Several studies report the problem of cardiovascular tolerance of treatments with neuroleptics, given the important number of morbidities in patients with mental illnesses. This preliminary work aimed to describe the ...Several studies report the problem of cardiovascular tolerance of treatments with neuroleptics, given the important number of morbidities in patients with mental illnesses. This preliminary work aimed to describe the epidemiological and biological profile of patients taking neuroleptics and followed in the psychiatry department of Brazzaville University Hospital, from the angle of cardiovascular risk. Fifty (50) patients (17 men and 33 women), with a mean age of 33.9 10.7 years, were included. Epidemiological data (sex, age, tobacco or alcohol consumption) were collected on pre-established survey forms. Biochemical (total cholesterol, HDL-c, triglycerides and atherogenicity index) and inflammatory parameters (ultra-sensitive CRP, troponin I and NT-ProBNP) were investigated using enzymatic and indirect immunofluorescence technical, respectively. The results obtained showed that 54% of patients were obese, 94% were non-smokers, and 12% had high blood pressure. 10% of patients had high total cholesterol levels and 90% had HDL cholesterol levels below 60 mg/dl. Triglycerides and atherogenicity index were significantly elevated in relation to Body Mass Index (BMI). Ultrasensitive CRP was elevated in 38% of patients. In conclusion, this study revealed an association between lipid parameters (triglycerides and atherogenicity index) in relation to BMI in patients taking neuroleptics followed in the Psychiatry Department of University Hospital Center of Brazzaville.展开更多
China has the sixth-largest bee fauna with over 1,300 documented species.Yet countless more are expected,making taxonomic work an imperative.Here,we outline the history of bee taxonomy in China and discuss how best we...China has the sixth-largest bee fauna with over 1,300 documented species.Yet countless more are expected,making taxonomic work an imperative.Here,we outline the history of bee taxonomy in China and discuss how best we can move into the future and describe all of the many undescribed species remaining.Key challenges include the difficulty of accurately assigning species names due to overseas type material as well as a general need for increased internationalization such as in specimen and data sharing.Only with sustained funding for basic taxonomy will it be possible to know and protect China's unique bee fauna.展开更多
Spinal muscular atrophy(SMA)is a genetic condition that results in selective lower motor neuron loss with concomitant muscle weakness and atrophy.The genetic cause of SMA was understood in 1995 when loss or impairment...Spinal muscular atrophy(SMA)is a genetic condition that results in selective lower motor neuron loss with concomitant muscle weakness and atrophy.The genetic cause of SMA was understood in 1995 when loss or impairment of the survival motor neuron 1(SMN1)gene was identified as the main contributing factor(Lefebvre et al.,1995).This,in combination with the discovery that humans have a“back-up”gene,SMN2,which can produce low levels(approximately 10%)of the full-length functional SMN protein,has led to the generation of SMA-specific gene therapies.SMA was traditionally classified according to age of symptom onset and developmental milestones achieved,with life expectancy and severity varying between individuals.Now,SMN2 copy number is used as a proxy for the prediction of disease severity,with higher SMN2 copy number typically being associated with reduced severity of SMA,although this relationship is not absolute:some individuals with low SMN2 copy number have less severe SMA phenotypes and vice versa.Additionally,the etiology of SMA is further complicated by other factors,such as non-typical nucleotide variants and SMN2-independent modifiers of disease severity.展开更多
A steady rise in the overall population is creating an overburden on crops due to their global demand.On the other hand,given the current climate change and population growth,agricultural practices established during ...A steady rise in the overall population is creating an overburden on crops due to their global demand.On the other hand,given the current climate change and population growth,agricultural practices established during the Green Revolution are no longer viable.Consequently,innovative practices are the prerequisite of the time struggle with the rising global food demand.The potential of nanotechnology to reduce the phytotoxic effects of these ecological restrictions has shown significant promise.Nanoparticles(NPs)typically enhance plant resilience to stressors by fortifying the physical barrier,optimizing photosynthesis,stimulating enzymatic activity for defense,elevating the concentration of stress-resistant compounds,and activating the expression of genes associated with defense mechanisms.In this review,we thoroughly cover the uptake and translocations of NPs crops and their potential valuable functions in enhancing plant growth and development at different growth stages.Additionally,we addressed how NPs improve plant resistance to biotic and abiotic stress.Generally,this review presents a thorough understanding of the significance of NPs in plants and their prospective value for plant antioxidant and crop development.展开更多
Stress granules are membraneless organelles that serve as a protective cellular response to external stressors by sequestering non-translating messenger RNAs(mRNAs)and regulating protein synthesis.Stress granules form...Stress granules are membraneless organelles that serve as a protective cellular response to external stressors by sequestering non-translating messenger RNAs(mRNAs)and regulating protein synthesis.Stress granules formation mechanism is conserved across species,from yeast to mammals,and they play a critical role in minimizing cellular damage during stress.Composed of heterogeneous ribonucleoprotein complexes,stress granules are enriched not only in mRNAs but also in noncoding RNAs and various proteins,including translation initiation factors and RNA-binding proteins.Genetic mutations affecting stress granule assembly and disassembly can lead to abnormal stress granule accumulation,contributing to the progression of several diseases.Recent research indicates that stress granule dynamics are pivotal in determining their physiological and pathological functions,with acute stress granule formation offering protection and chronic stress granule accumulation being detrimental.This review focuses on the multifaceted roles of stress granules under diverse physiological conditions,such as regulation of mRNA transport,mRNA translation,apoptosis,germ cell development,phase separation processes that govern stress granule formation,and their emerging implications in pathophysiological scenarios,such as viral infections,cancer,neurodevelopmental disorders,neurodegeneration,and neuronal trauma.展开更多
