This work assesses the physical vulnerability of the Santo Domingo Canton in the province of Heredia in Costa Rica. We evaluate the vulnerability of areas located in high risk zones as well as the structural resistanc...This work assesses the physical vulnerability of the Santo Domingo Canton in the province of Heredia in Costa Rica. We evaluate the vulnerability of areas located in high risk zones as well as the structural resistance of structures of the canton and then combine them to obtain an index of Physical Vulnerability. Most of the communities in high risk areas in this Canton have not been properly identified and mapped. This identification and mapping will enhance the management of disaster risks, reduce the infrastructure vulnerability and protect vulnerable families in there. We created an index ranging between 0 and 1 for each indicator of physical vulnerability (human settlements in areas of high risk and structural resistance) and another similar index resulting from the combination of vulnerability information from both indicators. The greater part of the territory of Santo Domingo has low physical vulnerability but there are critical sites in the West and the East of the canton.展开更多
Objective: This study aims to determine surgical complications and graft outcome in children undergoing renal transplantation at Cayetano Heredia National Hospital (CHNH). Materials and Methods: A case study series fo...Objective: This study aims to determine surgical complications and graft outcome in children undergoing renal transplantation at Cayetano Heredia National Hospital (CHNH). Materials and Methods: A case study series focused on the incidence of surgical complications and graft outcome in pediatric patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) who underwent renal transplant (RT) between December 2007 and March 2011. Results: The study described 29 pediatric transplant patients whose average age was 13.69 ± 3.38 (6.2-17.9) years. The etiology of end stage renal disease (ESRD) was renal hypoplasia in 12 patients (41.38%), primary glomerulopathy in 10 patients (34.48%), obstructive uropathy in 4 patients (13.79%), vasculitis in 2 patients (6.9%) and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) in 1 (3.45%) patient. There were 11 surgical complications (34.48%): 2 cases of arterial thrombosis, 3 cases of urinary fistula, 3 of lymphocele, 1 of venous thrombosis, urinoma and perineal collection. The follow-up time was 15.84 ± 12.19 months. Graft survival at 12, 24, and 40 months was 89.29%, 77.16% and 77.16%, respectively. Conclusion: Surgical complications and graft survival in pediatric renal transplantation in our series did not differ from other published series.展开更多
Different habitat types exert particular challenges to ecological performance,ultimately having a strong influence on the evolution of morphology.Although it is well known that external morphology can evolve under the...Different habitat types exert particular challenges to ecological performance,ultimately having a strong influence on the evolution of morphology.Although it is well known that external morphology can evolve under the selective pressure of habitat structure,the evolutionary response of internal morphological traits remains vastly unexplored.Here,we test for morphological divergence between arenicolous and nonarenicolous species in a clade of tropidurid lizards,considering external morphological proportions and limb muscle dimensions.We found that arenicolous species seem to have evolved internal and external morphological adaptations that separate them from other habitat specialists.Moreover,comparative analyses suggested that the traits that differed the most between arenicolous and nonarenicolous lizards might have evolved divergently towards different optima.Additionally,the axis of higher morphological divergence between arenicolous and nonarenicolous species represented an important proportion of the morphological diversity within our sample,indicating that the hypothetical adaptive divergence of internal and external traits has contributed significantly to phenotypic diversity.Our results show that evolutionary associations between morphology and habitat use can be detected on both external body proportions and muscle morphology.Moreover,they highlight the emergent importance of internal anatomical traits in ecomorphological studies,especially when such traits are directly involved in determining functional performance.展开更多
In this research,the antibacterial properties of a composite material prepared from agave bagasse cellulose fibers doped with silver nanoparticles and chitosan were studied.The development of composite materials with ...In this research,the antibacterial properties of a composite material prepared from agave bagasse cellulose fibers doped with silver nanoparticles and chitosan were studied.The development of composite materials with antibacterial properties and environmentally friendly based on cellulose fibers from agave bagasse with silver nanoparticles prepared by green synthesis and chitosan from shrimp waste enhances the value of these agro-industrial wastes and offers the opportunity for them to have biomedical applications since these raw materials have been poorly reported for this application.The antibacterial properties of chitosan and silver nanoparticles are already known.However,the combination of silver nanoparticles with cellulose fibers and chitosan has been studied poorly.Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles was carried out,and spherical shape nanoparticles with a size between 20 and 50 nm were obtained by ultraviolet-visible(UV-Vis)spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy(TEM)analysis.Additionally,in this research,the cellulose obtained from agave bagasse,the chitosan extracted from shrimp shells,and the composite material were characterized by infrared spectroscopy,mechanical analysis,and antibacterial tests.A decrease in the growth of Escherichia coli bacteria with 100%growth inhibition on cellulose,chitosan,and silver nanoparticles composite material and an increase in mechanical properties from 13.67 MPa of cellulose pure to 110 MPa of composite material was observed.These findings support the idea that the composite material has potential use in wound care dressings for antibacterial care.展开更多
