Salinity is one of the major abiotic stresses limiting chickpea(Cicer arietinum L.)productivity,particularly in arid and semi-arid regions where soil salinization is intensifying.Developing cost-effective and practica...Salinity is one of the major abiotic stresses limiting chickpea(Cicer arietinum L.)productivity,particularly in arid and semi-arid regions where soil salinization is intensifying.Developing cost-effective and practical strategies to enhance seedling establishment and early vigor under saline conditions is therefore essential.In this study,we compared two seed-priming agents-1 mM proline and 25 mM NaCl-under identical hydroponic conditions to elucidate tissue-specific responses to 25 mM NaCl stress.Proline priming significantly improved shoot length(by~23%),total chlorophyll content(by~19%),and ascorbate peroxidase(ASPOX)activity.In contrast,NaCl priming enhanced root biomass retention(by~38%)and peroxidase(POD)activity under salinity stress.Both priming treatments induced higher proline accumulation and antioxidant capacity,though with tissue-specific effects:proline favored aboveground resilience,while NaCl strengthened root ionic and oxidative balance.These findings highlight the complementary nature of proline and NaCl priming and support the concept of stress“memory,”whereby plants acquire enhanced readiness to cope with salinity.Integrating such priming strategies into chickpea cultivation could contribute to improved yield stability and sustainability in saline agroecosystems.展开更多
Aging is considered the main risk factor for the development of several diseases,including the leading neurodegenerative disorders.While the cellular features of aging are complex and multifaceted,neuronal senescence ...Aging is considered the main risk factor for the development of several diseases,including the leading neurodegenerative disorders.While the cellular features of aging are complex and multifaceted,neuronal senescence has emerged as a major contributor and driver of this process in the mammalian cell.Cellular senescence is a programmed response to stress and irreparable damage,which drives the cell into an apoptosis-resistant,non-proliferative state.Senescent cells can also deleteriously affect neighboring,non-senescent cells.Senescence is a complex and multifaceted process associated with a wide range of cellular events,including the secretion of pro-inflammatory molecules and the arrest of the cell cycle.展开更多
The genus Boechera(Brassicaceae)serves as a model system for studying apomictic reproduction and ecological adaptations,with most species occurring in North America.The rare occurrence of Boechera species outside thei...The genus Boechera(Brassicaceae)serves as a model system for studying apomictic reproduction and ecological adaptations,with most species occurring in North America.The rare occurrence of Boechera species outside their typical range provides unique opportunities to investigate genome evolution in extralimital environments.One such species,B.calcarea,has been described from the Chandalaz Mountains in northeastern Asia(Russia).This study aimed to investigate the genome structure and evolutionary history of B.calcarea.However,our analyses reveal that the species does not belong to Boechera.Instead,an integrative approach combining cytogenetic,phylogenetic and repeatome analysis identified the species as a member of one of more ancestral clades in the tribe Arabideae.The diploid Parryodes calcarea(2n=16)exhibits Arabideae-specific chromosomal signatures,including multiple centromere repositionings.These findings clarify the misclassification of P.calcarea as Boechera,leaving Boechera falcata and Borodinia macrophylla as the only representatives of the Boechereae in the Old World.This study highlights the importance of an integrative approach in resolving taxonomic ambiguities and provides new insights into the diversification of the largest cruciferous tribe,the Arabideae.展开更多
MXene-based smart contact lenses demonstrate a cutting-edge advancement in wearable ophthalmic technology,combining real-time biosensing,therapeutic capabilities,and user comfort in a single platform.These devices tak...MXene-based smart contact lenses demonstrate a cutting-edge advancement in wearable ophthalmic technology,combining real-time biosensing,therapeutic capabilities,and user comfort in a single platform.These devices take the advantage of the exceptional electrical conductivity,mechanical flexibility,and biocompatibility of two-dimensional MXenes to enable noninvasive,tear-based monitoring of key physiological markers such as intraocular pressure and glucose levels.Recent developments focus on the integration of transparent MXene films into the conventional lens materials,allowing multifunctional performance including photothermal therapy,antimicrobial and anti-inflammation protection,and dehydration resistance.These innovations offer promising strategies for ocular disease management and eye protection.In addition to their multifunctionality,improvements in MXene synthesis and device engineering have enhanced the stability,transparency,and wearability of these lenses.Despite these advances,challenges remain in long-term biostability,scalable production,and integration with wireless communication systems.This review summarizes the current progress,key challenges,and future directions of MXene-based smart contact lenses,highlighting their transformative potential in next-generation digital healthcare and ophthalmic care.展开更多
On July 2^(nd),2025,32 scientists representing 15 countries gathered at Tartu,Estonia to make on-site endorsements for the Global ONCE(Ocean Negative Carbon Emissions)Program at the 12th INTECOL Wetlands Conference.Th...On July 2^(nd),2025,32 scientists representing 15 countries gathered at Tartu,Estonia to make on-site endorsements for the Global ONCE(Ocean Negative Carbon Emissions)Program at the 12th INTECOL Wetlands Conference.This marks a significant milestone for ONCE in establishing a systematic framework for coastal wetland carbon sequestration research and global collaboration(Figs.1,2).Coastal wetlands are critical transition zones linking terrestrial and marine ecosystems,yet they face severe degradation from anthropogenic land-based activities and sea level rise that propagate impacts to the ocean.As a UN Ocean Decade Program,the Global ONCE Program champions interdisciplinary and cross-regional collaboration to enhance carbon sequestration in the ocean and coastal wetlands through science and innovation.Aligned with the Tartu Declaration on Wetlands that includes resolutions to promote the rights of global wetlands(especially peatlands)and advance the discipline of wetland science based on facts,this initiative addresses key knowledge gaps in land-ocean interactions.The goal is to harness the full potential of coastal wetlands and ocean systems for climate mitigation,thereby laying a scientific foundation for international policy formulation and implementation.展开更多
