Objective: To study the effects of andrographolide on immune functions and the immune mechanism in clinical therapy.Methods: The amounts of IFN-α,IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-8 in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) ...Objective: To study the effects of andrographolide on immune functions and the immune mechanism in clinical therapy.Methods: The amounts of IFN-α,IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-8 in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) culture supernatants dealt with by different concentrations of LianBiZhi (LBZ) injection, the effective component of which is andrographolide, were detected by biological activity test or ELISA in vitro. The effects of LBZ injection on macrophage phagocytotic function and natural killer cells cytotoxicity were examined by means of macrophage to phagocytize cock erythrocyte and measurement of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity released from the damaged cells, respectively.Results: The LBZ injection could not only enhance the phagocytosis activity of peritoneal macrophage from guinea pig to phagocytosis cock erythrocytes, but also augment the cytotoxicity mediated by natural killer cells from PBMCs.Conclusion: Andrographolide is an immunostimulant agent which can modulate both antigen specific and nonspecific immune function by means of its natural killer cells, macrophage and cytokines.展开更多
Brassinosteroids (BRs) are a major group of plant hormones that regulate plant growth and development. BRI1, a protein localized to the plasma membrane, functions as a BR receptor and it has been proposed that its k...Brassinosteroids (BRs) are a major group of plant hormones that regulate plant growth and development. BRI1, a protein localized to the plasma membrane, functions as a BR receptor and it has been proposed that its kinase activity has an essential role in BR-regulated plant growth and development. Here we report the isolation and molecular characterization of a new allele of bril, bril-301, which shows moderate morphological phenotypes and a reduced response to BRs under normal growth conditions. Sequence analysis identified a two-base alteration from GG to AT, resulting in a conversion of 989G to 9891 in the BRI1 kinase domain. An in vitro assay of kinase activity showed that bril-301 has no detectable autophosphorylation activity or phosphorylation activity towards the BRI1 substrates TTL and BAK1. Furthermore, our results suggest that bril-301, even with extremely impaired kinase activity, still retains partial function in regulating plant growth and development, which raises the question of whether BRI1 kinase activity is essential for BR-mediated growth and development in higher plants.展开更多
Changes in tissue structure, rheological properties and water content of raw and heated sea cucumber meat were studied. Sea cucumber Stichopus japonicus was heated at 25℃, 70℃ and 100℃ water for 5 min. The structur...Changes in tissue structure, rheological properties and water content of raw and heated sea cucumber meat were studied. Sea cucumber Stichopus japonicus was heated at 25℃, 70℃ and 100℃ water for 5 min. The structural changes were observed using a light microscope and the rheological parameters (rupture strength, adhesive strength and deformation) determined using a texture meter. Microscopic photograph revealed that the structural change of heated meat was greater than that of raw meat. The rupture strength, adhesive strength and deformation of raw meat were smaller than those of the heated meat. Meanwhile, rheological parameters showed positive correlation with heating temperature. These changes are mainly caused by thermal denaturation and gelatinization of collagen during heating. These changes were also evidenced in observations using a light microscope and differential scanning calorimetry.展开更多
Objective: To investigate the immunological function of a yeast expression system for thymosin α1 (Tα1). Methods: A constructed Tetl yeast expression system was used to investigate the immunological function of ...Objective: To investigate the immunological function of a yeast expression system for thymosin α1 (Tα1). Methods: A constructed Tetl yeast expression system was used to investigate the immunological function of orally administered Tα1. Dried yeast containing three different concentration of Tα1 was fed to normal Balb/c mice and other Balb/c mice whose immunities were inhibited in advance by cyclophosphamide. Synthesized Tα1 peptide was used as positive control and dried yeast with empty plasmid was used as negative control. CD4^+ and CD8^+ levels were detected by flow cytometry assay. TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-6 and IL-10 levels were detected by liquid chip. Results: In normal Balb/c mice or immune inhibition Balb/c mice, CD8^+ levels were significantly increased. Especially in immune inhibition Balb/c mice, CD8^+ levels in synthesized Tα1 group (18.77%±4.72%), small dose group (13.48%±6.17%) and large dose group (22.74%±1.09%) were significantly higher than that in empty yeast control group (7.49%±2.14%). Conclusion: Orally administered Tα1 has its certain immunomodulatory function.展开更多
Objective: Preservation of the pelvic autonomic nerves in order to lower bladder and sexual dysfunction after radical rectal cancer surgery & to evaluate functional outcome, local recurrence. Methods: A prospective...Objective: Preservation of the pelvic autonomic nerves in order to lower bladder and sexual dysfunction after radical rectal cancer surgery & to evaluate functional outcome, local recurrence. Methods: A prospective study was under- taken on Egyptian patients. Forty one patients participated in the study in the period from December 2002 till June 2004 where they underwent radical surgery but with preservation of the pelvic autonomic nerves this was followed by adjuvant pelvic radiotherapy. Results: Six months, 1-year and 2-year follow-up of urinary function was complete in 32 out of 41 (78%), 30 out of 41 (73%) and 27 out of 41 patients (65%) respectively There was no statistically significant correlation between the extent of nerve preservation and the reported minor voiding dysfunction. None of the patients reported major incontinence. Six months, 1-year and 2-year follow-up of sexual function revealed that 22 out of 41 patients (53%) were sexually active. Three out of 41 patients (7.3%) developed local recurrence. 38 (92.7%) patients were free of local recurrence, regarding pa- tients who received adjuvant radiotherapy 3 out of the 34 (8.8%) patients developed local pelvic recurrence while 9 patients (26.5%) developed distant metastases (3 of them did not receive adjuvant chemotherapy), while patients who received adju- vant chemotherapy, 2 out of 20 patients (10%) developed local recurrence while distant metastases developed in 6 patients (30%). Conclusion: Preservation of the pelvic autonomic nerves minimizes bladder and sexual dysfunction especially in male patients after rectal cancer surgery.展开更多
