Search

• Sepiolite was first used as the carrier of MnCo-LDH to improve the catalytic activity. • Abundant reaction active sites were achieved in mnco-LDH/sepiolite composite. • The synergistic effect of MnCo-LDH and sepiolite enhanced NF degradation efficiency. In this study, MnCo layered double hydroxide/sepiolite (MnCo-LDH/sepiolite) as PMS catalyst were synthesized using a simple water bath method. The results indicated that the composite exhibited the highest norfloxacin (NF) removal efficiency (90.14 % in 40 min), and its reaction rate constant (0.2049 min-1) was 2.0 times higher than that of pure MnCo-LDH. Compared with MnCo-LDH, MnCo-LDH/sepiolite catalyst had a larger specific surface area and pore volume which can provide more abundant active sites thereby improving the NF degradation performance. In addition, EPR and quenching experiments results revealed that SO 4 •- and 1O 2 were the main active substances. Moreover, the successive redox of Mn and Co species contributed to the main driving force to effectively activate PMS. Furthermore, the possible catalytic mechanisms and NF degradation pathways were systematically analyzed. Overall, this study provides a new strategy for developing an economical, efficient and environmentally friendly PMS catalyst for wastewater treatment. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is a challenge to prepare Ni-phyllosilicate catalysts deriving from the reaction of nickel salts and biomass-based silica with high Ni contents. In order to efficiently synthesize nickel phyllosilicate, the acid-treated rice husk without calcination (P-R) was directly used as the raw material. The as-synthesized Ni-phyllosilicate (N/P-R) exhibited high nickel content of 46.7 wt% owing to utilization of the abundant silanol group in the fresh rice husk. On the contrary, the Ni content of Ni-phyllosilicate sample (N/R–S) prepared using the calcinated rice husk-based silica was only 4.8 wt% because of the loss of silanol group during calcination process. As a result, N/P-R displayed much higher catalytic activity for CO 2 methanation than N/R–S. It was found that the silanol group was in favour of forming the important intermediate Si(OH) 4 , and thereby facilitated the formation of nickel phyllosilicate. In addition, the N/P-R catalyst demonstrated superior stability and excellent anti-sintering ability in the long lifetime test. In short, the proposed method in this work could not only efficiently synthesize nickel phyllosilicate with high Ni content, but also reduce energy consumption and operation steps compared to the one prepared using biomass-based silica. [Display omitted] • Ni-phyllosilicate was synthesized using rice husk as the raw material. • The rice husk without calcination possessed abundant silanol groups. • The more abundant silanol groups leaded in higher Ni-phyllosilicate content. • The optimal catalyst exhibited high catalytic activity for CO 2 methanation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• g-C 3 N 4 /stilbite was successfully fabricated by the in-situ synthesis method. • g-C 3 N 4 /stilbite composite exhibited the outstanding TC degradation performance. • h+ and •O 2 − were mainly responsible for TC degradation under visible light. In this study, the g-C 3 N 4 /stilbite composite was fabricated by the in-situ synthesis method, and the photocatalytic performance was investigated by degrading tetracycline (TC) under visible light. The results indicated that the photocatalytic degradation efficiency of g-C 3 N 4 /stilbite-6 (86.8 %) was about 2.7 times higher than that of pure g-C 3 N 4 (31.8 %). The introduction of the stilbite carrier effectively resolved the issues of g-C 3 N 4 such as easy self-agglomeration and the difficulty in separating photo-generated carriers, thereby improving the photocatalytic activity of g-C 3 N 4. From the quenching experiment, it was found that h+ and •O 2 − were main active species for TC degradation. By HPLC-MS analysis, TC degradation products were identified, and three degradation pathways were proposed. In addition, the impacts of solution pH, light intensity, and catalyst dosage on TC degradation performance were also evaluated. Overall, a simple and successful strategy has been proposed to synthesize high-performing visible-light-driven photocatalysts for efficiently eliminating organic contaminants from wastewater. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalytic degradation of pollutants is one of the most environmentally friendly and energy efficient technologies. Photocatalysts with porous structures not only enhance the adsorption of pollutants by the catalyst, but also accelerate the electron transfer and enhance the photocatalytic performance due to the exposure of more active sites. In addition, the S-Scheme heterojunction photocatalyst not only reduces the rate of electron-hole pair compounding, but also maintains the redox properties of the photocatalyst and improves photocatalytic performance. In this paper, the mesoporous material TiO 2 /g-C 3 N 4 S-Scheme heterojunction photocatalysts were prepared in one step by the sol-gel method using urea as a precursor. The particles of the prepared nanomaterials are between 20 and 50 nm in size and uniformly dispersed. The photodegradation efficiency of the photocatalyst for formaldehyde under visible light can reach over 85%. One-step preparation of TiO 2 /g-C 3 N 4 photocatalysts by sol-gel method with simple preparation method and high yield, solving the difficulties of low yield and high requirements for temperature and environmental conditions in the preparation of g-C 3 N 4 using urea thermal polymerisation. • One-step preparation of TiO 2 /g-C 3 N 4 S-Scheme heterojunction photocatalysts. • TiO 2 /g-C 3 N 4 is well dispersed with particle sizes in the range of 20-50 nm. • The photocatalysts can degrade formaldehyde with an efficiency of over 85%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effective utilization of by-products still poses a challenge in the food industry. In this work, soluble dietary fiber (SDF) extracted from okara was modified by steam explosion (SE) via adjusting steam pressure (1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 MPa) and SE duration (60 and 120 s). The structural and emulsification properties of modified SDF were studied. The untreated SDF exhibited a low yield (5.17%) and poor emulsification properties due to its large molecular weight (162.67 kDa), compact structure, and high interfacial tension (14.27 mN/m). SE increased SDF content by a maximum of 30.31%, 4.86 times higher than that of untreated SDF. Under mild SE conditions (1.0 MPa for 60 s), SDF displayed a loose structure with abundant side chains and a higher glyoxylate content (26.77%). Its near-neutral contact angle (82.0°) and lower interfacial tension (12.69 mN/m) endowed it with higher emulsification capacity, smaller emulsion droplet size, and enhanced emulsifying stability. The molecular weight of SDF decreased and the specific surface area enlarged with increasing SE intensity. Notably, SDF exhibited the best interfacial adsorption characteristics under SE of 2.0 MPa for 120 s, attributed to its low molecular weight (46.99 kDa) and higher protein content (7.58%). Overall, the improved emulsification properties of SDF were attributed to the synergistic effects of amphiphilic equilibrium, electrostatic repulsion, spatial resistance, and enhanced droplet-to-droplet interactions. [Display omitted] • Soluble dietary fiber (SDF) derived from okara is modified by steam explosion (SE). • SDF content reaches 30.31% at 1.0 MPa for 120 s of SE, 4.86 times higher than okara. • SE-modified SDF has loose structure, proper wettability, and low interface tension. • SDF exhibits the best interfacial adsorption property at 2.0 MPa for 120 s of SE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, arabinoxylan (AX) isolated from wheat bran was used to prepare AX-fortified bread and biscuits, and the effects of the amount and method of AX addition on the nutritional properties of baked products were investigated through simulated digestibility and colonic simulated fermentability analysis in vitro. The purified AX demonstrated a high total sugar content (92.75%), high molecular weight (Mw) (669.8 kDa), low polymer dispersity index (PDI) and low arabinose to xylose (A/X) ratio (1.21). In vitro digestibility test indicated that AX addition could dose-dependently inhibit the starch digestibility in both bread and biscuits. Most importantly, it could also dose-dependently transfer more starch and protein into the colon through the gastrointestinal tract, leading to the changes in total amount and chemical composition of food residues. Results from the in vitro fermentability test showed that alterations in the composition of food residue affected