Alzheimer’s disease is initially thought to be caused by age-associated accumulation of plaques,in recent years,research has increasingly associated Alzheimer’s disease with lysosomal storage and metabolic disorders...Alzheimer’s disease is initially thought to be caused by age-associated accumulation of plaques,in recent years,research has increasingly associated Alzheimer’s disease with lysosomal storage and metabolic disorders,and the explanation of its pathogenesis has shifted from amyloid and tau accumulation to oxidative stress and impaired lipid and glucose metabolism aggravated by hypoxic conditions.However,the underlying mechanisms linking those cellular processes and conditions to disease progression have yet to be defined.Here,we applied a disease similarity approach to identify unknown molecular targets of Alzheimer’s disease by using transcriptomic data from congenital diseases known to increase Alzheimer’s disease risk,namely Down syndrome,Niemann-Pick type C disease,and mucopolysaccharidoses I.We uncovered common pathways,hub genes,and miRNAs across in vitro and in vivo models of these diseases as potential molecular targets for neuroprotection and amelioration of Alzheimer’s disease pathology,many of which have never been associated with Alzheimer’s disease.We then investigated common molecular alterations in brain samples from a Niemann-Pick type C disease mouse model by juxtaposing them with brain samples of both human and mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease.Detailed phenotypic,molecular,chronological,and biological aging analyses revealed that the Npc1tm(I1061T)Dso mouse model can serve as a potential short-lived in vivo model for brain aging and Alzheimer’s disease research.This research represents the first comprehensive approach to congenital disease association with neurodegeneration and a new perspective on Alzheimer’s disease research while highlighting shortcomings and lack of correlation in diverse in vitro models.Considering the lack of an Alzheimer’s disease mouse model that recapitulates the physiological hallmarks of brain aging,the short-lived Npc1^(tm(I1061T)Dso) mouse model can further accelerate the research in these fields and offer a unique model for understanding the molecular mechanisms of Alzheimer’s disease from a perspective of accelerated brain aging.展开更多
Origanum elongatum(OE)is an aromatic,medicinal plant endemic to Morocco that is widely used in traditional medicine due to its biological properties.This study aimed to elucidate the chemical composition of the essent...Origanum elongatum(OE)is an aromatic,medicinal plant endemic to Morocco that is widely used in traditional medicine due to its biological properties.This study aimed to elucidate the chemical composition of the essential oil(EO)obtained from O.elongatum(OEEO)at three stages of its life cycle,including vegetative stage(OEEO-VS),flowering stage(OEEO-FS),and post-flowering(OEEO-PFS),as well as to evaluate its biological and antiradical characteristics.The chemical analysis of the essential oil was conducted using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry(GC-MS).The antibacterial activity was evaluated in vitro through distinct methodologies,namely,disc diffusion and microatmosphere assay;subsequently,the minimum inhibitory concentration(MIC)was then determined.The antioxidant potential was also measured by using the DPPH and FRAP assays.The GC-MS revealed the predominant of p-cymene(26.83%_31.45%),γ-terpinene(8.46%_26.95%),thymol(13%_29.54%),and carvacrol(20.25%_37.26%),in all three samples,with notable variations according to the phenological stage of the samples.The EOs extracted at three phenological stages demonstrated notable antibacterial efficacy against all the phytopathogen tested.The MICs for Erwinia amylovora exhibited a range of 6.25 and 250μg/mL.However,for Agrobacterium tumefaciens C58 and Allorhizobium vitis S4,the MICs spanned 125 and 250μg/mL.In the DPPH test,the IC50 values were 168.25±1.14,147.01±0.78,and 132.01±2.06μg/mL for EOs derived from the vegetative,flowering,and post-flowering period,respectively.In the FRAP test,the EC50 values were 164.22±1.04,215.73±1.48,and 184.06±0.95μg/mL for the same stages.The findings offer promising prospects for the phytochemical development,demonstrating how the phenological stage significantly influences the therapeutic and biotechnological potential of O.elongatum.This has the potential to open up new avenues of research in the pharmaceutical,agronomic,and environmental fields.展开更多
Cancer continues to pose a formidable challenge in global health,with conventional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy often resulting in severe toxicities that significantly degrade patients’quality of ...Cancer continues to pose a formidable challenge in global health,with conventional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy often resulting in severe toxicities that significantly degrade patients’quality of life and restrict therapeutic outcomes.Addressing this pressing issue,this review presents a thorough and systematic analysis of innovative and emerging strategies designed to minimize the toxicity induced by treatment,while maintaining or even enhancing antitumor efficacy.The focus is on six promising therapeutic approaches:combination therapies utilizing natural bioactive products,molecularly targeted therapies,immunotherapies,nanotechnology-mediated drug delivery systems,adjunct traditional Chinese medicine interventions,and low-dose spatiotemporally concerted regimens.Each approach employs unique mechanisms—such as enhanced targeting precision,immune system activation,tumor microenvironment reprogramming,and multi-component synergistic effects—to mitigate damage to normal tissues and reduce systemic adverse reactions.Despite promising preclinical and clinical advancements,several challenges persist,including drug resistance,high economic costs,a lack of reliable predictive biomarkers,and complexities in clinical translation and regulatory approval.Looking ahead,the incorporation of artificial intelligence,multi-omics profiling,and novel biomimetic nanotechnologies offers unprecedented opportunities for developing highly personalized,low-toxicity treatment frameworks.This review highlights a fundamental shift in oncology towards precision medicine that balances efficacy with safety,demonstrating the transformative potential of these strategies in shaping the future of cancer therapy and enhancing patient care globally.展开更多
A new species of the genus Liurana Dubois, 1986 is described from Medog County, Tibet, China, based on morphological and molecular data. The new species can be differentiated from all other congeners by the following ...A new species of the genus Liurana Dubois, 1986 is described from Medog County, Tibet, China, based on morphological and molecular data. The new species can be differentiated from all other congeners by the following combination of characters:(1) head wider than long;(2) tympanum distinct and large;(3) hindlimb long, tibiotarsal articulation beyond tip of snout when adpressed;(4) belly with flat tubercles, cloacal region with small tubercles;(5) transverse bands distinctly on dorsal limbs, four bands on thigh and three on tibia;and,(6) dark brown marbled patterns or speckles on white bel y. Here, we also discuss the distribution pattern of Liurana in the East Himalaya region, the role of the Yarlung Tsangpo River in the speciation and genetic isolation of congeners, the direct developmental mode of reproduction, and the two different ecotypes of the genus.Lastly, we provide conservation recommendations for the genus in southeastern Tibet.展开更多
