Hull, ferulic acid, para-coumaric acid content and particle size characteristics of various barley varieties in relation to nutrient availability in ruminants

The fibrous barley hull is the main reason for barley’s low available energy relative to corn. Barley grain contains hydroxycinnamic acids (mainly ferulic acid (FA) and ñ-coumaric acid (PCA)) which are cross-linked to polysaccharides, therefore, limit cell wall degradability in the rumen. Paricle size of barley grain also affects the digestion of barley in the rumen. The objective of this study was to evaluate a set of barley varieties grown in Saskatchewan (Canada) and provided by Crop Development Center (CDC, Canada) and find a variety with low hull, FA, PCA and fiber content, while maintaining large particle size after mechanical processing, and having high nutrient availability. Three studies were conducted to determine the content of barley hull, FA, PCA, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF) and acid detergent lignin (ADL) in various barley varities. Mean/median particle size of the barley grain after coarse dry-rolling was also determined. The relationships among these parameters and the digestibility of barley grain in ruminants were then assessed. Six barley varieties (AC Metcalfe, CDC Dolly, McLeod, CDC Helgason, CDC Trey and CDC Cowboy) from samples grown in three years (2003, 2004 and 2005) were evaluated in each study. The first study determined the original content of barley hull, FA, PCA, NDF, ADF, ADL, and mean/median particle size of barley grain and evaluated the effects of barley variety. The results showed barley variety had a significant impact on the chemical and physical profiles of barley grain, with CDC Helgason and CDC Dolly showing relatively lower content of barley hull, FA, PCA, NDF, ADF, ADL, hemicellulose and cellulose, and moderate mean/median particle size, whereas McLeod and CDC Cowboy showed the opposite. The second study involved two consecutive trials. Trial 1 was to assess differences in the in situ rumen degradability of dry matter (DM), FA, PCA, NDF, ADF and ADL at 12 and 24 h of rumen incubations. Results revealed that CDC Dolly consistently showed relatively lower rumen residues of DM, FA, PCA, NDF, ADF and ADL at 12 and 24 h, with McLeod being opposite. Barley variety displayed some effects on the digestibility of DM, FA, PCA, NDF, ADF and ADL at 12 and 24 h. Since CDC Dolly demonstrated relatively less content of hull, FA, PCA, NDF, ADF, ADL and mean/median particle size and higher rumen digestibility among the six barley varieties, while McLeod was the opposite, CDC Dolly and McLeod were selected for the third trial in order to compare differences in the rumen degradation kinetics of DM, FA and PCA. Trial 2 did not show significant differences in effective degradation of DM, FA, except for PCA. In general, CDC Dolly exhibited better degradability of DM, FA and PCA than McLeod. The third study analyzed the correlation and regression between the original content of barley hull, FA, PCA, NDF, ADF, ADL and mean/median particle size in barley grain and rumen residual content of the corresponding parameters at 12 and 24 h of rumen incubation. Results showed that FA content in barley grain had a predominantly negative effect on DM degradability, while barley hull content affected the degradability of NDF and ADF. In summary, the present studies show that hull and FA content in barley grain have negative effects on the degradability of barley grain in ruminants and also showed that CDC Dolly could be an ideal feed barley grain for ruminants due to its lower hull and FA content and higher rumen dry matter degradability

SR-A ligand and M-CSF dynamically regulate SR-A expression and function in primary macrophages via p38 MAPK activation

