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The exopolysaccharides (EPSs) of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have presented various bioactivities and beneficial characteristics, rendering their vast commercial value and attracting a broad interest of researchers. The diversity of EPS structures contributes to the changes of EPS functions. However, the low yield of EPS of LAB has severely limited these biopolymers' comprehensive studies and applications in different areas, such as functional food, health and medicine fields. The clarification of biosynthesis mechanism of EPS will accelerate the synthesis and reconstruction of EPS. In recent years, with the development of new genetic manipulation techniques, there has been significant progress in the EPS biosynthesis mechanisms in LAB. In this review, the structure of LAB-derived EPSs, the EPS biosynthesis basic pathways in LAB, the EPS biosynthetic gene cluster, and the regulation mechanism of EPS biosynthesis will be summarized. It will focus on the latest progress in EPS biosynthesis regulation of LAB and provide prospects for future related developments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Food grade Streptococcus thermophilus produces biological exopolysaccharides (EPSs) with great potential with respect to catering for higher health‐promoting demands; however, how S. thermophilus regulates the biosynthesis of EPS is not completely understood, decelerating the application of these polymers. In our previous study, maltose, soy peptone and initial pH were three key factors of enhancing EPS yield in S. thermophilus CS6. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the regulating mechanisms of EPS biosynthesis in S. thermophilus CS6 via the method of comparative transcriptome and differential carbohydrate metabolism. RESULTS: Soy peptone addition (58.6 g L−1) and a moderate pH (6.5) contributed to a high bacterial biomass and a high EPS yield (407 mg L−1). Maltose, soy peptone and initial pH greatly influenced lactose utilization in CS6. Soy peptone addition induced a high accumulation of mannose and arabinose in intracellular CS6, differential monosaccharide composition (mannose, glucose and arabinose) in EPS and high radical [2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl, superoxide and 2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid)] scavenging activities. Carbohydrate transportation, sugar activation and eps cluster‐associated genes were differentially expressed to regulate EPS biosynthesis. Correlation analysis indicated high production of EPSs depended on high expression of lacS, galPMKUTE, pgm, gt2‐5&4‐1 and epsLM. CONCLUSION: The production of antioxidant EPS in S. thermophilus CS6 depended on the regulation of galactose metabolism cluster and eps cluster. The present study recommends a new approach for enhancing EPS production by transcriptomic regulation for further food and health application of EPS. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), as a class of biopolymers, play pivotal roles in various biological metabolisms such as cell signaling, tissue development, cell apoptosis, immune modulation, and growth factor activity. They are mainly present in the colon in free forms, which are essential for maintaining the host's health by regulating the colonization and proliferation of gut microbiota. Therefore, it is important to explain the specific members of the gut microbiota for GAGs' degradation and their enzymatic machinery in vivo. This review provides an outline of GAGs-utilizing entities in the Bacteroides , highlighting their polysaccharide utilization loci (PULs) and the enzymatic machinery involved in chondroitin sulfate (CS) and heparin (Hep)/heparan sulfate (HS). While there are some variations in GAGs' degradation among different genera, we analyze the reputed GAGs' utilization clusters in lactic acid bacteria (LAB), based on recent studies on GAGs' degradation. The enzymatic machinery involved in Hep/HS and CS metabolism within LAB is also discussed. Thus, to elucidate the precise mechanisms utilizing GAGs by diverse gut microbiota will augment our understanding of their effects on human health and contribute to potential therapeutic strategies for diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, 0D/2D/2D Z-scheme AgVO 3 /RGO/C 3 N 4 blending porous PVDF photocatalytic self-cleaning membrane (AgVO 3 /RGO/C 3 N 4 -PVDF) were successfully fabricated. The AgVO 3 /RGO/C 3 N 4 -PVDF photocatalytic membranes have high efficiency for removing tetracycline and could synergistically separate and photocatalytic kill the E. coli. [Display omitted] The enhancement of the self-cleaning ability of photocatalytic membranes and their degradation efficiency over tetracycline (TC) still remains a challenge. In this study, an alternative silver vanadate quantum dots (AgVO 3 QDs) doped reduced graphene oxide (RGO) and graphitic carbon nitride (C 3 N 4) nanocomposites modified polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membrane (AgVO 3 /RGO/C 3 N 4 -PVDF) was successfully fabricated to enhance the photocatalytic activity. The AgVO 3 /RGO/C 3 N 4 nanocomposites were functioned as the active component for the photocatalytic membrane. The unique Z-scheme heterostructure of AgVO 3 /RGO/C 3 N 4 and the porous PVDF framework synergistically enhanced the separation and transport efficiency of photogenerated carriers and facilitated the interaction between the photocatalyst and the pollutant. As a result, the degradation efficiency of TC for the AgVO 3 /RGO/C 3 N 4 -PVDF reached 88.53% within 120 min, which was higher than those of the binary component membranes (64.8% for RGO/C 3 N 4 -PVDF and 79.18% AgVO 3 /C 3 N 4 -PVDF). In addition, AgVO 3 /RGO/C 3 N 4 -PVDF exhibited high permeability (1977 L·m−2·h−1·bar−1) and excellent antifouling activity. Under visible-light irradiation, the flux recovery rate (FRR) increased from 92.4% to 99.1%. Furthermore, AgVO 3 /RGO/C 3 N 4 -PVDF could reject 97.4% of Escherichia coli (E. coli) owning to its self-cleaning capacity, and eliminated the E. coli under visible-light irradiation trough the photogeneration of h+. This study highlights a highly efficient photocatalytic membrane based on a Z-scheme heterostructure, which may have a great potential application in practical wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An ongoing global pandemic, the coronavirus disease 2019 is posing threat to people all over the world. The association between COVID-19 and the risk of ischemic stroke remains unclear. This study systematically reviewed published studies and conducted meta-analysis to evaluate the association between the risk of ischemic stroke and COVID-19. This study was conducted according to guidelines from the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. The protocol used in this study had been registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews. EMBASE, PubMed, Cochrane Library and Web of Science were searched from 1st December 2019–19th February 2021. This systematic review and meta-analysis analysed the combined effect estimations based on odds ratios (OR) with the random-effects model. Four studies were screened from 31,634 participants including 171 COVID-19 positive patients with ischemic stroke were included. The mean age of COVID-19 positive patients with ischemic stroke was 69.45 years (Range: 63–77 years) and the male patients were 56%. Countries covered by these articles were USA, Italy and France. Three of the articles were retrospective cohort studies and one was prospective cohort study. Our analysis revealed that the risk of ischemic stroke (combined OR: 2.41; 95% CI: 1.08–5.38) was significantly increased. Four included studies were significantly heterogeneous (I2 = 75.2%, P = 0.007). Significant association between the risk of ischemic stroke and COVID-19 was observed in the North America group (combined OR: 2.90; 95% CI: 0.45–18.80, I2 = 89.60%, P = 0.002). This study found that the risk for ischemic stroke was increased in COVID-19 patients, especially in patients from North America. Further studies with larger sample sizes that include different ethnic populations are required to confirm our analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CRISPR-Cas (Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-CRISPR associated proteins) systems are widely distributed in lactic acid bacteria (LAB), contributing to their RNA-mediated adaptive defense immunity. The CRISPR-Cas-based genetic tools have exhibited powerful capability. It has been highly utilized in different organisms, accelerating the development of life science. The review summarized the components, adaptive immunity mechanisms, and classification of CRISPR-Cas systems; analyzed the distribution and characteristics of CRISPR-Cas system in LAB. The review focuses on the development of CRISPR-Cas-based genetic tools in LAB for providing