This study aims to investigate grain quality and nutritional values of rice(Pokkali,a salt-tolerant cultivar;RD73,a new cultivar improved from KDML105 introgressed with Saltol QTL from Pokkali,and KDML105,a moderately...This study aims to investigate grain quality and nutritional values of rice(Pokkali,a salt-tolerant cultivar;RD73,a new cultivar improved from KDML105 introgressed with Saltol QTL from Pokkali,and KDML105,a moderately salt-susceptible cultivar)grown under non-saline(0.04–0.87 dS/m)and slightly saline(1.08–4.83 dS/m)field conditions.The results revealed that salinity caused significant reduction in grain size but significant increments in reducing sugar and total protein contents in the grains.Nevertheless,the amounts of starch in the grains of KDML105 and Pokkali rice genotypes were unaffected by the stress.The starch granule size distribution was also unaffected by salinity.Interestingly,only starch from Pokkali was significantly diminished in amylose content,from 19.18%to 16.99%.Accordingly,parameters relating to starch gelatinization,retrogradation,and pasting properties of KDML105 and RD73 were unaffected by salinity;only Pokkali showed a significant increase in percentage of retrogradation along with a significant reduction in gelatinization enthalpy.In the saline field,total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity in the grains of all rice cultivars tended to increase,particularly in Pokkali.On average,essential element contents in grains from the saline-treated plants showed a 33%,32%,32%,22%,20%,11%,and 10%increase in total P,N,K,Mg,Zn,Fe,and Ca content,respectively.Interestingly,total Fe content exhibited the greatest percentage of increments in KDML105(187%).Taken together,cultivation of rice in the slightly saline field did not alter its eating and cooking qualities,while enhanced some nutritional properties such as proteins,minerals,and secondary metabolites like phenolic compounds.展开更多
A comparative study was carried out on the EM_cytochemical localization of calcium and Ca 2+ _ATPase activity in the suspension_cultured cells between the chilling_sensitive maize ( Zea mays L. cv. Black Mexica...A comparative study was carried out on the EM_cytochemical localization of calcium and Ca 2+ _ATPase activity in the suspension_cultured cells between the chilling_sensitive maize ( Zea mays L. cv. Black Mexican Sweet) and chilling_insensitive Trititrigia ( Triticum sect. Trititrigia mackey) at 4 ℃ chilling. When maize and Tyititrigia cells were cultured at 26 ℃, electron microscopic observations revealed that the electron_dense calcium antimonate deposits, an indication of the calcium localization, were localized mainly in the vacuoles, and few was found in the cytosol and nuclei. The electron_dense cerium phosphate deposits, an indication of Ca 2+ _ATPase activity, were abundantly distributed on the plasma membrane (PM). When the cells from both species were cultured at 4 ℃ for 1 and 3 h, an elevation of Ca 2+ level in the cytosol and nuclei was observed, whereas the cerium phosphate deposits on the PM showed no quantitative difference from those of the 26 ℃_cultured cells, indicating that the enzymatic activities were not altered during these chilling periods. However, there was a distinct difference in the dynamics of the Ca 2+ distribution and the PM Ca 2+ _ATPase activity between maize and Trititrigia when chilled at 4 ℃ for 12, 24 and 72 h. In maize cells, a large number of Ca 2+ deposits still existed in the cytosol and nuclei, and the PM Ca 2+ _ATPase became less and less active, and even inactive at all. In Trititrigia cells, the increased cytosolic and nuclear Ca 2+ ions decreased after 12 h chilling. By chilling up to 24 and 72 h, the intracellular Ca 2+ concentration had been restored to a similar low level as those of the warm temperature_cultured cells, while the activity of the PM Ca 2+ _ATPase maintained high. The transient cytosolic and nuclear Ca 2+ increase and the activities of PM Ca 2+ _ATPase during chilling are discussed in relation to plant cold hardiness.展开更多
A study was conducted to assess carbon stocks in various forms and land-use types and reliably estimate the impact of land use on C stocks in the Nam Yao sub-watershed （19°05′10″N, 100°37′02″E）, Thaila...A study was conducted to assess carbon stocks in various forms and land-use types and reliably estimate the impact of land use on C stocks in the Nam Yao sub-watershed （19°05′10″N, 100°37′02″E）, Thailand. The carbon stocks of aboveground, soil organic and fine root within primary forest, reforestation and agricultural land were estimated through field data collection. Results re- vealed that the amount of total carbon stock of forests （357.62 ± 28.51 Mg·ha^-1, simplified expression of Mg （carbon）·ha^-1） was significantly greater （P〈 0.05） than the reforestation （195.25 ± 14.38 Mg·ha^-1） and the agricultural land （103.10 ± 18.24 Mg·ha^-1）. Soil organic carbon in the forests （196.24 ± 22.81 Mg·ha^-1） was also significantly greater （P〈 0.05） than the reforestation （146.83 ± 7.22 Mg·ha^-1） and the agricultural land （95.09± 14.18 Mg·ha^-1）. The differences in carbon stocks across land-use types are the primary consequence of variations in the vegetation biomass and the soil organic matter. Fine root carbon was a small fraction of carbon stocks in all land-use types. Most of the soil organic carbon and fine root carbon content was found in the upper 40-cm layer and decreased with soil depth. The aboveground carbon：soil organic carbon： fine root carbon ratios （ABGC： SOC： FRC）, was 5：8：1, 2：8：1, and 3：50：1 for the forest, reforestation and agricultural land, respectively. These results indicate that a relatively large proportion of the C loss is due to forest conversion to agricultural land. However, the C can be effectively recaptured through reforestation where high levels of C are stored in biomass as carbon sinks, facilitating carbon dioxide mitigation.展开更多