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Inflammation is characterized by dynamic changes in the expression of cytokines, such as M-CSF, and modifications of lipids and proteins that result in the formation of ligands for Class A Scavenger Receptors (SR-A). These changes are associated with altered SR-A expression in macrophages; however, the intracellular signal pathways involved and the extent to which SR-A ligands regulate SR-A expression are not well defined. To address these questions, SR-A expression and function were examined in resident mouse peritoneal macrophages incubated with M-CSF or the selective SR-A ligand acetylated-LDL (AcLDL).</p> <p>Results</p> <p>M-CSF increased SR-A expression and function, and required the specific activation of p38 MAPK, but not ERK1/2 or JNK. Increased SR-A expression and function returned to basal levels 72 hours after removing M-CSF. We next determined whether prolonged incubation of macrophages with SR-A ligand alters SR-A expression. In contrast to most receptors, which are down-regulated by chronic exposure to ligand, SR-A expression was reversibly increased by incubating macrophages with AcLDL. AcLDL activated p38 in wild-type macrophages but not in SR-A-/- macrophages, and p38 activation was specifically required for AcLDL-induced SR-A expression.</p> <p>Conclusions</p> <p>These results demonstrate that in resident macrophages SR-A expression and function can be dynamically regulated by changes in the macrophage microenvironment that are typical of inflammatory processes. In particular, our results indicate a previously unrecognized role for ligand binding to SR-A in up-regulating SR-A expression and activating p38 MAPK. In this way, SR-A may modulate inflammatory responses by enhancing macrophage uptake of modified protein/lipid, bacteria, and cell debris; and by regulating the production of inflammatory cytokines, growth factors, and proteolytic enzymes.</p

MicroRNA expression distinguishes SCLC from NSCLC lung tumor cells and suggests a possible pathological relationship between SCLCs and NSCLCs

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Recent studies have shown that microRNAs (miRNAs) play roles in tumorigenesis and are reliable classifiers of certain cancer types and subtypes. However, the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis and diagnosis of small cell carcinoma (SCLC), the majority of which represent the most aggressive lung tumors, has not been investigated.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>In order to explore miRNA involvement in the pathogenesis of small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) and the potential role of miRNAs in SCLC diagnosis, we compared the miRNA expression profile of a set of SCLC cell lines to that of a set of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines and normal immortalized human bronchial epithelial cells (HBECs) using microarray analysis.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>Our results show that miRNA profiles reliably distinguish SCLC cell lines from NSCLC and HBEC cell lines. Further analysis of the miRNA expression profile of the two subtypes of lung cancer cell lines indicates that the expression levels of the majority of the miRNAs that are differentially expressed in SCLC cells relative to NSCLC cells and HBECs show a progressive trend from HBECs to NSCLC cells to SCLC cells.</p> <p>Conclusions</p> <p>The distinctive miRNA expression signature of SCLCs relative to NSCLCs and HBECs suggests that miRNA profiles have the potential to serve as a diagnostic marker of SCLC lung tumors. The progressive trend of miRNA profile changes from HBECs to NSCLCs to SCLCs suggests a possible pathological relationship between SCLCs and NSCLCs, and suggests that the increasing dysregulation of miRNA expression may play a role in lung tumor progression. The specific role of these miRNAs in lung tumor pathogenesis and differentiation need to be investigated further in future studies.</p

Advancing Urban Sustainability: The Integration of Cutting-Edge Water Treatment Technologies in Urban Planning and Industrial Engineering

Water treatment stands as a crucial element in industrial engineering and urban planning, essential for fostering sustainable urban environments. This article offers an insightful examination of cutting-edge water treatment technologies and their role in urban development. It comprehensively reviews various advanced methods, including membrane filtration, advanced oxidation processes, and biological treatments, and discusses their integration into urban infrastructure. The article not only delves into the technical advancements but also considers the environmental benefits of these technologies, such as reducing water pollution and enhancing water recycling efforts. It also touches upon the economic impacts, highlighting cost-effectiveness and contributions to sustainable urban growth. Central to the discussion is the significance of embedding these water treatment solutions into urban planning initiatives. The study emphasizes the need for a cohesive approach where environmental sustainability, urban design, and community health are interlinked. It advocates for urban development that aligns technological progress with ecological balance, urging policymakers and planners to prioritize advanced water treatment in their urban strategies. In conclusion, the article underscores the necessity of integrating state-of-the-art water treatment techniques in urban planning for a sustainable and resilient future. This exploration aims to encourage ongoing research and dialogue in sustainable urban development and efficient water management

Comparative safety and efficacy of percutaneous radiofrequency thermocoagulation and percutaneous balloon compression in CT-guided and local anesthesia for recurrent trigeminal neuralgia

