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Innate immune defense mechanisms against infection and cancer encompass the modulation of pattern recognition receptor (PRR)‐mediated inflammation, including upregulation of various transcription factors and the activation of pro‐inflammatory pathways important for immune surveillance. Dysfunction of PRRs‐mediated signaling has been implicated in cancer and autoimmune diseases, while the overactivation of PRRs‐driven responses during infection can lead to devastating consequences such as acute lung injury or sepsis. We used crystal structure‐based design to develop immunomodulatory lipopolysaccharide (LPS) mimetics targeting one of the ubiquitous PRRs, Toll‐like Receptor 4 (TLR4). Taking advantage of an exo‐anomeric conformation and specific molecular shape of synthetic nonreducing β,β‐diglucosamine, which was investigated by NMR, we developed two sets of lipid A mimicking glycolipids capable of either potently activating innate immune responses or inhibiting pro‐inflammatory signaling. Stereoselective 1,1′‐glycosylation towards fully orthogonally protected nonreducing GlcNβ(1↔1′)βGlcN followed by stepwise assembly of differently functionalised phosphorylated glycolipids provided biologically active molecules that were evaluated for their ability to trigger or to inhibit cellular innate immune responses. Two LPS mimetics, identified as potent TLR4‐specific inducers of the intracellular signaling pathways, serve as vaccine adjuvant‐ and immunotherapy candidates, while anionic glycolipids with TLR4‐inhibitory potential hold therapeutic promise for the management of acute or chronic inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we describe a simple and efficient pathway for the total synthesis of pyranicin and 4‐epi‐pyranicin by utilizing carbohydrates as chiral raw materials for the first time. The general synthetic strategy involves the formation of two main fragments: Fragment 1 is the central tetrahydropyran core, which was constructed in a total of 10 steps from 2,3,4,6‐tetra‐O‐acetyl D‐glucal via Ferrier‐type rearrangement and oxidative cyclization as the key steps. Fragment 2 is the butenolide fragment, which was obtained in a gram scale with a total of 14 steps from diacetyl‐L‐rhamnal involving a ring contraction strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A de novo asymmetric strategy for the synthesis of d‐bradyrhizose diastereomers from an achiral ketoenolester precursor is described. Key transformations used in the stereodivergent approach include two Noyori asymmetric reductions, an Achmatowicz rearrangement, diastereoselective alkene oxidations, and the first example of a palladium(0)‐catalyzed glycosylation of a vinylogous pyranone. The isomeric composition of the bicyclic reducing sugars obtained was analyzed and their behaviour was compared to the natural product, revealing key stereocentres that impact the overall distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yield of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) does not always fall with high temperature (HT) even though this induces significant reductions in fruit retention. To investigate the underlying mechanisms, a greenhouse experiment was conducted with two temperature regimes [control treatment, 28 °C; high temperature (HT), 34 °C] for 7 d. Results showed HT did not significantly influence cotton yield, but reduced boll number and increased boll weight. The 13C distribution ratio of the leaf subtending the cotton boll (LSCB) decreased while that of the cotton boll increased under HT. Transcriptomic and proteomic analyses of the LSCB revealed up-regulated genes involved in cytokinin and jasmonic acid synthesis, as well as SWEET15 (GH_D01G0218), which positively regulated photosynthesis and transport photosynthate, ultimately leading to increased boll weight. After 7 d recovery from HT, the 13C distribution ratio of the LSCB increased while that of the cotton boll decreased. However, boll weight still increased, which was related to increased amylase and sucrose phosphate synthase activities and up-regulated sucrose transport genes in the main-stem leaf and capsule wall. Thus, both accelerated sucrose synthesis and transport in the LSCB under HT and increased sucrose supply ability of the main-stem leaf and capsule wall after recovery from HT contributed to an increased boll weight, which finally maintained cotton yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mounting evidence links glucose intolerance and diabetes as aspects of metabolic dysregulation that are associated with an increased risk of developing dementia. Inflammation and inflammasome activation have emerged as a potential link between these disparate pathologies. As diet is a key factor in both the development of metabolic disorders and inflammation, we hypothesize that long term changes in dietary factors can influence nervous system function by regulating inflammasome activity and that this phenotype would be sex-dependent, as sex hormones are known to regulate metabolism and immune processes. Methods: 5-week-old male and female transgenic mice expressing a caspase-1 bioluminescent reporter underwent cranial window surgeries and were fed control (65% complex carbohydrates, 15% fat), high glycemic index (65% carbohydrates from sucrose, 15% fat), or ketogenic (1% complex carbohydrates, 79% fat) diet from 6 to 26 weeks of age. Glucose regulation was assessed with a glucose tolerance test following a 4-h morning fast. Bioluminescence in the brain was quantified using IVIS in vivo imaging. Blood cytokine levels were measured using cytokine bead array. 16S ribosomal RNA gene amplicon sequencing of mouse feces was performed to assess alterations in the gut microbiome. Behavior associated with these dietary changes was also evaluated. Results: The ketogenic diet caused weight gain and glucose intolerance in both male and female mice. In male mice, the high glycemic diet led to increased caspase-1 biosensor activation over the course of the study, while in females the ketogenic diet drove an increase in biosensor activation compared to their respective controls. These changes correlated with an increase in inflammatory cytokines present in the serum of test mice and the emergence of anxiety-like behavior. The microbiome composition differed significantly between diets; however no significant link between diet, glucose tolerance, or caspase-1 signal was established. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that diet composition, specifically the source and quantity of carbohydrates, has sex-specific effects on inflammasome activation in the central nervous system and behavior. This phenotype manifested as increased anxiety in male mice, and future studies are needed to determine if this phenotype is linked to alterations in microbiome composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pecan (Carya illinoensis), an economically important deciduous tree, bears commercially valuable nutritional nuts. Spring freezes in April can severely injure pecan buds, decreasing bloom, and fruit set. This study determined how low temperatures affect pecan buds/flowers at different growth stages in several pecan scion/rootstock combinations. This study focused on three pecan scion/rootstock combinations: Pawnee/Peruque (PP), Kanza/Giles (KG), and Maramec/Colby (MC), grown at the Cimarron Valley Research Station, Perkins, Oklahoma. Branches at three different growth stages, i.e., outer bud scale shed, one week after bud break, and early bloom stages were collected from PP, MC, and KG. Branches were held in a Conviron E8 freezing unit at 4 temperatures (-2, 0, 2, and 4°C) for 4 and 8 hours; A total of 8 treatments. One sample set was kept as an untreated control. After 2-3 weeks, branch samples from all the temperature treatments were observed and categorized into two groups. Group one with number of branches had healthy buds/formation of healthy leaves/flowers and group two with number of dead branches. The carbohydrate content reserved fromdormant was analyzed using an Anthrone reagent. Visual observations and carbohydrate analyses revealed differences in damage and carbohydrate content among the scion/rootstock combinations, low-temperature treatments, and growth stages. The MC combination had minimum visual damage to leaves, buds, and flowers and significantly lower soluble sugars and starch in bark phloem as well as significantly lower soluble sugars in woody tissue xylem. The KG combination had maximum visual damage and significantly higher soluble sugars and starches in the bark, and soluble sugars in the woody tissues. These results indicate the MC combination is more tolerant to spring freeze damage at all three growth stages compared to the other two pecan scion/rootstock combinations. The results also demonstrate the MC combination is using more non-structural carbohydrates, soluble sugars and starches, suggesting this is a possible mechanism in its freeze tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presented study sought to determine the foliar application of potassium nitrate effects and addition of black tea leaf wastage to soil on the biochemical qualities (zinc, protein, oil percentage, and