latest development and future trend. The diverse and broad applications of CRISPR-Cas systems in food/probiotic industry are introduced. LAB harbor a plenty of CRISPR-Cas systems, which contribute to generate safer and more robust strains with increased resistance against bacteriophage and prevent the dissemination of plasmids carrying antibiotic-resistance markers. Furthermore, the CRISPR-Cas system from LAB could be used to exploit novel, flexible, programmable genome editing tools of native host and other organisms, resolving the limitation of genetic operation of some LAB species, increasing the important biological functions of probiotics, improving the adaptation of probiotics in complex environments, and inhibiting the growth of foodborne pathogens. The development of the genetic tools based on CRISPR-Cas system in LAB, especially the endogenous CRISPR-Cas system, will open new avenues for precise regulation, rational design, and flexible application of LAB. • Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) contain a plenty of CRIPSR-Cas systems. • The distribution of CRIPSR-Cas systems in LAB have been analyzed and summarized. • CRISPR-Cas system could be used to exploit novel, flexible, programmable genome editing tools. • Tools will open new avenues for precise regulation, rational design, and flexible application of LAB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Streptococcus thermophilus CS6 could produce the high exopolysaccharide (EPS) level in optimized skimmed milk medium. However, physicochemical properties and structure of these polymers have not been fully characterized. In this study, two purified fractions (EPS-M1 and EPS-M2) exhibited good rheology, thermostability and antioxidant activity. Further monosaccharide composition, molecular weight and NMR analysis indicated EPS-M2 was composed of galactose, arabinose and glucose (5:2.5:1) with an average molecular weight of 2.22 × 104 Da and its suggested repeating unit was →6)-[α-L-Ara f -(1 → 3)]-β-D-Gal p -(1 → 4)-β-D-Gal p -(1 → 6)-[α-L-Ara f -(1 → 5)-{α-L-Ara f -(1 → 3)}-α-L-Ara f -(1 → 3)]-β-D-Gal p -(1 → 4)-β-D-Gal p -(1 → 6)-[β-D-Gal p -(1 → 5)-α-L-Ara f -(1 → 5)-α-L-Ara f -(1 → 3)]-β-D-Gal p -(1 → 6)-[β-D-Gal p -(1 → 5)-α-L-Ara f -(1 → 5)-{α-L-Ara f -(1 → 3)}-α-L-Ara f -(1 → 3)]-β-D-Gal p -(1→. High EPS production relied on the expression of eps gene cluster and key enzymes of nucleotide sugar metabolism. Overall, EPS-M2 from a potential functional starter S. thermophilus CS6 provided opportunities for natural thickener, stabilizer, and antioxidant agent exploration in the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus (L. bulgaricus) is a microaerophylic anaerobe, which is widely used in the production of yogurt, cheese, and other fermented dairy products. L. bulgaricus and its partner Streptococcus thermophilus were used as starter cultures of yogurt in the world for thousands of years. In our previous study, L. bulgaricus LDB-C1 was obtained from traditional fermented milk, and possessed some characteristics like high exopolysaccharide yield and good fermentation performance. The analysis of its CRISPR–Cas system, antibiotic resistance, virulence factors, and mobile elements, was performed to reveal the stability of the strain LDB-C1. It was found that LDB-C1 contains a plenty of spacers in the CRISPR region, indicating it might have better performance against the infection of phages and plasmids. Furthermore, the acquired or transmittable antibiotic resistance/virulence factor genes were absent in the tested L. bulgaricus strain LDB-C1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lacticaseibacillus casei and Lacticaseibacillus paracasei are widely distributed in various environments, and are common residents of the gastrointestinal tracts of humans and animals. Some Lactic. c asei / Lactic. paracasei strains present remarkably strong capacities of carbohydrate utilization, especially for prebiotics, like fructooligosaccharide, galactooligosaccharide, and human milk oligosaccharide. The ability to metabolize prebiotics and host-derived molecules is beneficial for the survival of probiotic intestinal bacteria in the human gut. This review summarizes the gene regulation mechanisms of carbohydrate utilization in Lactic. c asei / Lactic. paracasei according to the combination both experiments data and genome sequences analysis in order to promote the development of functional products based on these two species. The comparative genomic survey of carbohydrate metabolisms of Lactic. c asei / Lactic. paracasei has been performed in order to reveal the difference among different strains and between two species. The key carbohydrates utilization metabolisms of Lactic. c asei / Lactic. paracasei strains have been summarized and clarified, especially in some prebiotics. Lactic. c asei / Lactic. paracasei strains take flexible and diverse carbohydrates utilization metabolisms. Furthermore, comparative genomic analysis has revealed the carbohydrate uptake and utilization related genes of lactic acid bacteria have species and strains specificity. The cooperation mechanism of different probiotic species and strains will accelerate the development and application of novel probiotics and synbiotics products. In addition, the review provides a reference for the understanding of the complex network regulating carbohydrate metabolisms in other lactic acid bacteria. • Lactic. c asei / paracasei presents strong capacities of prebiotic carbohydrate utilization. • Genetic mechanisms of lactic acid bacteria on metabolism of some prebiotics are clarified. • The comparative genomic survey of carbohydrate metabolisms has been performed. • The prebiotic metabolisms in lactic acid bacteria show species and strains specificity. • The combination of different species and strains is a trend for the development of probiotic products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel Z-scheme 2D/3D g-C 3 N 4 /BiOI-based beta-phase PVDF (β- phase PVDF) photocatalytic membranes were successfully synthesized via solvent crystallization and phase inversion method. The β -phase PVDF membrane with photocatalytic performance dramatically improved photocatalytic activity of Z-scheme 2D/3D g-C 3 N 4 /BiOI heterojunction. Designing photocatalytic membranes with excellent photocatalytic and self-cleaning ability based on the synergistic effect between the crystal structure of membrane matrix and photocatalyst is highly desirable. Herein, Z-scheme 2D/3D g-C 3 N 4 /BiOI heterojunction blended in beta-phase polyvinylidene fluoride membrane (β -phase PVDF) was prepared via solvent crystallization and phase inversion technique. As expected, the designed g-C 3 N 4 /BiOI/ β -phase PVDF photocatalytic membranes (CN/BI/ β- phase PVDF PMs) achieved exceptional photocatalytic degradation efficiency for tetracycline (94.6%) as compared to the CN/BI heterojunction power (84.0%) and two other control membrane matrixes (CN/BI/PAN and CN/BI/CA PMs) within 120 min. Meanwhile, the dynamic cyclic degradation system of CN/BI/ β- phase PVDF PMs was also investigated that reached to be 94.8% in 80 min. Besides, the CN/BI/ β- phase PVDF PMs not only had outstanding self-cleaning activity and remarkable permeability (up to 30,688 L·m−2·h−1) but also had high stability and reusability even after five runs. Importantly, the hydroxyl radical detection and ESR analysis identified that the β- phase PVDF membrane could promote photoinduced carrier separation efficiency of 2D/3D g-C 3 N 4 /BiOI heterojunction. This work may open up a novel strategy for designing and constructing high-efficient photocatalytic membranes for water treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. This study is aimed at exploring the accuracy of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in grading renal artery stenosis. Methods. 122 renal arteries with suspected renal artery stenosis were selected. DSA, DUS, and CEUS were performed for all patients with suspected renal artery stenosis in the research. DSA was selected as the gold standard. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of CEUS or Doppler ultrasound (DUS) in the diagnosis of renal artery stenosis were analyzed. The consistency between CEUS and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) was compared. The accuracy of DUS or CEUS in grading renal artery stenosis was assessed by the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and compared between groups. Results. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of CEUS in the diagnosis of renal artery stenosis were 88.9%, 87.8%, 88.5%, 93.5%, and 80.0%, respectively. There was no significant difference in grading renal artery stenosis between CEUS and DSA ( X 2 = 0.643 , P = 0.424). 