Objective: To evaluate the ameliorating effects of Raphanus sativus leaves(RSL)against sodium arsenite(Sa)-induced adverse effects through mice experiments.Methods: Swiss albino mice were divided into four equal group...Objective: To evaluate the ameliorating effects of Raphanus sativus leaves(RSL)against sodium arsenite(Sa)-induced adverse effects through mice experiments.Methods: Swiss albino mice were divided into four equal groups: control, Sa, RSL,RSL + Sa. Sa(10 mg/kg body weight/day), and powder form of RSL(50 mg/kg body weight/day) were provided as food supplement orallty. Blood indices were measured using commercially available kits through colorimetric methods.Results: It was observed that lactate dehydrogenase, alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase activities were significantly(P < 0.05)higher in Sa-treated mice than those in the control group. RSL significantly reduced Sainduced elevation of the activities of these enzymes in serum significantly(P < 0.05).Serum butyrylcholinesterase activity and high density lipoproteins cholesterol levels in Satreated mice were significantly(P < 0.05) lower than the control group, and the food supplementation of RSL could significantly(P < 0.05) prevent the reduction of Sa-mediated serum butyryl cholinesterase activity and high density lipoproteins cholesterol levels. RSL could also reduce the Sa-induced elevation of serum urea level significantly(P < 0.05).Conclusions: Results of this study suggest the protective or ameliorating effects of RSL on Sa-induced perturbation of blood indices are related to the hepatic, cardiovascular and kidney dysfunction. Therefore, RSL may be useful to reduce arsenic toxicity in human in the future.展开更多
It is imperative to choose some low cost, available and effective ameliorants to correct soil acidity in southern China for sustainable agriculture. The present investigation dealt with the possible role of industrial...It is imperative to choose some low cost, available and effective ameliorants to correct soil acidity in southern China for sustainable agriculture. The present investigation dealt with the possible role of industrial byproducts, i.e., coal fly ash （CFA）, alkaline slag （AS）, red mud （RM） and phosphogypsum （PG） in correcting acidity and aluminum （Al） toxicity of soils under tea plantation using an indoor incubation experiment. Results indicated that CFA, AS and RM increased soil pH, while PG decreased the pHs of an Ultisol and an Alfisol. The increment of soil pH followed the order of RM 〉 AS 〉 CFA. All the industrial byproducts invariably decreased exchangeable Al and hence increased exchangeable Ca, Mg, K and Na and effective cation exchange capacity. RM, AS and lime decreased total soluble Al, exchangeable Al and organically bound Al. Formation and retention of hydroxyl-Al polymers were the principal mechanism through which Al phytotoxicity was alleviated by application of these amendments. In addition, the heavy metal contents in the four industrial byproducts constituted a limited environmental hazard in a short time at the rates normally used in agriculture. Therefore, the short-term use of the byproducts, especially AS and RM, as amendments for soil acidity and AI toxicity in acid soils may be a potential alternative to the traditional use of mined gypsum and lime.展开更多
It is an important way for salinized soil amelioration to practise comprehensive irriga-tion-drainage scheme with canal,well and drain togather and to utilize surface and groundwaters jointly. In more serious salinize...It is an important way for salinized soil amelioration to practise comprehensive irriga-tion-drainage scheme with canal,well and drain togather and to utilize surface and groundwaters jointly. In more serious salinized region, well-canal mixed irrigation can improvethe irrigated water quality. To fulfil water quality requirements, it is necessary to展开更多
The wettability of coarse-grained soils has been studied previously.However,soil drying in arid regions due to limited precipitation or irrigation has resulted in soil water repellency to some extent in fine-grained s...The wettability of coarse-grained soils has been studied previously.However,soil drying in arid regions due to limited precipitation or irrigation has resulted in soil water repellency to some extent in fine-grained soils.In this study,laboratory experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of plane(Platanus orientalis L.)leaf biochar with fine(<0.1 mm)and coarse grains(0.1-0.5 mm)on the wettability of a silty clay soil irrigated with saline and non-saline water.Eleven rates of each biochar,ranging from 0 to 10%with 1%intervals,were investigated along with five ionic strengths of water,including 0,0.2,0.4,0.6,and 0.8 mol L^(-1),prepared using sodium and calcium chloride,which are two dominant salts in arid regions.The results showed that application of 5%-10%fine-grained biochar changed the soil hydrophobicity class from strongly to slightly water-repellent,while only 4%coarse-grained biochar was sufficient for the same change in soil wettability.Furthermore,the use of 10%coarse-grained biochar made the soil hydrophilic.The positive effect of plane leaf biochar on soil water repellency reduction was limited by water salinity.The sodium chloride solution was more effective in decreasing the soil wettability than calcium chloride solution and increased the demand for biochar for soil water repellency reduction.In conclusion,plane leaf biochar could be beneficial in managing the hydrophobicity of fine-grained soils.However,water quality as well as biochar particle size determined the quantity of biochar required for improving soil wettability.展开更多
Cardiotonic Pills(CP)is a compound preparation of Chinese medicine consisting of Salvia miltiorrhiza,Panax notoginseng and Borneol,and it has been approved in 1994by the China State Food and Drug Administration for tr...Cardiotonic Pills(CP)is a compound preparation of Chinese medicine consisting of Salvia miltiorrhiza,Panax notoginseng and Borneol,and it has been approved in 1994by the China State Food and Drug Administration for treating ischemic angina pectoris.It has passed the Phase II clinical trials by the US Food and Drug Administration in2009,December,demonstrating its potential to prolong展开更多