BackgroundThere are several ways to treat trigeminal neuralgia (TN); however, TN may recur after treatment. Although microvascular decompression (MVD) is considered an effective treatment for trigeminal neuralgia, patients with recurrence may not be willing to undergo craniotomy.ObjectiveThis study compared the safety and efficacy of percutaneous radiofrequency thermocoagulation and percutaneous balloon compression for treating recurrent trigeminal neuralgia.MethodsThis was a prospective non-randomized controlled study. A total of 52 with recurrent TN were scheduled to undergo surgery in our Hospital from January–June 2021. The patients were classified into percutaneous radiofrequency thermocoagulation (PRT) and percutaneous balloon compression (PBC) groups based on the treatment. All surgeries were performed under computed tomography guidance and local anesthesia. Post-operative complications were also observed. Pain was assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS) and Barrow Neurological Institute (BNI) scale. Efficacy indices were evaluated at 3, 6, 12, and 18 months after surgery.ResultsDuring follow-up, the efficacy rates of the two methods within 18 months were 76.0 and 88.9%, respectively. All patients had hypoesthesia on the affected side, and no severe complications. Notably, 5 patients (20%) in the PRT group with multiple-branch pain, including the first branch of the trigeminal nerve (V1) pain in the PRT group, received radiofrequency therapy for the supraorbital notch (foramen) after puncture of the foramen ovale. However, multiple pain episodes resolved with only one operation in the PBC group.ConclusionCT-guided percutaneous radiofrequency thermocoagulation and percutaneous balloon compression under local anesthesia may be good options for treating recurrent trigeminal neuralgia. Percutaneous balloon compression may be recommended when multiple branches are involved, particularly in cases of V1 neuralgia

Biosynthesis of Gold Nanoparticles by Foliar Broths: Roles of Biocompounds and Other Attributes of the Extracts

Biosynthesis of nanoparticles has arisen as a promising alternative to conventional synthetic methodologies owing to its eco-friendly advantages, and the involved bioprotocol still needs further clarification. This research, for the first time from the standpoint of statistics, confirmed an electrostatic force or ionic bond-based interaction between the chloroauric ions and the involved bioconstituents and manifested that reducing sugars and flavonoids were both important reductants responsible for conversion of Au(III) to Au(0). The result also demonstrated that the proteins were not the reducing agents, yet they might be protection agents in biosynthesis of gold nanoparticles (GNPs). Besides, a significant linear relationship was found between the anti-oxidant ability of the foliar broths and their capability to reduce Au(III) into Au(0). Furthermore, the preliminary investigation based on the boxplot on the size/shape distribution of the biosynthesized GNPs revealed that gold nanospheres with higher degree of homogeneity in size tended to be promoted by foliar broths containing higher content of reducing sugars/flavonoids and proteins. Otherwise, i.e., for those broths with lower content of the above biocompounds, sphere GNPs of wider size distribution or even gold nanotriangles tended to be fabricated

Changes in Cervical Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Prevalence at a Youth Clinic in Stockholm, Sweden, a Decade After the Introduction of the HPV Vaccine

Aim: This study aimed to follow the impact of human papillomavirus (HPV) catch-up and vaccination on the very high cervical HPV-prevalence in women at a youth clinic in central Stockholm during the period 2008–2018.Background: 2008–2010, cervical HPV-prevalence (69.5%) and HPV16 prevalence (34.7%) were high in non-vaccinated women at a youth clinic in Stockholm. 2013–2015, after the introduction of the quadrivalent-Gardasil® HPV-vaccine, HPV16 and HPV6 prevalence had decreased. Here, cervical HPV-prevalence was investigated 10 years after primary sampling.Material and Methods: 2017–2018, 178 cervical swabs, from women aged 15–23 years old, were tested for 27 HPV types by a bead-based multiplex method. HPV-prevalence data were then related to vaccination status and age and compared to HPV-prevalence in 615 samples from 2008 to 2010 and 338 samples from 2013 to 2015 from the same clinic, and to HPV types in 143 cervical cancer cases during 2003–2008 in Stockholm.Results: The proportion of vaccinated women increased from 10.7% (2008–2010) to 82.1% (2017–2018). The prevalence of all 27 HPVs, all high-risk HPVs (HR-HPVs) and the combined presence of the quadrivalent-Gardasil® types HPV16, 18, 6, and 11, was lower in vaccinated compared to unvaccinated women (67.4 vs. 93.3%, p = 0.0031, 60.1 vs. 86.7%, p = 0.0057 and 5.8 vs. 26.7%, p = 0.002, respectively). Furthermore, HPV16 prevalence in non-vaccinated women 2017–2018 was lower than that in 2008–2010 (16.7 and 34.7%, respectively, p = 0.0471) and similar trends were observed for HPV18 and 11. In both vaccinated and non-vaccinated women, the most common non-quadrivalent-Gardasil® vaccine HR-HPV types were HPV39, 51, 52, 56, and 59. Together they accounted for around 9.8% of cervical cancer cases in Stockholm during 2003–2008, and their prevalence tended to have increased during 2017–2018 compared to 2008–2010.Conclusion: Quadrivalent-Gardasil® vaccination has decreased HPV-vaccine type prevalence significantly. However, non-vaccine HR-HPV types remain high in potentially high-risk women at a youth clinic in Stockholm