77 of the 122 renal arteries were diagnosed with the stenosis rate more than 30% by CEUS. Compared with the results of DSA, the kappa value of CEUS was 0.749 (P < 0.05). Conclusion. CEUS is accurate in grading renal artery stenosis, and it may represent the method of choice in diagnosing renal artery stenosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) consists of a series of regular repeat-spacer sequences. It can not only act as a natural immune system in most prokaryotes, but also be utilized as the tool of newly developed genome modification and evolutionary researches. Streptococcus thermophilus is an important model organism for the study and application of CRISPR systems. In present study, the occurrence and diversity of CRISPR–Cas systems in the genomes of S. thermophilus were investigated including 4 new sequenced strains CS5, CS9, CS18, CS20, and other 23 strains downloaded from NCBI website. 66 CRISPR/Cas systems were identified among these 27 strains and could divided into four subsystems according to the arrangement of Cas proteins, notably I-E, II-A, II-C and III-A. Overall, 26 type II-C systems, 18 type II-A systems, 13 type III-A systems, 9 type I-E systems were identified. It was mentioned that CS20 contained two type II-C systems which had not been identified in the other 26 S. thermophilus strains. Overall, 1,080 spacers were analyzed and blasted. Sequence identity searches of spacers implied that most spacers derived from partial sequences of exogenous DNA, including various bacteriophages and plasmids. Of note, a large number of novel spacers were found in this study, indicating the unique phage environment they have undergone, especially CS20 strain. In addition, the analysis of the cas1 and cas9 genes revealed the genetic relationship among CRISPR–Cas system in these strains. Furthermore, the analysis of CRISPR spacers also indicated protospacer adjacent motif (PAM) sequences. Summary of PAM sequences could lay the foundations for the application of S. thermophilus CRISPR–Cas system. Our results suggested CS5 and CS18 can be used as model strains in the research of CRISPR–Cas system, and CS20 might have greater application potential in gene editing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Exopolysaccharide biosynthesis process and genetic modules are relatively conserved. • Both structures and functions of exopolysaccharide are diverse. • Functional mechanisms of exopolysaccharide lie in vitro or vivo or both of them. • The bioactivities are influenced by backbones, chain length and substitution of EPS. Abstract The ability to exhibit various bioactivities is widespread in exopolysaccharide (EPS) of lactic acid bacteria (LAB), and it has been admittedly associated with large structural variability of these polymers. Exceptional bioactivities such as cholesterol-lowering, immunomodulating, antioxidant, antiviral and anticoagulant effects render these biopolymers vast commercial value for global market and application potentials in medicine sector. Therefore, an elaborate understanding of structure-to-function associations will be prerequisite to search natural and artificial EPSs for new applications in functional food, health and medicine fields. In this review, it is presented a significant overview of the latest advances in the field of EPS from genes to application. This review emphasized in the general biosynthesis pathway together with genetic modules, multiple structures, functions, and respective functional mechanisms of LAB-derived EPSs, and the relationships between their structure and bioactivity, which will help to exploit new bioactive drugs from LAB-derived EPS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus is currently one of the most valuable lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and widely used in global dairy industry. The acid tolerance and adaptation ability of LAB is the key point of their survival and proliferation during fermentation process and in gastrointestinal tract of human body. Two component system (TCS) is one of the most important mechanisms to allow bacteria to sense and respond to changes of environmental conditions. TCS typically consists of a histidine protein kinase (HPK) and a corresponding response regulator (RR). Our previous study indicated a TCS (JN675228/JN675229) was involved in acid adaptation in L. bulgaricus. To reveal the role of JN675228 (HPK1)/JN675229 (RR1) in acid adaptation, the target genes of JN675228 (HPK1)/JN675229 (RR1) were identified by means of a proteomic approach complemented with transcription data in the present study. The results indicated that HPK1/RR1 regulated the acid adaptation ability of bacteria by means of many pathways, including the proton pump related protein, classical stress shock proteins, carbohydrate metabolism, nucleotide biosynthesis, DNA repair, transcription and translation, peptide transport and degradation, and cell wall biosynthesis, etc. To our knowledge, this is the first report with the effect of acid adaptation-related TCS HPK1/RR1 on its target genes. This study will offer experimental basis for clarifying the acid adaptation regulation mechanism of L. bulgaricus, and provide a theoretical basis for this bacterium in industry application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using first-principles calculations, we have systematically investigated the adsorption and diffusion behavior of Li in MoO 3 bulk, on MoO 3 (010) surface and in MoO 3 /graphene composite. Our results indicate that, in case of MoO 3 bulk, Li diffusion barriers in the interlayer and intralayer spaces are 0.55 eV and 0.58 eV respectively, which are too high to warrant fast Lithium-ion charge/discharge processes. While on MoO 3 (010) surface, Li exhibits a diffusion barrier as low as 0.07 eV which guarantees an extremely fast Li diffusion rate during charge/discharge cycling. However, in MoO 3 /graphene monolayer, Li diffusion barrier is at the same level as that on MoO 3 (010) surface, which also ensures a very rapid Li charge/discharge rate. The rapid Li charge/discharge rate in this system originates from the removal of the upper dangling O1 atoms which hinder the Li diffusion on the lower MoO 3 layer. Besides this, due to the interaction between Li and graphene, the Li average binding energy increases to 0.14 eV compared to its value on MoO 3 (010) surface which contributes to a higher voltage. Additionally, the increased ratio of surface area provides more space for Li storage and the capacity of MoO 3 /graphene composite increases up to 279.2 mAhg −1 . The last but not the least, due to the high conductivity of graphene, the conductivity of MoO 3 /graphene composite enhances greatly which is beneficial for electrode materials. In the light of present results, MoO 3 /graphene composite exhibits higher voltage, good conductivity, large Li capacity and very rapid Li charge/discharge rate, which prove it as a promising cathode material for high-performance lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) can take advantage of fermentable carbohydrates to produce lactic acid. They are proverbially applied in industry, agricultural production, animal husbandry, food enterprise, pharmaceutical engineering and some other important fields, which are closely related to human life. For performing the probiotic functions, LAB have to face the low pH environment of the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, acid resistance of LAB is of great importance not only for their own growth, but also for fermentation and preparation of probiotic products. Recent research studies on acid resistance mechanisms of LAB are mainly focused on neutralization process, biofilm and cell density, proton pump, protection of macromolecules, pre-adaptation and cross-protection, and effect of solutes. In this context, biotechnological strategies such as synthetic biology, genome shuffling, high pressure homogenization and adaptive laboratory evolution were also used to improve the acid resistance of LAB to respond to constantly changing low pH environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Busulfan is commonly used for cancer chemotherapy. Although it has the advantage of increasing the survival rate of patients, it can cause male infertility via damaging the testes and reducing sperm counts. Therefore, the underlying mechanism should be explored, and new agents should be developed to protect the male reproductive system from busulfan-induced damage. Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) is considered a key contributor to numerous pathologies. Despite several studies linking ERS to toxicants, studies have yet to determine whether ERS is a contributing factor to busulfan-induced testicular damage. Melatonin is a well-known broad-spectrum antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antitumour agent, but the effects of melatonin on busulfan-induced ERS in mouse testes damage are less documented. Methods: The effects of melatonin were measured by immunofluorescence staining, Western blot, qRT-PCR analysis and flow cytometry assay. The underlying mechanism was investigated by measuring ERS. Results: We found that ERS was strongly activated in mouse testes (in vivo) and the C18-4 cell line (in vitro) after busulfan administration. ERSrelated apoptosis proteins such as caspase-12, CHOP and caspase-3 were activated, and the expression of apoptotic proteins such as P53 and PUMA were upregulated. Furthermore, we investigated whether melatonin reduced the extent of damage to mouse testes and improved the survival rates of busulfan-treated mice. When exploring the underlying mechanisms, we found melatonin could counteract ERS by decreasing the expression levels of the ERS markers GRP78, ATF6, pIRE1 and XBP1 in mouse testes and mouse SSCs (C18-4 cells). Moreover, it blocked the activation of ERS-related apoptosis proteins caspase-12, CHOP and caspase-3 and suppressed P53 and PUMA expression stimulated by busulfan both in vivo and in vitro. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that ERS is an important mediator for busulfan-induced apoptosis. The attenuation of ERS by melatonin can prevent busulfan-treated SSCs apoptosis and protect busulfan-treated testes from damage. Thus, this study suggests that melatonin may alleviate the side effects of busulfan for male patients during clinical treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Streptococcus thermophilus is the most important thermophilic dairy starter, and is widely used in the dairy industry. Streptococcus thermophilus exopolysaccharides received wide attention over recent decades, because they can improve the properties of the dairy product and confer beneficial health effects. The understanding of the regulatory and biosynthetic mechanisms of EPS will improve the EPS biosynthesis, increase the productivity of EPSs, and develop EPSs with desirable properties. The structure of EPSs is the focus of this study. Revealing the structure-function relationship can lead to increase the knowledge base and from there to increased research of EPS. The EPS yield is a key limiting factor in the research and utilization of EPS. In the present review, biosynthetic pathways and genetics of S. thermophilus EPSs were described and reviewed. At the same time, functional properties and applications of EPS, and strategies for enhancement of EPS production are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adinbitor is a disintegrin previously obtained from Agkistrodon halys brevicaudus stejneger by our group. Here, we investigated the in vitro and in vivo anti-tumor activities of recombinant Adinbitor (rAdinbitor). rAdinbitor stimulation can inhibit the in vitro proliferation, migration and invasion capacities of murine hepatocarcinoma H22 and Hca-F cells. The administrations of rAdinbitor either by gavage or intraperitoneal injection suppress the tumor malignancy and prolong the survival rate and time of H22-transplanted mice. The number and size of formed blood vessels decreased dramatically in tumorous tissues in that the expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and cluster of differentiation 34 (CD34) were significantly decreased in responding to rAdinbitor treatment. The protein levels of IL-18 and IgG increased significantly in the serum of H22-transplanted tumor mice with rAdinbitor treatment. rAdinbitor shows in vitro and in vivo anti-tumor effects as an angiogenesis inhibitor and immunocompetence enhancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A gene from Zea mays coding a TGase was expressed in E. coli and identified by Western blotting. Under optimal expression conditions, the production and specific activity of refolded TGZ were 1.41 mg/L and 0.34 U/mg. The activated TGZ was employed to cross-link milk proteins. The yoghurt treated with TGZ showed a lower syneresis, higher apparent viscosity and texture than untreated yoghurt. The properties of TGZ-treated sample were better than those of MTG-treated samples, so TGZ may have potential as an additive in yoghurt manufacture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents study on genetic variation in the β-lactoglobulin of Chinese yak Bos grunniens. It mentions establishment of a phylogenetic relationship of yak β-LG with that of closely related species. It adds migration patterns presented in PCR-SSCP analysis of yak LGB gene exon II region and differences of nucleotide and corresponding amino acid in the genus Bos.

The aim of this study was to investigate diversity of the αS1-casein gene in Maiwa yak. A polymorphism of αS1-casein gene has been identified in Chinese Maiwa yak by PCR single-strand conformation polymorphism protocol. Comparing the X59856 sequence, some non-coding and coding DNA variants of yak CSN1S1 gene were detected in this present study, including KJ397913 (promoter region, 9969A/G, 9984 A/G, 10153 C/T, 10175 A/C, 10261 G/C), KJ397914 (promoter region 10261 G/C), KJ397896 (intron III, 14862 T/C), KJ397897 (intron III, 14862 T/C, and deleted 14944-14946 CTT), KJ397899 (intron IV, 15297 A/C), KJ397901 (intron VIII, 17503 A/C, 17666 A/C), KJ397902 (exon IX, 18901C/A, intron IX, 18970 T/G, 19088 add A, 19120 add A, 19202 add T, 19296 G/T), KJ397903 (intron IX, 18970 T/G, 19088 add A, 19120 add A, 19202 add T, 19296 G/T), KJ397904 (intron IX, 19537 T/G, 19539T/G, 19599G/A, 19638 C/T), KJ397905 (intron XIV, 23402 T/G, 23417 C/T, 23480 T/C, 23511 G/A), and KJ397907 (intron XVI, 25976 G/T; exon XVII, 26181A/G). The polymorphism of αS1-casein gene may be helpful for future studies on genetic variation within and between yak populations or on associated traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twelve fermented mare milk samples were screened for class IIa bacteriocins based on a polymerase chain reaction ( PCR) method. The positive PCR products were cloned and sequenced. The sequences shared 99% identity to enterocin A-coding gene. The lactic acid bacteria, which showed positive PCR results, were detected with antimicrobial activity by means of traditional well-diffusion method. The strains C71 and C102 showed antimicrobial activity to L isteria sp. These strains showed a potential application in food preservation. The results also indicated the PCR screening method proposed in this study can be used for the screening of antimicrobial peptides of class IIa. Practical Applications In the present study, 44 class IIa bacteriocins from a wide range of lactic acid bacteria were included in a cluster analysis, and primers were designed on basis of the cluster analysis. We screened class IIa bacteriocin-producing lactic acid bacteria that were isolated from traditional fermented mare milk by means of a PCR-based assay. Two strains showed potential application in food preservation. The results indicated the PCR screening method proposed in this study can be used for the screening of antimicrobial peptides of class IIa. This method is still in an exploratory stage. It needs to be improved in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The addition of LN nanoparticles enhances the mechanical property of the membrane. • The LN/SF nanofiber can enhance absorption of PMs by electrostatic interaction. • The g-C 3 N 4 /LN/SF nanofiber present good disinfection under irradiation of visible light. • The integration of g-C 3 N 4 modulate mechanical property of ternary composite membrane. • The g-C 3 N 4 /LN/SF nanofiber membrane displays excellent degradability. Traditional fibrous materials are used for air filtration, but show limited filtration efficiency, poor biocompatibility, non-degradability, and non-disinfection features. Meanwhile, filter materials based on non-woven fabrics seriously increase the burden on the environment. Silk Fibroin (SF), a natural polymer with high levels of biocompatibility, degradability, and environmental sustainability, is a highly promising material from air filtration perspectives. However, it is still a challenge to improve the mechanical strength of SF based membranes, high filtration efficiency and remarkable disinfection. Here, we develop an alternative strategy for facile fabrication of a flexible and multifunctional SF based membrane composed of SF nanofibers doped with piezoelectric LiNbO 3 (LN) nanoparticles and graphitic carbon nitride (g -C 3 N 4) via the electrospinning method. The LN enhances the mechanical properties of the SF based membrane and endows it with piezoelectric properties for generating electrostatic interaction, which can improve the absorption of particulate matters (PMs) and bacteria. Moreover, g -C 3 N 4 was integrated into LN/SF nanofiber which enables g -C 3 N 4 /LN/SF fibers to present a good disinfection under the visible light irradiation by electrospinning, meanwhile could maintain the good mechanical property of ternary-composite membrane. Additionally, the SF based nanofiber membrane displays excellent degradability. Such SF based composite material with enhanced mechanical property could show the versatilities, i.e. improving the