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Alternating‐rich copolymer of vinylboronic acid pinacol ester (VBpin) and maleic anhydride (MAH) was found to catalyze direct dehydrative esterification of carboxylic acid and alcohol. The key to the catalytic function is the activation of the MAH unit by the neighboring Lewis acidic boron directly connected to the backbone through the formation of five‐membered ring. The effects of the side‐chain cooperation were clarified through comparisons with the polymers having similar structures and a conventional titanium catalyst as well as the analyses of reactions with carboxylic acid or alcohol. The catalytic activity was enhanced as the molecular weight was higher, which is owing to the structural feature that boron is directly attached to the backbone. The cooperative catalysis is of interest because of its conceptual similarity with enzyme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alternating‐rich copolymer of vinylboronic acid pinacol ester (VBpin) and maleic anhydride (MAH) was found to catalyze direct dehydrative esterification of carboxylic acid and alcohol. The key to the catalytic function is the activation of the MAH unit by the neighboring Lewis acidic boron directly connected to the backbone through the formation of five‐membered ring. The effects of the side‐chain cooperation were clarified through comparisons with the polymers having similar structures and a conventional titanium catalyst as well as the analyses of reactions with carboxylic acid or alcohol. The catalytic activity was enhanced as the molecular weight was higher, which is owing to the structural feature that boron is directly attached to the backbone. The cooperative catalysis is of interest because of its conceptual similarity with enzyme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boswellia serrata ole-gum-resin extracts (BSEs) are commonly used as food supplements, especially in osteoarthritis management. The quality standard is established by determining 11-keto-β-boswellic acid (KBA) and acetyl-11-keto-boswellic acid (AKBA) content using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or assessing the total boswellic acid (TBA) content by titrimetry. The limited geographical distribution of Boswellia species and increasing industrial demand could increase the risk of adulteration in Boswellia-containing products. In this study, 14 BSEs from commercial sources, used in food supplements, were analyzed in comparison with a USP Reference Standard extract. The KBA and AKBA content was determined by HPLC, whereas the TBA content was determined by titration. Targeted UHPLC-high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) was applied to identify the carboxylic acid content in the samples. The 1H NMR spectra of extracts were also analyzed. Only two products met the criteria for KBA and AKBA content. Although, the TBA content complied with the expected amount, 10 extracts contained citric acid levels of 6–11% even though citric acid is not a cha-racteristic component of BSEs. Our results suggest undeclared addition of citric acid to comply with declared contents of TBA when using titration methods. Incorporation of citric acid to industrial samples – in order to alter the outcomes of the titration analysis – was demonstrated for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The assignment of structure by tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) relies on the interpretation of the fragmentation behavior of gas‐phase ions. Mass spectra were acquired for a series of heterocyclic mimetics of acidic amino acids and a related series of nitrile amino acids. All amino acids were readily protonated or deprotonated by electrospray ionization (ESI), and distinctive fragmentation processes were observed when the ions were subjected to collision‐induced dissociation (CID). The deprotonated heterocycles showed bond cleavages of the 3‐hydroxyfurazan ring with formation of oxoisocyanate and the complementary deprotonated nitrile amino acid. Further fragmentation of the deprotonated nitrile amino acids was greatly dependent on the length of the alkyl nitrile side chain. Competing losses of CO2 versus HCN occurred from α‐cyanoglycinate (shortest chain), whereas water was lost from 2‐amino‐5‐cyanopentanoate (longest chain). Interestingly, loss of acrylonitrile by a McLafferty‐type fragmentation process was detected for 2‐amino‐4‐cyanobutanoate, and several competing processes were observed for β‐cyanoalanate. In one process, cyanide ion was formed either by consecutive losses of ammonia, carbon dioxide, and acetylene or by a one‐step decarboxylative elimination. In another, complementary ions were obtained from β‐cyanoalanate by loss of acetonitrile or HN=CHCO2H. Fragmentation of the protonated 3‐hydroxyfurazan and nitrile amino acids resulted in the cumulative loss (H2O + CO), a loss that is commonly observed for protonated aliphatic α‐amino acids. Overall, the distinct fragmentation behavior of the multifunctional 3‐hydroxyfurazan amino acids correlated with the charged site, whereas fragmentations of the deprotonated nitrile amino acids showed cooperative interactions between the nitrile and the carboxylate groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tanacetum falconeri is a significant flowering plant that possesses cytotoxic, insecticidal, antibacterial, and phytotoxic properties. Its chemodiversity and bioactivities, however, have not been thoroughly investigated. In this work, several extracts from various parts of T. falconeri were assessed for their chemical profile, antioxidant activity, and potential for enzyme inhibition. The total phenolic contents of T. falconeri varied from 40.28 ± 0.47 mg GAE/g to 11.92 ± 0.22 mg GAE/g in various extracts, while flavonoid contents were found highest in TFFM (36.79 ± 0.36 mg QE/g extract) and lowest (11.08 ± 0.22 mg QE/g extract) in TFSC (chloroform extract of stem) in similar pattern as found in total phenolic contents. Highest DPPH inhibition was observed for TFFC (49.58 ± 0.11 mg TE/g extract) and TFSM (46.33 ± 0.10 mg TE/g extract), whereas, TFSM was also potentially active against (98.95 ± 0.57 mg TE/g) ABTS radical. In addition, TFSM was also most active in metal reducing assays: CUPRAC (151.76 ± 1.59 mg TE/g extract) and FRAP (101.30 ± 0.32 mg TE/g extract). In phosphomolybdenum assay, the highest activity was found for TFFE (1.71 ± 0.03 mg TE/g extract), TFSM (1.64 ± 0.035 mg TE/g extract), TFSH (1.60 ± 0.033 mg TE/g extract) and TFFH (1.58 ± 0.08 mg TE/g extract), while highest metal chelating activity was recorded for TFSH (25.93 ± 0.79 mg EDTAE/g extract), TFSE (22.90 ± 1.12 mg EDTAE/g extract) and TFSC (19.31 ± 0.50 mg EDTAE/g extract). In biological screening, all extracts had stronger inhibitory capacity against AChE while in case of BChE the chloroform extract of flower (TFFC) and stem (TFSC) showed the highest activities with inhibitory values of 2.57 ± 0.24 and 2.10 ± 0.18 respectively. Similarly, TFFC and TFSC had stronger inhibitory capacity (1.09 ± 0.015 and 1.08 ± 0.002 mmol ACAE/g extract) against α-Amylase and (0.50 ± 0.02 and 0.55 ± 0.02 mmol ACAE/g extract) α-Glucosidase. UHPLC-MS study of methanolic extract revealed the presence of 133 components including sterols, triterpenes, flavonoids, alkaloids, and coumarins. The total phenolic contents were substantially linked with all antioxidant assays in multivariate analysis. These findings were validated by docking investigations, which revealed that the selected compounds exhibited high binding free energy with the enzymes tested. Finally, it was found that T. falconeri is a viable industrial crop with potential use in the production of functional goods and nutraceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ion chromatography (IC) is a variant of high-performance liquid chromatography. Its most important applications include the determination of inorganic and some organic ions in different types of liquid samples. The development of new types of stationary phases with various separation mechanisms, sample preparation methods, and detection modes has extended ion chromatography applications to practically all ionic and ionogenic substances, as well as