The snakes comprising the monophyletic group referred to as ratsnakes are found throughout Asia,Europe and the New World.Recently,three snake samples likely belonging to the ratsnakes were collected in Zoige County,Si...The snakes comprising the monophyletic group referred to as ratsnakes are found throughout Asia,Europe and the New World.Recently,three snake samples likely belonging to the ratsnakes were collected in Zoige County,Sichuan Province,China.Species identity was difficult to delimit morphologically because the specimens were juveniles and partially damaged.Subsequently,a molecular phylogenetic approach was used.Portions of three mitochondrial genes(cyt b,ND4 and 12S rRNA) were sequenced and analyzed.The results showed that they were sister to the genus Elaphe.Very little genetic variation was found among the three samples.The minimum genetic distances between these samples and those within Elaphe were greater than any currently recognized species within the genus.We conclude that this likely represents a new species within the genus Elaphe.Adult specimens and a morphologic description are needed for further study.展开更多
Harmful algal blooms （HABs） have been affecting negatively the shellfish and aquaculture industries around the world. Though a lot of efforts have been made to disclose the changes of environmental factors involved ...Harmful algal blooms （HABs） have been affecting negatively the shellfish and aquaculture industries around the world. Though a lot of efforts have been made to disclose the changes of environmental factors involved and their effects on the HABs events, the molecular mechanism of this process remains unclear. To address this problem, proliferating cell nuclear antigen gene （pcna） was isolated and characterized from Alexandrium catenella. It showed high homology to those of other dinoflagellates （89% and 91% homology to Pfiesteria piscicid and Pyrocystis lunula, respectively）, and also 42%–43% homology to those of plant and animals. The expression level of pcna revealed by quantitative real time PCR was the lowest at the late lagging cell growth phase, increased to the highest at the late exponential phase, and then decreased at the stationary phase. Though the cell growth rate was also changing, no positive correlation between pcna expression level and cell growth rate was displayed throughout the whole cell growth stages （r 2 =0.024 6）. However, the pcna expression level had the similar trend with the change of cell growth rate throughout the whole growing process, e.g., from increasing at the earlier cell growth stage to decreasing at the following stages, though slightly lagging to the latter.展开更多
According to the developing trends of plant science and the traits of the division of botany,"attaching importance to the frontiers in botany,supporting weak subdisciplines,and paying attention to newly growing p...According to the developing trends of plant science and the traits of the division of botany,"attaching importance to the frontiers in botany,supporting weak subdisciplines,and paying attention to newly growing points"is picked up as the funding strategy of Division of Botany in NSFC.The budget and the number of projects funded have increased year after year in recent four years,and in 2004,the budget and the number of projects funded are twice of that in 2001.The paper presents principle adopted in recommending projects to be funded and briefly introduces the applications as well as a survey of fund.The list of programs funded by Division of Botany in 2004 is provided.展开更多
Quorum sensing is the biochemical communication system within bacterial cells which may instigate their virulence factors,and hence,is imperative for pathogenesis.Such a system optimizes metabolic and behavioral activ...Quorum sensing is the biochemical communication system within bacterial cells which may instigate their virulence factors,and hence,is imperative for pathogenesis.Such a system optimizes metabolic and behavioral activities played by the densely populated bacterial community as well as the production of the concomitant response against diffusible or secreted signals.Thus,the multi-layered signal transduction networks of quorum sensing help bacteria acclimatize to the disadvantages by increasing their confrontation ability aided by biofilm formation.Previous studies unraveled the impact of quorum sensing in the microbial interactions both within a single species and between several species.The development of the synthetic ecological models has added advantages in the studies of microbial sociability in natural habitats as well as aided in drug designing.Current review highlighted the up-to-date knowledge on the basic mechanisms of quorum sensing and its influence to accelerate the bacterial resistance against different environmental stimuli or synthetic drugs along with the factors affecting the quorum sensing system,and the harmful role of quorum sensing in food spoilage.The information gathered in this review would be beneficial to understand the metabolic cross talk as well as the virulence traits of the pathogenic microorganisms in course of their pathogenesis augmented by quorum sensing.展开更多
Calcineurin(CN)is a calcium-and calmodulindependent serine/threonine that has been studied in many model organisms including yeast,filamentous fungi,plants,and mammals.Its biological functions range from ion homeostas...Calcineurin(CN)is a calcium-and calmodulindependent serine/threonine that has been studied in many model organisms including yeast,filamentous fungi,plants,and mammals.Its biological functions range from ion homeostasis and virulence in lower eukaryotes to T-cell activation in humans by human nuclear factors of activated T-cells.CN is a heterodimeric protein consisting of a catalytic subunit,calcineurin A(Cna1p),which contains an active site with a dinuclear metal center,and a regulatory Ca^(2+) binding subunit called calcineurin B(Cnb1p)required to activate Cna1p.The calcineurin B subunit has been highly conserved through evolution:For example,the mammalian calcineurin B shows 54%identity with calcineurin B from Saccharomyces cerevisiae.展开更多
Brain metastasis and primary glioblastoma multiforme represent the most common and lethal malignant brain tumors.Its median survival time is typically less than a year after diagnosis.One of the major challenges in tr...Brain metastasis and primary glioblastoma multiforme represent the most common and lethal malignant brain tumors.Its median survival time is typically less than a year after diagnosis.One of the major challenges in treating these cancers is the efficiency of the transport of drugs to the central nervous system.The blood-brain barrier is cooperating with advanced stages of malignancy.The blood-brain barrier poses a significant challenge to delivering systemic medications to brain tumors.Nanodrug delivery systems have emerged as promising tools for effectively crossing this barrier.Additionally,the development of smart nanoparticles brings new hope for cancer diagnosis and treatment.These nanoparticles improve drug delivery efficiency,allowing for the creation of targeted and stimuli-responsive delivery methods.This review highlights recent advancements in nanoparticle and smart nanoparticle technologies for brain cancer treatment,exploring the range of nanoparticles under development,their applications,targeting strategies,and the latest progress in enhancing transport across the blood-brain barrier.It also addresses the ongoing challenges and potential benefits of these innovative approaches.展开更多