efficiencies of filtering PMs and bacteria, killing bacteria, etc. , which sheds light on broader applications of SF based membranes as eco-friendly materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum has a strong carbohydrate utilization ability. This characteristic plays an important role in its gastrointestinal tract colonization and probiotic effects. L. plantarum LP-F1 presents a high carbohydrate utilization capacity. The genome analysis of 165 L. plantarum strains indicated the species has a plenty of carbohydrate metabolism genes, presenting a strain specificity. Furthermore, two-component systems (TCSs) analysis revealed that the species has more TCSs than other lactic acid bacteria, and the distribution of TCS also shows the strain specificity. In order to clarify the sugar metabolism mechanism under different carbohydrate fermentation conditions, the expressions of 27 carbohydrate metabolism genes, catabolite control protein A (CcpA) gene ccpA, and TCSs genes were analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR technology. The correlation analysis between the expressions of regulatory genes and sugar metabolism genes showed that some regulatory genes were correlated with most of the sugar metabolism genes, suggesting that some TCSs might be involved in the regulation of sugar metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The Gram-positive bacterium Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus is of vital importance to the food industry, especially to the dairy industry. Two component systems (TCSs) are one of the most important mechanisms for environmental sensing and signal transduction in the majority of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. A typical TCS consists of a histidine protein kinase (HPK) and a cytoplasmic response regulator (RR). To investigate the functions of TCSs during acid adaptation in L. bulgaricus, we used quantitative PCR to reveal how TCSs expression changes during acid adaptation. Two TCSs (JN675228/JN675229 and JN675230/JN675231) and two HPKs (JN675236 and JN675240) were induced during acid adaptation. These TCSs were speculated to be related with the acid adaptation ability of L. bulgaricus. The mutants of JN675228/JN675229 were constructed in order to investigate the functions of JN675228/JN675229. The mutants showed reduced acid adaptation compared to that of wild type, and the complemented strains were similar to the wild-type strain. These observations suggested that JN675228 and JN675229 were involved in acid adaptation in L. bulgaricus. The interaction between JN675228 and JN675229 was identified by means of yeast two-hybrid system. The results indicated there is interaction between JN675228 and JN675229. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from traditional Chinese fermented soybean paste were isolated and identified. A total of 61 LAB were selectively obtained from 32 homemade Chinese soybean pastes. The isolated LAB were divided into two groups by their salt tolerance, 28 halophilic LAB and 33 non-halophilic LAB. Phenotypic analysis showed that these LAB belonged to four genera and 13 species. Tetragenococcus halophilus was the predominant species in the identified strains. Four species of LAB were firstly isolated from fermented soybean food product, Lactobacillus panis, Lactobacillus pentosus, Lactobacillus vaccinostercus and Lactobacillus collinoides. T. halophilus T5 showed vigorous growth and fast acidification in high salt concentration. The volatile compounds of mixed microorganism soybean paste with T. halophilus T5, Zygosaccharomyces and Torulopsis candida, during the different fermentation stage were higher in number than those of normal soybean paste at same processing procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate diversity of the β-casein gene in Maiwa yak. A polymorphism of β-casein gene exon VII has been identified in Chinese Maiwa yak by PCR-single-strand conformation polymorphism protocol. Two new variants have been identified in Maiwa yak by resequencing analysis and entered into GenBank with accession numbers JN655524 and JN655525. Comparing the X14711 sequence, the new variant JN655524 consists of 4 single nucleotide mutations at position 66, 74, 234 and 385 of the exon VII of CSN2 gene, resulting in three synonymous mutations and a non-synonymous mutation (codon 67 His/Pro). Compared with JN655524, the new variant JN655525 showed a nucleotide difference in position number 193 in exon VII of CSN2 gene. The new variants may be helpful for future studies on genetic variation within and between yak populations or on associated traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Our previous study indicated org35 was involved in chemotaxis and interacted with nitrogen fixation transcriptional activator NifA via PAS domain. In order to reveal the role of org35 in nitrogen regulation, the downstream target genes of org35 were identified. We here report differentially expressed genes in org35 mutants comparing with wild type Sp7 by means of cDNA-AFLP. Four up-regulated transcript-derived fragments (TDFs) homologues of chemotaxis transduction proteins were found, including CheW, methyl-accepting chemotaxis protein and response regulator CheY-like receiver. Three distinct TDFs (AB46, AB58 and AB63) were similar to PHB de-polymerase C-terminus, cell shape-determining protein and flagellin domain protein. And 11 TDFs showed similarities with signal transduction proteins, including homologous protein of the nitrogen regulation protein NtrY and nitrate/nitrite response regulator protein NarL. These data suggested that the Azospirillum brasilense org35 was a multi-effecter and involved in chemotaxis, cyst development and regulation of nitrogen fixation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We here report the sequence and functional analysis of cstB of Azospirillum brasilense Sp7. The predicted cstB contains C-terminal two PAS domains and N-terminal part which has similarity with CheB–CheR fusion protein. cstB mutants had reduced swarming ability compared to that of A. brasilense wild-type strain, implying that cstB was involved in chemotaxis in A. brasilense. A microscopic analysis revealed that cstB mutants developed mature cyst cells more quickly than wild type, indicating that cstB is involved in cyst formation. cstB mutants were affected in colony morphology and the production of exopolysaccharides (EPS) which are essential for A. brasilense cells to differentiate into cyst-like forms. These observations suggested that cstB was a multi-effector involved in cyst development and chemotaxis in A. brasilense. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We here report the sequence and functional analysis of org35 of Azospirillum brasilense Sp7, which was originally identified to be able to interact with NifA in yeast-two-hybrid system. The org35 encodes a hybrid two-component system protein, including N-terminal PAS domains, a histidine kinase (HPK) domain and a response regulator (RR) domain in C-terminal. To determine the function of the Org35, a deletion–insertion mutant in PAS domain [named Sp7353] and a complemental strain Sp7353C were constructed. The mutant had reduced chemotaxis ability compared to that of wild-type, and the complemental strain was similar to the wild-type strain. These data suggested that the A. brasilense org35 played a key role in chemotaxis. Variants containing different domains of the org35 were expressed, and the functions of these domains were studied in vitro. Phosphorylation assays in vitro demonstrated that the HPK domain of Org35 possessed the autokinase activity and that the phosphorylated HPK was able to transfer phosphate groups to the RR domain. The result indicated Org35 was a phosphorylation-communicating protein. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