extending sample types to include gaseous and solid matrices. Carboxylic acids and their derivatives are examples of compounds that are becoming more frequently analyzed using ion chromatography and related techniques. Their occurrence in the environment can be natural or anthropogenic in origin and are broadly used in various industries and daily life. This article discusses the applications of ion chromatography and related techniques for the determination of carboxylic acids in different types of liquid, solid, and gaseous matrices. It also presents detailed methodologies and literature data on this subject from the last 15 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We conducted a geochemical analysis on three sediment cores collected from soda and freshwater lakes in the Pantanal region, in Brazil. Our objective was to identify the primary sources of organic matter associated with the Pleistocene-Holocene transition, as previously documented in that area. The Nhecolandia region, located in the Pantanal, encompasses over 10,000 lakes, with approximately 10% of them exhibiting alkaline characteristics. Soda lakes became highly saline and alkaline after ~ 910 cal yr BP, which influences biogeochemistry and aquatic ecology. They have high electrical conductivity and pH can reach 10.5. In contrast to freshwater, soda lakes are absent of surrounding vegetation. Literature suggests a strong influence by the Last Glacial Maximum on the region. We hypothesized that periods of aridity and increased precipitation influenced the composition of organic matter present in sediments and preserved within these cores. Our analysis focused on examining the presence and distribution of fatty acids, organic carbon content, and total nitrogen. In general, the cores exhibited two distinct parts in terms of organic matter sources: the upper sections of the cores were primarily composed by terrestrial sources, identified by the presence of long-chain fatty acids, while the deeper sections were dominated by aquatic sources, therefore short-chain fatty acids. We did not find significant difference among fatty acid profile that could distinguish freshwater from soda lakes, the only remarkable difference was the occurrence of saturated fatty acids, which is lower in freshwater lake. These findings suggest the occurrence of humid and arid periods in the region. The C/N ratio displayed a similar trend to the fatty acid's profiles, exhibiting an abrupt change that was likely induced by climate variations. Although diagenesis can alter the composition of organic matter and, subsequently, the C/N values, it is noteworthy that the abrupt change observed in the Salina da Ponta (soda lake) core corresponds to 3,200 years BP. This coincides with documented climate changes that occurred during the Holocene. Our study revealed the influence of past climatic conditions on the sources and variations of organic matter in sediment cores from the Pantanal's soda and freshwater lakes. Consideration of diagenesis and climate variations is crucial for interpreting sedimentary records. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Hepatoblastoma is a rare childhood liver cancer with poor outcomes for high-risk patients. Better treatments and better ways of identifying patients who respond poorly to treatment are needed. This paper uses new methods for identifying chemicals or metabolites produced in the tumour. By comparing the profiles of these metabolites in tumour tissue versus normal liver tissue taken from the same patient, we demonstrated that some metabolites differ significantly in hepatoblastoma. This correlates with gene expression data, suggesting that we identified the metabolites correctly. We also stained tumour tissues for proteins (enzymes) that regulate transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria, which are the cell's powerhouses. Taken together, our results indicate that tumour cells change the energy sources they use and rewire the cellular systems accordingly. Further work is required to verify this, but these leads could improve our understanding of the disease and lead to the development of novel therapies. Hepatoblastoma (HB) is a rare childhood tumour with an evolving molecular landscape. We present the first comprehensive metabolomic analysis using untargeted and targeted liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) of paired tumour and non-tumour surgical samples in HB patients (n = 8 pairs). This study demonstrates that the metabolomic landscape of HB is distinct from that of non-tumour (NT) liver tissue, with 35 differentially abundant metabolites mapping onto pathways such as fatty acid transport, glycolysis, the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, branched-chain amino acid degradation and glutathione synthesis. Targeted metabolomics demonstrated reduced short-chain acylcarnitines and a relative accumulation of branched-chain amino acids. Medium- and long-chain acylcarnitines in HB were similar to those in NT. The metabolomic changes reported are consistent with previously reported transcriptomic data from tumour and non-tumour samples (49 out of 54 targets) as well as metabolomic data obtained using other techniques. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) from RNAseq data (n = 32 paired HB and NT samples) demonstrated a downregulation of the carnitine metabolome and immunohistochemistry showed a reduction in CPT1a (n = 15 pairs), which transports fatty acids into the mitochondria, suggesting a lack of utilisation of long-chain fatty acids in HB. Thus, our findings suggest a reduced metabolic flux in HB which is corroborated at the gene expression and protein levels. Further work could yield novel insights and new therapeutic targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A branched DNA-based electrochemical biosensor was designed to sensitively detect specific nucleic acids. On this platform, novel a branched DNA with three sticky ends could be used as a biosensor to sensitively and specifically detect nucleic acids. Meanwhile, we also employed branched DNA-modified AuNPs as a signal amplifier to further improve the sensitivity. Branched DNA sensors, target DNA, and DNA-modified AuNPs formed a sandwich structure to produce an electronic signal for target DNA detection. The reaction primarily involved DNA hybridization without bulky thermal cyclers and enzymes. We proved that the hybridization reaction easily occurred under different conditions, such as the NaCl concentration, reaction time, pH, and temperature, except for a pH lower than 4. The limit of detection could go as low as 0.09 pM (S/N = 3) with excellent specificity and selectivity. There was a correlation curve relationship between the peak current and the logarithm of the target DNA concentration (0.10 pM to 10 nM). The correlation coefficient reached 0.987. The electrochemical platform enables a branched DNA nanostructure to determine nucleic acids for disease diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Xuelian granule (XL), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula, has been used for the treatment of diabetic nephropathy for a long time as a hospital preparation. Because the active ingredients in the XL that can help to treat diabetic nephropathy are still unclear, which limits the interpretation for its pharmacological mechanism, further development and subsequent study on the material basis of its efficacy. Methods: In this study, a screening method based on inhibition activity against aldose reductase (AR) was employed for activity-directed chemical analysis of XL using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography combined with quadrupole-orbitrap high resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-orbitrap-HRMS) technique. Results: A total of 178 compounds, including 46 terpenes, 47 organic acids, 25 flavonoids, 29 phenylethanoid glycosides, and 31 other types, were tentatively identified from XL which might responsible for its AR inhibition activity. Conclusion: This is the first study for a systematic, rapid, and accurate qualitative analysis of XL. This research provides a scientific and experimental basis for further researches on pharmacodynamics material