A widespread use of acrylamide, probably a neurotoxicant and carcinogen, in various industrial processes has led to environmental contamination. Fortunately, some microorganisms are able to derive energy from acrylami...A widespread use of acrylamide, probably a neurotoxicant and carcinogen, in various industrial processes has led to environmental contamination. Fortunately, some microorganisms are able to derive energy from acrylamide. In the present work, we reported the isolation and characterization of a novel acrylamide-degrading bacterium from domestic wastewater in Chonburi, Thailand. The strain grew well in the presence of acrylamide as 0.5% （W/V）, at pH 6.0 to 9,0 and 25℃. Identification based on biochemical characteristics and 16S rRNA gene sequence identified the strain as Enterobacter aerogenes. Degradation of acrylamide to acrylic acid started in the late logarithmic growth phase as a biomass-dependent pattern. Specificity of cell-free supernatant towards amides completely degraded butyramide and urea and 86% of lactamide. Moderate degradation took place in other amides with that by formanaide 〉 benzamide 〉 acetamide 〉 cyanoacetamide 〉 propionamide. No degradation was detected in the reactions of N,N-methylene bisacrylamide, sodium azide, thioacetamide, and iodoacetamide. These results highlighted the potential of this bacterium in the cleanup of acrylamide/amide in the environment.展开更多
BACKGROUND Cirrhosis is an important health problem characterized by a significant change in liver parenchyma.In animals,this can be reproduced by an experimental model of bile duct ligation(BDL).Melatonin(MLT)is a ph...BACKGROUND Cirrhosis is an important health problem characterized by a significant change in liver parenchyma.In animals,this can be reproduced by an experimental model of bile duct ligation(BDL).Melatonin(MLT)is a physiological hormone synthesized from serotonin that has been studied for its beneficial properties,including its antioxidant potential.AIM To evaluate MLT’s effects on oxidative stress,the inflammatory process,and DNA damage in an experimental model of secondary biliary cirrhosis.METHODS Male Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups:Control(CO),CO+MLT,BDL,and BDL+MLT.MLT was administered(20 mg/kg)daily beginning on day 15 after biliary obstruction.On day 29 the animals were killed.Blood samples,liver tissue,and bone marrow were collected for further analysis.RESULTS BDL caused changes in biochemical and histological parameters and markers of inflammatory process.Thiobarbituric acid(0.46±0.01)reactive substance levels,superoxide dismutase activity(2.30±0.07)and nitric oxide levels(2.48±0.36)were significantly lower(P<0.001)n the groups that received MLT.DNA damage was also lower(P<0.001)in MLT-treated groups(171.6±32.9)than the BDL-only group(295.5±34.8).Tissue damage and the expression of nuclear factor kappa B,interleukin-1β,Nrf2,NQO1 and Hsp70 were significantly lower in animals treated with MLT(P<0.001).CONCLUSION When administered to rats with BDL-induced secondary biliary cirrhosis,MLT effectively restored the evaluated parameters.展开更多
The central nervous system （CNS） plays a key regulatory role in glucose homeostasis. In particular, the brain is important in initiating and coordinating protective counterregulatory responses when blood glucose lev...The central nervous system （CNS） plays a key regulatory role in glucose homeostasis. In particular, the brain is important in initiating and coordinating protective counterregulatory responses when blood glucose levels fall. This may due to the metabolic dependency of the CNS on glucose, and protection of food supply to the brain. In healthy subjects, blood glucose is normally maintained within a relatively narrow range. Hypoglycemia in diabetic patients can increase the risk of complications, such as heart disease and diabetic peripheral neuropathy. The clinical research finds that the use of traditional Chinese medicine （TCM） has a positive effect on the treatment of hypoglycemia. Here the authors reviewed the current understanding of sensing and counterregulatory responses to hypoglycemia, and discuss combining traditional Chinese and Western medicine and the theory of iatrogenic hypoglycemia in diabetes treatment. Furthermore, the authors clarify the feasibility of treating hypoglycemia on the basis of TCM theory and CNS and have an insight on its clinical practice.展开更多
BACKGROUND Melatonin(MLT)is a potent antioxidant molecule that is shown to have a beneficial effect in various pathological situations,due to its action against free radicals.AIM To evaluate the effect of MLT on carbo...BACKGROUND Melatonin(MLT)is a potent antioxidant molecule that is shown to have a beneficial effect in various pathological situations,due to its action against free radicals.AIM To evaluate the effect of MLT on carbon tetrachloride(CCl_(4))induced liver injury in rats in terms of oxidative stress,reticular stress,and cell damage.METHODS Twenty male Wistar rats(230-250 g)were divided into four groups:Control rats,rats treated with MLT alone,rats treated with CCl_(4)alone,and rats treated with CCl_(4)plus MLT.CCl_(4)was administered as follows:Ten doses every 5 d,ten every 4 d,and seven every 3 d.MLT was administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 20 mg/kg from the 10th wk to the end of the experiment(16th wk).RESULTS MLT was able to reduce the release of liver enzymes in the bloodstream and to decrease oxidative stress in CCl_(4)treated rats by decreasing the level of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and increasing superoxide dismutase activity,with a lower reduction in serum zinc levels,guaranteeing a reduction in liver damage;additionally,it increased the expression of nuclear factor(erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 and decreased the expression of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1.MLT also decreased the expression of the proteins associated with endoplasmic reticulum stress,i.e.,glucose-regulated protein 78 and activating transcription factor 6,as well as of heat shock factor 1 and heat shock protein 70.CONCLUSION MLT has a hepatoprotective effect in an experimental model of CCl_(4)-induced liver injury,since it reduces oxidative stress,restores zinc levels,and modulates endoplasmic reticulum stress.展开更多
