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Hydration of MgO is a potential technology for economically preparing Mg(OH)2 slurry. Understanding the rheological behavior evolution of the slurry during MgO hydration, particularly in the presence of hydration agent, is essential for better control of the hydrated Mg(OH)2 slurry's rheology. In this work, Mg(OH)2 slurry was prepared by hydrating MgO in the presence of glycine. The effect of glycine on the rheological behavior of the hydrated Mg(OH)2 slurry have been investigated by means of viscosity, shear stress, sedimentation measurements, particle size distribution, 1H nuclear magnetic resonance relaxometry and zeta potential. Results showed that shear thinning rheological slurry could be made by hydration at 80 °C for 1 h. The yield stress of the slurry is 27.49 ± 0.81 Pa, and no settling occurs within 7 days. Yet, in the absence of glycine, the structure of the slurry was unstable and easily settled even after 8 h of hydration. Glycine has multiple effects on the slurry's solid loading, particle morphology, particle size distribution, and zeta potential of the slurry. In addition, the neutral zwitterionic form of glycine may serve as an inter-particle lubricant, reducing viscosity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an industrial enzyme that catalyzes the formation and cleavage of ester bonds, carboxylesterase has attracted attention in fine chemistry, pharmaceutical, biological energy and bioremediation fields. However, the weak thermostability limits their further developments in industrial applications. In this work, a novel carboxylesterase (EstF) from Streptomyces lividans TK24, belonging to family XVII, was acquired by successfully heterologous expressed and biochemically identified. The EstF exhibited optimal activity at 55 °C, pH 9.0 and excellent catalytic performances (K m = 0.263 mM, k cat / K m = 562.3 s−1 mM−1 for p -nitrophenyl acetate (p NPA 2) hydrolysis). Besides, the EstF presented exceptionally high thermostability with a half-life of 387.23 h at 55 °C and 2.86 h at 100 °C. Furthermore, the EstF was modified to obtain EstF P144G using the site-directed mutation technique to investigate the effect of single glycine on thermostability. Remarkably, the mutant EstF P144G displayed a 5.10-fold increase of half-life at 100 °C versus wild-type without affecting catalytic performance. Structural analysis implied that the glycine introduction could release a steric strain and induce cooperative effects between distal residues to increase the thermostability. Therefore, the thermostable EstF and EstF P144G with prominently catalytic characteristics have potential industrial applications and the introduction of a single glycine strategy opens up alternative avenues for the thermostability engineering of other enzymes. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The plasma metabolome reflects the physiological state of various biological processes and can serve as a proxy for disease risk. Plasma metabolite variation, influenced by genetic and epigenetic mechanisms, can also affect the cellular microenvironment and blood cell epigenetics. The interplay between the plasma metabolome and the blood cell epigenome remains elusive. In this study, we performed an epigenome-wide association study (EWAS) of 1183 plasma metabolites in 693 participants from the LifeLines-DEEP cohort and investigated the causal relationships in DNA methylation–metabolite associations using bidirectional Mendelian randomization and mediation analysis. Results: After rigorously adjusting for potential confounders, including genetics, we identified five robust associations between two plasma metabolites (l-serine and glycine) and three CpG sites located in two independent genomic regions (cg14476101 and cg16246545 in PHGDH and cg02711608 in SLC1A5) at a false discovery rate of less than 0.05. Further analysis revealed a complex bidirectional relationship between plasma glycine/serine levels and DNA methylation. Moreover, we observed a strong mediating role of DNA methylation in the effect of glycine/serine on the expression of their metabolism/transport genes, with the proportion of the mediated effect ranging from 11.8 to 54.3%. This result was also replicated in an independent population-based cohort, the Rotterdam Study. To validate our findings, we conducted in vitro cell studies which confirmed the mediating role of DNA methylation in the regulation of PHGDH gene expression. Conclusions: Our findings reveal a potential feedback mechanism in which glycine and serine regulate gene expression through DNA methylation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyclosporine A (CsA) is an immunosuppressive drug, used in organ transplantations. Oxidative stress, inflammation and renin-angiotensin system (RAS) activation play an important role in CsA-toxicity. Glycine (Gly) has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, Gly was investigated for its protective role against CsA-induced toxicity. CsA (20 mg/kg/day; subcutaneously) was administered to rats along with Gly injection (250 or 1000 mg/kg; intraperitoneally) for 21 days. Renal function markers [serum urea and creatinine and urinary protein and kidney injury molecule levels and creatinine clearance values] together with histopathological examinations were performed. Oxidative stress (reactive oxygen species, thiobarbutiric acid reactive substances, advanced oxidation products of protein, glutathione, ferric reducing anti-oxidant power and 4-hydroxynonenal levels), and inflammation (myeloperoxidase activity) were determined in kidney tissue. The RAS system [angiotensin II (Ang II) levels, and mRNA expressions of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), angiotensin II type-I receptor (AT1R)] and NADPH-oxidase 4 (NOX4) were measured in kidney and aorta. CsA caused significant disturbances in renal function markers, increases in oxidative stress and inflammation parameters and renal damage. Serum angiotensin II levels and mRNA expressions of ACE, AT1R and NOX4 elevated in the aorta and kidney of CsA-rats. Gly, especially its high-dose, alleviated renal function markers, oxidative stress, inflammation and renal damage in CsA-rats. Moreover, serum Ang II levels and mRNA expressions of ACE, AT1R and NOX4 decreased significantly in aorta and kidney in CsA-rats due to Gly treatment. Our results indicate that Gly may be useful for the prevention of CsA-induced renal and vascular toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal‐organic framework‐808 (MOF‐808), functionalized with amino acids, is a promising class of materials for carbon dioxide (CO2) capture. In this study, we employed density functional theory calculations to investigate the mechanism of CO2 capture by glycine‐functionalized MOF‐808 (MOF‐808‐Gly). MOF‐808 was treated with one, two, three, or four glycine molecules to investigate the effect of glycine functionalization. It is proposed that the capture reaction proceeds in a single step involving proton transfer and C−N bond formation. With increasing glycine loading, the reaction barriers decreased, whereas the observed rate increased. When considering the substitution of different tetravalent metal centers (Zr and Hf) on the MOF‐808 node, it is found that substituting these tetravalent metal centers does not affect the capture activity. The capture reaction under humid conditions was also studied by introducing explicit and implicit amounts of water. The presence of a water molecule led to reduced barriers and more stable capture product formation, indicating the enhanced performance of MOF‐808‐Gly in CO2 capture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aims to investigate the interactive effect of a glycine equivalent (Glyequi) and standardized ileal digestible threonine (SID Thr) levels in low crude protein diets on performance, blood biochemistry, pectoral muscular creatine content and oxidative stability of meat in broiler chickens from 21 to 42 days. Methods: A total of 1,500, twenty-one-day-old Cobb-Vantress male broiler chickens were distributed in a completely randomized 5×3 factorial arrangement of Glyequi×SID Thr with five replicates of 20 birds each. Fifteen dietary treatments of 16.5% CP were formulated to contain five levels of total Glyequi (1.16%, 1.26%, 1.36%, 1.46%, and 1.56%) and three levels of SID Thr (0.58%; 0.68% and 0.78%). Results: Interaction effects (p<0.05) of Glyequi and SID Thr levels were observed for weight gain, carcass yield, pectoral muscular creatine content and serum uric acid. Higher levels of Glyequi increased (p = 0.040) weight gain in 0.58% and 0.68% SID Thr diets compare to the 0.78% SID Thr diet. The SID Thr level at 0.68% improved (p = 0.040) feed conversion compared to other SID Thr diets. Levels of Glyequi equal to or above 1.26% in diets with 0.78% SID Thr resulted in birds with higher (p = 0.033) pectoral muscular creatine content. The breast meat yield observed in the 0.68% SID Thr diet was higher (p = 0.05) compared to the 0.58% SID Thr diet. There was a quadratic effect of Glyequi levels for pectoral pectoral muscular creatine content (p = 0.008), breast meat yield (p = 0.030), and serum total protein concentrations (p = 0.040), and the optimal levels were estimated to be 1.47%, 1.35%, and 1.40% Glyequi, respectively. The lowest (p = 0.050) concentration of malondialdehyde in the breast meat was found in 0.68% SID Thr diets at 1.36% Glyequi. Conclusion: The minimum dietary level of Glyequi needed to improve performance in low crude protein diets is 1.26% with adequate SID Thr levels for broiler chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the effects of Glycine Betaine, Zinc, and Boron elements on the yield and nutritional status of rainfed Cicer arietinum, a factorial