Steatotic liver disease(SLD)encompasses a group of disorders characterized by the excessive accumulation of fat in the liver.It is classified into four categories based on clinical manifestations:Metabolic dysfunction...Steatotic liver disease(SLD)encompasses a group of disorders characterized by the excessive accumulation of fat in the liver.It is classified into four categories based on clinical manifestations:Metabolic dysfunction-associated SLD(MASLD),metabolic-alcohol-associated liver disease(ALD),ALD,and cryptogenic SLD.In the United States,its prevalence stands at 34.2%,making it the most common cause of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).In addition to factors related to endocrine,nutrition,and medications,several genetic markers have been implicated in the disease's pathogenesis.Notable genes include PNPLA3,TM6SF2,GCKR,MBOAT7 and HSD17B13.These genetic polymorphisms can significantly impact prognosis and disease outcomes.For example,PNPLA3 is the most frequently associated gene with MASLD,increasing the risk of HCC by 12-fold and liver-related mortality by 18-fold.Furthermore,certain genetic markers are more prevalent in specific ethnic groups;for instance,PNPLA3 is common among Hispanics,while TM6SF2 is linked to higher fat content in African Americans.With a better understanding of the genetic factors involved in the pathogenesis of SLD,significant advancements have been made in diagnostics and therapeutics.This review explores the role of genetic factors in the disease's development,discusses current advancements in non-invasive diagnostic modalities,and examines therapeutic improvements based on these genetic insights to achieve better outcomes.展开更多
Aim： To determine the effect of two different extracts of red maca in male rats. Methods： Prostatic hyperplasia was induced in male rats with testosterone enanthate （TE）. The study comprised six groups： one contr...Aim： To determine the effect of two different extracts of red maca in male rats. Methods： Prostatic hyperplasia was induced in male rats with testosterone enanthate （TE）. The study comprised six groups： one control group （group 1）, one group treated with TE （group 2）, two groups treated with TE and aqueous extract of red maca （groups 3 and 4）, one group treated with hydroalcoholic extract of red maca （group 5） and one group treated with finasteride （0.1 mg, group 6）. Differences in the aqueous extract dependent on the length of time of boiling, whether for 2 or 3 hours, for groups 3 and 4 was assessed. Extracts of red maca contained 0.1 mg of benzylglucosinolate. Thereafter, a doseresponse effect of different doses of benzylglucosinolates （0.02-0.08 mg） in red maca extracts was assessed. Results： Prostate weight was similar in rats treated with freeze-dried aqueous extract of red maca prepared after 2 and 3 hours of boiling. Freeze-dried aqueous extract of red maca, hydroalcoholic extract of red maca and finasteride reduced prostate weight in rats with prostatic hyperplasia. No difference was observed between the data obtained from aqueous extract or hydroalcoholic extract of red maca. A dose dependent reduction of prostate weight was observed with the increase of the dose of benzylglucosinolates in red maca extracts. Conclusion： The present study showed that hydroalcoholic or aqueous extract of red maca containing 0.1 mg of benzylglucosinolate can reduce prostate size in male rats in which prostatic hyperplasia had been induced by TE.展开更多
Aim:The present study was designed to determine the effect of a 4-month oral treatment with tablets of Lepidiwnmeyenii(Maca)on seminal analysis in nine adult normal men aged 24-44 years old.Methods:Nine men receivedta...Aim:The present study was designed to determine the effect of a 4-month oral treatment with tablets of Lepidiwnmeyenii(Maca)on seminal analysis in nine adult normal men aged 24-44 years old.Methods:Nine men receivedtablets of Maca(1500 or 3000 mg/day)for 4 months.Seminal analysis was performed according to guidelines of theWorld Health Organization(WHO).Serum luteinizing hormone(LH),follicle stimulating hormone(FSH),prolactin(PRL),testosterone(T)and estradiol(E_(2))were measured before and after treatment.Results;Treatment withMaca resulted in increased seminal volume,sperm count per ejaculum,motile sperm count,and sperm motility.Serumhormone levels were not modified with Maca treatment.Increase of sperm count was not related to dose of Maca.Conclusion:Maca improved sperm production and sperm motility by mechanisms not related to LH,FSH,PRL,Tand E_(2).展开更多
The present review has been designed to update the recent developments on the function of seminal vesicles andtheir role on male fertility. It is indicated that the true corrected fructose level is a simple method for...The present review has been designed to update the recent developments on the function of seminal vesicles andtheir role on male fertility. It is indicated that the true corrected fructose level is a simple method for the assessment ofthe seminal vesicular function. Measurement of seminal fructose used universally as a marker of the seminal vesiclefunction is not an appropriate approach due to its inverse relationship with the sperm count. The true corrected fructosedefined as [log. motile sperm concentration] multiplied by [seminal fructose concentration] has been shown to be abetter marker of the seminal vesicle function. Seminal vesicular secretion is important for semen coagulation, sperm motility, and stability of sperm chromatinand suppression of the immune activity in the female reproductive tract. In conclusion, the function of seminal vesicle is important for fertility. Parameters as sperm motility, sperm chro-matin stability, and immuno-protection may be changed in case of its hypofunction. (Asian J Androl 2001 Dec; 3:251 -258)展开更多
Aim:To determine the effect of oral administration of an aqueous extract from the roots of Lepidium meyenii(maca)on spermatogenesis in adult male rats.Methods;Male rats received an aqueous extract of the root(66.7 mg ...Aim:To determine the effect of oral administration of an aqueous extract from the roots of Lepidium meyenii(maca)on spermatogenesis in adult male rats.Methods;Male rats received an aqueous extract of the root(66.7 mg in onemL)twice a day for 14 consecutive days.Results:Treatment with Lepidium meyenii resulted in an increase in theweights of testis and epididymis but not the seminal vesicle weight.The length and frequency of stages IX-XIV seminif-erous tubules,where mitosis occurred,were increased and stages I-VI were reduced in rats treated with Lepidiummeyenii.Conclusion;The Lepidium meyenii root invigorates spermatogenesis in male rats by acting on its initialstages(IX-XIV).展开更多
