) p65 mRNA expression level, and protein expression levels of NF-κB p65 and MMP-2 in the jejunum. However, dietary supplementation with Zn, especially organic Zn as Zn-Prot M at 60 mg/kg, significantly decreased serum FITC-D, endotoxin and IL-1ß contents, serum DAO and MMP-2 activities, NF-κB p65 mRNA expression level, and protein expression levels of NF-κB p65 and MMP-2 in the jejunum of HS broilers, and notably promoted mRNA and protein expression levels of claudin-1, ZO-1 and A20. CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that dietary Zn, especially 60 mg Zn/kg as Zn-Prot M, can alleviate HS-induced intestinal barrier function damage by promoting the expression of TJ proteins possibly via induction of A20-mediated suppression of the NF-κB p65/MMP-2 pathway in the jejunum of HS broilers.

10.
J Environ Manage ; 368: 122094, 2024 Sep.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39154388

ABSTRACT

With the rapid development of Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS) technology, it is necessary to explore the feasibility of coal slime as a porous carbon material for CO2 capture. In this paper, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to observe the morphological characteristics of coal slime samples with different metamorphic degrees, and the pore structure of coal slime was explored by low temperature N2 adsorption and low-pressure CO2 adsorption experiments. The pore distribution characteristics were analyzed, and the adsorption law of different metamorphic degrees were summarized through CO2 isothermal adsorption experiments. The results showed that: The specific surface area (SSA) and pore volume (PV) of the mesopores of the coal slime exhibited a U-shaped distribution with coal rank, and are much smaller than that of its micropores. Micropores less than 2 nm are the main adsorption space of coal slime, its PV accounted for 59%, 60%, 71%, and SSA accounted for 92%, 93%, 95%, obviously, which are dominant at all stages. The linear correlation fitting coefficients R2 between the limiting adsorbed amount a of CO2 and the micropores PV and the SSA were up to 0.830 and 0.887, respectively. The coal slime has good adsorption performance for CO2. Based on the Langmuir model to fit the limit adsorption amount, a-value can reach 41.774 cm3 g-1, 32.072 cm3 g-1, 38.457 cm3 g-1 at 303 K with the increase of Rmax. Studying the impact of coal slime on CO2 adsorption performance provides a theoretical basis for the subsequent preparation of energy storage materials and is of great significance for the safe, efficient and economic capture and sequestration of CO2, to alleviate the serious situation of the environment and realizing the dual-carbon goal.


Subject(s)
Carbon Dioxide , Coal , Carbon Dioxide/chemistry , Adsorption , Porosity
11.
mBio ; 15(9): e0085224, 2024 Sep 11.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39162563

ABSTRACT

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen that thrives in environments associated with human activity, including soil and water altered by agriculture or pollution. Because L-lactate is a significant product of plant and animal metabolism, it can serve as a carbon source for P. aeruginosa in the diverse settings that it inhabits. In this study, we evaluate the production and use of two redundant P. aeruginosa L-lactate dehydrogenases, termed LldD and LldA. We confirm that the protein LldR represses lldD and identify a new transcription factor, called LldS, that activates lldA; these distinct regulators and the genomic contexts of lldD and lldA contribute to their differential expression. We demonstrate that the lldD and lldA genes are conditionally controlled in response to lactate isomers as well as to glycolate and ɑ-hydroxybutyrate, which, like lactate, are ɑ-hydroxycarboxylates. We also show that lldA is induced when iron availability is low. Our examination of lldD and lldA expression across depth in biofilms indicates a complex pattern that is consistent with the effects of glycolate production, iron availability, and cross-regulation on enzyme preference. Finally, macrophage infection assays reveal that both lldD and lldA contribute to persistence within host cells, underscoring the potential role of L-lactate as a carbon source during P. aeruginosa-eukaryote interactions. Together, these findings help us understand the metabolism of a key resource that may promote P. aeruginosa's success as a resident of contaminated environments and animal hosts.IMPORTANCEPseudomonas aeruginosa is a major cause of lung infections in people with cystic fibrosis, of hospital-acquired infections, and of wound infections. It consumes L-lactate, which is found at substantial levels in human blood and tissues. In this study, we investigated the spatial regulation of two redundant enzymes, called LldD and LldA, which enable L-lactate metabolism in P. aeruginosa biofilms. We uncovered mechanisms and identified compounds that control the preference of P. aeruginosa for LldD versus LldA. We also showed that both enzymes contribute to its ability to survive within macrophages, a behavior that is thought to augment the chronicity and recalcitrance of infections. Our findings shed light on a key metabolic strategy used by P. aeruginosa and have the potential to inform the development of therapies targeting bacterial metabolism during infection.


