Traumatic brain injury(TBI)is a public health problem with an undue economic burden that impacts nearly every age,ethnic,and gender group across the globe(Capizzi et al.,2020).TBIs are often sustained during a dynamic...Traumatic brain injury(TBI)is a public health problem with an undue economic burden that impacts nearly every age,ethnic,and gender group across the globe(Capizzi et al.,2020).TBIs are often sustained during a dynamic range of exposures to energetic environmental forces and as such outcomes are typically heterogeneous regarding severity and pathology(Capizzi et al.,2020).展开更多
In this editorial,we highlight the study by Xiao et al.Despite progress in the management of diabetic foot ulcers(DFUs),impaired wound healing remains a significant clinical challenge.Recent studies have highlighted t...In this editorial,we highlight the study by Xiao et al.Despite progress in the management of diabetic foot ulcers(DFUs),impaired wound healing remains a significant clinical challenge.Recent studies have highlighted the critical role of epigenetic modifications in diabetic wound healing,with particular emphasis on DNA and RNA methylation pathways.This editorial discusses the findings of Xiao et al,who identified the Wilms tumor 1-associated protein(WTAP)-DNA methyltransferase 1(DNMT1)axis as a pivotal regulator of endothelial dys-function in DFUs.WTAP,a regulatory subunit of N6-methyladenosine(m6A)methyltransferase,is upregulated under high-glucose conditions and drives the excessive expression of DNMT1 via m6A modification.This contributes to im-paired angiogenesis,reduced cell viability,and delayed wound closure.WTAP knockdown restored endothelial function and significantly improved wound healing in a diabetic mouse model.Furthermore,DNMT1 overexpression ab-rogated the benefits of WTAP suppression,confirming its downstream effector role.Thus,targeting the WTAP-DNMT1 axis provides a new avenue for DFU management.Moreover,epigenetic interventions that modulate both the m6A and RNA methylation pathways could restore endothelial function and enhance tissue repair in patients with diabetes.展开更多
Morpho-physiological evaluation of a crop’s genetic resources is necessary to find possible genotypes to include in breeding initiatives.The objective of this study was to identify heat-tolerant wheat genotypes among...Morpho-physiological evaluation of a crop’s genetic resources is necessary to find possible genotypes to include in breeding initiatives.The objective of this study was to identify heat-tolerant wheat genotypes among 36 mutant lines using morpho-physiological indices.Seedlings of mutant lines and check varieties were grown under both normal(control)and heat-stress conditions in growth chambers.Data were recorded on root-shoot parameters(length,fresh weight,dry weight,and ratio),relative water content(RWC),stability of cell membrane,pigment content,and chlorophyll fluorescence.Two-way analysis of variance showed significant(p<0.01,p<0.001)variation among 15 morpho-physiological features in both growing conditions.Correlation studies showed that pigment-specific indices(total chl,chl a,chl b,carotenoid,Fv/Fm—chlorophyll fluorescence)had significant positive correlations with rootshoot fresh weight(RFW,SFW)and root-shoot dry weight(RDW,SDW),and negative association with relative water content,stability of cell membrane at both conditions.Hierarchical cluster analysis revealed three primary clusters where cluster III(18 genotypes)showed minimal changes in studied characters than cluster I(11 genotypes)and cluster II(13 genotypes).Results obtained from this study revealed that the identified heat-sensitive(30-2 SSH)and heat-tolerant genotypes(27-2(4),29-2(2),and 30-2 SSH)of wheat might provide useful breeding materials for enhancing wheat yield even more in this period of uncertain climate change.展开更多
Indian mustard is recognized as a resilient and economically important oilseed crop.However,its potential remains untapped due to the limited availability of short-duration,high-yielding varieties capable of out-compe...Indian mustard is recognized as a resilient and economically important oilseed crop.However,its potential remains untapped due to the limited availability of short-duration,high-yielding varieties capable of out-competing other rabi crops.Considering this notion,we have evaluated twenty-one F_(2) and six BC1F1 populations derived from seven diversified parents of Brassica juncea following a Randomized Complete Block Design at Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University.Based on key agronomic traits,the genetic components,heterosis,inbreeding depression,and gene action were studied to select early maturing and high-yielding populations.The percentage of heterosis was manifested in various cross-combinations,including P4×P6(91.45%for yield per plant)and P5×P6(28.52%for thousand seed weight),emerging as promising candidates for increasing productivity while managing negative inbreeding effects.Conversely,significant inbreeding depression was noted in traits like days to siliquae maturity and yield,particularly in crosses,P1×P2(6.29%)and P3×P5(21.74%),underscoring the need for careful selection in breeding programs to mitigate these effects.Variance analysis indicated that both additive and non-additive genetic interactions play a pivotal role in the inheritance patterns of the traits of interest.Among the six backcrosses,one promising line was(P5×P6)×P5,demonstrating early maturity(107.00 DAS)with improved seed yield(12.47 g).This combination exhibited the potential for enhancing the adaptability and productivity by maintaining the maturity index and accelerating yield.Furthermore,significant phenotypic variation across yield-contributing traits was notable,whereas thousand seed weight and yield per plant showed high broad-sense and narrow-sense of heritability.Besides,positive correlations between seed yield and its attributing traits were noted,suggesting potential avenues for selection breeding.Collectively,the ob-tained findings enhance the understanding of genetic mechanisms underlying heterosis and inbreeding depres-sion in B.juncea,providing insights and effective strategies for developing superior cultivars with optimized agronomic traits.展开更多
Inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)represents a significant disease burden marked by chronic inflammation and complications that adversely affect patients’quality of life.Effective diagnostic strategies involve clinical ...Inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)represents a significant disease burden marked by chronic inflammation and complications that adversely affect patients’quality of life.Effective diagnostic strategies involve clinical assessments,endoscopic evaluations,imaging studies,and biomarker testing,where early diagnosis is essential for effective management and prevention of long-term complications,highlighting the need for continual advancements in diagnostic methods.The intricate interplay between genetic factors and the outcomes of biological therapy is of critical importance.Unraveling the genetic determinants that influence responses and failures to biological therapy holds significant promise for optimizing treatment strategies for patients with IBD on biologics.Through an indepth examination of current literature,this review article synthesizes critical genetic markers associated with therapeutic efficacy and resistance in IBD.Understanding these genetic actors paves the way for personalized approaches,informing clinicians on predicting,tailoring,and enhancing the effectiveness of biological therapies for improved outcomes in patients with IBD.展开更多
Honglian type-cytoplasmic male sterility(HL-CMS)is caused by the inter-communication between the nucleus and mitochondria.However,the mechanisms by which sterility genes regulate metabolic alterations and changes in m...Honglian type-cytoplasmic male sterility(HL-CMS)is caused by the inter-communication between the nucleus and mitochondria.However,the mechanisms by which sterility genes regulate metabolic alterations and changes in mitochondrial morphology in the pollen of HL-CMS remain unclear.In this study,we compared the morphological differences between the pollen of the male sterile line YA and the near-isogenic line NIL-Rf6 using hematoxylin-eosin staining and 4ʹ,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole(DAPI)staining.HL-CMS is characterized by gametophytic sterility,where the aborted pollen grains are empty,and the tapetal layer remains intact.Transmission electron microscopy was employed to observe mitochondrial morphological changes at the microspore stage,revealing significant mitochondrial alterations,characterized by the formation of'large spherical mitochondria',occurred at the binucleate stage in the YA line.Additionally,metabolomics analysis revealed decreased levels of metabolites associated with the carbohydrate and flavonoid pathways.Notably,the decrease in flavonoids was found to contribute to an elevation in reactive oxygen species(ROS)levels.Therefore,we propose a model in which rice fertility is modulated by the levels of pollen carbohydrates and flavonoid metabolites,with impaired mitochondrial energy production and reduced flavonoid biosynthesis as the main causes of ROS accumulation and pollen abortion in rice.展开更多
