Development and functionalization of electrospun fiber coated thin film microextraction devices for rapid mass spectrometric determination of biologically important polar molecules

Rapid diagnosis of diseases is one of the challenging areas in clinical research. From the analytical chemist's perspective, the main challenges are isolating the compounds from the bio-specimen and lengthy analysis times. In this regard, solid phase microextraction offers a platform to address the abovementioned challenges. Moreover, its sharp tip-thin film geometry, known as coated blade spray (CBS), can enhance the extraction and act as an ionization source in direct mass spectrometric analysis. In this study, a new CBS device specifically designed for polar analytes was prepared and optimized to determine urinary metabolites. For this purpose, polyacrylonitrile (PAN) was selected as a base polymer as it can be electrospun to form a nanofibrous structure, and it can be modified with weak ion exchange moieties to interact with polar analytes. Following the electrospinning of PAN, hydrolysis was optimized, and conditions leading to sufficient extraction enhancement without dissolving the polymer were obtained when probes were treated with 5.0 M of NaOH for 2.5 h. Using the coated blades prepared as explained, the evaluation of various extraction conditions showed that 5 min is sufficient for equilibrium extraction. In addition, the solution's ionic strength and pH significantly affect the extraction. Optimum sorption was obtained at no salt added and pH 7.0 conditions. The CBS-MS optimization showed that 10.0 µL of ACN/MeOH/H2O (40:40:20, v/v/v) with formic acid kept for 15 seconds on the blade before voltage application leads to the highest signal. The limits of quantification of the analytes are between 50 and 100 ng/mL.

Exploring metabolic alterations in PYCR2 deficiency: Unveiling pathways and clinical presentations of hypomyelinating leukodystrophy 10

Proline-5-carboxylate reductase 2, encoded by PYCR2 gene, is an enzyme that catalyzes the last step of proline synthesis from pyrroline-5-carboxylate synthetase to proline. PYCR2 gene defect causes hypomyelinating leukodystrophy 10. Up until now, to our knowledge around 38 patients with PYCR2 defect have been reported. Herein, we describe clinical, neuroradiological, biochemical findings, and metabolomic profiling of three new genetically related cases of PYCR2 defects from a large family. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) amino acid levels were measured and untargeted metabolomic profiling of plasma and CSF were conducted and evaluated together with the clinical findings in the patients. While plasma and CSF proline levels were found to be totally normal, untargeted metabolomic profiling revealed mild increases of glutamate, alpha-ketoglutarate, and l-glutamate semialdehyde and marked increases of inosine and xanthine. Our findings and all the previous reports suggest that proline auxotrophy is not the central disease mechanism. Untargeted metabolomics point to mild changes in proline pathway and also in purine/pyrimidine pathway.

In vitro study on the competitive reactions between arsenite and selenite with glutathione

Exposure to arsenic can cause various biological effects by increasing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Selenium acts as a beneficial element by regulating ROS and limiting heavy metal uptake and translocation. There are studies on the interactive effects of As and Se in plants, but the antagonistic and synergistic effects of these elements based on their binding to glutathione (GSH) molecules have not been studied yet. In this study, we aimed to investigate the antagonistic or synergistic effects of As and Se on the binding mechanism of Se and As with GSH at pH 3.0, 5.0, or 6.5. The interaction of As and Se in Se(SG)2 + As(III) or As(SG)3 + Se(IV) binary systems and As(III) + Se(IV) + GSH ternary system were examined depending on their ratios via liquid chromatography diode array detector/electrospray mass spectrometry (LC-DAD/MS) and liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS). The results showed that the formation of As(GS)3 was not detected in the As(III) + Se(SG)2 binary system, indicating that As(III) did not affect the stability of Se(SG)2 complex antagonistically. However, in the Se(IV) + As(SG)3 binary system, the addition of Se(IV) to As(SG)3 affected the stability of As(SG)3 antagonistically. Se(IV) reacted with GSH, disrupting the As(SG)3 complex, and consequently, Se(SG)2 formation was measured using LC-MS/DAD. In the Se(IV) + GSH + As(III) ternary system, Se(SG)2 formation was detected upon mixing As(III), Se(IV), and GSH. The increase in the concentration of As(III) did not influence the stability of the Se(SG)2 complex. Additionally, Se(IV) has a higher affinity than As(III) to the GSH, regardless of the pH of the solution. In both binary and ternary systems, the formation of the by-product glutathione trisulfide (GSSSG) was detected using LC-ESI-MS/MS.

Manipulating macrophage polarization with nanoparticles to control metastatic behavior in heterotypic breast cancer micro-tissues via exosome signaling

This study aimed to investigate the effects of nanoparticles on macrophage polarization and their subsequent influence on post-tumorigenic behavior. Initially, seven different nanoparticles were applied to macrophages, and Zn-Ni-FeO (100 nm) and palladium nanoparticles (PdNPs, ∼25 nm) were found to induce M1-polarization in macrophages. A co-culture experiment was then conducted to examine the effects of macrophages on MCF-7 breast cancer micro-tissues. The M2-macrophages promoted tumor proliferation, while M1- and PdNPs-induced macrophages showed anti-tumor effects by suppressing cell proliferation. To reveal the mechanisms of effect, exosomes isolated from M1 (M1-Exo), M0 (M0-Exo), M2 (M2-Exo), and PdNPs-induced (PdNPs-Exo) macrophages were applied to the heterotypic tumor micro-tissues including MCF-7, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), and primary human dermal fibroblasts (phDFs). M2-Exo was seen to promote the migration of cancer cells and induce epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), while M1-Exo suppressed these behaviors. PdNPs-Exo was effective in suppressing the aggressive nature of breast cancer cells similar to M1-Exo, moreover, the efficacy of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) was increased in combination with PdNPs-Exo in both MCF-7 and heterotypic micro-tissues. In conclusion, PdNPs-Exo has potential anti-tumor effects, can be used as a combination therapy to enhance the efficacy of anti-cancer drugs, as well as innovative implants for breast cancer treatment.

