Background: According to the World Health Organization, the worldwide prevalence of infertility is 17.5%. The male share of responsibility is undeniable. Several factors, such as smoking, alcoholism, obesity and envir...Background: According to the World Health Organization, the worldwide prevalence of infertility is 17.5%. The male share of responsibility is undeniable. Several factors, such as smoking, alcoholism, obesity and environmental pollution are sources of infertility in men. The aim of this study was to determine the spermological profile of infertile men and the factors associated with sperm parameter abnormalities. Methods: This retrospective study analysed 1000 sperm samples over an 11-year period, from January 2010 to December 2021. Results: The average age was 37.52 ± 8.66 years. Surgical history of varicocele and teratozoospermia were associated (p-value = 0.0001). Candida albicans was associated with a 2.27-fold risk of necrozoospermia and a 3.14-fold risk of oligozoospermia. The link between the reason for requesting a spermogram and the age range between 38 and 47 was significant (p-value Conclusion: Today, lifestyle and environmental pollution play a major role in sperm parameter abnormalities.展开更多
Fusarium head blight(FHB)is a serious fungal disease that affect small grain cereals,causing significant wheat(Triticum aestivum L.)yield and quality losses globally.Breeding disease-resistant wheat varieties is key t...Fusarium head blight(FHB)is a serious fungal disease that affect small grain cereals,causing significant wheat(Triticum aestivum L.)yield and quality losses globally.Breeding disease-resistant wheat varieties is key to address FHB-related challenges,but its progress is delayed by traditional methods due to the small-scale,laborious and relatively subjective nature of manual assessment.This study presents a new approach that combines ultralow-altitude drone phenotyping with an optimized You Only Look Once(YOLO)model to examine FHB in wheat,enabling us to perform large-scale and automated symptomatic analysis of this disease.We first established an Open FHB(OFHB)training dataset,consisting of 4867 diseased and 106,801 healthy spikes collected from 132 commercial breeding lines during FHB progression.Then,a deep learning model called YOLOv8-WFD was trained for detecting healthy and diseased spikes,followed by an adaptive Excess Green method to identify symptomatic regions and thus FHBrelated traits on spikes.To study resistance levels,we employed an unsupervised SHapley Additive exPlanations(SHAP)method to pinpoint key traits between 10 and 20 d after inoculation(DAIs),resulting in the classification of 423 varieties trialed during the 2023–2024 growing seasons into four resistance levels(i.e.,highly and moderately susceptible,and moderately and highly resistant),which were highly correlated with field specialists’evaluations.Finally,we derived disease developmental curves based on measures of key traits during 10–20 DAI,quantifying varietal disease progression patterns over time.To our knowledge,this work represents a significant advancement in large-scale disease phenotyping and automated analysis of FHB in wheat,providing a valuable toolkit for breeders and plant researchers to assess resistance levels,select disease-resistant varieties,and understand dynamics of the fungal disease.展开更多
Objective:To evaluate the impact of a group embryo culture approach for women of advanced age.Methods:In this prospective study,two embryo culturing strategies—group and individual—were compared in women who were ol...Objective:To evaluate the impact of a group embryo culture approach for women of advanced age.Methods:In this prospective study,two embryo culturing strategies—group and individual—were compared in women who were older(≥35 years)and younger(<35 years).Data was collected from 450 embryos over 291 intracytoplasmic sperm injection(ICSI)cycles performed on 291 patients.A grouped embryo culture group and an individual embryo culture group were generated by selecting the zygotes into two groups based on the type of culture that was used.The main outcomes compared between the groups were the pregnancy and the live birth rates.Results:The pregnancy,and live births rates were significantly higher when group culture was carried out in an advanced-aged women group(41.5%vs.25.0%,P=0.04;14.3%vs.6.6%,P=0.04;respectively).Similarly,the cleavage rate was better in the same group(98.6%vs.91.2%,P=0.001).However,in the group of young women,there were not significant differences in these rates.Conclusions:Group embryo culturing seems to be a promising strategy to improve embryo development and live births for patients over 35 years of age.展开更多
Polyploidization in plants often leads to increased cell size and grain size,which may be affected by the increased genome dosage and transcription abundance.The synthesized Triticum durum(AABB)-Hay-naldia villosa(WM)...Polyploidization in plants often leads to increased cell size and grain size,which may be affected by the increased genome dosage and transcription abundance.The synthesized Triticum durum(AABB)-Hay-naldia villosa(WM)amphiploid(AABBM)has significantly increased grain size,especially grain length,than the tetraploid and diploid parents.To investigate how polyploidization affects grain development at the transcriptional level,we perform transcriptome analysis using the immature seeds of T.durum,H.villosa,and the amphiploid.The dosage effect genes are contributed more by differentially expressed genes from genome V of H.villosa.The dosage effect genes overrepresent grain development-related genes.Inter-estingly,the vernalization gene TaVRN1 is among the positive dosage effect genes in the T.durum-H.villosa and T.turgidum-Ae.tauschii amphiploids.The expression levels of TaVRN1 homologs are positively correlated with the grain size and weight.The TaVRN1-B1 or TaVRN1-D1 mutation shows delayed florescence,decreased cell size,grain size,and grain yield.These data indicate that dosage effect genes could be one of the important explanations for increased grain size by regulating grain development.The identification and functional validation of dosage effect genes may facilitate the finding of valuable genes for improvingwheat yield.展开更多
Rechargeable Li-S batteries(LSBs)are emerging as an important alternative to lithium-ion batteries(LIBs),owing to their high energy densities and low cost;yet sluggish redox kinetics of LiPSs results in inferior cycle...Rechargeable Li-S batteries(LSBs)are emerging as an important alternative to lithium-ion batteries(LIBs),owing to their high energy densities and low cost;yet sluggish redox kinetics of LiPSs results in inferior cycle life.Herein,we prepared multifunctional self-supporting hyphae carbon nanobelt(HCNB)as hosts by carbonization of hyphae balls of Rhizopus,which could increase the S loading of the cathode without sacrificing reaction kinetics.Trace platinum(Pt)nanoparticles were introduced into HCNBs(PtHCNBs)by ion-beam sputtering deposition.Based on the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses,the introduced trace Pt regulated the local electronic states of heteroatoms in HCNBs.Electrochemical kinetics investigation combined with operando Raman measurements revealed the accelerated reaction mechanics of sulfur species.Benefiting from the synergistic catalytic effect and the unique structures,the as-prepared PtHCNB/MWNCT/S cathodes delivered a stable capacity retention of 77%for 400 cycles at 0.5 C with a sulfur loading of 4.6 mg cm^(-2).More importantly,remarkable cycling performance was achieved with an high areal S loading of 7.6 mg cm^(-2).This finding offers a new strategy to prolong the cycle life of LSBs.展开更多
