Search Results (4,771)

Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors play a critical role in the management of type 2 diabetes; however, some synthetic drugs may cause adverse effects. Natural peptides derived from rice offer a promising alternative due to their favorable biocompatibility and development potential. In this study, an AI-assisted virtual screening pipeline integrating machine learning, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations was established to identify and evaluate rice-derived DPP-4 inhibitory peptides. A random forest classification model achieved 85.37% accuracy in predicting inhibitory activity. Peptides generated by simulated enzymatic hydrolysis were screened based on machine learning and docking scores, and four proline-rich peptides (PPPPPPPPA, PPPSPPPV, PPPPPY, and CPPPPAAY) were selected for MD analysis. The simulation results showed that PPPSPPPV formed a stable complex with the DPP-4 catalytic triad (Ser592–Asp670–His702) through electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions, with low structural fluctuation (RMSF < 1.75 Å). In vitro assays revealed that PPPPPY exhibited the strongest DPP-4 inhibitory activity (IC₅₀ = 153.2 ± 5.7 μM), followed by PPPPPPPPA (177.0 ± 6.0 μM) and PPPSPPPV (216.3 ± 4.5 μM). This study presents an efficient approach combining virtual screening and experimental validation, offering a structural and mechanistic foundation for the development of natural DPP-4 inhibitory peptides as candidates for functional foods or adjunct diabetes therapies. Full article

Using a relatively inexpensive method, phenol–cresol–formaldehyde resin (PhCR-F) was produced utilizing the byproducts of coal coking. It is shown that petroleum road bitumens, to which 1.0 wt.% PhCR-F is added, in terms of basic physical and mechanical parameters, comply with the requirements of the regulatory document for bitumens modified with adhesive additives. Research on the operational properties of these modified bitumens as a binding material for asphalt concrete is described. It has been proven that modified bitumen can store stable properties during its application (resistance to aging). The interaction of bitumens modified by PhCR-F with the surfaces of mineral materials, which occurs during the creation of asphalt concrete coatings, was studied. It was shown that adding 1.0 wt.% PhCR-F to road bitumen significantly improves the adhesion of the binder to the mineral material and increases the hydrophobicity of such a coating. The production of effective bitumen modifiers from non-target coking products of coal will not only make it possible to use new resources in road construction but will also increase the depth of decarbonization of the coking industry. Full article

Background: Hyperuricemia (HUA) is a widespread metabolic disorder that arises from disruptions in purine metabolism, impaired kidney function, or both conditions. FPAW (Phe-Pro-Ala-Trp) is a novel peptide identified from Trachinotus ovatus with great XOD (xanthine oxidase) inhibitory activity (IC₅₀ = 3.81 mM), which can be developed as a potential active ingredient to relieve hyperuricemia. However, it remains unclear whether FPAW alleviates HUA in vivo or not. Methods: In this study, potassium-oxonate-induced hyperuricemic mice were used to evaluate the in vivo anti-hyperuricemic activity of FPAW. Some physiological parameters, such as serum uric acid (SUA), serum creatinine (SCR), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and the activity of XOD and ADA (adenosine deaminase) in the liver were determined to evaluate the effect of reduced uric acid. The modulations in the gut microbiota and its metabolites (SCFAs) were analyzed by sequencing the V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene and GC-MS in different fecal samples. Molecular docking was used to predict the interactions between the enzymes and FPAW. Results: The results showed that FPAW reduced the levels of serum uric acid, serum creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen, while also suppressing the activity of XOD in the livers of HUA mice. Moreover, the FPAW treatment alleviated gut microbiota dysfunction and increased the production of short-chain fatty acids to protect normal intestinal function and health of the host. Molecular docking simulations revealed that FPAW inhibited XOD activity by entering the hydrophobic channel and interacting with amino acid residues on the surface via hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions. Conclusions: This study provides new candidates for the development of hypouricemic drugs. FPAW exhibited great potential to relieve hyperuricemia of mice induced by diet in the animal experiment. Full article