The issue of plastic pollutants has become a growing concern.Both microplastics(MPs)(particle size<5 mm)and nanoplastics(NPs)(particle size<1μm)can cause DNA damage,cytotoxicity,and oxidative stress in various ...The issue of plastic pollutants has become a growing concern.Both microplastics(MPs)(particle size<5 mm)and nanoplastics(NPs)(particle size<1μm)can cause DNA damage,cytotoxicity,and oxidative stress in various organisms.The primary known impacts of microplastic/nanoplastic are observed in the liver and respiratory system,leading to hepatotoxicity and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.Although research on the effects of MPs and NPs on diabetes is still in its early stages,there are potential concerns.This editorial highlights the risk to diabetics from co-exposure to contaminants and MPs/NPs,supported by evidence from animal studies and the various chemical compositions of MPs/NPs.展开更多
Metabolic interactions between microbiomes and algal hosts within the phycosphere of marine macroalgae are drawing increasing attention due to their roles in food webs,global nutrient cycles,industries,and their poten...Metabolic interactions between microbiomes and algal hosts within the phycosphere of marine macroalgae are drawing increasing attention due to their roles in food webs,global nutrient cycles,industries,and their potential as food resources.However,these relations remain poorly understood.In this study,43 marine macroalgae,including red,brown,and green algae,were collected from the coastal areas of Korea.We identified the bacterial communities within the loosely and tightly attached environments(LAEs and TAEs,respectively)of the phycosphere,along with those in the surrounding seawater,using 16S rRNA gene sequencing.β-Diversity analysis revealed significant differences between the bacterial communi-ties among the three,with minimal variation related to sampling location or algal color.Indicator value analysis identified Pseudoalteromonas(in the LAE and TAE),Psychromonas(in the LAE),Marinomonas(in the LAE),and Litorimonas(in the TAE)as the dominant taxa in the phycosphere,in contrast to seawater.Network analysis suggested positive correla-tions among taxa within the same environments and negative correlations between those in the LAE and TAE,highlighting their distinct ecological conditions.Analysis using the Phylogenetic Investigation of Communities by Reconstruction of Unobserved States and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways revealed functional variations between the phycosphere-and seawater-residing microbes.The microbial taxa-function relationships were assessed through Spearman’s rank-order correlation.Additionally,bacterial species belonging to the core taxa were isolated and their genomes sequenced.Their metabolic traits were analyzed via bioinformatics,recognizing key metabolic features essential for symbiotic inter-actions with algal hosts and survival within the phycosphere.The findings of this study advance our understanding of the marine algal phycosphere microbiome by detailing the metabolic characteristics of potential keystone species.展开更多
The study of temperament and behavioral syndromes in insects is still in its early stage,and research conducted to date has mainly focused on locomotor activity and thanatosis.Dung beetles have been the subject of ext...The study of temperament and behavioral syndromes in insects is still in its early stage,and research conducted to date has mainly focused on locomotor activity and thanatosis.Dung beetles have been the subject of extensive behavioral studies;however,very few studies have addressed the expression of temperament.Those doing so only looked at subsocial and sexual horn dimorphic species,suggesting subsociality and/or sexual horn-dimorphism as possible facilitators of temperament expression.To test this assumption,we conducted a temperament study in a hornless,non-subsocial species,namely Geotrupes mutator(Marsham,1802).We set up laboratory tests to evaluate 3 behaviors(activity,thanatosis,and distress calls)through the measurement of 7 distinct behavioral traits(3 activity-,1 thanatosis-,and 3 call-related traits).We found high levels of individual repeatability in all activity-and thanatosis-related traits.We also identified behavioral differences between individuals,which may reflect differences in temperament.Statistical analyses revealed a negative correlation between activity and thanatosis.These results show that the temperament and behavioral syndromes related to activity and thanatosis may also be expressed in dung beetle species that are neither subsocial nor sexual horn dimorphic.By contrast,we only found one of 3 sound-related traits tested(frequency)to be clearly repeatable.Males and females presented a different structure of the stridulatory apparatus,suggesting that morphology may affect the frequency of sounds emitted.These results indicate that certain sound traits might not be good descriptors of individual temperament revealing the need for future research addressing the role of bioacoustics.展开更多
The number of secondary feathers varies among orders of birds with some orders exhibiting a positive relationship with ulna length,whereas in other orders secondary number is invariant.This difference has implications...The number of secondary feathers varies among orders of birds with some orders exhibiting a positive relationship with ulna length,whereas in other orders secondary number is invariant.This difference has implications for scaling of the width of the feather vane within orders.In those species where the number of secondary remiges is invariant with ulna length,vane width should scale isometrically with ulna size to maintain an aerodynamic flight surface.Where feather count increases with increasing ulna length then vane width should exhibit negative allometry.Vane length should also correlate with ulna length,irrespective of the number of feathers.Data were compiled from an online library of images for the vane length and the width of the vane at 50%of the vane length for the fifth secondary feather for 209 bird species from 24 different orders.The results supported the hypotheses that vane width is a function of ulna size,and the number of secondary feathers as associated with different orders.Vane length was unaffected by the number of secondaries but varied between orders.The results suggest that birds have solved the problem of maintaining the aerodynamic surface of the proximal wing in two ways.Hence as ulna length increases the first solution involves more feathers that exhibit negative allometry for vane width,or in the second where feather count doesn't change,the vane width simply scales isometrically.The implications for the mechanical properties of the vane,and how it affects wing function,have not yet been explored in a range of birds.展开更多
New approaches in cancer treatment are increasingly emphasizing innovative biological processes such as ferroptosis,autophagy,and mitochondrial dynamics.Ferroptosis,characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation,h...New approaches in cancer treatment are increasingly emphasizing innovative biological processes such as ferroptosis,autophagy,and mitochondrial dynamics.Ferroptosis,characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation,has emerged as a promising strategy for targeting aggressive and metastatic cancers including those of the lung,breast,prostate,pancreas,and colorectal regions.Autophagy,a cellular degradation mechanism,plays a dual role in cancer—it can inhibit tumor development by clearing damaged cellular components or,paradoxically,support tumor growth under stressful conditions.Mitochondrial dynamics,encompassing the continuous processes of fission and fusion,are often disrupted in various types of human cancers,leading to altered metabolism,therapy resistance,and metastasis.These disruptions make them favorable targets for innovative treat-ments.This review highlights ferroptosis as a novel form of cell death,focusing on its biological pathways and connections with mitochondrial dysfunction and autophagy.Understanding the interplay among these three mechanisms in the complex biology of cancer could provide a more comprehensive and effective approach to cancer therapy.展开更多