carbohydrate) of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and the content of NH4N, Na, Mg, Ca, Cl, and pH of the soil. The pot experiment commenced in the spring of 2022 in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with a factorial arrangement having two factors and four replications in Al-Hindia city, Kerbala, Iraq. The first factor was a potassium nitrate compound comprising three levels (control, 1000, and 3000 g 1000 l-1 ), and the second factor was black tea leaf waste mixed with soil in four doses (control, 25, 45, and 55 g 1000 l-1 ). The results showed the impact of black tea wastes mixed with the soil of higher significance, increasing the NH4N, Na, Mg, Ca, and Cl to 29.28 mg kg-1, 3.75, 3.88, 5.88, and 6.79 mm l-1, respectively, and higher impact in reducing the soil pH (7.54) at a concentration of 55 g 1000 l-1 ). The black tea leaf waste (55 g 1000 l-1 ) helped raise the treated wheat’s zinc, protein, oil, and carbohydrate percentages. The foliar application of potassium nitrate compound (3000 g 1000 l-1 ) considerably affected increasing the proportion of zinc, protein, and oil in wheat grains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyanobacteria are microorganisms that grow rapidly in an aquatic medium, showing the capacity of accumulations of biocompounds subsequently converted into value-added biocompounds. The cyanobacterium Spirulina maxima can produce pigments besides accumulating significant amounts of carbohydrates and proteins. An alternative to reducing biomass production costs at an industrial scale is the use of landfill leachate in the growing medium, as well as the mitigation of this pollutant. The objective of this work was to cultivate Spirulina maxima in a medium supplemented with leachate, using the design of experiments to evaluate the effects of leachate concentration (% v/v), light source, and light intensity in an airlift photobioreactor, analyzing them as a response to the productivity of biomass, phycocyanin, carbohydrates, and biochar. The highest values of productivity (mg L−1d−1) were 97.44 ± 3.20, 12.82 ± 0.38, 6.19 ± 1.54, and 34.79 ± 3.62 for biomass, carbohydrates, phycocyanin, and biochar, respectively, adjusted for experiment 2 with the factors of leachate concentration (5.0% v/v), light source (tubular LED), and luminosity (54 µmol m−2 s−1), respectively. The use of leachate as a substitute for macronutrients in Zarrouk's medium for the cultivation of Spirulina maxima is a viable alternative in the production of biocompounds as long as it is used at an appropriate level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under extreme environmental conditions, Haematococcus lacustris (Girod-Chantrans) Rostafinski has shown significant accumulation of astaxanthin. Nevertheless, understanding of the effects of toxic chemicals on pigment synthesis is still limited. In this study, H.lacustris was treated with phenol to investigate cellular responses, pigment synthesis and the astaxanthin production. The effects of phenol were investigated at concentrations ranging from 0 to 150 mg/L for a 14-day treatment and a 7-day pre-treatment followed by a further 7 days at the green and red growth stages. Phenol led to an increase in carotenoids, proteins and dry biomass in the green cells of treatment, while the content of carbohydrates and chlorophyll decreased in the treatment of green cells. Pretreatment increased chlorophyll a, carbohydrates and carotenoids in the green cells, with minimal effects on dry biomass, green cell proteins and red cell proteins. Phenol treatment increased the content of carotenoids, carbohydrates, dry biomass and protein in the red cells, especially at lower concentrations. Treatment with high-concentration phenol had a significant effect on xanthophylls, while pretreatment with lower concentrations of phenol showed parallel effects. Higher phenol concentrations reduced astaxanthin production in both treatment and pretreatment. In conclusion, phenol can stimulate xanthophyll production in H.lacustris algae, highlighting the complex interplay between environmental factors and pigment synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Morphological characteristics and metabolite profiles of hemp exhibit distinct responses to varying light intensities. • Amino acids, soluble protein, carbohydrates, and plant growth influenced by light intensity. • Desired metabolites contents can be achieved by changing light intensity. • Optimum light intensity could be valuable in the pharmaceutical and nutritional field. Industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) is a high-yielding cash crop with strong stress resistance, and its fibrous and metabolic profile holds significant development potential. In this study, we measured various agronomic traits, amino acids, saccharides, and their derivatives under four different light intensities (30 μmol·m−2·s−1, 80 μmol·m−2·s−1, 130 μmol·m−2·s−1, 180 μmol·m−2·s−1). Results showed that plant height decreased with increasing light intensity and reached a minimum at 180 μmol·m−2·s−1, which was 27 % less than the control treatment. Further, stem diameter increased by 52 %, leaf fresh weight by 130 %, stem fresh weight by 116 %, and root fresh weight by 264 % were at their maximum at 130 μmol·m−2·s−1. Plant dry weight of leaf (113 %), stem (214 %), and root (427 %) were also found to be maximum at 130 μmol·m−2·s−1. Metabolic results revealed that the free amino acid content was 10 %, 61 %, and 60 % higher under 30 μmol·m−2·s−1 compared to 80, 130, and 180 μmol·m−2·s−1. Additionally, soluble protein contents were 42 %, 81 %, and 77 % higher under 30 μmol·m−2·s−1 compared to 80, 130, and 180 μmol·m−2·s−1. In contrast, the soluble sugar contents were 42 %, 61 %, and 75 % higher than in the other three treatments. In conclusion, industrial hemp morphological characteristics and metabolite profiles exhibit distinct responses to different light intensities. To achieve desired outcomes, it is imperative to carefully choose an optimized light intensity specifically tailored to align with the defined objectives. These findings provide a foundation for a deeper understanding of the characteristics of industrial hemp, optimizing cultivation techniques, and investigating the impact of light intensity on industrial hemp vegetative period growth, amino acids, and saccharides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: This cross‐sectional observational study quantified Australian Football League Women's athletes' match volume, and compared match‐day dietary intakes against recommendations. Methods: Self‐report, direct observation, and fluid measurements determined dietary intake (n = 17, 25 ± 4.5 years, 22.8 ± 1.8 kg/m2) on five home match days (early or late starting). Global positioning system software captured match volume. Linear mixed effects models evaluated differences in early versus late match volume and nutrient intakes. Data are presented as mean ± standard deviation. Results: Athletes covered 6712 ± 622 m during matches, with similar numbers of very high‐intensity running efforts over equal distances in early and late matches (early vs. late efforts [no.]: 8.5 ± 4.9 vs. 9.5 ± 5.5; distance [m]: 203 ± 127 vs. 212 ± 113). Across all match days, 71% (n = 12) of athletes met their predicted daily energy requirements. However, 82% (n = 14) failed to meet minimum daily carbohydrate recommendations; intake was lower on early compared with late match days (4.7 g/day vs. 5.4 g/kg/day, p = 0.027). On average, no athletes met carbohydrate recommendations in the 2 h prior to a match and only 24% (n = 4) met recommendations during matches. All athletes met post‐match carbohydrate and protein requirements. Conclusion: Athletes cover large distances during games with frequent bursts of high‐intensity running. However, they do not adjust their intake to meet the energy demands of competition, with inadequate fuelling prior to and during matches. These findings emphasise the need for greater athlete education and dietary support to maximise strategic fuelling to optimise athletic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biocompatibility, specificity, and consistency of natural carbohydrate polymers in catalyzing organic processes have garnered significant interest. For the production of organic compounds, a variety of carbohydrate polymers have been employed as heterogeneous catalysts, including agarose, cellulose, chitosan, chitin, sodium alginate, carrageenan, dextrin, starch, and pectin. This article provides an overview of several straightforward and efficient techniques for the mild reaction conditions catalytic synthesis of organic compounds employing carbohydrate polymers as the source of heterogeneous catalytic species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The association between dietary protein intake and constipation remains inconclusive. The aim of this study was to investigate whether dietary protein intake is associated with constipation. Methods: This cross‐sectional study included 13,941 adults from the 2005 to 2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. A weighted logistic regression analysis was used to control for confounding factors. In addition, weighted interaction and stratified analyses were