experiment, was conducted during the 2019 and 2020 cropping years in Mahabad city. The experiment followed a randomized complete block design with three replications. The experimental factors included soil application of zinc sulfate at two levels (40 kg/ha and no zinc application), foliar application of boron at three levels (no use, before, and after flowering with 3 kg per 1000 L of water), and foliar application of Glycine Betaine at three levels (no use, flowering, and after flowering with 1.88 g/L). The results indicated that the year significantly affected grain yield, biological yield, and uptake of boron and zinc. The treatments involving boron and Glycine Betaine showed an increasing effect on plant height, total chlorophyll, soluble sugar, Glycine Betaine, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per plant, 100-seed weight, grain yield, biological yield, nitrogen percentage, boron concentration, and grain protein percentage. The highest grain yield (1549.15 kg. ha−1) in the treatment without zinc application and with simultaneous application of boron and Glycine Betaine after flowering resulted in a 34.58% increase compared to the control. The foliar application of Glycine Betaine and boron in the pre-and post-flowering stages and boron in the post-flowering stage resulted in the highest grain nitrogen uptake at 60.2%. Also, the result showed that no Glycine Betaine and boron application before flowering exhibited the highest soluble sugar content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We investigated the efficacy of two different cold atmospheric pressure jet plasma devices (CAP09 and CAPmed) and an air polishing device with glycine powder (AP) either applied as monotherapies or combined therapies (AP + CAP09; AP + CAPmed), in microbial biofilm removal from discs with anodised titanium surface. Methods: Discs covered with 7-day-old microbial biofilm were treated either with CAP09, CAPmed, AP, AP + CAP09 or AP + CAPmed and compared with negative and positive controls. Biofilm removal was assessed with flourescence and electron microscopy immediately after treatment and after 5 days of reincubation of the treated discs. Results: Treatment with CAP09 or CAPmed did not lead to an effective biofilm removal, whereas treatment with AP detached the complete biofilm, which however regrew to baseline magnitude after 5 days of reincubation. Both combination therapies (AP + CAP09 and AP + CAPmed) achieved a complete biofilm removal immediately after cleaning. However, biofilm regrew after 5 days on 50% of the discs treated with the combination therapy. Conclusion: AP treatment alone can remove gross biofilm immediately from anodised titanium surfaces. However, it did not impede regrowth after 5 days, because microorganisms were probably hidden in holes and troughs, from which they could regrow, and which were inaccessible to AP. The combination of AP and plasma treatment probably removed or inactivated microorganisms also from these hard to access spots. These results were independent of the choice of plasma device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Red leaf blotch of soybean, caused by the fungus Coniothyrium glycines, is a foliar disease characterized by blotching, necrosis, and defoliation that has only been reported from Africa. The species is listed as a Select Agent by the Federal Select Agent Program due to its potentially devastating impacts to soybean production should it spread to the United States. Despite its potential import, very few isolates are available for study. Herein, we obtained 96 new C. glycines isolates from six soybean-producing countries throughout sub-Saharan Africa. Along with 12 previously collected ones, we sequenced each at the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region. Between all isolates, we identified a total of 28 single-nucleotide polymorphisms and 23 haplotypes. One hypothesis to explain the tremendous diversity uncovered at the ITS--which is generally conserved within a species--is that our current species concept of C. glycines is too broad and that there may be multiple species that cause red leaf blotch. Zambia contained the highest haplotype diversity, a significant fraction of which remains unsampled. Most haplotypes were specific to a single country, except for two, which were found in Zambia and either neighboring Mozambique or Zimbabwe. This geographic specificity indicates that the ITS region may be useful for identifying source populations or routes of transmission should this pathogen spread beyond Africa. The observed geographic partitioning of this pathogen is likely the result of millions of years of replication on little-studied native hosts, given that soybean has only been cultivated in Africa since the early 1900s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low temperature is a type of abiotic stress affecting the tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) growth. Understanding the mechanisms and utilization of exogenous substances underlying plant tolerance to cold stress would lay the foundation for improving temperature resilience in this important crop. Our study is aiming to investigate the effect of exogenous glycine betaine (GB) on tomato seedlings to increase tolerance to low temperatures. By treating tomato seedlings with exogenous GB under low temperature stress, we found that 30 mmol/L exogenous GB can significantly improve the cold tolerance of tomato seedlings. Exogenous GB can influence the enzyme activity of antioxidant defense system and ROS levels in tomato leaves. The seedlings with GB treatment presented higher Fv/Fm value and photochemical activity under cold stress compared with the control. Moreover, analysis of high-throughput plant phenotyping of tomato seedlings also supported that exogenous GB can protect the photosynthetic system of tomato seedlings under cold stress. In addition, we proved that exogenous GB significantly increased the content of endogenous abscisic acid (ABA) and decreased endogenous gibberellin (GA) levels, which protected tomatoes from low temperatures. Meanwhile, transcriptional analysis showed that GB regulated the expression of genes involved in antioxidant capacity, calcium signaling, photosynthesis activity, energy metabolism-related and low temperature pathway-related genes in tomato plants. In conclusion, our findings indicated that exogenous GB, as a cryoprotectant, can enhance plant tolerance to low temperature by improving the antioxidant system, photosynthetic system, hormone signaling, and cold response pathway and so on. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: To evaluate the adjunctive effect of glycine‐powder air‐polishing (GPAP) to full‐mouth ultrasonic debridement (Fm‐UD) in the treatment of peri‐implant mucositis, and to determine the impact of implant and patient‐level variables for disease resolution. Methods: Individuals with a diagnosis of peri‐implant mucositis were consecutively included in this randomized parallel arm clinical study. All the participants received a session of Fm‐UD. Only implants allocated to the test group were additionally treated with GPAP. Clinical assessments were recorded at baseline, at 3 and at 12 months following intervention. The primary outcomes were complete disease resolution (DR1), defined as absence of bleeding sites at probing per implants, and partial disease resolution (DR2), measured as the presence of less than two bleeding sites at probing per implant. A final logistic multivariate regression model was built to evaluate the predictive role of implant and patient‐level variables on DR. Results: Fifty two patients and 157 implants were included. Both groups displayed significant reduction in the extent of bleeding on probing and plaque levels. At 12 months, DR1 was achieved in 16% and 27% of participants for the test and the control group respectively. IDR1 was best predicted by the number of bleeding sites (OR = 2.7, p = 0.04) and the greatest PPD value (OR = 2.7, p = 0.05), while IDR2 by the prosthetic connection (OR = 2.59, p = 0.02), the mean PPD (OR = 2.23, p = 0.04), the FMBS (OR = 4.09, p = 0.04), and number of implants (OR = 4.59, p = 0.02). Conclusions: Despite significant improvements of clinical signs of peri‐implant inflammation, the use of GPAP appears to have no adjunctive effect as compared with Fm‐UD alone in the achievement of DR. Elevated initial levels of bleeding and PD predicted inferior likelihood of reaching disease resolution. The present randomized parallel arm clinical study was registered on Clinicaltrials.gov and received the following registration number: NCT05801315. This clinical trial was not registered prior to participant recruitment and randomization (https://register.clinicaltrials.gov/prs/app/action/SelectProtocol?sid=S0009965&selectaction=Edit&uid=U0004FXM&ts=2&cx=fje7l8). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative stress is a frequently occurring pathophysiological feature of spinal cord injury (SCI) and can result in secondary injury to the spinal cord and skeletal muscle atrophy. Studies have reported that glycine and N-acetylcysteine (GlyNAC) have anti-aging and anti-oxidative stress properties; however, to date, no study has assessed the effect of GlyNAC in the treatment of SCI. In the present work, we established a rat model of SCI and then administered GlyNAC to the animals by gavage at a dose of 200 mg/kg for four consecutive weeks. The BBB scores of the rats were significantly elevated from the first to the eighth week after GlyNAC intervention, suggesting that GlyNAC promoted the recovery of motor function; it also promoted the significant recovery of body weight of the rats. Meanwhile, the 4-week heat pain results also suggested that GlyNAC intervention could promote the recovery of sensory function in rats to some extent. Additionally, after 4 weeks, the levels of glutathione and superoxide dismutase in spinal cord tissues were significantly elevated, whereas that of malondialdehyde was significantly decreased in GlyNAC-treated animals. The gastrocnemius wet weight ratio and total antioxidant capacity were also significantly increased. After 8 weeks, the malondialdehyde level had decreased significantly in spinal cord tissue, while reactive oxygen species accumulation in skeletal muscle had decreased. These findings suggested that GlyNAC can protect spinal cord tissue, delay skeletal muscle atrophy, and promote functional recovery in rats after SCI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The N‐termini of proteins can regulate their degradation, and the same protein with different N‐termini may have distinct dynamics. Recently, it was found that N‐terminal glycine can serve as a degron recognized by two E3 ligases, but N‐terminal glycine was also reported to stabilize proteins. Here we developed a chemoenzymatic method for selective enrichment of proteoforms with N‐terminal glycine and integrated dual protease cleavage to further improve the enrichment specificity. Over 2000 unique peptides with protein N‐terminal glycine were analyzed from >1000 proteins, and most of them are previously unknown, indicating the effectiveness of the current method to capture low‐abundance proteoforms with N‐terminal glycine. The degradation rates of proteoforms with N‐terminal glycine were quantified along with those of proteins from the whole proteome. Bioinformatic analyses reveal that proteoforms with N‐terminal glycine with the fastest and slowest degradation rates have different functions and localizations. Membrane proteins with N‐terminal glycine and proteins with N‐terminal glycine from the N‐terminal methionine excision degrade more rapidly. Furthermore, the secondary structures, adjacent amino acid residues, and protease specificities for N‐terminal glycine are also vital for protein degradation. The results advance our understanding of the effects of N‐terminal glycine on protein properties and functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Functional decline of physiological systems during ageing leads to age-related diseases. Dietary glycine increases healthy lifespan in model organisms and might decrease inflammation in humans, suggesting its geroprotective potential. This review summarises the evidence of glycine administration on the characteristics of eleven physiological systems in adult humans. Databases were searched using key search terms: 'glycine', 'adult', 'supplementation'/ 'administration'/ 'ingestion'/ 'treatment'. Glycine was administered to healthy and diseased populations (18 and 34 studies) for up to 14 days and 4 months, respectively. The nervous system demonstrated the most positive effects, including improved psychiatric symptoms from longer-term glycine administration in psychiatric populations. While longer-term glycine administration improved sleep in healthy populations, these studies had small sample sizes with a high risk of bias. Larger and long-term studies with more robust study designs in healthy populations to examine the effects of glycine administration on preventing, delaying or reversing the ageing process are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An optimized acidic bath containing glycine as the complexing agent was used to successfully electrodeposit defect-free and eco-friendly Fe-P coatings with a P content of 13 wt.% onto a St 12 steel substrate. The microstructure, morphology, and corrosion behavior of the coating in a 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), grazing incident X-ray diffraction (GIXRD), X-ray diffraction (XRD), microhardness, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and potentiodynamic polarization tests. The surface of the coating exhibited nodular features without any cracks or defects, and the interface between the coating and the substrate was perfect. The coating showed a nanocrystalline microstructure with the crystallite size of 1.6 nm. The coating was found to enhance the corrosion resistance of the substrate by reducing the corrosion current density (icorr) from 1.8 × 10−5 to 8 × 10−6. This improvement was attributed to the presence of an amorphous iron phosphate hydrate (Fe3(PO4)2·8H2O) superficial layer on the surface of the coating. Additionally, the coating exhibited higher microhardness (576 ± 25 HV) compared to the substrate (140 ± 1 HV). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The wet carbonation process of steel slag (SS) is envisaged to be an effective way to sequestrate CO2 and improve the properties of SS as a supplementary cementitious material. However, the carbonation process still struggles with having a low carbonation efficiency. This paper studied the effect of glycine on the accelerated carbonation of SS. The phase composition change of carbonated SS was analyzed via XRD, FT-IR, and TG–DTG. The carbonation process of SS is facilitated by the assistance of glycine, with which the carbonation degree is increased. After 60 min of carbonation, SS with glycine obtained a CO2 sequestration rate of 9.42%. Meanwhile, the carbonation reaction could decrease the content of free calcium oxide in SS. This significantly improves the soundness of SS–cement cementitious material, and the compressive strength of cementitious materials that contain carbonated SS with glycine is improved. Additionally, the cycling performance of glycine in the successive wet carbonation process of SS was investigated. Multicycle experiments via solvent recovery demonstrated that although the promotion effect of glycine was reduced after each cycle, compared with the SS–water system, the carbonation process could still be facilitated, demonstrating that successive wet carbonation via solvent recovery has considerable potential. Herein, we provide a new idea to facilitate the wet carbonation process of SS and improve the properties of SS–cement cementitious material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In an effort to further understand the challenges facing in vivo imaging probe development for the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor ion channel, we have evaluated the effect of glutamate on the Alzheimer's disease (AD) brain. Human post-mortem AD brain slices of the frontal cortex and anterior cingulate were incubated with [3H]MK-801 and adjacent sections were tested for Aβ and Tau. The binding of [3H]MK-801 was measured in the absence and presence of glutamate and glycine. Increased [3H]MK-801 binding in AD brains was observed at baseline and in the presence of glutamate, indicating a significant increase (>100%) in glutamate-induced NMDA ion channel activity in AD brains compared to cognitively normal brains. The glycine effect was lower, suggesting a decrease of the co-agonist effect of glutamate and glycine in the AD brain. Our preliminary findings suggest that the targeting of the NMDA ion channel as well as the glutamate site may be appropriate in the diagnosis and treatment of AD. However, the low baseline levels of [3H]MK-801 binding in the frontal cortex and anterior cingulate in the absence of glutamate and glycine indicate significant hurdles for in vivo imaging probe development and validation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanosized membrane vesicles (MVs) released by bacteria play important roles in both bacteria-bacteria and bacteria-host interactions. Some gram-positive lactic acid bacteria produce MVs exhibiting immunoregulatory activity in the host. We found that both bacterial cells and MVs of Limosilactobacillus antri JCM 15950, isolated from the human stomach mucosa, enhance immunoglobulin A production by murine Peyer's patch cells. However, the thick cell walls of gram-positive bacteria resulted in low MV production, limiting experiments and applications using MVs. In this study, we evaluated the effects of glycine, which inhibits cell wall synthesis, on the immunostimulatory MV productivity of L. antri. Glycine inhibited bacterial growth while increasing MV production, with 20 g/L glycine increasing MV production approximately 12-fold. Glycine was most effective at increasing MV production when added in the early exponential phase, which indicated that cell division in the presence of glycine increased MV production. Finally, glycine increased MV productivity approximately 16-fold. Furthermore, glycine-induced MVs promoted interleukin-6 production by macrophage-like J774.1 cells, and the immunostimulatory activity was comparable to that of spontaneously produced MVs. Our results indicate that glycine is an effective agent for improving the production of MVs with immunostimulatory activity in grampositive lactic acid bacteria, which can be applied as mucosal adjuvants and functional foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apples are deeply loved by people because of their rich nutritional value, but they are susceptible to rotting. The use of antagonistic yeast is a promising method for controlling postharvest fruit diseases, but biocontrol efficacy of yeast will be weakened in environmental stress. In this study, the effects of glycine (Gly) on the oxidative stress tolerance and the biocontrol efficacy of Sporidiobolus pararoseus (S. pararoseus) against Aspergillus niger (A. niger) are discussed. Under the stimulation of H2O2, the yeast cells treated with Gly (1 mM) showed lower ROS content, less mitochondrial impairment and cellular oxidative damage, and the cell survival rate was significantly higher than Gly-untreated yeast. The yeast cells exposed to Gly significantly increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and the content of glutathione (GSH). Notably, Gly-treated yeast cells had better biocontrol efficacy against A. niger in postharvest apples. The lesion diameter and decay incidence were reduced by 17.67 mm and 79.63% compared to the control, respectively, when S. pararoseus was treated with 1 mM Gly. Moreover, Gly-treated yeast increased the antioxidant enzymes activities and their gene expression were up-regulated in apples. These results indicated that 1 mM Gly not only reduced the oxidative damage of yeast, but also induced resistance-related enzymes of apples under oxidative stress, which contributed to enhancing the biocontrol efficacy of S. pararoseus against A. niger in apples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Printed circuit boards (PCBs) are a secondary source for the extraction of precious metals, such as gold (Au), silver (Ag), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), etc. Thiosulfate and glycine systems have recently gained a significant amount of attention for Au leaching. However, in the thiosulfate system, the stability of leached Au tends to decrease when using lower thiosulfate concentrations. In this study, a copper–ammonia–thiosulfate system (thiosulfate system) and glycine or histidine were combined to leach Au from PCBs. The glycine–thiosulfate system resulted in a higher Au leaching than the histidine–thiosulfate system. The results revealed that the glycine–thiosulfate system exhibited a synergistic effect on Au leaching (93.7%) at pH 9.3 and 40 °C, while the Au leaching percentages were 47.1% and 50.7% for the thiosulfate and glycine systems, respectively. In the dual system, Fe leaching was insignificant, although Ag and Al leaching were 95.3% and 27.0%, respectively. Compared to the thiosulfate system, the dual system maintained the stability of the leached Au. The system required 60 mM thiosulfate and 0.5 M glycine at 40 °C and pH 9.3 in order to leach Au from PCBs. The kinetic study suggested that Au and Ag leaching from PCBs in the dual system followed the diffusion-controlled model. The Au leaching rate in the initial phase of the dual system was similar to that of the glycine–cyanide system. This novel, mild approach could be applied to hydrometallurgy to leach other precious metals from sources, such as ore and spent catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of glycine supplementation in drinking water on the growth performance and intestinal development of newborn chicks. Parameters such as body weight, organ indexes, intestinal villus development, and the expression of genes in the intestine were assessed. The findings revealed that glycine supplementation in drinking water resulted in an increase in the average daily gain (ADG) of chicks aged 7 to 14 days. An increase in jejunum villus height and the ratio of villus height to crypt depth was also observed, which could be considered the possible factor contributing to the enhanced ADG. Furthermore, glycine supplementation in drinking water resulted in changes in the expression of a few genes related to mucosal immune barrier, cellular capacity against oxidation, and amino acid transporter in jejunum. These findings indicate that glycine supplementation in drinking water has the potential to enhance growth efficiency and promote intestinal health in chicks. Glycine, the most basic amino acid found in nature, is considered an essential amino acid for chicks. However, the precise understanding of high concentrations of glycine's significance in promoting the growth performance of chicks, as well as its impact on intestinal development, re-mains limited. Consequently, the objective of this study was to investigate the effects of glycine supplementation in drinking water on growth performance, intestine morphology, and development in newly hatched chicks. In this study, 200 newly born chicks were selected and pro-vided with a supplementation of 0.5%, 1%, and 2% glycine in their drinking water during their first week of life. The results revealed that glycine supplementation in drinking water could significantly increase the average daily gain of chicks from days 7 to 14. Furthermore, a significant difference was observed between the group supplemented with 1% glycine and the control group. Concurrently, this glycine supplementation increased the villus height and the ratio of the villus height to crypt depth in jejunum on both day 7 and day 14. Glycine supplementation in drinking water significantly affected the mRNA expression level of the ZO-1, GCLM, and rBAT genes in jejunum, which may have certain effects on the mucosal immune defense, cellular antioxidant stress capacity, and amino acid absorption. Overall, the findings of this study indicate that glycine supplementation in drinking water can enhance the growth performance of chicks and promote their intestine development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cold quarantine storage is the practice of subjecting citrus fruit to low temperatures after harvesting to comply with stringent international phytosanitary standards for export, but fruit quality can be affected during storage. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of glycine betaine (GB) and/or methyl salicylate (MeSA) on physicochemical changes, chemical attributes of juice, and peel color of 'Moro' blood orange at cold quarantine storage (2 °C) for 60 days. Fruit were treated with GB (15 and 30 mM) by vacuum infiltration at 30 kPa for 8 min and vapor treatment of MeSA (100 µM) for 18 h as well as the combination of both GB concentrations with MeSA. The key findings of this research revealed that the combined treatment of 30 mM GB and 100 µM MeSA significantly mitigated weight and firmness losses in 'Moro' blood orange fruit during the cold quarantine period. Furthermore, there was a decrease in titratable acidity (TA) across all treatments, with the highest TA recorded for the 30 mM GB + 100 µM MeSA combination. Conversely, total soluble solids (TSS), TSS/TA ratio, and juice pH increased in all treatments, with the control treatment displaying the highest values. Regarding peel color parameters, which encompass L* (lightness), b*, hue angle (h°), chroma (C*), and a*, as well as the citrus color index (CCI), these exhibited characteristic changes during cold quarantine storage. However, the application of GB and MeSA, especially at the 30 mM GB + 100 µM MeSA level, noticeably delayed these peel color variations. Overall, GB and MeSA treatments offer significant advantages in preserving the physicochemical characteristics and chemical attributes of 'Moro' blood oranges during cold quarantine storage. These findings underscore the potential of GB and MeSA treatments for maintaining the quality of 'Moro' blood oranges during cold quarantine storage, with a noteworthy synergistic effect between MeSA and GB in preserving fruit quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycine is a non-essential amino acid with many functions and effects. Glycine can bind to specific receptors and transporters that are expressed in many types of cells throughout an organism to exert its effects. There have been many studies focused on the anti-inflammatory effects of glycine, including its abilities to decrease pro-inflammatory cytokines and the concentration of free fatty acids, to improve the insulin response, and to mediate other changes. However, the mechanism through which glycine acts is not clear. In this review, we emphasize that glycine exerts its anti-inflammatory effects throughout the modulation of the expression of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) in many cells. Although glycine is a non-essential amino acid, we highlight how dietary glycine supplementation is important in avoiding the development of chronic inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of Fe glycine chelate supplementation on the chemical composition and nutritional quality of breast meat from broiler chicken. The following parameters were assessed: fat content, cholesterol content, fatty acid profile, atherogenic index (AI), thrombogenic index (TI), and hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic (H/H) fatty acid ratio. The 42-day experiment involved 200 broiler chickens assigned into four dietary groups: the control receiving Fe sulfate in the dose of 40 mg/kg of feed and three experimental groups of chickens supplemented with 40 mg (Fe-Gly40), 20 mg (Fe-Gly20), or 10 mg (Fe-Gly10) of Fe glycine chelate per 1 kg of diet. The results showed no negative effect of the application of Fe glycine chelate on the chemical composition and nutritional quality of breast muscle. Therefore, the advisability of the application of Fe glycine chelates in the nutrition of broiler chickens should be revised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adsorption reactions of amino acids (AAs) on TiO 2 nanoparticles (NPs) play an important role in the available nutrients in soils and sediments. The pH effects on glycine adsorption have been studied, but little is known about its coadsorption with Ca2+ at the molecular level. Combined attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) flow-cell measurements and density functional theory (DFT) calculations were used to determine the surface complex and corresponding dynamic adsorption/desorption processes. The structures of glycine adsorbed onto TiO 2 were closely associated with its dissolved species in the solution phase. The presence of Ca2+ exerted different influences on glycine adsorption within pH 4−11, thus affecting its migration rate in soils and sediments. The mononuclear bidentate complex at pH 4−7, involving the COO− moiety of zwitterionic glycine, remained unchanged in the absence and presence of Ca2+. At pH 11, the mononuclear bidentate complex with deprotonated NH 2 can be removed from the TiO 2 surface upon coadsorption with Ca2+. The bonding strength of glycine on TiO 2 was much weaker than that of the Ca-bridged ternary surface complexation. Glycine adsorption was inhibited at pH 4 but was enhanced at pH 7 and 11. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pakchoi (Brassica campestris ssp. Chinensis) is a leafy vegetable which has been widely cultivated and consumed worldwide due to its low calorific value, a large supply of macro and micronutrients, beneficial phytochemicals and fibers. Amino acids have a vital role in plant nutrition; however, the effect of glycine and nitrate (Gly/NO3-N) on health-promoting phytochemicals, biomass, and antioxidant activities has gained a little attention. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the impact of glycine and nitrate on health-promoting phytochemicals and yield/biomass of pakchoi. Glycine and nitrate were employed in different proportions (control, Gly/NO3-N = 3:1, Gly/NO3-N = 1:1, and Gly/NO3-N = 1:3 in the Venlo greenhouse, Shanghai Jiao Tong university, China. Results showed that compared to control, the treatment with Gly/NO3-N notably increased the secondary metabolites like polyphenols, flavonoids, glutathione (GSH), ascorbic acid (vitamin C), antioxidant potential (FRAP and DPPH value), and biomass in pakchoi plants. The contents of all antioxidants were high under the treatment of Gly/NO3-N（1:1). Interestingly, the contents of flavonoids were significantly enhanced (107.10%) by Gly/NO3-N = 1:1 than control plants. Furthermore, the content of Phe increased by 33.79%-86.32%, and also the activity of catabolic enzymes (CHI, CHS, C4H, and PAL) of the polyphenols pathway was found to be significantly enhanced while the activity of 4CL and DFR was restrained by the treatment of Gly/NO3-N, compared with control plants. In addition, the correlation analysis of polyphenols and flavonoids with Phe, PAL, C4H, CHS, and CHI showed a positive correlation, while a negative correlation was found in the case of 4CL and DFR. Taken together, the current findings suggest that the application of Gly/NO3-N enhanced polyphenols metabolism as well as increased the total polyphenolic content and antioxidant activity. Consequently, this combination of glycine and nitrate could be used to promote beneficial phytochemicals and yield/biomass of pakchoi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synaptic transmission is the main process providing cross-connecting activity among neurons in the central nervous system (CNS). In the present study, the 3D mathematical model of a neuronal bouton with a cluster localization of glycine receptors (GlyRs) on the post-synaptic membrane was developed. The number and eventual position of the receptors are defined by the structural data of the GlyR-gephyrin complex. Furthermore, the forming of inhibitory post-synaptic potential (IPSP) and an electro-diffusion of chloride ions were evaluated by applying the boundary problems for a Poisson's equation and a non-steady-state diffusion equation, respectively. It was shown that local changes in the chloride ion concentration near the post-synaptic membrane, mediated by GlyRs activation, can raise up to 80–110% from the initial level. The average value of the concentration increase was as high as 10% in a pike of activity under the full activation of GlyRs. The central spatial localization of GlyRs in the cluster had a considerable difference both in the chloride ion concentration changes (6%) and IPSP (17%) compared to the divided or rear localization. Thus, a spatial polymorphism of the post-synaptic density of GlyRs is important to form a physiological response to a neuromediator release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although exogenous glycine betaine (GB) and cycloleucine (Cyc) have been reported to affect animal cell metabolism, their effects on plant growth and development have not been studied extensively. Different concentrations of exogenous glycine betaine (20, 40, and 60 mmol L−1) and cycloleucine (10, 20, and 40 mmol L−1), with 0 mmol L−1 as control, were used to investigate the effects of foliar spraying of betaine and cycloleucine on growth, photosynthesis, chlorophyll fluorescence, Calvin cycle pathway, abaxial leaf burr morphology, endogenous hormones, and amino acid content in eggplant. We found that 40 mmol L−1 glycine betaine had the best effect on plant growth and development; it increased the fresh and dry weight of plants, increased the density of abaxial leaf hairs, increased the net photosynthetic rate and Calvin cycle key enzyme activity of leaves, had an elevating effect on chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, increased endogenous indoleacetic acid (IAA) content and decreased abscisic acid (ABA) content, and increased glutamate, serine, aspartate, and phenylalanine contents. However, cycloleucine significantly inhibited plant growth; plant apical dominance disappeared, plant height and dry and fresh weights decreased significantly, the development of abaxial leaf hairs was hindered, the net photosynthetic rate and Calvin cycle key enzyme activities were inhibited, the endogenous hormones IAA and ABA content decreased, and the conversion and utilization of glutamate, arginine, threonine, and glycine were affected. Combined with the experimental results and plant growth phenotypes, 20 mmol L−1 cycloleucine significantly inhibited plant growth. In conclusion, 40 mmol L−1 glycine betaine and 20 mmol L−1 cycloleucine had different regulatory effects on plant growth and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycine max Merr. (GM) is a functional food that provides many beneficial phytochemicals. However, scientific evidence of its antidepressive and sedative activities is scarce. The present study was designed to investigate the antidepressive and calmative effects of GM and its biologically active compound, genistein (GE), using electroencephalography (EEG) analysis in an electric foot shock (EFS)-stressed rat. The underlying neural mechanisms of their beneficial effects were determined by assessing corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), serotonin (5-HT), and c-Fos immunoreactivity in the brain using immunohistochemical methods. In addition, the 5-HT2C receptor binding assay was performed because it is considered a major target of antidepressants and sleep aids. In the binding assay, GM displayed binding affinity to the 5-HT2C receptor (IC50 value of 14.25 ± 11.02 µg/mL). GE exhibited concentration-dependent binding affinity, resulting in the binding of GE to the 5-HT2C receptor (IC50, 77.28 ± 26.57 mg/mL). Administration of GM (400 mg/kg) increased non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep time. Administration of GE (30 mg/kg) decreased wake time and increased rapid eye movement (REM) and NREM sleep in EPS-stressed rats. In addition, treatment with GM and GE significantly decreased c-Fos and CRF expression in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and increased 5-HT levels in the dorsal raphe in the brain. Overall, these results suggest that GM and GE have antidepressant-like effects and are effective in sleep maintenance. These results will benefit researchers in developing alternatives to decrease depression and prevent sleep disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The beneficial role of glycine betaine (GB) in the adaptation of plants to abiotic stresses is well known; therefore, the study of physiological and molecular responses induced by exogenous GB under NaCl stress can provide a suitable reference for the application of this compound to enhance the adaptation of plants to salinity. The present study was conducted under in vitro conditions to evaluate the effect of GB (25 and 50 mM) on the growth, physiological, and molecular traits of Stevia rebaudiana during NaCl toxicity (50 mM). The results showed that applying NaCl treatment increased Na accumulation, induced oxidative stress, and disrupted N metabolism and K/Na homeostasis, which, as a result, decreased the stevia plant's growth and biomass. However, application of GB improved the adaptation of NaCl-stressed plants by improving N metabolism and modulating the metabolism of polyamines. By increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes, GB diminished oxidative stress, protected the plasma membrane, and restored photosynthetic pigments under NaCl toxicity. By reducing Na accumulation and increasing K accumulation, GB maintained the K/Na balance and reduced the effects of toxicity caused by the high Na concentration in stevia leaves. GB increased the leaf accumulation of rebaudioside A in NaCl-stressed plants by modulating the expression of genes (KAH, UGT74G1, UGT76G1, and UGT85C2) involved in the sugar compounds of the stevia plants. Our results provide a broad understanding of GB-induced responses in NaCl-stressed plants, which can help increase our knowledge of the role of GB in the defense mechanisms of plants under abiotic stresses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Women going through menopause experience changes in their hormone levels, such as decreased estrogen secretion. Those changes can lead to weight gain and steatosis (fatty liver) due to abnormal lipid metabolism and bone turnover. Natural herbal medicines have been developed to treat and prevent menopausal symptoms. The aim of this study was to evaluate how a mixture of germinated Glycine max (GG) and Angelica gigas Nakai (AG) affected serum lipid profile levels, hepatic damage, inflammation, and bone turnover in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. The animals were randomly allocated into six groups: Sham control group (Sham), OVX control group (OVX), OVX + 50 mg/kg b.w. of GG (GG50) group, and OVX + 25, 50, 100 mg/kg