Artificial intelligence(AI)technology is expanding at a rapid pace,offering means of improving the precision of judgments made by medical professionals.AI-driven machine learning(ML)facilitates rapid and effective dat...Artificial intelligence(AI)technology is expanding at a rapid pace,offering means of improving the precision of judgments made by medical professionals.AI-driven machine learning(ML)facilitates rapid and effective data processing for diagnosis and treatment of different diseases including stroke.This technology has vastly improved the patient classification based on their predicted stroke outcome.It helps in quicker decision-making,improves diagnosis precision,and enhances patient care.ML techniques have occasionally been applied extensively to address complex issues related to stroke such as the prediction of stroke prevalence at an early stage.The ability of deep learning(DL)algorithms,a crucial element of AI,is becoming popular in stroke imaging analysis because it automatically extracts features without requiring domain expertise.In the preclinical setup for stroke studies,ML/DL models are commendably used for the detection of vascular thrombi,stroke core,and penumbra size,to identify artery occlusion,compute perfusion maps,detect intracranial hemorrhage(ICH),prediction of infarct,assessing the severity of hemorrhagic transformation,and forecasting patient outcomes.The robust automatic data processing,excellent generalization,self-learning,and precise decision-making abilities of such models have contributed immensely to the advancement of stroke therapy.In the preclinical setup,the time-investing behavioral studies of the animals are also effectively analyzed by AI based algorithms.Understanding the algorithms and models based on AI is yet to be simplified for its appli-cation in stroke therapy in present clinical settings,thus,in the present review attempts have been made to present it in a simplified manner to facilitate translation.展开更多
Little Terns Sternula albifrons are estuarine birds extensively using increasingly urbanized coastal areas.Given the increased exposure of these ecosystems to anthropogenic activities,it is crucial to study the ecolog...Little Terns Sternula albifrons are estuarine birds extensively using increasingly urbanized coastal areas.Given the increased exposure of these ecosystems to anthropogenic activities,it is crucial to study the ecology of this species and interactions with human stressors to establish management measures.We collected regurgitates(n=182)and blood samples(n=48)to study Little Terns’diet,health condition and isotopic niche,and individually tracked breeding adults(n=9,during 2021 and 2022)at 2 sandy beaches 21 km apart and located within Ria Formosa Natural Park,Algarve,Portugal.Although both areas are adjacent to foraging coastal marine areas and an estuarine lagoon system with saltpans,they differ in human disturbance.We also compared breeding success and adult health measures between these 2 colonies.The main prey for both populations were Sand Smelts Atherina spp.and Gobies Pomatoschistus spp.,and no differences in δ^(13)C and δ^(15)N stable isotopic values between colonies were found.Tracking data revealed that individuals foraged in the surroundings of their breeding colonies.Entrance Channels and Ocean were the most frequently used habitats for foraging by individuals from the less disturbed colony.Adults from the more disturbed colony foraged mostly in Entrance Channels.Overall,all individuals tended to forage during daytime.There were no differences in health measures of individuals between colonies,though breeding success at the most disturbed colony was comparably lower.It is important to protect both breeding areas and adjacent foraging habitats for Little Terns,particularly given the expected increasing pressure from human activities on coastal areas worldwide.展开更多
This study reviews the health benefits of white tea and the development of new products derived from white tea.The core processing procedures such as withering and drying play a pivotal role in shaping the unique char...This study reviews the health benefits of white tea and the development of new products derived from white tea.The core processing procedures such as withering and drying play a pivotal role in shaping the unique characteristics of white tea.In the withering phase,water gradually diminishes,and endogenous polyphenol oxidase induces a slight oxidation of polyphenols which leads to a delicate fermentation process.This not only helps preserve the integrity of most components but also imparts an exclusive flavor and taste to white tea.Additionally,white tea stands out as a rich source of polyphenols,polysaccharides,and saponins.These bioactive components which can be extractable during brewing are conferring a myriad of health benefits.These benefits include antioxidant,anti-inflammatory,anti-aging,anti-radiation,anti-hyperglycemia,anti hyperlipidemia,neuroprotection,and cardiovascular-protection properties.Innovative applications range from ready-to-drink infusions to skincare products.The review proposes white tea as a raw material for supplements,meal replacements,and confectionery.Various studies suggest its potential in enhancing gut health,supporting endurance,and contributing to photoprotection in skincare.The article concludes by highlighting white tea’s adaptability,its role as a bridge between tradition and modernity,and its potential to shape the future of functional foods and beverages.Overall,white tea emerges as a versatile resource with applications extending beyond traditional consumption,offering a holistic approach to health and wellness.展开更多
BACKGROUND Human mesenchymal stromal cells(MSCs)possess regenerative potential due to pluripotency and paracrine functions.However,their stemness and immunomod-ulatory capabilities are sub-optimal in conventional two-...BACKGROUND Human mesenchymal stromal cells(MSCs)possess regenerative potential due to pluripotency and paracrine functions.However,their stemness and immunomod-ulatory capabilities are sub-optimal in conventional two-dimensional(2D)culture.AIM To enhance the efficiency and therapeutic efficacy of MSCs,an in vivo-like 3D culture condition was applied.METHODS MSCs were cultured on polystyrene(2D)or in a gellan gum-based 3D system.In vitro,prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2,indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase,heme oxygenase 1,and prostaglandin E synthase gene expression was quantified by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction.MSCs were incubated with lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-treated mouse splenocytes,and prostaglandin E2 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels were measured by enzyme linked immuno-sorbent assay.In vivo,LPS was injected into the lateral ventricle of mouse brain,and MSCs were administered intravenously the next day.Animals were sacrificed and analyzed on days 2 and 6.RESULTS Gellan gum polymer-based 3D culture significantly increased expression of octamer-binding transcription factor 4 and Nanog homeobox stemness markers in human MSCs compared to 2D culture.This 3D environment also heightened expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and heme-oxygenase 1,enzymes known for immunomodulatory functions,including production of prostaglandins and heme degradation,respectively.MSCs in 3D culture secreted more prostaglandin E2 and effectively suppressed tumor necrosis factor-alpha release from LPS-stimulated splenocytes and surpassed the efficiency of MSCs cultured in 2D.In a murine neuroinflammation model,intravenous injection of 3D-cultured MSCs significantly reduced ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 and glial fibrillary acidic protein expression,mitigating chronic inflammation more effectively than 2D-cultured MSCs.CONCLUSION The microenvironment established in 3D culture serves as an in vivo mimetic,enhancing the immunomodulatory function of MSCs.This suggests that engineered MSCs hold significant promise a potent tool for cell therapy.展开更多