its fermentability: a high relative ratio of carbohydrate to protein could enhance its prebiotic effect. This study provides valuable insights into the role of dietary fibres in baked foods, aiming to achieve precise nutrition for high-fibre food products. [Display omitted] • Arabinoxylan (AX) added to baked food dose dependently inhibited the rate of starch hydrolysis. • The starch digestibility in bread/biscuits prepared by mixing AX with flour is lower. • AX-fortified breads/biscuits translocate more starch and protein into the colon, affecting its fermentability. • A high relative ratio of carbohydrate to protein in colon could enhance its prebiotic effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monascus yellow pigments (MYPs), as food colorants, are of great interest to the food industry, because of their beneficial biological activities. In this study, a comparative metabolomics strategy revealed the metabolic regulatory mechanism of MYP overproduction, comparing ammonium chloride with peptone as nitrogen sources. Metabolomics-based multivariate regression modeling showed that metabolic biomarkers/modules, such as glucose, lactate, and the pentose phosphate (PP) pathway, were closely associated with the biosynthesis of MYPs. Exogenous addition of glucose increased production of MYPs, whereas lactate reduced it. Inhibition of the PP pathway with dehydroepiandrosterone decreased MYP production, while increasing the shunting production of orange and red pigments. All these treatments significantly changed the expression profiles of the pigment biosynthetic gene cluster and the mycelial morphology. Overall, this study demonstrates the feasibility of elucidating the mechanism of MYP biosynthesis by comprehensive metabolomics analysis, as well as discovering potential engineering targets of efficiency improvements to commercial MYP production. Key points: • Comparative metabolomics revealed the biomarkers/modules of MYP production. • A rational exogenously adding strategy was implemented to regulate MYP synthesis. • Expression profiles of gene cluster and mycelial morphology were characterized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To understand the changes in arabinoxylan (AX) during breadmaking, multi-step enzyme digestion was conducted to re-extract arabinoxylan (AX-B) from AX-fortified bread. Their structural changes were compared using HPSEC, HPAEC, FT-IR, methylation analysis, and 1H NMR analysis; their properties changes in terms of enzymatic inhibition activities and in vitro fermentability against gut microbiota were also compared. Results showed that AX-B contained a higher portion of covalently linked protein while the molecular weight was reduced significantly after breadmaking process (from 677.1 kDa to 15.6 kDa); the structural complexity of AX-B in terms of the degree of branching was increased; the inhibition activity against α-amylase (76.81 % vs 73.89 % at 4 mg/mL) and α-glucosidase (64.43 % vs 58.08 % at 4 mg/mL) was improved; the AX-B group produced a higher short-chain fatty acids concentration than AX (54.68 ± 7.86 mmol/L vs 44.03 ± 4.10 mmol/L). This study provides novel knowledge regarding the structural and properties changes of arabinoxylan throughout breadmaking, which help to predict the health benefits of fibre-fortified bread and achieve precision nutrition. [Display omitted] • Arabinoxylan (AX) in bread was re-extracted using a multi-step enzyme hydrolysis method. • Breadmaking decreased the molecular weight and increased the structural complexity of fortified arabinoxylan. • The re-extracted AX could better inhibit the α-amylase and α-glucosidase activity than the original AX. • The re-extracted AX showed different in vitro fermentability compared to the original AX. • The related mechanisms towards the structure and property changes of AX were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Safflower seeds as a non-traditional vegetable additive are rich in high-grade vegetable protein (up to 16%), polyunsaturated fatty acids (including linoleic and linolenic acids), dietary fibre, vitamins and minerals. In the present work, the use of safflower seeds as a protein fortifier for shortbread is described. The amount of protein in safflower seeds, represented by a complete set of amino acids, was determined. Influence of ground safflower seed additive on the textural properties of dough was investigated. It was found that the water absorption capacity of our experimental sample was 13% lower than that of the control sample, which was explained by the hydrophobicity of the introduced additive of ground safflower seeds due to lipid-protein complexes represented by vegetable proteins and polyunsaturated fatty acids. A change in the rheological parameters of the experimental sample due to peculiarities of the chemical composition of the introduced additive of ground safflower seeds was revealed. During the experiment, the physicochemical parameters of shortbread were studied. Optimum concentration of ground safflower seeds was determined as well as the rheological, functional and organoleptic properties of dough and new shortbread, that allowed us to expand the assortment of them and to enrich then with bioactive compounds. Image 1 • Chemical composition and calorie content of ground safflower seeds were studied. • Rheological properties of dough with safflower seeds were studied. • Technology of shortbread with safflower seeds was developed. • Sensory and physico-chemical characteristics of new shortbread were determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A water-soluble polysaccharide (JCP-40) from Dendrobium nobile Lindl. was extracted and purified. It was demonstrated as a single symmetrical peak based on HPSEC analysis and had an average molecular weight of 67.5 kDa. Combined with monosaccharide composition analysis, methylation analysis, 1D/2D NMR spectroscopy, the structural features of JCP-40 was proposed as follows: the major sugar residues of JCP-40 consisted of →4)-β-ᴅ-Man p -(1→ and →4)-β-ᴅ-Glc p -(1 →. Acetyl groups were found attached to the O- 2 or O- 3 positions on mannosyl residues based on NMR spectrum results. Rotational isomeric state (RIS)-Metropolis Monte Carlo method indicated that repeating unit increased from 30 to 120, the influence of Mw in this range affected chain flexibility. The conformational parameters (derived from R g vs Mw and [η] vs Mw) from HPSEC suggested a random coil conformation for JCP-40. Image 1 • A polysaccharide (JCP-40) was purified from Dendrobium nobile Lindl. • The structure features of JCP-40 were characterized. • JCP-40 was a linear glucomannan with O- acetyl group attached. • Computer modeling was applied for the conformational study of glucomannan from D. nobile Lindl. • RIS-Metropolis Monte Carlo (RMMC) method was applied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of the cell wall structure of Monascus purpureus M9 on the secretion of extracellular monascus pigments (exMPs) was investigated. To modify the cell wall structure, UDP-galactopyranose mutase (GlfA) was knocked out using Agrobacterium -mediated transformation method, leading to a significant reduction in the Gal f -based polysaccharide within the cell wall. Changes in mycelium morphology, sporogenesis, and the expression of relevant genes in M9 were also observed following the mutation. Regarding MPs secretion, a notable increase was observed in six types of exMPs (R1, R2, Y1, Y2, O1 and O2). Specifically, these exMPs exhibited enhancement of 1.33, 1.59, 0.8, 2.45, 2.89 and 4.03 times, respectively, compared to the wild-type strain. These findings suggest that the alteration of the cell wall structure could selectively influence the secretion of MPs in M9. The underlying mechanisms were also discussed. This research contributes new insights into the regulation of the synthesis and secretion of MPs in Monascus spp.. • A novel pathway to regulate the secretion of MPs through the inactivation of GlfA • Found a significant increase in the proportion of orange MPs unexpectedly • The CWI pathway potentially involved in cell wall stability in Monascus sp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, carbon quantum dots (CQDs) were synthesized and embedded onto BiOI nanosheets to form the CQDs/BiOI composite by hydrothermal method and applied to the degradation of xanthate for the first time. The effect of different mass ratios of CQDs and BiOI on the photocatalytic degradation of xanthate was investigated. Compared with pure BiOI, CQDs/BiOI composites exhibited enhanced photocatalytic activity for xanthate degradation under visible light. The highest xanthate degradation was up to 97.9 % at 5 wt% of CQDs to BiOI, and the reaction rate constant was about 12 times that of pure BiOI. The experimental and characterization results revealed