Subject(s)
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial , Macrophages , Pseudomonas Infections , Pseudomonas aeruginosa , Pseudomonas aeruginosa/genetics , Pseudomonas aeruginosa/enzymology , Macrophages/microbiology , Pseudomonas Infections/microbiology , Animals , Humans , Mice , L-Lactate Dehydrogenase/metabolism , L-Lactate Dehydrogenase/genetics , Bacterial Proteins/metabolism , Bacterial Proteins/genetics , Biofilms/growth & development , Lactic Acid/metabolism , Transcription Factors/metabolism , Transcription Factors/genetics , Microbial Viability
12.
Int J Nanomedicine ; 19: 7963-7981, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39130689

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Traditional cancer treatment strategies often have severe toxic side effects and poor therapeutic efficacy. To address the long-standing problems related to overcoming the complexity of tumors, we develop a novel nanozyme based on the in situ oxidation of 2D Ti3C2 structure to perform simultaneous phototherapy and sonodynamic therapy on tumors. Ti3C2 nanozymes exhibit multi-enzyme activity, including intrinsic peroxidase (POD) activities, which can react with H2O2 in the tumor microenvironment. This new material can construct Ti3C2/TiO2 heterostructures in vivo. Methods: Photothermal (PTT), sonodynamic (SDT) effects, and photoacoustic (PA) image-guided synergy therapy can be achieved. Finally, anticancer immune responses occur with this nanozyme. In vivo experiments revealed that the Ti3C2/TiO2 heterostructure inhibited tumor growth. Results: Complementarily, our results showed that the Ti3C2/TiO2 heterostructure enhanced the immunogenic activity of tumors by recruiting cytotoxic T cells, thereby enhancing the tumor ablation effect. Mechanistic studies consistently indicated that Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) regulates apoptosis of HCC cells by modulating NRF2/OSGIN1 signaling both in vitro and in vivo. As a result, Ti3C2 nanozyme effectively inhibited tumor through its synergistic ability to modulate ROS and enhance immune infiltration of cytotoxic T cells in the tumor microenvironment. Discussion: These findings open up new avenues for enhancing 2D Ti3C2 nanosheets and suggest a new way to develop more effective sonosensitizers for the treatment of cancer.


Subject(s)
Titanium , Ultrasonic Therapy , Titanium/chemistry , Titanium/pharmacology , Animals , Mice , Humans , Ultrasonic Therapy/methods , Nanoparticles/chemistry , Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism , Cell Line, Tumor , Tumor Microenvironment/drug effects , Phototherapy/methods , Mice, Inbred BALB C , Apoptosis/drug effects , Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology , Antineoplastic Agents/chemistry , Liver Neoplasms/therapy , Liver Neoplasms/drug therapy , Photoacoustic Techniques/methods , Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/therapy , Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/drug therapy , Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
13.
Molecules ; 29(16)2024 Aug 19.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39202996

ABSTRACT

The field of carborane research has witnessed continuous development, leading to the construction and development of a diverse range of crystalline porous materials for various applications. Moreover, innovative synthetic approaches are expanding in this field. Since the first report of carborane-based crystalline porous materials (CCPMs) in 2007, the synthesis of carborane ligands, particularly through innovative methods, has consistently posed a significant challenge in discovering new structures of CCPMs. This paper provides a comprehensive summary of recent advances in various synthetic approaches for CCPMs, along with their applications in different domains. The primary challenges and future opportunities are expected to stimulate further multidisciplinary development in the field of CCPMs.