Composition characterization of various viperidae snake venoms using MS-based proteomics N-glycoproteomics and N-glycomics

Viperidae snake species is widely abundant and responsible for most envenomation cases in Turkey. The structural and compositional profiles of snake venom have been investigated to study the venom component variation across different species and to profile the venom biological activity variation against prey. In this context, we used proteomics, glycoproteomics and glycomics strategies to characterize the protein, glycoproteins and glycan structural and compositional profiles of various snake venoms in the Viperidae family. Moreover, we compared these profiles using the downstream bioinformatics and machine learning classification modules. The overall mass spectrometry profiles identified 144 different proteins, 36 glycoproteins and 78 distinct N-glycan structures varying in composition across the five venoms. A high amount of the characterized proteins belongs to the glycosylated protein family Trypsin-like serine protease (Tryp_SPc), Disintegrin (DISIN), and ADAM Cysteine-Rich (ACR). Most identified N-glycans have a complex chain carrying galactosylated N-glycans abundantly. The glycan composition data obtained from glycoproteomics aligns consistently with the findings from glycomics. The clustering and principal component analyses (PCA) illustrated the composition-based similarities and differences between each snake venom species' proteome, glycoproteome and glycan profiles. Specifically, the N-glycan profiles of M. xanthina (Mx) and V. a. ammodytes (Vaa) venoms were identical and difficult to differentiate; in contrast, their proteome profiles were distinct. Interestingly, the variety of the proteins across the species highlighted the impact of glycosylation on the diversity of the glycosylated protein families. This proposed high throughput approach provides accurate and comprehensive profiles of the composition and function of various Viperidae snake venoms.

Ocular pharmacokinetics and toxicity of nanoparticular acetazolamide: In vivo distribution and safety of PHBV-ACZ nanoparticle

Diabetic macular edema (DME) is defined as fluid accumulation in the macular region, between the retinal layers, due to many diseases, especially diabetes. DME is one of the major complications of diabetic retinopathy (DRP). Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (CAI) are a pharmaceutical agent used in different fields, especially glaucoma treatment. Acetazolamide (ACZ), which is a CAI, is an active substance that has been used off-label for many years in the treatment of macular edema due to diabetes and many other diseases. The low solubility and bioavailability of ACZ limit its use in the treatment of DME. In this study, a nanoparticulate formulation was developed that would increase the solubility and bioavailability of ACZ and allow it to be administered intravitreally. ACZ was loaded on poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-Hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) nanoparticles and the loading efficiency was 71.58 ± 1.22%. Toxicity of nanoparticles after intravitreal application was evaluated with anterior segment and posterior segment examination findings, intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements and electrophysiological tests. At the end of the 3-month follow-up, electroretinography (ERG) measurements demonstrated that ACZ loaded PHBV (PHBV-ACZ) nanoparticles did not cause loss of function in retinal cells. On histological examination, rare degenerative changes were observed in several cell groups. In addition, pharmacokinetic studies were performed to determine the tissue distribution of ACZ at various periods. ACZ was identified in vitreous humor and retina at the highest concentration. Based on our results, the prepared nanoparticle formulation can release long-term CAI for DRP therapy and accordingly can reduce the need for monthly intravitreal injections.

ESI-IM-MS characterization of cyclodextrin complexes and their chemically cross-linked alpha (α-), beta (β-) and gamma (γ-) cyclodextrin particles as promising drug delivery materials with improved bioavailability

Cyclodextrins (CDs) are natural cyclic oligosaccharides with a relatively hydrophobic cavity and a hydrophilic outer surface. In this study, alpha (α-), beta (β-) and gamma (γ-) CD particles were prepared by directly using α-, β-, and γ-CDs as monomeric units and divinyl sulfone (DVS) as a crosslinker in a single-step via reverse micelle microemulsion crosslinking technique. Particles of p(α-CD), p(β-CD), and p(γ-CD) were perfectly spherical in sub- 10 µm size ranges. The prepared p(CD) particles at 1.0 mg/mL concentrations were found biocompatible with > 95 % cell viability against L929 fibroblasts. Furthermore, p(α-CD) and p(β-CD) particles were found non-hemolytic with < 2 % hemolysis ratios, whereas p(γ-CD) particles were found to be slightly hemolytic with its 2.1 ± 0.4 % hemolysis ratio at 1.0 mg/mL concentration. Furthermore, a toxic compound, Bisphenol A (BPA) and a highly antioxidant polyphenol, curcumin (CUR) complexation with α-, β-, and γ-CD molecules was investigated via Electrospray-Ion Mobility-Mass Spectrometry (ESI-IM-MS) and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) analysis. It was determined that the most stable noncovalent complex was in the case of β-CD, but the complex stoichiometry was changed by the hydrophobic nature of the guest molecules. In addition, BPA and CUR were separately loaded into prepared p(CD) particles as active agents. The drug loading and release studies showed that p(CD) particles possess governable loading and releasing profiles.

Utilizing linkage-specific ethyl-esterification approach to perform in-depth analysis of sialylated N-glycans present on milk whey glycoproteins

Glycosylation of milk whey proteins, specifically the presence of sialic acid-containing glycan residues, causes functional changes in these proteins. This study aimed to analyze the N-glycome of milk whey glycoproteins from various milk sources using a linkage-specific ethyl esterification approach with MALDI-MS (matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-mass spectrometry). The results showed that the N-glycan profiles of bovine and buffalo whey mostly overlapped. Acetylated N-glycans were only detected in donkey milk whey at a rate of 16.06%. a2,6-linked N-Acetylneuraminic acid (a2,6-linked NeuAc, E) was found to be the predominant sialylation type in human milk whey (65.16%). The amount of a2,6-linked NeuAc in bovine, buffalo, goat, and donkey whey glycoproteomes was 42.33%, 44.16%, 39.00%, and 34.86%, respectively. The relative abundances of a2,6-linked N-Glycolylneuraminic acid (a2,6-linked NeuGc, Ge) in bovine, buffalo, goat, and donkey whey were 7.52%, 5.41%, 28.24%, and 17.31%, respectively. Goat whey exhibited the highest amount of a2,3-linked N-Glycolylneuraminic acid (a2,3-linked NeuGc, Gl, 8.62%), while bovine and donkey whey contained only 2.14% and 1.11%, respectively.

The relationship between bacterial outer membrane vesicles and halophilic adaptation

Many cells are known to actively release nano-sized outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) that contain bioactive proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids into the extracellular environment. These vesicles have been associated with adaptation to environmental stress in other species, but their role in halophilic salt stress adaptation is not known. This study aimed to isolate and characterize the OMVs of Halomonas caseinilytica KB2 at various salt concentrations [6% (KB2-6), 12% (KB2-12), and 18% (KB2-18)] and to identify the patterns of adaptations to increasing salinity in its structure, protein composition, and expression. Also, a comparison with the composition of OMVs of E. coli, a mesophilic bacterium, was performed. Bioinformatics and statistical analysis were carried out to elucidate the underlying proteome differences that may exist as a result of increasing salinity. The results show that OMV production in H. caseinilytica KB2 is promoted by a decrease in salinity. OMVs also revealed possible structural and metabolic changes happening in the cells which led to the deduction that cells become more stable with increasing salt concentrations. Cell wall integrity, protein expression and folding are important. Although H. caseinilytica KB2 OMVs show cellular changes with changing salt concentration, they may not play a direct role in adaptation to changing salinity.