Abstract Sea cucumbers belong to the Class Holothuroidea of marine invertebrates. They are commercially valuable and prized as a food and folk medicine in Asia. Nutritionally, sea cucumbers have an impressive profile ...Abstract Sea cucumbers belong to the Class Holothuroidea of marine invertebrates. They are commercially valuable and prized as a food and folk medicine in Asia. Nutritionally, sea cucumbers have an impressive profile of valuable nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and amino acids. A number of unique biological and pharmacological activities/properties, including anticancer, anticoagulant/antithrombotic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antihyperlipidemic, antihyperglycemic, anti-inflammatory, antihypertension and radioprotective, have been ascribed to various compounds isolated from sea cucumbers. The therapeutic properties and medicinal benefits of sea cucumbers can be linked to the presence of a wide array ofbioactives, especially triterpene glycosides, acid mucopolysaccharide, sphingoid bases, glycolipids, fucosylated chondroitin sulfate, polysaccharides, phospholipids, cerebrosides, phosphatidylcholines, and other extracts and hydrolysates. This review highlights the valuable bioactive components as well as the multiple therapeutic properties of sea cucumbers with a view to exploring their potential uses as functional foods and a natural source of new multifunctional drugs.展开更多
FeCrAl(f)/HA biological functionally gradient materials(FGMs) were successfully fabricated by the hot pressing technique.Scanning electron microscope(SEM),energy dispersive spectrometer(EDS) and bending strength test ...FeCrAl(f)/HA biological functionally gradient materials(FGMs) were successfully fabricated by the hot pressing technique.Scanning electron microscope(SEM),energy dispersive spectrometer(EDS) and bending strength test machine were utilized to characterize the microstructure,component,mechanical properties and the formation of the Ca-deficient apatite on the surface of these materials.The results indicate that an asymmetrical FeCrAl(f)/HA FGM,consolidating powders prepared by mixing HA with 3%–15%(volume fraction) is successfully prepared.Both of the matrix and FeCrAl fiber are integrated very tightly and bite into each other very deeply.And counter diffusion takes place to some extent in two phase interfaces.The elemental compositions of the FeCrAl(f)/HA FGM change progressively.Ca and P contents increase gradually with immersion time increasing,and thereafter approach equilibrium.The bone-like apatite layer forms on the materials surface,which possesses benign bioactivity,and the favorable biocompatibility can provide potential firm fixation between FeCrAl(f)/HA asymmetrical FGM implants and human bone.展开更多
The white mulberry (Morus alba L.) had been forgotten in Europe or known only as a plant associated with breeding of mulberry silkworms (Bombyx mori L.). The initial studies have shown great potential of this plan...The white mulberry (Morus alba L.) had been forgotten in Europe or known only as a plant associated with breeding of mulberry silkworms (Bombyx mori L.). The initial studies have shown great potential of this plant in energy, food and pharmaceutical industries. The leaves and fruits contain very valuable bioactive substances, which may be used in health care. Antioxidants of plant origin include flavonoids and vitamin C (ascorbic acid), and these substances are present in high amounts in anatomical parts of white mulberry. It has also been reported on the medicinal properties of this plant and its use in preventing diseases, such as atherosclerosis, diabetes, obesity and cancer. The food industry increasingly uses the white mulberry in food to provide human organism with precious bioactive substances. Functional food, due to the presence in its composition of valuable components, is beneficial to human health. What is more, very fast growth of mulberry causes that biomass of the plant may be used as biofuel or energy plant. The aim of this paper is to present the possibility of using the white mulberry as a raw material for functional foods and as an energy plant.展开更多
The present study was conducted to evaluate the feasibility of replacing fish meal(FM) with bioactive peptides(BPs) in diet of white shrimp(Litopenaeus vannamei). The changes in growth performance, body composition, n...The present study was conducted to evaluate the feasibility of replacing fish meal(FM) with bioactive peptides(BPs) in diet of white shrimp(Litopenaeus vannamei). The changes in growth performance, body composition, non-specific immunity, and water quality were examined after the shrimp were fed four diets, in which 0%(control), 33.3%, 66.7% and 100% of FM was replaced by BPs, respectively. The groups were designated as Con, 1/3BPs, 2/3BPs, and 3/3BPs. A total of 720 shrimp with an initial body weight of 1.46 ± 0.78 g were fed the experimental diets for 56 days. The results revealed that: 1) the weight gain rate(WGR) in 1/3BPs, 2/3BPs, and 3/3BPs was significantly higher than that in Con(P < 0.05), while no significant difference was found on survival rate and feed conversion ratio(FCR); 2) the whole-body crude protein(CP) and crude lipids(CL) were significantly different among groups, while there was no significant difference between crude ash and phosphorus contents; 3) the levels of acid phosphatase(ACP), lysozyme(LZM), superoxide dismutase(SOD), phenol oxidase(PO) and bactericidal activity increased significantly with the inclusion of BPs; 4) in terms of water quality, no significant difference was found in p H and dissolved oxygen among diets during the whole experimental period. Moreover, even though nitrite and ammonium levels tended to increase with time, there was no significant difference among groups. The results indicated that BPs is an applicable alternative of protein source, which can substitute FM in the diets of L. vannamei; it is able to effectively promote growth performance and improve immunity. Moreover, BPs in the diets had no negative impact on water quality.展开更多