We used fast chlorophyll fluorescence transients(OJIP) to study provenance-related differences in photosynthetic performance and the magnitude of day-to-day chlorophyll fluorescence(ChlF) variation in northern(67°...We used fast chlorophyll fluorescence transients(OJIP) to study provenance-related differences in photosynthetic performance and the magnitude of day-to-day chlorophyll fluorescence(ChlF) variation in northern(67°N)and southern(62°N) silver birches in a common garden at62°N.ChlF transients were measured five times during two weeks in the middle of summer to avoid seasonal variation.Differences in growth and leaf morphological traits between the provenances were also examined.The northern trees had higher chlorophyll content,larger leaf areas,and higher leaf fresh and dry mass than the southern trees,but the leaf mass per area did not differ between the provenances.The southern trees were taller and showed higher annual shoot growth than the northern trees.For all the ChlF parameters,day-to-day variation was significant and followed the same pattern for both provenances with no significant provenance ×day interaction,suggesting a similar response to environmental variation.The northern provenance had higher values in parameters related to the reduction of end electron acceptors at the Photosystem I(PSI) acceptor side as probed by ChlF.This and higher values for performance indices PI_(abs) and PI_(tot) in northern than in southern trees suggest higher photosynthetic performance of northern trees in line with the latitudinal compensation strategy.Provenance differences in these parameters increased towards the end of the measurement period,suggesting preparation for earlier growth cessation in northern trees triggered by the shortening day length.The study shows that provenance differences in ChlF can be relatively stable regardless of environmental variation but might be influenced by physiological alterations in preparation for future changes in environmental conditions.展开更多
Recent research has increasingly highlighted the potential oncogenic effects of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2)infection within the gastrointestinal tract.Growing evidence suggests that SAR...Recent research has increasingly highlighted the potential oncogenic effects of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2)infection within the gastrointestinal tract.Growing evidence suggests that SARS-CoV-2 may contribute to the development of gastrointestinal malignancies through several mechanisms,including sustained chronic inflammation,disruption of normal cellular homeostasis,and potential viral integration into host cells.These pathological processes have the potential to dysregulate critical cellular pathways,thereby promoting cancer development in vulnerable populations.A thorough understanding of how SARS-CoV-2 interacts with the development of gastro-intestinal cancer is essential for optimizing patient care and establishing compre-hensive,long-term monitoring protocols.This review highlighted the pressing need for ongoing research into the complex relationship between SARS-CoV-2 infection and the risk of gastrointestinal cancer.展开更多
BACKGROUND The Mac-2 binding protein glycosylated isomer(M2BPGi)is a serum marker for fibrosis that correlates with the fibrosis stages in various liver diseases.AIM To examine the M2BPGi’s threshold for staging fibr...BACKGROUND The Mac-2 binding protein glycosylated isomer(M2BPGi)is a serum marker for fibrosis that correlates with the fibrosis stages in various liver diseases.AIM To examine the M2BPGi’s threshold for staging fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis B(CHB),and its changes during treatment.METHODS This was a prospective,longitudinal study.A total of 348 eligible patients were recruited from the Hepatology Department,Medic Medical Center between March 2020 and December 2023.Liver enzyme tests,platelet counts,M2BPGi levels,and FibroScan were conducted at baseline and at 3-month intervals until six months post-treatment.Correlation plots of M2BPGi,FibroScan,and the other parameters were generated.Receiver operating characteristic curves were constructed for M2BPGi and the other parameters to evaluate their performance.RESULTS M2BPGi levels correlated well with FibroScan results and increased as the fibrosis stage advanced.The median M2BPGi levels at the different stages of fibrosis showed statistically significant differences.The cut-off values of M2BPGi for diagnosing significant fibrosis(F≥2),advanced fibrosis(F3),and cirrhosis(F4)were determined to be 1.08,1.4,and 1.52,respectively.In the context of fibrosis regression in CHB patients during the first 6-month of treatment,M2BPGi levels appeared to decrease before this pattern occurred in the FibroScan results.CONCLUSION M2BPGi levels were strongly correlated with FibroScan.M2BPGi can be used to assess liver fibrosis,and to serve as a tool for monitoring fibrosis regression in CHB patients undergoing treatment.展开更多
Global warming is making plants more susceptible to heat stress.Hence,adjustments to crop production systems are required for global food security.Heat stress(HS)poses a threat to the quality of ecosystems and global ...Global warming is making plants more susceptible to heat stress.Hence,adjustments to crop production systems are required for global food security.Heat stress(HS)poses a threat to the quality of ecosystems and global food security due to its adverse effects on plant development.The degree to which HS affects physiological disruptions,physical harm,and biochemical changes at various growth stages directly correlates with its effects on physiological functions,plant growth,and crop production.One promising approach is soil modification using biochar,which enhances soil health and promotes the development of microbial communities,ultimately improving plant heat tolerance.Biochar enhances soil structure,improves moisture retention,and increases nutrient availability in hot weather,thereby promoting plant growth and enhancing crop yields.Additionally,biochar,with its porous structure and ability to provide a liming effect,increases the diversity and activity of soil microbes,thereby fostering advantageous symbiotic relationships.These microbial communities support nutrient cycling,root growth,and general soil health,strengthening biochar’s position as a long-term solution for climate-resilient farming.Earlier research concentrated on the connection between biochar and heat stress or microbial populations;however,this review uniquely combines all three elements,providing a fresh viewpoint on their interrelated functions in enhancing plant adaptability.Furthermore,this study demonstrates the potential of biochar as a sustainable component for improving soil and supporting crops that adapt to heat stress.It examines the processes underlying these interactions and provides recommendations for future research strategies.展开更多
BACKGROUND Mac-2 binding protein glycosylation isomer(M2BPGi)serves as a marker of activated hepatic stellate cells and as such holds potential as a biomarker for liver fibrosis.In Viet Nam,metabolic dysfunction-assoc...BACKGROUND Mac-2 binding protein glycosylation isomer(M2BPGi)serves as a marker of activated hepatic stellate cells and as such holds potential as a biomarker for liver fibrosis.In Viet Nam,metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease(MASLD)is rising in prevalence and there is an urgent need for better clinical management,particularly in early detection methods that will improve overall prognosis.AIM To examine M2BPGi cut-off values for staging liver fibrosis in patients with MASLD and risk factors associated with disease progression.METHODS A total of 301 individuals with ultrasound-confirmed or FibroScan-confirmed diagnosis of fatty liver were enrolled in the study.The participants were stratified according to fibrosis stage,measured via magnetic resonance elastography.M2-BPGi,Fibrosis-4(FIB-4)Index score,and routine parameters of liver function were assessed to statistically investigate the correlation of M2BPGi levels in various fibrosis stages and to identify risk factors associated with fibrosis severity.RESULTS M2BPGi levels positively correlated with fibrosis stages,with cut-off indexes of 0.57 for F0-1,0.68 for F2-3,and 0.78 for F4.M2BPGi levels in the F0-1 group were significantly different from those in both the F2-3 group(P=0.038)and the F4 group(P=0.0051);the F2-3 and F4 groups did not show a significant difference(P=0.39).Females exhibited significantly higher M2BPGi levels than males for all fibrosis stages,particularly in the F2-3 group(P=0.01)and F4 group(P=0.0006).In the F4(cirrhosis)group,individuals with diabetes had significantly higher M2BPGi levels than those without.M2BPGi,hemoglobin A1c,and FIB-4 score were identified as independent risk factors for greater fibrosis and cirrhosis.CONCLUSION M2BPGi levels varied significantly throughout fibrosis progression,from early MASLD to cirrhosis,with sex correlation.M2BPGi holds promise as an early biomarker for fibrosis characterization in MASLD adult patient populations.展开更多
