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Environmental pollution has been a significant concern for the last few years. The leather industry significantly contributes to the economy but is one of Bangladesh's most prominent polluting industries. It is also responsible for several severe diseases such as cancer, lung diseases, and heart diseases of leather workers because they use bleaching agents and chemicals, and these have numerous adverse effects on human health. The study was aimed at isolating, identifying, and molecularly characterizing bacteria that produce protease enzymes that are highly capable of dehairing goat hide. Several attempts were made to isolate and identify protease‐producing bacterial strains from different soil samples of tannery wastes. Initially, a total of four isolates were selected from tannery soil. After the different phenotypic and morphological characterization, one isolate (BS2) showed Gram‐positive, rod‐shaped, and spore‐forming characteristics and could produce novel hair‐degrading protease enzymes. The growth profile and protease activity of the bacteria at 37°C were observed; a basal level of extracellular protease increased with time. The enzyme's proteolytic activity was measured, and the unit of enzyme activity of the enzyme sample was 18.1. The ExPASy server (ProtParam) tool was used to estimate the physicochemical characteristics of the proteins and found molecular weight (MW) (7375.94 Da), aliphatic index (71.56), instability index (II, 80.63), Grand Average of Hydropathy (GRAVY) (−0.231), and isoelectric point (11.41). The protein–protein interactions (PPI) networks were generated using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) database and Cytoscape software. The PSIPRED v.4.0 and SAVES v.6.0 programs were used to determine the secondary and three‐dimensional assembly of the selected protein. They found alpha helix (16, 25.00%), extended strand (6, 9.38%), beta‐turn (5, 7.81%), and random coil (37, 57.81%). DNA isolation and purification were carried out, and the purity ratio was ~2.17 at 260 and 280 nm. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for amplifying the 16S rRNA gene was conducted, and the isolate was authentically recognized as Bacillus cereus (BS2) based on morphological, biochemical, and molecular analyses. The quantitative assessment has shown that 40 mL of culture centrifugation could dehair 2 × 1 cm of goat leather sample in 9 h. This potential bacterial strain can be used in the leather industry as an ecofriendly alternative to chemical dehairing, which can reduce environmental pollution and the risk of severe diseases among leather industry workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Exposure to stressful neighborhood environments is a well-established risk factor for health deterioration and premature death. However, the biological underpinnings are not fully understood. Epigenetic aging may function as a key molecular pathway to adverse health outcomes among residents of high-stress neighborhoods. This study examines the associations between neighborhood social stressors (socioeconomic deprivation, observed and perceived disorder, and low social cohesion) and epigenetic age (DunedinPACE and Principal component adjusted [PC] PCHorvath, PCHannum, PCPhenoAge, PCGrimAge). Further, we identify subpopulations most vulnerable to neighborhood stressors. Methods Respondent data are from the 2016 Health and Retirement Study (HRS) DNA methylation subsample. Neighborhood data come from respondent reports (2014/2016) and the census (2012–2016 ACS). The analytic sample included 3,146 adults ages 56 and older (mean age = 68.8), of whom 54.9% were women and 19.3% were non-White. Results In multilevel regression models adjusting for sociodemographic covariates, all neighborhood stressors were associated with faster DunedinPACE (B  = 0.008 to 0.017). Neighborhood deprivation, perceived disorder, and low cohesion were associated with PCPhenoAge (B  = 0.27 to 0.40) or PCGrimAge acceleration (B  = 0.23). Health behaviors explained these associations to some degree. However, no significant associations were found with PCHorvath and PCHannum. In interaction analyses, adverse associations with deprivation, observed disorder, and low cohesion were more pronounced for women. No consistent interactions were found for race/ethnic and education groups. Discussion Our findings indicate that neighborhood stressors can accelerate epigenetic aging, with older women particularly vulnerable to their effects. These findings provide insights into the biological foundations of health disparities rooted in neighborhood environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the 2023 revision of the "Guideline of the German Medical Association on Quality Assurance in Medical Laboratory Examinations (Rili-BAEK)." Topics include updates to addressing basic requirements for quality assurance; significant revisions to introducing new specimen specifications and heightened glucose testing standards; and a complete overhaul of covering molecular genetic and cytogenetic laboratory examinations.

This study introduces an innovative bio-based sorbent bead crafted by integrating chitosan (CS) biopolymers, Fe(NO3)3 and polydopamine nanoparticles (PDA NPs) via glutaraldehyde crosslinking. The primary focus of this study was the concurrent separation of diverse tetracycline antibiotics (TCs), followed by rigorous reversed-phase liquid chromatography analysis. The fabricated CS/Fe@PDA sorbent beads were comprehensively characterized using scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, revealing a surface rich in active carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and oxygen (O) moieties. The proposed method demonstrated substantial analytical robustness, enabling the sorbent bead to detect low concentrations of TCs, with limit of detection values ranging from 142 to 303 mg L-1. Notably, the established linear range of 450-2000 mg L-1 extended the applicability of this approach to food and pharmaceutical product analysis. This study anticipated a paradigm shift in sample pre-treatment methodologies for TC analysis and envisions CS/Fe@PDA beads as a valuable tool for further advancements in separation science. The proposed bio-sorbent introduced a promising avenue for optimizing TC analysis, contributing to broader goals of food safety and pharmaceutical quality assurance. The results and insights from this study are expected to provide valuable inputs for ongoing efforts of the Food and Drug Administration to enhance analytical methodologies for food and drug safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optical biosensors have emerged as a powerful tool in analytical biochemistry, offering high sensitivity and specificity in the detection of various biomolecules. This article explores the advancements in the integration of optical biosensors with microfluidic technologies, creating lab-on-a-chip (LOC) platforms that enable rapid, efficient, and miniaturized analysis at the point of need. These LOC platforms leverage optical phenomena such as chemiluminescence and electrochemiluminescence to achieve real-time detection and quantification of analytes, making them ideal for applications in medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and food safety. Various optical detectors used for detecting chemiluminescence are reviewed, including single-point detectors such as photomultiplier tubes (PMT) and avalanche photodiodes (APD), and pixelated detectors such as charge-coupled devices (CCD) and complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) sensors. A significant advancement discussed in this review is the integration of optical biosensors with pixelated image sensors, particularly CMOS image sensors. These sensors provide numerous advantages over traditional single-point detectors, including high-resolution imaging, spatially resolved measurements, and the ability to simultaneously detect multiple analytes. Their compact size, low power consumption, and cost-effectiveness further enhance their suitability for portable and point-of-care diagnostic devices. In the future, the integration of machine learning algorithms with these technologies promises to enhance data analysis and interpretation, driving the development of more sophisticated, efficient, and accessible diagnostic tools for diverse applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: A few Capsicum (pepper) species produce yellow‐colored floral nectar, but the chemical identity and biological function of the yellow pigment are unknown.A combination of analytical biochemistry techniques was used to identify the pigment that gives Capsicum baccatum and Capsicum pubescens nectars their yellow color. Microbial growth assays, visual modeling, and honey bee preference tests for artificial nectars containing riboflavin were used to assess potential biological roles for the nectar pigment.High concentrations of riboflavin (vitamin B2) give the nectars their intense yellow color. Nectars containing riboflavin generate reactive oxygen species when exposed to light and reduce microbial growth. Visual modeling also indicates that the yellow color is highly conspicuous to bees within the context of the flower. Lastly, field experiments demonstrate that honey bees prefer artificial nectars containing riboflavin.Some Capsicum nectars contain a yellow‐colored vitamin that appears to play roles in (1) limiting microbial growth, (2) the visual attraction of bees, and (3) as a reward to nectar‐feeding flower visitors (potential pollinators), which is especially interesting since riboflavin is an essential nutrient for brood rearing in insects. These results cumulatively suggest that the riboflavin found in some Capsicum nectars has several functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the content of phenolcarboxylic acids using gas chromatography–mass spectrometer (GC–MS) in the obtained extract, conduct a study of the antimicrobial, antifungal, and antioxidant activities of Rubus idaeus shoot lipophilic extract. The quantification of phenolcarboxylic was accomplished through GC–MS, antioxidant activity was assessed by potentiometric method, antimicrobial and antifungal activities were determined by well method. The 8 compounds were identified by the GC–MS method. The vanillic acid (2.59 ± 0.08 mg/100 g), benzoic acid (1.51±0.08 mg/100 g), and ferulic acid (0.79±0.04 mg/100 g) dominated in the obtained lipophilic R. idaeus shoot extract. Bacillus subtilis (17.00 ± 0.50 mm) was the most sensitive to lipophilic extract, whereas Proteus vulgaris was the most resistant to the lipophilic extract. Moreover, Candida albicans was medium sensitive to lipophilic extract (13.50 ± 0.50 mm). The antioxidant activity was 1.00 mmol-equiv./mdry res; according to Maslov's antioxidant level classification it has low level. The lipophilic extract from R. idaeus shoots contains various phenolcarboxylic acids, including vanillic acid, benzoic acid, ferulic acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, syringic acid, gentisic acid, salicylic acid, and phenylacetic acid, with the highest concentrations observed for vanillic, benzoic, and ferulic acids. This study highlights the antimicrobial and antifungal properties of the R. idaeus shoot lipophilic extract. However, the obtained lipophilic extract showed a relatively low level of antioxidant activity. Consequently, the derivatives of phenolcarboxylic acids play a substantial role in the antimicrobial and antifungal effects, whereas their contribution to antioxidant activity appears to be limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfonamides are auspicious chemosensors which are capable to bind with ionic species through various ways like complexation, charge transfer, proton transfer etc. and produce a detection signal in the form of an optical change either in visible or UV-light and for electronic as well as fluorimetric spectra. Sulfonamides have gained much attention of analytical chemists these days as these are inexpensive, robust, green in nature and some what sensitive and selective to many anionic and cationic species. Due to their promising versatility in sensing properties, these are under great consideration in forensic, environmental, analytical and biochemistry laboratories. This review narrates how sulfonamides are being used to optically sense ionic species. HIGHLIGHTS: Optical sensors are of great importance these days because of their optical detection properties rather using Hi-tech techniques. Optical sensors are economical, robust, selective, sensitive and green in nature. The color change, shifts in electronic spectra or alterations in fluorescence pattern may be attributed by interaction between species to be sensed and Sulfonamides by different mechanism i.e. electron transfer, fluorescence energy transfer, charge transfer, hydrogen bonding, etc. LOD data is a proof of their prodigious efficiency of Sulfonamides as optical sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The analysis of substances and samples obtained from a crime scene is very important in solving forensic cases. To determine the variables involved in a crime and to expedite the investigation process, the rapid analysis of body fluids in small quantities and within environments containing diverse components is particularly necessary. For this reason, it is of great importance to analyze biological fluids with rapid, noncontaminating, nondestructive, low-cost, and accurate techniques. In recent years, with advancements in laser technology, spectroscopic methods have been introduced as analytical techniques in forensic medicine and chemical studies. This study focuses on surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) to demonstrate the detection of blood samples in simulated crime scenes. To minimize the background signal from fluorescent biomolecules in blood, dilution was performed with two different components and Raman analysis was performed for four different concentrations of blood. In general, a decrease in noise in the spectra was observed as the blood was diluted. Crime scenes consisting of pure blood, blood diluted with ethanol and distilled water (1:2, 1:4, and 1:8), a blood--mineral water mixture, a blood--cherry juice mixture, and silver nanoparticle-added mixtures were simulated, and their spectra were examined. Chemometric analyses of the data were performed. Despite high noise and low peak intensities, blood-identifying signals were detected when examining different blood concentrations. It was observed that silver nanoparticles provided high enhancement of blood peaks thanks to their strong plasmonic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new triterpenes mayteneri A (1), mayteneri B (2), and seven known compounds (3-9) were isolated from stems of Maytenus hookeri Loes. The chemical structures of compounds 1 and 2 were established by 1D, 2D NMR, HRESIMS analysis, and calculating electronic circular dichroism (ECD). The structures of known compounds 3-9 were determined by comparison of their spectral with those reported. Compounds 4-7 showed significant inhibitory activity for NLRP3 inflammasome, with the IC50 values of 2.36–3.44 μM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemo-enzymatic syntheses of strongly fluorescent nucleoside analogs, potentially applicable in analytical biochemistry and cell biology are reviewed. The syntheses and properties of fluorescent ribofuranosides of several purine, 8-azapurine, and etheno-purine derivatives, obtained using various types of purine nucleoside phosphorylase (PNP) as catalysts, as well as α-ribose-1-phosphate (r1P) as a second substrate, are described. In several instances, the ribosylation sites are different to the canonical purine N9. Some of the obtained ribosides show fluorescence yields close to 100%. Possible applications of the new analogs include assays of PNP, nucleoside hydrolases, and other enzyme activities both in vitro and within living cells using fluorescence microscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the current review is to summarize the current state of optical methods in redox biology. It consists of two parts, the first is dedicated to genetically encoded fluorescent indicators and the second to Raman spectroscopy. In the first part, we provide a detailed classification of the currently available redox biosensors based on their target analytes. We thoroughly discuss the main architecture types of these proteins, the underlying engineering strategies for their development, the biochemical properties of existing tools and their advantages and disadvantages from a practical point of view. Particular attention is paid to fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy as a possible readout technique, since it is less prone to certain artifacts than traditional