In child psychiatry, the use of play, a habitual activity in children, is used as a means of communication and therapy. The psychodynamic reading of a sequence of games played by a three-year-old child with dolls, who...In child psychiatry, the use of play, a habitual activity in children, is used as a means of communication and therapy. The psychodynamic reading of a sequence of games played by a three-year-old child with dolls, who had been treated for anorexia for a year at the Children’s Guidance Center of Abidjan, shed new light on the child’s problems. The clinical history of M (3 years old) revealed, in addition to the eating disorder, a disturbance in the attachment bond and parental imagos in distress. This doll game, set up as a copy of reality, enabled the therapist to redirect his treatment and work on the mother-child bond.展开更多
Dialysis plays a crucial role in the purification of nanomaterials but its impact on the structural properties of carbon nanomaterials was never investigated.Herein,a carbon-based nanomaterial generated electrochemica...Dialysis plays a crucial role in the purification of nanomaterials but its impact on the structural properties of carbon nanomaterials was never investigated.Herein,a carbon-based nanomaterial generated electrochemically in potassium phosphate buffer,was characterized before and after dialysis against pure water.It is shown that dialysis affects the size of the carbon domains,structural organization,surface functionalization,oxidation degree of carbon,and grade of amorphicity.Accordingly,dialysis drives the nanomaterial organization from discrete roundish carbon domains,with sizes ranging from 70 to 160 nm,towards linear stacking structures of small nanoparticles(<15 nm).In parallel,alcohol and ether(epoxide)surface groups evolve into more oxidized carbon groups(e.g.,ketone and ester groups).Investigation of the as-prepared nanomaterial by electron paramagnetic resonance(EPR)revealed a resonance signal consistent with carbon-oxygen centred radicals.Additionally,this study brings to light the selective affinity of the carbon nanomaterial under study to capture Na^(+)ions,a property greatly enhanced by the dialysis process,and its high ability to trap oxygen,particularly before dialysis.These findings open new perspectives for the application of carbon-based nanomaterials and raise awareness of the importance of structural changes that can occur during the purification of carbon-based nanomaterials.展开更多
Hepatitis B is one of the leading causes of liver cancer worldwide and unfortunately the number of people affected with hepatitis B virus(HBV) infection is still on the rise. Although the HBV has been known to cause f...Hepatitis B is one of the leading causes of liver cancer worldwide and unfortunately the number of people affected with hepatitis B virus(HBV) infection is still on the rise. Although the HBV has been known to cause fatal illness since decades but the population effected by this lethal virus have still only a few options for its management. The major treatment strategies include interferons and nucleos(t)ide analogues. These agents have so far produced unsatisfactory results in terms of complete virus eradication. Interferons cannot be used for long term therapy because of their potential side effects. Prolong treatment with nucleos(t)ide analogues has also been reported to cause serious side effects besides the increasing resistance by the virus. The need for new innovative solutions for treatment of HBV has been realized by global research institutes and pharmaceutical industry. Present review focuses in detail on the new ideas that are being transformed into therapeutic tools for use as future therapies in HBV infection. Modern drug designing and screening methods have made the drug discovery process shorter and more reliable. HBV therapeutics will take a new turn in coming years owing to these intelligent drug designing and screening methods. Future therapy of HBV is aiming to include the use of vaccines(both prophylactic and therapeutic), immunomodulators such as antibodies, non-nucleoside antivirals such as RNAi and inhibitors of viral life cycle.展开更多
Background: Feed accounts for up to 75% of costs in beef production systems,thus any improvement in feed efficiency(FE) will benefit the profitability of this enterprise.Residual feed intake(RFI) is a measure of FE th...Background: Feed accounts for up to 75% of costs in beef production systems,thus any improvement in feed efficiency(FE) will benefit the profitability of this enterprise.Residual feed intake(RFI) is a measure of FE that is independent of level of production.Adipose tissue(AT) is a major endocrine organ and the primary metabolic energy reservoir.It modulates a variety of processes related to FE such as lipid metabolism and glucose homeostasis and thus measures of inter-animal variation in adiposity are frequently included in the calculation of the RFI index.The aim of this study was to determine the effect of phenotypic RFI status and gender on the expression of key candidate genes related to processes involved in energy metabolism within AT.Dry matter intake(DMI) and average daily gain(ADG) were measured over a period of 70 d for 52 purebred Simmental heifers(n = 24) and bulls(n = 28) with an initial BW±SD of 372±39.6 kg and 387±50.6 kg,respectively.Residual feed intake was calculated and animals were ranked within gender by RFI into high(inefficient; n = 9 heifers and n = 8 bulls)and low(efficient; n = 9 heifers and n = 8 bulls) groups.Results: Average daily gain ±SD and daily DMI ±SD for heifers and bul s were 1.2±0.4 kg and 9.1±0.5 kg,and 1.8±0.3 kg and 9.5±1 kg respectively.High RFI heifers and bulls consumed 10% and 15% more(P < 0.05) than their low RFI counterparts,respectively.Heifers had a higher expression of all genes measured than bulls(P < 0.05).A gender × RFI interaction was detected for HMGCS2(P < 0.05) in which high RFI bulls tended to have lower expression of HMGCS2 than low RFI bulls(P < 0.1),whereas high RFI heifers had higher expression than low RFI heifers(P < 0.05) and high RFI bulls(P < 0.05).SLC2 A4 expression was consistently higher in subcutaneous AT of low RFI animals across gender.Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that low RFI cattle exhibit upregulation of the molecular mechanisms governing glucose metabolism in adipose tissue,in particular,glucose clearance.The decreased expression of SLC2 A4 in the inefficient cattle may result in less efficient glucose metabolism in these animals.We conclude that SLC2 A4 may be a potential biomarker for RFI in cattle.展开更多
The widespread use of pesticides has resulted in detectable residues throughout the environment,sometimes at concentrations well above regulatory limits.Therefore,the development of safe,effective,field-practical,and ...The widespread use of pesticides has resulted in detectable residues throughout the environment,sometimes at concentrations well above regulatory limits.Therefore,the development of safe,effective,field-practical,and economically feasible strategies to mitigate the effects of pesticides is warranted.Glyphosate is an organophosphorus herbicide that is degraded to aminomethylphosphonic acid(AMPA),a toxic and persistent metabolite that can accumulate in soil and sediment and translocate to plants.In this study,we investigated the binding efficacy of activated carbon(AC)and calcium montmorillonite(CM)clay to decrease AMPA bioavailability from soil and AMPA translocation to plants.Adsorption isotherms and thermodynamic studies on AC and CM were conducted and showed tight binding(enthalpy values>-20 k J/mol)for AMPA with high capacities(0.25 mol/kg and 0.38 mol/kg,respectively),based on derivations from the Langmuir model.A hydra assay was utilized to indicate toxicity of AMPA and the inclusion of 1%AC and CM both resulted in 90%protection of the hydra(**p≤0.01).Further studies in glyphosate-contaminated soil showed that AC and CM significantly reduced AMPA bioavailability by 53%and 44%,respectively.Results in genetically modified(GM)corn showed a conversion of glyphosate to AMPA in roots and sprouts over a 10-day exposure duration.Inclusion of AC and CM reduced AMPA residues in roots and sprouts by 47%-61%.These studies collectively indicate that AC and CM are effective sorbents for AMPA and could be used to reduce AMPA bioavailability from soil and AMPA residues in GM corn plants.展开更多