Although numerous check dams have been constructed in many countries, and its effect on physical factors were well documented, only a few reports were available on its effect on biotic component in adjacent area. This...Although numerous check dams have been constructed in many countries, and its effect on physical factors were well documented, only a few reports were available on its effect on biotic component in adjacent area. This research aims to address effects of the check dam on reptile assemblage in an ephemeral stream based on an assumption that reptile live in the stream and adjacent area may be susceptible to prolonged hydroperiod after check dam construction. Ten stream transects and 40 terrestrial strip transects, including 5, 10, 25, and 50 m from the stream, were used to monitor reptile diversity and composition in a deciduous forest of northern Thailand during April 2009 to February 2011. Physical factors related to water pattern in the stream and the terrestrial habitats were also collected. Results on physical factors indicated that the water pattern and soil moisture in the stream, as well as leaf litter moisture in the terrestrial habitat were increased as a result of the check dam. However, rarefaction curve indicated that reptile diversity was not significantly different between pre- and post-check dam periods in every transect. Moreover, Morisita’s index of similarity indicated that reptile composition between pre- and post-check dam periods was approximately the same (86% - 100%). These results indicated that reptile assemblage was not affected by the check dam. It can be concluded based on data of one year after the check dam construction that check dam can effectively prolong water and moisture to the habitat with minimal effect on reptile assemblage in the area.展开更多
The P22 phage system is an intensely studied model system. Studies have ranged from biochemical analysis of basic life processes to the use of this phage for phage therapy. The phage tailspike protein (TSP) has itself...The P22 phage system is an intensely studied model system. Studies have ranged from biochemical analysis of basic life processes to the use of this phage for phage therapy. The phage tailspike protein (TSP) has itself been the subject of intensive studies over the past fifty years. The P22 TSP is essential for initiation of the infection process and instrumental as the last protein assembled onto the phage particle structure to complete its assembly. It has also been the subject for many structural studies including cryoelectron microscopic analysis and photophysical studies. It has been a model for in vivo and in vitro protein folding including analysis using P22 TSP temperature-sensitive for folding mutations (tsf). Recently the structure and function of the N-terminal domain (NTD), including some aspects of the structural stability of the P22 TSP NTD (aa1-aa108), are being genetically dissected. This report strongly supports the notion that two amino acids, not localized to the internal NTD dome stem, are important in the structural stability of the P22 TSP NTD.展开更多
Propolis collected by stingless bees from various types of plants has been used as an antimicrobial agent in several previous studies. We assessed the effect of propolis produced by a stingless bee, Trigona apicalis, ...Propolis collected by stingless bees from various types of plants has been used as an antimicrobial agent in several previous studies. We assessed the effect of propolis produced by a stingless bee, Trigona apicalis, on Apis florea experimentally infected with Nosema ceranae, a parasite of honeybees. For parasite inoculation each Nosema free-bee was fed 2μL of 50% （w/v） sucrose solution containing N. ceranae spores at 40,000 spores/bee and 0 as a negative control （CO）. Treated bees were provided with 0%, 10%, 20% and 50% propolis （w/v） in water, defined as 0P, 10P, 20P and 50P, respectively. We assessed the effects of propolis 14 days post inoculation. All propolis-treated bees had significantly higher survival than untreated bees. However, survival of Nosema-inoculated bees was lower than that of control bees. Bees treated with the highest propolis concentration （50P） had the highest survival ratio. No control bees became infected over the course of the study. However, N. ceranae infection rates of bees treated with 0P, 10P, 20P and 50P were 75 ± 1.4%, 72 ± 5.6%, 69± 4.2% and 47± 1.4%, respectively. In addition, propolis-treated bees had hypopharyngeal gland protein content that was significantly higher than 0P and CO bees. Overall, propolis treatment significantly reduced N. ceranae infection rate and bee mortality and was associated with increased hypopharyngeal gland protein concentration.展开更多