This paper is related to the advancement of the inventory models for ameliorating items and focused on the real-life business situation as with the time the deterioration rate of ameliorating items is increased.In the...This paper is related to the advancement of the inventory models for ameliorating items and focused on the real-life business situation as with the time the deterioration rate of ameliorating items is increased.In the global world,every supply chain entities as suppliers/manufacturers/retailers want to increase the consumption of their goods without any losses.For this,he/she tries to lure manufacturer/retailers by offering some discounts,i.e.credit period for settling the account.The problem states that the manufacturer purchases the ameliorating items from the supplier,where the supplier offers his/her credit period to settle the account.The manufacturer purchases ameliorating items(like pigs,fishes,ducklings,etc.)and take those items as rawmaterial;when the livestock matures the manufacturer sells it to the retailer and offer credit time for settling the account.Reason to propose the model is when the quantities of livestock become larger,then the manufacturer faces difficulty in maintaining all the livestock.In such a situation,the traditional method(without offering credit period)fails to provide the maximum profit to the manufacturer.Therefore,in order to get maximum profit,the manufacturer needs some more realistic scientific outlook for making decisions.The proposed model provides a more realistic assumption of business markets,by offering credit policy.In the introduced model,manufacturer faces amelioration and deterioration rate simultaneously due to the growth and the death of livestock.The amelioration and deterioration rates are assumed as theWeibull distribution type.Shortages allowed only for the retailer,which is partially backlogged.The main goal of this paper is to minimize the total relevant inventory cost for both the manufacturer and the retailers,by finding the optimal replenishment policy.Themathematical formulation with optimal solutions for manufacturer and retailers are given.Convexity and existence of the proposed model via numerical examples and graphical representations are explained.Finally,the conclusions with some future research direction are discussed.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To determine the therapeutic effects of the Zhuangyao Jianshen pill(壮腰健肾丸,ZYJSP)against benign prostatic hyperplasia(BPH)and investigate the underlying mechanism.METHODS:Forty-eight male Sprague-Dawley ...OBJECTIVE:To determine the therapeutic effects of the Zhuangyao Jianshen pill(壮腰健肾丸,ZYJSP)against benign prostatic hyperplasia(BPH)and investigate the underlying mechanism.METHODS:Forty-eight male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into six groups:Control group,BPH model group,finasteride-treated group,ZYJSP low,medium and high dose groups.Except for the control group,40 rats were castrated and injected with testosterone propionate(TP)for 28 consecutive day to induce BPH.Meanwhile,the corresponding drugs were administered by gavage.The prostate wet weight,prostate index(PI),and the histopathological changes in the prostate were measured as the basis for examining the efficacy of ZYJSP against BPH.Levels of the serum sex hormones,oxidative stress markers,inflammatory markers,renal function markers,growth factors,and Cyclin D1 expression in prostate were measured to characterize the therapeutic mechanism of ZYJSP against BPH.RESULTS:ZYJSP administration significantly reduced prostate wet weight and PI and ameliorated histological changes of the prostate in TP-treated castrated rats.TP markedly increased the levels of creatinine,blood urea nitrogen and growth factors in the serum as well as the expression of the Cyclin D1 in the prostate.Most of these markers were significantly decreased by ZYJSP.ZYJSP significantly restored the dysregulation of testosterone,estradiol,and dihydrotestosterone caused by TP.Furthermore,ZYJSP relieved TP-induced prostate injury and exhibited both anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activity by decreasing interleukin-6,interleukin-8,and malondialdehyde levels and increasing the activity of superoxide dismutase in the serum.CONCLUSION:These findings indicate that ZYJSP can effectively ameliorate BPH induced by TP in castrated rats,and the underlying mechanism might be related to regulating sex hormone balance,reducing oxidative stress,and inhibiting the inflammatory response.展开更多
We chose a definition of heatwaves (HWs) that has ~4-year recurrence frequency at world hot spots. We first examined the 1940-2022 HWs climatology and trends in lifespan, severity, spatial extent, and recurrence frequ...We chose a definition of heatwaves (HWs) that has ~4-year recurrence frequency at world hot spots. We first examined the 1940-2022 HWs climatology and trends in lifespan, severity, spatial extent, and recurrence frequency. HWs are becoming more frequent and more severe for extratropical mid- and low-latitudes. To euphemize HWs, we here propose a novel clean energy-tapping concept that utilizes the available nano-technology, micro-meteorology knowledge of temperature distribution within/without buildings, and radiative properties of earth atmosphere. The key points for a practical electricity generation scheme from HWs are defogging, insulation, and minimizing the absorption of infrared downward radiation at the cold legs of the thermoelectric generators. One sample realization is presented which, through relay with existing photovoltaic devices, provides all-day electricity supply sufficient for providing air conditioning requirement for a residence (~2000-watt throughput). The provision of power to air conditioning systems, usually imposes a significant stress on traditional city power grids during heatwaves.展开更多
Pyroptosis plays an important role in hemorrhagic stroke.Excessive endoplasmic reticulum stress can cause endoplasmic reticulum dysfunction and cellular pyroptosis by regulating the nucleotide-binding oligomerization ...Pyroptosis plays an important role in hemorrhagic stroke.Excessive endoplasmic reticulum stress can cause endoplasmic reticulum dysfunction and cellular pyroptosis by regulating the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain and leucine-rich repeat pyrin domain-containing protein 3(NLRP3)pathway.However,the relationship between pyroptosis and endoplasmic reticulum stress after intraventricular hemorrhage is unclear.In this study,we established a mouse model of intraventricular hemorrhage and found pyroptosis and endoplasmic reticulum stress in brain tissue.Intraperitoneal injection of the selective GPR120 agonist TUG-891 inhibited endoplasmic reticulum stress,pyroptosis,and inflammation and protected neurons.The neuroprotective effect of TUG-891 appears related to inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum stress and pyroptosis activation.展开更多
