Heterocytous cyanobacteria are among the most prolific source of bioactive secondary metabolites, including anabaenopeptins (APTs). A terrestrial filamentous Brasilonema sp. CT11 collected in Costa Rica bamboo forest, as black mat was studied using a multidisciplinary approach: genome mining and HPLC-HRMS/MS coupled with bionformatic analyses. Herein, we report the nearly complete genome consisting 8.79 Mbp with a GC content of 42.4%. Moreover, we report on three novel tryptophane-containing APTs; anabaenopeptin 788 (1), anabaenopeptin 802 (2) and anabaenopeptin 816 (3). Further, the structure of two homologues, i.e., anabaenopeptin 802 (2a) and anabaenopeptin 802 (2b) was determined by spectroscopic analysis (NMR and MS). Both compounds were shown to exert weak to moderate antiproliferative activity against HeLa cell lines. This study also provides the unique and diverse potential of biosynthetic gene clusters and an assessment of the predicted chemical space yet to be discovered from this genus.

We investigate the structural correlation of non-covalent crown ether/H+/L-tryptophan (CR/TrpH+) host-guest complexes in the solution phase with those in the gas phase generated through electrospray ionization/mass spectrometry (ESI/MS) techniques. We perform quantum chemical calculations to determine their structures, relative Gibbs free energies, and infrared spectra. We compare the calculated infrared (IR) spectra with the IR multiphoton dissociation (IRMPD) spectra observed for the 18-Crown-6/TrpH+ complex by Polfer and co-workers [J. Phys. Chem. A 2013, 117, 1181−1188] for assigning the IR bands. We observe that the carboxyl group remains ‘naked’, lacking hydrogen bonding with the CR unit in the gas phase, and that this most stable conformer originates from the corresponding lowest Gibbs free energy structure in solution. Based on these findings, we propose that gas phase host-guest complexes directly correlate with those in solution, reinforcing the possibility of obtaining invaluable information about host-guest-solvent interactions in solution from the structure of the host-guest pair in the gas phase.

Long Covid (LC), Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) are all loosely connected, some poorly defined, some with overlapping symptoms. The female preponderance, the prominence of fatigue and chronic inflammation, and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) abnormalities may connect them all. Indeed differential methylation may lie at the root. Two - EDS and MTHFR - are genetic. But epigenetic factors may ultimately determine their phenotypic expression. Oxidative stress, overloaded mitochondria, an antioxidant and nutrient shortfall, and suboptimal gut microbiome appear to be the primary determinants. A deep dive into the folate and methionine cycles is undertaken in an attempt to connect these syndromes. The active forms of vitamin D and vitamins B2,3,6,9,12 are shown to be biochemically integral to optimal methylation and control of the epigenome. Their status largely determines the symptoms of abnormal MTHFR in all its phenotypes. The wider implications for aging, cancer, cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative disease, and autoimmune disease are briefly explored.

Indole and indole-3-lactate are known dominant microbial tryptophan catabolites (MICT). In obesity, the fecal indole concentration corresponds to the normal one, and that of indole-3-lactate significantly decreases along with other MICT, while it increases in blood plasma. During the analysis of the «enzymatic landscape» of the intestinal microbiota we find an almost twofold increase in the correlation between the concentrations of fecal MICT and the «enzymatic landscape», with indole-3-lactate having the closest relationships with the “enzymatic landscape” of all MICT. Here, we report statistically significant correlations of indole-3-lactate and the gut microbial enzymes for fructose, amino sugars, nucleotides, polyamines metabolism, and sulfoglycolysis. We also demonstrate that indole-3-lactate producing microbiota representatives increase three-fold in obesity. The phenotype of the microbiotic population is thus represented by completely different genera and species of microorganisms in obese individuals compared to healthy donors.

For decades, neurologic and other extra glandular manifestations have been described in Sjögren’s syndrome (SS). More recently, neuropathic, psychological and cognitive alterations are being considered part of the disease. The lacrimal glands (LG), the ocular surface (OS), salivary glands (SG) and the central nervous system (CNS) are integrated to modulate the autonomic functions and, not just those organs, but also the hippocampus, which is linked to the autonomic nervous system, and modulate behavior responses appears to be compromised in the SS. Recent studies confirm that the tryptophan/kynurenine pathway (TKP) can be stimulated by interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and other cytokines, activating the indoleamine-pyrrole 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) in SS. This pathway interferes on serotonergic and glutamatergic neurotransmission, mostly in the hippocampus, and other structures of the CNS. Although not demonstrated, it is plausible that this constant interference induces clinical signs of SS, and contributes to the discrepancy between symptoms and signs, towards manifestations of hyperalgesia and depression in patients with SS. Therapeutic strategies are being reexamined and new options designed and tested to regulate the involved steps of the TKP. In the future, the application of this concept may offer a clue to the mosaic of manifestations of SS.

The natural forests of Northern Thailand are the mother source of many utilisable natural products because of their diverse flora and fauna. Among many plant species found within Northern Thai forests, detergent plants are known for its distinctive cleansing properties. Several local species of detergent plants in Thailand are traditionally used by the locals and indigenous people. However, these plants may become extinct because their habitats have been replaced by industrial agriculture, and their uses have been replaced by chemically synthesised detergents. Researchers need to study and communicate the biology, phytochemistry, and the importance of these plants to conserve natural biodiversity of Northern Thailand. Of many utilisable detergent phytochemicals, natural saponins are known as bio-surfactant and foaming agents. Their physiochemical and biological properties feature structural diversity, which leads to many industrial applications. In this review, we explained the term “detergent” from the physiological mechanism perspective and the detergent effects of saponin. We also compiled a list of Thai local plants with cleansing properties focusing on the saponin-containing plants. Future studies should investigate information relative to plant environment, ethnobotanical data and bioactive compound content of these plants. The knowledge acquired from this study will promote the maintenance of the local biodiversity and the conservation of the detergent plant species found in Thailand.

The article discusses the main technologies for processing titanium-containing raw materials, and the advantages and disadvantages of various technological solutions. The analysis of the literature review showed that the traditional schemes for the production of titanium products are mainly focused on the use of ilmenite concentrates. In connection with the depletion of ilmenite deposits, in the near future there will inevitably be a need to switch to the use of complex ores - titanomagnetites. The obtaining of titanium dioxide from titanomagnetite raw materials with a high content of impurity components requires an individual approach for each specific deposit. It is proposed to consider the possibilities of further improvement of the development of a technological process for low-temperature (1000-1200 oC) processing of titanomagnetite concentrates with the production of pure titanium dioxide.

Modified aluminum slag (MAS) was applied as an adsorbent for Congo red (CR) prepared by the hydrothermal treatment of Ca (OH) 2. At 25 ℃, with a MAS dosage of 0.3g, initial CR concentration of 100 mg/L and initial pH=5, and the adsorption time was 40 min, the CR removal efficiency was 98.41%. The adsorption trend of CR conformed to the second-order kinetics, and the adsorption isotherm follows the Freundlich isotherm model. Compared with RAS, MAS has a larger pore volume and specific surface area. The mechanism of action of MAS on CR was the interaction between membrane diffusion and internal diffusion, and the adsorption rate during the membrane diffusion was the fastest.

BACKGROUND: Stable-phase schizophrenia may comprise two distinct nosological entities namely Major Neuro-Cognitive Psychosis (MNP, largely overlapping with the deficit syndrome) and simple NP (SNP), which are defined by neuroimmune and neurocognitive abnormalities. Furthermore, cognitive impairments and PHEM (psychotic, hostility, excitation, mannerism) and negative symptoms load on the same dimension.METHODS: The current study aimed to investigate associations of psychomotor retardation (PMR) and clinical as well as biomarker characteristics of schizophrenia. We recruited 40 healthy controls and 79 schizophrenia patients and measured IgA responses to tryptophan catabolites (TRYCATs), IgM to malondialdehyde and nitroso (NO)-cysteinyl, macrophage inflammatory protein-1 (MIP-1), soluble interleukin (IL)-1 receptor antagonist (sIL-1RA), IL-10, CCL-11 as well as PMR items of different rating scales and motor screening task (MOT). RESULTS: PMR differentiated schizophrenia from controls and MNP from SNP. In addition, PMR was strongly associated with executive functions, deficits in episodic and semantic memory, PHEM and negative (PHEMN) symptoms. Around 50% of the variance in PMR was predicted by the cumulative effects of immune activation, CCL-11, TRYCATs and NO-Cysteinyl levels, and lowered natural IgM. PRM may be reliably combined with PHEMN symptoms and memory and executive impairments into one latent vector reflecting overall psychopathology.CONCLUSIONS: Current findings indicate that PMR may be a key psychopathological feature of schizophrenia and mainly MNP. In addition, PMR and associated impairments in memory and executive functions, and PHEMN symptoms may be driven by deficits in the compensatory immune regulatory system (natural IgM) combined with increased production of neurotoxic immune products, namely TRYCATs and IgM to NO-cysteinyl, and an endogenous cognition deteriorating chemokine, namely CCL-11.

