The association between hydration state and the metabolism of phospholipids and amino acids among young adults: a metabolomic analysis.

Background: Water is vital for humans' survival and general health, which is involved in various metabolic activities. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the variation in urine metabolome and associated metabolic pathways among people with different hydration states. Methods: A metabolomic analysis was conducted using 24-h urine samples collected during a cross-sectional study on fluid intake behavior from December 9 to 11, 2021, in Hebei, China. Subjects were divided into the optimal hydration (OH, ≤500 mOsm/kg, n = 21), middle hydration (500-800 mOsm/kg, n = 33), and hypohydration groups (HH, >800 mOsm/kg, n = 13) based on the 3-d average 24-h urine osmolality. Collected 24-h urine samples from 67 subjects (43 males and 34 females) were analyzed for urine metabolome using liquid chromatography-MS. Results: The untargeted metabolomic analysis yielded 1055 metabolites by peak intensities. Integrating the results of the orthogonal projections to latent structures discriminant analysis and fold change test, 115 differential metabolites between the OH and HH groups, including phospholipids (PLs) and lysophospholipids, were identified. Among the 115 metabolites identified as differential metabolites, 85 were recorded by the Human Metabolome Database and uploaded to the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes databases for pathway analysis. Twenty-one metabolic pathways were recognized. Phenylalanine metabolism (0.50, P = 0.007), phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan biosynthesis (0.50, P = 0.051), glycerophospholipid metabolism (0.31, P < 0.001), sphingolipid metabolism (0.27, P = 0.029), and cysteine and methionine metabolism (0.10, P = 0.066) had the leading pathway impacts. Conclusions: We found variations in the urinary PLs and amino acids among subjects with different hydration states. Pathways associated with these differential metabolites could further impact various physiologic and pathologic functions. A more comprehensive and in-depth investigation of the physiologic and pathologic impact of the hydration state and the underlying mechanisms to elucidate and advocate optimal fluid intake habits is needed.This trial was registered at Chinese Clinical Trial Registry as ChiCTR2100045268.

Characterization of a novel acidophilic, ethanol tolerant and halophilic GH12 ß-1,4-endoglucanase from Trichoderma asperellum ND-1 and its synergistic hydrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass.

A novel acidophilic GH5 ß-1,4-endoglucanase (TaCel12) from Trichoderma asperellum ND-1 was efficiently expressed in Pichia pastoris (a 1.5-fold increase). Deglycosylated TaCel12 migrated as a single band (26.5 kDa) in SDS-PAGE. TaCel12 was acidophilic with a pH optimum of 4.0 and displayed great pH stability (>80 % activity over pH 3.0-5.0). TaCel12 exhibited considerable activity towards sodium carboxymethyl cellulose and sodium alginate with Vmax values of 197.97 µmol/min/mg and 119.06 µmol/min/mg, respectively. Moreover, TaCel12 maintained >80 % activity in the presence of 20 % ethanol and 4.28 M NaCl. Additionally, Mn2+, Pb2+ and Cu2+ negatively affected TaCel12 activity, while the presence of 5 mM Co2+ significantly increased the enzyme activity. Analysis of action mode revealed that TaCel12 required at least four glucose (cellotetraose) residues for hydrolysis to yield cellobiose and cellotriose. Site-directed mutagenesis results suggested that Glu133 and Glu217 of TaCel12 are crucial catalytic residues, with Asp116 displaying an auxiliary function. Production of soluble sugars from lignocellulose is a crucial step in bioethanol development, and it is noteworthy that TaCel12 could synergistically yield fermentable sugars from corn stover and bagasse, respectively. Thus TaCel12 with excellent properties will be considered a potential biocatalyst for applications in various industries, especially for lignocellulosic biomass conversion.

Improved production of recombinant ß-mannanase (TaMan5) in Pichia pastoris and its synergistic degradation of lignocellulosic biomass.

Mannan, a highly abundant and cost-effective natural resource, holds great potential for the generation of high-value compounds such as bioactive polysaccharides and biofuels. In this study, we successfully enhanced the expression of constructed GH5 ß-mannanase (TaMan5) from Trichoderma asperellum ND-1 by employing propeptide in Pichia pastoris. By replacing the α-factor with propeptide (MGNRALNSMKFFKSQALALLAATSAVA), TaMan5 activity was significantly increased from 67.5 to 91.7 U/mL. It retained higher activity in the presence of 20% ethanol and 15% NaCl. When incubated with a high concentration of mannotriose or mannotetraose, the transglycosylation action of TaMan5 can be detected, yielding the corresponding production of mannotetraose or mannooligosaccharides. Moreover, the unique mechanism whereby TaMan5 catalyzes the degradation of mannan into mannobiose involves the transglycosylation of mannose to mannotriose or mannotetraose as a substrate to produce a mannotetraose or mannopentose intermediate, respectively. Additionally, the production of soluble sugars from lignocellulose is a crucial step in bioethanol development, and it is noteworthy that TaMan5 could synergistically yield fermentable sugars from corn stover and bagasse. These findings offered valuable insights and strategies for enhancing ß-mannanase expression and efficient conversion of lignocellulosic biomass, providing cost-effective and sustainable approaches for high-value biomolecule and biofuel production.