Prediction of Gastric Cancer by Machine Learning Integrated with Mass Spectrometry-based N-glycomics

Early and accurate diagnosis of gastric cancer is vital for effective and targeted treatment. It is known that glycosylation profiles differ in the cancer tissue development process. This study aimed...

Chemometrics assisted untargeted metabolomic analysis to explore metabolic alterations in chronic urticaria via LC/Q-TOF/MS/MS

Chronic urticaria (CU) is a common disease characterized by the development of recurrent itchy blisters and/or angioedema lasting longer than 6 weeks. The evidence-based diagnosis of CU is described in the most recent urticaria guideline. Metabolomics has the potential to offer diagnostic biomarkers for the detection and prognosis of diseases and predict the efficacy and safety of pharmaceutical interventions. Determining the variation in metabolites found in the plasma of CU patients (n = 20) and 20 controls has therefore been the goal of this investigation. Samples were analyzed using liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry after applying acetonitrile precipitation. For the purpose of identifying and characterizing metabolites, the METLIN database was utilized. According to results, 21 metabolites were found to be significantly (VIP score > 0.7, p < .05 and fold analysis >1.5) altered. Differentiations between each group were successful via both OPLS-DA and ROC analysis. While plasma allantoate, homogentisate, indole acetate, proline, phenylalanine levels decreased in CU patients compared to healthy subjects, tryptophan, spermidine, phenyl pyruvate, oleic acid, lysine, valine, ornithine, histidine, glutamate, leucine, kynurenine, hypoxanthine, tyrosine, glucose, creatine and cortisol levels were significantly increased. Diagnosis of CU could be achieved by evaluating the metabolic profile of patients.

Site-specific N-glycosylation analysis of human thyroid thyroglobulin by mass spectrometry-based Glyco-analytical strategies

Human thyroglobulin (Tg), which has many glycosylation sites, is an essential protein produced by the human thyroid glands. Although human Tg N-glycans play critical roles in the cellular events of the Thyroid gland, the site-specific distribution of glycan structures has not been studied in detail. This study aimed to profile human Tg N-glycosylation sites and their glycan contents by using high-throughput glyco-analytical strategies, including glycopeptide and glycan levels. The sulfated complex and hybrid type N-glycan species were determined by the analysis of the human Tg samples with HPLC-HILIC-FLD-MS/MS. It was found that all fucosylated N-glycans carried fucose residue on their N-glycan core structure. The human Tg was digested with multiple enzymes by applying both in-gel and in-solution protocols to enhance site-specific glycosylation analysis. In total, 17 out of 20 N-glycosylation sites were characterized. It was noticed that 6 N-glycosylation sites contain only high-mannose type glycans, while other regions include complex and hybrid type glycans. In addition, sulfated glycoform structures were detected at the glycopeptide level in glycosylation sites containing complex and hybrid type glycans. It is expected that the results obtained from this study will contribute to functional studies to be conducted on human Tg protein. BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE: N-glycans of human thyroglobulin modulate thyroid hormone synthesis both in vivo and in vitro. Therefore, a comprehensive analysis of the N-glycosylation sites of human thyroglobulin is essential to improve our understanding of the function of its N-glycans. The present research significantly expanded the knowledge regarding N-glycosylation profiles of human thyroid thyroglobulin protein. For instance, as highlighted here, sulfated N-glycan structures were characterized using comprehensive glyco-analytical strategies. N-glycan patterns for the sites Asn110, Asn1869, and Asn2122 were described for the first time in this current work. In addition, N-glycan structures containing core-fucosylation and bisecting types were confirmed for all determined glycosylation sites.

An integrated stage-tip-based glycomic and glycoproteomic approach for simple and rapid N-glycosylation profiling of glycoproteins

Glycosylation is a post-translational modification that plays an active role in many cellular events. It also regulates many functions of proteins. Monoclonal antibody (mAb)-derived drugs are used to treat many diseases, and glycosylation affects the activity of such drugs developed. On the other hand, N-glycans may change in certain diseases. Therefore, rapid and efficient bioanalytical methods are needed for N-glycosylation profiling. The study aimed to develop an integrated stage-tip application for simple and rapid N-glycosylation profiling of glycoproteins. A fast and inexpensive N-glycosylation profiling was achieved by integrating all glycoproteomic and glycomic sample preparation steps into a stage-tip. The glycomic approach of the integrated stage-tip reduces the N-glycan profiling time from 2 days to approximately 2.5 hours. It also allows the profiling of immunoglobulin G (IgG) N-glycopeptides directly from human plasma. In addition, N-glycosylation profiling can be done in the developed method without sorbents C18 or others, such as strong-cation exchange (SCX) at the glycopeptide level.

Immobilization of a Bifidobacterial Endo-ß-N-Acetylglucosaminidase to Generate Bioactive Compounds for Food Industry

Conjugated N-glycans are considered next-generation bioactive prebiotic compounds due to their selective stimulation of beneficial microbes. These compounds are glycosidically attached to proteins through N-acetylglucosamines via specific asparagine residue (AsN-X-Ser/Thr). Certain bacteria such as Bifidobacterium longum subspecies infantis (B. infantis) have been shown to be capable of utilizing conjugated N-glycans, owing to their specialized genomic abilities. B. infantis possess a unique enzyme, Endo-ß-N-acetylglucosaminidase (EndoBI-1), which cleaves all types of conjugated N-glycans from glycoproteins. In this study, recombinantly cloned EndoBI-1 enzyme activity was investigated using various immobilization methods: 1) adsorption, 2) entrapment-based alginate immobilization, 3) SulfoLink-, and 4) AminoLink-based covalent bonding immobilization techniques were compared to develop the optimum application of EndoBI-1 to food processes. The yield of enzyme immobilization and the activity of each immobilized enzyme by different approaches were investigated. The N-glycans released from lactoperoxidase (LPO) using different immobilized enzyme forms were characterized using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry (MS). As expected, regardless of the techniques, the enzyme activity decreased after the immobilization methods. The enzyme activity of adsorption and entrapment-based alginate immobilization was found to be 71.55% ± 0.6 and 20.32% ± 3.18, respectively, whereas the activity of AminoLink- and SulfoLink-based covalent bonding immobilization was found to be 58.05 ± 1.98 and 47.49% ± 0.30 compared to the free form of the enzyme, respectively. However, extended incubation time recovery achieved activity similar to that of the free form. More importantly, each immobilization method resulted in the same glycan profile containing 11 different N-glycan structures from a model glycoprotein LPO based on MALDI-TOF MS analysis. The glycan data analysis suggests that immobilization of EndoBI-1 is not affecting the enzyme specificity, which enables full glycan release without a limitation. Hence, different immobilization methods investigated in this study can be chosen for effective enzyme immobilization to obtain bioactive glycans. These findings highlight that further optimization of these methods can be a promising approach for future processing scale-up and commercialization of EndoBI-1 and similar enzymes.