intensiometric measurements. In the second part, the characteristic Raman peaks of the most important redox intermediates are listed, and examples of how this knowledge can be implemented in biological studies are given. This part covers such fields as estimation of the redox states and concentrations of Fe–S clusters, cytochromes, other heme-containing proteins, oxidative derivatives of thiols, lipids, and nucleotides. Finally, we touch on the issue of multiparameter imaging, in which biosensors are combined with other visualization methods for simultaneous assessment of several cellular parameters. [Display omitted] • Detailed classification of genetically encoded fluorescent redox biosensors. • Redox biosensors and fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM). • Raman spectroscopy for redox biology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To evaluate the associations between analytical methods, such as microarray and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA); expedient cutoffs; and the lowest possible number of microarrays in analysis for target biomarker estimation in case-control studies. Methods This study included 321 serum specimens, gathered in different case-control studies to test for atherosclerosis and atrial fibrillation. Among them, 48 serum specimens were analyzed using microarray technology. We used ELISA and commercial kits for confirmation of the results. Results Three proteins—cadherin-P, neuronal nitric oxide synthase, and adenovirus fiber—were shown to have distinctly different values in the case group vs the control group. As a result, we used those proteins as the target for confirmation using our alternative analytical method. Also, these protein values represented the limiting range between the highest and lowest differences in case-control groups. The results of microarray assay were confirmed using ELISA and commercial kits in the same specimens, in which microarray profiling was performed, and also in separate large case-control groups. Conclusions A 1.5-fold difference in the protein content, as measured using microarray technology, was shown to be sufficient for further investigation of the candidate proteins. As few as 3 microarrays were considered sufficient for perspective evaluation of the target proteins. Microarray serum profiling, therefore, provides semiquantitative determination of protein in serum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New dammarane-type triterpenoid saponin, named 22(R)-notoginsenoside Ab1 (1), together with thirteen known dammarane-type triterpenoid saponins (2-14) was isolated from the EtOH extract of black ginseng and their structures were elucidated on the basis of one- and two-dimensional NMR (including 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, HSQC, HMBC, ROESY) and calculated ECD. Among them, compounds 1-2 and 6-8 were isolated for the first time from ginseng and black ginseng. Besides, the absolute structure of 22(R)- and 22(S)- notoginsenoside Ab1 were distinguished by ECD for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Prior studies have investigated the diagnostic potential of microRNA (miRNA) expression profiles for endometriosis. However, the vast majority of previous studies have only included adult women. Therefore, we sought to investigate differential expression of miRNAs among adolescents and young adults with endometriosis. Methods: The Women's Health Study: from Adolescence to Adulthood (A2A) is an ongoing WERF EPHect compliant longitudinal cohort. Our analysis included 64 patients with surgically-confirmed endometriosis (96% rASRM stage I/II) and 118 females never diagnosed with endometriosis frequency matched on age (median = 21 years) and hormone use at blood draw. MicroRNA measurement was separated into discovery (10 cases and 10 controls) and internal replication (54 cases and 108 controls) phases. The levels of 754 plasma miRNAs were assayed in the discovery phase using PCR with rigorous internal control measures, with the relative expression of miRNA among cases vs. controls calculated using the 2-ΔΔCt method. miRNAs that were significant in univariate analyses stratified by hormone use were included in the internal replication phase. The internal replication phase was split 2:1 into a training and testing set and utilized FirePlex miRNA assay to assess 63 miRNAs in neural network analyses. The testing set of the validation phase was utilized to calculate the area under the curve (AUC) of the best fit models from the training set including hormone use as a covariate. Results: In the discovery phase, 49 miRNAs were differentially expressed between endometriosis cases and controls. The associations of the 49 miRNAs differed by hormone use at the time of blood draw. Neural network analysis in the testing set of the internal replication phase determined a final model comprising 5 miRNAs (miR-542-3p, let-7b-3p, miR-548i, miR-769-5p, miR-30c-1-3p), yielding AUC = 0.77 (95% CI: 0.67--0.87, p < 0.001). Sensitivity in the testing dataset improved (83.3% vs. 72.2%) while the specificity decreased (58.3% vs. 72.2%) compared to the training set. Conclusion: The results suggest that miR-542-3p, let-7b-3p, miR-548i, miR-769- 5p, miR-30c-1-3p may be dysregulated among adolescent and young adults with endometriosis. Hormone use was a significant modifier of miRNA dysregulation and should be considered rigorously in miRNA diagnostic studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the mechanism of N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) in the osteogenic differentiation of periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) from periodontitis patients. Methods: Differentially m6A‐methylated lncRNA/mRNA profiles were detected by a m6A epitranscriptomic microarray. Bioinformatics analysis was performed by Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis. The transfection efficiency of the lentivirus was detected. The osteogenic activity of PDLSCs from periodontitis patients (PPDLSCs) was assessed. Results: The microarray results showed that 275 lncRNAs and 1292 mRNAs were significantly differentially methylated between PPDLSCs and PDLSCs from healthy people. Among those lncRNAs, lncRNA4114 (transcript_ID: ENST00000444114) showed both reduced m6A methylation levels and expression levels in PPDLSCs. Further bioinformatics analysis predicted that the differentially methylated mRNAs were mainly involved in cell interaction, stem cell pluripotency, and osteogenic differentiation signals. Then, overexpression of methyltransferase like 3 (METTL3) promoted the osteogenic differentiation of PPDLSCs, while knocking down METTL3 showed an inhibitory effect. Furthermore, METTL3 overexpression promotes the stability of lncRNA4114 to upregulate the expression level. Moreover, lncRNA4114 overexpression promoted the osteogenic differentiation of PPDLSCs. Conclusion: METTL3 promotes the osteogenic differentiation of PPDLSCs by regulating the stability of lncRNA4114. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An extensive literature has examined the relationship between birth spacing and subsequent health outcomes for parents, particularly for mothers. However, this research has drawn almost exclusively on observational research designs, and almost all studies have been limited to adjusting for observable factors that could confound the relationship between birth spacing and health outcomes. In this study, we use Norwegian register data to examine the relationship between birth spacing and the number of general practitioner consultations for mothers' and fathers' physical and mental health concerns immediately after childbirth (1–5 and 6–11 months after childbirth), in the medium term (5–6 years after childbearing), and in the long term (10–11 years after childbearing). To examine short-term health outcomes, we estimate individual fixed-effects models: we hold constant factors that could influence parents' birth spacing behavior and their health, comparing health outcomes after different births to the same parent. We apply sibling fixed effects in our analysis of medium- and long-term outcomes, holding constant mothers' and fathers' family backgrounds. The results from our analyses that do not apply individual or sibling fixed effects are consistent with much of the previous literature: shorter and longer birth intervals are associated with worse health outcomes than birth intervals of approximately 