Obstructed defecation syndrome(ODS)is a complex defecatory disorder asso-ciated with pelvic floor dysfunction.It affects approximately 50%of women over the age of 50 and significantly impacts their quality of life.The...Obstructed defecation syndrome(ODS)is a complex defecatory disorder asso-ciated with pelvic floor dysfunction.It affects approximately 50%of women over the age of 50 and significantly impacts their quality of life.The causes of ODS include structural abnormalities such as rectocele,enterocele,intussusception,and pelvic floor descent,as well as functional disorders like anismus.Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management due to the high risk of treatment failure associated with inaccurate findings.Various imaging modalities are used to assess pelvic floor disorders,including fluoroscopic defecography(FD),mag-netic resonance defecography(MRD),pelvic floor ultrasound(PFUS),and echode-fecography(EDF).FD is the most commonly performed test worldwide,offering high accuracy in diagnosing pelvic floor disorders.It provides dynamic visual-ization of defecation mechanics but involves radiation exposure.MRD offers ex-cellent soft tissue detail and multiplanar imaging without radiation,making it particularly useful for multicompartment disorders;however,it is associated with high procedural costs and limited availability.Both PFUS and EDF are minimally invasive and avoid radiation exposure.PFUS shows promise as a valuable screening tool that could help minimize the need for advanced imaging if findings are normal.EDF is also promising but requires specialized training and remains less widely available.This review evaluates the accuracy,advantages,and limitations of various diagnostic modalities for pelvic floor disorders,aiming to guide optimal clinical decision-making.展开更多
Quantitative analysis of colouration is an essential tool for subspecies delimitation but has always posed a challenge in avian taxonomy.In this study on the Chestnut-winged Babbler(Cyanoderma erythropterum)species co...Quantitative analysis of colouration is an essential tool for subspecies delimitation but has always posed a challenge in avian taxonomy.In this study on the Chestnut-winged Babbler(Cyanoderma erythropterum)species complex from tropical Southeast Asia,we made use of colour measurements taken with digital cameras and applied two methodologies—(1)the 75%subspecies rule on quantitative colourimetric variables,and(2)the CIEDE2000 colour distance method to generate phylograms,which has probably never been applied in taxonomy before.Given its large number of described subspecies,many of which have been synonymised in modern taxonomies,the species complex serves as an appropriate model to test subspecies validity.Our data indicate that one synonymised subspecies(C.e.apega),from the islands of Bangka and Belitung,requires re-instalment and recognition,whereas one widely recognised subspecies(C.e.fulviventre),from the Banyak Islands,should be synonymised.Our approach also allowed us to redraw geographic subspecies boundaries.Our work indicates that current subspecies taxonomies of many poorly known tropical species may remain error-ridden and highlights the importance and viability of large-scale taxonomic revisions targeting avian subspecies globally while incorporating quantitative colourimetric approaches.展开更多
This research was carried out to identify the most effective plant species for air purification based on environmental factors. The existence of plants beside roadways can be considered a more efficient approach to im...This research was carried out to identify the most effective plant species for air purification based on environmental factors. The existence of plants beside roadways can be considered a more efficient approach to improving air quality and minimizing pollution exposure. The samples for this research were collected from various sites across the streets of Jeddah governorate. The primary sources of air pollution in the research area are vehicle traffic and emissions from cars. Eight species were gathered from various streets in Jeddah governorate, namely, Azadirachta indica, Senna sulfurea, Ziziphus spina-christi, Cordia sebestena, Tecoma stans, Bougainvillea spectabilis, Conocarpus lancifolius, and Ixora coccinea. The leaves of the studied plants were analyzed for secondary compounds using Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) techniques. Gas-chromatographic analyses revealed that bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate was found in every plant. Bis-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, a widespread environmental pollutant. Moreover, Cordia sebestena was the sole plant that contained Phenol, 2,2’-methylenebis [6-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-4-methyl] which is part of the phenols category. Environmental conditions can affect the production of secondary metabolites. By tracking the concentrations of these substances, researchers can evaluate the well-being of ecosystems and identify pollution.展开更多
Two widespread bird species in Sri Lanka’s dry zone,Pycnonotus cafer(Red-vented Bulbul,RVBB)and Pycnonotus luteolus(White-browed Bulbul,WBBB),were studied to understand their foraging dynamics and ecology.The researc...Two widespread bird species in Sri Lanka’s dry zone,Pycnonotus cafer(Red-vented Bulbul,RVBB)and Pycnonotus luteolus(White-browed Bulbul,WBBB),were studied to understand their foraging dynamics and ecology.The research was conducted from October 2022 to February 2023 in Mihintale Sanctuary(80.30′11.24″E,8.21′04.63″N)and the Faculty of Applied Sciences,Rajarata University of Sri Lanka(80.502206″E,8.353090″N).Data were obtained through focal sampling,opportunistic observations,and mist netting.Both species predominantly foraged on twigs,using gleaning as the dominant food-handling technique.RVBB foraged mostly at the canopy level,while WBBB foraged primarily at the sub-canopy level.Fruits constituted the major food type for both species.RVBB and WBBB utilized 10 and 7 plant species,respectively,with Grewia helicterifolia being the primary foraging plant.Minimal foraging was observed on Croton sp.(RVBB)and Hugonia mistax(WBBB).The correlation between nutritional components and the consumption of both species revealed a preference for foods with lower protein,higher fat,and ash content.There was no linear correlation between gape width and fruit size(r=-0.21,P=0.69)for both species.The standardized dietary niche breadth indicated both species are specialists,with a high pairwise dietary niche overlap(0.9854).These findings highlight the niche-specific foraging adaptations of RVBB and WBBB within Mihintale,emphasizing their distinct strategies in utilizing plant species,fruit sizes,and foraging heights.Understanding such ecological dynamics is essential for habitat conservation efforts and ensuring the availability of key foraging resources for these species in the dry zone.展开更多
Background:Stimuli-responsive drug delivery systems introduced nowadays to enable enhanced drug release upon exogenous stimulus.Research focuses on developing systems for co-administration of drugs to overcome limitat...Background:Stimuli-responsive drug delivery systems introduced nowadays to enable enhanced drug release upon exogenous stimulus.Research focuses on developing systems for co-administration of drugs to overcome limitations of single-drug chemotherapy,such as low response rates,ineffective treatment completion,and drug resistance,leading to aggressive proliferation and recurrence.This research focuses on utilizing the amphiphilic polymer quaternary ammonium palmitoyl glycol chitosan(GCPQ)as a carrier to load hydrophobic curcumin(CUR)and hydrophilic doxorubicin(DOX)to reach the desired target and release the cargo upon exogenous stimuli of ultrasound.Methods:The nanoformulation synthesized using a biocompatible approach,resulting in a stable DOX-CUR-GCPQ nano-formulation upon physicochemical characterization and in vitro analysis using ultrasound.Results:The mean hydrodynamic diameter of DOX-CUR-GCPQ nanomicelles was measured as 95±1.23 nm,PDI 0.32±0.87,zeta potential−35±1.78 mV,and encapsulation efficiency 87.32%±0.3 and 79.42%±0.5 for DOX and CUR respectively.Biocompatibility studies revealed minimal hemolytic activity and biocompatible behavior of the nano-formulation,the co-loaded polymer-based nano-formulation when exposed to Ultrasound at a frequency of 1.5 MHz,for 40 s,on Hep2c cancer cell lines showed a higher release of 89% after 48 h.Moreover,a higher amount of drug internalized within the cells(P<0.0001).Conclusion:The exhibited lower cell viability and IC50(70μg/mL)which demonstrated that ultrasound waves likely facilitated the penetration and uptake of the amphiphilic polymer encapsulating dual drugs into the Hep2c cancer cells,allowing for more efficient delivery of the drugs(DOX and CUR)and broadens the spectrum of anticancer therapy.展开更多
Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a prevalent zoonotic disease caused by Echinococcus granulosus, with a cosmopolitan distribution. The parasite is transmitted cyclically between canines and numerous intermediate herbivor...Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a prevalent zoonotic disease caused by Echinococcus granulosus, with a cosmopolitan distribution. The parasite is transmitted cyclically between canines and numerous intermediate herbivorous livestock animals. Also, other Taeniid tapeworms could infect domestic dogs and they pose significant veterinary and public health concerns worldwide. This study aimed to develop a sensitive molecular method for detecting Echinococcus spp. DNA in dog fecal samples using next-generation sequencing (NGS). A set of PCR primers targeting conserved regions of Taeniid tapeworms’ 18s rRNA genes was designed and tested for amplifying genomic DNA from various tapeworm species. The PCR system demonstrated high sensitivity, amplifying DNA from all tested tapeworm species, with differences observed in amplified band sizes. The primers were adapted for NGS analysis by adding forward and reverse adapters, enabling the sequencing of amplified DNA fragments. Application of the developed PCR system to dog fecal samples collected from Yatta town, Palestine, revealed the presence of E. granulosus DNA in five out of 50 samples. NGS analysis confirmed the specificity of the amplified DNA fragments, showing 98% - 99% similarity with the 18s rDNA gene of E. granulosus. This study demonstrates the utility of NGS-based molecular methods for accurate and sensitive detection of Echinococcus spp. in dog fecal samples, providing valuable insights for epidemiological surveillance and control programs of echinococcosis in endemic regions.展开更多
Pesticides are chemical substances used to eliminate various pests.Currently,more than two million tons of pesticides are used annually in developing and developed countries.One of the chronic diseases associated with...Pesticides are chemical substances used to eliminate various pests.Currently,more than two million tons of pesticides are used annually in developing and developed countries.One of the chronic diseases associated with pesticide poisoning is diabetes.This review aimed to elucidate the mechanisms of action involved in the development of diabetes after pesticide poisoning.Relevant information was collected between January and May 2024,using databases such as PubMed,Google Academic,and Elsevier.Pesticides reduce the secretion of glucagon-like peptide-1(GLP-1)in the intestine,thereby decreasing the release of insulin.Moreover,pesticides are metabolized to acetic acid by intestinal microbiota.This contributes to gluconeogenesis in the liver.In addition,the accumulation of pesticides in adipose tissue affects pancreatic beta-cells(β-cells)through increases in the levels of proinflammatory cytokines and the release of leptin,resulting in insulin resistance and impairments of appetite control and energy balance.These alterations caused by pesticides can contribute to the development of diabetes by affecting many organic systems.展开更多
Urban green spaces and parks offer opportunities for retaining and increasing bird richness, diversity, and species abundance. However, urbanisation influences predator–prey interactions, leading to high predation ra...Urban green spaces and parks offer opportunities for retaining and increasing bird richness, diversity, and species abundance. However, urbanisation influences predator–prey interactions, leading to high predation rates in urban areas, in the UK notably through the presence of large populations of domestic cats and increased populations of synanthropic species, such as rats and squirrels. These high predation rates are assumed to be a significant cause of reproductive failure in birds. Some ecologists advocate for the use of buffer zones with reduced human influence to reduce potential hunting pressure in eco-sensitive areas. However, the buffer effect on predation rates of nesting birds in suburban areas is rarely investigated. In this study, we investigated how edge effects (how close nest sites are to housing) and nest height (i.e., ground vs. above-ground) affected nest predation rates in a suburban park using camera traps to monitor artificial nests containing quail eggs. Our hypothesis was that nests in the buffer area (<300 m inward from university boundary) and at low height would suffer higher predation rates than nests in the core area (>300 m from the university boundary) and at height, as the buffer zone effect, and ease of access to ground predators would result in higher predation rates. We found no significant effect of nest height in nest predation rates. However, contrary to our expectations, nests in the core zone suffered higher predation rates than those in the buffer zone, and corvids were responsible for almost half of the egg loss events. We speculate that this may be a consequence of higher levels of anthropogenic disturbance (e.g., pedestrians, dog walking, vehicles) adjacent to our buffer zone acting as a deterrent to avian nest predators. This work suggests that protecting urban sites from disturbance may not always act to support bird abundance.展开更多
Plant biofertilization involves introducing compounds containing living mi-croorganisms into the coating medium to sustainably enhance plant production and soil health. This is a complex process that undergoes multipl...Plant biofertilization involves introducing compounds containing living mi-croorganisms into the coating medium to sustainably enhance plant production and soil health. This is a complex process that undergoes multiple stages of development before yielding a final product. The final biofertilizer is used by legumes-protein-rich crops in symbiosis with rhizobia to enable biological nitrogen fixation increasing natural soil fertility. This study aims to determine the optimal formulation of a rhizobial biofertilizer to improve the performance of soybean (Glycine max L. cv. Docko). To this end, soybean seeds obtained from IRAD were coated with different formulations derived from locally sourced materials. Palm kernel oil was used as an adhesive in one group, while corn powder served as an adhesive in another. The coated seeds were then sown in the field. The results indicate that the combination of pigeon pea powder + sugarcane molasses, with palm kernel oil as an adhesive, produced the best nodulation (nitrogen fixation). This formulation also led to significant improvements in growth (+350%) and total nitrogen content (+1100%) compared to the bacterial broth inoculum control (B0) (P ≤ 0.01). These findings represent a significant advancement in improving nitrogen-fixing bacterial inoculants and enhancing soil fertility for the sustainable cultivation of soybeans in this tropical soil.展开更多
