Background Supplementation of choline chloride in culture medium programs the preimplantation bovine embryo to increase weaning weight of the resultant calf.Here,it was hypothesized that similar programming actions of...Background Supplementation of choline chloride in culture medium programs the preimplantation bovine embryo to increase weaning weight of the resultant calf.Here,it was hypothesized that similar programming actions of choline can be induced by feeding rumen-protected choline(RPC)to beef cows during the periconceptional period.Results A preliminary experiment was conducted to determine changes in circulating concentrations of choline and its metabolites after RPC supplementation.Suckled beef cows were individually fed 0,30,60,and 90 g of RPC(i.e.,0,8.6,17.3 and 25.9 g choline chloride)and blood samples were collected at random times after feeding.There were no differences in plasma concentrations of choline or its metabolites between groups.In the second experiment,effects of feeding 60 g/d RPC from d-1 to 7 relative to timed artificial insemination were examined for suckled beef cows.Feeding RPC did not affect pregnancy or calving rates,pregnancy losses,plasma concentrations of pregnancy-associated glycoproteins,gestation length or calf birth weight.Calves from RPC fed dams were lighter than control calves at~118 days of age(range 75–150;age included in the statistical model)and at weaning at~248 days of age.There was no effect of treatment on hip height at~118 days of age although there was a trend for RPC calves to be shorter at weaning.Weight/height ratio was lower for RPC than control at both 118 and 248 days of age.Treatment did not affect testis weight at~118 days of age.Conclusions Supplementation of RPC during the periconceptional period programmed development to alter calf phenotype in the postnatal period.The net result,reduced body weight,was the opposite of the phenotype caused by the addition of choline to embryo culture medium.展开更多
The internal structures of cells as the basic units of life are a major wonder of the microscopic world.Cellular images provide an intriguing window to help explore and understand the composition and function of these...The internal structures of cells as the basic units of life are a major wonder of the microscopic world.Cellular images provide an intriguing window to help explore and understand the composition and function of these structures.Scientific imagery combined with artistic expression can further expand the potential of imaging in educational dissemination and interdisciplinary applications.展开更多
Background:The medicinal material known as Os Draconis(Longgu)originates from fossilized remains of ancient mammals and is widely used in treating emotional and mental conditions.However,fossil resources are nonrenewa...Background:The medicinal material known as Os Draconis(Longgu)originates from fossilized remains of ancient mammals and is widely used in treating emotional and mental conditions.However,fossil resources are nonrenewable,and clinical demand is increasingly difficult to meet,leading to a proliferation of counterfeit products.During prolonged geological burial,static pressure from the surrounding strata severely compromises the microstructural integrity of osteons in Os Draconis,but Os Draconis still largely retains the structural features of mammalian bone.Methods:Using verified authentic Os Draconis samples over 10,000 years old as a baseline,this study summarizes the ultrastructural characteristics of genuine Os Draconis.Employing electron probe microanalysis and optical polarized light microscopy,we examined 28 batches of authentic Os Draconis and 31 batches of counterfeits to identify their ultrastructural differences.Key points for ultrastructural identification of Os Draconis were compiled,and a new identification approach was proposed based on these differences.Results:Authentic Os Draconis exhibited distinct ultrastructural markers:irregularly shaped osteons with traversing fissures,deformed/displaced Haversian canals,and secondary mineral infill(predominantly calcium carbonate).Counterfeits showed regular osteon arrangements,absent traversal fissures,and homogeneous hydroxyapatite composition.Lab-simulated samples lacked structural degradation features.EPMA confirmed calcium carbonate infill in fossilized Haversian canals,while elemental profiles differentiated lacunae types(void vs.mineral-packed).Conclusion:The study established ultrastructural criteria for authentic Os Draconis identification:osteon deformation,geological fissures penetrating bone units,and heterogenous mineral deposition.These features,unattainable in counterfeits or modern processed bones,provide a cost-effective,accurate identification method.This approach bridges gaps in TCM material standardization and supports quality control for clinical applications.展开更多
Background:Cyperi Rhizoma,derived from Cyperus rotundus L.,is a widely used medicinal herb in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM),with Shandong Province recognized as its geo-authentic habitat.However,the quality of Cyp...Background:Cyperi Rhizoma,derived from Cyperus rotundus L.,is a widely used medicinal herb in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM),with Shandong Province recognized as its geo-authentic habitat.However,the quality of Cyperi Rhizoma varies significantly across different regions,potentially influencing its therapeutic efficacy.This study investigates the influence of geographic origin on the chemical composition and overall quality of Cyperi Rhizoma.Methods:A comprehensive approach,including traditional quality assessment,GC-MS(g as c hromatography-m ass s pectrometry),RP-HPLC(r everse p hase h igh-p erformance l iquid c hromatography),and FT-IR(f ourier t ransform i nfrared s pectroscopy)techniques,was employed to analyze Cyperi Rhizoma samples from Shandong Province.These methods examined the physical appearance,chemical profile,and content variations,particularly focusing onα-cyperone.Results:Traditional quality assessments revealed noticeable differences in the external characteristics of the samples.GC-MS analysis identified a variety of unique chemical constituents,while RP-HPLC and FT-IR showed significant variations inα-cyperone content,with higher levels found in Shandong samples.Conclusion:These results demonstrate that geographic origin is a critical determinant of Cyperi Rhizoma quality,with Shandong specimens exhibiting superiorα-cyperone levels and characteristic phytochemical profiles.This validates the geo-authenticity concept in TCM and provides actionable data for developing evidence-based quality standards,suggesting that provenance should be prioritized in medicinal material selection and pharmacopeial specifications.展开更多
Objective:To assess the effects of turmeric extract and its compounds on oxidative stress,inflammation,and apoptosis in acetaminophen-induced liver injury.Methods:HepG2 cells were administered with acetaminophen(40 mM...Objective:To assess the effects of turmeric extract and its compounds on oxidative stress,inflammation,and apoptosis in acetaminophen-induced liver injury.Methods:HepG2 cells were administered with acetaminophen(40 mM)to induce hepatotoxicity,followed by treatment with turmeric extract and its isolated compounds including curcumin,demethoxycurcumin,bis-demethoxycurcumin and ar-turmerone at 5,25,and 125μg/mL.IL-1β,IL-6,and IL-10 levels were quantified with ELISA kits.Further,qRT-PCR was used to analyze the mRNA expression of JNK,Casp-9,and Casp-3.Meanwhile,the levels of nitric oxide and lactate dehydrogenase were analyzed using colorimetric assay.Results:Acetaminophen administration caused an increase in the levels of lactate dehydrogenase,nitric oxide,IL-1β,IL-6,and the mRNA expression of JNK,Casp-9,and Casp-3 in HepG2 cells while reducing IL-10 levels.Treatment with turmeric extract,curcumin,demethoxycurcumin,bis-demethoxycurcumin,and ar-turmerone lowered IL-1β,IL-6,nitric oxide,and lactate dehydrogenase levels,downregulated the mRNA expression of JNK,Casp-9,and Casp-3,and increased IL-10 levels.Conclusions:Turmeric extract and its compounds have significant hepatoprotective activity and could be further explored for the treatment of liver damage.展开更多