Biofortified Whey/Deglycosylated Whey and Chickpea Protein Matrices: Functional Enrichment by Black Mulberry Polyphenols

Morus nigra L. (black mulberry-BM) is a promising nutraceutical fruit containing biologically active polyphenols like anthocyanins, proanthocyanidins, catechins, and stilbenes, with well-established anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anti-obesity, and anticancer biofunctions. However, these health-promoting properties in raw fruit are greatly masked due to the presence of soluble and insoluble carbohydrates in excess amounts restricting daily intake of the required dose to achieve targeted effects. In the current study, different protein sources (defatted whey and chickpea flours) were optimized through different conditions to capture polyphenols from BM juice while diminishing its glucose content. To optimize polyphenol-protein interactions, various pHs (3.7, 4.2, and 4.7), matrix concentrations (20, 50, and 80 g protein/L), and incubation times (5, 20, and 45 min) were tested. In the present work, optimized BM polyphenol enriched whey matrix inhibited pro-inflammatory mediators and promoted Nrf-2 dependent cytoprotective enzyme expressions in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced macrophages at low doses. In addition, whey proteins were also subjected to an enzymatic deglycosylation process by using recently identified EndoBI-1 enzyme for the specific cleavage of N-glycan core in all glycan types including high mannoses, hybrids as well as complex glycans found on defatted whey proteins. After this process, the polyphenol sorption capacity of deglycosylated whey proteins was found to be significantly higher (37%) than the capacity of non-treated normal whey protein under optimized conditions. In conclusion, deglycosylation of protein matrices could be a novel strategy for efficient sorption/concentration of polyphenols from fruits and vegetables, however, more detailed studies are needed to understand this effect.

Circulating extracellular vesicles of patients with steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome have higher RAC1 and induce recapitulation of nephrotic syndrome phenotype in podocytes

Since previous research suggests a role of a circulating factor in the pathogenesis of steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome (NS), we speculated that circulating plasma extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a candidate source of such a soluble mediator. Here, we aimed to characterize and try to delineate the effects of these EVs in vitro. Plasma EVs from 20 children with steroid-sensitive NS in relapse and remission, 10 healthy controls, and 6 disease controls were obtained by serial ultracentrifugation. Characterization of these EVs was performed by electron microscopy, flow cytometry, and Western blot analysis. Major proteins from plasma EVs were identified via mass spectrometry. Gene Ontology classification analysis and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis were performed on selectively expressed EV proteins during relapse. Immortalized human podocyte culture was used to detect the effects of EVs on podocytes. The protein content and particle number of plasma EVs were significantly increased during NS relapse. Relapse NS EVs selectively expressed proteins that involved actin cytoskeleton rearrangement. Among these, the level of RAC-GTP was significantly increased in relapse EVs compared with remission and disease control EVs. Relapse EVs were efficiently internalized by podocytes and induced significantly enhanced motility and albumin permeability. Moreover, relapse EVs induced significantly higher levels of RAC-GTP and phospho-p38 and decreased the levels of synaptopodin in podocytes. Circulating relapse EVs are biologically active molecules that carry active RAC1 as cargo and induce recapitulation of the NS phenotype in podocytes in vitro.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Up to now, the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the pathogenesis of steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome (NS) has not been studied. Here, we found that relapse NS EVs contain significantly increased active RAC1, induce enhanced podocyte motility, and increase expression of RAC-GTP and phospho-p38 expression in vitro. These results suggest that plasma EVs are biologically active molecules in the pathogenesis of NS.

N-glycan Profiling of Glycoproteins by Hydrophilic Interaction Liquid Chromatography with Fluorescence and Mass Spectrometric Detection

Glycosylation is a vital modification found in proteins. N-glycan profiling of glycoproteins is required to detect novel biomarker candidates and determine glycan alterations in diseases. Most commercially available biopharmaceutical proteins are glycoproteins. The efficacy of these drugs is affected by glycosylation patterns. Therefore, an in-depth characterization method for the N-glycans is necessary. Here, we present a comprehensive approach for qualitative and quantitative analysis of N-glycans using hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography equipped with fluorescence detection and tandem mass spectrometry (HILIC-FLD-MS/MS). N-glycans were released from glycoproteins with a facile method and labeled by a procainamide fluorophore tag in the strategy. Subsequently, the procainamide labeled N-glycans were analyzed by a HILIC-FLD-MS/MS technique. In this approach, N-glycan structures were confirmed by the tandem mass spectrometric analysis, whereas fluorescence detection was used for the quantitative analysis. An application for data analysis of the detected N-glycan peaks is described in the study. This protocol can be applied to any glycoprotein extracted from various species.

Recombinant Production of Bifidobacterial Endoglycosidases for N-glycan Release

Protein glycosylation is a diverse and common post-translational modification that has been associated with many important roles such as protein function, including protein folding, stability, enzymatic protection, and biological recognition. N-glycans attached to glycoproteins (such as lactoferrin, lactadherin, and immunoglobulins) cannot be digested by the host and reach the large intestine, where they are consumed by certain beneficial microbes. Therefore, they are considered next-generation prebiotic compounds that can selectively stimulate the gut microbiome's beneficial microorganisms. However, the isolation of these new classes of prebiotics requires novel enzymes. Here, we describe the recombinant production of novel glycosidases from different Bifidobacteria strains (isolated from infants, rabbits, chicken, and bumblebee) for improved N-glycan isolation from glycoproteins. The method presented in this study includes the following steps: molecular cloning of Bifidobacterial genes by an in vivo recombinational cloning strategy, control of transformation success, protein induction, and protein purification.

Corrigendum: Comparative Transcriptome, Metabolome, and Ionome Analysis of Two Contrasting Common Bean Genotypes in Saline Conditions

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2020.599501.].