In northern China,light and temperature are major limiting factors for plant growth,particularly during seed production and seedling establishment.While previous studies suggested a possible role for the MYB97 gene in...In northern China,light and temperature are major limiting factors for plant growth,particularly during seed production and seedling establishment.While previous studies suggested a possible role for the MYB97 gene in cold-stress,confirmation through documented evidence was lacking.In this study,we transformed the MYB97 gene from Iris laevigata into tobacco,and discovered that the gene boosted photosynthesis,photoprotection and resilience to cold.The transgenic tobacco seeds exhibited enhanced germination and accelerated seedling growth.Moreover,these plants had decreased levels of MDA(Malondialdehyde)and relative conductance,coupled with elevated concentrations of proline and soluble sugars.This response was accompanied by heightened activity of antioxidant enzymes during periods of cold stress(4 and−2℃).Exposure to low temperatures(0–15℃)also reduced heights but accentuated primary root growth in transgenic tobacco plants.Additionally,tobacco leaves showed an increased growth along with higher chlorophyll levels,net photosynthetic rates,stomatal conductance,transpiration rates and non-photochemical quenching coefficient.This study shows that IlMYB97(The MYB97 genes in I.laevigata)improves cold-resistance,and enhances photosynthesis and photoprotective ability,and thus overall growth and development.These findings would offer the genetic resources to further study cold resistance and photosynthesis.展开更多
Microcirculation imaging is crucial in understanding the function and health of various tissues and organs.However,conventional imaging methods suffer from fluorescence label dependency,lack of depth resolution,and qu...Microcirculation imaging is crucial in understanding the function and health of various tissues and organs.However,conventional imaging methods suffer from fluorescence label dependency,lack of depth resolution,and quantification inaccuracy.Here,we report a light-sheet dynamic light-scattering imaging(LSHDSI)system to overcome these shortcomings.LSH-DSI utilizes selected plane illumination for an optical sectioning,while a time-frequency analysis method retrieves blood flow velocity estimates from dynamic changes in the detected light intensity.We have performed imaging experiments with zebrafish embryos to obtain angiographs from the trunk and head regions.The results show that LSH-DSI can capture label-free tomographic images of microvasculature and three-dimensional quantitative maps of local blood flow velocities.展开更多
The Asian Houbara(Chlamydotis macqueenii),a vulnerable species,is under significant threat from habitat degradation and anthropogenic pressures in Pakistan's arid landscapes.This study addresses the urgent need fo...The Asian Houbara(Chlamydotis macqueenii),a vulnerable species,is under significant threat from habitat degradation and anthropogenic pressures in Pakistan's arid landscapes.This study addresses the urgent need for conservation by identifying critical habitats,analyzing the influence of environmental and human factors on species distribution,and projecting future habitat shifts under climate change scenarios.Using the Max Ent model,which achieves a robust predictive accuracy(AUC=0.854),we mapped current and future habitat suitability under Shared Socioeconomic Pathways(SSP126,SSP370,SSP585)for the years 2040 and 2070.Presently,the suitable habitat extends over 217,082 km^(2),with 52,751 km^(2) classified as highly suitable.Key environmental drivers,identified via the Jackknife test,revealed that annual mean temperature(Bio1)and slope play a dominant role in determining habitat suitability.Projections show significant habitat degradation;however,under SSP585,highly suitable areas are expected to expand by up to 24.92%by 2070.Despite this increase,vast areas remain unsuitable,posing serious risks to population sustainability.Moreover,only 2115 km^(2) of highly suitable habitat currently falls within protected zones,highlighting a critical conservation shortfall.These findings highlight the imperative for immediate,targeted conservation efforts to secure the species'future in Pakistan's desert ecosystems.展开更多
Alcohol-associated liver disease(ALD)is a major global health concern,contributing to liver injury,morbidity,and mortality.Elafibranor(EFN),a dual peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorα/δagonist,has shown promi...Alcohol-associated liver disease(ALD)is a major global health concern,contributing to liver injury,morbidity,and mortality.Elafibranor(EFN),a dual peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorα/δagonist,has shown promise as a therapeutic candidate in preclinical studies.EFN reduces liver fibrosis by inhibiting lipid accumulation,apoptosis,and inflammatory pathways(LPS/TLR4/NF-κB),while enhancing autophagy and antioxidant responses.It also improves intestinal barrier function and modulates gut microbiota,reducing endotoxin-producing bacteria and increasing beneficial species.By strengthening the intestinal barrier and suppressing pro-inflammatory mediators like tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6,EFN mitigates hepatic stellate cell activation and fibrogenic signaling.Macrophages play a central role in ALD progression,and EFN’s ability to modulate macrophage activity further highlights its anti-inflammatory properties.This review emphasizes EFN’s dual-targeted approach,addressing both hepatic and intestinal dysfunctions,distinguishing it from conventional ALD treatments.While preclinical results are promising,EFN remains under clinical investigation,with ongoing trials evaluating its safety and efficacy.Future research should focus on elucidating EFN’s molecular mechanisms and advancing its clinical application to establish its therapeutic potential in human populations.EFN represents a novel,comprehensive strategy for ALD management,targeting both liver and gut pathologies.展开更多
Sacred forests play a valuable role in the conservation of local biodiversity and provide numerous ecosystem services in Cameroon. The aim of this study was to estimate floristic diversity, stand structures and carbon...Sacred forests play a valuable role in the conservation of local biodiversity and provide numerous ecosystem services in Cameroon. The aim of this study was to estimate floristic diversity, stand structures and carbon stocks in the sacred forests of Bandrefam and Batoufam (western Cameroon). The floristic inventory and the stand structures were carried out in 25 m × 25 m plots for individuals with diameters greater than 10 cm;5 m × 5 m for individuals with diameters less than 10 cm. Carbon stocks were estimated using the non-destructive method and allometric equations. The floristic inventory identified 65 species divided into 57 genera and 30 families in the Bandrefam sacred forest and 45 species divided into 42 genera and 27 families in the Batoufam sacred forest. In the Bandrefam, the most important families are Phyllanthaceae (53.98%), Moraceae (21.69%), Lamiaceae (20.15%). At Batoufam, the most important families are Phyllanthaceae (39.73%), Fabaceae (28.47%), Araliaceae (23.77%). Malacantha alnifolia (55.14%), Vitex grandifolia (18.43%), Bosqueia angolensis (15.06%) were the most important species in Bandrefam. Otherwise, Malacantha alnifolia (28%), Polyscias fulva (22.73%), Psychotria sp. (21.28%) were the most important in Batoufam. The Bandrefam sacred forest has the highest tree density (2669 stems/ha). Total carbon stock is 484.88 ± 2.28 tC/ha at Batoufam and 313.95 ± 0.93 tC/ha at Bandrefam. The economic value varies between 5858.04 ± 27.62 USD/ha in Batoufam sacred forest and 3788.51 ± 11.26 USD/ha in Bandrefam sacred forest. The number of individuals and small-diameter trees has little influence on the carbon stocks in the trees. Medium-diameter trees store the most carbon, and very large-diameter trees, which are very poorly represented, store less carbon. In another way, wood density and the basal areas influence the carbon storage of the trees.展开更多