We investigated the effects of integrated organic and inorganic fertilizers on the growth and yield of indica rice variety Manawthukha and japonica rice variety Genkitsukushi.In a split-plot design,the two rice variet...We investigated the effects of integrated organic and inorganic fertilizers on the growth and yield of indica rice variety Manawthukha and japonica rice variety Genkitsukushi.In a split-plot design,the two rice varieties were assigned as main plot factors,and the integrated treatments were the subplot factors,including no-N fertilizer(N0),50%chemical fertilizer(CF)(CF50),100%CF(CF100),50%CF+50%poultry manure(PM)(CF50PM50),50%CF+50%cow manure(CM)(CF50CM50),and 50%CF+50%compost(CP)(CF50CP50).CF100 was equivalent to N at 85 kg/hm2.Manure was applied based on the estimated mineralizable nitrogen(EMN)level,which is dependent on total N(%)of each manure type.Manawthukha rice plants were taller with higher tiller number and dry matter content.However,higher soil-plant analysis development(SPAD)values were measured in Genkitsukushi throughout the crop growth period,resulting in higher seed-setting rate(%)and greater yield.At the same N level,CF50PM50 application in both rice varieties resulted in higher SPAD values,plant height and tiller number than CF100.CF50PM50 containing total N more than 4%supplied synchronized N for the demands of the rice plants,resulting in maximum dry matter,yield and yield components.CF50CM50 and CF50CP50 treatments containing total N less than 4%resulted in lower yields which were similar to CF100.These results indicated that integrating organic and inorganic fertilizers enhanced growth parameters and yields of Manawthukha and Genkitsukushi,while reducing the dose of chemical fertilizer.展开更多
We conducted two field experiments to investigate combined effects of organic and inorganic fertilizers on nitrogen use and recovery efficiencies of hybrid rice (Palethwe-1) during dry and wet seasons, 2015. Four leve...We conducted two field experiments to investigate combined effects of organic and inorganic fertilizers on nitrogen use and recovery efficiencies of hybrid rice (Palethwe-1) during dry and wet seasons, 2015. Four levels of inorganic fertilizer (0%, 50%, 75%, and 100% NPK), based on recommended rates of 150 kg N ha-1, 70 kg P2O5 ha-1, and 120 kg K2O ha-1, were used with cow manure, poultry manure, and vermicompost (5 t·ha-1each) in a split-plot design with three replicates. In both seasons, with 50% NPK, the N uptake level achieved with poultry manure was similar to that obtained with 75% and 100% NPK. The greatest N use, internal, agronomic N use, and recovery efficiencies were obtained with 50% NPK + poultry manure, but were similar to those obtained from cow manure and vermicompost subplots. As the amount of applied N from organic and inorganic fertilizer increased, the N use efficiency and related parameters decreased, due to similar yields among plots with different NPK application levels. Poultry manure resulted in the highest significant correlations between applied N and N accumulation, followed by cow manure and vermicompost, in both seasons. Neither chemical fertilizer nor organic manure alone led to optimum N use and N recovery efficiencies. The combination of 50% inorganic fertilizer (75 kg N ha-1) and poultry manure (5 t·ha-1) enhanced the N uptake, the N use and recovery efficiencies of hybrid rice. Cow manure (5 t·ha-1) in combination with 75% inorganic fertilizer (112.5 kg N ha-1) was an adequate substitute for reduced chemical fertilizer usage. Therefore, this study highlighted combined application of inorganic fertilizers and organic manures had the benefits not only in reducing the need for chemical fertilizers but also in improving N uptake by hybrid rice (Palethwe-1) leading to the better environment.展开更多
To understand the use of real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction （real-time RT-PCR） for detecting the relative abundance of mRNA, the expression of a tobacco ferrltin gene （NtFer1） was detected b...To understand the use of real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction （real-time RT-PCR） for detecting the relative abundance of mRNA, the expression of a tobacco ferrltin gene （NtFer1） was detected by Northern blot and real-time RT-PCR. The results indicated that both of the two methods were able to detect mRNA expression of NtFer1 cleady and similady, namely NtFer1 expression was responsive to iron-ovedoad, and the abundance of NtFer1 mRNA was greatly increased after iron loaded for 6 h. To compare the effect and sensitivity of two methods, results revealed that Northern blot need 30 μg of total RNA and at least 3 days for the total protocol performance, whereas real-time RT-PCR only need 2 μg of total RNA and 1.5 h. The real-time RT-PCR is rather sensitive and effective than Northern blot. Real-time RT-PCR analysis can be used to rapidly detect the relative abundance of mRNA expression instead of Northern blot analysis.展开更多
Mast cells are immune cells of the myeloid lineage that are found throughout the body,including the central nervous system.They perform many functions associated with innate and specific immunity,angiogenesis,and vasc...Mast cells are immune cells of the myeloid lineage that are found throughout the body,including the central nervous system.They perform many functions associated with innate and specific immunity,angiogenesis,and vascular homeostasis.Moreover,they have been implicated in a series of pathologies(e.g.,hypersensitivity reactions,tumors,and inflammatory disorders).In this review,we propose that this cell could be a relevant therapeutic target in multiple sclerosis,which is a central nervous system degenerative disease.To support this proposition,we describe the general biological properties of mast cells,their contribution to innate and specific immunity,and the participation of mast cells in the various stages of multiple sclerosis and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis development.The final part of this review is dedicated to an overview of the available mast cells immunomodulatory drugs and their activity on multiple sclerosis and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis,including our own experience related to the effect of ketotifen fumarate on experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis evolution.展开更多
This study assessed the effect of feeding stacked genetically modified (GM) corn event (MON89034 × MON88017) on embryonic development, adult tissue histology and assessed the possibility of transgenic DNA transfe...This study assessed the effect of feeding stacked genetically modified (GM) corn event (MON89034 × MON88017) on embryonic development, adult tissue histology and assessed the possibility of transgenic DNA transfer, using zebrafish as an animal model. Adult zebrafish were separated into male and female groups. After 3 weeks of feeding with experimental diets, males and females were paired once a week and fertilized embryos were collected, then the male and female fish were re-turned to their sex-specific groups. This fertilization and embryo collection process were repeated 3 times. Embryonic morphological measurements were obtained on developing embryos up to 96 hours after fertilization, and then the embryos were fixed in 4% phosphate-buffered paraformal-dehyde for morphologic assessment. At the end of the feeding study, various adult zebrafish tissues were histologically examined for abnormalities. Both zebrafish tissues and embryos were analyzed for presence of plant specific genes and transgenic sequences. No changes or abnormalities were observed in embryonic morphology nor in any of the tissues examined histologically. In addition, no plant DNA reference genes or transgenic DNA were found in any of the analyzed samples. These results demonstrate that the safety and nutrition of MON89034 × MON88017 corn are similar to non-GM corn.展开更多
Background：Methane（CH_4） emissions in cattle are an undesirable end product of rumen methanogenic fermentative activity as they are associated not only with negative environmental impacts but also with reduced host...Background：Methane（CH_4） emissions in cattle are an undesirable end product of rumen methanogenic fermentative activity as they are associated not only with negative environmental impacts but also with reduced host feed efficiency.The aim of this study was to quantify total and specific rumen microbial methanogenic populations in beef cattle divergently selected for residual feed intake（RFI） while offered（i） a low energy high forage（HF） diet followed by（ii） a high energy low forage（LF） diet.Ruminal fluid was collected from 14 high（H）and 14 low（L） RFI animals across both dietary periods.Quantitative real time PCR（qRT-PCR） analysis was conducted to quantify the abundance of total and specific rumen methanogenic microbes.Spearman correlation analysis was used to investigate the association between the relative abundance of methanogens and animal performance,rumen fermentation variables and diet digestibility.Results：Abundance of methanogens,did not differ between RFI phenotypes.However,relative abundance of total and specific methanogen species was affected（P〈 0.05） by diet type,with greater abundance observed while animals were offered the LF compared to the HF diet.Conclusions：These findings suggest that differences in abundance of specific rumen methanogen species may not contribute to variation in CH_4 emissions between efficient and inefficient animals,however dietary manipulation can influence the abundance of total and specific methanogen species.展开更多