Populations living at high altitudes （HAs）, particularly in the Peruvian Andes, are characterized by a mixture of subjects with erythrocytosis （16 g dl-1〈haemoglobin （Hb）≤21 gdl-1） and others with excessive er...Populations living at high altitudes （HAs）, particularly in the Peruvian Andes, are characterized by a mixture of subjects with erythrocytosis （16 g dl-1〈haemoglobin （Hb）≤21 gdl-1） and others with excessive erythrocytosis （EE） （Hb〉21 g dl-1）. Elevated haemoglobin values （EE） are associated with chronic mountain sickness, a condition reflecting the lack of adaptation to HA. According to current data, native men from regions of HA are not adequately adapted to live at such altitudes if they have elevated serum testosterone levels. This seems to be due to an increased conversion of dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate （DH EAS） to testosterone. Men with erythrocytosis at HAs show higher serum androstenedione levels and a lower testosterone/androstenedione ratio than men with EE, suggesting reduced 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase （17beta-HSD） activity. Lower 17beta-HSD activity via A4-steroid production in men with erythrocytosis at HA may protect against elevated serum testosterone levels, thus preventing EE. The higher conversion of DHEAS to testosterone in subjects with EE indicates increased 17beta-HSD activity via the A5-pathway. Currently, there are various situations in which people live （human biodiversity） with low or high haemoglobin levels at HA. Antiquity could be an important adaptation component for life at HA, and testosterone seems to participate in this process.展开更多
Aim: To observe the effect of the aqueous extract of hypocotyls of the plant Lepidium meyenii (Maca) on spermato-genic damage induced by the organophosphate insecticide malathion in mice. Methods: Mice were treated wi...Aim: To observe the effect of the aqueous extract of hypocotyls of the plant Lepidium meyenii (Maca) on spermato-genic damage induced by the organophosphate insecticide malathion in mice. Methods: Mice were treated with 80 mg kg^(-1) of malathion in the presence or absence of an aqueous extract of Maca, which was orally administered 7, 14 or 21 days after injection of the malathion. Stages of the seminiferous epithelium were assessed by transillumination on days 0, 7, 14 and 21. Results: The administration of Maca increased significantly the length of stage 鈪?on days 7, 14 and 21 of treatment compared with the controls. An increase in the length of stage 鈪?occurred on day 14 of treatment. Malathion affected spermatogenesis by reducing the lengths of stage 鈪?on day 7, stages 鈪?and 鈪?鈪?on day 14 and a recovery of stages 鈪?鈪?on day 21. The magnitude of alteration in the length of stage 鈪?produced by malathion was significantly reduced by Maca on days 7 and 14. The length of stage 鈪?was increased when Maca was administered to mice treated with malathion. Assessment of the relative length of stages of the seminiferous epithelium showed that Maca treatment resulted in rapid recovery of the effect of malathion. Conclusion: Maca enhances spermatogenesis following spermatogenic damage caused by the organophosphorous pesticide.展开更多
Aim: To evaluate the effect of the alcoholic extract of Lepidium meyenii (Maca) on the spermatogenesis in male rats. Methods: In Holtzman rats, Maca alcoholic extract (5%) was given by oral route at doses of 48 mg/day...Aim: To evaluate the effect of the alcoholic extract of Lepidium meyenii (Maca) on the spermatogenesis in male rats. Methods: In Holtzman rats, Maca alcoholic extract (5%) was given by oral route at doses of 48 mg/day or 96 mg/day for 7 days, 14 days and 21 days. Testicular function was assessed by measurements of lengths of different stages of seminiferous epithelia and by epididymal sperm count. Results: Ethanolic extract of Maca increased the length of stages IX-XI of seminiferous epithelium at treatment day 7, day 14 and day 21. Progression of spermatogenesis was evident only after day 21 when lengths of stages XII-XIV of seminiferous epithelium were increased; at day 7 and day 14, no important change in spermatogenesis was observed. Epididymal sperm count was increased with 48 mg/day at all times. With 96 mg/day an increase in sperm count was observed at day 7, but it was reduced at day 14 and day 21 of treatment. Serum testosterone levels were not affected. Conclusion: The alcoholic extract of Maca activates onset ant progression of spermatogenesis at 48 mg/day or 96 mg/day in rats.展开更多
Poly(lactic acid)(PLA)composite films reinforced with microcrystalline cellulose(MCC)extracted from pineapple leaf fibers(PALF)were prepared by a solution casting procedure.In an attempt to improve the interaction bet...Poly(lactic acid)(PLA)composite films reinforced with microcrystalline cellulose(MCC)extracted from pineapple leaf fibers(PALF)were prepared by a solution casting procedure.In an attempt to improve the interaction between PLA and cellulose,two approaches were adopted;first,poly(ethylene glycol)(PEG)was used as a surfactant,and second,the cellulosic fibers were pre-treated using tert-butanol(TBA).Lignocellulosic and cellulosic substrates were characterized using Fourier transform infrared(FTIR),wide-angle X-ray scattering(WAXS),and thermogravimetrical analysis(TGA).MCC from PALF showed good thermal stability,left few residues after decomposing,and exhibited high crystallinity index.Mechanical,thermal and thermomechanical properties of the PLA composites were also evaluated.Multiple PLA endotherms were observed in composites with TBA-treated MCC due to crystal nucleation effects.The ultimate tensile strain values for all composites were lower than that of the pristine PLA.However,4 wt.%MCC content provided balanced engineering properties in terms of static and dynamic tensile properties.展开更多