Sexual selection is thought to play a major role in the evolution of color due to the correlation between a signaler’s physiological state and the displayed color.As such,researchers often investigate how color corre...Sexual selection is thought to play a major role in the evolution of color due to the correlation between a signaler’s physiological state and the displayed color.As such,researchers often investigate how color correlates to the quality of the signaler.However,research on the relationship between color and individual quality is often taxonomically limited and researchers typically investigate how color phenotypes relate to one index of quality,such as a linear measure of body size.Here,we investigated the relationship among body size,claw size,claw muscle mass,lipid content,and the color of the claw in male fiddler crabs(Leptuca uruguayensis)which wield an exaggerated claw that varies in color from brown to red.We hypothesized that if the color was correlated to one or more indices of male quality,the color displayed on the claws of male L.uruguayensis could be under sexual selection.We found L.uruguayensis claw color varies substantially among the individuals we photographed.However,we did not find a correlation between claw color and indices of quality;neither brightness nor hue correlated to the indices of quality we measured.Our findings suggest that claw color in L.uruguayensis is unlikely to have evolved to signal quality,but may instead function as a species identity or as a non-indicator sexual signal.展开更多
Different light wavelengths have specific effects on plant growth and development.Narrow-bandwidth light-emitting diode(LED)lighting may be used to directionally manipulate size,color and metabolites in high-value fru...Different light wavelengths have specific effects on plant growth and development.Narrow-bandwidth light-emitting diode(LED)lighting may be used to directionally manipulate size,color and metabolites in high-value fruits and vegetables.In this report,Red Russian kale(Brassica napus)seedlings were grown under specific light conditions and analyzed for photomorphogenic responses,pigment accumulation and nutraceutical content.The results showed that this genotype responds predictably to darkness,blue and red light,with suppression of hypocotyl elongation,development of pigments and changes in specific metabolites.However,these seedlings were relatively hypersensitive to far-red light,leading to uncharacteristically short hypocotyls and high pigment accumulation,even after growth under very low fluence rates(,1 mmol m^(-2) s^(-1)).General antioxidant levels and aliphatic glucosinolates are elevated by far-red light treatments.Sequential treatments of darkness,blue light,red light and far-red light were applied throughout sprout development to alter final product quality.These results indicate that sequential treatment with narrow-bandwidth light may be used to affect key economically important traits in high-value crops.展开更多
German biochemist and cell physiologist,Otto H.Warburg(Figure 1),made a groundbreaking discovery in 1923.Specifically,tumors were shown to consume large amounts of glucose and ferment glucose into lactate,even in the ...German biochemist and cell physiologist,Otto H.Warburg(Figure 1),made a groundbreaking discovery in 1923.Specifically,tumors were shown to consume large amounts of glucose and ferment glucose into lactate,even in the presence of oxygen—a phenomenon termed"aerobic glycolysis"1,2.This phenomenon,later named the Warburg effect by Efraim Racker in the 1970s,remains pivotal in cancer research3.展开更多
Organism development is a systems level process. It has benefited greatly from the recent technological advances in the field of systems biology. DNA microarray, phenome, interactome and transcriptome mapping, the new...Organism development is a systems level process. It has benefited greatly from the recent technological advances in the field of systems biology. DNA microarray, phenome, interactome and transcriptome mapping, the new generation of deep sequencing technologies, and faster and better computational and modeling approaches have opened new frontiers for both systems biologists and developmental biologists to reexamine the old developmental biology questions, such as pattern formation, and to tackle new problems, such as stem cell reprogramming. As showcased in the International Developmental Systems Biology Symposium organized by Chinese Academy of Sciences, developmental systems biology is flourishing in many perspectives, from the evolution of developmental systems, to the underlying genetic and molecular pathways and networks, to the genomic, epigenomic and noncoding levels, to the computational analysis and modeling. We believe that the field will continue to reap rewards into the future with these new approaches.展开更多
BACKGROUND Colorectal polyps that develop via the conventional adenoma-carcinoma sequence[e.g.,tubular adenoma(TA)]often progress to malignancy and are closely associated with changes in the composition of the gut mic...BACKGROUND Colorectal polyps that develop via the conventional adenoma-carcinoma sequence[e.g.,tubular adenoma(TA)]often progress to malignancy and are closely associated with changes in the composition of the gut microbiome.There is limited research concerning the microbial functions and gut microbiomes associated with colorectal polyps that arise through the serrated polyp pathway,such as hyperplastic polyps(HP).Exploration of microbiome alterations asso-ciated with HP and TA would improve the understanding of mechanisms by which specific microbes and their metabolic pathways contribute to colorectal carcinogenesis.AIM To investigate gut microbiome signatures,microbial associations,and microbial functions in HP and TA patients.METHODS Full-length 16S rRNA sequencing was used to characterize the gut microbiome in stool samples from control participants without polyps[control group(CT),n=40],patients with HP(n=52),and patients with TA(n=60).Significant differences in gut microbiome composition and functional mechanisms were identified between the CT group and patients with HP or TA.Analytical techniques in this study included differential abundance analysis,co-occurrence network analysis,and differential pathway analysis.RESULTS Colorectal cancer(CRC)-associated bacteria,including Streptococcus gallolyticus(S.gallolyticus),Bacteroides fragilis,and Clostridium symbiosum,were identified as characteristic microbial species in TA patients.Mediterraneibacter gnavus,associated with dysbiosis and gastrointestinal diseases,was significantly differentially abundant in the HP and TA groups.Functional pathway analysis revealed that HP patients exhibited enrichment in the sulfur oxidation pathway exclusively,whereas TA patients showed dominance in pathways related to secondary metabolite biosynthesis(e.g.,mevalonate);S.gallolyticus was a major contributor.Co-occurrence network and dynamic network analyses revealed co-occurrence of dysbiosis-associated bacteria in HP patients,whereas TA patients exhibited co-occurrence of CRC-associated bacteria.Furthermore,the co-occurrence of SCFA-producing bacteria was lower in TA patients than HP patients.CONCLUSION This study revealed distinct gut microbiome signatures associated with pathways of colorectal polyp development,providing insights concerning the roles of microbial species,functional pathways,and microbial interactions in colorectal carcinogenesis.展开更多