Background:Previous research in both calves and other species has suggested n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids(PUFA)andβ-glucans may have positive effects on immune function.This experiment measured performance,behaviou...Background:Previous research in both calves and other species has suggested n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids(PUFA)andβ-glucans may have positive effects on immune function.This experiment measured performance,behaviour,metabolite and immunological responses to pre-weaning supplementation of dairy bull calves with n-3 PUFA in the form of fish oil andβ-glucans derived from seaweed extract.44 Holstein Friesian bull calves,aged 13.7±2.5 d and weighing 48.0±5.8 kg were artificially reared using an electronic feeding system.Each calf was offered5 L(120 g/L)per day of milk replacer(MR)and assigned to one of four treatments included in the MR,(1)Control(CON);(2)40 g n-3 PUFA per day(FO);(3)1 gβ-glucans per day(GL)and(4)40 g n-3 PUFA per day&1 g/dβ-glucans(FOGL)in a 2×2 factorial design.Milk replacer and concentrate was offered from d 0–62(pre-weaning),while concentrate provision continued for a further 31 d post-weaning period.Individual daily feed intake and feeding behaviour was recorded throughout,while bodyweight and blood analyte data were collected at regular intervals.Results:Overall mean concentrate DMI from d 0–93 was 1.39,1.27,1.00 and 0.72 kg/d for CON,FO,GL and FOGL calves,respectively(SEM=0.037;P<0.0001).Calves supplemented with GL were significantly lighter(P<0.0001)at both weaning(d 62)and turnout to pasture(d 93)than un-supplemented calves,with a similar effect(P<0.0001)evident for calves receiving FO compared to un-supplemented contemporaries.Supplementation with GL reduced the number of unrewarded visits where milk was not consumed(P<0.0001)while supplementation with FO increased mean drinking speed(P<0.0001).Supplementation with GL resulted in greater concentrations of haptoglobin(P=0.034),greater serum osmolality(P=0.021)and lower lymphocyte levels(P=0.027).In addition,cells from GL supplemented calves exhibited a lower response than un-supplemented contemporaries to both Phytohaemagglutinin A stimulated IFN-γ(P=0.019)and Concanavalin A stimulated IFN-γ(P=0.012)following in vitro challenges.Conclusions:Pre-weaning supplementation of bull calves with either n-3 PUFA orβ-glucan resulted in reduced voluntary feed intake of concentrate and consequently poorer pre-weaning calf performance.There was no evidence for any beneficial effect of either supplementation strategy on calves’immune responses.展开更多
Altitude and environmental variables such as edaphic properties are considered determinants of species distribution and community composition in mountain ecosystems.Here,we aimed to outline the effects of distinct mou...Altitude and environmental variables such as edaphic properties are considered determinants of species distribution and community composition in mountain ecosystems.Here,we aimed to outline the effects of distinct mountain peaks,altitude and soil properties on community composition,species density,phylogenetic structure and diversity of angiosperm páramo communities from the Serra do Brigadeiro State Park,Minas Gerais,southeastern Brazil.For that,we identified all angiosperm species found in 300 plots(1 m×1 m)from three mountain peaks,measured soil depth and analyzed soil fertility and texture in each plot.To reduce the number of soil variables and species composition,we computed principal coordinates based on soil properties and principal coordinates based on species-plot matrix for each plot.Furthermore,we computed the standard effect sizes of the mean phylogenetic pairwise distance and the mean nearest phylogenetic taxon distance for each plot to investigate differences in the degree of relatedness among coexisting species.We compared differences in response variables between peaks and modelled them in function of altitude and principle components of soil properties using mixed effect models.Species density and phylogenetic diversity differed between peaks,but,contrary to the previous findings,no relationships between species richness or phylogenetic diversity and altitude or soil properties were found,indicating that further investigations are necessary to understand the altitude-biodiversity relationship in Brazilian páramo vegetation.Community composition differed between peaks and depended on altitude,soil properties and interactions between them,indicating that upward shifting of bioclimatic conditions due to climate changes may alter communities of this ecosystem.Phylogenetic structure differed between peaks and was influenced by altitude and soil properties.As phylogenetic clustering increased with altitude,eventual upward movements of species in Brazilian páramo vegetation due to climate change may alter community composition and the degree of relatedness among coexisting species,increasing the risk of species from higher altitudes to disappear.Therefore,conservation priorities arise for higher landscape portions,where these high altitude species may find refuges.展开更多
We investigated the effect of combining organic and inorganic fertilizers on the growth and yield of hybrid rice (Palethwe-1) in the dry and wet seasons of 2015. Four quantities of inorganic fertilizer were used in th...We investigated the effect of combining organic and inorganic fertilizers on the growth and yield of hybrid rice (Palethwe-1) in the dry and wet seasons of 2015. Four quantities of inorganic fertilizer were used in the main plot [0%, 50%, 75%, and 100% nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK)] based on the recommended amounts of 150 kg N ha-1, 70 kg P2O5 ha-1, and 120 kg K2O ha-1, while different organic manures were applied to subplots [no organic manure (O0), cow manure (Oc), poultry manure (Op), and vermicompost (Ov);all at 5 t·ha-1] as part of a split-plot experimental design with three replicates. In both seasons, significant differences in growth parameters including number of tillers hill-1, soil-plant analysis development (SPAD) values, total dry matter, yield, and yield components were observed in plants supplied with different inorganic fertilizers. The 100% NPK (I100) fertilizer produced the maximum yield but similar yields were achieved in plots supplied with 50% NPK (I50) and 75% NPK (I75). Significant differences in growth and yield parameters were also found in crops supplied with organic manures. Although identical quantities were supplied, Op produced the best growth parameters in both seasons including total dry matter, yield, and yield components. Oc also performed well. Combining inorganic and organic fertilizers demonstrated that I50 together with Op (5 t·ha-1) provided similar growth, total dry matter, and yield parameters to I100 in both seasons. Oc (5 t·ha-1) plus I75 also achieved similar yields to I100. This study demonstrates that the combined application of inorganic fertilizers and organic manures has the potential to reduce chemical fertilizer usage without decreasing the yield of hybrid rice, and can enhance the growth, yield, and yield components of Palethwe-1.展开更多
Enhanced bone marrow adipogenesis and impaired osteoblastogenesis have been observed in obesity,suggesting that the metabolic microenvironment regulates bone marrow adipocyte and osteoblast progenitor differentiation ...Enhanced bone marrow adipogenesis and impaired osteoblastogenesis have been observed in obesity,suggesting that the metabolic microenvironment regulates bone marrow adipocyte and osteoblast progenitor differentiation fate.To determine the molecular mechanisms,we studied two immortalized murine cell lines of adipocyte or osteoblast progenitors(BMSCs^adipo and BMSC^sosteo,respectively)under basal and adipogenic culture conditions.At baseline,BMSCs^adipo,and BMSCs^osteo exhibit a distinct metabolic program evidenced by the presence of specific global gene expression,cellular bioenergetics,and metabolomic signatures that are dependent on insulin signaling and glycolysis in BMSCs^osteo versus oxidative phosphorylation in BMSCs^adipo.To test the flexibility of the metabolic program,we treated BMSCsadipo with parathyroid hormone,S961(an inhibitor of insulin signaling)and oligomycin(an inhibitor of oxidative phosphorylation).The treatment induced significant changes in cellular bioenergetics that were associated with decreased adipocytic differentiation.Similarly,12 weeks of a high-fat diet in mice led to the expansion of adipocyte progenitors,enhanced adipocyte differentiation and insulin signaling in cultured BMSCs.Our data demonstrate that BMSC progenitors possess a distinct metabolic program and are poised to respond to exogenous metabolic cues that regulate their differentiation fate.展开更多