Lignocellulosic residues resulting from agricultural activities and urban centers cause pollution. A possible solution to this problem is to combine these residues with woody plants to produce particleboards. The purp...Lignocellulosic residues resulting from agricultural activities and urban centers cause pollution. A possible solution to this problem is to combine these residues with woody plants to produce particleboards. The purpose of this study was to evaluate decay resistance, coating and burning properties and the change of color caused by accelerated weathering of particleboards manufactured with a combination of 3 woody species used for commercial reforestation in tropical areas (Cupressus lusitanica, Gmelina arborea and Tectona grandis), pineapple (Ananas comosus) leaves from the crown and the plant (PL), empty fruit bunch of Elaeis guineensis (EBF) and tetra pak packages (TP). According to the results, the mixtures of T. grandis and EFB were classified as moderately resistant and other mixtures (woody species and PL or TP) were classified as slightly resistant. The finish performance test determined that the mixtures with TP presented the best performance, followed by the mixtures with oil palm components and the mixtures composed of pineapple leaves. Regarding lacquer consumption, no differences were found between the mixtures. The combustion test determined that particleboards with TP and EFB showed the highest resistance to combustion, while pineapple presented the lowest resistances to combustion. In the accelerated weathering exposure test, the mixtures of the three species with TP showed the best performance in accelerated weathering. Contrariwise, the mixtures with pineapple leaves showed the lowest resistance to accelerated weathering. Oil palm particleboards presented lower resistance to weathering than TP, though higher than pineapple leaves’ resistance.展开更多
The efficacy of oxfendazole(OFZ) on Taenia hydatigena metacestodes, also called Cysticercus tenuicollis(C. tenuicollis), was studied in 648 raising pigs. This study was performed in Tumbes Department in Peru, an endem...The efficacy of oxfendazole(OFZ) on Taenia hydatigena metacestodes, also called Cysticercus tenuicollis(C. tenuicollis), was studied in 648 raising pigs. This study was performed in Tumbes Department in Peru, an endemic area for cysticercosis. Pigs were randomized in two groups; untreated group(n = 142) did not receive any treatment and treated group(n = 506) received OFZ treatment at a single dose of 30 mg/kg body weight.Six months after treatment, the pigs were necropsied. The prevalence of infection by C. tenuicollis among the pigs was 27.5%(39/142) and 2.0%(10/506) in untreated and treated groups, respectively. Untreated group was infested only with viable cysts, whereas treated group had no viable cysts. All the cysts found in treated group presented degeneration, with a thick membrane, and they contained milky fluid and fibrous tissue. A single dose of OFZ was effective against C. tenuicollis, thus providing an alternative drug for controlling this parasite in pigs.展开更多
The agricultural sector has many problems achieving the desired yield in products because of pathogens, viruses, pesticides, herbicides, temperature, soil moisture, among others. Nanotechnology, along with other scien...The agricultural sector has many problems achieving the desired yield in products because of pathogens, viruses, pesticides, herbicides, temperature, soil moisture, among others. Nanotechnology, along with other sciences, has emerged in industry and society due to the interest in solving problems such as those mentioned above, in order to serve the needs of the world population. The present review discusses the principal topics about Nanobiotechnology, such as generalities, applications, aspects that can be improved and perspectives, beside its influence in the agriculture industry.展开更多
Objective:To assess the efficacy of triclabendazole(TCBZ) in porcine cysticercosis.Methods:Eighteen naturally infected cysticercotic pigs were divided into 3 groups of 6 individuals each.The first group was treated or...Objective:To assess the efficacy of triclabendazole(TCBZ) in porcine cysticercosis.Methods:Eighteen naturally infected cysticercotic pigs were divided into 3 groups of 6 individuals each.The first group was treated orally with TCBZ at a single dose of 30 mg/kg of body weight,the second group was treated orally with oxfendazole at a single dose of 30 mg/kg of body weight and the third group received a placebo(control group).All animals were kept under the same management conditions.The pigs were euthanized 17 wk post-treatment and the number of surviving cysts in muscles was assessed and compared between groups.Results:All pigs treated with oxfendazole had only degenerated cysts in their carcasses.In contrast,TCBZ had very little effect against the parasitic cysts.Cysts from pigs in the TCBZ group looked apparently normal after treatment.However,histological evaluation showed a mild to moderate degree of inflammation.Conclusions:TCBZ is not an efficacious drug against Taenia solium cysticercosis in swine using a single dose.展开更多
Cellulose,microcrystalline cellulose and nanocellulose were prepared from three agricultural waste resources:pineapple leaf(PALF),banana rachis(BR),and sugarcane bagasse(SCB).Each waste resource was first converted in...Cellulose,microcrystalline cellulose and nanocellulose were prepared from three agricultural waste resources:pineapple leaf(PALF),banana rachis(BR),and sugarcane bagasse(SCB).Each waste resource was first converted into microcrystalline cellulose which was subsequently converted into cellulose nanoparticles by using mild(30%w/v)and strong(60%w/v)sulfuric acid concentrations for extraction.Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy(FTIR),X-ray diffraction(XRD),and thermogravimetric analysis(TGA)were used to characterize each waste resource and extracted cellulosic materials.Furthermore,nanocelluloses were studied by zeta potential,size analysis,and transmission electron microscopy(TEM).Cellulose nanowhiskers were successfully obtained and isolated with a 33%average yield by applying a mild acid treatment.Substrates BR and SCB proved to be more promising agricultural waste resources in terms of their crystalline cellulosic content and properties.展开更多