Seed priming is an effective seed pretreatment technology that enhances germination and overall crop performance by optimizing seed hydration and metabolic processes before planting.Seed quality is a critical determin...Seed priming is an effective seed pretreatment technology that enhances germination and overall crop performance by optimizing seed hydration and metabolic processes before planting.Seed quality is a critical determinant of cotton(Gossypium hirsutum)crop performance,influencing germination,plant vigor,and yield.This study evaluates the effects of seed priming with potassium salts(1%and 2%KCl and K2SO4)on germination,morphological traits,and Cry1Ac gene expression in three Bt cotton cultivars(IUB-2013,NIAB-878B,FH-142)as Cry1Ac enhance the pest resistance in Bt cotton and reduce the plant’s dependence on chemical insecticides.Seeds were primed for six hours,air-dried,and sown in the field.Germination rates,plant height,number of bolls per plant,boll weight,seed cotton yield,and ginning outturn(GOT)were assessed at crop maturity.Cry1Ac gene expression was quantified to explore the influence of priming treatments on transgene activity.Results demonstrated that 1%K2SO4 priming significantly enhanced germination and yield-related traits,with Cry1Ac expression peaking in the IUB-2013 cultivar under 1%K2SO4 treatment.These findings suggest that potassium-based halopriming improves cotton seedling establishment and Bt gene expression.This study addresses the critical gaps in understanding the effects of seed halopriming on morphological traits,germination,and expression of the Cry1Ac gene in Bt cotton while providing a novel eco-friendly and cost-effective halopriming approach,offering the potential to improve cotton production.展开更多
Many prey species rely on publicly available personal and social information regarding local predation threats to assess risks and make contextappropriate behavioral decisions.However,in sexually dimorphic species,mal...Many prey species rely on publicly available personal and social information regarding local predation threats to assess risks and make contextappropriate behavioral decisions.However,in sexually dimorphic species,males and females are expected to differ in the perceived costs and/orbenefts associated with predator avoidance decisions.Recent studies suggest that male Trinidadian guppies(Poecilia reticulata)show reducedor absent responses to acute personal information cues,placing them at greater risk of predation relative to females.Our goal here was totest the hypothesis that adult(reproductively active)male guppies rely on social information to limit potential costs associated with their lack ofresponse to risky personal cues.Adult male guppies were exposed to personal chemosensory cues(either conspecifc alarm cues(AC),a novelodor,or a water control)in the presence of a shoal of three females inside a holding container that allowed the transmission of visual but notchemical cues.At the same time,we exposed females to either risk from AC or no risk,resulting in the display of a range of female behavior,from calm to alarmed,available as social information for males.Alarmed females caused male fright activity to increase and male interest infemales to decrease,regardless of the personal cue treatment.These results indicate that male guppies rely more on female information regarding predation risk than their own personal information,probably to balance trade-offs between reproduction and predator avoidance.展开更多
Diseases associated with bacterial infection,especially those caused by gram-negative bacteria,have been posing a serious threat to human health.Photodynamic therapy based on aggregation-induced emission(AIE)photosens...Diseases associated with bacterial infection,especially those caused by gram-negative bacteria,have been posing a serious threat to human health.Photodynamic therapy based on aggregation-induced emission(AIE)photosensitizer have recently emerged and provided a promising approach for bacterial discrimination and efficient photodynamic antimicrobial applications.However,they often suffer from the shorter excitation wavelength and lower molar extinction coefficients in the visible region,severely limiting their further applications.Herein,three novel BF_(2)-curcuminoid-based AIE photosensitizers,TBBC,TBC and TBBC-C8,have been rationally designed and successfully developed,in which OCH_(3)-and OC_(8)H_(17)-substituted tetraphenylethene(TPE)groups serve as both electron donor(D)and AIE active moieties,BF_(2)bdk group functions as electron acceptor(A),and styrene(or ethylene)group asπ-bridge in this D-π-A-π-D system,respectively.As expected,these resulting BF_(2)-curcuminoids presented solvent-dependent photophysical properties with large molar extinction coefficients in solutions and excellent AIE properties.Notably,TBBC showed an effective singlet oxygen generation efficiency thanks to the smaller singlet-triplet energy gap(△E_(ST)),and remarkable photostability under green light exposure at 530nm(8.9 mW/cm^(2)).More importantly,TBBC was demonstrated effectiveness in selective staining and photodynamic killing of Escherichia coli(E.coli)in vitro probably due to its optimal molecular size compared with TBC and TBBC-C8.Therefore,TBBC will have great potential as a novel AIE photosensitizer to apply in the discrimination and selective sterilization between Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.展开更多
Based on available records,a comprehensive overview of the biodiversity and geographical distribution of Collembola in China is presented.A total of 735 species,155 genera and 20 families were recorded in the checklis...Based on available records,a comprehensive overview of the biodiversity and geographical distribution of Collembola in China is presented.A total of 735 species,155 genera and 20 families were recorded in the checklist,including current name information,synonyms,geographical records,and bibliographic references.Taxonomic notes were added where necessary and Chinese translations were provided for genera and families.The following new combinations are proposed:Rambutsinella grinnellia(Wang,Chen&Christiansen,2004)comb.nov.for Pseudosinella grinnellia Wang,Chen&Christiansen 2004;Rambutsinella hui(Wang,Chen&Christiansen,2003)comb.nov.for Pseudosinella hui Wang,Chen&Christiansen 2003;and Rambutsinella tridentifera(Rusek,1971)comb.nov.for Pseudosinella tridentifera Rusek 1971.In addition,certain species have been merged with their synonyms.This checklist includes articles published up to August 2023.展开更多
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(30870290)the Science Research Program of Huangshan University(2006xkjq014)
文摘The snakes comprising the monophyletic group referred to as ratsnakes are found throughout Asia,Europe and the New World.Recently,three snake samples likely belonging to the ratsnakes were collected in Zoige County,Sichuan Province,China.Species identity was difficult to delimit morphologically because the specimens were juveniles and partially damaged.Subsequently,a molecular phylogenetic approach was used.Portions of three mitochondrial genes(cyt b,ND4 and 12S rRNA) were sequenced and analyzed.The results showed that they were sister to the genus Elaphe.Very little genetic variation was found among the three samples.The minimum genetic distances between these samples and those within Elaphe were greater than any currently recognized species within the genus.We conclude that this likely represents a new species within the genus Elaphe.Adult specimens and a morphologic description are needed for further study.