Cadmium(Cd)is a highly toxic heavy metal pollutant primarily introduced into the environment through anthropogenic activities.In plants,the absorption and retention of Cd lead to a cascade of morphological,physiologic...Cadmium(Cd)is a highly toxic heavy metal pollutant primarily introduced into the environment through anthropogenic activities.In plants,the absorption and retention of Cd lead to a cascade of morphological,physiological,and cytological alterations.Nigella sativa L.,also known as black cumin,is an annual herb with important commercial and medicinal uses.Thymoquinone,the primary bioactive compound in Nigella sativa L.,is renowned for its potential health benefits.The current experiment aimed to ascertain the effects of various concentrations(10,20,30,40 and 50 ppm)of cadmium nitrate(Cd(NO_(3+))_(2))on two Nigella sativa cultivars(AN20 and Desi),analyzing their biological,physiological,quantitative attributes and cytological abnormalities in the M1 generation.It adversely effects biological,morpho-physiological,quantitative attributes at higher concentrations(30,40 and 50 ppm).Morphological variations were observed in terms of cotyledonary leaf(shape and color),vegetative leaves(shape,size and color),plant height(tall and dwarf),growth pattern(bushy and unbranched),flower(no.of petals,androecium and gynoecium),capsules(no.of locules)and seeds(size,color and texture).With increasing cadmium concentration,both physiological and quantitative characteristics declined in a dose-dependent manner,while proline content increased correspondingly with higher concentrations of Cd(NO3)2.The maximum depreciation was found at the highest cadmium nitrate concentration(i.e.,50 ppm).Cadmium nitrate significantly impacts the desi cultivar more than the AN20 cultivar.Scanning electron microscopy(SEM)was used to observe stomatal morphology,which showed changes in stomatal size and structure.The variation in area percentage of compounds such as Thymoquinone;p-cymene;9-Octadecenoic acid;9,12-Octadecadienoic acid(Z,Z)-,methyl ester;1,2,3-propanetriyl was detected by GC MS Analysis.The current study demonstrated that Nigella sativa cultivars AN20 and desi were successfully tested for induced mutagenesis,and it also offered a method that might be applied to future mutational breeding projects.展开更多
BACKGROUND Angelman syndrome(AS)is caused by maternal chromosomal deletions,imprinting defects,paternal uniparental disomy involving chromosome 15 and the ubiquitin-protein ligase UBE3A gene mutations.However the gene...BACKGROUND Angelman syndrome(AS)is caused by maternal chromosomal deletions,imprinting defects,paternal uniparental disomy involving chromosome 15 and the ubiquitin-protein ligase UBE3A gene mutations.However the genetic basis remains unclear for several patients.AIM To investigate the involvement of UBE3A gene in AS and identifying new potential genes using exome sequencing.METHODS We established a cohort study in 50 patients referred to Farhat Hached University Hospital between 2006 and 2021,with a strong suspicion of AS and absence of chromosomal aberrations.The UBE3A gene was screened for mutation detection.Two unrelated patients issued from consanguineous families were subjected to exome analysis.RESULTS We describe seven UBE3A variants among them 3 none previously described including intronic variants c.2220+14T>C(intron14),c.2507+43T>A(Exon15)and insertion in Exon7:c.30-47_30-46.The exome sequencing revealed 22 potential genes that could be involved in AS-like syndromes that should be investigated further.CONCLUSION Screening for UBE3A mutations in AS patients has been proven to be useful to confirm the diagnosis.Our exome findings could rise to new potential alternative target genes for genetic counseling.展开更多
Introduction: Inappropriate and excess vitamin supplementation, particularly for vitamin A, is increasingly recognized as a public health problem in developed countries. On the other hand, blind supplementation of vit...Introduction: Inappropriate and excess vitamin supplementation, particularly for vitamin A, is increasingly recognized as a public health problem in developed countries. On the other hand, blind supplementation of vitamin A, for children in developing countries is a subject of controversy in the literature. The crucial role of vitamin A in the process of spermatogenesis in adult rodents is well established, but only a few publications are consecrated to the long-term effect of vitamin A intake at a young age on testicular development and differentiation. Objectives: Our study aimed to evaluate the long-term effects of acute supplementation at an early age, in the post-natal period, on spermatogenesis and testicular trophicity at adult age. Material and Methods: Young Wistar Albinos rats of 22 days received an acute high dose of supplementation of vitamin A (retinyl palmitate). The control group, group 1, received only extra virgin olive oil, Group 2 a dose of 7000 IU/kg of retinyl palmitate, group 3, 14,000 IU/kg, and Group 4 a dose of 28,000 IU/kg. At 10 weeks of age, the testes’ testosterone levels were measured by ELISA. For histological assessment, sections were stained with Hematoxylin eosin, and the Johnsen score was used to evaluate spermatogenesis in the seminiferous tubules. Results: The average testicular weights of rats were significantly lower in group 4 (p < 0.05), and so was the testosterone level in the testis compared to the control group (p .01). Most of the seminiferous tubules were concerned by an arrest of spermatogenesis and the Johnsen score was decreased with a mean score of 5.96 ± 1.60 (p .001) in that Group. In Group 3, Johnsen’s score was significantly better than the one obtained with the control. Conclusion: We observed a negative effect in the long term with a high acute dose of supplementation of retinyl palmitate at a young age, on testicular development and differentiation. Despite a return to normal diet after that supplementation, during childhood, impaired spermatogenesis was identified at the adult age with an arrest of spermatogenesis. The reversibility of that lack of differentiation by a return to a normal diet is questionable and would need more investigation.展开更多
Ovotesticular disorder of sex development (OT-DSD) is a condition in which, both testicular tissue and ovarian tissue are co-existent in the same gonad (ovotestis) or independently in separate gonads characterizing th...Ovotesticular disorder of sex development (OT-DSD) is a condition in which, both testicular tissue and ovarian tissue are co-existent in the same gonad (ovotestis) or independently in separate gonads characterizing the anatomical form of lateral ovotestis. Here, in this study, we report a case of lateral ovotestis associated with a chimera, Chi 46,XX/46,XY. He presented for fertility assessment and karyotyping because of DSD characterized by gynecomastia associated with hypospadias;Karyotyping of peripheral blood revealed a 46,XX/46,XY chimeric condition confirmed by SNP array analysis. After surgical exploration, an hemi-uterus with its tube and gonad was found and remove. Histology revealed ovarian tissue with follicules at different stage while semen analysis revealed a severe oligoastheno teratozoospermia. A gonad was palpable on the right hemiscrotum and ultrasound showed a testis structure. The patient clamed conservation of its testicle and requested bilateral mastectomy. A multidisciplinary approach was warranted to establish this rare entity’s diagnosis and its management. In the case of gonad preservation, the risk of gonadoblastom is to be discussed and follow up recommended.展开更多
Purpose: A proportion of cases with repeated abortion are caused by chromosomal abnormality in one of the parents. The purpose of this study was to assess the frequency and nature of chromosomal aberrations that contr...Purpose: A proportion of cases with repeated abortion are caused by chromosomal abnormality in one of the parents. The purpose of this study was to assess the frequency and nature of chromosomal aberrations that contribute to the occurrence of recurrent miscarriages. Several studies have been done to determine the role of chromosomal abnormalities in couples with recurrent spontaneous abortion in various countries. None of these studies was done in Morocco. Material and Methods: Cytogenetic study was done for 238 Moroccan couples who presented with repeated abortion at the Institut Pasteur, Casablanca, Morocco. Results: We found that the frequency of chromosomal abnormalities was not significantly different from that reported worldwide. Chromosomal abnormalities were detected in 13 (6.1%) of 238 couples. twelve of chromosomal abnormalities were structural and one of them were numerical. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of constitutional cytogenetic exploration of couples with a history of repeated spontaneous abortion. Cytogenetic findings could provide valuable information for genetic counseling and allow monitoring of future pregnancies by prenatal diagnosis in couples with a history of recurrent miscarriage.展开更多