Objective:A risk-based sequential screening strategy,from questionnaire-based assessment to biomarker measurement and then to endoscopic examination,has the potential to enhance gastric cancer(GC)screening efficiency....Objective:A risk-based sequential screening strategy,from questionnaire-based assessment to biomarker measurement and then to endoscopic examination,has the potential to enhance gastric cancer(GC)screening efficiency.We aimed to evaluate the ability of five common stomach-specific serum biomarkers to further enrich high-risk individuals for GC in the questionnaire-identified high-risk population.Methods:This study was conducted based on a risk-based screening program in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region,China.We first performed questionnaire assessment involving 23,381 individuals(7,042 outpatients and 16,339 individuals from the community),and those assessed as“high-risk”were then invited to participate in serological assays and endoscopic examinations.The serological biomarker model was derived based on logistic regression,with predictors selected via the Akaike information criterion.Model performance was evaluated by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve(AUC).Results:A total of 2,011 participants were ultimately included for analysis.The final serological biomarker model had three predictors,comprising pepsinogenⅠ(PGI),pepsinogenⅠ/Ⅱratio(PGR),and anti-Helicobacter pylori immunoglobulin G(anti-H.pylori IgG)antibodies.This model generated an AUC of 0.733(95%confidence interval:0.655-0.812)and demonstrated the best discriminative ability compared with previously developed serological biomarker models.As the risk cut-off value of our model rose,the detection rate increased and the number of endoscopies needed to detect one case decreased.Conclusions:PGI,PGR,and anti-H.pylori Ig G could be jointly used to further enrich high-risk individuals for GC among those selected by questionnaire assessment,providing insight for the development of a multi-stage riskbased sequential strategy for GC screening.展开更多
Background:A germicide like Izal is chemical agent used for reducing and preventing microbial loads in systems for treating water as well as other industries like agriculture and aquaculture.The environmental impact o...Background:A germicide like Izal is chemical agent used for reducing and preventing microbial loads in systems for treating water as well as other industries like agriculture and aquaculture.The environmental impact of germicide is often more than the target intended by those who use them.The purpose of the current study was to ascertain the toxicity levels and behavioral alterations of Juvenile African catfish,Clarias gariepinus,subjected to Izal exposure.Methods:The stock solution was created from the 100 mL by mixing 1 mL of the Izal with 99 mL of water.After that,different nominal concentrations of Izal were prepared using the stock solution by diluting the toxin with tap water in determined amounts(10 L).The fish were exposed to acute concentrations of 1.0,1.5,2.0,2.5 and 3.0 mg/L of Izal had a control that served as a reference point.Results:The lethal concentration of Izal(24 h LC50)was found to be 2.4136 mg/L(95%confidence interval=2.1707–2.6838)for test fish under a semi-static system showing that Izal is moderately poisonous to the species in a dose-dependent manner and time(duration).The highest mortality was recorded in the highest concentration(3.0 mg/L)of Izal while the least mortality was observed in the 1.5 mg/L group.Izal-exposed fish had aberrant behavior,including hyperactivity,gasping of air,respiratory distress,attempts to jump out of the water,erratic swimming,refusal to feed,lethargic movement,and slow response to feed,loss of balance and depigmentation.The severity of the abnormal behavior decreased after 24 h,but remained mildly to moderately high at 2.0 and 2.5 mg/L of Izal.It was found that the death rate increased with Izal concentration and duration.Conclusion:The present study revealed that Izal was moderately toxic to Claris gariepinus juveniles and should be used prudently in the environment to guard against toxicological effect on non-target organisms such as fish.For this reason,the use of the germicides should be with caution especially near water bodies.展开更多
Improving crop productivity and soil fertility through the balanced application of inorganic and organic nutrient sources is a sustainable approach in modern agriculture.Char land soils,widely distributed in riverine ...Improving crop productivity and soil fertility through the balanced application of inorganic and organic nutrient sources is a sustainable approach in modern agriculture.Char land soils,widely distributed in riverine Bangladesh,are generally low in organic matter status and deficient in necessary nutrient elements for crop production.Addressing this challenge,the present study was conducted to investigate the effects of various organic nutrient sources with inorganic fertilizers on crop yields,nutrient uptake,and soil fertility in farm(L1)and char land(L2)of Brahmaputra River in Mymensingh,Bangladesh from 2022(Y1)to 2023(Y2).For each location,eight treatments viz.T1(Control),T2[100%recommended fertilizer dose(RFD)],T3(75%RFD),T4(75%N from RFD 25%N from cow dung),T5(75%+N from RFD 25%N from poultry manure),T6(75%N from RFD 25%N from vermicompost),T7(75%N from++RFD 25%N from household compost)and T8(75%N from RFD 25%N from rice straw compost)were arranged in++a randomized complete block design with three replications using Wheat–Mungbean–T.Aman rice cropping pattern where three way interaction was considered for results.Treatment T5 performed the best in both years in both locations as it enhanced the yield components(p 0.05)and caused yield increment over control.The yield improvement in<Char land soils was higher than that in farm soils.For all three crops,treatment T5 consistently augmented the uptake of nitrogen,phosphorus,potassium,and sulphur by different parts of the crops and improved soil fertility properties such as organic matter status,cation exchange capacity,total nitrogen,available phosphorus,and sulphur as well as exchangeable potassium in both locations in both years.Cost and return analysis of different treatments for the whole cropping system showed that the highest marginal benefit-cost ratio(16.35 and 15.07)and gross return(about Tk 768,595/ha and 728,341/ha)were obtained from the T5 treatment in farm soils and Char land soils,respectively.Followed by poultry manure,vermicompost performed well in addition to mineral fertilizers for improving crop yield and soil fertility but its economic efficiency was less due to high input cost.These findings may be useful to the smallholder farmers in char areas,who could benefit from increased productivity,reduced reliance on chemical fertilizers,and improved soil health,contributing to the long-term sustainability of char land agriculture.展开更多
BACKGROUNDAs the population of colorectal cancer(CRC)survivors continues to grow,thedemand for effective,evidence-based post-treatment strategies becomes increasinglyurgent.Despite robust evidence linking lifestyle fa...BACKGROUNDAs the population of colorectal cancer(CRC)survivors continues to grow,thedemand for effective,evidence-based post-treatment strategies becomes increasinglyurgent.Despite robust evidence linking lifestyle factors to canceroutcomes,there remains no established consensus on the optimal nutritional andphysical activity(PA)guidelines for disease-free CRC survivors.AIMTo demonstrate that structured lifestyle interventions,specifically tailored dietaryand PA programs,can significantly improve behavioral targets as well as diseasefreeand overall survival(OS).METHODSWe designed a 2×2 factorial phase II randomized controlled trial to compare the effects of dietary and PA interventions with standard care.RESULTSA total of 300 CRC survivors in complete remission will be recruited from oncology centers in Misurata and Zliten(Libya)and the Habib Bourguiba University Hospital(Tunisia).Participants will be randomized into four groups:Combined intervention,diet-only,PA-only,or usual care.They will be followed for 24 months,with outcomesincluding disease-free survival,OS,and quality of life.Ethical approval has been obtained(Sfax ID:61/24;Misurata ID:04/2023),and the trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov(NCT06194786).CONCLUSIONThis study will provide crucial region-specific evidence on the feasibility and effectiveness of lifestyle interventionsin CRC survivorship care.By evaluating the role of a high-fiber,low-red meat diet and structured PA,we aim todemonstrate the potential of these behaviors to improve survival outcomes and support their integration intofuture clinical practice guidelines.展开更多