The historical relationships of nine areas of endemism of the tropical montane cloud forests(TMCFs)were analysed based on a temporal cladistic biogeographical approach.Three cladistic biogeographical analyses were con...The historical relationships of nine areas of endemism of the tropical montane cloud forests(TMCFs)were analysed based on a temporal cladistic biogeographical approach.Three cladistic biogeographical analyses were conducted based on 29cladograms of terrestrial taxa by partitioning them into three time-slices,namely,Miocene,Pliocene,and Pleistocene.The results showed different area relationships over time.For the Miocene and Pliocene time slices,the Isthmus of Tehuantepec acted as a geographic barrier that fragmented the TMCFs into two portions:west of the Isthmus and east of the Isthmus.In the case of the Pleistocene,the TMCFs were broken into two portions,one related to the Neotropical region and the other to the Nearctic region.Furthermore,the analyses allowed us to detect the influences of different geological and paleoclimatological events on the distribution of the TMCFs over time.Therefore,the TMCFs current distribution might have been driven by geological events during the Miocene-Pliocene,whereas climatic fluctuations have the highest impact during the Pleistocene.展开更多
Super-resolution microscopy has revolutionized our ability to visualize structures below the diffraction limit of conventional optical microscopy and is particularly useful for investigating complex biological targets...Super-resolution microscopy has revolutionized our ability to visualize structures below the diffraction limit of conventional optical microscopy and is particularly useful for investigating complex biological targets like chromatin.Chromatin exhibits a hierarchical organization with structural compartments and domains at different length scales,from nanometers to micrometers.Single molecule localization microscopy(SMLM)methods,such as STORM,are essential for studying chromatin at the supra-nucleosome level due to their ability to target epigenetic marks that determine chromatin organization.Multi-label imaging of chromatin is necessary to unpack its structural complexity.However,these efforts are challenged by the high-density nuclear environment,which can affect antibody binding affinities,diffusivity and non-specific interactions.Optimizing buffer conditions,fluorophore stability,and antibody specificity is crucial for achieving effective antibody conjugates.Here,we demonstrate a sequential immunolabeling protocol that reliably enables three-color studies within the dense nuclear environment.This protocol couples multiplexed localization datasets with a robust analysis algorithm,which utilizes localizations from one target as seed points for distance,density and multi-label joint affinity measurements to explore complex organization of all three targets.Applying this multiplexed algorithm to analyze distance and joint density reveals that heterochromatin and euchromatin are not-distinct territories,but that localization of transcription and euchromatin couple with the periphery of heterochromatic clusters.This work is a crucial step in molecular imaging of the dense nuclear environment as multi-label capacity enables for investigation of complex multi-component systems like chromatin with enhanced accuracy.展开更多
Histone acetylation is an important epigenetic modification that governs gene expression,chromatin changes in stress response,and cell fate transition.FRET biosensors have been developed for various epigenetic events ...Histone acetylation is an important epigenetic modification that governs gene expression,chromatin changes in stress response,and cell fate transition.FRET biosensors have been developed for various epigenetic events to enable spatiotemporal tracking of sub-cellular signaling events.Previously reported histone H3 acetylation biosensor recognizing two acetyl residues lacked specificity.In this study,using a single bromodomain of the BRD4,we have developed a genetically encoded H3K9ac biosensor.We systematically investigated different combinations of the BET family protein as binding domains and performed site-saturated mutagenesis to optimize the biosensor,achieving a dynamic FRET change up to 30%under TSA treatment.With the application of the optimized H3K9ac biosensor,we revealed different basal active chromatin architectures in invasive tumor cells compared to benign tumor cells.Furthermore,we found that H3K9ac level increased dramatically when cancer cells passed through microchannels,which models the physical constraints and mechanical microenvironmental conditions that cancer cells encounter when passing through narrow spaces within the body.This result highlights the chromatin plasticity in response to external mechanical stresses.In summary,our H3K9ac biosensor provides a versatile tool for mechanistic investigation of cell fate transition in cancer and mechanotransduction.展开更多
Background:A green roof is a man-made ecosystem created when a rooftop is covered with substrate and vegetation.Although green roof ecosystems(GREs)are able to provide ecosystem services,there is currently no assessme...Background:A green roof is a man-made ecosystem created when a rooftop is covered with substrate and vegetation.Although green roof ecosystems(GREs)are able to provide ecosystem services,there is currently no assessment tool available to specifically evaluate this.Therefore,the aim of this study was to develop a rapid assessment checklist(RAC)to assess GRE services(GRES),which was developed and tested on 10 green roofs in Bangkok,Thailand.Results:The RAC consisted of 46 proxy indicators(33 qualitative and 13 quantitative indicators)encompassing various aspects of GRESs.The GRES values or scores varied according to structural differences in the green roofs.The average score(from a maximum of 100)of total ecosystem services was 61±7,which could be inferred as a good performance in ecosystem service provision.The highest scores were obtained from the regulating services at 68±7.The lowest average score was 53±11 from the provisioning services.Conclusions:The RAC was able to evaluate the levels of GRES provided by the selected green roofs,enabling the meaningful comparison of their potential capability to provide GRES.Therefore,this RAC could be an innovative tool for evaluation of four categories of GRES.展开更多