Correct conceptualizations of genetics and genomics are central to understand many aspects of the STEM disciplines as they provide the foundational building blocks for later work in the life sciences. Our study of 435...Correct conceptualizations of genetics and genomics are central to understand many aspects of the STEM disciplines as they provide the foundational building blocks for later work in the life sciences. Our study of 435 African American college students investigated the use of culturally- relevant memes transmitted using multiple intelligence (MI) modalities to convey core genetic and genomic information as an alternative to the traditional teaching approaches. We observed that this approach appears to optimize the transmission and retention of core genetics concepts, identify and correct misconceptions, and serve as a conduit to increased African American (AA) access to further studies in STEM disciplines. A review of the relevant literature and specific examples of our interventions and their MI links are provided.展开更多
Melanins(eumelanin,pheomelanin,and allomelanin)represent a very,if not themost,important group of biological pigments.Their biological roles are multiple,from photoprotection to antioxidant activity,heavy metal dispos...Melanins(eumelanin,pheomelanin,and allomelanin)represent a very,if not themost,important group of biological pigments.Their biological roles are multiple,from photoprotection to antioxidant activity,heavy metal disposal or the myriad uses of color in organisms across all Phyla.In the first part of this review,eumelanin biology and some chemical aspects will be presented,as well as key physico-chemical features that make this biological pigment so interesting.The principal characteristics of the melanocyte,the melanin-synthesizing cell in mammals,will also be introduced.Transformed melanocytes are the cause of one of the most devastating known cancers:the malignant melanoma.Epidemiology and molecular signaling aspects will be presented next,as well as the principal advances in promising oncotherapies designed and applied for the treatment of melanoma.In particular,on account of the photo-physical properties of melanin,special details will be provided regarding the use of photothermal therapy for melanoma treatment.展开更多
Chilo iridescent virus (CIV) is the type species for genus Iridovirus, and belongs to the family Iridoviridae. Since the discovery of CIV in 1966, many attempts were made to elucidate the viral genome structure. The v...Chilo iridescent virus (CIV) is the type species for genus Iridovirus, and belongs to the family Iridoviridae. Since the discovery of CIV in 1966, many attempts were made to elucidate the viral genome structure. The virions contain a single linear ds DNA molecule that is circularly permuted and terminally redundant. The genome of CIV has been entirely sequenced. The CIV virion consists of an unusual three-layer structure containing an outer proteinaceous capsid, an intermediate lipid membrane, and a core DNA-protein complex containing the genome. CIV has a broad host spectrum and has, in general, a limited mortality effect on its hosts. Up to now there have been several studies about CIV describing its structure, ecology, and molecular biology. In this review study we present all these studies together to describe the CIV.展开更多
This study investigated some aspects of the reproductive biology of male and female greater bandicoot rats, Bandicota indica, in southern Thailand from September 2004 to September 2006. In females, body, uterine and p...This study investigated some aspects of the reproductive biology of male and female greater bandicoot rats, Bandicota indica, in southern Thailand from September 2004 to September 2006. In females, body, uterine and preputial gland weights, occurrences of pregnancies and placental scars, and in males, testicular weights and histology, and sizes of accessory sex glands, were recorded. Pregnancies occurred predominantly, but not exclusively, in the wet season, with a higher incidence pregnancies in the second, than in the first, dry season. Uterine and preputial gland weights tended to be lower in the first, but not the second dry season, with placental scars occurring at all times of year. Males tended to have heavier testes in the wet season but some seminiferous tubules contained sperm even in the dry season. Seminal vesicles, but not prostates and preputial glands, tended to be heavier in animals in the wet season. We conclude that the greater bandicoot rat in southern Thailand shows maximal reproductive activity in the wet season with some reproductive activity, albeit variable from year to year, occurring in the dry season depending upon environmental conditions. This study has also shown that females, as well as males, have large preputial glands, and that males invariably have small testes regardless of the time of year. These observations suggest a similar timing of reproduction, but a different breeding biology and perhaps social organisation, from that of the sylnpatric ricefield rat, Rattus argentiventer.展开更多
Staphylococcus aureus is a common cause of disease, particularly in colonized persons. Although methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) infections have become increasingly reported, population- based studies of student...Staphylococcus aureus is a common cause of disease, particularly in colonized persons. Although methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) infections have become increasingly reported, population- based studies of students preparing for the health professions having S. aureus and MRSA colonization are lacking. We have found that students in microbiology classes having more contact with individuals in a healthcare setting are more likely to carry MRSA in their nares and axilla. The classes who had the highest rate of MRSA carriage during the school year, 2013-2014, were those with nursing students, who had a greater exposure to clinical settings and nursing homes. The class which had the highest rate of S. aureus carriage, had nearly 50% of the infected students had been involved a clinical setting. Since the majority of the students in the nursing and biology courses are looking to pursue a career in medicine, this sampling was very beneficial to inform them and others if they were a carrier of S. aureus and MRSA and the preventative measures to reduce the risk of infection.展开更多
On arrival in the Arctic, migrant birds must adjust their physiology and behavior to unpredictable snow cover, weather, food sources and predator pressure. In other words they must be resistant to environmental pertur...On arrival in the Arctic, migrant birds must adjust their physiology and behavior to unpredictable snow cover, weather, food sources and predator pressure. In other words they must be resistant to environmental perturbations (stress) so that they can migrate to their tundra nesting areas and settle on territories as soon as possible. They can then begin breeding as soon as when environmental conditions become favorable. They do this partly by using micro-habitats such as areas where snow depth is low, and patches of tundra that melt out rapidly (especially near willows Salix sp). Ground temperatures increase dramatically within hours after exposure to sun; and invertebrate activity begins simultaneously. Wind speeds are attenuated almost completely within 10 cm of the ground in willows and tussock tundra. The combination of these conditions provides an ideal refuge, especially for passerine migrants in early spring. However, if conditions worsen, the birds can leave. There are adjustments of the adrenocortical responses to stress because arctic conditions in spring are potentially severe, at least compared with wintering grounds to the south. Secretion of corticosterone in response to acute stress is enhanced at arrival in males, accompanied by a decrease in sensitivity to negative feedback and a change in responsiveness of the adrenal cortex cells to adrenocorticotropin. There is also an increase in levels of corticosterone-binding globulin (CBG) so that the actions of corticosterone are buffered according to the severity of environmental conditions. Regulation at the level of genomic receptors, particularly the low affinity glucocorticosteroid-like receptor for corticosterone in brain and liver, may be important; and non-genomic actions of corticosterone may play a major role too. In other words, the hormone-behavior system associated with arrival biology is highly flexible.展开更多
