An increasing concern on resistance to multiple-antibiotics has led to the discovery of novel agents and the establishment of new precaution strategy. Numerous plant sources have been widely studied to reduce virulence of pathogenic bacteria by interfering cell-to-cell based communication called quorum sensing (QS). Leaf extracts of 17 gardening trees were collected and investigated for their anti-QS effects using a sensor strain Chromobacterium violaceum CV026. Methanolic extracts of K4 (Acer palmatum), K9 (Acer pseudosieboldianum) and K13 (Cercis chinensis) leaves were selected for further experiments based on their antagonism effect on QS without inhibiting C. violaceum CV026 growth. Subsequently, the leaf extracts on QS-mediated virulence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 involved in biofilm formation, motility, bioluminescence, pyocyanin production, QS molecules production, and Caenorhabditis elegans killing activity were evaluated. The biofilm formation ability and swarming motility of P. aeruginosa PAO1 were decreased approximately 50% in the presence of these leaf extracts at a concentration of 1 mg/mL. The expression level of lecA::lux of P. aeruginosa PAO1 and pyocyanin production were also reduced. The three leaf extracts also decreased autoinducer (AI) production in P. aeruginosa PAO1 without direct degradation, suggesting that AI synthesis might have been suppressed by these extracts. The three leaf extracts also showed anti-infection activity in C. elegans model. Taken together, these results suggest that methanolic leaf extracts of K4, K9 and K13 have the potential to attenuate the virulence of P. aeruginosa PAO1.
All-solid-state batteries (ASSBs) have garnered considerable attention as promising candidates for next-generation energy storage systems due to their potentially simultaneously enhanced safety capacities and improved energy densities. However, the solid future still calls for materials with high ionic conductivity, electrochemical stability, and favorable interfacial compatibility. In this study, we present a series of halide solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) utilizing a doping strategy with highly valent elements, demonstrating an outstanding combination of enhanced ionic conductivity and oxidation stability. Among these, Li2.6In0.8Ta0.2Cl6 emerges as the standout performer, displaying a superionic conductivity of up to 4.47 mS cm-1 at 30 °C, along with a low activation energy barrier of 0.321 eV for Li+ migration. Additionally, it showcases an extensive oxidation onset of up to 5.13 V (vs Li+/Li), enabling high-voltage ASSBs with promising cycling performance. Particularly noteworthy are the ASSBs employing LiCoO2 cathode materials, which exhibit an extended cyclability of over 1400 cycles, with 70% capacity retention under 4.6 V (vs Li+/Li), and a capacity of up to 135 mA h g-1 at a 4 C rate, with the loading of active materials at 7.52 mg cm-2. This study demonstrates a feasible approach to designing desirable SSEs for energy-dense, highly stable ASSBs.
Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) or metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), has become the leading cause of chronic liver disease worldwide. Optimal dietary intervention strategies for MAFLD are not standardized. This study aimed to achieve consensus on prevention of MAFLD through dietary modification. A multidisciplinary panel of 55 international experts, including specialists in hepatology, gastroenterology, dietetics, endocrinology and other medical specialties from six continents collaborated in a Delphi-based consensus development process. The consensus statements covered aspects ranging from epidemiology to mechanisms, management, and dietary recommendations for MAFLD. The recommended dietary strategies emphasize adherence to a balanced diet with controlled energy intake and personalized nutritional interventions, such as calorie restriction, high-protein, or low-carbohydrate diets. Specific dietary advice encouraged increasing the consumption of whole grains, plant-based proteins, fish, seafood, low-fat or fat-free dairy products, liquid plant oils, and deeply colored fruits and vegetables. Concurrently, it advised reducing the intake of red and processed meats, saturated and trans fats, ultra-processed foods, added sugars, and alcohol. Additionally, maintaining the Mediterranean or DASH diet, minimizing sedentary behavior, and engaging in regular physical activity are recommended. These consensus statements lay the foundation for customized dietary guidelines and proposing avenues for further research on nutrition and MAFLD.