We conducted plant growth experiments in microbe-free vermiculite to study the effects of four types of fermented seaweed liquid fertilizer (SLF) made from nori (Pyropia yezoensis) seaweed on the germination, plant gr...We conducted plant growth experiments in microbe-free vermiculite to study the effects of four types of fermented seaweed liquid fertilizer (SLF) made from nori (Pyropia yezoensis) seaweed on the germination, plant growth characteristics, SPAD value, and nutrient content and uptake of komatsuna (Brassica rapa L. var. wakana komatsuna). The four types of fermented nori SLF used in this study were prepared by anaerobic fermentation of unwashed nori (SLF1), aerobic fermentation of unwashed nori (SLF2), anaerobic fermentation of washed nori (SLF3), and aerobic fermentation of washed nori (SLF4). Komatsuna seeds treated with 200-, 300-, and 400-fold dilutions of SLFs exhibited improved relative germination ratios (RGRs) at 3 and 4 days after sowing (DAS). At 4 DAS, the RGRs of seeds treated with 10-, 100-, 200-, 300-, and 400-fold SLF dilutions showed no differential effect. Seeds treated with undiluted SLFs did not germinate by 4 DAS. SLF1 may promote komatsuna seed germination. The nitrogen (N), calcium, magnesium, sodium (Na), and iodine (I) contents of plants treated with SLF1 were significantly increased relative to plants treated with the other SLFs. Moreover, the I and Na contents of plants were significantly increased by foliar spray application of different dilutions of SLF1. However, SLF treatment markedly reduced the shoot dry weight compared with 1/2-strength modified Hoagland nutrient (MHN) solution, although the same amounts of N and K were applied. SPAD values of the plants treated with SLFs were significantly higher than those of plants treated with MHN. Foliar treatment with SLFs had no significant effect on plant growth, SPAD value, or uptake of nutrients (except Na) relative to the control, but the I content was increased. Plants treated with SLF1 and SLF2 exhibited the highest Na uptake. Foliar spray treatments with SLF1 resulted in the highest I contents in plants. Based on our results, SLF1 is suitable for use as a liquid fertilizer to promote germination and increase nutrient content in komatsuna. These results need to be followed up in soil experiments in the presence of microbes in the rhizosphere.展开更多
Background： The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of dietary restriction and subsequent compensatory growth on the relative expression of genes involved in volatile fatty acid transport, metabolis...Background： The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of dietary restriction and subsequent compensatory growth on the relative expression of genes involved in volatile fatty acid transport, metabolism and cell proliferation in ruminal epithelial tissue of beef cattle. Sixty Holstein Friesian bulls（mean liveweight 370 ± 35 kg;mean age 479 ± 15 d） were assigned to one of two groups：（i） restricted feed allowance（RES; n = 30） for 125 d（Period 1） followed by ad libitum access to feed for 55 d（Period 2） or（ii） ad libitum access to feed throughout（ADLIB; n = 30）. Target growth rate for RES was 0.6 kg/d during Period 1. At the end of each dietary period, 15 animals from each treatment group were slaughtered and ruminal epithelial tissue and liquid digesta harvested from the ventral sac of the rumen. Real-time q PCR was used to quantify m RNA transcripts of 26 genes associated with ruminal epithelial function. Volatile fatty acid analysis of rumen fluid from individual animals was conducted using gas chromatography.Results： Diet × period interactions were evident for genes involved in ketogenesis（BDH2, P = 0.017）, pyruvate metabolism（LDHa, P = 0.048; PDHA1, P = 0.015） and cellular transport and structure（DSG1, P = 0.019; CACT, P = 0.027）. Ruminal concentrations of propionic acid（P = 0.018） and n-valeric acid（P = 0.029） were lower in RES animals, compared with ADLIB, throughout the experiment. There was also a strong tendency（P = 0.064）toward a diet × period interaction for n-butyric with higher concentrations in RES animals, compared with ADLIB, during Period 1.Conclusions： These data suggest that following nutrient restriction, the structural integrity of the rumen wall is compromised and there is upregulation of genes involved in the production of ketone bodies and breakdown of pyruvate for cellular energy. These results provide an insight into the potential molecular mechanisms regulating ruminal epithelial absorptive metabolism and growth following nutrient restriction and subsequent compensatory growth.展开更多
Background: Glycemic control is important for maintaining gastric motility in diabetic patients, but gastric motility has not yet been studied ultrasonographically in relation to glycemic control. Methods: We made suc...Background: Glycemic control is important for maintaining gastric motility in diabetic patients, but gastric motility has not yet been studied ultrasonographically in relation to glycemic control. Methods: We made such observations before and after establishing glycemic control in diabetic patients with gastroparesis. We studied 30 diabetic patients with upper abdominal digestive symptoms who were hospitalized for correction of poor blood sugar control and who underwent upper digestive tract endoscopy to rule out structural causes such as gastric/duodenal lesions. Gastric motility was evaluated by transabdominal ultrasonography, using a test meal, before and after attainment of glycemic control (within 3 days after admission and 3 days before discharge). Also, upper abdominal digestive symptoms present on admission and at discharge were compared. Results: After glycemic control was established, contractions of the antral region were more frequent than before the attainment of control (8.93 ± 1.17/3min vs 7.63 ± 2.22/3min, respectively; P < 0.001). Glycemic control also significantly improved gastric emptying (before glycemic control, 49.2 ± 14.8% ; after, 67.1 ± 11.5% ; P < 0.001). This was also true for the motility index, concerning antral gastric contractility (before control, 2.97 ± 1.57; after, 3.75 ± 1.09; P < 0.05). Upper abdominal symptom scores were also significantly lower after attainment of control than before (0.47 ± 0.78 vs 3.17 ± 2.00, respectively; P < 0.001). Conclusions: These findings suggest that attaining glycemic control improves gastric motility and attainments upper abdominal symptoms in diabetic patients with gastroparesis.展开更多
Background： Studies have shown clear differences between dairy breeds in their feed intake and production efficiencies. The duodenum is critical in the coordination of digestion and absorption of nutrients. This stud...Background： Studies have shown clear differences between dairy breeds in their feed intake and production efficiencies. The duodenum is critical in the coordination of digestion and absorption of nutrients. This study examined gene transcript abundance of important classes of nutrient transporters in the duodenum of non lactating dairy cows of different feed efficiency potential, namely Holstein-Friesian （HF）, Jersey （JE） and their F1 hybrid. Duodenal epithelial tissue was collected at slaughter and stored at -80℃. Total RNA was extracted from tissue and reverse transcribed to generate cDNA. Gene expression of the following transporters, namely nucleoside amino acid; sugar; mineral; and lipid transporters was measured using quantitative real-time RT-PCR. Data were statistically analysed using mixed models ANOVA in SAS. Orthogonal contrasts were used to test for potential heterotic effects and spearman correlation coefficients calculated to determine potential associations amongst gen, expression values and production efficiency variables. Results： While there were no direct effects of genotype on expression values for any of the genes examined, there was evidence for a heterotic effect （P 〈 0.05） on ABCGS, in the form of increased expression in the F1 genotype compared to either of the two parent breeds. Additionally, a tendency for increased expression of the amino acid transporters, SLC3A1 （P= 0.072）, SLC3A2 （P= 0.081） and SLC6A 14 （P= 0.072） was also evident in the F1 genotype. A negative （P 〈 0.05） association was identified between the expression of the glucose transporter gene SLCSA1 and total lactational milk solids yield, corrected for body weight. Positive correlations （P 〈 0.05） were also observed between the expression values of genes involved in common transporter roles. Conclusion： This study suggests that differences in the expression of sterol and amino acid transporters in the duodenum could contribute towards the documented differences in feed efficiency between HF, JE and their F1 hybrid. Furthermore, positive associations between the expression of genes involved in common transporter roles suggest that these may be co-regulated. The study identifies potential candidates for investigation of genetic variants regulating nutrient transport and absorption in the duodenum in dairy cows, which may be incorporated into future breeding programmes.展开更多
文摘In child psychiatry, the use of play, a habitual activity in children, is used as a means of communication and therapy. The psychodynamic reading of a sequence of games played by a three-year-old child with dolls, who had been treated for anorexia for a year at the Children’s Guidance Center of Abidjan, shed new light on the child’s problems. The clinical history of M (3 years old) revealed, in addition to the eating disorder, a disturbance in the attachment bond and parental imagos in distress. This doll game, set up as a copy of reality, enabled the therapist to redirect his treatment and work on the mother-child bond.