Anthropogenic disturbances are causing significant impacts on plant distribution worldwide,and many of these effects are driven by changes in the recruitment patterns of plant species.Global warming and land-use chang...Anthropogenic disturbances are causing significant impacts on plant distribution worldwide,and many of these effects are driven by changes in the recruitment patterns of plant species.Global warming and land-use change are two major disturbances leading to changes in germination strategies by changing both soil temperature regimes and light quality reaching the seeds due to soil disturbance.Investigating the range,overlap,and redundancy of niche germination of co-occurring plant species allows us to understand whether endemic species are threatened either by native non-endemic or by alien species,especially in an ecosystem of restricted distribution such as the campo rupestre.Employing a systematic review,this study aimed to evaluate the effect of temperature increase and seed burial on the germination of endemic and non-endemic species in the campo rupestre in Brazil.We performed a metaanalysis using increased temperature and darkness as proxies for the impact of disturbance on germination patterns.In this context,we hypothesized that:increased temperature and darkness negatively influence the germination of native species and positively influence the germination of alien species in the campo rupestre.Specifically,we expect the negative effect to be more pronounced in endemic species than in native non-endemic species.Moreover,we intend to describe the role of seed size in the germination of native and alien species from campo rupestre in the context of increased temperature and darkness.Our analysis showed that increased temperature influenced the germination of alien species by ca.55%,while it did not influence the germination of endemic or native non-endemic species.Furthermore,the germination of alien species under higher temperatures was promoted by increasing seed size.Darkness negatively influenced seed germination of native species,independent of their distribution.Moreover,under darkness conditions,the germination of endemic seeds decreased with seed size.Through their direct effects on germination strategies,we conclude that warming temperatures and land-use change can lead to a long-term displacement of endemic species by native non-endemic and alien species in campo rupestre,thus compromising ecosystem services and conservation of these fragile physiognomies in the near future.展开更多
Objective:The objective of this study was to determine the level of methotrexate(MTX)toxicity in the intestines of mice and to evaluate the protective effect of probiotics composed of Streptococcus,Bifidobacterium,and...Objective:The objective of this study was to determine the level of methotrexate(MTX)toxicity in the intestines of mice and to evaluate the protective effect of probiotics composed of Streptococcus,Bifidobacterium,and Lactobacillus species on intestinal cells during MTX treatment.Methods:Mice were divided into three groups:control,MTX group(received MTX injections),and MTX+probiotics group(received MTX injections along with a diet containing probiotics).Morphological and histological changes,the level of mitochondrial DNA(mtDNA)damage,the level of lipid peroxidation products,and gene expression in the mice’s small intestine were assessed.Results:We demonstrated that intraperitoneal MTX injections significantly increased mtDNA damage in the liver(p<0.001),small intestine(p<0.001),and blood of mice(p<0.01).MTX elevated the quantity of lipid peroxidation products in the liver and small intestine,indicating its strong prooxidative properties.MTX induced structural changes in the mice’s intestines,characterized by leukocytic infiltration of tissues.Probiotic therapy in mice partially mitigated the morphological and histological changes in the small intestine induced by MTX,reduced oxidative stress,and promoted increased expression of quinone oxidoreductase 1(Nqo1),which participates in both cell protection against oxidative stress and drug/xenobiotic detoxification.Probiotics prevented the upregulation of the proinflammatory cytokine IL-1b in the small intestine and induced increased expression of genes associated with the Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/Antioxidant response element(Nrf2/ARE)pathway,an important mechanism of cell protection.Conclusions:Probiotics can be considered an effective approach to reducing the toxicity of MTX during psoriasis or cancer treatment.展开更多
The application of therapeutic herbs in treatment of common infections and diseases has gained popularity in developing nations due to its cost-effectiveness and purported lower side effects compared to synthetic drug...The application of therapeutic herbs in treatment of common infections and diseases has gained popularity in developing nations due to its cost-effectiveness and purported lower side effects compared to synthetic drugs.Fagara zanthoxyloides Lam also known as Zanthoxylum zanthoxyloides,is an indigenous plant used widely as chewing stick for tooth cleaning in West Africa.The root-bark macerations,decoctions or infusions are the most valuable organs widely taken to treat malaria and diabetes by local populations,traditional healers and local pharmaceutical firms.Searching alternative,more efficient,safer,and less expensive anti-diabetic natural products from plants has received great attention,hence this research delved into the inhibitory effects of the ethyl acetate fraction of F.zanthoxyloides root-bark(EAFFZRB)on in-vitroα-amylase andα-glucosidase enzymes.Standard biochemical methods were used to extract and assess the in-vitro antioxidant such as 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazl(DPPH),total antioxidant capacity(TAC)and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power(FRAP).The sample was combined at different concentrations(10,20,40,80,160,320,and 640μl/dl).Theα-amylase,andα-glucosidase activities of EAFFZRB sample was combined at different concentrations(0.2,0.4,0.6,0.8 and 1.0 mg/mL).The phyto-constituents in EAFFZRB were identified using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry(GC-MS)technique.The plant fraction showed a significant(P<0.05)increase in the inhibition ofα-amylase IC50=0.726 andα-glucosidase IC50=0.877 at varying concentrations,comparable to the reference drug Acarbose IC50=0.728 and IC50=0.852 respectively.EAFFZRB demonstrated significant(P<0.05)inhibition at different concentrations on DPPH(66.55±1.57),TAC(0.47±0.17)and FRAP(3.64±0.14),similar to the effect of the standard ascorbic acid.The GC-MS analysis of EAFFZRB revealed a total of 12 volatile organic compounds such as;Phenol-3-methoxy-2,5,6-trimethyl,2-Hydroxy-5-nitrobenzylbromide,2,6-Dimethyl-4-(3-nitrophenyl)pyridine,1H-Benz[e]indene,2-methyl and others.The study confirmed the in-vitro anti-diabetic and anti-oxidant properties of EAFFZRB,supporting the traditional use of the plant which might have acted additively or in synergy towards potentiating of antidiabetic effect observed,and it could be beneficial to the pharmaceutical industry if utilized.展开更多
BACKGROUND Silver-Russell syndrome(SRS)is a clinically heterogeneous entity characterized by intrauterine and postnatal growth restriction,relative macrocephaly at birth,distinct facial features,and body asymmetry com...BACKGROUND Silver-Russell syndrome(SRS)is a clinically heterogeneous entity characterized by intrauterine and postnatal growth restriction,relative macrocephaly at birth,distinct facial features,and body asymmetry combined with other malformations.CASE SUMMARY Herein,we describe four individuals with SRS,focusing on their prenatal phenotype,postnatal presentation,diagnosis,and management.All cases had a typical phenotype,including postnatal growth failure,short stature(chronic malnutrition),and protruding forehead.Individually,they presented with feeding difficulties,leg length discrepancy,triangular face,or relative macrocephaly at birth,and each one exhibited distinct SRS features,including motor and/or speech delay,experiencing frequent hypoglycemic episodes.The fact that each patient exhibited a different combination of clinical findings underlines the heterogeneity of the syndrome.CONCLUSION SRS is diagnosed clinically.However,only 60%of cases are genetically confirmed,while most are sporadic.Although SRS is a well-described syndrome,a delayed diagnosis can have grave consequences on a child’s growth.Recombinant human growth hormone treatment is often initiated shortly after the diagnosis.The follow-up requires a multidisciplinary approach.展开更多
Reproductive hormones associated with the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal(HPG)axis are closely linked to bone homeostasis.In this study,we demonstrate that Gonadotropin inhibitory hormone(GnIH,one of the key reproducti...Reproductive hormones associated with the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal(HPG)axis are closely linked to bone homeostasis.In this study,we demonstrate that Gonadotropin inhibitory hormone(GnIH,one of the key reproductive hormones upstream of the HPG axis)plays an indispensable role in regulating bone homeostasis and maintaining bone mass.We find that deficiency of GnIH or its receptor Gpr147 leads to a significant reduction in bone mineral density(BMD)in mice primarily by enhancement of osteoclast activation in vivo and in vitro.Mechanistically,GnIH/Gpr147 inhibits osteoclastogenesis by the PI3K/AKT,MAPK,NF-κB and Nfatc1 signaling pathways.Furthermore,GnIH treatment was able to alleviate bone loss in aging,ovariectomy(OVX)or LPS-induced mice.Moreover,the therapy using green light promotes the release of GnIH and rescues OVX-induced bone loss.In humans,serum GnIH increases and bone resorption markers decrease after green light exposure.Therefore,our study elucidates that GnIH plays an important role in maintaining bone homeostasis via modulating osteoclast differentiation and demonstrates the potential of GnIH therapy or green light therapy in preventing osteoporosis.展开更多
文摘Traumatic brain injury(TBI)is a public health problem with an undue economic burden that impacts nearly every age,ethnic,and gender group across the globe(Capizzi et al.,2020).TBIs are often sustained during a dynamic range of exposures to energetic environmental forces and as such outcomes are typically heterogeneous regarding severity and pathology(Capizzi et al.,2020).