Background: Cytogenetics is one of the most important diagnostic parameters in the classification of acute leukemia. Recurrent chromosomal aberrations in acute leukemia have provided insights into the molecular mechan...Background: Cytogenetics is one of the most important diagnostic parameters in the classification of acute leukemia. Recurrent chromosomal aberrations in acute leukemia have provided insights into the molecular mechanism of leukemogenesis. The variable frequencies of recurrent cytogenetic markers due to ethical/racial differences have been reported from Western and some Asian countries. Objective: We report cytogenetic data of largest cohort of 7209 adult and pediatric patients with de novo acute leukemia (AL) to determine the prevalence of various cytogenetic sub groups and compare with the Western and Asian population. Material & Methods: The AL patients included 2609 AML (adult: 2042, pediatric: 567), 3708 B-cell-precursor (BCP)-ALL (adult: 1300, pediatric: 2408) and 892 cases of T-ALL (adult: 480, pediatric: 412). Cytogenetic studies included conventional karyotyping and FISH using panel of probes. Results: The incidence of t(8;21) was high, comparable to other Asian countries. In comparison to our series and Western population, t(15;17) was more prevalent in Chinese population. Cytogenetic profiling of BCP-ALL revealed low prevalence of ETV6/RUNX1 in ours as well as other Asian population. The MLL aberrations in BCP-ALL and TLX1 & TLX3 aberrations in T-ALL occurred less frequently in our series as compared with Western population. Conclusion: The present study with a large cohort showed the heterogeneity of AL that involved various factors, such as age, gender and prevalence of distinct cytogenetic subgroups. Our data in comparison with other population based studies revealed differential distribution of some cytogenetic sub-groups indicating geographic heterogeneity due to differential environmental exposure which probably influenced underlying genetic susceptibility.展开更多
Epigenetic alterations contribute significantly to the development and progression of gastric cancer,one of the leading causes of cancer death worldwide.Epigenetics refers to the number of modifications of the chromat...Epigenetic alterations contribute significantly to the development and progression of gastric cancer,one of the leading causes of cancer death worldwide.Epigenetics refers to the number of modifications of the chromatin structure that affect gene expression without altering the primary sequence of DNA,and these changes lead to transcriptional activation or silencing of the gene.Over the years,the study of epigenetic processes has increased,and novel therapeutic approaches that target DNA methylation and histone modifications have emerged.A greater understanding of epigenetics and the therapeutic potential of manipulating these processes is necessary for gastric cancer treatment.Here,we review recent research on the effects of aberrant DNA and histone methylation on the onset and progression of gastric tumors and the development of compounds that target enzymes that regulate the epigenome.展开更多
Leaves provide substances and signals for pod and seed development in soybean.However,the regulatory feedbacks of pod and seed to leaf development remain unclear.We investigated the effects of pod and seed on leaf sen...Leaves provide substances and signals for pod and seed development in soybean.However,the regulatory feedbacks of pod and seed to leaf development remain unclear.We investigated the effects of pod and seed on leaf senescence by conducting pod removal and seed injury experiments.Pod removal and seed injury delayed leaf senescence and caused the staygreen phenotype of leaves.There were dosage effects of pod number on the extent of staygreen in depodded plants.The concentrations of chlorophyll(SPAD value,an index of relative chlorophyll content),soluble protein,and soluble sugar in the leaves of depodded plants were higher than those of intact plants.During seed development,the content of IAA decreased,while that of ABA increased.This trend was more pronounced in intact than in depodded and seed-injured plants.The GA3/ABA ratio decreased gradually in all treatments.The content of GA3 was relatively stable and was higher in intact than in depodded plants.The expression levels of four senescence-related genes,Gm SARK,Gm SGR1,Gm CYN1,and Gm NAC,declined in depodded or seed-injured treatments and were positively correlated with the number of leaves retained on plants.Gm FT2 a,the major flowering-promoting gene,was expressed at a higher level while E1,a key flowering inhibitory gene,was expressed at a lower level in depodded than in intact plants.We propose that the pod or seed can regulate leaf development.When the seed is aborted owing to disease infection or pest attack,the leaves stay green because of the absence of the seed signals for senescence.展开更多
EST-PCR based molecular markers specific for alien chromosomes are not only useful for the detection of the introgressed alien chromatin in the wheat background, but also provide evidence of the syntenic relationship ...EST-PCR based molecular markers specific for alien chromosomes are not only useful for the detection of the introgressed alien chromatin in the wheat background, but also provide evidence of the syntenic relationship between homoeologous chromosomes. In the present study, in order to develop high density and evenly distributed molecular markers on chromosome 4V of Haynaldia villosa, a total of 607 primer pairs were designed according to the EST sequences, which were previously located in 23 different bins of wheat chromosomes 4A, 4B and 4D. By using the Triticum durum-H, villosa amphiploid and T. aestivum-H, villosa alien chromosome lines involving chromosome 4V, it was found that 9.23% of the tested primers could amplify specific bands for chromosome 4V. Thirty and twenty-six specific markers could be assigned to chromosome arms 4VS and 4VL, respectively. These 4V specific markers provided efficient tools for the characterization of structural variation involving the chromosome 4V as well as for the selection of useful genes located on chromosome 4V in breeding programs.展开更多
Plant height is an important agronomic trait in cereal crops, and can affect both plant architecture and grain yield. New dwarfing genes are required for improving the genetic diversity of wheat. In this study, a nove...Plant height is an important agronomic trait in cereal crops, and can affect both plant architecture and grain yield. New dwarfing genes are required for improving the genetic diversity of wheat. In this study, a novel dwarf mutant, NM9, was created by treating seeds of the wheat variety NAU9918 with ethyl methanesulfonate （EMS）. NM9 showed obvious phenotypic changes, which were distinct from those caused by other dwarfing genes, especially the reduced plant height, increased effective tiller number, and elongated spike and grain length. The reduced plant height in NM9 was attributable to a semi-dominant dwarfing gene Rht__NM9, which was flanked by two closely linked SNP markers, SNP34 and SNP41, covering an 8.86-Mb region on the chromosome arm 2AS. The results of gibberellic acid （GA） sensitivity evaluation, comparative genomics analysis and allelism test indicated that RhtNM9 was neither allelic to Rht7 and Rht21 nor homoe- oallelic to Rht8, so Rht_NM9 was proposed to be a new dwarfing locus on the homoeologous group 2 chromosomes of wheat. Rht_NM9 has a negative effect on plant height and positive effects on effective tiller number and grain size, thus, Rht_NM9 could be used for elucidating the mechanisms underlying plant architecture and grain development.展开更多