Virgin forests are unique ecosystems, which can be used as etalon for basic biocoenotic investigation. Soil microorganisms are very sensitive reagents on influence of biotical factors, and at the same time are the act...Virgin forests are unique ecosystems, which can be used as etalon for basic biocoenotic investigation. Soil microorganisms are very sensitive reagents on influence of biotical factors, and at the same time are the active producers of phytotoxic and phytostimulating exometabolites. Studies of soil microbiota were conducted in virgin beech forests of Shyrokoluzhansky massif of the Carpathian Biosphere Reserve. It was found the ratio and the number of different ecological-trophic groups of soil microorganisms changes with altitude. So the number of ammonificators with increasing of altitude above sea level was reduced. The soil at altitude of 1,100 meters above sea level was characterized by minimum content of organotrophes -1.22 × 10^6 (CFU-colony forming units/lg.a.d.s.). At the altitude of 500 meters content of ammonificators increased at six times and was 7.07 ×10^6 CFU/lg.a.d.s., which indicates to accumulation of the soil organic matter. Similar changes occurred with the number of bacteria which are using mineral forms of nitrogen for their nutrition. Their maximum quantity (4.32 × 10^6 CFU/lg.a.d.s.) was in the soil of biotope disposed at altitude of 500 meters above sea level. Fluctuations in the number of soil micromycetes of virgin forest ecosystems have not been as significant as the bacterial microbiota (within 17 ×10^3-28 × 10^3 CFU/lg.a.d.s.). Among a wide spectrum of bacterial microbiota were isolated strains with high phytostimulating action.展开更多
From "the case that three girls have some fate but have different value" to "the case that Hai Cheng took a police substation to court with three times", currently the household registration system of our country ...From "the case that three girls have some fate but have different value" to "the case that Hai Cheng took a police substation to court with three times", currently the household registration system of our country not only plays the role of account registration and account management, but also undertakes the limitation of migration movement, and for the additional functions of the lowest life guarantee, social insurance, compulsory education, employment and other social security benefits, it also makes a difference between local registered permanent residence habitant and nonlocal registered permanent residence habitant. Just because of these additional functions, the household registration system has become complicated, which originally has clear nature. Therefore, only it is necessary to define the legal nature of our country's current household registration system, can executive power be supervised and the rights of citizens get relief.展开更多
Proteins possess many biological functions.However, they can easily degrade or aggregate, thus losing their bioactivity. Therefore, it is very important to develop materials capable of interacting with proteins and fo...Proteins possess many biological functions.However, they can easily degrade or aggregate, thus losing their bioactivity. Therefore, it is very important to develop materials capable of interacting with proteins and forming nanostructures for protein storage and delivery. In this study,we serendipitously found a novel peptide-based supramolecular protein glue(Nap-GFFYK(γE)2-NH2, compound 1) that could co-assemble with proteins into nanofibers and hydrogels. We found that compound 1 rapidly folded into a β-sheet conformation upon contact with many proteins but not with polymers. Total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy(TIRFM) images clearly show the formation of co-assembled nanofibers by proteins and the peptide. The supramolecular protein glue could improve the dispersion of enzymes(lipase and lysozyme) and therefore enhance their catalytic activity,especially at high temperatures. More importantly, the supramolecular protein glue could co-assemble with two enzymes, glucose oxidase/horseradish peroxidase(GOx/HRP)and GOx/cytochrome c(cyt c), to form nanofibers that significantly enhanced the catalytic activity of tandem enzymatic reactions. We envisioned the great potential of our supramolecular protein glue for protein storage, delivery, and bioactivity manipulation.展开更多
Konjac glucomannan(KGM) is a water-soluble polysaccharide obtained from the roots and tubers of konjac plants. Recently, a degraded product of KGM, depolymerized KGM(DKGM), has attracted attention because of its l...Konjac glucomannan(KGM) is a water-soluble polysaccharide obtained from the roots and tubers of konjac plants. Recently, a degraded product of KGM, depolymerized KGM(DKGM), has attracted attention because of its low viscosity, improved hydrophily, and favorable physiological functions. In this review, we describe the preparation of DKGM and its prebiotic effects. Other health benefits of DKGM, covering antioxidant and immune activity, are also discussed, as well as its safety. DKGM could be a candidate for use as a tool for the treatment of various diseases, including intestinal flora imbalance, and oxidative-and immune-related disorders.展开更多
Symbionts are microorganisms residing in multicellular hosts(e.g., plants and animals), and they have been witnessed to be a rich source of diverse functional molecules. This review describes structures and biological...Symbionts are microorganisms residing in multicellular hosts(e.g., plants and animals), and they have been witnessed to be a rich source of diverse functional molecules. This review describes structures and biological activities of symbiont-derived secondary metabolites commonly referred to as "natural products", and highlights that symbiotic microbes represent an underexplored reservoir of natural products with unique scaffolds and promising significance in managing human healthcare and agricultural production.展开更多