In this research three new species of ferns of the Polypodiales Order are described: Ctenitis leonii A. Rojas, Elaphoglossum karinae A. Rojas and Pecluma celaquensis A. Rojas. Ctenitis leonii is characterized by its a...In this research three new species of ferns of the Polypodiales Order are described: Ctenitis leonii A. Rojas, Elaphoglossum karinae A. Rojas and Pecluma celaquensis A. Rojas. Ctenitis leonii is characterized by its apical stipe scales marginally erose to ciliate, blade surfaces with two types of hairs present in both surfaces, ones 0.7 - 1.5 mm long and not glandular, the others 0.3 - 0.5 mm long and glandular and indusia are absent. Elaphoglossum karinae differs from Elaphoglossum dissitifrons Mickel by shorter rhizome, longer and relatively narrower rhizome scales, they lanceolate to linear-lanceolate and blackish costal scales. Pecluma celaquensis is similar to Polypodium martensii Mett., but differs by its thinner rhizome, smaller rhizome scales and these with a crown of brown cilia at the attaching point, relatively shorter stipe with longer hairs and these commonly no glandular, scaly rachis and it with longer and denser hairs, inframedial sori and glabrous sporangia.展开更多
文摘This work assesses the physical vulnerability of the Santo Domingo Canton in the province of Heredia in Costa Rica. We evaluate the vulnerability of areas located in high risk zones as well as the structural resistance of structures of the canton and then combine them to obtain an index of Physical Vulnerability. Most of the communities in high risk areas in this Canton have not been properly identified and mapped. This identification and mapping will enhance the management of disaster risks, reduce the infrastructure vulnerability and protect vulnerable families in there. We created an index ranging between 0 and 1 for each indicator of physical vulnerability (human settlements in areas of high risk and structural resistance) and another similar index resulting from the combination of vulnerability information from both indicators. The greater part of the territory of Santo Domingo has low physical vulnerability but there are critical sites in the West and the East of the canton.
文摘Objective: This study aims to determine surgical complications and graft outcome in children undergoing renal transplantation at Cayetano Heredia National Hospital (CHNH). Materials and Methods: A case study series focused on the incidence of surgical complications and graft outcome in pediatric patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) who underwent renal transplant (RT) between December 2007 and March 2011. Results: The study described 29 pediatric transplant patients whose average age was 13.69 ± 3.38 (6.2-17.9) years. The etiology of end stage renal disease (ESRD) was renal hypoplasia in 12 patients (41.38%), primary glomerulopathy in 10 patients (34.48%), obstructive uropathy in 4 patients (13.79%), vasculitis in 2 patients (6.9%) and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) in 1 (3.45%) patient. There were 11 surgical complications (34.48%): 2 cases of arterial thrombosis, 3 cases of urinary fistula, 3 of lymphocele, 1 of venous thrombosis, urinoma and perineal collection. The follow-up time was 15.84 ± 12.19 months. Graft survival at 12, 24, and 40 months was 89.29%, 77.16% and 77.16%, respectively. Conclusion: Surgical complications and graft survival in pediatric renal transplantation in our series did not differ from other published series.
文摘Different habitat types exert particular challenges to ecological performance,ultimately having a strong influence on the evolution of morphology.Although it is well known that external morphology can evolve under the selective pressure of habitat structure,the evolutionary response of internal morphological traits remains vastly unexplored.Here,we test for morphological divergence between arenicolous and nonarenicolous species in a clade of tropidurid lizards,considering external morphological proportions and limb muscle dimensions.We found that arenicolous species seem to have evolved internal and external morphological adaptations that separate them from other habitat specialists.Moreover,comparative analyses suggested that the traits that differed the most between arenicolous and nonarenicolous lizards might have evolved divergently towards different optima.Additionally,the axis of higher morphological divergence between arenicolous and nonarenicolous species represented an important proportion of the morphological diversity within our sample,indicating that the hypothetical adaptive divergence of internal and external traits has contributed significantly to phenotypic diversity.Our results show that evolutionary associations between morphology and habitat use can be detected on both external body proportions and muscle morphology.Moreover,they highlight the emergent importance of internal anatomical traits in ecomorphological studies,especially when such traits are directly involved in determining functional performance.
文摘In this research,the antibacterial properties of a composite material prepared from agave bagasse cellulose fibers doped with silver nanoparticles and chitosan were studied.The development of composite materials with antibacterial properties and environmentally friendly based on cellulose fibers from agave bagasse with silver nanoparticles prepared by green synthesis and chitosan from shrimp waste enhances the value of these agro-industrial wastes and offers the opportunity for them to have biomedical applications since these raw materials have been poorly reported for this application.The antibacterial properties of chitosan and silver nanoparticles are already known.However,the combination of silver nanoparticles with cellulose fibers and chitosan has been studied poorly.Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles was carried out,and spherical shape nanoparticles with a size between 20 and 50 nm were obtained by ultraviolet-visible(UV-Vis)spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy(TEM)analysis.Additionally,in this research,the cellulose obtained from agave bagasse,the chitosan extracted from shrimp shells,and the composite material were characterized by infrared spectroscopy,mechanical analysis,and antibacterial tests.A decrease in the growth of Escherichia coli bacteria with 100%growth inhibition on cellulose,chitosan,and silver nanoparticles composite material and an increase in mechanical properties from 13.67 MPa of cellulose pure to 110 MPa of composite material was observed.These findings support the idea that the composite material has potential use in wound care dressings for antibacterial care.