The effects of tourmaline on nitrogen removal performance and biofilm structures were comparatively investigated in two identical laboratory-scale sequencing batch biofilm reactors（SBBRs）（denoted SBBR1 and SBBR2） ...The effects of tourmaline on nitrogen removal performance and biofilm structures were comparatively investigated in two identical laboratory-scale sequencing batch biofilm reactors（SBBRs）（denoted SBBR1 and SBBR2） at different nitrogen loading rates（NLRs） varying from（0.24 ± 0.01） to（1.26 ± 0.02） g N/（L·day）. SBBR1 was operated in parallel with SBBR2, but SBBR1 was filled with polyurethane foam loaded tourmaline（TPU） carriers and another（SBBR2） filled with polyurethane foam（PU） carriers. Results obtained from this study showed that the excellent and stable performance of SBBR1 was obtained. Ammonia nitrogen removal and total nitrogen removal were higher in SBBR1 than that in SBBR2 with increase of NLR. At an NLR of（0.24 ± 0.01） g N/（L·day）, the majority of the spherical and elliptical bacteria were surrounded by the extracellular polymeric substance（EPS） and bacillus or filamentous bacteria in two SBBRs biofilms. When NLR increased to（1.26 ± 0.02） g N/（L·day）, the clusters were more obvious in the SBBR1 biofilm than that in the SBBR2 biofilm. Bacteria in SBBR1 were inclined to synthesis more EPS, and the formed EPS could protect the bacteria from free ammonia（FA） under extreme condition NLR（1.26 ± 0.02） g N/（L·day）. The results of polymerase chain reaction-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis analysis showed that the microbial community similarity in SBBR2 decreased more obviously than that in SBBR1 with the increase of NLR, which the microbial community in SBBR1 was relatively stable.展开更多
In order to develop more wheat-Haynaldia villosa translocations involving different chromosomes and chromosome segments of H. villosa, T. durum-H, villosa amphiploid was irradiated with ^60Co γ-rays at doses of 800, ...In order to develop more wheat-Haynaldia villosa translocations involving different chromosomes and chromosome segments of H. villosa, T. durum-H, villosa amphiploid was irradiated with ^60Co γ-rays at doses of 800, 1,200, and 1,600 rad. Pollen collected from the spikes 1, 2, and 3 days after irradiation were transferred to emasculated spikes of the common wheat cv. ‘Chinese Spring＇. Genomic in situ hybridization was used to identify wheat-H, villosa chromosome translocations in the M1 generation. Transmission of the identified translocation chromosomes was analyzed in the BC1, BC2, and BC3 generations. The results indicated that all three irradiation doses were highly efficient for inducing wheat-alien translocations without affecting the viability of the M1 seeds. Within the range of 800-1,600 rad, both the efficiency of translocation induction and the frequency of interstitial chromosome breakage-fusion increased as the irradiation dosage increased. A higher translocation induction frequency was observed using pollen collected from the spikes 1 day after irradiation over that of 2 or 3 days after irradiation. More than 70% of the translocations detected in the M1 generation were transmitted to the BC1 through the female gametes. All translocations recovered in the BC1 generation were recovered in the following BC2, and BC3 generations. The transmission ability of different translocation types in different genetic backgrounds showed an order of ‘whole-arm translocation 〉 small alien segment translocation 〉 large alien segment translocation＇, through either male or female gametes, In general, the transmission ability through the female gametes was higher than that through the male gametes. By this approach, 14 translocation lines that involved different H. villosa chromosomes have been identified in the BC3 using EST-STS markers, and eight of them were homozygous.展开更多
OBJECTIVE： Homeopathic nosodes have seldom been scientifically validated for their anticancer effects. This study was conducted to examine if a recently developed hepatitis C nosode has demonstrable anticancer potent...OBJECTIVE： Homeopathic nosodes have seldom been scientifically validated for their anticancer effects. This study was conducted to examine if a recently developed hepatitis C nosode has demonstrable anticancer potential in cancer cells in vitro.METHODS： Anticancer effects of Hepatitis C 30C（Hep C 30）, if any, were initially tested on three cancer cell lines, HepG2（liver cancer）, MCF-7（breast cancer） and A549（lung cancer） and one normal liver cell line WRL-68 cells and subsequently a more thorough study using further scientific protocols was undertaken on HepG2 cells（against WRL-68 cells as the normal control） as HepG2 cells showed better anticancer response than the other two. Three doses, one at 50% lethal dose（LD50） and the other two below LD50, were used on HepG2 cells subsequently. Protocols like apoptosis induction and its possible signaling mechanism were deployed using immunoblots of relevant signal proteins and confocal microscopy, with particular reference to telomerase and topoisomerase Ⅱ（Top Ⅱ） activities, two strong cancer biomarkers for their direct relationship with divisional activities of cells and DNAs. RESULTS： Hep C 30 induced apoptosis, caused distorted cell morphology typical of apoptotic cells, increased reactive oxygen species generation and produced increased DNA nicks. Further it enhanced pro-apototic signal proteins like Bax, cytochrome c and inhibited anti-apoptotic signal proteins, Bcl-2, cytochrome c and caspase-3, changed mitochondrial membrane potential and caused externalization of phosphatidylserine. The drug also decreased expression of two cancer biomarkers, Top Ⅱ and telomerase, consistent with its anticancer effect. CONCLUSION： Hep C 30 has demonstrable anticancer effects against liver cancer cells in vitro.展开更多
OBJECTIVE： Preventive measures against skin melanoma like chemotherapy are useful but suffer from chronic side effects and drug resistance. Ethanolic extract of Phytolacca decandra （PD）, used in homeopathy for the ...OBJECTIVE： Preventive measures against skin melanoma like chemotherapy are useful but suffer from chronic side effects and drug resistance. Ethanolic extract of Phytolacca decandra （PD）, used in homeopathy for the treatment of various ailments like chronic rheumatism, regular conjunctivitis, psoriasis, and in some skin diseases was tested for its possible anticancer potential. METHODS： Cytotoxicity of the drug was tested by conducting 3-（4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl）-2,5- diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay on both normal （peripheral blood mononuclear cells） and A375 cells. Fluorescence microscopic study of 4＇,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole dihydrochloride-stained cells was conducted for DNA fragmentation assay, and changes in cellular morphology, if any, were also recorded. Lactate dehydrogenase activity assay was done to evaluate the percentages of apoptosis and necrosis. Reactive oxygen species （ROS） accumulation, if any, and expression study of apoptotic genes also were evaluated to pin-point the actual events of apoptosis. RESULTS： Results showed that PD administration caused a remarkable reduction in proliferation of A375 cells, without showing much cytotoxicity on peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Generation of ROS and DNA damage, which made the cancer cells prone to apoptosis, were found to be enhanced in PD-treated cells. These results were duly supported by the analytical data on expression of different cellular and nuclear proteins, as for example, by down- regulation of Akt and Bcl-2, up-regulation of p53, Bax and caspase 3, and an increase in number of cell deaths by apoptosis in A375 cells. CONCLUSION： Overall results demonstrate anticancer potentials of PD on A375 cells through activation of caspase-mediated signaling and ROS generation.展开更多
文摘Background: According to the World Health Organization, the worldwide prevalence of infertility is 17.5%. The male share of responsibility is undeniable. Several factors, such as smoking, alcoholism, obesity and environmental pollution are sources of infertility in men. The aim of this study was to determine the spermological profile of infertile men and the factors associated with sperm parameter abnormalities. Methods: This retrospective study analysed 1000 sperm samples over an 11-year period, from January 2010 to December 2021. Results: The average age was 37.52 ± 8.66 years. Surgical history of varicocele and teratozoospermia were associated (p-value = 0.0001). Candida albicans was associated with a 2.27-fold risk of necrozoospermia and a 3.14-fold risk of oligozoospermia. The link between the reason for requesting a spermogram and the age range between 38 and 47 was significant (p-value Conclusion: Today, lifestyle and environmental pollution play a major role in sperm parameter abnormalities.