Plants synthesize and accumulate large amount of specialized (or secondary) metabolites also known as natural products, which provide a rich source for modem pharmacy. In China, plants have been used in traditional ...Plants synthesize and accumulate large amount of specialized (or secondary) metabolites also known as natural products, which provide a rich source for modem pharmacy. In China, plants have been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. Recent development of molecular biology, genomics and functional genomics as well as high-throughput analytical chemical technologies has greatly promoted the research on medicinal plants. In this article, we review recent advances in the elucidation of biosynthesis of specialized metabolites in medicinal plants, including phenylpropanoids, terpenoids and alkaloids. Th- ese natural products may share a common upstream path- way to form a limited numbers of common precursors, but are characteristic in distinct modifications leading to highly variable structures. Although this review is focused on traditional Chinese medicine, other plants with a great medicinal interest or potential are also discussed. Under- standing of their biosynthesis processes is critical for producing these highly value molecules at large scale and low cost in microbes and will benefit to not only human health but also plant resource conservation.展开更多
The C-terminal conjugate of ubiquitin with 7-amino-4-methylcoumarin (Ub-AMC) is an important probe for fluorescencebased analysis of deubiquitinating enzyme (DUB) activity. It is important to develop more efficien...The C-terminal conjugate of ubiquitin with 7-amino-4-methylcoumarin (Ub-AMC) is an important probe for fluorescencebased analysis of deubiquitinating enzyme (DUB) activity. It is important to develop more efficient methods for the preparation of Ub-AMC because the currently available technology is still expensive for scaled-up production. In the present work we report an efficient strategy for total chemical synthesis of Ub-AMC through ligation of peptide hydrazides. Three peptide segments are assembled via N-to-C sequential ligation and the resulting product is converted to Ub-AMC via TCEP-mediated desulfurization. The synthetic Ub-AMC is shown to have expected biological functions throug展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To examine the clinical effects of a mixture of Chinese Yam and Epimedium in patients with stable moderate or severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD).METHODS:Forty-nine patients with COPD were ran...OBJECTIVE:To examine the clinical effects of a mixture of Chinese Yam and Epimedium in patients with stable moderate or severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD).METHODS:Forty-nine patients with COPD were randomly allocated to a group whose usual treatment was supplemented with oral Chinese Yam-Epimedium mixture,or a control group given placebo.For each patient,body mass index,airflow obstruction,dyspnea,and exercise capacity were measured and converted into the BODE index before treatment and at one and three months after initiation of treatment.Participants also completed the St George's Respiratory Questionnaire(SGRQ) at the same intervals.RESULTS:After one month,improvements were seen in the BODE index and SGRQ of participants taking Chinese Yam-Epimedium mixture compared to controls.There were statistically significant differences in the SGRQ:three of its components and the total SGRQ scores were significantly decreased(P<0.05),respiratory symptom scores had improved(P<0.01),and the dyspnea component of the BODE index had significantly decreased(P<0.05).Similar improvements were observed after three months of treatment,but exercise tolerance had also improved:the six-minute walking distance had significantly increased(P<0.05) in the treatment group when compared with controls.CONCLUSION:Chinese Yam-Epimedium mixture can significantly improve dyspnea,exercise capacity,and the quality of life of patients with stable moderate or severe COPD.展开更多
Microbial activities impact arsenic (As) transformation in mine tailings substantially, yet little is understood on the functional diversity of As metabolism genes. This study explored this issue using a metagenomic...Microbial activities impact arsenic (As) transformation in mine tailings substantially, yet little is understood on the functional diversity of As metabolism genes. This study explored this issue using a metagenomic approach coupled by a local BLASTN procedure established in our recent studies. An assembled metagenome, recovered from hypersaline and sulfidic mine tailings, was screened for As metabolism genes aioA, arrA, arsC and arsM. This was done using a local BLASTN procedure against databases of the As metabolism genes built in this study. Putative As metabolism genes detected in the assembled metagenome included 11 arsM, 20 arsC and 1 arrA full-length sequences. Together with the rRNA-based phylogenetic profiling results, a picture depicting microbial As cycling in the tailings to the genus level was obtained. It was found that most of the dominant genera in the tailings potentially harboured the genes for As reduction and/or methylation. In particular, a typical pyrite-eater present in the tailings, Thioalkalivibrio sp., was found to harbour not only arsC and arsM, but also arrA. These results highlight the unexpected diversity of As metabolism genes in the tailings, especially considering the extremely low species diversity therein. The microbial As cycling picture established here has potential use for guiding the purposeful manipulation of As biogeochemistry in the railings.展开更多
文摘Objective: To study the effects of andrographolide on immune functions and the immune mechanism in clinical therapy.Methods: The amounts of IFN-α,IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-8 in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) culture supernatants dealt with by different concentrations of LianBiZhi (LBZ) injection, the effective component of which is andrographolide, were detected by biological activity test or ELISA in vitro. The effects of LBZ injection on macrophage phagocytotic function and natural killer cells cytotoxicity were examined by means of macrophage to phagocytize cock erythrocyte and measurement of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity released from the damaged cells, respectively.Results: The LBZ injection could not only enhance the phagocytosis activity of peritoneal macrophage from guinea pig to phagocytosis cock erythrocytes, but also augment the cytotoxicity mediated by natural killer cells from PBMCs.Conclusion: Andrographolide is an immunostimulant agent which can modulate both antigen specific and nonspecific immune function by means of its natural killer cells, macrophage and cytokines.