Amelioration of saline-sodic soils through land preparation with three tillage implements （disc plow, rotavator and cultivator） each followed by application of sulfuric acid at 20% of gypsum （CaSO4-2H2O） requireme...Amelioration of saline-sodic soils through land preparation with three tillage implements （disc plow, rotavator and cultivator） each followed by application of sulfuric acid at 20% of gypsum （CaSO4-2H2O） requirement or no sulfuric acid application during crop growth period was evaluated in a field study for 2.5 years at three sites, i.e., Jhottianwala, Gabrika （Thabal）, and Thatta Langar, in Tehsil Pindi Bhattian, Hafizahad District, Pakistan. Within 2.5 years, there was a decrease in the salinity parameters measured （electrical conductivity, pH, and sodium adsorption ratio）, with a gradual increase in rice and wheat grain yields. It was observed that the disc plow, which not only ensured favorable yields but also helped improve soil health at all the three sites, was the most effective tillage implement. Also, application of sulfuric acid resulted in higher yields and promoted rapid amelioration of the saline-sodic soils.展开更多
Large areas of Artemisia ordosica Krasch., Caragana korshinskii Kom., and Caragana intermedia Kuang and H. C. Fu plantations were established on moving sand dunes in the Gonghe Basin （northeastern Tibetan Plateau） f...Large areas of Artemisia ordosica Krasch., Caragana korshinskii Kom., and Caragana intermedia Kuang and H. C. Fu plantations were established on moving sand dunes in the Gonghe Basin （northeastern Tibetan Plateau） for vegetation restoration. Elevating our understanding of the changes in soil characteristics after the establishment of different plantation types can be useful in the context of combating deserdfication. To assess the effects of these plantation types on the restoration of sandy land, we measured soil physical-chemical properties at four depths （0-5, 5-10, 10-20, and 20-50 cm） in each of the three plantation types and also in non-vegetated moving sand dunes （as control sites）. Generally, the establishment of A. ordosica, C korshinskii and C intermedia plantations on sand dunes has greatly ameliorated soil quality in the Gonghe Basin. Specifically, relative to the moving sand dunes, shrub plantation has increased the silt and clay contents, total porosity and water holding capacity, soil organic matter, total nitrogen, total phosphorus and total potassium contents. The calculated soil quality index suggested that in the Gonghe Basin, C. intermedia is the best choice for soil amelioration. In all the three plantation types, soil amelioration mainly occurred in the shallow depths.展开更多
Burying a straw layer and applying flue gas desulphurization(FGD)gypsum are effective practices to ameliorate soil salinization or alkalization and to increase crop yield;however,little information exists on the effec...Burying a straw layer and applying flue gas desulphurization(FGD)gypsum are effective practices to ameliorate soil salinization or alkalization and to increase crop yield;however,little information exists on the effects of such integration in saline-alkali soils.A soil column experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of a straw layer plus FGD gypsum on soil salinity and alkalinity.We placed a straw layer(5 cm thick)at a depth of 30 cm and mixed FGD gypsum into the 0–20 cm soil layer at application rates of 7.5,15.0,22.5,and 30.0 t ha^-1,with no straw layer and FGD gypsum as a control(CK).The soil water content in the 0–30 cm soil layer was significantly higher(>7.8%)in the treated soil profiles after infiltration than in the CK,but decreased after evaporation.The electrical conductivity(EC)of the 10–30 cm soil layer was 230.2%and 104.9%higher in the treated soil profiles than in the CK after infiltration and evaporation,respectively,and increased with increasing rates of FGD gypsum application,with Ca^2+and SO4^2-being the main dissolved salts.Compared to those in the CK,the concentrations of Na^+,Cl^-,and HCO3-decreased in the treated soil profiles at depths above 55 cm,but the other soluble ions increased,after infiltration.A similar trend occurred after evaporation for all soluble ions except for HCO3-.The p H and exchangeable sodium percentage in the treated soil profiles were significantly lower than those in the CK over the entire profile,and decreased with increasing FGD gypsum application rates.Therefore,the incorporation of a straw layer plus FGD gypsum can reduce salinity and alkalinity,but the quantity of FGD gypsum should be controlled in saline-alkali soils.展开更多
The safe recycling of fly ash (FA) and sewage sludge (SS) in the agricultural processes comprises an important environmental technology on waste management. Soils amended with FA and SS may change their ability to ads...The safe recycling of fly ash (FA) and sewage sludge (SS) in the agricultural processes comprises an important environmental technology on waste management. Soils amended with FA and SS may change their ability to adsorb heavy metals due to either increase of soil pH or decomposition of sludge-borne organic matter. Thus, Cd and Pb sorption was investigated by 1-month incubation under soil moisture content at field capacity and room temperature with an acidic Typic Haploxeroalf from central Greece amended with varying amounts of FA and SS. Batch experiments were conducted by equilibrating the soil samples with CaCl2 solutions containing 0-400 mg Pb L-1 or 0-100 mg Cd L-1. The results showed that the Freundlich equation described well the Cd and Pb sorption. Distribution coefficient (Kd) values of Pb were higher than those of Cd in all the treatments of this study. Application of FA increased Kd values for Cd and Pb to 8.2 and 2.3 times more than the controls, respectively. Simultaneous applications of FA and SS caused a Kd increase of 3.8 and 2.1 times compared to the treatments that received only SS for Cd and Pb, respectively. Treatment of SS alone did not significantly change Cd and Pb sorption compared to the controls. The sorption reactions seemed to be mainly affected by soil pH, which was revealed by the significant correlations of Cd and Pb sorption with soil pH. These suggested that fly ash was very useful as a low-cost adsorbent for Cd and Pb and could be used as an ameliorant for biosolid-amended acidic soils.展开更多