b.w. of GG and AG mixture (GAM; GAM25, GAM50, GAM100) groups. After four weeks of treatment, the GAM groups exhibited decreases in serum lipid profile levels (TC, TG, and Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL)) and increases in High Density Lipoprotein (HDL). Proinflammatory mediators (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and iNOS) were reduced after the administration of GAM, and the degree of liver damage (ALT, AST) also decreased. Bone resorption (CTX1, NTX1, osteoclasts in H&E staining) decreased in the GAM-treated groups, and bone morphometric markers (BMD, BV/TV, Tb.N) improved compared with the OVX group. Additionally, increased bone formation (ALP, mineralization) and decreased bone resorption (TRACP) were confirmed in in vitro experiments. These results suggest that GAM has anti-obesity and anti-inflammatory effects by preventing dyslipidemia and that it alleviates bone mass loss in OVX rats by inhibiting osteoclastogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, the technology node shrunk below 7 nm and beyond; cobalt (Co) and its low resistivity, superior adhesion property, and excellent electro-migration performance pledge to transform the integrated circuits' landscape in several areas, especially in interconnects and logic contacts. The present work proposes a weakly alkaline polishing slurry for Co interconnects, mainly consisting of colloidal silica, hydrogen peroxide, glycine, and 1,2,4-triazole at pH 8.1. The feature of tunable high material removal rate (greater than 1000–2000 Å/min) and fitting removal selectivity (~ 160) between Co and oxide dielectric could be realized by a moderately variable concentration of glycine complexing agent. Moreover, several analytical techniques, including electrochemical analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy survey, and adsorption isotherm characterization, were used to understand the interaction mechanism during Co material removal process. The results reveal that 1,2,4-triazole could adsorb on the Co oxide layers via physisorption, achieving an inhibition effect to avoid Co excessive corrosion. Furthermore, the oxidization of hydrogen peroxide, the complexation of glycine zwitterions, and the abrasive mechanical action are critical to maintaining the appropriate material removal rate. Based on the results with research-level wafers, the optimized Co bulk slurry was ultimately applied to the production-level of Co and oxide dielectric wafers. The residual particle, haze condition, and surface profile after polishing have been researched simultaneously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a simple chemical method in the presence of glycine is described to fabricate the hierarchical structure of MgAl-based Layered Double Hydroxides (Gly-LDH), served as high-performance adsorbent for Methyl orange (MO). To elucidate the effect of glycine on the adsorption capacity, the MgAl-LDH intercalated with CO32- anions was also prepared by urea hydrolysis method (Ur-LDH). The as-synthesised nanostructures were characterised by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Thermogravimetry/Differential Scanning Calorimetry (TG–DSC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM),. The results demonstrated that the glycine intercalated LDH exhibited high adsorption capacity for MO dye compared with MgAl-LDH obtained by urea hydrolysis method. Adsorption isotherm data for MO adsorption on Gly-LDH at 300 K and acidic pH fitted well to the Langmuir isotherm model with a maximum adsorption capacity of 800 mg/g. l. The sorption mechanism indicates that MO molecules could be sorbed onto Gly-LDH via electrostatic attraction, and ion exchange. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purple-fleshed potatoes (PFP) are varieties of Solanum tuberosum L., which recently have been recorded to be more and more cultivated and consumed in all European countries, including Romania, as they are promoted for their content in bioactive compounds and benefits to human health. This paper presents a micropropagation protocol study for PFP varieties already traded into the Romanian market, namely Blue Danube (BD), Salad Blue (SB), Violet Negretin (VN), and Violet Queen (VQ). These varieties were tested for in vitro micropropagation also considering asepsis, initiation, callus formation, and microtuberization. To establish the optimum asepsis treatment, a preliminary experiment was performed and, the best results were obtained by using 70% EtOH (1 min) followed by 20% (v/v) Domestos® (20 min). The MS formula (Murashige and Skoog 1962) was tested as the basic culture medium without growth regulators for all tested stages except for callus initiation and its further multiplication stages. The effect of glycine on direct organogenesis and shoot multiplication was evaluated for propagated micro-cuttings. We emphasize that the addition of glycine at a concentration of 15 mg/L to the culture medium induced a better plantlet vigor for all four varieties. Regarding the indirect organogenesis, culture medium supplemented with NAA (5.00 mg/L), GA3 (1.00 mg/L), TDZ (1.00 mg/L) and glycine (15.00 mg/L) induced the best results for shoot cluster regeneration as well as turning of white callus from control to purple callus. Further, the microtuberization was successfully produced when sucrose was supplemented at 8% (w/v) into the culture medium. Among all four tested PFP varieties, SB has proven to give the best results regarding the adaptability for in vitro cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fortification of cassava leaves by adding nutrition is a recent technique in the ericulture study. Glycine is one of the amino acids necessary for the growth of silkworms. This study aimed to analyse the effect of glycine fortification of cassava leaves on the growth and development of eri silkworms. The parameters of this study were cocoon parameters, the wingspan of imago, development time and mortality, and egg parameters of Samia cynthia ricini D. This study had four treatments: control group, P1 group (adding glycine 0.5% on cassava leaves), P2 group (adding glycine 1% on cassava leaves), and P3 (adding glycine 1.5% on cassava leaves). The early instar of Eri silkworm larvae was fed on castor leaves, and glycine fortification was fed on the late instar of Eri silkworm larvae (fourth and fifth instars). Based on the results, all parameters showed significant differences from the control group. Glycine fortification increased cocoon weight (2.03 ± 0.62 g), extended the wingspan of the imago (12.15 ± 1.12 cm), shortened the development time (44.03 ± 0.84 days), had no mortality, and increased the fecundity of eggs (134.80 ± 28.78 eggs). The most effective concentration of glycine fortification on cassava leaves was 1.5%. Conclusively, cassava leaves with glycine fortification affect the growth and development of eri silkworm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channel dysfunction causes a variety of inherited disorders, but developing small molecules that activate Kv channels has proven challenging. We recently discovered that the inhibitory neurotransmitter γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) directly activates Kv channels KCNQ3 and KCNQ5. Here, finding that inhibitory neurotransmitter glycine does not activate KCNQs, we re-engineered it in silico to introduce predicted KCNQ-opening properties, screened by in silico docking, then validated the hits in vitro. Attaching a fluorophenyl ring to glycine optimized its electrostatic potential, converting it to a low-nM affinity KCNQ channel activator. Repositioning the phenyl ring fluorine and/or adding a methylsulfonyl group increased the efficacy of the re-engineered glycines and switched their target KCNQs. Combining KCNQ2- and KCNQ3-specific glycine derivatives synergistically potentiated KCNQ2/3 activation by exploiting heteromeric channel composition. Thus, in silico optimization and docking, combined with functional screening of only three compounds, facilitated re-engineering of glycine to develop several potent KCNQ activators.

Simple unhindered aldimines tend to hydrolyze or oligomerize and are therefore spectroscopically not well characterized. Herein we report the formation and spectroscopic characterization of the simplest imino acid, namely glycine imine, by cryogenic matrix isolation IR and UV/Vis spectroscopy. Glycine imine forms after UV irradiation of 2‐azidoacetic acid by N2 extrusion in anti‐(E,E)‐ and anti‐(Z,Z)‐conformation that can be photochemically interconverted. In matrix isolation pyrolysis experiments with 2‐azidoacetic acid, glycine imine cannot be trapped as it further decarboxylates to aminomethylene. In aqueous solution glycine imine is hydrolyzed to hydroxy glycine and hydrated glyoxylic acid. At higher concentrations or in the presence of FeIISO4 as a reducing agent glycine imine undergoes self‐reduction by oxidative decarboxylation chemistry. Glycine imine may be seen as one of the key reaction intermediates connecting prebiotic amino acid and sugar formation chemistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wild soybean, also known as Glycine soja Sieb. et Zucc. (GS), has long been known for its various health benefits. Although various pharmacological effects of G. soja have been studied, the effects of GS leaf and stem (GSLS) on osteoarthritis (OA) have not been evaluated. Here, we examined the anti-inflammatory effects of GSLS in interleukin-1β (IL-1β)-stimulated SW1353 human chondrocytes. GSLS inhibited the expression of inflammatory cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases and ameliorated the degradation of collagen type II in IL-1β-stimulated chondrocytes. Furthermore, GSLS played a protective role in chondrocytes by inhibiting the activation of NF-κB. In addition, our in vivo study demonstrated that GSLS ameliorated pain and reversed cartilage degeneration in joints by inhibiting inflammatory responses in a monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced OA rat model. GSLS remarkably reduced the MIA-induced OA symptoms, such as joint pain, and decreased the serum levels of proinflammatory mediators, cytokines, and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Our findings show that GSLS exerts anti-osteoarthritic effects and reduces pain and cartilage degeneration by downregulating inflammation, suggesting that it is a useful therapeutic candidate for OA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