14.
BMC Oral Health ; 24(1): 1021, 2024 Aug 30.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39215296

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to propose a comprehensive maxillary sinus (MS) contour classification system based on the evaluation of anatomical characteristics from cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) examination and investigate the relationship between sinus contours and sinus floor elevation (SFE). METHODS: A total of 283 CBCT scans from patients who had single tooth loss in the posterior maxilla and underwent SFE were analyzed. The MS was classified at each tooth position. For buccal-palatal evaluation, the classification from Type A to E was narrow-taper, taper, ovoid, square, and irregular, respectively. For mesial-distal evaluation, the classification from Type 1 to 4 was flat, slope, concave, and septa, respectively. The major anatomical parameters evaluated were (1) residual bone height (RBH), (2) sinus width (SW), (3) maxillary sinus angle (MSA), (4) buccal dip angle (BDA), (5) palatonasal recess (PNR), and (6) sinus depth. RESULTS: Eleven groups of MS contour were classified after detailed calculation. Differences in the RBH, MSA, BDA, and SW among different groups were statistically significant. The narrow-taper and slope MS (A2) group had the highest RBH (8.66 ± 0.77 mm), largest BDA (79.9° ± 3.18°), smallest MSA (19.8° ± 2.01°), and narrowest SW (6.30 ± 1.23 mm). The lowest RBH was in the square and concave sinus (D3) group (5.11 ± 2.70 mm). The ovoid and concave sinus (C3) group had the smallest BDA (50.64 ± 8.73 mm) and largest MSA (74.11° ± 11.52°). The square and flat MS (D1) group had the widest SW (19.13 ± 3.69 mm). A strongly significant positive correlation was observed between the SW and MSA (r = 0.67) and a strongly negative correlation between the SW and BDA (r = - 0.65). The prevalence of PNR (mean angle: 104.06° ± 16.83°, mean height: 14.72 ± 11.78 mm) was 38% and frequently observed in the ovoid and slope MS (C2) group. CONCLUSION: Despite certain characteristics at different tooth sites, the same tooth position was categorized differently using different classification systems, indicating large anatomical variations in the MS. The classification system proposed herein allows for classification based on general characteristics at a single tooth site, aiming to help surgeons in improving presurgical evaluation.


Subject(s)
Cone-Beam Computed Tomography , Maxillary Sinus , Humans , Cross-Sectional Studies , Cone-Beam Computed Tomography/methods , Maxillary Sinus/diagnostic imaging , Maxillary Sinus/anatomy & histology , Female , Male , Middle Aged , Adult , Aged , Sinus Floor Augmentation/methods , Maxilla/diagnostic imaging , Maxilla/anatomy & histology
15.
ACS Biomater Sci Eng ; 10(8): 4855-4864, 2024 Aug 12.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39038266

ABSTRACT

Butterflies constitute approximately 10% of lepidopteran insects, and along with silkworms, they can produce silk; however, this feature is often ignored. In the present study, we observed two primary methods used by butterflies to hang pupae on trees using silk: pupa adheraena (Danaus chrysippus) and pupa contigua (Papilio polytes). Anchoring the abdominal ends of pupae with a silk pad was the most common method used in both cases, whereas wrapping silk around the body using a silk girdle was a method unique to pupa contigua. The connection between the cremaster and silk pad was observed to be similar to that between the hook and loop of a Velcro fastener, except that the cremaster hook is anchor-shaped rather than being a single hook. Such a connection will remain secure, ensuring the safety of the pupae during exposure to wind and rain. Through determining the mechanical properties of silk, the performance of butterfly silk was found to be weaker than that of silkworm silk. Therefore, the P. polytes silk girdle adopts the strategy of merging a dozen silk threads to improve its strength and toughness, thereby making it difficult to break. In addition, we explained how the protein sequence and structure of butterfly silk impact its performance. In conclusion, we discovered that butterfly pupae develop unique body features to establish secure bonds with silk. This enables them to effectively undergo metamorphosis and endure harsh weather conditions and surroundings.