Differential N-glycosylation profiling of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) invasive ductal carcinoma tissues using MALDI-TOF-MS

Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) is the most common type of breast cancer. As dynamic changes of the glycome are closely associated with complex diseases, they have become a focal point of cancer research involving predictive and prognostic markers. Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) clinical specimens are representative of the tumor environment and are thus utilized in studies on cancer related research and biomarker discovery. Further studies on differential N-glycosylation profiling of IDC cancer tissues are necessary in order to understand the biological role of glycans in cancer and to evaluate their predictive ability. In this study, matrix assisted laser desorption ionization-mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS)-based analyses were conducted for determining differential N-glycosylation patterns of IDC. Two different derivatization methods, namely, 2-aminobenzoic acid (2-AA) labeling and linkage-specific sialic acid esterification, were used for the analysis of N-glycans. Forty-seven 2-AA labeled and fifty ethyl esterified N-glycans were identified by MALDI-MS. In statistical analyses conducted for 2-AA-labeled N-glycans, the relative amounts of 32 N-glycans and prevalence of 15 N-glycan traits showed significant (p < 0.05) differences between cancer and normal tissues; and in such analyses for the ethyl-esterified N-glycans, the relative amounts of 27 N-glycans and prevalence of 17 N-glycan traits showed significant (p < 0.05) differences between them. It was found that mainly high mannose N-glycans, including H5N2, H6N2, and H7N2, and two fucosylated compositions (H3N3F1 and H5N5F1) showed strong discrimination between IDC and controls. In addition, compared with the controls, high mannose N-glycans were observed to be up-regulated in IDC whereas bisecting N-glycans were down-regulated.

Comparative Transcriptome, Metabolome, and Ionome Analysis of Two Contrasting Common Bean Genotypes in Saline Conditions

Soil salinity is a major abiotic stress factor that limits agricultural productivity worldwide, and this problem is expected to grow in the future. Common bean is an important protein source in developing countries however highly susceptible to salt stress. To understand the underlying mechanism of salt stress responses, transcriptomics, metabolomics, and ion content analysis were performed on both salt-tolerant and susceptible common bean genotypes in saline conditions. Transcriptomics has demonstrated increased photosynthesis in saline conditions for tolerant genotype while the susceptible genotype acted in contrast. Transcriptome also displayed active carbon and amino-acid metabolism for the tolerant genotype. Analysis of metabolites with GC-MS demonstrated the boosted carbohydrate metabolism in the tolerant genotype with increased sugar content as well as better amino-acid metabolism. Accumulation of lysine, valine, and isoleucine in the roots of the susceptible genotype suggested a halted stress response. According to ion content comparison, the tolerant genotype managed to block accumulation of Na⁺ in the leaves while accumulating significantly less Na⁺ in the roots compared to susceptible genotype. K⁺ levels increased in the leaves of both genotype and the roots of the susceptible one but dropped in the roots of the tolerant genotype. Additionally, Zn⁺² and Mn⁺² levels were dropped in the tolerant roots, while Mo⁺² levels were significantly higher in all tissues in both control and saline conditions for tolerant genotype. The results of the presented study have demonstrated the differences in contrasting genotypes and thus provide valuable information on the pivotal molecular mechanisms underlying salt tolerance.

Synthesis, characterization, third-order non-linear optical properties and DFT studies of novel SUBO bridged ball-type metallophthalocyanines

Novel 4,4'-(((2,4,8,10-tetraoxaspiro[5.5]undecane-3,9-diyl)bis(2-methylpropane-2,1-diyl))bis(oxy)) (SUBO) bridged ball-type metallophthalocyanines were synthesized starting from 4,4'-(((2,4,8,10-tetraoxaspiro[5.5]undecane-3,9-diyl)bis(2-methylpropane-2,1-diyl))bis(oxy))diphthalonitrile with convenient metal salts in 2-N,N-dimethylaminoethanol. A new bisphthalonitrile compound was obtained from 2,2'-(2,4,8,10-tetraoxaspiro[5.5]undecane-3,9-diyl)bis(2-methylpropan-1-ol) and 4-nitrophthalonitrile in acetonitrile at reflux temperature in the presence of potassium carbonate as a catalyst. The structural characterization of the compounds was performed by elemental analysis, and infrared, ultraviolet-visible and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectroscopic methods. Nonlinear absorptions of the phthalocyanine complexes were measured using the Z-scan technique with 7 ns pulse duration at a 532 nm wavelength. It is obvious that ball-type copperphthalocyanine has a high nonlinear absorption coeffıcient and imaginary component of the third-order susceptibility compared to other complexes. Therefore, ball-type copperphthalocyanine can be regarded as a very good candidate for optical limiting applications. Density functional theory was used for geometry optimizations and time-dependent density functional theory calculations of electronic transitions in order to compare with the experimental results. Molecular orbital and nonlinear optical analyses were also performed with density functional theory at the CAM-B3LYP/6-31G(d,p)/LANL2DZ level. The nonlinear optical analyses show that ball-type copperphthalocyanine has significantly better nonlinear optical properties in comparison to a common reference compound, urea.

Human Gut Commensal Membrane Vesicles Modulate Inflammation by Generating M2-like Macrophages and Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells

Immunomodulatory commensal bacteria modify host immunity through delivery of regulatory microbial-derived products to host cells. Extracellular membrane vesicles (MVs) secreted from symbiont commensals represent one such transport mechanism. How MVs exert their anti-inflammatory effects or whether their tolerance-inducing potential can be used for therapeutic purposes remains poorly defined. In this study, we show that MVs isolated from the human lactic acid commensal bacteria Pediococcus pentosaceus suppressed Ag-specific humoral and cellular responses. MV treatment of bone marrow-derived macrophages and bone marrow progenitors promoted M2-like macrophage polarization and myeloid-derived suppressor cell differentiation, respectively, most likely in a TLR2-dependent manner. Consistent with their immunomodulatory activity, MV-differentiated cells upregulated expression of IL-10, arginase-1, and PD-L1 and suppressed the proliferation of activated T cells. MVs' anti-inflammatory effects were further tested in acute inflammation models in mice. In carbon tetrachloride-induced fibrosis and zymosan-induced peritonitis models, MVs ameliorated inflammation. In the dextran sodium sulfate-induced acute colitis model, systemic treatment with MVs prevented colon shortening and loss of crypt architecture. In an excisional wound healing model, i.p. MV administration accelerated wound closure through recruitment of PD-L1-expressing myeloid cells to the wound site. Collectively, these results indicate that P. pentosaceus-derived MVs hold promise as therapeutic agents in management/treatment of inflammatory conditions.