基金supported by the National Research Council of Thailand(Grant No.NRCT813/2563)the Post-Doctoral Training,Khon Kaen University(Grant No.PD2565-02-02)。
文摘This study aims to investigate grain quality and nutritional values of rice(Pokkali,a salt-tolerant cultivar;RD73,a new cultivar improved from KDML105 introgressed with Saltol QTL from Pokkali,and KDML105,a moderately salt-susceptible cultivar)grown under non-saline(0.04–0.87 dS/m)and slightly saline(1.08–4.83 dS/m)field conditions.The results revealed that salinity caused significant reduction in grain size but significant increments in reducing sugar and total protein contents in the grains.Nevertheless,the amounts of starch in the grains of KDML105 and Pokkali rice genotypes were unaffected by the stress.The starch granule size distribution was also unaffected by salinity.Interestingly,only starch from Pokkali was significantly diminished in amylose content,from 19.18%to 16.99%.Accordingly,parameters relating to starch gelatinization,retrogradation,and pasting properties of KDML105 and RD73 were unaffected by salinity;only Pokkali showed a significant increase in percentage of retrogradation along with a significant reduction in gelatinization enthalpy.In the saline field,total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity in the grains of all rice cultivars tended to increase,particularly in Pokkali.On average,essential element contents in grains from the saline-treated plants showed a 33%,32%,32%,22%,20%,11%,and 10%increase in total P,N,K,Mg,Zn,Fe,and Ca content,respectively.Interestingly,total Fe content exhibited the greatest percentage of increments in KDML105(187%).Taken together,cultivation of rice in the slightly saline field did not alter its eating and cooking qualities,while enhanced some nutritional properties such as proteins,minerals,and secondary metabolites like phenolic compounds.
文摘A comparative study was carried out on the EM_cytochemical localization of calcium and Ca 2+ _ATPase activity in the suspension_cultured cells between the chilling_sensitive maize ( Zea mays L. cv. Black Mexican Sweet) and chilling_insensitive Trititrigia ( Triticum sect. Trititrigia mackey) at 4 ℃ chilling. When maize and Tyititrigia cells were cultured at 26 ℃, electron microscopic observations revealed that the electron_dense calcium antimonate deposits, an indication of the calcium localization, were localized mainly in the vacuoles, and few was found in the cytosol and nuclei. The electron_dense cerium phosphate deposits, an indication of Ca 2+ _ATPase activity, were abundantly distributed on the plasma membrane (PM). When the cells from both species were cultured at 4 ℃ for 1 and 3 h, an elevation of Ca 2+ level in the cytosol and nuclei was observed, whereas the cerium phosphate deposits on the PM showed no quantitative difference from those of the 26 ℃_cultured cells, indicating that the enzymatic activities were not altered during these chilling periods. However, there was a distinct difference in the dynamics of the Ca 2+ distribution and the PM Ca 2+ _ATPase activity between maize and Trititrigia when chilled at 4 ℃ for 12, 24 and 72 h. In maize cells, a large number of Ca 2+ deposits still existed in the cytosol and nuclei, and the PM Ca 2+ _ATPase became less and less active, and even inactive at all. In Trititrigia cells, the increased cytosolic and nuclear Ca 2+ ions decreased after 12 h chilling. By chilling up to 24 and 72 h, the intracellular Ca 2+ concentration had been restored to a similar low level as those of the warm temperature_cultured cells, while the activity of the PM Ca 2+ _ATPase maintained high. The transient cytosolic and nuclear Ca 2+ increase and the activities of PM Ca 2+ _ATPase during chilling are discussed in relation to plant cold hardiness.
文摘A study was conducted to assess carbon stocks in various forms and land-use types and reliably estimate the impact of land use on C stocks in the Nam Yao sub-watershed （19°05′10″N, 100°37′02″E）, Thailand. The carbon stocks of aboveground, soil organic and fine root within primary forest, reforestation and agricultural land were estimated through field data collection. Results re- vealed that the amount of total carbon stock of forests （357.62 ± 28.51 Mg·ha^-1, simplified expression of Mg （carbon）·ha^-1） was significantly greater （P〈 0.05） than the reforestation （195.25 ± 14.38 Mg·ha^-1） and the agricultural land （103.10 ± 18.24 Mg·ha^-1）. Soil organic carbon in the forests （196.24 ± 22.81 Mg·ha^-1） was also significantly greater （P〈 0.05） than the reforestation （146.83 ± 7.22 Mg·ha^-1） and the agricultural land （95.09± 14.18 Mg·ha^-1）. The differences in carbon stocks across land-use types are the primary consequence of variations in the vegetation biomass and the soil organic matter. Fine root carbon was a small fraction of carbon stocks in all land-use types. Most of the soil organic carbon and fine root carbon content was found in the upper 40-cm layer and decreased with soil depth. The aboveground carbon：soil organic carbon： fine root carbon ratios （ABGC： SOC： FRC）, was 5：8：1, 2：8：1, and 3：50：1 for the forest, reforestation and agricultural land, respectively. These results indicate that a relatively large proportion of the C loss is due to forest conversion to agricultural land. However, the C can be effectively recaptured through reforestation where high levels of C are stored in biomass as carbon sinks, facilitating carbon dioxide mitigation.