conducted to ascertain the potential modifying factors. Results: The prevalence of constipation was 7.5% when constipation was defined by stool consistency and 3.5% when constipation was defined by stool frequency. After adjusting for covariates, an increase in dietary protein intake of 10 g was not associated with constipation, as defined by stool frequency (OR = 0.94, 95% CI = 0.54, 1.62) or stool consistency (OR = 1.02, 95% CI = 0.75, 1.39). Subgroup analyses revealed that dietary protein intake was associated with an increase in constipation defined by stool consistency risk in participants who consumed a low amount of carbohydrates (OR = 1.08, 95% CI = 1.02–1.14 for every 10‐g increase in protein intake), but a decrease in risk in participants in the moderate‐carbohydrate group (OR = 0.94, 95% CI = 0.89–0.99 for every 10‐g increase in protein intake), suggesting a significant interaction (p = 0.001). Conclusion & Inferences: Dietary protein intake is not associated with stool consistency or frequency‐defined constipation. However, the association between dietary protein intake and constipation defined by stool consistency in participants with a low carbohydrate intake differed from that in participants with a moderate carbohydrate intake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To combat the fast-degrading environment in this era, efforts are being made to consider biomass as feedstock for the production of biofuels and biofuel additives. Alkyl levulinates (AL), a good biofuel additive, exhibit excellent performance in improving the flow properties of biofuels. The growing market value of AL makes it highly desirable for large-scale productions. Unfortunately, the highly complex structure of biomass often hinders its conversion to AL, limiting its production. Thus, finding solutions to achieve highly efficient biomass conversion to AL is crucial. Catalyst dual-acidity is important in determining conversion effectiveness. The applications of AL, the roles of the catalyst acidic type in facilitating biomass carbohydrates conversions to AL, the types of catalysts employed and their impact, the prominence of the catalyst dual acidity, and the effect of reaction conditions on the conversion process are discussed. Dual-acidity Brønsted-Lewis catalyst enhances the AL yields and selectivity from carbohydrate conversion. Dual-acidity catalysts in the form of homogenous and heterogenous exhibited several advantages and disadvantages, which are compared in terms of catalytic performance and cost-effectiveness. Carbon-based catalysts are suggested as the prominent choice for large-scale AL production from carbohydrates. The outcome of this review will provide insights into the advancements in AL production from biomass carbohydrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microorganisms in the rhizosphere, particularly arbuscular mycorrhiza, have a broad symbiotic relationship with their host plants. One of the major fungi isolated from the rhizosphere of Peucedanum praeruptorum is Penicillium restrictum. The relationship between the metabolites of P. restrictum and the root exudates of P. praeruptorum is being investigated. The accumulation of metabolites in the mycelium and fermentation broth of P. restrictum was analysed over different fermentation periods. Non‐targeted metabolomics was used to compare the differences in intracellular and extracellular metabolites over six periods. There were significant differences in the content and types of mycelial metabolites during the incubation. Marmesin, an important intermediate in the biosynthesis of coumarins, was found in the highest amount on the fourth day of incubation. The differential metabolites were screened to obtain 799 intracellular and 468 extracellular differential metabolites. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analysis showed that the highly enriched extracellular metabolic pathways were alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism, and terpenoid backbone biosynthesis. In addition, the enrichment analysis associated with intracellular and extracellular ATP‐binding cassette transporter proteins revealed that some ATP‐binding cassette transporters may be involved in the transportation of certain amino acids and carbohydrates. Our results provide some theoretical basis for the regulatory mechanisms between the rhizosphere and the host plant and pave the way for the heterologous production of furanocoumarin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A physiological and metabolic database for various species of Amazonian plants is crucial to the species selection and sustainable utilization of their diversity. We hypothesized that understanding the mobilization of Carapa seed reserves and water uptake during germination could provide insights into the physiological behavior and propagation to differentiate species of the same genus. Given this, the mobilization mechanisms of primary reserves, water uptake, and enzymatic activities in seeds of two species of Carapa (Carapa guianensis and Carapa vasquezii) were investigated. The lipid content was high in both species, with a value of 63.7 ± 4.7% for C. guianensis and 55 ± 1.5% for C. vasquezii. Carapa guianensis showed higher values for the other evaluated reserves. The protein profile highlights a band between 15 and 25 kDa in C. guianensis. As for the enzymatic activities investigated (lipase, amylase, protease, amd acid phosphatase), C. guianensis showed greater activity for most of them, except for acid phosphatase. Overall, the species showed different metabolic strategies and dynamics regarding the water uptake and use of reserves. Our findings indicate that distinct metabolic pathways are employed during the germination and initial seedling growth stages of two Carapa species. This trait can potentially guide the use and conservation of these species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Some glucoside drugs can be transported via intestinal glucose transporters (IGTs), and the presence of carbohydrate excipients in pharmaceutical formulations may influence the absorption of them. This study, using gastrodin as probe drug, aimed to explore the effects of fructose, lactose, and arabic gum on intestinal drug absorption mediated by the glucose transport pathway. Methods: The influence of fructose, lactose, and arabic gum on gastrodin absorption was assessed via pharmacokinetic experiments and single-pass intestinal perfusion. The expression of sodium-dependent glucose transporter 1 (SGLT1) and sodium-independent glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2) was quantified via RT‒qPCR and western blotting. Alterations in rat intestinal permeability were evaluated through H&E staining, RT‒qPCR, and immunohistochemistry. Results: Fructose reduced the area under the curve (AUC) and peak concentration (Cmax) of gastrodin by 42.7% and 63.71%, respectively (P < 0.05), and decreased the effective permeability coefficient (Peff) in the duodenum and jejunum by 58.1% and 49.2%, respectively (P < 0.05). SGLT1 and GLUT2 expression and intestinal permeability remained unchanged. Lactose enhanced the AUC and Cmax of gastrodin by 31.5% and 65.8%, respectively (P < 0.05), and increased the Peff in the duodenum and jejunum by 33.7% and 26.1%, respectively (P < 0.05). SGLT1 and GLUT2 levels did not significantly differ, intestinal permeability increased. Arabic gum had no notable effect on pharmacokinetic parameters, SGLT1 or GLUT2 expression, or intestinal permeability. Conclusion: Fructose, lactose, and arabic gum differentially affect intestinal drug absorption through the glucose transport pathway. Fructose competitively inhibited drug absorption, while lactose may enhance absorption by increasing intestinal permeability. Arabic gum had no significant influence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large group of horticulture species are propagated vegetatively through shoottip cuttings harvested from stock plants and planted to form adventitious roots. Adventitious rooting leads to establishing a carbohydrate sink in the region of root regeneration that is highly dependent on energy and carbon skeletons. We hypothesized that the timing of exogenous applications of cytokinin (CK) and boron (B)-molybdenum (Mo)-based products during adventitious root development can affect the flow of sugars from leaves to sinks, carbon allocation to the adventitious roots, and the quality of rooted cuttings. During this project, we aimed to determine if the application time of a CK/B-Mo-based product during the adventitious root development of unrooted cuttings would impact the source-to-sink relationship and, hence, affect plug growth and quality. A sink-strengthening commercial product based on cytokinin, B, and Mo was applied at four plug development stages plus a negative control as follows: T1, plants without product (control); T2, sticking stage (starting 24 hours after the sticking); T3, callus formation stage; T4, root development stage; and T5, toning stage. The root and shoot lengths and dry matter, number of leaves, leaf chlorophyll content, root-to-shoot ratio (based on dry matter), and nonstructural carbohydrate contents were measured. The timing of the application of the product impacted