基金supported by the Biological Breeding-National Science and Technology Major Project(2023ZD04025 to Xiu’e Wang)the Seed Industry Revitalization Project of Jiangsu Province(JBGS(2021)006 to Xiu’e Wang)+3 种基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32070400 to Ji Zhou)Ji Zhou,Robert Jackson,and Greg Deakin were partially supported by the Allan&Gill Gray Foundation’Sustainable Productivity for Crop Improvement(G118688 to the University of Cambridge and Q-20-0370 to NIAB)Ji Zhou was supported by the United Kingdom Research and Innovation’s(UKRI)Biotechnology and Bio logical Sciences Research Council(BBSRC)AI in Bioscience Grant(BB/Y513969/1 to Ji Zhou)The UK-China research activities were supported by the BBSRC’s International Partnership Grant(BB/Y514081/1 to NIAB)
文摘Fusarium head blight(FHB)is a serious fungal disease that affect small grain cereals,causing significant wheat(Triticum aestivum L.)yield and quality losses globally.Breeding disease-resistant wheat varieties is key to address FHB-related challenges,but its progress is delayed by traditional methods due to the small-scale,laborious and relatively subjective nature of manual assessment.This study presents a new approach that combines ultralow-altitude drone phenotyping with an optimized You Only Look Once(YOLO)model to examine FHB in wheat,enabling us to perform large-scale and automated symptomatic analysis of this disease.We first established an Open FHB(OFHB)training dataset,consisting of 4867 diseased and 106,801 healthy spikes collected from 132 commercial breeding lines during FHB progression.Then,a deep learning model called YOLOv8-WFD was trained for detecting healthy and diseased spikes,followed by an adaptive Excess Green method to identify symptomatic regions and thus FHBrelated traits on spikes.To study resistance levels,we employed an unsupervised SHapley Additive exPlanations(SHAP)method to pinpoint key traits between 10 and 20 d after inoculation(DAIs),resulting in the classification of 423 varieties trialed during the 2023–2024 growing seasons into four resistance levels(i.e.,highly and moderately susceptible,and moderately and highly resistant),which were highly correlated with field specialists’evaluations.Finally,we derived disease developmental curves based on measures of key traits during 10–20 DAI,quantifying varietal disease progression patterns over time.To our knowledge,this work represents a significant advancement in large-scale disease phenotyping and automated analysis of FHB in wheat,providing a valuable toolkit for breeders and plant researchers to assess resistance levels,select disease-resistant varieties,and understand dynamics of the fungal disease.
文摘Objective:To evaluate the impact of a group embryo culture approach for women of advanced age.Methods:In this prospective study,two embryo culturing strategies—group and individual—were compared in women who were older(≥35 years)and younger(<35 years).Data was collected from 450 embryos over 291 intracytoplasmic sperm injection(ICSI)cycles performed on 291 patients.A grouped embryo culture group and an individual embryo culture group were generated by selecting the zygotes into two groups based on the type of culture that was used.The main outcomes compared between the groups were the pregnancy and the live birth rates.Results:The pregnancy,and live births rates were significantly higher when group culture was carried out in an advanced-aged women group(41.5%vs.25.0%,P=0.04;14.3%vs.6.6%,P=0.04;respectively).Similarly,the cleavage rate was better in the same group(98.6%vs.91.2%,P=0.001).However,in the group of young women,there were not significant differences in these rates.Conclusions:Group embryo culturing seems to be a promising strategy to improve embryo development and live births for patients over 35 years of age.
基金This work was financially supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(Grant No.2022YFF1002900 and 2020YFE0202900)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32270576)+4 种基金Jiangsu Provincial Key Research and Development Program(BE2022346)Seed Industry Revitalization Project of Jiangsu Province(JBGS[2021]006 and JBGS[2021]013)the Jiangsu Agricultural Technology System(JATS[2023]422)the Joint Research of Wheat Variety Improvement of AnhuiZhongshan Biological Breeding Laboratory(ZSBBL)(ZSBBL-KY2023-02-2)。
文摘Polyploidization in plants often leads to increased cell size and grain size,which may be affected by the increased genome dosage and transcription abundance.The synthesized Triticum durum(AABB)-Hay-naldia villosa(WM)amphiploid(AABBM)has significantly increased grain size,especially grain length,than the tetraploid and diploid parents.To investigate how polyploidization affects grain development at the transcriptional level,we perform transcriptome analysis using the immature seeds of T.durum,H.villosa,and the amphiploid.The dosage effect genes are contributed more by differentially expressed genes from genome V of H.villosa.The dosage effect genes overrepresent grain development-related genes.Inter-estingly,the vernalization gene TaVRN1 is among the positive dosage effect genes in the T.durum-H.villosa and T.turgidum-Ae.tauschii amphiploids.The expression levels of TaVRN1 homologs are positively correlated with the grain size and weight.The TaVRN1-B1 or TaVRN1-D1 mutation shows delayed florescence,decreased cell size,grain size,and grain yield.These data indicate that dosage effect genes could be one of the important explanations for increased grain size by regulating grain development.The identification and functional validation of dosage effect genes may facilitate the finding of valuable genes for improvingwheat yield.
基金partially supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(52072099)Team program of the Natural Science Foundation of Heilongjiang Province,China(No.TD2021E005)
文摘Rechargeable Li-S batteries(LSBs)are emerging as an important alternative to lithium-ion batteries(LIBs),owing to their high energy densities and low cost;yet sluggish redox kinetics of LiPSs results in inferior cycle life.Herein,we prepared multifunctional self-supporting hyphae carbon nanobelt(HCNB)as hosts by carbonization of hyphae balls of Rhizopus,which could increase the S loading of the cathode without sacrificing reaction kinetics.Trace platinum(Pt)nanoparticles were introduced into HCNBs(PtHCNBs)by ion-beam sputtering deposition.Based on the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses,the introduced trace Pt regulated the local electronic states of heteroatoms in HCNBs.Electrochemical kinetics investigation combined with operando Raman measurements revealed the accelerated reaction mechanics of sulfur species.Benefiting from the synergistic catalytic effect and the unique structures,the as-prepared PtHCNB/MWNCT/S cathodes delivered a stable capacity retention of 77%for 400 cycles at 0.5 C with a sulfur loading of 4.6 mg cm^(-2).More importantly,remarkable cycling performance was achieved with an high areal S loading of 7.6 mg cm^(-2).This finding offers a new strategy to prolong the cycle life of LSBs.