基金The Nature Science Foundation of Qingdao, China under contract No. 05-1-JC-87International Foundation for Science under contract No.AA/16180 awarded to Sui Zhenghong
文摘Harmful algal blooms （HABs） have been affecting negatively the shellfish and aquaculture industries around the world. Though a lot of efforts have been made to disclose the changes of environmental factors involved and their effects on the HABs events, the molecular mechanism of this process remains unclear. To address this problem, proliferating cell nuclear antigen gene （pcna） was isolated and characterized from Alexandrium catenella. It showed high homology to those of other dinoflagellates （89% and 91% homology to Pfiesteria piscicid and Pyrocystis lunula, respectively）, and also 42%–43% homology to those of plant and animals. The expression level of pcna revealed by quantitative real time PCR was the lowest at the late lagging cell growth phase, increased to the highest at the late exponential phase, and then decreased at the stationary phase. Though the cell growth rate was also changing, no positive correlation between pcna expression level and cell growth rate was displayed throughout the whole cell growth stages （r 2 =0.024 6）. However, the pcna expression level had the similar trend with the change of cell growth rate throughout the whole growing process, e.g., from increasing at the earlier cell growth stage to decreasing at the following stages, though slightly lagging to the latter.
文摘According to the developing trends of plant science and the traits of the division of botany,"attaching importance to the frontiers in botany,supporting weak subdisciplines,and paying attention to newly growing points"is picked up as the funding strategy of Division of Botany in NSFC.The budget and the number of projects funded have increased year after year in recent four years,and in 2004,the budget and the number of projects funded are twice of that in 2001.The paper presents principle adopted in recommending projects to be funded and briefly introduces the applications as well as a survey of fund.The list of programs funded by Division of Botany in 2004 is provided.
文摘Quorum sensing is the biochemical communication system within bacterial cells which may instigate their virulence factors,and hence,is imperative for pathogenesis.Such a system optimizes metabolic and behavioral activities played by the densely populated bacterial community as well as the production of the concomitant response against diffusible or secreted signals.Thus,the multi-layered signal transduction networks of quorum sensing help bacteria acclimatize to the disadvantages by increasing their confrontation ability aided by biofilm formation.Previous studies unraveled the impact of quorum sensing in the microbial interactions both within a single species and between several species.The development of the synthetic ecological models has added advantages in the studies of microbial sociability in natural habitats as well as aided in drug designing.Current review highlighted the up-to-date knowledge on the basic mechanisms of quorum sensing and its influence to accelerate the bacterial resistance against different environmental stimuli or synthetic drugs along with the factors affecting the quorum sensing system,and the harmful role of quorum sensing in food spoilage.The information gathered in this review would be beneficial to understand the metabolic cross talk as well as the virulence traits of the pathogenic microorganisms in course of their pathogenesis augmented by quorum sensing.
文摘Calcineurin(CN)is a calcium-and calmodulindependent serine/threonine that has been studied in many model organisms including yeast,filamentous fungi,plants,and mammals.Its biological functions range from ion homeostasis and virulence in lower eukaryotes to T-cell activation in humans by human nuclear factors of activated T-cells.CN is a heterodimeric protein consisting of a catalytic subunit,calcineurin A(Cna1p),which contains an active site with a dinuclear metal center,and a regulatory Ca^(2+) binding subunit called calcineurin B(Cnb1p)required to activate Cna1p.The calcineurin B subunit has been highly conserved through evolution:For example,the mammalian calcineurin B shows 54%identity with calcineurin B from Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
文摘Brain metastasis and primary glioblastoma multiforme represent the most common and lethal malignant brain tumors.Its median survival time is typically less than a year after diagnosis.One of the major challenges in treating these cancers is the efficiency of the transport of drugs to the central nervous system.The blood-brain barrier is cooperating with advanced stages of malignancy.The blood-brain barrier poses a significant challenge to delivering systemic medications to brain tumors.Nanodrug delivery systems have emerged as promising tools for effectively crossing this barrier.Additionally,the development of smart nanoparticles brings new hope for cancer diagnosis and treatment.These nanoparticles improve drug delivery efficiency,allowing for the creation of targeted and stimuli-responsive delivery methods.This review highlights recent advancements in nanoparticle and smart nanoparticle technologies for brain cancer treatment,exploring the range of nanoparticles under development,their applications,targeting strategies,and the latest progress in enhancing transport across the blood-brain barrier.It also addresses the ongoing challenges and potential benefits of these innovative approaches.
基金Supported by Research grant from Chang Gung Memorial Hospital,Linkou,Taiwan,No.CMRPG3N0622.
文摘The issue of plastic pollutants has become a growing concern.Both microplastics(MPs)(particle size<5 mm)and nanoplastics(NPs)(particle size<1μm)can cause DNA damage,cytotoxicity,and oxidative stress in various organisms.The primary known impacts of microplastic/nanoplastic are observed in the liver and respiratory system,leading to hepatotoxicity and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.Although research on the effects of MPs and NPs on diabetes is still in its early stages,there are potential concerns.This editorial highlights the risk to diabetics from co-exposure to contaminants and MPs/NPs,supported by evidence from animal studies and the various chemical compositions of MPs/NPs.