Biochemical analyses of a novel acidophilic GH5 ß-mannanase from Trichoderma asperellum ND-1 and its application in mannooligosaccharides production from galactomannans.

In this study, an acidophilic GH5 ß-mannanase (TaMan5) from Trichoderma asperellum ND-1 was efficiently expressed in Pichia pastoris (a 2.0-fold increase, 67.5 ± 1.95 U/mL). TaMan5 displayed the highest specificity toward locust bean gum (Km = 1.34 mg/mL, Vmax = 749.14 µmol/min/mg) at pH 4.0 and 65°C. Furthermore, TaMan5 displayed remarkable tolerance to acidic environments, retaining over 80% of its original activity at pH 3.0-5.0. The activity of TaMan5 was remarkably decreased by Cu2+, Mn2+, and SDS, while Fe2+/Fe3+ improved the enzyme activity. A thin-layer chromatography (TLC) analysis of the action model showed that TaMan5 could rapidly degrade mannan/MOS into mannobiose without mannose via hydrolysis action as well as transglycosylation. Site-directed mutagenesis results suggested that Glu205, Glu313, and Asp357 of TaMan5 are crucial catalytic residues, with Asp152 playing an auxiliary function. Additionally, TaMan5 and commercial α-galactosidase displayed a remarkable synergistic effect on the degradation of galactomannans. This study provided a novel ß-mannanase with ideal characteristics and can be considered a potential candidate for the production of bioactive polysaccharide mannobiose.

The relationship between water intake, hydration biomarkers and physical activity of young male athletes in Beijing, China: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To explore the relationship between water intake, hydration biomarkers and physical activity of young male athletes. METHODS AND STUDY DESIGN: A 7-day cross-sectional study was conducted among 45 male athletes aged 18-25 years in Beijing, China. Total drinking fluids (TDF) was obtained using 7-day 24-h fluid intake questionnaire. Water from food (WFF) was assessed using the methods of food weighing, duplicate portion method and laboratory analysis. Physical activity was evaluated using physical activity energy expenditure (PAEE) and metabolic equivalent of task (MET). RESULTS: Totally, 42 participants completed the study. The medians of total water intake (TWI), TDF and WFF of participants were 2771 mL, 1653 mL and 1088 mL respectively. Jonckheere-Terpstra test showed a significant increase trend toward higher TWI and TDF with higher PAEE level (Z=2.414, p=0.016; Z=2.425, p=0.015). Spearman's rank correlation showed that TWI was positively correlated with PAEE (rs=0.397, p=0.009). TDF showed a positive correlation with PAEE and MET (rs=0.392, p=0.010; rs=0.315, p=0.042). The median urine volume was 840 mL, urine specific gravity was 1.020, and 24-h urine osmolality was 809 mOsm/kg. Significant differences were found in plasma cortisol among the four MET groups (χ2=8.180; p=0.042). CONCLUSIONS: Young male athletes with higher physical activity level had higher amounts of TWI and TDF than their counterparts but had similar hydration biomarkers. There was a high incidence of dehydration in athletes, and attentions need to be paid on the intake of TDF among them to maintain the optimal hydration status.

Analysis on fluid intake and urination behaviors among the elderly in five cities in China: a cross-sectional study.