基金funded by the Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University Researchers Supporting Project number(PNURSP2024R318)Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University,Riyadh,Saudi Arabia.
文摘Cadmium(Cd)is a highly toxic heavy metal pollutant primarily introduced into the environment through anthropogenic activities.In plants,the absorption and retention of Cd lead to a cascade of morphological,physiological,and cytological alterations.Nigella sativa L.,also known as black cumin,is an annual herb with important commercial and medicinal uses.Thymoquinone,the primary bioactive compound in Nigella sativa L.,is renowned for its potential health benefits.The current experiment aimed to ascertain the effects of various concentrations(10,20,30,40 and 50 ppm)of cadmium nitrate(Cd(NO_(3+))_(2))on two Nigella sativa cultivars(AN20 and Desi),analyzing their biological,physiological,quantitative attributes and cytological abnormalities in the M1 generation.It adversely effects biological,morpho-physiological,quantitative attributes at higher concentrations(30,40 and 50 ppm).Morphological variations were observed in terms of cotyledonary leaf(shape and color),vegetative leaves(shape,size and color),plant height(tall and dwarf),growth pattern(bushy and unbranched),flower(no.of petals,androecium and gynoecium),capsules(no.of locules)and seeds(size,color and texture).With increasing cadmium concentration,both physiological and quantitative characteristics declined in a dose-dependent manner,while proline content increased correspondingly with higher concentrations of Cd(NO3)2.The maximum depreciation was found at the highest cadmium nitrate concentration(i.e.,50 ppm).Cadmium nitrate significantly impacts the desi cultivar more than the AN20 cultivar.Scanning electron microscopy(SEM)was used to observe stomatal morphology,which showed changes in stomatal size and structure.The variation in area percentage of compounds such as Thymoquinone;p-cymene;9-Octadecenoic acid;9,12-Octadecadienoic acid(Z,Z)-,methyl ester;1,2,3-propanetriyl was detected by GC MS Analysis.The current study demonstrated that Nigella sativa cultivars AN20 and desi were successfully tested for induced mutagenesis,and it also offered a method that might be applied to future mutational breeding projects.
文摘BACKGROUND Angelman syndrome(AS)is caused by maternal chromosomal deletions,imprinting defects,paternal uniparental disomy involving chromosome 15 and the ubiquitin-protein ligase UBE3A gene mutations.However the genetic basis remains unclear for several patients.AIM To investigate the involvement of UBE3A gene in AS and identifying new potential genes using exome sequencing.METHODS We established a cohort study in 50 patients referred to Farhat Hached University Hospital between 2006 and 2021,with a strong suspicion of AS and absence of chromosomal aberrations.The UBE3A gene was screened for mutation detection.Two unrelated patients issued from consanguineous families were subjected to exome analysis.RESULTS We describe seven UBE3A variants among them 3 none previously described including intronic variants c.2220+14T>C(intron14),c.2507+43T>A(Exon15)and insertion in Exon7:c.30-47_30-46.The exome sequencing revealed 22 potential genes that could be involved in AS-like syndromes that should be investigated further.CONCLUSION Screening for UBE3A mutations in AS patients has been proven to be useful to confirm the diagnosis.Our exome findings could rise to new potential alternative target genes for genetic counseling.
文摘Introduction: Inappropriate and excess vitamin supplementation, particularly for vitamin A, is increasingly recognized as a public health problem in developed countries. On the other hand, blind supplementation of vitamin A, for children in developing countries is a subject of controversy in the literature. The crucial role of vitamin A in the process of spermatogenesis in adult rodents is well established, but only a few publications are consecrated to the long-term effect of vitamin A intake at a young age on testicular development and differentiation. Objectives: Our study aimed to evaluate the long-term effects of acute supplementation at an early age, in the post-natal period, on spermatogenesis and testicular trophicity at adult age. Material and Methods: Young Wistar Albinos rats of 22 days received an acute high dose of supplementation of vitamin A (retinyl palmitate). The control group, group 1, received only extra virgin olive oil, Group 2 a dose of 7000 IU/kg of retinyl palmitate, group 3, 14,000 IU/kg, and Group 4 a dose of 28,000 IU/kg. At 10 weeks of age, the testes’ testosterone levels were measured by ELISA. For histological assessment, sections were stained with Hematoxylin eosin, and the Johnsen score was used to evaluate spermatogenesis in the seminiferous tubules. Results: The average testicular weights of rats were significantly lower in group 4 (p < 0.05), and so was the testosterone level in the testis compared to the control group (p .01). Most of the seminiferous tubules were concerned by an arrest of spermatogenesis and the Johnsen score was decreased with a mean score of 5.96 ± 1.60 (p .001) in that Group. In Group 3, Johnsen’s score was significantly better than the one obtained with the control. Conclusion: We observed a negative effect in the long term with a high acute dose of supplementation of retinyl palmitate at a young age, on testicular development and differentiation. Despite a return to normal diet after that supplementation, during childhood, impaired spermatogenesis was identified at the adult age with an arrest of spermatogenesis. The reversibility of that lack of differentiation by a return to a normal diet is questionable and would need more investigation.
文摘Ovotesticular disorder of sex development (OT-DSD) is a condition in which, both testicular tissue and ovarian tissue are co-existent in the same gonad (ovotestis) or independently in separate gonads characterizing the anatomical form of lateral ovotestis. Here, in this study, we report a case of lateral ovotestis associated with a chimera, Chi 46,XX/46,XY. He presented for fertility assessment and karyotyping because of DSD characterized by gynecomastia associated with hypospadias;Karyotyping of peripheral blood revealed a 46,XX/46,XY chimeric condition confirmed by SNP array analysis. After surgical exploration, an hemi-uterus with its tube and gonad was found and remove. Histology revealed ovarian tissue with follicules at different stage while semen analysis revealed a severe oligoastheno teratozoospermia. A gonad was palpable on the right hemiscrotum and ultrasound showed a testis structure. The patient clamed conservation of its testicle and requested bilateral mastectomy. A multidisciplinary approach was warranted to establish this rare entity’s diagnosis and its management. In the case of gonad preservation, the risk of gonadoblastom is to be discussed and follow up recommended.