基金We thank Prof Joanne Chory (The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, USA) for providing the Arabidopsis bril-101 mutant seeds. This work was supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (grant numbers: 30070074, 30330040 and 30570161).
文摘Brassinosteroids (BRs) are a major group of plant hormones that regulate plant growth and development. BRI1, a protein localized to the plasma membrane, functions as a BR receptor and it has been proposed that its kinase activity has an essential role in BR-regulated plant growth and development. Here we report the isolation and molecular characterization of a new allele of bril, bril-301, which shows moderate morphological phenotypes and a reduced response to BRs under normal growth conditions. Sequence analysis identified a two-base alteration from GG to AT, resulting in a conversion of 989G to 9891 in the BRI1 kinase domain. An in vitro assay of kinase activity showed that bril-301 has no detectable autophosphorylation activity or phosphorylation activity towards the BRI1 substrates TTL and BAK1. Furthermore, our results suggest that bril-301, even with extremely impaired kinase activity, still retains partial function in regulating plant growth and development, which raises the question of whether BRI1 kinase activity is essential for BR-mediated growth and development in higher plants.
基金supported by the proiect sponsored by the Scientific Research Foundation for Returned Overseas Chinese Scholars,State Education Ministry(SRF for ROCS,SEM)the Natural Science Foundation of Shandong(No.2004BSO7003)and Qingdao(No.04-2-JZ-110)
文摘Changes in tissue structure, rheological properties and water content of raw and heated sea cucumber meat were studied. Sea cucumber Stichopus japonicus was heated at 25℃, 70℃ and 100℃ water for 5 min. The structural changes were observed using a light microscope and the rheological parameters (rupture strength, adhesive strength and deformation) determined using a texture meter. Microscopic photograph revealed that the structural change of heated meat was greater than that of raw meat. The rupture strength, adhesive strength and deformation of raw meat were smaller than those of the heated meat. Meanwhile, rheological parameters showed positive correlation with heating temperature. These changes are mainly caused by thermal denaturation and gelatinization of collagen during heating. These changes were also evidenced in observations using a light microscope and differential scanning calorimetry.
基金Project (No. 2003C13015) supported by the Key Project from Sci-ence and Technology Department of Zhejiang Province, China
文摘Objective: To investigate the immunological function of a yeast expression system for thymosin α1 (Tα1). Methods: A constructed Tetl yeast expression system was used to investigate the immunological function of orally administered Tα1. Dried yeast containing three different concentration of Tα1 was fed to normal Balb/c mice and other Balb/c mice whose immunities were inhibited in advance by cyclophosphamide. Synthesized Tα1 peptide was used as positive control and dried yeast with empty plasmid was used as negative control. CD4^+ and CD8^+ levels were detected by flow cytometry assay. TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-6 and IL-10 levels were detected by liquid chip. Results: In normal Balb/c mice or immune inhibition Balb/c mice, CD8^+ levels were significantly increased. Especially in immune inhibition Balb/c mice, CD8^+ levels in synthesized Tα1 group (18.77%±4.72%), small dose group (13.48%±6.17%) and large dose group (22.74%±1.09%) were significantly higher than that in empty yeast control group (7.49%±2.14%). Conclusion: Orally administered Tα1 has its certain immunomodulatory function.