Subject(s)
Butterflies , Pupa , Silk , Animals , Butterflies/physiology , Silk/chemistry , Trees , Bombyx
16.
Fitoterapia ; 177: 106141, 2024 Sep.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39053739

ABSTRACT

A series of C-3 arylated huperzine A (HPA) derivatives (1-30) were designed and synthesized in good yields via palladium-catalyzed Suzuki cross-coupling reaction. Cholinesterase inhibitory and neuroprotective activities of all 30 derivatives were evaluated. Cholinesterase inhibition results revealed that derivatives 2 and 15 exhibited dual inhibitory activity against both acetylcholinesterase (AChE inhibition: 2, IC50 = 1.205 ± 0.395 µM; 15, IC50 = 0.225 ± 0.062 µM) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE inhibition: 2, IC50 = 8.598 ± 3.605 µM; 15, IC50 = 4.013 ± 0.068 µM), a feature not observed in huperzine A. Molecular docking results indicated that the introduction of aryl groups enhanced the affinity of the derivatives for the acyl-binding pocket of BChE, thereby limiting the hydrolysis of acetyl choline. However, these derivatives exhibited poor performance in cytotoxicity and neuroprotection assays.


Subject(s)
Alkaloids , Alzheimer Disease , Butyrylcholinesterase , Cholinesterase Inhibitors , Molecular Docking Simulation , Neuroprotective Agents , Sesquiterpenes , Cholinesterase Inhibitors/pharmacology , Cholinesterase Inhibitors/chemical synthesis , Cholinesterase Inhibitors/chemistry , Sesquiterpenes/pharmacology , Sesquiterpenes/chemical synthesis , Sesquiterpenes/chemistry , Alkaloids/pharmacology , Alkaloids/chemical synthesis , Alkaloids/chemistry , Neuroprotective Agents/pharmacology , Neuroprotective Agents/chemical synthesis , Neuroprotective Agents/chemistry , Butyrylcholinesterase/metabolism , Molecular Structure , Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy , Acetylcholinesterase/metabolism , Animals , Humans , Structure-Activity Relationship , Drug Design
17.
Asian J Androl ; 26(5): 484-489, 2024 Sep 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39054792

ABSTRACT

ABSTRACT: The cause of asthenozoospermia (AZS) is not well understood because of its complexity and heterogeneity. Although some gene mutations have been identified as contributing factors, they are only responsible for a small number of cases. Radial spokes (RSs) are critical for adenosine triphosphate-driven flagellar beating and axoneme stability, which is essential for flagellum motility. In this study, we found novel compound heterozygous mutations in leucine-rich repeat-containing protein 23 ( LRRC23 ; c.1018C>T: p.Q340X and c.881_897 Del: p.R295Gfs*32) in a proband from a nonconsanguineous family with AZS and male infertility. Diff-Quik staining and scanning electron microscopy revealed no abnormal sperm morphology. Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining showed that these mutations suppressed LRRC23 expression in sperm flagella. Additionally, transmission electron microscopy showed the absence of RS3 in sperm flagella, which disrupts stability of the radial spoke complex and impairs motility. Following in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer, the proband's spouse achieved successful pregnancy and delivered a healthy baby. In conclusion, our study indicates that two novel mutations in LRRC23 are associated with AZS, but successful fertility outcomes can be achieved by in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer techniques.


Subject(s)
Asthenozoospermia , Mutation , Humans , Male , Asthenozoospermia/genetics , Adult , Pedigree , Sperm Tail/pathology , Sperm Tail/ultrastructure , Sperm Tail/metabolism , Female , Sperm Motility/genetics , Pregnancy
18.
Biochem Cell Biol ; 2024 Jul 16.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39013204

ABSTRACT

Atherosclerosis (AS) is an inflammatory arterial disorder that occurs due to the deposition of the excessive lipoprotein under the artery intima, mainly including low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and other apolipoprotein B-containing lipoproteins. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) play a crucial role in transmitting signals in physiological and pathophysiological conditions. GPCRs recognize inflammatory mediators, thereby serving as important players during chronic inflammatory processes. It has been demonstrated that free fatty acids can function as ligands for various GPCRs, such as free fatty acid receptor (FFAR)1/GPR40, FFAR2/GPR43, FFAR3/GPR41, FFAR4/GPR120, and the lipid metabolite binding glucose-dependent insulinotropic receptor (GPR119). This review discusses GPR43 and its ligands in the pathogenesis of AS, especially focusing on its distinct role in regulating chronic vascular inflammation, inhibiting oxidative stress, ameliorating endothelial dysfunction and improving dyslipidemia. It is hoped that this review may provide guidance for further studies aimed at GPR43 as a promising target for drug development in the prevention and therapy of AS.