基金Supported by the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences and Dasman Diabetes Institute,No.RACB-2021-007.
文摘In this editorial,we highlight the study by Xiao et al.Despite progress in the management of diabetic foot ulcers(DFUs),impaired wound healing remains a significant clinical challenge.Recent studies have highlighted the critical role of epigenetic modifications in diabetic wound healing,with particular emphasis on DNA and RNA methylation pathways.This editorial discusses the findings of Xiao et al,who identified the Wilms tumor 1-associated protein(WTAP)-DNA methyltransferase 1(DNMT1)axis as a pivotal regulator of endothelial dys-function in DFUs.WTAP,a regulatory subunit of N6-methyladenosine(m6A)methyltransferase,is upregulated under high-glucose conditions and drives the excessive expression of DNMT1 via m6A modification.This contributes to im-paired angiogenesis,reduced cell viability,and delayed wound closure.WTAP knockdown restored endothelial function and significantly improved wound healing in a diabetic mouse model.Furthermore,DNMT1 overexpression ab-rogated the benefits of WTAP suppression,confirming its downstream effector role.Thus,targeting the WTAP-DNMT1 axis provides a new avenue for DFU management.Moreover,epigenetic interventions that modulate both the m6A and RNA methylation pathways could restore endothelial function and enhance tissue repair in patients with diabetes.
文摘Morpho-physiological evaluation of a crop’s genetic resources is necessary to find possible genotypes to include in breeding initiatives.The objective of this study was to identify heat-tolerant wheat genotypes among 36 mutant lines using morpho-physiological indices.Seedlings of mutant lines and check varieties were grown under both normal(control)and heat-stress conditions in growth chambers.Data were recorded on root-shoot parameters(length,fresh weight,dry weight,and ratio),relative water content(RWC),stability of cell membrane,pigment content,and chlorophyll fluorescence.Two-way analysis of variance showed significant(p<0.01,p<0.001)variation among 15 morpho-physiological features in both growing conditions.Correlation studies showed that pigment-specific indices(total chl,chl a,chl b,carotenoid,Fv/Fm—chlorophyll fluorescence)had significant positive correlations with rootshoot fresh weight(RFW,SFW)and root-shoot dry weight(RDW,SDW),and negative association with relative water content,stability of cell membrane at both conditions.Hierarchical cluster analysis revealed three primary clusters where cluster III(18 genotypes)showed minimal changes in studied characters than cluster I(11 genotypes)and cluster II(13 genotypes).Results obtained from this study revealed that the identified heat-sensitive(30-2 SSH)and heat-tolerant genotypes(27-2(4),29-2(2),and 30-2 SSH)of wheat might provide useful breeding materials for enhancing wheat yield even more in this period of uncertain climate change.
基金funded by Bangladesh Academy of Sciences(BAS),and Fund ID:BAS-USDA SAU CR02.
文摘Indian mustard is recognized as a resilient and economically important oilseed crop.However,its potential remains untapped due to the limited availability of short-duration,high-yielding varieties capable of out-competing other rabi crops.Considering this notion,we have evaluated twenty-one F_(2) and six BC1F1 populations derived from seven diversified parents of Brassica juncea following a Randomized Complete Block Design at Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University.Based on key agronomic traits,the genetic components,heterosis,inbreeding depression,and gene action were studied to select early maturing and high-yielding populations.The percentage of heterosis was manifested in various cross-combinations,including P4×P6(91.45%for yield per plant)and P5×P6(28.52%for thousand seed weight),emerging as promising candidates for increasing productivity while managing negative inbreeding effects.Conversely,significant inbreeding depression was noted in traits like days to siliquae maturity and yield,particularly in crosses,P1×P2(6.29%)and P3×P5(21.74%),underscoring the need for careful selection in breeding programs to mitigate these effects.Variance analysis indicated that both additive and non-additive genetic interactions play a pivotal role in the inheritance patterns of the traits of interest.Among the six backcrosses,one promising line was(P5×P6)×P5,demonstrating early maturity(107.00 DAS)with improved seed yield(12.47 g).This combination exhibited the potential for enhancing the adaptability and productivity by maintaining the maturity index and accelerating yield.Furthermore,significant phenotypic variation across yield-contributing traits was notable,whereas thousand seed weight and yield per plant showed high broad-sense and narrow-sense of heritability.Besides,positive correlations between seed yield and its attributing traits were noted,suggesting potential avenues for selection breeding.Collectively,the ob-tained findings enhance the understanding of genetic mechanisms underlying heterosis and inbreeding depres-sion in B.juncea,providing insights and effective strategies for developing superior cultivars with optimized agronomic traits.
基金Supported by The European Union-Next Generation EU,through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan of the Republic of Bulgaria,No.BG-RRP-2.004-0008。
文摘Inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)represents a significant disease burden marked by chronic inflammation and complications that adversely affect patients’quality of life.Effective diagnostic strategies involve clinical assessments,endoscopic evaluations,imaging studies,and biomarker testing,where early diagnosis is essential for effective management and prevention of long-term complications,highlighting the need for continual advancements in diagnostic methods.The intricate interplay between genetic factors and the outcomes of biological therapy is of critical importance.Unraveling the genetic determinants that influence responses and failures to biological therapy holds significant promise for optimizing treatment strategies for patients with IBD on biologics.Through an indepth examination of current literature,this review article synthesizes critical genetic markers associated with therapeutic efficacy and resistance in IBD.Understanding these genetic actors paves the way for personalized approaches,informing clinicians on predicting,tailoring,and enhancing the effectiveness of biological therapies for improved outcomes in patients with IBD.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.32472185)the Key Research and Development Program of Hubei Province,China(Grant No.2022BFE003)the Hubei Agriculture Science and Technology Innovation Center program,and the National Rice Industry Technology System,China(Grant No.CARS-01-07).
文摘Honglian type-cytoplasmic male sterility(HL-CMS)is caused by the inter-communication between the nucleus and mitochondria.However,the mechanisms by which sterility genes regulate metabolic alterations and changes in mitochondrial morphology in the pollen of HL-CMS remain unclear.In this study,we compared the morphological differences between the pollen of the male sterile line YA and the near-isogenic line NIL-Rf6 using hematoxylin-eosin staining and 4ʹ,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole(DAPI)staining.HL-CMS is characterized by gametophytic sterility,where the aborted pollen grains are empty,and the tapetal layer remains intact.Transmission electron microscopy was employed to observe mitochondrial morphological changes at the microspore stage,revealing significant mitochondrial alterations,characterized by the formation of'large spherical mitochondria',occurred at the binucleate stage in the YA line.Additionally,metabolomics analysis revealed decreased levels of metabolites associated with the carbohydrate and flavonoid pathways.Notably,the decrease in flavonoids was found to contribute to an elevation in reactive oxygen species(ROS)levels.Therefore,we propose a model in which rice fertility is modulated by the levels of pollen carbohydrates and flavonoid metabolites,with impaired mitochondrial energy production and reduced flavonoid biosynthesis as the main causes of ROS accumulation and pollen abortion in rice.