基金FCT(Portugal's Foundation for Science and Technology)for financial support through the CQ-VR(UIDB/00616/2020,UIDP/00616/2020),CQE/Institute of Molecular Sciences(UIBD/00100/2020,UIPD/00100/2020 and LA/P/0056/2020),Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences-iBB/Associate Laboratory Institute for Health and Bioeconomy-i4HB(UIDB/04565/2020,UIDP/04565/2020,and LA/P/0140/2020)FCT,MCTES,ESF,and EU through the individual research Ph.D.for the Ph.D.scholarship(SFRH/BD/138425/2018)+1 种基金FCT for funding through the Scientific Employment Stimulus—Institutional Call(Ref.CEECINST/00136/2021)the EPSRC funded National Research Facility(EP/W014521/1)。
文摘Dialysis plays a crucial role in the purification of nanomaterials but its impact on the structural properties of carbon nanomaterials was never investigated.Herein,a carbon-based nanomaterial generated electrochemically in potassium phosphate buffer,was characterized before and after dialysis against pure water.It is shown that dialysis affects the size of the carbon domains,structural organization,surface functionalization,oxidation degree of carbon,and grade of amorphicity.Accordingly,dialysis drives the nanomaterial organization from discrete roundish carbon domains,with sizes ranging from 70 to 160 nm,towards linear stacking structures of small nanoparticles(<15 nm).In parallel,alcohol and ether(epoxide)surface groups evolve into more oxidized carbon groups(e.g.,ketone and ester groups).Investigation of the as-prepared nanomaterial by electron paramagnetic resonance(EPR)revealed a resonance signal consistent with carbon-oxygen centred radicals.Additionally,this study brings to light the selective affinity of the carbon nanomaterial under study to capture Na^(+)ions,a property greatly enhanced by the dialysis process,and its high ability to trap oxygen,particularly before dialysis.These findings open new perspectives for the application of carbon-based nanomaterials and raise awareness of the importance of structural changes that can occur during the purification of carbon-based nanomaterials.
文摘Hepatitis B is one of the leading causes of liver cancer worldwide and unfortunately the number of people affected with hepatitis B virus(HBV) infection is still on the rise. Although the HBV has been known to cause fatal illness since decades but the population effected by this lethal virus have still only a few options for its management. The major treatment strategies include interferons and nucleos(t)ide analogues. These agents have so far produced unsatisfactory results in terms of complete virus eradication. Interferons cannot be used for long term therapy because of their potential side effects. Prolong treatment with nucleos(t)ide analogues has also been reported to cause serious side effects besides the increasing resistance by the virus. The need for new innovative solutions for treatment of HBV has been realized by global research institutes and pharmaceutical industry. Present review focuses in detail on the new ideas that are being transformed into therapeutic tools for use as future therapies in HBV infection. Modern drug designing and screening methods have made the drug discovery process shorter and more reliable. HBV therapeutics will take a new turn in coming years owing to these intelligent drug designing and screening methods. Future therapy of HBV is aiming to include the use of vaccines(both prophylactic and therapeutic), immunomodulators such as antibodies, non-nucleoside antivirals such as RNAi and inhibitors of viral life cycle.
基金funded through The Teagasc Walsh Fellowship programme(Project RMIS:6092)
文摘Background: Feed accounts for up to 75% of costs in beef production systems,thus any improvement in feed efficiency(FE) will benefit the profitability of this enterprise.Residual feed intake(RFI) is a measure of FE that is independent of level of production.Adipose tissue(AT) is a major endocrine organ and the primary metabolic energy reservoir.It modulates a variety of processes related to FE such as lipid metabolism and glucose homeostasis and thus measures of inter-animal variation in adiposity are frequently included in the calculation of the RFI index.The aim of this study was to determine the effect of phenotypic RFI status and gender on the expression of key candidate genes related to processes involved in energy metabolism within AT.Dry matter intake(DMI) and average daily gain(ADG) were measured over a period of 70 d for 52 purebred Simmental heifers(n = 24) and bulls(n = 28) with an initial BW±SD of 372±39.6 kg and 387±50.6 kg,respectively.Residual feed intake was calculated and animals were ranked within gender by RFI into high(inefficient; n = 9 heifers and n = 8 bulls)and low(efficient; n = 9 heifers and n = 8 bulls) groups.Results: Average daily gain ±SD and daily DMI ±SD for heifers and bul s were 1.2±0.4 kg and 9.1±0.5 kg,and 1.8±0.3 kg and 9.5±1 kg respectively.High RFI heifers and bulls consumed 10% and 15% more(P < 0.05) than their low RFI counterparts,respectively.Heifers had a higher expression of all genes measured than bulls(P < 0.05).A gender × RFI interaction was detected for HMGCS2(P < 0.05) in which high RFI bulls tended to have lower expression of HMGCS2 than low RFI bulls(P < 0.1),whereas high RFI heifers had higher expression than low RFI heifers(P < 0.05) and high RFI bulls(P < 0.05).SLC2 A4 expression was consistently higher in subcutaneous AT of low RFI animals across gender.Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that low RFI cattle exhibit upregulation of the molecular mechanisms governing glucose metabolism in adipose tissue,in particular,glucose clearance.The decreased expression of SLC2 A4 in the inefficient cattle may result in less efficient glucose metabolism in these animals.We conclude that SLC2 A4 may be a potential biomarker for RFI in cattle.
基金funding through NIEHS SRP(Superfund Hazardous Substance Research and Training Program),P42 ES0277704,and USDA Hatch 6215。
文摘The widespread use of pesticides has resulted in detectable residues throughout the environment,sometimes at concentrations well above regulatory limits.Therefore,the development of safe,effective,field-practical,and economically feasible strategies to mitigate the effects of pesticides is warranted.Glyphosate is an organophosphorus herbicide that is degraded to aminomethylphosphonic acid(AMPA),a toxic and persistent metabolite that can accumulate in soil and sediment and translocate to plants.In this study,we investigated the binding efficacy of activated carbon(AC)and calcium montmorillonite(CM)clay to decrease AMPA bioavailability from soil and AMPA translocation to plants.Adsorption isotherms and thermodynamic studies on AC and CM were conducted and showed tight binding(enthalpy values>-20 k J/mol)for AMPA with high capacities(0.25 mol/kg and 0.38 mol/kg,respectively),based on derivations from the Langmuir model.A hydra assay was utilized to indicate toxicity of AMPA and the inclusion of 1%AC and CM both resulted in 90%protection of the hydra(**p≤0.01).Further studies in glyphosate-contaminated soil showed that AC and CM significantly reduced AMPA bioavailability by 53%and 44%,respectively.Results in genetically modified(GM)corn showed a conversion of glyphosate to AMPA in roots and sprouts over a 10-day exposure duration.Inclusion of AC and CM reduced AMPA residues in roots and sprouts by 47%-61%.These studies collectively indicate that AC and CM are effective sorbents for AMPA and could be used to reduce AMPA bioavailability from soil and AMPA residues in GM corn plants.