basis and quality control of XL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Humic and fulvic acids derived from South Ural lignite are studied. The composition of the coal, humic acids, and fulvic acids are characterized by technical and elemental analysis, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and CP/MAS 13C NMR spectroscopy. A method is proposed for extracting fulvic acids from lignite.by means of an aqueous hydrochloric-acid solution of n-butanol. It is established that fulvic acids are characterized by higher content of oxygen-bearing aliphatic groups with a predominance of carboxylic acids and complex esters, while humic acids have a higher content of carbon, hydrogen, and aromatic fragments. Dynamic light scattering shows that colloidal aggregations of fulvic acids in water are disperse systems with bimodal (at low concentrations) and monomodal (at higher concentrations) size distributions of nanoparticles and submicroparticles. The low negative values of the zeta potential for aqueous fulvic acid colloids indicate instability and a tendency to complex formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bio-oil produced from the pyrolysis of biomass is highly corrosive due to the high content of organic acids. These organic acids could be removed through an appropriate upgrading process, i.e., esterification using alcohols to form less polar esters. In this study, the bio-oil used as the feedstock in the esterification was produced from the pyrolysis of Sengon wood with a particle size of 297 µm at 600 °C. The esterification was performed at 70 °C in the presence of a trichloro acetic acid (TCA)-modified Indonesian H-zeolite catalyst with various weight ratios of bio-oil-to-methanol and reaction times under a constant stirring rate of 500 rpm. The esterification progress was indicated by the decrease in the total acid number of the bio-oil after esterification. No significant coke formation (< 0.05 wt%) was observed indicating that the suppression of repolymerisation could be achieved. This study showed that the esterification underwent in a fast rate, indicated by the decrease in the total acid number of the bio-oil by 47.85 % only over a 15-min esterification. Compared to the uncatalysed esterification, the TCA/zeolitecatalysed esterification showed a higher decrease in the total acid number of the bio-oil up to 65.83 %, due to the conversion of the carboxylic acids to esters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The tyrosinase enzyme catalysis monophenols to melanin pigments through the melanogenesis process. For this reason, various inhibitors have been studied for enzyme regulations in melanogenesis abnormalities in both the food and cosmetics industries. In this study, the effect of humic acid (Hu) and fulvic acid (Fu) on the structure, activity, and stability of mushroom tyrosinase (MT) was investigated. Methods: These two organic acids are the main components of soil humus. Assessment of the thermodynamic and structural stability of enzymes was obtained through thechemical and thermal denaturations and (8-anilino-naphthalene sulfonic acid) ANS fluorescence analysis. The Hu and Fu impact on A375 melanoma cancer cell viability was achieved by MTT assay. Findings: The results of enzyme half denaturation concentration (Cm), melting points (Tm), ΔG0 values and external fluorescence emissions in the presence of Hu and FA proved the reduction of the thermodynamic and structural stability of MT by these compounds. The anti-proliferation effects of the compounds were confirmed by the inhibitory concentrations of 50% (IC50) of 31.5 and 42.7 µM and 12.5 and µM at time points of 24 and 48 hours treatments of the A375 melanoma cell line by Hu and Fu, respectively. Conclusion: Humic and fulvic acids can be expected to contribute to advancing skin disorder science play a crucial role in tyrosinase related disorders and anti-cancer effects, and good candidates for medical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A silicon lab-on-chip, for the detection of nucleic acids through the integrated PCR and hybridization microarray, was developed. The silicon lab-on-chip manufactured through bio-MEMS technology is composed of two PCR microreactors (each volume 11.2 µL) and a microarray-hybridization microchamber (volume 30 µL), fluidically connected by buried bypass. It contains heaters and temperature sensors for the management and control of the temperature cycles during the PCR amplification and hybridization processes. A post-silicon process based on (i) plasmo-O2 cleaning/activation, (ii) vapor phase epoxy silanization, (iii) microarray fabrication and (iv) a protein-based passivation step was developed and fully characterized. The ssDNA microarray (4 rows × 10 columns) composed of 400 spots (spot size—70 ± 12 µm; spot-to-spot distance—130 ± 13 µm) was manufactured by piezo-dispense technology. A DNA microarray probe density in the range of 1310 to 2070 probe µm−2 was observed, together with a limit of detection of about 19 target µm−2. The performances of the silicon lab-on-chip were validated by the detection of the beta-globin gene directly from human blood. Remarkable sensitivity, multiplexing analysis and specificity were demonstrated for the detection of beta-globin and mycobacterium tuberculosis sequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nucleic acids are natural biopolymers of nucleotides that store, encode, transmit and express genetic information, which play central roles in diverse cellular events and diseases in living things. The analysis of nucleic acids and nucleic acids-based analysis have been widely applied in biological studies, clinical diagnosis, environmental analysis, food safety and forensic analysis. During the past decades, the field of nucleic acids analysis has been rapidly advancing with many technological breakthroughs. In this review, we focus on the methods developed for analyzing nucleic acids, nucleic acids-based analysis, device for nucleic acids analysis, and applications of nucleic acids analysis. The representative strategies for the development of new nucleic acids analysis in this field are summarized, and key advantages and possible limitations are discussed. Finally, a brief perspective on existing challenges and further research development is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The endophytic fungus Diaporthe sp. is known to contain many secondary metabolites, but fatty acid derivatives have rarely been found. In this study, four new fatty acid derivatives (1–4), together with four known compounds (5–8), were isolated from Diaporthe sp., which was obtained from the stem of Ligularia fischeri. The absolute configurations of the new compounds 1–4 were deduced based on spectroscopic technique and J-based coupling constant analysis. Moreover, compound 1 exhibited cytotoxic activities against HCT-8 and MCF-7 cancer cells, and compounds 3 and 4 showed modest selectivity for HCT-8 cells by MTT assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Andai therapy is a traditional therapy combining body, mind, and language with Mongolian characteristics. In the form of singing and dancing, it is widely popular among people of all ages in Mongolian areas of Inner Mongolia. According to Mongolian medicine, Heyi is one of the three elements of human body, and it can maintain life activities, promote blood circulation, and improve the functions of the sensory and mental consciousness. Andai therapy stimulates the whole body nerves and Heyi through music and dance, improves Heyi and blood operation, strengthens physique, improves immunity, effectively promotes physical and mental health, and plays a role in preventing and treating diseases. Objective. In this study, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to explore the mechanism of Andai therapy, so as to provide a new research direction for taking targeted prevention and treatment measures for diseases. Methods. Using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) on all its cases baseline plasma to the targeted metabonomics testing, the differential metabolites of the experimental group (receiving Andai therapy) and control group (without receiving Andai therapy), analysis-related metabolite function, and screening of metabolites and related pathways through adjusting mechanism to explore the related factors are compared, to study the mechanism of the influence of Mongolian medical Andai therapy on the metabolism of different healthy people. Results. The differences in metabolic numbers between the experimental group and the control group are 114, such as cyclohexylamine chlorinated acid, 2,4-2 aminobutyric acid bitter almond alcohol, l-methyl inosine, 2-picolinate, and 2-hydroxy-2-glutaric acid metabolite content of the control group that are significantly higher than the experimental group, experimental group's other substance content is significantly higher than that of the control group, and two groups' metabolite content was obviously different. The number of differential metabolites between the female experimental group and the female control group was 119, and the number of differential metabolites between the male experimental group and the male control group was 48. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Shuang Huang Lian (SHL) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula made from Lonicerae Japonicae Flos, Forsythiae Fructus, and Scutellariae Radix. Despite the widespread use of SHL in clinical practice for treating upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), the complete component fingerprint and the pharmacologically active components in the SHL formula remain unclear. The objective of this study was to develop an untargeted metabolomics method for component identification, quantitation, pattern recognition, and cross-comparison of various SHL preparation forms (i.e., granule, oral liquid, and tablet). Methods: Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography and quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QTOF-MS/MS) together with bioinformatics were used for chemical profiling, identification, and quantitation of SHL. Multivariate data analyses such as principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) were performed to assess the correlations among the three SHL preparation forms and the reproducibility of the technical and biological replicates. Results: A UHPLC-QTOF-MS/MS-based untargeted metabolomics method was developed and applied to analyze three SHL preparation forms, consisting of 178 to 216 molecular features. Among the 95 common molecular features from the three SHL preparation forms, quantitative analysis was performed using a single exogenous reference internal standard. Forty-seven of the 95 common molecular features have been identified using various databases. Among the 47 common components, there were 17 flavonoids, 7 oligopeptides, 5 terpenoids, 2 glycosides, 2 cyclohexanecarboxylic acids, 2 spiro compounds, 2 lipids, 2 glycosylglycerol derivatives, and 8 various compounds such as alkyl caffeate ester, aromatic ketone, benzaldehyde, benzodioxole, benzofuran, chalcone, hydroxycoumarin, and purine nucleoside. Five of the 47 common components were designated by the Chinese Pharmacopoeia as the quality markers of medicinal plants of SHL, and 15 were previously reported to have pharmacological activities. Distinct patterns of the three SHL preparation forms were observed in the PCA and PLS-DA plots. Conclusions: The developed method is reliable and reproducible, which is useful for the profiling, component identification, quantitation, quality assessment of various SHL preparation forms and may apply to the analysis of other TCM formulas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pheretima has been used as an animal-derived traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years in Asian countries due to its multi-activities. However, more than half of the commercial Pheretima are adulterants according to the previous research. Besides, the standards of Pheretima are still inadequate in the identification of Pheretima species. In this study, an amino acids (AAs) analytical method established based on the ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UPLC-QqQ-MS) in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode through derivatization with 9-fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl chloride (Fmoc-Cl) was used for qualitative and quantitative analysis of the total AAs of three main commercial Pheretima (two major Pheretima species, Amynthas aspergillum, Metaphire vulgaris, and one main counterfeit, M. magna). As a result, 16 AAs were detected and quantitated in their hydrolyzed samples. Then, multivariate statistical analysis was applied to distinguish the three commercial Pheretima based on their AAs level. Finally, four AAs (Thr, Glu, Asp, and Arg) were screened as species-differential AAs, which may be used as chemical markers to distinguish the three commercial Pheretima. This study deeply described the outline of AAs in Pheretima and offered a good reference for its species authentication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Qi-Fu-Yin, a traditional Chinese medicine formula, has been used to treat Alzheimer's disease (AD, a neurodegenerative disorder) in clinical setting. In this study, the chemical components of Qi-Fu-Yin and its prototype components and metabolites in rat plasma and cerebrospinal fluid, after oral administration, were preliminarily characterized via ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS). A total of 180 compounds, including saponins, flavonoids, organic acids, sucrose esters, oligosaccharide esters, phthalides, phenylethanoid glycosides, alkaloids, xanthones, terpene lactones, ionones, and iridoid glycoside, were tentatively characterized. For the first time, 51 prototypical components and 26 metabolites, including saponins, phthalides, flavonoids, sucrose esters, organic acids, alkaloids, ionones, terpene lactones, iridoid glycoside, and their derivatives, have been tentatively identified in the plasma. Furthermore, 10 prototypical components (including butylidenephthalide, butylphthalide, 20(S)-ginsenoside Rh1, 20(R)-ginsenoside Rh1, and zingibroside R1) and 6 metabolites were preliminarily characterized in cerebrospinal fluid. These results were beneficial to the discovery of the active components of Qi-Fu-Yin anti-AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Isopimaric acid (IPA) exhibits a diverse array of pharmacological activities, having been shown to function as an antihypertensive, antitumor, antibacterial, and hypocholesterolemic agent. However, few studies of the pharmacokinetics of IPA have been performed to date, and such analyses are essential to explore the in vivo mechanisms governing the biological activity of this compound. As such, we herein designed a selective LC-MS approach capable of quantifying serum IPA levels in model rats using an Agilent HC-C18 column (250 mm × 4.6 mm , 5 μm) via isocratic elution with a mobile phase composed of methanol 0.5% formic acid (91 : 9, v/v) at a 1 mL/min flow rate. Ion monitoring at m/z 301.2 [M-H]- was used to quantify IPA levels in plasma samples from these rats, while internal standard (IS) levels were assessed at m/z 455.3 [M-H]-. After validation, this approach was employed to conduct a pharmacokinetic analysis of rats administered IPA via the oral (p.o. 50, 100, or 200 mg/kg) and intravenous (i.v. 5 mg/kg) routes. Analyses of noncompartmental pharmacokinetic parameters revealed that IPA underwent secondary absorption following oral administration to these animals, with the two tested oral doses (50 and 100 mg/kg) being associated with respective absolute bioavailability values of 11.9% and 17.5%. In summary, this study may provide a foundation for future efforts to explore the mechanistic basis for the pharmacological activity of IPA, offering insights to guide its subsequent clinical utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study profiled the volatiles in Mentha longifolia, M. piperita and M. spicata and examined the effect of plant growth regulators (PGRs) - IAA, NaDK and SA on the modulations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in M. spicata. GC-MS was used to analyze and identify the compounds in hexane extractions from the selected Mentha sp. Sixteen metabolites belonging to monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, esters, ethers, ketones, phenols and carbobicyclic compounds were detected. Some important metabolites viz., β-pinene, 1,8-cineol, 1,4-benzenediol, 2,5-dimethyl-, (Z)-β–caryophyllene, cis-β-farnesene, cis-muurola-4 (14),5-diene, germacrene D were found which increased in their relative concentrations compared to control after PGRs treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent works have established bio-based carboxylic acids as adaptable precursors to renewable biofuels and chemicals. However, the separation of carboxylic acids is a major energy and cost driver, accounting for 20–40% of the entire processing cost. Improved downstream separation technologies that reduce operating costs compared to conventional approaches are needed, particularly to enable bio-based commodity fuels and chemicals. Here, we combine techno-economic analysis (TEA) and an energy and environmental assessment with experimental results to compare weak-base adsorption (WBA) processes with the conventional strong ion exchange (IX) process for the recovery of the exemplary product, butyric acid. TEA indicates that WBA has the potential to reduce operating expenses from 34% to 6% relative to the selling price of butyric acid ($1.8 kg−1). Our energy analysis shows that the WBA process has 12.2-fold energy reduction and 9.2-fold GHG emission reduction compared to the conventional IX process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cucurbita maxima belong to the genus Cucurbita and are of nutritional and economic importance. Physiological activity, transcriptome, and metabolome analyses of leaf samples from the C. maxima inbreding line IL7 treated at 5 °C and 25 °C were performed. Cold stress resulted in a significant increase in the malondialdehyde content, relative electrical conductivity, soluble protein, sugar content, and catalase activity. A total of 5,553 differentially expressed genes were identified, of which 2,871 were up-regulated and 2,682 down-regulated. In addition, the transcription of differentially expressed genes in the plant hormone signal transduction pathway and transcription factor families of AP2/ERF, bHLH, WRKY, MYB, and HSF was activated. Moreover, 114 differentially expressed metabolites were identified by gas chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry, particularly through the analysis of carboxylic acids and derivatives, and organooxygen compounds. The demonstration of a series of potential metabolites and corresponding genes highlighted a comprehensive regulatory mechanism. These findings will provide novel insights into the molecular mechanisms associated with the response to cold stress in C. maxima. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last few decades, the interest in the synthesis and development of novel biobased polymers with interesting properties, able to compete with the existing petroleum-based polymers, has grown exponentially. 2,5-Furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) is among the most studied biobased monomers and is currently the only aromatic one, when aromaticity is mandatory to obtain polymers with superior properties. However, furan-based polyesters are mainly prepared from 2,5-dimethyl furandicarboxylate (DMFD), by transesterification, adding a supplementary step in the synthesis and an extra barrier towards industrialization. Herein, we present the study of the polymerization of high-purity FDCA with EG using two different antimony catalysts (antimony oxide, Sb2O3, and antimony acetate, Sb(CH3COO)3) and different esterification and polycondensation temperatures by the traditional two-step polycondensation method. Each step was monitored by suitable characterization techniques, such as intrinsic viscosity measurements, carboxylic acid end-group analysis, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, infra-red spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry. Additionally, for the first time, liquid chromatography (LC) coupled with high resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) was used in the study of FDCA polymerization. PEF oligomers produced during the esterification step were precisely identified by HRMS, providing new insights into the evolution of this step. Finally, theoretical studies were conducted to model the kinetics of the polymerization of PEF during both esterification and polycondensation stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, different pretreatment strategies of sugarcane bagasse prior to citric acid modification were investigated in terms of Pb2+ adsorption capacity. Pretreatment strategies included the use of NaOH, HCl, and C2H5OH in various concentrations. In order to fundamentally understand how these pretreatment methods affect the modification of sugarcane bagasse by citric acid as well as the Pb2+ adsorption capacity of sugarcane bagasse, three main components of sugarcane bagasse namely cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin were isolated and esterified by citric acid under the same conditions. ATR-FTIR, XPS, SEM, and an analysis of the number of carboxylic acid groups were used to investigate the physicochemical and chemical properties of the materials. These three components were proved to participate in adsorption and induce the esterification with citric acid. Hence, pretreatment with ethanol and 0.01 M NaOH which could retain cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin in sugarcane bagasse achieved a high Pb2+ adsorption capacity, i.e., 122.4 and 97 mg/g after the esterification with citric acid. In contrast, pretreatment with 0.5 M NaOH and 0.1 M HCl removed lignin and hemicellulose, leading to the lowest value of approximately 45 mg/g for citric acid esterified-pretreated sugarcane bagasse. XPS analysis and number of carboxylic group measurement confirmed the esterification between bagasse and citric acid. To understand the adsorption mechanism of adsorbent, two kinetic models including pseudo-first-order model and pseudo-second-order model were applied. The experimental data were well described by the pseudo-second-order model. The adsorption isotherm data were fitted Langmuir and Freundlich. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a group of endopeptidases renowned for their ability to degrade the extracellular matrix (ECM) and contribute in different physiological processes. Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) is a member of this zinc-dependent family of peptidases which also contributes to several pathophysiological disorders including a wide variety of cancer and tumor conditions besides the normal physiological processes. Thus, the development of MMP-9 inhibitors has always been an important target for combating the disorders related to it. Meanwhile, the aryl sulfonamide moiety is one of the structural attributes which can be found frequently in many MMP-9 inhibitors. Additionally, the carboxylic acid group is an interesting zinc-binding group (ZBG) which is able to deliver good chelation with the catalytic zinc of the metalloproteinases. In this study, different molecular modeling approaches were undertaken for a set of diverse MMP-9 inhibitors, containing an arylsulfonamide moiety and a carboxylic acid group in order to identify the structural features contributing toward their activity variation. From this study, the importance of structural features including tetrazole, biphenyl, and carboxamide moieties as well as fundamental molecular properties like molecular weight, number of rings, and hydrogen bond acceptors for their MMP-9 inhibition was observed which will be helpful for further development the MMP-9 inhibitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: Direct non-derivatization analysis of organic acids and acidic compounds by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry (MS) in positive ion mode is not always possible due to the low ionization efficiency of analytes. Some new efficient deprotonating matrices were suggested that allowed the production of negative ions from acidic compounds during MALDI-MS experiments. Methods: Various tested carboxyl-containing compounds as well as compounds with acidic properties were mixed with the suggested deprotonating