Rapeseed cake （RC）, the residue of rapeseed oil extraction, is effective for improving tea （Camellia sinensis） quality, especially taste and aroma, but it has limited ability to ameliorate strongly acidic soil. In...Rapeseed cake （RC）, the residue of rapeseed oil extraction, is effective for improving tea （Camellia sinensis） quality, especially taste and aroma, but it has limited ability to ameliorate strongly acidic soil. In order to improve the liming potential of RC, alkaline slag （AS）, the by-product of recovery of sodium carbonate, was incorporated. Combined effects of different levels of RC and AS on ameliorating acidic soil from a tea garden were investigated. Laboratory incubations showed that combined use of AS and RC was an effective method to reduce soil exchangeable acidity and A1 saturation and increase base saturation, but not necessarily for soil pH adjustment. The release of alkalinity from the combined amendments and the mineralization of organic nitrogen increased soil pH initially, but then soil pH decreased due to nitrifications. Various degrees of nitrification were correlated with the interaction of different Ca levels, pH and N contents. When RC was applied at low levels, high Ca levels from AS repressed soil nitrification, resulting in smaller pH fluctuations. In contrast, high AS stimulated soil nitrification, when RC was applied at high levels, and resulted in a large pH decrease. Based on the optimum pH for tea production and quality, high ratios of AS to RC were indicated for soil acidity amelioration, and 8.0 g kg-1 and less than 2.5 g kg-1 were indicated for AS and RC, respectively. Further, field studies are needed to investigate the variables of combined amendments.展开更多
Some environmental problems, especially soil salinity hinder the regional sustainable development of eastern China coastal region. Salinity mainly comes from tide weave, seawater flooding and seawater intrusion. Over ...Some environmental problems, especially soil salinity hinder the regional sustainable development of eastern China coastal region. Salinity mainly comes from tide weave, seawater flooding and seawater intrusion. Over exploitation of groundwater, which is the result of unfitful land use systems, leads to seawater intrusion and salt concentration increase. Agroforestry systems can enrich soil fertility and prevent soil salinization, furthermore help maintain biodiversity and enhance productivity. For the intergrated multiple ecosystems the most critical issue is to select optimum tree species and rationally arrange these plants. The basics of this multiple ecosystem is that different plants will occupy variable ecological niches within an area, both in space and in soil depth. Shelterbelts and trees intercropping with agricultural crops are major types of the multiple ecosystem. Shelterbelts can reduce wind speed and consequently lessen evaporation and erosion of the soil, increase pasture growth by up to 60% on exposed sites, increase crop yields by up to 25%. Besides intercropping with jujube, other agroforestry multiple ecosystem such as forestry plus agriculture, forestry plus agriculture plus fishery, and forestry plus animal husbandry are the most appropriate ways to utilise land resource in this region.展开更多
BACKGROUND A recent investigation showed that the prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)is 12.8%among individuals of Han ethnicity.Gut microbiota has been reported to play a central role in T2DM.Goto-Kakizaki(GK...BACKGROUND A recent investigation showed that the prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)is 12.8%among individuals of Han ethnicity.Gut microbiota has been reported to play a central role in T2DM.Goto-Kakizaki(GK)rats show differences in gut microbiota compared to non-diabetic rats.Previous studies have indicated that berberine could be successfully used to manage T2DM.We sought to understand its hypoglycaemic effect and role in the regulation of the gut microbiota.AIM To determine whether berberine can regulate glucose metabolism in GK rats via the gut microbiota.METHODS GK rats were acclimatized for 1 wk.The GK rats were randomly divided into three groups and administered saline(Mo),metformin(Me),or berberine(Be).The observation time was 8 wk,and weight,fasting blood glucose(FBG),insulin,and glucagon-like peptide-1(GLP-1)were measured.Pancreatic tissue was observed for pathological changes.Additionally,we sequenced the 16S rRNA V3-V4 region of the gut microbiota and analysed the structure.RESULTS Compared with the Mo group,the Me and Be groups displayed significant differences in FBG(P<0.01)and GLP-1(P<0.05).A significant decrease in weight and homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance was noted in the Be group compared with those in the Me group(P<0.01).The pancreatic islets of the Me-and Be-treated rats showed improvement in number,shape,and necrosis compared with those of Mo-treated rats.A total of 580 operational taxonomic units were obtained in the three groups.Compared to the Mo group,the Me and Be groups showed a shift in the structure of the gut microbiota.Correlation analysis indicated that FBG was strongly positively correlated with Clostridia_UCG-014(P<0.01)and negatively correlated with Allobaculum(P<0.01).Body weight showed a positive correlation with Desulfovibrionaceae(P<0.01)and a negative correlation with Akkermansia(P<0.01).Importantly,our results demonstrated that Me and Be could significantly decrease Bacteroidetes(P<0.01)and the Bacteroidetes/Firmicutes ratio(P<0.01).Furthermore,Muribaculaceae(P<0.01;P<0.05)was significantly decreased in the Me and Be groups,and Allobaculum(P<0.01)was significantly increased.CONCLUSION Berberine has a substantial effect in improving metabolic parameters and modulating the gut microbiota composition in T2DM rats.展开更多
To investigate the effects of seabuckthorn(Hippophae rhamnoides)on soil amelioration,using the space replacement method,soil physical and chemical indexes as well as the microorganism quantity and soil enzyme activiti...To investigate the effects of seabuckthorn(Hippophae rhamnoides)on soil amelioration,using the space replacement method,soil physical and chemical indexes as well as the microorganism quantity and soil enzyme activities were analyzed.The results showed that:the soil bulk density of surface soil decreased and soil porosity and field capacity increased after afforestation with seabuckthorn.The plant was found to effectively reduce the soil pH,increase the soil conductivity,soil organic matters and available nutrients.Soil microorganism quantity,soil enzyme activities were both higher in 0-20 cm layer than in 20-40 cm layer.With the increase years of remediation with seabuckthorn,the quantity of soil microorganism and enzyme activities were increasing to a higher level 5 to 8 years later.Our study indicates that seabuckthorn can effectively improve soil physical and chemical properties,increase the quantity of soil microorganisms and enzyme activities,which is of great significance for the ecosystem restoration in mining areas.展开更多