Anxiety disorders manifest in women more than in men by almost twofold. This narrative review aims to summarize the sex-related biological factors, which underpin anxiety, focusing on the interactions of sex and tryptophan/serotonin with anxiety.A literature search was conducted using Google Scholar, PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and EMBASE databases from inception until December 31, 2017. This review shows that sex may interact with many serotonin functions thereby modulating anxiety, including 5-HT1A and 5-HT2C receptors, 5-HT transporter and central 5-HT concentrations and metabolism. Sex-steroids modulate the expression of serotonin transporter genes, creating a difference in serotonin availability. Sex and estrous cycle phases lead to varying anxiety responses to tryptophan depletion. Testosterone, progesterone and estrogen are important factors in mediating sex differences in serotonin responses to anxiety-generating behavioral tests. At prenatal levels, there are sex-related differences in the reciprocal relationships between serotonin and the HPA-axis, which modulate anxiety-like behaviors. Activated immune-inflammatory pathways induce indoleamine-2,3-dioxynease (IDO) and the tryptophan catabolite (TRYCAT) pathway thereby increasing tryptophan degradation and increasing the production of TRYCATs including kynurenine and quinolinic acid, which may create an overall anxiogenic effect. The effects of immune activation on IDO are significantly more pronounced in women than men and therefore females may show increased levels of anxiogenic TRYCAT following immune challenge. Aberrations in the IDO-activated TRYCAT pathway are found in pregnant females and parturients and are associated with increased anxiety levels in the postnatal period. The results of this review underscore the necessity of studying the associations between serotonin and anxiety in both sexes taking into account the effects of immune activation on IDO and production of anxiogenic TRYCATs. Future anxiety research should focus on the interactions between serotonin/tryptophan and sex, sex hormones, the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, the HPA axis and the immune system through production of anxiogenic TRYCATs.

Sweet pepper is an important vegetable in the world. Bacterial leaf spot caused by the pathogen Xanthomonas perforans, is a limiting factor that significantly reduces the quality and yield of sweet pepper To control this disease, the use of chemical fungicides is currently the main disease control method. Thus, we want to develop an alternative method by using antagonistic microorganisms. Under this demand, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens PMB04 has strong antagonistic effects against pathogens and can inhibit the occurrence of diseases. B. amyloliquefaciens PMB04 has the potential for the development of a disease control product. Primarily, PMB04 revealed to contain a strong inhibitory effect against all isolated X. perforans strains. In the inoculation assay, the severity of bacterial spot disease on sweet peppers was reduced by PMB04 bacterial suspensions. To increase the convenience of field application for future prospects, the development of PMB04 fermentation liquid was carried out with different ratios of brown sugar and yeast extract in a 30-liter fermentation tank subsequently. Results exhibited that the fermentation liquid of 3-1 formula obtained the highest bacterial population in a 30-liter fermentation tank. The fermentation liquid of 0.5-0.5 formula was the most stable formula under two different conditions in terms of consistent bacterial population and sporulation. In addition, the 200-fold dilution of 3-1 and 0.5-0.5 fermentation liquids revealed best control efficacy on bacterial leaf spot of sweet pepper. Additionally, the results of the 0.5-0.5 fermentation liquid (PMB4FL) with different dilution concentrations also showed that the 200- and 500-fold dilutions had the best control efficacy. To understand the effect of commonly used copper-containing fungicides on sweet peppers on the application of microbial agent PMB4FL, the effects of copper hydroxide and tribasic copper sulfate on the growth of X. perforans strains and B. amyloliquefaciens PMB04 were assayed. The results exhibited that the above two fungicides did not have any inhibitory effect on the growth of PMB04, but had a strong inhibitory effect on the X. perforans strain. In the follow-up control experiment, the treatment of copper hydroxide had no synergistic effect with PMB4FL to control bacterial leaf spot. We concluded that the use of PMB4FL fermentation liquid alone on the leaves can effectively control the occurrence of bacterial leaf spot in sweet pepper crops.

Although migraine belongs to the main causes of disability worldwide the mechanisms of its pathogenesis are poorly known, which is among the reasons that this disease is underdiagnosed and undertreated. As migraine diagnosis is based on the subjective assessment of symptoms, there is a need to establish objective markers of its occurrence and severity. Tryptophan (TRP) metabolism has been associated with the pathogenesis of neurological and psychiatric disorders. In the present work, we investigated an association between migraine and the urine concentration of TRP and its metabolites 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA), kynurenine (KYN), kynurenic acid (KYNA) and quinolinic acid (QA) in 21 low-frequency episodic migraine patients and 32 controls. Migraine patients displayed lower urinary levels of 5-HIAA and KYNA, but KYN and QA were enhanced as compared with the controls. Consequently, the patients were characterized by different values of the 5-HIAA/TRP, KYN/TRP, KYNA/KYN, and KYNA/QA ratios. Furthermore, urinary concentration of 5-HIAA was negatively correlated with Migraine Disability Assessment score, monthly migraine, and monthly headache days. A negative correlation between Patient Health Questionnaire 9 scores assessing depression. In conclusion, the urinary 5-HIAA level may be an easy-to-determine marker of migraine occurrence and severity and may contribute to the identification of migraine patients with depression.

We assessed the growth performance, physiological traits, and gene expressions in steers fed with dietary rumen-protected L-tryptophan (RPT) under cold environment. Eight Korean native steers were assigned to two dietary groups, no RPT (Control) and RPT (0.1% RPT supplementation on a dry matter basis), 6 wks. Maximum and minimum temperatures throughout the experiment were 6.7°C and -7.0°C, respectively. Supplementation of 0.1% RPT to a total mixed ration did not increase body weight but had positive effects of elevating average daily gain (ADG) and reducing the feed conversion ratio (FCR) at day 27 and 48. Metabolic parameter showed higher glucose level (at day 27) in the 0.1% RPT group compared to the control group. Real-time PCR analysis showed no significant differences in the expression of muscle (MYF6, MyoD, and Desmin) metabolism genes between the two groups, whereas the expression of fat (PPARγ, C/EBPα, and FABP4) metabolism genes was lower in the 0.1% RPT group than in the control group. Thus, we demonstrate that long-term (6 wks) dietary supplementation of 0.1% RPT was beneficial owing to enhanced growth performance by increasing ADG and glucose level, decreasing FCR, and maintaining homeostasis in immune responses in beef steers during cold environment.

This theoretical study presents a novel perspective on the potential anti-inflammatory properties of Bromelain, a natural agent extracted from pineapple stems. The investigation explores the binding capabilities of Bromelain to Apoptosis-associated speck-like containing CARD (ASC), a crucial adapter molecule known for its involvement in inflammatory processes and inflammasome formation. For the first time, these findings suggest that Bromelain exhibits a notable affinity for ASC, indicating its promising role as a natural anti-inflammatory agent. This study sheds light on the molecular interactions that may contribute to Bromelain's therapeutic potential in modulating inflammatory responses.

Bare titania and metal promoted TiO2 catalysts were employed in the treatment of nitrates, which are ubiquitous pollutants of wastewater. The results show that the process can be carried out under visible light (from white light LED lamp) and, in the best case, 23.5% conversion of nitrate was obtained over 4 hours with full selectivity towards N2 by employing 0.1 mol% Ag/TiO2 prepared by flame spray pyrolysis. Moreover, the performance was worse when testing the same catalysts with tap water (11.3% conversion), due to the more complex composition of the matrix. At last, it was found that the photoreduction of nitrate can be effectively performed in combina-tion with the photo-oxidation of ammonium without loss in the activity, opening to the possi-bility to treat highly polluted wastewater with a single process. The latter treatment employs the two contaminants simultaneously as electron and holes scavengers, with very good selectiv-ity, in a completely new process that we may call Photo-Selective Catalytic Reduction (Pho-to-SCR).

The objective of this study is to investigate the aquatic-toxic effects of glyoxal-containing cellulose ether with four different glyoxal concentrations (0, 1.4, 2.3 and 6.3%) in response to global chemical regulations, e.g., European Union Classification, Labeling and Packaging (EU CLP). Tests of the aquatic-toxic effects of glyoxal-containing cellulose ether on 11 freeze-dried microbial strains, Microcystis aeruginosa, Daphnia magna and zebrafish embryos were designed as an initial stage for toxicity screening, and were performed with the standardized toxicity test guidelines. Glyoxal-containing cellulose ether showed no significant toxic effects in the toxicity tests for the 11 freeze-dried microbial strains, Daphnia magna and zebrafish embryos. Alternatively, 6.3% glyoxal-containing cellulose ether led to more than a 60% reduction of Microcystis aeruginosa growth after 7 days of exposure. Approximately 10% developmental abnormalities (e.g., bent spine) in zebrafish embryos were also observed in the group exposed to 6.3% glyoxal-containing cellulose ether after 6 days of exposure. These results imply that <6.3% glyoxal-containing cellulose ether results in non-toxic effects on the acute toxicity of aquatic organisms. However, ≥6.3% glyoxal-containing cellulose ether may affect the health of aquatic organisms with long-term exposure. In order to better evaluate the eco-safety of cellulosic products contained in glyoxal, further studies regarding the toxic effects of glyoxal-containing cellulose ether with long-term exposure are required. The results from this study allow us to evaluate the auatic-toxic effects of glyoxal-containing cellulosic products, under EU chemical regulations, on the health of aquatic organisms.

Background: Recently the role of nutraceutical compounds in the prevention of human diseases is rapidly increasing. Here, we aim to evaluate the beneficial effect of dietary supplementation with seven active principles, lycopene, sulphoraphane, silymarin, glutathione, escin, tryptophan, green tea catechins, on human health. Methods: An extensive search of PubMed and Medline database was performed with the following keywords: “silymarin”, “sulforaphane”, “lycopene”, “green tea catechins”, “tryptophan”, “glutathione” and “escin” accompanied by the keywords “supplement”, “supplementation”, “nutraceutics”. All pre-clinical and clinical trials have been considered for this review. Results: One-hundred and eighteen full-text articles were eligible for inclusion in this review. The papers examined presented considerable variability due to the wide heterogeneity of dosages administered, population involved and outcomes pursued. Conclusion: Nutritional supplementation with lycopene, sulphoraphane, silymarin, glutathione, escin, tryptophan and green tea catechins appears to exert a wide range of benefits on human health, ranging from mood and cognition to cardiovascular health, fertility, metabolism, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities, potential anti-cancer effects. Further studies are required to better define the potential synergic effect, optimal dosage, mechanism of action and tolerability profile of these substances.