9Cr18Mo stainless bearing steel is commonly used to manufacture rolling bearings in aerospace. Excellent surface quality is required to improve the service performance of bearings. In this study, chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) was employed. The results reveal that Cr has a significant impact on the CMP performance. The higher the Cr content, the lower the material removal rate (MRR). When polishing with the slurry containing the complexing agent glycine and the oxidant H2O2, the 9Cr18Mo steel surface is uneven, probably caused by unequal removal of Fe and Cr. A super-smooth 9Cr18Mo steel surface can be achieved by excluding glycine and adding 1 wt% H2O2. The surface roughness Sa is 0.63 nm, and no surface defects can be observed. During CMP, a uniform thin surface film mainly composed of evenly distributed iron oxides and chromium oxides can be formed. On the one hand, the iron oxides and chromium oxides can be removed simultaneously with a close MRR. On the other hand, the passive oxides can inhibit corrosion and protect recessed areas. Therefore, a super-smooth surface can be achieved. The findings provide an enhanced understanding of attaining a smooth surface for the material consisting of multiple chemical elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schizophrenia is a neurological disorder that alters the behavior and affects the quality of life of a patient. It is characterized by hallucinations, disorganized behavior, cognitive dysfunction, hyperlocomotion, and loss of the reward system. Schizophrenia constitutes three symptoms' domains, viz. positive, negative and cognitive. Typical and atypical antipsychotics do not fully resolve all the symptoms' domains thus paving the way to the genesis of the glutamatergic hypothesis, i.e. N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor hypofunction in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Positive modulation of NMDA receptors by enhancing co-agonist, glycine effect is proposed to produce a therapeutic effect in schizophrenia. Hence, sarcosine (N-methyl glycine), natural amino acid, and a glycine transporter inhibitor (GlyT-1) which also acts on NMDA receptors were used in the present study. The present study unravels the role of sarcosine in the attenuation of ketamine-induced three symptom domains in a rat model through modulation of oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neuroinflammatory pathways. The animal model of schizophrenia was established by injecting ketamine intraperitoneal (ip) at a 30 mg/kg dose for 10 consecutive days, after which sarcosine (300, 600 mg/kg, ip) as a treatment was given for 7 days followed by behavioral, biochemical, molecular, and histopathological analysis. It was revealed that sarcosine reversed ketamine-induced behavioral impairments. Moreover, sarcosine ameliorated oxidative and nitrosative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neuroinflammation and showed protective effects in histopathological examination by hematoxylin and eosin staining. Hence, conclusively, sarcosine was regarded to attenuate the behavioural symptoms of schizophrenia by alleviating oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction established by the ketamine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Amino acids have various crucial roles in fish growth and health. Among them, the non-essential amino acids have been less studied in aquaculture, but they have many physiological roles. Glycine is a non-essential amino acid that is involved in glutathione structure, and is also involved in the antioxidant system in fish. Moreover, glycine stimulates the immune system. This study shows that a period of 8-week feeding with a diets supplemented with 5 g/kg glycine can improve growth performance, erythrocyte stability, and humoral and mucosal immunity in common carp. So, the present results can be used in carp diet production to support higher growth and health. The effects of dietary glycine supplementation, 0 (control), 5 (5 GL), and 10 (10 GL) g/kg, have been investigated on growth performance, hematological parameters, erythrocyte antioxidant capacity, humoral and mucosal immunity in common carp, Cyprinus carpio. After eight weeks feeding, the 5 GL treatment exhibited significant improvement in growth performance and feed efficacy, compared to the control treatment. Red blood cell (RBC) and white blood cell (WBC) counts, hemoglobin, hematocrit, neutrophil and monocyte counts/percentages, RBC reduced glutathione (GSH) content, and skin mucosal alkaline phosphatase, peroxidase, protease, and lysozyme activities were similar in the glycine-treated fish and significantly higher than the control treatment. Blood lymphocyte percentage decreased in the glycine-treated fish, but lymphocyte count increased, compared to the control fish. RBC glutathione reductase activities in the glycine-treated fish were similar and significantly lower than the control treatment. The highest plasma lysozyme and alternative complement activities were observed in GL treatment. The glycine-treated fish, particularly 5 GL, exhibited significant improvement in RBC osmotic fragility resistance. Dietary glycine had no significant effects on RBC glutathione peroxidase activity, plasma immunoglobulin, eosinophil percentage/count, and hematological indices. In conclusion, most of the benefits of dietary glycine supplementation may be mediated by increased glutathione synthesis and antioxidant power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NMDA-receptor hypofunction is increasingly considered to be an important pathomechanism in schizophrenia. However, to date, it has not been possible to identify patients with relevant NMDA-receptor hypofunction who would respond to glutamatergic treatments. Preclinical models, such as the ketamine model, could help identify biomarkers related to NMDA-receptor function that respond to glutamatergic modulation, for example, via activation of the glycine-binding site. We, therefore, aimed to investigate the effects of opposing modulation of the NMDA receptor on gamma activity (30–100 Hz) at rest, the genesis of which appears to be highly dependent on NMDA receptors. The effects of subanesthetic doses of S-ketamine and pretreatment with glycine on gamma activity at rest were examined in twenty-five healthy male participants using 64-channel electroencephalography. Psychometric scores were assessed using the PANSS and the 5D-ASC. While S-ketamine significantly increased psychometric scores and gamma activity at the scalp and in the source space, pretreatment with glycine did not significantly attenuate any of these effects when controlled for multiple comparisons. Our results question whether increased gamma activity at rest constitutes a suitable biomarker for the target engagement of glutamatergic drugs in the preclinical ketamine model. They might further point to a differential role of NMDA receptors in gamma activity generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The NiO-MgO solid solution has been proven to be an efficient catalyst for the carbon dioxide reforming of methane (CRM). However, the challenge is still there for the facilely controlled synthesis of the single-phase solid solution with the uniform composition, and the interactions between NiO and MgO are not consistently correlated with the CRM performance. To address these issues, in this work, the complex-decomposition method was applied to regulate the chemical and structural properties of NiO-MgO catalysts via simply changing the complexing agent, calcination temperature, and Ni/Mg molar ratio. The catalysts were comparatively evaluated for CRM under severe reaction conditions of 750 °C, 0.1 MPa, CH4/CO2 = 1, and a gas hourly space velocity of 60000 mL·g−1·h−1. Irrespective of the complexing agents investigated, NiO-MgO solid solution was exclusively formed. However, the structural and reductive properties of the NiO-MgO catalysts were strongly dependent on the complexing agent, which is reasonably explained as the varied coordinative capabilities of the complexing agent with the metal cations. Moreover, the highest CRM performance, i.e., the initial CH4 conversion of ~86% kept constant for a time-on-stream of 20 h, was achieved over the Ni0.1Mg0.9O catalyst by using glycine as the complexing agent and calcined at 800 °C. The characterization and CRM results vigorously confirmed that a good balance between the sintering and the in situ release of active metallic Ni under CRM reaction conditions was constructed over the NiO-MgO catalyst prepared using glycine as the complexing agent, leading to its highest stability. Considering the simple procedure of the complex-decomposition method and the convenient adjustment of the NiO and MgO interactions by simply changing the complexing agent and calcination temperature, the thus developed catalyst can be applied for extensive understanding the CRM mechanism, and extended for large-scale preparation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of high-temperature and salt-resistant foaming agents is critical to the