NifA in Azospirilum brasilense plays a key role in regulating the synthesis of nitrogenase in response to ammonia and oxygen available. Recently, our laboratory has identified four clones, whose gene prodcuts interact with NifA, from A. brasilense Sp7 genomic libraries by using the yeast two-hybrid system with NifA as bait. We are interested in clone S35, one of the four clones, because it contains a PAS-domain coding region. The entire open reading frame (ORF) for the PAS domain-containing protein was isolated and designated as org35 here. org35 gene is 2211-bp long and encodes a protein of 736 aa with a predicted molecular weight of about 78.4 kD. The predicted amino acid sequence of org35 has similarity to some two-component sensor kinase/response regulator hybrids of bacteria. Structural analyses showed that org35 comprises at least three discrete conserved domains: the N-terminal PAS, the central histidine protein kinase (HPK) and the C-terminal response regulator (RR). The PAS domain of the deduced org35 protein was found to interact directly with NifA, but the central HPK and the C-terminal RR domains of org35 were not. These results indicated that interaction between NifA and org35 was mediated by PAS domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Streptococcus thermophilus is a common milk starter, and the ability to hydrolyse proteins is an important property. The proteolytic systems of S. thermophilus strains CS5, CS9, CS18 and CS20 have been investigated according to their genomes. The growth and proteolytic abilities of these strains have been analysed in combination with gene expressions of both the proteolytic system and the two-component systems (TCSs) of the specified strains. When the strains are grown in milk, prtS is a key determinant in the fermentation rate of PrtS+ strains (CS5, CS18 and CS20), but other genes are activated in the PrtS− strain CS9. The proteolytic system is regulated by the global transcriptional regulatory factor CodY, especially in the strain CS9. Furthermore, the expression of most genes involved in the proteolytic system and the TCSs were positively correlated with proteolytic activity of strains. The relationship between TCSs and proteolytic gene expression should be investigated in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although small studies have shown that flavonoids can affect thyroid disease, few epidemiological studies have explored the relationship between dietary total flavonoids (TFs) intake and serum thyroid function. The aim of this research was to evaluate the relationship between TFs and serum thyroid function. Methods: Our study included 4,949 adults from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007–2010. Multivariable linear regression, subgroup analyses, and interaction terms were used to explore the relationships between TFs and thyroid function. And we also used restricted cubic splines (RCS) to investigate possible nonlinear relationships. Results: After adjusting for covariates, we found that log10-transformated dietary total flavonoids intake (LgTFs) was negatively associated with total thyroxine (TT4) (β = -0.153, 95% CI = -0.222 to -0.084, P<0.001). Subgroup analyses revealed a stronger and statistically supported association in subjects with high annual family income (β = -0.367, P<0.001, P for interaction = 0.026) and subjects with high poverty to income ratio (PIR) (β = -0.622, P<0.001, P for interaction = 0.042). And we found a U-shaped curve association between LgTFs and free triiodothyronine (FT3) (inflection point for LgTFs: 2.063). Conclusion: The results of our study demonstrated that a higher intake of total flavonoids in the diet was negatively associated with a lower TT4. Furthermore, the associations were more pronounced in high annual family income and high PIR adults. And we found a U-shaped relationship between LgTFs and FT3. These findings provided guidance for future thyroid dysfunction diet guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prostate carcinoma (PC) is a disease of the male genitourinary system and a relatively common malignant tumor. In order to investigate the disparities in the expression of microRNA-323 (miR-323), microRNA-409-3p (miR-409-3p), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in prostate carcinoma with different clinicopathological features and analyze their correlation with prognosis. Thirty-two sufferers with prostate carcinoma and forty-three sufferers with benign prostatic hyperplasia are included. The results show that the detection of miR-323, miR-409-3p, and VEGF scales can provide reference value for clinical guidance of prostate carcinoma prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel interfacial defect-mediated Bi 12 O 17 Cl 2 /Bi 2 WO 6 heterojunction is constructed. • The defects formed spontaneously on the interface of heterojunction via ion exchange process. • Synergy between interfacial defects and heterostructure promotes the molecular oxygen activation. • The Bi 12 O 17 Cl 2 /Bi 2 WO 6 heterojunction exhibits enhanced photocatalytic performance toward various pollution. The directional design of interfacial defects is a promising way to promote charge separation but simultaneously a great challenge due to their random formation in heterojunction. Herein, an alternative Bi 12 O 17 Cl 2 /Bi 2 WO 6 heterojunction with interfacial defects formed spontaneously is prepared by controlling the growth of Bi 2 WO 6 on the edges of Bi 12 O 17 Cl 2 nanobelts via ion exchange process. These interfacial defects can efficiently increase the carrier density and serve as charge separation centers to extend the lifetime of carriers and activate O 2 to O 2 − and further to OH. The zigzag interfaces and irregular edges facilitate the interaction between active sites and reactants. The heterojunction morphology and the interfacial defect concentration can be controlled by tuning the solvothermal time. Consequently, the optimal Bi 12 O 17 Cl 2 /Bi 2 WO 6 heterojunction exhibits significantly enhanced visible light photocatalytic performance toward the degradation of phenols, antibiotics and dyes as compared to that of mono-Bi Bi 12 O 17 Cl 2 and Bi 2 WO 6 photocatalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) play important roles in the food industry, animal husbandry and medicine which are closely related to human life. Modern gene engineering technology is the major means to reveal gene functions, study metabolic pathways and metabolomes of strains and improve the properties of strains. However, up to now, the molecular technologies that can be applied to LAB are still very scarce. One of the main reasons for this phenomenon is the low efficiency of transformation, furthermore, the transformation protocols developed are strain specific. At present, the most common method in the transformation of LAB is electrotransformation (ETF), which has relatively high transformation efficiency, convenient operation and good reproducibility. In the process of ETF, many factors may be involved in the regulation of the ETF efficiency of the strains, including the characteristics of the strains, the properties of exogenous plasmids, the parameters of electric pulse, the application of cell wall weakening agents, the composition of washing and electroporation buffers, the resuspending culture media and heat treatment. In recent years, other methods have also been utilized to boost the transformation efficiency of strains, such as combined chemical-physical methods and bacterial conjugation. Various experimental parameters and alternative technologies to ETF which may impact the transformation efficiency are summarized in this paper. This review describes some meaningful factors for the development of transformation systems, and provides direction and foundations for the optimization and establishment of novel transformation strategies of LAB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is widely distributed in nature and considered a potent bioactive compound with numerous and important physiological functions, such as anti-hypertensive and antidepressant activities. There is an ever-growing demand for GABA production in recent years. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are one of the most important GABA producers because of their food-grade nature and potential of producing GABA-rich functional foods directly. In this paper, the GABA-producing LAB species, the biosynthesis pathway of GABA by LAB, and the research progress of glutamate decarboxylase (GAD), the key enzyme of GABA biosynthesis, were reviewed. Furthermore, GABA production enhancement strategies are reviewed, from optimization of culture conditions and genetic engineering to physiology-oriented engineering approaches and co-culture methods. The advances in both the molecular mechanisms of GABA biosynthesis and the technologies of synthetic biology and genetic engineering will promote GABA production of LAB to meet people's demand for GABA. The aim of the review is to provide an insight of microbial engineering for improved production of GABA by LAB in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The weak light absorption capacity and the embedding of active sites are the main factors that affect the photodegradation performance of blending photocatalytic membrane. Herein, a Z-scheme TiO2/rGO/ZnCdS/PVDF photocatalytic composite membrane (T-rGO-ZCSM) with excellent mechanical properties and good self-cleaning performance was successfully prepared by the freezing phase inversion method. As the solvent turns to crystal under freezing temperature, the micron-scale ordered penetrating porous structure formed after phase inversion, which can efficiently improve the water flux (19000–25000 L m−2 h−1 bar−1) and light penetration. Meanwhile, Z-scheme TiO2/rGO/ZnCdS heterojunctions will be migrated to the surface of the large pore canal due to their hydrophilicity during the phase inversion process. This structure can promote light absorption and increase effectively contact between active sites and pollutants. The T-rGO-ZCSM also exhibits outstanding photocatalytic activity for removing the various antibiotics under visible light, such as tetracycline (TC), levofloxacin (LEV), and ciprofloxacin (CIP). After four cycles (1.0 h for each cycle) of experiments, T-rGO-ZCSM has good stability and reusability. Moreover, the TC degradation efficiency of T-rGO-ZCSM reached the highest of 87.46% under continuous 6.0 h solar irradiation. The superoxide radical (·O2−) and photogenerated h+ were the main active species for organics' degradation. In summary, the ordered penetrating type macroporous T-rGO-ZCSM has promising potentials for wider applications in wastewater treatment. A hierarchical-ordered penetrating-type porous T-rGO-ZCSM membrane was prepared by freezing phase inversion method. The membrane surface with large pore diameters can provide a more convenient transport pathway, and pollutants can be transferred to the active sites to increase effective contact. It can also enhance the visible light absorption to excite more photogenerated carriers and improve photocatalytic activity. Finally, the photocatalytic degradation efficiency of freezing T-rGO-ZCSM could be increased by 1.71 times compared to that of the conventional blending nf-T-rGO-ZCSM under visible light. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: The amphipathic phenylalanine-adsorbed layer contributes to form a nucleophilic–hydrophobic interface that homogenizes Zn2+ flux while repelling H2O molecules from contacting Zn anode. The preferential reduction of phenylalanine (Phe) prior to H2O facilitates in situ formation of an organic–inorganic hybrid solid electrolyte interphase, enhancing the interfacial stability. Benefiting from the triple protection of Phe, the Zn||Zn and Zn||LMO cells display significantly improved electrochemical performances, even at extreme diluted electrolytes. Aqueous Zn2+-ion batteries (AZIBs), recognized for their high security, reliability, and cost efficiency, have garnered considerable attention. However, the prevalent issues of dendrite growth and parasitic reactions at the Zn electrode interface significantly impede their practical application. In this study, we introduced a ubiquitous biomolecule of phenylalanine (Phe) into the electrolyte as a multifunctional additive to improve the reversibility of the Zn anode. Leveraging its exceptional nucleophilic characteristics, Phe molecules tend to coordinate with Zn2+ ions for optimizing the solvation environment. Simultaneously, the distinctive lipophilicity of aromatic amino acids empowers Phe with a higher adsorption energy, enabling the construction of a multifunctional protective interphase. The hydrophobic benzene ring ligands act as cleaners for repelling H2O molecules, while the hydrophilic hydroxyl and carboxyl groups attract Zn2+ ions for homogenizing Zn2+ flux. Moreover, the preferential reduction of Phe molecules prior to H2O facilitates the in situ formation of an organic–inorganic hybrid solid electrolyte interphase, enhancing the interfacial stability of the Zn anode. Consequently, Zn||Zn cells display improved reversibility, achieving an extended cycle life of 5250 h. Additionally, Zn||LMO full cells exhibit enhanced cyclability of retaining 77.3% capacity after 300 cycles, demonstrating substantial potential in advancing the commercialization of AZIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Zn//V2O5 system not only faces the incontrollable growth of zinc (Zn) dendrites, but also withstands the cross‐talk effect of by‐products produced from the cathode side to the Zn anode, inducing interelectrode talk and aggravating battery failure. To tackle these issues, we construct a rapid Zn2+‐conducting hydrogel electrolyte (R‐ZSO) to achieve Zn deposition modulation and side reaction inhibition in Zn//V2O5 full cells. The polymer matrix and BN exhibit a robust anchoring effect on SO42−, accelerating Zn2+ migration and enabling dense Zn deposition behavior. Therefore, the Zn//Zn symmetric cells based on the R‐ZSO electrolyte can operate stably for more than 1500 h, which is six times higher than that of cells employing the blank electrolyte. More importantly, the R‐ZSO hydrogel electrolyte effectively decouples the cross‐talk effects, thus breaking the infinite loop of side reactions. As a result, the Zn//V2O5 cells using this modified hydrogel electrolyte demonstrate stable operation over 1,000 cycles, with a capacity loss rate of only 0.028 % per cycle. Our study provides a promising gel chemistry, which offers a valuable guide for the construction of high‐performance and multifunctional aqueous Zn‐ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Zn//V2O5 system not only faces the incontrollable growth of zinc (Zn) dendrites, but also withstands the cross‐talk effect of by‐products produced from the cathode side to the Zn anode, inducing interelectrode talk and aggravating battery failure. To tackle these issues, we construct a rapid Zn2+‐conducting hydrogel electrolyte (R‐ZSO) to achieve Zn deposition modulation and side reaction inhibition in Zn//V2O5 full cells. The polymer matrix and BN exhibit a robust anchoring effect on SO42−, accelerating Zn2+ migration and enabling dense Zn deposition behavior. Therefore, the Zn//Zn symmetric cells based on the R‐ZSO electrolyte can operate stably for more than 1500 h, which is six times higher than that of cells employing the blank electrolyte. More importantly, the R‐ZSO hydrogel electrolyte effectively decouples the cross‐talk effects, thus breaking the infinite loop of side reactions. As a result, the Zn//V2O5 cells using this modified hydrogel electrolyte demonstrate stable operation over 1,000 cycles, with a capacity loss rate of only 0.028 % per cycle. Our study provides a promising gel chemistry, which offers a valuable guide for the construction of high‐performance and multifunctional aqueous Zn‐ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] The scaffold materials with good mechanical and structural properties, controlled drug release performance, biocompatibility and biodegradability are important tenet in tissue engineering. In this work, the functional core–shell nanofibers with poly(ε -caprolactone) (PCL) as shell and silk fibroin heavy chain (H-fibroin) as core were constructed by emulsion electrospinning. The transmission electron microscopy confirmed that the nanofiber with core–shell structure were successfully prepared. The constructed nanofiber materials were characterized by the several characterization methods. The results showed that ethanol treatment could induce the formation of β -sheet of H-fibroin in composite nanofibers, thus improving the mechanical properties of PCL/H-fibroin nanofiber scaffold. In addition, we evaluated the potential of PCL/H-fibroin nanofiber membrane as a biological scaffold. It was found that PCL/H-fibroin nanofiber scaffold was more conducive to cell adhesion and proliferation with the increment of H-fibroin. Finally, in vitro drug release presented that PCL/H-fibroin core–shell nanofibers could effectively reduce the prophase burst of drug molecules and show the sustained drug release. The PCL/H-fibroin nanofiber scaffolds constructed in this work have good mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and display good potential in biomedical applications, such as drug carriers, tissue engineering and wound dressings, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Photothermal nanoreactor with rapid charge transfer and improved spectral utilization is a key point in photocatalysis research. Herein, silver sulfide quantum dots (Ag 2 S QDs) were coating on the surface of porous graphitic carbon nitride nano vesicles (PCNNVs) to form Ag 2 S/PCNNVs nanoreactors by a simple calcination method for obtaining efficient photothermal-assisted photocatalytic hydrogen (H 2) evolution under simulated/real sunlight irradiation. In particularly, the as-prepared optimal 3% Ag 2 S/PCNNVs sample exhibited the H 2 production rate of 34.8 mmol h−1 g−1, which was 3.5 times higher than that of bare PCNNVs. The enhancement of photothermal-assisted activity over the Ag 2 S/PCNNVs composite system is mainly attributed to the coupling of the photothermal conversion performance of Ag 2 S QDs and the thermal insulation performance of PCNNVs based on the plasmonic coupling-boosted photothermal nanoreactor. This study presents a promising strategy for the development of high-efficient photothermal-assisted photocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract The highly effective Fe 3 O 4 /g-C 3 N 4 /PVDF membranes (FCMs) were prepared by an alternative magnetically induced freezing casting method to overcome maldistribution of photocatalysts and especially embedding of photocatalysts. Moreover, the orderly latticed macroporous structure of FCMs enhanced the visible light absorption possible due to the facilitation