文摘Steatotic liver disease(SLD)encompasses a group of disorders characterized by the excessive accumulation of fat in the liver.It is classified into four categories based on clinical manifestations:Metabolic dysfunction-associated SLD(MASLD),metabolic-alcohol-associated liver disease(ALD),ALD,and cryptogenic SLD.In the United States,its prevalence stands at 34.2%,making it the most common cause of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).In addition to factors related to endocrine,nutrition,and medications,several genetic markers have been implicated in the disease's pathogenesis.Notable genes include PNPLA3,TM6SF2,GCKR,MBOAT7 and HSD17B13.These genetic polymorphisms can significantly impact prognosis and disease outcomes.For example,PNPLA3 is the most frequently associated gene with MASLD,increasing the risk of HCC by 12-fold and liver-related mortality by 18-fold.Furthermore,certain genetic markers are more prevalent in specific ethnic groups;for instance,PNPLA3 is common among Hispanics,while TM6SF2 is linked to higher fat content in African Americans.With a better understanding of the genetic factors involved in the pathogenesis of SLD,significant advancements have been made in diagnostics and therapeutics.This review explores the role of genetic factors in the disease's development,discusses current advancements in non-invasive diagnostic modalities,and examines therapeutic improvements based on these genetic insights to achieve better outcomes.
文摘Aim： To determine the effect of two different extracts of red maca in male rats. Methods： Prostatic hyperplasia was induced in male rats with testosterone enanthate （TE）. The study comprised six groups： one control group （group 1）, one group treated with TE （group 2）, two groups treated with TE and aqueous extract of red maca （groups 3 and 4）, one group treated with hydroalcoholic extract of red maca （group 5） and one group treated with finasteride （0.1 mg, group 6）. Differences in the aqueous extract dependent on the length of time of boiling, whether for 2 or 3 hours, for groups 3 and 4 was assessed. Extracts of red maca contained 0.1 mg of benzylglucosinolate. Thereafter, a doseresponse effect of different doses of benzylglucosinolates （0.02-0.08 mg） in red maca extracts was assessed. Results： Prostate weight was similar in rats treated with freeze-dried aqueous extract of red maca prepared after 2 and 3 hours of boiling. Freeze-dried aqueous extract of red maca, hydroalcoholic extract of red maca and finasteride reduced prostate weight in rats with prostatic hyperplasia. No difference was observed between the data obtained from aqueous extract or hydroalcoholic extract of red maca. A dose dependent reduction of prostate weight was observed with the increase of the dose of benzylglucosinolates in red maca extracts. Conclusion： The present study showed that hydroalcoholic or aqueous extract of red maca containing 0.1 mg of benzylglucosinolate can reduce prostate size in male rats in which prostatic hyperplasia had been induced by TE.
文摘Aim:The present study was designed to determine the effect of a 4-month oral treatment with tablets of Lepidiwnmeyenii(Maca)on seminal analysis in nine adult normal men aged 24-44 years old.Methods:Nine men receivedtablets of Maca(1500 or 3000 mg/day)for 4 months.Seminal analysis was performed according to guidelines of theWorld Health Organization(WHO).Serum luteinizing hormone(LH),follicle stimulating hormone(FSH),prolactin(PRL),testosterone(T)and estradiol(E_(2))were measured before and after treatment.Results;Treatment withMaca resulted in increased seminal volume,sperm count per ejaculum,motile sperm count,and sperm motility.Serumhormone levels were not modified with Maca treatment.Increase of sperm count was not related to dose of Maca.Conclusion:Maca improved sperm production and sperm motility by mechanisms not related to LH,FSH,PRL,Tand E_(2).
文摘The present review has been designed to update the recent developments on the function of seminal vesicles andtheir role on male fertility. It is indicated that the true corrected fructose level is a simple method for the assessment ofthe seminal vesicular function. Measurement of seminal fructose used universally as a marker of the seminal vesiclefunction is not an appropriate approach due to its inverse relationship with the sperm count. The true corrected fructosedefined as [log. motile sperm concentration] multiplied by [seminal fructose concentration] has been shown to be abetter marker of the seminal vesicle function. Seminal vesicular secretion is important for semen coagulation, sperm motility, and stability of sperm chromatinand suppression of the immune activity in the female reproductive tract. In conclusion, the function of seminal vesicle is important for fertility. Parameters as sperm motility, sperm chro-matin stability, and immuno-protection may be changed in case of its hypofunction. (Asian J Androl 2001 Dec; 3:251 -258)
文摘Aim:To determine the effect of oral administration of an aqueous extract from the roots of Lepidium meyenii(maca)on spermatogenesis in adult male rats.Methods;Male rats received an aqueous extract of the root(66.7 mg in onemL)twice a day for 14 consecutive days.Results:Treatment with Lepidium meyenii resulted in an increase in theweights of testis and epididymis but not the seminal vesicle weight.The length and frequency of stages IX-XIV seminif-erous tubules,where mitosis occurred,were increased and stages I-VI were reduced in rats treated with Lepidiummeyenii.Conclusion;The Lepidium meyenii root invigorates spermatogenesis in male rats by acting on its initialstages(IX-XIV).