successful drilling of complex and low-pressure reservoirs. In this study, a novel alkyl glycine surfactant (AGS-8) was synthesized by the one-step method. The foam quality of AGS-8 at high temperatures (140–180 °C) and the salt solutions (5–36%wt) was evaluated by the Waring-Blender method to explore its applicability in harsh reservoirs. Results show that: (1) The successful synthesis and chemical structure of AGS-8 was determined by FTIR and 1H-NMR. (2) AGS-8 shows good thermal stability within 330 °C and has high surface activity. (3) AGS-8 generated stable foams after aging at 180 °C for 16 h. The outstanding high-temperature foam stability of AGS-8 is an important feature different from the conventional commercial foaming agents. (4) AGS-8 generated stable foams in saturated salt solution (36%wt NaCl) after 150 °C aged. A synergistic foam stabilization effect was found between high concentrations of NaCl (≥25%wt) and AGS-8. (5) The foam stabilization mechanism of AGS-8 was discussed and can be summarized as the electrostatic attraction effect of head groups and the enhancement of inter-molecular repulsive force. In conclusion, AGS-8 was found to be a promising foaming agent in the drilling of high-temperature salt-gypsum formations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Hedgehog-GLI signaling pathway is activated in human and canine osteosarcoma (OSA) and represents a potential therapeutic target for cancers, including OSA. Arsenic trioxide represses GLI expression. Melarsomine, an arsenic compound-containing drug, has been approved for the treatment of canine heartworm disease. Hence, we hypothesized that melarsomine inhibits GLI signaling in canine OSA cell lines. The present study aimed to assess this hypothesis. Cell viability and colony formation were decreased in the canine OSA cell lines Abrams and D17 after treatment with melarsomine. Melarsomine-induced apoptotic cell death was assessed via cell cycle analysis using propidium iodide staining. Quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and western blot analyses revealed a downregulation of genes downstream of the Hedgehog signaling pathway, including GLI1, GLI2, and PTCH, after melarsomine treatment. The present results suggest that melarsomine exerts antitumor effects and serves as a GLI inhibitor in canine OSA cells. Additional studies are required to evaluate and confirm the anticancer effect and relevant therapeutic dose of melarsomine in vivo.

Background: Nonketotic hyperglycinemia (NKH) is a severe neurometabolic disorder characterized by increased glycine levels. Current glycine reduction therapy uses high doses of sodium benzoate. The ketogenic diet (KD) may represent an alternative method of glycine reduction.Aim: We aimed to assess clinical and biochemical effects of two glycine reduction strategies: high dose benzoate versus KD with low dose benzoate.Methods: Six infants with NKH were first treated with high dose benzoate therapy to achieve target plasma glycine levels, and then switched to KD with low dose benzoate. They were evaluated as clinically indicated by physical examination, electroencephalogram, plasma and cerebral spinal fluid amino acid levels. Brain glycine levels were monitored by magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS).Results: Average plasma glycine levels were significantly lower with KD compared to benzoate monotherapy by on average 28%. Two infants underwent comparative assessments of brain glycine levels via serial MRS. A 30% reduction of brain glycine levels was observed in the basal ganglia and a 50% reduction in the white matter, which remained elevated above normal, and was equivalent between the KD and high dose benzoate therapies. CSF analysis obtained while participants remained on the KD showed a decrease in glycine, serine and threonine levels, reflecting their gluconeogenetic usage. Clinically, half the patients had seizure reduction on KD, otherwise the clinical impact was variable.Conclusion: KD is an effective glycine reduction method in NKH, and may provide a more consistent reduction in plasma glycine levels than high-dose benzoate therapy. Both high-dose benzoate therapy and KD equally reduced but did not normalize brain glycine levels even in the setting of low-normal plasma glycine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to evaluate glycine equivalent (Glyequi) requirement in low crude protein (CP) diets with different levels of standardised ileal digestible (SID) threonine (Thr) on performance, serum metabolites, and muscle creatine of broiler chickens from 1 to 21 d age. A total of 1275 one-day-old male Cobb-Vantress chicks were distributed in a completely randomised 3 × 5 factorial arrangement for a total of 15 treatments with 5 replicates of 17 birds each. Diets were formulated to comprise three dietary SID of Thr concentrations 6.9, 8.1 and 9.3 g/kg and five dietary Glyequi levels (12.8, 14.3, 15.8, 17.3 and 18.8 g/kg). An interaction (p < 0.05) was observed between the Glyequi and SID Thr levels for feed:gain and serum uric acid (SUA). With increasing levels of Glyequi, feed:gain decreased linearly (p < 0.05) in 6.9 and 8.1 g/kg SID Thr diets while SUA decreased linearly (p < 0.05) in 6.9 g/kg SID Thr diet. In diet containing 9.3 g/kg SID Thr, increasing Glyequi level optimised feed:gain (p = 0.04) at an estimated minimum level of 15.5 g/kg. Glyequi levels resulted in a quadratic effect (P < 0.05) on BWG, feed:gain, muscle creatine with optimum point of 17.2, 16.7, 17.1 g/kg, respectively. Therefore, minimum requirement of Glyequi in low CP (174.0 g/kg) diet needed to optimised performance is 15.5 g/kg in 9.3 g/kg SID Thr diet, but could be or higher than 20.9 g/kg in 6.9 g/kg and 8.1 g/kg SID Thr diets for broilers. Feeding a low-protein diet of 174 g/kg with adequate Thr concentration at higher Glyequi levels could support performance in broilers of 1–21 d old. Provision of 15.5 g/kg Glyequi in low CP diet containing 9.3 g/kg SID Thr level is required to improve performance. Sufficient supply of dietary Thr concentration represents a sparing effect of Gly especially at marginal levels of dietary Glyequi in low-CP diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utilization of symbiosis with beneficial microorganisms has considerable potential for increasing growth and resistance under abiotic stress. The endophytic root fungus Piriformospora indica has been shown to improve plant growth under salt and drought stress in diverse plant species, while there have been few reports of the interaction of P. indica with soybean under salt stress. In this study, the symbiotic system of P. indica and soybean (Glycine max L.) was established, and the effect of P. indica on soybean growth and salt tolerance was investigated. The colonized and non-colonized soybeans were subjected to salt stress (200 mmol/L NaCl), and the impairments in chlorophyll and increasing relative conductivity that can be caused by salt stress were alleviated in the P. indica-colonized plants. The accumulation of malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and superoxide anion (O2−) were lower than that in non-colonized plants under salt treatment, whereas the activities of antioxidant enzymes were significantly increased by P. indica colonization, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione reductase (GR). Importantly, without salt treatment, the Na+ concentration was lower, and the K+ concentration was higher in the roots compared with non-colonized plants. Differential expressions of ion transporter genes were found in soybean roots after P. indica colonization. The P. indica colonization positively regulated the transcription level of PM H+-ATPase, SOS1, and SOS2. The study shows that P. indica enhances the growth and salt tolerance of soybean, providing a strategy for the agricultural production of soybean plants in saline-alkali soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we presented two reliable methods, the sol–gel and autocombustion, to synthesis a high purity BiFeO3 single phase with low calcination time using glycine as chelating agent. The glycine-autocombustion method produced a high purity BiFeO3 phase using either low or high concentrations of the reactants (Bi(NO3)3 + Fe(NO3)3), while the glycine-sol–gel method delivered a high purity BiFeO3 phase using low concentrations of reactants. In the case of using tartaric acid and urea as chelating agents, mixtures of BiFeO3 and Bi25FeO40 phases were formed. The morphology, size, and porosity of the particles were obviously changed by varying the synthesis method and chelating agents. The high purity BiFeO3 samples exhibit a visible light band gap of 2.05 eV with long absorption tail extending to the infrared region, suggesting the suitability of the synthesized powders in the solar photocatalytic applications. A weak hysteresis ferromagnetic loop was observed for BiFeO3 (glycine method) and BiFeO3/Bi25FeO40 (urea method) with large contribution from the paramagnetic behavior. On contrast, robust ferromagnetic loops were found for BiFeO3/Bi25FeO40 sample synthesized by tartaric acid with saturation magnetization reaching to 2.5 emu/g. Remarkably, the pure single phase BiFeO3 powders synthesized by sol–gel and auto-combustion methods using glycine possess room temperature dielectric constant values of 622 and 845 respectively at a frequency of 42 Hz. In the case of BiFeO3 powders prepared by using tartaric acid, the dielectric constant exhibits values of 401 and 1118 for sol–gel and auto-combustion assisted samples, at the same frequency, respectively. At low frequency, the values of the real part of the complex permittivity tend to be zero which confirms a negligibly small contribution of the electrode effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]