of light penetration. Finally, the photocatalytic degradation efficiency of the optimal FCM could be increased by 35% compared to that of the conventional blending photocatalytic membranes (BPMs) under visible light. Highlights • The effective Fe 3 O 4 /g-C 3 N 4 /PVDF membranes (FCMs) are prepared by an alternative magnetically induced freezing casting method. • The FCMs exhibits higher light absorption caused by ordered latticed macroporous structure. • The photo-degradation rate constant of FCMs increased by 2.7 times in comparation of conventional Fe 3 O 4 /g-C 3 N 4 /PVDF. • The FCMs displays good stability, reusability, fouling resistant, high water flux and porosity. Abstract Blending photocatalytic membranes (BPMs) are favored materials for wastewater treatment due to their photocatalytic activity, high permeability and fouling resistance. However, using conventional blending modification to prepare BPMs always suffers significant reduction of photocatalytic efficiency due to the maldistribution of photocatalysts, especially a number of photocatalysts embedded inside the membrane, losing photocatalytic activity and blocking the membrane channels. To overcome this problem, we proposed an alternative magnetically induced freezing casting method to prepare highly effective macroporous Fe 3 O 4 /g-C 3 N 4 /PVDF membranes (FCMs). The magnetic Fe 3 O 4 /g-C 3 N 4 could be directionally and highly exposed to the membrane surface and ordered latticed macroporous structure was formed. The FCMs exhibited significantly enhanced visible-light absorption probably due to more exposed photocatalytic active sites available on membrane surface and the macroporous structure facilitating the light penetration. The photodegradation rate constant of optimal FCM was 2.7 times higher than that of conventional BPMs. Moreover, the FCM had extremely high porosity and water flux, up to 88.5% and 15835.2 L m−2 h−1, respectively. The FCMs also had good stability (retained over 90% of photocatalytic activity after 5 recycles) and fouling resistant (2.38% BSA adsorption). Therefore, this work provides an alternative and easily scale-up strategy to construct highly effective BPMs for wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MoO 3 is a kind of promising cathode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), owing to its high specific capacity (279 mA h g−1) and layered structure. However, low electrical conductivity and sluggish reaction kinetics results in poor rate and Li-ions storage capability. The introduction of oxygen vacancies (OVs) can promote Li+ diffusion, and produce great electrical conductivity. Here, we report a strategy to synergize the merits of OVs by pulsed laser deposition (PLD) by adjusting oxygen partial pressures (2～20 Pa). The appropriate OVs concentration not only significantly approves electrochemical performance but also increases pseudocapacitance contribution. The Li-ion diffusion coefficient of MoO 3−x is remarkably improved by one or two orders of magnitude compared with that of MoO 3. Therefore, this facile and efficient strategy on OVs could afford a reference for other metal oxides for high-performance electrode materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Roses are important plants, and they are cultivated worldwide for their beautiful flowers, remarkable scent, and nutritious hips. In this study, we re-sequenced the whole genomes of 57 rose cultivars and one wild species that originated from different regions around the world and had different scents, aiming to evaluate their genetic structure and to detect the potential signature of the selective sweep between different scent groups with single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and indel markers. The roses were sequenced at an average depth of 6× to the reference genome of Rosa 'Old blush'. A total of 2,375,949 SNPs were obtained. The SNP numbers varied among the 58 samples, with an average of 1,271,906 per sample. The phylogeny and population structure revealed that the roses could be divided into three main clusters; however, the groups were not consistent in terms of geographic origin or scent classification. These indicated that rose cultivars have a complex genetic background due to the extensive hybridization between cultivated roses or wild rosa species worldwide. A selective sweep analysis was conducted to detect the selection signatures in rose scent traits. A total of 2430 candidate genes were identified in the strong scent groups, and were at the top 5% FST compared to the moderate group. These genes were significantly enriched in the KEGG pathways of tyrosine metabolism, cyanoamino acid metabolism, alpha-linolenic acid metabolism (13 genes), and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis (30 genes). When the low-scent group was used as the control, 2604 candidate genes were identified at the top 5% FST that were significantly enriched in the KEGG pathways of alpha-linolenic acid metabolism (15 genes), and glutathione metabolism (23 genes). We also observed genes enriched in pathways including the linoleic acid metabolism (five genes), diterpenoid biosynthesis (six genes), and monoterpenoid biosynthesis (seven genes), although they were not significant. These implied a positive selection of rose cultivars with a strong fragrance in terms of fatty acid derivatives, terpenoids and benzenoids/phenylpropanoids during rose breeding. Our study establishes a foundation for the further large-scale characterization of rose germplasm, improving the genetic knowledge of the background of roses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Streptococcusthermophilus is one of the economically most representatives of lactic acid bacteria, which is widely used as a starter to produce fermented milk products. In this study, 22 S. thermophilus strains were isolated from 26 fermented milk samples. Most isolates showed the ability to ferment a broad range of carbohydrates. Interestingly, eight strains are galactose positive, which is a desirable property in various industrial dairy fermentations. Four different nucleotide sequences were found in the galR-galK intergenic regions. The 16S-23S intergenic spacer region sequences of most isolates were determined as ITS-St-II type, which are related with protease positive and fast acidification. CS18 presented excellent technological performances, and showed potential as a promising starter candidate. To gain a comprehensive view of stress response mechanisms of strains, the distribution of all the two-component systems (TCSs) in strains were investigated. TCS analysis indicated that the nucleotide sequence of TCSs have obvious differences in different strains. And the strains with the special nucleotide sequences of TCS have distinctive traits. Therefore, it was speculated that there is a certain connection between the traits’ difference and the TCS difference of strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyethylene oxide (PEO) based materials are promising candidates for the matrices in composite solid polymer electrolytes (CSPEs) for high-energy density lithium ion batteries. Experimental screening of high-performance CSPEs with high efficiency still appears to be challenging for the moment, due to the complications of the compositions involved. Here, we propose and test the joint application of effective medium theory (EMT) and Halpin-Tsai model that can predict with satisfactory accuracy the effects of the filler volume fractions and of the particle sizes on the conductivities and Young’s moduli of CSPEs. The application of this theoretical framework can be extended to other polymer based CSPEs and potentially enables us to build a CSPEs database for data mining to accelerate the screening process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porcine pancreatic stem cells (PSCs) are seed cells with potential use for diabetes treatment. Stem cell differentiation requires strict control of protein turnover and lysosomal digestion of organelles. Autophagy is a highly conserved process that controls the turnover of organelles and proteins within cells and contributes to the balance of cellular components. However, whether autophagy plays roles in PSC differentiation remains unknown. In this study, we successfully induced porcine PSCs into insulin-producing cells and found that autophagy was activated during the second induction stage. Inhibition of autophagy in the second stage resulted in reduced differentiational efficiency and impaired glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. Moreover, the expression of active β-catenin increased while autophagy was activated but was suppressed when autophagy was inhibited. Therefore, autophagy is essential to the formation of insulin-producing cells, and the effects of autophagy on differentiation may be regulated by canonical Wnt signalling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]