Background: Recently the role of nutraceutical compounds in the prevention of human diseases is rapidly increasing. Here, we aim to evaluate the beneficial effect of dietary supplementation with seven active principles, lycopene, sulphoraphane, silymarin, glutathione, escin, tryptophan, green tea catechins, on human health. Methods: An extensive search of PubMed and Medline database was performed with the following keywords: “silymarin”, “sulforaphane”, “lycopene”, “green tea catechins”, “tryptophan”, “glutathione” and “escin” accompanied by the keywords “supplement”, “supplementation”, “nutraceutics”. All pre-clinical and clinical trials have been considered for this review. Results: One-hundred and eighteen full-text articles were eligible for inclusion in this review. The papers examined presented considerable variability due to the wide heterogeneity of dosages administered, population involved and outcomes pursued. Conclusion: Nutritional supplementation with lycopene, sulphoraphane, silymarin, glutathione, escin, tryptophan and green tea catechins appears to exert a wide range of benefits on human health, ranging from mood and cognition to cardiovascular health, fertility, metabolism, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities, potential anti-cancer effects. Further studies are required to better define the potential synergic effect, optimal dosage, mechanism of action and tolerability profile of these substances.

Recently we showed that schizophrenia and, especially, deficit schizophrenia is accompanied by neurocognitive impairments as measured with different cognitive batteries. The aim of this study was to examine whether a single trait underpins aberrations in 9 key Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB) probes, verbal fluency (VFT), world list memory (WLM), true recall, and the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE). We recruited 80 patients with schizophrenia and 40 healthy controls. All patients were assessed using CANTAB tests, namely paired-association learning (PAL), rapid visual information (RVP), spatial working memory (SWM), one touch stocking (OTS), intra/extradimensional set shifting (IED), and emotional recognition test (ERT). We found that a single latent trait, which is essentially unidimensional, underlies the CANTAB tests, VFT, WLM, True Recall and MMSE. The latent trait shows excellent psychometric properties and fits a reflective model and, therefore, reflects a generalized cognitive decline (GCoDe), which is the cause of aberrations in semantic and episodic memory, recall, executive functions, strategy use, rule acquisition, visual sustained attention, attention set-shifting and emotional recognition. 40.5% of the variance in GCode was explained by CCL11, IgA to tryptophan catabolites, and increased oxidative toxicity. GCoDe explains 44.8% of the variance in a single latent trait extracted from psychosis, hostility, excitation, mannerism, negative symptoms, formal thought disorders, and psychomotor retardation and 40.9% in quality of life scores. GCoDe is significantly greater in deficit than in nondeficit schizophrenia. In conclusion, GCoDe mediates the effects of neuro-immune and neuro-oxidative toxicity on the phenome of (deficit) schizophrenia.

Transcriptionally controlled tumor protein (TCTP) is a highly conserved protein performing a large number of cellular functions by binding with various partner proteins. The importance of its roles in many diseases requires an assay method to find regulatory compounds. However, the molecular characteristics of TCTP made it difficult to search for chemicals interacting with it. In this study, a tryptophan-based assay method was designed and Y151W mutant TCTP was constructed to search binding chemicals. Since there is no tryptophan in the native sequence of TCTP, the incorporation of tryptophan in the Y151W mutant was very effective to establish the method. A flavonoid library was employed to the assay with the method. With the native and Y151W mutant TCTPs, three flavonoids such as morin, myricetin and isobavachalcone have been found to interact with TCTP. Combined with native gel electrophoresis, the binding region of isobavachalcone was suggested to be the flexible loop of TCTP. This approach can be easily applicable to find binding compounds of proteins with similar molecular characteristics of TCTP.

Dye-containing effluent generated in textile industries is polluting and complex wastewater. It should be managed adequately before the final destination. The up-flow anaerobic blanket (UASB) reactor application is an eco-friendly and cost-competitive treatment. The present study briefly reviews the UASB application for dye wastewater valorization. Bioenergy and clean water production potential during dye-containing wastewater treatment are emphasized to promote resource recovery in textile industries. Efficiencies of color and chemical oxygen demand of 50–97% and 60–90% are reported in bench-scale UASB studies. A biogas yield of 0.36–36.04 L d-1 in UASB, which treats dye-containing effluents, is documented. Bioenergy production and water reuse allow environmental and economic benefits. However, data on full-scale UASB treating dye wastewater are missing. Besides, studies on combined systems integrating membrane processes, such as ultrafiltration and nanofiltration, and pretreatment of wastewater and sludge for improvements in biogas production might realize the complete potential for resource recovery of UASB technology.

Boron (B) is considered a prebiotic chemical element with a role in both the origin and evolution of life, as well as an essential micronutrient for plants, some bacteria, fungi, and algae. B has beneficial effects on the biological functions of humans and animals, such as reproduction, growth, calcium metabolism, bone formation, energy metabolism, immunity, brain function, and steroid hormones. In the future, naturally organic B (NOB) species may become promising novel prebiotic candidates. We included the most relevant works about NOB species, starting from our 30-year research experience. NOB-containing compounds have been shown essential for the symbiosis between different kingdoms. New insights into the essentiality of NOB species for healthy symbiosis between the human/animal host and the microbiota will determine the use of natural B-based nutraceuticals to target the colon (colonic foods). The mechanism of action (MoA) of NOB species is related to both the B signaling molecule [autoinducer-2–borate (AI-2B)], as well as the fortification of the colonic mucous gel layer with NOB species from the specific prebiotic boron-rich diet. Therefore, both microbiota and the mucous gel layer of the colon become the NOB species’ target. This paper reviews the evidence supporting the essentiality of the NOB species on the symbiosis between the microbiota and the human/animal host with the stated aim of highlighting the MoA and target of these species.

This research was conducted to manufacture thermally expandable microspheres (TEMs) for vehicles’ underbody coating and to apply them on an industrial scale. TEMs heat resistance was studied depending on the ratios of a cross-linking agent and an initiator. This research focused on the content of a cross-linking agent and how it affected the results. The TEMs’ outer shell was thickened to solve the problem of the foam expansion ratio’s reduction that occurred due to the shrinkage after the maximum expansion (Tmax) was reached. After foaming, the cross-sectional thickness and surface of the sample with thickened outer shell were observed. The TEMs with the thickened shell showed the least shrinkage, which indicated excellent shrinkage stability, even after prolonged exposure to heat.

This study had the objective to evaluate the effect of Piper betle L. powder (PP) at 5 different doses in substrate incubated by sunflower oil as secondary function of PUFA using in vitro gas production technique. The treatments of this study were run as a 2X5 factorial arrangement in a completely randomised design using the PROC GLM procedure of SAS 9.4: (1) control (S1) without supplementation of PP; (2) 15 mg PP (S2); (3) 30 mg PP (S3); (4) 45 mg PP (S4); and (5) 60 mg PP (S5), while sunflower oil was supplemented in all treatments: low 15 mg/incubation and high 30 mg/incubation. A 500 mg of TMR (hay: concentrate, 50:50) was assigned to basal substrate. The PP containing 1.84 mg/g DM quercetin and 1.00 mg/g DM eugenol altered rumen fermentation without change pH (p < 0.001) and methane production was lesser (p < 0.001) about -30% and -25% for DM and OM measurement, respectively. Gas kinetic, degradability, and ammonia level was significantly affected by supplementing PP (p < 0.01). Overall, this study suggested quercetin and eugenol deriving from PP acted three major accelerations: assembled carbon dioxide, behaved antimicrobial role and performed the balance water molecules in the rumen kinetic. This study suggests that PP promotes changing in vitro rumen fermentation and diminishing methane production within recommended doses, 0.1-15 mg/incubation in DM.

Background: Abdominal migraine (AM) is a clinical diagnosis specified by Rome IV and ICHD III as a functional gastrointestinal disease (FGID) and a migraine associated syndrome, respectively. AM is undiagnosed and undertreated, and thus far the FDA has not approved any drug for AM treatment. We and others showed that changes in the kynurenine (KYN) pathway of tryptophan (TRP) metabolism played an important role in the pathogenesis and treatment of FIGDs. Changes in the KYN pathway were shown in migraine. Findings: Abdominal migraine reflects impairments in communication within the gut-brain axis. Treatment approaches have not been sufficiently documented and are based on experience of physicians, presenting personal rather than evidence-based practice and including efficacy of some drugs used in adult migraine. Non-pharmacological treatment of AM is aimed preventing or ameliorating AM triggers. Modulations within the KYN pathway of TRP metabolism induced by changes in TRP content in the diet, may ameliorate FGIDs and support their pharmacological treatment. Pharmacological manipulations of brain KYNs in animals have brought promising results for clinical applications. Conclusions: In conclusion, controlled placebo-based clinical trials with dietary manipulation to adjust the amount of the product of the KYN pathway of TRP metabolism are justified in children and adolescents with AM. Further preclinical studies are needed to establish details of these trials.