matrices [4-dimethylaminobenzaldehyde (DMABA), N,N-dimethylamino-p-phenylenediamine or 3-aminoquinoline] and applied on a standard MALDI target followed by recording MALDI mass spectra in negative ion mode. Results: All the tested acidic compounds mixed with the suggested deprotonating matrices produced abundant [M - H]- ions under MALDI conditions. DMABA produced the strongest signals reflecting greater sensitivity of analysis. Conclusions: The suggested deprotonating matrices are commercially available compounds and are good alternatives to well-known matrices of this kind and, in particular, the often used 9-aminoacridine. DMABA is the best of the tested potential matrices and is suitable for the detection of low molecular weight carboxylcontaining compounds, substituted phenols, and mixtures of naphthenic acids by (-) MALDI-MS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new alkaloids (1,2) and one new enoic acid (3), together with three known piericidins (4-6), were isolated from the liquid fermentation of the salt lake derived Streptomyces sp. QHA10. The structures of 1-3 were elucidated based on extensive spectroscopic data (NMR, HRESIMS) as well as single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Compound 3 showed potential anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting the production of nitric oxide (NO) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 mouse macrophages with the IC50 value of 24.5 μM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Saliva is the 1st defense fluid with sialic acid is a significant salivary biomarker. It is an acidic sugar with a nine-carbon backbone, able to mediate a wide variety of patho-physiological processes. the study aims at estimate salivary sialic acid in Iraqi children sample and also find out their association with oral health status. Method: Unstimulated salivary samples were collected from 100 healthy child, aged 6-13 years for 5-minutes, between 9:00 - 11:00 A.M. gingival index(GI) and Plaque index were measured. According to WHO criteria, the dentition status was examined by dmfs, dmft, DMFS and DMFT. Also, flow rate and the level of salivary sialic acid were estimated. Results: In the present study, a positive correlation coefficient is recorded between the salivary flow rate and age and statistically reach the level of significance. Sialic acid concentration increased with age, but did not reach the level of significant. A male gender showed increase salivary sialic acid level by 0.2 U/L compared to female, but fail to reach the significance GI and DMFs showed a positive association with sialic acid level (R=0.036, R= 0.0053), but it's not reach the significant. While sialic acid level observed that a significant weak inverse liner correlation with other variables like DMFS and PI, (R= -0.082, R= -0.066) The outcomes were exposed to t-test and Pearson's correlation coefficient, Plaque index, GI, flow rate and the dental caries status were significantly positive correlated with the sialic acid levels in saliva. Conclusion: The salivary factors evaluated in this study may prove to be useful measures for gingival inflammation in children and allow pediatric dentists to target preventive measures appropriately. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fulvic acid (FA), a humic substance, has several nutraceutical properties, including anti-inflammation, antimicrobial, and immune regulation abilities. However, systematic safety assessment remains insufficient. In the present study, a battery of toxicological studies was conducted per internationally accepted standards to investigate the genotoxicity and repeated-dose oral toxicity of FA. Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats or ICR mice were used. Compared to the control group, there were no significant changes (all p > 0.05) in all FA treatment groups in the bacterial reverse mutation test, in vitro mammalian chromosome aberration test, in vivo sperm shape abnormality assay, and in vivo mouse micronucleus assay. The acute toxicity test showed that no mortality or toxic effect was observed following oral administration of the maximum dose of 5,000 mg/kg BW/day to mice or rats. A 60-day subchronic study was conducted at 0 (control), 200, 1,000, and 5,000 mg/kg/day. Compared to the control group, there were no significant changes (all p > 0.05) in the body weights, feed consumption, clinical signs, hematology, clinical chemistry, organ weights, or histopathology examinations. In conclusion, the no-observed-adverse-effect-level (NOAEL) of FA supplementation from the 60-day study was determined to be 5,000 mg/kg body weight/day, the highest dose tested. Our findings suggest that the oral administration of FA may have higher safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Venoms of social wasps have in their composition proteins, peptides, among others and several of these compounds were evaluated for their function in the venom, however, there is still no study of the quantification of free amino acids of venom of social wasps. The peptides and proteins of the venom can originate in the medium amino acids or other molecules by the rupture of the peptide bonds. Therefore, the objective was evaluated the composition of the free amino acid in venom of the social wasp Polistes lanio and validated a method for free amino acids analysis using different forms of preservation of this venom. For this, the venom of P. lanio was analyzed direct and partitioned (liquid-liquid with organic solvents) by High Performance Liquid Chromatography. For validation of the amino acids, parameters as linearity, stability and recovery of the assay method were evaluated by the analyzing it fresh or frozen, and before or after extraction with organic solvents. The free amino acids were recovered from these samples at rates ranging from 93.2- 99.0%. The data obtained indicate that the freezing, storage and extraction with organic solvents does not lead to an increase in the amino acids content of proteins and peptides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pyroglutamic acidosis is a rare cause of high anion gap metabolic acidosis. Most cases of paracetamol related pyroglutamic acidosis are described in malnourished women and patients with kidney/liver failure, alcohol use or severe sepsis. In this report, we describe how pyroglutamic acidosis could be related to the use of chronic therapeutic paracetamol with only malnutrition as an associated risk factor. Case presentation: We report a case of a 67-year-old male patient developing a pyroglutamic acidosis. The patient was initially admitted to hospital for infectious osteoarthritis and developed a metabolic acidosis during his hospital stay. Analgesics included daily therapeutic doses of paracetamol. What makes our case unusual is that our malnourished male patient did not have renal or hepatic failure. The diagnosis of paracetamol related pyroglutamic acidosis was made after ruling out the main causes of metabolic acidosis. It was further confirmed by urine organic acids measurement showing a markedly elevated level of pyroglutamic aciduria. Paracetamol was discontinued allowing a prompt correction of the anion gap. Conclusion: This case is a representative of pyroglutamic acidosis related to chronic therapeutic paracetamol with only malnutrition as an associated risk factor. Physicians should be aware of such unusual cause of metabolic acidosis, which may be more common than expected in hospitalized patients. A high clinical suspicion is needed when urine organic acids analysis is not available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the recent global surge in Legionnaires' disease cases, the monitoring of Legionella pneumophila becomes increasingly crucial. Epidemiological cases often stem from local outbreaks rather than widespread dissemination, emphasizing the need to study the characteristics of this pathogen at a local level. This study focuses on isolates of L. pneumophila in the Italian region of Friuli Venezia Giulia to assess specific genotype and phenotype distribution over time and space. To this end, a total of 127 L. pneumophila strains isolated between 2005 and 2017 within national surveillance programs were