文摘Several studies report the problem of cardiovascular tolerance of treatments with neuroleptics, given the important number of morbidities in patients with mental illnesses. This preliminary work aimed to describe the epidemiological and biological profile of patients taking neuroleptics and followed in the psychiatry department of Brazzaville University Hospital, from the angle of cardiovascular risk. Fifty (50) patients (17 men and 33 women), with a mean age of 33.9 10.7 years, were included. Epidemiological data (sex, age, tobacco or alcohol consumption) were collected on pre-established survey forms. Biochemical (total cholesterol, HDL-c, triglycerides and atherogenicity index) and inflammatory parameters (ultra-sensitive CRP, troponin I and NT-ProBNP) were investigated using enzymatic and indirect immunofluorescence technical, respectively. The results obtained showed that 54% of patients were obese, 94% were non-smokers, and 12% had high blood pressure. 10% of patients had high total cholesterol levels and 90% had HDL cholesterol levels below 60 mg/dl. Triglycerides and atherogenicity index were significantly elevated in relation to Body Mass Index (BMI). Ultrasensitive CRP was elevated in 38% of patients. In conclusion, this study revealed an association between lipid parameters (triglycerides and atherogenicity index) in relation to BMI in patients taking neuroleptics followed in the Psychiatry Department of University Hospital Center of Brazzaville.
基金supported by The National Natural Science Foundation Key Fund(32330013)The National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars(31625024)+6 种基金supported by the NSFC International Young Scholars Program(31850410464)the CAS President's International Fellowship Initiative(2018PB0003,2020PB0142,2024PVC0046)funded by the National Science Fund for Excellent Young Scholars(32122016)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32470473)funded continuously by grants from the Key Laboratory of the Zoological Systematics and Evolution of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(2008DP173354)State Key Laboratory of Animal Biodiversity Conservation and Integrated Pest Management(SKLA2501)Sino BON Insect Diversity Monitoring Network(Sino BON-Insects)。
文摘China has the sixth-largest bee fauna with over 1,300 documented species.Yet countless more are expected,making taxonomic work an imperative.Here,we outline the history of bee taxonomy in China and discuss how best we can move into the future and describe all of the many undescribed species remaining.Key challenges include the difficulty of accurately assigning species names due to overseas type material as well as a general need for increased internationalization such as in specimen and data sharing.Only with sustained funding for basic taxonomy will it be possible to know and protect China's unique bee fauna.
基金supported by the Faculty Research Fund(Faculty of Medicine&Health Science,Keele University)Career Development Award–(April 2022)(to SJB)。
文摘Spinal muscular atrophy(SMA)is a genetic condition that results in selective lower motor neuron loss with concomitant muscle weakness and atrophy.The genetic cause of SMA was understood in 1995 when loss or impairment of the survival motor neuron 1(SMN1)gene was identified as the main contributing factor(Lefebvre et al.,1995).This,in combination with the discovery that humans have a“back-up”gene,SMN2,which can produce low levels(approximately 10%)of the full-length functional SMN protein,has led to the generation of SMA-specific gene therapies.SMA was traditionally classified according to age of symptom onset and developmental milestones achieved,with life expectancy and severity varying between individuals.Now,SMN2 copy number is used as a proxy for the prediction of disease severity,with higher SMN2 copy number typically being associated with reduced severity of SMA,although this relationship is not absolute:some individuals with low SMN2 copy number have less severe SMA phenotypes and vice versa.Additionally,the etiology of SMA is further complicated by other factors,such as non-typical nucleotide variants and SMN2-independent modifiers of disease severity.
基金The authors extend their gratitude to the Deanship of Scientific Research(DSR),King Faisal University,Saudi Arabia,for funding the publication of this work(Project number:KFU250560).
文摘A steady rise in the overall population is creating an overburden on crops due to their global demand.On the other hand,given the current climate change and population growth,agricultural practices established during the Green Revolution are no longer viable.Consequently,innovative practices are the prerequisite of the time struggle with the rising global food demand.The potential of nanotechnology to reduce the phytotoxic effects of these ecological restrictions has shown significant promise.Nanoparticles(NPs)typically enhance plant resilience to stressors by fortifying the physical barrier,optimizing photosynthesis,stimulating enzymatic activity for defense,elevating the concentration of stress-resistant compounds,and activating the expression of genes associated with defense mechanisms.In this review,we thoroughly cover the uptake and translocations of NPs crops and their potential valuable functions in enhancing plant growth and development at different growth stages.Additionally,we addressed how NPs improve plant resistance to biotic and abiotic stress.Generally,this review presents a thorough understanding of the significance of NPs in plants and their prospective value for plant antioxidant and crop development.
基金supported by a grant from the Merkin Peripheral Neuropathy and Nerve Regeneration Center(to PKS)the Rutgers University Startup Fund(to PKS).
文摘Stress granules are membraneless organelles that serve as a protective cellular response to external stressors by sequestering non-translating messenger RNAs(mRNAs)and regulating protein synthesis.Stress granules formation mechanism is conserved across species,from yeast to mammals,and they play a critical role in minimizing cellular damage during stress.Composed of heterogeneous ribonucleoprotein complexes,stress granules are enriched not only in mRNAs but also in noncoding RNAs and various proteins,including translation initiation factors and RNA-binding proteins.Genetic mutations affecting stress granule assembly and disassembly can lead to abnormal stress granule accumulation,contributing to the progression of several diseases.Recent research indicates that stress granule dynamics are pivotal in determining their physiological and pathological functions,with acute stress granule formation offering protection and chronic stress granule accumulation being detrimental.This review focuses on the multifaceted roles of stress granules under diverse physiological conditions,such as regulation of mRNA transport,mRNA translation,apoptosis,germ cell development,phase separation processes that govern stress granule formation,and their emerging implications in pathophysiological scenarios,such as viral infections,cancer,neurodevelopmental disorders,neurodegeneration,and neuronal trauma.