Laboratory and field studies were conducted on some aspects of biology and control methods of fruit stalk borer Oryctes elegans Prell., the study was conducted in date palm orchards in south Baghdad during the years 2...Laboratory and field studies were conducted on some aspects of biology and control methods of fruit stalk borer Oryctes elegans Prell., the study was conducted in date palm orchards in south Baghdad during the years 2009 and 2010. The laboratory rearing result ofO. elegans indicated that the larval stage period was very long reached 6 months, the body weight of the mature larva was 7.61 gm, the length and body circumference were 7.58 and 5.23 cm respectively. The period of pupa stage was 19 day and 2.97 gm body weight, while the length and body circumference were 3.74 and 3.21 cm respectively .While the weight of adult stage was 1.67 gm and 3.14 cm, 2.71 cm for the length and circumference body respectively. Results of hand collection larvae in palm trees during the regular annual service, showed reduction in population density of adults to 1.4 adult/trap per week compared with 3.3 and 14.0 adult/trap per week in the orchards were larvae collected partially and without hand collection by using the light traps with solar energy （Magna Traps, Russell IPM） respectively. Also, the study proved the existence of an inverse relation between the moon light and adult activity, which affected on the adult number cough in light traps. These results indicated that the hand collection of larvae works during months January, February, March and April at synchronized with the larval stage on palm trees, and use Magna Traps as an effective method to control O. elegans through IPM programs in palm orchards.展开更多
Background:The Maghreb Magpie(Pica mauritanica)is an endemic North African species.Available knowledge on this species is limited to historic descriptive data with no ecological information provided.Populations contin...Background:The Maghreb Magpie(Pica mauritanica)is an endemic North African species.Available knowledge on this species is limited to historic descriptive data with no ecological information provided.Populations continue to dramatically decline in Tunisia,where only one relic population survives.Investigating the breeding biology of this species is essential for conservation purposes.The purpose of this study was to increase our understanding of the Tunisian relic population and provide detailed data on breeding biology over two breeding seasons(2017 and 2018).Methods:This study occurred on a private farm of 650 ha,located 10 km from Dhorbania village at Kairouan Governorate,in central Tunisia.Active nests were monitored weekly during egg laying period and twice a week during hatching period.The Ivlev's electivity index was used to assess whether the frequency of use of nesting trees and bushes matched their availability in the study area.We recorded nest measurements and positions,and compared them using Wilcoxon signed-rank test.Variations of breeding parameters as number of eggs laid,hatchlings,and fledglings over years were performed using Mann–Whitney U-test andχ^(2) tests.We used a Generalized Linear Mixed Model(GLMM)to investigate how egg volume varied with clutch size and laying date.Results:We investigated clutch size,egg size,hatching and fledging success,and evaluated how these parameters varied according to laying date and nest characteristics.Clutch size averaged 5.00±0.19 but was significantly greater nest.Causes of nest failure included the depredation of nestlings by shrikes,cobras and rats(e.g.Lanius meridionalis,Naja haje and Rattus rattus),death of parents by the Black-shouldered Kite(Elanus caeruleus)and nest parasitism by the Great Spotted Cuckoo(Clamator glandarius).Clutch size,brood size and fledgling success were unaffected by laying date,nest volume and nest elevation.Egg volume decreased with laying date but was unaffected by clutch.Conclusion:Our study provides the first and only detailed data on reproductive parameters of the Maghreb Magpie in its entire geographic range(North Africa).Information gleaned from this study provides valuable information for monitoring and long-term conservation plans of the endangered Tunisian Magpie population.Additionally,our data provide an avenue of large-scale comparative studies of the reproductive ecology of the magpie complex.展开更多
The operating site infections constitute the major postoperative issue in surgery. Our objectives were to determine the hospital frequency, the risk factors, the involved germs as well as the cost generated by the ope...The operating site infections constitute the major postoperative issue in surgery. Our objectives were to determine the hospital frequency, the risk factors, the involved germs as well as the cost generated by the operating site infections. Method: Our three months prospective survey run from September the 1st to November the 30th 2013 has included all department patients being operated on and hospitalized. The criteria have been set by CDC d’Atlanta. Results: 374 files were involved, among them 229 (61.2%) were emergencies and 145 (38.8%) were scheduled. The average age was 41 (extremes 7 and 95 standard deviation 17.46), the sex ratio 1.67. The infective risk according to Altmeier has found 17.5% type 1, 25.1% type 2, 11.2% type 3 and 46.3% type 4;according to NNISS, 96 (25.7) were NNISS 0;94 (51.9%) NNISS 1;80 (21.4%) NNISS 2;and 4 (1.1%) NNISS. In the Altmeier class I have not got antibiotic before infection signs appearances. Our overall rate of operating site infections was 7.9% (29 cases), with 24 (82.8%) emergency cases. According to Altmeier’s class of infective risk, the rate of operating site infections was 1.54% making 1 out of 65 type I patients;4.3% making 4 out of 93 type II patients;11.9% making 5 out of 42 type III patients;10.9% making 19 out of 174 type IV patients. According to NNISS, the infective risk has been assessed and was 2.08% for score 0, we have got 8.25% score 1, and 12.5% for score 2, and 25% for score 3. The bacteriology has been dominated by Escherichia colii(51.7), Proteus mirabilisi(13.8), and Klebsiella pneumoniaei(10.34). The germs have been resistant to the combination Amoxicillin-clavulanic Acid between 50% and 87% of cases. The most active antibiotics on the germs have been Cephalosporin, Polypeptides, and aminoglycosides. The hospital stay has been delayed to 12 days on average by operating site infections, making 2.5 times greater than those uninfected. The infection has increased the cost of management around 600 Euro.展开更多