Background: Fluid intake in the elderly may influence urination behaviors and further influence their health status. This study investigated the behaviors of fluid intake, urination and their relationships among the elderly in China. Methods: Stratified random sampling was used to recruit the elderly participants who met the inclusion criteria from five cities in China. Participants' total fluid intake (TFI) level was investigated using a validated 7-day 24 h fluid intake questionnaire. Their urination behaviors in real time were also recorded using a validated 7-day 24 h urination behavior record. Results: A total of 524 participants completed the study, including 233 males and 291 females. The average age was 69.7 years. The median daily TFI was 1,241 mL, with a frequency of 8.1 times per day. Approximately 73.3% of the participants did not reach the amount of adequate fluid intake (1.7 L for males and 1.5 L for females) recommended in China. Fluid intake in the morning, afternoon, and evening among participants was 594 mL, 305 mL and 342 mL, with a frequency of 3.0 times, 1.7 times, and 2.0 times, respectively. The median urination frequency was 7.4 times per day. The percentage of participants who urinated >7 times during the day was 44.3%. The percentage of participants who urinated ≥1 time at night was 77.5%. Age and BMI were not the main influence factors for fluid intake and urination behaviors. The preliminary analysis showed that higher TFI, plain water intake, dairy products intake, and fluid intake frequency were significantly associated with higher urination frequency (t = 6.553, p < 0.05; t = 5.291, p < 0.05; t = 4.667, p < 0.05; t = 13.413, p < 0.05). Higher fluid intake per time was significantly associated with lower urination frequency (t = -3.562, p < 0.05). Correlations between TFI, fluid intake frequency, fluid intake in night, fluid intake frequency in night and urination at night were also found (r = 0.114, p < 0.05; r = 0.091, p < 0.05; r = 0.146, p < 0.05; r = 0.331, p < 0.05). Conclusion: Fluid intake was inadequate in terms of the elderly participants. Participants with higher fluid intake and frequency in night had a greater incidence of nocturia. Thus, correcting fluid intake behaviors can improve urination behavior and promote health. Clinical trial registration: https://www.chictr.org.cn/searchprojEN.html, identifier CTR1900023355.

The total fluids intake among college students from Hebei Province in spring and summer / 中国学校卫生

Objective@#To analyze the total fluids intake and sources of college students from Hebei in spring and summer, and to provide a scientific reference for appropriate fluids intake in different seasons.@*Methods@#Subjects were recruited in a university in Baoding, Hebei Province, and investigations were conducted in April and June 2021. The number of people who completed both spring and summer investigations was 80. Quantitative instruments and 7 day 24 h Fluid Intake Questionnaire were used to investigate the total drinking fluids, and it was recorded for 7 consecutive days in spring and summer respectively. The duplicate portion method was used to investigate the water from food. The total fluids intake and sources among subjects were analyzed in spring and summer.@*Results@#There was no statistical significance between the total drinking fluids and total fluids intake between spring and summer [1 141(715), 1 176(649)mL/d, (2 496±604)(2 458±554)mL/d] ( F=1.86, 0.59, P >0.05). Spring showed significantly higher water from food compared with summer [(1 318±274)(1 217±302)mL/d]( F=16.63, P <0.05). The proportions of total drinking fluids and water from food in spring were 46% and 54%, respectively, and both were 50% in summer, the differences were statistically significant ( F=12.97, 12.97, P <0.05). There were differences in total fluids intake,total drinking fluids and water from food of different genders in earch season ( t/Z =4.75, -3.63, 3.44; 4.80, -2.91, 4.01, P <0.05). There were differences in total water intake, total drinking fluids, the proportions of total drinking fluids and water from food of different BMI groups in each season ( F/H =8.08, 16.65, 3.03, 3.03; 7.11,17.97, 4.52, 4.52, P <0.05). In spring, only 13.8% of subjects achieved the recommended total drinking fluids of China, compared with 18.8% in summer. In spring and summer, the total fluids intake, total drinking fluids, the proportions of total drinking fluids in the group achieved the recommendation were all higher than those who did not reach the recommendation ( t/Z =6.64, -5.19, 5.79; 8.12, -5.97, 5.70, P <0.05).@*Conclusion@#Season is a factor that affects total fluids intake, and it should be taken into account when setting the recommendation on adequate water intake.