文摘Objective: Preservation of the pelvic autonomic nerves in order to lower bladder and sexual dysfunction after radical rectal cancer surgery & to evaluate functional outcome, local recurrence. Methods: A prospective study was under- taken on Egyptian patients. Forty one patients participated in the study in the period from December 2002 till June 2004 where they underwent radical surgery but with preservation of the pelvic autonomic nerves this was followed by adjuvant pelvic radiotherapy. Results: Six months, 1-year and 2-year follow-up of urinary function was complete in 32 out of 41 (78%), 30 out of 41 (73%) and 27 out of 41 patients (65%) respectively There was no statistically significant correlation between the extent of nerve preservation and the reported minor voiding dysfunction. None of the patients reported major incontinence. Six months, 1-year and 2-year follow-up of sexual function revealed that 22 out of 41 patients (53%) were sexually active. Three out of 41 patients (7.3%) developed local recurrence. 38 (92.7%) patients were free of local recurrence, regarding pa- tients who received adjuvant radiotherapy 3 out of the 34 (8.8%) patients developed local pelvic recurrence while 9 patients (26.5%) developed distant metastases (3 of them did not receive adjuvant chemotherapy), while patients who received adju- vant chemotherapy, 2 out of 20 patients (10%) developed local recurrence while distant metastases developed in 6 patients (30%). Conclusion: Preservation of the pelvic autonomic nerves minimizes bladder and sexual dysfunction especially in male patients after rectal cancer surgery.
文摘Abstract Sea cucumbers belong to the Class Holothuroidea of marine invertebrates. They are commercially valuable and prized as a food and folk medicine in Asia. Nutritionally, sea cucumbers have an impressive profile of valuable nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and amino acids. A number of unique biological and pharmacological activities/properties, including anticancer, anticoagulant/antithrombotic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antihyperlipidemic, antihyperglycemic, anti-inflammatory, antihypertension and radioprotective, have been ascribed to various compounds isolated from sea cucumbers. The therapeutic properties and medicinal benefits of sea cucumbers can be linked to the presence of a wide array ofbioactives, especially triterpene glycosides, acid mucopolysaccharide, sphingoid bases, glycolipids, fucosylated chondroitin sulfate, polysaccharides, phospholipids, cerebrosides, phosphatidylcholines, and other extracts and hydrolysates. This review highlights the valuable bioactive components as well as the multiple therapeutic properties of sea cucumbers with a view to exploring their potential uses as functional foods and a natural source of new multifunctional drugs.
基金Project(51274247)supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of ChinaProject(2012BAE06B00)supported by the National High Technology Research and Development Program to China+1 种基金Project(2011QNZT046)supported by the Fundamental Research Funds of Central South Universities of ChinaProject supported by Hunan Postdoctoral Scientific Program,China
文摘FeCrAl(f)/HA biological functionally gradient materials(FGMs) were successfully fabricated by the hot pressing technique.Scanning electron microscope(SEM),energy dispersive spectrometer(EDS) and bending strength test machine were utilized to characterize the microstructure,component,mechanical properties and the formation of the Ca-deficient apatite on the surface of these materials.The results indicate that an asymmetrical FeCrAl(f)/HA FGM,consolidating powders prepared by mixing HA with 3%–15%(volume fraction) is successfully prepared.Both of the matrix and FeCrAl fiber are integrated very tightly and bite into each other very deeply.And counter diffusion takes place to some extent in two phase interfaces.The elemental compositions of the FeCrAl(f)/HA FGM change progressively.Ca and P contents increase gradually with immersion time increasing,and thereafter approach equilibrium.The bone-like apatite layer forms on the materials surface,which possesses benign bioactivity,and the favorable biocompatibility can provide potential firm fixation between FeCrAl(f)/HA asymmetrical FGM implants and human bone.
文摘The white mulberry (Morus alba L.) had been forgotten in Europe or known only as a plant associated with breeding of mulberry silkworms (Bombyx mori L.). The initial studies have shown great potential of this plant in energy, food and pharmaceutical industries. The leaves and fruits contain very valuable bioactive substances, which may be used in health care. Antioxidants of plant origin include flavonoids and vitamin C (ascorbic acid), and these substances are present in high amounts in anatomical parts of white mulberry. It has also been reported on the medicinal properties of this plant and its use in preventing diseases, such as atherosclerosis, diabetes, obesity and cancer. The food industry increasingly uses the white mulberry in food to provide human organism with precious bioactive substances. Functional food, due to the presence in its composition of valuable components, is beneficial to human health. What is more, very fast growth of mulberry causes that biomass of the plant may be used as biofuel or energy plant. The aim of this paper is to present the possibility of using the white mulberry as a raw material for functional foods and as an energy plant.