the root development, quality of the cuttings, and nonstructural carbohydrate content. Product application during the adventitious root dedifferentiation and induction phases (T2) resulted in the shortest root and shoot lengths, lowest dry matter accumulation, lowest nonstructural carbohydrate contents, and some phytotoxicity. Application during the initiation phase (T3) resulted in greater root length, total dry matter, and total soluble sugar contents compared with the control. Application during the expression phase (T4) resulted in the largest root length and mass and the highest sucrose contents. Applying the product when the roots had grown and reached all the edges of the growing media (T5) did not have any benefits compared with the control. This study provides new insights into the application timing of exogenous CKs, B, and Mo to generate a well-toned rooted coleus cutting and potential explanations in relation to nonstructural carbohydrate metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A method for quantitative determination of carbohydrate stabilizers (sorbitol, mannitol, glucose, sucrose, lactose, maltose, and trehalose) in biologics was developed. The analysis used HPLC with refractometric detection and a mobile phase of 75% MeCN in H2O. The developed method was specific and linear in the range 0.5 to 2 ng/mL. The coefficients of determination of the calibration curves were 0.99996 for sorbitol, 0.99998 for mannitol, 0.99971 for glucose, 0.99996 for sucrose, 0.99994 for lactose, 9.99966 for maltose monohydrate, and 0.99996 for trehalose dihydrate. The limits of quantitation (mg/mL) were 0.01 for sorbitol, 0.03 for mannitol, 0.05 for glucose, 0.025 for sucrose, 0.050 for lactose, 0.05 for maltose monohydrate, and 0.25 for trehalose dihydrate. The average accuracy covered the range (100 ± 5)%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The price of conventional sources of energy such as corn and wheat is high due to insufficient supply and tough competition between humans and animals. This study was done to determine the digestibility of various carbohydrate sources in the diet of native chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) with regard to dry matter content, apparent metabolizable energy and crude protein. The study result would help poultry raisers to determine alternative, inexpensive energy sources of feed that are available in the local community. There were six dietary treatments used in this study namely: t0-commercial feeds (CF), t1-peeled cassava (PC), t2-peeled sweetpotato (PSP), t3-unpeeled cassava (UC), t4-unpeeled sweetpotato (USP) and t5-grated coconut (GC). The treatments were arranged in Complete Randomized Design (CRD) with four replicates. Native chickens undergone a 10-day digestibility trial. During the digestibility trial, homogenous feces from test diets were collected, weighed and dried as well as the endogenous feces which were collected after no feeding period. Feed sample and collected feces from each treatment were subjected to chemical analysis. The result of this study revealed that PC got the highest percent dry matter digestibility followed by GC. On the other hand, CF statistically got the lowest %dry matter digestibility (DMD) among other treatments. In terms of crude protein digestibility (CPD), PC diet obtained the highest crude protein digestibility while GC obtained the lowest percentage. When it comes to Apparent Metabolizable Energy (AME), native chicken fed with GC diets attained the highest digestibility which is significantly higher than commercial feeds and other diets. The results on the digestibility percentage of dry matter, crude protein and apparent metabolizable energy is determined through the One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Peeled cassava and grated coconut can be used as energy source of feed for native chicken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobial drug resistance within ESKAPE pathogens is a formidable global challenge necessitating innovative solutions. This review explores a multifaceted strategy incorporating nanotechnology, CRISPR/Cas9, and other cutting-edge approaches to effectively combat multidrug resistance in ESKAPE bacteria. Nanotechnology presents a promising avenue through targeted drug delivery systems like antibiotic nanoparticles and antibiotic–antibody conjugates (AACs). While these nanostructures aim to enhance therapeutic efficacy and mitigate resistance spread, challenges such as anti-PEG antibodies and optimal drug release must be considered. Inspired by successful anticancer nanomedicines, nanotechnology seeks to optimize drug penetration and retention within infected tissues. The revolutionary CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology offers a precise and tailored approach by selectively targeting and modifying bacterial resistance genes. This holds the potential to reverse or eliminate drug resistance in ESKAPE pathogens, though challenges like off-target effects and efficient delivery mechanisms require attention for clinical translation. Additionally, alternative approaches such as fecal microbial transplantation, bacteriophage therapy, and probiotic bacterial replacement are actively explored in clinical trials. These strategies diversify the arsenal against antibiotic resistance by targeting unique vulnerabilities in ESKAPE pathogens. A comprehensive and multidisciplinary strategy is imperative to effectively address antimicrobial drug resistance in ESKAPE pathogens. Integration of nanotechnology, CRISPR/Cas9, and emerging approaches offers a synergistic solution, holding promise in overcoming the challenges posed by these resilient multidrug-resistant bacteria. This review provides insights into current research, challenges, and potential breakthroughs, emphasizing the urgency for collaborative efforts to safeguard global health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, Micractinium sp. was randomly mutated by UV mutagenesis, and the contributions of Micractinium strains to the total biofuel and pigment production were investigated by adding abscisic and salicylic acid and examining the antioxidant activities of the strains to determine how they responded to these environmental and genetic alterations. As a result, compared with the control, the M-25 strain with 8 mg/L salicylic acid exhibited an increase of 54% in biodiesel production and 23% in biobutanol production, providing the maximum lipid percentage of 40%, whereas the M-7 strain and 0.2 mg/L abscisic acid showed an increase of 77% in biobutanol production while providing the highest carbohydrate percentage of 23%. The maximum total biofuel production was 139% for M-25 at 8 mg/L salicylic acid, and the highest amount of carotenoids (10.8 mg/g) was found to be approximately twice as high in the M-25 strain at 0.2 mg/L abscisic acid compared with the control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inducing a heat-acclimated phenotype via repeated heat stress improves exercise capacity and reduces athletes̓ risk of hyperthermia and heat illness. Given the increased number of international sporting events hosted in countries with warmer climates, heat acclimation strategies are increasingly popular among endurance athletes to optimize performance in hot environments. At the tissue level, completing endurance exercise under heat stress may augment endurance training adaptation, including mitochondrial and cardiovascular remodeling due to increased perturbations to cellular homeostasis as a consequence of metabolic and cardiovascular load, and this may improve endurance training adaptation and subsequent performance. This review provides an up-to-date overview of the metabolic impact of heat stress during endurance exercise, including proposed underlying mechanisms of altered substrate utilization. Against this metabolic backdrop, the current literature highlighting the role of heat stress in augmenting training adaptation and subsequent endurance performance will be presented with practical implications and opportunities for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The forage quality of alfalfa (Medicago sativa) stems is greater than the leaves. Sucrose hydrolysis provides energy for stem development, with starch being enzymatically converted into sucrose to maintain energy homeostasis. To understand the physiological and molecular networks controlling stem development, morphological characteristics and transcriptome profiles in the stems of two alfalfa cultivars (Zhungeer and WL168) were investigated. Based on transcriptome data, we analysed starch and sugar contents, and enzyme activity related to starch-sugar interconversion. Zhungeer stems were shorter and sturdier than WL168, resulting in significantly higher mechanical strength. Transcriptome analysis showed that starch and sucrose metabolism were significant enriched in the differentially expressed genes of stems development in both cultivars. Genes encoding INV , bglX , HK , TPS and glgC downregulated with the development of stems, while the gene encoding was AMY upregulated. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis revealed that the gene encoding glgC was pivotal in determining the variations in starch and sucrose contents between the two cultivars. Soluble carbohydrate, sucrose, and starch content of WL168 were higher than Zhungeer. Enzyme activities related to sucrose synthesis and hydrolysis (INV, bglX, HK, TPS) showed a downward trend. The change trend of enzyme activity was consistent with gene expression. WL168 stems had higher carbohydrate content than Zhungeer, which accounted for more rapid growth and taller plants. WL168 formed hollow stems were formed during rapid growth, which may be related to the redistribution of carbohydrates in the pith tissue. These results indicated that starch and sucrose metabolism play important roles in the stem development in alfalfa. The forage quality of alfalfa (Medicago sativa) stems is greater than the leaves. Starch and sucrose metabolism provide energy during alfalfa stem development. Different varieties of alfalfa have different sucrose, starch and related enzyme activities. Hollow stems will be formed during the rapid growth of alfalfa, which may be related to the redistribution of carbohydrates in the pith tissue. Our results may provide a new theoretical basis for understanding the molecular mechanism of sucrose and starch accumulation in alfalfa stems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Altered and aberrant glycosylation signatures have been linked to being a hallmark in a variety of human disorders including cancer. Cancer stem cells (CSCs), capable of self-renewal and differentiation, have recently been credited with a unique notion of disease genesis and implicated as the cause for initiation and recurrence of the disease in a new regime of neoplastic transformations hypothesis. Many biomarkers relating to diagnostic and prognostic intents have been discovered using the ubiquitous and abundant surface glycan patterns on CSCs. Various technological advancements have been developed to identify and determine concerns with glycosylation structure. However, the nature and purpose of the glycan moiety on these glycosylation pattern have not yet been thoroughly investigated. This review, thus, summarizes the process of glycosylation in CSCs, variations in glycosylation patterns in various stem cells, aberrant glycosylation patterns in cancer, the role of glycosylation in tumor cell adhesion, cell–matrix interactions, and signaling, as well as cancer detection and treatment. The function of carbohydrates as prospective serum biomarkers, some clinically authorized biomarkers, and potential novel biomarkers relating to cancer disease diagnosis and prognosis are also discussed in the review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The term 'cosmeceutical' refers to cosmetic products that offer medicinal or drug-like benefits. Marine algae are rich sources of bioactive compounds, particularly carbohydrates and peptides, which have gained attention for their potential in cosmeceuticals. These compounds are abundant, safe, and have minimal cytotoxicity effects. They offer various benefits to the skin, including addressing rashes, pigmentation, aging, and cancer. Additionally, they exhibit properties such as antimicrobial, skin-whitening, anti-aging, antioxidant, and anti-melanogenic effects. This review surveys the literature on the cosmeceutical potentials of algae-derived compounds, focusing on their roles in skin whitening, anti-aging, anticancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial applications. The discussion also includes current challenges and future opportunities for using algae for cosmeceutical purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large-scale strandings of Sargassum spp. seaweeds occur annually on the beaches of the Caribbean islands and cause major environmental, health, and economic problems. In order to support an approach of valorisation of algae, an exhaustive characterisation of the composition of these seaweeds has been performed by analysing the contents in alginates, structural carbohydrates (fucans and glucans), minerals, proteins, lipids, mannitol, polyphenols, and heavy metals. Nine batches were collected at different harvesting sites over the years 2021 and 2022, to estimate the spatial and temporal variation in Sargassum composition. A batch of floats was harvested and analysed to estimate the differences in composition between floats and whole algae. Samples collected during the same year (floats or entire plant, freshly collected or stored) showed no significant differences in composition. However, slight differences were observed between batches collected in the two years. Some samples showed significant amounts of heavy metals, especially arsenic. A detailed structural carbohydrates analysis was carried out and discussed with literature data. As the nitrogen content of algae is an interesting parameter for food or agronomic uses, protein analysis enabled us to calculate a new nitrogen–protein conversion factor, specific to these algae species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Periprosthetic joint infection after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a devastating complication and different risk factors, including hyperglycemia and increased glucose variability, have been suggested for this condition in previous literature. Our study aims to investigate the risk factors for postoperative hyperglycemia and glucose variability in patients undergoing unilateral primary TKA with continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology. Methods: Demographic factors, diabetic statuses, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels, and fructosamine levels of patients undergoing unilateral primary TKA were recorded preoperatively. These patients would either received 16 mg intravenous dexamethasone or no dexamethasone before their surgery as part of perioperative management. From the day of admission to postoperative day 4, CGM device monitored these patients' blood glucose level, time of hyperglycemia, and glucose variability. Correlation and multivariate regression analysis were performed between the risk factors and the outcome measures, with multicollinearity between the predictor variables checked, to find out the most potent risk factors for postoperative hyperglycemia. Results: Eighty-three patients with primary unilateral TKA were analyzed. Diabetic, prediabetic, and nondiabetic patients were composed of 26.5%, 47.0%, and 26.5%, respectively. The average of HbA1c and fructosamine level was 6.0% and 249.3 mmol/L, respectively; 65.1% of the patients received 16 mg dexamethasone perioperatively. Multivariate regression analysis found that HbA1c, fructosamine, and dexamethasone injections are the significant risk factors for the percentage of time in hyperglycemia (R 2 = 0.374, p < 0.001) and average blood glucose level (R 2 = 0.493, p < 0.001), with HbA1c having the highest standardized coefficient, followed by fructosamine and dexamethasone injections. Although dexamethasone usage was significant in multivariate regression analysis on predicting glucose variability, the effect size of the model is very weak (R 2 = 0.05, p < 0.05). Conclusion: The most potent risk factor for hyperglycemic time and increased average blood glucose is HbA1c level, followed by fructosamine level and dexamethasone injections. No strong correlation was found between the factors in our study and patients' glucose variability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Management of diabetes demands reduction of carbohydrates and moderation of total calories, fats and protein to promote weight loss while controlling postprandial blood glucose. Hospitals prescribe menus to diabetic patients to achieve these reasons. Whether these menus provide meals that help improve diabetes outcome remains unknown. Aim: Therefore, this study assessed six menus from six different referral hospitals in Malawi. Method: We formulated three separate diets (n = 3) encompassing breakfast, 10 am snack, lunch, 3 pm snack and super that a diabetic person would consume in a day as prescribed by each menu. We developed nutritionally adequate meals based on foods listed on the menu. We calculated, using the Malawi Food Composition Table (MFCT), total available carbohydrates, energy, protein, total fats, SAFA, MUFA and PUFA that each diet provides. We averaged the nutrient content from the three diets. Results: Menus from QECH and ST Joseph Mission Hospital provide significantly higher total carbohydrates (p = 0.001), total energy (p = 0.000) and fats (p = 0.01) but contain similar proteins (p = 0.761). The proportion of energy from carbohydrates for all the menus is very high and ranges from 68–81% while protein and fat proportions are lower and range from 7–16% and 7–20%, respectively. Conclusion: These menus have high propensity to increase postprandial blood glucose and promote weight gain that could be harmful to a diabetic person. All the menus deviate from a somehow recommended energy contribution of approximately 50:25:25 from carbohydrates, fat and protein, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is a condition with excess body fat due to an imbalance in energy intake consumed more than the physical activity expended. Adolescents who are obese can increase the risk of degenerative diseases. This study aimed to determine