Behaviors of Water Intake, Hydration Status, and Related Hydration Biomarkers among Physically Active Male Young Adults in Beijing, China: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Studies on the water intake of athletes in daily life are insufficient. The objective was to determine the water intake and hydration status among physically active male young adults. In this cross-sectional studies study, 111 physically active male young adults were recruited. The amount of daily total drinking fluid intake (TDF) among participants was recorded and evaluated in real time over 7 days using the "7-day 24-hour fluid intake questionnaire" (liq. In 7). The daily water intake from food (WFF) was calculated using the weighing, duplicate portion, and direct-drying method over 3 days. All urine samples over 3 days were collected, and urine biomarkers were determined. According to 24 h urine osmolality, the participants were divided into three groups with euhydration status, middle hydration, and hypo hydration statuses. Finally, 109 participants completed the study. The median daily total water intake (TWI), TDF, and WFF were 2701, ik1789, and 955 mL, respectively. Among participants, 17 participants (16%) were in euhydration status, 47 participants (43%) were in hypohydration, and 45 participants (41%) were in middle hydration. There were statistical significances in the 24 h urine volume, osmolality, urine specific gravity, and concentrations of K, Na, and Cl in different hydration statuses (χ 2 = 28.212, P < 0.01; χ 2 = 91.341, P < 0.01; χ 2 = 47.721, P < 0.01; χ 2 = 41.548, P < 0.01; χ 2 = 46.863, P < 0.01; and χ 2 = 40.839, P < 0.01). Moderate-intensity correlations were found between the TDF and 24 h urine volume, 24 h urine osmolality, 24 h urine Na concentration, morning urine osmolality, and morning urine Na concentration (r = 0.408, P < 0.01; r = -0.378, P < 0.01; r = -0.325, P < 0.01; r = -0.344, P < 0.01; and r = -0.329, P < 0.01). There were also moderate-intensity correlations between the TDF and 24 h urine osmolality, morning urine osmolality, and morning urine Na concentration (r = -0.365, P < 0.01; r = -0.371, P < 0.01; and r = -0.322, P = 0.01). Increased and higher moderate-intensity correlations were found between plain water and 24 h urine volume, 24 h urine osmolality, 24 h urine K and Na concentration, morning urine osmolality, and morning urine Na concentration (r = 0.374, P < 0.01; r = -0.520, P < 0.01; r = -0.312,P < 0.01; r = -0.355, P < 0.01; r = -0.446, P < 0.01; and r = -0.378, P < 0.01). Insufficient water intake and hypohydration were common among physically active male young adults. The amount and type of water intake were correlated with hydration status and urine biomarkers. The results could provide scientific and accurate references for the development of recommendations on water intake for athletes.

Dehydration and rehydration affect brain regional density and homogeneity among young male adults, determined via magnetic resonance imaging: A pilot self-control trial.

The effects of dehydration and rehydration on brain regional density and homogeneity are unknown and have been infrequently studied. In this pilot self-control study, twelve participants aged 18-25 years were recruited and the brain was scanned using magnetic resonance imaging for three tests under different hydration statuses. In three tests, urine osmolality was determined to assess hydration status. Test 1 was conducted after 12 h of overnight fasting. Test 2 was conducted in a dehydration state induced by 36 h of water deprivation. Test 3 was conducted in a rehydration state, which was induced by 1.5 L of purified water supplementation. Compared with test 1, participants under the dehydration state in test 2 had higher cerebrospinal fluid density (p < 0.001). Compared with test 2, participants under the rehydration state in test 3 showed an extensive increase in gray matter density in widespread brain regions, mainly involving the left middle temporal gyrus, cuneus, right thalamus, left rolandic opercula, Brodmann area 39, right precentral, left postcentral gyrus, and cingulate gyrus (p < 0.001); a higher white matter density in the temporal lobe, sub-lobar, and sub-gyral areas; and a lower cerebrospinal fluid density (p < 0.001). The multimodal, multiscale neuroimaging marker of the human brain connection-the regional homogeneity (ReHo) index-was used for evaluating the connectivity of nodes in the brain. Compared with test 1, participants in test 2 had a lower ReHo value in the right amygdala, left occiput median, right lingual, opercula part of right inferior frontal gyrus, and right precuneus (p < 0.01). Compared with test 2, participants in test 3 had a higher ReHo value in the right amygdala, right lingual, opercula part of the right inferior frontal gyrus, and right precuneus (p < 0.01). Dehydration state increased cerebrospinal fluid density, decreased brain regional homogeneity. Rehydration state increased brain gray matter and white matter density widespreadly, and increased brain regional homogeneity.

Biochemical characterization of a novel acidophilic ß-xylanase from Trichoderma asperellum ND-1 and its synergistic hydrolysis of beechwood xylan.

Acidophilic ß-xylanases have attracted considerable attention due to their excellent activity under extreme acidic environments and potential industrial utilizations. In this study, a novel ß-xylanase gene (Xyl11) of glycoside hydrolase family 11, was cloned from Trichoderma asperellum ND-1 and efficiently expressed in Pichia pastoris (a 2.0-fold increase). Xyl11 displayed a maximum activity of 121.99 U/ml at pH 3.0 and 50°C, and exhibited strict substrate specificity toward beechwood xylan (K m = 9.06 mg/ml, V max = 608.65 µmol/min/mg). The Xyl11 retained over 80% activity at pH 2.0-5.0 after pretreatment at 4°C for 1 h. Analysis of the hydrolytic pattern revealed that Xyl11 could rapidly convert xylan to xylobiose via hydrolysis activity as well as transglycosylation. Moreover, the results of site-directed mutagenesis suggested that the Xyl11 residues, Glu127, Glu164, and Glu216, are essential catalytic sites, with Asp138 having an auxiliary function. Additionally, a high degree of synergy (15.02) was observed when Xyl11 was used in association with commercial ß-xylosidase. This study provided a novel acidophilic ß-xylanase that exhibits excellent characteristics and can, therefore, be considered a suitable candidate for extensive applications, especially in food and animal feed industries.