Background: To enhance the bioavailability and neuroprotective efficacy of biatractylolide against Alzheimer’s disease by developing a novel Tween-80-modified pullulan–chenodeoxycholic acid nanoparticle as a delivery vehicle. Methods: Chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) was chemically conjugated to pullulan to yield hydrophobically modified pullulan (PUC), onto which polysorbate 80 (Tween-80) was subsequently adsorbed. The PUC polymers with CDCA substitution levels were analyzed by ¹H NMR spectroscopy. Nanoparticles were fabricated via the dialysis method and characterized by transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering for morphology, size, and surface charge. In vitro neuroprotection was assessed by exposing SH-SY5Y and PC12 cells to 20 µM Aβ_25-35 to induce cytotoxicity, followed by pretreatment with biatractylolide-loaded PUC (BD-PUC) nanoparticle solutions at various biatractylolide concentrations. The in vivo brain-targeting capability of both empty PUC and BD-PUC particles was evaluated using a live imaging system. Results: The ¹H NMR analysis confirmed three distinct CDCA substitution degrees (8.97%, 10.66%, 13.92%). Transmission electron microscopy revealed uniformly dispersed, spherical nanoparticles. Dynamic light scattering measurements showed a hydrodynamic diameter of ~200 nm and a negative zeta potential. Exposure to 20 µM Aβ_25-35 significantly reduced SH-SY5Y and PC12 cell viability; pretreatment with BD-PUC nanoparticles markedly enhanced cell survival rates and preserved cellular morphology compared to cells treated with free biatractylolide. Notably, the cytoprotective effect of BD-PUC exceeded that of the free drug. In vivo imaging demonstrated that both empty PUC and Tween-80-adsorbed BD-PUC nanoparticles effectively accumulated in the brain. Conclusions: The protective effect of BD-PUC on SH-SY5Y and PC12 cells induced by Aβ_25-35 was higher than free biatractylolide solution, and the BD-PUC nanosolution modified with Tween-80 showed a brain-targeting effect. Full article

In poultry production, antibiotics have been excessively used as growth promoters to support well-being and decrease mortality caused by pathogenic microorganisms. The overuse of antibiotics has led to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and the presence of antibiotic residues in poultry products. To counteract this problem, probiotics could be used as adjuncts or as substitutes for preserving a diverse and balanced microflora to prevent the colonization and multiplication of pathogenic bacteria in the GI tract. This study aimed to isolate and characterize the potential probiotic properties of lactic acid bacteria from the small intestine of 23-week-old broiler breeders, with the goal of identifying potential probiotic candidates. Four phenotypically healthy broiler breeders were selected, and intestinal contents were aseptically collected and cultured on MRS agar. From the initial pool of 39 colonies, six isolates were identified based on Gram-positive and catalase-negative characteristics and further classified using 16S rRNA sequencing as Levilactobacillus brevis (n = 3), Pediococcus pentosaceus (n = 2), and Streptococcus salivarius (n = 1). These strains were further evaluated for probiotic properties such as transit resistance to simulated upper gastrointestinal conditions, antagonist activity, haemolytic activity, and cell surface properties such as autoaggregation, co-aggregation and hydrophobicity, in vitro. L. brevis NKFS8 showed good tolerance to pH 3, while P. pentosaceus NKSF10 exhibited good tolerance to pH 4 acidic conditions. All isolates demonstrated good survivability in bile salt concentration of 3% (w/v), with P. pentosaceus NKSF10 exhibiting the highest tolerance. The isolates showed a wide range of antagonistic activity against the test pathogens Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853), Salmonella typhimurium, Salmonella enterica (ATCC 13314), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 29213), and Listeria monocytogenes (ATCC 7644). Furthermore, these strains exhibited good auto-aggregation, co-aggregation, and hydrophobicity properties. In conclusion, lactic acid bacteria from the small intestine of broiler breeders present a valuable prospect for the development of effective probiotics. These probiotics can be utilized as a supplementary inclusion in poultry feed, obviating the need for antibiotics as growth promoters. Nevertheless, additional in vivo studies are required to closely monitor and assess the effects of probiotics on the gastrointestinal system of chickens. Full article

Liposome-based drug delivery systems have revolutionized modern pharmaceutics, offering unparalleled versatility and precision in therapeutic delivery. These lipid vesicles, capable of encapsulating hydrophilic, hydrophobic, and amphiphilic drugs, have demonstrated significant potential in addressing pharmacokinetic challenges such as poor solubility, systemic toxicity, and rapid clearance. This review provides a comprehensive exploration of the evolution of liposomes from laboratory models to clinically approved therapeutics, highlighting their structural adaptability, functional tunability, and transformative impact on modern medicine. We discuss pivotal laboratory-scale preparation techniques, including thin-film hydration, ethanol injection, and reverse-phase evaporation, along with their inherent advantages and limitations. The challenges of transitioning to industrial-scale production are examined, with emphasis on achieving batch-to-batch consistency, scalability, regulatory compliance, and cost-effectiveness. Innovative strategies, such as the incorporation of microfluidic systems and advanced process optimization, are explored to address these hurdles. The clinical success of Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved liposomal formulations such as Doxil^® and AmBisome^® underscores their efficacy in treating conditions ranging from cancer to fungal infections. Furthermore, this review delves into emerging trends, including stimuli-responsive and hybrid liposomes, as well as their integration with nanotechnology for enhanced therapeutic precision. As liposomes continue to expand their role in gene therapy, theranostics, and personalized medicine, this review highlights their potential to redefine pharmaceutical applications. Despite existing challenges, ongoing advancements in formulation techniques and scalability underscore the bright future of liposome-based therapeutics in addressing unmet medical needs. Full article