Background In beef cattle, more than 50% of the energy input to produce a unit of beef is consumed by the female that produced the calf. Development of genomic tools to identify females with high genetic merit for rep...Background In beef cattle, more than 50% of the energy input to produce a unit of beef is consumed by the female that produced the calf. Development of genomic tools to identify females with high genetic merit for reproductive function could increase the profitability and sustainability of beef production.Results Genome-wide association studies(GWAS) were performed using a single-step genomic best linear unbiased prediction approach on pregnancy outcome traits from a population of Angus–Brahman crossbred heifers. Furthermore, a validation GWAS was performed using data from another farm. Heifers were genotyped with the Bovine GGP F250 array that contains 221,077 SNPs. In the discovery population, heifers were bred in winter breeding seasons involving a single round of timed artificial insemination(AI) followed by natural mating for 3 months. Two phenotypes were analyzed: pregnancy outcome to first-service AI(PAI;n = 1,481) and pregnancy status at the end of the breeding season(PEBS;n = 1,725). The heritability was estimated as 0.149 and 0.122 for PAI and PEBS, respectively. In the PAI model, one quantitative trait locus(QTL), located between 52.3 and 52.5 Mb on BTA7, explained about 3% of the genetic variation, in a region containing a cluster of γ-protocadherin genes and SLC25A2. Other QTLs explaining between 0.5% and 1% of the genetic variation were found on BTA12 and 25. In the PEBS model, a large QTL on BTA7 was synonymous with the QTL for PAI, with minor QTLs located on BTA5, 9, 10, 11, 19, and 20. The validation population for pregnancy status at the end of the breeding season were Angus–Brahman crossbred heifers bred by natural mating. In concordance with the discovery population, the large QTL on BTA7 and QTLs on BTA10 and 12 were identified.Conclusions In summary, QTLs and candidate SNPs identified were associated with pregnancy outcomes in beef heifers, including a large QTL associated with a group of protocadherin genes. Confirmation of these associations with larger populations could lead to the development of genomic predictions of reproductive function in beef cattle. Moreover, additional research is warranted to study the function of candidate genes associated with QTLs.展开更多
Promoting better protein digestibility through exogenous enzymes in the diet is essential in the nutrition of companion animals, mainly for better performance and maintenance of the animals’ physiological and metabol...Promoting better protein digestibility through exogenous enzymes in the diet is essential in the nutrition of companion animals, mainly for better performance and maintenance of the animals’ physiological and metabolic systems, promoting health and adequate growth. In addition, it reduces the cost of the diet by possibly reducing protein in the diet, which is the main and most expensive ingredient for dogs and cats. The objective of this study was to verify whether the addition of protease to dog and cat food can improve the protein digestibility of the food, thus facilitating greater absorption of amino acids and influencing metabolic biomarkers and immune response. To this end, two experiments were carried out to evaluate the protease from the fermentation of Aspergillus niger and Bacillus subtilis. Experiment 1 was carried out with ten male, non-castrated beagles divided into two groups of five animals: the control group (without enzyme) and the test group (with 250 g of protease/ton). The animals underwent two 45-day experimental periods, and in the second period, after a 15-day interval, the dogs in the control group became part of the treatment group (crossover model). Adding this enzyme to the dogs’ diet had no adverse effects on the animals’ health besides improving the digestibility of dry matter and crude protein consumed by the dogs. Experiment 2 was carried out with sixteen female cats of no defined breed, non-castrated, divided into four groups with four animals per group, namely: Treatment A (without enzyme), Treatment B (with protease at a dose of 100 g/ton), Treatment C (with protease at a dose of 200 g/ton) and Treatment D (with protease at a dose of 400 g/ton). The cats underwent two 30-day experimental periods, and in the second period, after a 15-day interval, the animals switched between treatments (crossover model) to increase the power of the statistical test. The enzyme consumption did not affect the felines’ metabolism and health but improved the digestibility of crude protein at doses of 200 and 400 g/ton. The results allow us to conclude that the protease used in this study can improve the digestibility of crude protein for dogs and cats.展开更多
Stable isotope analysis is a widely used method for gathering ecological insights into the diet and feeding habitats of various species. While captive studies often limit lethal sampling and differ from wild condition...Stable isotope analysis is a widely used method for gathering ecological insights into the diet and feeding habitats of various species. While captive studies often limit lethal sampling and differ from wild conditions, they offer valuable insights into inherent isotopic variations among individuals, which are often assumed to reflect differences between natural populations. In the Sea Turtle Conservation Program, loggerhead turtle hatchlings from different nests were fed. Necropsies were conducted on turtles that died during this period, obtaining bone fragments for analysis. We evaluated the isotopic variation of carbon (δ<sup>13</sup>C) and nitrogen (δ<sup>15</sup>N) in bone tissue across six turtle nests (n = 66 samples) and assessed differences in Straight Carapace Length (SCL, n = 71 samples). Using SIBER and nicheROVER in R, we calculated niche width and overlap, while the simmr package determined primary prey assimilation. Despite feeding the hatchlings the same prey, we observed variations in nitrogen isotope assimilation between nests. Nests 4 and 6 had a niche width >1.8‰, indicating consistent consumption frequencies across all prey and >70% niche overlap with other nests. In contrast, nests 1 and 2 showed a narrower niche width (Mugil sp. constituted the primary diet component (>40%) across all groups. This study demonstrates how factors like competition or prey preference can influence the assimilation of diet, even when the source remains constant (inherent variation).展开更多