基金supported by the University of Eastern FinlandCzech University of Life Sciences doctoral research funding to O.A+5 种基金North Karelia Regional Fund to O.A (grant number 55232028)University of Eastern Finland(strategic fundingproject 931060)the Academy of Finland(C-NEUT,project number 347862)part of the Academy of Finland Flagship on Photonics Research and Innovation (PREIN) decision (320166)the Finnish National Plant Phenotyping Infrastructure (NaPPI/Biocenter Finland)
文摘We used fast chlorophyll fluorescence transients(OJIP) to study provenance-related differences in photosynthetic performance and the magnitude of day-to-day chlorophyll fluorescence(ChlF) variation in northern(67°N)and southern(62°N) silver birches in a common garden at62°N.ChlF transients were measured five times during two weeks in the middle of summer to avoid seasonal variation.Differences in growth and leaf morphological traits between the provenances were also examined.The northern trees had higher chlorophyll content,larger leaf areas,and higher leaf fresh and dry mass than the southern trees,but the leaf mass per area did not differ between the provenances.The southern trees were taller and showed higher annual shoot growth than the northern trees.For all the ChlF parameters,day-to-day variation was significant and followed the same pattern for both provenances with no significant provenance ×day interaction,suggesting a similar response to environmental variation.The northern provenance had higher values in parameters related to the reduction of end electron acceptors at the Photosystem I(PSI) acceptor side as probed by ChlF.This and higher values for performance indices PI_(abs) and PI_(tot) in northern than in southern trees suggest higher photosynthetic performance of northern trees in line with the latitudinal compensation strategy.Provenance differences in these parameters increased towards the end of the measurement period,suggesting preparation for earlier growth cessation in northern trees triggered by the shortening day length.The study shows that provenance differences in ChlF can be relatively stable regardless of environmental variation but might be influenced by physiological alterations in preparation for future changes in environmental conditions.
文摘Recent research has increasingly highlighted the potential oncogenic effects of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2)infection within the gastrointestinal tract.Growing evidence suggests that SARS-CoV-2 may contribute to the development of gastrointestinal malignancies through several mechanisms,including sustained chronic inflammation,disruption of normal cellular homeostasis,and potential viral integration into host cells.These pathological processes have the potential to dysregulate critical cellular pathways,thereby promoting cancer development in vulnerable populations.A thorough understanding of how SARS-CoV-2 interacts with the development of gastro-intestinal cancer is essential for optimizing patient care and establishing compre-hensive,long-term monitoring protocols.This review highlighted the pressing need for ongoing research into the complex relationship between SARS-CoV-2 infection and the risk of gastrointestinal cancer.
文摘BACKGROUND The Mac-2 binding protein glycosylated isomer(M2BPGi)is a serum marker for fibrosis that correlates with the fibrosis stages in various liver diseases.AIM To examine the M2BPGi’s threshold for staging fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis B(CHB),and its changes during treatment.METHODS This was a prospective,longitudinal study.A total of 348 eligible patients were recruited from the Hepatology Department,Medic Medical Center between March 2020 and December 2023.Liver enzyme tests,platelet counts,M2BPGi levels,and FibroScan were conducted at baseline and at 3-month intervals until six months post-treatment.Correlation plots of M2BPGi,FibroScan,and the other parameters were generated.Receiver operating characteristic curves were constructed for M2BPGi and the other parameters to evaluate their performance.RESULTS M2BPGi levels correlated well with FibroScan results and increased as the fibrosis stage advanced.The median M2BPGi levels at the different stages of fibrosis showed statistically significant differences.The cut-off values of M2BPGi for diagnosing significant fibrosis(F≥2),advanced fibrosis(F3),and cirrhosis(F4)were determined to be 1.08,1.4,and 1.52,respectively.In the context of fibrosis regression in CHB patients during the first 6-month of treatment,M2BPGi levels appeared to decrease before this pattern occurred in the FibroScan results.CONCLUSION M2BPGi levels were strongly correlated with FibroScan.M2BPGi can be used to assess liver fibrosis,and to serve as a tool for monitoring fibrosis regression in CHB patients undergoing treatment.
文摘Global warming is making plants more susceptible to heat stress.Hence,adjustments to crop production systems are required for global food security.Heat stress(HS)poses a threat to the quality of ecosystems and global food security due to its adverse effects on plant development.The degree to which HS affects physiological disruptions,physical harm,and biochemical changes at various growth stages directly correlates with its effects on physiological functions,plant growth,and crop production.One promising approach is soil modification using biochar,which enhances soil health and promotes the development of microbial communities,ultimately improving plant heat tolerance.Biochar enhances soil structure,improves moisture retention,and increases nutrient availability in hot weather,thereby promoting plant growth and enhancing crop yields.Additionally,biochar,with its porous structure and ability to provide a liming effect,increases the diversity and activity of soil microbes,thereby fostering advantageous symbiotic relationships.These microbial communities support nutrient cycling,root growth,and general soil health,strengthening biochar’s position as a long-term solution for climate-resilient farming.Earlier research concentrated on the connection between biochar and heat stress or microbial populations;however,this review uniquely combines all three elements,providing a fresh viewpoint on their interrelated functions in enhancing plant adaptability.Furthermore,this study demonstrates the potential of biochar as a sustainable component for improving soil and supporting crops that adapt to heat stress.It examines the processes underlying these interactions and provides recommendations for future research strategies.
文摘BACKGROUND Mac-2 binding protein glycosylation isomer(M2BPGi)serves as a marker of activated hepatic stellate cells and as such holds potential as a biomarker for liver fibrosis.In Viet Nam,metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease(MASLD)is rising in prevalence and there is an urgent need for better clinical management,particularly in early detection methods that will improve overall prognosis.AIM To examine M2BPGi cut-off values for staging liver fibrosis in patients with MASLD and risk factors associated with disease progression.METHODS A total of 301 individuals with ultrasound-confirmed or FibroScan-confirmed diagnosis of fatty liver were enrolled in the study.The participants were stratified according to fibrosis stage,measured via magnetic resonance elastography.M2-BPGi,Fibrosis-4(FIB-4)Index score,and routine parameters of liver function were assessed to statistically investigate the correlation of M2BPGi levels in various fibrosis stages and to identify risk factors associated with fibrosis severity.RESULTS M2BPGi levels positively correlated with fibrosis stages,with cut-off indexes of 0.57 for F0-1,0.68 for F2-3,and 0.78 for F4.M2BPGi levels in the F0-1 group were significantly different from those in both the F2-3 group(P=0.038)and the F4 group(P=0.0051);the F2-3 and F4 groups did not show a significant difference(P=0.39).Females exhibited significantly higher M2BPGi levels than males for all fibrosis stages,particularly in the F2-3 group(P=0.01)and F4 group(P=0.0006).In the F4(cirrhosis)group,individuals with diabetes had significantly higher M2BPGi levels than those without.M2BPGi,hemoglobin A1c,and FIB-4 score were identified as independent risk factors for greater fibrosis and cirrhosis.CONCLUSION M2BPGi levels varied significantly throughout fibrosis progression,from early MASLD to cirrhosis,with sex correlation.M2BPGi holds promise as an early biomarker for fibrosis characterization in MASLD adult patient populations.