Sulfurization-assisted flotation is a key process that uses sulfur compounds to modify mineral surfaces, enhancing hydrophobicity and flotation efficiency, especially for copper oxide minerals. This study introduced the preliminary activation of malachite utilizing a combination of Pb²⁺ and NH₄⁺ ions in sulfurization systems, significantly improving flotation recovery. Flotation tests and surface analysis techniques were employed to examine the effects of Pb²⁺ and NH₄⁺ ions on malachite’s flotation behavior and the stability of its sulfurized surface layer. The results showed that, after activation with Pb²⁺ and NH₄⁺ at optimal reagent concentrations, malachite’s flotation recovery reached 94.6%, compared to 68.13% with traditional sulfurization. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) revealed significant changes in malachite’s surface morphology, with a dense, cloud-like sulfide film forming that contained more sulfur than in direct sulfurization, enhancing the durability of the sulfurized surface. Time-of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) analysis confirmed increased sulfide ion adsorption on the surface compared to traditional sulfurization. The Pb²⁺ + (NH₄)₂S + Na₂S system generated numerous active sites from copper-sulfide species, promoting the growth of sulfurized phases. FT-IR analysis showed stable Cu-S species on the malachite surface, improving SBX adsorption and flotation performance. Contact angle measurements indicated that the activation systems significantly improved surface hydrophobicity, with the copper-sulfide film achieving a contact angle of 95.29°, demonstrating superior durability and mineral recovery compared to traditional sulfurization. Thus, the activation of Pb²⁺ and NH₄⁺ ions offers a promising solution for sulfurization-assisted flotation, enabling more efficient and sustainable recovery of malachite ore, with improved sulfide layer durability and enhanced hydrophobicity. Full article

In this study, a composite substrate with adjustable dielectric properties was prepared, and its promising application in wearable medical device antennas was demonstrated. 3-Methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (KH570) was used to modify titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nano-powder, and the modified powder was blended with a mixture of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) under the action of anhydrous ethanol. The resulting polymer material had the advantages of hydrophobicity, softness, low loss, and a high dielectric constant. Meanwhile, the effects of the KH570 mass fraction on the microstructure and dielectric properties of TiO₂-PTFE-PDMS composites were investigated, and the results showed that when the mass fraction was 5%, the composites exhibited better dielectric properties in the range of 2–12 GHz. Finally, an ultra-wideband antenna with an operating frequency band in the range of 2.37–11.66 GHz was prepared based on this composite substrate. The antenna demonstrated significant potential for future applications in detecting environmental thermal changes due to its special temperature-sensitive linear frequency shift characteristics, and its effect on the human body under bending conditions was studied. In addition, specific absorption rate (SAR) measurements were performed to assess the effects of antenna radiation on the human body in practical applications. Full article

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) cause irreversible damage to cancer cell DNA, RNA, mitochondria, and antioxidant defense systems, leading to apoptosis. Plasma-induced disruption of the antioxidant defense system of cancer cells by cystine uptake via xC⁻ antiporter has been widely studied, while folate uptake by cancer cells via high expression of hSLC19A1, which generates Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate (NADPH) via one-carbon metabolism, is also an important component of the antioxidant defense mechanism of cancer cells. Disrupting folate transport in cancer cells is an important potential pathway for synergizing with pemetrexed (PMX) to induce apoptosis in cancer cells, which is of great research value. In this paper, classical molecular dynamics simulations were employed to study the effect of plasma oxidation of hSLC19A1 on the uptake of 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF), which is the predominant dietary and circulatory folate, and the antifolate chemotherapeutic agent PMX by cancer cells. The results showed that the channel radius of hSLC19A1 for transporting 5MTHF after oxidation became narrower and the conformation tended to be closed, which was unfavorable for the transport of 5-MTHF; hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions between hSLC19A1 and 5-MTHF decreased, the predicted docking affinity decreased, and the binding energy decreased from −28.023 kcal/mol to −16.866 kcal/mol, while that with PMX was stable around −28 kcal/mol, suggesting that the oxidative modification reduced the binding capacity of hSLC19A1 and 5-MTHF while barely affecting the transport of PMX, which contributed to weakening the antioxidant defense system of cancer cells and synergizing with PMX to induce apoptosis in cancer cells. Our simulations provide theoretical insights for CAP-induced apoptosis in cancer cells at the microscopic level and help promote the further development of cold atmospheric plasma in the field of cancer therapy. Full article