Biochar(BC)is widely applied in agricultural production for its multiple uses such as carbon sequestration.However,application of BC alone has limited effect on soil fertility and crop yield,especially alkaline soil.T...Biochar(BC)is widely applied in agricultural production for its multiple uses such as carbon sequestration.However,application of BC alone has limited effect on soil fertility and crop yield,especially alkaline soil.Therefore,a pot experiment on Chinese cabbage(Brassica rapa var.glabra)was carried out in this study to investigate the effect of BC applied with organic fertilizer(OF)on alkaline soil properties and crop yield.To be specific,BC and OF were respectively applied at 0,1%,2%,and 3%,and Chinese cabbage was transplanted and cultivated for 2.5 months.Results showed that BC and OF increased the content of both organic matter and available P in alkaline soil(P<0.05).Moreover,the application of OF alone decreased the pH value but raised available N content of alkaline soil,and the application of only BC demonstrated the contrary effect(P<0.05).OF significantly improved crop yield(P<0.05),but the effect of BC was insignificant.Crop yield was the highest under the treatment of 1%BC and 3%OF.Thus,BC had limited effect on alkaline soil fertility and crop yield,but the application with OF was a good option for ameliorating alkaline soil and raising crop yield.展开更多
基金financially supported by the University of Rajshahi[No.A-892-5/52/BIMOK/BIGGAN(1)/2011]
文摘Objective: To evaluate the ameliorating effects of Raphanus sativus leaves(RSL)against sodium arsenite(Sa)-induced adverse effects through mice experiments.Methods: Swiss albino mice were divided into four equal groups: control, Sa, RSL,RSL + Sa. Sa(10 mg/kg body weight/day), and powder form of RSL(50 mg/kg body weight/day) were provided as food supplement orallty. Blood indices were measured using commercially available kits through colorimetric methods.Results: It was observed that lactate dehydrogenase, alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase activities were significantly(P < 0.05)higher in Sa-treated mice than those in the control group. RSL significantly reduced Sainduced elevation of the activities of these enzymes in serum significantly(P < 0.05).Serum butyrylcholinesterase activity and high density lipoproteins cholesterol levels in Satreated mice were significantly(P < 0.05) lower than the control group, and the food supplementation of RSL could significantly(P < 0.05) prevent the reduction of Sa-mediated serum butyryl cholinesterase activity and high density lipoproteins cholesterol levels. RSL could also reduce the Sa-induced elevation of serum urea level significantly(P < 0.05).Conclusions: Results of this study suggest the protective or ameliorating effects of RSL on Sa-induced perturbation of blood indices are related to the hepatic, cardiovascular and kidney dysfunction. Therefore, RSL may be useful to reduce arsenic toxicity in human in the future.
基金Supported by the International Foundation of Science(No.C/4073-1)the National"Eleventh Five Years Plan"Key Project on Science and Technology of China(Nos.2006BAD05B02 and 2009BADC6B02)
文摘It is imperative to choose some low cost, available and effective ameliorants to correct soil acidity in southern China for sustainable agriculture. The present investigation dealt with the possible role of industrial byproducts, i.e., coal fly ash （CFA）, alkaline slag （AS）, red mud （RM） and phosphogypsum （PG） in correcting acidity and aluminum （Al） toxicity of soils under tea plantation using an indoor incubation experiment. Results indicated that CFA, AS and RM increased soil pH, while PG decreased the pHs of an Ultisol and an Alfisol. The increment of soil pH followed the order of RM 〉 AS 〉 CFA. All the industrial byproducts invariably decreased exchangeable Al and hence increased exchangeable Ca, Mg, K and Na and effective cation exchange capacity. RM, AS and lime decreased total soluble Al, exchangeable Al and organically bound Al. Formation and retention of hydroxyl-Al polymers were the principal mechanism through which Al phytotoxicity was alleviated by application of these amendments. In addition, the heavy metal contents in the four industrial byproducts constituted a limited environmental hazard in a short time at the rates normally used in agriculture. Therefore, the short-term use of the byproducts, especially AS and RM, as amendments for soil acidity and AI toxicity in acid soils may be a potential alternative to the traditional use of mined gypsum and lime.
文摘It is an important way for salinized soil amelioration to practise comprehensive irriga-tion-drainage scheme with canal,well and drain togather and to utilize surface and groundwaters jointly. In more serious salinized region, well-canal mixed irrigation can improvethe irrigated water quality. To fulfil water quality requirements, it is necessary to
文摘The wettability of coarse-grained soils has been studied previously.However,soil drying in arid regions due to limited precipitation or irrigation has resulted in soil water repellency to some extent in fine-grained soils.In this study,laboratory experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of plane(Platanus orientalis L.)leaf biochar with fine(<0.1 mm)and coarse grains(0.1-0.5 mm)on the wettability of a silty clay soil irrigated with saline and non-saline water.Eleven rates of each biochar,ranging from 0 to 10%with 1%intervals,were investigated along with five ionic strengths of water,including 0,0.2,0.4,0.6,and 0.8 mol L^(-1),prepared using sodium and calcium chloride,which are two dominant salts in arid regions.The results showed that application of 5%-10%fine-grained biochar changed the soil hydrophobicity class from strongly to slightly water-repellent,while only 4%coarse-grained biochar was sufficient for the same change in soil wettability.Furthermore,the use of 10%coarse-grained biochar made the soil hydrophilic.The positive effect of plane leaf biochar on soil water repellency reduction was limited by water salinity.The sodium chloride solution was more effective in decreasing the soil wettability than calcium chloride solution and increased the demand for biochar for soil water repellency reduction.In conclusion,plane leaf biochar could be beneficial in managing the hydrophobicity of fine-grained soils.However,water quality as well as biochar particle size determined the quantity of biochar required for improving soil wettability.