基金supported by the Tencent Charity Foundationthe Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region Key Research and Development Program(No.2021BEG 02025)+1 种基金the Flexible Introduction of Technological Innovation Teams of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region(No.2021RXTDLX15)the Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82160644)。
文摘Objective:A risk-based sequential screening strategy,from questionnaire-based assessment to biomarker measurement and then to endoscopic examination,has the potential to enhance gastric cancer(GC)screening efficiency.We aimed to evaluate the ability of five common stomach-specific serum biomarkers to further enrich high-risk individuals for GC in the questionnaire-identified high-risk population.Methods:This study was conducted based on a risk-based screening program in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region,China.We first performed questionnaire assessment involving 23,381 individuals(7,042 outpatients and 16,339 individuals from the community),and those assessed as“high-risk”were then invited to participate in serological assays and endoscopic examinations.The serological biomarker model was derived based on logistic regression,with predictors selected via the Akaike information criterion.Model performance was evaluated by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve(AUC).Results:A total of 2,011 participants were ultimately included for analysis.The final serological biomarker model had three predictors,comprising pepsinogenⅠ(PGI),pepsinogenⅠ/Ⅱratio(PGR),and anti-Helicobacter pylori immunoglobulin G(anti-H.pylori IgG)antibodies.This model generated an AUC of 0.733(95%confidence interval:0.655-0.812)and demonstrated the best discriminative ability compared with previously developed serological biomarker models.As the risk cut-off value of our model rose,the detection rate increased and the number of endoscopies needed to detect one case decreased.Conclusions:PGI,PGR,and anti-H.pylori Ig G could be jointly used to further enrich high-risk individuals for GC among those selected by questionnaire assessment,providing insight for the development of a multi-stage riskbased sequential strategy for GC screening.
文摘Background:A germicide like Izal is chemical agent used for reducing and preventing microbial loads in systems for treating water as well as other industries like agriculture and aquaculture.The environmental impact of germicide is often more than the target intended by those who use them.The purpose of the current study was to ascertain the toxicity levels and behavioral alterations of Juvenile African catfish,Clarias gariepinus,subjected to Izal exposure.Methods:The stock solution was created from the 100 mL by mixing 1 mL of the Izal with 99 mL of water.After that,different nominal concentrations of Izal were prepared using the stock solution by diluting the toxin with tap water in determined amounts(10 L).The fish were exposed to acute concentrations of 1.0,1.5,2.0,2.5 and 3.0 mg/L of Izal had a control that served as a reference point.Results:The lethal concentration of Izal(24 h LC50)was found to be 2.4136 mg/L(95%confidence interval=2.1707–2.6838)for test fish under a semi-static system showing that Izal is moderately poisonous to the species in a dose-dependent manner and time(duration).The highest mortality was recorded in the highest concentration(3.0 mg/L)of Izal while the least mortality was observed in the 1.5 mg/L group.Izal-exposed fish had aberrant behavior,including hyperactivity,gasping of air,respiratory distress,attempts to jump out of the water,erratic swimming,refusal to feed,lethargic movement,and slow response to feed,loss of balance and depigmentation.The severity of the abnormal behavior decreased after 24 h,but remained mildly to moderately high at 2.0 and 2.5 mg/L of Izal.It was found that the death rate increased with Izal concentration and duration.Conclusion:The present study revealed that Izal was moderately toxic to Claris gariepinus juveniles and should be used prudently in the environment to guard against toxicological effect on non-target organisms such as fish.For this reason,the use of the germicides should be with caution especially near water bodies.
基金funded by Taif University,Saudi Arabia,Project No.(TU-DSPP-2025-30)The Science and Technology Fellowship Trust(SL No.39.00.0000.035.22.013.19.144)under the Ministry of Science and Technology of Bangladesh partially financed the current research。
文摘Improving crop productivity and soil fertility through the balanced application of inorganic and organic nutrient sources is a sustainable approach in modern agriculture.Char land soils,widely distributed in riverine Bangladesh,are generally low in organic matter status and deficient in necessary nutrient elements for crop production.Addressing this challenge,the present study was conducted to investigate the effects of various organic nutrient sources with inorganic fertilizers on crop yields,nutrient uptake,and soil fertility in farm(L1)and char land(L2)of Brahmaputra River in Mymensingh,Bangladesh from 2022(Y1)to 2023(Y2).For each location,eight treatments viz.T1(Control),T2[100%recommended fertilizer dose(RFD)],T3(75%RFD),T4(75%N from RFD 25%N from cow dung),T5(75%+N from RFD 25%N from poultry manure),T6(75%N from RFD 25%N from vermicompost),T7(75%N from++RFD 25%N from household compost)and T8(75%N from RFD 25%N from rice straw compost)were arranged in++a randomized complete block design with three replications using Wheat–Mungbean–T.Aman rice cropping pattern where three way interaction was considered for results.Treatment T5 performed the best in both years in both locations as it enhanced the yield components(p 0.05)and caused yield increment over control.The yield improvement in<Char land soils was higher than that in farm soils.For all three crops,treatment T5 consistently augmented the uptake of nitrogen,phosphorus,potassium,and sulphur by different parts of the crops and improved soil fertility properties such as organic matter status,cation exchange capacity,total nitrogen,available phosphorus,and sulphur as well as exchangeable potassium in both locations in both years.Cost and return analysis of different treatments for the whole cropping system showed that the highest marginal benefit-cost ratio(16.35 and 15.07)and gross return(about Tk 768,595/ha and 728,341/ha)were obtained from the T5 treatment in farm soils and Char land soils,respectively.Followed by poultry manure,vermicompost performed well in addition to mineral fertilizers for improving crop yield and soil fertility but its economic efficiency was less due to high input cost.These findings may be useful to the smallholder farmers in char areas,who could benefit from increased productivity,reduced reliance on chemical fertilizers,and improved soil health,contributing to the long-term sustainability of char land agriculture.
文摘BACKGROUNDAs the population of colorectal cancer(CRC)survivors continues to grow,thedemand for effective,evidence-based post-treatment strategies becomes increasinglyurgent.Despite robust evidence linking lifestyle factors to canceroutcomes,there remains no established consensus on the optimal nutritional andphysical activity(PA)guidelines for disease-free CRC survivors.AIMTo demonstrate that structured lifestyle interventions,specifically tailored dietaryand PA programs,can significantly improve behavioral targets as well as diseasefreeand overall survival(OS).METHODSWe designed a 2×2 factorial phase II randomized controlled trial to compare the effects of dietary and PA interventions with standard care.RESULTSA total of 300 CRC survivors in complete remission will be recruited from oncology centers in Misurata and Zliten(Libya)and the Habib Bourguiba University Hospital(Tunisia).Participants will be randomized into four groups:Combined intervention,diet-only,PA-only,or usual care.They will be followed for 24 months,with outcomesincluding disease-free survival,OS,and quality of life.Ethical approval has been obtained(Sfax ID:61/24;Misurata ID:04/2023),and the trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov(NCT06194786).CONCLUSIONThis study will provide crucial region-specific evidence on the feasibility and effectiveness of lifestyle interventionsin CRC survivorship care.By evaluating the role of a high-fiber,low-red meat diet and structured PA,we aim todemonstrate the potential of these behaviors to improve survival outcomes and support their integration intofuture clinical practice guidelines.
基金financial support from CNPq/Peld CRSC,Fapemig,CAPES,Anglo American,and Vale.