2–3 years. Estimates from individual fixed-effects models suggest that particularly short intervals have a modest negative effect on maternal mental health in the short term, with more ambiguous evidence that particularly short or long intervals might modestly influence short-, medium-, and long-term physical health outcomes. Overall, these results are consistent with small to negligible effects of birth spacing behavior on (non-pregnancy-related) parental health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Longer-term intake of fatty acid (FA)-modified dairy products (SFA-reduced, MUFA-enriched) was reported to attenuate postprandial endothelial function in humans, relative to conventional (control) dairy. Thus, we performed an in vitro study in human aortic endothelial cells (HAEC) to investigate mechanisms underlying the effects observed in vivo. Methods: This sub-study was conducted within the framework of the RESET study, a 12-week randomised controlled crossover trial with FA-modified and control dairy diets. HAEC were incubated for 24 h with post-intervention plasma samples from eleven adults (age: 57.5 ± 6.0 years; BMI: 25.7 ± 2.7 kg/m2) at moderate cardiovascular disease risk following representative sequential mixed meals. Markers of endothelial function and lipid regulation were assessed. Results: Relative to control, HAEC incubation with plasma following the FA-modified treatment increased postprandial NOx production (P-interaction = 0.019), yet up-regulated relative E-selectin mRNA gene expression (P-interaction = 0.011). There was no impact on other genes measured. Conclusion: Incubation of HAEC with human plasma collected after longer-term dairy fat manipulation had a beneficial impact on postprandial NOx production. Further ex vivo research is needed to understand the impact of partial replacement of SFA with unsaturated fatty acids in dairy foods on pathways involved in endothelial function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Home time is an important patient‐centric quality metric, which has been largely unexamined among assisted living (AL) residents. Our objectives were to assess variation in home time among AL residents in the year following admission and to examine the associations with state regulations for direct care workers (DCW) training and staffing and for licensed nurse staffing. Methods: Medicare beneficiaries who entered AL communities in 2018 were identified, and their home time in the year following admission was measured. Home time was calculated as the percentage of time spent at home per day being alive. Resident characteristics and state regulations in DCW staffing, DCW training, and licensed staffing were measured. We used a multivariate linear regression model with AL‐level fixed effects to estimate the relationship between person‐level characteristics and home time. Linear regression models adjusting for resident characteristics were used to estimate the association between state regulations and residents' home time. Results: The study sample included 59,831 new Medicare beneficiary residents in 12,143 ALs. In the year following AL admission, residents spent 94% (standard deviation = 14.6) of their time at home. Several resident characteristics were associated with lower home time: Medicare–Medicaid dual eligibility, having more chronic conditions, and specific chronic conditions, for example, dementia. In states with greater regulatory specificity for DCW training and staffing, and lower specificity for licensed staffing, residents had longer adjusted home time. Conclusion/Implications: Home time varied substantially among AL residents depending on resident characteristics and state‐level regulatory specificity. AL residents eligible for Medicare and Medicaid had substantially shorter home time than the Medicare‐only residents, largely due to longer time spent in nursing homes. State AL regulatory specificity for DCWs and licensed staff also impacted AL residents' home time. These findings may guide AL operators and state legislators in efforts to improve this important quality of life metric. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: A tumor tissue is composed of not only cancer cells but also other cell types and microorganisms that communicate among themselves in a three-dimensional (3D) space to support cancer cell growth. Using two different gynecologic tumor tissue samples, we integrated multiple new techniques using a suite of newly developed analytical methods to simultaneously identify expression of genes, metabolites, and proteins in single tissue 'voxels'. These tissue voxels contain cells, genes from those cells and microorganisms, and the stromal context of proteins (collagen), glycans, metabolites, and peptides, all identified in the 3D space within a tumor tissue. We have successfully demonstrated different arrays of analytes expressed by cancer cells and their neighboring cells in different regions of the tumor tissue. Understanding how cancer cells communicate with other cell types in the 3D space of the tumor tissue will allow for the identification of new therapeutic targets for the treatment of these diseases. Most platforms used for the molecular reconstruction of the tumor–immune microenvironment (TIME) of a solid tumor fail to explore the spatial context of the three-dimensional (3D) space of the tumor at a single-cell resolution, and thus lack information about cell–cell or cell–extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions. To address this issue, a pipeline which integrated multiplex spatially resolved multi-omics platforms was developed to identify crosstalk signaling networks among various cell types and the ECM in the 3D TIME of two FFPE (formalin-fixed paraffin embedded) gynecologic tumor samples. These platforms include non-targeted mass spectrometry imaging (glycans, metabolites, and peptides) and Stereo-seq (spatial transcriptomics) and targeted seqIF (IHC proteomics). The spatially resolved imaging data in a two- and three-dimensional space demonstrated various cellular neighborhoods in both samples. The collection of spatially resolved analytes in a voxel (3D pixel) across serial sections of the tissue was also demonstrated. Data collected from this analytical pipeline were used to construct spatial 3D maps with single-cell resolution, which revealed cell identity, activation, and energized status. These maps will provide not only insights into the molecular basis of spatial cell heterogeneity in the TIME, but also novel predictive biomarkers and therapeutic targets, which can improve patient survival rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(+)- and (-)-Tedanine [(+)-1 and (-)-1], a pair of new enantiomeric indolone alkaloids, along with nine compounds (2–10) were isolated from the marine sponge Tedania sp. The structures of (+)-1 and (-)-1 including absolute configurations were determined by spectroscopic analysis and quantum chemical calculation. Compounds (+)-1 and (-)-1 were the first examples of indolone alkaloids isolated from this genus. In addition, the cytotoxic and antibacterial activities of these compounds were also evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tripleurospermum callosum (Boiss. & Heldr.) E. Hossain was recorded in Turkish ethnobotanical data for its use against urinary and respiratory system ailments. Infusion, decoction and 96% ethanol extracts of T. callosum aerial parts were prepared for in vitro antimicrobial activity against urinary system pathogens Escherichia coli ATCC 8739, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 9027, Klebsiella aerogenes ATCC 1348 and Candida albicans ATCC 10231. The non-toxic concentrations of extracts and in vivo antimicrobial assay were performed using C. elegans. The extracts were analysed by Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for phytochemical composition. The water extracts were non-toxic at between 5000 and 312 µg/mL, while 96% ethanol extract at 312 µg/mL for C. elegans. The infusion extract showed in vivo anti-infective effect 5000–312 μg/mL against Gram-negative strains. The results indicate a potential role of plant extracts with relatively non-toxic and anti-infective effects against urinary system pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Widespread exposure to organophosphate ester (OPE) flame retardants with potential reproductive toxicity raises concern regarding the impacts of gestational exposure