Following hybridization on sensor/array platforms by using SPR, elipsometer and MALDI-MS

The aim of this study is to develop a methodology in which Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR), Ellipsometer (EM) and Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization-Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-MS) will be used together for detection of single-strand oligodeoxynucleotides (ssODNs) targets. A selected target-ssODNs, and its complementary, the probe-ssODNs carrying a -SH end group, a spacer arm (HS-(CH₂)₆-(T)₁₅, and a non-complementary ssODNs were used. Silicone based stamps with 16 regions were prepared and used for micro-contact printing (µCP) of the probe-ssODNs on the gold coated surfaces homogeneously. A modulator-spacer molecule (6-mercapto-1-hexanol) was co-immobilized to control surface probe density, to orientate the probe-ssODNs, and to eliminate the nonspecific interactions. SPR was used successfully to follow the hybridization of the target-ssODNs with the immobilized probe-ssODNs on the platform surfaces. Complete hybridizations were achieved in 100 min. It was obtained that there was a linear relationship between relative change in delta and target concentration below 1 µm. Using imaging version of ellipsometer (IEM) allowed imaging of the surfaces and supported extra datum for the SPR results. After a very simple dehybridization protocol, MALDI-MS analysis allowed detection of the target-ssODNs hybridized on the sensor/array platforms.

Synthesis, characterization, OFET, and DFT study of the novel ball-type metallophthalocyanines bridged with four diaminopyrimidine-dithiol

Co2Pc2 (2) and Zn2Pc2 (3) were obtained in DMF and LuPc2 (4) was obtained in hexanol by the cyclotetramerization of novel diphthalonitrile (1). Synthesized compounds were characterized by FT-IR,1H-NMR, elemental analyses, MALDI-TOF MS and UV-vis spectroscopy techniques. Optimized geometries and electronic structures for compounds 2, 3 and 4 were investigated by Density Functional Theory (DFT) and Time Dependent Density Functional Theory (TD-DFT). In compound 2, a new bond was observed between Co centers forming two Co(III) with the interaction of d orbitals. Computational and experimental UV-vis spectra in DMF were found in agreement for the investigated compounds. Vertical and adiabatic ionization potentials for the studied systems were also calculated. The gate dielectric performances of thin films obtained from these compounds were investigated by fabricating ITO/2–4/Au devices. The observed reverse bias J-V characteristics revealed that the leakage current in ITO/2–4/Au devices is because of the Poole–Frenkel effect. The effect of the gate dielectric on the OFET performance parameters was also investigated by fabricating bottom-gate top-contact OFET using pentacene as the active layer. Maximum field effect mobility was observed with the 2-based OFET device. Calculated HOMO–LUMO gap, hole reorganization energy and ionization energy have also supported the experimental results which indicate that 2 is the most suitable system for OFET devices.

Novel (‒)-carvone derivatives as potential anticonvulsant and analgesic agents

Novel hydrazones based on (‒)-carvone were synthesized via condensation of terpenoid with 4-R-phenoxyacetic acid hydrazides. The structure of target compounds was established by FT-IR, Raman, ¹H-NMR and ¹³C-NMR spectral analysis, FAB/ESI mass spectrometry. (‒)-Carvone hydrazones were proven to exist as Z/E geometrical isomers about C = N bond using ion mobility-tandem mass spectrometry (IM-MS/MS). Single crystal X-ray diffraction study was applied to determine molecular and crystal structure of compound 3e. Hydrazones 3a-3e were evaluated as potential anticonvulsant agents after their oral administration against maximal electroshock (MES) and pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizures in mice. Analgesic activity of compounds was investigated by topical application on models of capsaicin and AITC-induced pain. The present findings indicate that (‒)-carvone derivatives afforded seizure protection both at short (1 h) and long (24 h) time period by blocking electroshock- and chemical-induced convulsions. Hydrazones binding to TRPA1/TRPV1 ion channels was proposed as possible mechanism explaining significant analgesic effect of compounds.

Conformational Characterization of Polyelectrolyte Oligomers and Their Noncovalent Complexes Using Ion Mobility-Mass Spectrometry

Poly-l-lysine (PLL), polystyrenesulfonate (PSS), and a mixture of these polyelectrolytes were investigated by electrospray ionization ion mobility mass spectrometry. The IM step confirmed the formation of noncovalent (i.e., supramolecular) complexes between these polyelectrolytes, which were detected in various charge states and stoichiometries in the presence of their constituents. Experimental and theoretical collision cross sections (CCSs) were derived for both PLL and PSS oligomers as well as their noncovalent assemblies. PSS chains showed higher compactness with increasing size as compared to PLL chains, indicating that the intrinsic conformations of the polyelectrolytes depend on the nature of the functional groups on their side chains. The CCS data for the noncovalent complexes further revealed that assemblies with higher PLL content have higher CCS values than other compositions of similar mass and that PLL-PSS complex formation is accompanied by significant size contraction.

A novel AB3-type trimeric zinc(II)-phthalocyanine as an electrochromic and optical limiting material

Recent advances in the practical applications of metallophthalocyanines (MPcs) in different technological fields have stimulated us to design and synthesize a new asymmetric AB3-type trimeric zinc(ii)-phthalocyanine (1). This bulky and high molecular weight compound was characterized by elemental analysis, 1H, 13C DEPT, and 1H-1H NOESY NMR, HR MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, UV-vis, and FT-IR (ATR) techniques. In-depth electrochemical studies show that 1 displays quasi-reversible three one-electron reductions and two one- or two-electron oxidation processes, rather than any redox processes including the transfer of three-electrons in one-step. Besides this, in situ spectroelectrochemical measurements suggest the good application potential of 1 as an electrochromic material in display technologies. A study of the nonlinear optical properties (NLOs) of 1 reveals that the poly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA) composite film displays a much larger nonlinear absorption coefficient and a lower saturable absorption threshold for optical limiting when compared to the same Pc molecules in solution. Ultrafast transient absorption measurements reveal the intersystem crossing mechanism. Density functional theory (DFT) was used for the geometry optimizations and time dependent-DFT (TD-DFT) for HOMO/LUMO energies and electronic transitions for 1.

Poly(amidoamine) dendrimer-coated magnetic nanoparticles for the fast purification and selective enrichment of glycopeptides and glycans

Glycosylated proteins modulate various important functions of organisms. To reveal the functions of glycoproteins, in-depth characterization studies are necessary. Although mass spectrometry is a very efficient tool for glycoproteomic and glycomic studies, efficient sample preparation methods are required prior to analyses. In the study, poly(amidoamine) dendrimer-coated magnetic nanoparticles were presented for the specific enrichment and fast purification of glycopeptides and glycans. The enrichment and purification performance of the developed method was evaluated both at the glycopeptide, and the glycan level using several standard glycoprotein digests and released glycan samples. The poly(amidoamine) dendrimer-coated magnetic nanoparticles not only showed selective affinity (Immunoglobulin G/Bovine Serum Albumin, 1/10 by weight) to glycopeptides and released glycans but also good sensitivity (0.4 ng/µL for Immunoglobulin G) for glycoproteomic and glycomic applications. Thirty-five glycopeptides of Immunoglobulin G were detected after enrichment with poly(amidoamine) dendrimer-coated magnetic nanoparticles. In addition, 55 ¹⁸ O tagged deamidated glycopeptides belonging to human plasma glycoproteome were confirmed. Finally, fifty 2-aminobenzoic acid, and 30 procainamide-labelled human plasma N-glycans released from human plasma glycoproteins were determined after purifications. The results indicate that the proposed enrichment and purification method using poly(amidoamine) dendrimer-coated magnetic nanoparticles could be simply adjusted to sample preparation methods.