Tryptophan is an essential nutrient required to produce niacin (vitamin B3), which is needed for energy metabolism and DNA production. Alterations in tryptophan metabolism could have significant effects on aging and musculoskeletal health. The kynurenine pathway, the main catabolic route of tryptophan, is modulated by inflammatory factors, which are increased in older persons, a process known as inflammaging. Osteoporosis, sarcopenia, osteosarcopenia and frailty have also been linked with chronic increased levels of inflammatory factors. Due to the disruption of the kynurenine pathway by chronic inflammation and/or changes in the gut microbiota, serum levels of toxic kynurenines are increased and have been associated with osteoporosis, sarcopenia and frailty. In contrast, anabolic end products of this pathway, such as picolinic acid, have demonstrated a beneficial effect on bone and muscle. In addition, recent studies have shown that physical activity can modulate this pathway by promoting the secretion of anabolic kynurenines. According to the evidence collected, kynurenines could have a promising role as biomarkers for osteoporosis sarcopenia, osteosarcopenia and frailty in older persons. In addition, some of these metabolites could become important targets for developing new pharmacological treatments for these conditions.

Aims Earlier studies reported alterations of the kynurenine (KYN) pathway of tryptophan (TRP) metabolism in Parkinson’s disease (PD). The first rate-limiting enzymes indoleamine 2,3- dioxygenase (IDO) and tryptophan dioxygenase were observed upregulated, resulting elevated KYN/TRP ratios in the serum and cerebrospinal fluid samples of patients with PD. An increasing number of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) has been identified in a population of PD. However, little is known if genetic variations of the IDO contribute to disturbance of the KYN metabolism in and the pathogenesis of PD. Main methods SNP analysis of IDO1 was performed by allelic discrimination assay with fluorescently labelled TaqMan probes and a subgroup analysis was conducted according to the age of PD onset. The frame shifts variant rs34155785, intronic variant rs7820268, and promotor region variant rs9657182 SNPs of 105 PD patients without comorbidity were analyzed and compared to 129 healthy controls. Key findings No significant correlation was found in three SNPs between PD patients and healthy controls. However, the subgroup analysis revealed that A alleles of rs7820268 SNP or rs9657182 SNP carriers contribute to later onset of PD than non-carriers. Significance The study suggested that SNPs of IDO1 influenced the age onset of PD and genotyping of SNPs in certain alleles potentially serves as a risk biomarker of PD.

Earlier studies reported alterations of the kynurenine (KYN) pathway of tryptophan (TRP) metabolism in Parkinson’s disease (PD). The first rate-limiting enzymes indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) and tryptophan dioxygenase were observed upregulated, resulting elevated KYN/TRP ratios in the serum and cerebrospinal fluid samples of patients with PD. An increasing number of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been identified in a population of PD. However, little is known if genetic variations of the IDO contribute to disturbance of the KYN metabolism in and the pathogenesis of PD. SNP analysis of IDO1 was performed by allelic discrimination assay with fluorescently labelled TaqMan probes and a subgroup analysis was conducted according to the age of PD onset. The frame shifts variant rs34155785, intronic variant rs7820268, and promotor region variant rs9657182 SNPs of 105 PD patients without comorbidity were analyzed and compared to 129 healthy controls. No significant correlation was found in three SNPs between PD patients and healthy controls. However, the subgroup analysis revealed that A alleles of rs7820268 SNP or rs9657182 SNP carriers contribute to later onset of PD than non-carriers. The study suggested that SNPs of IDO1 influenced the age onset of PD and genotyping of SNPs in certain alleles potentially serves as a risk biomarker of PD.

Entamoeba histolytica, the causative agent of amebiasis, is the third leading cause of death among parasitic diseases globally. Its life cycle includes encystation, which has been mostly studied in Entamoeba invadens, responsible of reptilian amebiasis. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this process are not fully understood. Therefore, we focused on the identification and characterization of Myb proteins, that regulate the expression of encystation-related genes in various protozoan parasites. Through bioinformatic analysis, we identified 47 genes in E. invadens encoding MYB-domain-containing proteins. These were classified into single-repeat 1R (19), 2R-MYB proteins (27), and one 4R-MYB protein. The in silico analysis suggests that these proteins are multifunctional, participating in transcriptional regulation, chromatin remodeling, telomere maintenance, and splicing. Transcriptomic data analysis revealed expression signatures of eimyb genes, suggesting a potential orchestration in the regulation of early and late encystation-excystation genes. Furthermore, we identified 3135 probable target genes associated with reproduction, meiotic cell cycle, ubiquitin-dependent protein catabolism, and endosomal transport. In conclusion, our findings suggest that E. invadens Myb proteins regulate stage-specific proteins and a wide array of cellular processes. This study provides a foundation for further exploration of the molecular mechanisms governing encystation and unveils potential targets for therapeutic intervention in amebiasis.

The circadian and stress-realizing systems are interconnected, and the balance of their interaction determines the state of human health. The objective of this study was to investigate the modulating effect of activating the circadian system on heart rate variability in female medical students with high anxiety while performing a cognitive task. After 20 minutes of adequate stimulation of circadian photoreceptors with a monochromatic blue light, the cognitive task performance resulted in a decrease in sympathetic impact. During the session of using Blue Sky Pro glasses, a trend of increasing heart rate variability was observed in a state of relative rest (especially in the first 5 minutes). A comparative analysis of the parameters of the letter cancellation test before and after light exposure revealed a statistically significant increase in the indexes reflecting mental productivity, work accuracy, and concentration of attention. The results suggest an essential physiological role of the human circadian system in modulating the autonomic and psycho-emotional conditions, as well as cognitive functions of individuals with high anxiety. Our findings indicate the possibility of quickly correcting the balance in human systemic regulatory mechanisms using the activation of retinal circadian photoreceptors by blue light.

Vanadium containing slurry is a by-product of vanadium pentoxide by hydrometallurgical methods from vanadium slag. It is promising technogenic raw material for vanadium production. The phase analysis of vanadium-containing slurry by X-ray diffraction method has shown that it contains vanadium in spinel form (FeO∙V2O3). The various oxidation roasting methods for slurry treatment have been studied for increasing vanadium extraction into the solution. It has shown that the most effective additive is 1% CaCO3 at a roasting temperature of 1000 °C. The oxidation roasting of vanadium-containing slurry with the additive led to increase acid-soluble form of V2O5 from 1.5 to 3.7% and decrease the content of FeO∙V2O3 from 3 to 0.4%. These results have confirmed the efficiency of the application of oxidation roasting to convert vanadium compounds into acid-soluble forms. The conversion mechanism of spinel to acid-soluble phases during oxidation roasting with additives was investigated by thermogravimetric analysis and thermodynamic simulation. It has shown that the formation of acid-soluble calcium vanadates during oxidation roasting without additives occurs at temperatures above 800 °C, but СаСО3 addition allows to reduce this temperature to 600 °C.

The requirements for using noncyanide imitation gold plating as decorative electroplating are increasing; thus, continuously improving the quality of the coating of the imitation gold plating and optimizing the coating process have become the current priority. In this work, hydroxyethylidene diphosphonic acid (HEDP) was used as the main complexing agent, CuSO4·5H2O, ZnSO4·7H2O and NaSnO3·3H2O were the main salts, and NaOH and anhydrous sodium carbonate were used as the buffers to prepare the electroplating solution. Using sodium citrate (SC), sodium potassium tartrate (SS), sodium gluconate (SG), and glycerol (Gl) as four additives, the effects of the number of carboxyl groups on the properties of a Cu-Zn-Sn alloy coating were compared. The electrochemical analysis showed that Cu-Zn-Sn alloy codeposition occurred at -0.50 V vs. Hg|HgO. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results showed that the particle size of the coatings obtained with carboxyl-containing additives was more uniform than that obtained with the electroplating solution without additives. The X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF) analysis revealed that the composition of the Cu-Zn-Sn alloy coating obtained by using SC as an additive in the electroplating solution was 89.75 wt% Cu, 9.61 wt% Zn, and 0.64 wt% Sn, and the color of the coating was golden yellow. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern showed that the coating was a mixture of Cu, Cu5Zn8, CuSn, Cu6Sn5, and CuZn phases. The analysis of the electroplating solution by UV, IR and NMR spectroscopy methods indicates that the additives improve the coating by affecting the complexation reaction of metal ions. These results can provide technical and theoretical guidance for developing Cu-Zn-Sn ternary alloy electrodeposition technology with the new cyanide-free HEDP alkaline electroplating system.

In the study of QSAR/QSPR, due to high degree of predictability of pharmaceutical properties, the eccentric-connectivity index has very important place among the other topological descriptors, In this paper, we compute the exact formulas of eccentric-connectivity index and its corresponding polynomial, total eccentric-connectivity index and its corresponding polynomial, first Zagreb eccentricity index, augmented eccentric-connectivity index, modified eccentric-connectivity index and its corresponding polynomial for a class of phosphorus containing dendrimers.

In this study, a composite film was developed for electrochemical sensing of tryptophan (Trp). Porous reduced graphene oxide (PrGO) was utilized as the electron transfer layer, and a C-undecylcalix[4] resorcinarene Langmuir-Blodgett (CUCR-LB) film served as the molecular recognition layer. Atomic force microscopy (AFM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and electrochemical experiments were employed to analyze the characteristics of the CUCR-LB/PrGO composite film. The electrochemical behavior of Trp on the CUCR-LB/PrGO composite film was investigated, revealing a linear response range of Trp was 1.0×10-7 to 3.0×10-5 mol L-1 and a detection limit of 3.0×10-8 mol L-1. Furthermore, the developed electroanalytical method successfully determined Trp content in an amino acid injection samples. This study not only introduces a rapid and reliable electrochemical method for determination of Trp but also presents a new strategy for constructing high-performance electrochemical sensing platforms.