Acute Water Supplementation Improved the Body Composition of Young Female Adults After Water Restriction of 12 h in Baoding, China: A Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT).

Insufficient intake of water may influence the balance of water in the human body. In this study, we explore the impacts of water supplementation on body composition indices among young adults after 12 h of water restriction, with the aim to determine the optimum volume of water for improving body water composition. A randomized controlled trial study was conducted among 64 young men and women in Baoding, China. After fasting overnight for 12 h, anthropometric measurements and urine and blood samples were collected as a baseline test at 8:00 a.m. of Day 2. Body composition was determined by measuring the ECW (extracellular water), ICW (intracellular water), and TBW (total body water) through bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). The participants were randomly divided into four groups, including water supplementation (WS) groups 1, 2, and 3, with 500, 200, and 100 mL of water, respectively, and a no water supplementation (NW) group. After 90 min, they were reassessed in a rehydration test (at 10:00 a.m. of Day 2). Repeated measurement ANOVA was used to assess the impact of water supplementation on body composition. Comparing the baseline and rehydration tests, interactions between time and volume were not significant among the men (all p > 0.05). Among women, a significant interaction was only found in ECW (p = 0.043), with TBW tending toward being significant (p = 0.055). Comparing the baseline and rehydration tests, the ECW in WS group 1, WS group 3, and the NW group all decreased (p = 0.028, p = 0.001, and p = 0.029), with reductions of 0.1, 0.3, and 0.2 kg, respectively; however, no significant decrease was observed in WS group 2 (p = 0.329). Furthermore, comparing the WS groups with the NW group in the rehydration test, the differences were not significant (p = 1.000, p = 1.000, and p = 0.288, respectively). Between men and women within groups, all of the body composition indices differed significantly, both at baseline and rehydration tests (all p < 0.05). Water supplementation led to changes in the distribution of the water content in young female adults in this study-but not men-after 12 h of water restriction, with no decrease in ECW. Finally, we found that 200 mL was the minimum volume capable of improving the water content distribution in participants in this study. Trial Registration: [www.chictr.org.cn], identifier [ChiCTR-IOR-17011568].

Habitual Total Drinking Fluid Intake Did Not Affect Plasma Hydration Biomarkers among Young Male Athletes in Beijing, China: A Cross-Sectional Study.

The purposes of this study were to explore the drinking patterns, and urinary and plasma hydration biomarkers of young adults with different levels of habitual total drinking fluid intake. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 111 young male athletes in Beijing, China. Total drinking fluids and water from food were assessed by a 7-day, 24-h fluid intake questionnaire and the duplicate portion method, respectively. The osmolality and electrolyte concentrations of the 24-h urine and fasting blood samples were tested. Differences in groups LD1 (low drinker), LD2, HD1, and HD2 (high drinker), divided according to the quartiles of total drinking fluids, were compared using one-way ANOVA, Kruskal−Wallis H-tests, and chi-squared tests. A total of 109 subjects completed the study. The HD2 group had greater amounts of TWI (total water intake) and higher and lower contributions of total drinking fluids and water from food to TWI, respectively, than the LD1, LD2, and HD1 groups (p < 0.05), but the amounts of water from food did not differ significantly among the four groups (all p > 0.05). Participants in the HD2 group had higher amounts of water than participants in the LD1, LD2, and HD1 groups (p < 0.05); SSBs were the second top contributor of total drinking fluids, ranging from 24.0% to 31.8%. The percentage of subjects in optimal hydration status increased from 11.8% in the LD1 group to 58.8% in the HD2 group (p < 0.05). The HD2 and HD1 groups had 212−227 higher volumes of urine than the LD1 and LD2 groups (p < 0.05). No significant differences were found in the plasma biomarkers (p > 0.05), with the exception of higher concentrations of K in the HD1 group than in the LD1 group (p < 0.05). Subjects with higher amounts of total drinking fluids had better hydration status than those with lower total drinking fluids, but not better drinking patterns. Habitual total drinking fluids did not affect the plasma biomarkers.

Determination of the energy expenditure, sources, and loss of water among young adults.