the significantly enhanced photocatalytic performance was mainly attributed to the introduction of CQDs, which can greatly improve the segregation efficiency of photogenerated carriers through acting as the electron acceptors. The photocatalyst possessed good reusability for xanthate degradation indicating the great potential in practical application. In addition, the active radicals capturing experiments indicated that •O 2 − were the main active species, and the possible photocatalytic mechanisms were also discussed in detail. This work provides an effective method to synthesize the promising visible-light-driven photocatalyst for wastewater treatment. The dramatically improved CQDs/BiOI photocatalyst under visible light was synthesized vis hydrothermal method to effectively remove the xanthate wastewater. This work provides an effective method to synthesize the promising visible-light-driven photocatalyst for wastewater treatment. [Display omitted] • CQDs/BiOI photocatalyst with CQDs as electron acceptors was prepared. • The xanthate degradation was up to 97.9 % by CQDs/BiOI under visible light. • The introduction of CQDs significantly improved carriers' separation efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• CoFe 2 O 4 /sepiolite catalyst was successfully synthesized via the two-step method. • CoFe 2 O 4 /sepiolite/PMS system exhibited the outstanding NOR degradation performance. • SO 4 •− and 1O 2 were the main active species in NOR degradation reaction process. In this work, CoFe 2 O 4 /Sepiolite catalysts were successfully synthesized via a water bath-calcination method. The composite performed greatly enhanced norfloxacin (NOR) degradation activity by activating PMS, and the reaction rate constant was about 6.31 times higher than that of bare CoFe 2 O 4. This was mainly attributed to the introduction of sepiolite support leading to higher adsorption capacity, more exposed reaction active sites due to the formation of CoFe 2 O 4 nanoparticles with smaller grain size. The EPR and quenching experiments indicated that SO 4 •− and 1O 2 were the main major contributors for NOR degradation. The redox cycle of Co2+/Co3+ and Fe2+/Fe3+ were mainly responsible for the continuous generation of reaction active species thereby achieving the efficient NOR degradation. Moreover, the enhanced catalytic mechanisms and NOR degradation pathways in CoFe 2 O 4 /Sepiolite/PMS system were further proposed. Overall, this study provides a new insight for the rational design of mineral-based PMS catalysts for efficient wastewater treatment. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The α-Fe 2 O 3 /g-C 3 N 4 photocatalyst exhibited excellent photo-Fenton activity for TC degradation. • The α-Fe 2 O 3 is deposited on the g-C 3 N 4 surface as the active site for the reaction. • The active species ⋅O 2 −, h + and ·OH have a major function in the TC degradation. • The photocatalyst has good stability and efficiency in five cycling runs. A novel α-Fe 2 O 3 /g-C 3 N 4 composite was successfully designed by loading α-Fe 2 O 3 hexagonal flakes on the spherical surface of g-C 3 N 4 to enhance visible light absorption and manipulate the directed transfer of electrons and holes. The results of UV–vis DRS, XPS valence band, and Mott-Schottky calculations indicated that the g-C 3 N 4 microspheres obtained after morphology modulation have improved absorption of visible light and the band gap structure has been changed. The catalyst achieved 90.7% removal of tetracycline in 120 min under visible light irradiation and hydrogen peroxide, which was 58.2 and 37.6% higher relative to the photocatalytic and Fenton-like systems alone, respectively. It was shown that the significantly enhanced catalytic activity was attributed to the synergistic effect of α-Fe 2 O 3 and g-C 3 N 4. In addition, the possible degradation pathways of tetracycline were investigated by HPLC-MS to identify intermediates. This work provided insight into the construction of Z-scheme heterojunction photo-Fenton catalysts for environmental remediation. [Display omitted] The proposed mechanism for tetracycline degradation on α-Fe 2 O 3 /g-C 3 N 4 photocatalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, S-scheme Bi 2 MoO 6 /g-C 3 N 4 /sepiolite ternary photocatalyst with improved visible-light-driven photodegradation activity for tetracycline (TC) was obtained via the calcination process followed by solvothermal method. Bi 2 MoO 6 /g-C 3 N 4 /sepiolite ternary composite exhibited significantly enhanced photocatalytic degradation performance for TC (92.70% within 180 min), and its reaction rate constant was almost 2.66, 20.06, 2.37, 2.04 and 2.43 times higher than those of Bi 2 MoO 6 , g-C 3 N 4 , Bi 2 MoO 6 /g-C 3 N 4 , Bi 2 MoO 6 /sepiolite and g-C 3 N 4 /sepiolite, respectively. The improvement of photocatalytic activity for Bi 2 MoO 6 /g-C 3 N 4 /sepiolite was mainly attributed to the construction of synergistic system between S-scheme Bi 2 MoO 6 /g-C 3 N 4 heterojunction and sepiolite, leading to the enhancement of the adsorption capacity and the visible light response ability as well as the enhancement of photoinduced carriers' separation efficiency. The quenching experiment and EPR test results indicated the h+ and O 2 •- radicals played major roles in TC degradation process. Furthermore, the effects of different factors on the TC degradation performance were investigated such as solution pH, catalyst dosage and initial concentration of TC. The photocatalytic degradation mechanism and TC degradation pathway were also proposed. Overall, this study is expected to provide a new insight for the rational design of ternary natural mineral-based visible-light-driven photocatalyst to effectively remove the organic pollutants from wastewater. [Display omitted] • A novel S-scheme Bi 2 MoO 6 /g-C 3 N 4 /sepiolite composite was successfully synthesized. • The ternary photocatalyst showed excellent TC photodegradation activity. • The enhanced TC degradation mechanism of Bi 2 MoO 6 /g-C 3 N 4 /sepiolite was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pectin can be utilized to modulate the host gut microbiomes. In this study, the fermentability of pectins and their enzymatic-hydrolysates from different sources (sunflower stalks pith, apple, orange, hawthorn and okra) by pig faecal microbiota in vitro were compared. The changes in pH, Mw, total carbohydrate content, gut microbiota, SCFAs production along the fermentation duration for each sample and their differences among distinct pectins were investigated. The results showed that all pectins and their corresponding oligomers were highly fermentable and promoted the production of health-promoting SCFAs. As low-specificity fibers, oligomeric pectins can be utilized extensively by more gut microbiota, and selectively enriched classical bifidogenic effects. Compared to the more common homogalacturonan-rich pectins from sunflower stalks pith, apple, orange, and hawthorn, the okra pectin with a unique rhamnogalacturonan-I branched structure exhibited higher prebiotics potential, as evidenced by the highest level in SCFAs-producing bacteria and beneficial SCFAs molecules, along with the lower relative abundance of pathogenic bacteria. This study highlighted the targeted manipulation of the gut microbiome by pectin, promoting the establishment of structure-directed-microbiota relationships and the development of microbiome-based personalized nutrition. [Display omitted] • Fermentation properties of 10 pectins with distinct structures are compared. • Oligomer pectin regulates more diverse microbiota and higher bifidogenic effect. • Okra pectin has the high-quality dietary prebiotics potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xanthate wastewater is a serious threat to the surrounding environment of mining sites, and it is important to use visible light photocatalytic technology to remove xanthatefrom wastewater. In this paper, a simple hydrothermal calcination synthesis route was used to grow submicron-sized CuO onto the surface of g-C 3 N 4 for the degradation of xanthate in mineral processing wastewater. The results showed that the CuO/g–C 3 N 4 –0.4 composite catalyst degraded xanthate with an efficiency of 83.2% in 120 min, which was 6.2 times higher than that of pure g-C 3 N 4. The catalyst materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. It was found that the excellent photocatalytic performance of the composite was attributed to the construction of S-scheme CuO/g–C 3 N 4 –Xheterojunction, which not only broadened the light absorption range but also retained the strong redox ability of holes and electrons to participate in the reaction while efficiently separating the photoinduced carriers. Based on the results of active substance capture, an S-scheme charge transfer model was proposed and