文摘Obstructed defecation syndrome(ODS)is a complex defecatory disorder asso-ciated with pelvic floor dysfunction.It affects approximately 50%of women over the age of 50 and significantly impacts their quality of life.The causes of ODS include structural abnormalities such as rectocele,enterocele,intussusception,and pelvic floor descent,as well as functional disorders like anismus.Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management due to the high risk of treatment failure associated with inaccurate findings.Various imaging modalities are used to assess pelvic floor disorders,including fluoroscopic defecography(FD),mag-netic resonance defecography(MRD),pelvic floor ultrasound(PFUS),and echode-fecography(EDF).FD is the most commonly performed test worldwide,offering high accuracy in diagnosing pelvic floor disorders.It provides dynamic visual-ization of defecation mechanics but involves radiation exposure.MRD offers ex-cellent soft tissue detail and multiplanar imaging without radiation,making it particularly useful for multicompartment disorders;however,it is associated with high procedural costs and limited availability.Both PFUS and EDF are minimally invasive and avoid radiation exposure.PFUS shows promise as a valuable screening tool that could help minimize the need for advanced imaging if findings are normal.EDF is also promising but requires specialized training and remains less widely available.This review evaluates the accuracy,advantages,and limitations of various diagnostic modalities for pelvic floor disorders,aiming to guide optimal clinical decision-making.
基金supported by a Singapore National Research Foundation(NRF)Investigatorship(NRF-NRFI07-2021-0008)。
文摘Quantitative analysis of colouration is an essential tool for subspecies delimitation but has always posed a challenge in avian taxonomy.In this study on the Chestnut-winged Babbler(Cyanoderma erythropterum)species complex from tropical Southeast Asia,we made use of colour measurements taken with digital cameras and applied two methodologies—(1)the 75%subspecies rule on quantitative colourimetric variables,and(2)the CIEDE2000 colour distance method to generate phylograms,which has probably never been applied in taxonomy before.Given its large number of described subspecies,many of which have been synonymised in modern taxonomies,the species complex serves as an appropriate model to test subspecies validity.Our data indicate that one synonymised subspecies(C.e.apega),from the islands of Bangka and Belitung,requires re-instalment and recognition,whereas one widely recognised subspecies(C.e.fulviventre),from the Banyak Islands,should be synonymised.Our approach also allowed us to redraw geographic subspecies boundaries.Our work indicates that current subspecies taxonomies of many poorly known tropical species may remain error-ridden and highlights the importance and viability of large-scale taxonomic revisions targeting avian subspecies globally while incorporating quantitative colourimetric approaches.
文摘This research was carried out to identify the most effective plant species for air purification based on environmental factors. The existence of plants beside roadways can be considered a more efficient approach to improving air quality and minimizing pollution exposure. The samples for this research were collected from various sites across the streets of Jeddah governorate. The primary sources of air pollution in the research area are vehicle traffic and emissions from cars. Eight species were gathered from various streets in Jeddah governorate, namely, Azadirachta indica, Senna sulfurea, Ziziphus spina-christi, Cordia sebestena, Tecoma stans, Bougainvillea spectabilis, Conocarpus lancifolius, and Ixora coccinea. The leaves of the studied plants were analyzed for secondary compounds using Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) techniques. Gas-chromatographic analyses revealed that bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate was found in every plant. Bis-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, a widespread environmental pollutant. Moreover, Cordia sebestena was the sole plant that contained Phenol, 2,2’-methylenebis [6-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-4-methyl] which is part of the phenols category. Environmental conditions can affect the production of secondary metabolites. By tracking the concentrations of these substances, researchers can evaluate the well-being of ecosystems and identify pollution.
文摘Two widespread bird species in Sri Lanka’s dry zone,Pycnonotus cafer(Red-vented Bulbul,RVBB)and Pycnonotus luteolus(White-browed Bulbul,WBBB),were studied to understand their foraging dynamics and ecology.The research was conducted from October 2022 to February 2023 in Mihintale Sanctuary(80.30′11.24″E,8.21′04.63″N)and the Faculty of Applied Sciences,Rajarata University of Sri Lanka(80.502206″E,8.353090″N).Data were obtained through focal sampling,opportunistic observations,and mist netting.Both species predominantly foraged on twigs,using gleaning as the dominant food-handling technique.RVBB foraged mostly at the canopy level,while WBBB foraged primarily at the sub-canopy level.Fruits constituted the major food type for both species.RVBB and WBBB utilized 10 and 7 plant species,respectively,with Grewia helicterifolia being the primary foraging plant.Minimal foraging was observed on Croton sp.(RVBB)and Hugonia mistax(WBBB).The correlation between nutritional components and the consumption of both species revealed a preference for foods with lower protein,higher fat,and ash content.There was no linear correlation between gape width and fruit size(r=-0.21,P=0.69)for both species.The standardized dietary niche breadth indicated both species are specialists,with a high pairwise dietary niche overlap(0.9854).These findings highlight the niche-specific foraging adaptations of RVBB and WBBB within Mihintale,emphasizing their distinct strategies in utilizing plant species,fruit sizes,and foraging heights.Understanding such ecological dynamics is essential for habitat conservation efforts and ensuring the availability of key foraging resources for these species in the dry zone.
文摘Background:Stimuli-responsive drug delivery systems introduced nowadays to enable enhanced drug release upon exogenous stimulus.Research focuses on developing systems for co-administration of drugs to overcome limitations of single-drug chemotherapy,such as low response rates,ineffective treatment completion,and drug resistance,leading to aggressive proliferation and recurrence.This research focuses on utilizing the amphiphilic polymer quaternary ammonium palmitoyl glycol chitosan(GCPQ)as a carrier to load hydrophobic curcumin(CUR)and hydrophilic doxorubicin(DOX)to reach the desired target and release the cargo upon exogenous stimuli of ultrasound.Methods:The nanoformulation synthesized using a biocompatible approach,resulting in a stable DOX-CUR-GCPQ nano-formulation upon physicochemical characterization and in vitro analysis using ultrasound.Results:The mean hydrodynamic diameter of DOX-CUR-GCPQ nanomicelles was measured as 95±1.23 nm,PDI 0.32±0.87,zeta potential−35±1.78 mV,and encapsulation efficiency 87.32%±0.3 and 79.42%±0.5 for DOX and CUR respectively.Biocompatibility studies revealed minimal hemolytic activity and biocompatible behavior of the nano-formulation,the co-loaded polymer-based nano-formulation when exposed to Ultrasound at a frequency of 1.5 MHz,for 40 s,on Hep2c cancer cell lines showed a higher release of 89% after 48 h.Moreover,a higher amount of drug internalized within the cells(P<0.0001).Conclusion:The exhibited lower cell viability and IC50(70μg/mL)which demonstrated that ultrasound waves likely facilitated the penetration and uptake of the amphiphilic polymer encapsulating dual drugs into the Hep2c cancer cells,allowing for more efficient delivery of the drugs(DOX and CUR)and broadens the spectrum of anticancer therapy.