基金supported by the Science-Technology Supporting Project of the National Twelfth Five-YearPlan of China (No. 2012BAD25B01)
文摘The present study was conducted to evaluate the feasibility of replacing fish meal(FM) with bioactive peptides(BPs) in diet of white shrimp(Litopenaeus vannamei). The changes in growth performance, body composition, non-specific immunity, and water quality were examined after the shrimp were fed four diets, in which 0%(control), 33.3%, 66.7% and 100% of FM was replaced by BPs, respectively. The groups were designated as Con, 1/3BPs, 2/3BPs, and 3/3BPs. A total of 720 shrimp with an initial body weight of 1.46 ± 0.78 g were fed the experimental diets for 56 days. The results revealed that: 1) the weight gain rate(WGR) in 1/3BPs, 2/3BPs, and 3/3BPs was significantly higher than that in Con(P < 0.05), while no significant difference was found on survival rate and feed conversion ratio(FCR); 2) the whole-body crude protein(CP) and crude lipids(CL) were significantly different among groups, while there was no significant difference between crude ash and phosphorus contents; 3) the levels of acid phosphatase(ACP), lysozyme(LZM), superoxide dismutase(SOD), phenol oxidase(PO) and bactericidal activity increased significantly with the inclusion of BPs; 4) in terms of water quality, no significant difference was found in p H and dissolved oxygen among diets during the whole experimental period. Moreover, even though nitrite and ammonium levels tended to increase with time, there was no significant difference among groups. The results indicated that BPs is an applicable alternative of protein source, which can substitute FM in the diets of L. vannamei; it is able to effectively promote growth performance and improve immunity. Moreover, BPs in the diets had no negative impact on water quality.
文摘Virgin forests are unique ecosystems, which can be used as etalon for basic biocoenotic investigation. Soil microorganisms are very sensitive reagents on influence of biotical factors, and at the same time are the active producers of phytotoxic and phytostimulating exometabolites. Studies of soil microbiota were conducted in virgin beech forests of Shyrokoluzhansky massif of the Carpathian Biosphere Reserve. It was found the ratio and the number of different ecological-trophic groups of soil microorganisms changes with altitude. So the number of ammonificators with increasing of altitude above sea level was reduced. The soil at altitude of 1,100 meters above sea level was characterized by minimum content of organotrophes -1.22 × 10^6 (CFU-colony forming units/lg.a.d.s.). At the altitude of 500 meters content of ammonificators increased at six times and was 7.07 ×10^6 CFU/lg.a.d.s., which indicates to accumulation of the soil organic matter. Similar changes occurred with the number of bacteria which are using mineral forms of nitrogen for their nutrition. Their maximum quantity (4.32 × 10^6 CFU/lg.a.d.s.) was in the soil of biotope disposed at altitude of 500 meters above sea level. Fluctuations in the number of soil micromycetes of virgin forest ecosystems have not been as significant as the bacterial microbiota (within 17 ×10^3-28 × 10^3 CFU/lg.a.d.s.). Among a wide spectrum of bacterial microbiota were isolated strains with high phytostimulating action.
文摘From "the case that three girls have some fate but have different value" to "the case that Hai Cheng took a police substation to court with three times", currently the household registration system of our country not only plays the role of account registration and account management, but also undertakes the limitation of migration movement, and for the additional functions of the lowest life guarantee, social insurance, compulsory education, employment and other social security benefits, it also makes a difference between local registered permanent residence habitant and nonlocal registered permanent residence habitant. Just because of these additional functions, the household registration system has become complicated, which originally has clear nature. Therefore, only it is necessary to define the legal nature of our country's current household registration system, can executive power be supervised and the rights of citizens get relief.
基金supported by the National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars(31825012)the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2017YFC1103502)+4 种基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC,51773097,51873156 and 21876116)Tianjin Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars(17JCJQJC44900)the National Program for Support of Topnotch Young Professionalsthe Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universitiesthe Young Elite Scientists Sponsorship Program by Tianjin(TJSQNTJ-2017-16)
文摘Proteins possess many biological functions.However, they can easily degrade or aggregate, thus losing their bioactivity. Therefore, it is very important to develop materials capable of interacting with proteins and forming nanostructures for protein storage and delivery. In this study,we serendipitously found a novel peptide-based supramolecular protein glue(Nap-GFFYK(γE)2-NH2, compound 1) that could co-assemble with proteins into nanofibers and hydrogels. We found that compound 1 rapidly folded into a β-sheet conformation upon contact with many proteins but not with polymers. Total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy(TIRFM) images clearly show the formation of co-assembled nanofibers by proteins and the peptide. The supramolecular protein glue could improve the dispersion of enzymes(lipase and lysozyme) and therefore enhance their catalytic activity,especially at high temperatures. More importantly, the supramolecular protein glue could co-assemble with two enzymes, glucose oxidase/horseradish peroxidase(GOx/HRP)and GOx/cytochrome c(cyt c), to form nanofibers that significantly enhanced the catalytic activity of tandem enzymatic reactions. We envisioned the great potential of our supramolecular protein glue for protein storage, delivery, and bioactivity manipulation.
基金Project supported by the National First-Class Discipline Program of Light Industry Technology and Engineering(Nos.LITE2018-18 and LITE2018-11) of Chinathe Transformation Project for Major Scientific and Technological Achievements in Jiangsu Province(No.BA2015006)+1 种基金the Industry-Academia Cooperation Innovation Fund Project of Jiangsu Province(No.BY2016022-19)the National Key Technologies R&D Program of China for the 12th Five-year Plan(No.2012BAD33B06)
文摘Konjac glucomannan(KGM) is a water-soluble polysaccharide obtained from the roots and tubers of konjac plants. Recently, a degraded product of KGM, depolymerized KGM(DKGM), has attracted attention because of its low viscosity, improved hydrophily, and favorable physiological functions. In this review, we describe the preparation of DKGM and its prebiotic effects. Other health benefits of DKGM, covering antioxidant and immune activity, are also discussed, as well as its safety. DKGM could be a candidate for use as a tool for the treatment of various diseases, including intestinal flora imbalance, and oxidative-and immune-related disorders.