on birth outcomes. Previous studies of prenatal OPE exposure and birth outcomes had limited sample sizes, with inconclusive results. OBJECTIVES: We conducted a collaborative analysis of associations between gestational OPE exposures and adverse birth outcomes and tested whether associations were modified by sex. METHODS: We included 6,646 pregnant participants from 16 cohorts in the Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) Program. Nine OPE biomarkers were quantified in maternal urine samples collected primarily during the second and third trimester and modeled as log2-transformed continuous, categorized (high/low/nondetect), or dichotomous (detect/nondetect) variables depending on detection frequency. We used covariate-adjusted linear, logistic, and multinomial regression with generalized estimating equations, accounting for cohort-level clustering, to estimate associations of OPE biomarkers with gestational length and birth weight outcomes. Secondarily, we assessed effect modification by sex. RESULTS: Three OPE biomarkers [diphenyl phosphate (DPHP), a composite of dibutyl phosphate and di-isobutyl phosphate (DBUP/DIBP), and bis (1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate] were detected in >85% of participants. In adjusted models, DBUP/DIBP [odds ratio (OR) per doubling= 1.07; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.02, 1.12] and bis(butoxyethyl) phosphate (OR for high vs. nondetect=1.25; 95% CI: 1.06, 1.46), but not other OPE biomarkers, were associated with higher odds of preterm birth. We observed effect modification by sex for associations of DPHP and high bis(2- chloroethyl) phosphate with completed gestational weeks and odds of preterm birth, with adverse associations among females. In addition, newborns of mothers with detectable bis(1-chloro-2-propyl) phosphate, bis(2-methylphenyl) phosphate, and dipropyl phosphate had higher birth weight-for-gestational- age z-scores (β for detect vs. nondetect= 0.04–0.07); other chemicals showed null associations. DISCUSSION: In the largest study to date, we find gestational exposures to several OPEs are associated with earlier timing of birth, especially among female neonates, or with greater fetal growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present study aimed compared pharmacokinetic profile of sustained-release CaffXtend® capsules (SR-Caffeine) with immediate-release caffeine capsules (IR-Caffeine), and the effect of SR-caffeine on memory, motivation, concentration, and attention. This open-label, randomized, single-dose, two-treatment, two-sequence, two-period, two-way crossover oral bioavailability study block randomized (1:1) healthy subjects (N = 15) to receive SR-Caffeine (200 mg) and IR-Caffeine (200 mg). Blood samples were collected at 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 24, 36 and 48 h in each period. Primary study outcome included comparing relative bioavailability of SR-Caffeine 200 mg and IR-Caffeine 200 mg under fasting conditions, and changes in caffeine research visual analogue scale (Caff-VAS) scores ('relaxed', 'alert', 'jittery', 'tired', 'tense', 'headache', 'overall mood' and 'mentally fatigued') were also evaluated. Fifteen subjects completed the study. Mean tmax was 4.08 ± 2.13h for SR-Caffeine compared to 0.83 ± 0.39h for IR-Caffeine, (p < 0.0001). Similarly, mean t½ was 7.07 ± 3.48h for SR-Caffeine compared to 5.78 ± 2.11h for IR-Caffeine (p = 0.04189). However, total exposure was similar for SR-Caffeine and IR-Caffeine (90% CI: 89.89-120.50% to 94.49-123.82% for geometric least square mean of ln-transformed AUC0-t and AUC0-∞). In the Caff-VAS evaluation, the SR-Caffeine group showed significantly better scores for 'jitteriness', 'tiredness', 'alertness' and 'overall mood' for 8-12 h than the IR-Caffeine group. No adverse events were reported. Results demonstrated sustained release of caffeine over 24 h from SR-Caffeine as compared to IR-Caffeine, which showed significant improvements in the scores for 'relaxed', 'alertness' and 'overall mood' and significantly lower scores for the parameters-'jittery' and 'tired' for extended period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concentrations of toxic elements were analyzed by using Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (FAAS). Moreover, the human health risk was estimated by Total Target Hazard Quotient (TTHQ) and Cancer Risk (CR) in Monte Carlo Simulation (MCS) technique. The mean concentrations (mg/kg) of Cd (0.08 ± 0.08), Pb (0.23 ± 0.46), and As (0.06 ± 0.04), were in a good compliance with ISO (Iranian standard organization). TTHQ for adults and children was equal to 0.009 and 0.042, respectively and also mean CR in adults and children consumers was equal to 9.73E–7 and 9.08E–7, respectively. Consequently, the concentration of toxic elements (Cd, Pb, and As) in cocoa powder did not pose any safety concerns. Moreover, probabilistic health risk assessment revealed that both adults and children were not at considerable non-carcinogenic (THQ and/or TTHQ ≤ 1) and carcinogenic risk (CR ≤ 1E–6). Even though, seeking for mitigating solutions and applying them to suppress the dangers of food containing toxic elements is a critical subject. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: During the past two decades, the correlation between oxidative stress and a variety of serious illnesses such as atherosclerosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Alzheimer disease (AD) and cancer has been established. Medicinal plants and their derived phytochemicals have proven efficacy against free radicals and their associated diseases. The current work was aimed to evaluate the phytochemical constituents of Rhamnus pentapomica R. Parker via Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS) and its antioxidant and anti-glioblastoma potentials. Methods: The bioactive compounds were analysed in Rhamnus pentapomica R. Parker stem bark extracts by GC–MS analysis, and to evaluate their antioxidant and anti-glioblastoma effects following standard procedures. The stem bark was extracted with 80% methanol for 14 days to get crude methanolic extract (Rp.Cme) followed by polarity directed fractionation using solvents including ethyl acetate, chloroform, butanol to get ethyl acetate fraction (Rp.EtAc), chloroform fraction (Rp.Chf) and butanol fraction (Rp.Bt) respectively. Antioxidant assay was performed using DPPH free radicals and cell viability assay against U87 glioblastoma cancer cell lines was performed via MTT assay. Results: In GC-MS analysis, thirty-one compounds were detected in Rp.Cme, 22 in Rp.Chf, 24 in Rp.EtAc and 18 compounds were detected in Rp.Bt. Among the identified compounds in Rp.Cme, 9-Octadecenoic acid (Z)-methyl ester (7.73%), Octasiloxane (5.13%) and Heptasiloxane (5.13%), Hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester (3.76%) and Pentadecanoic acid, 14-methyl-, methyl Ester (3.76%) were highly abundant.. In Rp.Chf, Benzene, 1,3-dimethyl- (3.24%) and in Rp.EtAc Benzene, 1,3-dimethyl-(11.29%) were highly abundant compounds. Antioxidant studies revealed that Rp.Cme and Rp.EtAc exhibit considerable antioxidant potentials with IC50 values of 153.53 μg/ml and 169.62 μg/ml respectively. Both fractions were also highly effective against glioblastoma cells with IC50 of 147.64 μg/ml and 76.41ug/ml respectively. Conclusion: Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of important metabolites which might be active against free radicals and glioblastoma cells. Various samples of the plant exhibited considerable antioxidant and anti-glioblastoma potentials warranting further detailed studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The solubility of pigments is of significant importance for the successful coloring of various products in the food industry. In this work, the solubility of anthocyanins and chlorophylls was analyzed by thin-layer chromatography. Plant pigments were applied to filter paper and placed in mixtures of hydrophilic, ethanol, methanol, hydrophobic solvents, heptane, chloroform, and petroleum ether. In addition, solutions of different pH were used to examine how pH changes the color of the plant pigments. By adding small amounts of a strong acid (hydrochloric acid), a strong base (sodium hydroxide), weak acids (citric acid and acetic acid), and salts (sodium hydrogen carbonate and sodium hypochlorite) to the pigment extracts, a palette of various colors in the pigments was observed. Based