The lactose-fermenter Enterobacteriaceae are the most frequent cause of clinical infection in our country. The objective of this study was to isolate and identify the most common lactose-fermenter Enterobacteriaceae f...The lactose-fermenter Enterobacteriaceae are the most frequent cause of clinical infection in our country. The objective of this study was to isolate and identify the most common lactose-fermenter Enterobacteriaceae from clinical samples, including urine, blood, wounds, and sputum, obtained from the local hospital and from environmental samples from a chicken farm, agriculture soil, and water from the Tigris River in Baghdad City. The study also aimed at establishing the antibiotic resistance patterns of the isolated bacteria. A total of 155 bacterial isolates were identified from 10 genera according to the Vitek 2 system. The most common bacterial isolates from the clinical and environmental samples were Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, respectively. The antibiotic resistance patterns showed that all clinical and environmental isolates were multidrug resistant to β-lactam (except carbapenems) drug and aminoglycosides and more sensitive to carbapenems.展开更多
文摘Salinity is one of the major abiotic stresses limiting chickpea(Cicer arietinum L.)productivity,particularly in arid and semi-arid regions where soil salinization is intensifying.Developing cost-effective and practical strategies to enhance seedling establishment and early vigor under saline conditions is therefore essential.In this study,we compared two seed-priming agents-1 mM proline and 25 mM NaCl-under identical hydroponic conditions to elucidate tissue-specific responses to 25 mM NaCl stress.Proline priming significantly improved shoot length(by~23%),total chlorophyll content(by~19%),and ascorbate peroxidase(ASPOX)activity.In contrast,NaCl priming enhanced root biomass retention(by~38%)and peroxidase(POD)activity under salinity stress.Both priming treatments induced higher proline accumulation and antioxidant capacity,though with tissue-specific effects:proline favored aboveground resilience,while NaCl strengthened root ionic and oxidative balance.These findings highlight the complementary nature of proline and NaCl priming and support the concept of stress“memory,”whereby plants acquire enhanced readiness to cope with salinity.Integrating such priming strategies into chickpea cultivation could contribute to improved yield stability and sustainability in saline agroecosystems.
文摘Aging is considered the main risk factor for the development of several diseases,including the leading neurodegenerative disorders.While the cellular features of aging are complex and multifaceted,neuronal senescence has emerged as a major contributor and driver of this process in the mammalian cell.Cellular senescence is a programmed response to stress and irreparable damage,which drives the cell into an apoptosis-resistant,non-proliferative state.Senescent cells can also deleteriously affect neighboring,non-senescent cells.Senescence is a complex and multifaceted process associated with a wide range of cellular events,including the secretion of pro-inflammatory molecules and the arrest of the cell cycle.
基金supported by the Czech Science Foundation(projects 24-11371S to TM and 23-06840S to MAL)Masaryk University Grant Agency(project MUNI/R/1268/2022 to TM)Additional support(PT)was provided as part of a long-term research project of the Czech Academy of Sciences,Institute of Botany(RVO 67985939).
文摘The genus Boechera(Brassicaceae)serves as a model system for studying apomictic reproduction and ecological adaptations,with most species occurring in North America.The rare occurrence of Boechera species outside their typical range provides unique opportunities to investigate genome evolution in extralimital environments.One such species,B.calcarea,has been described from the Chandalaz Mountains in northeastern Asia(Russia).This study aimed to investigate the genome structure and evolutionary history of B.calcarea.However,our analyses reveal that the species does not belong to Boechera.Instead,an integrative approach combining cytogenetic,phylogenetic and repeatome analysis identified the species as a member of one of more ancestral clades in the tribe Arabideae.The diploid Parryodes calcarea(2n=16)exhibits Arabideae-specific chromosomal signatures,including multiple centromere repositionings.These findings clarify the misclassification of P.calcarea as Boechera,leaving Boechera falcata and Borodinia macrophylla as the only representatives of the Boechereae in the Old World.This study highlights the importance of an integrative approach in resolving taxonomic ambiguities and provides new insights into the diversification of the largest cruciferous tribe,the Arabideae.
文摘MXene-based smart contact lenses demonstrate a cutting-edge advancement in wearable ophthalmic technology,combining real-time biosensing,therapeutic capabilities,and user comfort in a single platform.These devices take the advantage of the exceptional electrical conductivity,mechanical flexibility,and biocompatibility of two-dimensional MXenes to enable noninvasive,tear-based monitoring of key physiological markers such as intraocular pressure and glucose levels.Recent developments focus on the integration of transparent MXene films into the conventional lens materials,allowing multifunctional performance including photothermal therapy,antimicrobial and anti-inflammation protection,and dehydration resistance.These innovations offer promising strategies for ocular disease management and eye protection.In addition to their multifunctionality,improvements in MXene synthesis and device engineering have enhanced the stability,transparency,and wearability of these lenses.Despite these advances,challenges remain in long-term biostability,scalable production,and integration with wireless communication systems.This review summarizes the current progress,key challenges,and future directions of MXene-based smart contact lenses,highlighting their transformative potential in next-generation digital healthcare and ophthalmic care.
文摘On July 2^(nd),2025,32 scientists representing 15 countries gathered at Tartu,Estonia to make on-site endorsements for the Global ONCE(Ocean Negative Carbon Emissions)Program at the 12th INTECOL Wetlands Conference.This marks a significant milestone for ONCE in establishing a systematic framework for coastal wetland carbon sequestration research and global collaboration(Figs.1,2).Coastal wetlands are critical transition zones linking terrestrial and marine ecosystems,yet they face severe degradation from anthropogenic land-based activities and sea level rise that propagate impacts to the ocean.As a UN Ocean Decade Program,the Global ONCE Program champions interdisciplinary and cross-regional collaboration to enhance carbon sequestration in the ocean and coastal wetlands through science and innovation.Aligned with the Tartu Declaration on Wetlands that includes resolutions to promote the rights of global wetlands(especially peatlands)and advance the discipline of wetland science based on facts,this initiative addresses key knowledge gaps in land-ocean interactions.The goal is to harness the full potential of coastal wetlands and ocean systems for climate mitigation,thereby laying a scientific foundation for international policy formulation and implementation.