基金supported by the National High Technology Research and Development Program of China(2013AA092901)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(81121062,21132004,81421091)
文摘Symbionts are microorganisms residing in multicellular hosts(e.g., plants and animals), and they have been witnessed to be a rich source of diverse functional molecules. This review describes structures and biological activities of symbiont-derived secondary metabolites commonly referred to as "natural products", and highlights that symbiotic microbes represent an underexplored reservoir of natural products with unique scaffolds and promising significance in managing human healthcare and agricultural production.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31200222)Special Fund for Shanghai Landscaping Administration Bureau Program(F132424F112418 and G152421)
文摘Plants synthesize and accumulate large amount of specialized (or secondary) metabolites also known as natural products, which provide a rich source for modem pharmacy. In China, plants have been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. Recent development of molecular biology, genomics and functional genomics as well as high-throughput analytical chemical technologies has greatly promoted the research on medicinal plants. In this article, we review recent advances in the elucidation of biosynthesis of specialized metabolites in medicinal plants, including phenylpropanoids, terpenoids and alkaloids. Th- ese natural products may share a common upstream path- way to form a limited numbers of common precursors, but are characteristic in distinct modifications leading to highly variable structures. Although this review is focused on traditional Chinese medicine, other plants with a great medicinal interest or potential are also discussed. Under- standing of their biosynthesis processes is critical for producing these highly value molecules at large scale and low cost in microbes and will benefit to not only human health but also plant resource conservation.
基金National Basic Research Program of China (973 program, 2013CB932800)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC, 31100524 to M.Z., 31170817 for C.T., and 20972148 to L.L.)
文摘The C-terminal conjugate of ubiquitin with 7-amino-4-methylcoumarin (Ub-AMC) is an important probe for fluorescencebased analysis of deubiquitinating enzyme (DUB) activity. It is important to develop more efficient methods for the preparation of Ub-AMC because the currently available technology is still expensive for scaled-up production. In the present work we report an efficient strategy for total chemical synthesis of Ub-AMC through ligation of peptide hydrazides. Three peptide segments are assembled via N-to-C sequential ligation and the resulting product is converted to Ub-AMC via TCEP-mediated desulfurization. The synthetic Ub-AMC is shown to have expected biological functions throug
文摘OBJECTIVE:To examine the clinical effects of a mixture of Chinese Yam and Epimedium in patients with stable moderate or severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD).METHODS:Forty-nine patients with COPD were randomly allocated to a group whose usual treatment was supplemented with oral Chinese Yam-Epimedium mixture,or a control group given placebo.For each patient,body mass index,airflow obstruction,dyspnea,and exercise capacity were measured and converted into the BODE index before treatment and at one and three months after initiation of treatment.Participants also completed the St George's Respiratory Questionnaire(SGRQ) at the same intervals.RESULTS:After one month,improvements were seen in the BODE index and SGRQ of participants taking Chinese Yam-Epimedium mixture compared to controls.There were statistically significant differences in the SGRQ:three of its components and the total SGRQ scores were significantly decreased(P<0.05),respiratory symptom scores had improved(P<0.01),and the dyspnea component of the BODE index had significantly decreased(P<0.05).Similar improvements were observed after three months of treatment,but exercise tolerance had also improved:the six-minute walking distance had significantly increased(P<0.05) in the treatment group when compared with controls.CONCLUSION:Chinese Yam-Epimedium mixture can significantly improve dyspnea,exercise capacity,and the quality of life of patients with stable moderate or severe COPD.
基金financially supported by The University of Queensland Postdoctoral Fund and Mount Isa Mines, Glencore Ltd. (formerly Xstrata Copper Ltd.), Australia
文摘Microbial activities impact arsenic (As) transformation in mine tailings substantially, yet little is understood on the functional diversity of As metabolism genes. This study explored this issue using a metagenomic approach coupled by a local BLASTN procedure established in our recent studies. An assembled metagenome, recovered from hypersaline and sulfidic mine tailings, was screened for As metabolism genes aioA, arrA, arsC and arsM. This was done using a local BLASTN procedure against databases of the As metabolism genes built in this study. Putative As metabolism genes detected in the assembled metagenome included 11 arsM, 20 arsC and 1 arrA full-length sequences. Together with the rRNA-based phylogenetic profiling results, a picture depicting microbial As cycling in the tailings to the genus level was obtained. It was found that most of the dominant genera in the tailings potentially harboured the genes for As reduction and/or methylation. In particular, a typical pyrite-eater present in the tailings, Thioalkalivibrio sp., was found to harbour not only arsC and arsM, but also arrA. These results highlight the unexpected diversity of As metabolism genes in the tailings, especially considering the extremely low species diversity therein. The microbial As cycling picture established here has potential use for guiding the purposeful manipulation of As biogeochemistry in the railings.