文摘Purpose: A proportion of cases with repeated abortion are caused by chromosomal abnormality in one of the parents. The purpose of this study was to assess the frequency and nature of chromosomal aberrations that contribute to the occurrence of recurrent miscarriages. Several studies have been done to determine the role of chromosomal abnormalities in couples with recurrent spontaneous abortion in various countries. None of these studies was done in Morocco. Material and Methods: Cytogenetic study was done for 238 Moroccan couples who presented with repeated abortion at the Institut Pasteur, Casablanca, Morocco. Results: We found that the frequency of chromosomal abnormalities was not significantly different from that reported worldwide. Chromosomal abnormalities were detected in 13 (6.1%) of 238 couples. twelve of chromosomal abnormalities were structural and one of them were numerical. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of constitutional cytogenetic exploration of couples with a history of repeated spontaneous abortion. Cytogenetic findings could provide valuable information for genetic counseling and allow monitoring of future pregnancies by prenatal diagnosis in couples with a history of recurrent miscarriage.
文摘Background: Cytogenetics is one of the most important diagnostic parameters in the classification of acute leukemia. Recurrent chromosomal aberrations in acute leukemia have provided insights into the molecular mechanism of leukemogenesis. The variable frequencies of recurrent cytogenetic markers due to ethical/racial differences have been reported from Western and some Asian countries. Objective: We report cytogenetic data of largest cohort of 7209 adult and pediatric patients with de novo acute leukemia (AL) to determine the prevalence of various cytogenetic sub groups and compare with the Western and Asian population. Material & Methods: The AL patients included 2609 AML (adult: 2042, pediatric: 567), 3708 B-cell-precursor (BCP)-ALL (adult: 1300, pediatric: 2408) and 892 cases of T-ALL (adult: 480, pediatric: 412). Cytogenetic studies included conventional karyotyping and FISH using panel of probes. Results: The incidence of t(8;21) was high, comparable to other Asian countries. In comparison to our series and Western population, t(15;17) was more prevalent in Chinese population. Cytogenetic profiling of BCP-ALL revealed low prevalence of ETV6/RUNX1 in ours as well as other Asian population. The MLL aberrations in BCP-ALL and TLX1 & TLX3 aberrations in T-ALL occurred less frequently in our series as compared with Western population. Conclusion: The present study with a large cohort showed the heterogeneity of AL that involved various factors, such as age, gender and prevalence of distinct cytogenetic subgroups. Our data in comparison with other population based studies revealed differential distribution of some cytogenetic sub-groups indicating geographic heterogeneity due to differential environmental exposure which probably influenced underlying genetic susceptibility.
基金Supported by Sao Paulo State Research Foundation (FAPESP),No. 2009/07145-9 and 2010/11174-1National Counsel of Technological and Scientific Development (CNPq)Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Level Personnel (CAPES)
文摘Epigenetic alterations contribute significantly to the development and progression of gastric cancer,one of the leading causes of cancer death worldwide.Epigenetics refers to the number of modifications of the chromatin structure that affect gene expression without altering the primary sequence of DNA,and these changes lead to transcriptional activation or silencing of the gene.Over the years,the study of epigenetic processes has increased,and novel therapeutic approaches that target DNA methylation and histone modifications have emerged.A greater understanding of epigenetics and the therapeutic potential of manipulating these processes is necessary for gastric cancer treatment.Here,we review recent research on the effects of aberrant DNA and histone methylation on the onset and progression of gastric tumors and the development of compounds that target enzymes that regulate the epigenome.
基金supported by the China Agriculture Research System (No.CARS-04)the Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Program to T.F.Hanthe National Major Project for Breeding of Transgenic Crops (No.2016ZX08004002) to C.H.Guo
文摘Leaves provide substances and signals for pod and seed development in soybean.However,the regulatory feedbacks of pod and seed to leaf development remain unclear.We investigated the effects of pod and seed on leaf senescence by conducting pod removal and seed injury experiments.Pod removal and seed injury delayed leaf senescence and caused the staygreen phenotype of leaves.There were dosage effects of pod number on the extent of staygreen in depodded plants.The concentrations of chlorophyll(SPAD value,an index of relative chlorophyll content),soluble protein,and soluble sugar in the leaves of depodded plants were higher than those of intact plants.During seed development,the content of IAA decreased,while that of ABA increased.This trend was more pronounced in intact than in depodded and seed-injured plants.The GA3/ABA ratio decreased gradually in all treatments.The content of GA3 was relatively stable and was higher in intact than in depodded plants.The expression levels of four senescence-related genes,Gm SARK,Gm SGR1,Gm CYN1,and Gm NAC,declined in depodded or seed-injured treatments and were positively correlated with the number of leaves retained on plants.Gm FT2 a,the major flowering-promoting gene,was expressed at a higher level while E1,a key flowering inhibitory gene,was expressed at a lower level in depodded than in intact plants.We propose that the pod or seed can regulate leaf development.When the seed is aborted owing to disease infection or pest attack,the leaves stay green because of the absence of the seed signals for senescence.
基金supported by the National High-Tech R & D Program of China(2011AA10010103,2011AA10010201)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (31201204)+1 种基金the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province,China (BK2010448)the Technology Support Program of Jiangsu Province,Chian (BE2012306)
文摘EST-PCR based molecular markers specific for alien chromosomes are not only useful for the detection of the introgressed alien chromatin in the wheat background, but also provide evidence of the syntenic relationship between homoeologous chromosomes. In the present study, in order to develop high density and evenly distributed molecular markers on chromosome 4V of Haynaldia villosa, a total of 607 primer pairs were designed according to the EST sequences, which were previously located in 23 different bins of wheat chromosomes 4A, 4B and 4D. By using the Triticum durum-H, villosa amphiploid and T. aestivum-H, villosa alien chromosome lines involving chromosome 4V, it was found that 9.23% of the tested primers could amplify specific bands for chromosome 4V. Thirty and twenty-six specific markers could be assigned to chromosome arms 4VS and 4VL, respectively. These 4V specific markers provided efficient tools for the characterization of structural variation involving the chromosome 4V as well as for the selection of useful genes located on chromosome 4V in breeding programs.
基金supported by Program for New Century Excellent Talents in University(Grant No.NCET-10-0496)the Fundamental Research Funds for the National Central Universities(Grant Nos.KYZ201102 and KYZ201401)+1 种基金Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions(PAPD)Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center for Modern Crop Production(JCIC-MCP)
文摘Plant height is an important agronomic trait in cereal crops, and can affect both plant architecture and grain yield. New dwarfing genes are required for improving the genetic diversity of wheat. In this study, a novel dwarf mutant, NM9, was created by treating seeds of the wheat variety NAU9918 with ethyl methanesulfonate （EMS）. NM9 showed obvious phenotypic changes, which were distinct from those caused by other dwarfing genes, especially the reduced plant height, increased effective tiller number, and elongated spike and grain length. The reduced plant height in NM9 was attributable to a semi-dominant dwarfing gene Rht__NM9, which was flanked by two closely linked SNP markers, SNP34 and SNP41, covering an 8.86-Mb region on the chromosome arm 2AS. The results of gibberellic acid （GA） sensitivity evaluation, comparative genomics analysis and allelism test indicated that RhtNM9 was neither allelic to Rht7 and Rht21 nor homoe- oallelic to Rht8, so Rht_NM9 was proposed to be a new dwarfing locus on the homoeologous group 2 chromosomes of wheat. Rht_NM9 has a negative effect on plant height and positive effects on effective tiller number and grain size, thus, Rht_NM9 could be used for elucidating the mechanisms underlying plant architecture and grain development.