Background: Pleurotus salmoneostramineus is acknowledged as a reliable source of high-quality protein, with its protein concentrates, hydrolysates, and peptides potentially offering health benefits to humans. However, studies validating the medicinal effects of P. salmoneostramineus proteins, particularly the pink chromoprotein, are currently absent. Methods: This study explores anticancer peptides from the chromoprotein of P. salmoneostramineus, evaluating their ability to bind UCP2 via in silico analysis. Additionally, it assesses the protein hydrolysate from P. salmoneostramineus (PSPs) effect on HepG2 cell proliferation and mitochondrial metabolism, focusing on uncoupling protein activity. Results: Eight peptides were identified as potential UCP2 inhibitors. According to mACPpred2.0 and CSM-peptides servers, the peptides TSMQSSL, QEGQKL, SEDSGEA, and GRNSL exhibit promising anticancer properties. These anticancer peptides yielded the following docking scores (kcal/mol) when tested against UCP2: TSMQSSL (−166.75), QEGQKL (−126.06), SEDSGEA (−99.93), and GRNSL (−137.93). Molecular dynamics simulations have shown that the peptides establish stable interactions with UCP2 through salt bridges, hydrophobic interactions, and hydrogen bonds, implying that hydrogen bonding with RRR88 and FVW92 causes conformational changes in UCP2. Moreover, the outcomes of this study indicated that PSPs possess an antiproliferative effect on HepG2 cells and lower mitochondrial bioenergetics, especially UCP2 activity. Conclusions: These findings suggest that peptides from P.salmoneostramineus can inhibit UCP2, offering a promising approach for cancer prevention, playing therapeutic roles in treatment, and providing a basis for designing peptide-based cancer therapies. Full article

Photothermal therapy (PTT) is a promising approach for cancer treatment that has minimal side effects. It locally heats tumors using agents that convert near-infrared (NIR) light energy into heat. We previously reported that the NIR-absorbing hydrophobic diradical-platinum(II) complex PtL₂ (L = 3,5-dibromo-1,2-diiminobenzosemiquinonato radical) can kill cancer cells through its photothermal conversion ability. In this study, we developed PtL₂-loading nanoparticles (PtL₂@RNPs) for the delivery of the complex to tumors based on the enhanced permeability and retention effect using an amphiphilic block copolymer that can scavenge reactive oxygen species. PtL₂@RNPs exhibited particle diameters of 20–30 nm, an encapsulation efficiency exceeding 90%, and loading capacities of up to 12%. Under NIR laser irradiation, PtL₂@RNPs stably generated heat with almost 100% photothermal conversion efficiency. Although the particles were not modified for cancer cell targeting, their uptake by cancer cells was approximately double that by normal cells. PtL₂@RNPs exhibited NIR absorption and effectively killed cancer cells at a low irradiation power (0.15 W). Normal cells treated with PtL₂@RNPs remained largely undamaged under identical irradiation conditions, demonstrating a cancer-cell-specific photothermal killing effect. These findings can provide insights for future basic studies on cancer cells and the development of effective cancer treatment modalities. Full article

Wood-based membranes have garnered increasing attention due to their structural advantages and durability in the efficient treatment of oily kitchen wastewater. However, conventional fabrication methods often rely on toxic chemicals or synthetic processes, generating secondary pollutants and suffering from fouling, which reduces performance and increases resource loss. In this study, an innovative bilayer membrane was developed from balsa wood by combining a hydrophilic longitudinal layer for water transport with a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-impregnated carbonized transverse layer to enhance hydrophobicity, resulting in increased separation efficiency and a reduction in fouling by 98.38%. The results show a high permeation flux of 1176.86 Lm^–2 h^–1 and a separation efficiency of 98.60%, maintaining low fouling resistance (<3%) over 20 cycles. Mechanical tests revealed a tensile strength of 10.92 MPa and a fracture elongation of 10.42%, ensuring robust mechanical properties. Wettability measurements indicate a 144° contact angle and a 7° sliding angle with water on the carbonized side, and a 163.7° contact angle with oil underwater and a 5° sliding angle on the hydrophilic side, demonstrating excellent selective wettability. This study demonstrates the potential of carbonized wood-based membranes as a sustainable, effective alternative for large-scale wastewater treatment. Full article