基金supported by Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship Program 2016–2019, Japan
文摘We investigated the effects of integrated organic and inorganic fertilizers on the growth and yield of indica rice variety Manawthukha and japonica rice variety Genkitsukushi.In a split-plot design,the two rice varieties were assigned as main plot factors,and the integrated treatments were the subplot factors,including no-N fertilizer(N0),50%chemical fertilizer(CF)(CF50),100%CF(CF100),50%CF+50%poultry manure(PM)(CF50PM50),50%CF+50%cow manure(CM)(CF50CM50),and 50%CF+50%compost(CP)(CF50CP50).CF100 was equivalent to N at 85 kg/hm2.Manure was applied based on the estimated mineralizable nitrogen(EMN)level,which is dependent on total N(%)of each manure type.Manawthukha rice plants were taller with higher tiller number and dry matter content.However,higher soil-plant analysis development(SPAD)values were measured in Genkitsukushi throughout the crop growth period,resulting in higher seed-setting rate(%)and greater yield.At the same N level,CF50PM50 application in both rice varieties resulted in higher SPAD values,plant height and tiller number than CF100.CF50PM50 containing total N more than 4%supplied synchronized N for the demands of the rice plants,resulting in maximum dry matter,yield and yield components.CF50CM50 and CF50CP50 treatments containing total N less than 4%resulted in lower yields which were similar to CF100.These results indicated that integrating organic and inorganic fertilizers enhanced growth parameters and yields of Manawthukha and Genkitsukushi,while reducing the dose of chemical fertilizer.
文摘We conducted two field experiments to investigate combined effects of organic and inorganic fertilizers on nitrogen use and recovery efficiencies of hybrid rice (Palethwe-1) during dry and wet seasons, 2015. Four levels of inorganic fertilizer (0%, 50%, 75%, and 100% NPK), based on recommended rates of 150 kg N ha-1, 70 kg P2O5 ha-1, and 120 kg K2O ha-1, were used with cow manure, poultry manure, and vermicompost (5 t·ha-1each) in a split-plot design with three replicates. In both seasons, with 50% NPK, the N uptake level achieved with poultry manure was similar to that obtained with 75% and 100% NPK. The greatest N use, internal, agronomic N use, and recovery efficiencies were obtained with 50% NPK + poultry manure, but were similar to those obtained from cow manure and vermicompost subplots. As the amount of applied N from organic and inorganic fertilizer increased, the N use efficiency and related parameters decreased, due to similar yields among plots with different NPK application levels. Poultry manure resulted in the highest significant correlations between applied N and N accumulation, followed by cow manure and vermicompost, in both seasons. Neither chemical fertilizer nor organic manure alone led to optimum N use and N recovery efficiencies. The combination of 50% inorganic fertilizer (75 kg N ha-1) and poultry manure (5 t·ha-1) enhanced the N uptake, the N use and recovery efficiencies of hybrid rice. Cow manure (5 t·ha-1) in combination with 75% inorganic fertilizer (112.5 kg N ha-1) was an adequate substitute for reduced chemical fertilizer usage. Therefore, this study highlighted combined application of inorganic fertilizers and organic manures had the benefits not only in reducing the need for chemical fertilizers but also in improving N uptake by hybrid rice (Palethwe-1) leading to the better environment.
基金Supported in Part by the Key Project of Chinese Ministry of Education (106065) Heilongjiang Provincial Natural ScienceFoundation (C200533)
文摘To understand the use of real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction （real-time RT-PCR） for detecting the relative abundance of mRNA, the expression of a tobacco ferrltin gene （NtFer1） was detected by Northern blot and real-time RT-PCR. The results indicated that both of the two methods were able to detect mRNA expression of NtFer1 cleady and similady, namely NtFer1 expression was responsive to iron-ovedoad, and the abundance of NtFer1 mRNA was greatly increased after iron loaded for 6 h. To compare the effect and sensitivity of two methods, results revealed that Northern blot need 30 μg of total RNA and at least 3 days for the total protocol performance, whereas real-time RT-PCR only need 2 μg of total RNA and 1.5 h. The real-time RT-PCR is rather sensitive and effective than Northern blot. Real-time RT-PCR analysis can be used to rapidly detect the relative abundance of mRNA expression instead of Northern blot analysis.
基金supported by Sao Paulo Research Foundation(FAPESP,grant Nos.2015/03965-2 and 2014/00239-6)the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development(CNPq,grant Nos.307603/2018-0 and 307269/2017-5)Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel(CAPES,Finance Code 001)。
文摘Mast cells are immune cells of the myeloid lineage that are found throughout the body,including the central nervous system.They perform many functions associated with innate and specific immunity,angiogenesis,and vascular homeostasis.Moreover,they have been implicated in a series of pathologies(e.g.,hypersensitivity reactions,tumors,and inflammatory disorders).In this review,we propose that this cell could be a relevant therapeutic target in multiple sclerosis,which is a central nervous system degenerative disease.To support this proposition,we describe the general biological properties of mast cells,their contribution to innate and specific immunity,and the participation of mast cells in the various stages of multiple sclerosis and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis development.The final part of this review is dedicated to an overview of the available mast cells immunomodulatory drugs and their activity on multiple sclerosis and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis,including our own experience related to the effect of ketotifen fumarate on experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis evolution.
文摘This study assessed the effect of feeding stacked genetically modified (GM) corn event (MON89034 × MON88017) on embryonic development, adult tissue histology and assessed the possibility of transgenic DNA transfer, using zebrafish as an animal model. Adult zebrafish were separated into male and female groups. After 3 weeks of feeding with experimental diets, males and females were paired once a week and fertilized embryos were collected, then the male and female fish were re-turned to their sex-specific groups. This fertilization and embryo collection process were repeated 3 times. Embryonic morphological measurements were obtained on developing embryos up to 96 hours after fertilization, and then the embryos were fixed in 4% phosphate-buffered paraformal-dehyde for morphologic assessment. At the end of the feeding study, various adult zebrafish tissues were histologically examined for abnormalities. Both zebrafish tissues and embryos were analyzed for presence of plant specific genes and transgenic sequences. No changes or abnormalities were observed in embryonic morphology nor in any of the tissues examined histologically. In addition, no plant DNA reference genes or transgenic DNA were found in any of the analyzed samples. These results demonstrate that the safety and nutrition of MON89034 × MON88017 corn are similar to non-GM corn.
基金provided under the National Development Plan,through the Research Stimulus Fund,administered by the Department of Agriculture,Fisheries & Food,Ireland RSF05 224
文摘Background：Methane（CH_4） emissions in cattle are an undesirable end product of rumen methanogenic fermentative activity as they are associated not only with negative environmental impacts but also with reduced host feed efficiency.The aim of this study was to quantify total and specific rumen microbial methanogenic populations in beef cattle divergently selected for residual feed intake（RFI） while offered（i） a low energy high forage（HF） diet followed by（ii） a high energy low forage（LF） diet.Ruminal fluid was collected from 14 high（H）and 14 low（L） RFI animals across both dietary periods.Quantitative real time PCR（qRT-PCR） analysis was conducted to quantify the abundance of total and specific rumen methanogenic microbes.Spearman correlation analysis was used to investigate the association between the relative abundance of methanogens and animal performance,rumen fermentation variables and diet digestibility.Results：Abundance of methanogens,did not differ between RFI phenotypes.However,relative abundance of total and specific methanogen species was affected（P〈 0.05） by diet type,with greater abundance observed while animals were offered the LF compared to the HF diet.Conclusions：These findings suggest that differences in abundance of specific rumen methanogen species may not contribute to variation in CH_4 emissions between efficient and inefficient animals,however dietary manipulation can influence the abundance of total and specific methanogen species.