the relationship between macronutrients, including carbohydrate, protein, and fat intake, and obesity in adolescents. This study uses a meta-analysis method. Articles were taken from Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct databases. The articles analyzed were articles published from 2000 – 2022, full text; the keywords used for the search were “carbohydrate”, “protein”, “fat”, “obesity, and “adolescents”. The articles were collected using PRISMA diagram and analyzed by Review Manager Application 5.4. With the fixed effect model and random effect model. From the results of this study, seven articles were identified. The results of the forest plot show the relationship between carbohydrate intake and obesity in adolescents, p-value < 0.001; OR = 2.58, protein intake with obesity in adolescents obtained p-value = 0.02; OR = 2.92, and fat intake with obesity in adolescents obtained p-value < 0.001; OR = 6.20. The conclusion of this study shows that the variables of carbohydrate, protein, and fat intake have a significant relationship with obesity in adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microalgal biomass is an excellent platform for producing food, feed, nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, and biofuels. This study aimed to investigate the effect of the trophic mode of cultivation (phototrophic, heterotrophic, and mixotrophic) on the growth and biomass composition of Chlorella vulgaris S2. The contents of lipids and carbohydrates, as well as the fatty acid composition of total lipids, were studied. The effects of the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio (C:N) and the organic carbon concentration of the growth media under mixotrophic and heterotrophic conditions were also investigated. The C:N ratio of 30 mol mol−1 favoured lipid synthesis, and the C:N ratio of 10 mol mol−1 favoured carbohydrate synthesis. Maximal lipid and biomass productivities (2.238 and 0.458 g L−1 d−1, respectively) were obtained under mixotrophic conditions at the C:N ratio of 50 mol mol−1 and glucose concentration of 50 g L−1. Fed-batch cultivation conducted in a stirrer tank bioreactor under heterotrophic growth conditions increased biomass (2.385 g L−1 d−1, respectively) and lipid (0.339 L−1 d−1) productivities ~50 and ~60 times compared to the fed-batch phototrophic cultivation, respectively. The trophic mode, growth phase, and growth medium composition significantly influenced the fatty acid composition. Under mixotrophic and heterotrophic growth conditions, lipid accumulation is associated with an increase in oleic acid (C18:1) content. Mixotrophically grown biomass of Chlorella vulgaris S2 under optimised conditions is a suitable source of lipids for biodiesel production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides an overview of the role of carbohydrates in the nutrition of dogs and cats. It explains that while dogs and cats do not have a nutritional requirement for carbohydrates, they are still important in pet food processing and can serve as a source of glucose. The article discusses different types of carbohydrates, their physiological properties, and the impact of processing on their digestibility. It emphasizes the importance of providing adequate carbohydrates in pet diets, especially during certain life stages. The article also highlights the potential health benefits of dietary fibers, including promoting glycemic control and maintaining gastrointestinal health. It introduces the concept of prebiotics and their role in improving gut health. The production of short-chain fatty acids by gut microbes is mentioned as a key benefit of fiber consumption. The document concludes by stating that further research is needed to understand the effects of food processing and optimal inclusion levels of dietary fibers in companion animal nutrition. [Extracted from the article]

Microneedles are minimally-invasive devices with the unique capability of bypassing physiological barriers. Hence, they are widely used for different applications from drug/vaccine delivery to diagnosis and cosmetic fields. Recently, natural biopolymers (particularly carbohydrates and proteins) have garnered attention as safe and biocompatible materials with tailorable features for microneedle construction. Several review articles have dealt with carbohydrate-based microneedles. This review aims to highlight the less-noticed role of proteins through a systematic search strategy based on the PRISMA guideline from international databases of PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Original English articles with the keyword "microneedle(s)" in their titles along with at least one of the keywords "biopolymers, silk, gelatin, collagen, zein, keratin, fish-scale, mussel, and suckerin" were collected and those in which the proteins undertook a structural role were screened. Then, we focused on the structures and applications of protein-based microneedles. Also, the unique features of some protein biopolymers that make them ideal for microneedle construction (e.g., excellent mechanical strength, self-adhesion, and self-assembly), as well as the challenges associated with them were reviewed. Altogether, the proteins identified so far seem not only promising for the fabrication of "better" microneedles in the future but also inspiring for designing biomimetic structural biopolymers with ideal characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Spor Hekimligi Dergisi/Turkish Journal of Sports Medicine is the property of Turkish Journal of Sports Medicine / Spor Hekimleri Dernegi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The TPTZ (2,4,6‐tripyridyl‐s‐triazine) method is used to detect monosaccharides from seawater and particulate matter samples because it is sensitive, precise, rapid and easy to perform. Contrary to mechanisms proposed in the literature, we provide evidence that the TPTZ method detects hydroxyl as well as aldehyde groups in monosaccharides when all reducing groups are fully deprotonated in alkaline medium. We use this insight to develop an optimized hydrolysis protocol to increase yields from polysaccharides while minimizing the dehydration of monosaccharides. Compared to the TPTZ method with commonly used hydrolysis protocols and the often‐used phenol–sulfuric acid method, our new optimized method detects a wider range of carbohydrates with a more consistent yield relative to glucose and much lower coefficient of variation. When applied to phytoplankton cultures and marine particulate samples, our new method achieves significantly higher bulk carbohydrate yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study proposes an ecological approach for preventing respiratory tract infections caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica in mammals using a mixture of carbohydrates. In an in vivo study, 51-day-old New Zealand rabbits were treated with a solution containing 1 × 107 CFUs of B. bronchiseptica and 250 μg of one of the following carbohydrates: N acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc), N acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc), alpha methyl mannose (AmeMan), alpha methyl glucose (AmeGlc) and sialic acid (Neu5AC). Positive (B. bronchiseptica) and negative (Physiological Saline Solution (PSS)) controls were included. Animals treated with GlcNAc or AmeGlc showed no clinical signs of infection and exhibited a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in the severity of microscopic lesions evaluated in the nasal cavity and lung compared with the positive controls. Additionally, the presence of bacteria was not detected through microbiological isolation or PCR in the lungs of animals treated with these sugars. Use of a mixture of GlcNAc and AmeGlc resulted in greater inhibition of microscopic lesions, with a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in the severity of these lesions compared to the results obtained using individual sugars. Furthermore, the bacterium was not detected through microbiological isolation, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) or indirect immunoperoxidase (IIP) in this group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review focused on the concept of dementia in the Unani system of medicine and comprehensive, updated information on Majoon Vaj about the phytochemistry, nootropic, CNS activities and provide insights into potential opportunities for future research. The classical literature on Majoon Vaj for its anti-dementic properties, and therapeutic uses were gathered from nearly thirteen classical Unani books including Unani Pharmacopoeia. The information of pharmacognosy, phytochemical and pharmacological activities of Majoon Vaj and its ingredient was collected by browsing the Internet (PubMed, ScienceDirect, Wiley online library, Google Scholar, ResearchGate). The relevant primary sources were probed, analysed, and included in this review. The keywords used to browse were Majoon Vaj, Dementia, Nootropic, Acorus calamus, Piper nigram, Zingiber officinalis, Nigella sativa, Carum carvi, Plumbago zeylanica, and β-asarone. Relevant Sources were gathered up to July 2021, and the chemical structures were drawn using ACD/ChemSketch software. The species name and synonyms were checked with