With the widespread use of plastic products globally, the issue of microplastics as environmental pollutants has become increasingly severe. Due to their small size, large surface area, and hydrophobic properties, microplastics are capable of adsorbing various pollutants, particularly radionuclides, which, in turn, can impact the stability of ecosystems. This laboratory study investigates the adsorption capacity of microplastics (PVC) for radionuclides (Ra-226, Cs-137, and K-40) under controlled conditions, examining the effects of spatial distribution and particle size. The laboratory experiment results indicate that the adsorption of Ra-226 by microplastics was significantly higher in the bottom water compared to the surface layer, with concentrations of 13.29 mBq/kg on microplastics mixed with the bottom water and 1.65 mBq/kg in the surface layer. The concentration of Cs-137 on microplastics mixed with the bottom water was 6.99 mBq/kg, while on microplastics mixed with the surface water, the concentration was 1.31 mBq/kg. In contrast, the adsorption of K-40 was lower, with concentrations of 2.1 mBq/kg and 0.35 mBq/kg on microplastics mixed with the bottom and surface water, respectively. Furthermore, microplastics with smaller particle sizes exhibited stronger adsorption capacities. The adsorption concentrations of Ra-226 and Cs-137 by 50 µm microplastics were 13.29 mBq/kg and 6.99 mBq/kg, respectively, while the concentrations for 100 µm and 150 µm particles decreased to 3.14 mBq/kg and 1.39 mBq/kg, and 2.2 mBq/kg and 0.35 mBq/kg, respectively. These findings suggest that the adsorption capacity of microplastics is significantly influenced by particle size and sediment depth, highlighting the potential risk of exacerbating the spread of radioactive pollutants in marine ecosystems. Full article

This study tested the effectiveness of a bifunctional polysiloxane (L43) as a means of protecting concrete surfaces from biocorrosion. L43 was designed to contain two types of functional groups in its structure: surface-active hydrophobic chains and hydrophilic groups that allow the coating to permanently bond to the concrete. L43-coated cement samples achieved compressive strengths exceeding 70 MPa, while samples subjected to cyclic freeze–thaw tests achieved compressive strengths exceeding 33 MPa. In addition, compound L43 at a concentration of 5% reduced the photosynthetic activity of microalgae cells on the concrete surface. The maximum value of chlFI decreased by 69.5%, while the average value decreased by 71.4%. Thus, it was proven that compound L43 effectively counteracts biological corrosion without deteriorating the structure of the impregnated substrate. It should be emphasized that the biocidal effect is due to the structure of the siloxane compound and appropriately selected functional groups. There is no need to add harmful biocides, making the solution environmentally friendly. In addition, the coating allows for free air circulation, which is crucial for the protection of building and construction materials. Full article

Various pretreatment methods, often employed in wood biorefineries, aim to disrupt the wood architecture, thereby enhancing the efficiency of hemicellulose extraction for increasing the production of bio-ethanol, bio-gas, and bio-oil, as well as improving the pulping process. Pretreatment for the pulping process has advantages such as enhanced yield in biorefined products and reducing chemicals and energy consumption. This study examined the effect of an alkaline hydrolysis of birch sawdust on the chemical composition, aggregation ability, and surface activity of soda lignin obtained by soda pulping. The alkaline hydrolysis of birch sawdust led to a remarkable removal of hemicellulose and reduced its mechanical strength. The resorption of lignin fragments on the lignocellulosic matrix during the hydrolysis was observed. The soda pulping of the original and the treated sawdust was carried out under laboratory conditions at 165 °C for 90 min, using 4.5% sodium hydroxide. A higher yield of soda lignin and pulp was obtained from the treated sawdust. The reduced content of acidic and methoxyl groups in the chemical composition of the soda lignin from the hydrolyzed sawdust was explained by the predominance of polycondensation reactions in forming its primary structure. The changes in size and zeta potential values of the formed lignin particles, as well as in the modality of the size distribution with decreasing pH, were studied. The early-proposed suggestion about the existence of structural complementarity in the formation of the ordered lignin supermolecular structures has been testified. The higher surface activity at the air–water interface for the soda lignin extracted from the hydrolyzed sawdust, compared to the lignin from the original residue, was mainly attributed to a lower content of the acidic groups in its chemical composition, shifting the hydrophilic–hydrophobic balance of its structure toward hydrophobicity. Full article