N-glycan profiling of papillary thyroid carcinoma tissues by MALDI-TOF-MS

Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is a type of thyroid cancer whose incidence rate has increased recently all over the world. Glycosylation is a crucial post-translational modification (PTM) for the regulation of thyroid hormone synthesis in thyroid glands. However, our knowledge regarding the N-glycosylation change in PTC is limited. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to profile glycans in PTC tissues by mass spectrometry. Herein, we have analyzed the N-glycans of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues of patients diagnosed with PTC in a matched case-control study. Using MALDI-TOF(/TOF)-MS, 35 enzymatically released N-glycan compositions were characterized. The statistical analyses showed significant differences including six N-glycan compositions (p < 0.001) between patients and controls. It was determined that four of them (H5N4E1, H5N4F1E1, H5N4F1L1E1 and H5N4F1E2, E: α2,6-linked sialic acid; L: α2,3-linked sialic acid) were up-regulated in PTC tissues, whereas two N-glycans (H8N2 and H9N2) found to be down-regulated. Besides, a significant difference was found in six different N-glycan traits. Variants of PTC (follicular, classical, hurtle cell) were also studied to define specific N-glycan change for each variant.

Biodegradation of Cibacron Blue 3GA by insolubilized laccase and identification of enzymatic byproduct using MALDI-ToF-MS: Toxicity assessment studies by Daphnia magna and Chlorella vulgaris

The presented paper describes a detailed study on the use of immobilized laccase for effective degradation of Cibacron Blue 3GA dye. The amount of laccase loading on the cyclic carbonate groups containing poly(hydroxyethyl methacrylate-co-vinylene carbonate), p(HEMA-co-VC), microbeads was 27.8 mg g^-1, and the retained immobilized enzyme activity was 73% compared to free enzyme. The toxicity of the dye and its byproducts were studied using Daphnia magna as test organism. The micro-algal growth inhibition was also studied using a green micro algae "Chlorella vulgaris". MALDI-ToF-MS was used to verify dye degradation byproducts. After 60 min of incubation period, Cibacron Blue 3GA (CB3GA) and its byproducts disappeared from the medium. After 60-min enzymatic treatment, the non-toxic nature of medium was confirmed by toxicity studies. On the other hand, the initial byproducts of the dye seemed to be more toxic than the later formed dye products. It should be noted that the information obtained from this study can be beneficial for understanding the initial degradation byproducts toxicities of the enzymatically treated dyes to provide information about environmental protection.

Synthesis, characterization and VOCs adsorption kinetics of diethylstilbestrol-substituted metallophthalocyanines

Compound (4,4[Formula: see text] -hex-3-ene-3,4-diyl)bis(4,1-phenylene)bis(oxy)diphthalonitrile 3 was synthesized by the reaction of 4-nitrophthalonitrile 1 and diethylstilbestrol 2 in dry DMF in presence of dry K2CO3. New mononuclear phthalocyanines 4-6 were obtained from compound 3 by addition of the corresponding metal salts [Co(OAc)2 ⋅ 4H2O, Zn(OAc)2 ⋅ 2H2O and Cu(OAc)2]. The novel compounds were characterized by elemental analysis and FT-IR, UV-vis, 1H-NMR and MALDI-TOF mass spectroscopy techniques. The effects of four main groups of organic vapors on these novel compounds were studied and discussed. The adsorption kinetics of alkanes ([Formula: see text]-hexane and [Formula: see text]-octane), alcohols (methanol and 2-proponal), chlorinated hydrocarbons (dichloromethane and trichloromethane) and amines (diethylamine and triethylamine) on 4-6 were examined using three adsorption kinetic models: the Elovich equation, the pseudo-first-order equations and Ritchie’s equation. Results show that the linear regression analysis with respect to the pseudo-second-order rate equations generates a straight line that best fits the data of adsorption of alcohols and chlorinated hydrocarbons on Pc films. On the other hand, the Elovich equation generates a straight line that best fits the data of adsorption of alkanes and amines.

Synthesis, characterization, and DFT study of novel metallo phtalocyanines with four carboranyl clusters as photosensitisers for the photodynamic therapy of breast cancer cells

The synthesis and characterization of novel Zn(II) and Co(II) phthalocyanines 4 and 5, respectively containing four o-carboranyl units (40 boron atoms, 32.5% boron by weight) at the peripheral positions are described. The phthalocyanines (Pcs) were synthesized by cyclotetramerization of the previously prepared precursor 4‑(2‑thiol‑o‑carboranyl)thiolato‑phthalonitrile 3 with the presence of metal salt in boiling dry DMF under a dry nitrogen atmosphere. They were characterized by elemental analysis, UV-Vis, FT-IR, MALDI-TOF mass and ¹H NMR spectrometry. To elucidate the structural, spectroscopic and bonding properties of the obtained compounds, calculations with DFT/TD-DFT(Density Functional Theory/Time Dependent-Density Functional Theory) were performed. The cytotoxic effects of 4 and 5 on cancer cells and epithelial cells were determined. The targeted cytotoxicities of both compounds against cancer cells were analyzed with the cell viability test. Although, 4 caused less PDT (Photodynamic therapy) based decrease in cell viability of cancer cell line in comparison to 5, it showed comparatively high cytotoxicity against cancer cells but not epithelial cells. The IC₅₀ (half maximal inhibitory concentration) values indicate that 4 with PDT shows 17.3 fold more cytotoxicity to breast cancer cells than epithelial cells. The selectivity in cytotoxicity of 4 makes it a good candidate for cancer treatment. Interestingly, 5 was found to be highly cytotoxic for both cancer and epithelial cell lines. Considerably, 5 might be used as a cancer drug when combined with targeting agents such as antibodies and aptamers.