on the solubility data and the results of the color change in the pigments, anthocyanins were successfully used as a food color in a food product with acidic pH, lemonade, and a food product with basic pH, cookies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhodamine 6G is widely used in biochemistry and cell imaging as a sensitive layer of chemical sensors. At the same time, the features of the interaction of Rh6G with low-molecular-weight analytes present in most biochemical preparations have not been studied. In this study, the interaction of Rh6G thin films with water vapor, acetic acid, ethyl alcohol, ammonia, benzene, pyridine, nitrobenzene, acetone, and acetonitrile in the gas phase was studied. The kinetic features and adsorption capacity of the sensitive layer were compared with those of other sensitive layer materials (macrocyclic dibenzotetraazaanulenes, phthalocyanines, and their metal complexes). The response values of the Rh6G-based sensor significantly exceed the responses of other sensors, regardless of the type of analyte. This means that this material is promising for multivariate sensor arrays, where the issue of cross-selectivity is a prerequisite. However, when developing selective sensors or when using Rhodamine 6G for analytical analysis in biochemistry, the ability of Rh6G to interact with a wide range of low-molecular-weight analytes must be taken into account. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work describes the synthesis, physico-chemical characteristics, antioxidative properties, and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) enantioseparation of novel, potentially bioactive aryloxyaminopropanols – derivatives of naphthalen-2-ol modified in the basic part of their molecules. Reaction of naphthalene-2-ol with chloromethyloxirane leads to 2-[(naphthalen-2-yloxy)methyl]oxirane, which reacts in the next step with branched aliphatic amines (isopropylamine, tert-butylamine, and dimethylamine), aromatic amines (aniline, 3,4-dimethoxyphenylethylamine), and heterocyclic amines (pyrrolidine, imidazole, 2-methylimidazole, piperidine, morpholine, 4-methylpiperidine, or 2-methoxyphenylpiperidine). The target compounds were isolated in the form of free bases, as well as their salts with fumaric or hydrochloric acid. Their purity was established by thin-layer chromatography and their IR, UV, 1H-NMR, and 13C-NMR spectra were recorded. The antioxidant activities of prepared compounds were measured by the 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) method and they were compared with the values for the corresponding salts. Enantioseparation was accomplished by means of enantioselective HPLC using amylose tris(3,5-dimethylphenyl)carbamate (Chiralpak AD), as well as Chirobiotic T (native teicoplanin) in some cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a refractory disease with high mortality, which is characterized by a pathophysiological process of inflammation-related dysfunction of energy metabolism. Jieduan-Niwan formula (JDNWF) is a eutherapeutic Chinese medicine formula for ACLF. However, the intrinsic mechanism of its anti-ACLF effect still need to be studied systematically. Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the mechanism of JDNWF against ACLF based on altered substance metabolic profile in ACLF the expression levels of related molecules. Materials and methods: The chemical characteristics of JDNWF were characterized using ultra performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. Wistar rats subjected to a long-term CCL4 stimulation followed by a combination of an acute attack with LPS/D-GalN were used to establish the ACLF model. Liver metabolites were analyzed by LC–MS/MS and multivariate analysis. Liver function, coagulation function, histopathology, mitochondrial metabolic enzyme activity and mitochondrial damage markers were evaluated. The protein expression of mitochondrial quality control (MQC) was investigated by western blot. Results: Liver function, coagulation function, inflammation, oxidative stress and mitochondrial enzyme activity were significantly improved by JDNWF. 108 metabolites are considered as biomarkers of JDNWF in treating ACLF, which were closely related to TCA cycle. It was further suggested that JDNWF alleviated mitochondrial damage and MQC may be potential mechanism of JDNWF improving mitochondrial function. Conclusions: Metabolomics revealed that TCA cycle was impaired in ACLF rats, and JDNWF had a regulatory effect on it. The potential mechanism may be improving the mitochondrial function through MQC pathway, thus restoring energy metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antrodia cinnamomea, a unique Taiwanese fungus (mushroom), has demonstrated the hepatoprotective activities in animals with liver injury. Nevertheless, there are few studies reporting the efficacy of the fungus in subhealth subjects (alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels between 31 and 50 U/L and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels ≤ 50 U/L). In this study, we assessed the ameliorating effect of a A. cinnamomea mycelia extract (ACME) on liver health in asymptomatic individuals with marginally high ALT levels. Forty-four eligible Japanese adults were enrolled in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study and instructed to take an ACME capsule (250 mg of ACME powder) or a placebo capsule daily for 12 weeks. The primary outcomes (i.e. ALT and AST) were analyzed at 0, 4, 8, and 12 weeks. No treatment-related adverse effects were observed throughout this study. In efficacy analyses with the per-protocol (PP) cohort of participants, there were no significant changes in ALT and AST levels within and between groups. However, subgroup analysis showed that ACME could significantly improve the mean ALT level of regular drinkers, consuming alcoholic drinks more than twice a week, after the study in comparison with the result of the placebo group. This exploratory study indicated that the ACME might effectively improve liver health in regular drinkers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new alkaloids, spongimides A (1) and B (2), along with five known ones (3–7), were isolated from the marine sponge Spongia sp. The structures of 1 and 2 were determined by the spectroscopic methods (UV, IR, MS, and NMR) and X-ray diffraction analysis. Compounds 1, 3, and 4 were the first examples of 2,4-imidazolidinediones isolated from this genus. In addition, the cytotoxic and antibacterial activities of compounds 1 and 2 were also evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Klebsiella pneumoniae remains a global health threat due to its alarming rates of becoming resistant to antibiotics. Therefore, identifying plant-based treatment options to target this pathogen's virulence factors is a priority. This study examined the antivirulence activities of twelve plant extracts obtained from three South African medicinal plants (Lippia javanica, Carpobrotus dimidiatus, and Helichrysum populifolium) against carbapenem-resistant (CBR) and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) positive K. pneumoniae strains. The plant extracts (ethyl acetate, dichloromethane, methanol, and water) were validated for their inhibitory activities against bacterial growth and virulence factors such as biofilm formation, exopolysaccharide (EPS) production, curli expression, and hypermucoviscosity. The potent extract on K. pneumoniae biofilm was observed with a scanning electron microscope (SEM), while exopolysaccharide topography and surface parameters were observed using atomic force microscopy (AFM). Chemical profiling of the potent extract in vitro was analysed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Results revealed a noteworthy minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value for the C. dimidiatus dichloromethane extract at 0.78 mg/mL on CBR- K. pneumoniae. L. javanica (ethyl acetate) showed the highest cell attachment inhibition (67.25%) for CBR- K. pneumoniae. SEM correlated the in-vitro findings, evidenced by a significant alteration of the biofilm architecture. The highest EPS reduction of 34.18% was also noted for L. javanica (ethyl acetate) and correlated by noticeable changes observed using AFM. L. javanica (ethyl acetate) further reduced hypermucoviscosity to the least length mucoid string (1 mm-2 mm) at 1.00 mg/mL on both strains. C. dimidiatus (aqueous) showed biofilm