Tryptophan metabolism, via the kynurenine (Kyn) pathway, and microbial transformation of tryptophan to indolic compounds, are fundamental for host health; both of which are altered in colon carcinogenesis. Alterations in tryptophan metabolism begin early in colon carcinogenesis as an adaptive mechanism for the tumor to escape immune surveillance and metastasize. The microbial community is a key part of the tumor microenvironment and influences cancer initiation, promotion and treatment response. A growing awareness of the impact of the microbiome on tryptophan (Trp) metabolism in the context of carcinogenesis has prompted this review. We first compare the different metabolic pathways of Trp under normal cellular physiology to colon carcinogenesis, in both the host cells and the microbiome. Second, we review how the microbiome, specifically indoles, influence host tryptophan pathways under normal and oncogenic metabolism. We conclude by proposing several dietary, microbial and drug therapeutic modalities that can be utilized in combination to abrogate tumorigenesis.

Several studies suggests that ghrelin (GHRL) has neurobiological effects that extend beyond control of food intake. Our previous results confirmed that GHRL modulates the secretory activity of the pineal gland (PG) through nocturnal melatonin (MEL) secretion in sheep, the seasonally reproductive animals. Here we investigated the effects of GHRL (10 ng/ml) on the expression of enzymes limiting synthesis of MEL, including tryptophan 5-hydroxylase 1 (TPH1), serotonin N-acetyltransferase (AA-NAT) and its phosphorylated form p31T-AA-NAT in sheep PG explants (n = 72) during the 4-hour incubation in a gas-liquid interface, at a short (SD) and long (LD) photoperiods. After each hour of incubation selected explants were frozen in liquid nitrogen and stored at -80°C for subsequent analysis (real-time PCR, western-blotting, ELISA). Results show that GHRL regulates nightly MEL secretion in a TPH1-independent manner. The factor modulating GHRL activity was photoperiod. During SD photoperiod GHRL significantly reduced the expression of p31T-AA-NAT, AA-NAT and inhibited MEL secretion from PG explants. Whereas, during LD photoperiod no effect of GHRL on MEL secretion and expression of examined enzymes was noted. Studies indicate that GHRL directly affects PG under in vitro conditions and causes MEL secretion in animals which exhibit seasonality in reproductive and metabolic processes.

ShK domain-containing proteins are peptides found in different parasitic and venomous organisms. From a previous transcriptomic dataset from Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, a plant-endoparasitic nematode that infects forest tree species, we identified 96 transcripts potentially as ShK domain-containing proteins with unknown function in the nematode genome. This study aimed to characterize and explore the functional role of genes encoding ShK domain-containing proteins in B. xylophilus biology. We selected and functionally analyzed nine candidate genes specific from B. xylophilus. In situ hybridization revealed expression of one B. xylophilus ShK in the pharyngeal gland cells, suggesting their delivery into host cells. Most of the transcripts are highly expressed during infection and showed a significant upregulation in response to peroxide products compared to the nematode catalase enzymes. We reported for the first time, the potential involvement of ShK domain genes in oxidative stress, suggesting that these proteins may have an important role protecting or modulating the reactive oxygen species (ROS) activity of the host plant during parasitism.

New antibiotics are unquestionably needed in the fight to the emergence and spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria. So far, antibiotics targeting bacterial central metabolism have been poorly investigated. By determining the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of desmethylphosphinothricin (Glu-γ-PH), an analogue of glutamate with a phosphinic moiety re-placing the γ-carboxyl group, we previously showed its promising antibacterial activity on Escherichia coli. Herein we synthetized and determined the growth inhibition exerted on E. coli by an L-Leu dipeptide derivative of Glu-γ-PH (L-Leu-D,L-Glu-γ-PH). Furthermore, we compared the growth inhibition obtained with this dipeptide with that exerted by the free amino acid, i.e. Glu-γ-PH, and by their phosphonic and non-desmethylated analogues. All tested compounds were more effective when assayed in chemically defined minimal medium. The dipeptide L-Leu-D,L-Glu-γ-PH had a significantly improved antibacterial activity (2 μg/mL), at a concentra-tion between the non-desmethytaled (0.1 μg/mL) and the phosphonic (80 μg/mL) analogues. Also in Bacillus subtilis the dipeptide L-Leu-D,L-Glu-γ-PH displayed an activity comparable to that of the antibiotic amoxicillin. This work highlights the antibacterial relevance of the phosphinic pharmacophore and proposes new avenues to the development of novel antimicrobial drugs containing the phosphinic moiety.

The analysis of methods of cleaning and processing of saponite-bearing technogenic waters of diamond mining enterprises of the Arkhangelsk region is carried out. The perspective of the electrochemical separation method for extracting saponite from man-caused waters, providing a targeted change in its structural-texture, physico-chemical and mechanical properties, is shown. The possible directions of realization of saponite and products of its modification in various branches of industry are considered.

Cutaneous melanoma (CM) patients respond better to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) than mucosal and uveal melanoma patients (MM/UM). Aiming to explore these differences and understand the distinct response to ICI, we evaluated the serum metabolome of advanced CM, MM, and UM patients. Levels of 115 metabolites were analyzed in samples collected before ICI, using a targeted metabolomics platform. In our analysis, molecules involved in the tryptophan-kynurenine axis distinguished UM/MM from CM. UM/MM patients had higher levels of 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HKyn), whilst patients with CM were found to have higher levels of kynurenic acid (KA). The KA/3-HKyn ratio was significantly higher in CM versus the other subtypes. UM, the most ICI-resistant subtype, was also associated with higher levels of sphingomyelin-d18:1/22:1 and the polyamine spermine (SPM). Overall survival was prolonged in patients with lower SPM levels. Our study revealed distinct metabolomic profile between the most resistant melanoma subtypes, UM and MM, compared to CM. Alterations within the kynurenine pathway, polyamine metabolism and sphingolipid metabolic pathway may contribute to the poor response to ICI. Understanding the different metabolomic profiles introduces opportunities for novel therapies with potential synergic activity to ICI, to improve responses of UM/MM.

Plant species are precursors of a wide variety of secondary metabolites that, besides having useful activity for themselves, can also be used by humans for their consumption and economic benefit. Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) fruit is not only a common food and spice source, but it also stands out for containing high amounts of antioxidants (such as vitamins C and A), polyphenols and capsaicinoids. Particular attention has been paid to capsaicin, whose anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative and analgesic activities, have been proven. Due to the potential interest in pepper metabolites for human use, in this project, we carried out an investigation to identify new bioactive compounds of this crop is carried out. To achieve this, we developed a metabolomic approach, using an HPLC (high-performance liquid chromatography) separative technique coupled to metabolite identification by high resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). After chromatographic analysis and data processing against metabolic databases, 12 differential bioactive compounds were identified in sweet pepper fruits, including quercetin and its derivatives, L-tryptophan, phytosphingosin, FAD, gingerglycolipid A, tetrahydropentoxylin, blumenol C glucoside, colnelenic acid and capsoside A. The abundance of these metabolites varied depending on the ripening stage of the fruits, either immature green or ripe red. We also studied the variation of these 12 metabolites upon treatment with exogenous nitric oxide (NO), a free radical gas involved in a good number of physiological processes in higher plants such as germination, growth, flowering, senescence, and fruit ripening, among others. Overall, it was found that the content of the analysed metabolites was modulated by the ripening stage and by the presence of NO. The metabolic pattern followed by quercetin and its derivatives, as a consequence of the ripening stage and NO treatment, was also corroborated by transcriptomic analysis of genes involved in the synthesis of these compounds. This opens new research windows on the pepper fruit’s bioactive compounds with nutraceutical potentiality, where biotechnological strategies can be applied for optimizing the level of these beneficial compounds.

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum Linn.) is widely cultivated in China. The polyphagous insect Adelphocoris suturalis (Jakovlev) is a serious insect pest in cotton growing regions. Plants have evolved sophisticated systems to cope with herbivore attacks. However, the cotton defense mechanisms induced by A. suturalis feeding have lagged behind. We carried out untargeted proteomic analysis using the iTARQ technique and metabolomics based on LC-MS/MS analysis of cotton leaves fed upon by A. suturalis. Proteomic analysis identified 775 upregulated proteins and 477 downregulated proteins in plants that were infested by A. sututralis compared to the controls. Metabolomic analysis identified 50 differentially expressed metabolites in the positive ion mode and 14 in the negative ion mode compared to the controls. The tryptophan metabolism pathway was significantly changed in both the positive and negative ion mode in the metabolomics analysis. The alpha-linolenic acid pathway was significantly changed in both the proteomic and metabolomics analyses. Furthermore, the result was validated by RT-qPCR analysis of 5 related genes involved in alpha-linolenic acid pathway. These results indicate that tryptophan metabolism and the alpha-linolenic acid pathway may be important in cotton defense against herbivores and would enhance our understanding of plant defenses induced by A. sututrali feeding.