analysed. Rep-PCR, RAPD, and Sau-PCR were used for genotypic characterization, while phenotypic characterization was conducted through fatty acids analysis. RAPD and Sau-PCR effectively assessed genetic characteristics, identifying different profiles for the isolates and excluding the presence of clones. Although Sau-PCR is rarely used to analyse this pathogen, it emerged as the most discriminatory technique. Phenotypically, hierarchical cluster analysis categorized strains into three groups based on varying membrane fatty acid percentages. However, both phenotypic and genotypic analyses revealed a ubiquitous profile distribution at a regional level. These results suggest an absence of correlations between strain profiles, geographical location, and isolation time, indicating instead high variability and strain dissemination within this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fatty acid levels of two edible and medicinal species: Delonix regia and Tetrapleura tetraptera seeds flour were investigated using standard analytical techniques. Among the saturated fatty acids (SFA), palmitic acid (17.2-49.4%) had the highest concentration in both samples. Oleic acid (19.7-21.0%) was most abundant among the mono-unsaturated fatty acids (MUFA). In both samples, palmitoleic acid recorded 0.00% concentration, whilst margaric acid (0.001-0.060%), lignoceric acid (0.001-0.079%) and arachidonic acid (0.065-0.080%) were found in trace amounts. Both samples were high in total poly-unsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) (26.9-42.7%). MUFA/SFA was less than 1.00 in both samples (0.375-0.584); PUFA/SFA was 1.18 (Delonix regia) and 0.507 (Tetrapleura tetraptera). Total unsaturated fatty acid (TUFA) (63.8%) was higher than total SFA(36.1%) in Delonix regia. In Tetrapleura tetraptera, SFA (53.1%) was more than TUFA (46.8%). 2n-6/3n-3 were high at 59.9 (Delonix regia) and 536 (Tetrapleura tetraptera). The correlation coefficient of the fatty acids was positively high and significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared to healthy pregnant women, changes in erythrocytic membrane anionic charge (EAC) and urinary glycosaminoglycans (UGAGS) have been reported in African women with preeclampsia. A single previous study showed a decrease in erythrocytic membrane sialic acid (EMSA) in preeclampsia compared to healthy pregnancy; however, EMSA was not significantly different between women with preeclampsia and non-pregnant women. No study has focused on the relationships between EAC, EMSA, and UGAGS in preeclampsia and eclampsia compared to healthy pregnant and non-pregnant women of reproductive age. Moreover, the erythrocyte membrane contains sialoglycoproteins and proteoglycans involved in creating the negatively charged cell surface, disruption of which leads to erythrocyte aggregation seen in preeclampsia/eclampsia. However, the etiopathogenesis of preeclampsia and eclampsia remains unclear. Therefore, we evaluated the relationship between EAC, UGAGS, and EMSA in preeclampsia and eclampsia. Three groups of 30 women each were enrolled: Group A (non-pregnant women), Group B (healthy pregnant women without complications), and Group C (women with preeclampsia/eclampsia). EMSA was diminished under oxidative stress prevalent in eclampsia and preeclampsia which might have caused a decreased EAC. EAC was negatively correlated with UGAGS and positively correlated with EMSA (p < .001). EMSA was negatively correlated with UGAGS (p < .001). In conclusion, a loss of sialic acid from the erythrocyte membrane causes a significant decrease in the EAC which mirrors the decrease in the negative charge of the renal glomerular basement membrane and might lead to proteinuria and increased UGAGS excretion in preeclampsia and eclampsia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carpobrotus edulis (L.) is a plant commonly found in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa and is used for the general treatment of infections relating to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV-1 protease plays an important role during HIV replication and maturation to its infectious form, and therefore inhibition of the enzyme is one of the main focus areas in drug development. The inhibitory effect of a water extract of C. edulis leaves against HIV-1 protease activity was determined using the SensoLyte® 520 HIV-1 protease assay fluorimetric kit and employing a HiLyte Fluor™488/QXL™520 fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) peptide. Cytotoxicity of the extract towards HeLa Chang cell lines was determined using an in vitro MTT assay, and the phytochemical profile of the extract was determined with FT-IR and LC-MS. HIV-1 protease activity was inhibited 83.06% (IC50 1.6 mg/ml) (p < 0.0001) by the pepstatin A inhibitor control. Treatment with all C. edulis extract concentrations (16, 1.6, 0.16, and 0.016 mg/ml) inhibited HIV-1 protease activity significantly (p < 0.0001) in a typical dose response manner. With regards to cytotoxicity, the negative controls containing untreated HeLa Chang cells exhibited high formazan formation rates in contrast with the positive controls, containing curcumin, which reduced formazan formation significantly (p < 0.001), exhibiting cytotoxicity towards the cells. There was no significant (p > 0.05) difference in the formazan formation rates between the negative controls and 1, 0.5, 0.125, 0.065, 0.031, and 0.015 mg/ml plant extract, confirming no toxicity of C. edulis extracts towards HeLa Chang cells. Major functional phytochemical compounds identified included alcohols, phenols, alkanes, amines, carboxylic acids, and esters. LC-ESI-TOF/MS analysis revealed the putative identities of main compounds present in the aqueous leaves extract, including some that contribute to its anti-HIV-1 protease action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field and pot experiments were conducted at College of Agriculture, Indore to asses suitable method for P availability in relation to soybean rhizosphere point of view. The yield of soybean seed and uptake of phosphorus under medium phosphorus status Vertisols found non-significant to applied P levels. The better correlation coefficient was found for Bray 2 (r²=0.829) than Olsen (r²=0.490) method therefore, Bray 2 soil test method was adjusted to be the better method for assessing the phosphorus status in Vertisols. Phosphorus can be solublized from the Ca-P inorganic phosphorus fraction by acidification of rhizosphere, as a result of excretion of organic acids and H+ from roots. Among the different inorganic P fractions of Vertisol Ca-P was the most important P fraction for P nutrition of soybean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Statement of the Problem: Recently, new compound of 3, 5-dimethyl-1-thiocarboxamide pyrazole has been composed with excellent antibacterial property. Biocompatibility and its effects on mechanical properties of dental composites should be considered before clinical use. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the biocompatibility of 3, 5-dimethyl-1- thiocarboxamide pyrazole as a new antibacterial compound and its effect on the mechanical properties of dental composites. Materials and Method: In this experimental study, a new antibacterial compound was synthesis by reaction between Thiosemicarbazide and 2, 4-Pentandione and tested on thirty male albino Wistar rats weighting 200-250gr. Rats were randomly divided into 3 groups of 10, each rat received 3 implants of 3,5-dimethyl-1-thiocarboxamide pyrazole, penicillin v and empty polyethylene tube. A pathologist, who was unaware of types of tested materials and timing, performed the examination of specimens. The depth of cure and flexural strength of resin composite was measured using Iso4049 standard technique. Compressive strength was determined according to Iso9917 standard. Results: This compound was biocompatible and there was no significant difference in flexural strength and compressive strength of the composites containing 1% of this compound with the control group (p> 0.05). Conclusion: The 3, 5-dimethyl-1-thiocarboxamide pyrazole with a concentration of 1% in flowable composites can be very effective in preventing secondary