Human adenoviruses(HAdVs)are highly contagious pathogens with various genotypes implicated in acute respiratory disease(ARD)and linked to fatality,especially in immunosuppressed patients,young children,and military re...Human adenoviruses(HAdVs)are highly contagious pathogens with various genotypes implicated in acute respiratory disease(ARD)and linked to fatality,especially in immunosuppressed patients,young children,and military recruits.Currently,no vaccines or specific drugs are approved for clinical use.The hosts of adenoviruses are strictly species-specific,which strongly limits the development of vaccines and drugs against HAdVs.In this study,immunocompetent BALB/c mice were challenged with different doses of human adenovirus type 5(HAdV-5)via tail intravenous injection(i.v.).All mice challenged with a high dose of HAdV-5(3.21010 TCID50/kg)died within 3–5 days,while those receiving a low dose of HAdV-5(8109 or 4109 TCID50/kg)survived.Interestingly,among the mice receiving a medium dose of HAdV-5(1.61010 TCID50/kg),60%(n¼3/5)of male mice died,while all female mice survived.This suggests that male mice may be more susceptible to HAdV-5 infection than female mice,consistent with clinical findings in children.HAdV-5 DNA was mainly distributed in the liver,followed by the spleen and lung.Pathological changes were observed in the lung,liver,and spleen,with severity increasing in correlation with the virus challenge dosage.Transcriptome and qPCR analyses of the liver indicated that the down-regulated expression of the H2-Aa,H2-Ea-ps,CD74,and H2-Eb1 genes in male mice,as well as the AHR gene in female mice,may contribute to the observed higher mortality rates in male mice.Therefore,this effective,feasible,and costefficient mouse model could serve as a candidate for evaluating HAdV vaccines and anti-adenovirus therapeutics.展开更多
Soils play a critical role in the global carbon cycle, and can be major source or sink of CO2 depending upon land use, vegetation type and soil management practices. Fine roots are important component of a forest ecos...Soils play a critical role in the global carbon cycle, and can be major source or sink of CO2 depending upon land use, vegetation type and soil management practices. Fine roots are important component of a forest ecosystem in terms of water and nutrient uptake. In this study the effects of thinning and litter fall removal on fine root production and soil organic carbon content were examined in 20-year-old Masson pine （Pinus resinosa） plantations in Huitong, Hunan Province of China in the growing seasons of 2004 and 2005. The results showed that fine root production was significantly lower in the thinning plots than in the control plots, with a decrease of 58% and 14% in 2004 and 2005 growing seasons, respectively. Litter fall removal significantly increased fine root production by 14% in 2004. Soil temperature （Tsoil） and soil moisture （Msoil） were higher in the thinning plots than those in the controls. Litter fall removal had significant effects on Tsoil and Msoil. Soil organic carbon content was higher in the thinning plots but was lower in the plots with litter fall removal compared with that in the controls. Our results also indicated that annual production of fine roots resulted in small carbon accumulation in the upper layers of the soil, and removal of tree by thinning resulted in a significant increase of carbon storage in Masson pine plantations.展开更多
During development and in the context of different morphogenetic events, epithelial cells undergo a process called epithelial to mesenchymal transition or transdifferentiation （EMT）. In this process, the cells lose ...During development and in the context of different morphogenetic events, epithelial cells undergo a process called epithelial to mesenchymal transition or transdifferentiation （EMT）. In this process, the cells lose their epithelial characteristics, including their polarity and specialized cell-cell contacts, and acquire a migratory behavior, allowing them to move away from their epithelial cell community and to integrate into surrounding tissue, even at remote locations. EMT illustrates the differentiation plasticity during development and is complemented by another process, called mesenchymal to epithelial transition （MET）. While being an integral process during development, EMT is also recapitulated under pathological conditions, prominently in fibrosis and in invasion and metastasis of carcinomas. Accordingly, EMT is considered as an important step in tumor progression. TGF-β signaling has been shown to play an important role in EMT. In fact, adding TGF-β to epithelial cells in culture is a convenient way to induce EMT in various epithelial cells. Although much less characterized, epithelial plasticity can also be regulated by TGF-β-related bone morphogenetic proteins （BMPs）, and BMPs have been shown to induce EMT or MET depending on the developmental context. In this review, we will discuss the induction of EMT in response to TGF-β, and focus on the under- lying signaling and transcription mechanisms.展开更多
N^6-methyladenosine(m^6 A) is an essential RNA modification that regulates key cellular processes, including stem cell renewal,cellular differentiation, and response to DNA damage. Unsurprisingly, aberrant m^6 A methy...N^6-methyladenosine(m^6 A) is an essential RNA modification that regulates key cellular processes, including stem cell renewal,cellular differentiation, and response to DNA damage. Unsurprisingly, aberrant m^6 A methylation has been implicated in the development and maintenance of diverse human cancers. Altered m^6 A levels affect RNA processing, mRNA degradation, and translation of mRNAs into proteins, thereby disrupting gene expression regulation and promoting tumorigenesis. Recent studies have reported that the abnormal expression of m^6 A regulatory enzymes affects m^6 A abundance and consequently dysregulates the expression of tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes, including MYC, SOCS2, ADAM19, and PTEN. In this review, we discuss the specific roles of m^6 A missing space "writers", "erasers", and "readers" in normal physiology and how their altered expression promotes tumorigenesis. We also describe the potential of exploiting the aberrant expression of these enzymes for cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and the development of novel therapies.展开更多
基金supported by the L.E.“Red”Larson Endowment and grants number 2020-67015-30821 and 2023-67015-40730 from the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative of USDA-NIFAsupported by the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan。
文摘Background Supplementation of choline chloride in culture medium programs the preimplantation bovine embryo to increase weaning weight of the resultant calf.Here,it was hypothesized that similar programming actions of choline can be induced by feeding rumen-protected choline(RPC)to beef cows during the periconceptional period.Results A preliminary experiment was conducted to determine changes in circulating concentrations of choline and its metabolites after RPC supplementation.Suckled beef cows were individually fed 0,30,60,and 90 g of RPC(i.e.,0,8.6,17.3 and 25.9 g choline chloride)and blood samples were collected at random times after feeding.There were no differences in plasma concentrations of choline or its metabolites between groups.In the second experiment,effects of feeding 60 g/d RPC from d-1 to 7 relative to timed artificial insemination were examined for suckled beef cows.Feeding RPC did not affect pregnancy or calving rates,pregnancy losses,plasma concentrations of pregnancy-associated glycoproteins,gestation length or calf birth weight.Calves from RPC fed dams were lighter than control calves at~118 days of age(range 75–150;age included in the statistical model)and at weaning at~248 days of age.There was no effect of treatment on hip height at~118 days of age although there was a trend for RPC calves to be shorter at weaning.Weight/height ratio was lower for RPC than control at both 118 and 248 days of age.Treatment did not affect testis weight at~118 days of age.Conclusions Supplementation of RPC during the periconceptional period programmed development to alter calf phenotype in the postnatal period.The net result,reduced body weight,was the opposite of the phenotype caused by the addition of choline to embryo culture medium.