文摘Cardiotonic Pills(CP)is a compound preparation of Chinese medicine consisting of Salvia miltiorrhiza,Panax notoginseng and Borneol,and it has been approved in 1994by the China State Food and Drug Administration for treating ischemic angina pectoris.It has passed the Phase II clinical trials by the US Food and Drug Administration in2009,December,demonstrating its potential to prolong
文摘This paper is related to the advancement of the inventory models for ameliorating items and focused on the real-life business situation as with the time the deterioration rate of ameliorating items is increased.In the global world,every supply chain entities as suppliers/manufacturers/retailers want to increase the consumption of their goods without any losses.For this,he/she tries to lure manufacturer/retailers by offering some discounts,i.e.credit period for settling the account.The problem states that the manufacturer purchases the ameliorating items from the supplier,where the supplier offers his/her credit period to settle the account.The manufacturer purchases ameliorating items(like pigs,fishes,ducklings,etc.)and take those items as rawmaterial;when the livestock matures the manufacturer sells it to the retailer and offer credit time for settling the account.Reason to propose the model is when the quantities of livestock become larger,then the manufacturer faces difficulty in maintaining all the livestock.In such a situation,the traditional method(without offering credit period)fails to provide the maximum profit to the manufacturer.Therefore,in order to get maximum profit,the manufacturer needs some more realistic scientific outlook for making decisions.The proposed model provides a more realistic assumption of business markets,by offering credit policy.In the introduced model,manufacturer faces amelioration and deterioration rate simultaneously due to the growth and the death of livestock.The amelioration and deterioration rates are assumed as theWeibull distribution type.Shortages allowed only for the retailer,which is partially backlogged.The main goal of this paper is to minimize the total relevant inventory cost for both the manufacturer and the retailers,by finding the optimal replenishment policy.Themathematical formulation with optimal solutions for manufacturer and retailers are given.Convexity and existence of the proposed model via numerical examples and graphical representations are explained.Finally,the conclusions with some future research direction are discussed.
文摘OBJECTIVE:To determine the therapeutic effects of the Zhuangyao Jianshen pill(壮腰健肾丸,ZYJSP)against benign prostatic hyperplasia(BPH)and investigate the underlying mechanism.METHODS:Forty-eight male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into six groups:Control group,BPH model group,finasteride-treated group,ZYJSP low,medium and high dose groups.Except for the control group,40 rats were castrated and injected with testosterone propionate(TP)for 28 consecutive day to induce BPH.Meanwhile,the corresponding drugs were administered by gavage.The prostate wet weight,prostate index(PI),and the histopathological changes in the prostate were measured as the basis for examining the efficacy of ZYJSP against BPH.Levels of the serum sex hormones,oxidative stress markers,inflammatory markers,renal function markers,growth factors,and Cyclin D1 expression in prostate were measured to characterize the therapeutic mechanism of ZYJSP against BPH.RESULTS:ZYJSP administration significantly reduced prostate wet weight and PI and ameliorated histological changes of the prostate in TP-treated castrated rats.TP markedly increased the levels of creatinine,blood urea nitrogen and growth factors in the serum as well as the expression of the Cyclin D1 in the prostate.Most of these markers were significantly decreased by ZYJSP.ZYJSP significantly restored the dysregulation of testosterone,estradiol,and dihydrotestosterone caused by TP.Furthermore,ZYJSP relieved TP-induced prostate injury and exhibited both anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activity by decreasing interleukin-6,interleukin-8,and malondialdehyde levels and increasing the activity of superoxide dismutase in the serum.CONCLUSION:These findings indicate that ZYJSP can effectively ameliorate BPH induced by TP in castrated rats,and the underlying mechanism might be related to regulating sex hormone balance,reducing oxidative stress,and inhibiting the inflammatory response.
文摘We chose a definition of heatwaves (HWs) that has ~4-year recurrence frequency at world hot spots. We first examined the 1940-2022 HWs climatology and trends in lifespan, severity, spatial extent, and recurrence frequency. HWs are becoming more frequent and more severe for extratropical mid- and low-latitudes. To euphemize HWs, we here propose a novel clean energy-tapping concept that utilizes the available nano-technology, micro-meteorology knowledge of temperature distribution within/without buildings, and radiative properties of earth atmosphere. The key points for a practical electricity generation scheme from HWs are defogging, insulation, and minimizing the absorption of infrared downward radiation at the cold legs of the thermoelectric generators. One sample realization is presented which, through relay with existing photovoltaic devices, provides all-day electricity supply sufficient for providing air conditioning requirement for a residence (~2000-watt throughput). The provision of power to air conditioning systems, usually imposes a significant stress on traditional city power grids during heatwaves.
文摘Pyroptosis plays an important role in hemorrhagic stroke.Excessive endoplasmic reticulum stress can cause endoplasmic reticulum dysfunction and cellular pyroptosis by regulating the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain and leucine-rich repeat pyrin domain-containing protein 3(NLRP3)pathway.However,the relationship between pyroptosis and endoplasmic reticulum stress after intraventricular hemorrhage is unclear.In this study,we established a mouse model of intraventricular hemorrhage and found pyroptosis and endoplasmic reticulum stress in brain tissue.Intraperitoneal injection of the selective GPR120 agonist TUG-891 inhibited endoplasmic reticulum stress,pyroptosis,and inflammation and protected neurons.The neuroprotective effect of TUG-891 appears related to inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum stress and pyroptosis activation.
文摘Amelioration of saline-sodic soils through land preparation with three tillage implements （disc plow, rotavator and cultivator） each followed by application of sulfuric acid at 20% of gypsum （CaSO4-2H2O） requirement or no sulfuric acid application during crop growth period was evaluated in a field study for 2.5 years at three sites, i.e., Jhottianwala, Gabrika （Thabal）, and Thatta Langar, in Tehsil Pindi Bhattian, Hafizahad District, Pakistan. Within 2.5 years, there was a decrease in the salinity parameters measured （electrical conductivity, pH, and sodium adsorption ratio）, with a gradual increase in rice and wheat grain yields. It was observed that the disc plow, which not only ensured favorable yields but also helped improve soil health at all the three sites, was the most effective tillage implement. Also, application of sulfuric acid resulted in higher yields and promoted rapid amelioration of the saline-sodic soils.