the photodegradation mechanism of xanthate was reasonably elucidated. • Copper CuO/g-C 3 N 4 photocatalysts has a degradation efficiency of 83.2% for xanthate under visible light. • Growing submicron-sized CuO onto g-C 3 N 4 surfaces by a simple hydrothermal calcination method. • The improvement of photocatalytic activity is due to the improvement of effective separation rate of electrons and holes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Starch/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/clay nanocomposite films with high mechanical and barrier properties were prepared by extrusion blowing. Based on the starch/clay matrix, the effects of PVA content on the starch/PVA/clay nanocomposite films were investigated. Appropriate preparation conditions were determined by the rheological behavior of the blends. X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy results demonstrated that the starch/PVA/clay nanocomposite films exhibited intercalated structures and the extent of intercalation increased with increasing PVA content. FTIR spectra showed that the molecular interactions were enhanced in the starch/PVA/clay films with higher PVA content. Dynamic mechanical analysis revealed partial miscibility between the starch and PVA in the films and the compatibility was improved when the PVA content was 50%. The maximum tensile strength and elongation at break for the starch/PVA/clay nanocomposite films were 30.18 MPa and 224.40%, respectively. The oxygen permeability of the starch/PVA/clay film with 50% PVA was dramatically decreased by about 210 times compared with that of a starch/clay film. A continuous phase inversion mechanism was proposed to explain the performance improvement of the starch/PVA/clay nanocomposite films. The starch/PVA/clay nanocomposite film is a promising material for high barrier food packaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioelectrochemical enhanced nitrate removal in wastewater with high total nitrogen and low organic carbon was electrochemically investigated focusing on the relationship between biochemical and electrochemical nitrogen cycles. Under optimized external voltage of −0.6 V, apparent nitrate removal rate of bioelectrochemical denitrification was 76% higher than normal biofilm denitrification. And with the introduction of biofilm on the electrode, new reduction peak of N 2 O, much larger current density, and 0.4 V positively shift of on-set potential of nitrate reduction reaction were observed, suggesting a synergy of electrochemical reaction and biological reaction through enhanced electrochemical reduction of intermediate products from biological process. Oxygen reduction reaction could not be avoided during nitrogen electrochemical reduction reaction since their similar reduction potential. But it led to decrease of oxygen concentration and therefore contribute to biological denitrification. Bacteria community tests also supported a dominant bacteria which could denitrify and use external electron. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xanthan gum can improve the freeze-thaw stability of frozen foods. However, the high viscosity and long hydration time of xanthan gum limits its application. In this study, ultrasound was employed to reduce the viscosity of xanthan gum, and the effect of ultrasound on its physicochemical, structural, and rheological properties was investigated using High-performance size-exclusion chromatography (HPSEC), ion chromatograph, methylation analysis, 1H NMR, rheometer, etc.. The application of ultrasonic-treated xanthan gum was evaluated in frozen dough bread. Results showed that the molecular weight of xanthan gum was reduced significantly by ultrasonication (from 3.0 × 107 Da to 1.4 × 106 Da), and the monosaccharide compositions and linkage patterns of sugar residues were altered. Results revealed that ultrasonication treatment mainly broke the molecular backbone at a lower intensity, then mainly broke the side chains with increasing intensity, which significantly reduced the apparent viscosity and viscoelastic properties of xanthan gum. The results of specific volume and hardness showed that the bread containing low molecular weight xanthan gum was of better quality. Overall, this work offers a theoretical foundation for broadening the application of xanthan gum and improving its performance in frozen dough. [Display omitted] • Both the backbone and side chains of xanthan gum could be cleaved by ultrasound. • The molecular structure of modified xanthan gum was analyzed. • The rheological properties of modified xanthan gum were studied systematically. • Frozen dough bread with low molecular weight xanthan gum had better quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alkaline slurry electrolysis has been verified as an effective method for metal recovery from waste printed circuit boards (WPCBs). However, the electrolyte that remains after slurry electrolysis contains high concentrations of metal, which can cause pollution without suitable treatment. Most importantly, the metals in the electrolyte are not completely recovered, resulting in wasted resources and increased costs. Here, the feasibility of circulating this electrolyte and its effect on copper recovery, current efficiency, and purity, is discussed. We also describe in detail the migration and transformation of copper and other metals, such as nickel, zinc, and lead, during the preparation of high-purity cathode copper from mobile phone WPCBs (WPCB-MPs) using an ammonia-ammonium chloride slurry electrolysis system. Experimental results from 19 cycles of electrolyte reuse show that copper is mainly distributed in the cathode products, whereas other metals are mainly distributed in the electrolyte and anode residues. With an increase in the number of cycles, the concentration of other metals in the electrolyte gradually increased, showing metal enrichment. The current efficiency fluctuates but is usually >90%. In addition, the copper recovery rate and purity were essentially unaffected, being >99% and >99.9% for all 20 runs, respectively, and all the cathode copper foils were easily peeled off. This study demonstrated that electrolytes can be reused for metal recycling from WPCB-MPs by alkaline slurry electrolysis without decreasing Cu purity, Cu recovery rate, and current efficiency. Thus, this study provides a green and cost-effective process for recycling resources from e-waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored the effects of wheat bran arabinoxylan (AX) of various molecular structures on the functional and in vitro digestibility of wheat starch. AX was separated with sequential ethanol precipitation into different fractions (L-Fra and H-Fra), followed by acidic treatment at varied time to convert L-Fra into different subfractions (H-Sub, M-Sub and L-Sub), and the structural features of AX and its subsequent fractions were compared. The Mw and branching degree of the fractions were decreased in the order of H-Fra (545 kDa, 1.15), L-Fra (86 kDa, 0.35), H-Sub (38 kDa, 0.16), M-Sub (21 kDa, 0.10) and L-Sub (7 kDa, 0.08). The functional properties, such as pasting properties, rheological properties, thermal properties, and their effect on the in vitro digestibility of wheat starch-AX combinations, were closely related to the molecular structures of AX. AX with higher Mw, higher branching degree and phenolic content could better inhibit the starch gelatinization and retrogradation, thus reducing the apparent viscosity and gelling properties of wheat starch. The possible mechanisms can be illustrated as 1) AX could compete for water with starch to inhibit granule expansion; 2) AX could not only adsorb on the surface of starch granules through hydrogen bonds but also entangle with the leached amylose and wrap on the surface of granules; 3) AX contained phenols, leading them to inhibit granule expansion through non-covalent interactions with starch molecules. Overall, this study provides a theoretical basis to improve the quality of wheat starch foods and extend the shelf life of wheat foods. [Display omitted] • Arabinoxylan (AX) fractions with various structural features were obtained. • The molecular weight (Mw), degree of branching (DOB) and phenols of AX were explored. • AX with higher Mw, higher DOB and phenols could better inhibit starch gelatinization. • AX with higher Mw, higher DOB and phenols could better inhibit starch retrogradation. • All AX with various structures could inhibit the in vitro digestibility of starch. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To understand the structural and immunomodulatory relationships of Dendrobium officinale polysaccharide (DOP), ultrasonic (UDOP-1 and UDOP-2) and alkaline treatments (DADOP-1 and DADOP-2) were used to obtain DOPs of varied Mw and degrees of acetylation (DA). In vivo mice study indicated that the DOP by ultrasonic degradation and deacetylation modification could differentially restore the organ indexes, improve immune response, enhance the release of cytokine and modulate the structure of gut microbiota in Cy-induced immunosuppressed mice. The degree of immune activity recovery was decreased in the order of UDOP-2 > DADOP-1 > DOP > UDOP-1 > DADOP-2. Structurally, the Mw of UDOP-2 decreased from 649 kDa to 279 kDa, and DA decreased from 8.87% to 3.68% after ultrasonication treatment. These results suggested that the short-time ultrasonication process could enhance the immune activity. The polysaccharide fractions with similar acetyl group content but lower Mw had a strong enhancement in their immune activity in vivo. In contrast, the low acetyl content was not conducive to enhancing immune activity, suggesting that a certain acetyl content may be a key factor for the immune activity of DOP, but the range of DA value still needs to be further explored. [Display omitted] • Different DOP sub-fractions were obtained by ultrasonic and alkaline treatments. • The short-time ultrasonication process mildly reduced the Mw and acetyl group of DOP. • DOP with similar acetyl group content but lower Mw exhibited better immune activity. • The short-time ultrasonication process could significantly improve immune activity. • The low acetyl content was not conducive to enhancing immune activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The Cl-CN/Fe catalyst exhibited excellent photo-Fenton activity for TC degradation. • FeOOH loading in Cl-CN/Fe photocatalysts induced the Fenton reaction. • Photogenerated h + and ·OH have a major function in the TC degradation. • The photocatalyst has high stability and efficiency in a wide pH range. Amorphous goethite (FeOOH) has more excellent photocatalytic properties owing to its disordered structure. In this work, the active photocatalyst Cl-CN/Fe heterojunction was constructed by in-situ growth of FeOOH nanoparticles on the spherical surface of chlorine-doped carbon nitride microspheres (Cl-CNMS). The Cl-CN/Fe photocatalyst exhibited efficient photo-Fenton-like degradation activity for tetracycline. The degradation rate (0.02056 min−1) is 21.61 and 2.64 times higher than that of the photocatalytic system (0.00095 min−1) and Fenton-like system (0.00779 min−1). The significantly enhanced catalytic activity is attributed to the synergistic effect between Cl-CNMS photocatalyst and FeOOH Fenton-like catalyst in a photo-Fenton-like system. The carbon nitride microspheres have strong absorption of visible light while acting as a substrate material. Meanwhile the loaded FeOOH acts as the inducer of the photo-Fenton reaction. In addition, the doped chlorine atoms in the Cl-CN/Fe photocatalysts can suppress the recombination of photoinduced electron-hole pairs. The photocatalyst has a high recovery rate and stability based on the spherical structure. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Black rice is rich in anthocyanins, and the antioxidant effect of anthocyanins is recognized by consumers. The aim of this study was to identify the molecular mechanisms underlying the antioxidant activity of black rice anthocyanin extract (BRAE) in PC12 cells and C. elegans. Results showed that BRAE increased antioxidant enzyme activities and decreased the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde in PC12 cells induced by H 2 O 2. Meanwhile, BRAE extended the lifespan, enhanced resistance to stress, increased antioxidant enzyme activities, and reduced lipofuscin, ROS, and MDA accumulation in wild-type C. elegans. The polyQ40 aggregation in AM141, paralysis in CL4176, and chemotaxis deficit in CL2355 were alleviated by BRAE administration. BRAE downregulated the mRNA expression of age-1 and daf-2 , while upregulated the daf-16 mRNA level and SOD-3, CTL-1, and GST-4 protein expression. Mutational lifespan tests and molecular docking showed that insulin pathway might be involved in the mechanism of lifespan extension. [Display omitted] • The mechanism of lifespan extension of BRAE was revealed in vivo. • Combined with network pharmacology and molecular docking, it was confirmed that the life-extending effect of BRAE. • Antioxidant capacity of BRAE was studied in vitro and in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fermentation of dietary fibres by gut microbiota has been extensively studied to reduce the risk of colon-related diseases and some metabolic syndromes, such as obesity, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and inflammation. Focusing the most recent publications, this review summarises various fermentation models of dietary fibre against gut microbiota (in vitro and in vivo) and compares their advantages and disadvantages; demonstrates the differences in the microbiota composition among colonic digesta/faeces from different animals/humans; provides information on the fermentation performance and microbiota modulation by dietary fibre with diverse structures; discusses the dietary fibre fermentation with single/mixed strains and synthetic/artificial gut microbiota. This review aims to gain a deep understanding of the functional mechanisms of dietary fibre, aiding with an intent to achieve "precise nutrition" purposes in the future. [Display omitted] • Fermentation models of dietary fibre in vitro and in vivo are summarised. • The pros and cons of in vitro and in vivo models are compared. • The fermentation performances of diversified dietary fibres are reviewed. • The microbiota modulations by diversified dietary fibres are compared. • The relationships between dietary fibre and gut microbiota are highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ferulic acid (FA) of various ratios was successfully tagged onto arabinoxylan (AX) molecule by N,N′-carbonyldiimidazole (CDI) radical grafting reaction. The structural characterization of conjugates was conducted using methylation analysis, UV–vis, FT-IR and 1H NMR spectroscopy. The linkage patterns of AX before and after conjugation were similar. However, tagging FA onto AX significantly decreased the water solubility & Mw, whereas the apparent viscosity & antioxidant activity of AX were significantly enhanced. All these changes were positively correlated with the degree of attached FA. This study showed that trace amounts of phenolic compounds play a critical role in affecting the functional and bioactive properties of non-starch polysaccharides, which pave the way to develop novel dietary fibres with targeted functional and/or physiological properties. [Display omitted] • AX-FA conjugates of various FA ratios were prepared by CDI radical reaction. • The water solubility and Mw of conjugates were decreased. • The viscoelasticity and antioxidant activities of AX were improved by grafting reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine sulfated polysaccharides (SPs) have been widely used as food stabilisers or gelling agents. Recently, accumulated evidence has been collected regarding their bioactivities, including anticoagulant, antiviral and immunoregulatory activities. This review compares the structural characteristics of SPs from algae, marine animals and marine microorganisms. Their functional and biological activities and mechanisms involved are extensively summarized. The influences of the sulfate groups of SPs on their functional/bioactive properties are also highlighted. This overview aims to provide a deep understanding of marine SPs to facilitate their industrial applications in the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical areas. [Display omitted] • The typical structures of four types of marine SPs are summarized. • Their functional/bioactive properties and related mechanisms are introduced. • The sulfate groups play an important role in the bioactivity of SPs. • The structure-bioactivity relationships of marine SPs are highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Arabinoxylan was fluorescently labeled by DMSO/DBTD and reductive amination methods. • The solubility of conjugates was decreased with increasing degree of substitution. • The conjugates had a higher Mw and similar monosaccharide composition compared to AX. • The chain conformation of conjugates became more compact after labeling. Three fluorescent-labeling methods, including DMSO/DBTD, reductive amination and fluoresceinamine (FA), were applied to label arabinoxylan (AX). The conjugates were named AF, ATF and ACF, respectively. Compared to AX, the water solubility of AF significantly decreased while that of ATF significantly increased (p < 0.05); both showed decreased solubility with increasing degree of substitution (DS). However, AX was not successfully labeled by the FA method due to poor solubility. The structural and conformational properties of the AF and ATF conjugates under different DS were compared. Results showed that fluorochrome (FITC) was successfully grafted onto AX molecule by using the DMSO/DBTD and reductive amination methods. A slight increased Mw was noticed for both AF and ATF. AF existed in a more compact conformation, while the chain conformation of ATF was more elongated at a lower DS (1.15 %) and more compact at a higher DS (1.34 %). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The triple-helix conformation of polysaccharides are focused. • Their formation mechanisms and analytical methods are reviewed. • The association of triple-helix with their bioactive properties are discussed. • Potential problems of Congo red assay for triple-helix identification are stated. Triple helix conformation of polysaccharides is generally believed to be associated with their biological activities. However, the formation mechanisms and analytical methods for the triple helix polysaccharides, to our best knowledge, have not been systematically investigated. This article reviews specifically the literature on the formation and characterization of triple-helix polysaccharides. The formation mechanisms and related structural-conformation-bioactivity relationships are discussed; various analytical methods for characterizing triple-helix polysaccharides are summarized. This review devotes to a better understanding of the formation of polysaccharides based triple-helix structure and related analytical methods. These could provide some insights and inspirations for their applications in both food and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Four endopolysaccharide (MPS) sub-fractions were purified from Monascus purpureus. • The detailed structure of MPS-1 and MPS-2 were systematically investigated. • The structure of MPS-1 and MPS-2 was deduced to be a branched novel galactomannan. • MPS-2 exhibited immunomodulatory effects on RAW264.7 cells. Alkaline extracted endopolysaccharides (MPS) from Monascus purpureus (Hong Qu) mycelium were successfully separated into four sub-fractions, namely MPS-1 (18.0 %), MPS-2 (27.1 %), MPS-3 (12.6 %) and MPS-4 (14.7 %), by DEAE-Cellulose column chromatography. By combining monosaccharide composition analysis, methylation analysis and 1D & 2D NMR, the structure of sub-fractions was systematically characterized. Both MPS-1 and MPS-2 were comprised of mannose, glucose and galactose in the molar ratio of 1.5:1.6:1.0 and 10.6:1.0:13.8, respectively. The backbone of them both consisted of 2-α-Man p with several different branched chains. However, MPS-1 contained glucose based sugar residues such as 3-Glc p and 4-Glc p which were not shown on MPS-2. The proposed structures of MPS-3 and MPS-4 were not obtained due to the fairly complex molecular structure and relatively low yield. Moreover, based on the RAW 264.7 cells model, MPS-2 could significantly promote cytokines secretion including IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-10 and improve expression levels of the related mRNA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Five polysaccharide sub-fractions were purified via ethanol fractional precipitation. • Structural features and immunomodulatory activity of five sub-fractions were compared. • WASP-40 with higher DE displayed strong immunomodulatory effects on RAW264.7 cells. • The structure-activity relationships were discussed. The physicochemical properties, structural features and structure-immunomodulatory activity relationship of pectic polysaccharides from the white asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) skin were systematically studied. Using sequential ethanol precipitation, five sub-fractions namely WASP-40, WASP-50, WASP-60, WASP-70 and WASP-80 with distinct degree of esterification (DE) and molecular weight (Mw) were obtained. The Mw and DE values were decreased with the increase of the ethanol concentrations. Structurally, although 4-α-D-Gal p A was the dominant sugar residue in all fractions, the molar ratios were decreased, whereas other sugar residues including arabinose- and mannose-based sugar residues overall increased with the increase of ethanol concentration. In addition, the effects of sub-fractions on the RAW 264.7 cells indicated that pectic polysaccharides with the higher DE value showed a stronger immunomodulatory activity. Moreover, the structure-activity relationship was also discussed in this study, which extends the value-added application of asparagus and its processing by-products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrasonication, xylanase and trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) treatments were applied to modify wheat bran arabinoxylan (AX) molecules. Molecular weight (Mw) distribution analysis, methylation analysis, rheological analysis and starch in vitro digestibility test were followed to compare the structural and functional properties of AX under different treatments. Different degradation methods decreased the Mw of AX in distinct manners, resulting in fractions with different structural features. Ultrasound treatment decreased the Mw of AX (640 kDa) to medium size range (640–100 kDa) with a slightly decreased degree of branching (DOB). Xylanase and TFA treatments could generate fragments with relative lower Mw (<100 kDa) compared to ultrasound treatment. However, sugar residues of AX from xylanase treatment showed a much higher DOB (47.89) and better solubility than those from TFA treatment. AX of larger Mw fractions showed higher apparent viscosity under the shear rate (50.3/s) close to the value induced by gastrointestinal peristaltic. In vitro digestion experiments of AX-starch mixture and AX fortified bread both showed that the higher Mw of the AX demonstrated a better inhibitory effect against starch digestibility, leading to a higher percentage of resistant starch. According to differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis, AX could inhibit the retrogradation of wheat starch during bread storage, which provides complementary information for the above-mentioned conclusions. Image 1 • Three arabinoxylan fractions with different molecular weight were obtained. • The structural and functional features of different fractions were investigated. • All fractions showed inhibition on in vitro digestibility of starch and bread. • All fractions could inhibited the retrogradation of bread during storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a traditional Chinese medicinal and edible fungus, Monascus has been widely studied for its secondary metabolites such as Monascus pigments and γ-aminobutyric acid. However, the exopolysaccharides have not been extensively studied and this has limited their food and industrial applications. In this study, exopolysaccharides isolated from the liquid fermentation of Monascus purpureus (Hong Qu) were successfully separated into two fractions (EPS-1 and EPS-2) by DEAE-Cellulose column chromatography. A possible pigment-exopolysaccharides complex was identified. The molecular structure of the polysaccharides portion was systematically investigated using the combined techniques of FT-IR, monosaccharide analysis, methylation analysis and 1D & 2D NMR. Monosaccharide compositional analysis showed that EPS-1 was composed of mannose, glucose and galactose in the molar ratio of 8:1:11, while EPS-2 consisted of six different monosaccharides, namely, rhamnose, arabinose, xylose, mannose, glucose and galactose, with the molar ratio of 2.2:1.9:1:5.6:1.9:7.7, respectively. Moreover, the backbone of EPS-1 mainly consisted of 5-β-D-Gal f (31.74 wt%) and 2-β-D-Man p (17.48 wt%) with other sugar residues including 2,6-β-D-Gal f , T-α-D-Man p , 6-α-D-Man p and 3,5-β-D-Gal f also detected at small percentages. Furthermore, the immunomodulatory activity of EPS-1 was investigated by RAW 264.7 cell lines. The cell proliferation and pinocytosis activity, cytokines releasing, NO production and related mRNA levels all have been determined. The results indicated that EPS-1 could significantly promote cytokines secretion including IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-10 and improve expression levels of the related mRNA. Image 1 • Two exopolysaccharides in liquid fermentation of Monascus purpureus were purified. • The physicochemical features and detailed structure of EPS-1 were investigated. • EPS-1 showed immune-regulation effects on RAW 264.7 macrophages. • EPS-1 potentially can be used as immunomodulatory agents in functional food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monascus pigments (Mps) have been utilized as natural food colourants in Asia for centuries. However, the poor water-solubility and photo-instability greatly restrict their applications in food industry. As a kind of orange Mps, monascorubrin (denoted as O 1) is easy to react with substances containing amino groups (named amination reactions) and turn to red colour consequently. In this study, to maintain the original colour, solid inclusion complexes of O 1 with hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) were prepared using freeze-drying method, and then investigated by SEM, FT-IR, PXRD, 1HNMR as well as molecular simulation method. Obtained results indicated that water solubility of O 1 is significantly improved and its orange colour is successfully maintained at pH 3.5–9.0 upon complexation with HP-β-CD. Structural analysis suggested that O 1 is encapsulated into the cavity of HP-β-CD, probably preventing it from amination reactions. Moreover, the pH and photo stability of Mps are markedly enhanced by complexation. This study provides an effective method for preparing water-soluble orange Mps that might be applicable in the beverage industry. • HP-β-CD was loaded by monascorubrin through freeze-drying method. • Orange-coloured complexes obtained were water soluble. • The formation of inclusion complexes was confirmed by modern testing technology. • The photostability of orange pigments was improved by the inclusion of HP-β-CD. • The orange colour of the inclusion complexes was retained at pH 3.5–9.0. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• White asparagus skin polysaccharide (WASP) was isolated, which belonged to the pectic family. • Physicochemical and structural properties of WASP were systematically studied. • A proposed structure of WASP was established. • WASP showed immunomodulatory activities by RAW264.7 cell lines. The physicochemical properties, structural features and immunomodulatory effects of the white asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) skin polysaccharides (WASP) were systematically studied. WASP showed a pectic-like structure with a relatively low degree of esterification (DE, 18%); the weight-average molecular weight (Mw) and intrinsic viscosity were 76.1 kDa and 13 mL/g, respectively. Structurally, the dominated sugar residue of WASP was 4-α-D-Gal p A (39.7 mol%), while other residues including α-L-Ara f , 3-α-L-Rha p , 2,4-α-L-Rha p , and 4-β-D-Gal p were also detected with a comparable amount. A proposed structure of WASP was also presented. Physiologically, WASP could modulate the immune response of RAW 264.7 macrophages through increasing the release of immune factors (IL-6, TNF-α and IL-10) and improving the expression of mRNA. To conclude, the pectic-like polysaccharides from white asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) skin could be potentially used as an immunomodulatory agent in functional food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Tomato fruits perceive dextran as a pathogen-associated molecular pattern. • Dextran accelerated fruit wound healing and induced systemic disease resistance. • Dextran upregulated phenylpropanoid and flavonoid biosynthesis pathways in fruit. • Callose deposition is involved in dextran-mediated disease resistance. • Dextran increased fruit metabolites that inhibit Botrytis cinerea spore germination. Alpha-1,3-glucan is often synthesized on the surface of pathogenic filamentous fungi cell walls to block pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) generation by host plant enzymes and the subsequent immune system response of the plant. Here, Botrytis cinerea susceptibility was assessed in tomato fruit to determine whether the fruit could recognize this camouflage and mount an immune response to it. The results showed that local mechanical wounds treated with dextran and laminarin, except amylopectin, could locally and then systemically activate disease resistance against B. cinerea infection in tomato fruit. Dextran treatment effectively elicited fruit callose deposition and phenylpropanoid and flavonoid biosynthesis to a greater extent than α-glucanase activity relative to the mock group surface wounds. Enzymatic hydrolysis of this polysaccharide provided some help in improving host disease resistance. Taken together, these results demonstrate that tomato fruit can perceive α-1,3-glucan as a kind of PAMPs but have limited ability to degrade it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the effects of four natural galactomannans (GMs) with varying degrees of branching (fenugreek gum, guar gum, tara gum and locust bean gum) on the functional properties and in vitro digestibility of wheat starch (WS). Results from rapid viscosity analysis (RVA) and low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF-NMR) analysis revealed that GMs with lower branching degrees were correlated with higher paste viscosity, peak viscosity, and greater water-holding capacity in the WS-GM mixtures. Additionally, these lower branching GMs more effectively inhibited amylose leaching during starch gelatinization, leading to a softer gel texture and increased transparency of the mixtures. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis demonstrated that starch mixtures containing lower branching GMs exhibited reduced relative crystallinity and enthalpy values during aging. Furthermore, the incorporation of lower branching GMs resulted in decreased starch digestibility in vitro, thereby enhanced resistant starch content. These findings highlight the potential of selectively branched GMs to modulate the functional properties and nutritional profile of WS, providing a promising approach for the development of starch-based products with improved health benefits., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest There are no competing interests., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

Chicken coccidiosis caused by Eimeria spp. can occur on almost all poultry farms, causing huge economic losses to the industry. Genetically manipulated Eimeria parasites as a vaccine vector to deliver viral antigens have been reported. In our preliminary study, transgenic E. acervulina expressing a VP2 gene (Ea-VP2) of the infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) demonstrated partial protection against IBDV infection. To enhance immune responses, we aimed to increase the VP2 gene copy number in transgenic E. acervulina . In this study, we used a novel plasmid vector carrying a VP2 gene fused with three flag tags and a red fluorescent reporter gene (mCherry). The vector was introduced into Ea-VP2 sporozoites through nucleofection, leading to the generation of Ea-2VP2. Subsequent analysis revealed a notable escalation in the fluorescent rate, increasing from 0.11 to 95.1% following four consecutive passages facilitated by fluorescent-activated cell sorting. Verification via PCR, Western blot, and immunofluorescence confirmed the successful construction of the Ea-2VP2 population. Despite lower fecundity compared to wild-type E. acervulina , Ea-2VP2 maintained immunogenicity. Our research effectively created a transgenic E. acervulina strain transfected sequentially with two copies of the VP2 gene from IBDV. This modification resulted in an increased humoral immune response after primary immunization in chickens. Additionally, it demonstrated a degree of protection within the bursa against IBDV infection. Future studies will focus on further enhancing immune response levels., Competing Interests: CC, BB and IT were employed by the company MSD Animal Health UK Ltd. The authors declare that this study received funding from MSD Animal Health UK ltd. The funder had the following involvement in the study: the decision to submit it for publication. The remaining authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Guo, Yu, Suo, Tang, Zhang, Crouch, Bruton, Tarpey, Liu, Zhao and Suo.)

Polysaccharides from Armillaria luteo-virens (ALP) were investigated for structural characterization and immunomodulatory activities. Three fractions (ALP-1, ALP-2, and ALP-3) were obtained with the yield of 2.4, 3.7, and 3.0 wt %, respectively. ALP-1 was proposed as a β-(1 → 3)(1 → 6)-glucan with a triple-helix conformation; ALP-2 and ALP-3 were both identified as α-(1 → 4)(1 → 6)-glucan differing in their M w and branching degree with a spherical conformation. The in vitro digestibility experiment and in vivo experiments using cyclophosphamide (CY)-treated mice demonstrated that intraperitoneal injection of α-glucan (1 mg·kg -1 ·day -1 ) and intragastric gavage of β-glucan (10 mg·kg -1 ·day -1 ) both effectively restored the decrease in body weight, immune organ indexes, immune cell activities, serum immune marker levels, colonic short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) levels, and Bacteroidetes / Firmicutes ratio in immunosuppression mice. This study provides novel insights into the immunomodulatory activity of α- and β-glucans under different administration routes, thereby promoting their application in both food and pharmaceutical areas.