WFO (2021): World Flora online (http://www.worldfloraonline.org) an updated version of 'The Plant List.' Majoon Vaj contains an excess of bioactive compounds e.g., alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids, tannins, diterpenes, coumarins, carbohydrates, and fixed oils and its ingredients possess broad pharmacological properties, including cognitive-enhancing, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The literature of Unani medicine is quite rich in discussing the pathophysiological basis of memory disorders. It argues that memory, retention, and retrieval are regulated by a complex process involving various faculties. Majoon Vaj seems to have great potential for therapeutic applications in the treatment of dementia and thus encourage more preclinical and clinical trials in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Asian weaver ant, Oecophylla smaragdina, indeed exhibits fascinating social behavior and a unique nesting strategy. The nesting behavior of weaver ants involves a "leaf-weaving," process where the worker ants use the silk produced by their larvae to bind leaves together, creating a complex and sturdy nest structure. Regarding their life stages and metabolic changes, Oecophylla smaragdina as a holometabolous species undergoes complete metamorphosis, involving distinct developmental stages such as egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Each stage is characterized by significant changes in the insect's physiology and appearance. It is essential to study the metabolic changes in these ants during their life stages to better understand their development, behavior, and adaptability to their environment. The main objective of the present study is a biochemical analysis of the life stages of the weaver ant. During this study, various ants were collected at various stages and analyzed for the estimation of protein, carbohydrate, RNA, and DNA. According to the findings, the concentration of proteins was observed to be highest during all life stages of weaver ants. Following proteins, the concentration of RNA was noted to be the highest, then the concentration of DNA and carbohydrates. It was also noted that the concentration of biomolecules increased from the egg stage to the pupal stage, reaching its maximum level at the pupal stage. However, after reaching the maximum level at the pupal stage, the concentration of biomolecules declines as the ant progresses from the white imago to the adult stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The carbohydrate ganglioside GD2/GD3 cancer vaccine adjuvanted by β-glucan stimulates anti-GD2 IgG1 antibodies that strongly correlate with improved progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) among patients with high-risk neuroblastoma. Thirty-two patients who relapsed on the vaccine (first enrollment) were re-treated on the same vaccine protocol (re-enrollment). Titers during the first enrollment peaked by week 32 at 751 ± 270 ng/mL, which plateaued despite vaccine boosts at 1.2–4.5 month intervals. After a median wash-out interval of 16.1 months from the last vaccine dose during the first enrollment to the first vaccine dose during re-enrollment, the anti-GD2 IgG1 antibody rose to a peak of 4066 ± 813 ng/mL by week 3 following re-enrollment (p < 0.0001 by the Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank test). Yet, these peaks dropped sharply and continually despite repeated boosts at 1.2–4.5 month intervals, before leveling off by week 20 to the first enrollment peak levels. Despite higher antibody titers, patients experienced no pain or neuropathic side effects, which were typically associated with immunotherapy using monoclonal anti-GD2 antibodies. By the Kaplan–Meier method, PFS was estimated to be 51%, and OS was 81%. The association between IgG1 titer during re-enrollment and β-glucan receptor dectin-1 SNP rs3901533 was significant (p = 0.01). A longer prime–boost interval could significantly improve antibody responses in patients treated with ganglioside conjugate cancer vaccines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In an increasingly aging and overweight population, osteoporosis and type 2 diabetes (T2DM) are major public health concerns. T2DM patients experience prejudicial effects on their bone health, affecting their physical capacity. Exercise in hypoxia (EH) and a low-carbohydrate diet (LCD) have been suggested for therapeutic benefits in T2DM, improving bone mineral content (BMC) and glycemic control. This study investigated the effects of EH combined with an LCD on body composition and functional and physiologic capacity in T2DM patients. Older T2DM patients (n = 42) were randomly assigned to the following groups: (1) control group: control diet + exercise in normoxia; (2) EH group: control diet + EH; (3) intervention group: LCD + EH. Cardiopulmonary tests (BRUCE protocol), body composition (DEXA), and functional capacity (6MWT, handgrip strength) were evaluated. Body mass index (kg/m2) and body fat (%) decreased in all groups (p < 0.001). BMC (kg) increased in all groups (p < 0.001) and was significantly higher in the EH and EH + LCD groups (p < 0.001). VO2peak improved in all groups (p < 0.001), but more so in the hypoxia groups (p = 0.019). Functional capacity was increased in all groups (p < 0.001), but more so in the EH group in 6MWT (p = 0.030). EH with and without an LCD is a therapeutic strategy for improving bone mass in T2DM, which is associated with cardiorespiratory and functional improvements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Storage & Process is the property of Tianjin Academy of Agricultural Sciences and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The aim of this study was to identify the most effective protectants for enhancing the viability of specific lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains (Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus CICC 6097, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CICC 21839, Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM) by assessing their enzymatic activity when exposed to spray drying (inlet/outlet temperature: 135 °C/90 °C). Firstly, it was found that the live cell counts of the selected LAB cells from the 10% (w/v) recovered skim milk (RSM) group remained above 107 CFU/g after spray drying. Among all the three groups (1% w/v RSM group, 10% w/v RSM group, and control group), the two enzymes pyruvate kinase (PK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were more sensitive to spray drying than hexokinase (HK) and β-galactosidase (β-GAL). Next, transcriptome data of Lb. acidophilus NCFM showed that 10% (w/v) RSM improved the down-regulated expressions of genes encoding PK (pyk) and LDH (ldh) after spray drying compared to 1% (w/v) RSM. Finally, four composite protectants were created, each consisting of 10% (w/v) RSM plus a different additive—sodium glutamate (CP-A group), sucrose (CP-B group), trehalose (CP-C group), or a combination of sodium glutamate, sucrose, and trehalose (CP-D group)—to encapsulate Lb. acidophilus NCFM. It was observed that the viable counts of strain NCFM (8.56 log CFU/g) and enzymatic activity of PK and LDH in the CP-D group were best preserved compared to the other three groups. Therefore, our study suggested that measuring the LDH and PK activity could be used as a promising tool to screen the effective spray-dried protective agent for LAB cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates anaerobic bioconversion using landfill-derived microbes to produce volatile fatty acids (VFAs) as bioproducts. The research was conducted using different substrates, including elephant grass, starch waste, and fruit waste. Landfill-derived microbes collected from the landfill site were used as inoculum. The results show that the carbohydrate composition in the substrate affects VFA production. Simpler substrates, such as starch waste and fruit waste, produced more VFAs (approximately 50 mmol · L–1) than that of more complex substrate of grass (approximately 25 mmol · L–1). The results showed that using simpler substrates (i.e. starch and fruit waste) produce VFAs two times higher than that of the complex substrate or lignocellulosic biomass-based feedstock (i.e. grass). These findings provide valuable insights into the potential use of landfill-derived microbes in the anaerobic bioconversion process to produce VFAs. By understanding the influence of carbohydrate composition, we can enhance the efficiency of VFA production from organic waste, which can be used in various industrial applications. This is a crucial step towards more sustainable waste management and more efficient resource utilisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Isomerization of glucose to fructose is a fundamental and key intermediate process commonly included in the production of valuable chemicals from carbohydrates in biorefinery. Enhancement of fructose yield is a challenge. In this work, Sn-doped silica nanotube (Sn-SNT) was developed as a highly efficient Lewis acid catalyst for the selective isomerization of glucose to fructose. Over Sn-SNT, 69.1 % fructose yield with 78.5 % selectivity was obtained after reaction at 110 °C for 6 h. The sole presence of a large amount of