基金funded by Department of Agriculture,Fisheries&Food,Ireland,under the National Development Plan,through the Research Stimulus Fundthe contribution of Science Foundation Ireland(SFI)[grant number:14/IA/2548]to this work.
文摘Background:Previous research in both calves and other species has suggested n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids(PUFA)andβ-glucans may have positive effects on immune function.This experiment measured performance,behaviour,metabolite and immunological responses to pre-weaning supplementation of dairy bull calves with n-3 PUFA in the form of fish oil andβ-glucans derived from seaweed extract.44 Holstein Friesian bull calves,aged 13.7±2.5 d and weighing 48.0±5.8 kg were artificially reared using an electronic feeding system.Each calf was offered5 L(120 g/L)per day of milk replacer(MR)and assigned to one of four treatments included in the MR,(1)Control(CON);(2)40 g n-3 PUFA per day(FO);(3)1 gβ-glucans per day(GL)and(4)40 g n-3 PUFA per day&1 g/dβ-glucans(FOGL)in a 2×2 factorial design.Milk replacer and concentrate was offered from d 0–62(pre-weaning),while concentrate provision continued for a further 31 d post-weaning period.Individual daily feed intake and feeding behaviour was recorded throughout,while bodyweight and blood analyte data were collected at regular intervals.Results:Overall mean concentrate DMI from d 0–93 was 1.39,1.27,1.00 and 0.72 kg/d for CON,FO,GL and FOGL calves,respectively(SEM=0.037;P<0.0001).Calves supplemented with GL were significantly lighter(P<0.0001)at both weaning(d 62)and turnout to pasture(d 93)than un-supplemented calves,with a similar effect(P<0.0001)evident for calves receiving FO compared to un-supplemented contemporaries.Supplementation with GL reduced the number of unrewarded visits where milk was not consumed(P<0.0001)while supplementation with FO increased mean drinking speed(P<0.0001).Supplementation with GL resulted in greater concentrations of haptoglobin(P=0.034),greater serum osmolality(P=0.021)and lower lymphocyte levels(P=0.027).In addition,cells from GL supplemented calves exhibited a lower response than un-supplemented contemporaries to both Phytohaemagglutinin A stimulated IFN-γ(P=0.019)and Concanavalin A stimulated IFN-γ(P=0.012)following in vitro challenges.Conclusions:Pre-weaning supplementation of bull calves with either n-3 PUFA orβ-glucan resulted in reduced voluntary feed intake of concentrate and consequently poorer pre-weaning calf performance.There was no evidence for any beneficial effect of either supplementation strategy on calves’immune responses.
基金Fapemig(APQ-01833-11)for founding the field worka CNPq post-doc fellowship(153535/2018-0)CNPq(206814/2014-3)Post-doctorate scholarship
文摘Altitude and environmental variables such as edaphic properties are considered determinants of species distribution and community composition in mountain ecosystems.Here,we aimed to outline the effects of distinct mountain peaks,altitude and soil properties on community composition,species density,phylogenetic structure and diversity of angiosperm páramo communities from the Serra do Brigadeiro State Park,Minas Gerais,southeastern Brazil.For that,we identified all angiosperm species found in 300 plots(1 m×1 m)from three mountain peaks,measured soil depth and analyzed soil fertility and texture in each plot.To reduce the number of soil variables and species composition,we computed principal coordinates based on soil properties and principal coordinates based on species-plot matrix for each plot.Furthermore,we computed the standard effect sizes of the mean phylogenetic pairwise distance and the mean nearest phylogenetic taxon distance for each plot to investigate differences in the degree of relatedness among coexisting species.We compared differences in response variables between peaks and modelled them in function of altitude and principle components of soil properties using mixed effect models.Species density and phylogenetic diversity differed between peaks,but,contrary to the previous findings,no relationships between species richness or phylogenetic diversity and altitude or soil properties were found,indicating that further investigations are necessary to understand the altitude-biodiversity relationship in Brazilian páramo vegetation.Community composition differed between peaks and depended on altitude,soil properties and interactions between them,indicating that upward shifting of bioclimatic conditions due to climate changes may alter communities of this ecosystem.Phylogenetic structure differed between peaks and was influenced by altitude and soil properties.As phylogenetic clustering increased with altitude,eventual upward movements of species in Brazilian páramo vegetation due to climate change may alter community composition and the degree of relatedness among coexisting species,increasing the risk of species from higher altitudes to disappear.Therefore,conservation priorities arise for higher landscape portions,where these high altitude species may find refuges.
文摘We investigated the effect of combining organic and inorganic fertilizers on the growth and yield of hybrid rice (Palethwe-1) in the dry and wet seasons of 2015. Four quantities of inorganic fertilizer were used in the main plot [0%, 50%, 75%, and 100% nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK)] based on the recommended amounts of 150 kg N ha-1, 70 kg P2O5 ha-1, and 120 kg K2O ha-1, while different organic manures were applied to subplots [no organic manure (O0), cow manure (Oc), poultry manure (Op), and vermicompost (Ov);all at 5 t·ha-1] as part of a split-plot experimental design with three replicates. In both seasons, significant differences in growth parameters including number of tillers hill-1, soil-plant analysis development (SPAD) values, total dry matter, yield, and yield components were observed in plants supplied with different inorganic fertilizers. The 100% NPK (I100) fertilizer produced the maximum yield but similar yields were achieved in plots supplied with 50% NPK (I50) and 75% NPK (I75). Significant differences in growth and yield parameters were also found in crops supplied with organic manures. Although identical quantities were supplied, Op produced the best growth parameters in both seasons including total dry matter, yield, and yield components. Oc also performed well. Combining inorganic and organic fertilizers demonstrated that I50 together with Op (5 t·ha-1) provided similar growth, total dry matter, and yield parameters to I100 in both seasons. Oc (5 t·ha-1) plus I75 also achieved similar yields to I100. This study demonstrates that the combined application of inorganic fertilizers and organic manures has the potential to reduce chemical fertilizer usage without decreasing the yield of hybrid rice, and can enhance the growth, yield, and yield components of Palethwe-1.
基金supported by the Novo Nordisk Foundation (MT) and the Novo Nordisk Foundation (MK, NNF15OC0016284)a research grant from the Odense University Hospital (R29-A1374)
文摘Enhanced bone marrow adipogenesis and impaired osteoblastogenesis have been observed in obesity,suggesting that the metabolic microenvironment regulates bone marrow adipocyte and osteoblast progenitor differentiation fate.To determine the molecular mechanisms,we studied two immortalized murine cell lines of adipocyte or osteoblast progenitors(BMSCs^adipo and BMSC^sosteo,respectively)under basal and adipogenic culture conditions.At baseline,BMSCs^adipo,and BMSCs^osteo exhibit a distinct metabolic program evidenced by the presence of specific global gene expression,cellular bioenergetics,and metabolomic signatures that are dependent on insulin signaling and glycolysis in BMSCs^osteo versus oxidative phosphorylation in BMSCs^adipo.To test the flexibility of the metabolic program,we treated BMSCsadipo with parathyroid hormone,S961(an inhibitor of insulin signaling)and oligomycin(an inhibitor of oxidative phosphorylation).The treatment induced significant changes in cellular bioenergetics that were associated with decreased adipocytic differentiation.Similarly,12 weeks of a high-fat diet in mice led to the expansion of adipocyte progenitors,enhanced adipocyte differentiation and insulin signaling in cultured BMSCs.Our data demonstrate that BMSC progenitors possess a distinct metabolic program and are poised to respond to exogenous metabolic cues that regulate their differentiation fate.