基金supported by the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(No.226-2024-00038),China.
文摘The internal structures of cells as the basic units of life are a major wonder of the microscopic world.Cellular images provide an intriguing window to help explore and understand the composition and function of these structures.Scientific imagery combined with artistic expression can further expand the potential of imaging in educational dissemination and interdisciplinary applications.
基金supported by the Scientific and Technological Innovation Project of the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences(CI2021A04013)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82204610)+1 种基金the Qihang Talent Program(L2022046)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Public Welfare Research Institutes(ZZ15-YQ-041 and L2021029).
文摘Background:The medicinal material known as Os Draconis(Longgu)originates from fossilized remains of ancient mammals and is widely used in treating emotional and mental conditions.However,fossil resources are nonrenewable,and clinical demand is increasingly difficult to meet,leading to a proliferation of counterfeit products.During prolonged geological burial,static pressure from the surrounding strata severely compromises the microstructural integrity of osteons in Os Draconis,but Os Draconis still largely retains the structural features of mammalian bone.Methods:Using verified authentic Os Draconis samples over 10,000 years old as a baseline,this study summarizes the ultrastructural characteristics of genuine Os Draconis.Employing electron probe microanalysis and optical polarized light microscopy,we examined 28 batches of authentic Os Draconis and 31 batches of counterfeits to identify their ultrastructural differences.Key points for ultrastructural identification of Os Draconis were compiled,and a new identification approach was proposed based on these differences.Results:Authentic Os Draconis exhibited distinct ultrastructural markers:irregularly shaped osteons with traversing fissures,deformed/displaced Haversian canals,and secondary mineral infill(predominantly calcium carbonate).Counterfeits showed regular osteon arrangements,absent traversal fissures,and homogeneous hydroxyapatite composition.Lab-simulated samples lacked structural degradation features.EPMA confirmed calcium carbonate infill in fossilized Haversian canals,while elemental profiles differentiated lacunae types(void vs.mineral-packed).Conclusion:The study established ultrastructural criteria for authentic Os Draconis identification:osteon deformation,geological fissures penetrating bone units,and heterogenous mineral deposition.These features,unattainable in counterfeits or modern processed bones,provide a cost-effective,accurate identification method.This approach bridges gaps in TCM material standardization and supports quality control for clinical applications.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82204610)Qihang Talent Program(L2022046)+1 种基金the Scientific and Technological Innovation Project of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences(CI2021A04013)Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Public Welfare Research Institutes(ZZ15-YQ-041 and L2021029).
文摘Background:Cyperi Rhizoma,derived from Cyperus rotundus L.,is a widely used medicinal herb in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM),with Shandong Province recognized as its geo-authentic habitat.However,the quality of Cyperi Rhizoma varies significantly across different regions,potentially influencing its therapeutic efficacy.This study investigates the influence of geographic origin on the chemical composition and overall quality of Cyperi Rhizoma.Methods:A comprehensive approach,including traditional quality assessment,GC-MS(g as c hromatography-m ass s pectrometry),RP-HPLC(r everse p hase h igh-p erformance l iquid c hromatography),and FT-IR(f ourier t ransform i nfrared s pectroscopy)techniques,was employed to analyze Cyperi Rhizoma samples from Shandong Province.These methods examined the physical appearance,chemical profile,and content variations,particularly focusing onα-cyperone.Results:Traditional quality assessments revealed noticeable differences in the external characteristics of the samples.GC-MS analysis identified a variety of unique chemical constituents,while RP-HPLC and FT-IR showed significant variations inα-cyperone content,with higher levels found in Shandong samples.Conclusion:These results demonstrate that geographic origin is a critical determinant of Cyperi Rhizoma quality,with Shandong specimens exhibiting superiorα-cyperone levels and characteristic phytochemical profiles.This validates the geo-authenticity concept in TCM and provides actionable data for developing evidence-based quality standards,suggesting that provenance should be prioritized in medicinal material selection and pharmacopeial specifications.
基金funded by Maranatha Christian University,Bandung,Indonesia for Productive Lecturer Research under grant number:011/SK/ADD/UKM/IV/2024.