基金supported by grants from the Marine Biotics project(20210469)funded by the Ministry of Ocean and Fisheries,Republic of Korea.
文摘Metabolic interactions between microbiomes and algal hosts within the phycosphere of marine macroalgae are drawing increasing attention due to their roles in food webs,global nutrient cycles,industries,and their potential as food resources.However,these relations remain poorly understood.In this study,43 marine macroalgae,including red,brown,and green algae,were collected from the coastal areas of Korea.We identified the bacterial communities within the loosely and tightly attached environments(LAEs and TAEs,respectively)of the phycosphere,along with those in the surrounding seawater,using 16S rRNA gene sequencing.β-Diversity analysis revealed significant differences between the bacterial communi-ties among the three,with minimal variation related to sampling location or algal color.Indicator value analysis identified Pseudoalteromonas(in the LAE and TAE),Psychromonas(in the LAE),Marinomonas(in the LAE),and Litorimonas(in the TAE)as the dominant taxa in the phycosphere,in contrast to seawater.Network analysis suggested positive correla-tions among taxa within the same environments and negative correlations between those in the LAE and TAE,highlighting their distinct ecological conditions.Analysis using the Phylogenetic Investigation of Communities by Reconstruction of Unobserved States and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways revealed functional variations between the phycosphere-and seawater-residing microbes.The microbial taxa-function relationships were assessed through Spearman’s rank-order correlation.Additionally,bacterial species belonging to the core taxa were isolated and their genomes sequenced.Their metabolic traits were analyzed via bioinformatics,recognizing key metabolic features essential for symbiotic inter-actions with algal hosts and survival within the phycosphere.The findings of this study advance our understanding of the marine algal phycosphere microbiome by detailing the metabolic characteristics of potential keystone species.
基金supported by the project CN_00000033 funded under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan(NRRP)Mission 4 Component 2 Investment 1.4-Call for tender No.3138 of 16 December 2021,rectified by Decree n.3175 of 18 December 2021 of the Italian Ministry of University and Research funded by the European UnionNextGenerationEU.
文摘The study of temperament and behavioral syndromes in insects is still in its early stage,and research conducted to date has mainly focused on locomotor activity and thanatosis.Dung beetles have been the subject of extensive behavioral studies;however,very few studies have addressed the expression of temperament.Those doing so only looked at subsocial and sexual horn dimorphic species,suggesting subsociality and/or sexual horn-dimorphism as possible facilitators of temperament expression.To test this assumption,we conducted a temperament study in a hornless,non-subsocial species,namely Geotrupes mutator(Marsham,1802).We set up laboratory tests to evaluate 3 behaviors(activity,thanatosis,and distress calls)through the measurement of 7 distinct behavioral traits(3 activity-,1 thanatosis-,and 3 call-related traits).We found high levels of individual repeatability in all activity-and thanatosis-related traits.We also identified behavioral differences between individuals,which may reflect differences in temperament.Statistical analyses revealed a negative correlation between activity and thanatosis.These results show that the temperament and behavioral syndromes related to activity and thanatosis may also be expressed in dung beetle species that are neither subsocial nor sexual horn dimorphic.By contrast,we only found one of 3 sound-related traits tested(frequency)to be clearly repeatable.Males and females presented a different structure of the stridulatory apparatus,suggesting that morphology may affect the frequency of sounds emitted.These results indicate that certain sound traits might not be good descriptors of individual temperament revealing the need for future research addressing the role of bioacoustics.
文摘The number of secondary feathers varies among orders of birds with some orders exhibiting a positive relationship with ulna length,whereas in other orders secondary number is invariant.This difference has implications for scaling of the width of the feather vane within orders.In those species where the number of secondary remiges is invariant with ulna length,vane width should scale isometrically with ulna size to maintain an aerodynamic flight surface.Where feather count increases with increasing ulna length then vane width should exhibit negative allometry.Vane length should also correlate with ulna length,irrespective of the number of feathers.Data were compiled from an online library of images for the vane length and the width of the vane at 50%of the vane length for the fifth secondary feather for 209 bird species from 24 different orders.The results supported the hypotheses that vane width is a function of ulna size,and the number of secondary feathers as associated with different orders.Vane length was unaffected by the number of secondaries but varied between orders.The results suggest that birds have solved the problem of maintaining the aerodynamic surface of the proximal wing in two ways.Hence as ulna length increases the first solution involves more feathers that exhibit negative allometry for vane width,or in the second where feather count doesn't change,the vane width simply scales isometrically.The implications for the mechanical properties of the vane,and how it affects wing function,have not yet been explored in a range of birds.
基金Supported by GSBTM,DST,Government of Gujarat for their Financial Support on the Breast Cancer Stem Cell Research Project at GSFC University,Vadodara,No.GSBTM/JD/(R&D)610/20-21/346.
文摘New approaches in cancer treatment are increasingly emphasizing innovative biological processes such as ferroptosis,autophagy,and mitochondrial dynamics.Ferroptosis,characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation,has emerged as a promising strategy for targeting aggressive and metastatic cancers including those of the lung,breast,prostate,pancreas,and colorectal regions.Autophagy,a cellular degradation mechanism,plays a dual role in cancer—it can inhibit tumor development by clearing damaged cellular components or,paradoxically,support tumor growth under stressful conditions.Mitochondrial dynamics,encompassing the continuous processes of fission and fusion,are often disrupted in various types of human cancers,leading to altered metabolism,therapy resistance,and metastasis.These disruptions make them favorable targets for innovative treat-ments.This review highlights ferroptosis as a novel form of cell death,focusing on its biological pathways and connections with mitochondrial dysfunction and autophagy.Understanding the interplay among these three mechanisms in the complex biology of cancer could provide a more comprehensive and effective approach to cancer therapy.