文摘We conducted plant growth experiments in microbe-free vermiculite to study the effects of four types of fermented seaweed liquid fertilizer (SLF) made from nori (Pyropia yezoensis) seaweed on the germination, plant growth characteristics, SPAD value, and nutrient content and uptake of komatsuna (Brassica rapa L. var. wakana komatsuna). The four types of fermented nori SLF used in this study were prepared by anaerobic fermentation of unwashed nori (SLF1), aerobic fermentation of unwashed nori (SLF2), anaerobic fermentation of washed nori (SLF3), and aerobic fermentation of washed nori (SLF4). Komatsuna seeds treated with 200-, 300-, and 400-fold dilutions of SLFs exhibited improved relative germination ratios (RGRs) at 3 and 4 days after sowing (DAS). At 4 DAS, the RGRs of seeds treated with 10-, 100-, 200-, 300-, and 400-fold SLF dilutions showed no differential effect. Seeds treated with undiluted SLFs did not germinate by 4 DAS. SLF1 may promote komatsuna seed germination. The nitrogen (N), calcium, magnesium, sodium (Na), and iodine (I) contents of plants treated with SLF1 were significantly increased relative to plants treated with the other SLFs. Moreover, the I and Na contents of plants were significantly increased by foliar spray application of different dilutions of SLF1. However, SLF treatment markedly reduced the shoot dry weight compared with 1/2-strength modified Hoagland nutrient (MHN) solution, although the same amounts of N and K were applied. SPAD values of the plants treated with SLFs were significantly higher than those of plants treated with MHN. Foliar treatment with SLFs had no significant effect on plant growth, SPAD value, or uptake of nutrients (except Na) relative to the control, but the I content was increased. Plants treated with SLF1 and SLF2 exhibited the highest Na uptake. Foliar spray treatments with SLF1 resulted in the highest I contents in plants. Based on our results, SLF1 is suitable for use as a liquid fertilizer to promote germination and increase nutrient content in komatsuna. These results need to be followed up in soil experiments in the presence of microbes in the rhizosphere.
基金funded through Science Foundation Ireland(SFI)contract no 09/RFP/GEN2447
文摘Background： The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of dietary restriction and subsequent compensatory growth on the relative expression of genes involved in volatile fatty acid transport, metabolism and cell proliferation in ruminal epithelial tissue of beef cattle. Sixty Holstein Friesian bulls（mean liveweight 370 ± 35 kg;mean age 479 ± 15 d） were assigned to one of two groups：（i） restricted feed allowance（RES; n = 30） for 125 d（Period 1） followed by ad libitum access to feed for 55 d（Period 2） or（ii） ad libitum access to feed throughout（ADLIB; n = 30）. Target growth rate for RES was 0.6 kg/d during Period 1. At the end of each dietary period, 15 animals from each treatment group were slaughtered and ruminal epithelial tissue and liquid digesta harvested from the ventral sac of the rumen. Real-time q PCR was used to quantify m RNA transcripts of 26 genes associated with ruminal epithelial function. Volatile fatty acid analysis of rumen fluid from individual animals was conducted using gas chromatography.Results： Diet × period interactions were evident for genes involved in ketogenesis（BDH2, P = 0.017）, pyruvate metabolism（LDHa, P = 0.048; PDHA1, P = 0.015） and cellular transport and structure（DSG1, P = 0.019; CACT, P = 0.027）. Ruminal concentrations of propionic acid（P = 0.018） and n-valeric acid（P = 0.029） were lower in RES animals, compared with ADLIB, throughout the experiment. There was also a strong tendency（P = 0.064）toward a diet × period interaction for n-butyric with higher concentrations in RES animals, compared with ADLIB, during Period 1.Conclusions： These data suggest that following nutrient restriction, the structural integrity of the rumen wall is compromised and there is upregulation of genes involved in the production of ketone bodies and breakdown of pyruvate for cellular energy. These results provide an insight into the potential molecular mechanisms regulating ruminal epithelial absorptive metabolism and growth following nutrient restriction and subsequent compensatory growth.
文摘Background: Glycemic control is important for maintaining gastric motility in diabetic patients, but gastric motility has not yet been studied ultrasonographically in relation to glycemic control. Methods: We made such observations before and after establishing glycemic control in diabetic patients with gastroparesis. We studied 30 diabetic patients with upper abdominal digestive symptoms who were hospitalized for correction of poor blood sugar control and who underwent upper digestive tract endoscopy to rule out structural causes such as gastric/duodenal lesions. Gastric motility was evaluated by transabdominal ultrasonography, using a test meal, before and after attainment of glycemic control (within 3 days after admission and 3 days before discharge). Also, upper abdominal digestive symptoms present on admission and at discharge were compared. Results: After glycemic control was established, contractions of the antral region were more frequent than before the attainment of control (8.93 ± 1.17/3min vs 7.63 ± 2.22/3min, respectively; P < 0.001). Glycemic control also significantly improved gastric emptying (before glycemic control, 49.2 ± 14.8% ; after, 67.1 ± 11.5% ; P < 0.001). This was also true for the motility index, concerning antral gastric contractility (before control, 2.97 ± 1.57; after, 3.75 ± 1.09; P < 0.05). Upper abdominal symptom scores were also significantly lower after attainment of control than before (0.47 ± 0.78 vs 3.17 ± 2.00, respectively; P < 0.001). Conclusions: These findings suggest that attaining glycemic control improves gastric motility and attainments upper abdominal symptoms in diabetic patients with gastroparesis.
基金funded by Teagasc as part of the Irish National Development Plan
文摘Background： Studies have shown clear differences between dairy breeds in their feed intake and production efficiencies. The duodenum is critical in the coordination of digestion and absorption of nutrients. This study examined gene transcript abundance of important classes of nutrient transporters in the duodenum of non lactating dairy cows of different feed efficiency potential, namely Holstein-Friesian （HF）, Jersey （JE） and their F1 hybrid. Duodenal epithelial tissue was collected at slaughter and stored at -80℃. Total RNA was extracted from tissue and reverse transcribed to generate cDNA. Gene expression of the following transporters, namely nucleoside amino acid; sugar; mineral; and lipid transporters was measured using quantitative real-time RT-PCR. Data were statistically analysed using mixed models ANOVA in SAS. Orthogonal contrasts were used to test for potential heterotic effects and spearman correlation coefficients calculated to determine potential associations amongst gen, expression values and production efficiency variables. Results： While there were no direct effects of genotype on expression values for any of the genes examined, there was evidence for a heterotic effect （P 〈 0.05） on ABCGS, in the form of increased expression in the F1 genotype compared to either of the two parent breeds. Additionally, a tendency for increased expression of the amino acid transporters, SLC3A1 （P= 0.072）, SLC3A2 （P= 0.081） and SLC6A 14 （P= 0.072） was also evident in the F1 genotype. A negative （P 〈 0.05） association was identified between the expression of the glucose transporter gene SLCSA1 and total lactational milk solids yield, corrected for body weight. Positive correlations （P 〈 0.05） were also observed between the expression values of genes involved in common transporter roles. Conclusion： This study suggests that differences in the expression of sterol and amino acid transporters in the duodenum could contribute towards the documented differences in feed efficiency between HF, JE and their F1 hybrid. Furthermore, positive associations between the expression of genes involved in common transporter roles suggest that these may be co-regulated. The study identifies potential candidates for investigation of genetic variants regulating nutrient transport and absorption in the duodenum in dairy cows, which may be incorporated into future breeding programmes.