基金Financial support was mainly provided to JittimaCharoenpanich from Center of Excellence on Environmental Health,Toxicology and Management of Chemicals(ETM-PERDO)partly from Faculty of Science,Burapha Universitya scholarship support to Kanokhathai Buranasilp from Center of Excellence for Innovation in Chemistry (PERCH-CIC),Commission on Higher Education,Ministry of Education
文摘A widespread use of acrylamide, probably a neurotoxicant and carcinogen, in various industrial processes has led to environmental contamination. Fortunately, some microorganisms are able to derive energy from acrylamide. In the present work, we reported the isolation and characterization of a novel acrylamide-degrading bacterium from domestic wastewater in Chonburi, Thailand. The strain grew well in the presence of acrylamide as 0.5% （W/V）, at pH 6.0 to 9,0 and 25℃. Identification based on biochemical characteristics and 16S rRNA gene sequence identified the strain as Enterobacter aerogenes. Degradation of acrylamide to acrylic acid started in the late logarithmic growth phase as a biomass-dependent pattern. Specificity of cell-free supernatant towards amides completely degraded butyramide and urea and 86% of lactamide. Moderate degradation took place in other amides with that by formanaide 〉 benzamide 〉 acetamide 〉 cyanoacetamide 〉 propionamide. No degradation was detected in the reactions of N,N-methylene bisacrylamide, sodium azide, thioacetamide, and iodoacetamide. These results highlighted the potential of this bacterium in the cleanup of acrylamide/amide in the environment.
基金Supported by Fundo de IncentivoàPesquisa e Eventos(FIPE).
文摘BACKGROUND Cirrhosis is an important health problem characterized by a significant change in liver parenchyma.In animals,this can be reproduced by an experimental model of bile duct ligation(BDL).Melatonin(MLT)is a physiological hormone synthesized from serotonin that has been studied for its beneficial properties,including its antioxidant potential.AIM To evaluate MLT’s effects on oxidative stress,the inflammatory process,and DNA damage in an experimental model of secondary biliary cirrhosis.METHODS Male Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups:Control(CO),CO+MLT,BDL,and BDL+MLT.MLT was administered(20 mg/kg)daily beginning on day 15 after biliary obstruction.On day 29 the animals were killed.Blood samples,liver tissue,and bone marrow were collected for further analysis.RESULTS BDL caused changes in biochemical and histological parameters and markers of inflammatory process.Thiobarbituric acid(0.46±0.01)reactive substance levels,superoxide dismutase activity(2.30±0.07)and nitric oxide levels(2.48±0.36)were significantly lower(P<0.001)n the groups that received MLT.DNA damage was also lower(P<0.001)in MLT-treated groups(171.6±32.9)than the BDL-only group(295.5±34.8).Tissue damage and the expression of nuclear factor kappa B,interleukin-1β,Nrf2,NQO1 and Hsp70 were significantly lower in animals treated with MLT(P<0.001).CONCLUSION When administered to rats with BDL-induced secondary biliary cirrhosis,MLT effectively restored the evaluated parameters.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(No. 81370932)to LZthe Program for Professor of Special Appointment(Eastern Scholar)at Shanghai Institutions of Higher Learning(2009) to LZ+3 种基金the Pujiang Talent Project (PJ2011-0000839) of Shanghai Science and Technology to LZthe Merck Sharp&Dohme Corporation(IISP MISP40313 and MISP40309) to LZTalents Training Program of Shanghai Pudong Hospital to LZproject of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine to LZ
文摘The central nervous system （CNS） plays a key regulatory role in glucose homeostasis. In particular, the brain is important in initiating and coordinating protective counterregulatory responses when blood glucose levels fall. This may due to the metabolic dependency of the CNS on glucose, and protection of food supply to the brain. In healthy subjects, blood glucose is normally maintained within a relatively narrow range. Hypoglycemia in diabetic patients can increase the risk of complications, such as heart disease and diabetic peripheral neuropathy. The clinical research finds that the use of traditional Chinese medicine （TCM） has a positive effect on the treatment of hypoglycemia. Here the authors reviewed the current understanding of sensing and counterregulatory responses to hypoglycemia, and discuss combining traditional Chinese and Western medicine and the theory of iatrogenic hypoglycemia in diabetes treatment. Furthermore, the authors clarify the feasibility of treating hypoglycemia on the basis of TCM theory and CNS and have an insight on its clinical practice.