caries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the combined effect of fermentation parameters and enhance the production of cellular biomass and antibacterial compounds from Paludifilum halophilum SMBg3 using the response surface methodology (RSM). Eight variables were screened to assess the effects of fermentation parameters on growth and metabolite production by Taguchi experimental design. Among these, the initial pH, temperature, and the percentage of MgSO4·7H2O in the medium were found to be most influential. The Box–Behnken design was applied to derive a statistical model for the optimization of these three fermentation parameters. The optimal parameters were initial pH: 8.3, temperature growth: 44°C, and MgSO4·7H2O: 1.6%, respectively. The maximum yield of biomass and metabolite production were, respectively, 11 mg/mL dry weight and 15.5 mm inhibition zone diameter against Salmonella enterica, which were in agreement with predicted values. The bioactive compounds were separated by the thick-layer chromatography technique and analyzed by GC/MS, NMR (1D and 2D), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). In addition to several fatty acids, N-(1-carboxy-ethyl)-phthalamic acid was identified as the main antibacterial compound. This element exhibited a potent activity against the ciprofloxacin-resistant Salmonella enterica CIP 8039 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 9027 with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value range of 12.5–25 μg/mL. Results demonstrated that P. halophilum strain SMBg3 is a promising resource for novel antibacterial production due to its high-level yield potential and the capacity for large-scale fermentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is no uniform definition for cerebral microdialysis (CMD) probe location with respect to focal brain lesions, and the impact of CMD-probe location on measured molecule concentrations is unclear.Methods: We retrospectively analyzed data of 51 consecutive subarachnoid hemorrhage patients with CMD-monitoring between 2010 and 2016 included in a prospective observational cohort study. Microdialysis probe location was assessed on all brain computed tomography (CT) scans performed during CMD-monitoring and defined as perilesional in the presence of a focal hypodense or hyperdense lesion within a 1-cm radius of the gold tip of the CMD-probe, or otherwise as normal-appearing brain tissue.Results: Probe location was detected in normal-appearing brain tissue on 53/143 (37%) and in perilesional location on 90/143 (63%) CT scans. In the perilesional area, CMD-glucose levels were lower (p = 0.003), whereas CMD-lactate (p = 0.002), CMD-lactate-to-pyruvate-ratio (LPR; p < 0.001), CMD-glutamate (p = 0.002), and CMD-glycerol levels (p < 0.001) were higher. Neuroglucopenia (CMD-glucose < 0.7 mmol/l, p = 0.002), metabolic distress (p = 0.002), and mitochondrial dysfunction (p = 0.005) were more common in perilesional compared to normal-appearing brain tissue. Development of new lesions in the proximity of the CMD-probe (n = 13) was associated with a decrease in CMD-glucose levels, evidence of neuroglucopenia, metabolic distress, as well as increasing CMD-glutamate and CMD-glycerol levels. Neuroglucopenia was associated with poor outcome independent of probe location, whereas elevated CMD-lactate, CMD-LPR, CMD-glutamate, and CMD-glycerol levels were only predictive of poor outcome in normal-appearing brain tissue.Conclusions: Focal brain lesions significantly impact on concentrations of brain metabolites assessed by CMD. With the exception of CMD-glucose, the prognostic value of CMD-derived parameters seems to be higher when assessed in normal-appearing brain tissue. CMD was sensitive to detect the development of new focal lesions in vicinity to the neuromonitoring probe. Probe location should be described in the research reporting brain metabolic changes measured by CMD and integrated in statistical models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) is a potentially life-threatening metabolic disorder caused by decreased activity of the branched-chain α-ketoacid dehydrogenase (BCKD) complex. Mutations in four genes (BCKDHA, BCKDHB, DLD and DBT) are associated with MSUD. Here, the presenting symptoms and clinical course of a case of MSUD with a novel DBT gene mutation are described.Case Presentation: We describe an infant with MSUD with the DBT gene mutation who had drowsiness and poor appetite as well as abnormal findings upon head magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), plasma amino acid analysis and urine organic acid analysis. Genetic testing revealed that both parents had the heterozygous mutation c.1132C > T (p.378X) in chr1:100672078, and the patient had the homozygous mutations c.1132C > T (p.378X) in chr1:100672078. Once diagnosed with MSUD, the patient's disease was controlled with a diet of BCAA-free enteral formula and thiamine.Conclusion: The mutation c.1132C > T (p.378X) is a novel DBT gene mutation that is associated with MSUD and always has mild clinical manifestations. After timely BCAA-free nutrition and supplementation with thiamine for the patient, the plasma levels of BCAAs reached a safe level, the abnormal range of the multiple intracranial abnormalities was significantly smaller than before, and the symptoms of drowsiness and poor appetite disappeared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria (L2HGA), which is a rare autosomal recessive metabolic disorder caused by mutations in the encoding L2HGDH gene. Neurological symptoms are the main predominant clinical signs. The distinctive feature is the specific multifocal lesion of the white matter detected on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A 7-year-old male patient of Turkish origin was admitted to the hospital because of hand tremors. Physical examination revealed macrocephaly, intention tremors, walking disability and ataxic gait. Urine organic acid analysis showed increased excretion of L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid (L2HG acid). Analysis of the L2HGDH gene revealed a novel homozygous c.368A>G, p. (Tyr123Cys) mutation. L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria is a cerebral organic aciduria that may lead to various neurological complications. Early recognition of symptoms of L2HGA is important for initiation of supportive therapy that may slow down the progression of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To describe and distinguish clinical phenotypes with the overlapping feature of optic atrophy caused by distinct mutations in the same gene, OPA3. We report 3 affected siblings in a consanguineous family harboring a novel OPA3 mutation causing 3-methylglutaconic aciduria type III with optic atrophy. Methods: Retrospective case series. Results: Three siblings (2 male, 1 female) among 6 children in a consanguineous Afghani family developed decreased vision from early childhood. Both parents and all extended family members were unaffected. All 3 affected siblings suffered from severe visual impairment ranging from visual acuities of 20/150 to counting fingers. All had spastic lower extremity weakness and ataxia. Two of the three affected siblings also had a history of seizures, and the female sibling had limited cognition with diffuse atrophic changes on brain MRI. Two of the three individuals also had migraine-like headaches. Urine organic acid analysis revealed mildly elevated 3-methylglutaconic acid for the male siblings. Whole exome sequencing and subsequent PCR confirmation revealed a novel variant in OPA3 (intron1, c.142 + 2_142 + 3dupTG), affecting the consensus sequence of the splice site, for which all 3 clinically affected siblings were homozygous. Discussion: Mutations in OPA3 can cause optic atrophy in a dominant pattern of inheritance associated with cataract or in a recessive pattern associated with spastic paresis and ataxia. The novel recessive mutation and clinical presentations described herein further support how different mutation types affecting OPA3 can produce distinct clinical phenotypes and underscore the critical and susceptible role of mitochondrial health in optic nerve function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]