基金supported by the NIA/NIH(1K01AG060040).Studies performed by JN were funded by the NICHD/NIH(5R00HD096117)Microscopy Core Facility supported,in part,with funding from NIH-NCI Cancer Center Support Grant P30 CA016059.
文摘Alzheimer’s disease is initially thought to be caused by age-associated accumulation of plaques,in recent years,research has increasingly associated Alzheimer’s disease with lysosomal storage and metabolic disorders,and the explanation of its pathogenesis has shifted from amyloid and tau accumulation to oxidative stress and impaired lipid and glucose metabolism aggravated by hypoxic conditions.However,the underlying mechanisms linking those cellular processes and conditions to disease progression have yet to be defined.Here,we applied a disease similarity approach to identify unknown molecular targets of Alzheimer’s disease by using transcriptomic data from congenital diseases known to increase Alzheimer’s disease risk,namely Down syndrome,Niemann-Pick type C disease,and mucopolysaccharidoses I.We uncovered common pathways,hub genes,and miRNAs across in vitro and in vivo models of these diseases as potential molecular targets for neuroprotection and amelioration of Alzheimer’s disease pathology,many of which have never been associated with Alzheimer’s disease.We then investigated common molecular alterations in brain samples from a Niemann-Pick type C disease mouse model by juxtaposing them with brain samples of both human and mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease.Detailed phenotypic,molecular,chronological,and biological aging analyses revealed that the Npc1tm(I1061T)Dso mouse model can serve as a potential short-lived in vivo model for brain aging and Alzheimer’s disease research.This research represents the first comprehensive approach to congenital disease association with neurodegeneration and a new perspective on Alzheimer’s disease research while highlighting shortcomings and lack of correlation in diverse in vitro models.Considering the lack of an Alzheimer’s disease mouse model that recapitulates the physiological hallmarks of brain aging,the short-lived Npc1^(tm(I1061T)Dso) mouse model can further accelerate the research in these fields and offer a unique model for understanding the molecular mechanisms of Alzheimer’s disease from a perspective of accelerated brain aging.
文摘Origanum elongatum(OE)is an aromatic,medicinal plant endemic to Morocco that is widely used in traditional medicine due to its biological properties.This study aimed to elucidate the chemical composition of the essential oil(EO)obtained from O.elongatum(OEEO)at three stages of its life cycle,including vegetative stage(OEEO-VS),flowering stage(OEEO-FS),and post-flowering(OEEO-PFS),as well as to evaluate its biological and antiradical characteristics.The chemical analysis of the essential oil was conducted using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry(GC-MS).The antibacterial activity was evaluated in vitro through distinct methodologies,namely,disc diffusion and microatmosphere assay;subsequently,the minimum inhibitory concentration(MIC)was then determined.The antioxidant potential was also measured by using the DPPH and FRAP assays.The GC-MS revealed the predominant of p-cymene(26.83%_31.45%),γ-terpinene(8.46%_26.95%),thymol(13%_29.54%),and carvacrol(20.25%_37.26%),in all three samples,with notable variations according to the phenological stage of the samples.The EOs extracted at three phenological stages demonstrated notable antibacterial efficacy against all the phytopathogen tested.The MICs for Erwinia amylovora exhibited a range of 6.25 and 250μg/mL.However,for Agrobacterium tumefaciens C58 and Allorhizobium vitis S4,the MICs spanned 125 and 250μg/mL.In the DPPH test,the IC50 values were 168.25±1.14,147.01±0.78,and 132.01±2.06μg/mL for EOs derived from the vegetative,flowering,and post-flowering period,respectively.In the FRAP test,the EC50 values were 164.22±1.04,215.73±1.48,and 184.06±0.95μg/mL for the same stages.The findings offer promising prospects for the phytochemical development,demonstrating how the phenological stage significantly influences the therapeutic and biotechnological potential of O.elongatum.This has the potential to open up new avenues of research in the pharmaceutical,agronomic,and environmental fields.
文摘Cancer continues to pose a formidable challenge in global health,with conventional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy often resulting in severe toxicities that significantly degrade patients’quality of life and restrict therapeutic outcomes.Addressing this pressing issue,this review presents a thorough and systematic analysis of innovative and emerging strategies designed to minimize the toxicity induced by treatment,while maintaining or even enhancing antitumor efficacy.The focus is on six promising therapeutic approaches:combination therapies utilizing natural bioactive products,molecularly targeted therapies,immunotherapies,nanotechnology-mediated drug delivery systems,adjunct traditional Chinese medicine interventions,and low-dose spatiotemporally concerted regimens.Each approach employs unique mechanisms—such as enhanced targeting precision,immune system activation,tumor microenvironment reprogramming,and multi-component synergistic effects—to mitigate damage to normal tissues and reduce systemic adverse reactions.Despite promising preclinical and clinical advancements,several challenges persist,including drug resistance,high economic costs,a lack of reliable predictive biomarkers,and complexities in clinical translation and regulatory approval.Looking ahead,the incorporation of artificial intelligence,multi-omics profiling,and novel biomimetic nanotechnologies offers unprecedented opportunities for developing highly personalized,low-toxicity treatment frameworks.This review highlights a fundamental shift in oncology towards precision medicine that balances efficacy with safety,demonstrating the transformative potential of these strategies in shaping the future of cancer therapy and enhancing patient care globally.