基金Supported by the FIPE/Hospital de Clínicas of Porto Alegre
文摘BACKGROUND Melatonin(MLT)is a potent antioxidant molecule that is shown to have a beneficial effect in various pathological situations,due to its action against free radicals.AIM To evaluate the effect of MLT on carbon tetrachloride(CCl_(4))induced liver injury in rats in terms of oxidative stress,reticular stress,and cell damage.METHODS Twenty male Wistar rats(230-250 g)were divided into four groups:Control rats,rats treated with MLT alone,rats treated with CCl_(4)alone,and rats treated with CCl_(4)plus MLT.CCl_(4)was administered as follows:Ten doses every 5 d,ten every 4 d,and seven every 3 d.MLT was administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 20 mg/kg from the 10th wk to the end of the experiment(16th wk).RESULTS MLT was able to reduce the release of liver enzymes in the bloodstream and to decrease oxidative stress in CCl_(4)treated rats by decreasing the level of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and increasing superoxide dismutase activity,with a lower reduction in serum zinc levels,guaranteeing a reduction in liver damage;additionally,it increased the expression of nuclear factor(erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 and decreased the expression of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1.MLT also decreased the expression of the proteins associated with endoplasmic reticulum stress,i.e.,glucose-regulated protein 78 and activating transcription factor 6,as well as of heat shock factor 1 and heat shock protein 70.CONCLUSION MLT has a hepatoprotective effect in an experimental model of CCl_(4)-induced liver injury,since it reduces oxidative stress,restores zinc levels,and modulates endoplasmic reticulum stress.
文摘Although numerous check dams have been constructed in many countries, and its effect on physical factors were well documented, only a few reports were available on its effect on biotic component in adjacent area. This research aims to address effects of the check dam on reptile assemblage in an ephemeral stream based on an assumption that reptile live in the stream and adjacent area may be susceptible to prolonged hydroperiod after check dam construction. Ten stream transects and 40 terrestrial strip transects, including 5, 10, 25, and 50 m from the stream, were used to monitor reptile diversity and composition in a deciduous forest of northern Thailand during April 2009 to February 2011. Physical factors related to water pattern in the stream and the terrestrial habitats were also collected. Results on physical factors indicated that the water pattern and soil moisture in the stream, as well as leaf litter moisture in the terrestrial habitat were increased as a result of the check dam. However, rarefaction curve indicated that reptile diversity was not significantly different between pre- and post-check dam periods in every transect. Moreover, Morisita’s index of similarity indicated that reptile composition between pre- and post-check dam periods was approximately the same (86% - 100%). These results indicated that reptile assemblage was not affected by the check dam. It can be concluded based on data of one year after the check dam construction that check dam can effectively prolong water and moisture to the habitat with minimal effect on reptile assemblage in the area.
文摘The P22 phage system is an intensely studied model system. Studies have ranged from biochemical analysis of basic life processes to the use of this phage for phage therapy. The phage tailspike protein (TSP) has itself been the subject of intensive studies over the past fifty years. The P22 TSP is essential for initiation of the infection process and instrumental as the last protein assembled onto the phage particle structure to complete its assembly. It has also been the subject for many structural studies including cryoelectron microscopic analysis and photophysical studies. It has been a model for in vivo and in vitro protein folding including analysis using P22 TSP temperature-sensitive for folding mutations (tsf). Recently the structure and function of the N-terminal domain (NTD), including some aspects of the structural stability of the P22 TSP NTD (aa1-aa108), are being genetically dissected. This report strongly supports the notion that two amino acids, not localized to the internal NTD dome stem, are important in the structural stability of the P22 TSP NTD.
文摘Propolis collected by stingless bees from various types of plants has been used as an antimicrobial agent in several previous studies. We assessed the effect of propolis produced by a stingless bee, Trigona apicalis, on Apis florea experimentally infected with Nosema ceranae, a parasite of honeybees. For parasite inoculation each Nosema free-bee was fed 2μL of 50% （w/v） sucrose solution containing N. ceranae spores at 40,000 spores/bee and 0 as a negative control （CO）. Treated bees were provided with 0%, 10%, 20% and 50% propolis （w/v） in water, defined as 0P, 10P, 20P and 50P, respectively. We assessed the effects of propolis 14 days post inoculation. All propolis-treated bees had significantly higher survival than untreated bees. However, survival of Nosema-inoculated bees was lower than that of control bees. Bees treated with the highest propolis concentration （50P） had the highest survival ratio. No control bees became infected over the course of the study. However, N. ceranae infection rates of bees treated with 0P, 10P, 20P and 50P were 75 ± 1.4%, 72 ± 5.6%, 69± 4.2% and 47± 1.4%, respectively. In addition, propolis-treated bees had hypopharyngeal gland protein content that was significantly higher than 0P and CO bees. Overall, propolis treatment significantly reduced N. ceranae infection rate and bee mortality and was associated with increased hypopharyngeal gland protein concentration.