文摘Objective:To assess the effects of turmeric extract and its compounds on oxidative stress,inflammation,and apoptosis in acetaminophen-induced liver injury.Methods:HepG2 cells were administered with acetaminophen(40 mM)to induce hepatotoxicity,followed by treatment with turmeric extract and its isolated compounds including curcumin,demethoxycurcumin,bis-demethoxycurcumin and ar-turmerone at 5,25,and 125μg/mL.IL-1β,IL-6,and IL-10 levels were quantified with ELISA kits.Further,qRT-PCR was used to analyze the mRNA expression of JNK,Casp-9,and Casp-3.Meanwhile,the levels of nitric oxide and lactate dehydrogenase were analyzed using colorimetric assay.Results:Acetaminophen administration caused an increase in the levels of lactate dehydrogenase,nitric oxide,IL-1β,IL-6,and the mRNA expression of JNK,Casp-9,and Casp-3 in HepG2 cells while reducing IL-10 levels.Treatment with turmeric extract,curcumin,demethoxycurcumin,bis-demethoxycurcumin,and ar-turmerone lowered IL-1β,IL-6,nitric oxide,and lactate dehydrogenase levels,downregulated the mRNA expression of JNK,Casp-9,and Casp-3,and increased IL-10 levels.Conclusions:Turmeric extract and its compounds have significant hepatoprotective activity and could be further explored for the treatment of liver damage.
基金funded by Fundacao de Amparoà Pesquisa do Estado de Sao Paulo(process no:2016/22679-3)funded through an undergraduate student scholarship for scientific research provided by Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico(CNPq,process no:144202/2018-2).
文摘Sexual selection is thought to play a major role in the evolution of color due to the correlation between a signaler’s physiological state and the displayed color.As such,researchers often investigate how color correlates to the quality of the signaler.However,research on the relationship between color and individual quality is often taxonomically limited and researchers typically investigate how color phenotypes relate to one index of quality,such as a linear measure of body size.Here,we investigated the relationship among body size,claw size,claw muscle mass,lipid content,and the color of the claw in male fiddler crabs(Leptuca uruguayensis)which wield an exaggerated claw that varies in color from brown to red.We hypothesized that if the color was correlated to one or more indices of male quality,the color displayed on the claws of male L.uruguayensis could be under sexual selection.We found L.uruguayensis claw color varies substantially among the individuals we photographed.However,we did not find a correlation between claw color and indices of quality;neither brightness nor hue correlated to the indices of quality we measured.Our findings suggest that claw color in L.uruguayensis is unlikely to have evolved to signal quality,but may instead function as a species identity or as a non-indicator sexual signal.
基金This work was performed under light sources purchased through the National Science Foundation Grant#IOS-0746756(KMF).
文摘Different light wavelengths have specific effects on plant growth and development.Narrow-bandwidth light-emitting diode(LED)lighting may be used to directionally manipulate size,color and metabolites in high-value fruits and vegetables.In this report,Red Russian kale(Brassica napus)seedlings were grown under specific light conditions and analyzed for photomorphogenic responses,pigment accumulation and nutraceutical content.The results showed that this genotype responds predictably to darkness,blue and red light,with suppression of hypocotyl elongation,development of pigments and changes in specific metabolites.However,these seedlings were relatively hypersensitive to far-red light,leading to uncharacteristically short hypocotyls and high pigment accumulation,even after growth under very low fluence rates(,1 mmol m^(-2) s^(-1)).General antioxidant levels and aliphatic glucosinolates are elevated by far-red light treatments.Sequential treatments of darkness,blue light,red light and far-red light were applied throughout sprout development to alter final product quality.These results indicate that sequential treatment with narrow-bandwidth light may be used to affect key economically important traits in high-value crops.
基金supported by a Stanford Maternal and Child Health Research Institute Research Scholar Award (2020)an American Cancer Society Research Scholar Grant (RSG-20-036-01)an Agilent Solutions Innovation Research Award (SIRA) to J.Y.
文摘German biochemist and cell physiologist,Otto H.Warburg(Figure 1),made a groundbreaking discovery in 1923.Specifically,tumors were shown to consume large amounts of glucose and ferment glucose into lactate,even in the presence of oxygen—a phenomenon termed"aerobic glycolysis"1,2.This phenomenon,later named the Warburg effect by Efraim Racker in the 1970s,remains pivotal in cancer research3.
基金the China National Science Foundation (NSF) (No. 30588001, 30620120433)National Basic Research Program of China (No. 2006CB910700)funds from the Chinese Acad-emy of Sciences to J.-D.J.H. and NSF fellowship to T.A.
文摘Organism development is a systems level process. It has benefited greatly from the recent technological advances in the field of systems biology. DNA microarray, phenome, interactome and transcriptome mapping, the new generation of deep sequencing technologies, and faster and better computational and modeling approaches have opened new frontiers for both systems biologists and developmental biologists to reexamine the old developmental biology questions, such as pattern formation, and to tackle new problems, such as stem cell reprogramming. As showcased in the International Developmental Systems Biology Symposium organized by Chinese Academy of Sciences, developmental systems biology is flourishing in many perspectives, from the evolution of developmental systems, to the underlying genetic and molecular pathways and networks, to the genomic, epigenomic and noncoding levels, to the computational analysis and modeling. We believe that the field will continue to reap rewards into the future with these new approaches.
基金Supported by Chulabhorn Royal Academy(Fundamental Fund:Fiscal year 2022 by National Science Research and Innovation Fund),No.FRB650039/0240 Project Code 165422.