基金Department of Pharmaceuticals Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizer,Government of India and National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research(NIPER)Ahmedabad,Gandhinagar,India。
文摘Artificial intelligence(AI)technology is expanding at a rapid pace,offering means of improving the precision of judgments made by medical professionals.AI-driven machine learning(ML)facilitates rapid and effective data processing for diagnosis and treatment of different diseases including stroke.This technology has vastly improved the patient classification based on their predicted stroke outcome.It helps in quicker decision-making,improves diagnosis precision,and enhances patient care.ML techniques have occasionally been applied extensively to address complex issues related to stroke such as the prediction of stroke prevalence at an early stage.The ability of deep learning(DL)algorithms,a crucial element of AI,is becoming popular in stroke imaging analysis because it automatically extracts features without requiring domain expertise.In the preclinical setup for stroke studies,ML/DL models are commendably used for the detection of vascular thrombi,stroke core,and penumbra size,to identify artery occlusion,compute perfusion maps,detect intracranial hemorrhage(ICH),prediction of infarct,assessing the severity of hemorrhagic transformation,and forecasting patient outcomes.The robust automatic data processing,excellent generalization,self-learning,and precise decision-making abilities of such models have contributed immensely to the advancement of stroke therapy.In the preclinical setup,the time-investing behavioral studies of the animals are also effectively analyzed by AI based algorithms.Understanding the algorithms and models based on AI is yet to be simplified for its appli-cation in stroke therapy in present clinical settings,thus,in the present review attempts have been made to present it in a simplified manner to facilitate translation.
基金financial and logistic support(for fieldwork campaigns,GPS tracking devices and laboratory analysis)from the project LIFE Ilhas Barreira project(LIFE18 NAT/PT/000927)funding provided by Foundation for Science and Technology,I.P.(FCT)to MARE(UIDB/MAR/04292/2020,https://doi.org/10.54499/UIDB/04292/2020 and UIDP/04292/2020,https://doi.org/10.54499/UIDP/04292/2020+1 种基金the Associate Laboratory ARNET(LA/P/0069/2020,https://doi.org/10.54499/LA/P/0069/2020)supported by FCT doctoral fellowships(10.54499/2020.07495.BD,SFRH/BD/145827/2019)。
文摘Little Terns Sternula albifrons are estuarine birds extensively using increasingly urbanized coastal areas.Given the increased exposure of these ecosystems to anthropogenic activities,it is crucial to study the ecology of this species and interactions with human stressors to establish management measures.We collected regurgitates(n=182)and blood samples(n=48)to study Little Terns’diet,health condition and isotopic niche,and individually tracked breeding adults(n=9,during 2021 and 2022)at 2 sandy beaches 21 km apart and located within Ria Formosa Natural Park,Algarve,Portugal.Although both areas are adjacent to foraging coastal marine areas and an estuarine lagoon system with saltpans,they differ in human disturbance.We also compared breeding success and adult health measures between these 2 colonies.The main prey for both populations were Sand Smelts Atherina spp.and Gobies Pomatoschistus spp.,and no differences in δ^(13)C and δ^(15)N stable isotopic values between colonies were found.Tracking data revealed that individuals foraged in the surroundings of their breeding colonies.Entrance Channels and Ocean were the most frequently used habitats for foraging by individuals from the less disturbed colony.Adults from the more disturbed colony foraged mostly in Entrance Channels.Overall,all individuals tended to forage during daytime.There were no differences in health measures of individuals between colonies,though breeding success at the most disturbed colony was comparably lower.It is important to protect both breeding areas and adjacent foraging habitats for Little Terns,particularly given the expected increasing pressure from human activities on coastal areas worldwide.
基金supported by Guangdong Higher Education Upgrading Plan(2021-2025)Beijing Normal-Hong Kong Baptist University,Zhuhai,China(UICR0400015-24,UICR0400016-24).
文摘This study reviews the health benefits of white tea and the development of new products derived from white tea.The core processing procedures such as withering and drying play a pivotal role in shaping the unique characteristics of white tea.In the withering phase,water gradually diminishes,and endogenous polyphenol oxidase induces a slight oxidation of polyphenols which leads to a delicate fermentation process.This not only helps preserve the integrity of most components but also imparts an exclusive flavor and taste to white tea.Additionally,white tea stands out as a rich source of polyphenols,polysaccharides,and saponins.These bioactive components which can be extractable during brewing are conferring a myriad of health benefits.These benefits include antioxidant,anti-inflammatory,anti-aging,anti-radiation,anti-hyperglycemia,anti hyperlipidemia,neuroprotection,and cardiovascular-protection properties.Innovative applications range from ready-to-drink infusions to skincare products.The review proposes white tea as a raw material for supplements,meal replacements,and confectionery.Various studies suggest its potential in enhancing gut health,supporting endurance,and contributing to photoprotection in skincare.The article concludes by highlighting white tea’s adaptability,its role as a bridge between tradition and modernity,and its potential to shape the future of functional foods and beverages.Overall,white tea emerges as a versatile resource with applications extending beyond traditional consumption,offering a holistic approach to health and wellness.
基金Supported by National Research Foundation of Korea,No.RS-2024-00409554,No.2023R1A2C2006894,and No.2021R1A6A3A01088243.
文摘BACKGROUND Human mesenchymal stromal cells(MSCs)possess regenerative potential due to pluripotency and paracrine functions.However,their stemness and immunomod-ulatory capabilities are sub-optimal in conventional two-dimensional(2D)culture.AIM To enhance the efficiency and therapeutic efficacy of MSCs,an in vivo-like 3D culture condition was applied.METHODS MSCs were cultured on polystyrene(2D)or in a gellan gum-based 3D system.In vitro,prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2,indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase,heme oxygenase 1,and prostaglandin E synthase gene expression was quantified by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction.MSCs were incubated with lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-treated mouse splenocytes,and prostaglandin E2 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels were measured by enzyme linked immuno-sorbent assay.In vivo,LPS was injected into the lateral ventricle of mouse brain,and MSCs were administered intravenously the next day.Animals were sacrificed and analyzed on days 2 and 6.RESULTS Gellan gum polymer-based 3D culture significantly increased expression of octamer-binding transcription factor 4 and Nanog homeobox stemness markers in human MSCs compared to 2D culture.This 3D environment also heightened expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and heme-oxygenase 1,enzymes known for immunomodulatory functions,including production of prostaglandins and heme degradation,respectively.MSCs in 3D culture secreted more prostaglandin E2 and effectively suppressed tumor necrosis factor-alpha release from LPS-stimulated splenocytes and surpassed the efficiency of MSCs cultured in 2D.In a murine neuroinflammation model,intravenous injection of 3D-cultured MSCs significantly reduced ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 and glial fibrillary acidic protein expression,mitigating chronic inflammation more effectively than 2D-cultured MSCs.CONCLUSION The microenvironment established in 3D culture serves as an in vivo mimetic,enhancing the immunomodulatory function of MSCs.This suggests that engineered MSCs hold significant promise a potent tool for cell therapy.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(3216045632360474+2 种基金32360486)grants from the Provincial Basic Research Program(Natural Science)([2020]1Z018)Provincial Key Technology R&D Program([2021]YiBan272).