文摘Anthropogenic disturbances are causing significant impacts on plant distribution worldwide,and many of these effects are driven by changes in the recruitment patterns of plant species.Global warming and land-use change are two major disturbances leading to changes in germination strategies by changing both soil temperature regimes and light quality reaching the seeds due to soil disturbance.Investigating the range,overlap,and redundancy of niche germination of co-occurring plant species allows us to understand whether endemic species are threatened either by native non-endemic or by alien species,especially in an ecosystem of restricted distribution such as the campo rupestre.Employing a systematic review,this study aimed to evaluate the effect of temperature increase and seed burial on the germination of endemic and non-endemic species in the campo rupestre in Brazil.We performed a metaanalysis using increased temperature and darkness as proxies for the impact of disturbance on germination patterns.In this context,we hypothesized that:increased temperature and darkness negatively influence the germination of native species and positively influence the germination of alien species in the campo rupestre.Specifically,we expect the negative effect to be more pronounced in endemic species than in native non-endemic species.Moreover,we intend to describe the role of seed size in the germination of native and alien species from campo rupestre in the context of increased temperature and darkness.Our analysis showed that increased temperature influenced the germination of alien species by ca.55%,while it did not influence the germination of endemic or native non-endemic species.Furthermore,the germination of alien species under higher temperatures was promoted by increasing seed size.Darkness negatively influenced seed germination of native species,independent of their distribution.Moreover,under darkness conditions,the germination of endemic seeds decreased with seed size.Through their direct effects on germination strategies,we conclude that warming temperatures and land-use change can lead to a long-term displacement of endemic species by native non-endemic and alien species in campo rupestre,thus compromising ecosystem services and conservation of these fragile physiognomies in the near future.
基金This research was carried out within the State Assignment of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation(project FZGW-2024-0003).
文摘Objective:The objective of this study was to determine the level of methotrexate(MTX)toxicity in the intestines of mice and to evaluate the protective effect of probiotics composed of Streptococcus,Bifidobacterium,and Lactobacillus species on intestinal cells during MTX treatment.Methods:Mice were divided into three groups:control,MTX group(received MTX injections),and MTX+probiotics group(received MTX injections along with a diet containing probiotics).Morphological and histological changes,the level of mitochondrial DNA(mtDNA)damage,the level of lipid peroxidation products,and gene expression in the mice’s small intestine were assessed.Results:We demonstrated that intraperitoneal MTX injections significantly increased mtDNA damage in the liver(p<0.001),small intestine(p<0.001),and blood of mice(p<0.01).MTX elevated the quantity of lipid peroxidation products in the liver and small intestine,indicating its strong prooxidative properties.MTX induced structural changes in the mice’s intestines,characterized by leukocytic infiltration of tissues.Probiotic therapy in mice partially mitigated the morphological and histological changes in the small intestine induced by MTX,reduced oxidative stress,and promoted increased expression of quinone oxidoreductase 1(Nqo1),which participates in both cell protection against oxidative stress and drug/xenobiotic detoxification.Probiotics prevented the upregulation of the proinflammatory cytokine IL-1b in the small intestine and induced increased expression of genes associated with the Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/Antioxidant response element(Nrf2/ARE)pathway,an important mechanism of cell protection.Conclusions:Probiotics can be considered an effective approach to reducing the toxicity of MTX during psoriasis or cancer treatment.
文摘The application of therapeutic herbs in treatment of common infections and diseases has gained popularity in developing nations due to its cost-effectiveness and purported lower side effects compared to synthetic drugs.Fagara zanthoxyloides Lam also known as Zanthoxylum zanthoxyloides,is an indigenous plant used widely as chewing stick for tooth cleaning in West Africa.The root-bark macerations,decoctions or infusions are the most valuable organs widely taken to treat malaria and diabetes by local populations,traditional healers and local pharmaceutical firms.Searching alternative,more efficient,safer,and less expensive anti-diabetic natural products from plants has received great attention,hence this research delved into the inhibitory effects of the ethyl acetate fraction of F.zanthoxyloides root-bark(EAFFZRB)on in-vitroα-amylase andα-glucosidase enzymes.Standard biochemical methods were used to extract and assess the in-vitro antioxidant such as 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazl(DPPH),total antioxidant capacity(TAC)and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power(FRAP).The sample was combined at different concentrations(10,20,40,80,160,320,and 640μl/dl).Theα-amylase,andα-glucosidase activities of EAFFZRB sample was combined at different concentrations(0.2,0.4,0.6,0.8 and 1.0 mg/mL).The phyto-constituents in EAFFZRB were identified using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry(GC-MS)technique.The plant fraction showed a significant(P<0.05)increase in the inhibition ofα-amylase IC50=0.726 andα-glucosidase IC50=0.877 at varying concentrations,comparable to the reference drug Acarbose IC50=0.728 and IC50=0.852 respectively.EAFFZRB demonstrated significant(P<0.05)inhibition at different concentrations on DPPH(66.55±1.57),TAC(0.47±0.17)and FRAP(3.64±0.14),similar to the effect of the standard ascorbic acid.The GC-MS analysis of EAFFZRB revealed a total of 12 volatile organic compounds such as;Phenol-3-methoxy-2,5,6-trimethyl,2-Hydroxy-5-nitrobenzylbromide,2,6-Dimethyl-4-(3-nitrophenyl)pyridine,1H-Benz[e]indene,2-methyl and others.The study confirmed the in-vitro anti-diabetic and anti-oxidant properties of EAFFZRB,supporting the traditional use of the plant which might have acted additively or in synergy towards potentiating of antidiabetic effect observed,and it could be beneficial to the pharmaceutical industry if utilized.
文摘BACKGROUND Silver-Russell syndrome(SRS)is a clinically heterogeneous entity characterized by intrauterine and postnatal growth restriction,relative macrocephaly at birth,distinct facial features,and body asymmetry combined with other malformations.CASE SUMMARY Herein,we describe four individuals with SRS,focusing on their prenatal phenotype,postnatal presentation,diagnosis,and management.All cases had a typical phenotype,including postnatal growth failure,short stature(chronic malnutrition),and protruding forehead.Individually,they presented with feeding difficulties,leg length discrepancy,triangular face,or relative macrocephaly at birth,and each one exhibited distinct SRS features,including motor and/or speech delay,experiencing frequent hypoglycemic episodes.The fact that each patient exhibited a different combination of clinical findings underlines the heterogeneity of the syndrome.CONCLUSION SRS is diagnosed clinically.However,only 60%of cases are genetically confirmed,while most are sporadic.Although SRS is a well-described syndrome,a delayed diagnosis can have grave consequences on a child’s growth.Recombinant human growth hormone treatment is often initiated shortly after the diagnosis.The follow-up requires a multidisciplinary approach.
基金National Key Research and Development Program of China(2023YFB3810200 to J.L.)National Natural Science Foundation of China(92168204,82225030 to J.L.)Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(22120210586 to J.L.)。
文摘Reproductive hormones associated with the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal(HPG)axis are closely linked to bone homeostasis.In this study,we demonstrate that Gonadotropin inhibitory hormone(GnIH,one of the key reproductive hormones upstream of the HPG axis)plays an indispensable role in regulating bone homeostasis and maintaining bone mass.We find that deficiency of GnIH or its receptor Gpr147 leads to a significant reduction in bone mineral density(BMD)in mice primarily by enhancement of osteoclast activation in vivo and in vitro.Mechanistically,GnIH/Gpr147 inhibits osteoclastogenesis by the PI3K/AKT,MAPK,NF-κB and Nfatc1 signaling pathways.Furthermore,GnIH treatment was able to alleviate bone loss in aging,ovariectomy(OVX)or LPS-induced mice.Moreover,the therapy using green light promotes the release of GnIH and rescues OVX-induced bone loss.In humans,serum GnIH increases and bone resorption markers decrease after green light exposure.Therefore,our study elucidates that GnIH plays an important role in maintaining bone homeostasis via modulating osteoclast differentiation and demonstrates the potential of GnIH therapy or green light therapy in preventing osteoporosis.