文摘Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a prevalent zoonotic disease caused by Echinococcus granulosus, with a cosmopolitan distribution. The parasite is transmitted cyclically between canines and numerous intermediate herbivorous livestock animals. Also, other Taeniid tapeworms could infect domestic dogs and they pose significant veterinary and public health concerns worldwide. This study aimed to develop a sensitive molecular method for detecting Echinococcus spp. DNA in dog fecal samples using next-generation sequencing (NGS). A set of PCR primers targeting conserved regions of Taeniid tapeworms’ 18s rRNA genes was designed and tested for amplifying genomic DNA from various tapeworm species. The PCR system demonstrated high sensitivity, amplifying DNA from all tested tapeworm species, with differences observed in amplified band sizes. The primers were adapted for NGS analysis by adding forward and reverse adapters, enabling the sequencing of amplified DNA fragments. Application of the developed PCR system to dog fecal samples collected from Yatta town, Palestine, revealed the presence of E. granulosus DNA in five out of 50 samples. NGS analysis confirmed the specificity of the amplified DNA fragments, showing 98% - 99% similarity with the 18s rDNA gene of E. granulosus. This study demonstrates the utility of NGS-based molecular methods for accurate and sensitive detection of Echinococcus spp. in dog fecal samples, providing valuable insights for epidemiological surveillance and control programs of echinococcosis in endemic regions.
文摘Pesticides are chemical substances used to eliminate various pests.Currently,more than two million tons of pesticides are used annually in developing and developed countries.One of the chronic diseases associated with pesticide poisoning is diabetes.This review aimed to elucidate the mechanisms of action involved in the development of diabetes after pesticide poisoning.Relevant information was collected between January and May 2024,using databases such as PubMed,Google Academic,and Elsevier.Pesticides reduce the secretion of glucagon-like peptide-1(GLP-1)in the intestine,thereby decreasing the release of insulin.Moreover,pesticides are metabolized to acetic acid by intestinal microbiota.This contributes to gluconeogenesis in the liver.In addition,the accumulation of pesticides in adipose tissue affects pancreatic beta-cells(β-cells)through increases in the levels of proinflammatory cytokines and the release of leptin,resulting in insulin resistance and impairments of appetite control and energy balance.These alterations caused by pesticides can contribute to the development of diabetes by affecting many organic systems.
文摘Urban green spaces and parks offer opportunities for retaining and increasing bird richness, diversity, and species abundance. However, urbanisation influences predator–prey interactions, leading to high predation rates in urban areas, in the UK notably through the presence of large populations of domestic cats and increased populations of synanthropic species, such as rats and squirrels. These high predation rates are assumed to be a significant cause of reproductive failure in birds. Some ecologists advocate for the use of buffer zones with reduced human influence to reduce potential hunting pressure in eco-sensitive areas. However, the buffer effect on predation rates of nesting birds in suburban areas is rarely investigated. In this study, we investigated how edge effects (how close nest sites are to housing) and nest height (i.e., ground vs. above-ground) affected nest predation rates in a suburban park using camera traps to monitor artificial nests containing quail eggs. Our hypothesis was that nests in the buffer area (<300 m inward from university boundary) and at low height would suffer higher predation rates than nests in the core area (>300 m from the university boundary) and at height, as the buffer zone effect, and ease of access to ground predators would result in higher predation rates. We found no significant effect of nest height in nest predation rates. However, contrary to our expectations, nests in the core zone suffered higher predation rates than those in the buffer zone, and corvids were responsible for almost half of the egg loss events. We speculate that this may be a consequence of higher levels of anthropogenic disturbance (e.g., pedestrians, dog walking, vehicles) adjacent to our buffer zone acting as a deterrent to avian nest predators. This work suggests that protecting urban sites from disturbance may not always act to support bird abundance.
文摘Plant biofertilization involves introducing compounds containing living mi-croorganisms into the coating medium to sustainably enhance plant production and soil health. This is a complex process that undergoes multiple stages of development before yielding a final product. The final biofertilizer is used by legumes-protein-rich crops in symbiosis with rhizobia to enable biological nitrogen fixation increasing natural soil fertility. This study aims to determine the optimal formulation of a rhizobial biofertilizer to improve the performance of soybean (Glycine max L. cv. Docko). To this end, soybean seeds obtained from IRAD were coated with different formulations derived from locally sourced materials. Palm kernel oil was used as an adhesive in one group, while corn powder served as an adhesive in another. The coated seeds were then sown in the field. The results indicate that the combination of pigeon pea powder + sugarcane molasses, with palm kernel oil as an adhesive, produced the best nodulation (nitrogen fixation). This formulation also led to significant improvements in growth (+350%) and total nitrogen content (+1100%) compared to the bacterial broth inoculum control (B0) (P ≤ 0.01). These findings represent a significant advancement in improving nitrogen-fixing bacterial inoculants and enhancing soil fertility for the sustainable cultivation of soybeans in this tropical soil.
基金supported by the Science and Technology Basic Resources Investigation Program of China(2019FY100500)the Fun-damental Research Funds for the Central Universities(2572023CT18)the Natural Fund Project of Heilongjiang Province(LH 2020C 044).