Lewis acid sites in Sn-SNT without Brønsted acid site is one of the reasons for the high fructose yield and selectivity. Otherwise, high density of Si [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx was assessed for nutritional value and biocidal potential. Proximate analysis revealed moisture content of 2.85%, while protein, fat and carbohydrate contents were 18.31%, 3.40% and 73.62% respectively. Phytochemical screening revealed presence of reducing sugars, flavonoids, steroids and cardiac glycosides. Inhibition zones due to sensitivity testing of the ethylacetate fraction (10 mg/ml) ranged between 10.33±0.58 and 17.17±0.76 mm against Pseudomonas aeruginosa(CISp1) and Escherichia coli (NCIB 86) respectively. The partially purified ethylacetate fraction (5 mg/mL) inhibition zones ranged between 12.00±1.00 (P. aeruginosa (CISp1)) and 24.00±0.00 (P. aeruginosa (NCIB 950)) while MIC ranged between 1.25 and 2.50 mg/mL. After 120 min of direct contact between the fraction (1×MIC) and Staphylococcus aureus, total cell death was 74.7%. Absolute mortality rate was achieved 3×MIC concentration at 120 mins and 60 mins for Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumonia, respectively. + Amount of K leakages at 1×MIC was 2.24µg/mL from S. aureus and 3.38µg/mL from K. pneumoniae. In general, leakages of cytoplasmic contents increase with increase in the concentration of the extract and the contact time. The green calyx of H. sabdariffa was found to have combined nutritional and medicinal values, thus, confirm its traditional application as food and in the treatment of infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To examine associations between different types of sweet drinks consumed in early life and adult adiposity. Design: The analysis involved the secondary analysis of the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children which followed children from birth to 24 years. Adiposity was measured using Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry while food frequency questionnaires and diaries monitored diet. 'Early exposure' to sweet drinks was defined as giving a sugar-sweetened beverage or 100% fruit juice (FJ), before two years of age. Results: Early exposure to cola was associated with higher fat mass, android fat mass and BMI at age 24 years; whereas early exposure to apple juice was associated with lower adult adiposity in females but not males. When age three, exposure to cola was associated with a greater intake of energy, carbohydrates, protein, fat, and less fruit and more fried foods. In contrast, early exposure to apple juice was associated with higher protein and lower fat intakes and consuming more fruits/vegetables and less fried foods. Parental education, adiposity and socio-economic status influenced whether SSB or FJ was given to a child. Conclusions: Early drinking of sugar sweetened beverages was associated with a less healthy dietary pattern, and greater adult adiposity. Early drinking of apple juice was associated with a healthier dietary pattern, and lower fat mass in adult females. The choice of drink was associated with social deprivation. As the dietary causes of adult obesity begin in early childhood, increased attention should be given to diet in the first years of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: This study evaluated the use of metformin or pioglitazone in preventing or reducing the development of postoperative intra-abdominal adhesion (PIAA) by employing histopathological, immunohistochemical, and biochemical analyses in an experimental adhesion model. METHODS: Fifty Wistar-Albino rats were divided into five groups: Group I (Control), Group II (Sham Treatment), Group III (Hyaluronic Acid), Group IV (Metformin), and Group V (Pioglitazone). Adhesions were induced in the experimental groups, except for the sham group, using the scraping method. After 10 days, rats were euthanized for evaluation. Macroscopic adhesion degrees were assessed using Nair's scoring system. Immunohistochemical and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) methods were utilized to assess serum, peritoneal lavage, and intestinal tissue samples. Fructosamine, interleukin-6 (IL-6), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), and fibronectin levels were measured in serum and peritoneal lavage samples. RESULTS: The groups exhibited similar Nair scores and Type I or Type III Collagen staining scores (all, p>0.05). Pioglitazone significantly reduced serum IL-6 and TGF-β levels compared to controls (p=0.002 and p=0.008, respectively). Both metformin and pioglitazone groups showed elevated IL-6 in peritoneal lavage relative to controls, while fibronectin levels in the lavage were lower in pioglitazone-treated rats compared to the sham group (all, p<0.005). CONCLUSION: Pioglitazone, but not metformin, demonstrated a positive biochemical impact on preventing PIAA formation in an experimental rat model, although histological impacts were not observed. Further experimental studies employing different dose/ duration regimens of pioglitazone are needed to enhance our understanding of its effect on PIAA formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Unhealthy nutrition can contribute to the development or progression of various alimentary-dependent diseases, including obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, anaemia, and arterial hypertension. Young-old and old-old individuals often have diets deficient in essential vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients, characterized by high consumption of carbohydrate-rich foods and insufficient intake of plant-based products like vegetables and fruits. This study aims to identify key parameters of nutritional status among the young-old (aged 60–74 years) and old-old (aged 75–90 years) populations in central Kazakhstan, particularly in relation to specific alimentary-dependent diseases. Materials and Methods: The study involved 300 participants aged 60−90 years. The study incorporated a dietary questionnaire, food consumption records (such as 24 h recalls), and measurements of anthropometric indicators including weight and skinfold measurements. Results: Residents in the surveyed regions typically consumed food 3–4 times daily, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner being eaten at consistent times. A significant proportion of individuals, especially older adults, followed this meal schedule. About one-third ate before bedtime, and more than half believed they adhere to a specific diet. The mean BMI for men aged 60–74 years was 28.3 (95% CI: 20.1–43.2) and, for those aged 75–90 years, it was 29.0 (95% CI: 22.1–40.8). Caloric intake among individuals aged 60–74 was higher compared to those aged 75–90, with males consuming an average of 2372.7 kcal and females consuming 2236.78 kcal versus 2101.5 kcal for males and 2099.9 kcal for females in the older age group. Conclusions: The dietary patterns observed among old-old individuals were marked by excessive calorie intakes and imbalances in macronutrient composition, with a predominant emphasis on high-carbohydrate foods at the expense of essential nutrients like proteins, fats, and key vitamins (such as C, E, B vitamins) and minerals (such as potassium, calcium, and iron). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical synthesis of complex oligosaccharides relies on efficient and highly reproducible glycosylation reactions. The outcome of a glycosylation is contingent upon several environmental factors, such as temperature, acidity, the presence of residual moisture, as well as the steric, electronic, and conformational aspects of the reactants. Each glycosylation proceeds rapidly and with a high yield within a rather narrow temperature range. For better control over glycosylations and to ensure fast and reliable reactions, a systematic analysis of 18 glycosyl donors revealed the effect of reagent concentration, water content, protecting groups, and structure of the glycosyl donors on the activation temperature. With these insights, we parametrize the first step of the glycosylation reaction to be executed reliably and efficiently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many theoretical treatments of foraging use energy as currency, with carbohydrates and lipids considered interchangeable as energy sources. However, herbivores must often synthesize lipids from carbohydrates since they are in short supply in plants, theoretically increasing the cost of growth. We tested whether a generalist insect herbivore (Locusta migratoria) can improve its growth efficiency by consuming lipids, and whether these locusts have a preferred caloric intake ratio of carbohydrate to lipid (C : L). Locusts fed pairs of isocaloric, isoprotein diets differing in C and L consistently selected a 2C : 1L target. Locusts reared on isocaloric, isoprotein 3C : 0L diets attained similar final body masses and lipid contents to locusts fed the 2C : 1L diet, but they ate more and had a ~12% higher metabolic rate, indicating an energetic cost for lipogenesis. These results demonstrate that some animals can selectively regulate carbohydrate-to-lipid intake and that consumption of dietary lipids can improve growth efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]