BACKGROUND: Few studies on measuring human energy expenditure with the doubly labeled water method has been conducted in China. The sources and loss of water among human body have never been systematically evaluated. Less data can be available for the development of the recommendation on energy expenditure and water intake. The objective of this study was to determine the energy expenditure, water sources, and loss among young adults. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 25 participants were recruited. Double-labeled water was used to determine their energy expenditure. Water loss through skin evaporation and respiration of the lungs and water sources from metabolic water were calculated using corresponding formula, respectively. Water loss through excretion of urine was recorded and evaluated using "3-day, 24-h, real-time urine excretion record" method. All urine samples were collected and weighed in the 3 days. Water loss through excretion of feces was evaluated using "3-day, 24-h, real-time fecal-excretion record" method. All fecal samples were collected and tested by the direct drying method. Water sources from fluid intake were recorded by "7-day, 24-h, real-time fluid intake record" method. Water intake from food was calculated and tested by the weighing method combined with the duplicate portion method and the direct drying method in the 3 days. RESULTS: The energy expenditure of males was 2187 kcal/d, and that of females was 1987 kcal/d. The median fluid intake, water intake from food, and metabolic water were 887, 1173 and 246 mL, respectively, which accounted for 38.8%, 50.3%, and 11.2% of total water sources. There was a gender difference in the percentage of metabolic water (Z = - 2.135, P = 0.033). The water loss through urine excretion, skin evaporation, respiration, and feces excretion was 1295, 172, 149 and 64 mL, respectively, which accounted for 76.5%, 10.3%, 9.5%, and 3.6% of the total water losses. Gender differences in the amount of water loss through respiration and skin evaporation were found (Z = - 4.125, P < 0.001; Z = - 3.723, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Energy expenditure of male was higher than that of female. The first major water sources was water intake from food in this study, and the first major water loss was urine excretion. Trial registration The study was registered on the website of Chinese clinical trial registry, and the code of identification is ChiCTR1900028746.

Structural Characterization and Tumor Microvascular Inhibition Activity of Total Polysaccharide from Trametes sanguinea Lloyd.

Trametes sanguinea Lloyd total polysaccharide (TsLTP), was obtained by water extraction and ethanol precipitation from T. sanguinea. The structural characterization of TsLTP was elucidated mutually by TsL1 and TsL2, whose mass ratio is 1: 4. TsL1 is mainly composed of mannose, glucose, galactose, and fucose, and consist of T-Linked-Fucp, T-Linked-Manp, T-Linked-Galp, 1,4-Linked-Manp, 1,4-Linked-Glcp, 1,6-Linked-Manp, 1,6-Linked-Galp, 1,3,4-Linked-Glcp, 1,4,6-Linked-Glcp and 1,3,6-Linked-Glcp, with a molar ratio of 2.1: 1.7: 1.4: 1.0: 3.6: 2.0: 8.6: 1.3: 2.2: 1.2, while TsL2 mainly comprise of glucose and consist of T-Linked-Glcp, 1,3-Linked-Glcp, 1,4-Linked-Glcp and 1,4,6-Linked-Glcp, with a molar ratio of 1.0: 2.1: 7.6: 1.4. TsLTP exhibited strong inhibitory effects on the migration, invasion, and tube formation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (iHUVECs) and chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) angiogenesis, whereas no inhibitory activity on human TNBC cell lines. Taken together, our study suggests that TsLTP possesses a significant inhibition of tumor microvascular activity both in vitro and in vivo. The study of TsLTP with novel monosaccharide composition and tumor microvascular inhibitory activity might be a beneficial attempt for application of polysaccharide from the genus Trametes in tumor therapy.

Young Adults with Higher Salt Intake Have Inferior Hydration Status: A Cross-Sectional Study.