基金supported by the Strategic Priority Research Program(A)Grant XDB13020200 of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(CAS)Ministry of Science and Technology of China(2014FY210200)+1 种基金China’s Biodiversity Observation Network(Sino-BON)Nanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences,Ministry of Environmental Protection of China,and Animal Branch of the Germplasm Bank of Wild Species of CAS(Large Research Infrastructure Funding)
文摘A new species of the genus Liurana Dubois, 1986 is described from Medog County, Tibet, China, based on morphological and molecular data. The new species can be differentiated from all other congeners by the following combination of characters:(1) head wider than long;(2) tympanum distinct and large;(3) hindlimb long, tibiotarsal articulation beyond tip of snout when adpressed;(4) belly with flat tubercles, cloacal region with small tubercles;(5) transverse bands distinctly on dorsal limbs, four bands on thigh and three on tibia;and,(6) dark brown marbled patterns or speckles on white bel y. Here, we also discuss the distribution pattern of Liurana in the East Himalaya region, the role of the Yarlung Tsangpo River in the speciation and genetic isolation of congeners, the direct developmental mode of reproduction, and the two different ecotypes of the genus.Lastly, we provide conservation recommendations for the genus in southeastern Tibet.
文摘Correct conceptualizations of genetics and genomics are central to understand many aspects of the STEM disciplines as they provide the foundational building blocks for later work in the life sciences. Our study of 435 African American college students investigated the use of culturally- relevant memes transmitted using multiple intelligence (MI) modalities to convey core genetic and genomic information as an alternative to the traditional teaching approaches. We observed that this approach appears to optimize the transmission and retention of core genetics concepts, identify and correct misconceptions, and serve as a conduit to increased African American (AA) access to further studies in STEM disciplines. A review of the relevant literature and specific examples of our interventions and their MI links are provided.
文摘Melanins(eumelanin,pheomelanin,and allomelanin)represent a very,if not themost,important group of biological pigments.Their biological roles are multiple,from photoprotection to antioxidant activity,heavy metal disposal or the myriad uses of color in organisms across all Phyla.In the first part of this review,eumelanin biology and some chemical aspects will be presented,as well as key physico-chemical features that make this biological pigment so interesting.The principal characteristics of the melanocyte,the melanin-synthesizing cell in mammals,will also be introduced.Transformed melanocytes are the cause of one of the most devastating known cancers:the malignant melanoma.Epidemiology and molecular signaling aspects will be presented next,as well as the principal advances in promising oncotherapies designed and applied for the treatment of melanoma.In particular,on account of the photo-physical properties of melanin,special details will be provided regarding the use of photothermal therapy for melanoma treatment.
文摘Chilo iridescent virus (CIV) is the type species for genus Iridovirus, and belongs to the family Iridoviridae. Since the discovery of CIV in 1966, many attempts were made to elucidate the viral genome structure. The virions contain a single linear ds DNA molecule that is circularly permuted and terminally redundant. The genome of CIV has been entirely sequenced. The CIV virion consists of an unusual three-layer structure containing an outer proteinaceous capsid, an intermediate lipid membrane, and a core DNA-protein complex containing the genome. CIV has a broad host spectrum and has, in general, a limited mortality effect on its hosts. Up to now there have been several studies about CIV describing its structure, ecology, and molecular biology. In this review study we present all these studies together to describe the CIV.
文摘This study investigated some aspects of the reproductive biology of male and female greater bandicoot rats, Bandicota indica, in southern Thailand from September 2004 to September 2006. In females, body, uterine and preputial gland weights, occurrences of pregnancies and placental scars, and in males, testicular weights and histology, and sizes of accessory sex glands, were recorded. Pregnancies occurred predominantly, but not exclusively, in the wet season, with a higher incidence pregnancies in the second, than in the first, dry season. Uterine and preputial gland weights tended to be lower in the first, but not the second dry season, with placental scars occurring at all times of year. Males tended to have heavier testes in the wet season but some seminiferous tubules contained sperm even in the dry season. Seminal vesicles, but not prostates and preputial glands, tended to be heavier in animals in the wet season. We conclude that the greater bandicoot rat in southern Thailand shows maximal reproductive activity in the wet season with some reproductive activity, albeit variable from year to year, occurring in the dry season depending upon environmental conditions. This study has also shown that females, as well as males, have large preputial glands, and that males invariably have small testes regardless of the time of year. These observations suggest a similar timing of reproduction, but a different breeding biology and perhaps social organisation, from that of the sylnpatric ricefield rat, Rattus argentiventer.
文摘Staphylococcus aureus is a common cause of disease, particularly in colonized persons. Although methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) infections have become increasingly reported, population- based studies of students preparing for the health professions having S. aureus and MRSA colonization are lacking. We have found that students in microbiology classes having more contact with individuals in a healthcare setting are more likely to carry MRSA in their nares and axilla. The classes who had the highest rate of MRSA carriage during the school year, 2013-2014, were those with nursing students, who had a greater exposure to clinical settings and nursing homes. The class which had the highest rate of S. aureus carriage, had nearly 50% of the infected students had been involved a clinical setting. Since the majority of the students in the nursing and biology courses are looking to pursue a career in medicine, this sampling was very beneficial to inform them and others if they were a carrier of S. aureus and MRSA and the preventative measures to reduce the risk of infection.
文摘On arrival in the Arctic, migrant birds must adjust their physiology and behavior to unpredictable snow cover, weather, food sources and predator pressure. In other words they must be resistant to environmental perturbations (stress) so that they can migrate to their tundra nesting areas and settle on territories as soon as possible. They can then begin breeding as soon as when environmental conditions become favorable. They do this partly by using micro-habitats such as areas where snow depth is low, and patches of tundra that melt out rapidly (especially near willows Salix sp). Ground temperatures increase dramatically within hours after exposure to sun; and invertebrate activity begins simultaneously. Wind speeds are attenuated almost completely within 10 cm of the ground in willows and tussock tundra. The combination of these conditions provides an ideal refuge, especially for passerine migrants in early spring. However, if conditions worsen, the birds can leave. There are adjustments of the adrenocortical responses to stress because arctic conditions in spring are potentially severe, at least compared with wintering grounds to the south. Secretion of corticosterone in response to acute stress is enhanced at arrival in males, accompanied by a decrease in sensitivity to negative feedback and a change in responsiveness of the adrenal cortex cells to adrenocorticotropin. There is also an increase in levels of corticosterone-binding globulin (CBG) so that the actions of corticosterone are buffered according to the severity of environmental conditions. Regulation at the level of genomic receptors, particularly the low affinity glucocorticosteroid-like receptor for corticosterone in brain and liver, may be important; and non-genomic actions of corticosterone may play a major role too. In other words, the hormone-behavior system associated with arrival biology is highly flexible.