文摘BACKGROUND Colorectal polyps that develop via the conventional adenoma-carcinoma sequence[e.g.,tubular adenoma(TA)]often progress to malignancy and are closely associated with changes in the composition of the gut microbiome.There is limited research concerning the microbial functions and gut microbiomes associated with colorectal polyps that arise through the serrated polyp pathway,such as hyperplastic polyps(HP).Exploration of microbiome alterations asso-ciated with HP and TA would improve the understanding of mechanisms by which specific microbes and their metabolic pathways contribute to colorectal carcinogenesis.AIM To investigate gut microbiome signatures,microbial associations,and microbial functions in HP and TA patients.METHODS Full-length 16S rRNA sequencing was used to characterize the gut microbiome in stool samples from control participants without polyps[control group(CT),n=40],patients with HP(n=52),and patients with TA(n=60).Significant differences in gut microbiome composition and functional mechanisms were identified between the CT group and patients with HP or TA.Analytical techniques in this study included differential abundance analysis,co-occurrence network analysis,and differential pathway analysis.RESULTS Colorectal cancer(CRC)-associated bacteria,including Streptococcus gallolyticus(S.gallolyticus),Bacteroides fragilis,and Clostridium symbiosum,were identified as characteristic microbial species in TA patients.Mediterraneibacter gnavus,associated with dysbiosis and gastrointestinal diseases,was significantly differentially abundant in the HP and TA groups.Functional pathway analysis revealed that HP patients exhibited enrichment in the sulfur oxidation pathway exclusively,whereas TA patients showed dominance in pathways related to secondary metabolite biosynthesis(e.g.,mevalonate);S.gallolyticus was a major contributor.Co-occurrence network and dynamic network analyses revealed co-occurrence of dysbiosis-associated bacteria in HP patients,whereas TA patients exhibited co-occurrence of CRC-associated bacteria.Furthermore,the co-occurrence of SCFA-producing bacteria was lower in TA patients than HP patients.CONCLUSION This study revealed distinct gut microbiome signatures associated with pathways of colorectal polyp development,providing insights concerning the roles of microbial species,functional pathways,and microbial interactions in colorectal carcinogenesis.
基金supported by Grant no.2017-67007-26143 from the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative of USDA-NIFAthe L.E.“Red” Larson Endowment and Florida Cattleman’s Associationsupported by USDA NIFA grant 2021-38420-34067。
文摘Background In beef cattle, more than 50% of the energy input to produce a unit of beef is consumed by the female that produced the calf. Development of genomic tools to identify females with high genetic merit for reproductive function could increase the profitability and sustainability of beef production.Results Genome-wide association studies(GWAS) were performed using a single-step genomic best linear unbiased prediction approach on pregnancy outcome traits from a population of Angus–Brahman crossbred heifers. Furthermore, a validation GWAS was performed using data from another farm. Heifers were genotyped with the Bovine GGP F250 array that contains 221,077 SNPs. In the discovery population, heifers were bred in winter breeding seasons involving a single round of timed artificial insemination(AI) followed by natural mating for 3 months. Two phenotypes were analyzed: pregnancy outcome to first-service AI(PAI;n = 1,481) and pregnancy status at the end of the breeding season(PEBS;n = 1,725). The heritability was estimated as 0.149 and 0.122 for PAI and PEBS, respectively. In the PAI model, one quantitative trait locus(QTL), located between 52.3 and 52.5 Mb on BTA7, explained about 3% of the genetic variation, in a region containing a cluster of γ-protocadherin genes and SLC25A2. Other QTLs explaining between 0.5% and 1% of the genetic variation were found on BTA12 and 25. In the PEBS model, a large QTL on BTA7 was synonymous with the QTL for PAI, with minor QTLs located on BTA5, 9, 10, 11, 19, and 20. The validation population for pregnancy status at the end of the breeding season were Angus–Brahman crossbred heifers bred by natural mating. In concordance with the discovery population, the large QTL on BTA7 and QTLs on BTA10 and 12 were identified.Conclusions In summary, QTLs and candidate SNPs identified were associated with pregnancy outcomes in beef heifers, including a large QTL associated with a group of protocadherin genes. Confirmation of these associations with larger populations could lead to the development of genomic predictions of reproductive function in beef cattle. Moreover, additional research is warranted to study the function of candidate genes associated with QTLs.
文摘Promoting better protein digestibility through exogenous enzymes in the diet is essential in the nutrition of companion animals, mainly for better performance and maintenance of the animals’ physiological and metabolic systems, promoting health and adequate growth. In addition, it reduces the cost of the diet by possibly reducing protein in the diet, which is the main and most expensive ingredient for dogs and cats. The objective of this study was to verify whether the addition of protease to dog and cat food can improve the protein digestibility of the food, thus facilitating greater absorption of amino acids and influencing metabolic biomarkers and immune response. To this end, two experiments were carried out to evaluate the protease from the fermentation of Aspergillus niger and Bacillus subtilis. Experiment 1 was carried out with ten male, non-castrated beagles divided into two groups of five animals: the control group (without enzyme) and the test group (with 250 g of protease/ton). The animals underwent two 45-day experimental periods, and in the second period, after a 15-day interval, the dogs in the control group became part of the treatment group (crossover model). Adding this enzyme to the dogs’ diet had no adverse effects on the animals’ health besides improving the digestibility of dry matter and crude protein consumed by the dogs. Experiment 2 was carried out with sixteen female cats of no defined breed, non-castrated, divided into four groups with four animals per group, namely: Treatment A (without enzyme), Treatment B (with protease at a dose of 100 g/ton), Treatment C (with protease at a dose of 200 g/ton) and Treatment D (with protease at a dose of 400 g/ton). The cats underwent two 30-day experimental periods, and in the second period, after a 15-day interval, the animals switched between treatments (crossover model) to increase the power of the statistical test. The enzyme consumption did not affect the felines’ metabolism and health but improved the digestibility of crude protein at doses of 200 and 400 g/ton. The results allow us to conclude that the protease used in this study can improve the digestibility of crude protein for dogs and cats.
文摘Stable isotope analysis is a widely used method for gathering ecological insights into the diet and feeding habitats of various species. While captive studies often limit lethal sampling and differ from wild conditions, they offer valuable insights into inherent isotopic variations among individuals, which are often assumed to reflect differences between natural populations. In the Sea Turtle Conservation Program, loggerhead turtle hatchlings from different nests were fed. Necropsies were conducted on turtles that died during this period, obtaining bone fragments for analysis. We evaluated the isotopic variation of carbon (δ<sup>13</sup>C) and nitrogen (δ<sup>15</sup>N) in bone tissue across six turtle nests (n = 66 samples) and assessed differences in Straight Carapace Length (SCL, n = 71 samples). Using SIBER and nicheROVER in R, we calculated niche width and overlap, while the simmr package determined primary prey assimilation. Despite feeding the hatchlings the same prey, we observed variations in nitrogen isotope assimilation between nests. Nests 4 and 6 had a niche width >1.8‰, indicating consistent consumption frequencies across all prey and >70% niche overlap with other nests. In contrast, nests 1 and 2 showed a narrower niche width (Mugil sp. constituted the primary diet component (>40%) across all groups. This study demonstrates how factors like competition or prey preference can influence the assimilation of diet, even when the source remains constant (inherent variation).