基金supported by the Project of Nature Scientific Foundation of Heilongjiang Province (No. C2017037)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 31501839)
文摘The effects of tourmaline on nitrogen removal performance and biofilm structures were comparatively investigated in two identical laboratory-scale sequencing batch biofilm reactors（SBBRs）（denoted SBBR1 and SBBR2） at different nitrogen loading rates（NLRs） varying from（0.24 ± 0.01） to（1.26 ± 0.02） g N/（L·day）. SBBR1 was operated in parallel with SBBR2, but SBBR1 was filled with polyurethane foam loaded tourmaline（TPU） carriers and another（SBBR2） filled with polyurethane foam（PU） carriers. Results obtained from this study showed that the excellent and stable performance of SBBR1 was obtained. Ammonia nitrogen removal and total nitrogen removal were higher in SBBR1 than that in SBBR2 with increase of NLR. At an NLR of（0.24 ± 0.01） g N/（L·day）, the majority of the spherical and elliptical bacteria were surrounded by the extracellular polymeric substance（EPS） and bacillus or filamentous bacteria in two SBBRs biofilms. When NLR increased to（1.26 ± 0.02） g N/（L·day）, the clusters were more obvious in the SBBR1 biofilm than that in the SBBR2 biofilm. Bacteria in SBBR1 were inclined to synthesis more EPS, and the formed EPS could protect the bacteria from free ammonia（FA） under extreme condition NLR（1.26 ± 0.02） g N/（L·day）. The results of polymerase chain reaction-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis analysis showed that the microbial community similarity in SBBR2 decreased more obviously than that in SBBR1 with the increase of NLR, which the microbial community in SBBR1 was relatively stable.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.30270827 and 30871519)the High Tech Program of China (No.2006AA100101,2006AA10Z1F6)the Ministry of Educate 111 Project (B08025)
文摘In order to develop more wheat-Haynaldia villosa translocations involving different chromosomes and chromosome segments of H. villosa, T. durum-H, villosa amphiploid was irradiated with ^60Co γ-rays at doses of 800, 1,200, and 1,600 rad. Pollen collected from the spikes 1, 2, and 3 days after irradiation were transferred to emasculated spikes of the common wheat cv. ‘Chinese Spring＇. Genomic in situ hybridization was used to identify wheat-H, villosa chromosome translocations in the M1 generation. Transmission of the identified translocation chromosomes was analyzed in the BC1, BC2, and BC3 generations. The results indicated that all three irradiation doses were highly efficient for inducing wheat-alien translocations without affecting the viability of the M1 seeds. Within the range of 800-1,600 rad, both the efficiency of translocation induction and the frequency of interstitial chromosome breakage-fusion increased as the irradiation dosage increased. A higher translocation induction frequency was observed using pollen collected from the spikes 1 day after irradiation over that of 2 or 3 days after irradiation. More than 70% of the translocations detected in the M1 generation were transmitted to the BC1 through the female gametes. All translocations recovered in the BC1 generation were recovered in the following BC2, and BC3 generations. The transmission ability of different translocation types in different genetic backgrounds showed an order of ‘whole-arm translocation 〉 small alien segment translocation 〉 large alien segment translocation＇, through either male or female gametes, In general, the transmission ability through the female gametes was higher than that through the male gametes. By this approach, 14 translocation lines that involved different H. villosa chromosomes have been identified in the BC3 using EST-STS markers, and eight of them were homozygous.
文摘OBJECTIVE： Homeopathic nosodes have seldom been scientifically validated for their anticancer effects. This study was conducted to examine if a recently developed hepatitis C nosode has demonstrable anticancer potential in cancer cells in vitro.METHODS： Anticancer effects of Hepatitis C 30C（Hep C 30）, if any, were initially tested on three cancer cell lines, HepG2（liver cancer）, MCF-7（breast cancer） and A549（lung cancer） and one normal liver cell line WRL-68 cells and subsequently a more thorough study using further scientific protocols was undertaken on HepG2 cells（against WRL-68 cells as the normal control） as HepG2 cells showed better anticancer response than the other two. Three doses, one at 50% lethal dose（LD50） and the other two below LD50, were used on HepG2 cells subsequently. Protocols like apoptosis induction and its possible signaling mechanism were deployed using immunoblots of relevant signal proteins and confocal microscopy, with particular reference to telomerase and topoisomerase Ⅱ（Top Ⅱ） activities, two strong cancer biomarkers for their direct relationship with divisional activities of cells and DNAs. RESULTS： Hep C 30 induced apoptosis, caused distorted cell morphology typical of apoptotic cells, increased reactive oxygen species generation and produced increased DNA nicks. Further it enhanced pro-apototic signal proteins like Bax, cytochrome c and inhibited anti-apoptotic signal proteins, Bcl-2, cytochrome c and caspase-3, changed mitochondrial membrane potential and caused externalization of phosphatidylserine. The drug also decreased expression of two cancer biomarkers, Top Ⅱ and telomerase, consistent with its anticancer effect. CONCLUSION： Hep C 30 has demonstrable anticancer effects against liver cancer cells in vitro.
基金financially supported by a grant sanctioned to Prof. A.R. Khuda-Bukhsh, Department of Zoology,University of Kalyani, by Boiron Laboratories, Lyon, France
文摘OBJECTIVE： Preventive measures against skin melanoma like chemotherapy are useful but suffer from chronic side effects and drug resistance. Ethanolic extract of Phytolacca decandra （PD）, used in homeopathy for the treatment of various ailments like chronic rheumatism, regular conjunctivitis, psoriasis, and in some skin diseases was tested for its possible anticancer potential. METHODS： Cytotoxicity of the drug was tested by conducting 3-（4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl）-2,5- diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay on both normal （peripheral blood mononuclear cells） and A375 cells. Fluorescence microscopic study of 4＇,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole dihydrochloride-stained cells was conducted for DNA fragmentation assay, and changes in cellular morphology, if any, were also recorded. Lactate dehydrogenase activity assay was done to evaluate the percentages of apoptosis and necrosis. Reactive oxygen species （ROS） accumulation, if any, and expression study of apoptotic genes also were evaluated to pin-point the actual events of apoptosis. RESULTS： Results showed that PD administration caused a remarkable reduction in proliferation of A375 cells, without showing much cytotoxicity on peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Generation of ROS and DNA damage, which made the cancer cells prone to apoptosis, were found to be enhanced in PD-treated cells. These results were duly supported by the analytical data on expression of different cellular and nuclear proteins, as for example, by down- regulation of Akt and Bcl-2, up-regulation of p53, Bax and caspase 3, and an increase in number of cell deaths by apoptosis in A375 cells. CONCLUSION： Overall results demonstrate anticancer potentials of PD on A375 cells through activation of caspase-mediated signaling and ROS generation.