Iron-containing nickel sulfides, selenides, and sulfoselenides were synthesized via a simple two-step hydrothermal reaction (temperature 160 °C) for their application as electrocatalysts in the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in an alkaline solution (1 mol L–1 KOH). The study demonstrated that iron-containing nickel cobalt sulfides and selenides exhibit superior OER performance with lower overpotentials compared to iron-free nickel cobalt sulfide and selenide, which highlights the significant role of iron in enhancing OER nickel cobalt electrocatalysts: Fe0.1Ni1.4Co2.9(S0.87O0.13)4, η50 = 318 mV; Fe0.2Ni1.5Co2.8(S0.9O0.1)4, η50 = 310 mV; Fe0.3Ni1.2Co2.5(S0.9O0.1)4, η50 = 294 mV; Fe0.6Ni1.2Co2.5(S0.83O0.17)4, η50 = 294 mV, Fe0.4Ni0.7Co1.6(Se0.81O0.19)4, η50 = 306 mV compared to Ni1.0Co2.1(S0.9O0.1)4, η50 = 346 mV and Ni0.7Co1.4(Se0.85O0.15)4, η50 = 355 mV (all values at current densities η50 of 50 mA cm–2). Furthermore, the iron-containing nickel cobalt sulfoselenide Fe0.5Ni1.0Co2.0(S0.57Se0.25O0.18)4 displayed exceptional OER performance with η50 = 277 mV, surpassing the benchmark RuO2 electrode with η50 = 299 mV. The superior performance of the sulfoselenide was attributed to its low charge transfer resistance (Rct) of 0.8 Ω at 1.5 V vs. the reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE). Moreover, the sulfoselenide demonstrated remarkable stability, with only a minimal increase in overpotential (η50) from 277 mV to 279 mV after a 20 h chronopotentiometry test. These findings suggest that trimetallic iron, nickel and cobalt sulfide, selenide and especially sulfoselenide materials hold promise as high-performance, cost-effective, and durable electrocatalysts for sustainable OER reactions. This study provides a valuable approach for the development of efficient electrocatalytic materials, contributing to the advancement of renewable energy technologies.

The fluorine-less noble-gas containing anions OBONgO- and OCNNgO-have been studied by correlated electronic structure calculation and density functional theory. The obtained energetics indicates that for Ng = Kr and Xe, these anions should be kinetically stable at low temperature. The molecular structures and electron density distribution suggests that these anions are stabilized by ion-induced dipole interactions with charges concentrated on the electronegative OBO and OCN groups. The current study shows that in additional to the fluoride ion, polyatomic groups with strong electronic affinities can also form stable noble-gas containing anions of the type X-...NgO.

Kynurenic acid (KYNA) is an endogenous tryptophan (Trp) metabolite known to possess neuroprotective property. KYNA plays critical roles in nociception, neurodegeneration, and neuroinflammation. A lower level of KYNA is observed in patients with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases or psychiatric disorders such as depression and autism spectrum disorders, whereas a higher level of KYNA is associated with the pathogenesis of schizophrenia. Little is known about the optimal concentration for neuroprotection and the threshold for neurotoxicity. In this study the effects of KYNA on memory functions were investigated by passive avoidance test in mice. Six different doses of KYNA were administered intracerebroventricularly to previously trained CFLP mice and they were observed following 24 hours. High doses of KYNA (i.e., 20-40 μg/2 μl) significantly decreased the avoidance latency, whereas a low dose of KYNA (0.5 μg/2 μl) significantly elevated it compared with controls, suggesting that the low dose of KYNA enhanced memory function. Furthermore, six different receptor blockers were applied to reveal the mechanisms underlying the memory enhancement induced by KYNA. The series of tests revealed the possible involvement of the serotonergic, dopaminergic, α and β adrenergic, and opiate systems in the nootropic effect. The study confirmed that a low dose of KYNA improved a memory component of cognitive domain, which was mediated by, at least in part, four systems of neurotransmission in an animal model of learning and memory.

The article presents a technology for producing nitrogen-containing nanoporous biocarbon with high degree of elemental composition homogeneity, confirmed by electron spectroscopy. The research explores the relationship among the electronic characteristics of supramolecular nanoporous carbon, its porous structure, and the capacitance at its interface with the electrolyte. The obtained biocarbon is characterized by micro and mesopores, as evidenced by the results of studies by the method of nitrogen adsorption/desorption. The specific area of the available porous surface was found to be 1247 m2/g. Comparing this result with the data of small-angle X-ray scattering, we conclude that micropores are open while mesopores remain closed. This material was found to have a saturation magnetization σs of 1.4 A∙m2∙kg-1 and a coercive force Hc of 10 kA/m. The impedance studies of electrochemical cells of supercapacitors made of the experimental biocarbon were carried out. Equivalent electrical circuits of the studied electrochemical processes were constructed and characterized.

: This article reports on polymer (PLLA, poly(L-lactic acid)) nanosheets incorporated with Fe-ion nanoparticles, aiming at using the latter nanoparticles as source to release Fe ions to facilitate burn wound healing when such nanosheets are applied on skin as biomedical tissue. Laser ablation in liquid phase was used to produce Fe-containing nanoparticles that after incorporation into PLLA nanosheets would release Fe ions when in immersed in water. Such nanoparticles prepared in chloroform are shown by XPS to be based on iron chloride and oxide phases. After incorporation into PLLA nanosheets, the ion –release test demonstrated that Fe ions could be released successfully into water at pH 7.4, which implies that such polymer nanosheets show promise for biomedical applications as potential patches for healing burn wounds. Incorporation with two different metal ions (Fe and Zn) is shown to be efficient and both types of ions were demonstrated to be released simultaneously and with comparable release rates.

A tricalcium silicate nanoparticle-containing cement (NPC) was developed to overcome the disadvantages of existing mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) dental materials. This study aimed at evaluating the effects of NPC on the osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (HPLFs) in vitro, and on the healing of furcal perforations created experimentally in rat molars in vivo, in comparison to MTA. The in vitro studies performed the following assays; pH measurement using a pH meter, the release of calcium ions using a calcium assay kit, cell attachment and morphology using SEM, cell proliferation using a coulter counter, marker expression using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and cell mineralized deposit formation using Alizarin Red S (ARS) staining. In the in vivo studies, MTA and NPC were used to fill the rat molar perforations. Rat molars were processed at 7, 14 and 28 days for analysis of inflammatory processes using hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, immunohistochemical staining of Runx2 and tartrate-resistant acid phosphate (TRAP) staining. The results demonstrate that the nanoparticle size distribution of NPC is critical for osteogenic potential at an earlier stage compared to MTA. Further studies are required to elucidate the mechanism of action of NPC in osteogenic differentiation.

The objective of this experiment was to study the effect of feeding pellet containing high sulfur (PELFUR) diet and fresh cassava root (FCR) to Thai native beef cattle on feed use efficiency, ruminal characteristics, and blood metabolites. Four male Thai native beef cattle (150 ± 15.0 kg of body weight (BW)) were allocated with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement in a 4 × 4 Latin square design. Factor A was FCR supplementation at 15 and 20 g/kg of BW. Factor B was the sulfur level in the PELFUR ration at 15 and 30 g/kg of dry matter (DM). No interaction effect was found among FCR supplementation and PELFUR in terms of feed intake and nutrient intake (p > 0.05). Cyanide intake was significantly increased based on FCR supplementation (p < 0.05), whereas sulfur intake was increased by level addition of PELFUR levels (p < 0.05). There were interaction effects among FCR supplementation and PELFUR on digestibility coefficients of DM and organic matter (OM) (p < 0.05). FCR supplementation at 20 g/kg BW with PELFUR 30 g/kg demonstrated the highest digestibility of DM and OM. Moreover, interactions were observed between FCR and PELFUR for bacterial populations (p < 0.01). The populations of bacteria were highest in FCR supplementation at 20 g/kg BW with PELFUR 30 g/kg at various feeding times. An interaction effects from among feeding FCR with PELFUR was found on blood thiocyanate concentrations at various feeding times (p < 0.01). The highest mean values of blood thiocyanate were observed when feeding FCR at 20 g/kg BW with PELFUR at 30 g/kg. No interaction effect was found between FCR and PELFUR on total volatile fatty acids (VFA) and their profiles (p >0.05). However, the proportions of the total VFA at 0 and 4 h post-feeding were increased when FCR at 20 g/kg BW was supplemented (p < 0.01). FCR at 20 g/kg BW could enhance propionate (C3) at 4 h post-feeding when compared with FCR at 15 g/kg BW (p < 0.01). Moreover, supplementation of PELFUR at 30 g/kg increased the total VFA at 0 and 4 h post-feeding, whereas the concentration of C3 at 4 h post-feeding was enhanced (p < 0.05). However, no significant changes were found for any parameters among treatments and between the main effect of FCR and PELFUR supplementation (p > 0.05). In conclusion, feeding of two combinations (FCR 20 g/kg BW with PELFUR 30 g/kg) could promote the nutrient digestibility, the bacterial populations, and the rate of disappearance of cyanide without having any adverse effect on rumen fermentation.

It is unclear how maternal glycemic status and maternal iodine status influence birth weight in mild-to-moderate iodine deficiency (ID). We studied the association between birth weight and both maternal glucose levels and iodine intake in pregnant women with mild-to-moderate ID. Glucose values were assessed using a glucose challenge test (GCT), non-fasting glucose before delivery; iodine status was assessed using an iodine food frequency questionnaire, serum thyroglobulin (Tg) and urinary iodine concentrations (UIC). Thyroid antibodies and free thyroxine (FT4) were measured. Obstetric and an-thropometric data were also collected. Large for gestational age (LGA) was predicted using a Cox proportional hazards model with multiple confounders. Tg>13g/L was in-dependently associated with LGA (adjusted hazard ratio = 3.4, 95% CI: 1.4–10.2, p=0.001). Estimated iodine intake correlated with FT4 among participants reporting io-dine-containing supplements (ICS) after adjusting for confounders (β = 0.4 95 %CI: 0.0002-0.0008, p=0.001). Newborn weight percentiles were inversely correlated with maternal FT4 values (β=-0.2 95 %CI:-0.08 - -56.49, p=0.049). We conclude that in mild-to-moderate ID regions, maternal insufficient iodine status may increase LGA risk. Iodine status and ICS intake may modify the effect maternal dysglycemia has on offspring weight.