inhibition of 45.91% for the ESBL-positive K. pneumoniae and inhibited curli expression at 0.50 mg/mL in both K. pneumoniae strains as observed for H. populifolium (aqueous) extract. Chemical profiling of L. javanica (ethyl acetate), C. dimidiatus (aqueous), and H. populifolium (aqueous) identified diterpene (10.29%), hydroxy-dimethoxyflavone (10.24%), and 4,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid (13.41%), respectively, as dominant compounds. Overall, the ethyl acetate extract of L. javanica revealed potent antivirulence properties against the studied MDR K. pneumoniae strains. Hence, it is a promising medicinal plant that can be investigated further to develop alternative therapy for managing K. pneumoniae-associated infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The black nectar produced by Melianthus flowers is thought to serve as a visual attractant to bird pollinators, but the chemical identity and synthesis of the black pigment are unknown.A combination of analytical biochemistry, transcriptomics, proteomics, and enzyme assays was used to identify the pigment that gives Melianthus nectar its black color and how it is synthesized. Visual modeling of pollinators was also used to infer a potential function of the black coloration.High concentrations of ellagic acid and iron give the nectar its dark black color, which can be recapitulated through synthetic solutions containing only ellagic acid and iron(iii). The nectar also contains a peroxidase that oxidizes gallic acid to form ellagic acid. In vitro reactions containing the nectar peroxidase, gallic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and iron(iii) fully recreate the black color of the nectar. Visual modeling indicates that the black color is highly conspicuous to avian pollinators within the context of the flower.Melianthus nectar contains a natural analog of iron‐gall ink, which humans have used since at least medieval times. This pigment is derived from an ellagic acid‐Fe complex synthesized in the nectar and is likely involved in the attraction of passerine pollinators endemic to southern Africa. See also the Commentary on this article by Gong et al., 239: 1542–1544. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Candidiasis is an opportunistic infection caused by Candida albicans. This infection commonly affects the skin, oral mucosa, vagina, and gastrointestinal tract. Excessive use of azole antifungals in the treatment of Candida albicans infections can lead to the development of resistance. Therefore, it is necessary to explore alternative treatments using medicinal plants such as Selaginella plana, commonly referred to as "rutu-rutu" in a local language spoken across Maluku, Indonesia. Selaginella plana contains active compounds belonging to various chemical classes, including terpenoids, steroids, flavonoids, and saponins. This study aimed to determine the ability of Selaginella plana extract as an antifungal agent against Candida albicans by evaluating its inhibitory and antifungal effects. This study used an actual experimental design and broth dilution method. The research methodology involved the extraction of Selaginella plana using a solvent of 96% ethanol. The extract was then prepared in various concentrations, i.e., 100%, 50%, 25%, 12.5%, 6.25%, and 3.125%. Additionally, ketoconazole and distilled water were included in the experiment for the positive and negative controls, respectively. The results of this study demonstrated that Selaginella plana extract inhibited the growth of Candida albicans when administered starting at a concentration of 12.5%. However, the antifungal potential of Selaginella plana extract that induced cell death was only observed at a concentration of 100%. The fungicidal activity was exclusively identified in the undiluted, pure extract. The inhibitory and cytotoxic effects of Selaginella plana on Candida albicans cells were attributed to the presence of bioactive compounds in Selaginella plana, including flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, and saponins. These bioactive compounds had the ability to inhibit cell growth by altering membrane permeability, causing mitochondrial dysfunction, and disrupting ergosterol biosynthesis. It can be concluded that Selaginella plana extract can act as a fungistatic agent against the proliferation of Candida albicans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) examination is the gold standard for diagnosing and monitoring diabetes mellitus patients. In the examination, the pre-analytical phase has the most considerable error rate at 61%. One of the contributing factors is the use of anticoagulants that do not adhere to established guidelines. Additionally, the incompatibility of the sample volume proportions and the anticoagulants in K2EDTA tubes has been observed in numerous cases. The significance of HbA1c testing, particularly in the prevention of diabetes complications, underscores the need for appropriate procedures to be followed throughout the sampling and pre-analytical phases. This study aimed to determine the effect of differences in the proportion of blood sample volume and anticoagulants in K2EDTA tubes on HbA1c levels. This research was conducted in August-September 2022. The research samples were collected from six healthy subjects at the Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Politeknik Kesehatan Kemenkes Surabaya, Surabaya, Indonesia. The blood samples were divided into K2EDTA tubes with varying volumes of 1 mL, 2 mL, 3 mL, and 4 mL. The HbA1c levels were then examined at the Clinical Chemistry Laboratory of Politeknik Kesehatan Kemenkes Surabaya. The data were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA test. The statistical test results (p>0.05) indicated that the proportion of samples containing anticoagulants in the K2EDTA tubes did not have any significant effect on HbA1c levels. In conclusion, it is acceptable to utilize K2EDTA tubes with varying blood sample volumes for the measurement of HbA1c levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methionine (MET) supplementation is a current strategy to achieve shrimp requirement. Notwithstanding, the efficiency of the precisely formulated feeds can be diminished since shrimps are slow eaters and masticate feed externally that results in nutrient leaching. In this regard, a methionine dipeptide (DL-methionyl DL-methionine) benefits the feed industry by reducing MET water solubility while increasing its bioavailability. Therefore, the effects of feeding whiteleg shrimp (Penaeus vannamei) with increasing levels of methionine dipeptide were evaluated on zootechnical performance and methionine-, immune- and antioxidant-related pathways. A 74 d growth trial was conducted by feeding a control diet and four diets supplemented with AQUAVI® Met-Met at 0·08, 0·12, 0·24 and 0·32% of DM. Diet digestibility, body amino acids (AA) composition and nitrogen metabolites, metabolic enzymes, oxidative status and gene expression were evaluated. It can be concluded that graded dietary increase of methionine dipeptide up to 0·24 % for 74 d translated in significant gains on the growth performance, feed efficiency, nutrient and nitrogen gain and shrimp survival. Moreover, it was showed that Met-Met dietary spare leads to an improvement of free-AA pool and nitrogen metabolites concentration and reduces the signs of oxidative stress. Finally, in a closer look to the MET-related pathways passive to be altered by Met-Met spare, a clear modulation of the described antioxidant and cell proliferation routes was detected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the role of aging and changes in environmental conditions on selected properties of a prototype radiopacified calcium silicate‐based cement (TZ‐base) with or without incorporation of silver nanoparticles or bioactive glass, and two commercial materials, Biodentine and intermediate restorative material. Materials were immersed in ultrapure water or fetal bovine serum for 28 days and were characterized with scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive x‐ray analysis. Immersion media were either replaced weekly or not replenished at all and were assessed for alkalinity and calcium release after 1, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days; antibacterial effect against 2‐day monospecies biofilms; and cytotoxicity by the 3‐(4,5 dimethylthiazolyl‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay after 1, 7, or 28 days. Alkalinity, calcium release, antibacterial activity, and cell cytotoxicity increased over time when the medium was not changed but decreased with medium replenishment. Immersion in fetal bovine serum resulted in lower alkalinity, less bactericidal properties, and lower cytotoxicity of prototype cements and Biodentine than did water immersion. Biodentine and 20% bioactive glass‐containing cement had overall lower alkalinity, calcium release, and antibacterial activity than TZ‐base, and Biodentine was less cytotoxic than TZ‐base. In conclusion, exposure conditions and cement modifications significantly affected materials' leaching properties. Exposure conditions warrant consideration when evaluating cements' clinical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A huge production of fish and their processing waste give rise to by-products comprises up to 70% depending on the species, size and processing method. The waste includes visceral parts, head, frames, bones, skin and cut-offs are rich source of protein with high functional properties. It is generally discarded which is a wastage of nutrient source and leading to environmental issues. Therefore, it was aimed to utilized the by-products for maximum recovery of nutrients by enzyme hydrolysis method for the preparation of protein hydrolysate with the used of papain and pepsin for digestion following different hydrolysis conditions. With the hydrolysis of papain enzyme (1 to 6%), the protein content of finfish waste protein hydrolysate ranges from 19.17% ± 0.06 to 73.14% ± 0.08 and that of shellfish waste protein hydrolysate prepared with 5,10 and 15% papain enzyme showed 26.73% ± 0.04 to 40.4% ± 0.5 which is comparatively low. Whereas the highest protein content was observed in 1% pepsin enzyme treated finfish waste protein hydrolysate with 80.55% ± 0.07. Besides, the hydrolysates were composed of 6.91% ± 0.05 to 10.46% ± 0.05 (moisture content), 0.6% ± 0.01 to 2.4% ± 0.01 (ash content) and 0.02% ± 0.005 to 0.09% ± 0.005 (fat content). The hydrolysates were highly soluble ranges from 72.73% ± 0.05 to 93.83% ± 0.1 which indicates development of small size hydrophilic with highly solvated polypeptide particles. A reduced phenomena of foaming capacity and stability were observed in shellfish waste protein hydrolysate in contrast with finfish waste protein hydrolysate. Similar pattern was also resulted in emulsifying stability index. Whereas the emulsifying activity index was in the range of 6.15 ± 0.03 to 9.85 ± 0.07 m2/g. The water holding capacity of finfish and shellfish waste protein hydrolysate ranges from 3.4 to 4.23 gm/gm hydrolysate and 1.53 to 1.63 gm/gm hydrolysate respectively which is resulted by the difference in molecular weight of the peptide. The hydrolysates extracted from different sample with different enzyme and concentration at varying conditions were more or less similar ranges from 3.7 to 4.1 gm/gm protein hydrolysate (oil holding capacity). Hence, high protein content with good functional properties of the protein hydrolysate prepared with the utilization of fish waste is a positive impact on the attempt made to recover nutrient by enzymatic hydrolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A validated manual cleaning process is a prerequisite for effective manual chemical disinfection. Following their use, semi-critical ultrasound probes (transducers) have high loads of transmission gel contamination. Objective proof of adequate gel removal during cleaning can be provided following sample collection in a foil tube by eluting with defined volumes of ultrapure water and total organic carbon (TOC) analysis. This can also be done using a correlated ready-to-use test kit and photometric quantitative detection of carbomers. The cleaning optimization achieved with these methods, comprising the steps of wet wiping twice, swabbing the grooves with cotton tips and cleaning through elution in the foil tube, always yielded residual gel amounts of < 500 µg carbon. Based on the around 260 cm² surface area coated with gel, this was well below the warning threshold specified in DIN EN ISO 15883-5 (2020) of ≥ 6 µg carbon/ cm². Accordingly, this manual cleaning method produces a valid result in only one to two minutes, thus paving the way for effective disinfection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Danyikangtai powder has a definite therapeutic effect on pancreatitis. However, the internal mechanism is unclear. The purpose of this experiment is to quickly identify the blood components of danyikangtai powder and evaluate its efficacy. 25 blood components were identified by comparing the components with the same mass spectrometry information from in vivo and in vitro samples. The AR42J cells of the pancreatitis model were treated with drug-containing plasma, and the drug efficacy was evaluated by investigating the amylase release rate. This study provides a scientific reference for its pharmacological research and rational clinical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

* Context.--The follow-up of patients under lifelong immunosuppressant therapy is pivotal to prevent allograft rejection after transplant. Part of the difficulties associated with routine monitoring of immunosuppressant concentrations can be alleviated by home sampling using dried blood spots (DBSs). Objective.--To evaluate the applicability of a DBS method for the determination of immunosuppressants in venous blood samples, making use of an automated extraction platform. Design.--Paired venous DBSs and whole blood samples were analyzed for tacrolimus (n = 162), sirolimus (n = 47), everolimus (n = 45), and cyclosporin A (n = 61) with liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry, using fully automated extraction for DBSs. Agreement between the automated DBS and whole blood method was assessed by using Bland-Altman comparison. Both an analytical and a clinical acceptance limit were predefined at more than 67% of all paired samples within 20% of the mean of both samples and more than 80% of all paired samples within 20% of the whole blood concentration, respectively. Results.--An impact of the hematocrit (hct) on DBS quantitation was observed for all analytes, which could be alleviated for all analytes by using a hct conversion formula based on a tacrolimus data subset: [DBScorrected] = [DBSmeasured]/(1.6305 - 1.559*hct). After correction, both analytical and clinical acceptance criteria were met for all analytes. Conclusions.--Automated DBS analysis shows great potential for routine therapeutic drug monitoring of immunosuppressants, avoiding any manual sample handling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The use of biomarkers in behavioral HIV research can help to address limitations of self‐reported data. The COVID‐19 pandemic forced many researchers to transition from standard in‐person data collection to remote data collection. We present data on the feasibility of remote self‐collection of dried blood spots (DBS), hair, and nails for the objective assessment of alcohol use, antiretroviral therapy adherence, and stress in a sample of people with HIV (PWH) who are hazardous drinkers. Methods: Standardized operating procedures for remote self‐collection of DBS, hair, and nails were developed for an ongoing pilot study of a transdiagnostic alcohol intervention for PWH. Prior to each study appointment, participants were mailed a kit containing materials for self‐collection, instructions, a video link demonstrating the collection process, and a prepaid envelope for returning samples. Results: A total of 133 remote study visits were completed. For DBS and nail collection at baseline, 87.5% and 83.3% of samples, respectively, were received by the research laboratory, of which 100% of samples were processed. Although hair samples were intended to be analyzed, most of the samples (77.7%) were insufficient or the scalp end of the hair was not marked. We, therefore, decided that hair collection was not feasible in the framework of this study. Conclusion: An increase in remote self‐collection of biospecimens may significantly advance the field of HIV‐related research, permitting the collection of specimens without resource‐intensive laboratory personnel and facilities. Further research is needed on the factors that impeded participants' ability to complete remote biospecimen collection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]