The body's water and sodium balances are tightly regulated and monitored by the brain. Few studies have explored the relationship between water and salt intake, and whether sodium intake with different levels of fluid intake leads to changes in hydration status remains unknown. The aim of the present study was to determine the patterns of water intake and hydration status among young adults with different levels of daily salt intakes. Participants' total drinking fluids and water from food were determined by a 7-day 24-h fluid intake questionnaire for 7 days (from Day 1 to Day 7) and duplicate portion method (Day 5, Day 6 and Day 7). Urine of 24 h for 3 days (Day 5, Day 6 and Day 7) was collected and tested for the osmolality, the urine-specific gravity (USG), the concentrations of electrolytes, pH, creatinine, uric acid and the urea. The fasting blood samples for 1 day (Day 6) were collected and measured for the osmolality and the concentrations of electrolytes. The salt intakes of the participants were evaluated from the concentrations of Na of 24 h urine of 3 days (Day 5, Day 6 and Day 7). Participants were divided into four groups according to the quartile of salt intake, including the low salt intake (LS1), LS2, high salt intake (HS1) and HS2 groups. In total, 156 participants (including 80 male and 76 female young adults) completed the study. The salt intakes were 7.6, 10.9, 14.7 and 22.4 g among participants in the four groups (LS1, LS2, HS1 and HS2 groups, respectively), which differed significantly in all groups (F = 252.020; all p < 0.05). Compared to the LS1 and LS2 groups, the HS2 group had 310-381, 250-358 and 382-655 mL more amounts of water from the total water intake (TWI), total drinking fluids and water from food (all p < 0.05), respectively. Participants in the HS2 group had 384-403, 129-228 and 81-114 mL more in the water, water from dishes and staple foods, respectively, than those in the groups of LS1 and LS2 (p < 0.05). The HS2 group excreted 386-793 mL more urine than those in the groups of LS1 and LS2 (p < 0.05). However, regarding urine osmolality, the percentage of participants with optimal hydration status decreased from 41.0% in LS1 and LS2 to 25.6% in the HS2 group (p < 0.05). Participants with higher salt intake had higher TWI, total drinking fluids and water from food. Nevertheless, they had inferior hydration status. A reduction in salt intake should be encouraged among young adults to maintain optimal hydration status.

A Wound Treatment Strategy for "Super Long-Term Difficult-to-Heal Wounds": A Single-Center Retrospective Study.

Chronic wounds are a challenge for clinicians. Treating chronic wounds in elderly patients is difficult due to comorbidities and poor immunity, tissue renewal, and regeneration. This study shared the therapeutic experiences of 40 patients with super long-term difficult-to-heal wounds and to describe the effects of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT)-assisted debridement and autologous scalp grafting. Elderly patients with chronic wounds for more than 60 years who underwent NPWT-assisted debridement and autologous scalp grafting between 2015 and 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. Forty patients were identified and analyzed. Among all patients, the average wound area was 56 (interquartile range 30-90) cm2. The wound infection rate was 82.1%, and that before the first autologous scalp grafting was 51.3%. The average total number of surgeries was 3, and the number of times the NPWT device was replaced was once. A total of 97.4% of patients had one autologous scalp grafting performed. The transplanted scalp survived completely in 97.4% of patients. One hundred percent of patients had no postoperative complications and healed. The average wound healing time was 34.5 ± 10.1 days. This study showed that NPWT-assisted debridement and autologous scalp grafting have the advantages of high survival rate of the skin and decreased wound recurrence and may be a suitable treatment for super long-term difficult-to-heal wounds in elderly patients.

The Relationships between Water Intake and Hydration Biomarkers and the Applications for Assessing Adequate Total Water Intake among Young Adults in Hebei, China.

Water is an essential nutrient for humans. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 159 young adults aged 18-23 years in Hebei, China. The total drinking fluids and water from food were obtained by 7-day 24 h fluid intake questionnaires and the duplicate portion method, respectively. Pearson's correlation coefficients were performed to determine the relationship between fluid intake and 24 h urinary biomarkers and plasma biomarkers. A multivariable partial least squares (PLS) model was used to identify the key predictors in modeling the total water intake (TWI) with 24 h urine biomarkers. Logistic regressions of the TWI against binary variables were performed, and the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was analyzed to determine the cutoff value of the TWI for the optimal hydration status and dehydration without adjustments to favor either the sensitivity or specificity. In total, 156 participants (80 males and 76 females) completed the study. Strong relationships were found between the total drinking fluids, TWI, and 24 h urine biomarkers among young adults, especially for the 24 h urine volume (r = 0.784, p < 0.001; r = 0.747, p < 0.001) and osmolality (r = -0.589, p < 0.001; r = -0.477, p < 0.001), respectively. As for the FMU and plasma biomarkers, no strong relationships were found. The percentages of the variance in TWI explained by the PLS model with 13 urinary biomarkers were 66.9%. The optimal TWI values for assessing the optimal hydration and dehydration were 2892 mL and 2482 mL for young males, respectively, and 2139 mL and 1507 mL for young females, respectively. Strong relationships were found between the TWI, total drinking fluids, and 24 h urine biomarkers, but not with the FMU and plasma biomarkers, among young adults, including males and females. The 24 h urine biomarkers were more sensitive than the first morning urinary biomarkers in reflecting the fluid intake. The TWI was a reliable index for assessing the hydration statuses for young adults in free-living conditions.

Effects of Water Restriction and Supplementation on Cognitive Performances and Mood among Young Adults in Baoding, China: A Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT).