文摘Laboratory and field studies were conducted on some aspects of biology and control methods of fruit stalk borer Oryctes elegans Prell., the study was conducted in date palm orchards in south Baghdad during the years 2009 and 2010. The laboratory rearing result ofO. elegans indicated that the larval stage period was very long reached 6 months, the body weight of the mature larva was 7.61 gm, the length and body circumference were 7.58 and 5.23 cm respectively. The period of pupa stage was 19 day and 2.97 gm body weight, while the length and body circumference were 3.74 and 3.21 cm respectively .While the weight of adult stage was 1.67 gm and 3.14 cm, 2.71 cm for the length and circumference body respectively. Results of hand collection larvae in palm trees during the regular annual service, showed reduction in population density of adults to 1.4 adult/trap per week compared with 3.3 and 14.0 adult/trap per week in the orchards were larvae collected partially and without hand collection by using the light traps with solar energy （Magna Traps, Russell IPM） respectively. Also, the study proved the existence of an inverse relation between the moon light and adult activity, which affected on the adult number cough in light traps. These results indicated that the hand collection of larvae works during months January, February, March and April at synchronized with the larval stage on palm trees, and use Magna Traps as an effective method to control O. elegans through IPM programs in palm orchards.
文摘Background:The Maghreb Magpie(Pica mauritanica)is an endemic North African species.Available knowledge on this species is limited to historic descriptive data with no ecological information provided.Populations continue to dramatically decline in Tunisia,where only one relic population survives.Investigating the breeding biology of this species is essential for conservation purposes.The purpose of this study was to increase our understanding of the Tunisian relic population and provide detailed data on breeding biology over two breeding seasons(2017 and 2018).Methods:This study occurred on a private farm of 650 ha,located 10 km from Dhorbania village at Kairouan Governorate,in central Tunisia.Active nests were monitored weekly during egg laying period and twice a week during hatching period.The Ivlev's electivity index was used to assess whether the frequency of use of nesting trees and bushes matched their availability in the study area.We recorded nest measurements and positions,and compared them using Wilcoxon signed-rank test.Variations of breeding parameters as number of eggs laid,hatchlings,and fledglings over years were performed using Mann–Whitney U-test andχ^(2) tests.We used a Generalized Linear Mixed Model(GLMM)to investigate how egg volume varied with clutch size and laying date.Results:We investigated clutch size,egg size,hatching and fledging success,and evaluated how these parameters varied according to laying date and nest characteristics.Clutch size averaged 5.00±0.19 but was significantly greater nest.Causes of nest failure included the depredation of nestlings by shrikes,cobras and rats(e.g.Lanius meridionalis,Naja haje and Rattus rattus),death of parents by the Black-shouldered Kite(Elanus caeruleus)and nest parasitism by the Great Spotted Cuckoo(Clamator glandarius).Clutch size,brood size and fledgling success were unaffected by laying date,nest volume and nest elevation.Egg volume decreased with laying date but was unaffected by clutch.Conclusion:Our study provides the first and only detailed data on reproductive parameters of the Maghreb Magpie in its entire geographic range(North Africa).Information gleaned from this study provides valuable information for monitoring and long-term conservation plans of the endangered Tunisian Magpie population.Additionally,our data provide an avenue of large-scale comparative studies of the reproductive ecology of the magpie complex.
文摘The operating site infections constitute the major postoperative issue in surgery. Our objectives were to determine the hospital frequency, the risk factors, the involved germs as well as the cost generated by the operating site infections. Method: Our three months prospective survey run from September the 1st to November the 30th 2013 has included all department patients being operated on and hospitalized. The criteria have been set by CDC d’Atlanta. Results: 374 files were involved, among them 229 (61.2%) were emergencies and 145 (38.8%) were scheduled. The average age was 41 (extremes 7 and 95 standard deviation 17.46), the sex ratio 1.67. The infective risk according to Altmeier has found 17.5% type 1, 25.1% type 2, 11.2% type 3 and 46.3% type 4;according to NNISS, 96 (25.7) were NNISS 0;94 (51.9%) NNISS 1;80 (21.4%) NNISS 2;and 4 (1.1%) NNISS. In the Altmeier class I have not got antibiotic before infection signs appearances. Our overall rate of operating site infections was 7.9% (29 cases), with 24 (82.8%) emergency cases. According to Altmeier’s class of infective risk, the rate of operating site infections was 1.54% making 1 out of 65 type I patients;4.3% making 4 out of 93 type II patients;11.9% making 5 out of 42 type III patients;10.9% making 19 out of 174 type IV patients. According to NNISS, the infective risk has been assessed and was 2.08% for score 0, we have got 8.25% score 1, and 12.5% for score 2, and 25% for score 3. The bacteriology has been dominated by Escherichia colii(51.7), Proteus mirabilisi(13.8), and Klebsiella pneumoniaei(10.34). The germs have been resistant to the combination Amoxicillin-clavulanic Acid between 50% and 87% of cases. The most active antibiotics on the germs have been Cephalosporin, Polypeptides, and aminoglycosides. The hospital stay has been delayed to 12 days on average by operating site infections, making 2.5 times greater than those uninfected. The infection has increased the cost of management around 600 Euro.
文摘The lactose-fermenter Enterobacteriaceae are the most frequent cause of clinical infection in our country. The objective of this study was to isolate and identify the most common lactose-fermenter Enterobacteriaceae from clinical samples, including urine, blood, wounds, and sputum, obtained from the local hospital and from environmental samples from a chicken farm, agriculture soil, and water from the Tigris River in Baghdad City. The study also aimed at establishing the antibiotic resistance patterns of the isolated bacteria. A total of 155 bacterial isolates were identified from 10 genera according to the Vitek 2 system. The most common bacterial isolates from the clinical and environmental samples were Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, respectively. The antibiotic resistance patterns showed that all clinical and environmental isolates were multidrug resistant to β-lactam (except carbapenems) drug and aminoglycosides and more sensitive to carbapenems.