文摘Populations living at high altitudes （HAs）, particularly in the Peruvian Andes, are characterized by a mixture of subjects with erythrocytosis （16 g dl-1〈haemoglobin （Hb）≤21 gdl-1） and others with excessive erythrocytosis （EE） （Hb〉21 g dl-1）. Elevated haemoglobin values （EE） are associated with chronic mountain sickness, a condition reflecting the lack of adaptation to HA. According to current data, native men from regions of HA are not adequately adapted to live at such altitudes if they have elevated serum testosterone levels. This seems to be due to an increased conversion of dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate （DH EAS） to testosterone. Men with erythrocytosis at HAs show higher serum androstenedione levels and a lower testosterone/androstenedione ratio than men with EE, suggesting reduced 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase （17beta-HSD） activity. Lower 17beta-HSD activity via A4-steroid production in men with erythrocytosis at HA may protect against elevated serum testosterone levels, thus preventing EE. The higher conversion of DHEAS to testosterone in subjects with EE indicates increased 17beta-HSD activity via the A5-pathway. Currently, there are various situations in which people live （human biodiversity） with low or high haemoglobin levels at HA. Antiquity could be an important adaptation component for life at HA, and testosterone seems to participate in this process.
文摘Aim: To observe the effect of the aqueous extract of hypocotyls of the plant Lepidium meyenii (Maca) on spermato-genic damage induced by the organophosphate insecticide malathion in mice. Methods: Mice were treated with 80 mg kg^(-1) of malathion in the presence or absence of an aqueous extract of Maca, which was orally administered 7, 14 or 21 days after injection of the malathion. Stages of the seminiferous epithelium were assessed by transillumination on days 0, 7, 14 and 21. Results: The administration of Maca increased significantly the length of stage 鈪?on days 7, 14 and 21 of treatment compared with the controls. An increase in the length of stage 鈪?occurred on day 14 of treatment. Malathion affected spermatogenesis by reducing the lengths of stage 鈪?on day 7, stages 鈪?and 鈪?鈪?on day 14 and a recovery of stages 鈪?鈪?on day 21. The magnitude of alteration in the length of stage 鈪?produced by malathion was significantly reduced by Maca on days 7 and 14. The length of stage 鈪?was increased when Maca was administered to mice treated with malathion. Assessment of the relative length of stages of the seminiferous epithelium showed that Maca treatment resulted in rapid recovery of the effect of malathion. Conclusion: Maca enhances spermatogenesis following spermatogenic damage caused by the organophosphorous pesticide.
文摘Aim: To evaluate the effect of the alcoholic extract of Lepidium meyenii (Maca) on the spermatogenesis in male rats. Methods: In Holtzman rats, Maca alcoholic extract (5%) was given by oral route at doses of 48 mg/day or 96 mg/day for 7 days, 14 days and 21 days. Testicular function was assessed by measurements of lengths of different stages of seminiferous epithelia and by epididymal sperm count. Results: Ethanolic extract of Maca increased the length of stages IX-XI of seminiferous epithelium at treatment day 7, day 14 and day 21. Progression of spermatogenesis was evident only after day 21 when lengths of stages XII-XIV of seminiferous epithelium were increased; at day 7 and day 14, no important change in spermatogenesis was observed. Epididymal sperm count was increased with 48 mg/day at all times. With 96 mg/day an increase in sperm count was observed at day 7, but it was reduced at day 14 and day 21 of treatment. Serum testosterone levels were not affected. Conclusion: The alcoholic extract of Maca activates onset ant progression of spermatogenesis at 48 mg/day or 96 mg/day in rats.
文摘Poly(lactic acid)(PLA)composite films reinforced with microcrystalline cellulose(MCC)extracted from pineapple leaf fibers(PALF)were prepared by a solution casting procedure.In an attempt to improve the interaction between PLA and cellulose,two approaches were adopted;first,poly(ethylene glycol)(PEG)was used as a surfactant,and second,the cellulosic fibers were pre-treated using tert-butanol(TBA).Lignocellulosic and cellulosic substrates were characterized using Fourier transform infrared(FTIR),wide-angle X-ray scattering(WAXS),and thermogravimetrical analysis(TGA).MCC from PALF showed good thermal stability,left few residues after decomposing,and exhibited high crystallinity index.Mechanical,thermal and thermomechanical properties of the PLA composites were also evaluated.Multiple PLA endotherms were observed in composites with TBA-treated MCC due to crystal nucleation effects.The ultimate tensile strain values for all composites were lower than that of the pristine PLA.However,4 wt.%MCC content provided balanced engineering properties in terms of static and dynamic tensile properties.