The brain is approximately 75% water. Therefore, insufficient water intake may affect the cognitive performance of humans. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of water restriction and supplementation on cognitive performances and mood, and the optimum amount of water to alleviate the detrimental effects of dehydration, among young adults. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 76 young, healthy adults aged 18-23 years old from Baoding, China. After fasting overnight for 12 h, at 8:00 a.m. of day 2, the osmolality of the first morning urine and blood, cognitive performance, and mood were measured as a baseline test. After water restriction for 24 h, at 8:00 a.m. of day 3, the same indexes were measured as a dehydration test. Participants were randomly assigned into four groups: water supplementation group (WS group) 1, 2, or 3 (given 1000, 500, or 200 mL purified water), and the no water supplementation group (NW group). Furthermore, participants were instructed to drink all the water within 10 min. Ninety minutes later, the same measurements were performed as a rehydration test. Compared with the baseline test, participants were all in dehydration and their scores on the portrait memory test, vigor, and self-esteem decreased (34 vs. 27, p < 0.001; 11.8 vs. 9.2, p < 0.001; 7.8 vs. 6.4, p < 0.001). Fatigue and TMD (total mood disturbance) increased (3.6 vs. 4.8, p = 0.004; 95.7 vs. 101.8, p < 0.001) in the dehydration test. Significant interactions between time and volume were found in hydration status, fatigue, vigor, TMD, symbol search test, and operation span test (F = 6.302, p = 0.001; F = 3.118, p = 0.029; F = 2.849, p = 0.043; F = 2.859, p = 0.043; F = 3.463, p = 0.021) when comparing the rehydration and dehydration test. Furthermore, the hydration status was better in WS group 1 compared to WS group 2; the fatigue and TMD scores decreased, and the symbol search test and operation span test scores increased, only in WS group 1 and WS group 2 (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference between them (p > 0.05). Dehydration impaired episodic memory and mood. Water supplementation improved processing speed, working memory, and mood, and 1000 mL was the optimum volume.

LncRNA MEG3 suppresses PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway to enhance autophagy and inhibit inflammation in TNF-α-treated keratinocytes and psoriatic mice.

BACKGROUND: Psoriasis is a common chronic inflammatory skin disorder that causes patches of thick red skin and silvery scales and affects 1-3% of the population, which reduces patient's quality of life. Understanding the pathogenesis of psoriasis is crucial for developing novel therapeutic strategies. METHODS: HaCaT and NHEK cells were treated with TNF-α in vitro. A mouse model of psoriasis was established by topical imiquimod application on back skin. LncRNA MEG3 was cloned into the pcDNA3.1 vector and transfected in TNF-α-treated HaCaT and NHEK cells to overexpress its expression. Liposome-encapsulated pcDNA3.1-MEG3 was injected into imiquimod-treated mice via tail vein. RT-qPCR and western blot assays were used to examine the expression of lncRNA MEG3, IL-6, IL-8, IFN-γ, IL-1ß, LC3, Beclin 1, p62, p-p65, p65, NLRP3, p-PI3K, PI3K, p-AKT, AKT, p-mTOR, mTOR respectively. The secretion of IL-6, IL-8, IFN-γ and IL-1ß was determined using ELISA assay. Immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry methods were performed for analyzing the expression of LC3 and NLRP3 in cells and skin tissues respectively. LY294002 was used to block the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling. MTT assay was applied to test the toxicity of LY294002 to HaCaT and NHEK cells. RESULTS: LncRNA MEG3 expression levels were downregulated in TNF-α-treated HaCaT and NHEK cells and skin tissues of psoriatic mice model. TNF-α treatment enhanced inflammation and suppressed autophagy in HaCaT and NHEK cells, which were largely reversed by overexpression of lncRNA MEG3. Autophagy puncta and NLRP3 inflammasome assembly showed the same patterns with the expression of inflammation and autophagy markers in TNF-α-treated HaCaT and NHEK cells with or without lncRNA MEG3 overexpression. TNF-α-induced activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling was abolished by lncRNA MEG3 overexpression in HaCaT and NHEK cells. Blocking the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling inhibited TNF-α-induced inflammation and restored autophagy level in TNF-α-treated HaCaT and NHEK cells. Overexpression of lncRNA MEG3 suppressed inflammation, promoted autophagy and inhibited the activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling in a mouse model of psoriasis. CONCLUSION: LncRNA MEG3 facilitates autophagy and suppresses inflammation in TNF-α-treated keratinocytes and psoriatic mice, which is dependent on the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway. Our study enhances the understanding of psoriasis and provides potential therapeutic targets for psoriasis.