文摘Seed priming is an effective seed pretreatment technology that enhances germination and overall crop performance by optimizing seed hydration and metabolic processes before planting.Seed quality is a critical determinant of cotton(Gossypium hirsutum)crop performance,influencing germination,plant vigor,and yield.This study evaluates the effects of seed priming with potassium salts(1%and 2%KCl and K2SO4)on germination,morphological traits,and Cry1Ac gene expression in three Bt cotton cultivars(IUB-2013,NIAB-878B,FH-142)as Cry1Ac enhance the pest resistance in Bt cotton and reduce the plant’s dependence on chemical insecticides.Seeds were primed for six hours,air-dried,and sown in the field.Germination rates,plant height,number of bolls per plant,boll weight,seed cotton yield,and ginning outturn(GOT)were assessed at crop maturity.Cry1Ac gene expression was quantified to explore the influence of priming treatments on transgene activity.Results demonstrated that 1%K2SO4 priming significantly enhanced germination and yield-related traits,with Cry1Ac expression peaking in the IUB-2013 cultivar under 1%K2SO4 treatment.These findings suggest that potassium-based halopriming improves cotton seedling establishment and Bt gene expression.This study addresses the critical gaps in understanding the effects of seed halopriming on morphological traits,germination,and expression of the Cry1Ac gene in Bt cotton while providing a novel eco-friendly and cost-effective halopriming approach,offering the potential to improve cotton production.
基金supported by Concordia University and funded by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada(Discovery Grant to G.E.B.,and an E.W.R.SteacieMemorial Fellowship to M.C.O.F.).
文摘Many prey species rely on publicly available personal and social information regarding local predation threats to assess risks and make contextappropriate behavioral decisions.However,in sexually dimorphic species,males and females are expected to differ in the perceived costs and/orbenefts associated with predator avoidance decisions.Recent studies suggest that male Trinidadian guppies(Poecilia reticulata)show reducedor absent responses to acute personal information cues,placing them at greater risk of predation relative to females.Our goal here was totest the hypothesis that adult(reproductively active)male guppies rely on social information to limit potential costs associated with their lack ofresponse to risky personal cues.Adult male guppies were exposed to personal chemosensory cues(either conspecifc alarm cues(AC),a novelodor,or a water control)in the presence of a shoal of three females inside a holding container that allowed the transmission of visual but notchemical cues.At the same time,we exposed females to either risk from AC or no risk,resulting in the display of a range of female behavior,from calm to alarmed,available as social information for males.Alarmed females caused male fright activity to increase and male interest infemales to decrease,regardless of the personal cue treatment.These results indicate that male guppies rely more on female information regarding predation risk than their own personal information,probably to balance trade-offs between reproduction and predator avoidance.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.32101150)Key Scientific Research Project of Higher Education of Henan Province(No.22A430007)+2 种基金Natural Science Foundation of Henan Province(No.222300420501)the Science and Technology Project of Henan Province(No.242102230119)Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program for College students in China(No.202310482001).
文摘Diseases associated with bacterial infection,especially those caused by gram-negative bacteria,have been posing a serious threat to human health.Photodynamic therapy based on aggregation-induced emission(AIE)photosensitizer have recently emerged and provided a promising approach for bacterial discrimination and efficient photodynamic antimicrobial applications.However,they often suffer from the shorter excitation wavelength and lower molar extinction coefficients in the visible region,severely limiting their further applications.Herein,three novel BF_(2)-curcuminoid-based AIE photosensitizers,TBBC,TBC and TBBC-C8,have been rationally designed and successfully developed,in which OCH_(3)-and OC_(8)H_(17)-substituted tetraphenylethene(TPE)groups serve as both electron donor(D)and AIE active moieties,BF_(2)bdk group functions as electron acceptor(A),and styrene(or ethylene)group asπ-bridge in this D-π-A-π-D system,respectively.As expected,these resulting BF_(2)-curcuminoids presented solvent-dependent photophysical properties with large molar extinction coefficients in solutions and excellent AIE properties.Notably,TBBC showed an effective singlet oxygen generation efficiency thanks to the smaller singlet-triplet energy gap(△E_(ST)),and remarkable photostability under green light exposure at 530nm(8.9 mW/cm^(2)).More importantly,TBBC was demonstrated effectiveness in selective staining and photodynamic killing of Escherichia coli(E.coli)in vitro probably due to its optimal molecular size compared with TBC and TBBC-C8.Therefore,TBBC will have great potential as a novel AIE photosensitizer to apply in the discrimination and selective sterilization between Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
基金supported by the National Science and Technology Fundamental Resources Investigation Program of China(2018FY100300)National Natural Science Foundation of China(31970434 and 32270470)。
文摘Based on available records,a comprehensive overview of the biodiversity and geographical distribution of Collembola in China is presented.A total of 735 species,155 genera and 20 families were recorded in the checklist,including current name information,synonyms,geographical records,and bibliographic references.Taxonomic notes were added where necessary and Chinese translations were provided for genera and families.The following new combinations are proposed:Rambutsinella grinnellia(Wang,Chen&Christiansen,2004)comb.nov.for Pseudosinella grinnellia Wang,Chen&Christiansen 2004;Rambutsinella hui(Wang,Chen&Christiansen,2003)comb.nov.for Pseudosinella hui Wang,Chen&Christiansen 2003;and Rambutsinella tridentifera(Rusek,1971)comb.nov.for Pseudosinella tridentifera Rusek 1971.In addition,certain species have been merged with their synonyms.This checklist includes articles published up to August 2023.