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32170139 and 92269103)the R&D Program of Guangzhou Laboratory(No.SRPG22-006)+4 种基金the Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation(2022A1515011190)the Science and Technology Program of Guangzhou,China(202201011115)the Open Foundation of Key Laboratory of Viral Pathogenesis&Infection Prevention and Control(Jinan University),Ministry of Education(2023VPPC-R07)China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(2023M731321)the Lifting Project Foundation of the Affiliated Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital of Jinan University(TJGC-2022004).
文摘Human adenoviruses(HAdVs)are highly contagious pathogens with various genotypes implicated in acute respiratory disease(ARD)and linked to fatality,especially in immunosuppressed patients,young children,and military recruits.Currently,no vaccines or specific drugs are approved for clinical use.The hosts of adenoviruses are strictly species-specific,which strongly limits the development of vaccines and drugs against HAdVs.In this study,immunocompetent BALB/c mice were challenged with different doses of human adenovirus type 5(HAdV-5)via tail intravenous injection(i.v.).All mice challenged with a high dose of HAdV-5(3.21010 TCID50/kg)died within 3–5 days,while those receiving a low dose of HAdV-5(8109 or 4109 TCID50/kg)survived.Interestingly,among the mice receiving a medium dose of HAdV-5(1.61010 TCID50/kg),60%(n¼3/5)of male mice died,while all female mice survived.This suggests that male mice may be more susceptible to HAdV-5 infection than female mice,consistent with clinical findings in children.HAdV-5 DNA was mainly distributed in the liver,followed by the spleen and lung.Pathological changes were observed in the lung,liver,and spleen,with severity increasing in correlation with the virus challenge dosage.Transcriptome and qPCR analyses of the liver indicated that the down-regulated expression of the H2-Aa,H2-Ea-ps,CD74,and H2-Eb1 genes in male mice,as well as the AHR gene in female mice,may contribute to the observed higher mortality rates in male mice.Therefore,this effective,feasible,and costefficient mouse model could serve as a candidate for evaluating HAdV vaccines and anti-adenovirus therapeutics.
基金Supported by the "948" Grant of the National Forestry Administration of China (No.2007-4-19)the Special Grantof Chinese Forestry Public Benefits (Nos.200804030 and 2007-4-15)the Provincial Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars of Hunan, China (No.07JJ1004)
文摘Soils play a critical role in the global carbon cycle, and can be major source or sink of CO2 depending upon land use, vegetation type and soil management practices. Fine roots are important component of a forest ecosystem in terms of water and nutrient uptake. In this study the effects of thinning and litter fall removal on fine root production and soil organic carbon content were examined in 20-year-old Masson pine （Pinus resinosa） plantations in Huitong, Hunan Province of China in the growing seasons of 2004 and 2005. The results showed that fine root production was significantly lower in the thinning plots than in the control plots, with a decrease of 58% and 14% in 2004 and 2005 growing seasons, respectively. Litter fall removal significantly increased fine root production by 14% in 2004. Soil temperature （Tsoil） and soil moisture （Msoil） were higher in the thinning plots than those in the controls. Litter fall removal had significant effects on Tsoil and Msoil. Soil organic carbon content was higher in the thinning plots but was lower in the plots with litter fall removal compared with that in the controls. Our results also indicated that annual production of fine roots resulted in small carbon accumulation in the upper layers of the soil, and removal of tree by thinning resulted in a significant increase of carbon storage in Masson pine plantations.
文摘During development and in the context of different morphogenetic events, epithelial cells undergo a process called epithelial to mesenchymal transition or transdifferentiation （EMT）. In this process, the cells lose their epithelial characteristics, including their polarity and specialized cell-cell contacts, and acquire a migratory behavior, allowing them to move away from their epithelial cell community and to integrate into surrounding tissue, even at remote locations. EMT illustrates the differentiation plasticity during development and is complemented by another process, called mesenchymal to epithelial transition （MET）. While being an integral process during development, EMT is also recapitulated under pathological conditions, prominently in fibrosis and in invasion and metastasis of carcinomas. Accordingly, EMT is considered as an important step in tumor progression. TGF-β signaling has been shown to play an important role in EMT. In fact, adding TGF-β to epithelial cells in culture is a convenient way to induce EMT in various epithelial cells. Although much less characterized, epithelial plasticity can also be regulated by TGF-β-related bone morphogenetic proteins （BMPs）, and BMPs have been shown to induce EMT or MET depending on the developmental context. In this review, we will discuss the induction of EMT in response to TGF-β, and focus on the under- lying signaling and transcription mechanisms.
基金Justin Jong-Leong Wong holds a Fellowship from the Cancer Institute of NSW and receives funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia (Grant No 1128175, 1129901 and 1126306)
文摘N^6-methyladenosine(m^6 A) is an essential RNA modification that regulates key cellular processes, including stem cell renewal,cellular differentiation, and response to DNA damage. Unsurprisingly, aberrant m^6 A methylation has been implicated in the development and maintenance of diverse human cancers. Altered m^6 A levels affect RNA processing, mRNA degradation, and translation of mRNAs into proteins, thereby disrupting gene expression regulation and promoting tumorigenesis. Recent studies have reported that the abnormal expression of m^6 A regulatory enzymes affects m^6 A abundance and consequently dysregulates the expression of tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes, including MYC, SOCS2, ADAM19, and PTEN. In this review, we discuss the specific roles of m^6 A missing space "writers", "erasers", and "readers" in normal physiology and how their altered expression promotes tumorigenesis. We also describe the potential of exploiting the aberrant expression of these enzymes for cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and the development of novel therapies.