基金supported by the Forestry Public Benefit Scientific Research Special Project of China(201504420)the National Science&Technology Pillar Program during the 12th Five-year Plan Period(2012BAD16B0102)
文摘Large areas of Artemisia ordosica Krasch., Caragana korshinskii Kom., and Caragana intermedia Kuang and H. C. Fu plantations were established on moving sand dunes in the Gonghe Basin （northeastern Tibetan Plateau） for vegetation restoration. Elevating our understanding of the changes in soil characteristics after the establishment of different plantation types can be useful in the context of combating deserdfication. To assess the effects of these plantation types on the restoration of sandy land, we measured soil physical-chemical properties at four depths （0-5, 5-10, 10-20, and 20-50 cm） in each of the three plantation types and also in non-vegetated moving sand dunes （as control sites）. Generally, the establishment of A. ordosica, C korshinskii and C intermedia plantations on sand dunes has greatly ameliorated soil quality in the Gonghe Basin. Specifically, relative to the moving sand dunes, shrub plantation has increased the silt and clay contents, total porosity and water holding capacity, soil organic matter, total nitrogen, total phosphorus and total potassium contents. The calculated soil quality index suggested that in the Gonghe Basin, C. intermedia is the best choice for soil amelioration. In all the three plantation types, soil amelioration mainly occurred in the shallow depths.
基金supported by the Chinese Postdoctoral Science Foundation(No.2015M580110)the National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2016YFC0501306)。
文摘Burying a straw layer and applying flue gas desulphurization(FGD)gypsum are effective practices to ameliorate soil salinization or alkalization and to increase crop yield;however,little information exists on the effects of such integration in saline-alkali soils.A soil column experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of a straw layer plus FGD gypsum on soil salinity and alkalinity.We placed a straw layer(5 cm thick)at a depth of 30 cm and mixed FGD gypsum into the 0–20 cm soil layer at application rates of 7.5,15.0,22.5,and 30.0 t ha^-1,with no straw layer and FGD gypsum as a control(CK).The soil water content in the 0–30 cm soil layer was significantly higher(>7.8%)in the treated soil profiles after infiltration than in the CK,but decreased after evaporation.The electrical conductivity(EC)of the 10–30 cm soil layer was 230.2%and 104.9%higher in the treated soil profiles than in the CK after infiltration and evaporation,respectively,and increased with increasing rates of FGD gypsum application,with Ca^2+and SO4^2-being the main dissolved salts.Compared to those in the CK,the concentrations of Na^+,Cl^-,and HCO3-decreased in the treated soil profiles at depths above 55 cm,but the other soluble ions increased,after infiltration.A similar trend occurred after evaporation for all soluble ions except for HCO3-.The p H and exchangeable sodium percentage in the treated soil profiles were significantly lower than those in the CK over the entire profile,and decreased with increasing FGD gypsum application rates.Therefore,the incorporation of a straw layer plus FGD gypsum can reduce salinity and alkalinity,but the quantity of FGD gypsum should be controlled in saline-alkali soils.
基金Supported by the Chinese-Greece Bilateral Research Project of the Greek General Secretariat for Research and Technology
文摘The safe recycling of fly ash (FA) and sewage sludge (SS) in the agricultural processes comprises an important environmental technology on waste management. Soils amended with FA and SS may change their ability to adsorb heavy metals due to either increase of soil pH or decomposition of sludge-borne organic matter. Thus, Cd and Pb sorption was investigated by 1-month incubation under soil moisture content at field capacity and room temperature with an acidic Typic Haploxeroalf from central Greece amended with varying amounts of FA and SS. Batch experiments were conducted by equilibrating the soil samples with CaCl2 solutions containing 0-400 mg Pb L-1 or 0-100 mg Cd L-1. The results showed that the Freundlich equation described well the Cd and Pb sorption. Distribution coefficient (Kd) values of Pb were higher than those of Cd in all the treatments of this study. Application of FA increased Kd values for Cd and Pb to 8.2 and 2.3 times more than the controls, respectively. Simultaneous applications of FA and SS caused a Kd increase of 3.8 and 2.1 times compared to the treatments that received only SS for Cd and Pb, respectively. Treatment of SS alone did not significantly change Cd and Pb sorption compared to the controls. The sorption reactions seemed to be mainly affected by soil pH, which was revealed by the significant correlations of Cd and Pb sorption with soil pH. These suggested that fly ash was very useful as a low-cost adsorbent for Cd and Pb and could be used as an ameliorant for biosolid-amended acidic soils.
基金Supported by the National Key Technology R&D Program of China(No.2009BADC6B02)the National Environmental Protection Public Benefit Research Foundation of China(No.2013467036)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.41030531 and 40701078)
文摘Rapeseed cake （RC）, the residue of rapeseed oil extraction, is effective for improving tea （Camellia sinensis） quality, especially taste and aroma, but it has limited ability to ameliorate strongly acidic soil. In order to improve the liming potential of RC, alkaline slag （AS）, the by-product of recovery of sodium carbonate, was incorporated. Combined effects of different levels of RC and AS on ameliorating acidic soil from a tea garden were investigated. Laboratory incubations showed that combined use of AS and RC was an effective method to reduce soil exchangeable acidity and A1 saturation and increase base saturation, but not necessarily for soil pH adjustment. The release of alkalinity from the combined amendments and the mineralization of organic nitrogen increased soil pH initially, but then soil pH decreased due to nitrifications. Various degrees of nitrification were correlated with the interaction of different Ca levels, pH and N contents. When RC was applied at low levels, high Ca levels from AS repressed soil nitrification, resulting in smaller pH fluctuations. In contrast, high AS stimulated soil nitrification, when RC was applied at high levels, and resulted in a large pH decrease. Based on the optimum pH for tea production and quality, high ratios of AS to RC were indicated for soil acidity amelioration, and 8.0 g kg-1 and less than 2.5 g kg-1 were indicated for AS and RC, respectively. Further, field studies are needed to investigate the variables of combined amendments.