miR-337-3p and Its Targets STAT3 and RAP1A Modulate Taxane Sensitivity in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancers

NSCLC (non-small cell lung cancer) often exhibits resistance to paclitaxel treatment. Identifying the elements regulating paclitaxel response will advance efforts to overcome such resistance in NSCLC therapy. Using in vitro approaches, we demonstrated that over-expression of the microRNA miR-337-3p sensitizes NCI-H1155 cells to paclitaxel, and that miR-337-3p mimic has a general effect on paclitaxel response in NSCLC cell lines, which may provide a novel adjuvant strategy to paclitaxel in the treatment of lung cancer. By combining in vitro and in silico approaches, we identified STAT3 and RAP1A as direct targets that mediate the effect of miR-337-3p on paclitaxel sensitivity. Further investigation showed that miR-337-3p mimic also sensitizes cells to docetaxel, another member of the taxane family, and that STAT3 levels are significantly correlated with taxane resistance in lung cancer cell lines, suggesting that endogenous STAT3 expression is a determinant of intrinsic taxane resistance in lung cancer. The identification of a miR-337-3p as a modulator of cellular response to taxanes, and STAT3 and RAP1A as regulatory targets which mediate that response, defines a novel regulatory pathway modulating paclitaxel sensitivity in lung cancer cells, which may provide novel adjuvant strategies along with paclitaxel in the treatment of lung cancer and may also provide biomarkers for predicting paclitaxel response in NSCLC

Data of pyrophosphate release, ATP-induced fluorescence and thiol depletion for DltA in Bacillus cereus

<p>Data file 1<br>A phosphate accumulation assay is shown: rate dependence on ATP concentration (repeats both with 5 mM CoA and mM D-Ala).<br>Data file 2<br>A phosphate accumulation assay is shown: rate dependence on ATP concentration (repeats both without CoA but with 5 mM D-Ala).<br>Data file 3<br>Data of fluorescence gain versus ATP concentration are shown (relative fluorescence gain for 4 repeats). The excitation wavelength was 305 nm. The emission wavelength was 345 nm.<br>Data file 4<br>A phosphate accumulation assay is shown for the wild type BcDltA: rate versus [Alanine] in the absence of CoA, + 5 mM ATP.<br>Data file 5<br>A phosphate accumulation assay is shown for the mutant C269ABcDltA: rate versus [Alanine] in the absence of CoA, + 5 mM ATP.<br>Data file 6<br>A phosphate accumulation assay is shown for the wild type BcDltA: rate [Alanine] in the presence of 5 mM CoA, + 5 mM ATP. These data were generated with a different batch of protein at a very high L-Ala concentration.<br>Data file 7<br>A thiol depletion assay is shown for the wild type BcDltA: rate versus [Alanine] in the presence of 5 mM CoA, + 5 mM ATP.<br>Data file 8<br>A thiol depletion assay is shown the mutant C269ABcDltA: rate versus [Alanine] in the presence of 5 mM CoA, + 5 mM ATP</p