Traditional Chinese medicines such as hyperoside-rich Acanthopanax senticosus and Crataegus pinnatifida have been confirmed to exhibit anti-oxidative stress properties. Hyperoside, the main ingredient of numerous antioxidant herbs, may have the ability to postpone the onset of neurodegenerative diseases. This study investigates the possible therapeutic mechanism of hyperoside as a natural antioxidant against Alzheimer's disease (AD) in Caenorhabditis elegans and PC12 cells. Specifically, hyperoside reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) level and Aβ42-induced neurotoxicity in C. elegans worms. Meanwhile, hyperoside reduced ROS production and increased mitochondrial membrane potentialin Aβ42-induced PC12 cells, which possibly due to the increase of antioxidant enzymes activity and the diminution of malondialdehyde levels. Hoechst 33,342 staining and flow cytometry analysis results suggested that hyperoside reverses cell apoptosis. Network pharmacology predicts potentially relevant hyperoside targets and pathways in AD therapy. As anticipated, hyperoside reversed Aβ42-stimulated downregulation of the PI3K/Akt/Nrf2/HO-1. The PI3K inhibitor LY294002 partially abolished the protective capability of hyperoside. The results of molecular docking further indicated that the PI3K/Akt pathways may be involved in the protection of Aβ42-induced PC12 cells by hyperoside treatment. The study provides theoretical information for research and development of hyperoside as an antioxidant dietary supplement., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Climate change-related environmental challenges are prompting an increasing number of countries to set carbon-neutral targets. Since 2007, China has pursued numerous initiatives to attain carbon neutrality by 2060, including increasing the percentage of non-fossil energy, developing zero-emission and low-emission technologies, and taking actions that reduce CO2 emissions or boost carbon sinks. As a result, utilizing quarterly data from 2008/Q1 to 2021/Q4, and applying the nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag (NARDL) approach, this study evaluates the effectiveness of the measures taken by China to improve the ecological situation. The results of the study show that the measures enacted to reduce CO2 emissions did not accomplish their ultimate purpose. Specifically: (i) high-speed railways and new energy vehicles do not improve the environment in the long run; (ii) investments and patents in the energy sector, as well as low-carbon sources, will degrade the environment; (iii) only investments in the treatment of environmental pollution will improve the ecological situation. Various policy implications are suggested based on the empirical results in order to attain environmental sustainability., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Ankaflavin (AK) is a typical yellow pigment extracted from Monascus -fermented rice with several biological effects; however, its solubility is poor. Thus, research studies of the delivery systems of AK, especially those constructed from protein-polysaccharide complexes, have attracted considerable attention. However, the interactions that exist in the system have rarely been investigated. This work focused on the interactions between AK and bovine serum albumin (BSA) as well as the influence of carrageenan (Car) on the binding of AK to BSA. Results revealed that the quenching of BSA by AK involved the static quenching mechanism. The formed BSA-AK complexes were mainly maintained by hydrophobic forces and AK was located within the hydrophobic cavity of BSA. Compared to free AK or AK only complexed with BSA, a higher absorption intensity of AK was observed for the formed BSA-AK-Car complexes, indicating changes in the microenvironment of AK. This was confirmed by the increase in the α-helix content of BSA after the formation of BSA-AK-Car complexes. Hydrogen bond, van der Waals, and electrostatic interactions were verified to be the primary forces preserving the BSA-AK-Car complexes. Moreover, the antioxidant potential of Monascus -fermented products rich in AK (denoted as Mps), namely BSA-Mps and BSA-Mps-Car was evaluated. The antioxidant activity of Mps was negatively impacted by BSA, while the addition of Car could enhance the antioxidant capacity of BSA-Mps-Car complexes. Meanwhile, Mps showed a protective effect against free radical-induced oxidation damage to BSA, and Car could further improve this effect.

Antibiotics pollution is an urgent public health issue. Biochar is a kind of promising composite for removal antibiotic in aqueous environment. In this study, a novel magnetic graphoxide/biochar composite (mGO/TBC) was synthesized by simple impregnation method and used as an efficient and recyclable persulfate (PS) activator for degradation and removal of sulfonamides (SAs) and quinolones (QNs) antibiotics. Based on the synergism pre-adsorption and degradation between graphoxide and biochar, the removal rates of mGO/TBC on sarafloxacin hydrochloride, sulfadimethoxine, sulfapyridine, sulfadoxine, sulfamonomethoxine, sulfachloropyridazine, enrofloxacin, and ciprofloxacin were increased above 95%. Moreover, the mGO/TBC could be reused at least seven times after degradation-recovery cycles. Quenching experiment and ESR analysis proved that 1 O 2 , • OH, and SO 4 •- from mGO/TBC/PS system were the primary oxidation active species to degrade SAs and QNs. It is a promising substrate for antibiotic bioremediation with good application prospects., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Two novel absorbents were synthesized for the first time by banana and pomegranate peels using diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) modification to eliminate Cd(II) and Ni(II) of sewage. The DTPA-modified peels performed significantly higher adsorption capacity than unmodified materials. The maximum adsorption capacities of DTPA-modified banana/pomegranate peel were 46.729/46.296 mg/g for Cd(II), and 29.240/16.611 mg/g for Ni(II). Adsorption isotherm and kinetics models were simulated to determine their removal efficiency and potential for recovery of these two heavy metals. As the results, the adsorption reached equilibrium within 5 min and was well described by the pseudo-second order model and Langmuir isotherm. The surface morphology analysis of the synthetic materials by Scanning Electron Microscopy-Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy, implied that ion exchange, complexation, and physical adsorption may together contribute to Cd(II) and Ni(II) loading on DTPA-modified peels. This study demonstrates the feasibility of waste peels as cost-efficient bio-absorbents to remove Cd(II) and Ni(II) in sewage systems, and discovers potential adsorption mechanism of efficiency improvements after DTPA modification., (© 2021. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Objectives: In order to elucidate the antibacterial activity and mechanism of S. alboflavus TD-1 active metabolites, the minimal inhibitory concentration of R. solanacearum and other effects on cell wall, cell membrane, nucleic acid, protein and cell morphology were studied. Besides, based on LCMS-IT-TOF, the active metabolites of S. alboflavus TD-1 were preliminarily analyzed., Results: In this study, We found that the active metabolites had obvious inhibitory effect on R. solanacearum, and the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of R. solanacearum was 3.125 mg/mL. And the treatment of 10 mg/mL active metabolites can increase the permeability of R. solanacearum membranes, destroy the cell wall integrity, inhibit the synthesis of bacterial nucleic acids and proteins, and cause leakage of bacterial nucleic acids and proteins, obstruct the normal expression of proteins and destroy their bacterial morphology. At the same time, We speculated the molecular weights corresponding to the six compounds were 618, 615, 615, 615, 646, 646, respectively among the active metabolites, and it was found that were highly unstable., Conclusions: The active metabolites produced by S. alboflavus TD-1 liquid fermentation contain components that can significant inhibitory effects on R. solanacearum. It had the potential to develop biocontrol agents against bacterial wilt and be a kind potential sources for the preparation of functional anti-pathogenic microbial agents.

Yogurt fermented by Streptococcus thermophiles S-3 strain showed higher viscosity and thicker mouth feel than the ones using other lactic acid bacteria strains, which was due to the higher yield of exopolysaccharide (EPS-3) produced during fermentation process. In the present study, molecular characteristics, partial structural features and rheological properties of EPS-3 were studied using triple-detector HPSEC, NMR and steady & dynamic rheological testing, respectively. EPS-3 showed relatively high molecular weight (574 kDa) and narrow polydispersity Index (1.27). Monosaccharides composition analysis indicated that EPS-3 was composed of N-Acetyl-galactosamine, galactose and glucose in the molar ratio of 1:2:1. Conformational parameters from Mark-Houwink equation (0.68) and R g & M w relationships (0.56) both indicated a random coil conformation of EPS-3. Results from steady flow tests showed an obvious shear thinning behavior, which was enhanced with the increased concentrations and decreased temperatures. Dynamic rheology indicated that EPS-3 was reluctant to form gel in water solution (G" > G'). EPS-3 demonstrated compatible interaction with milk protein with less syneresis in comparison to the yogurts adding agar and/or pectin. With all the information provided, this study could help promote the application of both EPS-3 and S. thermophiles S-3 strain in different dairy products., (Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)