The naturally occurring dipeptide carnosine (β alanyl L histidine) specifically attenuates tumor growth. Here, we asked whether other small imidazole containing compounds also affect viability of tumor cells without affecting non-malignant cells, and whether formation of histamine is involved. Patient-derived fibroblasts and glioblastoma cells were treated with carnosine, L alanyl L histidine (LA-LH), ß alanyl L alanine, L histidine, histamine, imidazole, β alanine and L alanine. Cell viability was assessed by cell-based assays and microscopy. The intracellular release of L histidine and formation of histamine was investigated by High Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled Mass Spectrometry. Whereas carnosine and LA LH inhibited tumor cell growth with minor effects on fibroblasts, L-histidine, histamine and imidazole affected viability in both cell types. Compounds without imidazole moiety did not diminish viability. In the presence of LA LH but not in the presence of carnosine a significant rise of intracellular amounts of histidine was detected in all cells. Formation of histamine was not detectable in the presence of carnosine, LA LH or histidine. In conclusion, the imidazole moiety of carnosine contributes to its anti-neoplastic effect, which is also seen in the presence of histidine and LA LH. Despite histamine had a strong effect on cell viability, formation of histamine is not responsible for the effects on cell viability of carnosine, LA LH and histidine.

The central nervous system (CNS) is the final frontier in drug delivery because of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which poses significant barriers to the access of most drugs to their targets. Kynurenic acid (KYNA), a tryptophan (Trp) metabolite, plays an important role in behavioral functions and abnormal KYNA levels have been observed in neuropsychiatric conditions. The current challenge lies in delivering KYNA to the CNS owing to its polar side chain. Recently, C-3 side chain modified KYNA analogs have been shown to cross the BBB; however, it is unclear whether they retain the biological functions of the parent molecule. This study examined the impact of KYNA analogs, specifically SZR-72, SZR-104, and the newly developed SZRG-21, on behavior. The analogs were administered intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v.), and their effects on the motor domain were compared with those of KYNA. Specifically, open field (OF) and rotarod (RR) tests were employed to assess motor activity and skills. SZR-104 increased horizontal exploratory activity in the OF test at a dose of 0.04 μmol/4 μL, while SZR-72 decreased vertical activity at doses of 0.04 and 0.1 μmol/4 μL. In the RR test, however, neither KYNA nor its analogs showed any significant differences in motor skills at either dose. Side chain modification affects affective motor performance and exploratory behavior, as the results show for the first time. In this study, we showed that KYNA analogs alter emotional components such as motor-associated curiosity and emotions. Consequently, drug design necessitates the development of precise strategies to traverse the BBB while paying close attention to modifications in their effects on behavior.

Single-particle inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (spICP-MS) has been used for particle size measurement of diverse types of individual nanoparticles and micrometer-sized carbon-based particles, such as microplastics. However, its applicability to the measurement of micrometer-sized non-carbon-based particles such as silica (SiO2) is unclear. In this study, the applicability of spICP-MS to particle size measurement of non-porous/mesoporous SiO2 micro-spheres with a nominal diameter of 5.0 µm or smaller was investigated. Particle sizes of these microspheres were measured using both spICP-MS based on a conventional calibration approach using an ion standard solution and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) as a reference technique and the results were compared. The particle size distributions obtained using both techniques were in agreement within analytical uncertainty. The applicability of this technique to the detection of metal-containing protein-binding mesoporous SiO2 microspheres was also investigated. Bound iron (Fe)-containing proteins (i.e., lactoferrin and transferrin) of mesoporous SiO2 microspheres were detected using Fe as a presence marker for the proteins. Thus, spICP-MS is applicable to the particle size measurement of large-sized and non-porous/mesoporous SiO2 microspheres; it has considerable potential for element-based detection and qualification of bound proteins of mes-oporous SiO2 microspheres in a variety of applications.

Memory and emotion, fundamental components of our mental existence, are highly vulnerable to psychiatric disorders like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This condition has been linked to serotonin (5-HT) metabolism disruptions. Over 95% of the 5-HT precursor tryptophan (Trp) is metabolized through the Trp-kynurenine (KYN) metabolic pathway, but little is known about its role in behavior. Kynurenine aminotransferases are responsible for the production of the Trp-KYN metabolite kynurenic acid. The gene aadat codes for mitochondrial kynurenine aminotransferase isotype 2. We generated CRISPR/Cas9-induced aadat knockout (kat2−/−) mice to examine the consequence of the gene deletion on negative valence in emotion, memory, and motor function in males 8 weeks of age and compared them to their wild-type counterparts. The forced swim test showed increased depression-like behaviors in transgenic mice. Anxiety and memory tests showed no significant differences. The transgenic mice had fewer center field and corner entries, shorter ambulation distances, and fewer jumping counts in the open field test. Overall, the transgenic mice exhibit depression-like behavior in a learned helplessness model, emotional indifference, and motor deficits. Here we present the first evidence that the deletion of the aadat gene triggers depression-like behaviors, uniquely associated with despair experience rather than adverse-conditioned memory. These findings have profound implications, opening avenues for further exploration into the main causes of experience-based depression linked to despair. This investigation has the potential to advance our understanding of these complex conditions and pave the way for improved therapeutic strategies by elucidating the relationship between Trp metabolism and the pathogenesis of PTSD.

Neurodegenerative diseases are multifactorial, initiated by a series of the causative complex which develops into a certain clinical picture. The pathogenesis and disease course vary from patient to patient. Thus, it should be likewise to the treatment. Peripheral biomarkers are to play a central role for tailoring a personalized therapeutic plan for patients who suffered from neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s diseases, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis, among others. Nevertheless, the use of biomarkers in clinical practice is still underappreciated and data presented in biomarker research for clinical use is still uncompelling, compared to abundant data available for drug research and development. So is the case with kynurenines (KYNs) and the kynurenine pathway (KP) enzymes which have been associated with a wide range of diseases including cancer, autoimmune diseases, inflammatory diseases, neurologic diseases, and psychiatric disorders. This review article discusses current knowledge of the KP alteration observed in the central nervous system as well as the periphery, its involvement in pathogenesis and disease progression, and emerging evidence of roles of microbiota to the gut-brain axis, searching for practical peripheral biomarkers which ensure personalized treatment plans for neurodegenerative diseases.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease, causing inflammation of joints, cartilage destruction and bone erosion. Biomarkers and new drug targets are actively sought and progressed to improve available options for patient treatment. The Collagen Triple Helix Repeat Containing 1 protein (CTHRC1) may have an important role as a biomarker for rheumatoid arthritis, as CTHRC1 protein concentration is significantly elevated in the peripheral blood of rheumatoid arthritis patients, compared to osteoarthritis (OA) patients and healthy individuals. CTHRC1 is a secreted glycoprotein that promotes cell migration and has been implicated in arterial tissue-repair processes. Furthermore, high CTHRC1 expression is observed in many types of cancer and this is associated with cancer metastasis to the bone and poor prognosis. However, the function of CTHRC1 in RA is still largely undefined. The aim of this review is to summarize recent findings on the role of CTHRC1 as a potential biomarker and pathogenic driver of RA progression that may be linked to the pathogenic behavior of fibroblast-like synoviocytes, cartilage destruction, and bone erosion.

Detection of PLA2R and THSD7A among primary membranous glomerulonephritis (MGN) patients transformed the diagnosis, treatment monitoring and prognosis. Anti-PLA2R can be detected in 70-90% of primary MGN patients while anti-THSD7A in 2-3% of anti-PLA2R negative primary MGN patients depending on the technique used. Serum and urine samples are less invasive and non-invasive respectively and can detect the presence of anti-PLA2R and anti-THSD7A with higher sensitivity and specificity, significant in patients’ monitoring and prognosis better than exposing patients to frequent biopsy which is an invasive procedure. Different techniques of detection of PLA2R and THSD7A in patients’ urine and sera were reviewed with the aim of providing newer and alternative techniques. We proposed the use of biomarkers (PLA2R and THSD7A) in making the diagnosis, treatment decision and follow up of patients with primary MGN. We also reviewed other prognostic renal biomarkers like retinol binding protein (RBP) and beta-2 microglobulin in order to detect progression of renal damage for early intervention.

Autism Spectrum Disorder etiopathogenesis is still unclear and no effective preventive and treatment measures have been identified. Research has focused on the potential role of neuroinflammation and kynurenine pathway. Here we review the nature of these interactions. Pre-natal or neonatal infections would induce microglial activation, with secondary consequences on behavior, cognition and neurotransmitter networks. Peripherally, higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and anti-brain antibodies have been identified. Increased frequency of autoimmune diseases, allergies, and recurring infections have been demonstrated both in autistic patients and in their relatives. Genetic studies, also, have identified some important polymorphisms in chromosome loci related to human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system. The persistence of immune-inflammatory deregulation would lead to mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress, creating a self-sustaining cytotoxic loop. Chronic inflammation activates kynurenine pathway with increase in neurotoxic metabolites and excitotoxicity, causing long-term changes in glutamatergic system, trophic support and synaptic function. Furthermore, overactivation of kynurenine’s branch induces depletion of melatonin and serotonin worsening ASD symptoms. In this scenario, kynurenine pathway appears as a pharmacological target to treat and prevent ASD. Thus, in genetically predisposed subjects aberrant neurodevelopment may derives from a complex interplay between inflammatory process, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress and kynurenine pathway overexpression. To validate previous hypothesis a new translational research approach is necessary.