基金the CONACyT 478077partially financed by DGAPA-PAPIIT 220621。
文摘The historical relationships of nine areas of endemism of the tropical montane cloud forests(TMCFs)were analysed based on a temporal cladistic biogeographical approach.Three cladistic biogeographical analyses were conducted based on 29cladograms of terrestrial taxa by partitioning them into three time-slices,namely,Miocene,Pliocene,and Pleistocene.The results showed different area relationships over time.For the Miocene and Pliocene time slices,the Isthmus of Tehuantepec acted as a geographic barrier that fragmented the TMCFs into two portions:west of the Isthmus and east of the Isthmus.In the case of the Pleistocene,the TMCFs were broken into two portions,one related to the Neotropical region and the other to the Nearctic region.Furthermore,the analyses allowed us to detect the influences of different geological and paleoclimatological events on the distribution of the TMCFs over time.Therefore,the TMCFs current distribution might have been driven by geological events during the Miocene-Pliocene,whereas climatic fluctuations have the highest impact during the Pleistocene.
基金supported by NIH grants U54CA268084,U54CA261694,and R01CA228272National Science Foundation grants EFMA-1830961 and CBET-2430743+1 种基金philanthropic support from Rob and Kristin Goldman,Mr.David Sachsthe Christina Carinato Charitable Foundation.
文摘Super-resolution microscopy has revolutionized our ability to visualize structures below the diffraction limit of conventional optical microscopy and is particularly useful for investigating complex biological targets like chromatin.Chromatin exhibits a hierarchical organization with structural compartments and domains at different length scales,from nanometers to micrometers.Single molecule localization microscopy(SMLM)methods,such as STORM,are essential for studying chromatin at the supra-nucleosome level due to their ability to target epigenetic marks that determine chromatin organization.Multi-label imaging of chromatin is necessary to unpack its structural complexity.However,these efforts are challenged by the high-density nuclear environment,which can affect antibody binding affinities,diffusivity and non-specific interactions.Optimizing buffer conditions,fluorophore stability,and antibody specificity is crucial for achieving effective antibody conjugates.Here,we demonstrate a sequential immunolabeling protocol that reliably enables three-color studies within the dense nuclear environment.This protocol couples multiplexed localization datasets with a robust analysis algorithm,which utilizes localizations from one target as seed points for distance,density and multi-label joint affinity measurements to explore complex organization of all three targets.Applying this multiplexed algorithm to analyze distance and joint density reveals that heterochromatin and euchromatin are not-distinct territories,but that localization of transcription and euchromatin couple with the periphery of heterochromatic clusters.This work is a crucial step in molecular imaging of the dense nuclear environment as multi-label capacity enables for investigation of complex multi-component systems like chromatin with enhanced accuracy.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32100450 to Q.P.)Guangdong Pearl River Talent Program(2021QN02Y781 to Q.P.).
文摘Histone acetylation is an important epigenetic modification that governs gene expression,chromatin changes in stress response,and cell fate transition.FRET biosensors have been developed for various epigenetic events to enable spatiotemporal tracking of sub-cellular signaling events.Previously reported histone H3 acetylation biosensor recognizing two acetyl residues lacked specificity.In this study,using a single bromodomain of the BRD4,we have developed a genetically encoded H3K9ac biosensor.We systematically investigated different combinations of the BET family protein as binding domains and performed site-saturated mutagenesis to optimize the biosensor,achieving a dynamic FRET change up to 30%under TSA treatment.With the application of the optimized H3K9ac biosensor,we revealed different basal active chromatin architectures in invasive tumor cells compared to benign tumor cells.Furthermore,we found that H3K9ac level increased dramatically when cancer cells passed through microchannels,which models the physical constraints and mechanical microenvironmental conditions that cancer cells encounter when passing through narrow spaces within the body.This result highlights the chromatin plasticity in response to external mechanical stresses.In summary,our H3K9ac biosensor provides a versatile tool for mechanistic investigation of cell fate transition in cancer and mechanotransduction.
基金This research was supported by the 90th Anniversary of Chulalongkorn University,Rachadapisek Sompote Fund(GCUGR1125603028D No.25)RP was financially supported by the Development and Promotion of Science and Technology Talents Scholarship.
文摘Background:A green roof is a man-made ecosystem created when a rooftop is covered with substrate and vegetation.Although green roof ecosystems(GREs)are able to provide ecosystem services,there is currently no assessment tool available to specifically evaluate this.Therefore,the aim of this study was to develop a rapid assessment checklist(RAC)to assess GRE services(GRES),which was developed and tested on 10 green roofs in Bangkok,Thailand.Results:The RAC consisted of 46 proxy indicators(33 qualitative and 13 quantitative indicators)encompassing various aspects of GRESs.The GRES values or scores varied according to structural differences in the green roofs.The average score(from a maximum of 100)of total ecosystem services was 61±7,which could be inferred as a good performance in ecosystem service provision.The highest scores were obtained from the regulating services at 68±7.The lowest average score was 53±11 from the provisioning services.Conclusions:The RAC was able to evaluate the levels of GRES provided by the selected green roofs,enabling the meaningful comparison of their potential capability to provide GRES.Therefore,this RAC could be an innovative tool for evaluation of four categories of GRES.