19.
Commun Med (Lond) ; 4(1): 128, 2024 Jul 02.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38956268

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Human carcinoembryonic antigen cell adhesion molecule 1 (CEACAM1) is an inhibitory cell surface protein that functions through homophilic and heterophilic ligand binding. Its expression on immune cells in human tumors is poorly understood. METHODS: An antibody that distinguishes human CEACAM1 from other highly related CEACAM family members was labeled with 159Tb and inserted into a panel of antibodies that included specificity for programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1) and PD-L1, which are targets of immunotherapy, to gain a data-driven immune cell atlas using cytometry by time-of-flight (CyTOF). A detailed inventory of CEACAM1, PD1, and PD-L1 expression on immune cells in metastatic lesions to lymph node or soft tissues and peripheral blood samples from patients with treatment-naive and -resistant melanoma as well as peripheral blood samples from healthy controls was performed. RESULTS: CEACAM1 is absent or at low levels on healthy circulating immune cells but is increased on immune cells in peripheral blood and tumors of melanoma patients. The majority of circulating PD1-positive NK cells, innate T cells, B cells, monocytic cells, dendritic cells, and CD4+ T cells in the peripheral circulation of treatment-resistant disease co-express CEACAM1 and are demonstrable as discrete populations. CEACAM1 is present on distinct types of cells that are unique to the tumor microenvironment and exhibit expression levels that are highest in treatment resistance; this includes tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells. CONCLUSIONS: To the best of our knowledge, this work represents the first comprehensive atlas of CEACAM1 expression on immune cells in a human tumor and reveals an important correlation with treatment-resistant disease. These studies suggest that agents targeting CEACAM1 may represent appropriate partners for PD1-related pathway therapies.


Some proteins, such as programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1), can stop the immune system from attacking cancer cells, allowing cancers to grow. Therapies targeting these proteins can be highly effective, but tumors can become resistant. It is important to identify factors involved in this resistance to develop improved cancer therapies. Human carcinoembryonic antigen cell adhesion molecule 1 (CEACAM1) is a protein that inhibits an immune response and its levels have been associated with poor patient outcomes. We applied a method that allows for the detection of proteins on a single cell to uncover CEACAM1 patterns in melanoma. We found that increased CEACAM1 expression levels on multiple different immune cell types was associated with tumors that were resistant to therapy. These findings may help us to understand the role of CEACAM1 in cancer and to develop better cancer therapies.

20.
iScience ; 27(7): 110309, 2024 Jul 19.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39055937

ABSTRACT

Mitochondrial dysfunction and Müller cells gliosis are significant pathological characteristics of retinal degeneration (RD) and causing blinding. Stem cell therapy is a promising treatment for RD, the recently accepted therapeutic mechanism is cell fusion induced materials transfer. However, whether materials including mitochondrial transfer between grafted stem cells and recipient's cells contribute to suppressing gliosis and mechanism are unclear. In present study, we demonstrated that bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) transferred mitochondria to Müller cells by cell fusion and tunneling nanotubes. BMSCs-derived mitochondria (BMSCs-mito) were integrated into mitochondrial network of Müller cells, improving mitochondrial function, reducing oxidative stress and gliosis, which protected visual function partially in the degenerative rat retina. RNA sequencing analysis revealed that BMSCs-mito increased mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) content and facilitated mitochondrial fusion in damaged Müller cells. It suggests that mitochondrial transfer from BMSCs remodels Müller cells metabolism and suppresses gliosis; thus, delaying the degenerative progression of RD.

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