文摘Lignocellulosic residues resulting from agricultural activities and urban centers cause pollution. A possible solution to this problem is to combine these residues with woody plants to produce particleboards. The purpose of this study was to evaluate decay resistance, coating and burning properties and the change of color caused by accelerated weathering of particleboards manufactured with a combination of 3 woody species used for commercial reforestation in tropical areas (Cupressus lusitanica, Gmelina arborea and Tectona grandis), pineapple (Ananas comosus) leaves from the crown and the plant (PL), empty fruit bunch of Elaeis guineensis (EBF) and tetra pak packages (TP). According to the results, the mixtures of T. grandis and EFB were classified as moderately resistant and other mixtures (woody species and PL or TP) were classified as slightly resistant. The finish performance test determined that the mixtures with TP presented the best performance, followed by the mixtures with oil palm components and the mixtures composed of pineapple leaves. Regarding lacquer consumption, no differences were found between the mixtures. The combustion test determined that particleboards with TP and EFB showed the highest resistance to combustion, while pineapple presented the lowest resistances to combustion. In the accelerated weathering exposure test, the mixtures of the three species with TP showed the best performance in accelerated weathering. Contrariwise, the mixtures with pineapple leaves showed the lowest resistance to accelerated weathering. Oil palm particleboards presented lower resistance to weathering than TP, though higher than pineapple leaves’ resistance.
基金Partly supported by Fogarty International Center/NIH(training grants D43 TW008273-03 and D43 TW001140)Fogarty International Center/NIH(D43 TW008273-03)
文摘The efficacy of oxfendazole(OFZ) on Taenia hydatigena metacestodes, also called Cysticercus tenuicollis(C. tenuicollis), was studied in 648 raising pigs. This study was performed in Tumbes Department in Peru, an endemic area for cysticercosis. Pigs were randomized in two groups; untreated group(n = 142) did not receive any treatment and treated group(n = 506) received OFZ treatment at a single dose of 30 mg/kg body weight.Six months after treatment, the pigs were necropsied. The prevalence of infection by C. tenuicollis among the pigs was 27.5%(39/142) and 2.0%(10/506) in untreated and treated groups, respectively. Untreated group was infested only with viable cysts, whereas treated group had no viable cysts. All the cysts found in treated group presented degeneration, with a thick membrane, and they contained milky fluid and fibrous tissue. A single dose of OFZ was effective against C. tenuicollis, thus providing an alternative drug for controlling this parasite in pigs.
文摘The agricultural sector has many problems achieving the desired yield in products because of pathogens, viruses, pesticides, herbicides, temperature, soil moisture, among others. Nanotechnology, along with other sciences, has emerged in industry and society due to the interest in solving problems such as those mentioned above, in order to serve the needs of the world population. The present review discusses the principal topics about Nanobiotechnology, such as generalities, applications, aspects that can be improved and perspectives, beside its influence in the agriculture industry.
基金Partial support from the Fogarty International Center/NIH(training grants D43 TW008273-03 and D43 TW001140) is acknowledgedsupported by the Fogarty International Center/NIH(D43 TW008273-03)supported by a Wellcome Trust Senior International Research Fellowship in Public Health and Tropical Medicine
文摘Objective:To assess the efficacy of triclabendazole(TCBZ) in porcine cysticercosis.Methods:Eighteen naturally infected cysticercotic pigs were divided into 3 groups of 6 individuals each.The first group was treated orally with TCBZ at a single dose of 30 mg/kg of body weight,the second group was treated orally with oxfendazole at a single dose of 30 mg/kg of body weight and the third group received a placebo(control group).All animals were kept under the same management conditions.The pigs were euthanized 17 wk post-treatment and the number of surviving cysts in muscles was assessed and compared between groups.Results:All pigs treated with oxfendazole had only degenerated cysts in their carcasses.In contrast,TCBZ had very little effect against the parasitic cysts.Cysts from pigs in the TCBZ group looked apparently normal after treatment.However,histological evaluation showed a mild to moderate degree of inflammation.Conclusions:TCBZ is not an efficacious drug against Taenia solium cysticercosis in swine using a single dose.
文摘Cellulose,microcrystalline cellulose and nanocellulose were prepared from three agricultural waste resources:pineapple leaf(PALF),banana rachis(BR),and sugarcane bagasse(SCB).Each waste resource was first converted into microcrystalline cellulose which was subsequently converted into cellulose nanoparticles by using mild(30%w/v)and strong(60%w/v)sulfuric acid concentrations for extraction.Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy(FTIR),X-ray diffraction(XRD),and thermogravimetric analysis(TGA)were used to characterize each waste resource and extracted cellulosic materials.Furthermore,nanocelluloses were studied by zeta potential,size analysis,and transmission electron microscopy(TEM).Cellulose nanowhiskers were successfully obtained and isolated with a 33%average yield by applying a mild acid treatment.Substrates BR and SCB proved to be more promising agricultural waste resources in terms of their crystalline cellulosic content and properties.
文摘In this research three new species of ferns of the Polypodiales Order are described: Ctenitis leonii A. Rojas, Elaphoglossum karinae A. Rojas and Pecluma celaquensis A. Rojas. Ctenitis leonii is characterized by its apical stipe scales marginally erose to ciliate, blade surfaces with two types of hairs present in both surfaces, ones 0.7 - 1.5 mm long and not glandular, the others 0.3 - 0.5 mm long and glandular and indusia are absent. Elaphoglossum karinae differs from Elaphoglossum dissitifrons Mickel by shorter rhizome, longer and relatively narrower rhizome scales, they lanceolate to linear-lanceolate and blackish costal scales. Pecluma celaquensis is similar to Polypodium martensii Mett., but differs by its thinner rhizome, smaller rhizome scales and these with a crown of brown cilia at the attaching point, relatively shorter stipe with longer hairs and these commonly no glandular, scaly rachis and it with longer and denser hairs, inframedial sori and glabrous sporangia.