文摘In northern China,light and temperature are major limiting factors for plant growth,particularly during seed production and seedling establishment.While previous studies suggested a possible role for the MYB97 gene in cold-stress,confirmation through documented evidence was lacking.In this study,we transformed the MYB97 gene from Iris laevigata into tobacco,and discovered that the gene boosted photosynthesis,photoprotection and resilience to cold.The transgenic tobacco seeds exhibited enhanced germination and accelerated seedling growth.Moreover,these plants had decreased levels of MDA(Malondialdehyde)and relative conductance,coupled with elevated concentrations of proline and soluble sugars.This response was accompanied by heightened activity of antioxidant enzymes during periods of cold stress(4 and−2℃).Exposure to low temperatures(0–15℃)also reduced heights but accentuated primary root growth in transgenic tobacco plants.Additionally,tobacco leaves showed an increased growth along with higher chlorophyll levels,net photosynthetic rates,stomatal conductance,transpiration rates and non-photochemical quenching coefficient.This study shows that IlMYB97(The MYB97 genes in I.laevigata)improves cold-resistance,and enhances photosynthesis and photoprotective ability,and thus overall growth and development.These findings would offer the genetic resources to further study cold resistance and photosynthesis.
基金supported by the following funding sources:Ministry of Education-Singapore MOE2019-T2-2-094 Ministry of Education-Singapore Tier I R-397-000-327-114 ScienceTechnology Project of Jiangsu Province(Grant No.BZ2022056)Biomedical and Health Technology Platform,National University of Singapore(Suzhou)Research Institute.
文摘Microcirculation imaging is crucial in understanding the function and health of various tissues and organs.However,conventional imaging methods suffer from fluorescence label dependency,lack of depth resolution,and quantification inaccuracy.Here,we report a light-sheet dynamic light-scattering imaging(LSHDSI)system to overcome these shortcomings.LSH-DSI utilizes selected plane illumination for an optical sectioning,while a time-frequency analysis method retrieves blood flow velocity estimates from dynamic changes in the detected light intensity.We have performed imaging experiments with zebrafish embryos to obtain angiographs from the trunk and head regions.The results show that LSH-DSI can capture label-free tomographic images of microvasculature and three-dimensional quantitative maps of local blood flow velocities.
基金the support of the Zoological Survey of Pakistan,and the Wildlife and Parks Department of Punjab for their assistance in this research。
文摘The Asian Houbara(Chlamydotis macqueenii),a vulnerable species,is under significant threat from habitat degradation and anthropogenic pressures in Pakistan's arid landscapes.This study addresses the urgent need for conservation by identifying critical habitats,analyzing the influence of environmental and human factors on species distribution,and projecting future habitat shifts under climate change scenarios.Using the Max Ent model,which achieves a robust predictive accuracy(AUC=0.854),we mapped current and future habitat suitability under Shared Socioeconomic Pathways(SSP126,SSP370,SSP585)for the years 2040 and 2070.Presently,the suitable habitat extends over 217,082 km^(2),with 52,751 km^(2) classified as highly suitable.Key environmental drivers,identified via the Jackknife test,revealed that annual mean temperature(Bio1)and slope play a dominant role in determining habitat suitability.Projections show significant habitat degradation;however,under SSP585,highly suitable areas are expected to expand by up to 24.92%by 2070.Despite this increase,vast areas remain unsuitable,posing serious risks to population sustainability.Moreover,only 2115 km^(2) of highly suitable habitat currently falls within protected zones,highlighting a critical conservation shortfall.These findings highlight the imperative for immediate,targeted conservation efforts to secure the species'future in Pakistan's desert ecosystems.
文摘Alcohol-associated liver disease(ALD)is a major global health concern,contributing to liver injury,morbidity,and mortality.Elafibranor(EFN),a dual peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorα/δagonist,has shown promise as a therapeutic candidate in preclinical studies.EFN reduces liver fibrosis by inhibiting lipid accumulation,apoptosis,and inflammatory pathways(LPS/TLR4/NF-κB),while enhancing autophagy and antioxidant responses.It also improves intestinal barrier function and modulates gut microbiota,reducing endotoxin-producing bacteria and increasing beneficial species.By strengthening the intestinal barrier and suppressing pro-inflammatory mediators like tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6,EFN mitigates hepatic stellate cell activation and fibrogenic signaling.Macrophages play a central role in ALD progression,and EFN’s ability to modulate macrophage activity further highlights its anti-inflammatory properties.This review emphasizes EFN’s dual-targeted approach,addressing both hepatic and intestinal dysfunctions,distinguishing it from conventional ALD treatments.While preclinical results are promising,EFN remains under clinical investigation,with ongoing trials evaluating its safety and efficacy.Future research should focus on elucidating EFN’s molecular mechanisms and advancing its clinical application to establish its therapeutic potential in human populations.EFN represents a novel,comprehensive strategy for ALD management,targeting both liver and gut pathologies.
文摘Sacred forests play a valuable role in the conservation of local biodiversity and provide numerous ecosystem services in Cameroon. The aim of this study was to estimate floristic diversity, stand structures and carbon stocks in the sacred forests of Bandrefam and Batoufam (western Cameroon). The floristic inventory and the stand structures were carried out in 25 m × 25 m plots for individuals with diameters greater than 10 cm;5 m × 5 m for individuals with diameters less than 10 cm. Carbon stocks were estimated using the non-destructive method and allometric equations. The floristic inventory identified 65 species divided into 57 genera and 30 families in the Bandrefam sacred forest and 45 species divided into 42 genera and 27 families in the Batoufam sacred forest. In the Bandrefam, the most important families are Phyllanthaceae (53.98%), Moraceae (21.69%), Lamiaceae (20.15%). At Batoufam, the most important families are Phyllanthaceae (39.73%), Fabaceae (28.47%), Araliaceae (23.77%). Malacantha alnifolia (55.14%), Vitex grandifolia (18.43%), Bosqueia angolensis (15.06%) were the most important species in Bandrefam. Otherwise, Malacantha alnifolia (28%), Polyscias fulva (22.73%), Psychotria sp. (21.28%) were the most important in Batoufam. The Bandrefam sacred forest has the highest tree density (2669 stems/ha). Total carbon stock is 484.88 ± 2.28 tC/ha at Batoufam and 313.95 ± 0.93 tC/ha at Bandrefam. The economic value varies between 5858.04 ± 27.62 USD/ha in Batoufam sacred forest and 3788.51 ± 11.26 USD/ha in Bandrefam sacred forest. The number of individuals and small-diameter trees has little influence on the carbon stocks in the trees. Medium-diameter trees store the most carbon, and very large-diameter trees, which are very poorly represented, store less carbon. In another way, wood density and the basal areas influence the carbon storage of the trees.