基金This research is a part of the German-Chinese Project of Agroforestry in Coastal Region supported by the BMBF
文摘Some environmental problems, especially soil salinity hinder the regional sustainable development of eastern China coastal region. Salinity mainly comes from tide weave, seawater flooding and seawater intrusion. Over exploitation of groundwater, which is the result of unfitful land use systems, leads to seawater intrusion and salt concentration increase. Agroforestry systems can enrich soil fertility and prevent soil salinization, furthermore help maintain biodiversity and enhance productivity. For the intergrated multiple ecosystems the most critical issue is to select optimum tree species and rationally arrange these plants. The basics of this multiple ecosystem is that different plants will occupy variable ecological niches within an area, both in space and in soil depth. Shelterbelts and trees intercropping with agricultural crops are major types of the multiple ecosystem. Shelterbelts can reduce wind speed and consequently lessen evaporation and erosion of the soil, increase pasture growth by up to 60% on exposed sites, increase crop yields by up to 25%. Besides intercropping with jujube, other agroforestry multiple ecosystem such as forestry plus agriculture, forestry plus agriculture plus fishery, and forestry plus animal husbandry are the most appropriate ways to utilise land resource in this region.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81603574 and No.81774286National Key Research and Development Program,No.2018YFC1704202 and No.2020YFE0201800+1 种基金University Scientific Research Projects of Anhui,No.KJ2020A0401 and No.KJ2019A0442Province Science Foundation of Anhui,No.1708085QH213.
文摘BACKGROUND A recent investigation showed that the prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)is 12.8%among individuals of Han ethnicity.Gut microbiota has been reported to play a central role in T2DM.Goto-Kakizaki(GK)rats show differences in gut microbiota compared to non-diabetic rats.Previous studies have indicated that berberine could be successfully used to manage T2DM.We sought to understand its hypoglycaemic effect and role in the regulation of the gut microbiota.AIM To determine whether berberine can regulate glucose metabolism in GK rats via the gut microbiota.METHODS GK rats were acclimatized for 1 wk.The GK rats were randomly divided into three groups and administered saline(Mo),metformin(Me),or berberine(Be).The observation time was 8 wk,and weight,fasting blood glucose(FBG),insulin,and glucagon-like peptide-1(GLP-1)were measured.Pancreatic tissue was observed for pathological changes.Additionally,we sequenced the 16S rRNA V3-V4 region of the gut microbiota and analysed the structure.RESULTS Compared with the Mo group,the Me and Be groups displayed significant differences in FBG(P<0.01)and GLP-1(P<0.05).A significant decrease in weight and homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance was noted in the Be group compared with those in the Me group(P<0.01).The pancreatic islets of the Me-and Be-treated rats showed improvement in number,shape,and necrosis compared with those of Mo-treated rats.A total of 580 operational taxonomic units were obtained in the three groups.Compared to the Mo group,the Me and Be groups showed a shift in the structure of the gut microbiota.Correlation analysis indicated that FBG was strongly positively correlated with Clostridia_UCG-014(P<0.01)and negatively correlated with Allobaculum(P<0.01).Body weight showed a positive correlation with Desulfovibrionaceae(P<0.01)and a negative correlation with Akkermansia(P<0.01).Importantly,our results demonstrated that Me and Be could significantly decrease Bacteroidetes(P<0.01)and the Bacteroidetes/Firmicutes ratio(P<0.01).Furthermore,Muribaculaceae(P<0.01;P<0.05)was significantly decreased in the Me and Be groups,and Allobaculum(P<0.01)was significantly increased.CONCLUSION Berberine has a substantial effect in improving metabolic parameters and modulating the gut microbiota composition in T2DM rats.
基金supported by the Fund for 863 Program(2013AA102904)the central university basic research project(2009KD01).
文摘To investigate the effects of seabuckthorn(Hippophae rhamnoides)on soil amelioration,using the space replacement method,soil physical and chemical indexes as well as the microorganism quantity and soil enzyme activities were analyzed.The results showed that:the soil bulk density of surface soil decreased and soil porosity and field capacity increased after afforestation with seabuckthorn.The plant was found to effectively reduce the soil pH,increase the soil conductivity,soil organic matters and available nutrients.Soil microorganism quantity,soil enzyme activities were both higher in 0-20 cm layer than in 20-40 cm layer.With the increase years of remediation with seabuckthorn,the quantity of soil microorganism and enzyme activities were increasing to a higher level 5 to 8 years later.Our study indicates that seabuckthorn can effectively improve soil physical and chemical properties,increase the quantity of soil microorganisms and enzyme activities,which is of great significance for the ecosystem restoration in mining areas.
文摘Biochar(BC)is widely applied in agricultural production for its multiple uses such as carbon sequestration.However,application of BC alone has limited effect on soil fertility and crop yield,especially alkaline soil.Therefore,a pot experiment on Chinese cabbage(Brassica rapa var.glabra)was carried out in this study to investigate the effect of BC applied with organic fertilizer(OF)on alkaline soil properties and crop yield.To be specific,BC and OF were respectively applied at 0,1%,2%,and 3%,and Chinese cabbage was transplanted and cultivated for 2.5 months.Results showed that BC and OF increased the content of both organic matter and available P in alkaline soil(P<0.05).Moreover,the application of OF alone decreased the pH value but raised available N content of alkaline soil,and the application of only BC demonstrated the contrary effect(P<0.05).OF significantly improved crop yield(P<0.05),but the effect of BC was insignificant.Crop yield was the highest under the treatment of 1%BC and 3%OF.Thus,BC had limited effect on alkaline soil fertility and crop yield,but the application with OF was a good option for ameliorating alkaline soil and raising crop yield.