The microbiota–gut–brain axis has garnered increasing attention in recent years for its role in various health conditions, including neuroinflammatory disorders like complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). CRPS is a debilitating condition characterized by chronic neuropathic pain, and its etiology and pathophysiology remain elusive. Emerging research suggests that alterations in the gut microbiota composition and function could play a significant role in CRPS development and progression. Our paper explores the implications of microbiota in CRPS and the potential therapeutic role of boron (B). Studies have demonstrated that individuals with CRPS often exhibit dysbiosis, with imbalances in beneficial and pathogenic gut bacteria. Dysbiosis can lead to increased gut permeability and systemic inflammation, contributing to the chronic pain experienced in CRPS. B, an essential trace element, has shown promise in modulating the gut microbiome positively and exerting anti-inflammatory effects. Recent preclinical and clinical studies suggest that B supplementation may alleviate neuropathic pain and improve CRPS symptoms by restoring microbiota balance and reducing inflammation. Our review highlights the complex interplay between microbiota, inflammation, and neuropathic pain in CRPS and underscores the potential of B as a novel therapeutic approach to target the microbiota–gut–brain axis, offering hope for improved management of this challenging condition.

Microalgae are abundant components of biosphere rich in low molecular weight carbohy-drate-containing natural products (glycoconjugates). Glycoconjugates take a part in processes of photosynthesis, provide producers with important biological properties, influence other organ-isms and known by biological activities. Some of them, for example glycosylated toxins and ar-senicals, are detrimental and can be transferring via food chains into higher organisms including humans. So far, the studies on a series of particular groups of microalgal glycoconjugates were not comprehensively discussed in special reviews. In this review, a special focus was made on the isolation, structure determination, properties and approaches to the search for new bioactive metabolites. Analysis of literature data concerning structures, functions and biological activities of ribosylated arsenicals, galactosylated and sulfoquinovosylated lipids, phosphoglycolipids, gly-coside derivatives of toxins, and other groups of glycoconjugates was carried out and discussed. The discovery of a great variety of new carbohydrate-containing metabolites, important biological roles some of them, participation in regulation of microalgal blooms via viral infections as well as the detection of potent immunomodulatory activity, shown by these type metabolites could be attributed to the most interesting recent achievements. Structures, properties and biological roles of glycoconjugates from microalgae attract a great attention growing year to year.

Thin Pd-40%Cu films were obtained by the classical melting and rolling method, magnetron sputtering and modified with nanostructured functional coatings to intensify the process of hydrogen transport. The films were modified by electrodeposition according to the classical method of obtaining palladium black and "Pd-Au nanoflowers" with spherical and pentagonal particles, respectively. The experiment results demonstrated the highest catalytic activity (89.47 mA cm–2), good resistance to CO poisoning and long-term stability of Pd-40%Cu films with a pentagonal structured coating. The investigation of the developed membranes in the hydrogen transport processes in the temperature range of 25-300°C also demonstrated high and stable fluxes up to 475.28 mmol s–1 m–2 (deposited membranes) and 59.41 mmol s–1 m–2 (dense-metal membranes), which turned out to be up to 1.5 higher compared to membrane materials with classic niello. For all-metal modified membranes, the increase in flux was up to 7 times, compared with a smooth membrane made of pure palladium, and for deposited films, this difference was several tens of times. The membrane materials selectivity was also high up to 4419. The developed strategy for modifying membrane materials with functional coatings of a fundamentally new complex geometry can shed new light on the development and fabrication of durable and highly selective palladium-based membranes for gas steam reformers.

The study examined eating timing, diet, and the ratio of sleep phases in people with social jetlag (SJL). The study involved 83 participants who filled out a questionnaire, and 21 of them took part in the study of sleep phases by electroencephalography during the week. SJL was associated with a higher incidence rate of eating jetlag, eating phase delays, an increase in calorie intake after 9 p.m., a decrease in dietary fiber intake for breakfast, and melatonin-containing product consumption for dinner. Young people with SJL had a reduction in total sleep and light sleep phase duration by 60 and 36 min on work/school days and an increase in total sleep and REM sleep phase duration by 66 and 60 min on weekends, respectively. Young people consuming foods with more than 4234.5 ng of melatonin for dinner, compared with their peers consuming less than 313.2 ng of melatonin, showed a decrease in SJL and sleep debt by 54 and 90 min and an increase in the total sleep and the deep sleep phase duration by 66 and 30 min, respectively. Thus, the consumption of melatonin-containing foods for dinner is associated with a decrease in circadian misalignment and a sleep quality improvement.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is becoming the leading cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), liver-related mortality, and liver transplantation. There is reasonable epidemiological cohort data to recommend surveillance of patients with NAFLD based upon the incidence of HCC. The American Gastroenterology Association (AGA) expert review published in 2020 recommend that NAFLD patients with cirrhosis or advanced fibrosis estimated by non-invasive tests (NITs) should consider HCC surveillance. NITs include fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index, the enhanced liver fibrosis (ELF) test, FibroScan, and MR elastography. The recommended surveillance modality is abdominal ultrasound (US) given that it is cost effective and noninvasive with good sensitivity. However, US is limited in obese patients and those with NAFLD. In NAFLD patients with a high likelihood of having an inadequate US or if US is attempted but inadequate, CT or MRI may be utilized. The GALAD score, consisting of age, gender, AFP, lens culinaris-agglutinin-reactive fraction of AFP (AFP-L3), and protein induced by vitamin K absence or antagonist-II (PIVKA-II), can help to identify high risk of incident HCC in NAFLD patients. Innovative parameters including Mac-2 binding protein glycated isomer , type IV collagen 7S, free apoptosis inhibitor of macrophage, combination of single nucleoside polymorphisms are expected to be established. Considering a large number of NAFLD population, optimal screening tests must meet several criteria including high sensitivity, cost effectiveness and availability.

Copper(II), nickel(II) and zinc(II) complexes of various peptide fragments of tau protein were studied by potentiometric and spectroscopic techniques. All peptides contained one histidyl residue and represented the sequences of tau(91-97) (Ac-AQPHTEI-NH2), tau(385-390) (Ac-KTDHGA-NH2) and tau(404-409) (Ac-SPRHLS-NH2). Imidazole-N donors of histidine were the primary metal binding sites for all peptides and all metal ions but in case of copper(II) and nickel(II) the deprotonated amide groups were also involved in metal binding by increasing pH. The most stable complexes were formed with copper(II) ion but the presence of prolyl residues resulted in significant changes in the thermodynamic stability and speciation of the systems. It was also demonstrated that nickel(II) and especially zinc(II) complexes have relative low thermodynamic stability with these peptides. Copper(II) catalyzed oxidation of the peptides was also studied. In the presence of H2O2 the fragmentation of peptides can be detected in all cases. In the simultaneous presence of of H2O2 and ascorbic acid the extent of the fragmentation of the peptide is less preferred, and the formation of 2-oxo-histidine also occurs.

Immune checkpoint receptors play a crucial role in steering tumor progression, prompting a focused investigation into the role of TIM3 in breast cancer. Analysis of TCGA BRCA data unveiled diverse correlations between TIM-3 expression and immune cell infiltration across subtypes. In our in-house cohort studied through IHC, significant changes in TIM3 expression with tumor grades were observed. Higher TIM3 expression correlated with increased disease-free survival in pan breast cancer, marking the first revelation of TIM3's positive role in pan BC prognosis. The study indicates that alluring TIM3 response, rather than suppression, may enhance breast cancer prognosis.

The cell stress response is an essential system present in every cell for responding and adapting to extracellular environmental stimulations. A major program for stress response is the heat shock factor (HSF)–heat shock protein (HSP) system that maintains proteostasis in cells and promotes cancer progression. However, less is known about how the cell stress response is regulated by alternative transcription factors. Here, we show that the SCAN domain-containing transcription factors (SCAN-TFs) are involved in repressing the stress response in cancer. SCAND1 and SCAND2 are SCAN-TFs that can hetero-oligomerize with SCAN-zinc finger transcription factors, such as MZF1(ZSCAN6), for accessing DNA and transcriptionally co-repressing target genes. We found that heat stress induced the expression of both SCAND1 and MZF1(ZSCAN6) bound to HSP90 gene promoter regions in prostate cancer cells. SCAND1 and MZF1 blocked the heat shock responsiveness of HSP90 in prostate cancer cells. Gene expression of SCAND2, SCAND1 and MZF1 was negatively correlated with HSP90 expression in patients-derived prostate adenocarcinoma. MZF1 and SCAND2 were more highly expressed in paired normal tissues than in tumor tissues in several cancer types. High expression of SCAND2, SCAND1 and MZF1 correlated with enhanced prognoses of pancreatic cancer and head and neck cancers. Additionally, high expression of SCAND2 was correlated with better prognoses of lung adenocarcinoma and sarcoma. In contrast, high expression of HSP90AA1 correlated with poorer prognoses in several cancer types. These data suggest that the stress-inducible SCAN-TFs can function as a feedback system, suppressing excessive stress response and inhibiting cancers.

Activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome plays a crucial role in innate immune response. During cell division, the NLRP3 inflammasome activation must be strictly controlled. Here, we discovered the anaphase promoting complex subunit 10 (Anapc10, APC10), a substrate recognition protein of the anaphase promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C), is a critical mediator of the NLRP3 inflammasome activation. APC10 protein interacts with NLRP3, and co-localizes with NLRP3 protein in the cytoplasm. During interphase, APC10 interacts with NLRP3 to promote the NLRP3 inflammasome activation. During mitosis, APC10 disassociates from the NLRP3 inflammasome to inhibit the inflammatory responses. This study reveals a distinct mechanism by which APC10 serves as a switch of the NLRP3 inflammasome activation during cell cycle.