Cytotoxic naphthoquinones from Arnebia densiflora (Nordm.) Ledeb and determining new apoptosis inducers

In this study, phytochemical composition of Arnebia densiflora (AD) was determined and cytotoxic effects of the n-hexane extract and compounds isolated from this species on various cell lines were investigated. By means of serial chromatographic studies, 6 naphthoquinone derivatives were yielded, which are isovalerylalkannin, α-methyl-n-butyl alkannin, acetylalkannin, β-acetoxy isovalerylalkannin, alkannin and a new compound: 4-hydroxy 4-methyl valeryl alkannin. Structures of the isolated compounds were elucidated using UV, IR, 1D-2D NMR, MS and CD methods. Cytotoxic effects of the extract and isolated alkannins were investigated on L929, HeLa, HEp-2 cells. AD and the isolated compounds demonstrated moderate to strong cytotoxic effects (IC₅₀ range: 4.92-172.35 µg/ml). The results of DNA fragmentation and caspase-3 activity studies on HeLa cells exhibited that AD and the naphthoquinones isolated from it caused cytotoxicity through induction of apoptosis.[Formula: see text].

Design of an aptamer-based magnetic adsorbent and biosensor systems for selective and sensitive separation and detection of thrombin

An aptasensor was designed for sensitive detection of thrombin using in biological fluids by integrating a magnetic aptamer-microbeads. To achieve this goal, the surface of gold plated QCM crystals was coated with L-cysteine and a thrombin binding DNA aptamer was immobilized on the L-cysteine coated QCM crystals surface via glutaraldehyde coupling. The binding interactions of thrombin to QCM crystals were characterized. Magnetic poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate-ethylene glycol dimethacrylate-vinylene carbonate), Mp(HEMA-EGDMA-VC) microbeads were synthesized and thrombin binding aptamer (TBA) was immobilized. The Mp(HEMA-EGDMA-VC)-TBA microbeads were effectively adsorbed thrombin from serum in a relatively short contact time (ca. 5.0 min), and the eluted protein from Mp(HEMA-EGDMA-VC)-TBA was transferred to the QCM aptasensor that showed a specific detection of thrombin from serum. The detection limit of thrombin using aptasensor was 1.00 nmol L^-1. The calculation dissociation constant of the aptasensor was 68.5 nmol L^-1. The selectivity of the aptasensor system was tested with three different proteins (i.e., elastin, immunoglobulin G (IgG) and human serum albumin (HSA)) and showed high specificity to thrombin. The aptasensor was regenerated by washing with NaOH solution, and repeatedly used until 20 cycles without a change in the performance.

Effect of seasonal changes on nutritional status and biochemical parameters in Turkish older adults

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Available data suggest that seasonal changes may influence the nutritional status and overall health of elderly individuals. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the effects of seasonal changes and related factors on energy and nutrient intake of older adults.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

Individuals aged 65 years or over were prospectively enrolled in this single-center study (male: 11, female: 20). Data were collected between May 2013 and February 2014 during winter, spring, summer and autumn. Food consumption and biochemical parameters were taken during each season to assess the seasonal nutrition status of the elderly. Upon analysis of biochemical parameters (retinol, vitamin D and vitamin C), an high-performance liquid chromatography device was utilized whereas an Immulite 2000 device was utilized during analysis of serum folic acid and parathyroid hormone.

RESULTS

Fruit, fat, egg and bread consumption varied seasonally in males and females (P < 0.05). During winter, daily energy intake was found to be greater than in other seasons in males (557 kcal) and females (330 kcal) (P < 0.05). Additionally, carbohydrates, vegetable protein, n-3 fatty acid and sodium intake increased in winter, while the n-6/n-3 ratio increased in summer among males (P < 0.05). Dietary fiber and sodium intake in winter, vitamin C, iron and zinc intake in spring, and cholesterol, retinol, vitamin D and niacin intake in autumn were found to be higher in females when compared to other seasons (P < 0.05). Serum parathyroid hormone level was higher in winter, and vitamin D level was higher in autumn in both genders (P < 0.05). In males, blood folic acid level was higher in winter, while vitamin C level was higher in females, and there was no seasonal variation in retinol concentration (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Food consumption and biochemical parameters showed significant seasonal variations in older adults. It is not clear if nutrition plans in older adults will benefit from consideration of seasonal changes in eating habits.

Synthesis, characterization and OFET property of four diaminouracil bridged novel ball-type phthalocyanines

New ball-type metallobisphthalocyanines 2 (Co[Formula: see text]Pc[Formula: see text] and 3(Zn[Formula: see text]Pc[Formula: see text] were synthesized from the corresponding 4,4[Formula: see text]-[(5,6-diaminopyrimidine-2,4-diyl)bis(oxy)] diphytalonitril 1, which can be obtained by a nucleophilic displacement reaction of 4-nitrophthalonitrile with 5,6-diaminouracil sulfate. Characterization of novel compounds was performed by UV-vis, FT-IR, [Formula: see text]H-NMR, MALDI-TOF mass spectroscopy and elemental analysis. Organic field effect transistor devices (OFETs) with top gate structure were fabricated using these novel compounds as the active material. The devices were characterized by means of their output and transfer characteristics, and it was found that these OFET devices exhibit [Formula: see text]-type behavior. When compared with the 2-based device, the OFET with 3 showed higher field effect mobility and larger on/of current ratio.

N- and O-glycosylation Analysis of Human C1-inhibitor Reveals Extensive Mucin-type O-Glycosylation

Human C1-inhibitor (C1-Inh) is a serine protease inhibitor and the major regulator of the contact activation pathway as well as the classical and lectin complement pathways. It is known to be a highly glycosylated plasma glycoprotein. However, both the structural features and biological role of C1-Inh glycosylation are largely unknown. Here, we performed for the first time an in-depth site-specific N- and O-glycosylation analysis of C1-Inh combining various mass spectrometric approaches, including C18-porous graphitized carbon (PGC)-LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS applying stepping-energy collision-induced dissociation (CID) and electron-transfer dissociation (ETD). Various proteases were applied, partly in combination with PNGase F and exoglycosidase treatment, in order to analyze the (glyco)peptides. The analysis revealed an extensively O-glycosylated N-terminal region. Five novel and five known O-glycosylation sites were identified, carrying mainly core1-type O-glycans. In addition, we detected a heavily O-glycosylated portion spanning from Thr₈₂-Ser₁₂₁ with up to 16 O-glycans attached. Likewise, all known six N-glycosylation sites were covered and confirmed by this site-specific glycosylation analysis. The glycoforms were in accordance with results on released N-glycans by MALDI-TOF/TOF-MS/MS. The comprehensive characterization of C1-Inh glycosylation described in this study will form the basis for further functional studies on the role of these glycan modifications.